Edge Davao 9 Issue 240 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

BIKE FOR HOPE DAVAO. More than a hundred bikers led by House Deputy Speaker Pia Cayetano pedaled from Davao City to the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex in Tagum City on Sunday. The bike ride, called Bike for Hope, advocates road safety, a healthy lifestyle and environment. (Contributed photo)

P28-B MONORAIL EYED FOR DAVAO 1st phase involves 14-km loop in Davao City Dureza to verify ‘real’ By JIMMY K. LAKING

DAVAO-BASED consortium unveiled yesterday an ambitious, 14-kilometer monorail system for Davao City’s central business district that is projected to cost investors P28Billion to build once feasibility study gives it the green light. “It will bring us at par with the cities world-wide that are currently using the monorail system,” said Jose “Dondon”

Guardo, a Filipino engineer and contractor who worked for 10 years in China. He said the monorail system, which will be named after the Philippine eagle, is capable of moving 1,000 passengers at any time and will run on rubber tires. It will be built with an average elevation of 5.5 meters from the ground. The system introduced by the Canadian company Bom-

Life lessons I learned from surfing again Indulge A1

bardier is popular in China’s major cities, Brazil’s Sao Paulo, Bangkok and in Las Vegas. Jiang Zhiping, consultant of China Railway Engineering, batted for the monorail’s efficiency and capability to move people in cities. “It has many advantages if realized in Davao City,” he said. Guardo said that unlike the LRT system of Metro Manila that is available only after 15 minutes or more, the

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monorail train opens its doors every 90 seconds. And since it is elevated, it will be able to avoid traffic girds. “More floods, the trains can be used to evacuate people to safer areas,” he said. He added that the system is also relatively cheaper at P40Million per kilometer compared to an LRT that costs P150Million per kilometer.

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Davao bets harvest BIG HAUL AAK 4 golds, 4 silvers, 6 bronzes

Makilala clash story

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

FFICE of the Presidential Adviser in the Peace Process Secretary Jesus Dureza refrained from giving a statement regarding the January 21 clash between government troops and elements of the rebel New People’s Army in Makilala, North Cotabato. In a press statement, Dureza said that he will verify first the real story behind the encounter. “I have to verify first what actually happened, but from initial reports reaching me here in New York City, a bilateral ceasefire with guidelines and mechanisms in place are becoming all the more needed,” he said. The encounter resulted

in eight army soldiers and an unidentified NPA element killed. The encounter took place while the Government of the Philippines and representatives of the outlawed Communist Party of the Philippines were holding peace negotiations in Rome. The clash took place despite the unilateral ceasefire agreed by both parties. He said that if the bilateral ceasefire will not be in place, the armed Forces of the Philippines and the NPA will create different versions favorable in their side. Dureza said it would be more favorable for the both parties if there will be a bilat-

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EDGEDAVAO

NEWS

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo are flanked by candidates of the 65th Miss Universe during a photo session at the Rizal Hall in Malacañan Palace on January 23, 2017. ACE MORANDANTE/ Presidential Photo

Arms recovered from clash belong to NPA, says Army By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Philippine Army on Monday said rifles and other combat equipment recovered from an encounter site in Makilala, North Cotabato belonged to the rebel New People’s Army. Despite the on-going peace negotiations between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in Rome, series of armed confrontations took place between government forces, particularly the 39th Infantry Battalion and NPA rebels in Barangay Biangan, Makilala, North Cotabato on Saturday, January 22 and on

Sunday, January 23. Captain Rhyan Batchar, chief information officer of 10th Infantry (Agila) Division said the firearms and other war materials recovered by the pursuing army troopers and members of the Philippine National Police belong to the NPAs particularly under Guerrilla Front 51 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee. “The confirmation came after the PNP SOCO (Scene of the Crime Operatives) processed the incident site and examined the recovered cadaver of a dead man and war

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3 Ms Universe entries bag Mindanao Tapestry awards By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

HREE of the 29 Miss Universe 2017 candidates bagged Special Sponsor Awards during the Mindanao Tapestry event at SMX Convention Center SM Lanang Premiere Davao City on Friday. Venezuela’s Mariam Habach was selected Miss Phoenix Elegant while Philippines’ Maxine Medina was hailed Miss Hiyas ng Phoenix. Indonesia’s Kezia Warouw received the Miss Phoenix Smile award. The ancillary event highlighted the tapestry of the six regions of Mindanao: Re-

gions 9, 10, 11, 12, Caraga and ARMM. The 29 ladies sported “6 looks” particularly the T’boli weaves, indigenous cross-stitches, Yakan weaves, tribal weaves of Bukidnon, Royal Garb of Mandaya tribe, and the Inaul ball gowns. The event also promoted the region’s local designers. Part of the main event were ten members of Davao Fashion and Design Council Inc. (DFDCI) namely Alfonso Boy Guinoo (honorary member), Aztec Barba, Dodjie Batu, Emi Englis, Egay Ayag, Benjie Panizales, and Edgar Buyan.

The other three designers in the list of 10 are Wilson Limon, Silverio Anglacer, and Kenny Ladaga. Meanwhile, the foyer event featured local models who were dressed by designers picked from the six regions of Mindanao. They are Ronnie Nacua, Richie Delos Santos, Toffy Ledesma, Nicky de Asis, Steffy Dacalos, Windel Mira, Grand Crizzel Ravacio, Joey Hambala, Chard Pulate, Bamba Limon, Gil Macaibay, Mark Yaranon, Pepe Quitco, and John Bonniedick Adaza. In an interview, event di-

rector and fashion designer Renee Salud expressed his gratitude for the show’s success. Renee also added that it is a dream come true for him to see his collection on a global stage. Initially, the event was faced with controversies as Davao Fashion and Design Council Inc. expressed disappointment over their rejection by the organizers. However, a few days later it was announced that the event would still push through. Finally Salud expressed his support to Philippine bet Maxine Medina.

pulis,” Alvarez explained. It can be recalled that Alvarez on Friday said that Dela Rosa should immediately resign from his post to “save the President from further embarrassment” and “restore respect to the Office of PNP Chief.” It was after came after Jee was killed inside Camp Crame in October last year, on the same day he was forcibly taken from his home in Pampanga City. SPO3 Ricky Sta. Isabel, a member of the PNP Anti-Illegal Drugs Group, was named main

suspect in the incident. In calling for Dela Rosa’s resignation, Alvarez also scored the police official for being seemingly “interested in having a showbiz career and in landing on society pages of newspapers” by doing “mundane things” like singing videoke and watching concerts. However, Alvarez attended the PNP chief’s birthday celebration held at Camp Crame on Sunday where they were photographed laughing together. He said that he considers

Duterte confers with top brass of AFP, PNP on Makilala clash House Speaker: Give PNP chief another chance

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte met on Monday with top officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) following an encounter between government troops and New People’s Army (NPA) in Makilala, North Cotabato over the weekend. “I’m sure it’s going to deal with peace situation in Mindanao,” Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said when asked by Palace reporters about President Duterte’s scheduled meeting with AFP and PNP top brass on Monday. President Duterte met with

AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Ano, Philippine Army Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda, Philippine Navy Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercardo, Philippine Air Force Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina and PNP chief of Director General Ronald Dela Rosa. The Makilala encounter took place five months after the government and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) declared indefinite ceasefire to give way to an ongoing peace talks in Oslo, Norway. Abella said the encounter that resulted to the death of a communist rebel will not affect

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By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

OUSE Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez on Monday indicated he was keen on giving Philippine National Police chief Ronald dela Rosa another chance to fix the department after he called on him to resign. In a radio interview Monday morning, Alvarez pointed out that he understood the nature of Dela Rosa’s job given that the PNP has problems within the ranks and exacerbated by the recent abduction and killing of South Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo.

“Sasang-ayon ako sa mga nagmungkahi na bibigyan natin ng pagkakataon si Chief PNP natin na ayusin ‘yung mga gusot na hinaharap ngayon ng PNP,” Alvarez said. Alvarez added that it was also in support of Duterte who said that the President still has the complete trust to dela Rosa and will stay in his post. “Alam naman natin na hindi rin ganoon kadali ‘yung trabaho sa dami ng scalawags na naiwan ngayon sa PNP; may mga matitino, ngunit dumami din ‘yung mga masasamang

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NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

Senate begins probe on Jack Lam P50-M bribery

HE Senate on Monday started its investigation into the alleged P50 million bribery incident involving personnel of the Bureau of Immigration. Among those who invited by Senate blue ribbon committee chair Sen. Richard Gordon were former Bureau of Immigration intelligence chief Charles Calima Jr., and former Bureau of Immigrations commissioners Al Argosino and Michael Robles. However, Jack Lam was a no-show at the hearing while Wally Sombero was in Singapore to seek medical treatment for an undisclosed condition. “I realized that these allegations and the continued public interest on the issue has not abated; nay, they have escalated to a level where the stain on the accountability of public officers, including their integrity and image to the Filipino people has become wider, has become darker, and has

remained persistent,” Gordon said, adding that the stench that has accompanied this scandal has become so “acrid and vile.” Robles and Argosino admitted that they accepted the P50 million from gambling tycoon Jack Lam but said they would use it as “future evidence of corruption of public officials.” However, Calima reiterated that he kept the P18 million of the P50 million allegedly given by Lam. “It was for the release of illegal Chinese workers in Pampanga,” he explained. He added that the other P2 million was given to retired police general Wally Sombero and that he turned over the remaining P30 million to Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre. Sombero also admitted to taking the P2 million from Lam; however, he said “it was for the 1,316 undocumented Chinese nationals” arrested at

CLOSE TO HOME. Philtram founder and chief operating officer Jose L. Guardo Jr. (right), together with China Railway Engineering consultant Jiang Zhiping, says the planned $28 billion 14-kilometer monorail system for Davao City, with a route stretching from Panacan to Roxas Avenue,

will be realized once the feasibility study is completed. Guardo made the disclosure during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

Pinoys in Rome back Mati cop arrested as PNP intensifies drive vs drugs GRP-NDF peace talks F SENATE, 14

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Philippine National Police in Davao region has further intensified its drive against illegal drugs and erring members of their rank, resulting in the arrest of a member of the Mati city police during a buy-bust operation. “We are serious in our fight against illegal drugs and we will continue to clean our ranks,” PRO-XI regional director Chief Supt. Manuel R. Gaerlan said in a statement on Monday. The continuing fight against illegal drugs and the cleaning of the ranks of the PNP in the region gained positive result late last week when operatives from Mati City PNP in Davao Oriental apprehended in a buy-bust operation

three suspects involved in illegal drug activities. One of the apprehended suspects is a member of Mati City PNP. Police Supt. Antonio Ibot of Mati City PNP identified the suspects as PO1 Kenneth Gervir Y. Casani, Ricky Namoc Masisay and Jomaira Adar Espina. Confiscated by authorities from the suspects were three pieces small elongated heat sealed transparent plastic containing white crystalline substance of suspected “shabu”, marked money and other drug paraphernalia. Chief Supt. Gaerlan immediately instructed the recall of PO1 Casani’s issued firearm, his PNP ID, PNP badge.

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HE Filipino community in Rome, Italy vowed to give its all-out support to the ongoing peace negotiations between the Government of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) because it is also their dream to see a peaceful and progressive country. In an interview Sunday on the sidelines of the peace forum with GRP panel chair Sec. Silvestre Bello III, Dalisay Solomon of the Hugpong Pederal Movement said this is now the chance for the Philippines to achieve peace. She was happy that Bello, Lawyer Angela Librado and peace consultant Angeles City Mayor Ed Pamintuan took time to meet them to update

them of the peace negotiations held at the Philippine Embassy. This was Solomon’s commitment to the GRP panel and the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte after Sec. Bello asked for their support in order to move the peace process smoothly. While they are contented with their life in Italy, Solomon, who has been living in Italy for 27 years, said they also dreamed of a good life for their family back home. She was happy that the peace talk is happening under the Duterte administration. During the peace forum, Bello emphasized on the importance of the people’s support to the peace process. Their involvement, Bello said is important to achieve a just

and lasting peace in the Philippines. The third talks in Rome, Bello said is crucial because it now involved the socioeconomic reforms to address the root causes of the armed conflict. He said it is a sad reality that some people especially those in remote areas seek help from the other group instead of the government. Bello said it is important also for Filipinos abroad to know and value the peace process. “We will succeed if we have you behind us,” he stressed. Earlier, Bello said there may be initialing of agreed points in the social and economic reform agenda of the 3rd round of talks. For the first time, both ne-

gotiating panels are tackling the issues on social and economic reforms. Both parties earlier submitted draft proposals which Chief Party Facilitator Elisabeth Slattum of the Royal Norwegian Government (RNG) described as ambitious and are proof that both parties are working towards a “better future for the Philippines and the Filipino people.” The RNG has been hosting and acting as third party facilitator between the GRP and NDFP. Bello likewise added that reports from the reciprocal working committees discussing the political and constitutional reform agenda are likewise very encouraging.

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P6-B housing loans granted to Pag-IBIG Min members By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

VARIOUS LOANS AT HAND. Pag-IBIG Fund Davao City assistant manager Melchor Sausa (right), together with MSB head Davao Central Grace Camaganacan, provides the details of the agency’s revised short-term

loans, new guidelines for loans, other new programs and its effort to address delinquency problem during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

adlopez0920@gmail.com

TOTAL of P6.6 billion worth of housing loan or 7,053 housing units were granted to the members of Pag-IBIG fund in Mindanao in 2016. This was reported by Melchor Sausa, the assistant manager for business division of the Pag-IBIG Fund in Davao City on Monday during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw in SM City. Sausa said that of the total amount of loan granted last year, Davao City has the highest number of members who availed themselves of P2.1 billion in loans or 2,099 housing units. Among the factors that

contributed to the high number of granted housing loan in Davao City was the presence of housing developers in the area. Sausa said not less than 20 housing developers accredited by Pag-IBIG are now operating in Davao City. Cagayan de Oro recorded a P1.2 billion housing loan last year or a total of 1,043 housing units. Kidapawan City, Sausa added, got the lowest number of housing loan granted last year with a total release of P107 million or 126 housing units. Sausa also told reporters

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4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

New Army Commander in DavOr assumes post T

HE Philippine Army will continue its active role in peace and development efforts here in the province through strengthened partnerships with the provincial government and other stakeholders, says the new commander of the Philippine Army’s 701st Brigade. Col. Reuben Basiao assumed command of the Philippine Army’s 701st Brigade from Brigadier General Bienvenido R. Datuin Jr. during the change of command ceremony held last January 20, 2017 at the 701st Brigade Headquarters in the City of Mati. “As I assume command of this brigade, I am fully aware of the challenges and

expectations of the various security stakeholders. The partnerships in this province has been continually quoted as one of the models of the peace and development initiatives of the army,” he said as he accepted the brigade’s command, vowing to sustain the army’s already established partnerships with various stakeholders and to keep up the momentum in peace and development efforts. The 701st Brigade, along with its two battalions, have been actively involved in all peace and development programs in the province that made significant impacts in the communities, ushering the province to a develop-

ment-ready state as declared by the military. Outgoing commander Brigadier General Datuin who has been noted for his leadership that bolstered peace and development in the province, highlighted the role of strengthened partnership and collaboration during his stint as the brigade commander. “The complete unconditional support I gained from the local government units – from the barangay, municipalities to provincial level – were outstanding, exceptional and a template of how convergence among stakeholders should be – no star players, only role players and model workers,” said Datuin in his

NEW COMMANDER. Col. Reuben Basiao (right) took over as the new commander of 701st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army from outgoing commander Brig. General Bienvenido Datuin (left) during the turn-over ceremony presided over by Maj. Gen. Angelito de Leon, commander of 7th Infantry Division held on January 20, 2017 in Mati City, Davao Oriental. (Eden Jhan Licayan/DavOr PIO)

Davao Oriental to be put under state of calamity T

HE Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Executive Committee has recommended to put the whole province under a state of calamity following the continuous heavy rains, causing floods and landslides. The said recommendation has been forwarded to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for adoption, thus, would allow local government units to make quick interventions for relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction of affected areas that have suffered from severe damages, particularly in terms of in-

frastructures and livelihoods here. The two municipalities of Boston and Cateel have earlier declared their towns under a state of calamity while the towns of Baganga and Caraga are also expected to declare a state of calamity soon after local leaders have convened for their respective damage assessment meeting. This morning, January 23, 2017, at the Provincial Capitol, Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang presided over an executive committee to discuss the initial assessment of the damages caused by the calamityas

well as interventions to the disaster-stricken areas. The said committee is composed of offices from the provincial government to include the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Provincial Agriculture Office, Provincial Health Office, and Environment and Natural Resources, among others. The committee also consists of the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police. DAMAGE REPORT Provincial Disaster Action Officer Engr. Jesusa Timbang reported the extent of dam-

farewell message. He said he is happy to have worked in Davao Oriental -- ‘a champion province that takes pride in team work, cooperation and collaboration with all sectors of society’. During his stint as brigade commander, Datuin stepped up efforts to boost the already thriving peace and development in Davao Oriental. He implemented several significant initiatives which include the first-ever Bayanihan Investment Protection and Security Operations (BIPSO) in the province and the establishment of the Ugnayan Center which served as a debriefing and holding area for former rebels before admitted to the halfway house called Happy Home. Recognized for his active role in the implementation of the government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) and the Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP), he received the Gawad sa Kaunlaran Award in 2016 conferred by no less than President Rodrigo Duterte. He also received a command plaque from the Army Reservist Command for reviving and activating the military reservists that significantly helped in security efforts. Presiding over the change of command ceremony, Major General Angelito De Leon, Commander of the 7th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, have cited Datuin’s leadership and the 701st brigade’s achievements that made headway on peace in this part of the country. “I am proud to say that the best practices of this brigade

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NEW IP REPRESENTATIVE. City Mayor Ronnel Rivera swears in Friday, January 20, new Indigenous Peoples’ Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Benjamin Talon at the City Mayor’s Office Conference Room. The IP Representative is a mandatory position that Mayor Rivera helped establish in the city council during his term as a city councilor. (Russell Delvo/ Gensan CPIO)

Gensan looking for 200 scholars T

HE local government unit of General Santos City in partnership with the Golden State College and Technical Educational and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is currently looking for qualified high school graduates to join the Work Scholarship Program as scholars. According to Philip Pabelic, Executive Assistant to the Office of the City Mayor, this is a great opportunity for high school graduates who wish to continue their studies but have no means to do so. Under the Work Scholarship Program, interested students can enroll for free under the following programs: 1. Automotive Servicing NC I (156 Hours) 2. Automotive Servicing NC II (676 Hours) 3. Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II (40 Hours) 4. Shielded Metal Arc Welding NC II (268 Hours) 5. Bread and Pastry Production NC II (141 Hours) 6. Cookery NC II (316

STATE OF CALAMITY. The executive council of the PDRRMC of Davao Oriental convened on Monday, January 23 in Mati City and recommended for the declaration of the state of calamity in the whole province due to the age in the affected towns. She said that aside from the swelling of rivers, flashfloods and landslides, the calamity also severely affected farmers and

Hours) 7. Front Office Services NC II (442 Hours) 8. Health Care Services NC II (996 Hours) 9. Pharmacy Services NC II (271 Hours)

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate. Pabelic added that interested residents of the city who think they are qualified can bring their high school card, Certificate of Good Moral Character, Birth Certificate and NCAE or YP4SC (a. Transcript of Records b. Certificate of Good Moral Character c. PSA Birth Certificate d. NCAE or YP4SC). Interested scholars can get an application form at the office of the city mayor. Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera has long made formal and alternative education as major part of his C.L.E.A.N. Gensan campaign. There are about 200 slots available for the said program. (JPA/Gensan CPIO)

continuing rains that caused flooding and landslides and destroyed over P1 million worth of crops in the area. (Eden Jhan Licayan/PIO DavOr)

fisherfolks, mostly in the province’s east coast towns. In Boston town, according to a PDRRMC report, four barangays have already declared

a state of calamity and around 80 percent of the families there have been affected. Scouring of the river near Cabasagan

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

FRANK N. LIU, SR. Founder and Former Chairman SOUTHERN MOTORS OF DAVAO, INC. November 16, 1916 – January 24, 1992

Memorial Masses will be offered in the following chapel and churches on January 24, 2017. SAN PABLO PARISH ......................................................................................................................................... 10:30 AM Juna Subdivision, Matina, Davao City SAN PEDRO CATHEDRAL .............................................................................................................................. 6:00 AM San Pedro Street, Davao City REDEMPTORIST CHURCH ............................................................................................................................ 6:00 AM J. P. Laurel Avenue, Davao City STA. ANA PARISH ............................................................................................................................................. 6:00 AM Sta. Ana Avenue, Davao City SACRED HEART PARISH ................................................................................................................................ 6:00 AM N. Torres St., Davao City ASSUMPTION PARISH .................................................................................................................................... 6:00 AM F. Torres St., Davao City ASCENSION OF THE LORD PARISH ...................................................................................................... 6:00 AM GSIS Heights, Matina, Davao City ST. JUDE THADDEUS PARISH ................................................................................................................. 6:00 AM Gen. Malvar St., Davao City ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI PARISH ............................................................................................................. 6:00 AM Maa, Davao City

In loving memory from his wife DIANA, children: WALTER & MARIANNE, MILTON & DEBBIE, BECKY & PAUL SHUI, FRANK JR., & CRISENDA, PEARL & RAFAEL RODRIGUEZ, HENRY, JOCKSON & MARIZON & grandchildren: CHLOÉ DIANE ROSE & MATTHEW LOWE, MELLISSA DEBBIE & RAYMOND ONG, FRANCESCA DEBBIE, DIANA DEBBIE, LATIMER, MELANIE, FRANK III and SAMANTHA TRISHA, FRANCIS CHRISTOPHER, FREDRIK CARLO, FRANCO CARLOS, NOELLE ANNE, ELAINE MARIE, SOFIA MAE, JED JACOB and JEREMY EDWARD & great grandchildren CHARLES MATTHEW LOWE, AUSTIN MICHAEL LOWE, THOMAS ALEXANDRE ONG and SAMMUEL BENJAMIN ONG.

The family requests for prayer for eternal repose of his soul.

EDGEDAVAO

6 ECONOMY

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

House bill for “progressive,” pro-poor new tax system

SUPPORT TO MINING EDUCATION. Dr. Angel de Vera, dean, University of the Philippines (USeP) College of Engineering (representing USeP President, Dr. Lourdes Generalao); Atty. Wilfredo Moncano, director, Mindanao and Geoscience Bureau (MGB)Region XI; Rosemarie Padilla, VP for Finance, Apex MiningCompany Inc. (AMCI); Engr. Alexis Baligod, president, Mindanao Association of Mining Engineers (MAEM); and Atty. Rodulfo Palma, president,

Alliance of Responsible Miners of Region XI (ARMOR XI), sign a Memorandum of Agreement that aims to help in the development of mining technology and improvement of geo-sciences education in Mindanao. The signing was also witnessed by USeP mining engineering and geology students, AMCI Community Relations Manager Engr. Ferdinand Dobliand USePMining Engineering Department Chair, Engr. Nani Villacencio.

Public-private partnership boosts mining technology I

N line with its continuing commitment to help in the development of mining technology and improvement of geo-sciences education in Mindanao, the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Apex Mining Company Inc. (AMCI), Mindanao Association of Mining Engineers (MAEM), Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Region XI and Alliance of Responsible Miners of Region XI (ARMOR). The signing was participated in by Dr. Angel de

Vera, dean of USeP’s College of Engineering; Rosemarie Padilla, (on behalf of Dr. GracianoYumul), executive vice president for Geology, Exploration and Operation of AMCI; Engr. Alexis Baligod, MAEM president; Atty. Rodulfo Palma, ARMOR XI president; and Atty. Wilfredo Moncano, MGB director. The MOU is a testament to the strong partnership between the academe, private sector, professional groups, industry associations and government to provide more high-quality learning opportunities for students taking up

mining engineering and geology courses in the region. Over the years, AMCI has been actively supporting the academe and the mining industry through its Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) by sponsoring various seminars and conferences. In line with SDMP’s implementation, the AMCI has initially co-sponsored a six-day lecture series with the theme “Resource and Reserve Computation: The Economic Driver for Mineral Development.” The first leg of the lecture series was held from Jan.13

to 16 at the USeP’s College of Education Audiovisual Room. The second leg of the series is scheduled from Jan. 27 to 29 at the Social Hall of the USeP Campus in Obrero, Davao City. The lecture will be conducted by Dr. Laraya, a seasoned technical resource person from the University of the Philippines-National Institute of Geological Sciences (UPNIGS). The three-day training will be attended by faculty members and senior geology and mining engineering students. (PR)

“President Duterte told me to extend his best regards to the Chinese officials that we will be meeting here as well as to the people of China, who showered him with a warm welcome during his state visit here last year,” Dominguez said. Dominguez said the delegation’s list of projects that they will present to Chinese officials during the two-day visit include the improvement of irrigation systems for the benefit of the country’s poorest farmers; power generation, particularly in providing hydroelectricity; and railways construction. “We admire China’s experience in all of these fields. China has demonstrated that it is among the best in the world in executing big infra projects,” he said. “This will be our second discussion [with Chinese officials about the projects] since November last year. We hope that in our visit here, we would be able to proceed with the projects that are ready to be implemented,” Dominguez said. He said the generous assistance offered by China to the Philippines is among the con-

crete results of the President’s foreign policy rebalancing towards accelerated integration with ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and its major Asian trading partners China, Japan and South Korea. “The President has recognized the importance of China in the region and he has redirected our economy more towards China and the ASEAN than to the West. I believe that China will continue to lead the world and continue to lead the ASEAN in becoming the engine of global growth,” Dominguez said. Besides Dominguez, the Philippine team also includes Secretaries Benjamin Diokno of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Arthur Tugade of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Mark Villar of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and Director General Ernesto Pernia of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). NEDA deputy director general Rolando Tungpalan, DPWH Undersecretaries Emil Sadain and Karen Jimeno, and Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA)

president-CEO Vivencio Dizon are also part of the delegation. Joining them likewise are DOF Assistant Secretaries Ma. Edita Tan and Mark Dennis Joven, DOTr Assistant Secretaries Leah Merida Quiambao and Cesar Chavez, and Assistant Secretary Julia Nebrija of the Metro Manila Development Authority. While in Beijing, the Philippine officials are due to hold separate meetings with China Vice Premier Wang Yang, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Commerce Minister Gao Hucheng, and National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) vice chairman Wang Xiaotao. They also plan to meet top officials of the China Investment Corp. (CIC). The meetings will cover discussions on the government-to-government projects signed between the Philippines and China; the proposed projects for financing and feasibility studies; the chairmanship of the Philippines this year of the ASEAN; and matters concerning the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Philippines’ flagship infrastructure projects. (PR)

PH team, Chinese officials to discuss infra projects

HIGH-LEVEL delegation from the Philippines led by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has arrived here for a series of meetings with top-ranking Chinese officials to hammer out details of several proposed big-ticket projects that China has offered for funding, which include irrigation systems, power generation and railways. Dominguez said the follow-up meetings here between Philippine and Chinese officials will continue the discussions on how to “move forward” on the projects covered by the agreements signed between the two countries. “We submitted last November a list of projects to the Chinese government through the Chinese embassy in Manila for their review. The Philippine team would like to get their reactions and determine what their priorities are and see whether this also match our priorities,” Dominguez said in an interview here with members of the Chinese media. The top-level mission, Dominguez said, also aims to further enhance “the strong friendship and economic cooperation” between the Philippines and China.

HE new version of the proposed Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act now under study by the House ways and means committee will make the tax system more “progressive” by exempting from the personal income tax (PIT) those with a net taxable income of P250,000 or below, while still retaining exemptions on the first P82,000 earnings of taxpayers from their 13th month pay and other bonuses. Under House Bill 4774, the top PIT rates will also be reduced from 32 percent to 25 percent over time, except for the very rich, making the system truly progressive because low- and middle-income taxpayers will enjoy an increase in their take-home pay as a result of their would-be lower tax payments. “The distribution of income is progressive under the tax-transfer reform. In fact, poorer households will benefit the most from the revised tax reform and transfer plan under Package One as shown by the higher increase in their incomes compared to those of richer households,” said Undersecretary Karl Kendrick Chua of the Department of Finance (DOF). By 2020, only taxpayers with annual incomes of P13 million and above will pay higher taxes, he said, under the two-step plan to reduce PIT rates, primarily for the

benefit of low- and middle-income workers. The DOF also agrees with the HB 4774 proposal to retain tax exemptions for the first P82,000 earnings of workers from their 13th month pay and other bonuses, he said. The revised Package One or the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act under HB 4774 covers the lowering of PIT rates and a corresponding set of revenue-compensating measures. It was crafted and filed in the chamber by the House ways and means panel chaired by Rep. Dakila Carlo Chua, in close coordination with the DOF. According to Chua, micro enterprises such as sari-sari stores, which are covered by an increased VAT threshold of P3 million under the revised tax reform plan, will be taxed a lower 8 percent on gross sales in lieu of the income tax and the VAT or the percentage tax of 3 percent. The VAT threshold will be adjusted to inflation every three years under the House tax reform plan. To expand the VAT base as proposed by HB 4774, exemptions to this consumption tax will be limited only to raw food and other necessities, such as education and health, as well as other items with a clear economic rationale for exemption under the House committee proposal, Chua said. (PR)

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Davao Region, through its Consumer Protection Services Division (CPSD), is bent on intensifying its promotion of product standards. For this year, the agency has lined up a number of activities designed to achieve this goal. The first of these was the seminar on the Bureau of Philippines Standards’ (BPS) Product Certification Scheme last January 10 and 12 at the Sequoia Inn, Davao City and Crisbel Crown Center, Digos City, respectively. The activity, with the theme, “Awareness on Product Standards – Key to Safety Excellence,” served as venue for the launching of the CPSD’s 2017 Consumer Education and Advocacy Initiatives and converged public and private stakeholders in the construction, hardware, aluminum and glass sectors. In collaboration with the Philippine Association of BI-GI Steel Pipes and Tubes Manufacturers, Inc., Philippine Steelmakers Association, Flat Glass Alliance of the Philippines and Ceramic Tile/ Sanitary Ware Manufacturers, Inc., the seminar focused on the importance of and compliance to the Product Certification Scheme for the construction materials listed under the Mandatory Products of BPS. It specifically provided inputs about Republic Act 4109 or Standards Law and the following DTI issuances: · Department Administrative Order No. 04:2008 “The New Rules and Regulations Concerning the Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and/or Safety Certification Mark Scheme of the Bureau of Philippine Standard;” · Department Administrative Order No. 05:2008 “The New Rules and Regulations Concerning the Issuance of the Import

Commodity Clearance (ICC) under the Product Certification Mark Scheme of the Bureau of Philippine Standards;” · Department Administrative Order No. 15-01:2015 “Guidelines on the Mandatory Marking, Labeling and Packaging for Delisted Products under the Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and/or Safety Certification Mark Scheme;” · Department Administrative Order No. 02:2007: “Defining the Responsibilities and Duties of Manufacturers, Importers, Traders, Wholesales, Distributors, Retailers, Service Providers and/ or their Agents, with Regard to Products/Services Covered by Philippine Standard Certification Mark Schemes and Prescribing Penalties for Violations Thereof.” Meanwhile, different industry associations were also able to capacitate the participants on the specific Philippine National Standards’ requirements during the seminar. These include the markings, labeling, logo, weight, length and other specifications of black iron (BI), galvanized iron (GI), flat glass, ceramic tiles and steel (deformed and re-rolled) bars. “If more MSMEs, consumers and public sectors are aware of the products under mandatory certification scheme, we expect an enhanced public-private partnership in the fight against the proliferation of uncertified and substandard products in the market,” Ambi said. For more information about product standards and other consumer-related concerns, anyone may visit DTI-Davao Regional Office at 4F Mintrade Realty Building, corner Monteverde and Sales Streets, Davao City. They may also contact them through landline number (082) 224-0511, local 417 and 420 (Consumer Protection Services Division). DTI11/ WDG/jmm

DTI intensifies product standards awareness T

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

ECONOMY 7

DTI to launch ASEAN 2017 business, investment program

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), led by Secretary Ramon M. Lopez, will launch the ASEAN 2017 Business and Investment Program (ABIP) at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall in Malacañang on 24 January 2017. “DTI as chair of the ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) and the chair for the Committee on Business and Investment Promotion (CBIP) will unveil several business programs for the year that will complement Philippines’ priorities under the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Pillar,” said Secretary Ramon M. Lopez. The CBIP, an inter-agency committee established by the Philippines’ 2017 ASEAN National Organizing Committee (ASEAN NOC), is responsible for engaging the international business community, investors, government and other parties; and in organizing, as well as supervising potential business and investment-related activities. Among the six thematic priorities identified for Philippines’ chairmanship of ASEAN

2017, DTI is set to highlight efforts under the thematic priority “promoting inclusive, innovation-led growth, for shared prosperity in ASEAN”. “Having AEC pillar in mind, CBIP developed business programs that will complement our regional effort in terms of regulatory coherence, promotion and internationalization of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), development of an innovation-driven economy, and promotion of women and youth entrepreneurship,” added Secretary Lopez. Key government agencies, representatives of ASEAN member states, the ASEAN Business Advisory Council led by Presidential Adviser Joey Concepcion with DTI private sector partners, and representatives of ASEAN-dialogue partners are expected to come during the launch. The Philippine Chairmanship of ASEAN 2017 was formally launched on 15 January in SMX Convention Center in Davao City with the theme “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World.” (PR)

YALA-LED Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) continues to see a robust growth for the Philippine economy despite a bleak export, with the last quarter output for 2016 projected at 6.6 percent. The bank’s latest forecast is lower than the 7.1 percent output, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP), in the third quarter of last year but within the government’s six to seven percent target for 2016. In a research note, the bank attributed its projection to strong domestic consumption, which accounts for 65 percent of overall growth. “Although the trade gap continues to widen topose a viable drain on the overall growth number, the consumption momentum appears potent enough to compensate,”

it said. The study also considers as additional boost to the GDP the improvement of government spending and capital formation. “On top of the traditional growth drivers, we’ve seen President (Rodrigo Roa) Duterte indeed hit the ground running on the expenditure side, up 12 percent for the period October-November, while investments are expected to sustain their torrid expansion with importation of capital goods still posting double digit growth,” it said. “The end result will be the Philippines retaining pole position in the ASEAN region in 4Q although whether or not we sustain this pace may rely on our ability to balance our external position and fiscal position in the medium-term,” it noted. (PNA)

BPI forecasts PHL Q4‘16 GDP at 6.6%

SUPPLY AND DEMAND. National Food Authority Davao City manager Edegary Rongcal says the country is importing rice from Vietnam and Thailand because “palay” production is low like in the Davao region where

WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY. Ma. Celeste Noblefranca (right) and Marc Wales discuss the forthcoming E-Commerce Entrepreneur Summit set on January 28 at Home Crest Hotel in Davao City with an objective to help

e-commerce industry players to sell their products internationally with local marketplaces as enablers. The two women graced yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

First Davao E-commerce summit unveils Saturday By JIMMY K. LAKING

AVAO City’s first E-Commerce entrepreneurs summits will proceed as schedule on January 28 at the Home Crest Hotel along Ecoland with at least 1,000 participants expected to attend. This was the assurance given by organizers Marc Wales and Ma. Celeste Noblefranca at the Kapehan sa Davao in drumming up the importance of the summit to business establishment owners, academe, professionals, Micro, Small and Medium enterprises. “The goal is to do E-Commerce by

2020 for all business activities,” said Noblefranca. Wales said the summit will focus on the advantages of e-commerce in increasing revenues online and in acquiring bigger market share on local and global markets. ‘It will serve as an important forum that will tackle developments with relevant and emerging players with the end and view of empowering them on the power of e-commerce and in helping them evolve from change thinkers to change makers,” she added. The summit will invite

experts and emerging players in the e-commerce industry as speakers. Noblefranca said that in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry, the Davao online marketplace will also be launched to prove MSMEs a forum to showcase their products. She said that in the case of farmers, they would be able to reach out to wider market by going online. It is a new marketing tool that should be placed within rich of farmers or farmer cooperatives,” she said.

She said that on-line marketing will prevent the interference of middlemen since it will connect the farmers directly to the market. She said agricultural crops like fruits can be further enhanced on-line through good photos. The summit is the first to be organized by Digital Filipino in partnership with the DTI in Davao City. A registration fee of P3,000 per participant is required. For more details, interested parties may get in touch with: ecomsummitdavao@gamial.com.

part and act swiftly on the passage of the proposed law amending the Sin Tax Reform Act in order to protect local to-

bacco farmers. “I am hoping that our good senators will also do their part to protect the local tobacco farmers from unfair business practices favoring multinational companies by immediately deliberating and approving the proposed amendments to the Sin tax Reform Act,” House senior Deputy Minority Leader and Buhay Partylist Rep. Lito Atienza said. Last December 13, the House of Representatives approved on third and final reading the proposed bill seeking to retain the present two-tier excise tax rate on tobacco products from going to the scheduled unitary tax system by January. House Bill 4144 was approved through nominal voting with 176 votes, 30 against and 3 abstentions. Filed by ABS party-list Rep. Eugene Michael de Vera, the proposed measure will amend Section 145 paragraph (c) of the National Internal Revenue Code. Under the present set-up,

cigarettes with a net retail price of P11.50 per pack are taxed P25 per pack; while those priced higher than P11.50 will be taxed P29 per pack. This January, the system will shift to a unitary tax rate of P30 per pack regardless of retail price. But under HB 4144, a pack of cigarette with a net retail price (excluding excise and value-added tax) of P11.50 will be taxed at P32; while a pack with a net retail price of more than P11.50 will be taxed at P36. Atienza said he is pushing for the swift enactment of the proposed amendments because “the past Congress has failed to protect the country’s local tobacco industry for approving laws that only serve the interests of multinational companies selling imported and branded cigarettes.” He said that local tobacco farmers are now on the verge of extinction after being the number one in the world before. (PNA)

Senate urged to act swiftly on proposed amendments to cigarette tax bill

N opposition lawmaker at the House of Representatives on Sunday called on the Senate to do their

the supply is not enough for the consumption of the consumers. Rongcal made the statement during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

EDITORIAL

Washington Post twits on Rody’s threat

HE Washington Post came up with another editorial piece on President Rodrigo Duterte, this time on his threat to declare Martial Law in case the drug problem in the Philippines worsens. The piece, entitled “What the heck is going on in the Philippines?” was posted on its January 21 issue and narrated the history of Martial Law in the country and President Duterte’s latest announcement made in Davao City last week. It began: “A week ago, President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines threatened to impose martial law if necessary in his drive against drug users and dealers. “No one can stop me,” Mr. Duterte said. “My country transcends everything else, even the limitations.” The Post said the similarity of tone between the statements of Marcos and Duterte— both claiming a higher calling for trampling democracy — is reason to ask: What the heck is going on in the Philippines? The piece hit the President for appearing to steer democracy into the dark corners of authoritarianism and driving an important U.S. ally into the waiting arms of China and Russia. It also twitted on President Duterte’s newfound fondness for China and Russia which both sit on the other end of the room with the US. Now, this is where it got wicked. The Post accused President Duterte of “unleashing the police and vigilantes” in a brutal extrajudicial campaign

EDGEDAVAO

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against alleged drug users and dealers in which an estimated 6,000 people have been killed. The focal point of the news organization’s editorial is the threat to impose martial law where President Duterte said that if the drug campaign deteriorates into “something really very virulent, I will declare martial law,” he said. When referring to the “limitations,” he meant the post-Marcos 1987 Constitution, under which the president may declare martial law “in case of invasion or rebellion, when the public safety requires it,” for no longer than 60 days, with approval by Congress. While there is no provision for declaring martial law to fight drug trafficking and use, Dutete may have seen some ‘openings’ for interpretations. We ask: Why the heck is America so paranoid? So what if President Duterte declares Martial Law? Will the US object? Is that how it views their power over other democracies like the Philippines? The piece said “U.S.-Filipino alliance is important, but if the United States abandons support for democratic values, it will have no more claim on Filipino friendship for the long term than any other power that chooses to bid.” And so, what the heck? Why the heck is America so afraid to lose the Philippines as an ally? That fact is more disturbing.

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EDGEDAVAO

LL over the world, every history book is replete with nationalistic writings of heroism, gallantry and patriotism. There are struggles, deaths, sacrifices – even betrayals. Sadly, these harrowing experiences, although they left scars, did not amply teach the Filipinos the real meaning of peace, unity, freedom and independence. Today, skepticism envelops the entire length and breadth of the nation. Every Filipino citizen is reeling in a confused mind-set and psychological chaos. Most Filipinos are left in the dark as who and what to believe in. Their choices are not independently-made because they are hounded by half-truths that are spread by sectors and interest groups who have been trained to do black propaganda. I am sure we are all agreed that we need to have peace in the land; peace that is enduring, peace that will transcend language, ethnic and cultural borders; peace that will teach the young generation of Filipinos today and the next to say: “you are my brother whoever you are and wherever you come from.” The good news is that currently the Moro

OR those interested in Botany, Davao’s place in scientific history, though small, will always be linked to the discovery of the country’s second Rafflesia (named after Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, founder of Singapore), a giant parasite and recognized as the world’s largest bloom. Credit for finding the rare plant goes to naturalist Alexander Schadenberg, a native of Breslau, Germany, who spent most of his life exploring and documenting the islands for flora and fauna. For the feat, he deserves to be called as the ‘father of Davao rafflesia.’ Born on June 27, 1851, he was born a decade earlier than his personal friend, national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal. The discovery of Rafflesia schadenbergiana Goeppert (named in his honor) at Mount Apo in 1882 is a story in itself. Already a Doctor of Philosophy at age 23, Schadenberg resigned in 1876from his work as assistant director of the Potassic Salt Works at Stassfurt, Germany, and accepted the offer as chemist of Botica Boie, a famous wholesale drug company in Manila. For three years Schadenberg worked with the pharmacy while working on his interest to explore the interior regions of the archipelago. But in 1879, due to a malarial attack, he was forced to return home but not after discussing a plan with Otto Koch, a Cebu-based German, about discovering southern Mindanao, especially the regions around Mt. Apo. The pursuit was again stalled in

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

VANTAGE POINTS

Skepticism is killing us secessionist SPECKS OF LIFE m ove m e n t and the incumbent regime are in principle agreed to mutually map a peace plan in MinFred C. Lumba danao that is inclusive, with both parties agreeing to a cessation of armed activities against the other. It seems to be working. There is a feeling of confidence in the air (particularly in Mindanao), even if the Bangsamoro Basic Law begun by the previous administration did not see full fruition during its six-year term. The BBL was, unfortunately, overtaken by events (as its’ forerunner suffered the same fate in the GMA government) because the skepticism was much too much to contain from sectors who felt the endeavor was too political in sheer thought that it became exclusive. In reality, it hurts to say that the truth being peddled then was only the truth that

is being seen from the periscope of those involved in the transaction. Many people sensed that the peace document was being run roughshod over the protestations of other parties that were also fighting for the same principles but were nevertheless ignored if not given the cold shoulder treatment. The question now arises: Will we Filipinos from all walks of life choose to subordinate our will in favor of other people’s opinions, preferences and approval regardless if these are against our collective desires and growth? Oliver Goldsmith wrote: “Our greatest glory is not in never falling; but in rising every time we fall.” This, in effect, reminds us anew of the sacrifices of our heroes who fought and fell, who dedicated their lives that this nation might be free. Unity is not a strange word that is odd to our vocabulary. We displayed it when the Katipuneros organized by Gat Andres Bonifacio wielded even just their bolos and crudely-carved weapons against the abusive Spanish conquistadores. The Filipinos took up arms against the hegemonic Americans

with unity as a patriotic theme. They parlayed the same heroic attitude against the Japanese invaders. But against their own fellowmen, unity seemed a strange bedfellow. It is Greek to many Filipinos. We lack the discipline to stave off the evil forces that divide us. We don’t possess the courage needed to drive away the negative monsters that overrun our ranks and disperse us. We simply retreat because we don’t know who we are and what we ought to achieve. We cower in fear because we did not have the faith and trust in our elected national leaders. Yes, skepticism is killing us all. The idea of federalism has not even taken a step beyond its portals and yet it is now subjected to critical violence in the media, absorbing a barrage of incredulous punches that have left it severely mangled and in disarray. Yes, skepticism in the form of fear, doubt, uncertainty and lies is keeping the country from taking a bold step forward. All things must be dealt with and Now is the time. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) God bless the Philippines!

1881 when FAST BACKWARD Schadenberg was engaged to a young maiden back home but was able to convince his future spouse to a temporary separa- Antonio V. Figueroa tion in favor of his quest to collect ethnographic, botanical, and zoological samples from Davao region. Finally, by December 1881, with Koch in tow, Schadenberg established himself at the foothills of Mt. Apo with the help of the Bagobos, the iconic tribesmen of Davao, as host and guide. Schadenberg and company actually undertook two ascents to the mountain. These occurred on Feb. 20, 1882, and March 16, 1882. It was during the second expedition that the new Rafflesia species, measuring 80 centimeters in diameter, was found at Parag, a mountain north of the volcano. Prior to his second ascent, he wrote a letter to his wife dated March 9, 1882 and postmarked ‘Sibulan,’ a village in Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur. Excited at the scientific developments he had made in the country, Schadenberg eventually decided to bring to the Philippines his family in November 1885 and permanently

settled in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, where he established his base in exploring the northern cordilleras. For a brief period in 1890, his entire family visited his motherland; he returned the following year to become part owner of the pharmacy Boie and Siegert, renamed later as Boie and Schanderberg. Since the finding of Rafflesia in Davao region, close to a dozen other species were uncovered in various regions, including the Rafflesia mira, found at New Albay, Maragusan, Compostela Valley Province, and the Rafflesia banahawensis (Mt. Banahaw), later reverted to its original classification as Rafflesia philippensis Blanco, the first giant to be discovered in the country in 1845. In the past 130 years, the list of Philippine rafflesias now includes R. lagascae (R. manillana), Rafflesia speciosa (Antique), R. lobata (2005, Mt. Igtuog and Mt. Sakpaw, Panay), R. baletei (1991, Mt. Isarog and Mt. Iriga Range, Camarines Sur), R. panchoana (2007, Mt. Makiling), R. leonardi (2008, Kinapawan, Lal-lo, Cagayan Valley), R. aurantis (2009, Quirino Province), and R. consueloae, the world’s smallest giant flower. In general, Rafflesia, the Wikipedia explains, is “a genus of parasitic flowering plants. It contains approximately 28 species (including four incompletely characterized species as recognized by Willem Meijer in 1997), all found in southeastern Asia, in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. It was first discovered by Louis Deschamps in Java between 1791 and 1794,

but his notes and illustrations, seized by the British in 1803, were not available to western science until 1861. It was later found in the Indonesian rain forest in Bengkulu, Sumatra by an Indonesian guide working for Dr. Joseph Arnold [an English naturalist] in 1818, and named after Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, the leader of the expedition. “The plant has no stems, leaves or true roots. It is a holoparasite of vines in the genus Tetrastigma (Vitaceae), spreading its absorptive organ, the haustorium, inside the tissue of the vine. The only part of the plant that can be seen outside the host vine is the five-petalled flower. In some species, such as Rafflesia arnoldii, the flower may be over 100 centimetres (39 in) in diameter, and weigh up to 10 kilograms (22 lb). Even one of the smallest species, R. baletei, has 12 cm diameter flowers. “The flowers look and smell like rotting flesh, hence its local names which translate to ‘corpse flower’ or ‘meat flower.’ The foul odor attracts insects such as flies, which transport pollen from male to female flowers. Most species have separate male and female flowers, but a few have hermaphroditic flowers. Little is known about seed dispersal. However, tree shrews and other forest mammals eat the fruits and disperse the seeds. Rafflesia is the official state flower of Indonesia known as Puspa langka (rare flower) or Padma Raksasa (giant flower), the Sabah state in Malaysia, and of the Surat Thani Province, Thailand.”

‘Father of Davao rafflesia’

10 NEWS P28-B... FROM 1

The monorail system’s route will stretch all the way from Panacan following the major road networks with stations in SM Lanang, Abreza, Gaisano, Roxas Boulevard, Boulevard, Magsaysay, Agdao. He said one proposed feature is to put up parking malls, in partnership with other investor, along the stations. “That way, commuters can help ease traffic by park-

ing their cars in the parking malls and take the train towards their destination,” he said. The consortium said its engineers have proposed a route that will not affect or displace residents. The consortium is currently in negotiations with City Hall in a bid to get the go-signal for the conduct of a feasibility study.

eral ceasefire, since there will be an independent monitoring team that will conduct their own investigation and can recommend a possible sanction. “In a bilateral ceasefire, independent monitors conduct their own independent investigations, submit reports with possible sanctions imposed, if warranted,” he said. He added that the best practice in the peace engagements with the angsamoro can be instructive to both sides. According to the Military, the 39IB together with the Police personnel of the Makilala Municipal Police Station responded to an alleged harassment by the NPA to a truck driver in an attempt to extort money from a construction company. 10th Infantry Division spokesperson Capt. Rhyan

Batchar said in a statement that the rebels fired at the responding authorities around 5PM in the afternoon at Brgy. Biangan, Makilala, North Cotabato. The firefight lasted for about an hour. The following day, at around 5:30 in the morning, while the soldiers were scouring at the site of the incident, the rebels once again fired at them that lasted for about 30 minutes. However, for the part of the NPA-Southern Mindanao spokesperson Rigoberto Sanchez said that it was the 39th IB that launched an offensive at Sitio Lokatong in Brgy. Biangan where an NPA unit was encamped. “Having monitored the enemy’s movement, Red fighters promptly maneuvered to avoid armed encounters,” Sanchez said in a statement.

Dela Rosa a friend and that the party gave them an opportunity to talk. Alvarez explained that he was invited on Dela Rosa’s birthday party that is why he went there as a friend.

“Sabi ko, basta sige, okay na ‘yun, gawin na lang ‘yung kung ano ‘yung sinabi,” he said. “Gusto ko lang linawin na siyempre, hiwalay ‘yung pagkakaibigan saka doon sa trabaho natin,” Alvarez added.

Elementary School was also reported. In Baganga town, eight barangays with a total of 283 households were reported to have been affected. Reports also revealed scouring of rivers, damaged culverts, and landslides. Cateel town reported some 4,327 affected families in 6 barangays as well as damaged bridges, culvert boxes, and water systems. Incidents of landslides have been reported in the town of Caraga. Three deaths were also reported in Caraga and Cateel towns. The Provincial Government has committed to extend assistance to the families of the victims. Meanwhile, Provincial Agriculture Office Head Rotchie Ravelo said that the heavy rains have destroyed crops, causing damages worth P1.7 million. The extent of the damage has affected at least 423 hectares and 1,864 farmers in 27 barangays in Tarragona, Cateel, and Boston. The damage cost is expected to rise amidst the incoming reports from the different towns.

making efforts to assist local leaders respond to the devastation. The disaster also prompted the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police to mobilize troops to readily assist rescue and aid teams. As to relief aid, the provincial government committed to augment the already dwindling supply of food packs of the municipalities which they already started to distribute since last week. The Department of Social Welfare and Development is also set to provide food packs to the residents through the municipal government. The Department of Health has provided medicines for common diseases ready for distribution in the areas. During the meeting, Governor Dayanghirang ordered the immediate deployment of heavy equipment to help the clearing operation on areas affected by landslides. Long-term interventions were also discussed such as relocation of residents in areas identified as danger zones. The Governor said that there will be strict implementation of the no-build zone. Talks about watershed management and massive planting of trees were also discussed. (Karen Lou Deloso/PIO DavOr)

Dureza... FROM 1

House... FROM 2 DavOr... FROM 4

INTERVENTIONS While all disaster risk reduction and management offices in the municipalities have already been activated, the Provincial Government is also

EDGEDAVAO

PROMISING INDUSTRY. Ray Rubio says Davao City is being eyed as the next animation hub in the country and investors are planning to build facilities in the city. Rubio made the revelation during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw

Arms... FROM 2

items which include three high-powered rifles, three improvised explosive devices, 15 backpacks loaded with personal belongings, two handheld radios, assorted medical supplies and several subversive documents,” Batchar said in a statement to the media on Monday. A member of the NPA was killed while five others from the group were wounded during the series of encounters. The army identified the slain rebel as Rojit Estampa Ranara, 33 years of age, married and resident of Sitio Patulangon, Barangay Zone 1, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. He is a member of CPPNPA-NDF Front 51 operating in the areas of North Cotabato and Davao del Sur. Report said that joint forces of the army and the PNP, on Saturday at around 5:00 p.m., responded to a reported harassment by the NPAs to the driver and men of Santos Land Development Corporation, a banana company operating in Makilala town. While the government forces were heading towards the incident site they were waylaid by undetermined number of armed rebels that resulted to nearly an hour of firefight. Pursuit operations followed that resulted to another round of encounter in the morning of Sunday, January 22 at around 5:30 in the morning that resulted to the killing of one rebel and the recovery of three M-16 rifles and personal belongings of the slain rebel. Batchar said that several extortion letters signed by a certain Ricardo Fermiza, spokesman of Guerilla 51,

Davao del Sur-North Cotabato Operation Command of the NPA, Southern Mindanao Region were also recovered from the site of the encounter. The 39th IB has been receiving reports from the people in the area on the extortion activities of Fermiza and his group since 2014, the 10th ID added. The recovered firearms and other materials were brought by PNP SOCO at the Provincial Crime Laboratory in Kidapawan City for further evaluation and proper disposition. Batchar said the dead body Ranara was claimed by her sister Lolita Estampa Ranara and brought to Torreda Funeral Homes in Makilala town. The army also denied the allegations made by the NPA that eight soldiers were killed during the series of encounters. Batchar said the 10th ID is open to the public to scrutinize the records of the Makilala police, interview the people around the encounter site and check on all hospitals and funeral parlors in Regions 11 and 12 to determine who is telling the truth. Meanwhile, 10th ID commander Major General Rafael Valencia expressed regret over the encounter in the midst of peace talks and the declared unilateral ceasefires. “It is very sad that while the peace talk is on-going, there are armed groups who continue to use force and violence to terrorize and extort from the people,” Valencia said. He added that the AFP and the PNP, as mandated by law, will always take actions to secure and protect the people against wanton attacks.

Appropriate charges will also be filed against the apprehended police officer. “We will show no mercy to those police officers who will be found guilty of pushing, using and recycling of illegal drugs. They have no right to be in the organization, not only will they be dismissed but they will also face criminal charges,” Gaerlan said.

He added that internal cleansing will continue within the ranks as the PNP intensifies its campaign against illegal drugs. “The PNP will never condone nor tolerate illegal activities perpetrated by its members. Anyone who will violate and be found guilty will face the full force of the law,” Gaerlan said.

Mati... FROM 3

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

at the Annex of SM City Davao where he promoted the upcoming forum on the status of animation industry in Davao City slated at Garden Oases on January 26. Lean Daval Jr.

Duterte... FROM 2 the ongoing peace negotiations. “It should not affect any of the ongoing talks. Ceasefire holds,” Abella said. He explained that the ongo-

ing peace talks are focused on settling the disputes between the government and the communist rebels in the country. (PNA)

serve as a model and an example to us in Central Luzon to emulate, especially the partnership with the stakeholders that this brigade has been espousing,” he said. “It is indeed worthy of praise and recognition,” he added.

clude the sentiments of the people of this province,” he said. “They have repeatedly quest for a long-lastingpeace. Let us not fail them. Let us all have a selfless commitment to serve and attain the elusive and enduring peace in this province,” he added. Banking on the collaboration of all stakeholders, Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang said he looks forward to work with the new commander. “We believe in your capacity to bring sustainable and meaningful peace and security to our province. We shall lead the quest for peace and security. Let us roll up our sleeves and pitch in,” he said. Former Governor, now First District Representative Cong. Corazon N. Malanyaon, lauded the military for their sterling performance in the pursuit for peace. She cited the previous and present leaders of the military here who, together with the provincial government, pursued undertakings that helped made Davao Oriental a model and the most benchmarked province in terms of peace and development. Aside from provincial government leaders, Friday’s ceremony also saw the attendance of top officials from the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Present during the ceremony areLt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), who in the past also served as commander of the 701st Brigade; 10th Infantry Division Commander, Major General Rafael C. Valencia; and 7th Infantry Division Commander Major General Angelito De Leon who presided over the change of command ceremony. (Karen Lou Deloso/DavOr PIO)

New... FROM 4

Towards Strengthening Peace The brigade’s new commander, Col. Basiao, shared his enthusiasm about working with the province’s stakeholders whom he had the chance to work within the past when he was still the battalion commander of one of the brigade’s unit, the 67th Infantry Battalion. “I am more than happy to be given the opportunity to serve again the people of this province and to renew the partnerships the inter-agency coordination and the synergy that we started four years ago,” he said. Prior to his installation as brigade commander, Basiao served as the Philippine Defense and Armed Forces Attaché in Thailand. In his message, Basiao reminded the men that are now under his command to preserve and cherish the people’s trust to them. “Let us be reminded though that the support of our people is conditional. To the Philippine Army we will lose the support if our actions are not favorable and not aligned to the sentiments of the people of this province. Hence, we should maintain, if not, heighten the momentum of our successes in this part of the country. We shall continue to become creative in our approaches. We have to adapt, if not, reconfigure plans and programs to cater to our changing operational environment. We have to be responsive to the security requirements to in-

INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

EDGEDAVAO TRAVEL

Life lessons I learned from

SURFING AGAIN COMING BACK TO SURF, like any other physically demanding sport, takes time. I know what I used to be capable of, my mind does but my body does not cooperate. What used to be a wave that I easily can ride turns into a frustrating attempt to even catch that wave. Literally, getting back to my former surffitness glory is a wave after wave of disappointment. I was weak and rusty. My skills needed much refining. I had to relearn reading waves to name a few. Having agreed to go on a surf trip after a yearlong hiatus, I did not expect to be so weak. Seeing the others surf was daunting. There’s always that choice you have to make. Do I surf or do I watch them surf? I wasn’t at my optimum physical best to surf but I really wanted to. First, it was important that I was with people who will check up on me to see if I wasn’t yet drowning in the water. I had no idea that the spot we were going to surf in was a river mouth. With tales of bull shark sightings around and seeing how big the waves were because of the swell, I would be lying if I said I was not afraid. The only thing in my mind that kept me from succumbing to fear is that this is the life I had always dreamt of. Shame if I just watched people surf. You’ll never get to the lineup without paddling towards it. You have to move forward. Otherwise, you’ll never get to where you want to be. Second lesson is to keep moving forward even if all you see ahead are huge waves. Huge waves will come once they do, you can’t choose how you get wiped out. You can try to do your best to duck dive or do a turtle roll to avoid getting thrown back further. You’ll fall, get beaten or wipe out but you always have to surface to breathe. Then choose to go on. I continued paddling. Soon enough the waves became gentle. I arrive in the lineup where the others were. Getting to the lineup was an achievement. Catching the waves was the next frustrating part for me. I had forgotten just ‘hard’ I should be paddling. Failing to catch waves for almost an hour, I felt disappointed. I was not happy with what has happening. I knew something had to change. I realized that my workouts in the gym were not Above everything else, it’s most important to have fun. Photo taken in Dahican by Connor Bautista.

MERMAID A3

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge! TRAVEL

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

More to Singapore THE SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD, together with Resorts World Sentosa and SilkAir held a Singapore Tourism roadshow last January 18 at the Jade Ballroom of the Marco Polo Davao. In attendance of the events and attractions update were Davao’s travel and tour operators together with Davao’s lifestyle writers.

The event started with SilkAir Davao’s Sales & Reservation Officer Reya Yap int roducing SilkAir and the two new destinations it now flies to, namely Vientiane and Luang Prabang, both in Laos. “SilkAir has been been operating direct flights to SIngapore from Davao City for 20 years,” said Reya, “With Singapore as our hub, we connect Davao City to Southeast Asia, India, and China, and through Singapore Airlines to Europe, Japan, Australia and North America. For their part, Resorts World Sentosa’s Assistant Director for Travel and Leisure Sales, Anna Ico, updated guests on the latest attractions in Singapore’s first fully-integrated, tourism estate. “Resorts World Singapore offers travellers the best experiences when it comes to stays, dining, fun, and entertainment.” said Anna. With over 2000 rooms and suites, visitors to Resorts World Sentosa can wake

Singapore Tourism Board’s Mary Grace Cuenca.

At the S.E.A. Aquarium. up to six different experiences, with six uniquely-themed hotels to choose from while foodies are sure to have their fill from Michelin-star dining to authentic hawker fare. Families wanting to have a fun-filled getaway will love the excitement at Universal Studios Sentosa, get wild and wild at the Adventure Cove Waterpark, or stand in awe in front of Southeast Asia’s biggest aquarium panel at the S.E.A. Aquarium. “Singapore always offers its visitors something new and unique to discover. From world-class attractions and entertainment events to delightful dining and retail offerings,” said Mary grace Cuenca, the Philippine Manager of the Singapore Tourism Board. Aside from the attractions at the Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore offers many delightful eye-candy destinations where one can experience the beauty and culture of Singapore, from the city’s

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Resorts World Sentosa’s Anna Ico.

Me enjoying the street art along Haji Lane. vibrant Chinatown, to its colorful Bugis district, there is always something fun and exciting to take a selfie of.

Singapore also recently launched its first Michelin Guide which is the go-to bible for food lovers. With the inclusion of 17 of Singapore’s hawker stalls, foodies visiting Singapore now have affordable options to have their fill aside from the many fancy dining establishments on the list. There is definitely much more to explore in Singapore and what makes it better is that it is just one easy flight away.

Globe Platinum customers get the best travel deals on Singapore Airlines KICK-START 2017 with wonderful travels to inspiring destinations. Now on its 4th year of partnership since 2013, Globe Platinum and Singapore Airlines bring the Singapore Airlines Showcase and Travel Fair to Manila starting January 20 to February 20, 2017. Globe Platinum customers can enjoy discounted round trip all-in-fares and other wonderful surprises during this year’s event. “Traveling is one of our customers’ biggest passions and our longstanding partnership with Singapore Airlines allows us to provide some of the best travel deals! This exclusive access is just some of the many privileges that only we can offer. Our partnership complements the already existing travel privileges of a Globe Platinum customer, such as access to over 800 international airport lounges and our worldwide concierge service. This is just the start of many exciting things and travel opportunities for our customers this 2017,” shares Kaisie del Carmen, Globe Platinum Head. Wonderful travel destinations

in Southeast Asia, North Asia, West Asia, Africa, Europe and USA, can now be accessed directly from the Philippines through Singapore Airlines (SQ) and SilkAir (MI) with the most affordable fares. Globe Platinum customers can exclusively enjoy year-round discounted flights to these destinations if they purchase their flights from January 20 to February 20, 2017 at any Singapore Airlines Showcase and Travel Fair. Customers can also book their flights to any of these said destinations using their BPI credit card at www.singaporeair.com. Apart from good deals and discounted fares, customers are in for more treats when they drop by the Globe Platinum lounge during the fair and by simply subscribing to Easy Roam 149. Customers can get a chance to win Moto Z smartphones with Moto Mods by just registering in the lounge onsite. Travelers are also in for a treat as Globe Platinum will give away a Rimowa Hand carry luggage to one lucky customer from the Easy Roam 149 signups during the event.

Easy Roam 149 is the latest roaming service of Globe that lets customers enjoy 5 cumulative days of data roaming in any of the 120 destination s for only P149/month, charged to their bill. This is perfect for travelers who like to plan ahead for their travels, and save up in the process. To register to Easy Roam, customers just need to text Easy Roam 149 to 8080 before leaving the country. Should the customer still be on data roaming after the 5 allotted days, the regular rate of P599 for unlimited 24-hour data roaming will apply. The Singapore Airlines Showcase and Travel Fair will be held in different malls in the Philippines nationwide. On January 27-29, the first run will be held in Ayala Center Cebu- The Gallery. From February 26 to 28 in Trinoma Activity Center, and the last and biggest leg within Metro Manila will be at the SMX Convention Center from February 10 to 12. Customers in Davao can also enjoy discounts and wonderful prizes from February 17-19 in Davao Abreeza Mall Activity Center.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

TRAVEL MERMAID A1

enough in building my stamina and core strength. I knew I had to change my routine. I mentally made a note to discipline myself in strengthening my core. I knew that I lacked stamina because an hour of paddling back and forth against the waves and current makes me so tired that my limbs felt like lead. The more I would focus on strengthening myself

EDGEDAVAO

in stamina and in skill, the more I would be able to enjoy surfing. So, I did not stop when I completely looked like a first timer with the waves. I stopped caring what others would think about me (if they even were thinking of me at all! I think they were too busy having fun to actually mock people who can’t surf well). All I know is that I wanted to get better. Obviously, even if I strongly desired to be better, I couldn’t automatically

right then and there surf better. But because I continued on with the motions, I enjoyed starting again. The waves of our lives come in different packages. It’s inevitable and we can’t escape that. But we all have a choice. We can choose to ride the waves or let the waves ride over us. If we choose to ride the waves, we can choose how to ride it. The process is painful but we can enjoy it because at the end of the ride, the rewards will be worth it.

INdulge! A3 Even falling off your board is fun in itself.

EDGE DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO

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EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

11 COMPETITIVE EDGE

CITYMALL TO GO LOCAL. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez (6th from L) shakes hands with CityMall Commercial Centers, Inc. Chairman and CEO Edgar Sia (5th from L), after reaching an agreement to collaborate in rolling out “Go Lokal!”shops across City Malls nationwide. DTI’s Go Lokal! program aims to provide mainstream market access for the best of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the various regions in the Philippines. In a Memorandum of Agreement signed on 23 January in Makati, both sides agreed to ensure exposure and marketing of these products, in view of the market demand, as well as of the need to build awareness on OTOP/MSME products in both

domestic and international markets. The trade chief said that for 2017, DTI will continue bringing the Go Lokal! brand to different consumer-frequented areas to further showcase the world-class MSME products from various regions of the country. Also present in the signing were CityMall President Ferdinand Sia (4th from L), chief financial officer Rizza Marie Sia (3rd from L), DTI Undersecretary Nora Terrado (7th from L), Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion Director Rhodora M. Leaňo (8th from L) and DTI Regional Director Joel Valera (rightmost). The Go Lokal! products will be launched in all CityMalls in the country starting March this year. (DTI Photo)

Environment group T commends DepEd

DOT upbeat over joint ASEAN tourism drive

EPARTMENT of Education (DepEd) Secretary Leonor M. Briones was commended by groups promoting a healthy and safe children’s environment for issuing a directive entitled “Mandatory Use of Lead-Safe Paints in Schools.” The EcoWaste Coalition (a local environmental group) and IPEN (a global civil society network for safe chemical policies and practices) lauded the recent issuance of Department Order 4, Series of 2017, stating that “the use of only lead-safe coatings or paints shall be mandatory to all pre-school, elementary and secondary schools.” The EcoWaste Coalition had earlier requested Secretary Briones last September 2016 to strengthen Memorandum 85, s.2016 on the use of lead-free paints issued by former Secretary Armin Luistro, stressing that “an enhanced (policy) will advance DepEd’s mission of promoting a child-friendly school environment where students can obtain quality basic education they deserve.” “We laud Secretary Bri-

ones for the timely issuance of DO 4, s. 2017 following the three-year phase-out deadline for lead-containing architectural, decorative and household paints last December 31, 2016. Her order will ensure that paints and products laden with lead, a brain-damaging chemical, will not find their way into the school system and pose lead exposure risks for our children,” said Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator, EcoWaste Coalition. “Use of lead-safe paints shall reduce children’s exposure to toxic lead via lead-containing paint and dust, thus, avoiding health impacts including learning disabilities, anemia and disorders in coordination, visual, spatial, and language skills,” the DO 4 explained. “The DepEd’s directive provides a good example as to what other agencies can do to boost the enforcement of the country’s trailblazing policy to phase out lead paints and prevent children’s and workers’ exposures from such paints. We hope that other agencies will follow suit, particularly by requiring the procurement

and use of certified lead-safe paints for all publicly-funded buildings and facilities,” said Manny Calonzo, Adviser, IPEN Lead Paint Elimination Campaign. DO 4 corresponds to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Administrative Order 2013-24 (or the Chemical Control Order for Lead and Lead Compounds), the 15-point human rights agenda for chemical safety by the Commission on Human Rights and DepEd Memorandum 85, s. 2016 on the use of lead-free paint for the Brigada Eskwela school repair and maintenance activities. The order provides for the mandatory use of independently certified lead-safe paints/coatings in painting and/or repainting school facilities, amenities and other structures such as gate and fence, as well as furniture such as tables, chairs and cabinets, fixtures such as blackboards, learning materials such as teaching aids, school supplies, and toys, and tools and equipment. In case of renovation of school buildings and other facilities and the restoration of

school furniture and fixtures, the order requires the use of the guidelines on proper removal and disposal of lead paints as set by the Philippine Association of Paint Manufacturers to prevent the generation and dispersal of lead-containing dust that children may ingest or inhale. DO 4 shall also apply to paint-coated goods or products directly procured by the school as well as those sourced by other means such as through individual, group, corporate or local government donations. For example, products donated or sold to schools such as, but not limited to, paints, bags, school supplies and furnishings shall be compliant with DENR AO 2013-24 and other relevant lead-related regulations. The Education Facilities Division–DepEd Central Office; the Education Support Service Division (ESSD) Education Facilities Section–Regional Offices; and the School Governance and Operations Division (SGOD)–Education Facilities Section–Schools Division Offices shall be responsible for the implementation of this latest DepEd order on lead paint.

HE Philippine Department of Tourism is upbeat on continuous efforts of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to promote the region as a single and unified travel destination. DOT Secretary Wanda Teo, during the recent 20th ASEAN Tourism Forum in Singapore held Jan. 19 to 21, requested for the ministers’ assistance in promoting the mentioned events to their business and outbound travelers. “Pursuant to the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP), we would like to emphasize the importance of ASEAN working assiduously to ensure that a sustainable and inclusive growth path for tourism will be achieved,” Teo said. “We don’t have to look far to find what we are looking for,” she added citing figures that show that 115 million projected international arrivals can be attributed to the ASEAN countries in 2016. Teo also showed a brief video presentation of DOT’s major projects and invited her fellow ministers to very important tourism-related

events that are slated in the Philippines this year. These events include the staging of the 65th miss Universe on 30 January, the 3rd Madrid Fusion Manila on 6-8 April, and the 6th UNWTO International Conference on Tourism Statistics. The Philippines is also host of the ASEAN @50 celebration. Latest data on visitor arrivals show that for November 2016, visitors from these nine countries combined, account for only 7.9 percent of the total tourist arrivals in the Philippines. Based on the same data, among the ASEAN countries, Singapore delivered the most number of arrivals for the Philippines with 161,194 visitor arrivals followed by Malaysia (128, 077), Thailand (44, 372), Indonesia (40, 651), Vietnam (31, 555) , Brunei (7,378) Myanmar (6,832), Cambodia (3, 278) Laos (1, 112). The ASEAN consists of 10 member countries namely Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines. (PNA)

can build up your immune system and shield you from cough, colds and other sicknesses brought on by stronger typhoons,” he explains. In the next classroom is kuya Marc, explaining how climate change is exacerbated by the burning of fossil-fuels. “Switching to renewable energy sources like wind power and solar parks can stop global warming,” he says as the other teachers hand out climate change brochures. The duo recently participated in WWF and Pascual Laboratories’ SEED (Sowing to Empower, Ed-

ucate and Develop) Programme, which aims to enhance local communities’ resilience to climate change by eliminating diseases and switching to healthier lifestyles through a proper diet, exercise, vitamins and good hygiene. For the past five years, the programme has taught thousands of elementary school students about the vital link between climate change and health. Health conditions and diseases like asthma, heatstroke, leptospirosis, typhoid fever, cholera and so forth are spurred by climate change. (PR)

WWF Ambassadors Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez visit school kids

T’S a chilly January morning but the classrooms of the General Roxas Elementary School in Quezon City are heating up, abuzz with the chitter-chatter of nearly 100 students, discussing ideas and listening to WWF-Philippines National Ambassadors Marc Nelson, Rovilson Fernandez, plus a team of environmental educators from WWF-Philippines and Pascual Laboratories. “Can you guys name all the vegetables in the song Bahay Kubo?” asks kuya Rovilson, alluding to a popular Filipino children’s song. “Regularly eating vegetables

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

is in need of Marketing Assistant Qualifications: • Graduate of business or any other related courses • Female • With pleasing personality • Fast learner • Can work with minimum supervision

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13 HEALTH

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

Every woman’s worst nightmare

(Second of Two Parts)

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

“Anyone who notices anything unusual about their breasts, whether male or female, should contact their physician immediately… Early detection of breast cancer increases treatment options and often reduces the risk of dying.” – National Breast Cancer Foundation

F you’re a woman and someone asks you about breast cancer, what comes into your mind immediately? Death sentence, that’s what. But that should not be the case. In fact, the earlier a cancerous lump is detected and removed, the bigger the chances of treating it, says Dr. Antonio Villalon, former president of the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology. He advised that between 20 and 39 years old, every woman should have a clinical breast exam every three years; and after age 40 every woman should have a clinical breast exam done each year. The Geneva-based World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that women should examine their breasts regularly – at least

once a month. “Women should check their breasts a week after the menstrual period,” advises The Woman Almanac. “After menopause, check your breasts on the first day of each month. If you have had a hysterectomy (a surgical removal of the womb), check with your doctor or clinic for the appropriate time of the month to check your breasts.” Here are the directions from the Philippine Cancer Society, Inc. (PCSI) on how to do the breast self-examination (BSE): In the shower or while taking a bath: Examine your breasts. Your hands will glide easily over wet skin. Fingers flat, move gently over every part of each breast. Use your right hand to examine the

left breast, the left hand to examine the right. Check for any lump, hard knot, or thickening. Before a mirror: Inspect your breast with arms at your sides. Next, raise your arms high overhead. Look for any changes in contour of each breast-a swelling, dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipple. Then, rest palms on hips and press down firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breast will not exactly match -- few women’s breasts do. Regular inspection shows what is normal for you and will give you confidence in your examination. Lying down: To examine your right breast, put a pillow or folded towel under your right shoulder. Place right hand behind your head -- this distrib-

utes breast tissue more evenly on the chest. With the left hand, fingers flat, at the outermost top of your right breast, make small circular motions all the way around the outer edge of the breast until you reach the top again, pressing gently all the while. (Don’t panic if you find a ridge or firm tissue in the lower curve of each breast; it’s normal.) Then move in an inch toward the nipple and repeat the procedure. You will probably have to circle your breast three additional times so that every part -- including the nipple -- is examined. Now, slowly repeat the whole procedure on your left breast with a pillow under your left shoulder and your left hand behind your head. The whole time, take note of how your breast structure feels. Finally, squeeze the nipple of each breast gently between the thumb and index finger. However, women should not panic once they feel a lump on their breast. After all, most breast lumps are harmless, with up to three of four lumps that are suspected of being cancerous turning out to be benign cysts, fibromas or lipomas. To have peace of mind, a woman should have the lump screened by a doctor. Unknowingly, there are more than one kind of breast cancer. For instance, a few rare malignancies are so aggressive they’ll kill the victim even if they’re identified on a mammogram when they’re still small. Other types are so “slow-growing” they won’t

be fatal even if they’re not diagnosed for years. Still, others start out as treatable tumors that can become more dangerous and difficult to treat as they grow. Mammograms — a type of X-ray — are the chief way now to check for breast cancer. However, a radioactive tracer that “lights up” cancer hiding inside dense breasts showed promise in its first big test against mammograms, revealing more tumors and giving fewer false alarms. The experimental method — molecular breast imaging, or MBI — would not replace mammograms for women at average risk of the disease. But it might become an additional tool for higher risk women with a lot of dense tissue that makes tumors hard to spot on mammograms, and it could be done at less cost than magnetic resonance imaging, according to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, which has been working on it for six years. If diagnosed with breast cancer, Dr. Villalon said this can be treated by surgery, hormonal treatment, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In the United States, some researchers are exploring treatment with various forms of immunotherapy; by manipulating the body’s immune system, they hope to improve its natural resistance to cancer. Men also get breast cancer, although it is rarer. Less than 1% of cancer patients are male, according to Dr. Rachael Rosario, of the Philippine Cancer Soci-

ety. And men with breast cancer don’t survive as long as women. “All people, whether male or female, are born with some breast cells and tissue. Even though males do not develop milk-producing breasts, a man’s breast cells and tissue can still develop cancer,” explained the National Breast Cancer Foundation. “Most males are diagnosed later because a lot of males are in denial that they have a breast disease, that there’s a lump that they feel,” Dr. Aldine Basa, a breast surgeon from The Medical City, was quoted as saying in a television show. “They don’t see a doctor right away so by the time they see a doctor and it’s diagnosed, it’s usually in the late stage.” The mere presence of a lump in the breast is already a sign of breast cancer. “Men should not have lumps in the breast because they don’t have enough breast tissue,” Dr. Basa pointed out. “So anytime that there is a lump in the breast, it should be immediately checked.” Nipple discharge and breasts that misshapen or don’t match are also possible signs that should be checked out. Although the causes of breast cancer in men are not well-studied yet, it has been found that those things that increase women’s chances for developing also affect men, including older age, cancer-linked gene mutations, a family history of the disease, and heavy drinking. (Photos taken from the net)

14 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

Palace defends Pres. Duterte decision not to accept Dela Rosa’s resignation

ALACANANG on Monday denied speculations that President Rodrigo Duterte is tolerating police scalawags when he rejected the verbal resignation of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa over the killing of a Korean executive inside Camp Crame. “I think they misunderstand the situation,” Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said in an interview with Palace reporters after Miss Universe 2016 contestants paid courtesy call to President Duterte at Rizal Hall. During his 55th birthday

celebration last Sunday night, Dela Rosa reportedly told President Duterte that he will quit his post after House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez called for his resignation over the abduction and slay of Hanjin executive Jee Ick Joo. Abella explained that the President did not ask Dela Rosa to resign “simply because he understands that whatever has happened exactly speaks about the concerns that he had regarding crime and corruption in government institutions.” Abella also explained that the PNP chief cannot be faulted for the killing of Korean

businessman inside the PNP headquarters at Camp Crame in Quezon City. “The individuals involved were not part of the PNP Chief’s team and these matters are exactly what the President has said that there is corruption in the institutions,” Abella explained. He said the people should continue to support the efforts of President Duterte and PNP chief to address crime and corruption. Last Sunday, Abella assured that there will be no whitewash in the investigation of Jee’s killing reportedly involving rogue cops.

Fontana Leisure Park and Casino in Pampanga. Meanwhile, Aguirre was also invited in the committee hearing along with Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation executive officer Andrea Domingo. It can be recalled that the Justice Secretary claimed that Lam attempted to bribe the Pagcor Chief. Aguirre claimed that Lam attempted to pay him off during a meeting at Bonifacio Global City on November, two days after police arrested 1,316 Chinese nationals illegally working at his online

gaming business. “I told him ‘no’ in no uncertain terms that I do not want any part of that because we are serious in fighting corruption. If I accepted, which could easily mean P100 million a month, I would lose my moral authority to pursue the reforms ordered by the President,” Aguirre said. Aguirre mentioned that Domingo told him about Lam’s attempt to bribe her to allow Fontana Leisure Parks and Casino at Clark to continue their operations while applying for a license and that Domingo was offered a 1 % cut of Lam’s

casino earnings. “Andrea lost all interest in talking to Lam after that. She just told Lam to pay the government’s 10-percent cut from his casino earnings and that he should first get a license before running online gaming operations in the country,” the justice secretary said. Lam is accused of bribing BI officials after authorities raided his online gaming operations at the Fontana Leisure Park at the Clark Freeport and arrested 1,316 of his Chinese employees for allegedly working illegally in the country. TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

The peace talks have entered the more crucial round of discussing the core agenda and issues of the negotiations. “The comprehensive agreement on social and economic reforms (CASER) is the heart and soul of these negotiations. And by finally starting to intently discuss this alone is already a significant breakthrough and a major leap forward,” the government chief peace negotiator explained. Bello said this has never happened in 30 years of negotiations with the communist rebels. In another peace talk forum on Sunday at the Basilica of Sta. Pudenziana with the mi-

grant Filipinos in Rome, Milan and other cities, the members of the GRP and NDFP peace panels also received commitments of support. The forum discussed among others the issues on land reform and national industrialization. GRP panel member Rene Sarmiento brushed aside doubts of some Filipino workers if the issues under the socioeconomic reform can be addressed, saying, “There are agreed mechanisms to be implemented jointly or separately by the GRP and NDFP.” Sarmiento said the GRP and NDFP panels are working hard to achieve a common

peace agenda. Filipino migrant Jay Miranda vowed to campaign with Filipinos to back the peace process, saying, “Dapat magkaisa ang mga Filipino (The Filipinos must unite).” He said he would initiate programs to advocate for the peace process along with the campaign for a Federal form of government. “Kailangan suportahan ang peace talks si Duterte (President Duterte) ang last card dahil siya lang ang may political will (The peace talks should be supported, Duterte is the last card because he is the only one with political will),” he added.

that the housing loan entitlement in 2017 is also increased up to P6 million. The approval and release, he added, will also depend on the member’s income and appraisal to be conducted by Pag-IBIG. “Effective this year, multiple granting of housing loan is already allowed by Pag-IBIG,” he added. This means that a member who has already availed himself of a housing loan from another town or city but not yet fully paid can still avail himself of another housing loan from another town or city. Under the housing loan,

members, he said can opt for two interest rates – either the 5.5% interest per annum or the 6.5 interest per annum. Pag-IBIG has also intensified its collection of unpaid housing loans as it already employs collecting agents to send demand letters to their members with outstanding loans or those who have not paid for a period of six months. Sausa took note of the increasing numbers of members who complied with the demand letters and paid their remaining loan balances to Pag-IBIG. Meanwhile, Grace Camanagacan, head of the Member Services Branch

(MSB) of Pag-IBIG in Davao City also told the media of the implementation of the revised guidelines on short term loans for their members. The revised guidelines took effect last November 2016, she added. Under the new guidelines, members who contributed for 24 months can now avail of 80% short term loan, as long as he/she has no default in previous account from PagIBIG. Camanagacan hoped that with the full implementation of new guidelines, more PagIBIG members in Davao City and the region will avail of the short term loan.

Senate... FROM 3

Pinoys... FROM 3

P6-B... FROM 3

HOUSING PROJECT. Another Uswag GK-MSAP Program in partnership with PLGU-Compostela Valley and Department of Social Welfare and Development were formally turned over to the beneficiaries in Brgy. “We will not tolerate corrupt, abusive, errant policemen who betray the organization and the men and women in uniform who continue their faithful, dedicated and loyal service to the country,” Abella said in a statement. Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

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

Case No. 2016-XI-01142 OSCAR DELA CALZADA, Petitioner

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

Pangutosan, Nabunturan town. Leading the turnover was Gov. Tyron Uy together with Board Member Vivencia Secuya and Pangutosan Barangay Captain Hipolito Baluis. (M. Lasaca/IDS ComVal)

Abella said the Palace is “outraged by the abduction and slay” of Jee who was reportedly strangled to death with his head covered with a packaging tape. According to news reports, Jee and house helper Marisa D. Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

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

Case No. 2003-XI-00448 EUGENIO L. LIMLAO, Petitioner

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

Morquicho were abducted by two unidentified men from his house in Pampanga on October 18 last year. Morquicho testified that the abductors told her that her boss was involved in illegal drug trade. (PNA) Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

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

Case No. 2010-XI-01155 BLANDIE O. ABELITA, Petitioner

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

NOTICE OF HEARING

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route. MANUEL GUIANGA and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on May 26, 2018. In the petition filed on January 13, 2017, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route. ECOLAND SUBDIVISION (SM CITY OF DAVAO) and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on January 22, 2018. In the petition filed on January 18, 2017, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route. SASA VIA JP LAUREL AVENUE and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on April 21, 2018. In the petition filed on January 13, 2017, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

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

This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on FEBRUARY 7, 2017 at 09:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

WITNESS the Atty. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer / Officer-In-Charge,, this 16th day of January 2017 at Davao City.

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

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on FEBRUARY 7, 2017 at 09:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

WITNESS the Atty. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer / Officer-In-Charge, this 19th day of January 2017 at Davao City. MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV Acting Administrative Officer V

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on FEBRUARY 7, 2017 at 09:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

WITNESS the Atty. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer / Officer-In-Charge, this 16th day of January 2017 at Davao City. MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV Acting Administrative Officer V

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

SPORTS 15

GILAS POOL. Pael Lee, Calvin Abueva, Terrence Romeo and Jayson Castro are back in the Gilas pool.

Gilas pool complete J

AYSON Castro, Terrence Romeo, Paul Lee, June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, and Calvin Abueva lead the cast of the additions to the 24-man Gilas pool that will gear up for a busy 2017.

In a public announcement made on Sunday night at the PhilSports Arena in between the scheduled PBA doubleheader, the explosive combo guards of TNT, GlobalPort, and Star, the strong center of San

Worst Lakers loss ever

HE Los Angeles Lakers crashed to the heaviest defeat in the iconic NBA franchise’s history on Sunday, slumping to a humiliating 122-73 loss on the road against the Dallas Mavericks. The Lakers, who are in the midst of a rebuilding phase this season after two disastrous seasons, hit rock bottom in Dallas after a nightmarish first half that saw them trailing by 34 points at the break. Lakers coach Luke Walton offered no excuses after a loss he described as “embarrassing.” “We didn’t show up to play, honestly, which is frustrating,” Walton told a press conference. “And honestly it’s embarrassing — for us as a team, for us as an organization, for our Lakers fans that are so good to us.” Walton however de-

clined to be drawn on how he planned to respond to the rout. “We have teaching points, but what I say to them behind those doors, that is between us,” Walton said. “I think they understand and would agree and would feel inside the same way that I feel.” At one stage Dallas’s lead jumped up to 53 points as the Lakers collapsed. “They were just picking us apart,” Lakers guard Nick Young said. “We didn’t fight back.” Lakers youngster Julius Randle was even more blunt: “They kicked our butts today.” The Mavericks, who are 15-29, snapped a two-game losing streak with the win as the Lakers fell to 16-32. The Lakers problems were laid bare in ugly statistics — making just 13 of 37 from the floor in the first half, with nine turnovers.

Player DQ’d for hitting ballkid

17-YEAR-OLD Italian junior tennis player has been sensationally disqualified from the Australian Open after hitting a ballkid. Maria Vittoria Viviani reportedly left the court in tears after she was automatically defaulted midway through her first round match against Chinese opponent Xin Yu Wang. Viviani reacted in frustration after sailing a forehand long on set point in the first set and hit a spare ball to her left. It wasn’t hit with any great force but reportedly made contact with the chest of a ballkid. Viviani raised her hand in an apologetic fashion immediately but the chair umpire was not in a forgiving mood. Wang automatically progressed to a second round match against Swiss first seed Rebeka Masarova, prompting angry reaction on social media.

“Terrible decision to default Maria Vittoria Viviani. The offending umpire should be defaulted from the competition,” one wrote on Twitter. Another called the decision utterly absurd. “Sorry for the disqualification today. One thing ABSURD. Always future champion ahead!” “What a load of bs! She hit it softly and clearly wasn’t trying to hit and hurt the ball boy. Joke.” Others suggested there was an element of double standards when Kei Nishikori also hit a ball kid with a tennis ball during his five-set defeat to Roger Federer on Rod Laver Arena but did not suffer the same fate as Viviani. “Both Nishikori & a female junior swatted balls away, making contact w ball kid. But only one of them was DQ-ed!”

Miguel, the high-flying forward of Ginebra, and the tenacious winger of Alaska spearhead the PBA veterans who will complete the training pool for the national team for the upcoming SEABA Championship, the

FIBA Asia Cup, the SEA Games, and the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers. Joining them in the pool are Rain Or Shine center Raymond Almazan, Mahindra’s LA Revilla, sophomores Bradwyn

Guinto (NLEX), Norbert Torres (Phoenix), and Arth Dela Cruz (Blackwater), and rookie Jonathan Grey (Meralco). The Gilas Cadets, who were named last year, retained their spots in the pool

perience to get past a dogged Strycova. Despite the temperature already past 30 Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) when they began at 11:00am, Williams opted to wear knee-length black leggings and sleeves, and she

Williams was fired up and screaming “C’mon!” and she went 6-5 ahead before Czech, serving to stay in the set, was finally undone on the eighth set point by a lucky shot from the American that came off her racquet frame.

Coach Chot Reyes, following the announcement, explained that he thought about the long-term run of Gilas heading to the 2019 FIBA World Cup, leading to a very young roster with the oldest at 30. (PNA)

Serena books quarters

ERENA Williams battled into her 11th Australian Open quarter-final on Monday, joining sister Venus, in her unrelenting quest for a record Grand Slam title and the return of her top world ranking. The American powerhouse was tested by Czech 16th seed Barbora Strycova but she dug deep to win 7-5, 6-4 in hot conditions and will face Johanna Konta for a place in the last four. Serena Williams will play Johanna Konta for a place in the semis. Reuters Serena Williams will play Johanna Konta for a place in the semis. Reuters Williams has made clear in Melbourne she is here for one reason only -- to win -and she was in a fighting, but nervy, mood during an entertaining contest. The 35-year-old had added incentive after the shock defeat on Sunday of top seed Angelique Kerber, the woman who beat her in the final last year and then snatched her top world ranking. Williams, seeded two, can again become world number one if she lifts the trophy this week. “I love pressure, I deal well with pressure,” she said, when asked why she keeps coming back for more. “I love this game and I honestly have nothing to lose. Everything is a bonus for me now.” Williams winning the title on Saturday would rewrite history. She is not just chasing a seventh Melbourne crown, but also a 23rd Grand Slam to surpass Steffi Graf’s Open-era record. With her sister, a potential final opponent, already safely into the last eight in the other side of the draw, Williams had to use all her ex-

“I came out playing at a high level then she was able to pull herself back into it, which made it really difficult. I just tried to trust in myself,” she said, adding that meeting Williams would be a dream come true.

ENCOUNTER. Johanna Konta (left) and Serena Williamms (right) will face off in the quarterfinals. made a slow start. It was Strycova who drew first blood, breaking the first Williams serve, but with the sweat starting to drip off her she immediately broke back with a sizzling crosscourt forehand. But Williams’ first serve was still not firing, with just 33 percent successful in the opening games, and the Czech took full advantage to break to love and go 2-1 in front. It was woeful serving from both players with Williams broken again before they both began to warm to the task. Williams finally held serve in the fifth game but it didn’t last long when Strycova broke again to go 4-3 ahead. Another break -- an incredible sixth in eight games -- put Williams level and she then held, before a defensive Strycova saved four set points in a marathon 10th game.

Strycova, at a career-high ranking of 16, is a two-time former girls champion in Melbourne but had never been past round four in the main draw. And with her nose in front, Williams was never going to let that happen and a netted volley from the Czech gave her an early break for 2-1 in the second set. Strycova was wilting and Williams was in control, and despite being broken when serving for the match she broke straight back to book her place in the last eight. Confident Konta powers her way through Meanwhile, Johanna Konta blasted into her second Australian Open quarter-final in as many years. The in-form British ninth seed, on a nine-game winning streak, crushed Russian 30th seed Ekaterina Makarova 6-1, 6-4 in searing heat on Margaret Court Arena.

“It will be an incredible honour and I can’t wait.” This time last year Konta, 25, was a largely unknown entity, but her run to the last four in 2016 put her on the map and she followed it up with a stellar season that saw her named the WTA’s most improved player. She has carried that form into 2017, winning the buildup Sydney International and she is yet to drop a set in Melbourne, emerging as a genuine title contender. The pair had met three times before with Konta winning all of them, including at the same stage of the Australian Open last year, and Makarova never looked like getting revenge. A former Melbourne semi-finalist, in 2015, the Russian upset sixth seed Dominika Cibulkova to set up the Konta meeting but the Australian-born Briton is in ominous touch, looking solid and focused.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 9 ISSUE 240 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2017

AAK DAVAO. Members of Team AAK Davao with head coach Rommel Tan during the 2017 Adidas International Karatedo Championship in SM Mall of Asia.

BIG HAUL

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

AK Davao stamped its class anew with a huge harvest of 14 medals in the 2017 Adidas International Karatedo Championships at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall over the weekend.

6-year old Atsuko Kaiyel Tan led the AKK Davao onslaught with a smashing performance in retaining the girls 6-7 years old kata title and then debuted well in the kumite with a silver. Tan,

daughter of AAK Davao coach Rommel Tan, won her fourth career gold medal and a second straight tournament gold medal in kata. She added a silver in the 6-7 girls kumite. Jam Ramirez, a former So Kim Cheng Sports Awards Athlete of the Year winner like Tan, also shone in the boys’

AAK Davao bets harvest 4 golds, 4 silvers, 6 bronzes

side with a gold medal performance in the below 68-kg kumite. Vastly-improved Sofia Agullo scored a breakthrough win after bagging her first ever international gold in the Girls Cadets kata event. Keisha Navarro won the fourth gold in the Girls 10-11

kata event. Bringing home silver medals are Janna Ramirez, Marcus Arellano and Marc Damayo. Copping bronze medals are Jam Ramirez, Marc Damayo, Keisha Navarro, John Philip Cagandahan, Marcus Arellano and Craig James Infiesto.

“I am very satisfied of our performance this year. The kids exceeded our target and they all deserve our adulation for coming up big in their events,” said Tan. AAK Davao has been a constant producer of medalists in national and international karatedo events.