Edge Davao 9 Issue 81 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 9 ISSUE 81 • TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 2016

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Serving a seamless society

BACK AT THE HELM. Incoming Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio takes her oath of office before Judge Emmanuel Carpio of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 16 as her husband, lawyer Mans Carpio, looks on yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

SARA SWORN IN AS DAVAO MAYOR Paolo Duterte takes oath as Davao vice mayor

By CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY

ARA Duterte-Carpio and elder brother Paolo Z. Duterte on Monday took their oaths of office as mayor and vice mayor of Davao City, respectively, and ahead of their father’s own inauguration—Rodrigo R. Duterte—as the 16th President of the Philippines. Duterte-Carpio first took her oath of office before Judge Emmanuel Carpio of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 16 at around 9 a.m. before Paolo Duterte was sworn into office by Judge Rufiino Ferraris, Jr. of RTC Branch 7 some 30 minutes later. The sibling’s mother, Eliz-

abeth Zimmerman, attended both ceremonies. But, while the young Dutertes held their oath-taking without much fanfare and away from the public, they will soon be thrust into the limelight as they are scheduled to attend the inauguration of President-elect Rodrigo R. Duterte in Malacañang on June 30. Zimmerman, Duterte’s former wife, will also join her children in flying to Manila on June 28 for the very important occasion for the family and the country. The 71-yearold Duterte is the first leader from Mindanao to occupy the nation’s highest position after

getting 16.6 million votes in the last elections and winning by a landslide. “Good luck to the President and I hope he will be of service to our countrymen, specially to the poor, and that he will serve the country with integrity and sincerity,” Zimmerman told reporters. “Yes, I will attend. Actually, I was invited. There should be an invitation,” added Zimmerman, who is fighting cancer. The 38-year-old Duterte-Carpio said they are actually not making any big preparations for the momentous event except for the dress they will wear and the travel arrangements.

Duterte-Carpio also said she does not see her playing a role in her father’s administration as she will be busy running the affairs of the city and playing mother to her two children. This will be Duterte-Carpio’s return stint as local chief executive. She first became the first lady and youngest mayor of Davao in 2010, but returned to private life after her father decided to seek the mayoral post again in 2013. As for Zimmerman, she will also be staying in Davao with her children when Duterte assumes office.

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SWORN IN. Paolo Z. Duterte takes his oath of office as vice mayor of Davao City before Judge Rufino Ferraris Jr. of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 7 yesterday. Duterte was accompanied by his family led by his mother Elizabeth, wife January and sister incoming Mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio. Lean Daval Jr.

Who will be First Lady? Rody asked to reconsider By CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY

HE question as to who will be the next president’s First Lady still has no answer. Sara Duterte-Carpio, daughter of incoming president Rodrigo R. Duterte, on Monday said she has not received any formal offer to become one and would rather not discuss the matter with the media as of the moment. “Wala ma’y istorya ana (There were no discussions about that),” said Duterte, who was sworn in as mayor of Davao City yesterday morning. Duterte-Carpio first took her oath of office before Judge Emmanuel Carpio of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 16 at around 9 a.m. Also gracing the occasion was her husband, Atty. Manases Carpio and mother Elizabeth. The 38-year-old Duter-

te-Carpio, however, said she does not see any problem if she is asked to perform a function under the incoming administration. “Kung naa sila sugo, wala man ko’y problema (If they have a task for me I don’t have a problem with it,” she said. When pressed what would be her decision if she is offered the First Lady post, Duterte-Carpio just shot back: “I will just announce it.” Elizabeth Zimmerman, Duterte’s former wife, said she also does not see herself having a role in the Duterte administration. “I don’t have any role, even the First Lady. I will stay with my children here in Davao,” she said. Duterte’s present partner is Honeylet Avanceña, with whom he has a 12-year-old daughter.

Expansion of Mt. Hamiguitan protected area sought by RDC

HE Regional Development Council in Davao region (RDC-11), on its 2nd quarterly meeting last week, agreed to submit to the Philippine Congress a legislative proposal for the expansion of the protected area of Mt. Hamiguitan Range and Wildlife Sanctuary (MHRWS). Chaired by Governor Rodolfo P. del Rosario of Davao del Norte, the council’s proposal, if approved, will extend the protected area of MHRWS to 26,652.54 hectares from the current 7,132.76 hectares. Mt. Hamiguitan was declared protected area under

the Network of Integrated Protected Area System (NIPAS) with the enactment of Republic Act 9303 in 2004. Expansion of MHRWS protected area will further enhance its wildlife protection, specifically the habitat of the Philippine Eagle and other endemic wildlife species, the RDC-11 said. Mt. Hamiguitan lies in the municipalities of San Isidro and Governor Generoso and Mati City in Davao Oriental province. It was inscribed and listed as World Heritage List by the

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Maglungsod appointment By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

AVAO City vice mayor Paolo “Pulong” Z. Duterte is asking President-elect Rodrigo R. Duterte to reconsider the appointment of labor undersecretary Joel Maglungsod. “I texted Bong Go to tell President Rody to reconsider the appointment of Joma (Joel Maglungsod),” Duterte said. The vice mayor had accused the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) of using its influence in the incoming government on the Nakashin Davao International, Inc. labor issues.

Maglungsod is a former general secretary of KMU. According to Duterte, KMU has been refusing to have a peaceful dialogue between the employees and the management of Nakashin. “I think the question now is, is the KMU willing to help the company or the business community of Davao City,” he said. Last week, Nakashin filed a company closure with the Labor Department due to the stoppage of the operation of the firm after the employees

barricaded its premises. Nakashin had hired their employees through agencies. Vice Mayor Duterte said they had tried to talk to the employees to file complaints against the agencies instead, but “the KMU won’t give in.” “They really want to kill the company,” he said. Meanwhile, KMU secretary general Karlo Olalo did not buy the idea that “a company as big as Nakashin will face bankruptcy, especially that the owners are foreigners.” Nakashin president Kei-

suke Nakao, in an earlier interview, said the employees should address their complaints to their former agencies. Last April, several employees of Nakashin staged a protest due to the lack of benefits they are receiving from the company. On the same month, the management decided to change agency after discovering that the workers always receive their salary late. Nakashin is engaged in exporting frozen fruits to Japan, Europe and other countries.

dent Benigno S. Aquino III. “Victims of these killings were farmers and Lumads. The killings were politically motivated as families and witnesses said the victims were constant targets of the state agent’s red-baiting and surveillances,” Apiag pointed out. For the period, Apiag said they were able to document 7 cases of EJKs, among the latest cases were the summary executions of Elenita Garing, 48 years old and Will Biliran aliast Ka Joel. Apiag said the two were members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who were captured by soldiers but were summarily executed, in violations to the rules of combat

and international conventions. Though they are NPA members, Apiag said they too have the right to be treated humanely as prisoners and be given their rights as guaranteed by law. KARAPATAN-SMR also reported the killings of Maria Myrna Cayag, the chairperson of the Monkayo Farmers Association who was shot last May 7 and eventually died after a month in comatose; the killing of Datu Julio Lacario, 50 years of age, a tribal chieftain of Sitio Kisapwac, Digongan, Kitaotao, Bukidnon last June 15; the case of Johnny Basilisco who was gunned down by suspected government agents in Lo-

reto, Agusan del Sur last June 6; the killing of Paul Saludaga last May 21 in Laak, Compostela Valley; and the execution of Marjun Baruer in San Isidro, Davao del Norte. Apiag also scored the government’s counter-insurgency program Oplan Bayanihan for allegedly responsible to the killings of farmers and lumads. “The so-called winning the peace campaign has left a trail of blood in Southern Mindanao with 66 people killed. It has turned state agents such as soldiers, CAFGUs and paramilitary to become judge and executioners on farmers and lumads,” KARAPATAN-SMR added.

HR group raises alarm over summary killngs By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

UMAN Rights (HR) group KARAPATAN in Southern Mindanao Region (KARAPATAN-SMR) expressed alarm over what they claimed as the rising number of extra-judicial killings (EJK) in the area. Speaking before the members of the media during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw at the SM City on Monday, June 20, Jay Apiag of KARAPATAN-SMR said they have documented cases of EJKs within the period of May until June of this year. The group suspect that government agents were behind the series of killings that took place during the end days of the administration of Presi-

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Economic‘rebalancing’ to address poverty in Phl

HE country can address poverty and inequity if it shifts from being consumption-driven and services-oriented to developing its investments, exports as well as agriculture and manufacturing sectors, an official of the incoming administration said Monday. Incoming National Economic and Development Authority director general Ernesto M. Pernia said the agricultural and industrial sectors “are rather weak in terms of performance, the reason why the economy has a low capacity to generate jobs.” “From consumption driven as a share of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) is something 2/3, too high...Rebalance from being service-driven to agriculture and manufacturing,” he noted. He said this is why development has not been felt down to the grassroots.

Pernia was addressing the country’s business leaders at the opening of the two-day “Sulong Pilipinas: Hakbang Tungo sa Kaunlaran” at the SMX Convention Center that opened on Monday (June 20). He acknowledged the country’s good macroeconomic performance under President Benigno S. Aquino III but said it failed to address poverty and inequity. “The performance of the Aquino government has been really good in macroeconomic performance. But in terms of subnational or lower level either in terms of sector distribution or sectoral breakdown of GDP, the performance has rather been uneven and not as healthy for the country to move in inducing economic growth,” he said. He added it is necessary to take investments out from

ECONOMIC AGENDA. Incoming finance secretary Carlos G. Dominguez presents to the country’s business leaders the Duterte administration’s ten-point agenda during the first day of a two-day business convenors’ conference at SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Duterte, Murad talk peace Napocor: Federalism might spur F ECONOMIC, 10

power rate hike in SPUG areas

HE National Power Corporation (Napocor) warned federalism could trigger higher power rates in Small Power Utilities Group (SPUG) areas. “The problem will lie in the universal charge for missionary electrification, right now there are two sources of revenue: electric cooperatives and the universal charge. The universal charge is collected from the entire country,” Napocor president and chief executive office Ma. Gladys Cruz-Sta. Rita said in an exclusive interview. Under federalism, she noted that the power rates of areas under SPUG power plants, located in off-grid areas, will increase. “If you slice it, the universe will be gone. So the rates will shoot up in each region...,” Sta. Rita said. The UCME is charged from all grid-connected customers through their monthly power

bills. The Napocor president cited the SPUG areas in MIMAROPA and Bangsamoro will be among those that will have higher rates. However, she said the Malampaya fund and the fund from Lake Lanao could be set to replace the subsidy. Sta. Rita stressed the true cost of generation rates in the SPUG areas could increase up to PHP12 per kilowatthour (kWh), which is double from the current payment of electric cooperatives at PHP6 per kWh. “You should be able to match that, because you can’t increase the rate right away. Perhaps little by little, so that the people will not feel it right away because it’s huge,” she added. The National Power Corporation is mandated to electrify off-grid areas through SPUG power plants and manage the watersheds of the country. (PNA)

RESIDENT-ELECT Rodrigo Duterte met with leaders of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) late Friday night to discuss peace under his administration but held a separate one-on-one meeting with MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim afterwards. Duterte met with Datu Abul Khayr Alonto of Lanao del Sur, chair of a faction of the MNLF and the MILF delegation led by chair Murad at Jacky’s Restocafe in Hotel Elena. “The group pledged their support and cooperation to the new government and (to) move forward (in) the peace process,” Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, Duterte’s Executive Assistant told MindaNews. “One-on-one sila ni Murad,” said Go, who will be incoming Special Assistant and chief of the Presidential Management Staff. President-elect Rodrigo Duterte and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chair

Al Haj Murad Ebrahim spent around 20 minutes to talk peace during a one-on-one meeting Friday night at Hotel Elena in Davao City. Photo contributed to MindaNews President-elect Rodrigo Duterte and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim spent around 20 minutes to talk peace during a oneon-one meeting Friday night at Hotel Elena in Davao City. Photo contributed to MindaNews He said the Duterte-Murad conversation, which he estimated at 20 minutes, took place after the group meeting. Go, who was in the group meeting, declined to give other details. Murad could not be reached for comment but MindaNews sources who were present said the rest of the delegation left the function room to allow the two leaders to talk but returned later to formally close the meeting. It was the first meeting between the 67-year old Murad and the 71-year old Duterte, who visited the MILF’s Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat,

Maguindanao on February 27 en route to his campaign rally in Cotabato City. Murad was out of the country then and he was received by 1st vice chair Ghazali Jaafar and members of the Central Committee. Two more attempts for a one-onone meeting before the elections did not push through. “Maganda ang nangyari. Very productive,” said a source privy to what Duterte and Murad talked about, but declined to provide details. Expectedly, the fate of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) was raised and the source said the discussion was “very positive.” The 16th Congress under the Aquino administration failed to pass the BBL that would have paved the way for the establishment of the Bangsamoro, the new autonomous political entity that would have replaced the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The BBL’s passage is crucial in the peace process as it is tied up with the decom-

missioning of MILF weapons and combatants, as well as the gradual redeployment of the military from the “former conflict areas” during the normalization phase. Earlier, Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez, Jr., Duterte’s choice for Speaker of the House of Representatives, told reporters in Manila that there was “no more need” for a BBL in view of the plan to amend the 1987 Constitution to shift to a federal system of government. “Template” Duterte during the campaign repeatedly said his administration would correct the historical injustices against the Moro people. In his February visit to the MILF’s Camp Darapanan, Duterte spoke about his plan to have the Constitution amended to allow for the shift from the Presidential system to a federal form but “if it takes time, and if only to defuse tension, in my government I will convince

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Davao to host gathering of 50 Phl women leaders By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ adlopez0920@gmail.com

WOMEN’S SUMMIT. Mary Ann Sapar (right) and Bai Ali Indayla (left) of Gabriela announced during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City on Monday the gathering of women leaders from all over the country in an event dubbed as “What Women Want: CHANGE” that is slated on June 30 in Davao City. (Alexander D. Lopez)

OMEN’S group Gabriela in Southern Mindanao (Gabriela-SMR) announced the gathering of more than 50 women leaders in country that will be hosted in Davao City this coming June 24. Women leaders Bai Ali Indayla and Mary Ann Sapar, secretary general of Gabriela-SMR told reporters during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw at the SM City on Monday that the event will focus on the crafting of women’s platform to be presented to the upcoming administration of president-elect Rodrigo Duterte. The event, dubbed as “What Women Want: CHANGE” will be participated by chapters of Gabriela from all over

the country. “Women, like the rest of the Filipino people are clamouring for change that would completely reverse the negative effects of Daang Matuwid program of the outgoing Aquino administration,” Sapar said. She added that Gabriela welcomes Duterte’s promise of change with the hope that the incoming president would include the basic demands of women in his platform of government. The gathering, Indayla pointed out will bring the agenda of women into the doorstep of Duterte administration. She said Gabriela had invited President Duterte to the event so that he will personally

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P72-M road project to boost DavSur town’s agri economy T T

HE FARM-TO-MARKET road concreting amounting to PHP72-million in a remote village here is seen to boost the town’s agricultural economic growth and production. Mayor Arthur Davin said the completion of the Bacungan Center-Tahpicong-Blasan Phase I road concreting which is a seven-kilometer stretch came in a time when farmers prepare their vast farm lands

into massive production of high-valued crops like cacao, banana, coconut, corn and rubber as rainy season sets in. Davin said it is very timely since there are also ready-toplant seedlings in a barangay-owned nursery with the technical and financial assistance from the Department of Agriculture Region 11. He said the Municipal Agriculture Office has already conducted a series of semi-

nars to farmers to teach them on proper massive planting and production of high-valued crops. Davin said the exact location of the project has been considered rebel-infested area but with its existence it will pave way for becoming a peace-haven area. He said the project was earlier identified to be covered by the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) pro-

Zambo police probe military officer’s gun slay

gram, which has been created by the Office of the President to prioritize conflict-stricken areas to benefit the road concreting projects. The PAMANA implementation is given to the regional offices of the Department of Agriculture. The Phase II of the road concreting project will connect the neighboring barangay of Malawanit which is seen to start early of next year. (PNA)

HE local police have activated a special investigation task group to conduct deep investigation over the gun slay of a military officer late Sunday in this city. Supt. Luisito Magnaye, Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) director, said the probe body, Special Task Group Tiny, is named after the nickname of the victim, Lt. Col. Cristobal Julian Paolo Perez. Perez, 46, at the time of his death, is the personnel chief of the Army’s First Infantry Division based in Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur. Initial investigation showed that Perez was repeatedly shot by riding in tandem suspects around 9:20 p.m. Sunday outside his residence in Buenbrazo Drive, Barangay Guiwan, 3.40 kilometers east

of City Hall. The police learned that Perez went out of his residence through the compound’s backdoor after receiving a phone call. The police reported that shots were heard by the victim’s family while Perez was having a conversation with the person who called him through phone. Perez was rushed to a private hospital where he expired more than an hour later while undergoing medical treatment. The Scene of the Crime Operatives (Soco) recovered four empty shells of caliber .45 pistol at the crime scene. Magnaye said they will look into all possible motives to unmask the culprits of the incident. (PNA)

Davao Sur town village to benefit from P7.9-M water system project

Davao Oriental readies for La Niña T

HE Provincial Government of Davao Oriental is gearing up in preparation for the coming of the rainy season. In an executive order recently issued by Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, all city and municipality mayors and punong barangays here in the province have been tasked to convene their respective Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils to prepare a La Niña Action Plan. “The La Niña advisory has already been issued so there is a need for preparedness,” said Governor Malayaon following the Department of Interior and Local Government’s advisory on the impending La Niña phenomenon through Memorandum Circular 201674 addressed to all chief executives, advising them to take precautionary measures.

“According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA), the current El Niño is already in its decaying stage. Meanwhile, there is a developing La Niña during the second half of 2016,” says the memorandum. In response, Gov. Malanyaon has ordered the local chief executives and officials to‘consider the clearing and reinforcement of existing natural or man-made drainage systems, including rivers and creeks, to ease out the flow of flood water away from settlement areas’. She also asked them to consider the activation of existing or construction of new rainwater catchment facilities to store rainwater for future use. She directed the officials to closely coordinate with PAG-ASA for timely weather updates and the Mines and

Geosciences Bureau (MGB) for adequate information on the threat of flooding and rainfall-induced landslides, especially in sloping and low-lying areas. Meanwhile, the Department of Education (DepEd) has been tasked to institutionalize information and education campaign and encourage schools to initiate actions for La Niña. The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), which shall act as focal office for the Provincial La Niña preparation, has already laid out its action plan. Engr. JesusaTimbang, PDRRMO Head, presented the province’s action plan during the recent joint meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council, Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council, and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and

Management Council. She listed several interventions and precautionary measures that would help lessen the impact of the La Niña through short, medium and long-term mitigation programs and preparedness. Among these interventions are the implementation of mitigating measures such as dredging of canals, clean-up drives, distillation of river beds, and improvement of drainage canals, among many others. Meanwhile, she also stressed the need to prepare the public down to the grassroots level by increasing their level of awareness, particularly on the issue of climate change. She said increased awareness, more than anything, would help reduce the risk of loss of lives and properties in times of disasters. (KLD, PIO DavOr)

is also drizzling now in Sorsogon province. Deolata said Sunday’s blast was mild and the ash spewed reached 300 meters high. This is far different from the June 10 phreatic explosion that spewed ash as high as two kilometers. The ash fell on the surrounding villages and almost 8,000 residents were affected. While this Sunday’s event registered only two quakes, the Phivolcs recorded more

than 100 jolts on June 10. Despite the relative hush, Deolata warned against any human activity or entry into the four-kilometer radius permanent danger zone. He said the volcano still poses danger to residents as a phreatic explosion may occur anytime while alert level one is raised. The Phivolcs official also warned of possible lahar flows once rains continue pouring as these would certainly bring

down old and new deposits. To be affected are barangays Cogon and Patag in Irosin and Barangay Aniog in Juban. Deolata said the most common targets of ash fall are barangays Inlagadian and Mabini in Casiguran, and Puting Sapa and Aniog in Juban town. He said there are still no evacuees in Sorsogon and that the Phivolcs continuously coordinates with the Sorsogon Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. (PNA)

Mt. Bulusan quiet after Sunday afternoon blast

T. BULUSAN calmed down anew after a seven-minute steam-driven ash explosion at 1:03 p.m. Sunday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said Monday. Resident volcanologist Crispolo Deolata said the Philvolcs recorded two quakes during the past 24-hour observation period. Aside from this, the tip of the volcano is no longer visible due to the clouds covering it. It

HE 347 households here will benefit from the newly-constructed PHP7.9-million Rural Water System Level II project. The project funded through the Department of Agrarian Reform’s flagship program which is the Mindanao Sustainable Agrarian and Agriculture Davelopment (MinSAAD). MinSAAD is a poverty alleviation project in selected marginalized areas (12 settlements) in Mindanao. It addresses poverty issues through competitive and sustainable agriculture using inclusive approach and modalities in investments that are based on value chain analysis of key agricultural commodities. According to Barangay Captain Jesus Canoy, potable water is the long-sought basic need and problem they were

requesting for from the government and that they were very happy now that it became a realization. Canoy said it is even very difficult to put up a jetmatic pump in a household in his barangay since they still have to dig deep to have a potable water source. Mayor Arthur Davin said he already knew the problem even when he was still the local chief executive in his past terms but he was just waiting for the right time to get a funding national agency. Davin said it did not matter for the local government to give over PHP1-million counterpart if only to address the problem of his constituents. The project was turned over last week with the presence of officials of the DAR-MinSAAD, municipal officials and the beneficiaries themselves. (PNA)

Pantawid Pamilya: Fulfilling dreams of‘gaspangeros’

RIOR to Pantawid Pamilya, Tarciano Sarino, 49, of Barangay Tigatto, Davao City worked as a gaspangero, a laborer who collects sand from the river and transports it by banca. Tarciano had also tried diving for coins to augment their daily income. “Lisod gyud ang among adlaw-adlaw nga kahimtang (Every day is a struggle),” he said. “Kinahanglan ko mangita og pamaagi aron naay mabutang nga pagkaon sa among lamesa kada adlaw (I had to find ways to put food on the table day after day).” In 2011, the Sarino Family became one of the family beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). “Pag-abot sa Pantawid Pamilya, nag-desisyon mi’ng

magtiayon nga mag-backyard gardening. Gitamnan namo og mais, mani, talong, kapayas, watermelon, pepino, okra ug monggo ang gamayng yuta nga gibilin sa amoang ginikanan (When Pantawid Pamilya came, we decided to start backyard gardening. Using the small lot our parents left us, we planted corn, peanuts, eggplants, papayas, watermelons, cucumbers, gumbo (okra) and mung beans),” shared Tarciano’s wife Ma. Lorena, 41. The cash grants they receive from the program are allocated solely for the school needs of their three children -Jenny-Ssel, 17, second year BS Education (English Major) at the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP) and SGPPA scholar; Marjun, 12, Grade 7 and class valedictorian; and 8-year old Kimberly, Grade 4 and constantly tops her class.

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WELCOME REMARKS. Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) president George Barcelon addresses business leaders in his welcome

speech during the opening of a two-day business convenors’ conference at SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Rody admin to bring benefits to grassroots By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HE incoming administration will make sure to trickle down economic benefits to the grassroots level, incoming finance secretary Carlos G. Dominguez assured. Dominguez, in his speech at the opening of the two-day consultation with business leaders at the SMX Convention Center Monday, said the “very good” macroeconomic numbers boasted by the Aquino administration “did not translate into a good life for all.” “The new administration will push forward the development of rural areas to generate more job opportunities in the countryside,” Dominguez added, anchoring on the 10-point socio-economic agenda presented before the members of business community during the two-day consultative economic workshop dubbed “Sulong Pilipinas.” Dominguez said this “will involve modernizing our agriculture and encouraging agribusinesses to generate higher value added products.” “Farming should no longer

be the poverty trap it has been for generations,” he said. The Marco Polo hotelier said President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s public mandate is clear. “We want a society that multiplies opportunities for its citizens,” he said. “We want a community that is caring. We want a leadership that looks after the vulnerable.” For his part, incoming socioeconomic planning secretary and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) director general Ernesto Pernia said the performance of the outgoing government “has been good on the macroeconomic level but failed on the microeconomic side.” Just like Dominguez, Pernia said the current government failed to achieve poverty reduction. He said “poverty and inequality-reducing economic growth entails major rebalancing of the economy being a consumption driven to investments and exports.”

Pernia also said there should be a shift in the direction of development in large job-generating industries like manufacturing and agriculture. These industries are capable of catering low-skilled members of the labor force in the rural areas, where the presence of better and quality jobs is scarce, he explained. The entry of investments in these two industries will be catalyzed with planned tax reform and “relaxation of Constitutional restriction on foreign ownership, except as regards land ownership, in order to attract foreign direct investment,” as identified under the 10-point agenda. Pernia said there should be further promotion of agriculture and manufacturing, while maintaining growth in the services sector. The economic team of Duterte targets to decrease employment and underemployment as well as achieve an annual decrease of 1.25 up to 1.5 percent the country’s poverty incidence.

Ambassador Jessen is expected to keynote the event that will gather key government officials, top business players, chief local executives and private sector representatives from across the region. “The participation of the ambassador during MCT launch sends a strong signal of EU’s interest to enhance trading with the Philippines, giving particular attention to high-quality products from Mindanao,” said Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, chair of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA). She added that EU-Philippines through its Trade Related Technical Assistance

Project 3 (TRTA3) supported MinDA in the development of the trademark in line with its efforts to contribute to the country’s integration into the international and regional trading and investment system. MinDA is the lead agency in the implementation of the MCT system, as part of its mandate to increase trade and investments and boost the development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Mindanao. “Once fully utilized, the MCT will give Mindanao agri-products a certain distinction in the global market

EU ambassador supports launch of Mindanao collective trademark

EAFFIRMING the European Union’s (EU) commitment to promote and expand domestic and international markets for Mindanao products, EU Ambassador to the Philippines Franz Jessen will grace the launch of the Mindanao Collective Trademark (MCT), a system designed to enhance the competitiveness of products originating from Mindanao. The MCT launch, slated for Tuesday at the Park Inn by Radisson Hotel here in the city will officially unveil the MCT logo that will become the distinct mark of quality products coming from the island-region.

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Bigger budget for infra eyed Incoming budget secretary: No underspending under Rody admin By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

NCOMING budget secretary Benjamin Diokno said public infrastructure will get a big chunk of the 2017 budget to end the chronic underspending of the outgoing administration. “We are confident that public infrastructure will get an allocation of around P800 million to P1 trillion of the P3.5 trillion budget,” Diok-

no said in a press conference for the two-day Consultative Workshop with Business Community at the SMX Davao City yesterday. The low underspending of the Aquino government in the past years drew flak from analysts. Diokno said the incoming administration has no plan of continuing some tracks of the

Tourism spending doubles in 5 years T

OURISM spending in the country has reached a new high in five years as data the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that it has increased by 8.2 percent in 2015 from 4.3 in 2010, reaching P306.6-billion for 2015. Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr. attributed this growth to the positive outlook of the industry, the harmonious public and private partnership and a good marketing campaign. DOT’s “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” slogan has been recognized worldwide, especially in social media. Jimenez said that all these efforts combined with strong government support “allowed tourism to reach the economic heights where it is today”. “The business is good, you only have to keep the momentum going,” Jimenez reiterated. The same report showed that tourism industries have generated jobs for about 4.98 million people, with the passenger transport sector having 36 percent and accommodation and food beverage sector with 34.8 percent of total employment. Foreign tourist arrivals was third among the biggest

export items of the country in 2015, giving tourism an 8.2 percent share of total exports of goods and services of the Philippines. Tourism is also third place in terms of top gross domestic product (GDP) growth generators, trailing behind real estate in second place and the trade industry in first place. Jimenez meanwhile assured that to maintain the industry’s growth, the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2016-2022 is being finalized for presentation to the current and later to the next administration for approval. He said that the plan should help sustain the strong first quarter growth in tourist arrivals and help the country meet its target of 6.5-million tourists by yearend. Data from the DOT showed that the Philippines acquired a total of 2.073 million visitors from January-April, which registered another milestone in the history of the industry by surpassing the two-millionth mark in just four months. As for receipts, the country generated PHP86.66-billion from January-April which is a 12.34 percent growth versus the PHP77.14 billion in the same period last year. (PNA)

Renewable energy has huge potential in Phl

ENEWABLE energy (RE) presents the biggest opportunity for local investment, as the Philippines prepares to move away from “dirty” coal whose external costs far outweigh its economic benefits. According to Secretary Emmanuel de Guzman of the Climate Change Commission (CCC), the country has “nothing to lose but all to gain” if it is able to shift investors away from coal to RE sources, particularly solar, wind and geothermal energy. “It is Renewable Energy (RE), not coal, which constitutes the biggest investment opportunity ever for the Philippines,” De Guzman said.

Given the range and potential magnitude of negative externalities associated with fossil fuel, De Guzman said that scaling up RE is the best and only alternative for the country to meet its energy demands and proposed contribution to international efforts to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), there are presently 20 coal-fired power plants operating across the country and 12 more are in the pipeline, which are expected to be operational by 2016 to 2020. These plants are expected to produce 4,592 megawatts, or about 42 percent of the country’s demand.

F RENEWABLE, 11

current government, like low public expenditure on development of infrastructure projects around the country. The Duterte government, he said, targets to increase infrastructure spending by five to six percent of the gross domestic product (GDP). “We need to make sure not to underspend on small and medium scale projects,”

Diokno said. Duterte’s administration will be prioritizing small projects like irrigation facilities, small water impounding facilities, farm-to-market roads and school buildings, he added. “These projects will be constructed simultaneously, not sequentially,” Diokno said. Government infrastruc-

ture projects should be brought down to areas outside Metro Manila, focusing on secondary municipalities. Diokno belives that bringing infrastructure down to the regional level will facilitate growth in the rural areas, thus achieving the targeted inclusive growth in the countryside. He said the finance de-

partment will form a monitoring team to track the project implementation of different national agencies. This was after few agencies failed to enforced infrastructure projects due to low absorptive capacity. “We will make sure these agencies will not ask for the budget for tge projects they can’t implement,” Diokno said.

VR TEST. A mall-goer tries out LG 360 virtual reality (VR) glasses at the newly-reopened LG concept store at the third level of Gaisano Mall of Davao over the weekend. LG also launched its latest flagship product, the LG G5. Lean Daval Jr.

DBM says BuB funds were not released to unqualified LGUs T

HE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) clarified today that the funds for Bottom-up Budgeting (BuB) projects in local government units (LGU) that failed to comply with the Good Financial Housekeeping requirement were not released to unqualified LGUs. This is the department’s response to reports last Saturday that the Commission on Audit (COA) has asked the DBM to explain why 133 unqualified LGUs were given more than P1.278 billion in projects under the BuB program last year. “This was an audit observation as contained in the Audit Observation Memorandum of COA dated April 27, 2016, to which the DBM responded promptly. We provided our state auditors the objective evidence to clarify that no funds were released to cities or municipalities that were non-compliant with the prescribed governance conditions under the General Provisions of the 2015 General Appropriations Act and pursuant to the Joint Memorandum Cir-

cular on the guidelines for the implementation of the BuB,” said DBM Assistant Secretary for Monitoring and Evaluation Maxine Tanya M. Hamada. “The BuB oversight agencies have consistently made it clear to implementing agencies and LGUs that LGUs that fail to comply with set governance conditions cannot receive BuB funding and implement BuB projects themselves,” Hamada added. Hamada said the DBM’s response to COA dated May 6, 2016 states that of the P1,278,156,698 funding, a total of P66,825,515 has not been released. The amount of P1,098,855,098 was released to various national government agencies for the implementation of 750 projects to be implemented in the identified LGUs in accordance with the local poverty reduction action plans (LPRAPs) submitted by beneficiary communities. The amount of P106,476,085 for the implementation of 25 projects was

released to the qualified provincial governments of the cities and municipalities that did not comply with the Good Financial Housekeeping requirement. Also, the amounts of P5 million and P1 million were released to the municipalities of San Agustin in Romblon and Candijay in Bohol, respectively, after they have complied with the Good Financial Housekeeping requirement. This is consistent with the DBM-DILG-DSWD-NAPC Joint Memorandum Circular no. 6 or the Policy Guidelines and Procedures in the Implementation of the Bottom-up Budgeting Projects for FY 2015, according to Hamada. Sections 4.3.1 to 4.3.4 of the guidelines provide that non-compliant LGUs will be given until March 2015 to comply with the BuB governance conditions. If a city or municipality fails to comply, national government agencies may release the funds to its provincial government provided that the provincial government is compliant with the Good Financial Housekeeping requirement

and the concerned Local Poverty Reduction Action Team (LPRAT) agrees to have the project implemented by the provincial government. If both the city/municipality and province are non-compliant, national government agencies may implement the projects subject to budgeting rules and the capacity of the agency to implement the projects. Hamada said the program strives to ensure that services intended for communities are delivered, even as LGUs are compelled to comply with set governance conditions. This is because BuB oversight and participating agencies are tasked to ensure the implementation of identified priority poverty reduction projects to attain the program’s objective of increasing citizens’ access to local service delivery. She also emphasized that the program is also designed to encourage LGUs to comply with governance conditions as seen in the improvement of compliance to Good Financial

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7 ENVIRONMENT EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 81 • TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 2016

Feeding millions thru biotechnology

Scientists and advocates in the Philippines continue to contend that biotechnology, if applied to agriculture will further boost agricultural production that will ensure food supply and feed millions of Filipinos. (Alexander D. Lopez)

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Philippine population is constantly growing for the past years. At a growth rate of 1.89 percent per year, the country was already named as the 12th most populated country in the world in 2014. Lately, the Population Commission (PopCom) projected the country’s number of people to explode to 104 million this year. Increase in population comes with various challenges in a country, its leadership and constituencies. Among the concerns that Filipinos must face, or have been facing for the last 20 years, is food security. Every administration, from the time of President Cory Aquino until today have promised food for the table of every Filipino family. Programs, policies and strategies have been laid down on food security measures but despite the efforts hunger still struck Filipino families and insufficiency of food supply continue to threaten Filipinos every year. The incoming administration of president-elect Rodrigo Duterte also promises enough food and hints for implementation of programs and projects in agriculture that will ensure food security. Biotechnology and the Philippine Agriculture Science experts in the country continue to contend for advanced agriculture programs that will bring increase in production. Policies crafted to fight hunger and feed millions of Filipinos, they argue, must anchor on advanced science such as Biotechnology. “Agricultural production is decreasing due to the fast conversion of farm lands into other commercial use,” said Verna Dalusong, a research specialist at the Crop Biotechnology Center of the Philippine Rice Research Institute, Department of Agriculture (DA) when interviewed by EDGE Davao. Dalusong was one of the speakers to the gathering of around 50 farmer leaders from various towns in Davao region on Friday, June 17 at the Apo View Hotel in Davao City. The event, organized by DA-11 and the J. Burgos Media Services was aimed to enhance and deepen the knowledge and understanding of farmers

on biotechnology and utilizing the same to increase farm productivity. Dalusong emphasized that seminars on biotechnology will help farmers interact and allow them to acquire ideas on science breakthroughs, trends and applications in agriculture. DA-11 regional director Remelyn Recoter also lauded the farmer leaders for devoting their time to the event, saying that the seminar “comes at the most opportune time when the whole nation is looking forward for change.” She added that in the agriculture sector, one area that has been longing for change particularly on favourable policies from the government is the Biotechnology program. “Biotechnology embodies life, skill and study,” Dalusong told the farmer leaders, emphasizing that it is a set of tools and any processes that uses living organisms to make or modify a product, improve plants, trees, animals or microorganisms for scientific purposes. She added that biotechnology, as a tool, can be applied to enhance agricultural production such as in crop and livestock improvement. In farm animals, biotechnology can be used to modify and improve animals to make products and develop microorganisms for specific agricultural use; in plants, biotechnology has in store various techniques such as to transfer beneficial traits from one plant to another. The technology can also be used in conventional breeding, induced mutation assisted breeding, tissue culture and micro propagation, molecular maker technology and genetic engineering. “Studies have already showed that biotechnology will enhance farm productivity,” Dalusong stressed. The science can help government improve the farming technologies of farmers and eventually achieve food security. “Our population is growing but we are also losing hectares of agricultural lands to other commercial purposes. Our food security is being threatened,” she added. Biotechnology has a huge potential to answer the threats of food shortage in the country as it will not only increase production but also protect farm products, she as-

Farmer leader Danilo Bulahan (right) joined the other farmer leaders in Dava region in a seminar on biotechnology that was facilitated by the Department of Agriculture and the J. Burgos Media Services, aimed to enhance the knowledge of farmers on biotechnology and update them on trends and success of science in the field of agriculture. (Alexander D. Lopez) biotechnology has provided to him and the other members of his organization in Pamacaun and the nearby towns in Davao del Norte.

Verna Dalusong, science researcher from the Crop Biotechnology Center of the Philippine Rice Research Institute lectured on Biotechnology and its role in increasing agricultural production during a seminar at the Apo View Hotel in Davao City last Friday, June 17 that was joined by farmer leaders from various towns in Davao region. (Alexander D. Lopez) serted. Biotechnology is already in the Philippines but it has not yet been fully utilized by the agriculture sector. Noel Provido, information officer of DA-11 told EDGE Davao that traditional biotechnology is already being practiced in the country such as the tissue culture. Propagation of planting materials on banana through tissue culture has already been applied by various suppliers in the country. The commercialization of BT corn has already reached thousands of farmers in the country with positive results on its utilization through increased productivity and income. Production of hybrid rice is now being practiced by farmers nationwide and have provided them good harvest and income. Danilo Bulahan, a farmer leader from Pamacaun, Asuncion town in Davao del Norte was among those who attend-

ed last Friday’s gathering. He told reporters of his gains in rice farming by utilizing advanced science techniques and the use of hybrid rice seeds. “Dali ra mataptan og sakit ang mga inbreed nga semilya. Lahi ra sa hybrid nga taas ang resistensiya ug dili na kinahanglan mogasto pa ang mag-uuma aron protektahan kini batok sa mga sakit (Inbreed rice seeds are easily infested and infected with diseases. The hybrid rice seeds have high resistance against insects and diseases. Farmers need not to spend more to protect hybrid rice seeds)”, Bulahan pointed out. He added that rice varieties produced through biotechnology are advantageous for rice farming. He also encouraged rice farmers in the region to go into biotechnology practices and embrace its principles. “Life is different now compared before,” he added, emphasizing the help that

Intensified approaches Dalusong said the country needs to intensify its approaches on Biotechnology as the need to secure food supply is fast becoming a foremost concern. There are hindrances, she said that need to be addressed in order for biotechnology to be fully implemented within the agriculture program of the government. “We lack awareness and campaigns to inform the people on biotechnology,” she said. Many are still afraid of biotechnology because of wrong information. There are also sectors in the Philippine society that continue to close their understanding on biotechnology. Given the situation, Dalusong said the government must initiate and intensify public education and advocacies on biotechnology. Not only the DA and other line agencies, the local government units (LGUs) can also play vital roles on campaigns nationwide as they are considered in the forefront of the Philippine governance. The government’s effort to boost biotechnology in the country suffered a big blow when the Supreme Court (SC) declared null and void DA’s Administrative Order No. 8 (AO8) last year. AO8 was released by the DA in 2002 that set regu-

lations on the importation, release and commercialization of agricultural products derived from the use of biotechnology. In its ruling, the SC said AO8 failed to meet the minimum requirements for safety as stipulated in Executive Order No. 514 or the National Biosafety Framework (NBF). SC’s decision also halted the field trials of biotechnology products in the country, including the BT Talong (eggplant). On March 2016, national government agencies that include DA, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) issued the Joint Memorandum Circular No.1 (JMC-01). The circular sets the rules and regulations for the research and development, handling and use, trans-boundary movement, release into environment, and management of genetically-modified plant and plant-products derived from the use of modern biotechnology. The circular has a more comprehensive definition on the rules of the DA and support agencies on biotechnology in terms of research and development, the movement, use and management of biotechnology products i the country, said Dr. Vivencio Mamaril, director of the Biotechnology Program Office of the DA. Mamaril said that JMC-01 itself is a regulatory instrument on GMOs and biotechnology but each of the government agencies involved have their respective tasks and responsibilities defined. The DA, he said is mandated to promote the well-being of farmers and rural workers and help them increase their income and improve their living conditions. The other supporting agencies will be responsible on ensuring safety on the environment, health and coordination of various programs and activities related to the promotion and use of biotechnology in the country. Anchored on the policies set by the NBF, the agencies will also work on standard precautions and risk assessments to make sure that

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EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

VOL. 9 ISSUE 81 • TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 2016

EDITORIAL

The triumph of Lebron James

N rare times when it falls, we give way to human triumph, of destiny and of challenging the odds and winning over them. Yesterday, another epic human triumph was recorded. Lebron James, for all his bashers and haters, has come of his own. He has led the Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA title after winning Game 7 in Oakland. The basketball star who stormed into the NBA straight out of St. Mary St. James High School in Ohio has achieved his dream, his very purpose of returning back to his home—win a professional sports championship for Ohio. It came over half a century after the Cleveland Browns won the National Football League title in 1964. Said James after the victory: “I’ve had the goal for two years since I came back to bring a championship to the city.” James returned to the Cavaliers in 2014 after a four-year stint with Miami that included a pair of NBA championships. When he left, he was hated so much by his own people and his hometown that they even tore and burned his images. When he came back, the people of Cleveland embraced their own prodigal son.

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“I gave it everything that I had. I poured my heart, my blood, my sweat and my tears into this game.” When the final buzzer sounded to end what was the closest game of the Finals yesterday, an emotional James dropped to the floor before he was mobbed by his teammates. James led Cleveland in the championship-clinching win with a triple-double as he recorded 27 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists en route to being named the Most Valuable Player of the NBA Finals for a third time. For James, the win not only marks his third NBA title, but it will go down as the single greatest achievement of his storied career as it fulfills his promise to deliver a title to his home state of Ohio. James’ win in Cleveland is much, much sweeter than it was in Miami. Last year, he was criticized again by bahers when he failed to deliver for the city and lost to the Warriors. This time, he would not fail. It shows that in sports, a big heart can beat any talent. And for James it pays that he already has the talent, the best there ever is in the NBA today, other than his big heart—also the biggest in any professional sport today.

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HE law is harsh but it is the law. The Comelec en banc voted 4-3 and thus bent the law on SOCE (Submission of Campaign Contribution & Expenses) in favour of presidential bet Mar Roxas and the Liberal Party when they failed to submit these required documents on deadline time. According to some legal minds, this action is impeachable because they consciously circumvented a provision of the SOCE law. The Comelec has even given the LP an extension, prefaced by the imposition of light fines only. Practically a slap on the wrist. The failure to submit the party’s SOCE on time would have punished the LP’s vice-presidential candidate Leni Robredo by preventing her from sitting as such on July 1 as expressly provided for. But the Comelec majority shoved that aside, arguing that since Robredo was elected by the people, she cannot be prevented from occupying the number two

“O

NE day we must come to see that peace is not merely a distant goal we seek, but that it is a means by which we arrive at that goal. We must pursue peaceful ends through peaceful means.” This statement, penned by Martin Luther King Jr., came to my mind with the “battle” going on in Mindanao. I have lived through this before during my high school days. Now, it’s coming back again. In search for a long, lasting peace, more and more people in Mindanao will be displaced if not killed. I am hoping that the “battle” will not escalate into a “war.” Peace is very elusive. It should be pursued with determination and truth. People who are in search for peace should be people who can be trusted and who truly believe that peace can be attained. “But I’m aware that peace cannot just be wished -- it requires a great deal of hard work, courage and persistence,” said the British-born science fiction guru, Arthur C. Clarke. We are all dreamers. And we hope that one of these days, our dream of ever lasting peace will come into fruition. John Lennon, in one of his famous songs, wished: “Imagine all the people living life in peace. You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us, and the world will live as one.” “Better than a thousand hollow words is one word that brings peace,” Buddha pointed out. But what is peace? “Peace is more precious than a piece of land,” says Egypt’s Anwar Sadat. An anonymous author puts it this way: “Peace is the marriage of the people and the planet, with all attendant vows.”

VOL. 9 ISSUE 81 • TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 2016

VANTAGE POINTS

Impeach Comelec officials highest seat SPECKS OF LIFE of the land because she had the mandate of the Filipino electorate. This argument is lame and stands on Fred C. Lumba thin ice. Why the law was conveniently relaxed by Comelec in favour of Robredo tells us that under the PNoy administration, Lady Justice’ eyes are not truly blindfolded as pictured symbolically. The Comelec action has set a bad precedent - a very, very bad one at that. I bet you, will this not embolden other politicians to violate the SOCE inasmuch as they can invoke this Comelec action if they themselves fail to meet the deadline? Mark this, from now on every candidate will not submit his/her SOCE on time

and will cite the aforementioned Comelec decision as legal basis for his/her delayed submission. Does this not therefore render the SOCE inutile and invalid? Recall that ex-Laguna Gov. ER Ejercito was disqualified and ejected from his perch when Comelec strictly applied the law because the former was discovered to have overspent? Let us suppose an ordinary aspirant for councilor failed to submit his SOCE on time. What do you think will happen to him? What then did the Comelec leadership do to our established jurisprudence? It has not only mocked it but has consciously broken a law that it should have strengthened through strict observance and obedience by the people who are covered by the particular provision. As Digong said in his campaign ad: “Obedience to the law has become almost optional.” Shouldn’t the Integrated Bar of the Phil-

ippines, the PhilConsa and other legal luminaries – the bench and bar – take the lead, examine and put this Comelec infraction under the microscope and bring the matter to the Supreme Court for interpretation so that the people are not in the dark? I don’t know about you but the Comelec just committed a gross injustice right infront of the Filipino nation, they who should be implementing the law to the letter are the very ones to break it. Someone could make a test case out of this. How about them guys who sued Grace Poe for her citizenship eligibility issue; shouldn’t they now bring this particular Comelec turnaround to the attention of the Highest Tribunal also? Well, I am certain some legal quarters are not sleeping and closing their eyes to this irregularity. The Comelec officials must be made to pay for their omission and/or commission. I hope I am not a lone voice in the wilderness. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.). God bless the Philippines.

If you have THINK ON THESE! seen the Hollywood movie, Miss Congeniality, there was one scene where beauty contestants (including Sandra Bullock) were asked to state Henrylito D. Tacio their thoughts henrytacio@gmail.com on anything. But at the end of each answer, they all had one appeal: “world peace.” Alfred Bernhard Nobel was the man who discovered dynamite. At the time of his death, he controlled factories for the manufacture of explosives in many parts of the world. However, his will provided that the major portion of his $9 million estate be set up as a fund to establish yearly prizes for merit in physics, chemistry, medicine and physiology, literature, and – yes, you’re right! – world peace. Its Asian counterpart – the Ramon Magsaysay Award – has added the word “peace” in its international understanding category. My former boss, Harold R. Watson, received the prestigious award in 1985. The Dalai Lama and Mother Teresa themselves collected the same award before they were honored with the Nobel Peace Prize. But despite all the recent initiatives, peace is elusive as ever. “Do you know what astonished me most in the world?” asked French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. “(It’s)

the inability of force to create anything. In the long run, the sword is always beaten by the spirit. Soldiers usually win battles and generals get the credit for them. You must not fight too often with one enemy, or you will teach him all your art of war. If they want peace, nations should avoid the pin-pricks that precede cannon shots.” How can peace be attained? “If you want to make peace, you don’t talk to your friends. You talk to your enemies,” Moshe Dayan advised. “Peace cannot be achieved through violence, it can only be attained through understanding,” Ralph Waldo Emerson said. Yes, war is not the solution to the problem, although war is going on in other parts of the world to attain peace. But peace can also be achieved if they lay down their arms. The Bible foresees: “They shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more” (Check Isaiah 2:4 for that). Hafast Abiola shares this idea: “Peace comes from being able to contribute the best that we have, and all that we are, toward creating a world that supports everyone. But it is also securing the space for others to contribute the best that they have and all that they are.” American President John F. Kennedy reiterated, “But peace does not rest in the charters and covenants alone. It lies in the hearts and minds of all people. So let us not rest all our hopes on parchment and on paper, let us strive to build peace, a desire for peace, a willingness to work for peace in the hearts and minds of all of our people. I believe that

we can. I believe the problems of human destiny are not beyond the reach of human beings.” “Peace, in the sense of the absence of war, is of little value to someone who is dying of hunger or cold,” the Dalai Lama claims. “It will not remove the pain of torture inflicted on a prisoner of conscience. It does not comfort those who have lost their loved ones in floods caused by senseless deforestation in a neighboring country. Peace can only last where human rights are respected, where people are fed, and where individuals and nations are free.” Will there be peace on earth soon? Judy Chicago dreams that day will come soon. “Then all that has divided us will merge. And then compassion will be wedded to power. And then softness will come to a world that is harsh and unkind. And then both men and women will be gentle. And then both women and men will be strong. And then no person will be subject to another’s will. And then all will be rich and free and varied. And then the greed of some will give way to the needs of many. And then all will share equally in the earth’s abundance. And then all will care for the sick and the weak and the old. And then all will nourish the young. And then all will cherish life’s creatures. And then all will live in harmony with each other and with the earth. And everywhere will be called Eden, once again.” Is that a wishful thinking? Well, Mahatma Gandhi declared, “It is possible to live in peace.” And Walt Whitman, in his Leaves of Grass, wrote: “Peace is always beautiful.”

War in the name of peace

10 NEWS SARA... FROM 1

If she will have time, Zimmerman said she will engage in charity works to help people with cancer. The Duterte camp had earlier announced to hold simple ceremonies when he takes his oath of office nine days from today.

The number of guests will be limited to only 150 and that fried banana and coconut juice will be served. Duterte is scheduled to take his oath before the Supreme Court (SC) Associate Justice Bienvenido Reyes at Malacañang’s Rizal Hall.

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in June 2014. Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon described Mt. Hamiguitan’s listing to UNESCO World Heritage List as “an overwhelming moment of pride and joy for Davao Oriental to advance its bid for the inscription.” Mt. Hamiguitan is also considered as one of the most important biodiversity areas in

the country with its flourishing flora and fauna; the home of the endangered Philippine Eagle; and became famous of its century-old pygmy or bonsai forests. The local government units (LGUs) of San Isidro, Governor Generoso and Mati City have already passed their respective ordinances declaring the expansion area, calling the same as “local conservation area”. ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

The group also criticised the 17 cases of arrests and illegal detentions of farmer and lumad leaders on mere suspicion of being members of NPA. “Karapatan condemns the outgoing Aquino administration for making its final strike against human rights before its term ends on June 30,” the

group added. They also called on the incoming administration of president-elect Rodrigo Duterte to investigate the killings and hold the military personnel and the outgoing Aquino administration accountable “for the blatant attacks on human rights of the poor.

On weekends, their children help out in cultivating their garden. Their humble backyard garden grew gradually that they are now able to sell fresh produce to some known local companies who advocate organic farming. They sell their produce for up to P 45 pesos per kilo. “Dako gyud kaayo og gitabang ang Pantawid Pamilya ilabi na kadtong pagsugod sa El Nino. Ang programa mao ang nag-amuma sa amoa sa panahon nga hinay ang among kita sa pagpananom (The program has greatly helped especially during the onset of El Nino. It

was the program that aided us during the lean months),” said Ma. Lorena. “Maglagot gyud ko nga naay moingon nga dole out ang Pantawid kay kung buot huna-hunaon dako gyud kaayo og gikatabang ang programa sa amoa nga nanginahanglan. (I am angered when people say that Pantawid is dole out because in reality, the program has significantly helped those in need).” The Sarino Family is one of the 306 families in Barangay Tigatto whose lives have gradually changed for the better. (DSWD)

where standards on good agricultural practices, organic farming, single origin, are given premium consideration among discerning buyers,” Antonino added. The MCT is a collective trademark that will function as a certification trademark. Certification trademarks are owned by an organization who would allow for its use by companies that comply with the rules and standards defined by the owner of that particular certification mark. A collective trademark on the other hand is used by particular members of the organization that owns it. In the case of the MCT, it aims to improve the competitiveness of the products originating from the island-region through alignment with internationally recognized Voluntary Standards (VS) which guarantee sound management practices, traceability, and sustainability. “In the global markets, where commodities converge and compete, there is a growing preference among buyers for information on their sources,” said Antonino while add-

ing “aside from scale, quality, and delivery, consumers also want to know the origin of the products that they are buying.” The introduction of the MCT system strategically fits into the Mindanao agri development agenda put forward by the economic agenda of incoming administration. Through the TRTA 3, the EU is assisting in developing and enhancing the systems and procedures of the Intellectual Property of the Philippines in the promotion, protection and registration of Geographical Indications and Collective Marks, among many others. It is a program funded by the EU in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry. In the past three years, organic products from Mindanao have been aggressively penetrating the EU market through international trade fairs and exhibits. At the 2014 Biofach Organic Fair, the world’s leading trade fair for organic food products in Nuremberg, Germany, products from Mindanao such as the organic black rice and coco sugar earned international attention.

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Expansion... FROM 2

HR... FROM 2

Pantawid... FROM 4

EU... FROM 5

PEACE TALKS. Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairman Abul Khayr Alonto says MNLF, MILF and the Bangsamoro people plan to gather the best and the brightest in their communities for a Moro convention which will

Davao... FROM 3

draft a new version of Bangsamoro Basic Law. Alonto faced the media in a news conference on Sunday evening. Lean Daval Jr.

Economic... FROM 3

receive the crafted agenda of women in the country. “We are hopeful that he will heed out our call for cooperation and unity for the sake, not only of women, but of the entire Filipino people,” she added. Women leaders in government, including those elected as Mayors, Governors and legislators; those in the academe, religious organizations and show business will also join the upcoming gathering. Appointed Secretary Judy

Taguiwalo of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), former Gabriela representatives Luz Ilagan and Liza Largoza-Maza, incumbent Gabriela representatives Emmi de Jesus and Arlene Brosas, Gabriela secretary general Joms Salvador and University of the Philippines Professor Marion Tan will provide inputs on issues on women and the Philippine society and will lay out the framework of discussions among the expected participants.

the National Capital Region to the regions and develop more cheaper renewable energy sources. He said poverty rates improved too slow between 2006 and 2012, which covered the Arroyo and Aquino administrations. The first semester poverty incidence in 2015 stood at 26.3 percent, improving only by 1.6 percentage points as compared to the same period in 2012 at 27.9 percent, Pernia said citing figures from the Philippines Sta-

tistics Authority. “In terms of poverty reduction, there are initial signs of strides in poverty reduction but very little between 2006 and 2012, where poverty went down by over 1 percentage. This is very poor of the poverty reduction,” he said. He explained that even if the country’s poverty incidence has improved, the absolute number of poor Filipinos has continued to rise because of a bigger population base. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)

Congress to pass the BBL then make it as a template for federal states.” At the Cotabato City plaza, the lone Presidential candidate from Mindanao stressed the need to correct historical injustices committed against the Moro people and vowed that under his administration, “we will try to go federalism. Yang Bagsamoro sa mapa ngayon, wag nang galawin yan. Gawin na lang nating example na makopya sa lahat. Ang mangyayari nito, uunahin ko na lang pakiusapan ko ang Congress na we will pass the BBL (The Bangsamoro on the map now, let’s not touch that anymore. Let’s make it an example for the rest to copy. I will immediately ask Congress to pass the BBL). He said he will also tell MNLF founding chair Nur Misuari “kopyahin na lang natin sila para sa Mindanao at buong Pilipinas” (let’s copy that in Mindanao and in the rest of the Philippines”). Misuari, whom Duterte considers a friend, is founding chair of the MNLF with whom government signed a Final Peace Agreement in 1996 and whose implementation has yet to be fully completed. In the last Presidential Debate in April, Duterte said “nothing will appease the Moro people if you do not give them the BBL.” Asked in a press conference at the “Malacanang of the South” in Panacan on March 31 for clarification on his campaign promise and Alvarez’ plan on the BBL, Duterte replied: “Federalism would recognize the territory you are in

now… What Alvarez meant was that we will not adopt the BBL to the exclusion of others… I’m willing to let go of the configuration now, yung boundaries nila, okay ra. But we have to reconfigure the others also. What’s sauce for the gander is sauce for the goose. Liberally construed it means kasali ka in a bigger network, yung federalism. So it will not stand out as a BBL law, it could stand out as a part of a federal set-up. Yun ang ibig sabihin. I’m sure he could not have misconstrued that thing.” The Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed by government and the MILF on March 27, 2014provides, among others, for the passage of a BBL to pave the way for the creation of a Bangsamoro. In a statement on June 11, Murad said the MILF “maintains its position that a CAB-based Bangsamoro Basic Law needs to be immediately passed into law, not only because it is part of the implementation of the signed agreements, but also because it effectively addresses the peculiarities unique to the Bangsamoro that are not necessarily found in other prospective federal states.” He also cited Duterte’s earlier statements regarding making the BBL a possible template for federalism.

Duterte administration, the BBL, the need for a unified approach among the Moro fronts, the shift to federalism, illegal drugs, kidnap-for-ransom. Alonto, who was vice chair to Misuari in the early days of the MNLF and who surfaced as MNLF chair in 2014, referred to their meeting with Duterte as a talk of brothers. “Brother talking with brother,” he said. Alonto told ABS-CBN News Channel that the Moro fronts expressed the support of the Bangsamoro people to Duterte as “true son of Mindanao and is a good brother from Mindanao.” He said they took Duterte’s victory at the polls “as a referendum” that the Filipino people are “willing to shift to the federal system of government which could very well have the Bangsamoro government fit well in that system.” Asked by ANC if Duterte gave a timeline for the passage of the BBL, Alonto replied “that will be coming from his office after his oath-taking. “ He said there will be an “all-comprehensive agreement and position to be presented by the Moro community through the leaders of the MILF and with support of the MNLF (that will be) submitted in due time.” Returning Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, who was not in Friday’s meeting because he was still on his way home from Oslo, Norway after a successful two-day informal talks with the National Democratic Front, told MindaNews on May 30 that he will conduct consultations with various sectors on the Bangsamoro peace road-

map.

Duterte... FROM 3

“Brother talking with brother” Duterte’s meeting with the group on Friday night covered a broad range of concerns such as achieving peace under the

Inclusive “It will have to be inclusive of all Moro fronts,” Dureza said, referring to the MILF and MNLF. He said he is optimistic of the outcome of the unity talks brokered by the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in 2010 which led to an agreement between the MNLF and the MILF leaders that eventually led to the creation of the Bangsamoro Coordination Forum (BCF). Only the MNLF under Alonto was represented in Friday’s meeting but the factions under Misuari, Muslimin Sema and several others, were not. Misuari’s spokesperson Randolph Parcasio told MindaNews on Saturday that Duterte was going to meet with Misuari in Sulu “in due time.” Sema told MindaNews also on Saturday that they are waiting for the OIC to convene the but “we are talking with the MILF on the issue of convergence of all signed agreements with the GPH under one autonomy law hinged on the 1976 Tripoli Agreement and 1996 Final Peace Agreement without abandoning the (MILF’s) CAB.” He said he hopes this would be tackled in the next BCF meeting. Sema had earlier proposed quadripartite talks involving the government, MNLF, MILF and the OIC “and under the present circumstance with the federalist thrust of President Duterte, the quadripartite talks will fit in well.” (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

INdulge! A stylish new Home Crest Hotel

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EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

Home Creast Hotel’s general manager, Elizabeth Teves at the hotel’s swanky new lobby.

BE IT FOR BUSINESS OR FOR LEISURE, DAVAO CITY HAS BEEN ON AN UPSWING THESE PAST FEW MONTHS THANKS TO A SURGE OF TOURIST ARRIVALS. Although the city has many international level accommodations, hotel options beyond the Davao River are limited to resort hotels that tend to be far from the action of the city. All this is changing as Durianburg’s south side just got a bit more exciting with the opening of the brand-new Home Crest Hotel along Tulip Drive in Ecoland. Stylish and modern with an impressive range of facilities, Home Crest Hotel redefines Davao’s southern living. Setting foot onto the hotel’s cavernous lobby after a day of shopping at the nearby SM City Davao or from nature tripping around the parks and resorts around the area, one feels immediately at home with One of Home Crest Hotel’s stylish deluxe rooms.

soothing neutral colors with pops of modern design and architectural elements. Just off to the side of the lobby is the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, Cena Modern Bstro, which serves Italian-American cuisine. Guests can be pampered with good food throughout the day, from a hearty buffet breakfast, to lunch, coffee, dinner, and cocktails, Cena’s offerings are casual and familiar comfort food. All 64 rooms at the Home Crest Hotel are non-smoking and feature the latest amenities every business or leisure traveller needs. Each room is equipped with an LED TV with cable channels, an in-room safe, high speed free WiFi, and a desktop USB and HDMI TV console perfect for

The Grand Ballroom is located at the sixth level is the perfect venue for weddings and events.

The private meeting room at the VIP Lounge.

Good food at Cena Modern Bistro complete the Home Creast Hotel experience.

gadgets. Guests checked into Home Crest Hotel’s Executive Suites at the hotel’s fifth level get a kingsized bed, a receiving and dining area, a bathtub, as well as access to the hotel’s VIP Lounge where guests

can relax in privacy while having afternoon tea or evening cocktails. “We only have four Executive Suites and that means the VIP Lounge is a very private and exclusive Home Crest Hotel’s meeting rooms space for guests booked are stylish and condusive for small on the fifth floor,” said gatherings

Home Crest Hotel’s general manager Elizabeth Teves, “The rooms are really ideal for weddings as couples may choose to book all the rooms on the floor for them and their entourage while keeping things private and exclusive.” Home Crest Hotel also has meeting and event facilities to suit every occasion. On the hotel’s sixth level, one can find the hotel’s Grand Ballroom which can comfortably sit 100 with a banquet setting. For smaller meetings, Home Crest also has two meeting rooms at the ground level with two additional meeting rooms to come online soon. “We have also yet to open our seventh floor rooftop area to the public,” said Elizabeth, “but once everything is in-place, the Home Crest Hotel promises to be a unique place to stay for business and leisure in Davao.”

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UP AND ABOUT

One day more of Les Miserables By Kenneth Irving Ong AFTER THE SUCCESSFUL RUN OF LES MISERABLES LAST APRIL 30 AND MAY 1, Indigent Children Educational Assistance (ICEA) Inc. in collaboration of the ICEA Performing Arts theater group will hold another evening of music and fanfare featuring the theater musical based on the novel of Victor Hugo. Aiming to raise more funds and awareness for the educational needs of the indigent children of the women inmates of the

Bureau of Jail Management and Penology located in Ma-a, Davao City. The new run of Les Miserables will feature per-

formers from the original ICEA Performing Arts group who made the first production of the show an unforgettable experience. The show will fea-

ture the vocal prowess of Liezel Sepe, Mary Claire Mosqueda, Benjamin Bautista , Daniel John Rege Bramall, Kristita Lee Patricio, and Marion

Velilla as Mr. Thenardier and Pia Mantano as Mrs. Thenardier. The new production is directed by Criztop Lacno, co-produced by Con-

chita Suarez, with associate director David Roland Tuazon, casting director Benjamin Pon Bautista, vocal harmony in-charge Jan Yael Buenavista, and theatre house in-charge Marlon Velilla. “Les Miserables A Musical Concert” returns on Saturday , July 2 at the CAP Grand Auditorium, Anda St., Davao City with a matinee show at 3:00pm and a gala show at seven in the evening. Tickets can be purchased at the Suarez Law Office at J.P. Laurel Ave., and at ICEA along University Ave., Juna Subdivision.

Globe Broadband brings wonderful surprises with premiere of Disney/Pixar’s Finding Dory

GLOBE BROADBAND BRINGS WONDERFUL SURPRISES TO CUSTOMERS in line with the much-awaited movie premiere, Disney/Pixar’s Finding Dory. As the official broadband service partner of Disney in the Philippines, Globe Broadband customers are in for a whole lot of fun with its latest events, ticket giveaways, and special prizes. Directed by Andrew Stanton and Angus McLane, Finding Dory is the highly anticipated sequel of the successful 2003 movie Finding Nemo. Now the main protagonist, Dory the forgetful blue tang fish explores her childhood through flashbacks. This eventually leads her to embark on a life-changing quest to go back home and be reunited with her parents. “Disney’s brilliant

storytelling has made most if not all, look forward to what movie they are going to premiere next. Finally after over a decade, Finding Nemo’s sequel makes its way to theatres and this gives us another opportunity to give our customers access to exciting giveaways and exclusive events. By taking that extra mile we provide our customers a more immersive

experience.” shares Martha Sazon, Globe Senior Vice President for Broadband Business. Headlining Finding Dory’s Philippine premiere is the homecoming tour of Pixar Studios Filipino sketch artist, Paul Abadilla. Making his way back home, Abadilla is conducting a by-invitation animation workshop and will be sharing his work on Finding

Dory and his experience being part of one of the most prestigious animation studios. Globe Broadband customers in Metro Manila are also entitled to join the exclusive block screenings via free movie invites when they subscribe to a broadband plan or upgrade their current subscription until June 16, 2016. New customers are eligible to get four tickets while plan upgraders get six tickets. One lucky customer will also get a chance to hold a private block screening with 50 of his friends! To join, customers simply need to catch the Finding Dory artwork on the @enjoyglobe Twitter account and retweet with the hashtag #GlobeBroadband. Participants with at least 50 likes and retweets combined are qualified for the raffle

and should stay tuned for the announcement on June 22, 2016. With speeds of up to 1 Gbps, Globe Broadband currently offers a wide range of internet services for the home. Customers can enjoy seamless internet connectivity for the family alongside free entertainment content bundled with their plans such as Spotify, HOOQ and NBA League Pass. Disney/Pixar’s Finding Dory opens in cinemas on June 16. For more information on promos and free movie invites, visit www.globe. com.ph/broadband/promos/ movie-invites. Tickets will be confirmed via the application email provided and can be claimed from Globe representatives in participating cinemas on the day of the screening.

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EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Maine Mendoza celebrates showbiz anniversary MAINE MENDOZA LOOKS BACK ON THE LAUNCH OF HER CAREER in Broadway Centrum exactly a year ago.

She recalled, “It was this time last year when I first set my foot on Broadway Centrum. June 19, 2015 was the day I auditioned for Eat Bulaga. I can still remember how nervous and timid I was as I stand in the middle of the stage, facing the camera. It’s been a year but I still wonder how I was able to survive that audition unprepared.” Maine revealed how she came unrehearsed amongst the other talents who came primed to audition for a part in Eat Bulaga. “People who tried out their luck along with me that day were all psyched-up and had everything prepared;

and then there I was, as Ma’am Jenny would describe it, “Walang kalatuy-latoy”. Those who have seen my audition video could tell that there was nothing striking in me when I stood up on that stage– aside from my big red

lips that took people’s attention–there was clearly nothing more.” Maine added that she busted out her buoyancy as a chance to get a part. She said, “I mustered an ounce of confidence to act like a crazy woman when I was asked to,

thinking that would be the only way to get a chance to pass the audition. I was able to do it but I knew I did it horribly.” Maine also disclosed that she was a bit apprehensive but she held on to hope and wished that Eat Bulaga will call her back. She also imparted the lesson of trying your best to be able to reach your goals. “I was discouraged and I already knew right there and then that I lost my chance. Still, I was holding onto this little possibility that they’d call me back, also thinking that even if they don’t, I am glad and proud that I did not let this opportunity pass me by. I went home with a smile on my face, gave myself a pat on the back and told myself “At least you tried.” Maine concluded.

Julie Anne San Jose’s new single debuts at top spot on iTunes

ASIA’S POP SWEETHEART JULIE ANNE SAN JOSE has released its newest single today, June 10, and it has already topped the Philippine songs on iTunes. Julie’s music label GMA Records announced, “Pinakabagong single ni Julie Anne San Jose na #NaririnigMoBa, no.1 kaagad sa iTunes PH Top Songs sa unang araw na naging available ito. Congrats to our Asia’s Pop Sweetheart.” ‘Naririnig Mo Ba’ is the carrier single of Julie’s third album ‘Chasing the Light.’ The song is now available for download worldwide.

Avery Paraiso encourages animal adoption ACTOR-ENDORSER AVERY PARAISO showed how caring of a heart he has when he adopted a stray dog that he and his family found outside their house. In a Facebook post, he recounted his special encounter with the malnourished askal whom they later named Raven. He went into the details of how they took her into their household and gave her special care, how they brought her to a veterinarian to facilitate recovery, and how he thinks she has been a tremendous blessing to his family. Raven whom they found at nine kilos grew to 17.4 kilos

after two months under their watchful eye. She is their fifth dog and a most welcome addition to the Paraiso family. The StarStruck season 6 avenger encouraged friends and fans to consider animal rescue or adoption. For him, not only is it a noble act but also an opportunity to gain a lifetime friend. He also shared some groups and organizations that assist interested parties: the Los Baños Advocates of Animal Welfare, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Compassion and Responsibility for Animals (CARA), and Save All Animals of Love and Light.

EIGASAI Japanese Film Fest to hold 2016 run THE EIGASAI JAPANESE FILM FESTIVAL IS COMMEMORATING 60 YEARS OF PHILIPPINESJAPAN FRIENDSHIP AND THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF JAPAN FOUNDATION, Manila (JFM) this 2016 short of EIGASAI’s twentieth year, having been established in 1997. With a host of screenings and special events, EIGASAI is sure to make this year a memorable and momentous one for Filipinos! From July 7 to August 21, audiences in Manila, Baguio, Cebu, and Davao can enjoy a melange Japanese films in the festival lineup, with several special treats in store. In celebration of EIGASAI and Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival as allied festivals, esteemed

Japanese director Masato Harada has been invited to grace audiences with discussions at the local premieres of his recent great works, period drama about women taking refuge in a temple, KAKEKOMI (2015), and historical biopic on Emperor Showa, The Emperor in August (2015), with another of his films, mother-son drama Chronicle of My Mother (2011),

also on the festival roster. Screening especially for the festival’s Asian Showcase are independent Japanese films, tale of urban relationships August in Tokyo (2014) and story of drugs and desperation Ken and Kazu (2015), with Ken and Kazu director Hiroshi Shoji making an appearance at the premiere of his film as well. With an addition to its screening venues at the provinces, EIGASAI has also extended its reach to Filipinos nationwide. Get ready to savor the festival this year! Find more information about EIGASAI can be found at www. jfmo.org.ph/audio-visual-and-film and the Japan Foundation, Manila Facebook page at www.facebook. com/jfmanila.

June 20-21, 2016

ME BEFORE YOU Emilia Clarke, Sam Claflin Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

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

FINDING DORY Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Diane Keaton Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

1:00 | 3:15 | 5:30 | 7:45 | 10:00 LFS

NOW YOU SEE ME 2 / *CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo/ *Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG/*PG

12:30 | 3:00 LFS / * 5:30 | 7:45 | 10:00 LFS

THE CONJURING 2 Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Frances O'Connor Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

R13

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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 81 • TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 2016

EVENT

PLDT, Smart unveil new logos GENSAN PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT

LEADING PHILIPPINE TELECOM AND DIGITAL SERVICES PROVIDER PLDT AND ITS MOBILE SUBSIDIARY, SMART C O M M U N I C ATIONS, welcome a new day with a fresh brand identity that reflects their desire to empower their customers who are increasingly embracing digital services in their daily lives in a ceremony at PLDT’s Davao Gym streamed live from Manila. The new logo also comes with the recent change in name of the company from “Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company” into “PLDT Inc.” to better represent the company’s current thrust to decisively shift its business to datadriven services. PLDT-Smart has embarked on a three-year digital pivot that aims to transform its networks into the country’s most data capable infrastructure delivering a growing array of compelling digital services. This year alone, the Group has allocated P43 billion for capital expenditures. Around $100 million more in capex will likely be earmarked, following the acquisition of the telecoms business of San Miguel Corp. which included the utilization of the so-called digital dividend, the 700 MHz frequency band. PLDT and its various subsidiaries such as Voyager Innovation and Talas Data Intelligence are also

DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT

developing and offering digital and financial technology services that offer the Group’s customers higher levels of efficiencies and convenience. “Rather than allow ourselves to be disrupted by new technologies, we are disrupting ourselves. We have embarked on a digital pivot to enable us to serve the increasing needs of our people’s digital lifestyle and the country’s growing digital economy,” said PLDT and Smart Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan. “We shall lead the digital revolution by embracing the smart life within the organization, pursuing digital innovations and enabling our customers to go digital in their own ways. The biggest winners will be our customers who will have a growing range of choices at their fingertips,” Pangilinan stressed.

The new logo symbolizes the powerful convergence of PLDT and Smart, combining fixed and wireless technologies to serve individual and enterprise customers. The new PLDT and Smart logo is shaped like a triangle with the three sides representing the Company’s business pillars - exceptional people, meaningful innovations, and our valuable customers. The triangle is also the symbol for Delta, the fourth letter in the Greek alphabet, which stands for “Change”. “Taken together, these three pillars create tremendous energy that will enable our customers to achieve their limitless potential. The triangle’s three sides support each other. Thus, an inherent strength flows harmoniously among the sides to

sustain the structure,” Pangilinan said. The new logo replaces the iconic 33-year old PLDT logo which was formed through a repetition of the abstract figure of the telephone receiver to complete four sides. Smart has also changed its logo.

11 COMPETITIVE EDGE Subic now key logistics hub for NL/CL industries EDGEDAVAO

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HE Subic Bay Freeport Zone is primed and ready to accommodate the increasing demands of both local and international trade by serving as the main logistics hub for business and industries in northern and central Luzon. The announcement was made by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), which highlighted the Freeport Zone’s metamorphosis into one of the nation’s strategic gateways for international and local cargo shipping and handling – capabilities seen to boost efficiencies of business enterprises in Northern and Central Luzon provinces. The Freeport is the largest in the Philippines and is supported by the Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC), a subsidiary of the International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), which operates New Container Terminals (NCT) 1 and 2. These terminals are dedicated to providing the most cost-effective logistics solutions Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

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

Case No. 2012-XI-00048 HELEN G. CABADING, Petitioner

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

for foreign and local industries and the burgeoning tourism industry. While SBMA continued to deliver seamless service as a partner in providing international cargo shipping services for multinational companies here in the region over the past years, it has recently shown eagerness in providing services to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This interest is caused by the increasing opportunities for businesses and industries to capitalize on the nation’s continuing economic growth along with various well-established locators and entrepreneurs who want to operate at a much faster, more efficient, and highly productive way. SBITC president Roberto Locsin said that, “A lot of developments are happening now in Subic that provide immense business opportunities for SMEs especially in the northern and central Luzon region. Companies looking to broaden their netRepublic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI Service

Case No. 2011-XI-00561 MATEO E. DINOPOL, Petitioner

works and connect with markets and suppliers anywhere in the country, or the world for that matter.” The opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses have the definite potential to usher in logistical improvements in the country and provide a seamless transport of goods from Subic to other parts of the country. This would then spur much higher growth and make business operations more sustainable, allowing productivity improvements and other innovative solutions. Originally, freeports were only intended to provide space to store goods in transit, but this role soon grew to include the complete conduct of trade and business both inside and outside the country. Located in Olongapo, Zambales, the Subic Freeport allows for the rapid and highly efficient transfer of a wide range of export and import products and other valuable items. It offers efficient and effective logistic services, Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI Service

Case No. 2013-XI-00642 RENWICK K. RUTAQUIO, Petitioner

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

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

Case No. 2006-XI-00437 RIZALEA S. GODELOS, Petitioner

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

NOTICE OF HEARING

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x NOTICE OF HEARING

NOTICE OF HEARING

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: SASA VIA JP LAUREL AVENUE and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on March 19, 2017. In the petition filed on June 6, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI service on the route: WITHIN DAVAO CITY to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on December 31, 2016. In the petition filed on June 7, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI service on the route: WITHIN DAVAO CITY to any point in Region XI with the use of TWO (2) units, which Certificate will expire on May 31, 2016. In the petition filed on May 31, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: SIRAWAN and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on March 20, 2017. In the petition filed on May 27, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

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

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

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JULY 4, 2016 at 10:20 a.m. at this office at the above address. At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time. This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence.-XI WITNESS TERESITA YÑIGUEZ, this 7th day Davao City.

the Honorable DELA PEÑAOfficer-In-Charge, of June 2016 at

EDGAR CRISANTO R. VIOLAN Administrative Officer V

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JULY 4, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

WITNESS TERESITA YÑIGUEZ , this 8th day Davao City.

the Honorable DELA PEÑAOfficer-In-Charge, of June 2016 at

EDGAR CRISANTO R. VIOLAN Administrative Officer V

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

storage rooms, and business solutions ranging from big-bulk item and small cargo transportation to providing access to fully-managed exclusive industrial parks. Subic’s port operator, SBITC, has terminals with a combined area of 28 hectares and an annual capacity of 600,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) or the total number of container vans ships can carry in the terminal. SBITC’s NTC-1 and 2 have a combined 11.14-hectare container yard with a very modern fleet of mobile container handling units for moving and hauling duties. Subic Freeport terminals can be accessed via the Subic-ClarkTarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and, soon, through a planned new connector and bypass road running through Bataan and into other parts of Luzon. SBMA chairman, Roberto Garcia, said that Subic’s facilities stand as the most advanced of their type in the country. Its available services give all loca-

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JULY 4, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

WITNESS TERESITA YÑIGUEZ , this 1st day Davao City.

the Honorable DELA PEÑAOfficer-In-Charge, of June 2016 at

EDGAR CRISANTO R. VIOLAN Administrative Officer V

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JULY 4, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

WITNESS the Honorable TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ, Officer-In-Charge, this 30th day of May 2016 at Davao City. EDGAR CRISANTO R. VIOLAN Administrative Officer V

tors in Asia and around world the perfect venue for exports and imports while offering dealers, institutions, SMEs, and other companies an efficient, stable, and secure location to store and trade products. Garcia stressed that, “Some of the best-known and biggest freeports like those located in Geneva, Singapore, and Luxembourg have effectively attracted investments from small, medium, and large industries through seamless logistics solutions. These are the same solutions available now in Subic and we expect more and more companies to come here to take advantage of what we can offer them.” Subic Bay Freeport has become an emerging trade hub in the Philippines with its roster of resident companies that directly ship their goods to the many different parts of the country. It also allows the export of locally-made products and the provision of logistics support to companies that export their products abroad.

Truly, this is an ideal situation not only for many well-established companies but also for SMEs that need to reliably get their products to their clients while getting access to the best supplies from around the world. “We’ve consistently provided cost-effective logistics for foreign and local industries in Central and Northern Luzon. That is necessary for the country’s competitiveness so that we can attract more foreign direct investments and propel the Philippines towards continued growth. More than that, we want to provide the necessary support to all companies in the Philippines that need access to the rest of the world,” Garcia proudly explained, adding that SBMA has been consistent in its efforts to push the participation and presence of SMEs in regional and global markets as part of the Freeport’s commitment to the goals of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) of 2015 on building inclusive growth in the region.

2nd Nationwide Federalism Conference in Davao

HIS June 25 (Saturday), various institutions from the business community, academe, media, non-government and political organizations will gather for the second nationwide conference on Federalism in Davao City. Entitled “Pursuing Federalism: A Shift from Unitary - Presidential to Federal Parliamentary Government”, this Conference will focus on the imperatives of pursuing a Federal Republic of the Philippines with a Parliamentary Government to provide feasible recommendations to the President-elect Rodrigo Duterte as he begins with his Federal advocacy. Initially held last June 10 in Taguig City, this national initiative is sponsored by the Centrist Democracy Political Institute (CDPI) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce (PCCI) in collaboration with the Members of the 2005 Consultative Commission (ConCom) presenting the Proposed Revision of the 1987

Constitution. This Conference will discuss the features of a Federal-Parliamentary System as well as on Economic Liberalization, including a Town Hall Discussion on the proposed Federal States in the Philippines. Among the renowned Federal advocates in the Philippines expected to attend are some members of the 2005 ConCom: Chairman Dr. Jose Abueva, Secretary-General and CDPI President Lito Monico Lorenzana with members Atty. Raul Lambino, Ms. Joji Ilagan-Bian, and Amb. Francis Chua, Chairperson Emeritus of PCCI. This whole-day event will run from 9:00A.M. to 4:00 P.M. in Marco Polo Hotel, Davao City which shall be attended by 50 guests. This is an exclusive event. For more information, you may contact Miss April De La Cruz, CDPI Education and Training Coordinator at +639 27 207 2016 or E-mail at april. delacruz@cdpi.asia or visit the website at www.cdpi.asia.

In contrast, the Philippines’ abundant natural supply of energy sources offers a huge potential to meet the power requirements in the country. Renewable Energy (RE) has the technological potential to contribute more than 40 percent of the country’s installed power capacity by 2020 from geothermal (8.7 percent), hydro (15.7 percent), wind and solar (14.8 percent), and biomass (3.8 percent), based on the updated National Renewable Energy Program. De Guzman said that “investing in RE is practically the same as investing for a less carbon-intensive future.” “It is high time for the government to account for the balance of payment benefits when we decide to wean off coal and rely more on renewables,” De Guzman said.

“Opportunities await the bold. We can also do no less than shield our struggling people from further harm,” he added. Coal-fired power plants are the biggest sources of manmade carbon emissions, accounting for about 35 percent of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Among the externalities that arise from the burning of coal for power generation are reduction in life expectancy, respiratory hospital admissions, congestive heart failure, and ecosystem loss and degradation. In 2012, the World Health Organization (WHO) recorded 3.7 million premature deaths from ambient air pollution and 4.3 million deaths from household air pollution. (PCOO News Release)

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WANTED 3 REPORTERS

EDGE DAVAO is in need of 3 reporters for immediate hiring. * College degree holder (Communication Arts graduate preferred, but not required) * Capable of writing English news and feature stories on business and governance * Has potentials of becoming editor * Single * Not more than 35 years old Entry pay negotiable.

Submit application letter and curriculum vitae to: Antonio M. Ajero Editor-in-Chief Edge Davao ajero_antonio@yahoo.com 09274733467

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Housekeeping from 78% in 2015 to 91% in 2016. “This shows that LGUs prefer to implement BuB projects

on their own, rather than have NGAs or provincial governments implement the projects on their behalf. They are com-

pelled to work on complying with the governance conditions to become eligible to receive the funds,” she said.

the potential adverse effects of GMOs in the environment and human health are avoided or minimized. Advocates who support biotechnology and believe that it can help feed millions of Filipinos are now seeing a clear playing field in terms of propagating biotechnology in the country through the signing of JMC-01. Mamaril and Dalusong expressed optimism that massive campaigns to promote biotechnology can now be realized. “The incoming administration must strengthen its advocacies and widen public awareness on biotechnology to reach out all sectors and inform them on the trends, success and the crucial role of advance science and technology to improve agriculture,”

Dalusong said. The agriculture agency in Davao region also vowed to do its share in raising public awareness on biotechnology. “The program has also been longing for change in narrative and in reframing debates on Biotech and GMOs to gain better public understanding and acceptance,” Director Recoter pointed out. She is also seeing opportunity despite the setback that AO8 had gone through – scientists and advocates now have the opportunity to explain Biotechnology and GMOs to the people. “Today, we seek to gain enlightenment of the said Joint Department Circular as this meeting of minds aims to achieve. We hope that his activity will spark more substantive participation from various agencies, science community

and farming organizations.” Advocating biotechnology, Recoter emphasized, is not an easy ride as those who believe in it will have to face a lot of hurdles and challenges. “In fact, those who oppose Biotech and GMOs are gaining more media mileage and public attention. Probably because casting their fear is easier than searching for truth,” she added. “After all, advocating Biotechnology is not just about being anti organic or pro-multinational. It is about taking a stand of truth-based science and evidence-based data. It is about providing farmers access to modern technologies and providing them better opportunities. It is about enabling our consumers to make informed-choices,” Recoter said.

natural fit, while smaller people will graduate towards 27.5-inch wheels. If you’re in the hunt for a bargain, a 26-inch bike is still a top option. A suspension fork helps a rider maintain control and reduces fatigue, but makes it more difficult (although not impossi-

ble) to set a bike up with front panniers. Disc brakes have 100 per cent penetration into the hardtail world. Cable-actuated versions are more backwoods-friendly than stronger but more finicky hydraulic set-ups. If you’re confident in

your mechanical skills, hydraulic discs are incredibly reliable, amazingly strong and relatively easy to service. A hardtail’s trump card is its rugged simplicity. It’s also a great place to start your mountain bike journey without having to outlay a king’s ransom.

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14 OUTDOORS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 81 • TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 2016 THE RIGHT BIKE. Choosing the right mountain bike and gear can determine whether you love your new-found pursuit or fill the shed with another set of unrealised ambitions.

How to choose the right mountain bike for you

HE YANKS WOULD like to take the credit for the invention of the mountain bike. More accurately, there was a key group of American guys who turned a misspent youth of bombing down Californian forest fire access roads in the 1970s into a commercial consideration. Off-road cycling has, in reality, been around since the bike was invented. In many ways, bikes haven’t changed much since the early days. Sure, there have been steady improvements and refinements, but no one’s been able to markedly improve on basic items such as Frenchman Paul de Vivie’s chain-derailing gear system or on John Dunlop’s pneumatic wonders. And that’s an important lesson to hang onto throughout this process; whatever it is you want to do, or wherever you want to go, simple and dependable will invariably be the best bet. Mountain biking developed from a desire to travel through nature in a low-impact way. There will always be a competitive element but the upshot of tech advances means that today you can find a bike that’ll be lighter, better-equipped, stronger and better value than ever before. Mountain biking is an egalitarian pursuit. It doesn’t matter what stage of life you’re at, mountain biking is easily accessible. Even competing against the pros is surprisingly easy to do.

What kind of mountain bike? Modern off-roaders can be divided into three broad categories: touring or cyclocross bikes, front suspended ‘hardtail’ bikes and dual suspension bikes. Within each set are subsets. Dual suspension bike types, in particular, range from whippet-light, short-travel carbon machines through to 200mm-travel mini motocrossers sans engines. There are different wheel sizes to consider. Then there’s the variety of material applications now used in bike building: chromoly steel, aluminium alloy, carbon fibre, combinations thereof...it can be a daunting task sorting the wheat from the chaff. Ask yourself a few questions and you can quickly narrow the field. First, you need to have an idea of what you want to use it for and what you expect out of it. Be realistic about your budget; good bikes aren’t cheap and there are extras to factor in, such as helmets, shoes, hydration packs and tools. The best place to buy your first bike is not the internet, either. If you’re serious about

getting the best bike for your buck, you need to find a specialist bike retailer. Chances are better than even that you’ll be coming back to them time and again for advice, spares and repairs, and if you build a good relationship early, it’ll far outweigh any savings you may make buying a bike online. By all means, do your research online. When it comes to spending serious bucks, though, we recommend explaining what you want to do to a bike shop staffer. Chances are they love bikes more than anything else, and they’ll bend over backwards to make sure you choose right.

Dual suspension mountain bike Choose if you want to go harder and faster for longer Dual-suspension bikes also come in an incredible variety of travel lengths, frame materials and spec levels. At one end is the short-travel (100mm) cross-country race bike; built light and stiff, it’s perfect for shorter, faster outings. At the other end is the 200mm-plus-travel downhill bike. Think motocrosser without the motor, and you’ll get the idea. It’s built tough and works best at 45km/h and above. Both machines are a compromise when it comes to long-distance, all-day (or even all-week) work. Enter what the bike industry is currently calling the trail bike. Rear-wheel travel numbers are in the 125mm to 160mm range, with a suspension fork set to match. Its gearing range is wide and flexible, and its large disc brake set-up is powerful and bulletproof. Frames are predominantly built from alloy in the lower-to-mid price range, while carbon fibre takes over at the upper middle through to $12,000 dream-machine territory. A trail bike essentially defines the modern mountain bike. It’s rugged, yet light; flexible and easy to ride, yet capable of conquering incredibly difficult terrain. If you can stretch your budget to the

rates on these crucial parts, while cleaning and lubing the drivetrain regularly will extend service intervals. One money-saving tip: change the chain before the more expensive cassette and chainrings wear out, and you’ll eke more life out of them. A dual-suspension bike can’t, as a rule, be fitted with racks and panniers, though there are solutions to add onbike storage if needed.

$3000 range, you’ll buy a bike that can be dragged to the end of the earth and back again. Modern suspension components are very reliable units, but more complexity equals more pain the further afield you travel from civilisation. Most suspension parts need to be

serviced once a year, while other components such as chains, gear cassettes and front chainrings should be eyeballed every six months. How fast things wear out depends entirely on how you treat them. Riding in wet, gritty conditions will accelerate wear

Touring/Cyclocross mountain bike Choose if you plan to ride long-haul A touring bike looks very much like its blood relative, the mountain bike, but is built more solidly, sports more relaxed frame geometry and is fitted with stronger brakes and lower gearing than a roadie. It’s a simple job to fit pannier racks and bags, and its 700c-sized wheels will accommodate wider, knobblier tyres for gravel roads or narrow, slick tyres for onroad work. A cyclocross bike is very much the modern iteration of the old-fashioned tourer, and it’s come back into fashion in the last couple of seasons, so there is a surprising number to choose from. Many ‘cross bikes can now be specified with disc brakes (as opposed to rim brakes). Discs are generally more powerful and require much less hand effort to slow the bike down; helpful for a fully laden run down a steep South American road! The trade-off is added complexity, particularly with the hydraulic type, and they can make the fitting of racks more difficult. Frame materials run the entire gamut of the bike building spectrum. If you’re planning a round-the-world cycle tour,

though, a chromoly steel cyclocross bike is an almost unbeatable choice. It’s far easier to find someone who can weld steel in the wilds of Pakistan, for instance, than someone who can repair a cracked carbon frame tube. The bike’s light, comfortable and a fully customised frame isn’t as expensive as you might think.

Hardtail mountain bike Choose if you’re looking for the Swiss Army knife of mountain bikes A hardtail has suspension forks up front and a traditional two-triangle frame build. It’ll also have flat bars and plenty of room in the cockpit for all body shapes and heights. It’ll be the first category you’ll come across where the wheel size conundrum will rear its head. The hardtail is a simple, rugged device that can be crafted from a variety of materials in a variety of ways to suit a multitude of uses. A bit of background: the first mountain bikes were cobbled together from bits of old beach cruisers, which used a 26inch wheel. The first production bikes sported the same size and the industry grew up using the 26-inch wheel as a standard. About a decade ago, though, a new movement towards a larger wheel gained momentum in the US. Essentially sporting the same diameter as a road bike’s wheel, the 29-inch wheeled bike (or 29er) is now a widely accepted standard. More recently, another wheel standard - the 650b or 27.5-inch - is set to make the 26-inch wheel all but extinct for the average trail rider. So what’s the difference, you ask? Without getting bogged down in the semantics of it all, there’s not a great deal in it for the average rider in terms of each wheel size’s ability. Taller people will find 29ers a more

F OUTDOORS, 13

VOL. 9 ISSUE 81 • TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 2016

Go hits 10 treys as CMO torches Goldstar

HRISTOPHER “Bong” Go dished out another impressive performance as the City Mayors Office walloped Goldstar Hardware, 118 – 95, in their basketball friendly match on Sunday night at the Davao City Recreation Center Almendras Gym. Go scored 50 points, hitting ten treys with several swishes coming from far be-

yond the arc to lead the CMO in besting the highly-fancied Goldstar side. The sweet-shooting special assistant to the incoming President Rodrigo Duterte came out too tough to contain all throughout the game with his superb shooting prowess. Goldstar put up an upright game but was just baffled by the CMO’s striking offensive

SPORTS 15

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firepower. CMO’s late rally marked with a barrage of outside shots shut the door for Goldstar which had a daunting time to defend the perimeter. Athletic-forward Jan Lumogda made 23 points as Jigger Saniel had 18 for Goldstar. Incoming party-list Congressman Mikee Romero contributed the substantial

support with 14 points for the CMO which won two games in three days. CMO edged IBP, 82 – 80, on Saturday with five players put up double digit numbers led by Go who had 27. Banking on a more balance offensive attack, CMO clinched its third straight win over the IBP. CMO leads IBP in the series 3 - 0.

Regional cage league set to unfold with ABS-CBN backing

FTER a long wait, a regional basketball league patterned after the Metropolitan Basketball Association (MBA) is set to launch in August with backing from television network ABS-CBN. Sources said that the Countrywide Basketball League (CWBL) is set to unfurl on August 7 with an initial six teams from all over the country competing in the homeand-away format that has made the MBA a big hit among fans in the nineties. LandMasters (Cebu), M. Lhuillier-Cebu, Manny Pacquiao-GenSan, Flying V-Davao, Anak ng Laguna and Mighty Sports-Bulacan will be competing in the debut season of the league to be supervised by legendary coach Joe Lipa, with lawyer Pablo De Borja as its founding commissioner. The teams will play under Fiba (amateur) rules in a double-round robin eliminations to determine the four teams that will make the playoffs. And with the home-andaway format proving to be a huge challenge financially during the MBA’s glory years, the CWBL will have the home team playing two straight games on its homecourt every Thursday and Friday, with all the games to be carried by ABS-CBN Sports and Action. “Yun ang format, dalawang sunod na araw ang laro tapos pahinga na at ensayo, then lil-

Phoenix taps Korean import

Gilas showing progress in faraway Greece P A IMPROVING. Gilas head coach Tab Baldwin with players Jayson Castro (left) and Calvin Abueva (right).

WAY from their families and loved ones, Gilas Pilipinas spent Father’s Day the way it had been doing the past one week – work and training. “Dito lang kami, practice pa rin and training,” said veteran playmaker LA Tenorio from the Gilas training camp in Kapernisi, Greece, when asked what the team did to celebrate the day when fathers – and fatherhood – are honored all over the world. The national team is in the final days of its week-long camp in the remote area in the central part of Greece where it has been holed up since last

week as it prepares for the Manila leg of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament three weeks from now. So far, Tenorio, the most veteran player in the backcourt rotation of coach Tab Baldwin, said the time spent together has made Gilas an even more cohesive unit than before. “Maganda ang improvement ng team compare nung bago kami umalis,” he noted. And that could even be enhanced once Gilas starts playing against other teams, starting with its tune-up match against Turkey in Istanbul this week, followed by a pocket

tournament in Bologna, Italy, where it competes against the host country, Canada, and Olympic-bound China. The 31-year-old Barangay Ginebra point guard observed how Gilas has been improving everyday as a team, which he expects to reach peak form in time for the July 5-10 qualifiers at the Mall of Asia Arena. “Maganda ang tinatakbo ng team. Everyday, we’re improving,” he said. “Madami na kaming na-cover na mga dapat namin iimprove.” Such is not lost in the eyes of coach Baldwin, who’s more than satisfied with what he’s been seeing at the camp the

ipat na sila sa ibang host, two straight days of games ulit the following week,” said the source. “Hindi naman mapapagod ang host team kasi two games a week lang naman eh. And it will be beneficial sa audience kasi dalawang laro agad sa lugar nila ang mapapanod nila,” he added. Unlike other leagues where there are restrictions on players, the CWBL will hold open tournaments and will allow teams to acquire as many former PBA players as possible. The teams will also be allowed to bring in Fil-foreign players provided that they possess valid Philippine passports. In fact, SPIN.ph has learned that PBA legend Kenneth Duremdes might stage a comeback in the CWBL by acting as the playing coach of the Pacquiao-GenSan team. The CWBL will hold three conferences each season. “Three conferences din yan pero unlike sa PBA, wala kaming imports sa second and third conferences, puro aksyong Pinoy ‘yan. Sana tangkilikin ng publiko ito,” said one of the organizers. “Marami tayong kababayang nangangarap na mabalik ang MBA dati. Ito na po ‘yun. And this will bring regular high level basketball to the provinces,” he added.

past few days. “The guys have been good students of the game to this point,” noted Baldwin on his Twitter account@Hob1111 as the entire team had a short meeting prior to Saturday’s practice. “Gilas boys impressive in practice. Effort and attention on point. Still much to do,” he said in an earlier tweet. “Turkey on the 21st will be more lessons for us.” As per schedule, the team will be leaving on Monday for Greece, about four to five hours away from the capital of Athens, where Gilas takes the flight out for Istanbul.

HOENIX opted to tap a Korean cager in Lee Kwan Hee as its Asian import in next month’s PBA Governors Cup. Lee was spotted during the coaching clinic of dribble-drive proponent Vance Walberg at the Kerry Sports Arena on Sunday where the Fuel Masters served as demonstration team. Head coach Ariel Vanguardia later confirmed that Lee will be reinforcing the Fuel Masters in the season-ending conference. At the same time, he also bared the franchise has linked a partnership with the Korean ballclub Seoul Samsung Thunders. “We have a long term relationship with the Samsung Thunders of the KBL (Korean

FINALLY, A TITLE IN CLEVELAND. Lebron James holds up the NBA trophy after the Cavaliers won Game 7, 93-89. Right, James blocks the shot of Steph Curry to typify his intensity on both ends.

Basketball League). We will learn a lot from them,” Vanguardia said. Listed at 6-foot-3, Lee said he is looking forward of playing in the PBA, a league which he describes as tough. “I feel blessed and really thank Phoenix team for offering an opportunity. I will play and practice hard and help the team make the playoffs. It’s a tough league and people are crazy about basketball so it is very exciting,” said Lee through his interpreter Scott Rim. As per reports, Lee is coming off a stint in the Korean military service, prompting him to take a break from his pro career in the 2014-2015 KBL. He played in the military team before returning to the Thunders last January.

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VOL. VOL.99ISSUE ISSUE81 81••TUESDAY, TUESDAY,JUNE JUNE21, 21,2016 2016

KING AGAIN

Lebron keys historic Game 7 win over Warriors

HISTORY. Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates with the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy after beating the Golden State Warriors in game seven of the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. Photo by Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports/Reuters

EBRON James p o w ered the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 93-89 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Sunday in an electrifying Game Seven to complete an improbable comeback unlike any seen before and capture their first NBA championship. With the win over the top-seeded Warriors, who celebrated a championship on Cleveland’s home court last year, the Cavaliers became the first team to rally from a 3-1 series deficit in the best-of-seven NBA Finals and win the title. “I’ve had the goal for two years since I came back to bring a championship to the city,” said an emotional James, who returned to the Cavaliers in 2014 after a four-year stint with Miami that included a pair of NBA championships. “I gave it everything that I had. I poured my heart, my blood, my sweat and my tears into this game.” When the final buzzer sounded to end what was the closest game of the Finals, an

emotional James dropped to the floor before he was mobbed by his teammates. James led Cleveland in the championship-clinching win with a triple-double as he recorded 27 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists en route to being named the Most Valuable Player of the NBA Finals for a third time. The win ends decades of heartbreak for the city of Cleveland, which had not won a professional sports championship since the 1964 Cleveland Browns of the National Football League. For James, the win not only marks his third NBA title, but it will go down as the single greatest achievement of his storied career as it fulfills his promise to deliver a title to his home state of Ohio. “I came back for a reason. I came back to bring a championship to our city,” said James, who was in tears as he wrapped his arms around the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy. “I knew what I was capable of doing. I knew what I learned in the last couple years that I was gone, and I knew I had the right ingredients and the right blueprint to help this franchise get

back to a place that we’ve never been.” The back-and-forth game lived up to its billing as it was tight throughout and included 20 lead changes while no team was able to pull ahead by more than eight points. Facing elimination in each of their previous two games, James carried the Cavs back from the brink as they became only the third team to force a Game Seven after falling behind 3-1 in the championship round. For the Warriors, who had a record 73 wins during the 82game regular season, Sunday’s defeat marked the first time since November 2013 that they have lost three consecutive games. “It wasn’t easy what we accomplished, and it’s not an easy pill to swallow what we didn’t accomplish,” said two-time league MVP Stephen Curry, who had 17 points in the loss. “So got to just take the good with the bad.” After a record smashing regular season the Warriors could not cap off the campaign with a second successive title, unable to deliver the knockout punch after going up 3-1 in the best-of-season series.