Edge Davao 9 Issue 38

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

DU30 IN BAGUIO. Taking a breather at the iconic Lion’s head in Kennon Road, Baguio City, Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte with his family and supporters are on a nationwide caravan to help campaign for presidential bet Mayor Rodrigo Duterte.

‘SHE IS FUNNY’ Rody scoffs at Guanzon dare of taking psycho test

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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RESIDENTIAL bet Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte has an answer to Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner Rowena Guanzon who asked all presidential aspirants should submit medical and psychiatric records.

“Why only us, who is she?

It is it because you are Comelec Commissioner? Screw you,” he said.

This after Guanzon said last week that all candidates for presidents should voluntarily submit their medical and psychiatric records because their “state of health is now part of public interest.”

On Thursday night at The Marco Polo Davao, Duterte

questioned why Guanzon only required the presidential bets to take the test.

“She must also submit herself to physical and mental aptitude examination,” Duterte said.

Guanzon said, earlier in a report by GMA News Online, that the people should know because their candidates’ health, lifestyle and language are public interest.

She said the candidates should not invoke their right to privacy because they are vying for the highest position in the country.

Guanzon even thought of challenging the candidates, except Sen. Miriam Defen-

sor-Santiago, to run for a marathon to show how healthy they are.

Duterte, however, said if Guanzon insists on the requirement of psychiatric examination, the negative attitude of his opponents will be revealed.

“May maraming mahalata diyan kasi kapag psychological malaman kung sino ang kawatan , kung sino yung ano… (A lot of abnormalities will be revealed because if it is psychological, it will be known who are thief and many more),” he said.

“Kataw-anan siya [Guanzon] (She is funny),” he added.

Duterte said it will be bet-

ter for Guanzon to stay silent and do her job well.

Duterte’s daughter former Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio defended her father on the alleged issue that he is psychologically incapacitated due to his failed marriage to former wife Elizabeth Zimmerman.

Reports said Duterte will be painted as psychologically incapacitated, impulsive, selfish, and someone who makes decisions without remorse.

“He’s impulsive? He’s selfish? Does his track record in governance, as a public servant, show that he is impulsive or selfish? They do not,” she said.

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EDGEDAVAO Sports

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

ALMARIOS FOR DUTERTE. Davao City Third District Rep. Isidro Ungab (third from right) and First District Rep. Karlo Alexei Nograles (third from left), Davao Oriental Second District Rep. Thelma Almario (second from right), son Vice Governor Joel Mayo Almario (rightmost), PDP-Laban secretary Pantaleon Alvarez and daughter lawyer Paula Alvarez

Unarmed sergeant shot dead

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N unarmed Army sergeant was shot and killed by three still unidentified gunmen in Toril District, Davao City on Wednesday morning.

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division public affairs office chief, said the incident took place at 10 a.m. at Barangay Baracatan.

He identified the victim as Sgt. Allan Madrid of the 72nd

Infantry Battalion.

Batchar said Madrid died instantly after being shot in the right side of the head.

The victim was aboard his motorcycle and heading for his home in Barangay Inawayan, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur when he was fired upon.

Pursuit operations are ongoing even as the motive for the attack is still being determined. (PNA)

Green Thumb presses discussion of environment

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S the nation celebrates Earth Day, civil society groups have expressed concern about the lack of a solid stand from presidential candidates on environment issues, despite the vulnerability of the Philippines’ natural resources to climate change and other threats.

Weeks before the May 9 elections, Oceana has teamed up with other non-government organizations, church groups, and the academe in a civil society coalition called Green Thumb to press for substantive discussion on environment issues during presidential debates.

The Commission on Elections and media organizations have conducted two presidential debates so far, and the final leg will be held on April 24 at the University of Pangasinan in Dagupan City.

During the presidential debate in Cebu last month, around 3,000 members of civil society groups held a rally to call for genuine discussion of

environment issues in the debates.

“Therewas no definitivecommitmentfromourpresidentialcandidatestowork in protectingourenvironment, includingouroceans and thelivelihood of thosemostdependentonourdegraded and vanishingresources,” saidlawyer Gloria Estenzo Ramos, Vice PresidentforOceanaPhilippines.

“Ourfisherfolk are thepoorest sector in thePhilippines, but so farthere are no clear and time-boundplatformsonsustainablefisheriesmanagement in thecandidates’ electoral agenda,” shenoted.

The Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) reported that the Philippines is home to more than 52,177 endemic species, making it one of the 18 megadiverse countries in the world. World-famous marine scientist Kent Carpenter has described the Philippines as the “center of the center of

F GREEN, 10

flash the clenched fist sign to show their support to the presidential bid of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte in a gathering of political leaders from Davao Oriental at The Marco Polo Davao Thursday night. Lean Daval Jr.

Duterte not worried by possible drop in survey

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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RESIDENTIAL Aspirant Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte said he does not care if his ratings plummet in the wake of the firestorm brought about by the rape slur.

This possibility surfaced despite Mayor Duterte’s topping the surveys in two consecutive weeks.

When asked his reaction on the latest survey where he got a comfortable lead over his opponents, Duterte said he might slide down in the next survey.

“I don’t believe in surveys, it is just like weather, maybe next I will rank number five,” he said.

The mayor said what is important for him is that, “the people know my advocacy and my capacity as a leader.”

“I am not really dreaming of it and I am not going to die just because I do not become president,” he said.

Earlier, Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) political science professor Ramon Beleno III said that Duterte’s recent issue on the rape slur can cause

a decrease in his survey ratings although he said he cannot predict to what extent.

Beleno said despite the apology of Duterte the negative effect on his ratings will remain since the rape joke issue is very sensitive.

He said the statement of his opponents who appeared to be taking advantage of the issue to hit him can also affect his ratings.

Duterte said he will follow his destiny and he does not care what some women’s groups say about him because

of the alleged rape joke.

“I was narrating, I was not joking. I will repeat it for the last time, it was a repetition of an orginal deed I made,” he said.

“Kayong mga (You) Gabriela, you are the jokers,” he said.

He said if these groups come to the city, they will see how he cares for the women.

Duterte said he founded a P31-million rehabilitation center in the city that caters to young girls, ages 5 years old and above, who are victims of

and employers of the victim have committed to support the family during this time,” the Aboitiz said.

However, the management of the plant has not disclosed the amount of assistance that will be given to the family.

The management has also not released any update on the ongoing investigation into the accident conducted by the TSI and the employer of the victim.

Aboitiz withheld the name of the ill-fated worker.

“The victim, a Filipino, is an employee for six years of sub-contractor Boyi Wantong, which reports to FHI-True North. FHI-True North reports to Therma South,” an earlier statement said.

This is the second fatal accident occuring in the P35-billion plant.

“Therma South and its contractors are presently conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and to ensure that safety guidelines are reinforced,” the

statement read..

The first fatal incident happened two years ago in the afternoon of January 6, 2014 involving a 39-year-old Chinese engineer of Nantong Dragon who died after he was accidentally struck by a three-ton pulley winch while supervising at the construction site.

At the time, the management of TSI had to temporarily stop operations for a week to review safety measures and sub-contracting of the construction of the plant.

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Family of accident victim to get aid-Aboitiz

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HE employer of the family of the Filipino worker who died in an accident inside the 300-megawatt coal-fired power plant of Aboitiz-owned Therma South, Inc. (TSI) in barangay Binugao, Davao City last Wednesday will receive financial assistance.

This was confirmed in a statement of the Aboitiz Power Corp. furnished to Edge Davao yesterday.

“The family of the victim has already arrived in Davao

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 3

‘Be positive, aware of gains of peace process’ - Quevedo M

INDANAO’S lone Cardinal, Orlando Quevedo urged participants to a peace symposium here to “be positive, be pro-active and be aware of the gains of the peace process” between the government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the midst of this political transition “from a government that negotiated the fundamental bases for a just and lasting peace to a new government whose peace interests are still to be known.”

In his keynote address Thursday before at least 120 participants of “Titayan: Bridging for Peace (Inclusive Political Transitions in the Bangsamoro), convened by the Friends of Peace and the Ateneo de Davao University, Quevedo spoke of “learning from the past, looking at the present in terms of attitudes, and looking at the future with hope.”

He said “Titayan” which means bridge in Maguindanao, was convened because of the “deep concern” about the future by all sectors of Mindanao society brought about by the “apparent demise” of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) as well as “questions about the possibility of any definitive and lasting peace based on justice and reconciliation.”

“Will this peace symposium provide doable answers that will allay fears, insecurities rooted in the failure of Congress to pass a BBL? It is our hope that it will,” he said.

Mindanao’s lone Cardi-

nal pointed to the logo of the symposium, the iconic wooden bridge in Tukanalipao in Mamasapano, Maguindanao as the summation of “the past, the present, and the future.”

“The iconic Titayan of Mamasapano is symbolic of grave disaster in the past, insecurity and uncertainty in the present.

But for the future it is a bridge of hope. May we contribute to the fulfillment of that hope,” Quevedo said.

Implementation phase The peace process between government and the MILF is on its implementation phase. A major part of the implementation process, however, was derailed when Congress failed to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) before it adjourned on February 3.

The BBL would have paved the way for the creation of the Bangsamoro, the new autonomous political entity that would replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

With the non-passage of the BBL, elections in the ARMM for 2016 to 2019 will be held during the synchronized elections on May 9.

Passage of the Bangsamoro law is needed within the next two years under the new administration to allow for the transition from the ARMM to the Bangsamoro and to ensure that the decommissioning of the MILF’s weapons and troops, which is tied up with the passage of the law, will con-

CARDINAL ON PEACE. Orlando Cardinal Quevedo of Cotabato explains the logo yesterday of the Titayan Symposium on Bridging for Peace: Inclusive Political Transitions in the Bangsamoro. He said the logo is inspired by the Tuklanipao Bridge in Mamasapano which is a symbol of conflict but the civil tinue, as part of the normalization process.

Another aspect of the Bangsamoro peace process that needs to be attended to are the recommendations of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) on dealing with the past.

Looking at the past and present In looking at the past, the Cardinal listed nine points

which, based on his personal perspective, led to the “failure of negotiated peace.” These are the perceived lack of general consultation with Mindanawons; divisions of opinion among Mindanawons; lack of a united Bangsamoro stand – failure to see the BBL as the Bangsamoro stand; lack of peace constituency; misunderstanding and misinformation about the output of the negoti-

society groups want it to connect people who are aspiring for peace. With him is Mindanao State University -General Santos (MSU-GenSan) Professor Rufa Cagoco Guiam who was also the resource speaker of the two-day symposium. Armando B. Fenequito Jr. ation that led to the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) and the BBL; the Mamasapano tragedy of January 25, 2015 and its aftermath, the politicization of the BBL in view of election; media misinformation and disinformation, and radical changes in the MILF-Government version of the BBL.

He spoke of the “explosion of bias and prejudices” because of the Mamasapano tragedy and how these biases were articulated during the investigations by the Senate and the House of Representatives.

He said the line of questioning focused on the lack of trust, the legislators asking if they can trust the Moro people after Mamasapano, if they can

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

ARMM elections must be fair, peaceful, says Mujiv A

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UTONOMOUS Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Gov. Mujiv Hataman called on last Thursday all peace-loving people in the region to help promote peaceful elections.

In a statement issued Thursday, Hataman said violence and corruption had no place in the five province region composed of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

He said ARMM has made great strides - despite the challenges of prejudice and judgment - as the region had fought long and hard for reforms and good governance.

“Together, we have sought

reforms and strengthened institutions that were once thought of as impossible,” Hataman, who is seeking his second term as regional governor, said.

“We are the home of the Bangsamoro, the Lumad, and the settlers, and it is this diversity from which we draw our greatest strength,” he added.

Hataman said Bangsamoro leaders had worked hard “to improve the lives we share with each other, lives that we devote to our families, and lives that drive development in our communities.”

The coming elections, Hataman said, was yet another opportunity to shape the future of Bangsamoro region by

voting fairly and peacefully.

He said the election was a democratic exercise, where every one stood to claim their rights, and this exercise must be fair and peaceful, free from intimidation and fear.

“It is therefore imperative for all party leaders and candidates to set the standard, and to impress upon their supporters that violence and corruption have no place in the elections. They must commit to an electoral process that does not condone, let alone encourage, violence,” Hataman said.

He reminded all the people of the region, more than 2 million inhabitants of Moro, Christian and Indigenous

Alert up in Koronadal City as groups hold protest actions

Peoples, that the result of this year’s elections would determine how leaders confront the challenges the region face today and shape the future for ARMM children.

“We have worked tirelessly to establish a government that is accountable to the people, and the elections is but another opportunity for us to build on our gains,” Hataman said.

“It is our responsibility as a community of equals who put a premium on humanity to help keep the peace, whether our side wins or loses the count. In an election where violence reigns, nobody wins,” Hataman said, adding “the only option is peace.” (PNA)

UTHORITIES of Koronadal City, South Cotabato have placed the city under heightened alert due to the planned protest actions in the area by farmers and members of militant groups coming from parts of Region 12.

South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes said Friday she has directed local police units to properly secure various strategic areas in the city and ensure that the protest actions would be peaceful and orderly.

Around 700 protesters led by the militant Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) and the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) converged in front of a local hotel here on Thursday night for the protest actions.

The group, which is initially seeking a dialogue with the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Region 12, transferred on Friday morning at the national highway in front of the regional center site in Barangay Carpenter Hill.

DA-12’s main office building, which was only completed late last year, is situated at the site but their personnel have yet to fully transfer to the facility.

“We will not stop these protests but we will make sure that there will be no repeat of the Kidapawan City incident,” she said.

The governor was referring to the earlier bloody dispersal of protesters in Kidapawan City that resulted to the death of three people and more than a hundred others injured.

The protesters, who were

led by members of Bayan and its allied groups, sought for the immediate release of rice stocks for farmers and other sectors who were affected by the onslaught of the continuing dry spell spawned by the El Niño phenomenon.

Ignacio Adrias, KMP regional spokesperson, told reporters that the protest actions mainly focus on calls for the government to fast tract the distribution of rice to farmers affected by the El Niño.

“We will not stop until our demands are met,” he said.

Adrias, who claimed that they will mobilize at least 2,000 protesters, said they are initially planning to stay in the area for five days.

Fuentes clarified that the protesters are mostly from other areas in Region 12 and not from the province.

Also known as Soccsksargen, the region comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and North Cotabato, and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.

She said organizers had convinced some farmers from parts of the province to join the mobilization but decided to return home early Friday following a dialogue with them.

“About 95 percent of these protesters are from outside the province,” she said.

The governor appealed to local farmers and other residents who are reeling from the impact of the El Niño to remain calm and assured that the relief assistance of the local government will reach them soon. (PNA)

Mindanao farmers picket DA-12 office, demand rice

FLOCKED. Leading presidential bet Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte is flocked by Davao Oriental political leaders and members of local and national media when he arrived at a gathering held at The Marco Polo Davao last Thursday night. Lean Daval Jr.

ARMM awards P12.6-M livelihood projects to coops

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FFICIALS of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will award on Friday livelihood projects worth Php 12.6 million under the region’s banner program Health, Education, Livelihood, Peace and Governance and Synergy (HELPS) to various cooperatives in the region.

The livelihood assistance includes nine bakery projects in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi; two organic or vermi-composting fertilizer production in Lanao del Sur; and three mat-weaving projects in Tawi-Tawi.

These were extended to the beneficiaries through ARMM’s Science and Technology department (DOSTARMM) “Three bakery projects were already turned over to cooperative-beneficiaries in Basilan province on April

12,” Mon-Em Abangad, DOSTARMM information officer, said.

Funds were provided to cooperatives as capital and members were given skills training.

“We trained them on bread, cake, and pastry making, and basic hand washing.

We also gave inputs on food safety hazards and the Halal certification process,” Abangad said.

These are Switch Yakal Consumers Cooperative in Lantawan; Badja Kahapan Agri-Farmers Producers Cooperative in Tipo-Tipo; and Pintasan Consumers Cooperative in Mohammad Ajul.

“We are happy we are given this project, now we can make both ends meet everyday,” said Nihma Asanji, 27, a member of the Badja Kahapan Agri-Farmers Producers Cooperative.

Abangad said the projects would help improve the living conditions of the residents in their respective communities.

He added these would also create jobs and provide additional income to members of the cooperative-beneficiaries.

Abangad added that the six remaining bakery projects would be implemented in the barangays of Poblacion in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi; and Puukan Laminusa in Siasi, San Raymundo and Walled City in Jolo, Bilaan Poblacion in Talipao, and Baligtang in Pandami, all in the province of Sulu.

On Wednesday, April 20, the agency turned over a vermi-composting project in barangay Daguan, Kapatagan, Lanao del Sur to Malinday Daguan Farmers Producers Cooperative.

The same project will be turned over to Radapan Po-

blacion Fertilizer Livelihood Farmers Producers Cooperative in Radapan Poblacion, Pagiapo, Lanao del Sur on April 23.

Meanwhile, mat weaving projects will be implemented in the barangays of Balimbing in Panglima Sugala, and Unas-Unas and Tong Tampakan in South Ubian, all in the province of Tawi-Tawi.

A priority program of the regional government under the Hataman administration, HELPS aims at providing basic intervention to poor and depressed areas in the region.

The regional government has identified 200 barangays as priority project recipients under the HELPS program in 2015-2016.

The ARMM government has earmarked Php 10-million worth of various projects for each of the targeted barangays. (PNA)

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BOUT 2,000 farmers from different parts of Mindanao have gathered in front of the Region 12 regional center in Koronadal City, South Cotabato demanding rice from the Department of Agriculture (DA-12).

Farmers, bringing with them children and huge bags, claimed they will hold the protest for three days or until Monday.

Domingo Azures, leader of Anak Pawis farmers’ group and believed to the protest action organizers assured the rally will be peaceful and will not be like the one that happened in Kidapawan City.

At 8 a.m., the farmers put up tents in front of the SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Center in Barangay Carpenter Hills where government line agencies regional offices are located.

SOCCSKSARGEN is composed of the provinces of North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Saranggani and the cities of Cotabato, Kidapawan, Koronadal, Tacurong and Gen. Santos.

Azures said they will continue the peaceful protest until

the government gives them rice after Agriculture Sec. Proceso Alcala announced over national media that rice are ready for distribution in Mindanao and that there was no lack of rice.

Senior Supt. Barney Condes, Koronadal City PNP chief, said enough personnel are already in place to ensure the flow of traffic from Koronadal to Gen. Santos City will not be blocked.

At least two farmers were killed in a farmers’ protest in Kidapawan City which turned bloody on April 1. The farmers, some coming from as far as Bukidnon and South Cotabato converged in the city demanding rice assistance.

The group demanded a dialogue with DA-12 Regional Director Amalia Jayag Datukan but the regional agriculture official is in Manila.

No dialogue takes place between farmers and the local government of South Cotabato and Koronadal City.

South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Fuentes said the local government respects the rights of citizens to a peaceful assembly

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

Peso down vs USD on upbeat US housing data, oil price hikes

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HE Philippine peso weakened to a US dollar Thursday following the surge in oil prices and above-consensus US home sales among others.

It shed PHP0.21 and finished the trade at 46.44 from the previous session’s 46.22, which a trader also attributed to investors’ wait-and-see stance ahead of the European Central Bank’s (ECB) policy meeting later in the day. ”Risk sentiment became positive after some Fed (US Federal Reserve) officials turned more hawkish in recent days,” the trader said.

US existing home sale

grew by 5.1 percent in March 2016, exceeding market consensus of 3.5 percent, which the trader said added to risk sentiment of investors.

This report, for one, resulted to the weaker opening of the local currency at 46.35 from Wednesday’s 45.10.

It traded between 46.32 and 46.44 bringing the day’s average to 46.38.

Volume of trade reached USD710.5 million, higher than the previous session’s USD593 million.

On Friday, the currency pair is seen to trade between 46.30 and 46.50. (PNA)

Baldoz signs AO on Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay guidelines

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ABOR and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz recently signed Administrative Order No. 120, Series of 2016, or the Guidelines on the Implementation of Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay, to effectively provide and expand the employment and economic opportunities of distressed overseas Filipino women workers.

“The DOLE Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay (BPBH) is a combination of training and production intervention program to provide distressed women OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) with livelihood skills to improve their socio-economic well-being by expanding their employment and economic opportunities.

“Under the Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay, livelihood skills training and starter kits are provided to distressed women OFWs to enable them to start self or wage employment undertaking,” said Baldoz.

The beneficiaries who may avail of the Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay program are distressed women OFW returnees and those who were sheltered in Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Resource Centers (MWOFRCs).

Under A.O. No. 120-16, Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) personnel shall prepare all distressed women OFWs, whether returnee to sheltered in MWOFRC, for productive reintegration to the country.

The POLO personnel shall complete on-site processing of all requirements for entitlement to BPBH program; train the BPBH beneficiaries on their preferred livelihood skills and on the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and business planning; and ensure the submission of business plan as a requirement for graduation and issuance by POLO of the Certificate of Training on Livelihood Skill and Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship and Business Planning.

For on-site livelihood training, the heads of POLO shall ensure the availability of livelihood skills training cours-

es at MWOFRC based on the need and viability of the undertaking.

The POLO head shall ensure that all the skills training are TESDA guided in terms of training facilitation, assessment, and certification; handled only by trainers with National TVET Trainer Certificate; and in instances where POLOs are able to partner with external entities or institutions in the host country. The POLO heads shall ensure that training programs will lead to the acquisition of the National Certificate or Certificate of Competency.

The administrative order also stated that training expenses shall be cost-shared by the Labor Attaché and Welfare Fund as indicated in the POLO Work and Financial Plan, while the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) shall fund the starter kits to be distributed to the beneficiaries.

The DOLE Regional Offices shall, through the NRCO, shall identify and select priority clients and submit a copy of the passport with picture and page stamp and accomplished NRCO form and Business Plan.

“Skills training for identified livelihood shall be conducted through TESDA and other accredited training institutions,” said Baldoz.

The NRCO, as program manager, shall conduct regular field visit to assess program implementation and provide technical advisory assistance to program implementers.

The DOLE Assessment Team composed of the NRCO, Internal Audit Service (IAS), Financial Management Service (FMS), and Planning Service (PS) may conduct actual site visit/consultation with project beneficiaries to assess the overall impact of the livelihood activities and to make appropriate recommendations for improvements.

The NRCO has reported that in 2015, the Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay Project provided livelihood starter kits and financial assistance amounting to Php 14.5 million to 1,456 OFW beneficiaries.

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UNDER THE HEAT OF THE SUN. A porter pushes a cart full of sacks of flour and onions under the searing heat of the sun along Sta. Ana Avenue in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

SouthCot eyes P422M in tourism investments T

OURISM stakeholders in South Cotabato are seeking around PHP422 million in investments for the development of seven tourism projects in the province.

Cesar Sulit Jr., South Cotabato senior tourism operations officer, said Friday the proposed projects are among the province’s top priorities in terms of development under its enhanced tourism plan.

He said they are currently exploring possible partnerships with major investors for the development of the projects, which are situated in five localities in the province.

These are the PHP60 million San Felipe artists village in

Tantangan town; PHP75 million Seven Falls Development Project in Lake Sebu; PHP91 million Paraiso golf course and theme park in Koronadal City; PHP120 million Lake Lahit Dream Aqua and Restaurant in Lake Sebu; PHP24 million Emily Green Park Resort Development Project in Surallah; and PHP52 million Mt. Matutum Fruit Park Development Project in Tupi.

Sulit said these projects were among the 12 investment packages presented by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Tourism in Region 12 during the four-day regional travel and trade expo last week

in Makati City.

He said DTI-12 held an investment mission and business matching activity at the Berjaya Hotel in Makati that was joined by potential investors and representatives from government agencies, trade groups and foreign embassies.

“The responses were very encouraging and there were inquiries for our lined up projects,” he said.

During the activity, Sulit said the Tourism Infrastructure and Economic Zone Authority (TIEZA) expressed interest on the Seven Falls Development Project.

He said they specifically discussed with TIEZA repre-

sentative Michael Louis Flororita the possibility of establishing a flagship tourism economic zone in Lake Sebu. “(TIEZA) promised to visit the province sometime in June to validate the data presented during investment mission,” Sulit said.

DOT and DTI in Region 12 pushed for the holding of the regional travel and trade expo in Makati City to further promote the region’s top products and world-class tourist destinations.

Dubbed “Treasures of SOX: a Travel and Trade Expo,” the event was held at the Glorietta Mall’s activity center in Ayala Center, Makati. (PNA)

WO airlines have expressed hope that the labor issue involving employees of the Civil Aviation of the Philippines (CAAP) last week will have a quick resolution.

Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific on Friday said it was keen on the labor issue being “resolved diplomatically for the benefit of all parties at the soonest possible time.”

Cebu Pacific meanwhile

thanked the CAAP personnel for their professionalism and dedication by ensuring that there is no disruption in air transport operations despite the silent protest.

The airline company further expressed hope that services for air passengers will remain a priority, and will not be compromised.

“Cebu Pacific fully shares the optimism of fellow airlines in anticipation of an im-

mediate and amicable resolution of the issue,” the airline company said.

Earlier, flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) like Cebu Pacific, also expressed hope that the issue be quickly resolved but at the same time warned that these issues may put the country’s aviation sector in a bad light.

PAL president and COO Jaime Bautista in a statement noted the importance of pro-

tecting the country’s return to Category 1 status in 2014 after losing it a year earlier due to “Significant Safety Concerns”.

Both airlines meanwhile committed support in being important partners in the advancement of the country’s aviation industry.

Last week, members of the CAAP labor union protested over the Commission

EAOIL Philippines Inc. reported a net income of Php 1.05 billion for 2015.

The oil firm also said in a statement Thursday it posted a revenue of Php 31.5 billion.

It noted the company reached a 59-percent volume growth due to its logistical advantage, streamlining business processes and using programs

to improve sales performance.

Its sales volume was also propelled by low oil prices and increased vehicle sales.

Seaoil chief financing officer and retail business president Mark Yu said the company was “targeting a 25-percent growth” by increasing its number of stations and improving the sales of its existing stations.

The oil firm also rolled out a new franchise package, which costed less than Php 1 million. It eyes to sign up 60 station operators for 2016.

Seaoil said it would also open its first mega station along the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway by the fourth quarter of 2016.

Yu added that the firm

would serve motorists coming from the Northern Provinces, while improving its brand presence.

According to the Energy Department’s oil supply and demand report for 2015, Seaoil is the leading independent oil firm in the country -- with a market share of 5.1 percent.

(PNA)

Airlines hopeful on CAAP labor issue’s resolution

T

F AIRLINES, 10

Seaoil posts P1.05-B net income for 2015 S

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

PCCI, academe to promote PHL as global education hub

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HE country’s largest business group Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) as well as colleges and universities nationwide aim for the country to be a global education hub.

PCCI held consultation with heads of higher education institutions (HEIs) in order to create an “Education Services Sector Export Roadmap” which targets to attract foreign students to enroll in collegeand graduate-degree courses in the country.

“The roadmap summarized the exports development strategy that identified the goals, challenges, and action required for government, educators, and business to enhance the competitiveness of the Philippines as a global provider of higher education,” PCCI stated.

PCCI and HEIs also see potential of USD1 billion annual revenues for promoting the

Philippines as a global education hub.

PCCI President George T. Barcelon said that foreign students consider studying in a country with English instructions, qualifications recognized in their desired work countries, quality faculties and facilities, and low costs of living which are present in the Philippines.

“An initial reform that would promote the Philippines as a higher education hub was lifting the regulatory and legal impediments that discourage many foreign students from enrolling here,” Barcelon added.

To draft the roadmap, a technical working group will be formed by PCCI Human Resources Development Foundation, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. (PNA)

Century Pacific Food acquires P500-M loan to fund acquisition

L

ISTED leading food manufacturer Century Pacific Food Inc. (CNPF) has secured Php500-million loan to finance acquisition.

The company told the local bourse it has entered into an agreement to secure a fiveyear fixed rate term loan.

“Proceeds shall be used by the company to partially refinance short-term loans that were obtained for the acquisition of Century Pacific Agricultural Ventures, Inc. (CPAVI),” it said.

CNPF fully acquired CPAVI, an integrated coconut producer of organic coconut

THE ECONOMY 7

Megaworld’s CityLink buses to go cashless next month C

OMMUTERS of Citylink buses who travel in various Megaworld integrated urban This beep card will be fully integrated to the unified automated fare collection system on Mass Rail Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines 1 and 2.

The Citylink Coach Services Inc. (Citylink), under Megaworld’s Estate Management, recently signed a partnership with AF Payments, Inc. (AFPI) to join the cashless system in public transportation for speed, safety and convenience.

“The primary objective of this cashless payment is to provide Filipino commuters a seamless and convenient traveling experience around Metro Manila. With one beep card, you can now embark on all Citylink buses and light rail transit routes. This is the

country’s first and only unified automated fare collection system and we are encouraging other operators to join and do the same,” said Arnie Batac, head of Estate Management, Megaworld.

The Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) earlier said the beep cards also aim to solve the long queues of passengers, especially during rush hours.

“Beep card users will no longer have to line up or pull out their cash in public to pay for the fare. Just tap and you can go to your desired destination,” he said.

Before the end of May, an initial of 18 Citylink buses will be made operational for all beep card users. Each station will have a booth or personnel who will sell stored value cards with Php50 load and they are reloadable in vending machines and beep

card partner establishments nationwide, and soon in all concierge of Megaworld’s Lifestyle Malls.

“Even the cashless payment made operational this May, we are still offering cash payment option until passengers can fully adapt to the system. We are providing fliers, orientation and other marketing materials to inform the public. This is how we will improve the commuting experience in Megaworld townships,” Batac said.

Megaworld’s Estate Management had earmarked around Php100 million in 2008 for the establishment of CityLink, a public transportation system, to help commuters and recognize the increasing demand for efficient means of transportation from various integrated urban townships.

“Citylink has 19 units that

operates 24/7. It caters to around 200,000 BPO workers, residents and visitors of Megaworld townships. Within second quarter of the year, we will add another 19 buses to further minimize the waiting time of commuters,” he said.

The Citylink buses ply around Eastwood City in Quezon City; Uptown Bonifacio and McKinley Hill in Fort Bonifacio; and Newport City with a fare price ranging from PhP12 to Php39.

Megaworld is the country’s leading BPO office developer and landlord with over 150 multinational and business process outsourcing (BPO) companies operating in various townships across the country such as Eastwood City, McKinley Hill, Uptown Bonifacio, as well as The Mactan Newtown in Cebu and Iloilo Business Park in Iloilo.

(PNA)

products, for Php4.5 billion.

After the acquisition, parent firm Century Pacific Group, Inc. (CPGI) increased its stake of CNPF to 73.7 percent from previous 72.2 percent. CPAVI was previously a wholly-owned subsidiary of CPGI. Century Pacific Food is behind popular canned food brands Century Tuna, Argentina Corned Beef, 555 Sardines, Angel, and Birch Tree which have established market leading positions locally.

It also provides private label tuna products for export overseas. (PNA)

S&P affirms PHL’s‘BBB’rating

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EBT rater Standard & Poor’s (S&P) affirmed its investment grade rating on the Philippines on back of the country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals, which is seen to further lift domestic growth and income.

It currently gives the country a ‘BBB’ rating, the level after the minimum investment grade, with ‘stable’ outlook.

S&P elevated the country to investment grade in May 2013 and elevated it to another notch a year after.

In a report, the credit rater said the outlook on the rating “reflects our expectation that the key economic, fiscal, external, and monetary credit measures for the Philippines will continue to improve.”

“The ratings on the Philippines reflect our assessment of its strong external position, which features rising foreign exchange reserves, and low and declining external debt,” it said.

The country’s average growth in recent year has risen to around six percent from about three percent in the past.

This has resulted to rise in

real per capita income, which S&P projects to post a faster rate of 4.4 percent this 2016 from year-ago’s 4.1 percent.

The report cited that government reforms in the last six years are already institutionalized, thus, its impact will be felt even with the entry of a new government .

“Our affirmation of the ratings is premised on the new administration after the May 2016 elections having a strong mandate to continue to pursue orthodox fiscal, economic, and development policies,” it said.

In terms of the country’s fiscal health, S&P expects this to remain sound citing that Philippines “external metrics are strong.”

It projects the country’s current account surplus to be maintained “reflecting robust services exports, large remittance inflows, and lower oil prices.”

It also said that young population the country currently enjoys along with educated and flexible labor market is a plus as this “imply further strength in services exports over the next five years.”

F S&P, 10

HALAL TASTE TEST. Mall goers avail of the free taste test of Halal honey at the booth of Indonesia’s Madu Apiari Mutiara during the opening of the Philippine Halal Tourism Expo 2016 at the activity center of Abreeza Mall yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

BDO eyes P26-B net income in 2016 S

Y-LED Banco de Oro Unibank from Inc. (BDO) is targeting a four percent rise in net income this 2016 to PhP26 billion, to be buoyed by the strength of the domestic economy as well as core businesses namely deposits and loans.

In a briefing Friday, BDO President Nestor V. Tan cited their good numbers last year, referring to the bank’s PhP25 billion net income, stressing that they hope to sustain it this year.

“We expect the positive (outcome) to continue although we are a little bit cautious,” he said.

Among the positive factors that the bank considers are the sound macro fundamentals of the economy given

the still strong inflows from Overseas Filipinos, the rising income of the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, the resiliency of the consumer sector, and rising growth of provincial areas; and the good demographics.

However, risks remain due to weakness in global growth, the uncertainties on the result of the May national polls, and the excess market liquidity.

Tan said earnings from corporate lending has gone down as big business forego their borrowings ahead of the election period but he expects this to regain strength in the last quarter of the year as what has been seen in the past election years.

Thus, the focus on their retail business, especially in the

provincial growth areas.

In the first quarter this year, the bank posted a PhP5.5 billion net income backed by core lending, deposit-taking and fee-based business.

Net interest income rose by 17 percent to PhP15.5 billion, lifted by the 15 percent increase in customer loans and deposits. Fee-based income increased by 11 percent during the same period.

Also, Tan said growth of remittances is seen to remain strong despite the slowdown last year and the impact of the on-going investigations on the laundering of the USD81 million stolen from the Banglades Bank last February, which ended in the Philippines.

He said difficulty among Philippine-based banks and

remittance firms to tap foreign counterparties started some five years ago when Europe put in more stringent rules against money laundering.

In terms of security on their system, the BDO chief said this is embedded in all their processes.

“Security has to apply in every process that we undertake...It’s not an add-on.It’s in everything that we do. It’s a cultural thing,” he said.

With regards to identity theft vis-a-vis the hacking of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) website, Tan said they are now in the process of changing the process of identity validation.

He declined to elaborate but said that the change “will be gradual. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

EDITORIAL Psychological incapacity is subjective

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HE issue of psychological incapacity of one adjudged as such by the court in an annulment case is another issue the rivals and bashers of presidential frontrunner Mayor Rodrigo Duterte are bringing up now.

Mayor Duterte was annulled to his wife Elizabeth Zimmerman on the ground of psychological incapacity which is one of the grounds one can use in order to obtain an annulment.

Let’s put it this way. The Family Code of the Philippines provides for a menu of possible grounds to use as basis to obtain an annulment of marriage and in this jurisdiction, the most common ground is psychological incapacity as provided for by Article 36 of the Code.

What is psychological incapacity?

According to Article 36 of the Family Code of the Philippines, “A marriage contracted by any party who, at the time of the celebration, was psychologically incapacitated to comply with his obligations of marriage, shall likewise be void even if such incapacity becomes manifest only after its solemnization.”

The Psychological Incapacity under Article 36 contemplates an incapacity or inability to take cognizance of and to assume basic marital obligations, and is not merely the difficulty, refusal or neglect in the performance of marital obligations or ill will. It consists of: (a) A true inability to commit oneself to the essentials of marriage; (b) The inability must refer to the essential obligations of marriage, that is, the

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conjugal act, the community of life and love, the rendering of mutual help, and the procreation and education of offspring; and (c) The inability must be tantamount to a psychological abnormality.

It means that if one of the parties is psychologically incapacitated to comply with his obligation as a spouse, then the marriage is void from the very beginning. That is why the legal remedy is to petition the court for nullity of the marriage.

Parties seeking to obtain annulment of marriage must have one to play the “devil’s role” without being guilty of collusion.

Most often, the male spouse is the one who takes the hit so that the court will be convinced and grant the annulment.

Psychological incapacity, a judge of one Family Courts in Davao City, said is subjective. One can be psychologically incapacitated towards his partner only but not with others or in past or future relationships.

A party using psychological incapacity against a partner as ground for nullity of marriage could also be found by the court to be one as the hearing of the case progresses before the bar.

The bottomline here is that parties saying one who is declared psychologically incapacitated as being one for the rest of his life is wrong.

Where one is declared psychologically incapacitated in a marriage subject for declaration of nullity, is limited only to such marital union and not to be used as his patent character.

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A

HEAD of the pack, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte has become “The Dilemma”. His massive support from across the social classes ABCDE casts him as the strong leader who can rid the country of criminality, corruption, smuggling and drug menace. His rivals and critics from the elite society, human and women rights advocates, and the Catholic Church condemn him as a ruthless leader and his coarse language as a disgrace to the presidency.

The Question: Elect Duterte president to have the strong leader the country needs; or, not to elect him lest he rules with ironfist or be a disgrace to the presidency.

The Given First: Criminality, corruption, smuggling and drug menace have long plagued the country. Every election, presidential candidates promised to eradicate the plagues.

But every president failed. When it came to these plagues, our past and present presidents proved weak, indecisive – hence, the need for a strong president.

Second: Under the aegis of democracy, our government is a government of laws and rights entrenched in our Constitution.

Criminals, the corrupt, smugglers and drug

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HIS coming May, we will be electing a new president. There are five aspirants: Grace Poe, Rodrigo Duterte, Jejomar Binay, Mar Roxas, and Miriam Defensor-Santiago. Who among these will win, nobody knows yet.

In addition, we will be voting a new vice president, twelve set of senators, a congressman, a governor, vice-governor, 8 provincial board members, mayor, vice-mayor, and 8 municipal councilors. All in all, we will be writing 35 names!

“A person running for political office is seeking power,” American newscaster David Brinkley once said. “Power as we know it corrupts.”

But on second thought “politics is funny.”

That’s according to F. G. Kernan. “When a man leaves your party and goes over to the other side, he’s a traitor,” he explained. “When he leaves the other party and comes over to your side, he’s a convert.”

At one time, I saw this sign in car window: “If Con is the opposite of Pro, what is the opposite of Progress?” Well, your answer is as good as mine!

It’s high time for campaign now. Television, radio and newspapers are fully loaded with advertisements of those who are running. Social media, particularly Facebook and Twitter, are burning with posts, shares, and ads.

Let’s not be too serious about campaign, though. So, allow me to share a story sent to me by a friend via electronic mail.

So, it came to pass that a powerful senator dies after a prolonged illness. His soul arrives in heaven and is met by Saint Peter at the en-

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

Duterte: The Dilemma COMMENT

BY PATRICIO P. DIAZ lords and traffickers have rights including the right to due process and their humanity.

Rule by iron-fist is condemned.

Third: The President represents the Philippines among the families of nations.

Heads of states must conform to diplomatic protocols, among them the finesse of conduct and language. To violate the protocols is to disgrace the presidency and the Philippines.

Sizing Up Duterte How does Duterte measure up to these given?

On the first: His supporters hail him as a strong leader who can stamp out criminality, corruption and drug menace like what he has done for Davao City for more than twenty years as mayor. But his rivals and critics are questioning the Davao City model; and, even if real, they doubt if he can replicate nationwide the model.

On the second: Duterte has admitted having killed criminals and warning drug

pushers to stop their trade or be killed if they would not and stayed. He said he had instructed the police to shoot criminals if they resisted arrest. It is known there existed in Davao City death squads that executed notorious persons including teen-aged gang members.

On the third: Duterte talks tough spiced with expletives and curses. Even if at times he would apologize he persists in his coarse and foul language. That is what he is, he says. People must vote for him as what he is; otherwise, they vote for any of his rivals. Will he change according to protocols and diplomatic standards should he win?

The Problem If the poll survey trend continues, Duterte will win. To his vast followers, he will solve the problems of criminality, corruption, smuggling and drug menace – the four plagues. Good, if he can. But hope may not turn into reality. Even if it does, Duterte can still be “The Problem” – bulldozing the rule of law, due process and human rights; and posing as an international embarrassment for the Philippines.

As “The Problem”, he can be avoided if he loses. He can lose. His rivals and critics are

Election: the heat is on!

trance.

“Welcome to Heav- THINK ON THESE! en,” says Saint Peter. “Before you settle in, it seems there is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we’re not sure what to do Henrylito D. Tacio henrytacio@gmail.com with you.”

“No problem, just let me in,” says the senator.

“Well, I’d like to but I have orders from higher up,” Saint Peter explains. “What we’ll do is have you spend one day in Hell and one in Heaven. Then you can choose where to spend eternity.”

“Really, I’ve made up my mind. I want to be in Heaven,” the senator says.

“I’m sorry but we have our rules,” replies St. Peter.

And with that, Saint Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to Hell. The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course. Nearby are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him. Everyone is in evening attire and very happy to see him. They run to greet him, hug him, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense of the people. They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster and caviar.

Also present is the Devil, who really is a

very friendly guy and who has a good time dancing and telling jokes. They are having such a good time that the time flies, and before he realizes it, the senator has to go. Everyone gives him a big hug and waves while the elevator rises.

The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens on Heaven where Saint Peter is waiting for him. “Now it’s time to visit Heaven,” he says.

The next 24 hours pass with the senator joining a group of contented souls moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing.

They have a good time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and Saint Peter returns.

“Well then, you’ve spent a day in Hell and another in Heaven. Now choose your eternity,” Saint Peter tells the lawmaker. The senator reflects for a minute, then answers, “Well, I would never have said it, I mean Heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in Hell.”

So Saint Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to Hell. Now the doors of the elevator open and he is in the middle of a barren land covered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags. The Devil comes over to him and lays his arm on his neck.

“I don’t understand,” stammers the senator. “Yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and a beautiful club and we ate lobster and caviar and danced and had a great time.

Now there is only a wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable.

The Devil looks at him, smiles and says,

VANTAGE POINTS

9

ganging on him due to his latest joke on rape.

Can they pull him back or down? Maybe YES; maybe NO. His vast supporters may consider the problem of Duterte’s foul mouth not as serious as the need for a strong leadership they hope him to provide. If he loses, the four plagues will remain “The Problem”. Duterte’s rivals are only offering rehashed versions of the same solutions that have failed.

Duterte’s loss will smother the belief of his vast followers that under his leadership the four plagues will be eradicated. Duterte, good riddance! The four plagues would feel relieved. What comfort is there in getting rid of one problem while tolerating another?

It would be most comforting if Duterte pledges that if he wins he will adhere to the rule of law, due process and human rights and to refine his language to conform to the diplomatic and presidential protocols. Will he pledge to?

What are the signs?

(Next: Duterte’s rape joke) (MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. Patricio P. Diaz was former editor of the Mindanao Cross in Cotabato City and later the Mindanao Kris. The Titus Brandsma Media Center honored Mr. Diaz with a Lifetime Achievement Award)

“Yesterday we were campaigning. Today you voted for us!”

As politicians campaign these days, be sure to listen and try to weigh things. Are they telling the truth or just spreading lies. “When widely followed public figures feel free to say anything, without any fact-checking, it becomes impossible for a democracy to think intelligently about big issues,” three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning American journalist Thomas L. Friedman pointed out.

“Elections belong to the people,” American president Abraham Lincoln once reminded.

“It’s their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.” He also said: “The ballot is stronger than the bullet.”

American veteran newspaper editor and syndicated columnist Carl Riblet, Jr. reminds us of what a politician is: “In these days of the closest scrutiny of the politician, it is fitting that we list what he needs to succeed. Such a creature of the animal kingdom, besides having the ability to butt like a goat and turn like a worm, must have the eyes of a vulture, the memory of an elephant, rocks in the seat of his pants to break the feet of those who kick him, and the reactions of a skunk.”

So this May, choose wisely who you would vote for. Just a reminder from Suzy Kassem, the woman behind Rise Up and Salute The Sun: “To vastly improve your country and truly make it great again, start by choosing a better leader.

Do not let the media or the establishment make you pick from the people they choose, but instead choose from those they do not pick.”

10 NEWS SHE... FROM 1

Sara said her father might have failed in his marriage but definitely not as an elected public servant.

She said the court may have used it as grounds for the annulment of the marriage,

but it did not say that he is unfit to become a leader.

“The court said my parents are unfit to be together in a marriage, but it did not say that my father is unfit to become our leader.”

incest.

“You do not know the facility,” he said.

He said the city has a Women’s Code which is the first pro-women law crafted in the whole country.

Duterte said all pageants in the city have no swimsuit competition because it is prohibited under the ordinance.

He said the city also has the Integrated Gender Development Office (IGDO) that

provides assistance to women who are victims of violence.

Duterte said the office has five lawyers to take care of cases of abused women in the city.

The mayor hit back at the women’s group who filed a complaint against him with the Commission on Human Rights, saying that they are just doing it for the money.

“These are cash crusaders, pera, pera lang yan (it is all about money),” he said.

trust them with more power, with more money “and naturally the answer would be no, therefore dilute the BBL.” He also noted the “politicization of the BBL in Congress in view of the elections” with some opposing the BBL “as a political statement in order to gain sympathies of the Christian majority.”

“It was not surprising that three of the most vocal opponents of the BBL are vice presidential candidates. That’s not surprising to me,” he said.

In looking at the present, Quevedo talked about various attitudes that followed the non-passage of the BBL: exultation that the BBL was not passed; dismay and demoralization, as well as indifference from those who believe the BBL does not concern those “who are far away,” and “confusion as to future action for peace.”

recognition of a distinct Moro cultural identity as well as of Lumad cultural identity.”

Quevedo explained there is “the beginning of better knowledge of Bangsamoro history even though majority Christians still hesitate to look at Moro history beyond the time of migration to the time of Moro sovereignty in Mindanao.”

The other gains of the peace process, he said, are the acceptability, even if ambiguous to many, of the concept of self-determination; the recognition of the need for greater autonomy, the acceptability of the concept of “ancestral domain,” the establishment of a fundamental basis for a just and lasting peace through the FAB, CAB and BBL, the internationality of the peace process and the support of the international community; knowing the causes of decades, even hundreds of years, of intermittent rebellion and armed conflict as well as the dimensions of transitional justice as reported by the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission; and the development of peace networks and their collaboration in support of a just and lasting peace.

He said the Titayan symposium, which is followed by workshops on April 22 and 23, intends to enhance learning from good practices in a period of complex political transitions, enhance broadbased process for a wider and more sustained participation in the peace process, agree on a framework that integrates various post-election scenarios, and strengthe and restore trust among the parties and critical stakeholders. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

Duterte... FROM 2

Be positive... FROM 3

Looking at the future In looking at the future, Quevedo told the audience: “we cannot look at the past with dismay and see the future with confusion. We need as peacemakers to follow the future with hope.”

He said at this stage, the country is still preparing to elect a new administration “whose peace interest has yet to be known” but urged everyone to “be positive.”

“Let us be positive. Let us be proactive. Let us not look at the future in the abstact but look at the future in the concrete and see the possibilities of peace in the new government as the transition takes place,” he said.

He listed nine gains of the peace process, the first of which is the beginning of better knowledge of Bangsamoro history, knowledge and

Airlines... FROM 6 on Audit (COA) decision to disallow salary increases and bonuses.

There were black banners with the words “Mayday, Mayday” unfurled at control towers in some of the country’s airports including the Ninoy

Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 at around 8:00 a.m. which was later followed by mass protests.

Despite protests, there were no flight disturbances at any of the country’s airports.

(PNA)

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

PHOTO WORKSHOPS. Street Walkers Philippines (SWPH) curator Jose Miguel Lisbona announces the group’s upcoming street photography workshops at SM Lanang Premier’s Cyberzone on April 29 and May 14 during FAST Fridays media forum at the atrium of SM Lanang Premier. Lean Daval Jr.

7,000 cops, soldiers to secure presidential debate in Dagupan S

OME 7,000 policemen, personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and those of other government agencies involved in security will secure the last and final Presidential Debate slated on April 24 at Phinma University of Pangasinan starting at 6 p.m.

This was bared by Supt.

Christopher Abrahano, chief of police of Dagupan City, who said during the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) forum on Thursday that maximum security will be maintained at the debate site inside the university as well as outside

and only those with pre-issued entry access will be allowed to enter.

Saying that all is now set as far as security preparation is concerned in connection with the debate, Abrahano revealed that only 1,100 people will be allowed in the debate hall.

These people who form part of the general audience could enter the university only at the back of the university through Nable Street whose gate is opening as early as 1 a.m.

The gate on Nable Street will be closed at 3 p.m. and the expected arrival of the presidential candidates who will en-

ter through Arellano Street is at 4 p.m.

The Commission on Elections said those who have no pre-issued entry access need not insist on entering the university campus anymore as they can watch the debate at home through their television sets, Corollary to this, the KBP announced that only 20 media members will be allowed entry into the debate hall whose names will be picked in a raffle to be joined by some 500 mediamen who secured media accreditation.

ABS-CBN, sponsor of the

debate, said a media center will be set up in two or three rooms of the university where mediamen who cannot enter the debate hall can watch the proceedings through a big television set and work on their reports.

Meanwhile, Abrahano announced that in preparation for the Presidential Debate, the whole of Arellano-Bani Street fronting Phinma University of Pangasinan will be closed for vehicular traffic from A.B. Fernandez Avenue junction where Jollibee is located and up to the junction of Jose R. de Venecia Expressway Extension from noon to 10 p.m. that day. (PNA)

marine biodiversity” in the world.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has noted that heavy exploitation of fisheries translates into lower catch and income for coastal communities.

“We are all reliant on a thriving ocean for food, work, oxygen, as carbon sink, and ultimately our life. The ocean is our shared life support and the responsibility to protect it falls on everyone, especially those mandated to protect it. But the subject matter was not even touched upon as an important electoral issue, just like the global threat of climate change,” Ramos said.

Environment problems such as illegal fishing, expansion of coal fired-power plants, deforestation, and mining are

some of the urgent environment concerns that need to be addressed in the Philippines.

Ramos noted that the country has one of the best environment laws in the world, but many are not implemented properly due to lack of political will from government leaders.

These include the solid waste management, fisheries management and protected area legislation that were enacted more than a decade ago.

“We need government leaders who will champion the environment and put their heart in protecting it. This is necessary so we can move forward and leave behind a bountiful country for our already extremely marginalized sectors and the future generation,” Ramos said. CHENEEN R. CAPON

but stressed that not all rally participants are from South Cotabato.

“About 90 percent of the protesters are not from South Cotabato, they come from Bukidnon, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and as far as Davao region,” Fuentes added.

Fuentes said the provincial government, through the Red Cross, will be distributing rice to marginal farmers severely affected by the dry spell.

“Farm workers and marginal farmers are priorities in Red Cross rice dispersal in the barangay, not at the provincial capitol or in Koronadal City,”

she said. Koronadal is South Cotabato’s capital.

Fuentes also appealed to farmers in the regional center to make the rally peaceful and orderly.

“Please don’t block the national highway,” Fuentes said.

She suspected that the communist New Peoples’ Army are manipulating the farmers.

Two police patrol cars with police personnel are positioned in front and back of the NFA regional office compound here. Road blocks with barbed wires were placed at the warehouse main entrance.

(PNA)

It also pointed out that “participation in free trade agreements could provide further upside to the Philippines upside to the Philippines’ export earnings.”

The central bank’s ability to help support economic growth while ensuring a sound and stable banking system is a “broadly neutral to our ratings” it said, noting that the planned

interest rate corridor (IRC) , scheduled in the second quarter of the year, “will improve the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission.” ”In our opinion, a deeper and more diversified financial and capital market would further improve the effectiveness of policy transmission and facilitate improved credit metrics,” it added.(PNA)

From 2011 to 2014, the Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay provided livelihood starter kits worth Php 42.36 million to 4,236 beneficiaries.

The Balik Pinay Balik Hanapbuhay Project was institutionalized under DOLE Administrative Order No. 77 Series of 2011 to assist returning OFWs through livelihood grants of Php 10,000. Priority is given to victims of illegal recruitment and trafficking, and other distressed and displaced household service workers.

Under the Balik Pinay, Balik

Hanapbuhay Project, returning women OFWs may avail of skills training and grants in the form of business starter kits for home-based income generating occupations, such as cosmetology, haircutting, foot spa, food processing, massage, reflexology, baking, native snack preparation, handicraft, flower arrangement, dress making, beauty care, and pedicure and manicure. The business starter kits come in the form of equipment, tools and jigs, raw materials, and small start-up capital. (PNA)

Green... FROM 2

S&P... FROM 7

Mindanao... FROM 4

Baldoz... FROM 6

EDGEDAVAO

11 SCIENCE

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

Biotechnology:

Is it the answer to food crisis?

Bt talong (Photo courtesy of SEARCA)

By Henrylito D. Tacio

I

N man’s quest for food security, has he found the solution in biotechnology?

Advocates say it is. Opponents, however, insist it is not.

In 1994, the FlavSavr tomato was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States. It became the first genetically modified (GM) food crop to be produced and consumed in an industrialized country.

Since then, several countries have contributed to more than a 20-fold increase in the global area of transgenic crops despite adamant claims that GM foods are dangerous and unhealthy.

According to the annual report released by the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA), from 1.7 million hectares planted to biotech crops in 1996, it went up to 179.7 million hectares in 2015.

“This 100-fold increase in just 20 years makes biotechnology the fastest adopted crop technology in recent times, reflecting farmer satisfaction with biotech crops,” said the report entitled 20th Anniversary of the Global Commercialization of Biotech Crops (1996-2015) and Biotech Crop Highlights in 2015.

Farmers in 28 countries who adopted the technology have reaped more than US$150 billion in benefits from biotech crops since 1996.

“This has helped alleviate poverty for up to 16.5 million small farmers and their families annually totaling about 65 million people, who are some of the poorest people in the

world,” it said.

Biotechnology encompasses an array of tools and applications that allow scientists to manipulate the genetic materials of plants, microbes, and animals. These methods provide ways to modify the characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next.

Unknowingly, biotechnology has existed since time immemorial. Spirulina, one of the oldest forms of life on earth, is believed to be what the ancient Israelites of the Old Testament called “manna from heaven.”

The modern era of biotechnology, however, had its origin in 1953 when American biochemist James Watson and British biophysicist Francis Crick presented their “double helix” molecular model of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid).

Both received a Nobel Prize for their collaborative work in 1962.

DNA, the genetic material of all cellular organisms and most viruses, carries the information needed to direct so-called “protein synthesis” and “replication.” Protein synthesis, science says, is the production of the proteins needed by the cell or virus for its activities and development. Replication is the process by which DNA copies itself for each descendant cell or virus, passing on the information needed for protein synthesis.

In its wider sense, biotechnology also includes biological processes used in the food industry. Some of these have been used for centuries, like yeasts to help bread rise and

Food diversity convert sugar into alcohol in brewing, and bacteria to digest sugars and add flavor in cheese making. But these techniques all use naturally-occurring organisms.

The tools used in modern biotechnology include gene cloning, tissue culture, microbial culture, DNA-marker technology, and genetic engineering. The latter is the most controversial as it is the method used in developing genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Currently, two primary methods are used for introducing transgenes into plant genomes. “The first involves a device called a ‘gene gun,’” ISAAA notes in a briefing paper. “The DNA to be introduced into the plant cells is coated onto tiny particles.

These particles are then physically shot onto plant cells.

Some of the DNA comes off and is incorporated into the DNA of the recipient plant.

The second method uses a bacterium to introduce the gene(s) of interest into the plant DNA.” In industrialized countries, there is clear evidence that the use of GM crops has resulted in significant benefits.

These include: higher crop yields, reduced farm costs, increased farm profit, and improvement in the environment.

The so-called “first generation” crops have been proven their ability to lower farm-level production costs. Rosalie Ellasus, who plants Bt corn in her farm in San Jacinto, Pangasinan, can attest to this. “The difference is amazing, lalo na sa pag-spray!” she pointed out.

Bt corn is an insect-damage-immune corn that con-

Exotic fruits tains a naturally occurring substance, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) protein, which is the active ingredient in safe and effective sprays for more than 50 years. The production of this protein directly by corn plants has virtually revolutionized insect control, making the lives and work of farmers better.

Ms. Ellasus discovered other benefits of Bt corn. Less land preparation was needed. Though the seeds were expensive, the lower cost of land preparation made up the difference. She needed less labor for fertilization, and didn’t need chemical spraying for pests at all. For a significantly lower production cost, she enjoyed higher profit.

Currently, research is focused on “second-generation” GM crops that will feature increased nutritional and/or industrial traits. These crops will have more direct benefits to consumers. Examples include: rice enriched with iron and vitamin A (known as golden rice), potatoes with higher starch content, edible vaccines in corn and potatoes, corn varieties able to grow in poor conditions, and healthier oils from soybean and canola.

Pro-GMO advocates and scientists argue that biotechnology is essential to food security. This is particularly true in the Philippines, where the population is growing fast and land area for cultivation is getting smaller.

“We’re the buckle of the typhoon belt, the jewel of the ring of fire. We have scarce land and will soon have scarce water,” deplored Dr. Segfredo Serrano, the agriculture undersecretary for policy, planning, research and development. “We have

to be very open to scientific advances with proper precaution to solve the eternal problem of food security.”

ISAAA echoes the same idea. “In countries where there is often no enough food to go around and where food prices directly affect the incomes of majority of the population, the potential benefits of GM crops cannot be ignored,” it said. “It is true that nutritionally enhanced foods may not be a necessity in developed countries but they could play a key role in helping to alleviate malnutrition in developing countries.”

But Greenpeace, an anti-GMO organization, continues to take a preventive stance.

It cautioned that consumers can never be absolutely sure of the safety of GMOs since this is only determined by decades of data and study.

One of the public’s biggest concerns related to GM foods is that an allergen (a protein that causes an allergic reaction) could be accidentally introduced into a food product.

“Allergenicity screening is a very important part of safety testing before a crop can enter into the food market,” ISAAA explained. “A variety of tests and questions must be considered to determine whether the food poses any increased risk of allergenicity.”

Antibiotic resistance is another concern. “The likelihood of antibiotic resistance genes moving from GM crops to any other organisms is extremely remote,” ISAAA assured. “Even in the unlikely event that an antibiotic resistance gene is transferred to another organism, the impact of this transfer would be negligible, as the

markers used in GM crops have limited clinical or veterinary use.”

Other potential risks include: the likelihood of transgenes escaping from cultivated crops into wild relatives; the potential for pests to evolve resistance to the toxins produced

by GM crops; and the risk of these toxins affecting non-target organisms.

But the big question is: Are GM foods safe for human consumption? “Foods produced using genetic modification is as safe as foods produced using conventional breeding techniques,” assures the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “Genetically modified foods are as safe as other foods available on the market.”

The Geneva-based World Health Organization (WHO) declared that different GM foods go through the global food safety process called Codex Alimentarius Risk Analysis of Foods Derived from Modern Biotechnology under which these foods are not found to be risky to human health.

“GM foods currently available on the international market have passed risk assessments and are not likely to present risks for human health,” said the UN health agency in a statement.

“No effects on human health have been shown as a result of the consumption of such foods by the general population in the countries where they have been approved.

Continuous use of risk assessments based on the Codex principles and, where appropriate, including post market monitoring, should form the basis for evaluating the safety of GM foods,” it added.

12 CLASSIFIEDS

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EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO GENSAN PARTNERS Serving a seamless society

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

EDGEDAVAO EVENT

SKYVIEW CAFÉ, EDEN’S NEW DINING OUTLET A FAMILY OUTING NOWADAYS IS NOT COMPLETE WITHOUT A TRIP TO EDEN NATURE PARK & RESORT. Eden Nature Park & Resort is one of the most popular must-visit attractions families and groups must experience when they hie off to this leisure destination of Mindanao.

Eden Nature Park has become more than a day destination for those looking for an escape from the city.

The resort is also developing more dining options as more guests visit the resort. Apart from its attractions, Eden is fast becoming a popular foodie destination with its wide selection of dining outlets inside the resortVista Restaurant, Café Vista, Fishing Village, and introducing its newest dining facility- Skyview

Café which opened last March 24, 2016. Another dining outlet in the Fishing Village is the Fisher’s Grill which is opening its doors to its diners in May 2016.

Soaring at 2500 above sea level, get a table at Skyview Café, with its majestic location that offers a breathtaking view of the city and the gulf and

the cold temperature that makes for a cozy spot to hang out. Apart from the picturesque view, and the Sky Adventure rides within the vicinity, there is another reason for the surge in popularity of Eden.

From a sightseeing spot, it also turned into a dining

destination.

After hurtling through the sky on the Skyswing, or whizzing through the air on the Skyrider, or biking through the sky with the Skycycle, you will surely want something filling to refresh you. After a full day enjoying the rides,

the Skyview Café delivers the best dining experience to its guests. Whether you need a cold refreshing drink or a sumptuous snack, there are options to choose from. Enjoy a sumptuous snack package with a choice of pasta or sandwich at Skyview Café.

Readily for takeout, the fresh garden salad consists of lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes are also available at Skyview Café.

Skyview Café is also a perfect venue for wedding receptions, and other corporate functions with a seating capacity of 250 persons. With its spacious see-through walls, sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery at Skyview Café while savoring a fresh mountain weather experience.

For inquiries, and reservations, please call (082) 299-1020, (082) 299-0313, 0918-9307590 or visit our Sales and Reservations Office at Matina Town Square, Mac Arthur Highway, Matina or you may also check our website at w w w.edennaturepark. com.ph.

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

EVENT

Art MADE Public at SM Lanang Premier THE TIMES WHEN ART WAS JUST KEPT IN GALLERY SPACES AND MUSEUMS ARE LONG GONE. Today, art is made within reach in SM malls, where it can be seen, admired and appreciated by thousands of people.

Recently, SM Lanang Premier, in partnership with Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI), staged the “2016 Art MADE Public” exhibit with the aim of bringing art closer to the public.

Mallgoers had a glimpse of winning art pieces in the said travelling exhibition, which carried the theme “Finding Phenoms in Art” and marked the 32nd year of the Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) – one of the country’s most prestigious art and design recognition programs.

“We want to engage the public—especially the youth—to experience Philippine art appreciation and to instill in them a genuine appreciation for

it,” says Milagros Gumban, Vice President for Metrobank Mindanao Area 1 about the five-day exhibit.

Works of contemporary Filipino artists who were past MADE awardees—Arthur Moreno, Salvador Ching, Anthony Palomo, Norman Dreo, Andrew Tan, Stanley Gallermo, Christopher Zamora, Ferdinand Montemayor, Benjamin Elayda III, Rex Tatlonghari, Ronante Maratas, Raffy Napay, Herbert Pajarito, Don Bryan Michael Bunag, and Ronson Culubrina—were showcased at the exhibit curated by award-winning sculptor and printmaker Noell El Farol.

Department of Tour-

ism-XI Regional Director Robert Alabado III, graced the launch, along with Malaysian ConsulGeneral Abdullah Zawawi

Tahir, Museo Dabawenyo Director Orly Escarilla, and Philippine Women’s College of Davao Chairperson for Fine Arts/In-

terior Design Program Brenda Barba. SM Lanang Premier Acting Mall Manager Lynette Lopez, SM Supermalls AVP for Marketing (Mindanao) Russel Alaba, and Metrobank’s Gumban, were on hand to welcome the guests.

“We are grateful to the Metrobank Foundation and SM Lanang Premier, through this endeavor, for helping us in our dream in transforming Davao City as an arts haven,” notes Regional Director Alabado in his speech.

Free design lectures for students and a healing art workshop for 30 teenagers with autism were also held in partnership with the Autism Society of the Philippines.

Prior to its run in SM Lanang Premier in Davao City, Art MADE Public

was placed on exhibit in SM Aura Premier, SM Seaside City Cebu and SM Center Angono.

The event hails Filipino artistry and creativity through MADE’s annual recognition programs for painters, sculptors, interior designers and architects. Davaoeño artists aged 18-35 years old are invited to join the said programs and get the chance to jumpstart their careers. For more information, check out MADE’s Facebook page “Me t r o b a n k A r t a n d DesignExcellence” and Instagram account @ madecompetition.

Stay up to date on the latest art events at the region’s premier shopping and lifestyle destination.

Follow SM Lanang Premier on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

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ENTERTAINMENT

Five presidential candidates face off one last time at the 2016 presidential debate

THE NATION WILL BE WATCHING as five candidates for the highest post of the land share one stage for the last time in the final leg of the Commission on Elections’ Pili Pinas 2016 presidential debate series.

On April 24, Vice-President Jejomar Binay, Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, Sen. Grace Poe, and former Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas will respond to questions about their platforms and stand on the most urgent issues facing the nation, during the Presidential Town Hall Debate organized by the COMELEC, KBP, ABS-CBN, and Manila Bulletin.

The third Pili Pinas Debate is the last big opportunity for the candidates to prove they are ready, capable, and worthy to lead the country before millions of Filipinos here and abroad, as the

debate will be aired live from the Phinma University of Pangasinan over multiple media platforms – ABS-CBN on free TV, ANC, the ABS-CBN News Channel ch. 27 on cable TV, DZMM TeleRadyo on digital television (ABS-CBN TVplus) and SKYcable ch. 26, DZMM 630 on AM radio, and online via livestreaming at news. abs-cbn.com, iwantv.com.ph, and mb.com.ph. ABS-CBNmobile MHP users can also watch it on their mobile phones by downloading the new iWant TV app and then choosing livestream via ABS-CBN HD or regular ABS-CBN stream, while ABS-CBNmobile prepaid

users can view it by texting <IWANTV10> to 2135 for 1-day full access and then choosing livestream via ABS-CBN HD or regular ABS-CBN stream.

Overseas Filipinos, on the other hand, can watch it via TFC, the Filipino Channel and it will also be streamed live on IPTV and TFC.tv.

The town hall debate, which will be moderated by ABS-CBN’s top broadcast journalists Karen Davila and Tony Velasquez, can also be viewed in high-definition on ABS-CBN HD Ch.167 and ANC HD (SKYcable Ch. 182 for Metro Manila; Ch.706 for SKYcable regional subscribers).

Kim Domingo goes Korean on Day Off this Saturday THE COUNTRY’S NEW “PANTASYA NG BAYAN” KIM DOMINGO is this Saturday’s guest celebrity on Day Off.

Kim joins Maey Bautista as substitutes for this week’s Day Off winner Chef Edwin Dulay—who in turn, will be going to South Korea’s largest island, Jeju.

The two Kapuso celebrities will outwit each other in finding the ingredients for the Korean dishes they need to prepare, such as samgyupsal and bibimbap.

Pekto and My Foreignay Dance Diva Dasuri Choi, on the other hand, will join Chef Edwin in Jeju Island. Together, they will explore popular destinations there such as Aqua Planet, Glass Castle, and Jeju Folk Village—the location for the famous Koreanovela “Jewel in the Palace”. To help him with his job back home, Chef Edwin will also get to taste some authentic Korean dishes and will be given tips by a Korean chef.

Watch the first part of Day Off’s Summer Special in Korea this Saturday, 6:15 p.m. on GMA News TV.

ABS-CBN renews partnership with Regal and Viva MORE FILIPINOS WILL GET TO ENJOY QUALITY FILIPINO FILMS and reexperience iconic titles right at their homes as ABS-CBN continues to be the home of the biggest Filipino libraries in the country.

Regal Entertainment and Viva Entertainment recently renewed their partnership and once again entrusted ABS-CBN with the rights to broadcast their movies on its various platforms which includes free-to-air TV channels, cable TV channels, ABS-CBNmobile, and The Filipino Channel (TFC).

“I am a loyalist and will forever be yours,” said Regal matriarch Lily Monteverde when asked about Regal’s ties with ABS-CBN. “They’ve been like a family to us,” added Regal Vice President Roselle Monteverde.

Regal Entertainment not only entrusted ABS-CBN with its current film archives, but even its future titles as well.

For Viva Entertainment head Vic Del Rosario, on the other hand, Viva’s ties with ABS-CBN has already spanned more than three decades and remains strong until now.

“It started way back in 1981 and from then on we have remained as partners. With ABS-CBN, you can watch all the best Filipino movies,” he shared.

From being the home of the biggest movie titles from Regal and Viva, ABS-CBN is now also the home of the country’s biggest historic epic movie to date--“Heneral Luna”--- after it forged a partnership with Artikulo Uno Productions.

“I feel that more people will be able to see ‘Luna’ and the message it carries. What’s a better conduit than ABS-CBN,” said Artikulo Uno president Vincent Nebrida.

As its broadcast partner, ABS-CBN has the right to air the box-office film on its various platforms.

“We will make sure that we will promote it, we will take care of it, and Filipinos here and abroad can watch it on all channels and platforms of ABS-CBN,” said ABS-CBN head of Integrated Acquisitions and International Sales and Distribution Evelyn Raymundo.

Aside from the acquisition

of Regal and Viva libraries and “Heneral Luna,” ABS-CBN is also the home of hit titles from Seiko Films; RVQ Productions, which carries the movies of Philippines King of Comedy Dolphy; and FPJ Productions, which stars the King of Philippine Cinema Fernando Poe Jr. ABS-CBN continues to champion and uphold Filipino films through its various platforms by acquiring the best film libraries and remains to be the most trusted network by film production groups.

ABS-CBN also spearheaded the Film Restoration Project, which aims to restore and preserve classic Filipino films for the future generation. To date, it has restored over 100 classic films.

Watch out for your favorite Regal and Viva titles on various ABS-CBN channels and platforms.

Meanwhile, “Heneral Luna” is set to air its free-to-air television premiere soon on ABS-CBN.

April 20 – 26, 2016

BASTILLE DAY/ * HIGH STRUNG Idris Elba, Richard Madden, Kelly Reilly/ *Nicholas Galitzine, Jane Seymour R13/*PG

12:00 | 2:00 | 4:00 LFS / *6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS

THE JUNGLE BOOK Scarlett Johansson, Idris Elba, Bill Murray PG

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

BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill PG

1:00 | 4:00 | 7:00 | 10:00 LFS

THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER'S WAR Chris Hemsworth, Charlize Theron, Emily Blunt PG

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

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

UP AND ABOUT

Enjoy mobile games and videos at breakneck speeds via Smart LTE-Advanced BIGGER, FASTER, BETTER.

This is how unrivaled mobile services leader Smart Communications is changing the way Filipinos are enjoying their favorite apps, games and videos on their smartphone with its recent launch of the country’s first LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) service in the renowned island of Boracay in Aklan.

Using a capability called “carrier aggregation,” which combines two or more radio frequency bands in order to deliver bigger bandwidth and faster data speeds, Smart’s LTE-A services has posted speeds of up to 250 Mbps, allowing users to download and upload huge files in seconds, stream movies and music seamlessly, and play their favorite games on a LTE-A capable device – such as the Samsung Galaxy S7 – without any hiccup.

“LTE-A is like being able to put together two or

more separate highways in order to create a wider highway through which vehicular traffic can flow more freely and at a much faster rate,” explained Joachim Horn, PLDT and Smart chief technology and information advisor.

“With the introduction of our LTE-Advanced service, the next stage of development of 4th generation of mobile technology, Smart is again at the technology forefront, setting

the bar higher for mobile service and changing our customers’ digital experience for the better.”

“This is a milestone for Filipino mobile users, whose lives are constantly changed for the better by Smart’s mobile innovations and services,” said Smart Wireless Consumer Operations Head Kat Luna-Abelarde at the launch.

“Smart has brought the future of mobile internet experience here and now,

games and music.

“LTE-A, along with our continuing efforts to improve existing network technologies, strengthen our efforts to give our subscribers the best internet services and mobile video experience.”

Since the start of the year, Smart launched the country’s hottest device deals such as the P888 handset with free data and load rebates and, even more recently, the P888 Pocket WiFi – making it easier for Filipinos to dissparking a fundamental cover the real-life benefits shift in our lifestyle and of online connectivity.

To deliver a super-sized the way we pursue our passions, connect, and celebrate life-defining mo- DAVAO PARTNER ments with our family and loved-ones.”

This latest development also goes hand in hand with Smart’s push for a richer digital experience through super-sized data and compelling device offers, which cater to the growing appetite of Filipinos for mobile videos,

mobile Internet experience to subscribers, Smart has also doubled its data offer for Big Bytes 50, which now comes with 700MB – up from the previous 350MB – for surfing and streaming plus 650MB for YouTube, YouTube Gaming and iflix – valid for 3 days, still at P50.

Apart from deploying the country’s first LTEA service, Smart has also been working on its 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE networks to enhance network resiliency and quality of data services to deliver the best possible digital experiences for subscribers nationwide.

ESTABLISHMENT

13 COMPETITIVE EDGE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

Building better stories, block by block

A

SANIPAAN MANGROVE TREE PLANTING. Team Seda Abreeza goes back to Sanipaan Shoal Marine Eco Park for the third time to plant more mangrove seedlings and stay true to its commitment to help the community in Vanishing Island, Babak, Island Garden City of Samal. This joint effort

initiated by the AFP Civil Relations and participated by orga nizations as the Eastern Mindanao Command, Task Force Davao, Seda Abreeza and many other civic and private groups planted a total of 400 mangrove seedlings around the island. The hotel donated the seedlings.

Cebuana Lhuillier heightens disaster resilience campaign C

EMENTING its commitment to help communities prepare for disasters, Cebuana Lhuillier, the country’s leading microfinancial solutions provider, recently introduced the ACP Gold, a new variant of its premiere microinsurance product, the Alagang Cebuana Plus (ACP).

The ACP Gold offers an added micro-life coverage while also insuring accidental death/ dismemberment & disability (ADD&D), fire cash assistance (FCA) and unprovoked murder and assault (UMA).

Jean Henri D. Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier, in stressing the relevance of the ACP Gold to Filipinos, discloses “The Philippines is frequently visited by typhoons and is not spared from the ill effects of climate change, and while Filipinos are a resilient people, many families and communities need all the help they can to lessen the impact of these disasters. The ACP Gold answers a need for a micro-

insurance product that will cover families and individuals against man-made or natural disasters. It may even be considered a ‘climate change adaptation or disaster risk reduction tool’ helping Filipinos in times of crisis, especially calamities.”

The new product was launched during Cebuana Lhuillier’s series of road shows, which came after the success of its Disaster Resilience Forum last January in Makati. The company, with the support of the Insurance Commission and GIZ (The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), mounted “2016 Ready: Disaster Resilience Forum The Role of Microinsurance in Building Disaster-Resilient Communities” earlier this year to promote microinsurance awareness and help Filipinos prepare for calamities. Since then, Cebuana Lhuillier has been cascading the forum’s key learnings through road shows across the country.

During the road shows, Insurance Commission’s Microinsurance Division representatives Shayne Bulos and Wilma Conde underscored the role and development of microinsurance in the Philippines, and highlighted its response in the aftermath of calamities notably typhoon Yolanda, the most devastating typhoon on record that ever hit landfall. Meanwhile, Jonathan Batangan, General Manager of Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions (CLIS), introduced the various programs initiated by CLIS to promote inclusive and responsive microinsurance. In 2015 alone, Cebuana Lhuillier insured 6 million Filipinos with the Alagang Cebuana Plus. The company aims to cover more Filipinos with the launch of ACP Gold.

“I’m proud to say that we at Cebuana Lhuillier are putting in all the work that we can to foster quality insurance protection at affordable premiums, especially to the most

vulnerable and marginalized sectors. The launch of the ACP Gold marks another milestone in our disaster resiliency initiatives and this is just one of the many meaningful projects in store for 2016. We started the year with the Disaster Resilience Forum, followed by road shows. In June, we will mount the National Pilipino Protektado Day where Cebuana Lhuillier, in cooperation with Pioneer Insurance, will provide free insurance covers. CLIS will also spearhead the creation of the Microinsurance Agents Association of the Philippines, Inc. (MIAPPI), launch ProtectNow. ph, an online insurance platform, and the Cebuana Alerto, an Android app to help people prepare for disasters,” said Mr. Batangan.

Cebuana Lhuillier has long been helping Filipinos uplift and transform their lives through its innovative microfinancial services and CSR programs on education and sports development for the youth.

NTERNATIONAL evangelist Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy is announcing another competition this year in celebration of the 11th National Children’s Day- the Best Published Story (News/ Feature), Best TV Story, and Best Radio News.

Hailed as the biggest birthday party in the country, NCD encourages more media practitioners to produce the best and most inspiring story about the event with a theme, “Celebrating the Biggest and the Most Unforgettable, Magical

Birthday Surprise and Fun” on television, print or radio.

The competition guidelines will be unveiled during the NCD Media Night on April 23, 2016 at the Kingdom of Jesus Christ compound, along Diversion Road, Catitipan, Davao

City.

The deadline for the submission of the published story or news broadcast is on May 2, 2016.

For more information, please contact Mr. Richard Reyes at 09177183716.

NCD to launch media contest this year I

SERIES of seminar-workshops for media practitioners on the links between the construction industry and sustainable growth is set to kick off next week.

The Philippine Press Institute (PPI) and Holcim Philippines, Inc. are undertaking this joint initiative, which builds on a similar, albeit more basic, training two years ago.

The new round of seminar-workshops by PPI, the national association of newspapers, and Holcim, a building materials and aggregates company, aims to see more nuanced and in-depth reporting on the construction sector, highlighting its role in helping achieve sustainable and inclusive growth while focusing the spotlight on relevant issues affecting Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

With the theme “Taking the High Road to Better Construction Stories,” the training series also seeks to help the media explore unreported and underreported issues surrounding the industry, ideally set within the framework of civic journalism, PPI’s flagship program.

Holcim Philippines advocates sustainable construction practices that contribute to lasting and broad-based development.

PPI’s thrust of “Building Better Communities through Civic Journalism” is in line with its goal of giving voice to the concerns and aspirations of communities and sectors that otherwise are not being heard in the public sphere or in the mainstream media.

The PPI-Holcim trainings call to mind two of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that replaced the Millennium Development Goals and were adopted by world leaders last year.

Goal 9 of the SGDs falls within the purview of the construction industry, among other concerned sectors: “Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.”

Goal 11 is a call to “make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resil-

Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy

ient and sustainable.”

The PPI-Holcim training will be held in each major island group, with the Luzon leg scheduled for April 27 to 29 in Padi, Bulacan. Participants from the Visayas will gather in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, on May 4 to 6; and those from Mindanao in Malaybalay, Bukidnon on May 18 to 20.

Non-PPI members have also been invited to participate in the training workshops.

Regional focus Tess Bacalla, PPI’s training director, said the seminar-workshops will also be highlighted by discussions on relevant regional issues, which will be facilitated by resource speakers. These will be followed by field visits that will allow the participants to take a deeper look into such issues and how these manifest on the ground, while pursuing stories that will serve as their group outputs during the workshop.

Journalists from Luzon will look into the status and quality of relocation shelters in Bulacan, which continues to be among the top relocation areas for informal settlers from Metro Manila.

Media participants from the Visayas will focus on the state of reconstruction and rehabilitation programs in Bohol, three years since the province was struck by a 7.2-magnitude earthquake that reduced infrastructure gems such as centuries-old churches and ancestral houses to rubble.

In Mindanao, participants will learn about the living conditions of lumad, or indigenous groups, including those that have been displaced from their communities and are currently staying in temporary facilities in Bukidnon.

The workshop-seminar series complements the Journalism Awards on Sustainable Construction Reporting (JASCOR), a Holcim-sponsored program undertaken in partnership with PPI. National and community newspapers vie for the yearly awards, which are given out in ceremonies held in October.

Now on its third year, JASCOR hopes to promote excellent reporting on the construction industry through the lens of sustainability, and thus generate increased public awareness and appreciation of, as well as support for, sustainable construction efforts. (PR)

14

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

It’s TIME to CHANGE THE GAME. Your ads come to life with vivid, clear, crisp colors.

Get the value for your money and don’t settle for an awful copy on a badly printed space.

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As creative as you can get.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

Thunder takes Game 3 131-102 over Mavs

T

HE tension was palpable and the Thunder seemed to be on the ropes. A look at the scoreboard suggested otherwise.

That’s just how the Playoffs are – unmatched intensity and a relentlessness in energy on both sides for all 48 minutes, so much so that no lead feels safe. The Thunder won Game 3 in Dallas against the Mavericks 131-102 in wire-to-wire fashion, and after the opening possession of the second half, its lead never dipped below ten points.

There were no massive runs, just small bursts for both sides, with the Thunder stringing together more of them, for longer.

“I thought our guys did a great job of keeping their composure and working through some things,” said Head Coach Billy Donovan.

An 11-2 first quarter burst helped the Thunder separate to a 25-14 advantage, but Dallas kept it close towards the end of the period. Kevin Durant got going in the second period, as the Thunder ripped off and 11-1 run midway through the period as Durant racked up 16 of his 34 points on the night in his first 13 minutes of action.

The Thunder came out of the locker room on a roll, building a 19-point lead before it was eventually slashed to just ten late in the third quarter. Russell Westbrook responded for the Thunder, hitting two three-pointers and finding Enes Kanter for layups to cap a 10-2 run that killed all Dallas momentum.

That burst was the knockout punch for the Thunder, as Dallas never got closer than 16 the rest of the way.

After a beyond-uncharacteristic 7-for-33

S

TEPH Curry, arguably NBA’s best player today in terms of carrying his team to Ws, is hobbled by an injury that could yet become a Kyrie Irving case.

The question is that will the Warriors, who finished the season with an all-time best 73-9, rest Curry and play through the first round without him or risk him in the series with the Houston Rockets.

The series is now 2-1 after the Rockets took Game 3 97-96 through James’ Harden’s heroics and Dreymond Green’s error in the final play.

With out Curry in the endgame, the Warriors sucked bigtime.

I sent a question to some basketball friends from Davao to Manila to Chicago to answer the question whether or not it is wise to restt Steph Curry.

Here are the answers:

shooting night in Game 2, Durant got into rhythm by hitting three pointers, attacking the rim with a nasty baseline dunk and at the free throw line. Really, he was taking similar shots tonight to the ones he got on Monday.

There was just one big difference, they rattled in rather than rimming out.

“I just made shots,” Durant shrugged. “I was able to get to my spots and knock them down.”

It wasn’t just Durant – the Thunder’s offense as a whole was humming all night long, shooting an impressive 57.7 percent from the field and racking up 28 assists to just 14 turnovers. Westbrook was the catalyst, finding seams in the defense and dishing out 15 assists to a variety of teammates. That included Serge Ibaka, who shot 7-for9 from the field, hitting both of his three-pointers, on his way to 16 points. █

SPORTS 15

Matina Enclaves marketing officer Kim Fancobila promotes the company’s upcoming Tae Kwon Do summer clinic 2016 at Matina Enclaves Clubhouse which will start on May 3 during FAST Fridays media forum at the atrium of SM Lanang Premier. Lean Daval Jr.

BIG GAME JAMES Harden’s dagger sinks Warriors in Game 3 T

HE Houston Rockets were down by one point with no timeouts and mere seconds remaining Thursday night.

In that moment James Harde n was the

only o n e t h ey wanted to have the ball. And as usual their star delivered.

Harden scored 35 points, including the game-winner with 2.7 seconds left, and the Rockets took advan-

tage of Stephen Curry’s absence to get a 97-96 victory over the Golden State Warriors in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series.

The victory cuts Houston’s deficit to 2-1 in the best-of-seven series. Game 4 is Sunday in Houston.

Shaun Livingston stole a pass from Trevor Ariza and Ian Clark’s layup put Golden State up by one with 10.6 seconds left. Harden then took it to the other end and stepped back for the jump shot to win it.

“The last shot was typical of what James does,” coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “The move, we’ve seen before. The finish, we’ve seen before. You do get spoiled by it at times, but in these biggest of moments, you can’t help but appreciate it.”

Golden State had a chance to win it after that, but Draymond Green dribbled the inbounds pass off his foot and out

of bounds.

“I cost us the game,” Green said. “The world will think I’m talking about that last turnover but I’m not. That happens. I was awful the whole game. I care about that turnover, but I cost us the game way before then.”

Marreese Speights came off the bench to lead the Warriors with 22 points and Klay Thompson had 17.

The Warriors blew out Houston in the series opener with Curry on the court, and pulled away late in Game 2 to go up 2-0 despite last year’s MVP watching from the bench with a sprained right ankle. Curry wasn’t on the bench for this one and didn’t officially speak to reporters after the game, but did say that he wasn’t on the bench because he expected to play and didn’t bring a suit to Houston.

After a plea from Bickerstaff that his team be “nastier,” the Rockets were much more

to balance since athletes can come back stronger and better after a good rest/recovery program.”

From the writers covering the NBA, I got this from the web, and let me quote.

POCHOLO ELEGINO, Coach, Ateneo de Davao University.

“He should sit and wait until he is healthy. Capable mag-gamble ang GSW karon since they have a 2 game advantage. It would give other players also to step up in his absence. They need Curry deep in the playoffs. Kinahanglan 100% gyud siya. Even in his absence ang they’ve shown their brilliance whole season.”

STEVE ASCHBURNER, NBA.com: The Warriors should rest Curry until they lose a game or until the Western Conference semifinals begin, whichever comes first. Both of these options assume that he actually will be capable of playing before one or the other kicks in. A little extra rest for the reigning-slash-presumptive MVP that doesn’t jeopardize Golden State’s quest to repeat as champs can’t possibly be a

Would you continue to rest an injured Curry?

RONEL LEUTERIO, Basketball Coach, Chicago.

“They have no choice. It’s a medical issue. It’s their investment. So it will be a wise decision to just rest him.”

GLENN Y. ESCANDOR, Basketball enthusiast, CEO Escandor Group of Companies.

“Pahinga muna Steph, kaya nila Houston without Steph, para makadula sya sa next playoffs team makalaban.”

FRED LUMBA, columnist, Edge Davao.

“No need to play him if they are comfortably ahead.

Curry should get enough rest.

The semis are a tougher series.”

DR. RANDY MOLO, Sports Me dicine, St. Luke’s Global City.

LET’S GET IT ON

Neil Bravo “Important sporting commitments and returning someone to play safely is always dependent on “available” time and how important the sporting commitment is. If the commitment is relatively not a primary priority or is expendable then you may rest someone to allow more time to make them heal biologically. Rest and recovery are important factors that the coaches have

ATTY. JULIUS ESPINA, Clerk of Court, Department of Justice.

“Yes. Mahaba pa ang playoffs. Warriors lead the series 2-0. The other guys are playing well so they can still continue to rest Steph Curry.”

DAVID ALDRIDGE, TNT analyst: Yes. Until they lose a game. Simple. No reason to chance Curry figuratively stepping on a banana peel with a sprained ankle/foot/ whatever it is and turning an aggravating injury into something chronic or worse.

aggressive and scrappy than they had been in the first two games and led by as many as 17 points in the first half.

“We were on attack,” Harden said. “We were just the aggressor from the beginning of the game and we kind of rode that wave out.”

Dwight Howard added 13 points, 13 rebounds and had two blocks for Houston and Michael Beasley finished with 12 points.

“It was what we planned and what we talked about,” Bickerstaff said. “They made their run, but we didn’t fold, we didn’t cave in.”

Andre Iguodala made a 3-pointer to cut the lead to 9392 with about 2:45 remaining and Clark gave Golden State its first lead since 2-0 on a jumper that made it 94-93.

Beasley gave Houston a 9594 lead with two free throws with 41 seconds left. █

bad thing. Of course, if Curry remains hobbled, the Warriors should rest him until he’s not. We saw what happened last spring when Kyrie Irving kept trying to play through mid-level injury that became playoff-ending.

Alright, so there. Stephen Curry is so valuable with the Warriors that without him, it’s like the Chicago Bulls without Michael Jordan.

Kyrie Irving played hurt in the second round of the playoffs last year and was out of the finals because of injury.

It’s that crucial when your key player is injured early in the playoffs and you are faced with the question whether or not to play him on or rest him for the tougher grind.

With the Rockets breaking the invincibility of the Warriors in Game 3, will Curry suit up in G4?

Your guess is as good as mine.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 9 ISSUE 38 • SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

SCARE AT THE SCALES Donaire makes it after waking up 3 pounds overweight

N

ONITO Donaire Jr shed off the extra pounds just in time for his defense of the World Boxing Organization (WBO) super-bantamweight belt against Zsolt Bedak at the Cebu City Sports Complex on Saturday night.

To his horror, Donaire woke up on the day of the weigh-in three pounds over the 122-lb. limit.

“Nag-panic ako ng kaunti,” admitted the champion, who was just expecting his weight to be around two or a pound over.

“I was a bit concerned because I was asking why tumaas (ang weight ko).”

The 32-year-old Donaire went to the sauna for 30 mins and instantly lost two pounds. He then limited his intake of water before going up the scale during the weigh-in held at the Ayala Mall in downtown Cebu.

The champ made weight at 121 and 3/4 lbs.

“We made it and I feel amazing,” Donaire said later as he partook a lunch of lasagna and chicken at a nearby Italian restaurant.

“I feel rehydrated,” he added. “And malaki pa yung oras para maka-recover ako.”

Donaire said he expects to come in at 132 lbs on fight night.

Bedak also made the weight, tipping the scales at 121.5 lbs.

Nonito Donaire fights Zsolt Bedak tonight in Cebu.