Edge Davao 9 Issue 75

VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Sec. Manny Piñol

FREEING FARMERS FROM POVERTY

2 COVER STORY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

FREEING FARMERS FROM POVERTY

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

A

N ISRAELI agriculture expert once described the Philippines as “heaven” for food production.

If that is so, why does the country continue to rely on imported rice and other basic food commodities to feed its growing population?

“What is wrong with Philippine agriculture,” asked Emmanuel F. Piñol in his almost 200-page book, “Feeding Millions: The Duterte Food Security Blueprint.”

“Why does a country which hosts the International Rice Research Institute rely on its neighbors like Thailand and Vietnam, whose experts were educated in the Philippines, to fill up the needed rice supply every year?”

Piñol, who has been appointed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte as the head of the Department of Agriculture, laments that farming in this country is a guessing game. “Filipino farmers are left on their own with barely any guidance from the government,” he said in an exclusive interview with EDGE Davao. “We are very poor in research and development.”

The former governor of North Cotabato explained it further in his book, “The absence of guidance from government, both national and local, has made the Filipino farmer a sucker to every sweet talking pseudo agricultural expert who introduces a new formula in agriculture.”

Just like the previous agriculture head, Piñol also goes for organic agriculture. “I am for natural farming method as far as food production is concerned,” he disclosed. “But I am also aware that the use of organic or inorganic methods in farming should be a choice for the farmers.

“I don’t like the food production program of the country to be dragged down by requiring all farmers to adopt the organic farming method,” he further explained.

“Let’s travel down the road of production using two lanes -- the natural farming method and the farming system which uses inorganic fertilizers. I believe that down the road, as people become aware of the

health concerns, the market will dictate how the foods should be produced.”

When asked about his plans for agriculture, Piñol replied: “I am guided by the thoughts shared by President Duterte when he said that his governance will be very simple. It will revolve around the Filipino whom he will ask: “Nakakain ka na ba?”

“Nakapagpagamot ka na ba?”

“Nakapag-aral na ba ng mga anak mo?” “Wala ka na bang takot?”

Of those four questions, Piñol will focus on the first question. “Because it involves food production and the availability and affordability of food,” he said. “There is really a need to come up with a rational and doable plan to ensure availability and affordability of food and also to ensure that the agriculture sector contributes to economic growth and jobs generation.”

He said that he wanted to identify the key production areas in the country through the crafting of the color-coded agriculture map which would conduct a scientific study of all factors involved in farming like soil type, climatic conditions, crops suitability and others.

“From there, we go to the quantification and identification of the food required by the Filipinos so that we will be able to identify what (kind of crops) to grow and where (do these crops grow well),” Piñol surmised.

As soon as these basic issues are resolved, he will then work on providing the three things needed by Filipino farmers: technology, financing and marketing. Here’s how he would accomplish them: On technology: “We will relaunch the iconic radio program ‘school on air’ where farmers listen to lessons in agriculture through daily radio broadcasts to be aired nationwide. There will be ‘graduation ceremonies’ for those who ‘pass’ the school requirements as part of the technology upliftment for farmers. I also intend to tap unemployed agriculture and animal science graduates and organize them into a national army of barefoot livestock

and agriculture technicians who will be fielded in areas they come from to help the farmers.”

On financing: “This is commonly the huge problem faced by our fellow farmers.

There is no simply way an ordinary farmer who wants to start a 20-sow level piggery project could get funding from the country’s agricultural banks unless he has properties worth more than the amount of the loan he is applying for to submit as a collateral.

President Duterte has pledged P1-billion for small agri loans to farmers who have no access to the banks.”

On marketing: “This is the most important aspect.

Farmers will not be made to produce commodities which are not required by the market. The National Food Authority’s mandate will be revisited because President Duterte would like it to cover other food commodities, including the management of the regional food terminals

which will be set up all over the country.

“The national food positioning strategy will then be implemented which is actually distributing commodities produced in surplus in one area to other areas where there are in demand. Through this, we

hope to bring down the cost and realize the objective of providing ‘available and affordable food’ for Filipinos.”

According to Piñol, the president believes that food security does not only mean food sufficiency. “Farmers who are involved in other agricultural activities outside of food production must be supported as well because farming families earning from non-food agricultural products also gain the power to buy food for their families,” he pointed out.

If you are wondering why Piñol talks like a farmer and acts like a farmer, it’s because he is a farmer himself (his Braveheart Farm is located in Kidapawan City). “I have long been thinking of the inequities in the farming sector where the farmer who produces

the food is not being asked whether he himself could eat or feed his family,” he said. “I acknowledge my academic shortcomings but I believe nobody could argue with my claim that I am the first practicing farmer to become Secretary of Agriculture. I know how to plow the fields, plant and harvest rice, plant corn, vegetables, rubber, fruit trees, breed chicken, goats, lately sheep and ducks and most of all I am aware of the dreams and aspirations of the Filipino farmer.”

When Duterte appointed him as Agriculture Secretary, he accepted it without hesitation.

“I have long complained about the neglect of the government of the agriculture sector,” he said. “I’ve seen how precious government funds were wasted through corruption and projects and activities which did not really help the farmers or contributed to increasing food production.

“I have long dreamed of a president who really understands agriculture and I saw this in Duterte. When he offered me the agriculture department, I readily accepted it because I thought that with a president who knows agriculture, I, a practicing farmer, will now be able to help address the problems confronting the agri sector for so long. I now look at myself as the bearer of the dreams and aspirations of the farmers.”

(Photos were provided by Emmanuel F. Piñol)

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

Comval to intensify Davao Or records highest anti-smoking drive

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

T

HE provincial government of Compostela Valley is set to intensify the implementation of its ordinance against smoking law in the area as it recently convened its provincial anti-smoking task force.

In a statement, the provincial government said gathering of the task force was spearheaded by the Provincial Health Office (PHO) that discussed updates on the adaptation and implementation of Provincial Ordinance No. 19 series of 2013.

The ordinance is aimed at making Compostela Valley province smoke-free by prohibiting the use, sale, distribution and advertisement of cigarettes and other tobacco products in certain places.

The local law imposes penalties for violations of its provisions.

In order to strengthen the implementation of the ordinance, the PHO, that was designated as the local lead agency of the task force composed of representatives from various agencies and stakeholders, will conduct Oplan Baklas, Oplan Dakop and Oplan Counseling.

Oplan Dakop (apprehension) will be spearheaded by the Provincial Police Office together with the provincial patrol team of the Philippine

National Police (PNP), the Municipal Police Stations and Municipal Anti-smoking Task Force.

Oplan Dakop members are empowered to arrest violators in accordance with the provisions of the Ordinance No. 19-2013 and likewise assist the provincial and municipal officials and deputized civilians in apprehending violators and in filing the appropriate complaints.

Oplan Baklas team, on the other hand, is composed of representatives of the Provincial Engineer’s Office who will work with the respective municipal level task forces.

The team will conduct inspection activities and determine whether or not enclosed or partially enclosed public places, workplaces or other public places comply with the requirements as provided for in the anti-smoking ordinance of the province.

On the other hand, Oplan Counselling will assist arrested violators through the conduct of lectures and other activities to encourage them to quit smoking.

Members of the team will come from the Provincial Smoking Cessation Team and the Municipal Smoking Cessation Providers in coordination

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poverty reduction in R11 C

ITY OF MATI, DAVAO ORIENTAL --- Outgoing Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon has pointed to a legacy of good governance as the main driver in the attainment of the record high reduction of poverty incidence in Davao Oriental.

According to data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority in Region 11 covering a seven-year period, Davao Oriental has posted a very high reduction of poverty incidence in Southern Mindanao.

From 47.6 percent in the first semester of 2009, poverty incidence among families in Davao Oriental was significantly reduced to 27 percent on the first semester of 2015, a huge 21-percent reduction and the highest all those posted its neighboring provinces in the Davao Region.

Davao del Norte has a poverty reduction of 3.3 percent; Davao del Sur, 6.9 percent; and Compostela Valley Province, 7.1 percent.

This latest official data on poverty showed a complete reversal of fortunes for Davao Oriental as the province known for quite a long time as the perennial economic laggard in the Davao Region host-

ing a highest number of people living in extreme poverty.

When Governor Malanyaon assumed office in 2007, the province was beleaguered by massive poverty and insurgency that have slowed down economic and social progress

to the detriment of its people.

Significant rebounds Governor Malanyaon has firmly put in place significant reforms in the provincial government bureaucracy that restored the public’s trust in the

local government and it has created a climate of confidence and optimism. The reforms allowed her to intensify efforts to empower the poor and marginalized, promoting equitable access to affordable and qual-

F DAVAO OR, 10

The Provincial Government’s initiated programs, such as the Pagkain at Kita and Agri-Business Development Program, have resulted to positive impacts which can be translated into a considerable drop in the poverty incidence from 47.6% in 2009 to 27 in 2015.

4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

PHL SYMBOL. A pedestrian walks pass several Philippine flags displayed at Quezon Park for the celebration of the 118th Philippine Independence Day Sunday. Lean Daval Jr.

3 GenSan studes honored

T

HE Sangguniang Panlungsod of General Santos City honored three students from this city for topping separate national level competitions this summer.

The council passed separate resolutions commending Joselv Albano, Tatiana Isabella Molarto and Jori Mae Samillano for bringing pride and honor to the city through their accomplishments.

City Councilor Rosalita Nuñez, who pushed for the passage of the separate resolutions, said Friday the three deserve the honor and recognition from the council and the city government.

“They represent the quality of young people that we have here in the city,” she said.

Albano, who recently graduated summa cum laude at the Ateneo de Davao University,

had topped the Applied Research Category in the National Science Awards 2016, held at the Mind Museum in Taguig City.

The competition was sponsored by the Bank of the Philippine Islands in coordination with the Department of Science and Technology.

It was also joined by top science researchers from the Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University; University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, Xavier University-Cagayan de Oro; Mindanao State University Iligan campus, St. Louis University-Baguio, Silliman University-Dumaguete, UP Los Baños, University of San Carlos-Cebu, and the University of Sto. Tomas.

Albano’s winning research centered on “Molecular Detec-

F 3 GENSAN, 10

Cops seize loose firearms, bullets in Sarangani raids

P

OLICE operatives in Sarangani Province seized at least five unlicensed or loose firearms and assorted ammunition in a series of raids at a remote village in Malungon town on Thursday afternoon.

Sr. Supt. Joseph Semillano, Sarangani police director, said Friday they recovered the illegal items at the houses of four farmers, one of whom a tribal chieftain, in Barangay B’laan in Malungon.

Armed with 10 search warrants, he said they launched the operation at around 2 p.m.

Thursday in four puroks of Barangay B’laan.

The raids were joined by

elements from the Sarangani Provincial Police Office; Sarangani police’s Provincial Public Safety Company, Provincial Intelligence Branch and Provincial Anti-Illegal Drug Special Operations Task Force; and the Malungon municipal police station.

During the raid, the official said they arrested four of their targets identified as Dondon Masalon, Eladio Robles, Joel Corante, Gabay Malayon, who are all residents of the area.

Corante is the tribal chieftain of Barangay B’laan and sits in the municipal tribal council of Malungon.

Recovered from Masalon’s

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No judge, no hearing on petition of Cagas for bail

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

A

N ATTEMPT of defense lawyers to temporarily release governor-elect Douglas Ra. Cagas from detention failed last Friday as there was no hearing set by the executive judge of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) in this city on a petition for bail submitted by his counsel.

In a press statement, Cagas lawyers Dennis Manalo of Manila and Benjie Menor of Davao City said the petition was earlier scheduled for hearing on Friday by RTC Executive Judge Carmelita Sarno-Davin.

The petition was aimed to enable Cagas to serve out his three-year mandate he won

in the last election beginning noon of June 30, 2016.

According to lawyer Michelle D. Roldan-Advincula, officer-in-charge of the Office of the Clerk of Court at the RTC in Digos, the Supreme Court (SC) has not yet designated a judge to preside over the case against Cagas.

“It’s not yet set for hearing,” Advincula told reporters on Friday.

She added that it all depends on the SC court administrator to name a particular judge to handle and hear the case.

“I did not scan the case although the records are with

the Office of the Clerk of Court so I cannot speak on that matter,” Advincula said.

Aside from the petition for bail, Cagas’ counsel said the governor-elect still has a pending motion for reconsideration of a petition for certiorari at the Court of Appeals (CA).

The petition at the CA argued that there was no judicial determination of probable cause conducted by the lower court to issue a warrant of arrest against Cagas.

Cagas and Matanao town Mayor Butch Fernandez were implicated in the killing of local newsman Nestor Bedolido last June 19, 2010 in Digos.

Both officials were recommended by then Justice secretary Leila Delima to be tried for murder in a resolution she issued last August 26, 2014.

Confessed killers Voltaire Mirafuentes, Henry Mirafuentes and Artemio Dokdok Timosan identified Cagas and Fernandez as masterminds in the killing of Bedolido.

In the same statement, the lawyers of Cagas said secretary Delima reversed herself when she issued the August 26, 2014 resolution of indicting Cagas to the said case.

They pointed out that two years prior to the August 26

no government against the ASG and BIFF remains and will be carried over to the next administration.

Dureza who flew Friday to Paris en-route to Oslo, Norway for an informal meeting with communist leader Jose Maria Sison, stressed that he, as peace adviser to President-elect Rodrigo Duterte, will not talk peace with the extremists.

The ragtag BIFF was composed of former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels who broke away in 2008.

The government has sealed a peace deal with the MILF.

Dureza admitted having negotiated with the ASG for the safe release of his friend, Canadian tourist John Ridsel.

But quickly added that in was not in the context government had talked with MILF, MNLF and the communist rebels.

“True, I have even directly negotiated with the ASG just recently to seek the release of my friend John Ridsel, whom they nevertheless beheaded as the families could not raise the demanded ransom amount,” Dureza said.

“But negotiating with them (ASG/BIFF) in the context of what we are doing with

the Bangsamoro and the CPP/ NPA/NDF is definitely not the way forward,” Dureza added.

“They have to face the force of the law for their terrorism and criminal acts,” he said of the terrorist organizations in southern Philippines.

On his trip to Oslo, Dureza was accompanied by incoming Secretary Silvestre Bello III and former Congressman Hernani Braganza.

“We look forward to a fruitful meeting under the auspices of the Norwegian Government in the sidelines of the Oslo Forum,” Dureza said.

(PNA)

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Dureza: No negotiation with ASG, BIFF I

ncoming Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Jesus Dureza on Friday clarified that the Duterte administration will never negotiate with extremist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) the way it will negotiate with communist movement and Bangsamoro rebel groups.

Dureza issued the statement amid reports quoting him that the incoming Duterte government is open to peace talks with extremist and bandit groups.

He said the stance of Aqui-

5 PROPERTY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

Matina Enclaves releases new construction updates

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

T

HE Matina Enclaves condominium phase of the sprawling complex developed by Davao-based firm Escandor Development Corporation (Esdevco) has released latest construction updates.

Matina Enclaves project head Geralnd Kent Garces recently came out with the firm’s latest construction portfolio as

of June 6, 2016.

Garces said the ongoing construction activities include: ongoing construction of the swimming pool area where the entire swimming pool shell has been fully concreted; and the installation of staircases from the first to sixth floors has been completed; exterior walls installation has also been com-

pleted from first to sixth floors.

The other current installations are aesthetics walls and elevator steel frames. Also underway are the construction of the Penthouse roofdeck’s parapet formworks, and solid block piling at the remaining seven units.

Garces likewise reported the continuous installation of

electrical and plumbing lines, installation of door jambs, interior walls and solid block piling.

Recently, the Matina Enclaves broke ground its adjacent project across the complex to be known as Arcadia, a state-of-the-art fitness, wellness and entertainment and recreation center.

Aeon Towers nearing soldout status D AVAO City’s iconic real estate skyscraper is about to be completed and it looks like this early, the future residents of the tallest building of the South are just about locked in.

The sign on the showroom is ready to hang and it will read: “Sold out”.

No thanks to the big interest by investors and homebuyers alike, the initial venture of FTC Group of Companies is about to be fully sold out.

“It’s selling fast and we are down to a very few units,” said Gen Marchan who heads the marketing unit of the 33-level state-of-the-art tower which will have residential units, a luxury hotel, shops, restaurants, BPO centers, fitness gym, jogging path, four-level basement carpark and a

skydeck.

Ian Cruz, president and CEO of FTC Group of Companies lauded the outstanding work of the marketing and sales group for the fast sales of the firm’s signature project.

The glass-encased tower will have modern amenities comparable to the best of the Southeast Asian region.

The skydeck on the 33rd floor features a breath-taking view of the city and the Davao Gulf. It will have an infinity pool and offices on the tower’s summit.

Rooms on residential floors also feature internet digital controls through Smarthome technology while green building concept is being observed in all aspects of the construction. The glass walls offer full UV protection. (NJ Bravo)

EDGEDAVAO

6 ECONOMY

VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

Davao: Reaping gains of dev’t efforts O

UTGOING Regional Development Council (RDC) Chair Rodolfo P. Del Rosario noted Davao Region as a “stronger-than-expected” economy moulded to become a “Global Frontier” with sustained high and inclusive growth.

Increased absorptive capacity is among the noticeable consequences of efforts to shape Davao Region into such vision. More jobs have been created as indicated by the Region’s employment rate that rose to 94.4 percent in 2015 from 93.1 percent in 2013.

Del Rosario viewed jobs as “quality jobs” as reflected

by the decrease in underemployment rate to 15 percent in 2015 from 17.3 percent in 2013.

“We have surpassed our targets in both the aforementioned indicators,” he said.

He positively noted that Davao Region “continued to enjoy investors confidence”, citing the influx of industry and property development locators. Taking a specific instance, he said that in year 2013 Davao Region generated P31.7 billion investments in energy and in mass housing projects.

He however said that the agriculture sector posted a sluggish growth, contracting by

HE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Region 12 has released around P3.16 million in wages to El Niño-affected residents of Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat who earlier took part in its emergency employment program.

Albert Gutib, DOLE Region 12 director, said Friday the wages were payments for the work rendered by at least 767 unemployed residents of Tacurong City who qualified for the Tulong Panghanapbuhay para sa ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.

He said the beneficiaries, who came from 19 barangays in Tacurong City, received PHP4,125 each as compensation for 15-day work assignments.

The workers rendered their services in April after DOLE was given exemption by the Commission on Elections from a prohibition in line with the May 9 local and national elections, he said.

“We started the payout to the beneficiaries last June 3 through our field office in Tacurong City,” he said.

Aside from the wages, the official said the beneficiaries had received personal protective

equipment (PPE) in the form of long-sleeved shirts and “salakot” hats.

He said they also enrolled the workers to a group insurance policy of the Government Service Insurance System.

TUPAD mainly provides emergency or temporary employment to unemployed and underemployed residents as well as displaced workers due to natural and man-made calamities.

It is one of the flagship programs of DOLE under its Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program.

Under the program, DOLE pays for the salaries, micro-insurance premium, and provides personal protective equipment to the beneficiaries who will enlisted for community-based projects.

It includes works on ecotourism-related projects, repair and/or improvement of common public facilities, de-clogging of canals, debris clearing, basic repair of public infrastructure, repair and/or rehabilitation of farm-to-market roads and similar facilities, tree planting, seedling preparation, among others.

(PNA)

Drought-hit workers receive P3.16-M aid T

8.1 percent in 2013 “due to the devastation of Typhoon Pablo, although it was able to recover by 2.4 percent the following year”.

Rice sufficiency level had also made a significant improvement during his term as it stayed at 49 percent to 52 percent level in the last three years vis-à-vis the 60 percent target in 2015.

Noting this quite slow growth in the agriculture sector of Davao Region, Del Rosario tagged this area of concern as a challenge for the next Council leadership to “ensure a more productive and competitive agriculture sector to

improve food security levels”.

Meanwhile, Davao Region had been able to favourably promote good governance as Del Rosario noted that the absorptive capacity of national government agencies to fully use their allocated budget stayed at a high annual rate of 94-96 percent.

The campaign to lower the cost of doing business has made successes as the average time of securing business permits has been reduced to 15 minutes from 30 minutes.

In relation to this, Del Rosario revealed that the competitiveness of provinces and cities in Davao Region had lev-

NEW SHOP. Wilson Lu (right) and Col. Sam Afdal (left) lead the ribbon cutting ceremony to formally open Jaw Power Sports at the junction of R. Magsaysay Avenue and Guerrero Street in Davao City on Friday afternoon.

elled up, citing results of the 2015 measures on economic dynamism, government efficiency and infrastructure.

Davao del Sur landed first as the “Overall Most Competitive Province” while Davao City ranked 5th out of 142 cities; the Island Garden City of Samal moved from ranked 98 to 73 while the Municipality of Lupon (Davao Oriental) ranked 15 from 245.

“The objective of establishing a regime of reformed governance is now within our reach,” Del Rosario said.

In terms of security environment, Del Rosario summed up efforts as “headway in win-

ning peace and keeping law and order” which he cited as crucial in achieving high and sustained economic growth in the past three years.

Cited as a concrete instance was the decline in crime incidence from 54,653 to only 33,886 in 2015 pushing crime solution efficiency rate to 65 percent beyond the target of only 39 percent.

Insurgency influence has also been suppressed, reducing the number of affected barangays to only 6 percent in 2015 from 36 percent in 2010.

This happens alongside with “aggressive” efforts to neutral-

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Jaw Power Sports is the city’s newest dealer of high-end motorcycles, jet skis, motorcycles and car accessories among others. Lean Daval Jr.

DCWD board rejects SM plea to mix water from Helpmate

Manufacturing sector growth higher in April T

BY MANNY CABRERA

T

HE manufacturing sector continues to grow as both production and net sales posted vast improvements in April 2016 from a year ago, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

In the Philippine Statistics Authority’s Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries for April 2016, the Volume of Production Index grew by 10.5 percent, a significant improvement from the 1.8-percent growth posted in the same month last year.

Also, the Value of Production Index recorded a 6.8-percent growth in April 2016, a huge turnaround from a 6.4-percent decline in April 2015.

“Manufacturing output grew stronger at the onset of the second quarter, driven by robust domestic activities during the election season.,” said Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Emmanuel F. Esguerra.

Likewise, the Volume of Net Sales Index posted a growth of 5.3 percent in April 2016 from 1.3 percent last year. Also, the Value of Net Sales Index returned to positive territory of 1.8 percent from a 6.8-percent decline in the same month in 2015.

“A bullish business outlook is expected for the second quarter. Higher production volume is anticipated across manufacturing sub-sectors due to the typical increase in demand during summer season and enrollment periods,” the Cabinet official said.

Esguerra, who is also NEDA Director-General, added that the stable inflation and interest rates, and sustained foreign investment flows will further support the favorable outlook for the manufacturing sector.

“But still, risks to production growth are anticipated with the possible occurrence of La Niña by the end of the year and the potential recovery of oil prices,” he emphasized. (PNA)

HE Davao City Water District (DCWD) has turned down the request of the management of SM Lanang Premier to open the control valve of its supply to the mall and to Park Inn by Radisson the moment Helpmate Inc., a controversial private water provider, starts supplying water from its own source.

In a letter to Jezreel Legaspi, engineering operations manager of SM Lanang, DCWD general manager Edwin V. Regalado said cross-connection between any private source of water supply and the DCWD water supply is strictly prohibited.

In a meeting last Thursday, the DCWD board of directors (BOD) said that once SM starts using water sourced from Helpmate, DCWD’s water service to the mall and the hotel will be permanently disconnected.

It said the supply contract

for SM was only for the mall.

It ran short of supply when the hotel (Park Inn) started operating. DCWD allocates its capacity to consumers in the area. At the time when SM signed its contract with the water district it did not include Park Inn. Supply to the establishment was therefore placed at 20 PSI. In a surprise move it contracted from a Cebu-based Helpmate to supply their additional requirements. Helpmate also secured permits from the Davao City Council and the City Engineers Office to excavate even as it has not obtained any certification yet from the National Water Regulatory Board.

The approvals took place at the time when DCWD was going through a series of city council probe and scrutiny by the Environment Management Council which took several months to conclude requiring amendments of or-

dinances and public hearings.

Manager Regalado said that DCWD cannot compromise the quality and purity of the water once it is fed to the cistern of SM where it will be diluted with water from Helpmate.

“We have no control of the monitoring of the quality of water from Helpmate”, Regalado said.

DCWD Director Serafin Ledesma Jr. in a separate interview said that safety and quality is the biggest factor in the case. He said that the source of Helpmate is Davao River and that they are not privy as to how the firm will treat water coming from that source.

He said that DCWD supply is from its deep wells supplied mainly by Dumoy Water System.

“We are known to have the second best, if not the best water in the world and we will keep that record of excellence,” he said.

Ledesma said that three additional production wells are in the works and one of these will start supplying this July additional 5,000 cubic meters per day to the Dumoy system.

He said that DCWD is fast-tracking additional production wells after a study commissioned by the district ascertained that the main aquifers in Dumoy still have adequate volume that can be extracted.

In addition he also said that two huge mobile power generators costing about P17 million had been ordered by DCWD to avert the recurrence of low pressure problems brought about by sudden power cut off like what happened in Davao recently.

Several phases of DCWD bulk water project which will be sourced from Tamugan river are also in various stages of implementation.

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7 COMMUNITY SENSE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

BASIC FINANCIAL LITERACY WORKSHOP. The members of the Gumitan Women Farmer Development Association take a practical exam during the Basic Financial Literacy Workshop conducted by the Ateneo de Davao University Mindanawon Initiative for Cultural Dialogue (AdDU-MICD) held at the AdDU Campus. This workshop is part of the capacity building given by Davao Light through the AdDU-MICD that aims to help the women farmers handle the operations of the Davao Light solar charging station project in Brgy. Gumitan.

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES RIGHTS SEMINAR WORKSHOP. Part of the capacity building given by Davao Light through the Ateneo de Davao University Mindanawon Initiative for Cultural Dialogue (AdDU-MICD) is the Indigenous Peoples Rights Seminar Workshop. Women farmers, who are part of the Matigsalug Tribe, of Brgy. Gumitan attended the said workshop.

Group works and exercises were given during the workshop, which will help them understand their rights as part of the Indigenous Peoples in Mindanao.

Empowering Marilog women W through capacity building D

AVAO Light and Power Co. in partnership with the Ateneo de Davao University Mindanawon Initiative for Cultural Dialogue (AdDU-MICD) conducted series of workshops for the capacity building of the women farmers of the Matigsalug Tribe in Brgy. Gumitan Marilog District, Davao City.

These women are part of the beneficiaries of Davao Light solar charging station project, which was turned over to Brgy. Gumitan in December 2014.

In September 2015, Davao Light and the AdDU Mindanawon signed into agreement for the capacity building of the Gumitan Women Farmers Development Association (GWFDA). The purpose of which is to enable

Letter to President Duterte

and empower women farmers to achieve measurable and sustainable results necessary in the operations of the solar charging station.

Part of Davao Light’s responsibility is to provide capacity training to the women farmers and support them in this endeavor.

The first workshop that was given is the Organizational Mission & Vision Workshop that was held in January 2016.

This was followed by the Basic Financial Literacy Workshop conducted in February and March this year. Finally, in the month of April 2016, an Indigenous Peoples Rights Seminar Workshop was given to the women farmers.

“This is the first capacity building project that we have implemented with the help of

the Ateneo Mindanawon. The solar charging station project will truly help improve the lives of those in the community but providing them with the necessary workshops to sustain the project would further improve their lives and the community as well.” said Fermin Edillon, Davao Light Community Relations Manager.

“Dili matungkad ang among kalipay sa gihatag nga suporta sa Davao Light kauban ang Ateneo Mindanawon.

Amoa jud paggamiton ang among mga natun-an para sa kalamboan sa among komunidad.” “We are very happy of the support that Davao Light together with the Ateneo Mindanawon has given to us. We will surely utilize the learnings that we got for the betterment of our community.” said Luisa

Angit, President of the GWFDA. Davao Light believes that empowering these women will help a lot in their management of finances within the community. Once they grow the earnings they get from the solar charging station, they can buy additional batteries so that more households can enjoy the convenience of having a lighted home. The extra earnings can also be utilized to fund other projects in their community. There is great opportunity for growth with continuous community building that will help the women farmers bring change in the community.

Davao Light solar-charging stations are installed in off-grid areas within the Davao Light franchise.

PPI member-newspapers nationwide will convene in Manila at the Century Park Hotel for the 20th National Press Forum, whose theme “Understanding the Disputes in the West Philippine Sea” will focus on media’s role in fostering public understanding of important issues — not least of which are the dark clouds hovering over the West Philippine Sea — cannot be underscored enough. No less than Senior Associate Justice Antonio T. Carpio will be the guest of honor and speaker.

Born in Davao City, Justice Antonio Tirol Carpio was sworn in as member of the Supreme Court of the Philippines on October 26, 2001.

He is the Chairperson of the Supreme Court’s Second Division and Chairperson of the Senate Electoral Tribunal.

Partnership programs with Holcim Philippines, Oceana Philippines and Plan International - Philippines will also be re-launched in a

separate function. Vera Files will present its journalism fellowship on Road Safety.

Three-time PPI chairman-president Atty. Jesus Dureza will turn over the reins to the next head of the Institute. He will join the Duterte Administration for the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

For the first time, incoming Press Secretary and Chief of Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Martin Andanar will meet the PPI members to discuss “The Malacañang Press Office and the Press”.

not only for editorial excellence but also for their role as catalysts for community development.

Now on its 20th year, the awards program will honor outstanding community newspapers in various categories such as editing, photojournalism, editorial page, business and economic reporting, environmental reporting, reporting on history, arts and culture, and fisheries. Eighteen newspapers are vying for the seven awards in both daily and weekly categories: (Daily) The Freeman, Mindanao Times, Sun.Star Pampanga, Sun.Star Cebu, Sun.Star Baguio, Sun.Star Davao and Cebu Daily News; (Weekly) Sunday Punch, Eastern Visayas Mail, BusinessWeek Mindanao, The Ilocos Times, The Bohol Chronicle, The Mindanao Cross, Baguio Chronicle, Davao Catholic Herald, Pahayagang Balikas, West Leyte Weekly

PPI to discuss West PHL Sea, bares awards finalists

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S IT celebrates its 52nd year, the Philippine Press Institute, also known as the national association of newspapers, reaffirms its strong commitment to doing its share in enhancing media’s role as a catalyst for discourse—rich, enlightened, meaningful and sustained—via its Annual National Press Forum and Membership Meeting whose highlight is the Civic Journalism Community Press Awards.

As the Philippines heads into a new political dispensation, much of the country is watching with bated breath how the newly minted President-elect Rodrigo Duterte will sooner or later deal with the issue of China’s aggressive intrusion into the West Philippine Sea (or areas of the South China Sea lying within the country’s exclusive economic zone prescribed by international law).

Publishers and editors of

Recognizing excellence in reportage Highlighting the twoday forum is the 2015 Civic Journalism Community Press Awards, the first and only awards program of its kind in the country, that aims to raise the standards of journalism in the countryside and seeks to honor news organizations

F PPI, 10

E, inhabitants and environmental advocates of various island--ecosystems in the Philippines, write this letter to share and bring to your attention the destruction being done by mining operations to some of the smallest inhabited islands in our country.

We are optimistic that, as you have campaigned and won in the name of change, your incoming administration will usher--in new hope which will transform the way islands and islanders are being treated by previous administrations. We are hoping that you will not hesitate to go against powerful business interests that have continuously ignored the plea of islanders.

Mr. President, we are also looking at how you were able to ban mining in Davao City during your stint as its Mayor. We see that you are one of the many local government officials who have defied the strong pressure from the central leadership to accede to mining interests. During the early parts of your electoral campaign, you have repeatedly mentioned how frustrated you are with the irresponsible mining activities in Mindanao which have destroyed several areas in our nation’s second largest island.

You may need to check further how smaller Philippine islands have been subjected to the same, if not worse, destructive mining operations. Some mining activities in small islands have been abandoned without any form of rehabilitation while others are still resisting the entry of mining interests. These small islands and their residents need your attention, Mr. President.

Various studies have already suggested that mining and other large--scale economic activities like logging should not be allowed in small island ecosystems. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), as early as 1974, has mentioned the destructive effects of mining in small islands in their Ecological Guidelines for Island Development. The Japan-based non--profit think tank Global Development Research Center (GRDC) has also included mining as one of the four significant localized problems encountered by island and archipelagic countries.

A study of the GDRC has also revealed that some islands were mined out to the point that their

residents have to be evacuated as they could no longer support a human population.

A more recent book, published last year, entitled A Companion to Global Environment History, revealed how some Pacific island nations were once dependent on mining but have since returned to agriculture as it is more sustainable. The book also mentioned the story of Nauru-one of the world’s smallest nations-- and its struggle to get back on its feet after it was mined out and how the benefits from mining were not sufficient to rehabilitate the island’s core to its former habitable state.

There is still hope that our small islands will not suffer the same fate as Nauru, Mr. President.

We just need to act fast and decisively in favor of the protection of our islands and their inhabitants.

As such, we forward to you the following steps: Declare small island ecosystems as No Go Zones for mining. Existing projects should be reviewed and must be stopped if found to have posed serious hazards to the environment and islanders.

Ensure the rehabilitation of all islands subjected to mining including but not limited to Marinduque, Rapu--Rapu in Albay, Manicani and Homonhon in Eastern Samar, and Semirara in Antique.

Provide alternative livelihood for islanders who were once employees of mining companies.

Support the transition of the island’s economy from mining to sustainable agriculture, fishing, or ecotourism.

Signed: Protect Manicani Island Society, Inc. (PROMISI) [formerly Save Manicani Movement--SAMAMO] Homonhon Environment Rescuers Organization (HERO) Marinduque Council for Environmental Concerns (MACEC) Sagip Isla, Sagip Kapwa, Inc. (SISKI) Diocese of Borongan Social Action Center of Borongan Social Action Center of Legazpi Social Action Center of Dipolog Social Action Center of Marbel Philippine Misereor Partnership, Inc. (PMPI) Medical Action Group (MAG) Rev. Fr. Alejandro M. Galo, Jr. -DCSA Borongan Justice and Peace Arlene Christy Lusterio – TAO Pilipinas Shen Maglinte – Sibol ng Agham at Teknolohiya (SIBAT), Inc. Mary Ann V. Fuertes – IDIS, Inc., Davao City

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

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Is bounty legal?

HE legal definition of bountry is “a sum of money or other thing, given, generally by the government, to certain persons, for some service they have done or are about to do to the public.”

Examples is the bounty given to an enlisted soldier and the like.

A bounty differs from a reward, which is generally applied to particular cases; and from a payment, as there is no contract on the part of the receiver of the bounty.

Now, with President-elect offering huge bounty to those who could kill or bring to him drug lords and pushers of illegal drugs, the question on the legality of bounty-giving has been raised.

In the United States, civil rights abuses at the hands of uniformed police officers across America have risen to the fore of the nation’s attention. Other than the police, there is another abuse-prone groupn and these are the ones that straddles the line of legality, worthy of scrutiny: Bounty hunters, or, as

EDGEDAVAO

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they are sometimes more formally known, bond enforcement agents.

Although there is no such formal name as bond enforcement agents in our jurisdiction, bounty hunters are more akin to a vigilante force than a law enforcement agency.

However, it is also no surprise that members of the law enforcement agency could themselves become bounty hunters.

The concept of bounty is one of a prize for having performed an act for the public or government.

We are used to giving rewards for capture of criminals and this reward system is backed up by some special law or municipal ordinance.

Now, as to the bounty system that President-elect Rodrigo Duterte is now openly announcing, it could be a form of a prize that is private in nature and source, otherwise, the bounty system being proposed will have to go through the normal legislative process unless otherwise allowed within the bounds of executive power.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY Consultant PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO CHENEEN R. CAPON MEGHANN STA. INES Reporters NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA Lifestyle LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. CHA MONFORTE ARLENE D. PASAJE Photography Correspondents Cartoons Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. Columnists: • HENRYLITO D. TACIO • EDCER C.B. ESCUDERO • ATTY. EMILY ZEN CHUA • GREGORIO G. DELIGERO JOHN CARLO TRIA • BORBONCARLOS • MARYMUNDA ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO DAVAL SR., • NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN • NICASIO ANGELO•AGUSTIN • EMILY VIDA S. VALVERDE C. LUMBA • HENRY J. SCHUMACHER • VANESSA KATE MADRAZO• JONALLIER Economic Analysts: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG ZENMIA CHUA • CARLOS• FRED MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG M. PEREZ

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EDGEDAVAO

“G

LOBAL child labor perpetuates a cycle of poverty that prevents families and nations from reaching their full potential.” -- American President Barack Obama *** June 12 is celebrated in the Philippines as Independence Day. But throughout the world, it is commemorated as the World Day Against Child Labor.

“Child labor is a complex problem that requires comprehensive solutions driven by moral outrage, personal commitment, community determination and national action,” says the Geneva-based International Labor Organization (ILO).

“This is a day to remember the children and to commemorate those who work to bring about a world without child labor,” the ILO explains. “This is a day for employers, governments, workers’ groups, and civil society to renew their mandates to make that world a reality - a world where parents work and children go to school.”

This year, the focus is on child labor and supply chains. “With 168 million children still in child labor, all supply chains, from agriculture to manufacturing, services to construction, run the risk that child labor may be present,” the ILO says.

Guy Ryder, ILO Director-General, points out: “Child labor has no place in well-functioning and well-regulated markets, or in any supply chain. The message that we must act now to stop child labor once and for all… Acting to-

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Children of a lesser god gether, it is withTHINK ON THESE! in our means to make the future of work a future without child labor.”

Child labor, the ILO says, is work that harms children’s well-being and hinders Henrylito D. Tacio their education, d eve l o p m e n t henrytacio@gmail.com and future livelihoods. When children have to work long hours, their ability to attend school or skills training is limited, preventing them from gaining education that could help lift them out of poverty in the future.

“It is lamentable that there are children who are forced into domestic work, doing household chores in their employer’s home instead of going to school,” deplored Senator Loren Legarda. “It is a sad fact there are children who are forced to work to support their families and are deprived of their childhood and their right to education.”

In the Gospel of Matthew (chapter 19, verse 14), Jesus rebuked his disciples for turning away a group of children. He told them, “Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

A survey done by the National Statistics Office in 2011 showed some 5.59 million child

laborers in the country. Out of the 29 million Filipino children aged 5-17 years old, about 19% or 5.59 million were already working, the survey found. Of the 5.59 million children, just over 3 million were considered child laborers while 2.9 million were reported to be exposed to hazardous working conditions.

“They go by hardly noticed, moving about in urban areas as if they did not exist. But they are there, and their presence is a strong indictment on the country’s failure to share the wealth with the masses. Children as young as five are working as scavengers, accompanying their older siblings and sometimes their parents as they collect trash that can be sold to junk shops for a few pesos. They are also in factories, in ports, in farms, toiling all day with hardly enough time to rest.”

That was what EDGE Davao said in its editorial two years ago.

The legal definition of child labor, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is “exploitative labor among children below 17 years of age.”

The ILO estimates some one million children working in small scale mining and quarrying around the world. These children work in some of the worst conditions imaginable, where they face serious risk of work-related death, injury or chronic illness.

“In surface and underground mines, children work long hours, carry heavy loads, set explosives, sieve sand and dirt, crawl through narrow tunnels, inhale harmful dusts and work in water - often in the presence of dangerous

toxins such as lead and mercury,” the ILO says.

It has been reported that there are 174 child laborers working in small-scale mining industry in barangay Mt. Diwata. That’s according to the Municipal of Social Work and Development office in Monkayo, Compostela Valley.

In Davao City, poverty has been cited as the reason why some minors are engaged in the flesh industry. “We cannot blame them for getting into that,” said Jeanette Ampog, executive director of Talikala, on prostituted children and women. “We also cannot decide for them. We can only let them realize what is right.”

Apart from poverty as the principal cause of child labor, there are other contributing factors, according to UNICEF. These are: increasing pattern of family breakdown and weakening of the extended family system and other support groups; high population growth and changing family values and lifestyles which may lead to unwanted children, promiscuity and solo parenthood; poor enforcement of laws due to ignorance of the law, corruption or apathy; socialization of children into work; and support for children’s work in formal education.

“Robbed of their childhood” was the title of the EDGE Davao editorial. It said: “Children are especially vulnerable to official neglect, and we see this in the existence of kids who at their young age are forced to work before they can even read. And that is the greater tragedy: already forced to grow up way ahead of their time, their future is also taken away from them because they are unable to go to school.”

a forest alive FAST BACKWARD with monkeys, parrots, deer, and wild hogs. There are monkeys everywhere, some of them tailless, and some little ones no bigger than my two fists. The Antonio V. Figueroa parrots are of many colours, the most common being large white ones with tufted heads that fly about in flocks of twenty or more. Another species is bright red with iridescent green wings.

This is not so large as the white parrot, but it is a great whistler, singer, and talker. Then there are doves with golden brown bodies and green wings, white snipe which fly along the shores, and a great bird as big as a turkey and not unlike one. There are white herons and wild pigeons three times the size of our [American] pigeons at home. “[T]he little town of Davao… is like a botanical garden. Imagine thousands of tall palms waving their fan-like leaves in the air above rows of thatched cottages built along wide, level streets. Let some of the palms have clusters of coconuts hanging to them and let others be loaded with the round green and yellow nuts of the betel. Let there be banana groves here and there and patches of nipa, with their great fern-like bunches of leaves, each fifteen feet long and a yard wide, sprout-

ing up from the ground. Let there be flowers of strange shapes and colours. Hang an orchid here and there upon a dead branch, and under all put a turf as thick and as green as that of the blue grass country of Kentucky, and you have some idea of Davao.

“The little nipa-thatched, basketwork houses are set well back from the street, some of them fenced off by sapling stakes driven into the ground. The stakes are put in green, and it is an evidence of the richness of the soil that they soon sprout branches and leaves.

There are no gardens about the houses, no beds of flowers, nothing but grass and trees of various kinds.”

Carpenter’s was also drawn to the mango, “the commonest of the trees… which here grows as big as the giants of our forests and which is now loaded with fruit” which he kids playfully harvested by “throwing clubs into the branches of these trees to knock down the luscious yellow fruit, just as our boys gather apples.”

About the undivided province of Davao, Carpenter recorded: “The province of Davao lies on the east and south coasts of Mindanao… and the chief ports of this part of the world. It is nearly as big as the state of Massachusetts, but I doubt whether its cultivated portion is anywhere near half the area of Rhode Island. The country is almost all wild. The mountainous portion is covered with forests, sprinkled here and there with strips of rich grass which is excellent for grazing. The cattle of this region are… cross-breeds of the native stock with humped cattle imported from India, because they are

immune from rinderpest. The animals, which look like Jerseys, give milk in small quantities, though of the richest quality. The people do not use the milk for cheese or butter, but let the calves run with the cows.

“Davao is best known, not as a cattle country, but for its Manila hemp. As any schoolboy can tell you, this is one of the chief products of the Philippines, and Davao alone exports enough to furnish hangman’s cravats for the whole human race. It is brought in from the country and many a Chinese merchant has made his fortune by dealing in it.”

Compare Davao region to the glorious past and what you feel is a heartrending emotion of loggers destroying woodlands and leaving them deforested. Though things have changed since then in the way we appreciate the value of nature, ecology, and environment, the scars left by the wanton cutting of trees, harvesting of plants, and hunting of animals have forever altered Davao’s natural resources.

But what struck the author was when he was offered four slaves, owned by a woman who presented herself as a Christian, in exchange of $50 dollars, the value of Php100 then. The slaves were ‘black Negritoes, three boys and a girl, with ages ranging from six to sixteen. The girl was offered for a cheap $15 dollar. Carpenter described the trafficked kids as follows: “The smallest boy had on nothing but a shirt, which barely reached to his waist, and the other two wore only coarse pantaloons. The girl was practically naked, her sole garment being a wide strip of dirty cotton cloth wrapped about her waist and fastened there in a knot. “

Little town of Davao circa 1925

HREE decades after the Americans had colonized the Philippines, the major regions of Mindanao, particularly the areas in Davao, were still unspoiled lands teeming with abundant wildlife, lush forests, verdant vegetations, and unexplored floral paradises.

Frank George Carpenter, a famous American author, photographer, lecturer, and collector of photographs visited Davao in 1925 and recorded his personal impressions of the places he visited in today’s Southern Mindanao in ‘Through the Philippines and Hawaii’, which he published the following year. He devoted separate chapters for Davao region and the Bagobos.

On board a ship from Zamboanga, Carpenter first entered Davao gulf from the east, sailing “right under the shadow of Mt. Apo, the highest of the Philippine peaks… [with] great clouds of vapour rolling out of its side, and…

I noticed that the vapour was shot through with flames” and the “lower part of Mt. Apo is wooded, but the summit is bare and looks chalk-like in the distance. On the south side there are no trees whatever. The land at the foot of the mountain slopes down toward the gulf and is a natural pasture covered with a rich growth of grass.”

Then as the vessel started to inch closer to the coastline, the author, obviously awed by the luxuriant foliage and the plentiful flora and fauna, wrote: “The country surrounding Davao is almost a wilderness. The jungle begins only a short distance back from the town, and a walk of a few miles in any direction brings one into

9

10 NEWS Davao Or... FROM 3 ity health care and enhancing the people’s access to decent and quality work.

On food sufficiency, from 2007 to 2014, agricultural production in the province like rice, corn, vegetables and fisheries have all jumped up to impressive levels as the provincial government have intensified its flagship Pagkain at Kita Program.

Top rice producer The Department of Agriculture has just awarded the province as the country’s new top producer of good quality rice of different varieties that includes the famous Banaybanay Rice commonly known as 7-tonner rice. It is also the biggest producer of hybrid rice seeds in the Philippines.

A total of 238,680 hectares in the province are agricultural areas. Its rice production areas now reached 15,000 hectares with an average production per hectare of 4.53 metric tons. The Capitol’s Food Intensification Program has increased the province’s rice sufficiency from 44 percent in 2007 to 100 percent in 2015.

The just finished P289 million Cateel Irrigation Project, which is the largest irrigation project in Mindanao, is a big boost to rice production in the province serving an additional 2,000-hectare rice fields in the town of Cateel.

Lowest malnutrition The province is also being awarded for posting the lowest malnutrition rate in Southern Mindanao. From 17 percent in

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2007, malnutrition rate in the province was significantly reduced to 4.5 percent in 2015, the lowest in reduction rate in the Davao Region. Under her watch, Governor Malanyaon built a new world-class Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center, including the hospital’s Out-patient Department Complex. Just recently, she has opened the first ever Dialysis Center in the province. From 279 in 2007, there are now 732 personnel in the Capitol-run provincial hospital.

194 health stations The governor constructed 194 Barangay Health Stations and rehabilitated all of the province’s four District Hospitals. Her free health insurance program has already benefited a total of 21,361 poor families in the province. The Department of Health has awarded the province as an Outstanding in Public Health for its exemplary health programs.

“While we traveled far on the right path these past years and end my term with the province now better than when we found it, leaving behind reforms that shall sustain the gains of good governance, we recognize that we have only set the wheels of inclusive growth in motion. I hope that to truly cement a better future for generations to come, the people continue to demand nothing less but genuine public service from our leaders who shall continue our legacy of good governance,” says Gov. Malanyaon. By Ferdinand Zuasola

with the PHO. Other agencies tasked to join ComVal’s anti-smoking drive as identified by the ordinance include the Civil Service

Commission, the Land Transportation Office, the Philippine Army and the local Provincial Legal Office and Provincial Treasurer’s Office.

tion and Mercury Reduction” in wastes.

In his study, Albano was able to develop a system that could effectively reduce mercury concentration in wastes.

With Mindanao hosting a number of mining areas, he said the results of the study could help address problems on the uncontrolled use of soluble mercury.

On the other hand, the council recognized Molarto and Samillano, both alumni of the General Santos City High School, for winning a video documentary competition of Smart Communications.

The winning video documentary, which received the

“Doon Po Sa Amin” Award, featured the city’s thriving “kaong” industry.

The search was in recognition of video film makers that showcase unique stories about Philippine culture and heritage.

City Councilor Ramon Melliza reiterated anew the need for the city to establish a Hall of Fame or Home of the Champions that will showcase the achievements of successful personalities from the area.

He said the proposed structure will serve as the repository documents, trophies, medals or their replica, garnered by the city’s champions and achievers. (PNA)

ize armed groups and other threats.

Among the significant outcome of these efforts was the declaration of Davao Oriental and Davao del Sur as “conflict-manageable and development-ready areas in 2013. The provinces of Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley and Davao City were also declared the same in 2015.

The peace and development efforts also brought back

to the folds of the law, some 300 former rebels between 2014 and 2015, 207 of whom availed of the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).

Noting how peace efforts have sustained investors’ confidence, Del Rosario said “Davao Region is indeed an affirmation that winning peace is a vital requisite for development.”

(PIA 11/ Jeanevive D Abangan)

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EDGEDAVAO

HOPEFUL FOR PEACE. Incoming Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) secretary Jesus Dureza talks to local and national media regarding the government’s peace plans during a press briefing held at his house in GSIS Subd., Matina, Davao City Thursday evening. Dureza, together with

No judge... FROM 4 resolution, Delima had already affirmed, on April 18, 2012 the findings of the City Prosecutors Office in Digos City that ruled there was no case against Cagas.

“The City Prosecutors Office already dismissed the case against Cagas two times before their April 18, 2012 ruling – the first time in October 10, 2011 (in which Volaire Mirafuentes, Henry Mirafuentes and Artemio Dokdok Tomosan were indicted for murder) and the second on January 5, 2012, all for lack of evidence,” the lawyers pointed out in the statement.

Worried constituents Melchor (real identity withheld as requested) is one of the staunch supporters of Cagas who expressed his anxieties on the continuing difficulties in the hearing of the case and petitions of the governor-elect.

“I heard that a petition of Dodo (nickname of Cagas) will be heard today so I came here to symphatize,” Melchor, told Edge Davao outside the RTC in Digos on Friday.

He added that he has been frequently asked by fellow supporters of Cagas how he would run the province considering that he is still inside the detention facility of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Digos.

“Nabalaka sila basig dili palingkuron si Dodo. Ang uban nagduda nga basig naa gyuy

paningkamot nga pugngan ang paglingkod ni Dodo isip gobernador (They are worried Dodo might not be able to serve them. They also suspect some people who are working to stop Dodo from serving as governor),” he added.

Melchor said he also heard that until now no judge is working on the case of Cagas, a fact that points to the possibility of prolonging the process of justice.

Edge Davao together with reporters from the cities of Davao and Digos Friday also failed to interview Cagas when they went to the BJMP facility where the provincial leader is currently detained.

Cagas served as governor and congressman of Davao del Sur for several terms. He was defeated in the 2013 elections when he opted to run for mayor of Digos, allowing his son, Marc, to run for governor, and his wife Mercedita, for congresswoman, in Marc‘s stead.

Marc likewise lost in that election to Claude Bautista, now governor-elect of Davao Occidental.

But Mrs. Cagas won for congresswoman. She reelected during the May 9, 2016 election.

Last May 2016 elections , Dodo Cagas again ran, campaigning behind bars and won as governor of the province by garnering 132,227 votes compared to his top political rival Arsenio Latasa who obtained 113,811 votes.

Express, and Baguio Midland Courier.

This year’s event is supported by Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC) as principal partner, and sponsored in part by National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA), PhilHealth, Bayer, Land Bank of the Philippines, Philippine Veterans Bank, Holcim Philippines, Oceana Philippines, Plan International - Philippines, PAGCOR, Isuzu,Vera Files, Malaya Business Insight, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Journal Group, The Philippine Star, BusinessWorld and Manila Standard Today.

The PPI is the country’s premiere print media organization whose member-publications rank among the best, most read and widely circulated newspapers in their respective regions (National Capital Region, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao). Its principal mandate is the defense of press freedom and the promotion of ethical standards for the professional development of the Filipino journalist. It was founded in 1964 but rendered moribund during martial law. It was re-activated after the EDSA Revolution and incorporated in 1987.

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other officials, left for Oslo, Norway over the weekend to have an initial talk with Communist Party of the Philippines/ National People’s Army/ National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP/NPA/NDFP) officials led by Jose Maria Sison. Lean Daval Jr.

Cops... FROM 4

house were a caliber .45 MK IV Colt pistol, a 12-gauge shotgun, an air gun, assorted live bullets and a sachet of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu”.

Robles yielded a magazine of a Carbine rifle with two live bullets while a Carbine rifle, a homemade .38 caliber pistol with two live bullets was found in Malayon’s house.

The raiding team recovered a Carbine rifle and several bullets from Corante’s house.

Semillano said they launched the operation based on a tip from one of their infor-

mants in the area.

“We earlier received a report about the presence of loose firearms in that the area so we immediately conducted surveillance operations and eventually confirmed it,” he said.

Supt. Romulo Estocapio, acting Malungon police chief, said the four suspects will be charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

He said Masalon will also face charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. (PNA)

Ledesma said that its partner, Apo Agua Infrastructura is completing its right of way acquisition and government permitting requirements while DCWD has already started laying down new distribution pipes in various areas in the city.

“While our target date is 2019, this might be cut short once Apo Agua gets all its permits in order. We know that they are very fast workers that is why we (DCWD) advised our own contractors to work day and night”, Ledesma said.

Water from the multi-billion-peso project will be delivered to the consumers in the urban centers to include areas in District 2 by gravity. About

300,000 cubic meters will be supplied daily to DCWD consumers.

The project was among the big projects Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte asked DCWD to work on to insure supply for the next 30 years.

It is dubbed as one of the most important legacies the mayor will leave to his constituents as he will soon assume as President of the Philippines.

Regalado said that the ground and surface water resources of the Water District will last for decades for as long as the next generations will take good care of the recharge areas, like Mt. Tipolog in Tamugan and other vital watershed areas.

DCWD... FROM 6

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH DEED OF SALE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late MARIO CANGARUBIN OXILLO been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH DEED OF SALE executed among his heirs per Doc. No. 152; Page No. 31; Book No. 106; Series of 2015, of the NOTARY PUBLIC FATIMA IRENE T. ADIN

5/30; 6/06,13

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EDGEDAVAO STYLE

Project: DAD

By Kenneth Irving Ong

WHAT DO THEY SAY ABOUT DADS WHEN IT COMES TO SHOPPING? Responses are mixed, but most would say dads don’t make good shopping companions.

This may be because they know what they want, clothes included. Shopping is a pick up-and-go errand.

The thing about men is when they change status they also change priorities. Perhaps even shed the image of the stylish single man. When family comes along, concerns will be redirected.

Shopping trips may turn rare, if not extinct.

But if they do shop, it will be have to pieces of good value, timeless and durable— the qualities businessman Carlo Lorenzana, 38, would go for.

I sat down with the young father, husband to Julia, and father to 2-1/2 year old Javier, and 6-month old Claudia, to find out about what his fashion choices are and how much it has changed since becoming a dad.

When asked what his fashion style was. Carlo mentions that he likes classic fashion. “Even my casual clothes I want it timeless. I still wear clothes I got from more than ten years ago.” said the young dad, “I like the style of The Talented Mr. Ripley, the classic look of the 50s. You have those solid brands that are still in circulation now.”

Carlo also revealed that when he was single, he was brand conscious, and when he got older he started buying local. “I still buy international brands, but when I do, I make sure it’s of high quality so I can use them for a long time.

I have 10-year old clothes I still wear in my closet.”

“It’s jeans for me when in Davao for work.” On Carlo White Polo Shirt over Yellow Plain Tee & Light Blue Denim pants.

“I also shop sometimes, once in a long while,” Carlo added, “I look for classic, timeless looks that last, and of good quality such as the collection from M&S” “I see Marks & Spen-

“I go for clothes with the classic look.

It won’t go out of style.” Carlo wearing Regular Fit Cotton Slub Polo with Slim Fit Slacks in Camel.

cer as affordable luxury.

It’s something I will buy to wear daily. They have good quality clothes but won’t break your bank account. I still have the button down checkered shirts I bought years back,” revealed Carlo, “I used to call it St. Michaels because I always had the brand’s products like the slip-ons.

I grew up to the brand and had lots of hand-medowns from my dad.”

“Marks & Spencer dressed up businessman and father, Carlo Lorenzana, with pieces from its M&S Style with Value Collection to show what the brand has in store for dads like him who believes in the resilience of classic design, clothes with good quality at outstanding value.”

If you’re thinking of what to get Dad on Father’s Day, go to M&S. He’ll find the clothes he wants for the prices he will adore, or you, if you’re buying.

Fashion: Marks & Spencer’s M&S Style with Value Collection available in Abreeza Mall & SM Lanang Premier Photography: Wizbren Ang Styling: Jinggoy Salvador

“This is my style,” said Carlo of his printed tailored fit shirt in navy paired with regular fit chinos in light stone.

“Preppy look works for me, then and now.” From the wide range of colored polo shirts, Carlo sports the bright turquoise piece paired with navy twill shorts. laughed Carlo.

Dads are known to work hard and Carlo was no exception but still with style. “Weekdays it’s jeans or slacks at work at MANCOR, which involves visiting the rice mills,” said Carlo “But whenever I’m in Manila, visit La Cabrera (one of the restaurants he co-owns) or go to meetings I get to wear long sleeves and whenever there’s an event, I put on a blazer. The place I go to

and the people I meet, the time of day and even the season often dictate my style.”

Although a fashionable man himself Carlo admits that lately, it’s his wife who does the shopping for him. “Julia gets me clothes monthly, sometimes weekly. Suddenly I see new clothes in my closet. She knows my style, and I wear it all the time. My shoes, I buy, which is every few years.”

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

EVENT Doting mom Carine Bacani looks on as her daughter Cali gets a trim.

A third Fun cuts opens EVERY PARENT IS EQUALLY EXCITED AND ANXIOUS ABOUT THEIR CHILD’S FIRST HAIRCUT. There is a need to make the experience the most positive yardstick for all haircuts to follow.

Three entrepreneurial ladies have found the answer to making this right of passage painless, fun and memorable which predisposes you and your tot for smiles and success.

Yvonne Soriano, Camille Soriano and Kay Gempesaw opened their first branch of Fun Cuts: Just for Tots Kiddie Salon back in 2007. It was and still remains the only salon of its kind in town catering to clients with tender years.

They have since opened two more since then, the third one which was just recently opened and blessed in SM City Davao.

“Our first branch was jungle themed. The second was given the feel of a meadow. And this third one is all about scenes from a farm,” shares Kay about creating the happy atmospheres of their spaces. They literally try to think of everything, not only for the tots who come in for a cut

Yvonne Soriano’s youngest, Jose, shows he is an old hand at kiddie salon openings and sitting for haircuts.

Father Rene Ocampo blesses the occasion. Seen here with Fun Cuts owners Camille Soriano, Yvonne Annie Garcia, Joy Joy Garcia & Maite Gempesaw.

Soriano and Kay Gempesaw.

Tricie Arcenas with children Tala and Lucas. or trim but also for the legions of elders who like accompanying their young charges. They can swap their signature kiddie seats with those for adults and their attendants can give dad or mom a no-fuss tress update in no time.

The list of services is very comprehensive. Their First Haircut package even comes with a cute keepsake in the form of a congratulatory certificate with a

Lea and Sandro Imperial. photo of the child. create an environment where Child-friendly is a statement the child feels safe and eases into that the three owners make time knowing that they are in capable and time again in every detail hands. The need to stay updated that makes up the Fun Cuts con- with popular style trends among cept. Being moms themselves, the young especially involving they know it is quite a feat for celebrity tots is a must along a child to sit still for prolonged with knowing what gentle prodperiods of time. So they’ve fitted ucts such as shampoo and conditheir branches with an assort- tioner to use. As a great add-on, ment of things like bubbles and visiting a Fun Cuts salon is also copies of popular shows to help like making a quick stop for your

child’s personal hygiene and skincare needs. You can purchase different Human Nature products, anti-mosquito repellant sprays and imported baby colognes while the trained staff attend to your child’s tresses.

As they deftly attended to their first customers that day after the store blessing, it was business of the bustling and lively kind that perfectly suited the young, vibrant beings they were in service to. The kids willingly got into their seats and left with smart and pretty cuts, trailing behind satisfied parents or guardians. Bringing happiness to a kid, especially with regards to how he or she looks and feels, is something that will always feel special and here lies the continued success of Fun Cuts. It is in the fact that no one outgrows fun and finding a warm place that gives a fantastic grooming experience.

Fun Cuts: Just for Tots Kiddie Salon is located in the 2nd Floor of SM City Davao, in the bridgeway connecting the main mall and the Annex.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

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ENTERTAINMENT

Kapuso stars end summer with mall shows JUST BEFORE SUMMER DREW TO A CLOSE, stars of Magkaibang Mundo and Encantadia treated their fans to two lively Kapuso Mall Shows in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija.

Last May 21, on-screen partners Louise delos Reyes and Juancho Triviño led their Magkaibang Mundo co-stars in bringing a lovely Saturday to their supporters present at the SM City Cabanatuan Event Center. The pair entertained their fans with separate song numbers before launching into a lovely duet that made the crowd swoon.

Joining them were Dion Ignacio, Isabelle de Leon, Liezel Lopez, and Marika Sasaki. Marika and Isabelle both showcased their prowess in singing, while Liezel bonded with the crowd of more than 2,500 people by playing games with them.

Dion, meanwhile, serenaded the ladies and even invited one lucky fan to join him on stage. Comedian Ate Reg added fun to the show as the event host.

The following week, no less than the cast of the much anticipated Kapuso primetime series Encantadia visited Cabanatuan City.

Through an audio visual presentation, Kylie Padilla, Gabbi Garcia, and Sanya Lopez were introduced last May 28 as the new set of Sang’gres in the requel of Encantadia.

The crowd of 3,500 in SM City Cabanatuan Event Center showed their support to the new cast as each of the Kapuso girls stood out in their respective song numbers.

Encantadia actor and Kapuso hunk Rocco Nacino made it a memorable night for the ladies, too, when he dedicated a song to them. The crowd was further entertained by the bubbly event host Tess Bomb.

While summer has officially

ended, fans don’t have to fret as GMA Network continues to bring its shows and stars to the provinces.

“It is always our pleasure to bring our programs and Kapuso artists closer to their fans. We thank our avid

supporters in Cabanatuan City for giving us a warm welcome during our last mall shows,” said GMA Senior Assistant Vice President and Head of Regional Business Development Division Oliver Amoroso. “And as GMA celebrates its 66th anniversary, fans can expect more mall shows and regional events from us,” he added.

To know more about the Network’s regional events, follow GMA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ gmanetwork and GMA Regional TV at www.facebook. com/GMARegionalTV and on Twitter and Instagram via @ GMARegionalTV.

GMA Network only local network to win at the 2016 US International Film & Video Festival GMA Network gives honor to the country anew as it brings home four medals and seven certificates at the 2016 US International Film & Video Festival for its various News and Public Affairs and Entertainment programs— the only Philippine TV network to win in this year’s festival.

Leading the list of winners this year were Alamat and Reel Time, which were both Best of Festivals nominees and Gold Camera awardees.

The first-ever Pinoy animated anthology series Alamat earned the Gold Camera Award in the Entertainment: Children category for its “Alamat ng Bayabas (The Legend of the Guava)” episode. The groundbreaking show marks the first time the network ventured into a full animation series. The series, which began airing last year, features Philippine myths and legends with each episode voiced by various Kapuso personalities. It is currently on its second season.

GMA News TV’s documentary program Reel Time, meanwhile, received the Gold Camera Award for its episode “Isang Paa sa Hukay (The

Price of Gold)” in the Public Affairs Programs category. It documented the small-scale mining in Camarines Norte, where children dive into narrow shafts using air compressor to support their breathing, just to mine very little pieces of gold.

This already serves as the third international citation for Reel Time’s “Isang Paa sa Hukay” documentary this year. It was named as Best Program on “Promoting Children’s Rights” under the Humanity category at the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD)’s World Television Awards. It also took home the bronze award in the Human Concerns category at the recent New York Festivals.

GMA’s top-notch documentary program I-Witness was conferred the Silver Screen Award for its “Kawayang Pangarap (Bamboo Dreams)” episode in the Documentary Programs: Biography category. Kara David followed an Aeta family’s everyday toil of hauling bamboos just to have all children finish their education.

Investigative public affairs program Reporter’s Notebook also won a Silver Screen Award in the Public Affairs category for its “Hikbi sa Ibayong Dagat (Far From Home)”

episode. Maki Pulido and Jiggy Manicad took a closer look at the ironic stories of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Hong Kong who continue to work despite having serious illnesses because going home means losing their jobs and facing the expensive cost of medical treatment in the Philippines.

GMA also took home seven certificates for its various News and Public Affairs and Entertainment TV programs.

Brigada (“Para sa Pangarap”), Front Row (“Maestra Salbabida”), and Investigative Documentaries (“Gutom”) each earned a Certificate for Creative Excellence in the Social Issues category. Karelasyon’s “Tres Rosas” and Wagas’ “Gabriela and Diego Silang Love Story” were given Certificates for Creative Excellence in the Docudrama category.

Meanwhile, GMA ETV programs “Pepito Manaloto” and “Idol sa Kusina” received Certificates for Creative Excellence in the Cooking and Comedy categories, respectively.

Since 1967, the US International Film & Video Festivals continues to recognize outstanding corporate, education, entertainment, documentary, and student productions.

June 9-14, 2016

WARCRAFT Travis Fimmel, Toby Kebbell, Ben Foster R13

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

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES 2: OUT OF THE SHADOWS Megan Fox, Stephen Amell, Alan Ritchson PG

12:40 | 3:00 | 5:20 | 7:40 | 10:00 LFS

NOW YOU SEE ME 2 Daniel Radcliffe, Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo PG

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

THE CONJURING 2 Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Frances O'Connor R13

11:40 | 2:15 | 4:50 | 7:25 | 10:00 LFS

A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

UP AND ABOUT

Fundador honors the Filipino

THE PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION IN SPAIN takes on a whole new meaning as one of Spain’s most iconic brands celebrates it with pride and honor.

Fundador, Spain’s oldest and largest brandy, has introduced a limited-edition commemorative bottle, designed with a Philippine flag, a logo of the Philippine Embassy in Spain, and a special message from Philippine Ambassador to Spain Carlos Salinas in celebration of the 118th Philippine Independence Day as well as the success of the Filipino entrepreneurial spirit. The special commemorative bottle of Fundador will be sold exclusively in Spain this month. This is the first time in the almost 300year history of Fundador that the Filipino flag becomes part of its bottle and packaging.

Filipino-owned company Emperador Inc. acquired Bodegas Fundador, Spain’s oldest and most renowned brandy company, late last year in a landmark deal which solidified Emperador’s position as the world’s largest brandy company today.

GENSAN PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT

Enjoy up to 50% off on great selections at the Men’s Shoe Sale from June 10 to July 3 in all branches of The SM Store nationwide!

DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT

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Zaneco, AboitizPower M sign supply contract

SM Lanang Premier marks Independence Day with Pinoy Fun Sale and a homage to Davao Art and Mindanao Fashion

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

T

HE Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative (Zaneco) signed on Wednesday, June 8, a bilateral supply contract with energy provider giant AboitizPower (AP).

In a statement, AboitizPower said the signing is part of the move of energy players in Mindanao, particularly the cooperatives, to shift toward a renewable energy future.

Zaneco serves the cities of Dipolog and Dapitan and surrounding municipalities in Zamboanga del Norte.

Last Wednesday’s signing was for an initial 5 MW that will come out of the 68.8 MW Manolo Fortich run of river hydro power plant project being constructed by AP subsidiary Hedcor in Bukidnon which is slated for completion in 2017.

“We are here not only to support the growth of Mind-

anao economically, but also sustainably,” said AP First Vice President Rochell Donato Gloria.

Gloria also reiterated the company’s commitment to sustain the growth of Mindanao, saying that the island-region is short of power.

In the same statement, Zaneco board president Jesus Eduardo Tayrus Sr. expressed optimism on addressing power supply problems in their areas of coverage.

“Our area is short of power, and with this supply we hope to solve our problem, this time through renewable energy,” Tayrus said.

AP added that the signing of supply contract was made amidst a call to push renewable energy in Mindanao after a flurry of coal plant construction in the island.

It added that Hedcor, with

its 35-year experience in the business, hopes electric cooperatives will take advantage of hydro to create a balanced portfolio of energy sources.

“We praise the zealousness of Zaneco in ensuring they get renewable energy to meet the needs of their growing franchise area,” Hedcor assistant vice president Darlene Arguelles said in the same statement, adding that AP is “looking forward to serve other electric cooperative as they strive to push renewable energy into their portfolios.”

Arguelles also expressed confidence Hedcor will deliver, as promised, the needed energy supply from the Manolo-Fortich power plant by 2017.

Hedcor owns and operates run-of-river hydro power plants in Benguet, Mt. Province and Davao del Sur.

Its power plants combine for around 185-MW of clean and renewable energy.

In Mindanao, Hedcor delivers power to Davao Light and Co. through the Talomo, Sibulan and Tudaya power plants and the Davao del Sur Electric Cooperative (Dasureco) through its Tudaya power plant.

For his part, Zaneco general manager Adelmo Laput praised the cooperative’s partnership with AboitizPower, saying the contract with Hedcor was in the right direction of ensuring that the cooperative maximises renewable energy.

The cooperative has earlier signed supply contracts with AboitizPower subsidiaries Therma South and Therma Marine to secure the baseload and peaking demand of Zamboanga del Norte.

the Davao City Investment Promotion Center for granting Home Crest two accreditations, the first one in 2011, for a purely accommodation facility. Home Crest decided to expand after four years of operations, increasing room capacity from 28 to 64 rooms.

In 2014 we were granted a second accreditation, this time incorporating restaurant and banquet operations, to cater to a the city’s growing MICE market.

“This year, the Food and Beverage Department will be in the fore front of our operations as we will be launching two meeting rooms, an additional two functions rooms, all at the Ground Floor and this 120 seating ballroom at the sixth floor.

We would like to present our very own specialty restaurant, CENA Modern Bistro, serving Italian and American cuisine, offering complimentary buffet breakfast to both in-house and walkin guests.

“We are delighted to

launch this second building of the hotel which houses 32 deluxe rooms (two of which are designed for persons with disabilities), and soon to open three one-bedroom suites, one two bedroom VIP Suite, complemented by a VIP Lounge and Meeting Room dedicated for guests booked at the Executive Floor. Before the year ends, we are looking forward to open a roof deck bar and renovate the first building to give way to a unified modern contemporary look and to complete the dining and entertainment experience of our guests.

“More importantly, we would like to thank the Almighty for blessing this wonderful project, truly a worthwhile experience and the family’s humble contribution to the tourism industry of Davao.

We hope to continue to share our blessings in terms of livelihood and employment generation. Starting with less than 10 employees in 2010, we have risen to a manpower complement of more than 60 people as we speak.

“While we are targeting to meet the requirements for a three-star classification, we are aiming to give you five-star amenities at value for money rates. As we are embark on this next chapter of our corporate existence, we are excited to present to you these new offerings and our timeless quality of service. Home Crest was recently awarded a training grant by the Department of Tourism and ADB Canada, where we were able to send our team to relevant trainings in hotel operations in preparation for this expansion,” she said.

Home Crest, boutique hotel like no other

H

OME CREST, which started as a humble bed and breakfast facility in the home, then a three-story building with 28 rooms in 2010, has expanded its capacity to 64 rooms with the inauguration and blessing last Friday morning of its second building still on Tulip Drive just across SM City Davao at Ecoland in Matina.

A Holy Mass officiated at

by Davao City Bishop George Rimando assisted by a number of priests preceded a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by a big crowd of business associates, family friends and hotel guests.

In brief remarks, hotel general manager Beth Teves took pride in the hotel’s unique features, especially the green building practices that the company had adopted as part of its corporate social responsibility.

“We would like to commend our associates for embracing the company’s passion for innovation and excellence

and our values of team work and advocacy for green building practices, We are happy to announce that Home Crest is a member of Zero Carbon Resorts,” Ms Teves said.

“This building uses LED TVs and LED light bulbs for practically all its lighting fixtures and we “We use solar water heaters for out hot water requirements,” she said.

Home Crest is compliant with the city ordinance on rain water collection, collecting rain water for use for fire protection, gardening, cleaning and other utility needs.

Teves said water is also being condensed from the hotel’s VRF air-conditioning system and diverted to non-potable cistern tanks for its non-potable water requirements.

Acknowledging the election of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte to the presidency as a blessing to the hotel industry in Davao City, the hotelier revealed the strides of Home Crest.

“We are truly grateful to

INDANAO’S premier shopping and lifestyle destination – SM Lanang Premier – celebrates the country’s 118th Independence Day with a grand sale and activities that promote national pride and the Filipino talent.

On Sunday, June 12, 8am, SM Lanang Premier, together with all SM malls, is holding a simultaneous Flag-Raising Activity at Open Parking C. The public is invited to attend the said event.

Pinoy Fun Sale is also happening in the mall from June 10 to 12. As an Independence Day treat, shoppers can enjoy 70% off on great finds in participating tenants mallwide.

The mall is also hosting two ongoing exhibits on art and fashion until June 12.

In partnership with the Davao Watercolour Society, SM Lanang Premier is having the “Davao Flora: A Watercolour Exhibit” at the 2nd Level, Cinema hallway. The exhibit highlights the beauty and diversity of Davao flowers through watercolor paintings. Artworks are crafted by some of Davao’s top visual artists headed by the group’s President Lito Pepito along with members Vicente Aviles, Julius Panares, Lucas Ranola, Anthony Serafin, Saldy

Mascardo, Gilbert Miraflor, Omar Payumo, Alan Obeso and Daryl Descallar.

Another exhibition titled “Mindanao in Fashion” at the 2nd Level near G-Factory is placing on display traditional Filipino wear: Filipiniana with modern and interesting designs from Kultura Filipino; custom-embroidered Barongs of Architect Michael Dakudao, and various tribal wear gathered by Richard Dian Vilar, who serves at the Artistic Director of Davao’s Kaliwat Theater Collective.

Dakudao has been featured in many publications for his passion for collecting the country’s national garment.

Some of his featured Barongs were created by designer Carmela Alcantara of Crystal Seas.

Meanwhile, also showcased in the exhibit were various Mindanaoan wear of the Tausugs, Maranaos, Higaonons, T’Bolis, Tagabawa Bagobos and Matigsalogs put together by Vilar from various personal collections.

Be part of the Independence Day celebration at SM Lanang Premier. For inquiries, contact 285-0943 loc. 136138. Visit SM Lanang Premier on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for event and promo updates.

‘Mindanao in Fashion’ exhibit showcases traditional Filipino wear.

A mallgoer takes a look at a watercolor painting at the Davao Flora exhibit at SM Lanang Premier.

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NEWS 13 Davao hospital now serving halal food

T

HE Southern Philippines Medical Center, formerly the Davao Medical Center, the first and only hospital in the country with a halal-certified kitchen, is now serving halal foods.

Arturo Boncato, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Tourism, said tourists who come in the city are assured of halal food in case they need to be treated in the SPMC during their stay.

Boncato said that so far, SPMC is the only hospital beneficiary of the Philippine Halal Tourism Project.

He said the halal certificate was recently awarded to SPMC

Medical Director Dr. Leopoldo Vega and the rest of the management staff in a simple ceremony at the hospital premises.

Boncato said the awarding was witnessed by the official certifier, Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industries (HICCIP) that is accredited by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF).

He said another project the DOT is working on with SPMC is the hosting and housing of the first ever government provided hyperbaric chamber in Mindanao with groundbreaking ceremonies before the end of this month. (PNA)

DEFEATED vice gubernatorial candidate in South Cotabato has asked the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to conduct a recount of votes in one town, believing there were anomalies committed during the May 9 national and local elections.

In a petition filed before the Comelec-Manila, copies of which were released here Friday, South Cotabato Board Member Bernie Palencia, who ran for vice governor under President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s PDP-Laban, said a recount should be conducted in 10 clustered precincts in the villages of Maan, Salacafe, Dlanag and Agus in the upland town of T’boli.

Palencia said the delays in the transmission of votes from T’boli for about two days was suspected to be due to possible anomalies committed by sup-

porters and operators of his rival, Board Member Vic de Jesus.

Palencia claimed that he was ahead in the official counting when the delays of transmission of votes from T’boli 10 clustered precincts were reported.

When the results arrived at the provincial canvassing center, de Jesus’ votes suddenly overtook him.

De Jesus who was proclaimed winner along with reelectionist Gov. Daisy Avance Fuentes three days later, was ahead by 1,144 voters over Palencia.

Palencia alleged that irregularities such as pre-determined or pre-programmed election results in the Vote Counting Machines (VCM), preshaded ballots used by some of selected voters, automatic shot down of VCM, corrupted cards and vote buying. (PNA)

Defeated SoCot bets demand for recount

A

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SMELLING THE CHAMPAGNE Warriors stop Cavs, move on the brink of championship S

TEPHEN Curry slid underneath the basket, watched his layup roll into the hoop, then hopped up. He looked around at the stunned Cleveland Cavaliers bench, a silent crowd at Quicken Loans Arena and calmly slid his mouthpiece into his sock. No showboating or commentary was necessary. Curry and the Golden State Warriors made a loud enough statement with their play Friday night, defeating the Cavaliers 108-97 in Game 4 of the NBA Finals and moving one victory from closing out what could arguably be the greatest season in NBA history.

The Warriors won the first two games of the NBA Finals without getting significant contributions from their All-Star backcourt, and the woes of Curry and Klay Thompson were only magnified

in a Game 3 defeat. But after absorbing their share of criticism for failing to show up on the game’s largest stage, Curry and Thompson combined to score 63 points in what could be the final game played this season in Cleveland.

“With guys like [Curry and Thompson], you can’t keep them down forever,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “Sometimes our best offense is our defense, and we were making stops and we were able to get out and run and kind of flow into our offense.”

Game 5 is Monday in Oakland, where the Warriors have a chance to win back-to-back championships – and cap a season in which they won an NBA-record 73 games – in front of their home fans.

Curry had his game, intensity and focus questioned from almost everywhere, including his head

Wiggins out of Team Canada

A

NDREW Wiggins will not play for Canada in the Olympic qualifying tournament this July, instead preferring to spend his summer gearing up for his third season with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Wiggins said on Friday that he spent a lot of time thinking about the decision, but it was one he felt he had to make to ensure he was ready to try and help push the Wolves into the playoffs for the first time in 12 years.

“As my third NBA season approaches, I understand my increased role with the Timberwolves and dedication to the upcoming season must have my total focus,” Wiggins said in a statement issued by his agency, BDA Sports. “We are building a championship contending team, which has always been my goal. This was definitely not an easy decision and I fully support and wish Team Canada nothing but success this summer.”

Wiggins would still be eligible to participate in the Rio Games should Canada qualify in July by winning

its tournament, one of three to determine the final three places in the Olympics. But making that happen will be much more difficult without the 21-year-old star, who was one of the focal points of the Canadian team on both ends of the court.

But the decision ultimately came down to Wiggins being determined to enter the NBA season as primed as possible for new coach Tom Thibodeau, who is expected to take a demanding approach to training camp and the season.

The Timberwolves have designs on making the playoffs next season for the first time since 2004. It’s a tall order in the Western Conference, but with a young core of Wiggins, Karl-Anthony Towns, Zach LaVine and Ricky Rubio, the Wolves are optimistic.

Wiggins figures to play a central role if that is going to happen, taking on a role similar to what Jimmy Butler did for Thibodeau in Chicago — a defensive stopper on the perimeter and high usage wing that attacks the rim on the offensive end.

coach. But with a swarm of scrutiny closing in on him, Curry scored a Finals career-high 38 points, silencing anyone with doubts about him winning a unanimous MVP award. In the final seconds, he also had a verbal exchange with LeBron James that left players walking away with angry smirks.

James nearly finished with a triple double, contributing 25 points, 13 rebounds and nine assists, but he was fuming after also getting testy with Warriors All-Star forward Draymond Green. Teams that trail 3-1 in the NBA Finals are 0-32 in the series.

“Draymond just said something that I don’t agree with,” James said. “I’m all cool with the competition. I’m all fine with that, but some of the words that came out of his mouth were a little bit overboard, and being a guy with

WHO IS KING? Steph Curry stands over a fallen Lebron James.

had little influence on the outcome after he missed the previous game because of concussion protocol. Love watched the Cavaliers’ emphatic Game 3 victory from the locker room and greeted his teammates with chest

bumps and arm bars. He was cleared shortly before tip-off and Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue decided to bring his $110 million power forward off the bench, unwilling to disrupt the lineup that worked so well in the previous game.

OUT OF RIO. Steph Currry and James Harden have opted out of Team USA.

J

Harden also skipping Olympics

AMES Harden has added his name to a growing list of NBA stars passing on the Olympics.

Harden said on Friday (Saturday, Manila time) he has informed USA Basketball

T

OUT OF MANILA. Andrew Wiggins can still play in the Olympics if Canada tops the qualifying tournament in the Philippines.

pride, a guy with three kids and a family, things of that nature, some things just go overboard and that’s where he took it, and that was it.”

After three consecutive blowouts, the Warriors and Cavaliers finally provided a competitive game, but it lasted only three quarters.

Golden State took advantage of a fatigued Cavaliers team that faded toward the finish.

Kyrie Irving continued to carry the offensive load for the Cavaliers, scoring a team-high 34 points, but was often playing on an island. Tristan Thompson and J.R. Smith both contributed 10 points but neither scored in the second half.

The return of Kevin Love

SPORTS15

that he won’t play in Rio, his announcement coming just hours after Russell Westbrook pulled out. Stephen Curry also withdrew this week.

Harden played for the US

when it won gold in the 2012 Olympics and 2014 Basketball World Cup and says in a statement released by the Houston Rockets that the experiences were some of the “most meaningful personal

and professional accomplishments of my life.”

The All-Star guard did not give a reason for his decision but says he hopes to get the opportunity to play again.

fectly fine with the pro league.

“Of course, we will be hurt by it because you’ll have stars going to the program,” said Narvasa. “But it is a sacrifice that everybody is willing to take because of the nature of the objective, which is to create a strong, winnable Philippine national team.”

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) is in the process of gaining longterm commitments from top amateurs who will be tasked to fly the flag in place of PBA stars when the Fiba

World Cup qualifiers shift to a home-and-away format beginning next year.

Among the big names who are expected to sign on with the Gilas cadets program are Kiefer Ravena, Mac Belo, and Kevin Ferrer. Also being eyed is NBA D-League veteran Bobby Ray Parks.

While admitting that Ravena and Co. are bound to be the next stars in the PBA, Narvasa said he is looking forward to other less-heralded players seizing the opportunity to shine in the pro league.

“We have been wait-

ing for the likes of Ravena, Ferrer, Belo, and Parks. But that’s part of the sacrifice.

It gives way to the others.

There are others who have proven themselves in the PBA. They are doing well in the PBA but they weren’t drafted,” Narvasa said.

The Gilas cadet program also has the full support of the PBA team owners, Narvasa said.

“I know for a fact that the owners are supporting this. It’s just a matter of really sitting down with the SBP and coming up with the program,” Narvasa said.

Big names to skip PBA Draft

HE PBA admitted it will feel the brunt once members of the soon-to-be-formed Gilas cadet program skip the next rookie draft, but insisted it is a sacrifice the league is willing to take for the sake of the national team.

PBA commissioner Chito Narvasa said the expected absence from the draft of blue-chip players who will be asked to stay as amateurs under the Gilas program will definitely hurt the quality of the 2016 rookie class.

But Narvasa made it clear that the move is per-

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016 VOL. 9 ISSUE 75 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 12 - 13, 2016

Go torches 51 in superb teamup with Escandor

C

ITY MAYORS Office got a huge lift from its supporting cast to hack out a 96 – 88 victory over the PNP Selection on Thursday night at the Davao City Recreation

Center.

Christopher “Bong” Go dished out another superb performance and his shooting partner Glen Escandor and back up Waren Cloribel came out big to

rally the CMO to victory.

Escandor fired 14 points while Cloribel made 10 to backstop the sweet-shooting Go who exploded for 51 points.

The incoming spe-

cial assistant to president-elect Rodrigo Duterte nailed seven treys and converted 15 shots within the arc.

PNP played a more balance game with five

TAKING A BREAK. Basketball enthusiasts Esdevco president and CEO Glenn Escandor, Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, Sen. Manny Pacquiao and PMS head Christopher “Bong” Go.

players finished in double digits .

Randolf Arbutante led all PNP scorers with 18 points. Daniel Pumecha and Donald Concepcion had 17 and 16 respectively.

The game was close most of the time with both teams put a solid offense.

CMO managed to strike fiercely in the pay off period that stirred the PNP team.