VOL. 9 ISSUE 87 • TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2016 FAREWELL MESSAGE. Incoming President Rodrigo R. Duterte bids City Hall personnel farewell during yesterday’s flag-hoisting ceremony. Duterte was Davao City’s mayor for 22 years. Lean Daval Jr.
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EARLY CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR WORKERS
Rody announces release of educational aid for City Hall employees By CHENEEN R. CAPON
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RESIDENT-ELECT Rodrigo R. Duterte on Monday gave Davao City employees their last Christmas gift albeit too early before taking his oath on June 30 as the 16th President of the Philippines. “I’d like to end this by just making you a little bit happy,” Duterte said in his farewell message as mayor during the regular flag-raising ceremony at City Hall. “Plantilla (employees) will receive P10,000 worth of educational assistance,” Duterte added to the delight of the government workers
who braved the scorching heart of the sun to hear their mayor speak for the last time before assuming his post as president. Duterte served as mayor of Davao City for 22 years before seeking the country’s highest post. A total of 2,487 plantilla employees of the city government will each receive P10,000 educational assistance, while more than 10,000 job order and contract of service workers will get P4,000 apiece. Members of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO)
and Task Force Davao (TFD) will also receive cash assistance from the city government, Duterte said. Meanwhile, Erwin Alparaque, head of Human Resource and Management Office (HRMO), said the budget for the educational fund will be sourced from the salary savings drawn from personnel services. Alparaque said the Local Finance Committee (LFC) issued a memorandum two weeks ago allowing the release of funding for educational assistance for city government work-
ers. Outgoing city administrator Atty. Jesus Melchor V. Quitain said the assistance will be released anytime soon. “We have the money,” Quitain, who will join Duterte in the Malacañang, told reporters at the sidelines during the flag-raising ceremonies. Quitain, who received plaque of appreciation together with incoming chief executive assistant Christopher “Bong”Go yesterday, has been serving Davao City for 15 years.
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VOL. 9 ISSUE 87 • TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2016
RECOGNITION. Incoming President Rodrigo R. Duterte gives plaque of recognition to outgoing City Administrator lawyer Melchor Quitain (left photo) and to his former executive assistant now Presidential Management Staff secretary Christopher Lawrence Go during yesterday’s flag-hoisting ceremony. Lean Daval Jr.
Duterte call critics dumb By CHENEEN R. CAPON
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FUMING President-elect Rodrigo R. Duterte on Monday said he is bent on strictly implementing the 10 p.m. curfew for minors nationwide, but admitted he is not yet decided whether to bring the liquor ban to a national scale. “The curfew will be strictly implemented nationwide,” Duterte announced during yesterday’s flag raising ceremony in front of the Davao City Hall. The outgoing mayor of
Davao city also ordered for the arrest of parents who allowed their children wandered the streets beyond allowable time. “You can arrest the parents for abandonment and exposing their child to danger,” he said. “That is how the government wants to protect its children.” The incoming president also lambasted human right advocates and lawmakers criticizing the implementation of the curfew, describing them as dumb.
“Paano magiging human right violation na you protect the country by controlling the movements at night and that’s human rights violation?” Duterte asked. “When you take children into custody a child or children, we are not on the process of arresting. We are taking into custody the child to protect him from harm,” Duterte added to the cheers of the employees of the City Government of Davao. He said the Commission
on Human Rights should focus on violations committed against innocent victims. It can be recalled that Duterte ordered the arrest the parents of some minors in the city last year. The 71-year old president said there is already a law, it only needs enforcement. Duterte said he won the support of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) because of his advocacy to protect minors who are left behind by their working parents.
surance that there would be an efficient medical support as they explore the depths of the diving sites. The DOT press briefer said hyperbaric chambers are airtight-encased devices used for treating decompression sickness and other dive-related conditions arising from exposure to different mixture of pure oxygen and natural air at different atmospheric pressures. “The Hyperbaric Chamber System is very important in treating scuba divers who are suffering from decompression sickness, a condition arising from dissolved gases coming out of solution into bubbles inside a depressurization,” it said. It explained that the bubbles can be formed inside and move to any part of the body, causing pain in the joints, rashes, paralysis, or death. Alabado said that when the construction is finished in four months or by October, they can finally market Samal
Island as one of the best sites for microphotography, which is done taking detailed shots of the tiny underwater critters and corals. Samal, he said, is a potential for microphotography. We can finally market it as one of the best sites for microphotography,” he said. Robert Teo, director of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) said they have procured since last year four hyperbaric chambers that have already been delivered to Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Batangas, Bohol, and Cebu. The still functioning hyperbaric chamber in Cebu will be transferred here once the construction of P2.5 million building at the SPMC compound is completed, he said. “When we market diving as a tourist activity, there is a requirement because diving can be dangerous if improper procedures are made. We are going to lessen the risks by having an equipment such as
this chamber. Our tourists will be assured that they are in safe hands,” Tourism assistant secretary Art Boncato Jr. said. He added the facility can also help the SPMC boost medical operations as they can use it to treat patients suffering from major wounds caused by diabetes and radiation injury due to its high pressure and high oxygen content which accelerates the healing. “In a hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the air pressure is increased to three times higher than normal air pressure. Under these conditions, your lungs can gather more oxygen than would be possible breathing pure oxygen at normal air pressure. Your blood carries oxygen throughout your body. This helps fight bacteria and stimulate the release of substances called growth factors and stem cells, which promote healing,” the DOT press briefer added. Dr. Leopoldo Vega, SPMC
Mindanao’s first Hyperbaric Chamber facility up by October
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INDANAO’S first Hyperbaric Chamber facility will rise by October this year at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), a move that will strengthen the Davao region’s position as a premier diving destination in the Philippines, the regional tourism director said. At the sidelines of the groundbreaking rites on Saturday for the one-floor building behind the Mindanao Heart Center, Robert Alabado, regional director of the Department of Tourism (DOT) told Mindanews that the absence of this facility is one of the deterrents why they could not fully promote the diving sites off the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS). He said safety is a primary consideration of tour operators, most especially from the neighboring countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). He said the hyperbaric chamber will give divers as-
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NPA rebels to continue running after drug lords By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA
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HE operations of the New People’s Army (NPA) against drug lords in the country will continue despite the resumption of the peace talks said the spokesperson of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Fidel Agcaoili. Agcaoili said that the NPA has already declared their support for President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s advocacy against drugs and criminality. “The NPA has already said that they support the advocacy of Digong to run after the drug lords and the NPA will support him,” Agcaoili said. Even with the resumption of the peace talks the NPA will
continue to run after criminals and drug lords and criminal elements, according to him. Agcaoili however, said that Duterte refused to fetch their lone Prisoner of War (POW), Police Chief Inspector Arnold Ongachen. Ongachen was the chief of police of Governor Generoso Provincial Police Office in Davao Oriental when the NPA attacked the station on May 29. The communist rebels took Ongachen following allegations that he has been protecting drug peddlers in the province. Meanwhile, Agcaoili said
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Rody: Mayors involved in illegal drugs can’t choose police chief
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OCAL chief executives with links to the illegal drugs business cannot pick their chief of police, President-elect Rodrigo Duterte said. Duterte said he would ask for the amendment of the law giving mayors the operational supervision and control of the police. “I will not assign to you a chief of police of your choice. I would even amend that law… sila sila mismo naglalaro diyan (they are the ones playing there),” Duterte said. Republic Act 8551, an act establishing the Philippines National Police under a re-organized Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) gives the mayors the power to direct employment and deployment of units or el-
ements of the PNP through the station commander. The same law also gives local chief executives the authority to choose the chief of police from a list of five eligible recommended by the provincial police director, preferably from the same province, city or municipality. Without mentioning names, Duterte revealed there are around 30 to 35 mayors who are players in the illegal drugs trade. Duterte said he would assign police officers that would look into the drug activities of local chief executives. “We will not be able to improve this country…let us put a stop to this play,” he told police during the turnover of command at the Davao City Police
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VOL. 9 ISSUE 87 • TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2016
EDGEDAVAO
NEWS 3
VM Duterte goes ballistic vs Aquino By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA
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HE ELDEST son of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte went ballistic against President Aquino, calling him an oligarch and posting his tirades on social media days before his father takes his oath as the 16th President of the Philippines. “PNoy warns Filipinos of the looming dictatorship
of the incoming administration, saying that the Philippines do not deserve another strongman to lead the country,” Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Z. “Pulong” Duterte said in a scathing message he posted on his Facebook page. “Remember he is an oligarch. He and his kin ran this country like it’s
145 pushers, users yield
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T LEAST 145 self-confessed illegal drug pushers and users, including five minors, from two villages here surrendered voluntarily to authorities over the weekend and vowed to lead transformed lives. The drug personalities, which are all residents of Barangays Fatima and Labangal, yielded in response to calls made by local and police officials in line with the upcoming intensified campaign against illegal drugs of President-elect Rodrigo R. Duterte. Sr. Insp. Ryan Jay Capurcos, chief of the Fatima or City Police Station 7, said the professed drug pushers and users in his area mainly surrendered through the efforts of Barangay Fatima officials and their relatives. He said they earlier launched special Project Dute-
rte in coordination with barangay officials in a bid to address the problem on the proliferation of illegal drugs in the area. The police official said a total of 95 personalities showed up on Saturday at the barangay gymnasium to sign undertakings, committing or pledging to turn from their illegal activities. “This is a good start for the program and we’re expecting the surrender of more personalities in the coming days,” he said. Capurcos clarified that the involved personalities, which included those under the city police’s drug watch list, were not arrested but given another chance to transform their lives. He said those who figured in their drug watch list will remain and continually be subjected to monitoring.
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theirs at the expense of the marginalized and the poor. They ran it like dictators in the shadows of democracy,” he added. The younger Duterte said Aquino had been the incoming president, warning the people of a looming dictatorship under his father’s administration. The vice mayor said the
time has come for him to voice out and defend his father since Aquino has kept hitting the mayor. He said that indeed there will be a dictatorship under his father’s term. “A dictatorship of the people, the ordinary Filipinos. The oppressed. We will seize this country back from the oligarchs, the powerful
AGRI TALK. Incoming Department of Agriculture (DA) secretary Emmanuel Piñol (left) cites water management as the prime problem of the country’s agriculture and adds that DA personnel should focus on how to increase the
few. It is time. It is our time,” Duterte said. He also put to task Aquino for his silence over the Mamasapano carnage that killed 44 Special Action Force (SAF) commandos, and the Yolanda incident in Eastern Samar where, he said, the outgoing President did nothing but had photo opportunities with the peo-
ple.
During the campaign period, Aquino, in his speeches in Ilo-ilo and Digos City, kept on saying that he will fight against the looming dictatorship under Duterte. He said that after his father was killed, he could not stand that nothing will change and that he took a stand against Martial Law.
slumping rice production. Piñol, together with Reynaldo Go of the Davao Region Coconut Industry Cluster, Inc. (DRCICI), was among the guests of yesterday’s KapehansaDabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.
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VOL. 9 ISSUE 87 • TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2016
Continuing father’s legacy
AGR vows transformational politics in Davao del Norte Newly-elected Governor Anthony del Rosario vows to continue his father’s legacy, particularly transformative leadership that propelled Davao del Norte to become a premier province today. Noel Baguio/DavNor PIO
NDFP raises concern on security of Joma’s return By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ
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adlopez0920@gmail.com
HE National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) is still considering the security of Jose Maria Sison of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) as a major hindrance into his much-talked return to the country. Speaking before the members of the media during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw in SM City on Monday, NDFP spokesperson Fidel Agcaoili said security concerns for Sison, once he steps outside of Europe could no longer be guaranteed even by the government. “We always presume that there will be problems on security if Sison goes home and this cannot be guaranteed,” Agcaoili pointed out. He cited the problems of the spoilers to the peace talks which he reiterated as the constant threat not only to the security of Sison but also to the outcome of the peace negotiations between the government and the NDFP. “These spoilers don’t want the peace talks between the government and the NDF to continue,” Agcaoili said.
So far, the biggest spoiler to the peace negotiation is the United States (US), he emphasized, given that the US government has reiterated its declaration on CPP including its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA) as a terrorist organization. Agcaoili said that the Philippine government before had requested for the inclusion of the CPP-NPA into the list of terrorist organizations in the US and Europe. Sison at present has a refugee status in the Netherlands and that he is protected under Article 3 of the European Human Rights Convention. “This means that he cannot be forced or brought back to Philippines because he has a legitimate fear of persecution. His protection under Article 3 will be lifted once he goes out of the European territory. So anytime, once in the Philippines, he can be arrested or persecuted,” he stressed. He reiterated that the government will have to follow certain diplomatic procedures to lift the listing of CPP-NPA as terrorist organization which
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GOODWILL. NDFP spokesperson Fidel Agcaoili (left) and consultant Randall Ehanis reiterated during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City on Monday that declaration of unilateral ceasefire will manifest goodwill
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EWLY-ELECTED Governor Anthony del Rosario pledged to keep the transformative leadership that his predecessor instituted in the province of Davao del Norte. Del Rosario led the mass oath-taking of the newly-elected provincial officials in a fitting ceremony on Monday at the RDR Gym and Cultural Center, Mankilam, Tagum City. In his inaugural address, the new governor said he will continue the reforms in governance that his father, outgoing Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario started, as he set a clear direction to take the province into its new heights. The young del Rosario
He generously paid homage to the towering accomplishments of the exiting governor that brought Davao del Norte “to where it is today - a premier province ready to take on the challenges of an interlinking and symbiotic world.” The former top-performing lawmaker said his sweeping victory as the new governor is a tell-tale sign of the people’s approval for the continuity of the transformative leadership that the older del Rosario espoused. “The overwhelming mandate that I received demonstrated the people’s drive to preserve good governance,” he beamed. He promised to use the golden opportunity that is
Executive Judge Virginia Tehano-Ang administers the oath of Governor Anthony del Rosario, as the 6th governor of the Province of Davao del Norte. Joining him are his wife Ainna, father, former Gov. Rodolfo del
given him to serve his people well. “Uplifting the lives of every Dabaonon is and will always be my top priority in governance,” he stressed. The new governor revealed his B.E.S.T. P.E.O.P.L.E. development agenda, aimed at preparing the people, resources and institutions of the province for the opportunities and challenges of an increasingly globalized world. The expanded human development agenda is spelled out as: Balanced ecology; Enhanced agri-aquaculture; Sustainable tourism; Transformative leadership; People empowerment; Education; Optimum health and social services; Public-private partnership; Link to the world;
Employment and livelihood opportunities. He also assured the mettle of his officialdom in “actively supporting and sharing in the new president’s socio-economic agenda, proposed shift to a federal republic, as well as, his campaign against drugs, criminality and corruption,” The inaugural, which was administered by Executive Judge Virginia Tehano-Ang, preceded the opening salvo of the Kadagayaan Festival 2016, in celebration of the 49th Araw ng Davao del Norte. The provincial officials will formally assume their office at noontime of June 30, 2016 as mandated by law. By Noel Baguio
Rosario, mother Inday, Board Member Rodney del Rosario and 2nd District Congressman Antonio del Rosario, Jr., among other family members. Noel Baguio/DavNor PIO
Incoming President, believer in one God P RESIDENT-ELECT Rodrigo Duterte bade farewell to Davao City Hall officials and employees during their usual flag-raising ceremony Monday morning, stressing at the last part
of his speech that he is a believer in “one God.” He said he is not more a believer of saints, adding the Catholic Church has about 5,000 saints. In jest he said, he does
between them and the government to pursue peace negotiations to end the long-time armed conflicts in the Philippines. (Alexander D. Lopez)
not know really who are the saints and their lives, and for these it would be hard for him to believe in them. “I believe on one God, Allah period. Only one God ako,” he said. It was Duterte’s last appearance as mayor of the city that he has served since 1986, first as appointed OIC (officer in charge) vice mayor. He first got elected mayor in 1988. Since then, he never lost an election. He got elected seven times (1988,1992, 1995, 2001, 2004, 2007 and 2013 as mayor, one term as congressman (1998), one term as vice mayor (2010) and now President of the Philippines (2016). On the same occasion, he also expressed once his determination to get rid of illegal drugs and corruption and his fear that narco politics would firmly take control of the country even as he warned again druglords and criminals including the colonos who despite being in prison are still doing their criminal activities. “I’m harsh to the criminals and I’m strict to the
wrong doers. I’ll protect especially those who are hopeless, helpless and defenseless,” Duterte added. As his last act of giving benefits to employes who did a good job, he ordered the city treasurer’s office to release P10,000 education assistance for each City Hall employee. He thanked his fellow government workers, saying that he appreciated so much their fidelity, trust and brotherly love to him since he was first elected into public office in 1988. “Without the backing of the military and the police and kayo, I would not have succeeded,” he said, thanking the visibly elated and euphoric employees trooping below the footsteps of the main City Hall building that leads to the mayor’s office. He also gave plaques of commendation to outgoing City Administrator. lawyer J. Melchor V. Quitain and his longtime executive assistant Christopher “Bong” Go. Both will go with Duterte in Malacanang.
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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 87 • TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2016
EDITORIAL
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What to do with a favorable judgment
HE arbitral judgment will finally be laid down on the disputed South China Sea. Unfortunately for President Benigno Aquino, the one most interested to know the verdict, he would have stepped down from office by then. The Aquino strategy—going to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) deciding the South China Sea disputes, is inching closer to a moment of truth. An arbitral tribunal, formed under the aegis of the UNCLOS, is set to pass a final judgment on the ongoing maritime spats between China and the Philippines. The dispute was laid on the legal table b the Philippines to set the records straight on the coveted territory. Under UNCLOS, a team of impartial, top-caliber legal experts will officially weigh on the validity of China’s expansive claims and growing footprint across arguably the world’s most important waterway. According to analysts, what is at stake is preventing China from fulfilling a Seldenian Closed Sea (Mare clausum) in favor of preserving a Grotian Free Sea (Mare Liberum) at the heart of the Western Pacific. However, the UNCLOS decision could be inconsequential in the
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face of the changes in the political landscape of the Philippines. Aquino is out and in comes President Rodrigo Duterte who has een consistent thus far in declaring that he will not go to war against China and will instead open the doors for renewed talks. For whatever its worth, it is ultimately up to Duterte to decide on what to do with a likely favorable arbitration outcome. Duterte has also expressed doubts on what to do with the Philippines’ arbitration case against China who does not recognize the jurisdiction of UNCLOS to oversee the disputes. In short, whatever is the decision of the UNCLOS will not affect its claim. Now with the encouraging exchanges with the incoming administration, China is looking forward to Duterte dropping the arbitration case as a sign of goodwill. China has already expressed interest in pouring in new investments and economic opportunities in the country, expectedly in exchange of the dropping of the case or ignoring the arbitral judgment. Expect that as a payoff, which, like a chess game, should be appreciated on the long-term effect of such an arrangement to both countries.
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VOL. 9 ISSUE 87 • TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2016
The Blue Economy as resource
N a briefing before the Makati business club last week the newly appointed Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia provided a fresh perspective on the Philippine economy by talking about the blue economy, which covers our vast marine territories that by value and area are 70% of the nations territory, leaving only 30% land based. However, historically, many of our Manila-based businesses rely on these limited land resources to develop their enterprises. Perhaps it is time to follow the Southern lead and wisely utilize our marine resources, including tourism, transport, mariculture and even sea based energy potentials, all of which fall under the Blue Economy. According to the UP Marine Science Institute, about 1 trillion pesos is the worth of this economy. Imagine the potential enterprises and jobs created for many in the Visayas and Mindanao who obtain their livelihood from the sea. Pernia’s announcement is giving it the hope
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AITH is universal. Our specific methods for understanding it are arbitrary. Some of us pray to Jesus, some of us go to Mecca; some of us study subatomic particles. In the end we are all just searching for truth, that which is greater than ourselves.” ― Dan Brown in Angels & Demons
*** I am not sure if you heard this story before but allow me to share it again: It was almost dark when an atheist fell over a steep cliff. Halfway down, he caught onto the single bush growing out of the hillside. He hung on for dear life. He could not possibly get back to the top. A hundred feet below was a heap of rocks. In desperation, he turned his face toward heaven and shouted, “If there is a God, save me.” A thunderous voice then replied, “If you really believe in God, let go.”
The atheist looked up, then looked down, and lost his nerve. “Is there anyone else up there?” he screamed. In Eat, Pray, Love, Elizabeth Gilbert wrote: “There’s a reason we refer to ‘leaps of faith’ -- because the decision to consent to any notion of divinity is a mighty jump from the rational over to the unknowable, and I don’t care how diligently scholars of every religion will try to sit you down with their stacks of books and prove to you through scripture that their faith is indeed rational; it isn’t. “If faith were rational, it wouldn’t be - by definition - faith,” she continued.
it deserves MY TWO CENTS’ to inspire among many in the country, especially the Southern regions. Moreover, it being an income generating resource gives John Tria us an incenecisouth@gmail.com tive to protect these resources against marine pollution, unfair and illegal occupation and settlement, even from encroachment and abuse by other countries. The Scarborough and Panatag Shoals, and the Kalayaan group of islands come to mind as possible flashpoints in case the blue economy in these parts are pushed. We cannot use, sail, dive, snorkel, frolic or take food out of the seas if we do not nurture, en-
hance and protect them from polluters, poachers and illegal occupants. Perhaps a revamped Department of Environment Natural Resources and Coast Guard can better harness the blue economy? Maybe we need to remake this agency by strengthening its nurturing function as a way to facilitate investments. Imagine enterprises in carageenan, pearls, and the minerals and energy sources hidden n the Benham Rise? The appointment of Gina Lopez as DENR Secretary is welcomed by environmentalists to fight against pollution and environmental abuse, given her background as a defender of the environment. While her drive to do so will be good for the Blue Economy, this, however, asks us to pause and think about the other function of the DENR, which is to achieve the balanced utilization of our resources for the people’s benefit. Agroforestry, responsible mining and other natural resource industries are, like agriculture, an employer and livelihood of
many in the rural areas, and gain their income from creation. Time was when the agriculture and natural resources portfolios were under one Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR). Would we think it is time to revisit this combined mandate? Options are open, I would imagine, and a desire to beef up our environmental management capabilities like controlling pollution come with the need to strengthen the natural resource development mandates as well. Pernia’s statement on the Blue Economy also comes at the heels of statements made by incoming Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay about the definition of the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Philippines now occupied by China. This gives the legal muscle to capitalize on its economic features and ensure its protection. With the Blue economy on the horizon, we hope that whatever ruling issued by the UN Tribunal does justice to the people’s aspirations. We deserve no less.
“Faith is belief THINK ON THESE! in what you cannot see or prove or touch. Faith is walking facefirst and fullspeed into the dark. If we truly knew all the answers in adHenrylito D. Tacio vance as to the henrytacio@gmail.com meaning of life and the nature of God and the destiny of our souls, our belief would not be a leap of faith and it would not be a courageous act of humanity; it would just be... a prudent insurance policy.” “The whole course of things goes to teach us faith,” wrote Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American essayist, lecturer and poet. “We need only obey. There is guidance for each of us, and by lowly listening we shall hear the right word. Place yourself in the middle of the stream of power and wisdom which flows into you as life, place yourself in the full center of that flood, then you are without effort impelled to truth, to right, and a perfect contentment.” To get things done, an ounce of faith is worth a ton of experience. English novelist Rudyard Kipling recounted how a battle was won by the fool raw recruits, the boys who stormed the fort like lunatics, while the old wise soldiers knew better and held back. “Faith is not trying to believe something regardless of the
evidence,” Sherwood Eddy said. “Faith is daring to do something regardless of the consequences.” “We live by faith or we do not live at all,” pointed out British politician Harold Walker. “Either we venture – or we vegetate. If we venture, we do so by faith simply because we cannot know the end of anything at its beginning. We risk marriage on faith or we stay single. We prepare for a profession by faith or we give up before we start. By faith, we move mountains of opposition or we are stopped by molehills.” Now, let me share you another anecdote which some people said American novelist Robert Louis Stevenson told first. It seems a storm caught a sea-faring vessel off a rocky coast. The wind and waves threatened to drive the ship to its destruction. In the midst of the terror, one daring passenger, contrary to orders, made his way across the ship. Groping along a passageway, he found the pilot house. There he beheld an intriguing sight: the ship’s pilot was lashed to his post. Secure against the raging elements, he held the wheel fast, turning the ship inch by inch once more out to the sea. The pilot saw the man and smiled. The daring passenger found his way below deck where the other passengers huddled. Encouragingly he told them, “I have seen the face of the pilot, and he smiled. All is well.” His words remind me of the statement of British-born American philosopher Alan M. Watts. “To have faith is to trust
yourself to the water,” he said. “When you swim you don’t grab hold of the water, because if you do you will sink and drown. Instead you relax, and float.” The Holy Bible, wisest of all books, assigns high importance to faith: “If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed… nothing shall be impossible unto you.” And what is faith? Hebrews 11:1 states: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” “Faith is not belief without proof, but trust without reservation,” Elton Trueblood agrees. And what faith can do? “Faith draws the poison from every grief, takes the sting from every loss, and quenches the fire of every pain; and only faith can do it,” J.G. Holland believes. Faith in yourself is a religious thing, for you are God’s creation, His child. Believe in yourself and believe in Him. E. Stanley Jones commented, “Very often when I haven’t faith in my faith, I have to have faith in His faith. He makes me believe in myself and my possibilities, when I simply can’t. I have to rise to His faith in me.” At one time, a woman who was inwardly collapsed said to Mr. Jones, “Well, I have no faith of my own, but I do have in your faith.” “Good,” Mr. Jones replied, “take faith in my faith as a first step, and then you will go on to something infinitely better – faith in His faith.” If you are still at loss what faith is, here’s a word of reminder. “Faith is like a toothbrush,” said J.G. Stipe. “Every man should have one and use it regularly, but he shouldn’t try to use someone else’s.”
Leaps of faith
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Countdown to Golden Milestone
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Celebrating decades of growth, sustaining culture of excellence It has been a landmark year for the people of Davao del Norte, as they celebrate bountiful harvest and build up preps for the golden jubilee of the province next year, while at the same time welcoming the changing of the guards and passing of the development torch. The Dabaonons have a thousand and one reasons to celebrate the 49th Founding Anniversary of the Province of Davao del Norte on July 1, 2016. The triple celebration mark their fruitful journey together as one people. To honor this historic milestone, the province is staging the Kadagayaan Festival 2016, with the theme, “Padulong sa Bulawanong Tuig; DavNor Magpadayong da-Best (Marching Towards Golden Jubilee; Sustaining Excellence).” Bountiful Harvest The ‘Kadagayaan’ - derived from the local word ‘dagaya’ which means abundance and bounty in the local dialect - upholds DavNor’s riches in terms of culture, products, destinations and natural resources. Since its beginning in the early 2000s, the festival has steadily gained ground to become the crowning festival of the province. Highlighting the annual celebration is the Agri-Aqua-Industrial Expo that lines up a large variety of events capturing the abundance of Davao del Norte’s fertile land, the diversity of its people, their rich cultural heritage, and their firm resolve to build a happy, healthy, peaceful, resilient and progressive community. Colorful festival booths will showcase popular products and attractions of the three cities and eight municipalities of the province. This year’s celebration trumpets the birth and progress of Davao del Norte, as a premier province in the region, its increasing prominence in tourism and investment and its relevance as a rising model of inclusive socio-economic growth. It heralds the comparative lead of the products, industries and the people of the province, at the same time as it displays
their vitality and adaptability in meeting the twin challenges of globalization and climate change. The destructive effect of the El Nino phenomenon cannot dampen the resolve of the Dabaonons to enjoy the occasion and offer thanksgiving for the dividends of growth and progress that all sectors have worked hard for. The Dabaonons have come a long way together in advancing the “Banana Capital of the Country” despite a myriad of economic and climatic challenges. Aside from building monumental infrastructures, the outgoing leadership pioneered institutional reforms that transformed the provincial government from a mere service deliveryoriented organization into an enablingoriented bureaucracy. Davao del Norte also led in attracting investments in the Davao region with some P12-million worth of investments in 2014. From a meager budget of over P200 million in 1998, the provincial coffers have grown substantially to become the first billionaire province in Mindanao in the same year, increasing the annual budget to P1.37-billion in 2016. The province is still caught reeling from the fever of the “best Palarong Pambansa ever”, which it hosted by the province last year. Aside from securing an important position of being the sportstourism capital in the region, the success of the national games brought a positive mindset of being the best and doing the best way of life among the Dabaonons. Passing of the Torch of Development The annual festivity also honors the pioneering efforts of the past leaders in laying the groundwork for the growth of Davao del Norte and bringing forward generations of Dabaonons through their courage and resilience. By taking care of the future of the people, the leaders honored the rich colorful history of the province. Davao del Norte’s prominence in the region did not come without challenges and difficulties that the pioneers and leaders had to overcome. The relevance of the activities highlighting the celebration
pay homage to decades of hard work that transformed the once modest diverse community of farmers and fishermen into the vibrant and progressive province that it is today. The Dabaonon people will be forever indebted to outgoing Governor Rodolfo P. del Rosario for ushering in Davao del Norte’s advance progress in the 21st century. The province attained a premier status under his 15-year term of office that is characterized by massive physical growth and significant social transformation. The outgoing governor has set the example of what it means to use one’s gifts for public service. He has since carried out innovative, relevant and responsive policies, programs and projects that made a genuine impact in the lives of the Dabaonon people. Gov. Dolfo, as he is fondly called, initiated pro-people local governance reforms that scaled new heights, conquered new horizons and opened up new vistas of opportunities for the advancement of the Dabaonons. He kindled the spirits of volunteerism, heroism and nationalism among his people, who showed that they are also capable of greatness. He successfully persuaded all sectors to rally behind his shifting strategies of good governance in making certain that the province does not only keep pace with the growth of the whole country, but measures up with globalization, as well. In 1998, he introduced the Minimum Basic Needs approach to development that gave the poor a face, as well as a voice to air their unmet needs. Results from the survey prompted the province to address the most basic requirements of the people within the household level. The local strategy clinched the 2002 Galing Pook Award, as one of the 10 most outstanding programs of local governance in the Philippines. Following the success of the MBN platform, del Rosario shifted to the R.D.R. W.H.E.E.L.S. strategy in his comeback term in 2007. It is spelled as Roads and infrastructure development; Development of cooperatives in all sectors; Reforms in
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Message On behalf of the warm-hearted people of the Davao Region, I send my warmest congratulations to President Rodrigo Duterte on his inauguration as the 16th President of the Republic of the Philippines. The event marks the historic beginning of another golden age in the progress of our country. A political dispensation where crime and corruption do not pay and where the best interest of our people, particularly the oppressed and the marginalized, and not just the privileged few, is given high premium. A period of inclusive growth and equal distribution of wealth and opportunities in all the regions across the country. It is heartwarming to note that Region XI and the whole of Mindanao will finally get the needed attention from the national government under the leadership of the new President. We have since been aspiring for better resource allocation. Hence, we are now cheerful about the prospects of a better Davao Region of 4.89 million residents. We anticipate the region’s continued leading performance to contribute highly to the country’s sustained prominence as the best economy in Southeast Asia. I believe that our country can be great again if all Filipinos shall rally behind the president’s ardent call for change. We will do it because it is our moral obligation to do so for the greater good and a brighter future of our nation. Mabuhay ang atong bag-ong Pangulo! HON. RODOLFO P. DEL ROSARIO Outgoing Governor Davao del Norte, and Chair, RDC-XI
Message It is, indeed, a special honor and a great pleasure that I, together with the officialdom of Davao Del Norte, congratulate President Rodrigo R. Duterte, on your inauguration. The official beginning of your highly-anticipated term of office as the 16th President marks a new era of inclusive growth, peace, security, and democratic prosperity for the Republic of the Philippines. Your election to this hallowed position of president reflects the affirmation of the Filipino people’s desire for genuine change and their faith in your capacity to bring about sweeping national transformation. You bring with you to the Presidency almost three decades of enormous experience as a Local Chief Executive, which will be of immense value in responding to both domestic and foreign challenges. As you embark upon your gargantuan responsibilities, I pray that you will be sustained by the admiration, goodwill and support of millions of Filipinos, as well as, the divine guidance of our Lord Almighty. In addition, I would like to reassure you of Davao Del Norte’s unequivocal support and subservience to your socio-economic agenda, proposed shift of government to federalism, as well as your fight against drugs, criminality, corruption and poverty. Mr. President, thank you for answering the call of history. We wish you great success in your aim of bringing progressive change to our beloved Philippines. HON. ANTHONY G. DEL ROSARIO Governor-elect Davao Del Norte
governance and peace & order; Water and electricity development, health, sanitation and social services; Economic development and environmental protection/ rehabilitation; Education, culture, sports and human development; Livelihood and skills development program; and Spiritual and moral recovery program. At the very core of the development agenda was the extensive construction of hard infrastructure projects and basic public utilities, such as farmto-market roads, bridges, water systems, day care centers, health centers, rural electrification and the likes. The guiding principle was, “No Barangaray Left Behind” or project NoBLe, where the province implemented over P1 million worth of projects per barangay to pumpprime infra investment in the communities. However, the governor realized that hard infrastructures alone cannot result to balanced inclusive sustainable growth and progress. He again switched his governance platform to the P.E.O.P.L.E. development agenda beginning in 2010. It is an acronym for People Empowerment, Education and environment, Optimum Health and Social Services, Public-private partnership, Link to the world, and Employment and livelihood opportunities. The thematic glue is human development which targets education, health and income opportunities of the people. The governor sustained the strategy up to his last term, interlacing it with the climate change adaptation and disaster risk resilience as additional ingredients to prop up the human development nucleus. The main goal is to place the Dabaonon people in a better position to be the center, and the driver of their own development. This is relevant in building up the capacity of the people in facing the twin challenges of climate change and the ASEAN Economic Integration. So that they will be able to fully take advantage of global opportunities and enjoy a high quality of life. This evolution of the governor’s strategies fueled not only the physical change but transformed the governance landscape of the province. These defining decades also saw a marked decline in illiteracy, malnutrition, unemployment, insurgency and poverty in the province, among other development indicators. Stories of change abound manifesting the dramatic turnaround in the communities. The people have been buzzing about how better roads significantly reduced transportation cost of farm produce; of how the living condition of rural folks was alleviated through easier access to improved health and social services, better education, and more livelihood opportunities; of how the community immunization program and monitoring of pregnant mothers were implemented well, of how students are now able to attend school without so much hassles; of how the business community and all the other sectors benefited from the dividends of conducive climate of peace and security; and of how
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the resiliency and adaptation efforts helped protect the development gains of the province from climatic anomalies. Among the impacts of del Rosario’s legacy are the facelifting of the Provincial Capitol Building and Grounds and construction of the state-of-theart Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex funded locally, as well as the concreting of the 58-kilometer Talaingod-Bukidnon Road, with funding from the national government. Another great milestone of his administration is the launch of the Davao del Norte Learning Institute (DNLI) that raises the academic qualification of government personnel in the locality, who are either undergraduates, tech-voc graduates or high school graduates, by lettiing them earn or finish college degrees. Also, under his watch as the concurrent outgoing Chair of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-XI, the Davao Region continued to post rosy economic performance. In 2014, the region achieved a growth rate of 9.4 percent, which is the fastest among all the regions in the country, as it remained Mindanao’s top economy for the last three years. After nearly four decades of dedicating the prime of his life to public service, the outgoing governor is winding up his illustrious political career upon the conclusion of his his last term. He handed over the baton to his son, outgoing 1st District Congressman Anthony del Rosario in a fitting turn-over ceremony last June 27, 2016. The event was among the highlights of the opening salvo of the Kadagayaan Festival 2015. The older del Rosario said he will be bowing out of office with a great sense of fulfillment that his people are now living by the fruits of change. In his parting message, he expressed his deepest gratitude to the Dabaonon people for giving him the opportunity to serve them as governor. He is even more indebted that the people allowed his son to answer the call of history and continue his legacy. “I am now leaving the governorship with great satisfaction that I have done my duty to the best of my ability and judgment,” he said. He is even more content that the incoming provincial officials possess the capacity to build a far better Davao del Norte than what the past leaders have nurtured. Great prospect for the future The overwhelming mandate received by incoming Governor Anthony del Rosario will preserve the good legacy of his father. It speaks well of the people’s satisfaction in the no-nonsense transformative leadership of the outgoing governor that brought Davao del Norte into the pinnacle of its growth. The younger del Rosario’s victory manifests the faith of the people in his capacity to lead the province into greater stability and progress. It is a fresh leadership that will carry on the torch of development beyond self, ideologies and biases. Governor-elect Anthony, or AGR to his friends and
supporters, has proven himself as a representative by receiving the “Top Performing Congressman Award” in the 16th Congress. The outgoing legislator, who held the House Committee on Economic Affairs, principally authored nine bills and co-authored another nine bills that were eventually passed into law. Some of which were among the landmark legislative achievements of the Lower House that include the Fair Competition Act and amendments to the Cabotage Law. He also authored the conversion of the Davao Regional Hospital into a Medical Center and the creation of the Davao del Norte Regional Sports Academy, among many others. Seven other important legislations are now under consideration at the Senate level. Bent on sustaining the speedy progress, the new governor vowed to pursue an economic growth that would really trickle down to the marginalized sectors. He vowwed to fully harness the human, social, financial and natural capital of the province to further economic growth, boost competitiveness and make a great difference in quality of life of the Dabaonons. A crushing majority of the people bought his B.E.S.T. P.E.O.P.L.E. platform of governance, which expanded the popular human-centered development agenda of his father. It is spelled as Balanced ecology; Enhanced agriaquaculture; Sustainable tourism; Transformative leadership; People empowerment; Education and environment; Optimum health and social services; Public-private partnership; Link to the world; Employment and livelihood opportunities. The expanded human development agenda aims to prepare the people, and the resources and institutions of the province to brace for the impact and take advantage of the opportunities of the increasingly interconnected and interdependent world. Gov. AGR will lead the charging forward to the golden milestone of the existence of the province next year on a cheerful note, with the prospect of a progressive administration under President-elect Rodrigo Duterte greatly benefitting the province. The incoming president pledged to give priority to Mindanao. This bodes very well to the capability of the local officials in building a more equitably-progressive prosperous future. The stakes are so high that the new provincial leadership cannot afford to stand quietly by. The new governor reiterated the unequivocal support and subservience of the officialdom and the constituents of the province to Duterte’s socio-economic agenda, proposed federal constitutional republic, as well as in his campaign against drugs and criminality. Here’s a toast to the bright future of the Dabaonon people and the great success of the Kadagayaan Festival 2016, which will set the stage for a productive countdown and grand celebration of the 50th Founding Anniversary of Davao del Norte next year.
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EDGEDAVAO EVENT
Davao’s 1st Japanese salon opens
Be-ing Suites and Salon By Bai Fauziah Fatima Sinsuat Ambolodto Photos by Gabby Yap Photography
DAVAO’S FIRST JAPANESE SALON FINALLY OPENED ITS DOORS TO THE PUBLIC. At the same time, celebrating the suites’ first year anniversary. Be-ing Suites has been in operations since May 2015. Offering 16 studio type units, it was constructed mainly for travellers. Its prevalent Japanese theme on their buildings follow through the principles of green architecture. Formed in 2014, the Be-ing CHB Corporation was founded by Hideki Ota, businessman who owns a chain of salon and spa in Saga, Japan. Hideki foresaw that Japan’s aging population will greatly affect their manpower thus, he searched for solutions. In 2002, he came to Manila and found out that most salons use cold water in hair treatment hence resulting to hair damage. This gave him the idea to open a Japanese salon in the country. 2 years later, Be-ing Suites and Salon was born. Aside from the homey suites, Be-ing Suites and Salon is the first in Davao to offer the Collagen Machine, a non-surgical and futuristic looking machine that promotes youthful looking skin and a plethora of health benefits after only a few session. Its red light treatment helps improve skin tone, skin texture and also help control skin pigmentation and age spots. The anti-aging red light therapy stimulates circulation that keep the skin firm and hydrated. Be-ing Salon, on the other hand, offers the best salon experience for you and your hair. With treatments made to match your hair needs, you are assured of a healthy hair –inside and out. Led by one of Japan’s best creative styl-
ist, Be-ing Salon’s Filipino staff are aptly trained to match how they do it in Japan. The salon offers hair coloring, hair spa, up style and haircut. For one, their shampoo alone can lull you to sleep in an instant. The thanksgiving was participated in by locals and foreigners alike. Davao’s beloved City Councilor Al-Ryan Alejandre, DOT 11 Regional Director Roberto Alabado and Davao’s best, Rovic Cuasito joined in the celebration. Guests who came all the way from Japan graced the event with their support and expertise: Hideki Ota (Chairman, CHB Corporation), Hideo Ota (President, Hair Spa Corporation), Yoshi Takada (Make up Producer, Yoshi Takada Makeup Institute), Toru Suefuji (Head Creative Stylist, Be-ing Salon), Kenichi Sada (Country Manager, Milbon Products), Kotaro Fujie (Dalia Corporation), Takahiro Matsushita (Arimino) and Haruo Kido. Aside from them, the event was filled with enthusiastic Davwell members who are Spa and Massage Center owners operating in the city. Also, the presence of local media friends who showed their support. Davao’s JPOP Idol group, Pastel Mix, also performed to the de-
light of the crowd. A showcase of Japan talent made everyone excited. 2 lucky guests were given a total makeover by Hideo Ota, Toru Suefuji and Yoshi Takada (renowned makeup artist with 32 years of experience from Shu Uemura). Mid-way through, one lucky lady was chosen to experience an on-the-spot makeover. The celebration was not only for Be-ing Suites and Salon. It was also for the people who have supported them since the beginning. An exciting raffle draw, all throughout the event, kept everyone in glee all afternoon. Prices included an overnight stay in their suites, a Collagen Machine session and salon services. Again, OMEDETOO GOZAIMASU, Be-ing Suites and Salon. Be-ing Suites and Salon is located at 3rd st. Guadalupe Village Lanang, Davao City. For bookings and reservations, you may call them at 082 234 9088.
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EVENT
Foreign travelers stay connected in PH with Smart FOREIGN VISITORS CAN CONVENIENTLY STAY ONLINE ANYWHERE THEY ARE IN THE COUNTRY with the rentable pocket wifi devices made available by PLDT’s wireless unit, Smart Communications (Smart). “Our GoLocal rentable pocket wifi service is ideal for foreign tourists visiting the country. It allows them to share their experiences online without roaming charges,” said PLDT and Smart EVP and Head of Enterprise, International and Carrier Business Ernesto R. Alberto. “Availing of our rentable pocket wifi devices is easy whether through our mobile site or at the airports. Our guests get dedicated customer support 24/7 to attend to their connectivity concerns throughout their stay,” said PLDT Global President and CEO Alex Caeg. Recently, bloggers from Singapore documented their 5-day Davao tour online using Smart’s
GoLocal pocket wifi devices. The tour was arranged with the Philippine Department of Tourism– Region 11, just in time for the Nuffnang Singapore bloggers to experience the highly anticipated “Visit Davao Fun Sale” event. Included in the itinerary of the Singapore bloggers are Eden Nature Park, Davao Crocodile Park’s White Water Rafting Adventure, Maxima Aquafun, and Giant Clam Sanctuary in Samal. According to Madeline Chin, Talent and Community Executive from Nuffnang Singapore, the bloggers enjoyed sharing online the outdoor activities and local delicacies they’ve tried during the trip. “Davao’s beaches
and mountains made for a great backdrop in photos. We were very happy we could share the moments with our friends and followers through social media,” Bloggerati by Nuffnang, Shenny Yang added.
GoLocal pocket wifi devices, which can connect up to five mobile devices, can be availed at GoLocal booths conveniently located at the arrival area of the terminals of NAIA Terminal 1, NAIA Terminal 3 and Ce-
bu-Mactan airports. Customers may also enjoy the convenience of booking the devices online at www. golocal-app.com for pickup at GoLocal booths, or for delivery to their hotel in Metro Manila. Apart from the bloggers
from Singapore, Smart’s GoLocal rentable pocket wifi service is also being enjoyed by visitors from US, Japan, China, Hongkong, Great Britain, Australia, Vietnam, UAE, Italy, Canada, India, Korea and many other countries.
AirAsia gives travellers new reasons to explore AIRASIA, VOTED THE WORLD’S BEST LOW COST CARRIER FOR SEVEN CONSECUTIVE YEARS, launched #WhyIFly, an online campaign that seeks to drive more people to pursue their travel goals and spread the love of storytelling through beautiful films and photographs. Philippines AirAsia’s CEO Joy Cañeba shares, “Travel inspiration is everywhere. People are eager to break their routines, and are hungry for new and authentic experiences. Thanks to the Internet, Filipinos are becoming increasingly aware of the beauty and vibrant natural wonders of the Philippines and social media has made it very easy for people to share their discoveries, and spread a sense of wonder.” “To kick-off this campaign, AirAsia reveals the hidden gems of Bohol, Palawan, Tacloban, and Kalibo, as captured by passionate traveller-storytellers. By showing these destinations through their lenses, we aim to foster pride of place, and encourage all of us to create our own stories.” Cañeba adds. Several traveller-sto-
rytellers flew to different places via Philippines AirAsia to get a firsthand experience and to capture vibrant landscapes and idyllic country life many weeks ago. Young Filipino travel groups such as Where to Next, Free Spirits PH, SinoPinas, as well as videographer Patrick Martin journeyed far and near to explore Biri Rock Formations of Northern Samar; the bright turquoise waters of El Nido; the undiscovered beaches of Kalibo; and the lush forests of Bohol, and discovered little and large pockets of beauty and eventually immortalizing them through an exhibit of films and photographs printed by Canon at the #WhyIFly media launch held at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® 26th St. Bistro. AirAsia is also supporting Kayak Asia, an initiative that promotes
(4th from left) Philippines AirAsia CEO Joy Cañeba gives an AirAsia model aircraft to Kayak Asia officer Mr. Fereolo Peñoso (3rd from left) to symbolize AirAsia’s partnership with Kayak Asia to promote kayaking in Bohol to keep the Abacan river which is famous for its firefly tour from massive erosions caused by motorboats. They are joined by (L-R) AirAsia cabin crew, PAA Senior Digital Executive Cherry Anne Mungcal, PAA Digital Manager Pim del Rosario, PAA Commercial Head Gerard Peñaflor and AirAsia male cabin crew.
AirAsia’s group of online influencers pose with their photos during the opening of their first group exhibit held recently during the launch of #WhyIFly campaign at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Bistro in Taguig City, Manila. (L-R: )Claude Evangelista, Pao Cuarteron, Benj Ramos, Enzo Cruz, Patrick Martin, Karl Presentacion, Nella Lomotan, Javi Cang, John Austria, Ayen dela Torre, Rachel Halili and Raniel Hernandez. environmentally friendly tourism through kayakbased expeditions. The advocacy is working to pre-
serve the mangroves along Abatan River in Bohol, a precautionary step in avoiding damage caused
by big motor boats that are used to ferry tourists. #WhyIFly comes full circle in its aim to inspire
more stories and journeys from people through the #WhyIFly Challenge, a call to inspire friends and loved ones to embrace local travel by sharing their travel motivations through beautiful photos in social media. The challenge will take place via Instagram, and will require participants to post one photo of their trip a day for five consecutive days, and provide an answer to “Why I Fly” as captions. Four winners will be randomly chosen from the pool of entries from June 24 to September 30, 2016 and will win seats for two to Bohol, Palawan, Tacloban or Kalibo and discover their own #AirAsiainBohol, #AirAsiainKalibo, #AirAsiainTacloban, or #AirAsiainPalawan stories. For the complete mechanics, please go to AirAsia Philippines’ Facebook page. Stay tuned to AirAsia’s latest promotions and activities via twitter (@ AirAsiaPH), Facebook (facebook .com /A i rAsiaPhilippines), Instagram (@AirAsiaPh), and on Viber public chat (@AirAsiaPh).
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ENTERTAINMENT
Encantadia comes to Davao this Sunday Isabelle Daza misses her ‘Eat Bulaga’ family
EARLIER THIS YEAR, Kapuso actor Phytos Ramirez found himself at his all-time high of 230 pounds. His insecurities consumed him because of how heavy he felt and how strangers were quick to judge.
“[People who would see me would say] ‘Ah, yan ba si Phytos? Mukha na siyang tatay! Mukha siyang may anak!’” he said. The 20-year-old actor decided to turn to his dad Koulis Kyriacou for encouragement. The latter, who is of Greek descent and is based in Cyprus, flew to the Philippines to help Phytos rise above the struggle. “I was talking to my father. Nasa Cyprus pa siya. [I was asking him] what I’m gonna do because I’m fat and [I felt that] everyone was turning me down, tapos iba na ‘yung tingin sa ‘kin. Nagulat ako [na] after [we] talked, umuwi siya dito sa Pilipinas tapos pinarealize niya sa ‘kin [yung situation],” he added. Conversations with his dad made Phytos realize that he wanted to be in good shape, to be successful in showbiz, and to be the best version of himself. Koulis then became Phytos’s personal trainer and dietician. “Kinabukasan, after ng dating niya, talagang stinart ko na ‘yung workout [and] diet. Siya lahat
IN TIME FOR FLASHBACK FRIDAY, Isabelle Daza posted a photo with her former colleagues in Eat Bulaga last week. “Missing these guys, but I’m sure they miss me more, hello!” she wrote as caption. Included in the photo are the show’s pioneers Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon, hosts Allan K, Anjo Yllana, Ryan Agoncillo, Ruby Rodriguez, Pauleen Luna, Pia Guanio and Ryzza Mae Dizon, as well as former host Julia Clarete. Isabelle was an Eat Bulaga co-host for three years. She left in November 2014. Though she is no longer with the show and the network, she keeps in touch with her Dabarkads, and even recently got them pasalubong from her trip to Europe. nagturo. In just two months, I lost 50 pounds,” he shared. Because he became a victim of bullying, he was inspired to share his story with others and be their source of encouragement. He found it apt and considered it an honor to be part of the GMA Bloggers’ Style Camp 2016 which campaigns against cyberbullying. “[Nagulat ako na] sobrang dami kong na-i-inspire online dahil sa transformation na nagawa ko… Ine-encourage ko sila [to work towards being in
shape] for their health, [and not for the purpose of getting back at those saying negative things about them],” he declared. Now that he is determined to stay positive in his journey to self-improvement, he promised himself to not listen to anyone who will push him off track. “Deadma [na] lang. Basta ako, I’m enjoying my life. [Hindi na] kailangan i-overthink bakit nila sinasabi ‘yun. Pwede naman mag-focus na lang ako sa career ko [and] be a better me,” he concluded.
Jumpstart your fitness journey with Lifestyle’s weekly ‘Metabeats’
EVERYONE WANTS TO BE FIT AND HEALTHY but not everyone has access to the gym or even the time for it. With Lifestyle’s “MetaBeats,” a fitness program designed for people on the go, you only need your body and your arms’ length for space. “MetaBeats” is the first locally produced fitness and wellness nutrition program which premiered last April 16 on Lifestyle. “MetaBeats” introduces a unique 4-minute burst exercise program which aims to slash calories, tone bodies, and build muscles. The number one program on Lifestyle is headed by power couple coaches Toni and Jim Saret, the training coaches of ABS-CBN’s reality program “The Biggest Loser.” “MetaBeats” stands for ‘metabolic fitness training’ that boosts metabolism and beats is the music aspect. Revolutionizing the fitness industry, “MetaBeats” is an original fitness program which has not been done abroad. It is a 1 hour show that combines both workout and nutrition. Through a series of 4-minute workouts done with really live and fun
music, it is guaranteed to burn a lot of calories and jack up your metabolism. Be healthier, fitter, and sexier with “MetaBeats” every Saturday and Sunday at 8AM and 4PM on Lifestyle. Replays every Tuesday
and Thursday at 5AM, 7AM, and 4PM. Lifestyle is a Filipino cable television network owned and operated by Creative Programs,Inc., a subsidiary of the media and entertainment company ABS-CBN Corporation. The channel serves as a guide with a wealth of relevant and insightful content for multifaceted Filipino millennial women. It is the channel to first recognize the need for lifestyle content that specifically caters to the preferences of Filipinas, and hence is the pioneer in local lifestyle programming. It balances a mix of acquired and locally produced lifestyle content that has also continuously evolved to suit the ever-changing needs and behavior of its viewers. On-air, online, mobile an onground, Lifestyle inspires and moves women to become better versions of themselves. Lifestyle is available on SKYcable channel 52. For updates, like their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ LifestyleTVPH , follow their IG account LifestyleTVPH and Twitter account @Lifestyle52.
June 22-28, 2016
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VOL. 9 ISSUE 87 • TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2016
TRAVEL
A new landmark in Durianburg GENSAN PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT
DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT What was once just a vision is now a reality with the launch of the Asian Fruit Market last June 25. Created from the shared visions of Department of Tourism (DOT) Ramon Jimenez, Jr. Assistant Secretary Arturo Boncato, Jr., and DOT Region XI director Roberto Alabado III, the Asian Fruit Market is envisioned to be the “largest fruit market” in Asia. “It was in 2015 when secretary Jimenez asked assec Art and I what tourists coming from Davao often bring home with them,” said director Alabado, “We realised that travellers were leaving Davao with boxes of pomelo, durian, mangosteen, all sorts of fruits and this lead to secretary Jimenez coming up with a project to turn Davao as the ‘Fruit Capital of Asia’.” The Asian Fruit Market which was built through the cooperation of DOT and its infrastructure arm, Tourism Infrastruc-
ture Enterprise Authority (TIEZA), together with ACCENDO Commercial Corporation, the owning company of Abreeza Mall. The 1,500 sq. m. market located within the area of the Abreeza Mall features
stalls selling indigenous and imported fruits, vegetables, food and beverages, herbs, and even flowers. DOT assistant secretary Art for his part declared that the current Asian Fruit Market is just the first phase of the project and highlights the Davao Region that is home to large plantations of banana, papaya, pomelo, durian, pineapple, mango, cacao, coffee and a host of
other fruits. “This market is a celebration of each Dabawenyo’s values of eco-tourism, of our handiwork, and of our stewardship of the Earth,” Art added.
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FRUIT MARKET OPENING. Department of Tourism (DOT) assistant secretary Art Boncato (9th from right), DOT 11 director Robbie Alabado (6th from left), Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre (7th from left), Abreeza Mall general manager
GenSan plants 15K bamboo seedlings T HE city government has planted around 15,000 bamboo seedlings in parts of the city in the last four weeks as part of its flagship greening program. Valiente Lastimoso, head of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), said the initiative mainly covered river banks and watershed areas of critical waterways in six villages in the city. He specifically cited the rivers traversing barangays Mabuhay, San Isidro, Fatima, Tinagacan, Buayan and Baw-
ing.
On Sunday, hundreds of volunteers from various sectors joined another leg of the massive bamboo planting activity, which was launched in line with the observance of the Environment Month. Lastimoso said the initiative is also part of CENRO’s rehabilitation and recovery program for plantation areas that were affected by the earlier long dry spell spawned by the El Nino Phenomenon. He said a significant number of bamboos and trees ear-
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NEDA, JICA discuss Davao’s infrastructure
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HE Japanese government and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) recently discussed Japan’s offer of support for the institutionalization of urban infrastructure planning and formulation in Davao City with its outgoing mayor and President-elect Rodrigo R. Duterte. Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Mr. Kazuhide Ishikawa and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Chief Representative Susumu Ito presented the Davao City Infrastructure Development Plan and Capacity Building Project to assist in the formulation of Davao City’s urban infrastructure plan. “The Japanese government’s timely offer of assistance will enable the Davao City government to respond to the challenges of urbanization resulting from increased economic activity in the City,” said NEDA Deputy Director-General Rolando G. Tungpalan, who was present during the meet-
ing on June 21, 2016 in Davao City. The project will capacitate both local and national government personnel on new urban infrastructure planning methodologies and best practices, which is expected to be implemented over an 18-month period. The capacity building project involves the following activities: 1.) Introduction of new urban infrastructure planning methodologies and best practices, 2.) Developing technical know-how on the formulation of planning manuals, guidelines, training materials and tools, 3.) Learning to input sector-specific development priorities and regional development needs to the urban infrastructure planning exercises, and 4.) Developing trainers/local experts through the conduct of “Training of Trainers” sessions locally and in Japan. Also present during the meeting was NEDA Region XI
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Luigi Escano (8th from right) and stall owners offer a toast during the opening of Asian Fruit Market Davao at the Abreeza Mall grounds over the weekend. Lean Daval Jr.
Directors told: Attain rice sufficiency or face the axe By CHENEEN R. CAPON
I
crc@edgedavao.net
NCOMING agriculture secretary Emmanuel “Manny” Piñol challenged regional directors of the department to attain rice sufficiency in their respective areas otherwise they face termination. “Make your region rice sufficient or else I’ll kick you out. Yan ang magiging barometer ko,” Piñol warned during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw media forum at SM City Annex. Piñol said sufficiency in the rice supply is viable in every region given the availability of large areas that can be converted into rice fields. The regions that are already sufficient, he said, will
be challenged to increase their average yield per hectare by another one metric ton (MT). “I believe the country will be rice sufficient in two years if we can do that,” said Piñol, former governor of North Cotabato. The DA head he finds it ironic for the country to become a major importer of rice among other Asean countries when, in fact, it has the most advance research system for the crop. The Philippines hosts the International Rice Research Institute in the University of the Philippines-Los Banos. Pinol, who had just came back from the “Byaheng
Bukid,” a nationwide tour of different agriculture areas in the Philippine, said most farmers are only producing 3 MT per hectare. The incoming agriculture chief intends to distribute high-yielding rice seeds to farmers as well as improve the existing irrigation system. The next administration also plans to distribute farm inputs like fertilizer and provide easy access to financial assistance through loans, according to him. Piñol will be meeting with rice research experts on July 6 in a study group event at UPLB to present the best farming practices.
“We’ve invited three outstanding rice farmers to discuss on how they will be able to increase their yield by 12 to 15 MT per hectare,” he said. One of the three farmers will be coming from Davao, while the rest will be from rice-producing provinces in Luzon. An expert from China will also go here anytime soon to conduct a study on the national consumption of Filipinos to have a comprehensive research on the total consumption. “We have to change our rice-eating habit if we wanted to attain rice sufficiency,” Piñol said.
Law 480 of the United States, which is also known as the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act. This was enacted in 1954 in line with the US Policy of using its agricultural productivity to enhance the food security of developing countries and the determination of the importing country’s capacity (Philippines) of improving its food security. PL 480 consists of three food aid titles -- the government-to-government sale on credit of US commodities under long-term, concessional arrangement. This was amended later to include commodity sale to private entities. Payment of the commodities is expected over 30 years with a grace period of seven years. Beneficiaries of the program are developing countries that find it difficult to provide for
the food needs of its citizens through commercial sources because of foreign exchange problems. Under the program, Pinol said the US government granted hundreds of millions of pesos in a sincere effort to improve the dairy industry which as of now produces only one percent of the total milk requirements of the country. He, however, said that corruption has again got in the way with the implementation of the program which could have made money for the small farmers. Instead of buying pedigreed goats which can improve the genetics of the local goats in the country, old goats discarded by many dairy farmers in the US were included on the shipment. “The goat merchants have
been doing this for many years now and have been raking in money to the disadvantage of both the US taxpayers who are spending for the program and the Filipino farmers who are supposed to benefit from it,” he said. “These goat merchants, however, have a problem with me. A few days from now, I will be taking over the Department of Agriculture (DA), the agency which is handling the implementation of PL 480 through one of its bureaus, the Animal Industry (BAI). Their problem is that I am a goat raiser and I know what a good dairy goat is. In fact, I could identify the breed of a dairy goat by just looking at its features. Not only that, I know most of the outstanding dairy got breeders in the US and I know that many of the goats brought to
Incoming agri chief to improve dairy industry
T
O improve dairy industry in the country, incoming Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel “Manny” Piñol said he will immediately order an immediate inventory of goats to check whether these are producing milk. “I will order an immediate inventory of the goats and check whether these are really producing milk or not,” he said in a statement. “If they are not, then the merchants and those responsible for the purchase of these goats will be held accountable,” he added. According to Piñol, the old dairy goats were part of the thousands brought into the country from the United States under a US government program called PL480 aimed at helping the dairy industry in the Philippines. US PL 480 refers to Public
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there is a possibility that a unilateral ceasefire will be declared before the first State of the Nation Address of Duterte. “During the preliminary talks, we gave them a draft of a possible mutual ceasefire, but it looks like they preferred a unilateral ceasefire,” Agacaoili said. He said it is not a problem for the NDFP to declare a ceasefire anytime, even before
the 100 days of Duterte. “On our part, it is okay (to declare ceasefire) as a measure of goodwill for both parties to open the peace negotiations once again, it is better that there will be a ceasefire in placed for the two sides to respect” Agcaoili said. Agcaoili also emphasized that there will be no pre-conditions on the declaration of unilateral ceasefire.
chief said the city had a hyperbaric chambers eight years ago but it closed down when owners decided to transfer the facility to Manila due to lack of market.
Vega believes the hospital can sustain its operations for the Hyperbaric Center with the stronger tourism promotion of the DOT. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)
For the drug users, he said they will convince their families or relatives to immediately submit them to rehabilitation. He said they will come up with an alternative program for drug users whose families could not afford to send them to a drug rehabilitation facility. Capurcos said they will closely monitor the activities and movements of the personalities who have surrendered. He said they will gather them at least twice a month to properly determine their progress as to their promise to change or transform their lives. Meantime, in Barangay Labangal, at least 50 drug personalities from Purok Kulasi also surrendered through village officials. Most of them were fishing workers who acknowledged taking illegal drugs, specifically
metamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu in line with their work. City Councilor Franklin Gacal Jr., who witnessed the surrender, said he will push for the rollout of a special program that will provide proper education and skills trainings to the concerned residents. Of those who surrendered, he said only one managed to graduate from high school while the rest were either elementary or high school dropouts. “I think they got into that (illegal drugs) because of the lack of proper education,” he said. Gacal said he will look into their possible inclusion into the education programs of the city government and the skills trainings of the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority. (PNA)
Mr. Duterte will take his oath of office as President in Malacanang noon of June 30. His daughter Sara
Carpio-Duterte would also assume as Davao city mayor on the same day. - Cha Monforte, Correspondent
Director Ma. Lourdes D. Lim, who expressed optimism on the implementation of the project. “This will lead to more joint Philippine-Japan activ-
ities aimed at helping Davao and the rest of Mindanao fulfill their economic growth potentials under the Duterte administration,” she said.
Mindanao’s... FROM 2
145 pushers... FROM 3 ONE MORE TIME. Davao City Hall employees flash the clenched fist gesture which was popularized by incoming President Rodrigo R. Duterte in yesterday’s flag-raising ceremony where the long-time mayor delivered his farewell speech. Lean Daval Jr.
NDFP... FROM 4
will have significant effect on the security of Sison. “It’s the government who requested for that listing. Some diplomatic moves need to be undertaken. Since they are the sitting government and have relations with states they should take the initiative on this issue of security of Sison.” Agcaoili also clarified that the matter was not raised by the Philippine government during the preliminary talks. “Yong sa pag-uwi ni Sison we were expecting that they would raise it during the preliminary talks but they did not. The issue is not formally addressed by the two sides,” he pointed out. Agcaoili said that if the government is interested to bring home Sison then they should raise it formally in the negotiating table. Peace Talks in PH The problem on security is also a hindrance to hold the formal peace talks in the Philippine soil, Agcaoili said. “Not only Sison, even the local leaders who will take part in the peace negotiations will have problems on security.” He recalled that during the peace negotiations in the time of the late president Cory Aquino, the military used that as opportunity to conduct investigations and surveillance to identify personalities in the NDFP. “Negotiations here will not be good for the NDFP. Negotiations are always held in neutral ground abroad,” he reiterated, adding that it is also stipulated in the Hague Declaration that was agreed by the government and the NDFP that peace talks must be held outside the Philippines. “But we are not discounting the possibility that negotiations will be held here,” Agcaoili continued, hinting that the reciprocal working committees of both panels can do some negotiations on the
matter. Again, he emphasized that the subject must be laid down in the negotiating table. “The possibility of doing the negotiations here was not raised by the GPH panel in the table during the preliminary talks, he said.
Ceasefire possible With the issuance of a joint statement by both panels declaring openness to once again talk peace and end the years of armed conflicts, Agcaoili said they also agree to declare ceasefire. “We have no problem in declaring unilateral ceasefire. We can also declare a unilateral ceasefire,” he asserted, as he also reported that the NDFP submitted a draft on the possible declaration of a mutual ceasefire. “But we are of the belief that the government wants unilateral ceasefire. And we have no problem on that. Unilateral ceasefire is a gesture of goodwill to open formally the negotiations. There must be a ceasefire in place for the two sides to respect.” A mutual ceasefire he said is an agreement between the two sides to declare ceasefire with a specific duration, definition of areas to be covered and a mechanism. Hope in attaining good for the country is possible, Agcaoili said, saying that the incoming administration of president-elect Rodrigo Duterte is open to come out with results in peace talks. “The incoming administration is open to peace negotiations. President Duterte himself has a long history of relationship with the progressive and the revolutionary movement. He has the political will to pursue his decisions. He sent his emissaries to us and in turn a joint statement was issued on the opening of the peace negotiations,” Agcaoili said.
Rody... FROM 2
Office (DCPO) on Friday afternoon, as he ordered police to apprehend drug pushers, dead or alive. “If you encounter criminals – ask them to surrender. If he chooses to fight – and if you feel you will die unahan niyo na patayin mo (get them first kill them),” he said. But he said it would be a different story if police kill criminals with hands tied. He told them not to kill criminals with hands tied otherwise “hindi lang ako ang kalaban niyo pati human rights… I will not be the only one against you but also the human rights…).” He also vowed to stand for them “just don’t lie to me”. “You remain loyal to the Constitution and the Republic,” he said. Duterte vowed to arrest high profile and valued drug pushers in the country. “In this fight I put at stake my life, honor and my presidency. One of
us will be sorry – it will be you,” he said referring to politicians into illegal drugs. He asked the police to stick to the rules in the fight against criminality and illegal drugs, which are the centerpiece of his administration. He pointed out that Philippines is not financially “rich” that is why he wants to restore law and order to attract investors and spur the economy. He also vowed to also put some funds from which he can draw to help police for their medical and other needs through their city directors. Duterte also promised to double their salaries by the end of the year. “Do not nurture loyalty to me. I don’t need it. I don’t need adulation. All I ask of you is to do your duty according to the law. According to the Revise Penal Code …if your life is in danger,” he said. (PNA)
the country did not come from them or are discards from small dairy farms,” he noted. “Pinol said “this culture of corruption has got to stop.” The incoming DA chief
said he will make sure that the supposed shipment of dairy goats from the US worth over PHP100-million as part of PL 480 will not include old and discarded dairy goats. (PNA)
lier planted through the initiative were severely affected by the prolonged dry weather, which started late last year and last until May. The official said they took advantage of the onset of rains in the area these past weeks for the rollout of the rehabilitation program. “Based on the forecast from Pagasa (Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration), the El Nino is already out and we’re going towards a La Nina so this is an ideal time for us to plant again,” Lastimoso said in an interview over a local television station.
La Nina, which is the opposite of the El Nino, is characterized by unusually cold ocean temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific that results to longer than usual rainy episodes. Among the program’s priority areas were portions of the banks of the critical Silway River here. The river, which flows to Sarangani Bay, is the main outlet of several river-tributaries from the upland areas in nearby South Cotabato province. Major flooding incidents occurred these past years in communities traversed by the river that displaced local residents. (PNA)
Incoming... FROM 11 GenSan... FROM 11
Incoming Pres... FROM 4 NEDA... FROM 11
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EDGEDAVAO
VOL. 9 ISSUE 87 • TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2016
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.
DOLE XI joins ‘Brigada Eskwela’ 2016
W
ITH June being the back to school season, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) XI recently participated in the 2016 Brigada Eskwela. For this year, some of the DOLE XI employees painted the chairs, the walls, cleaned and changed the old door of a grade 7 classroom at the Leon Garcia Sr. National High School last June 9, 2016. Brigada Eskwela, which kicked off last May 30, 2016, is a yearly activity which serves as an opportunity for both public and private sectors to volunteer in ensuring that public schools will be well-prepared for the start of
the school year. DOLE XI Director Joffrey M. Suyao during the turn-over of the room key to school Principal Redilon S. Morales, said that he is hoping that the contribution of the department would be of help to make the school year of the students better. “Nag-dahom mi na unta makatabang ni in terms of comfort sa mga estudyante nga mag-eskwela karon tuiga pinaagi sa among gamay na hinabang (We hope that this may be of help in terms of comfort of the students who will be going to school this year through our little efforts),” Director Suyao said. “Dako kaayo ni na tabang
sa among mga estudyante (This is a big help to our students) We are so thankful that you have considered helping us, this is more than enough,” Morales said in response to the Director’s statement. Moreover, other than joining the Brigada Eskwela, the Department headed by its Internal Management and Services Division Chief Angelina Talingting also turned over 500 notebooks and 1,000 pencils last June 2, 2016 to the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples for the benefit of lumad students in Davao. Kriztja Marae G. Labrador/LCODOLEXI
Submit application letter and curriculum vitae to: Antonio M. Ajero Editor-in-Chief Edge Davao ajero_antonio@yahoo.com 09274733467
EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society
(From right to left) Leon Garcia Sr. National High School Head Teacher III Antonieta N. Dugho together with Principal Redilon S. Morales hands over the certificate of appreciation to DOLE XI Regional Director Joffrey M. Suyao and Internal Management and Services Division Chief Angelina Talingting after the Brigada Eskwela last June 9, 2016. KMGL/LCO-DOLEXI
14 CLASSIFIEDS
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EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society
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VOL. 9 ISSUE 87 • TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2016
VOL. 9 ISSUE 87 • TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2016
SPORTS 15
EDGEDAVAO
PBA bares 12 imports for Govs Cup T
PBA IMPORTS. Paul Harris (Ginebra), Marqus Blakely (Star), Dominic Sutton (GlobalPort), AZ Reid (SMB) and Dior Lowhorn (Rain or Shine) are the balik imports in the PBA Governors Cup.
Germany eases past Slovakia
G
ERMANY’S first penalty miss at a European Championship for 40 years proved but a footnote Sunday as the team eased into the quarterfinals with a comprehensive 3-0 defeat of Slovakia. Goals from Jerome Boateng, Mario Gomez and man-of-the-match Julian Draxler ensured the world champion did not rue Mesut Ozil’s missed spot kick early in the first half.
Up next for Germany is a quarterfinal clash against two-time defending champion Spain or old rival Italy for what will undoubtedly be one of the most-anticipated matches in the next round. Germany produced its best performance of the tournament yet, showing its defensive resilience as well as attacking ambition in a display that augurs well for the tougher challenges ahead. “Today was a good per-
formance, in defense and in attack,” Germany coach Joachim Loew said. “But with due respect to our opponent, this was not an indicator for how the tournament will go on. We have to improve further to be successful.” Boateng scored as soon as the eighth minute when his shot from outside the area took a slight deflection into the left corner of the Slovakia goal. It was the fastest goal scored by Germany at a European
Championship. “It was about time it went in,” Boateng quipped over his first international goal in 63 appearances. The 27-yearold had been doubtful for the game, but he overcame a calf injury to play. Ozil had the chance to make it 2-0 six minutes later from the penalty spot after Martin Skrtel shoved Mario Gomez, but goalkeeper Matus Kozacik guessed the right way and palmed away his effort.
a tune-up at Istanbul last week, 103-68. Naturalized player Andray Blatche finished with 14 while Jeff Chan had 10 for Gilas, which formally announced its final 12-man lineup for the coming Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Manila just hours after the match versus China. The match against the Chinese, led by the 18 points of Peng Zhou, was the first between the two regional rivals since last year’s title match for the FIBA Asia
Men’s Championship won by China. LA Tenorio and Calvin Abueva, the last two men out of the Gilas final 12, no longer suited up for the team, but watched the action from behind the bench. Romeo hit back-to-back three-pointers inside the final four minutes of a tight con-
test, the first of which shattered a 63-all score, and the second one giving Gilas a 69-65 cushion in the final 2:28 mark that it never relinquished. Ranidel de Ocampo failed to finish the match after getting ejected in the second quarter along with a Chinese player for getting entangled with each other. The nationals are set to return home Tuesday following an almost threeweek training camp in Europe, where they spent nine days of seclusion in the mountains of Kapernisi,
Gilas gets back at China, finishes third in Italy
H
OURS after its official 12-man roster was finally known, Gilas Pilipinas went to business right away. Terrence Romeo exploded in the fourth quarter before Gilas hang tough in the stretch of a tense 72-69 win over China and salvaged third place in the Imperial City Tournament in Bologna, Italy. The Globalport wingman fired 13 of his team-high 18 points in the final period, helping the national team held off a Chinese side that played without top guns Yi Jianlian and Zhou Qi, the promising 20-year-old center drafted in the second round by the Houston Rockets in last week;s NBA draft. Still, there was no denying the Filipinos of the win that came in the heels of back-to-back blowout losses against Turkey and Italy behind a losing margin of 35.5 points. The national team dropped its first assignment against Italy on opening day of the short pocket tournament, 106-70, while its loss against Turkey came in
HE cast of 12 imports for the 2016 PBA Governors’ Cup is now complete. After a failed bid to bring in former Detroit Pistons forward Jason Maxiel, who was measured a little over the 6-5 limit, Tropang TNT has planed in former Kansan Jayhawks star Mario Deantwan Little. Listed 6-6 with shoes on in the US, Little is expected to make the height limit for a Tropang Texters side that is out to sustain its run of winning at least one championship nearly each season since 2008. The only time the Manny V. Pangilinan-owned flagship team failed to snatch a title was during the 2014 season, when the B-Meg (now Star Hotshots) franchise completed a grand slam. Little last played in the Korean Basketball League where he led the Anyang KGC to the semifinals of the 2015-2016 season, averaging 16.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1 steal per game. He is set to arrive in the country from San Francisco on Sunday morning but his flight from Chicago was delayed. “#AmericanAirline service was really horrible today. Made me miss my flight thanks
a lot,” Little tweeted in his @ riochitown23 account. Meanwhile, completing the list of imports is Marcus Simmons, who will don the new jersey colors of the Phoenix Fuel Masters. Simmons is set to arrive later this week. The 28-yearold former University of Southern California Trojan was a mainstay of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants since 2014. Except for a short stint in Japan in 2011, not much credentials are tucked under his belt. Phoenix recently negotiated to bring in former two-time NBA Dleague All Star Deandre Liggins, who opted to just try his luck in the coming NBA Summer League. Here’s a complete list of PBA teams and their confirmed imports. Ginebra – Paul Harris NLEX - Bill Walker Mahindra – James White Blackwater – Eric Dawson San Miguel – Arizona Reid Star – Marqus Blakely Globalport – Dominic Sutton Meralco – Allen Durham Rain or Shine –Dior Lowhorn Alaska – LaDontae Henton Talk n Text – Mario Little Phoenix – Marcus Simmons
Maamo tops Bucana chessfest
H
ARRISON Maamo of SIR Matina topped the Araw ng Barangay 76-A Random Chess Tournament recently held at the Bucanna 76-A Gymnasium. Maamo bested a tough field of 35 composed mostly of grizzled veterans from the local chess circuit. He received a P4,000 prize and a plaque as top kitty from the organizing Barangay 76-A led by Chairman Rolando Trajera. Maamo, who sports a 2086 ELO rating, finished with 4.5 points in the 5-round Swiss System format using the Fisher’s Random Chess position. Veteran inter-
nationalist Henry Roger Lopez of Panabo City settled for second place and the P3,000 and plaque that cme with it whie Constantine Gastardo of SIR Matina took third place and the P2,000 and plaque as prize. Lopez, the top-rated entry with an ELO rating of 2236, finished in a five-way logjam at 4 points that included Gastardo, Jimzon Trangia, Ricarte Tiauson and NM Cedric Magno. Organizers said the prizes of all winners will be given on the 30th June during awards night at 76-A Bucana Gymnasium, Davao City. Marlon Flores served as tournament director while NA Alfred Moulic (CAUP) was the official arbiter-encoder. (NJB)
Greece, and held a tune-up match against Turkey in the city of Istanbul. The scores Philippines (72) – Romeo 18, Blatche 14, Chan 10, Castro 9, Reyes 5, Fajardo 5, Pingris 3, Rosario 3, Norwood 2, Aguilar 2, Parks 1, De Ocampo 0. China (69) – Zhou 18, Zhai 15, Ding 11, Wang 9, Zhao 5, G. Li 4, Zou 4, Sui 2, Jia 1, Q. Zhou 0, M. Li 0, Guo 0, Kelambaike 0, Y Zhao 0. Quarterscores: 22-23, 34-all; 54-51, 72-69,: ASIAN RIVALS. China played without NBA veteran Yi Jianlian and 2016 draft pick Zhou Qi.
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WHY, OH WHY? Abueva, Tenorio exclusion explained
T
HE exclusion of Calvin Abueva from the final Philippine national men’s basketball team lineup for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament came as a surprise to many. Even former Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes admitted that he did not expect “The Beast” to be cut from the 12-man roster. But Reyes, who has steered the national team for several times, said he understands why Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tab Baldwin decided to boot out veterans like Abueva as well as LA Tenorio, and choose the likes of Troy Rosario and Ryan Reyes instead. The reason can all be summed up in just one word: height.
“Five inches. (Rosario) has five inches over Abueva and one foot over LA or something. That’s a big, big factor in this kind of competition,” Reyes told a small group of sportswriters on Sunday. Rosario, a rookie forward from Tropang TNT, stands at 6’7″. Abueva, also a forward who recently won the Best Player of the Conference award in the Commissioner’s Cup, only stands at 6’2″. The coachturned-media executive also believes that Rosario’s height and versatility to play the wing spot will be used well in the Olympic qualifier where the Filipinos
will take on taller competition. “Because Troy has been playing really well. There were stretches last night and I think even the coaches would agree, Troy was the best player. Malaking bagay yung his ability to shoot, his size and his mobility. Those are very important,” Chot Reyes said. “The key with Troy Rosario is they’re going to play him in the wing spot, the three spot. That gives us a legitimate international-caliber in that spot. That’s very good.” Size was also the likely factor behind Tenorio’s non-inclusion, the coach said. “I think they decided as a third point guard they’re going to go big. After Jayson (Castro) and Terrence (Romeo), it’s going to be Ryan Reyes or Gabe Norwood. Again, size is important.”