Edge Davao 9 Issue 252 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

WELL-GUARDED. Personnel of Task Force Davao stand guard outside a crowded shopping center along R. Magsaysay Avenue in Davao City. Security forces in the city are in full alert status since President Duterte’s termination of peace negotiations with the communist rebels and following the government’s declaration of all-out war against the New People’s Army (NPA). Lean Daval Jr.

DUTERTE’S HELP SOUGHT TO END LAPANDAY ROW Mayor Rellon warns of volatile peace order situation By JIMMY K. LAKING

RESIDENT Duterte had been asked to help bring about a ‘comprehensive approach’ in resolving the Lapanday land conflict in the face of conflicting orders and processes “that created more tension on the ground.” In a letter addressed to President Duterte, Tagum City mayor Allan L. Rellon warned that the heightening conflict between Lapanday Food Corporation, the Hijo Estates Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperation (HEARBO) and the Madaum Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association (MARBAI) may escalate out of proportion resulting to possible loss of lives and limbs. Mayor Rellon said the three parties are locked in con-

flict over a vast tract of land covering 450 hectares more or less. “The local government of Tagum City, through the undersigned, had gone out of its way exerting every effort imaginable to settle the conflict to no avail,” Rellon stressed. He said the conflict among the three parties was a justiciable issue “had it not been for its overriding social and political concerns and a volatile peace and order situation.” He added that the conflicting orders arose from a cease and desist order issued by Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael V. Mariano on Dec. 14, 2016 that prohibited Lapanday from forcibly evicting members of MARBAI from the

landholding. Another, this time issued on December 21,2016 by the Regional Trial Court in Davao City directed the sheriff (with the assistance of the Philippine National Police) to disperse the barricading members of HEARBCO. Mayor Rellon told the President that his office took substantial actions to help solve the conflict by facilitating negotiations between the parties involved “but with no fruition in sight.” On Monday, Rellon told reporters he had no other alternative except to bring the matter to President Duterte in the light of the conflicting orders and processes. He said that in addition, he

had coordinated with both the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to strengthen checkpoints in the vicinity of Lapanday to ensure that firearms are not being brought inside the contested area. “We have to ensure that the lives and limbs of our people are not endangered,” he said. He said he also asked the AFP to ensure that Lapanday employs only the required number of security personnel enough to guard the plantation. “We would like also to ensure there will be no human rights violations on the part of the security personnel,” he said.

F DUTERTE, 11

Cacao growers to field best entries to France

Four RP participants are all from Davao region By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

S part of the efforts of the Philippine Cacao Industry Development Council to uplift the country’s cacao industry, several cacao growers in the country will be sending their entries to the biennial International Cocoa

Awards in Paris, France. These are Puentespina Farm, Kennemer Foods, Chokolate de San Isidro, Filipinas Oro de Cacao and KVT Farm, all from Davao Region. PCIDC President Valente

EDGEDAVAO Sports GOING FOR THREE P15

F CACAO, 11

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

SPECIAL DAY. Damosa Land, Inc. vice president Cary Lagdameo (4th from left), assistant vice president Danilo Manlangit (3rd from right), sales director Albert Alvaran (leftmost), together with ANFLOCOR Group of Companies president and chief executive officer Anthony Alexander Valoria (5th from left), chief financial officer Oscar Grapa (5th from right), vice president for cash and bank Susan Matus (4th from right) , Architect Job Bernardo (2nd from left)

Damosa Land, Inc. firms up foothold By JIMMY K. LAKING

ITH Rev. Fr. Leo Mel Puerto giving the invocation and blessing, Damosa Land, Inc. on Wednesday signified the completion of Seawind’s first tower, a seven-story condominium that is expected to be turned over to its owners this May. “This is very special (day) for us since this is the first condominium we were able to build as a homegrown developer,” said a beaming Ricardo Lagdameo, Damosa Land, Inc. vice-president, during the topping-off ceremony for Tower 1. Among other things, Lagdameo believes that a set of six towers the company is expected to complete by next year is part of the ‘tremendous

growth’ that is unfolding in Davao City. “With this, we are cementing (our foothold) in condominium development as a homegrown developer in a very competitive field,” he said. Located in 2.7-hectare property in barangay Sasa, the emerging Seawind towers hold an unobstructed view of Samal Island and the Davao Gulf. Roughly 70% of the area will be an open space, with the towers occupying the rest. The first two towers are expected to house 165 units catering to a clientele that is 80% Manila-based, with 20% coming from the Davao City itself (mostly young professionals and OFWs).

F DAMOSA, 11

of Archi Space, Lopzcom owner Gari Tiongco III (3rd from left), ARDASC senior assistant vice president Engr. Ruel Tan (2nd from right) and Lopzcom project manager Johnny Gregory, lead the ceremonial topping-off of Sea Wind tower 1, a seven-story condominium that is expected to be turned over to its owners in May, in Barangay Sasa, Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

AFP drive v. NPAs to spare civilians Army exec says evacuation due to rebel abuses By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

HE Armed Forces of the Philippines will launch preemptive measures against the rebel New People’s Army following the government’s declaration of an allout war against the communist group. In a press conference Wednesday, 10th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Rafael Valencia said that they will be focusing on sparing civilians from extortion cases against NPA. “Tumataas ang extortion cases from NPA kahit bago pa

ni-lift ang unilateral ceasefire at nasundan pa ng iba’t-ibang atrocities,” Valencia said. He cited the clash in Makilala last January wherein an alleged NPA member was killed in a clash with government troops in a remote village after the Army received reports that an armed group was seen burning a 10-wheeler truck and that extortion was believed to be the motive behind the incident. He pointed out that he has enough forces within his area of responsibility to face the

military operations against the rebel troops. “We have already launched our operations all throughout our area right after President Duterte ordered the lifting of the ceasefire,” Valencia added. Meanwhile, Police Regional Office 11 Director C/Supt. Manuel Gaerlan, who was also present in the press conference, said that they have already consolidated the reports regarding NPA’s activities even during the ceasefire. “During the peacetalks, sila [NPA] ay namayagpag

and they took advantage of the ceasefire sa pamamagitan ng training, dumami ang incidents ng extortion lalo na sa mga business establishments, including ‘yung puwersahan ang pagkuha ng mga bigas at mga ulam para may mapakain sa mga kasamahan nila,” Gaerlan revealed. He pointed out that more than 2,500 people from five different barangays in Manay, Davao Oriental were forced to evacuate to the Poblacion area because of the “abuses” they

munists had achieved, adding that government was on the right tract and several gains were attained. “War is never an option; in war the civilians are the sure losers,” Del Monte pointed out. He added that hundreds of thousands of Indigenous Peoples of Mindanao were affected by the fighting between forces of government and the NPA. Del Monte explained that the IPs were killed and uproot-

ed from their dwellings and sources of livelihood notwithstanding the psychological effect of conflict to women and children. The war in the Moro region, as shown in the conflict in Mindanao, forced more than 123,000 people or 24,700 families to flee their homes. “We hope that this development in the NDF peace process will not be the template of government in the doing the peace process with the Moro

fronts,” Del Monte said. Meanwhile, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan on Wednesday morning also showed its disappointments through a protest near Davao City Police Office as they condemn the successive violent dispersals carried out by the state forces. “Dako ang papel sa peace negotiations sa paglambo sa Pilipinas,” BAYAN Spokesperson Sheena Duazo explained to the reporters Wednesday in an

Solon praises DPWH BOC for job well done Leftists dismayed over all-out war vs Reds

OUSE Appropriations chair Karlo Alexei Nograles on Wednesday lauded the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Bureau of Customs for achieving major milestones in carrying out the Duterte administration’s agenda on infrastructure development and good governance. In a statement, the Davao City lawmaker especially cited DPWH Secretary Mark Villar and BoC Commissioner Nica-

nor Faeldon for their leadership of the two vital government agencies, saying that “the President’s men are showing how it should be done.” “The DPWH under Secretary Villar has demonstrated sheer will and commitment in ensuring that infrastructure projects are completed on time and in less than a year, many big ticket projects are now open to the public,” Nograles said.

F SOLON, 11

ECTOR groups in Davao City on Wednesday lamented the termination of the peace negotiation of government with the National Democratic Front due to the declaration of all-out war by President Duterte against New People’s Army. Anak Mindanao Secretary General Tom del Monte, in an email message sent to Edge, said that it is a “miserable way” to end the strides that the peace process with the com-

F AFP, 11

F LEFTISTS, 11

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 3 NPA rebel surrenders along with AK-47 rifle By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

FED UP. Rebel returnee, Ka Junnie, said that he surrendered to the military because he could no longer stand the extortion operations of the New People’s Army. He mentioned it in a press conference yesterday in Davao City Police Office. Photo from Tiziana Celine S. Piatos

MEMBER of the New People’s Army has voluntarily surrendered to the Armed forces of the Philippines after the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines lifted its unilateral ceasefire. The returnee was identified as Ka Junnie, who was from Davao Oriental, he also surrendered his AK-47 rifle to the government. Ka Junnie, who was in a press conference Wednesday, said he decided to surrender because he already had a hard life because they were often moving from one place to another. “Ana ang NPA, sila daw ang tinuod na gobyerno og sa ilaha makab-ot ang tinuod na pangandoy,” he said, however, he reiterated that it was contrary to what the rebel troops said.

Maj. Gen. Rafael Valencia, commander of the 24th Infantry Battalion, said they did not have a hard time in convincing the rebel returnee to surrender. “Ka Junnie already wanted to surrender just before the clash in Manay happened,” he explained. It can be recalled that the rebel and government troops clashed in Davao Oriental hours after NPA lifted its ceasefire last February 1. The former rebel was a member of the Front 15 from the First District of Davao Oriental. He received financial assistance worth P10,000 from the government and the former rebel will be part of the comprehensive local integration program of the government.

VM Paolo: Young ones Captured soldiers in SK confused by NPA-led war considered POWs--NPA By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

AVAO City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte said that the new generation of Filipinos like him are at a loss to explain why the CPP-NDFNPA continue to “wage war against their fellow Filipinos.” He said it defies understanding. Paolo’s comments came

after his father, President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the unilateral ceasefire of the government side in the face of armed attacks by the NPAs. The attacks prompted Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to declare all-out war against the rebels on Tuesday. The younger Duterte said

that the Reds have been fighting the government for decades yet it did not improve the “lives of the Filipino masses they claimed to be fighting for”. “If the CPP/NDF/NPA is really for the masses, they should find in their hearts that killing Filipino soldiers is ba-

sically against what they are fighting for,” he said. The Presidential son also said that the peace negotiations must be held here in the country since the problem is in the hinterlands. “Peace negotiations must be felt by the stakeholders and

Awards in Paris, France. He said PCIDC will be sending entries from five farms located in Davao Region, the largest cacao producing region in the country. Meanwhile, on February 27 to 28, 15 participants who are already chocolate practi-

tioners will undergo a chocolate-making seminar training. Turtur said one niche chocolate expert from the US will conduct the training at Philippine Women’s College. Also, a technical workshop on cacao production and

F VM PAOLO, 11

PCIDC lays down initiatives for cacao industry for 2017 By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

HILIPPINE Cacao Industry Development Council President Valente Turtur disclosed on Wednesday the initiatives of the council to uplift the quality of cacao beans produced in the country. “We want to ensure that

what we will produce are only premium cacao beans,” stressed Turtur. During a media forum at Habi at Kape, Abreeza Mall, Davao City, Turtur announced that for the first time, Philippines was invited to participate in the International Cocoa

Lacson says rogue cops deserved to be shamed

OGUE cops who keep shaming the Philippine National Police deserve to be shamed, Sen. Panfilo Lacson said Wednesday amid ongoing efforts to cleanse the police ranks. Lacson, former PNP chief, made this remark after Pres. Rodrigo Duterte threw insults at over 200 policemen when they faced him in Malacanang on Tuesday. The President also ordered their deployment to Basilan. He said that errant behavior among cops was “contagious” and that it was important to “nip the bud” this early. Asked if publicly humiliating cops was effective, Lacson said answered “yes and no.” He explained that on one

side, it would be unfair to include cops whose offenses are not validated but on the other hand, he said that it could also have a positive effect since they would no longer copy other cops’ errant ways. The senator also said that he was supportive with Pres. Duterte’s decision to reassign rogue cops but said that the President should not “single out Mindanao.” “Ang dahilan sa transfer, para ma-uproot ang masamang pulis sa lugar na napakalakas ng impluwensya niya (The reason for transfer is to uproot scalawag cops from areas where they have strong influence),” Lacson said. “Pag yan inalis mo halim-

F LACSON, 11

F PCIDC, 11

PARENTAL CARE. A young student is fetched by her father at a Day Care Center along Camus Street in Davao City yesterday. The City Health Office has reported that there are cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease, a

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE soldiers captured in Sultan Kudarat province last week are now considered Prisoners of War (POWs),rebel the New People’s Army said. In a statement Wednesday, NPA spokesperson Dencio Madrigal revealed a custodial team was formed to look at the two soldiers and to treat them in accordance with the provisions of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) and NPA regulations. Madrigal belongs to the Valentin Palamine Command of Mt. Alip Sub-Regional Operations Command in Far South Region. The soldiers are members of 39th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army. Madrigal said they were captured February 2

in Barangay Telafas, Columbio town in Sultan Kudarat. Madrigal identified the soldiers as Sgt. Solaiman Calocop, 46 and PFC Samuel Garay, 28, members of the army’s Peace and Development Outreach Program based in Barangay Datal Blao, Columbio. The two soldiers “are currently under investigation for their involvement in the crimes perpetrated by the 39th IB against the people and against the revolutionary movement,” Madrigal continued, adding that appropriate case may be filed against them at the People’s Court or at the NPA’s military court “if probative evidence is established to link either or both of them.” He also justified the capture of the two soldiers, calling the NPA’s act as a form of arrest and

F CAPTURED, 11

contagious disease which is very common to children, in Davao City. CHO is also reminding the public, especially children, to always wash their hands to prevent the spread of the virus. Lean Daval Jr.

EDGEDAVAO

4 SUBURBIA

SEAL OF GOOD GOVERNANCE. Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) provincial director Flor Limpin Jr. (4th from right) turned over a certificate of recognition to Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon in the presence of employees and board members during the flag raising ceremony last Monday, February 6. The Province of Sarangani

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

has affirmed its commitment towards local good governance by passing four out of six Local Governance Assessment Areas for the Year 2016, namely: Social Protection, Business-Friendliness and Competitiveness, Peace and Order, Environmental Management. (Jake Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Uy presides DavOr gov rallies people: Governor first RPOC 11 meeting Back PNP, AFP operations A

OVERNOR Nelson L. Dayanghirang urged his constituents to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) operations to attain peace and development in the province. “Ang nag-sweldo niining mga tawhana, dili ba kita? Pinaagi sa atong pagbayad sa buwis ngadto sa gobyerno. Mao nga walay rason nga dili nato sila suportahan kay sila ang atong police og sila ang atong mga sundalo na maoy mo protekta kanato sa panahon sa atong panginahanglanon (We paid these people through our taxes. That is why, there is no reason that we will not support them because they are our police and

our soldiers who will protect us in times of emergency),” Dayanghirang said in his speech during the Nagkakaisang Lingkod Bayan ng Davao Oriental – Barangay Outreach Program at Barangay Don Mariano, Lupon Davao Oriental Wednesday morning. Dayanghirang said the people should not be confused on who are they going to support because the police and soldiers are the ones who protect the safety and welfare of the Filipinos. “Kinsa ba ang kaluluoy? Dili ba kamo na katawhan? (Who will be the losers? Is it the people?),” the governor asked. He prompted to make the call after the atrocities happened in the town of Manay

reportedly perpetrated by New People’s Army (NPA) last week. “Naluoy ko sa akong mga kaigsuonan kay layo kayo na lugar, namawkit ngadto sa poblacion. Gibiyaan ilang balay, gibiyaan ang ilang mga hayop tungod sa kahadlok (I pity my brothers in Manay because they came from far places and they evacuated going to poblacion, leaving their houses and their animals because of fear to be harmed),” he said. Police reports bared around 3,286 families from the villages of Lambog, Del Pilar, Capasnan, Cawayan, Taocanga and Rizal evacuated due to the presence of the NPA, who are terrorizing them. A total of 455 evacuees are in the poblacion area while oth-

ers are in the centers of the said barangays. There are two residents of Lambog, Cerillio Lumakang and Nonoy Maumpi, were also reported missing. A certain Rolando Mabas of Sitio Tambo, Lambog reported that he personally saw the lifeless bodies of Ruben Inidio-an and Boy Sumambot, who were killed by the NPA for unknown reason. Inidio-an’s wife, Clara, said her husband and Sumambot were killed when they crossed path with the NPA while on their way to the center of Lambog to evacuate. A junior Army officer was also killed after the the NPA attacked the joint police and army team at Sitio Paliwason, Lambog last week. (PNA)

stalls here on Monday night, fire officials said Tuesday. The fire which started at past 7 p.m. damaged stalls made of wood and concrete

establishments around the newly built public market. According to Senior Fire Officer 1 Yasser Ebrahim, fire officer on case, said 34 stores

were destroyed in the incident. “We are still trying to determine the cause of the fire

Maguindanao town market destroyed by fire

HE town fire department has conducted thorough investigation on a fire that razed more than 30 establishments and market

Magpet is 2nd drug-free town in North Cotabato

UTHORITIES on Tuesday have declared this town as a “drug-free municipality” following the success of its intensified anti-illegal drug campaign since last year. Chief Insp. Rommel Constantino, Magpet police director said the declaration was based on the recommendation of the Barangay Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) here. The pronouncement is also supported by a report from the local intelligence community that they have not monitored any illegal drug-related activity in the municipality since the strengthening of the program. Magpet has 32 villages under its area of supervision.

“No drugs were coming in or any drug-related transactions were monitored and this is a clear manifestation that our joint efforts in implementing strict anti-drug actions were effective,” Constantino said. Last year, local police and village officials have conducted community visitations and drug symposiums; OPLAN Tokhang; and validations of all self-confessed drug pushers and users in the municipality. Mayor Florenito Gonzaga, known for his tough stance against illegal drugs, has lauded the effort of the local police in support to his vision “Molding a Better Community for Brighter Future.” (PNA)

F MAGUINDANAO, 13

CENTENARIAN ORDINANCE. General Santos City Mayor Ronnel Rivera and City Councilor Shandee Llido-Pestaño (left) visit 97 year-old Sinang Kibang Sambuto. The city government is currently pushing for the crafting and approval of the Centenarian Ordinance where residents who reach 100

S the newly appointed chair of the Regional Peace and Order Council in Davao region (RPOC XI), Compostela Valley Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy hosted the first RPOC meeting for this year held last February 3 at the Provincial Capitol in Cabidianan, Nabunturan town. The first meeting was joined by local chief executives in the region, to include: Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon, Digos City Mayor Joseph Penas, Panabo City James Gamao, Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang, Mati City Mayor Carlo Rabat and Davao del Norte Governor Anthony Del Rosario. Davao del Sur Governor Douglas Cagas and Davao Occidental Governor Claude Bautista sent their respective representatives to the meeting. Compostela Valley Vice-Governor Manuel “Way Kurat” Zamora and Cong. Ruwel Peter Gonzaga also joined the meeting as well as representatives from various line agencies of the government, including the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). RPOC meetings are held quarterly to tackle the issues concerning peace and order, security and stability of Davao Region. This is the first time that Gov. Uy presided over the RPOC meeting since his appointment last December, replacing the former chair, now President Rodrigo Duterte. Representatives from AFP, PNP, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) presented during the meeting their respective reports on the peace and security situation in the region and on the continuing campaigns against illegal drugs. Vice-Governor Zamora welcomed all the participants and gave some inputs on the importance of mainstreaming peace and order. “Peace and development mutually reinforce each other. One cannot be peaceful without improvement of key areas. Furthermore, development cannot happen without peace and order,” Gov. Uy said. He emphasized that President Duterte ran under the

F GOVERNOR, 11

years old will receive P100, 000 as support from the local government. The ordinance will take effect together with the Centenarian Act of 2016 which also pays tribute to centenarians through a P100, 000 gift. (Russell Delvo/ Gensan CPIO)

5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Chamber of Mines cites FOI on release of DENR audit report

HE Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) on Tuesday cited its right-to-know under the freedom of information (FOI) to compel the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to make public the audit report which was the basis for the closure of 23 mining firms and suspension of operation of five others. In a press conference held at the Discovery Suites in Pasig City, former Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) chief Horacio Ramos said there should be transparency in the report and that it should be based on scientific process. “There should be transparency in all the reports you prepare, especially if the reports would lead to the suspension or closure of a mining company,” he said. For his part, COMP Vice President for Legal and Policy Ronald Recidoro said it was the duty of the DENR Secretary to make public the mining audit report.

“If she refuses, clearly she’s going against the Duterte administration’s mandate on transparency,” he said. “Every person accused of an offense must know the precise details of the offense you are being charged with,” he added. The DENR has ordered the closure of 23 mining firms and the suspension of five others for breaching environmental standards. COMP said while Lopez reiterated her purpose to “heal” the sector, the closure order had grave repercussions on the industry and the country as well. “This is not the way to ‘heal the hurt’. This is not the way to harness the mineral industry’s potential as a contributor to the country’s progress,” said COMP chairman Artemio Disini. Disini said the closure order would affect more than 1.2 million Filipinos and cripple local government units and communities that benefit

UPBEAT. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 11 director Ma. Belenda Ambi says Davao Region continues to attract investment due to the efforts and strategies of the agency to promote the region by coordinating with

private sectors as well as the local government units’ investment promotion centers. Ambi made the statement during yesterday’s Wednesdays @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Lean Daval Jr.

Cabinet rushes jobs programs Policy eyed to prevent spread for displaced mining workers F CHAMBER, 13

of Manila’s‘urban nightmare

ETRO Manila’s “urban nightmare” underscores the urgency of overhauling the country’s obsolete land governance policies to prevent this severe case of poor land administration from spreading all over the country, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said. Dominguez said that unless the government acts swiftly to upgrade its land governance policies, other areas of the country will suffer the same fate as that of Metro Manila, where high land costs and the lack of provisions for road expansions inhibit the government’s response to the worsening problems related to urban congestion. “Metro Manila presents us with the most severe case of poor land governance. This is an urban nightmare, a metropolis that grew without planning. Right now, high land costs prevent us from acquiring property to build schools and hospitals. Right-of-way has become a costly proposition for public works. No provisions were put in place for road widening,” Dominguez said in his keynote speech at the Conference on Sustainable Governance organized by the

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

US Agency for International Development (USAID). The two-day conference held recently at the Diamond Hotel in Manila aimed to bring together a multi-sectoral coalition from the national and local governments, business, civil society and other groups that will pursue a common agenda to improve sustainable land governance and thereby address the country’s land sector development concerns. Dominguez said the Department of Finance (DOF) on his watch has been doing its part in “bringing coherence” to the country’s land governance by moving to reduce estate taxes to encourage the documentation of land assets and free them up for productive use. Moreover, Dominguez said the DOF is also encouraging local government units to update their land valuations as a measure not just to raise revenues but also to discourage owners of prime land in their respective localities from keeping these assets idle or non-productive. He acknowledged that policies on land governance are “in urgent need of updating,” with the proposed National

F POLICY, 14

200k people may lose jobs due to DENR order

EMBERS of the Cabinet are now rushing to draw up emergency jobs programs for about 195,000 direct and indirect workers who will be affected by the recent order of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to permanently stop or suspend the operations of 28 mine sites across the country. The DENR directive, issued by Secretary Gina Lopez, will affect close to 200,000 families or about 1.2 million people whose income and sources of livelihood depend on the operations of these mines, which, in effect, had singlehandedly undermined President Duterte’s agenda of inclusive growth. Following Lopez’s announcement on the clampdown in the mining sector last February 2, the heads of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Public Works and Highways

(DPWH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Finance (DOF) and the Office of the Cabinet Secretary immediately held an “online meeting” to initially discuss possible alternative jobs for the soon-tobe displaced workers. DOLE Secretary Silvestre Bello III said that while the labor department has an emergency jobs program in place, it would only be able to absorb a limited number of workers and only for a limited time. Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco suggested that the workers “be engaged to participate in the national greening program” as tree planters, while DPWH Secretary Mark Villar said he will look into additional projects of his department in the regions hardest hit by the mining clampdown and ask for a supplemental budget to fund an employment program for them.

DSWD Secretary Judy Taguiwalo said her department “will look at the extent of the (jobs) displacement” after DOF Secretary Carlos Dominguez III expressed concern over the massive layoffs of workers if the shutdown and suspension of mining operations in the 10 provinces affected by the DENR order push through. Dominguez has also expressed concern over the impact of the DENR move on the fiscal state of local government units hosting the affected mining sites as they depend heavily on the taxes and other charges they collect from mining firms for their revenues. A preliminary report submitted to Dominguez by the DOF’s Bureau of Local Government Finance show that the affected LGUs stand to lose a total of P653 million yearly in revenues as a result of Lopez’s order.

Lopez’s directive has caught the mining sector off guard because the affected mining firms were neither given a copy of the results of the audit conducted by the DENR’s Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) nor given an opportunity to respond or correct the supposed violations of environmental laws that they have supposedly committed. The DENR chief has assured workers to be laid off as a result of her arbitrary move that they would be given jobs in the ecotourism sector, although she failed to mention where these ecotourism sites are located, whether this budding industry can absorb all the displaced workers, and whether the pay they would get would be enough to feed their families. Lopez, insisting that her move would pave the way for the creation of “ecological eco-

tion is not anti-mining. The Administration views the mining industry as a key player in the Philippine economy. Responsible mining plays a key role in the Philippines. The key word here is ‘responsible.’ You have to do it right. If you cannot do it right, then get out of mining,” Arroyo said. Her bill entitled “An Act Prescribing Standards for Responsible Mining” is based on the draft released by the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance based in Canada on April 5, 2016. It sets standards for re-

sponsible mining including business integrity, social responsibility, environmental responsibility, reclamation and closure, and management systems. Arroyo said all mining companies in the country should comply with all the mining laws including being transparent with information needed for communities to understand the fairness of their financial arrangements related to their operations. They should protect and promote the health and safety of their workers and put in place an emergency pre-

paredness and response plan to reduce the likelihood of accidents and emergencies and minimize the loss of life, injuries and damage to property, environment, health and social well-being if they occur. Arroyo added that mining in conflict-affected and highrisk areas should ensure that they do not intentionally or unintentionally cause, contribute to, or benefit from human rights abuses or armed conflict. “Security for mining projects shall be managed in a manner that respects, protects

F CABINET, 14

Arroyo pushes for responsible mining

OTING that the mining industry is a key player in the Philippine economy, former President and now Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is pushing for standards for responsible mining. In her House Bill No. 488, Arroyo said the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte is not anti-mining but would want standards set for responsible mining similar to those in developed countries like Canada and Australia to ensure protection of the environment. “The Duterte Administra-

F ARROYO, 14

6 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

PHL foreign reserves hit USD 81 B in January‘17

ROSS international reserves (GIR) of the Philippines rose to USD 81.04 billion in January 2017, higher than the USD 80.7 billion last December and the USD80.7 billion in January 2016, data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Tuesday showed. In a statement, BSP officer-in-charge Nestor A. Espenilla Jr. traced the higher foreign exchange reserves to inflows from the net foreign currency deposits of the national government (NG) with the central bank. Other factors include the revaluation adjustments on the central bank’s gold holdings, following the uptick of gold prices in the international market, and the income of central bank’s investments

overseas. ”These were partially offset by the payments made by the NG for its maturing foreign exchange obligations and by the BSP’s foreign exchange operations,” Espenilla said. The BSP official said the current level of foreign reserves was enough to cover 9.2 months worth of goods and payments of services and primary income and equivalent to 5.8 times the country’s short-term foreign liabilities based on original maturity. During the same period, net international reserves (NIR) or the difference between the central bank’s foreign reserves and the total short-term debt, rose to USD81.04 billion from month-ago’s USD80.69 billion. (PNA)

Inclusive economy to sustain PH growth momentum: DOF

INANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said the Philippines cannot sustain its growth momentum unless the government transforms the economy into a truly inclusive one, in which ordinary Filipinos themselves make market decisions and help shape economic development. Dominguez pointed out that in the Philippines, market information and other issues related to the economy are kept from ordinary Filipinos and exchanged within a narrow section of the population, “a testament to our economy being an exclusive rather than an inclusive one.” “This situation cannot persist for too long. Unless our economy becomes truly inclusive, with ordinary folk making market decisions and shaping economic development, we cannot sustain a high-growth momentum,” Dominguez said in his Tuesday night speech before the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP). He cited the “magnified

role” of economic journalists in emerging economies like the Philippines to make the economy “inclusive” for ordinary people, who rely on the news not only to get the facts straight but also to widen their financial and economic literacy. “You, the economic journalists, are the evangelists of modern economic thinking. We can push the reforms only as far as our citizens grasp the strategic significance of what we are trying to do,” Dominguez said. As an example of an inclusive economy, Dominguez mentioned that it is no longer surprising to see cab drivers in Singapore scanning the newspapers’ stocks pages and analyzing the performance of listed companies while waiting for fare because, they, too, invest in the stock market. “In these advanced economies, the capital markets are as deep-rooted as the economy is inclusive. Regardless of what their day jobs are, ordinary citizens help drive up the sav-

F INCLUSIVE, 14

CAPTIVE MARKET. A vendor displays fish balls and other street foods on his makeshift stall in preparation for the influx of park goers who will visit People’s Park along Palma Gil Street in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

DTI says Davao region remains conducive for new investments Investments in 2016 surge by 63% By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

HE Davao region’s resilience, safety and security are the key factors that continue to attract investments in the region. Department of Trade and Industry Region XI Director Ma. Belenda Q. Ambi said on Wednesday during a media forum at Habi at Kape that the fact that the President comes from Davao City was also a factor. The regional director attributed the surge in investments to the efforts and strategies of the agency to promote the region by coordinating with private sectors as well as the local government units’ investment promotion centers. “We are considering the local government units as the ambassadors of their respec-

tive areas, and for Davao Region we have really strong investment centers,” said Ambi. “To name a few, we have the Davao City Investment Promotions Center… investment promotion center in Davao del Norte, in Davao del Sur. Right now Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley are now starting with their promotion centers,” she added. Ambi reported that investments in the region in 2016 increased by 63% as she explained that in 2015, DTI recorded a total investment of PhP4 billion. Meanwhile, it has increased to PhP7 billion in 2016. In a data given by Board of Investments (BOI)-Davao a total of P7,684.69 million was invested in the region as of October 2016, higher than

the 2015 total investment of P4,708.14 million. “Among the sectors that figured out most is on manufacturing, transportation and storage (this is logistics), accommodation and food service projects, electricity, and then real estate activities, agriculture, forestry,” said Ambi. “The three main (industries) are manufacturing, real estate and transportation,” she added. For sectoral breakdown, manufacturing comprises 38 percent of the total investments followed by transportation & storage at 31 percent, real estate activities at 13 percent, accommodation & food service activities at 7 percent; electricity, gas, steam & air conditioning supply at 7 percent; and agriculture, for-

foreigners, is a joint effort of the Chamber and the Davao City government headed by Mayor Sara D. Carpio in a bid to firm up the city’s image as an investment hub. From left: Chamber executive director Maan Doromal, ICon marketing head Belle L. Torres, VP for agri business Tess Pascual, ICon communication head Tony Ajero, ICon committee chairmain Art Milan, and Chamber President Ronald C. Go. (Partly hidden are members of the Chamber professional management team).

F DTI, 14

Municipalities to suffer most on loss of mining taxes: DOF

GEARING FOR ICON. OFFICERS of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) tasked to prepare for the staging of the 4th Davao Investments Conference (ICon) headed by trustee Arturo M. Milan (second from left) hold their weekly meeting to finalize the theme, targets, budget and other aspects of the July event at the SMX Convention Center in Lanang with no less than President Duterte gracing the occasion. The investment conference designed to lure in 700 people, half of them

estry & fishing at 4 percent. For the regional breakdown, Davao City recorded the highest investment with P2.5 billion or 33 percent of the total investment followed by Davao del Sur with P2.2 billion or 29 percent and Davao del Norte as third highest with P2.06 billion or 27 percent. The rest of the bulk comes from Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental and Davao Occidental respectively. San Miguel Foods, Inc. (Davao del Sur) from the manufacturing cluster recorded the highest investment of P2.2 billion which generated 307 jobs followed by Davao International Container Terminal, Inc. (Davao del Norte) from transportation & storage cluster with P1.9 billion,

INANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said it is the municipalities, not the national government, that would be greatly affected by loss of tax revenues from closure of mining companies. He said some municipalities earn only from taxes being paid by mining companies operating in their areas. Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Gina Lopez has ordered the closure of about 23 mining companies around the country, citing various violations. Dominguez said initial check pegs the loss from the closure to be around P653

million. ”It’s gonna hurt that we’re not going to get mining revenue but it’s not going to be very fatal. In some municipalities, it’s the only income they have,” he said. Dominguez, co-chair of the inter-agency Mining Industry Coordinating Council (MICC), said members of the Cabinet were now formulating emergency measures to address the closure’s impact on affected workers. He said the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), among others, was collating the number of affected workers

F MUNICIPALITIES, 14

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

COMPETITIVE EDGE

Mindanao electric cooperatives DOST 11: New Filipino time is now on time choose AboitizPower’s cleanergy D S IX electric cooperatives in Mindanao have started their shift towards a more balanced mix of energy sources starting this year after signing up with the clean renewable energy of AboitizPower subsidiary Hedcor. Zamboanga del Sur Electric Cooperatives 1 and 2 (ZAMSURECO 1 and 2), Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative (ZANECO), Bukidnon Second Electric Cooperative (BUSECO), Misamis Occidental I Electric Cooperative (MOELCI I), and Siargao Electric Cooperative (SIARELCO) have signed Renewable Energy Supply Contract (RESA) with Hedcor which is building the 68.8MW Manolo Fortich hydro power project in Bukidnon. The project is slated for completion this year. “We are happy to have provided the electric cooperatives in Mindanao with the renewable energy option. By signing up with Hedcor, there are giving their member-consumers the benefits of renewable energy as well as the benefits of a balanced mix of energy sources,” Hedcor VP for Mindanao Opera-

POWER SOURCE. Photo shows Hedcor’s Sibulan Hydro B Plant located in Sta. Cruz Davao del Sur. Hedcor currently operates 22 hydro power plants in the country. Five of which are located in Davao City, four in Davao del Sur, 11 tions Rolando Pacquiao said. Hedcor has signed up a total of 23MW of power contracted by its existing customers. Out of this, ZANECO which serves the area in and around Zamboanga del Norte and the cities of Dipolog and Dapitan has signed for a total of 10 MW. Zamsureco 1 and Zamsureco 2 which services the rest of Zamboanga peninsula signed for 3 MW each. BUSECO with franchise locations all over Bukidnon including

DOLE RCMB-12 settles labor dispute in Lapanday Foods

HE Regional Conciliation and Mediation Board (RCMB) 12 has settled the labor dispute involving Lapanday Foods Corporation and its union, Mindanao Independent Labor Union of Lapanday, resulting in the reinstatement of 16 workers in General Santos, National Conciliation Mediation Board (NCMB) Executive Director Shirley Pascual yesterday reported to Labor Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III. “I am pleased that once again, the DOLE RCMB’s strengthened conciliation process has led to the settlement of a dispute that would have been harmful to the company and its workers,” said Pascual Pascual, in her report, said that MILUL filed a preventive mediation case against Lapanday Foods Corporation over alleged unfair labor practices. Lapanday Food Corporation is located in Arakan Valley, North Cotabato. It is one of the leading fresh produce growers and exporters in the Philippines. The Mindanao Independent Labor Union o Lapanday (MILUL) is the recognized bargaining agent of the rank-

and-file workers of Lapanday Foods Corporation (LFC). It has a total of 280 members, represented by Ronilo A. Lumayon, Union President. Pascual said that the union originally filed a Request for Assistance (RFA) through the RCMB 12-North Cotabato field office on December 16, 2016. However, it was endorsed to the RCMB 12-Koronadal City field office as a preventive mediation case on January 9, 2017 after both the management and union requested to conduct the conciliation conference in in Kidapawan City since the company is located in Arakan Valley. The union filed a case against the management for alleged non-payment of wages, service incentive leave (SIL), holiday pay, and illegal dismissal of 16 union members. After the conciliation conference on January 25, the management and the union mutually agreed to settle the preventive mediation case, including the reinstatement of the 16 dismissed workers. Both parties agreed further to discuss and resolve labor related issues at the company level. (PR)

on time,” he added. In a bid to reinforce the PST in the provinces, DOST Provincial Science and Technology Center of Davao del Sur conducted a forum regarding this. Engr. Lolita Vinalay, Chief Meteorological Officer of PAG-ASA Butuan, shared her knowledge on the PST to the participants coming from LGU-Digos and provincial counterparts of National Government Agencies. “It’s very important to synchronize our time,” said Vinalay, adding that every minute or even seconds matter in going to school, catching flights or disaster operations.

Hedcor, the largest developer of a run-of-river hydropower plant in the country, is set to complete its 68.8 Megawatt (MW) Manolo Fortich Hydropower Plants located in Bukidnon by third quarter this year. These hydropower plants will produce 360GWh of clean and renewable energy every year for the Mindanao grid ensuring ample power supply to meet the increasing power demands of the region. (PR)

ON’T we all hate events not starting on time or even friends arriving a few hours later than the scheduled? The Filipino Time is to blame for this. We tend to just brush it off and laugh about it. Others haveturnedit into marketing strategies for advertising pizza deliveries. This infamous habit that Filipinos are known for has probably been everyone’s pet peeve for decades. Yet, it’s as if no one is doing something about this. In 2011, the Department of Science and Technology launched “Juan Time”, a campaign which aims to dispel Filipino Time and encourage all Filipinos to follow a single time standard. It was then later picked up by our lawmakers paving the way for the Republic Act 10535, also known as “The Philippine Standard Time (PST) Act of 2013”. But despite having a law setting the Philippine Standard Time, Filipinos seem to be unconcerned about this. “Kulturaito eh,” said Dr. Aristotle P. Carandang, Chief of Communication Resources and Production Division of the DOST-STII, in an interview aired in DOSTv, the official Filipino Weather Channel of the DOST. “Sana sa mas madalingpanahon, masasabinating ‘Uy, angmga Pilipino, Juan Time na’ dahil the new Filipino Time is

(BEC) of the church. A BEC is usually composed of seven up to eight families that was established by the Committee on Basic Ecclesial Communities of the CBCP. This group then will help its members to become closer to the church and uplift its livelihood. Through the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) of TESDA, participants would be given the chance to form a BEC and pro-

vide skills training depending on the course that they have chosen. Recently, officials of TESDA met with CBCP-BEC Chairman Bishop Jose Cabantan and discussed about the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) which will help promote plans for family enterprise. The joint program has chosen Bukidnon for its pilot project as Cabantan has discussed with the local coordi-

nators for the implementation of the project. One of the suggested family enterprises was the setting up of carinderia in which members are expected to promote their business and help it grow. The TESDA also said that participants to the program will receive a National Certificate (NC) after they have completed the skills training which is free of charge. (PR)

in Benguet, one in Mountain Province, and one in Ilocos Sur. These power plants produce a combined 185 MW of clean and renewable hydro power energy. (AboitizPower Photo)

areas in Malaybalay City, Manolo Fortich, and Valencia City, signed for 5 MW. While MOELCI 1, currently servicing some municipalities in Misamis Occidental, and SIARELCO, covering at least nine towns in Siargao island, each signed for 1 MW of power supply. “We hope other electric cooperatives will take advantage of renewable energy to add to their portfolio and the benefits of a RESA contract,” Pacquiao said.

Vinalay also emphasized that everyone should comply with the Philippine Standard Time as there would be corresponding penalties for those who do not. As mandated by the Section 6 of Batas PambansaBilang 8, PAG-ASA is tasked as the official timekeeper, the one responsible in the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the National Standard for the second of time. Now is the best time to start changing our habits from being perpetually late to being punctual. Let’s do the first step by synchronizing our time to the PST. You may do so by checking the official DOST PAGASA website, www.pagasa. dost.gov.ph. (PR)

TESDA, CBCP join forces for family enterprise

HE Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) will join forces to help establish family enterprise among Filipino families. TESDA Director General, Secretary Guiling “Gene” Mamondiong said that the Agency will assist in providing skills training to the members of the Basic Ecclesial Communities

DSWD SUPPORT. Two presidents [in white shirt] of Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) associations in Mati City receive the P200,000.00 microenterprise livelihood assistance from Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) during the celebration of DSWD’s 66th Founding Anniversary in Mati on Monday. The fund will benefit 40 families in barangays Matiao and Magsaysay who will embark in Hog Raising and

Meat Retailing, and Rice Retailing. For 2017, SLP budget allocation for Mati is P3,743,250.00. Also in photo are [from left] City Social Welfare and Development Officer Virginia Almaida, Vice Mayor Monette Rabat-Gayta, DSWD Convergence Coordinator Merlinda A. Paragamac, and DSWD-SLP Provincial Coordinator Julius R. Duterte. (DSWD)

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

The real thing

IME was when as freshmen and sophomore college students, boys and girls of this country take up the basic military training Reserved Officers Training Course (ROTC). It was the next level training from the secondary school’s Citizen’s Army Training (CAT) and Philippine Military Training (PMT) of the past. After it was abolished in 2001, the country’s millennials came by knowing nothing about marching military cadence, parade drills, carry and fire rifles, and war games. All they knew about military training is in front of a television monitor or a computer screen doing simulated war video games with exaggerated artillery. The implementation of the mandatory ROTC was stopped in 2001 following a series of scandals which rocked the program, including the death of a Manila student due to hazing. The strict implementation of the Anti-Hazing Law was among the measures presented to avoid the repeat of hazing deaths. In other countries, the youth are made to go through compulsory military training and service. They continue to do so. A number of the young ones look forward to their annual service, and some

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village. Printed by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Building, Quirino Avenue, 8000, Davao City, Philippines Tel: (082) 224-1413 301-6235 Telefax: (082) 221-3601 www.edgedavao.net editorial@edgedavao.net marketing@edgedavao.net

went on to join the service. In our case, the younger generation are confined to just becoming virtual soldiers of video games, a sedentary activity that may lead to obesity and other health issues. Not that we are raising a military generation, the discipline and values like patriotism, love of country, moral and spiritual values, respect for human rights and adherence to Constitution are learned from basic military training are different from what one learns, if there ever is, from virtual computer-generated environment. On Tuesday, President Rody Duterte approved the return of the Reserved Officers Training Course in Grades 11 and 12 of the country’s public and private schools. Although the approval will have to pass Congress and Senate before it could be implemented, this brings us back to the era of breeding disciplined Filipinos. It’s back to the real thing, so to speak. However, this time every young boy and girl who is bestowed authority over his peers in a training environment must do so with utmost respect to the rights of others. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

JIMMY K. LAKING Associate Editor PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ KENNETH IRVING K. ONG JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS MEGHANN STA. INES Reporters NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA Lifestyle CHA MONFORTE LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. ARLENE D. PASAJE Correspondents Cartoons Photography Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. Columnists: D. TACIO G.•DELIGERO • JOHN CARLO TRIA • VIDAGOTIANSE-TAN MIA S. VALVERDE•• NICASIO FRED C. LUMBA • ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA BORBONHENRYLITO • MARY ANN “ADI”• GREGORIO C. QUISIDO LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NIKKI ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ

the national association of newspapers

OLIVIA D. VELASCO D.D. MARATAS RICHARD C. EBONA OLIVIA D. VELASCO JOCELYN S. PANES SOLANI SOLANI MARATAS General Manager Finance Advertising Specialist General Manager Director of Sales Finance RICHARD C. EBONA Marketing Supervisor

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE

LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager EDMUND D. RENDON Unit 6, SouthbankMarketing Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Specialist General Santos City Cagayan de Oro City Mobile: (Smart) 0948-823-3685 Tel: (088) 852-4894

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

ANGELICA R. GARCIA | Marketing Manager 97-1 Bayanbayanan Ave., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 654-3509

EDGEDAVAO

T’S been many weeks since the above subject was broached into the open. Pres. Duterte himself publicly denounced it. The expected brouhaha and discussion was not sustained (and almost naturally died) as the mainstream media did not completely bite even if it somehow became a hot topic for some time among coffee shop regulars. For one thing, the oust-Duterte plot was floated to test the political market as well as to feel the pulse and reaction of the nation populated by a majority of Filipinos who support the incumbent administration. Under the present circumstances when the national leadership is seen to be veering towards the “other side of the fence” (China and Russia) and there seems so much economic and political considerations at stake for the US to lose if it allows this to happen, there is great reason to believe that this sort of “belligerence” is ideally critical.

HE most significant Japanese presence in Davao region lasted thirty-two years (1903-1945). This was at a time when the demand for abaca plantation labor meant recruiting of Okinawans to fill in the placement void the local work force could not supply. Expectedly, the influx of Japanese labor also became a boon to Japanese entrepreneurs who were able to lease public lands they later developed in sprawling hemp farms. Others married into the local population so as to enjoy the privilege of owning indirectly agricultural lands that actually belonged to landed native gentries. According to official census, by 1940 the number of Japanese population in Davao, which stiffly competed with the local Chinese inhabitants, was around 20,000, about a fifth of the entire regional population. Despite their number, the Japanese failed to introduce sumo wrestling, its national sport, locally. The prewar accounts do not even talk of exhibitions of this athletic activity. Because the archipelago was under US colonial rule, the Graeco-Roman wrestling, which the Americans propagated in their homeland, was occasionally played in camps and special events. American wrestling was preferred because it has different weight classes to choose from. Unlike sumo which needs an athlete that’s bulky, rotund, and stout, in Graeco-Roman wrestling the physique of the colonists perfectly fits the requirement of that sporting discipline.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

VANTAGE POINTS

CIA ouster plot real? T h e SPECKS OF LIFE South China Sea is a gateway so strategic for navigation and air space patrol that the US will not easily throw Fred C. Lumba away what it has tremendously enjoyed in the past like nothing happened. Recall that during the Vietnam war, the American bases in Subic and Clark became the jumping off point of all US military strategies and counter-attacks. The Philippines is a gem of a country, don’t forget this. It is almost like a paradise filled with rich natural resources that our neighbors are hankering to have. Now that China has acquired remarkable military firepower, it is coveting the South China periphery to prevent, if not limit, the effectiveness of the US military

might not only in South East Asia but perhaps in all of Asia, if not in the world. We all know what the CIA is capable of doing. It sells war, foments revolutions disguised as “people power” and installs new regimes that become its puppet. It topples unfriendly governments and ousts presidents and prime ministers. It has the money to buy local political personalities salivating to get back into power. Thus, when an ally turns away its back, a blueprint for his ouster is produced, studiously examined and then tested. If the initial test is media-positive, you can be sure that a phase-by-phase operation will proceed. The media sector is usually the launching pad. When the initial black propaganda gets underway, you can be sure it is picked up by the mainstream broadsheets and broadcast organizations. Columnists and opinion writers and anchormen suddenly write and proclaim on the air James Bondish stories in sly efforts to magnify the sins of their target.

Now, we cannot avoid conjuring a conspiracy when opposition members fly out of the country one by one on pretenses that they have been invited by even suspicious, heretofore unheard of, people’s organizations and NGOs in the US. Whether we like it or not, these “invites” legitimize to a certain degree their travels abroad and become a good cover. The initial “resign Duterte” blast may not have resonated well but let this not give the current administration the veneer of confidence to ignore and shrug it like it were just a pesky fly. At the rate, the media are presently nitpicking on every verbal misdemeanor of the President, there is a logical reason to believe that the seed of discontent has been planted by his enemies among the Filipino populace. The CIA could be watering that seed. The demolition job has begun. Ergo, the threat is real. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) God bless the Philippines!

The closFAST BACKWARD est Davao has reached in the real sumo world was through Ta k a y a s u Akira, a sumo wrestler born February 28, 1990 Antonio V. Figueroa in Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan, to Eiji Takayasu, a Japanese father, and Davao-born mother, Bebelita Reblingca Bernadas, who has roots in Bohol and Cebu. Takayasu’s parents were married in 1984 and live in Ibaraki Prefecture. They have another son, Hiroyuki, now working as a paymaster, who used to play rugby and American football while in high school and college. The family used to own three restaurants in Japan, but closed them after Babelita underwent a myoma surgery in 2007. Eiji is a cancer survivor of a malignant tumor that affected his left kidney. As family enterprise, they own a recycling shop for heavy equipment and appliances. Takayasu initially played baseball in his youth but later decided to enter the Naruto (now Tagonoura-beya) wrestling stable to train as a rikishi (sumo wrestler). According to his mother, he “loves Filipino food like bihon, sotanghon guisado, beef kaldereta, chicken adobo, giniling, Bicol ex-

press, lumpiang shanghai, sinigang, nilaga, kare-kare and lechon,” adding he also “eats everything except dinuguan. He loves Mama’s cooking and introduced Filipino food to other sumo wrestlers. He is proud of his Filipino blood and loves anything Filipino.” With a height of 6’1” and weighing 164 kilograms, his March 2005 debut right away caught the attention of sumo followers. He is regarded as an oshi-sumo specialist who prefers pushing and thrusting techniques (tsuki/oshi) and often uses the techniques known as yori-kiri (force out), hataki-komi (slap down) and oshi-dashi (push out) in winning his assignments. The Wikipedia chronicles his rise in an online profile: “[Takayasu Akira] made steady progress through the lower divisions, [losing] only a few… make-koshi tournaments. He won the yūshō (championship) in the third makushita division in September 2010 with a perfect 7–0 record [which] propelled him [to] the jūryō division [and] became one of the first two sekitori to be born in the Heisei era. He decided against adopting a traditional shikona despite reaching the elite and has continued to use his birth name. In his first jūryō tournament… he almost pulled off a second consecutive championship. “After two more strong performances at jūryō, Takayasu was promoted to the top makuuchi division in July, 2011. His debut record of 9–6 at maegashira 11 earned him

a maegashira rank of no. 6 in the following tournament, then his highest.. After [earning] a 9–6 score in the November 2011 tournament he was promoted to a new high of maegashira 3. He scored only 6–9 in the January 2012 tourney, but a 10–5 record in March saw him reach maegashira 1.” “Takayasu had his best result in the top division to date in the January 2013 tournament, finishing runner up on 12–3 and winning his first sanshō award for Fighting Spirit. He had two gold star wins in 2013, in two different tournaments, both at maegashira 1… The second win… also helped him procure his first Outstanding Performance prize, and his first promotion to the san’yaku ranks at komusubi. He only lasted one tournament at this rank, however, and went into a bit of a slump before bouncing back with an 11-4 at the July 2014 tournament. “In the November 2014 tournament he scored against top-ranked competition, earning two gold stars… and receiving the Outstanding Performance prize. This promoted him to komosubi once more at the beginning of 2015.” In May 2016, Takayasu was promoted to komusubi for the third time. In July that same year, at Nagoya, Japan, he produced his first winning record at a san’yaku rank with eleven wins and was also awarded the Special Prize for Technique. In January 2017, he finished third place at komusubi and was awarded the special prize for Fighting Spirit.

Wrestling the ‘sumo’ way

EDGEDAVAO

10 ENVIRONMENT

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017 River trail

Wise use of wetlands urged Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

“Wetlands, which include mangroves, are good natural buffers against stronger and more frequent typhoons, possible storm surges, and sea level rise.” – Dr. Theresa Mundita S. Lim, director of Biodiversity Management Bureau

HE Philippines, with more than 7,000 islands, is one of the world’s most beautiful countries. To most foreigners, images of dreamy beaches and crystal waters surely dominates their perception of the country. Unfortunately, it is also one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries as it is located in what scientists called as the “Ring of Fire.” The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction rates the Philippines as one of the 10 countries worst affected by weather-related emergencies. The Philippines, experts claim, is very vulnerable to effects of climate change. “The signs are all around us,” said Senator Loren Legarda, who chairs the Senate Committees on Finance and Climate Change. “The numbers speak for themselves. It is no longer an issue of taking action, but rather of how much action we need to take.” Scientists claim that if global temperature rises by 2°C, sea level rise is projected to be less than 70 centimeters; with warming of up to 4°C, sea level rise is projected to be more than 100 centimeters.

Agusan Marsh

Mangroves along Tagum River Various studies show that sea level rise around the country is three to five times faster than the global average rate. Quoting the World Meteorological Organization, Legarda warned: “Even if we are successful in limiting global warming to 1.5°C, sea level around the Philippines would still rise to about 70 centimeters.” Indeed, it is very alarming. “The Philippines is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change impacts,” declares Dr. Theresa Mundita S. Lim, the director of the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB), a line agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. “We cannot emphasize enough how our wetlands can help protect communities, especially the poor who are most vulnerable and last resilient.” Paul A. Keddy, author of Wetland Ecology: Principles and Conservation, defines wetland as “an ecosystem that arises when inundation by water produces soil dominated by anaerobic processes which, in turn, forces the biota, particularly rooted plants, to adapt to flooding.” A patch of land that devel-

ops pools of water after a rain storm would not be considered a “wetland,” even though the land is wet. Specifically, wetlands are characterized as having a water table that stands at or near the land surface for a long period each year to support aquatic plants. Under the Ramsar international wetland conservation treaty, wetlands are defined as follows: Article 1.1: “… wetlands are areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six meters.” Article 2.2: “(Wetlands) may incorporate riparian and coastal zones adjacent to the wetlands, and islands or bodies of marine water deeper than six meters at low tide lying within the wetlands.” In simpler terms, wetlands occur where water meets land. They include mangroves, peatlands and marshes, rivers and lakes, deltas, floodplains and flooded forests, rice-fields, and even coral reefs.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park The Ramsar Convention is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise of wetlands and their resources. In the Philippines, there are six wetlands of international importance; these are Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary in Mindanao, Naujan Lake National Park in Oriental Mindoro, Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary in Cebu, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan, the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Sulu Sea, and the Las PiñasParañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area. Peatlands, also known as mires, have been confirmed in Sab-a basin in Leyte and Agusan March in Mindanao. There are also some reports that peatlands also exist in Ligwasan Marsh in Mindanao, Dolongan area in Basey, Samar, Southern Leyte, Mount Pulag in Northern Luzon, Surigao del Norte, Northeastern Mindanao, and Naujan Lake Marshland. Although their basic function is to conserve and provide water, “wetlands also play a significant role in climate change adaptation and disaster risk mitigation,” to quote the words of Legarda. Take the case of mangroves. “Mangroves act as natural barriers in coastal areas, protecting communities from storm surges, waves, tidal currents, and typhoons,” said Dr. Alice Joan G. Ferrer, a professor of the Division of Social Sciences at the University of the Philippines in Miag-ao, Iloilo. Some scientific studies have shown that “a barrier of mangroves over 100 meters wide can reduce wave height by between 13% and 66%.” In addition, “a per kilometer width of mangroves can

weaken storm surge by 5-50 centimeters and surface wind waves by more than 75%.” A couple of years ago, a powerful storm surges brought by typhoon Gener caused flooding in Manila’s bay area, forcing the Senate to shut down for a second time in a week and the US Embassy to cancel work at its chancery and suspend consular services. Concrete seawalls that supposed to shield Roxas Boulevard were destroyed causing flood waters to submerge the area. Concrete seawalls are not permanent solutions; they are expensive and will ultimately breakdown,” says Dr. Elmer S. Mercado, former undersecretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Dr. Mercado cites the case of the tsunami that hit Japan some years back. “The 10-meter high seawalls did not save them,” he says. “What was worst was they got complacent that they continued building infrastructures along the coastal areas.” If it happened in Japan, he says it will also happen in the Philippines. “We are worst here,” he reminds. “So, the best solution is to remove all settlements further back from main coastal areas and shorelines.” Dr. Mercado also suggests that drainage systems be improved, natural catchment areas be built, and all obstructions in waterways be removed. “(If these recommendations are not followed) then people living in Metro Manila should be prepared to have Ondoy and Sendong scenarios every year and every time there is a typhoon.” Wetlands, particularly mangroves, can serve as a natural safeguard against disasters and calamities. “Mangroves serve as coastal buffers and

reduce coastal erosion,” points out Dr. Rafael D. Guerrero III, former head of the Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development. “The coastline of Manila Bay used to be full of mangroves. But with overexploitation and human settlements, they were denuded.” As such, Dr. Guerrero suggests mangrove rehabilitation. Aside from protecting communities from calamities and disasters, wetlands have other benefits, too. “Wetlands are likewise essential to food and water security and can provide alternative livelihood through ecotourism,” Legarda said. “Without wetlands, other ecosystems like marine and forest will all suffer. Species of birds, migratory and non-migratory, will also suffer as well as other flora and fauna.” But wetlands, like other ecosystems, are on the verge of collapse. “Encroachment on, or loss of, wetlands can cause serious environmental damage to the ecosystem, so they should be restored and rehabilitated when possible,” the environment department suggested. Wetlands should be conserved through “wise use,” which Ramsar Convention defines as “the maintenance of their ecological character, achieved through the implementation of ecosystem approaches, within the context of sustainable development.” Legarda urged: “Each of us has opportunities to make a difference for our future. We must take hold of the opportunity to responsibly manage out wetlands. We must maintain focus and momentum in order to restore health to our wetlands and other critical ecosystems and thereby protect our citizens from the impacts of natural hazards and climate change.”

INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

Seda Abreeza Hotel Manager Ken Kapulong announces the inclusion of Seda Abreeza’s Misto’s signature Slow-cooked Roasted Angus Beef Short Plate. Misto in the 2017 edition of Philippine Tatler Dining’s Best Restaurants.

A celebration of

SWEET SUCCESS

Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk Panna Cotta, part of the special Valentine’s set menu.

WHEN TRYING TO FIND A NEW PLACE TO EAT, sometime we resort to friends or locals who are sure to be in the know when it comes to places to taste that delicious steak or fancy fish dish. Of course it also never hurts to read, and when it comes to the Philippine culinary scene, there is no other written guide that covers everything delicious all over the Philippines much like Philippine Tatler Dining Best Restaurants Guide. Philippine Tatler Dining Best Restaurants Guide features the best restaurants, bars, and dining establishment and shares it with its affluent readers. This year’s issue saw the inclusion of four local Davao restaurants who made an impact on the magazine’s reviewers and one of these is Seda

HM Ken Kapulong makes a toast with ANFLO Executives and Seda Abreeza’s Kitchen and Sales & and Marketing Heads. Abreeza’s Misto restaurant which was mentioned as one of the Philippines’ Best Restaurants for 2017. To celebrate the momentous occasion, Seda Abreeza held a cocktail celebration last January 30 with guests coming with its business partners from ANFLOCOR, Abreeza Mall, corporate guests, associates and media friends. “We are very grateful for this recognition from

Philippine Tatler. I share this achievement with the team, especially the team behind Misto in Seda Abreeza led by Sous Chef Giovanna ‘Bang’ Flores. This will surely challenge us to keep making our diners’ experience at its best, and continue on innovating savory treats for everyone. Guests will have more to look forward to in Misto this year,” said Hotel Manager Ken Kapulong. The celebratory move

continued on as the event also showcased the hotel’s food and leisure offerings for Valentines Day. Diners can experience a romantic evening for those who wish to spend February 14th in Misto where one can have an elegant wine pairing dinner matched with a mini buffet featuring the hotel’s signature dish (and my favorite) Slow-cooked Angus Roast Beef together with a spring-themed salad and dessert spread.

Seda Abreeza’s Sous Chef Giovanna “Bang” Flores and her team made sure that the occasion will be something to remember from the diners’ first bite to their last. The menu starts with Pear, Arugula, Lollo Rosa, Walnut and Blue Cheese Salad and Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk Panna Cotta, with Parmesan Crumbed Salmon and

URBANISSIMO A3

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge! FOOD

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Sarangani Bay goes to Cebu BELIEVE IT OR NOT, the fish and us, we are connected by a line. Though different, we are still alike…in more ways than you can imagine. Speaking of fish, allow me to provoke your hunger as I take you on an island food adventure over at the historic resorts city of Lapu-Lapu in Cebu. Sarangani Bay Products VisMin Export and Marketing Head Jose Maria ‘Jeje’ Cabrera, together with his Cebu crew, welcomed everyone to a night of fun and laughter and of course, an array of Bangus recipes as they invade the shores of Cebu. Best place for an event like this? White Sands Resort and Spa Cebu. Sarangani Bay, worldwide recognized brand of premium deboned milkfish, is the country’s largest processor and exporter of premium quality bangus and other processed seafood products. Under the Sarangani Bay trademark is Alsons Aquaculture Corporation – largest breeder and exporter of milkfish. Consistently of Premium Quality, Alsons strives to provide great tasting food ideas that is both time and effort efficient for everyone to enjoy. In attendance were Cebu-based print and White Sands Resort Executive Chef online media influencers, Bunzi. friends from Cebu, White

NOW SHOWING

February 9 – 14, 2017

KUNG FU YOGA/ *MOONLIGHT OVER BALER Jackie Chan, Aarif Rahman/ *Ellen Adarna, Vin Abrenica Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG/*PG

11:40 | 1:50 | 4:00 LFS / *6:05 | 7:55 | 9:45 LFS

THE SPACE BETWEEN US / *RESIDENT EVIL: THE FINAL CHAPTER Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG/*R13

Brit Robertson, Asa Butterfield/ *Milla Jovovich, Ali Larter 12:50 | 3:10 LFS / *5:30 | 7:45 | 10:00 LFS

THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE Will Arnett, Zach Galifianakis Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

12:30 | 2:45 | 5:00 | 7:15 | 9:30 LFS

JOHN WICK 2 Keanu Reeves, Common, Laurence Fishburne Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

R16

12:00 | 2:30 | 5:00 | 7:30 | 10:00 LFS

Sands Resort’s owners and Sarangani Bay’s own Chef Gigi of Kusina Sarangani. Also in attendance were I and some other Davao print and online media influencers. Together, we were treated to some of the resorts’ newest menu inclusions – that of course, highlights the many products of Sarangani Bay. The night featured Sarangani Bay’s Premium Milkfish and other seafood staples prepared and cooked in ways you can imagine. However, the highlight of the night was the bangus and its re-introduction to the Visayas palate. The dishes served were a combination of recipes from Kusina Sarangani and of the resort hotel. One thing was for certain, the dishes were packed with flavours that are abundant in the locale. White Sands Executive Chef Bunzi, who was tasked to satisfy everyone’s ideal bangus dish, made sure that her dishes highlighted the bangus without altering its rich,

Sarangani Bay’s VisMin for Export and Marketing Head Jeje Cabrera. textured taste. She opted lennial. The way we creatto incorporate ingredi- ed the recipes this year is ents and flavours that are truly different. Yes, there already a staple in our are limitations – in terms taste buds thus elevating of the taste and the likes the bangus in the process. – hence you have to find Of the many, I personally ways.” loved the curried tiyan ng Fried, steamed, bangus and the lato salad wrapped and with sauce with minced bangus. – you’d truly be in awe For Chef Gigi, the chal- as you feast on the many lenge is not with the fish ways a bangus can be itself but with how you cooked. The event was are able to connect with simple and very direct to your audience. She said, the point. VisMin Export “For this year, we are and Marketing Head Jeje communicating with 2 Cabrera expounded on kinds of audiences: the the basics of Sarangani baby boomers and mil- Bay and its many deli-

cious products. Before the formalities, we were treated to a number of appetizer’s that were too on point, you’d have a hard time saying no to them. Of them, the guests were able to munch on rolls of crispy fried spring rolls with steamed bangus, Bangus sisig, pizza with slices of marinated bangus and the night’s favourite, crunchy steamed bangus chicharon. The festivities ended with a sumptuous dinner, served buffet style, which included a plethora of bangus dishes – from salads to rice toppings to creamy curry mains. Truly, it was difficult not to over load your plates. What’s more, other dishes with pompano and sea bass provided another level of cravings for the guests. Sarangani Bay raffled off a good number of boxes filled with their premium products and gave everyone bottles of their famous, Bangus in Oil to enjoy at the comforts of their own homes.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

FOOD

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

URBANISSIMO A1

Buttered Purple Corn, Haricot Vert, Carrots for the main course, each paired with wines fit for the course. This is available at Php 1980 nett per person, and as it is Valentines Day, I would suggest interested parties to make reservations as early as now. For those who would rather go on a staycation, Valentine room packages are also offered from February 10 to the 15th for Php 5300 nett, this comes with a Valentine present for those who will book. On February 14, a special room and dinner package is available at Php 9000 nett that includes overnight accommodation in a Deluxe Room, buffet breakfast for two persons, Valentine dinner for two adults; and a Valentine Misto at Seda Abreeza’s certificate for as one of the Best Restaurants by Philippine Tatler present for the guests. Best Restaurant Guide 2017.

Seda Abreeza’s Corporate Guests during the cocktail celebration.

ANFLOCOR President and CEO Alex Valoria and CFO Oscar Grapa with Abreeza executives.

EDGE DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 â&#x20AC;¢ THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

Advertise with

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Tel No. 082.221.3601/224.1413 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com marketing@edgedavao.net

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Duterte... FROM 1 At the same time, Rellon took offense at a radio commentary that alluded to him as having done nothing to help resolve the conflict. He said that on the con-

trary, he has been in close coordination with police and the AFP as well as with Lapanday and the two agrarian organizations in seeing to it that the situation does not get out hand.

Turtur said in a media forum at Habi at Kape, Abreeza Mall, Davao City that this is the first time Philippines was invited to participate in the competition. “Two weeks ago I was invited by Brigitte Laliberté, a scientist from Biodiversity International. This Biodiversity International (is) the organizing body of the 2017 edition of International Cocoa Awards,” he said. The International Cocoa Awards - Cocoa of Excellence program is the only event in the world celebrating the work of planters and the richness of expression of cocoa. This initiative spreadheaded by Bioversity International and the Salon du Chocolat helps further mutual awareness and reinforce collaborations between producers and chocolate makers. This programme aims to reward producers of high-quality cocoa, facilitate links between producers and chocolate makers and reveal the diversity and richness of the origins of cocoa. “Once you are chosen as

the winner of this contest, you will be known in the whole world to have a quality of cacao,” said Turtur. According to the PCIDC president, participants are required to submit at least five kilograms of fermented beans from five different producers which will then be examined by PCIDC which serves as the National Organizing Committee for the Philippines. Among the samples, 50 will be chosen to be processed into chocolate mini-bars and displayed in the Cocoa of Excellence lounge. Considering time constraints for the preparation, Turtur hopes that the Philippine entries will make it to the deadline set on February 28, 2017. “If we’re lucky enough, we also plan to go there to receive the award,” said Turtur. The International Cocoa Awards winners will be announced and celebrated at the Salon du Chocolat in Paris held between the 28th of October and the 1st of November 2017.

Lagdameo said the Manila clientele is a good mix of Business process outsourcing (BPOs), corporations and companies which in the company’s estimate solidifies its belief that people are looking at Davao City. The cheapest units ranged from P1.5 to P1.8 million apiece with the three bedroom

units tagged between P2.8 million to P3million per unit. Yet surprisingly, Towers 1 to 5 are already sold out, with Tower 6 already 20% sold. Lagdameois convinced that the company has hit upon a product that is that is sustainable and desirable judging by the demand. Now who will argue with that? (30)

He congratulated Villar for the opening of the PHP1.22-billion Laguna Lake Highway, also known as C-6 dike road, which is expected to ease traffic along C-5 and EDSA and reduce travel time from Taytay, Rizal to Bicutan, Paranaque. “These are long-delayed projects which are finally completed because of Secretary Villar’s no-nonsense and hands-on style of leadership. He is very strict when it comes to compliance of contractors on their work schedules. This is the reason why the DPWH is inaugurating projects left and right,” Nograles said. The ranking House leader also lauded Faeldon for finally breaking the agency’s collection target. Nograles noted that this was the first time in seven

years that the agency’s collection targets were reached or even surpassed. He said BoC’s success in surpassing its January collection target -- breaching the assigned revenue goal of PHP35.509 billion by PHP2.36 million -- has finally broken the jinx that has hounded the bureau for the past seven years. “The BoC has been very consistent in failing to achieve its revenue target. This is the first in seven years that the bureau has surpassed its target. This is really a huge achievement considering that the Duterte administration is just a little more than six months old,” he said. “Indeed, the President’s men are showing their predecessors how it should be done to make things happen,” Nograles said. (PNA)

as active defense action against government forces responsible for massive counter-revolutionary operations in the area. Madrigal said PDOP is a form of military offensive aimed to locate NPA units and

target the same for armed attacks. Earlier, the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division of the army condemned the abduction perpetrated by the NPAs against their soldiers.

Cacao... FROM 1

Damosa... FROM 2

Solon... FROM 2

Captured... FROM 3

EDGEDAVAO

LONG-TERM GOAL. Cacao Industry Development Association in Mindanao, Inc. (Cidami) executive director Val Turtur says the cacao industry in Davao Region is aiming to produce 100,000 metric tons in 2022 and realize every

AFP... FROM 2

are receiving from NPA. “Pwersahan rin ang recruitment ng NPA, lalo na ang mga minors o child warriors,” Gaerlan mentioned. He added that he has already asked the Commission of Human Rights to intervene with the situation because “it is no longer an ordinary police investigation.” Gaerlan explained that what the rebel troops are doing is already a “violation of human rights and international humanitarian law.” Davao City Police Chief S/ Supt. Michael John Dubria, for his part, said that they are now more proactive in their security measures.

“PRO has directed us to be alert and be on defensive posture,” he said. He added that they have implemented “aggressive patrolling” in the entire city to intensify their security campaign. Dubria added that they are also constantly monitoring the movements of the rebels since the President categorized them as terrorist. The city center has not been experiencing any attacks coming from the New People’s Army since the former mayor, now President Rodrigo Duterte asked them to stay away from the city for the safety of the Davaoeños.

only by doing it here could we truly have a peace talks that is people-centered and not just for the benefit of a few individuals,” Paolo said. “I just hope that despite all these hullabaloo, both sides would give the welfare of the masses a priority over their big egos,” he added. President Duterte has also terminated the Joint Agree-

ment on safety and Immunity Guarantee (JASIG) following his announcement to arrest all political prisoners that were released to join the peace talks. On Monday, Ariel Arbitrario, an NDF consultant was apprehended in a checkpoint area here after the elements of Task Force Davao received a report of the entry of a wanted personality in the city.

bawa sa NCR ilagay sa Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, Samar, wala siyang influence doon. Matututo siya maging pulis doon (If you uproot them from NCR

and reassign them to Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, Samar, he won’t have influence there. He’ll learn to be cop there),” he added. (PNA)

platform of restoring law and order in the country, thus the RPOC should actively strive for it. The RPOC chair also extended gratitude to DILG Sec. Mike Sueno and the President on the trust they placed on him. “I thank President Duterte and Sec. Sueno for the trust they placed on me. Rest assured, I will do my best to fulfil my responsibilities,” he emphasized. Gov. Uy also vowed to bring the bayanihan brand of governance to RPOC and shared the best practices of

Compostela Valley province with regard to peace and maintenance of stability. He also shared the province-wide community rehabilitation program, the creation of the Provincial Peace and Order and Public Safety Plan, and the hiring of peace and development workers. “I thanked everyone on their active participation. Let us continue to strive to ensure that every inch of our territory is protected, and our people can sleep peacefully every night. Padayon ta,” Gov. Uy said. (Allin Joy Camile, PGOPS/IDS-ComVal)

VM Paolo... FROM 3

Lacson... FROM 3

Governor... FROM 4

NEWS 11

farmer’s dream of not having to import cacao beans five years from now. Turtur graced yesterday’s Wednesdays @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Lean Daval Jr.

Leftists... FROM 2 interview. Duazo noted that both the Communist Party of the Philippines and Philippine government has already tackled and signed the Comprehensive Agreement on Socioeconomic Reforms during its third round of peace negotiations in Rome. Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) outlines the necessary reforms to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality in the country. According to Duazo, serious issues such as agrarian reform, national industrialization, economic sovereignty, rights of the working people, social services, and environmental protection were all included in the CASER to move forward in achieving just and lasting peace. “The socio-economic struggle of the Filipino people for own land to till, decent jobs

with living wages, and free and quality education defines the ongoing armed conflict in the country, CASER addresses these issues for the oppressed and the marginalized,” she said in Cebuano. Duazo added that they were surprised with the sudden lifting of the ceasefire of both the government and NPA and they are also condemning the fascist military operations. “There were no formal guidelines yet they [military] have already attacked the communities,” she said, pointing out that the civilians are the most affected people in the operations. She also urged President Duterte to reconsider the peace process as the best option to solve the insurgency and also to the communist rebels to abide by the initial agreements. TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

post-harvest will be conducted on March 2 and 3 at Grand Men Seng Hotel, Davao City. Turtur also mentioned other events in-line such as Island’s Cacao Connect, a trade fare and business-matching event involving three main islands of the country, Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. However, the date and venue is still tentative but Turtur said it will be either in Pampangga or Nueva Ecija. The PCIDC president is also looking forward to the conduct of National Cacao Congress in Cebu by May, 2017.

the country, 2,000 metric tons short from their target of 14,000 for 2016. Turtur cited the recent El Niño phenomenon as responsible for the shortage of the country’s produce. “The demand is very high. For the Philippines, the annual requirement is 36,000 metric tons,” Turtur admitted, adding that the country still imports cacao from Indonesia and Malaysia to supply the annual requirement of chocolate manufacturers within the country. Turtur also mentioned that the council is promoting intercropping of abaca, banana and cacao (ABaCa) because the method also helps farmers to compensate in case of damage in one of the crops. Meanwhile, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region XI director Ma. Belenda Q. Ambi, also guesting during the forum said the agency will extend its efforts in helping the cacao industry players in the region such as providing equipment for manufacturing. “DTI has provided 10 SSF (Shared Service Facility) to cacao industry players,” said the regional director.

PCIDC... FROM 3

Quality over quantity The PCIDC President emphasized that the efforts to enhance the quality of the country’s cacao beans will result to increase in demand which will also increase the cacao production of the farmers. Turtur said the council is targeting an annual produce of 100,000 metric tons by 2022, two years-past the first deadline they set which is 2020. As of 2016, Philippines produced 12,000 metric tons of cacao from the 28,000 hectares total land area around

12 PROPERTY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Awesome design and features make Matina Enclaves a great home By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

njb@edgedavao.net

ATINA Enclaves just never ceases to amaze homebuyers. Take this for a start— it’s first building on its condo sector The Residences is almost ready for future residents to step in. How time flies, indeed. It’s like only yesterday when these homebuyers were just signing up for their future home. Now, Building B is 93% complete and it’s just a matter of time before its doors open for its owners. Escandor Development Corporation, developer of the sought-after piece of property, an-

nounced the good news on Wednesday based on its January 30 construction update. “Yes, our first condo building is 93 percent complete and we are just as excited as its future residents,” said Gerald Kent Garces, project head of the Matina Enclaves. And just how amazing this residential building is. Let’s start off with its location. Couched around the city’s business district but beautifully confined within a serene patch beside the Davao City Golf Club, the Matina Enclaves is the best place to set one’s

new address. It’s like turning to a corner and all of a sudden you are switched off from all the hassles and noises of the metro jungle. Building B is an 8-storey wonder with two levels of parking. As you enter its lobby, you get that luxury hotel ambiance. Two fast service elevators provide for easy access and two side staircases for those who wish to knock in more mileage on that fitness band. Inside ever unit, the first to catch one’s attention is its high ceiling which is normally not the

case in traditional highrise developments. The entire building has a fully-automated fire and smoke detection system, 24-hour CCTV security camera, and a standby generator set. Then there’s the central garden at the Atrium for families to enjoy bonding time and hobnob with new friends in this flourishing friendly community.

fire alarms

Installation of CCTV camera and module

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

Accounting Clerk (2) Qualifications: • BS Accountancy Graduate • Female • Can work with minimum supervision • Experience of at least one year

Account Executive lights 2 corridor ceiling

wall lamps

Qualifications: • BS Marketing Graduate • Male/Female • With pleasing personality Send your application letter and resume to: Ella P. Tingzon HR/Admin Supervisor Edge Davao Review Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., E. Quirino Avenue, Davao City Or email at edgedavao@gmail.com or ella_tingzon@yahoo.com

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS13

Tagum’s 3-step BOSS breaks new record

HE City Business Permit and Licensing Office (CBPLO) of the Local Government of Tagum recorded an overwhelming increase in its generated revenue, business tax collection and number of business permits issued subsequent to the implementation of the 3-step Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS), the city government’s simplified business permit renewal process, as revealed by Ms. Noeme Evelyn Cacayorin, License Officer IV, in an interview last February 06, 2016. By the end of January, CBPLO recorded a revenue of P214,989,884.70 with an equivalent increase of 10.67% compared to last year’s P194,255,380.61 revenue that was generated within the same month. The business tax collection also swelled by 27.49% as P121, 272,297.53 was collected this year, breaking the tax collection record of P95, 122,112.05 last January, 2016. Meanwhile, the number of issued business permits also marked a significant increase with this year’s 6,494 permits compared to last year’s figure of 5,742. Ms Cacayorin, said that the huge achievement tagged with this year’s record was a result of the increase in the

number of business entities here in the city as well as their thriving industry activities. She also stated that the enhanced inspection conducted by CBPLO among businesses’ locations through the use of a technology-based Tax Map partnered with the efficient collection performed by the City Treasurer’s Office was also a factor to the success of the 3-step BOSS. It can be recalled that from the original 15 steps, the process for getting business permits in Tagum City was cut short to five (5) on the onset of the Rellon Administration and was streamlined to three (3) steps with this year’s APR (Assess, Pay, Release) scheme. Mayor Allan Rellon initially pronounced that the introduction of the 3-step BOSS was one of the means of the city government in making the course of doing business here a pleasurable one for investors and practitioners. Ms. Cacayorin, meanwhile, expressed that the businessmen, consumers and constituents of Tagum City can expect the implementation of better projects and the expansion of meaningful programs within this year following the success of the business permit renewal process. (Roy Banias/CIO Tagum)

EFFECTIVE BUSINESS RENEWAL SERVICES. A business entrepreneur is all smiles as she received her new business plate after following the simplified business permit renewal process dubbed as APR (Assess, Pay, Release). In this

photo, she can be seen waiting for her loose change in the City Treasurer’s Office. (Leo Timogan/CIO Tagum)

Maguindanao... FROM 4

Chamber... FROM 5

with the help of the municipal police,” he told reporters. “But initially, it was caused by electrical wiring failures,” he added, quoting witnesses’ accounts. Responding firemen from nearby towns help the Datu Odin firefighters put off the blaze after two hours and save the newly built market building. Words are spreading that

the fire started from an internet cafe and quickly spread to nearby buildings around the new market structure. The old market went on flames for still undetermined cause and the LGU secured a loan from Land Bank of the Philippines to rebuild new and modern market buildings. It was reopened two weeks before last night’s fire. (PNA)

from tax payments of mining firms. “She (Lopez) is creating an unstable policy environment resulting in threatening the economic growth momentum under the Duterte administration and putting in limbo USD 22 billion worth of investments,” he said. According to the MGB, the projected actual mining investment for 2016 is USD

619.5 million. But with the closure, as estimated P62.5 billion on investment and P4.1 billion in taxes will be lost. “Lopez is slowly killing an industry that has paid billions in taxes and fees annually,” Disini said. The affected mining firms account for half of the nickel ore output by the world’s top supplier of the metal. (PNA)

14 COMPETITIVE EDGE

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

New DENR-11 Director assumed post Cabinet...

UTH M. Tawantawan is now the new Regional Director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region XI with the commitment for the presidential region to be one of the best regions in terms of implementing the Department’s Programs and Projects in line with the agenda of the present administration. “I believe that we can sustain and rise beyond the expectations of our supervisors if we unite as one. Together, let us bring out the best in each other to the common cause, for the common good of the common people, We have to be one, united DENR Region XI family in thoughts and in deeds in propelling Region XI towards a premier region,” she stressed during the turn-over ceremony held at DENR Regional Office in Lanang, Davao City. Tawantawan, who is a Forester by profession and a Career Executive Service Officer III, is the former DENR Regional Director of Region 10 from 2012 to 2017. Before her stint in Region 10, she has been the Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENRO) of Davao City and became the Provin-

cial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) of Davao del Norte and also in Davao del Sur. For a time, she was also assigned in Region 7 Cebu City as the Regional Technical Director for Protected Area, Wildlife and Coastal Zone Management Service (PAWCZMS) and eventually became the Regional Director of the Environmental Management Bureau of the Davao Region. “It feels good to be back and serve my home region again. But even though I was still in Region 10, I have been working closely with Region 11 with regards to forest protection within the boundaries of Bukidnon and Davao del Norte,” she stressed. Last year, Tawantawan was awarded as Career Executive Service’s Very Innovative Person for the 1st Quarter of 2016. Recently, she was also one of the three CESOs who were given the government’s highest award – the Presidential Gawad CES for 2016. On the other hand, outgoing Regional Director Atty. Felix S. Alicer urged all DENR-XI employees to give their utmost support to their new Director the same way they have given their support during his time.

He said that Tawantawan is not new to the Davao Region and that he is confident that the Region will be in good hands. Immediately after the turn-over ceremony, Tawan-

tawan met with the officials of DENR-XI and discussed with them the marching orders of DENR Secretary Gina Lopez as well as the status of Region XI’s implementation of Programs and Projects. (PR)

Damosa Land, Inc. (Davao City) of the real estate activities cluster with P596.59 million, FTC Group of Companies Corporation (Davao City) of the accommodation & food service activities cluster with P540.97 million, Euro Hydro

Power (Asia) Holdings, Inc. (Compostela Valley) of the electricity, gas, steam & air conditioning supply cluster with P517.77 million, PNX Chelsea Shipping Corporation (Davao City) of transportation & storage cluster with

P507.60 million, AVLB ASIA PACIFIC Conglomerate, Inc. (Davao City) of manufacturing cluster with P500.00 million, Grupo San Pedro Realty Corporation (Davao City) of real estate activities cluster with P372.10 million, Anflo

Banana Corporation (Davao Oriental) of agriculture, forestry & fishing cluster with P342.00 million, and Cocohaus Corporation (Davao del Norte) of manufacturing cluster with P177.50 million of investments.

and the Department of Labor (DOLE) was considering the creation of jobs for this purpose. He also said that it was not only the mining companies’ employees who would be affected but also those

who provide secondary services such as workers of companies providing supplies like boots and helmets as well as small store owners around the mines. He said the proposal to make the mines as eco-tour-

ism destinations to provide alternative jobs to people would take some time and the necessary infrastructure. “I am sure that at some point in it will be viable. But how do you make eco-tourism if you cannot get there

because there is no road? That there’s no pier? That there is no airport? We have to build those infrastructure to make sure that it’s a viable place to visit,” he said. ”It’s a question of timing as well,” he added. (PNA)

ings and investment rates by participating in financial products. The man-on-the-street is involved in market decisions that make the economy what it is,” Dominguez said. The finance chief said the reforms being implemented and pushed by the Duterte administration were meant not only to sustain the high growth rate at 7 percent and reduce poverty by 14 percent in 2022, but also aimed to widen the base of economic decision-making in the country to include ordinary folk. “Closing the infra gap and raising the capacity of our human capital requires a stronger revenue base for government. We need to invest well over a trillion pesos in new infrastructure over the medium term. We need to upgrade our

educational and health systems. We need programs that will produce well over a million new jobs a year to absorb the many young workers soon entering the workforce. Either we do all these or we end up with millions of alienated and discontented young Filipinos kept disenfranchised by mediocre economic performance,” Dominguez said. He said the task of raising the revenues for these investments falls on the Department of Finance (DOF), which has already submitted for congressional approval the first package of its proposed Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP). Widening the revenue base via the CTRP, Dominguez said, would enable the government to decisively attack chron-

ic poverty by upgrading the country’s logistics backbone to attract investment inflows and grow tourism and other competitive industries, and modernizing the agriculture sector, which has dragged down rapid growth because of its weaknesses. “For many decades, our neighbors invested 5 percent of their GDP in infra. Hobbled by poor revenue systems and, for a while, a heavy debt service load, we invested only half the regional average. We see the consequences of that in our dilapidated ports and airports, congested road systems and the pitiful state of mass transport. This is no way to grow a modern economy,” Dominguez said. The CTRP, which will be submitted to the Congress in

tranches, aims in its first package to lower personal and corporate income tax rates to make the system fairer while broadening the participation of Filipinos in financing national growth through a complementary set of revenue generating measures. Considering that taxation is never a popular idea, Dominguez said that he expected the CTRP to meet “populist opposition,” which thrived on low economic and financial literacy. “This is where I will need your valuable help. As economic journalists, you are best positioned to understand the issues here and explain them to our people. Unless we are able to build public support for reforming our tax policies, the rest of the economic strategy will be disabled,” he said. (PNA)

DTI... FROM 6

Municipalities... FROM 6

Inclusive... FROM 6

NEW DIRECTOR. Outgoing Regional Director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region XI Atty. Felix S. Alicer turns over the key of responsibility to incoming Regional Director Ruth M. Tawantawan. (DENR XI Photo)

FROM 5

nomic zones where there is respect for nature” was quoted as saying: “Give me a year and a half, maximum two years, I will prove that a green economy can create more jobs than mining could ever create.” She, however, did not explain how the soon-to-be jobless members of the mining sector would get the money to place food on the table and send their children school during the “a year-and-a-half” to two-year period that she said would take for her to create jobs under her envisioned “green economy.” Lopez also either deliberately omitted or failed to mention where the children of tens of thousands of mining workers would go to school for free when the affected mine sites close down or suspend their operations or who will shoulder the scholarships of college students and provide for free health care services to the families in the affected mining communities. According to the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP), Lopez is attacking the only industry in the country “that has actually replanted over 20 million trees nationwide in the past few years

alone. In a statement, the COMP also said that Lopez “is slowly killing an industry that has faithfully paid billions in taxes and fees annually, referring to the P10.1 billion in tax revenues collected by the government from the mining sector as of 2015. The mining operations ordered closed down or suspended account for 46 percent or P4.6 billion of these tax revenues, the COMP said. Moreover, about $22 billion (equivalent to around P1 trillion) in mining investments will be put on hold as a result of the government’s inconsistent policies on mining as shown by the recklessness of Lopez’s move, COMP added The COMP has formally appealed to President Duterte to overturn Lopez’s arbitrary order, which it described as “irresponsible, unfair and illegal.” “What is ironic is the Secretary-designate (Lopez) has trained her guns on the legitimate operations, while turning a blind eye to unpermitted, undocumented, non-taxpaying and non-compliant mining operations who are the real violators of environment,” the COMP said in its statement.

Land Use Plan “sitting in the legislative mill, with little indication it will be passed into law any time soon.” “So many of our settlements are vulnerable. Our cities are congested. Our forested areas have been stripped to make way for human habitation. We are truly facing a land governance crisis and we must respond decisively to this,” Dominguez said. Further underscoring the necessity of passing a National Land Use Plan, Dominguez said the government needs to harmonize conflicting provisions of the Indigenous People’s Rights Act and existing property rights, clarify rules on habitation in danger zones, and rethink agrarian reform in light of the “continuing backwardness of our agriculture.” “The Philippines, being an archipelago, has less arable land per unit of population than Vietnam, Indonesia,

Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, and Cambodia. Our farms and cities are built in narrow strips between shore and mountainside. Our farms are small. Our cities are congested. There is severe shortage of land to build homes. A happy compromise will have to be found between the demands of agriculture and the requirements of an increasingly urban population,” Dominguez said. “As our population increased rapidly over the last few decades, with our land policies hardly keeping pace, the phenomenon of landlessness has become more severe. Settlements are pushed to the most perilous places: steep slopes prone to landslides; shorelines prone to storm surges; and riverbanks that have become clogged. We need to plan for our settlements, addressing a housing backlog estimated at well over three million units,” he added. (PR)

and promotes human rights and fundamental freedoms,” she pointed out adding, “(w) herever and whenever mining development occurs, it shall proceed in a manner that respects and protects the cultural heritage of communities.” Responsible mining, she also said, should ensure environmental protection which should include safeguarding water quality, water quantity, air quality and reducing green gas emissions and noise pollution. A comprehensive and integrated mine waste management should also be put in place in order “to eliminate offsite contamination, and leave remaining mine features

in a condition that brings about the least environmental and financial risk, and the most potentially useful land use, to future users.” In all mining operations, Arroyo stated that companies should demonstrate that they have broad community support, and are able to provide tangible benefits that meet the needs of communities. “Mining projects shall carry out effective stakeholder engagement that enables communities to play a meaningful role in mining-related decisions that affect their health, well-being, safety, livelihoods and futures, in order to achieve broad community support,” she said. (PNA)

Policy... FROM 5

Arroyo... FROM 5

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

GOING FOR THREE ALA wants Nietes fight for third world title in Cebu D

ONNIE Nietes’ search for a third world division title might end up at home if ALA Promotions’ plan pushes through. Nietes, the former World Boxing Organization (WBO) minimum weight and light flyweight champion, is now fighting in the flyweight division. He won his debut against former world champion Edgar Sosa in the US last year in the last edition of Pinoy Pride. Now, he could be headlining the first edition of Pinoy Pride this year in Cebu against Thai Eaktawan Morkrunthepthoburi for the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) belt on April 29. “There’s a 90 percent chance that the Nietes fight will be in Cebu. We are aiming at April 29 either at the Waterfront Hotel or the Cebu Coli-

seum,” ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer said. Nietes, 39-1-4 with 22 KOS, has not fought in Cebu since winning his WBO light flyweight title defense over Francisco Rodriguez Jr. at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino on July 11, 2015. He last fought in the Philippines against Raul Garcia last May 28, 2016, in his last defense of his WBO 108-pound belt before vacating it to fight in the flyweight division. Nietes is ranked No. 3 in the IBF while Eaktawan, who is 22-3 with 15 knockouts, is No. 4. The fight was supposed to be held in China or Thailand but ALA Promotions managed to convince the Thai’s handlers to have it staged in Cebu. “We still have to iron out some details but it’s already 90

percent done,” Aldeguer said. Nietes won his first world title, the WBO minimum weight crown, a ga i n s t Thai Porn-

sawan Porpramook on Sept. 30, 2007. He defended it four times before winning his second

world title, the WBO light flyweight crown, against Ramon Garcia Hirales on Oct. 8, 2011, in Bacolod. He won nine title

month, but if by some chance Butler and George are available, the Lakers should make a serious attempt to acquire one of them. The team is in desperate need of a young shooting guard who is a big time scorer and can play defense. Butler and George would be an ideal fit, but if their teams part with them at all, it would probably take three Laker players, including two members of the young core, to make it happen. A second option would come at a cheaper price: To trade for another young player with potential but who may not be getting a lot of playing time at present. There is recent precedent for this approach. During the 2011-12 season, the Lakers picked up Ramon Sessions and jettisoned Derek Fisher at the trade deadline. At the time, they thought Sessions had the potential to be their point guard of the future, but he shocked the team when he declined a player option at the end of the season to sign instead with the then-lowly Charlotte Hornets. At the deadline during the 2013-14 season, the Lakers shipped veteran Steve Blake to the Golden State Warriors in return for little known Kent Bazemore and MarShon Brooks. The Lakers wish they had Bazemore today, but they foolishly let him walk at the end of his one year with the team. Young players who may be available at the deadline include Nerlens Noel and Jahlil Okafor of the Philadelphia 76ers, Brandon Knight of the Phoenix Suns, and

Stanley Johnson of the Detroit Pistons. Knight and Johnson have already had strong games against the Lakers this season, and any or all would be a welcome addition to the Lakers young core. In short, maybe the Lakers can pick up another Bazemore, a young player with talent and potential who is languishing at the end of the bench on a very deep team. In an era in which the Lakers have little or no chance of attracting big time free agents next summer, the draft has taken on greater significance. As everyone knows, the team may or may not retain their first round choice depending on how they finish the rest of the year, so it would be advantageous if they could make a trade to acquire another draft choice or two, especially if a first round selection is available. The question remains, however, will the Lakers be a participant or a spectator at the trade deadline this season? If they are a participant, will they pursue draft choices or players? Finally, the most intriguing question is, if they decide to trade, with whom are they willing to part ways from their current roster? The Lakers “young core” consists of seven players – D’Angelo Russell, Julius Randle, Brandon Ingram, Jordan Clarkson, Larry Nance, Jr., Ivica Zubac, and Tarik Black. Unfortunately, other than Zubac and Black, the key members of this group have not improved much (or at all) since the season began. They have been wildly inconsistent, which is a big reason

why the team is near the bottom of the standings. For all their issues, Russell, Randle and Ingram are untouchable at this point unless the team can part with one of them and end up with a star like Butler or George. Russell reminded everyone of his potential with some good recent games. The rookie Ingram has shown considerable all-around talent despite his awful outside shooting, and Randle has highly unusual physical tools that cannot be ignored but need to be further nurtured. Surprisingly, Zubac, although young and inexperienced, is probably untouchable at this point too. In the last two weeks, when he finally got a chance to play, he showed considerable skill on both ends of the court. He seems to get better with every game, and big men with his versatility and array of offensive weapons are very rare. Black is a role player who could be a piece of a package but by himself has little trade value. That leaves Clarkson and Nance, neither of whom is likely to be traded. However, if the Lakers want to pursue a star player who is currently on another team, it is no longer inconceivable that Clarkson and/or Nance could be included as part of a package. Clarkson’s stock seems to have dropped, as he has not improved much from two years ago when he was one of the NBA’s best rookies. Nance is a solid defender, and a couple of times a year he will thrill the crowd with a high flying dunk, but he is timid on offense and has proven to be injury prone.

ANOTHER TITLE IN THE OFFING? The Philippines’ longest-reigning world champion Donnie Nietes will be gunning for his third division world title.

defenses before deciding to move up in weight anew. Should Nietes win a title in a third world division, he

will join an elite group of Pinoy boxers who have won at least three world titles, Nonito Donaire Jr. and Manny Pac-

Lakers must weigh trade options as deadline nears Warring Warriors?

HE Los Angeles Lakers are continuing to limp towards the All Star break. Despite early optimism, the team has shown no sustained growth or development this season. Injuries have played an important role, but equally important, the roster simply does not contain enough talent to compete on a consistent basis with most other NBA teams. The Lakers will have another opportunity to upgrade their roster in the next two weeks, as the trade deadline will expire on February 23 just as the team is returning from the All Star break. General Manager Mitch Kupchak has warned fans not to expect any trades, but that is the wrong attitude. The team has lots of issues, the young core is not developing as quickly as some had hoped, so the front office must carefully pursue all options, whether or not anything materializes. According to new advisor Magic Johnson, the Lakers are one superstar away from competing for a title. That may be an exaggeration, but everyone agrees the Lakers need superstars to make the playoffs and go on from there. Rarely is anyone of this stature dealt at the trade deadline, but the usual rumors have surfaced again this year. The most prominent names mentioned are All Star Jimmy Butler of the Chicago Bulls; the enigmatic DeMarcus Cousins of the Sacramento Kings; the talented Goran Dragic of the Miami Heat and Paul George of the Indiana Pacers. It seems unlikely that any of these players will be moved this

YOUNG LAKERS. The young Lakers include Lou Williams, Nick Young and D’Angelo Russel.

R AY M O N D Green approached Kevin Durant near the end of Golden State’s bench and quickly their discussion escalated into a heated dispute, both players punctuating their points with demonstrations. While the rest of the AT ODDS? Draymond Green and Kevin Warriors watched, a Durant share light moment at the bench. teammate eventually came over to keep guys. So, nobody takes anythe peace. thing personal, nobody goes That flap during Satur- home and cries about it.’’ day’s overtime loss at Sac‘’It’s about everybody ramento wasn’t the first be- wants to win, and in that motween the All-Stars, either. ment it might get heated, it Warring Warriors? Naw, might happen in front of camno worries about a family feud eras, it might happen in the for the NBA’s top team. locker room, it might happen Green insists that’s all at practice, it might be a phone part of it from time to time call, offline, whatever. Those and there is never any harm kinds of conversations need to intended. Coach Steve Kerr happen so that we continue to considers it healthy and a pos- try to get better and challenge itive once in a while. each other to not get compla‘’If you can’t, you’re proba- cent,’’ he said. bly on a losing team,’’ the fiery Green wouldn’t say exactGreen said Tuesday. ‘’But ev- ly what was at issue moments erybody who makes a big deal after the Warriors’ 109-106 out of it probably are losers. defeat, just that ‘’it was actuThat’s how I view it. Anyone ally a tactic, but that’s for us to who knows anything about know and for everyone else to winning knows that that’s go- figure out.’’ Green and KD also ing to happen.’’ were teammates on the U.S. Green and Durant squab- Olympic team that won gold in bled on the court late in the Rio last summer. third quarter after a mix-up Kerr, meanwhile, was alled to a shot-clock violation. ready long gone after being Soon after, Green could be ejected with 3:34 left in the seen on video walking toward third quarter for a profaniDurant and yelling from close ty-laden tirade directed at offirange while raising his hands cial Bill Spooner. The reigning in the air. NBA Coach of the Year apolGreen then took a seat on ogized through the league to the bench and Durant came Spooner a day later. The NBA over to continue their argu- fined Kerr $25,000 on Monday. ment, with Shaun Livingston Kerr called the defeat one playing peacemaker. of his team’s worst games. The ‘’We know it’s really noth- Warriors, with an NBA-best ing. It’s constructive to try to 43-8 record, host Chicago on understand how we’re going Wednesday night and will try to get better,’’ Warriors star to avoid consecutive reguStephen Curry said Tuesday. lar-season losses for the first ‘’It comes from a place of re- time since April 2015 during spect between everybody on the franchise’s championship this team, including those two season.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 9 ISSUE 252 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

DIVOTS IN DAVAO 151 teams from six countries in this year’s PAL Interclub

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

njb@edgedavao.net

HE country’s biggest international club golf tournament returns to Davao City for its 70th edition and it will be bursting with lots of competition from the 151 teams taking part. The Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub Golf Tournament,reels off February 19 at two of Davao’s challenging courses. This year’s theme is “You’re no. 1.” Fittingly, in its 70th year in the running, a huge internation-

al cast comprised of 151 teams from the United States, Canada, Australia, China, Saudi Arabia and host Philippines is lined up at the annual tournament involving senior players and men’s regular golfers. “Once again, our tournament has lured a big number of golfers from around the world,” said PAL president Jaime J. Bautista during t h e for-

PAL INTERCLUB. PAL president Jaime Bautista will be leading the ceremonial hitters in this year’s PAL Interclub in Davao.

mal announcement of the tournamentt. “And this early, we wish all our guests in both divisions good luck.” Bautista will be leading the ceremonial hitters along with invited special guest President Rodrigo Duterte who himself has graced hosted related events in many of the PAL Interclub tournaments in

the past. No less than Atty. Domingo Duerme, PAL’s senior assistant vice president for Mindanao sales, is excited to host the event once again which was last held in 2014. “On behalf of PAL, we would also like to express our gratitude to all our sponsors this year which has for its theme – ‘You’re

No. 1’,” said Duerme who sits as tournament committee chairman. Kicking off this year’s tournament, that had its auspicious beginnings in 1948, is the 23rd Senior’s contest starting February 19. Then, the 62nd men’s regular tournament takes center stage February 25. Hosts of the action are Apo Golf and Country

Club and Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club. The Canlubang Golf and Country Club heads the championship field. Other teams seeing action are Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club, Del Monte Golf Club, Luisita Golf and Country Club and Wack Wack Golf and Country Club.