Edge Issue 32

highlights

THIS ISSUE: P15 30 PAGES e-mail: editorial@edgedavao.net / marketing@edgedavao.net

VOL. 4 NO. 32 october 10-16, 2011

www.edgedavao.net

11 weeks before

The Business PAPER

Boom picks up agri trends p14

Support reaffirmed

figures of the week STOCK MARKET PERFORMANCE

Philippine Stock Index As of October 7, 2011

As of May 20, 2010

US DOLLAR = philippine peso As of October 7, 2011

As of May 20, 2010

A & A Securities, Inc.

JIFFYCAR Bldg., Ecowest Drive (Beside SM City Davao), Davao City

Tel. Nos.: 299-0199, 297-7233, 303-0555, 297-8090, 0917-7000911, 0922-8831358 Important: The information contained herein is based on sources which we believe are reliable but is not guaranteed by edgedavao and A & A Securities, Inc. This report is provided for information purposes only and should not be construed as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the security mentioned herein.

Two more malls rising in Davao n ..and hotels, condos, subdivisions

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On the cover

VOL. 4 NO. 32 october 10-16, 2011

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

It figures P380 billion

Boom picks up

Two more malls rising n

..and hotels, condos, subdivisions

T

HE business boom in Davao City is picking up. Two more malls are rising and are scheduled to open their doors to the public in a year or two.

Under construction in Lanang, some seven kilometers from the city hall, is the second SM mall in Davao owned by retail mogul Henry Sy. SM-Lanang is rising at the 10-hectare former Lanang Golf and Country Club owned by the Dacudao family. It is rising in tandem with two modern edifices – Park Inn Hotel of Radisson and the much-awaited SMX Davao Convention Center.

Senator Manny Villar’s housing firm is building a mall in barangay Mintal, 14 kilometers from downtown, in a place where Villar has out up another of one of his subdivisions. The Starmall,

named after Villar’s mall in Manila, is located along the Davao City-Bukidnon Highway and the first of its kind in that part of the city dubbed by development planners as the “institutional area” because that is where many government institutions are located.

The University of the Philippines-Mindanao, the Philippine Science High School-Mindanao campus, the Regional Police Academy, the Bureau of Plant Industry experiment station, the Philippine Coconut Authority, the science centrum, the Philippine Army training center, the Southern Philippines Development Administration and the Department of Agrarian Reforms regional and national offices are located in that area.

There are close to 20

middle class and high-end housing projects in Mintal, which was once the center of commerce and headquarters of many Japaneseowned abaca plantations shortly before the World War II. SM Lanang will be the fifth shopping center along J.P. Laurel Avenue sharing the dense traffic thoroughfare with Gaisano Mall of Davao, Victoria Plaza Mall, the Ayala-Floirendo owned Abreeza, and Robinsons Cybergate.

The SMX Davao Convention Center is expected to accommodate 5,000 plus people and can be divided into three halls that can accommodate 700 to 1,800 people each. It has a leasable area of about 5,400 square meters.

The convention center located inside SM Lanang will feature three halls, two function rooms and three

meeting rooms.

According to SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation vice president for sales and marketing Lourdes Macalindong, the facility will help boost local tourism as it can attract large conventions and exhibitions.

The City has been unable to snatch the hosting of premiere conventions and other large events like the much-coveted Ad Congress because of the lack of a sufficient convention facility in the City.

The SMX is touted to become a one-stop convention complex with a nearby hotel to be put up in the area. The 204-room Park Inn Hotel under the Raddisson brand aims to complement the SMX and will be connected by a series of foot bridges. The P800-million hotel, the first of its brand in Southeast Asia, is expected to open by 2013.

The Park Inn Hotel targets business and leisure travelers as its main market.

According to its website, the hotel will become one of more than 100 hotels being operated by Radisson across Europe, the Middle East and Africa and North America which “boast of key amenities, colorful and contemporary interiors and innovative restaurants.”

Based on the plan, a bridge will connect the convention center to the P800million Radisson Park Inn within the complex.

Aside from the malls, condominiums and hotels are also being built. Executives of SM companies and Ayala were in Davao City recently to give separate press conferences during the past two weeks to announce the start of construction of their condominium and hotel projects.

LGUs to enjoy budget bonanza in year 2013, onwards –Ungab

L

OCAL government units hurting over the fact that they would have a greatly reduced share of the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) in 2012, need not worry because it is a temporary situation that is bound to improve next year and the years to follow.

This was the statement of Congressman Isidro Ungab, representative of Davao City’s 3rd congressional district, when asked to comment on the decrease of the LGU budget for 2012.

Ungab is the vice chair of the House committee on appropriations assigned to study the annual budgets of revenue-earning agencies such the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Cus-

toms and the Department of Finance, among others.

The lawmaker said leaders of Davao can look forward to bigger shares of the IRA in 2013 and onwards because of the substantial improvement in the income of tax collection agencies in 2010 and 2011.

He said the reduction in IRA next year resulted from the low tax collection efficiency of the national government in 2009 in the case of all LGUs and the creation of 16 new cities in the case of old cities.

“But these will all change for the better in 2013 and future years because of the highly improved tax collections by the national government,” Ungab said.

He lauded the no-nonsense effort of the Aquino government in cleaning up the traditionally corrupt agencies of the government and in running after those who are suspected of pocketing billions of pesos in public funds through scams and anomalous implementation of programs.

The matuwid na landas governance of President Noynoy Aquino is beginning to reap handsome dividends in terms of the influx of foreign and domestic big-time investments in business and development projects, Ungab said.

“Most importantly, the confidence of the people in government and their leaders is steadily returning,” he

P

(NEDA).

“The faster increases in the prices of some food items, due to typhooninduced supply shocks, as well as domestic petroleum products, specifically gasoline fuelled higher inflation rate in September 2011,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Cayetano W. Pad-

eranga, Jr. said.

Latest data from the National Statistics Office showed that based on 2006 prices, the relatively faster rate of 4.8 percent headline inflation last month was attributed to accelerating price increases in housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels (5.7% in Sep-

P14.6 billion

NET loss of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas from January to February this year, P6.65 billion higher than the net loss of P7.93 billion a year ago. “The shortfall was due mainly to trading losses incurred during the period compared to the trading gains realized in January to February 2010,” the BSP said.

P11 billion

WORTH of damage of Typhoons Pedring and Quiel to harvestable rice alone.

But the good news is that despite the destruction of the rice crops, the country has almost 87 days of buffer stock, and that government has enough time to take steps to prevent any shortage of the cereal.

P278 billion

REDUCED collection target of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for this year (2011), or P2 billion lower than 2010’s goal. The original collection target was P320 billion. The collection goal next year will also be reduced. This is due to the failure of former BOC Commissioner Angelito Alvarez to achieve the targets.

P2 billion

Rep. Ungab with President Aquino.

said.

Ungab and other Mindanao leaders in Congress worked hard to increase the share of Mindanao in the annual budget from 27 percent

in 2011 to 32.8 percent in 2012.

He also said that projects of Davao City have tremendously increased in number and value. [AMA]

Costlier food, fuel items push prices up in September rices of consumer goods and services increased by 4.8 percent in September 2011 compared to the same month last year. This was due to weather-related disruption in supply and high priced gasoline, according to the National Economic and Development Authority

WORTH of infrastructure projects to be constructed by the national government in five years, according to an ambitious development plan to boost the economy, particularly he underdeveloped countryside, according to Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II of the Department of Transportation and Communication.

tember 2011 from 5.1% in August 2011); transport (7.1% from 6.9%); health (3.4% from 3.3%); clothing and footwear (3.9% from 3.8%); and recreation and culture (1.7% from 1.6%).

Based on 2000 prices, last month’s inflation was at 4.3 percent. The average inflation for the first three

quarters of this year was also at 4.3 percent.

The 2006 and 2000 consumer price data series both recorded a year-todate average inflation rate that is within the 3.0 to 5.0 percent inflation target for the year, as indicated in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP), 2011-2016.

MONEY earned by Stradcom Corp, information technology provider of Land Transportation Office (LTO), from illegally using the LTO’s database in its dealings with other agencies, according to the Commission on Audit (COA).

Stradcom also reportedly collected P340.719 million in computer service fees even from manually processed transactions.

300

STEVE JOBS had no formal education in engineering, but his name is listed as inventor or co-inventor on more than 300 US patents. His inventions include Apple 1, Apple II, Macintosh, NeXT computer, iMac, iPod, iPhone and iPad. (Figures in this section have been culled from past issues of Edge Davao and other local and national publications. -The Editors)

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER october 10-16, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 32

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VOL. 4 NO. 32 october 10-16, 2011

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

the economy october 10-16, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 32

The Business PAPER

5

Safety of public infra top Davao Partner priority--NEDA 11 director Establishments You can now buy your favorite Business Paper from any of these establishments still at Php 15.

“P

Tulip Drive, Ecoland, Davao City

HELPING YOU MAKE INFORMED BUSINESS decisions.

ublic investments should be safe from any geo-hazard,” said National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) 11 Regional Director Ma. Lourdes Lim when she bared the NEDA’s move to mainstream risk reduction management in local development programming and budgetting.

NEDA has come up with the guidelines on mainstreaming risk reduction and climate change through the assistance of the Europeanfunded United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Lim said.

NEDA is sharing with local governments its technical knowledge on incorporating risk reduction management in development programming and budgeting to en-

sure the safety of public investments from geohazards.

“Sites for public projects should be considered for their safety factor,” she said in an interview after turning over last Wednesday to Davao del Norte Gov. Rodolfo P. Del Rosario the reviewed pieces of documents which were outputs of the Provincial/Local Planning and Expenditure Management (P/LPEM) project that gained the support of Asian Development Bank.

Lim viewed as “very important” to consider the safety of public investment even at the planning and budgetting stages as natural disasters such as heavy rains and typhoons were noted to have been occurring more often.

She noted that the government often goes back to square one as it keeps re-

habilitating and putting up again and again public infrastructures damaged by frequent natural calamities.

“But if we are more intelligent in studying our environment, we would know better where to put our buildings, bridges such that, they will not be prone to damage by disasters ,” she said. The NEDA initiative to mainstream disaster risk reduction management in local development programming and budgetting will cover all provinces in the country.

Meanwhile, Lim cited Davao del Norte and Compostela Valley for producing P/PLEM outputs, which turned out “the best as noted

by ADB (Asian Development Bank) consultants,” she said in the same interview.

As pilot beneficiaries of

P/PLEM project, Davao del Norte and Compostela Valley produced their respective Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan, Provincial Development and Investment Plan, and Project Evaluation and Development Proposal.

In the document turnover ceremony in Davao del Norte last September 28, Gov. Del Rosario expressed confidence that the provincial government will “now be in a better position to pursue good governance” after it went through the rigorous process of coming up with P/PLEM document.

Del Rosario expected to “see an ample increase in our savings” as he pointed out that a sound plan serves as a blueprint of wise expenditure. [PIA-

11/JEANE DURON-ABANGAN]

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VOL. 4 NO. 32 october 10-16, 2011

property forum

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

Camella Northpoint :

A league of its own A

s a subsidiary of Vista land & Lifescapes, the largest homebuilder in the country, Camella knows exactly how to maintain its leading position in the industry—by delivering on its commitments. Camella leads the pack when it comes to delivering its promises to homebuyers.

Urban sanctuary. Camella promised to create an urban sanctuary in the city, and gave it Camella Northpoint. With its cool natural ambiance and tranquil atmosphere, Camella Northpoint is a green oasis in the heart of the growth area of north Davao. It offers a reprieve from the daily toil and the hustle and bustle of city life.

Unique living proposition. Camella Northpoint gives its homeowners the best of both worlds: a stylish, modern home ensconced within the tranquility of a natural, lush setting. Homeowners find peaceful living possible with its world-class clubhouse, Wakefield Manor, and its pocket gardens, park, salinated wellness pool, and Zen-inspired meditation pond.

They can easily shift to an active and vibrant living

by socializing with friends and guests at the multi-use function hall, or having a barbecue with family and friends at the cabanas and grill pits. They can also frolic with the young ones at the playground, engage in sports at the ball court, or exercise at the fitness gym.

Best of all, they are never far from all the modern conveniences they want with Camella Northpoint’s central location. They have easy and convenient access to everything they need to strike a balance between work, rest, play, and vibrant living.

Davao’s first pine estate. Camella promised to give the city its first pine estate, and turned Camella Northpoint into the only condo community in Davao dotted with P4 million’s worth of imported Caribbean pine trees. These can grow to a hundred feet tall and will give Northpoint a cool and crisp pine-scented freshness found nowhere else in the city.

First green condo community. This British colonial-themed condo development has been designed following the principles of green architecture. Its green buildings allow natural light

Camella Northpoint's first building, Manchester, stands regal overlooking the wide open spaces of the condo property.

and air to flow inside, avoiding the sick building syndrome that can be harmful to tenants.

Located at the junction of J. P. Laurel Avenue and Buhangin Road, it is in close proximity to all modern conveniences, making it possible for homeowners to go

on foot, take a short ride, or drive a few minutes to get to where they want to go. This minimizes vehicle use that lessens carbon emission and reduces carbon footprint.

First condo with own commercial area. Camella Northpoint sets the bar for condo living higher with its

own lifestyle center located a few steps outside the condo’s main gates. This commercial area will further boost its appeal and overall value, turning it into the most desirable address and destination in Davao.

The commercial area will rise on the hill where

The Mansion stands as the centerpiece of development, and will feature a fine dining restaurant, commercial shops, boutique hotel, specialty stores and other establishments that will further bolster its prime location.

Professional property management. Northpoint is managed by a professional property management team responsible for keeping the condo property well maintained and secure at all times, as well as establishing harmonious relationship and healthy camaraderie among the homeowners.

Select group of homeowners. Northpoint homeowners are well screened to ensure they are ready and capable for condo living. This careful selection process has resulted to a select and diverse group of homeowners that make the condo community vibrant and interesting.

To be one of the select few who call Camella Northpoint home, call or visit Camella Davao at 2/F Delgar Building, J.P. Laurel Ave., Davao City, or at 222-0963, 222-5221, 2225223, vismin@camella.com. ph (email) and www.camella.com.ph.

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER

EDGEDAVAO

The economy

october 10-16, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 32

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as of august 2010

Cebu Pacific Daily Zest Air Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Philippine Airlines Daily Philippine Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri/Sun Philippine Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Silk Air Mon/Wed/Sat Cebu Pacific Thu Cebu Pacific Tue/Wed//Sat

5J961 / 5J962 Z2390 / Z2390 5J593 / 5J348 PR809 / PR810 PR819 / PR820 5J394 / 5J393 5J599 / 5J594 5J347 / 5J596 5J963 / 5J964 PR811 / PR812 5J595 / 5J966 MI588 / MI588 5J965 / 5J968 5J965 / 5J968

STAT WATCH INDICATIOR

LATEST

1. GNP Growth Rate (At Constant 1985 Prices)

1.9 % 2nd Qtr 2011

2. GDP Growth Rate (At Constant 1985 Prices)

3.4 % 2nd Qtr 2011

3. Exports 1/

USD 4,128 million Jun 2011

4. Imports 1/

USD 4,503 million Jun 2011

5. Trade Balance

USD -376 million Jun 2011

6. Balance of Payments 2/

USD 222 million Jun 2011

7. Broad Money Liabilities

P4,423,849 million Jun 2011

8. Interest Rate 4/

4.48% Apr 2011

9. National Government Revenues 10. National government outstanding debt 11. Peso per US $ 5/ 12. Stocks Composite Index 6/ 13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

5:45 Manila-Davao-Manila 5:45 Manila-Davao-Manila 6:00 Cebu-Davao-Iloilo 6:10 Manila-Davao-Manila 7:50 Manila-Davao-Manila 7:50 Zamboanga-Davao-Zamboanga 8:00 Cebu-Davao-Cebu 9:10 Iloilo-Davao-Cebu 9:40 Manila-Davao-Manila 11:30 Manila-Davao-Manila 12:00 Cebu-Davao-Manila 18:55 Davao-Cebu-Singapore 12:55 Manila-Davao-Manila 13:35 Manila-Davao-Manila

6:15 6:25 6:30 7:00 8:50 8:10 8:30 9:40 10:10 12:20 12:30 13:35 13:25 14:05

Jul 2011

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2000=100

4.6 Jul 2011

15. Core Inflation Rate 2000=100

3.7 Jul 2011

16. Visitor Arrivals

317,443 Apr 2011

17. Underemployment Rate /7

19.4% Apr 2011

18. Unemployment Rate /7

7.2 % Apr 2011

MONTHLY AVERAGE EXCHANGE RATE (January 2009 - January 2011)

Month Average December November October September August July June May April March

2011

43.37 43.13 43.24 43.52

2010 45.11 43.95 43.49 43.44 44.31 45.18 46.32 46.30 45.60 44.63 45.74

February

43.70

46.31

January

44.17

46.03

2009 47.637 46.421

47.032 46.851 48.139

48.161 48.146 47.905 47.524 48.217

48.458 47.585 47.207

MI566 / MI566 5J507 / 5J598 15:55 Z2524 / Z2525 5J967 / 5J600 PR813 / PR814 5J215 / 5J216 5971 / 5J970 5J973 / 5J974 5J969 / 5J972 2P987 / 2P988 PR821 / PR822 PR821 / PR822

18:55 Davao-Singapore 15:00 Cebu-Davao-Cebu Mani2Mani 16:50 16:05 Cebu-Davao-Cebu 16:35 Manila-Davao-Cebu 16:55 Manila-Davao-Manila 18:00 Cagayan de Oro-Davao-Cagayan de Oro 18:40 Manila-Davao-Manila 20:00 Manila-Davao-Manila 20:30 Manila-Davao-Manila 20:30 Manila-Davao-Manila 21:20 Manila-Davao-Manila 22:20 Manila-Davao-Manila

15:20 15:30 16:45 17:05 17:45 18:20 19:10 20:30 21:00 21:00 21:50 22:50

PHL economy to grow 4.5%

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he World Bank on Thursday said the Philippine economy is likely to grow 4.5 percent, driven by higher government and consumer spending in the second half of the year.

In its Philippine Quarterly Update (PQR), the Washington-based lender, also projected that the economy, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP) for next year, is projected to grow 5 percent.

“Private consumption is expected to grow steadily, buoyed by lower unemployment, higher government spending and sustained remittances,” said Soonwha Yi, World Bank economist who led the team that prepared the PQU. “With ample fiscal space, the government is expected to boost spending in the second

half and catch up on delayed implementation of infrastructure projects,” Yi said.

According to the PQU, government’s zerobased budgeting process has generated sufficient fiscal space to scale up spending on priority social and economic agenda.

The report said that domestic investment is projected to expand to 21.8 percent of GDP for 2011 from 20.5 percent in 2010, and to improve further to 23.1 percent in 2012, as the government accelerates the pace of its capital outlays and as business sentiment turns more positive.

“On the supply side, growth for the full year 2011 is expected to come from the services and industry sectors, favored by a more upbeat business sentiment and with the full roll-out of infrastructure-related projects,” Yi said.

ECONOMIX New Airline

A NEW Cebu-based airline is expanding its operations and adding new routes to connect Cebu-Bohol-Davao and CebuBohol-Cagayan de Oro. Mid-Sea Express P 4,777 billion will have its delivery of a new British AeroMay 2010 space Jetstream 32 before the end of this year.

P 42.81 This wide-body, solely business class Jul 2011 aircraft will complement its existing routes from Cebu to Bantayan, Bohol, Siquijor 4,503.6 and Camiguin. Also, to open soon will be the highly anticipated route of Cebu to Jul 2011 Caticlan, with affordable fares both to and from Boracay.

126.4

P100,139 million Jun 2011

Silk Air Thu/Sun Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri Philippine Airlines August Zest Air Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Philippines Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Thu/Sat Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Tue/Sat/Sun Cebu Pacific Daily Airphil Express Daily Philippine Airlines Daily except Sunday Philippine Airlines Sunday

Aquaculture

THERE has been a noticeable decline in aquaculture production in the second quarter of this year compared to the first quarter, according to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), From 5,366 metric tons of aquaculture produced in the first quarter of this year, it went down to 3,796 metric tons in the second quarter. The BFAR is looking into different parameters causing the decrease in aquaculture production and this includes the increase in fuel rates and climate change.

Online payment

FILIPINOS will soon have a convenient, efficient and more secure option to purchase goods and services from their favorite online merchants. AsiaPay, the leading provider of secure electronic payment solutions in Asia, has partnered with Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) to enable Smart Money account holders to pay for their online purchases through merchants of PesoPay-AsiaPay’s online payment service in the Philippines.

Smart Money, which is the mobile commerce offering of Smart issued by BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO) in the Philippines, is the world’s first reloadable cash payment card linked to a mobile phone.

Container vans

THE BUREAU of Customs opened 43 “hot” container vans at the Davao Port after the consignees were found to have misdeclared their contents. The total estimated value of apprehended goods is more than P45 million. It’s the second time that deputy commissioner for intelligence Danilo Lim supervised the opening of the seized containers since he was appointed by President Benigno Aquino III to his current position.

Last week Lim was in Davao City to personally oversee the seizure of P21-M worth of smuggled rice and other goods.

He received reports that certain individuals are involved in shady deals. On Sept. 21, 17 abandoned container vans yielded 8,900 sacks of smuggled rice at the Sasa Wharf after customs officials ordered them opened.

Thriving

DAVAO City has the most number of cooperative members in the region for two consecutive years now.

According to the City Cooperative and Development Office at least 204,130 members were registered last year, an increase from the 156,000 two years ago. At present, there are 505 registered cooperatives in the city.

Davao City is followed by Davao del Norte with 94,698 members, Davao del Sur with 89,772 members and Compostela Valley with 65,741. The area with the least members is Davao Oriental with 6,441, according to data released by the Cooperative Development Authority.

Ulrich Lachler, lead economist of World Bank said the Philippines is currently enjoying relative political stability and a strong fiscal position. Capital inflows are expected to continue, but foreign direct investment (FDI) is projected to moderate as foreign investors have become more cautious in light of recent financial turmoil, he said.

“To ensure inclusive growth or growth that benefits the poor, higher revenues through improved tax administration and reforms will enable the government to meet its priority spending targets, especially in public infrastructure and investment in human capital,” Lachler said.

The PQU also said that the Philippines’ external position and macroeconomic fundamentals remain strong.

NGO warns rise in sex trade on tourism growth

T

he non-government organization Talikala has voiced concern on the effects of tourism’s growth in the Davao region and in the increasing incidence of prostitution Jeannette Ampog, executive director of Talikala, an organization that deals with exploited women and children, said the tourism industry must be ready for the negative impact of its growth.

She said they had monitored an increasing number of prostitutes going to the Island Garden City of Samal, a known tourist attraction in the region. She said these prostitutes are to be found plying their trade in small videoke huts called warik-warik scattered across the island.

A mpog says that tourism stakeholders should take into consideration the social impact of tourism in their future discussions of the industry. Currently the region has 1,099 documented sex workers and an estimated 2,000 free lance prostitutes who are mostly undocumented.

“The number of prostitutes is increasing, their age getting younger,” Ampog said. She worries that more tourism would also equate to increased trafficking of exploited women and children.

She said when the group was able to talk and air their concern to the Department of Tourism regional director Art Boncato they appreciated his openness in tackling the issue.

For his part, Boncato said that he agrees with Talikala that this is one of the issues they will be facing with the growth of the tourism industry.

In fact they recognized this problem when they crafted the National Tourism Development Plan.

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VOL. 4 NO. 32 october 10-16, 2011

VANTAGE POINTS

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

Jobs’ iPad a culmination of a life’s work

Foreign Commentary Wilson Rothman For most people, driving the vanguard of a single revolution would provide enough glory (and exhaustion) to last a lifetime. For Steve Jobs, the first revolution just gave him a taste. It’s hard to keep track of all of the upheavals that can be attributed to Jobs — in music, in cellphones, in animated film — but history is already labeling the iPad as the culmination of his life’s work.

For someone who helped invent personal computers, Jobs was not entirely comfortable with them. According to Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, addressing an engineering conference last April, the iPad was in his mind from the beginning. Yet Jobs was like a painter who must spend decades developing his technique before being able to recreate the visions he sees in his head.

“I think Steve Jobs had that intention from the day we started Apple,” said Wozniak, reported by IDG News, “but it was just hard to get there, because we had to go through a lot of steps where you connected to things.”

Eventually, he added, “computers grew up to where they could do ... normal consumer appliance things.”

The timeline from green-on-black PC screen to glowing touch tablet is dotted with Jobs-influenced creations. You have the early Apple computers, the 1984 Mac, and then, following Jobs’ departure from Apple, the NeXT interface that would become Mac OS X. After returning to Apple and launching the iMac, his attention shifted to portable devices.

Could anyone predict that a little music player — with a simple click-wheel interface, a hard-drive and a cute but impractical monochrome screen — would transform computers? Most people, including me, missed it, though a few, such as reviewer Eliot Van Buskirk, boldly predicted what turned out to be true.

“Descendants of the iPod MP3 player will replace the PC as the hub of your digital life,” Buskirk wrote in a 2001 article for Cnet, a piece that was dug up this week by Gizmodo and others to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the shiny white music player.

Yes, a decade later — and one week after Steve Jobs died — the mobile operating system that emerged from the iPod, the iOS that now runs both iPhones and iPads, officially becomes “PC free.” The newest version, iOS 5, is designed to let devices sync music and movies directly to and from the iTunes service, back-up precious data to Apple’s own servers and more, all without ever connecting to another computer.

There are, of course, many people who don’t see the iPad as the end-all beall of computer tablets, and that’s okay. None of the inventions Jobs was instrumental in bringing to market got there in a vacuum, and Jobs himself thrived when competition, especially with lifelong frenemy Bill Gates of Microsoft, was heated.

But Apple’s chief competitors, Microsoft, Google and Amazon among them, have reacted to the iPad in a way that suggests it is the start of a new era. It is the next — and possibly the last — generation of personal computers. When the Financial Times called Jobs the person of the year for 2010, it cited his ability to package high-tech devices as consumer friendly products.

“Extending the iPhone’s innovations of a more versatile screen and lightweight ‘apps’ designed for specific tasks,” wrote the FT’s Richard Waters and Joseph Menn in December 2010, the iPad “points to a future beyond the computer mouse — and a world without Windows.

Sales of cheaper notebook computers are already suffering.”

The iPad, now in its second generation, continues to devastate PC sales as wouldbe rivals trickle onto the market.

Apple itself has subtly acknowledged the change that occurred with the iPad, the transition into the socalled post-PC era. For years, the company’s press-release boilerplate began, “Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh.”

In June 2010, the note changed. The reference to personal computers was softened, and the blurb ended with a mention of the tablet, mincing no words: “Apple … has recently introduced its magical iPad which is defining the future of mobile media and computing devices.”

The empty feeling many have this week is not just for that of a lost celebrity, a famous person who we admired and felt a connection to. It’s that we’re left staring into the future without this guide, this visionary, to tell us what comes next.

Perhaps that’s it for personal computers. Perhaps we no longer need a wizard of the computing world, but someone in biotechnology, who can work to bring systems inside our bodies and our minds, or someone in architecture who can merge interfaces with our surroundings. Perhaps Steve Jobs’ work really is done, and it’s time to evolve past gadgets all together. Perhaps only Jobs would know, but he’s no longer here to ask.

editorials

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Cracking the whip

HE issue that earned a lot of sound bytes last week was not the nocturnal whip-lashing sallies of the so-called ‘latigo squad” against juvenile vagrants who defy the curfew ordinance of Barangay 76-D under village chief Robert Olan-olan.

What reverberated in the four corners of the city was the tonguelashing reportedly dealt by Vice Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte on some young members of the City Council, one of whom he asked to resign as chairman or member of all committees. The rumor that came out of that closed-door executive session was that a thirtyish lawmaker allegedly tried to mulct P40 million from a big-time developer in exchange for favorable action on a major development project in the city.

The rumor, which was met with disbelief by many of those who are familiar with the workings of the city legislature, including some who claim to be in the know about certain shenanigans in the past, remained to be a rumor as we went to press.

E

However, the statements of Vice Mayor Duterte on the issue say it all.

He said he had not accused anybody of corruption, but he warned the councilors that he will not tolerate corruption. He also warned members of the business community transacting with the city council against bribing their way to approval of their applications.

He encouraged investors to report to him instances of bribery and mulcting attempts, vowing he would act on reports posthaste.

Credit it to the reputation that Rody Duterte had built through the years.

His pronouncements have assuaged the feelings of the business community, especially members who have been victimized by corrupt factotums in the past.

By uttering those words of warning, Mr. Duerte was only like cracking the proverbial whip. It has a chilling effect on certain corrupt elements in the city government, including those who are thinking of breaking the rules for personal gain.

Of houses and homes

dge Davao congratulates Santos Land Development Corp., one of Davao’s most enduring companies providing countless couples with their dream houses for decades now with their more than a dozen subdivisions spread all

over the city. On their 40th anniversary, here’s wishing the men and women of SLDC excellent health and creative minds for the growth of the company and the expansion of its services as a leading homes provider.

vantage POINTS

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER

october 10-16, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 32

FACE OFF

Killing of journalists continues unabated

On the increased fares of MRT and LRT rates ‘IT’S either we increase taxes and maintain our budget deficit. In other words, what I’m saying is, let’s have new revenues and we can continue to subsidize.

‘It is a fiscal issue and the need for funds in our national treasury. It’s either we increase the fare, or increase taxes...It is a policy issue. This administration believes that it we can provide more services to the poor.

‘We need funds for subsidy. Where do you think we’ll get the funds? From taxes...’

--Senator Franklin Drilon ‘IT is embarrassing. Malacanang should be like a good father of a family to patch up differences, not fan the fire.

‘There might be a constitutional crisis because Malacanang is feuding with lawmakers over fare increases and the justices and heads of independent constitutional offices over their 2012 budgets that it wants to control.

‘It does not look good. There will be crisis because the coequal branches of government are feuding.’

--Senator Joker Arroyo in opposing fare increases at the MRT and LRT and the imposition of the 12-percent value-added tax on toll roads.

A global problem

T

HE sudden downpour in Davao City last Thursday evening resulted in the usual flooding of certain streets, including Quirino Avenue where the center island disappeared under floodwaters.

The good thing about a bad thing (flooding) where our city is concerned, is that floodwaters recede in just a matter of a few hours or less and life is back to normal.

None of that stuff that’s been happening in typhoon-lashed areas of the country where hapless people have had to contend with floodwaters deep enough to force people to abandon homes or seek safety on their rooftops--not for just a number of hours but for days, a situation that Dabawenyos can hardly imagine happening to them ever.

Did I say “ever”? Or “never”? Don’t count on it.

Results of studies made by our weather experts from

1960 to 2003 tell us that things will get worse before they become better.

They point to this modern day phenomenon called Climate Change where warm days are longer and cold nights shorter. Perhaps people haven’t gotten around to noticing this phenomenon in the midst of their daily problems of making both ends meet and all that sort of aggravation.

But we have to trust our weather experts whose job it is to study weather patterns and make heads and tails of what they mean to us ordinary laymen.

The problem called Climate Change is here to stay, whether we like it or not. Nor is it a problem that we should leave to weathermen alone to solve.

When they say that global warming is causing the ice caps in the polar regions to melt, which in turn causes the seas and oceans to rise inexorably, who are we to question their findings and pronouncements?

We who are marooned on planet Earth, for better or for worse, are in this predicament together, and together we must collectively do something to reverse

the situation if we want future generations to survive.

That happens to be the inconvenient truth scientists have been talking about.

After all, global warming has been blamed on man’s folly of tampering with the ozone layer some 30 to 48 miles up in the lower atmosphere with carbon emissions emanating from his factories in the United States, China and India, to name just the world’s three biggest culprits, all the way down to the lowly charcoal maker.

Climate Change is everybody’s concern and it behooves policy makers in the world’s governments to address it realistically and forcefully. That goes for our own members of Congress whose myopic view of this grave global situation is reflected in their pre-occupation with that other kind of change---Charter Change.

When will they wake up and get serious?

EDITORIAL The Business Paper

Printed weekly by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Building, Quirino Avenue, 8000 Davao City, Philippines E-mail: editorial@edgedavao.net marketing@edgedavao.net Tel: (082) 301-6235 Telefax: (082) 221-3601

MARKETING & ADVERTISING General Manager | Olivia D. Velasco Director of Sales | Jocelyn S. Panes Advertising Specialist | Richard C. Ebona Imelda P. Lee Finance | Rogelia E. Mamaed Circulation | Cheree P. Pajarillaga

Editor In Chief | Antonio M. Ajero Associate Editor | Gregorio G. Deligero Editorial Consultant | Ramon M. Maxey Section Heads | Lifestyle | Kenneth Irving K. Ong

Sports | Moses P. Billacura Staff Writers | Maria Teresa Ungson Cartoonist | Arlene D. Pasaje Columnists | Alex C. Roldan • Aurelio A. Peña • Nicasio Angelo J. Agustin • Nikki Gotianse-Tan • Edcer Escudero • Zhaun Ortega • Jet Villamor Photos | Joseph Lawrence P. Garcia Pre Press | Alven Flordelis

Cagayan de Oro Marketing Office:

Manila Marketing Office:

Marketing Manager | Liezl A. Deloso

Marketing Manager | Angelica R. Garcia

Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez - Yacapin Sts. Cagayan de Oro City Tel. No.: (88) 852-4894

Blk. 1, Lot 10, La Mar Townhomes, Apitong St., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel. No.: (02) 942-1503

HELPING YOU MAKE INFORMED BUSINESS decisions.

9

Special Feature Ben Cal

K

illing of journalists continues with impunity - the latest victim was the editor-in-chief of a community newspaper based in Isabela who was gunned down in cold-blood by two gunmen riding on a motorcycle in Alicia town Friday morning.

Killed in the broad daylight brutal attack was Johnson Pascual, editor-in-chief and columnist of Prime News, a community newspaper in Cauayan City, Isabela province.

Pascual, 52, who is also the manager of the First Isabela Cooperative Bank, was driving his van along the national highway in Alicia when the suspects on a motorcycle sidled up to the right side of the victim’s vehicle and fired two successive shots.

Pascual was the sixth journalists killed the past few months and the 147 since 1986. The unidentified gunmen casually sped away as if nothing happened. Police said Pascual lost control of his van which plunged into a ravine. The victim was hit in the head and torso.

Police are still investigating the motive of the murder whether it was a work-related as a journalist or as a banker.

Last month, Rufo Uy, manager of the Rural Bank of Angadanan, Isabela, was also shot and killed by motorcycle-riding men in front of his house in Alicia municipality.

The spate of killings in the country prompted media organizations to mount an intensified campaign to “stop killing journalists” but the slogan seems to have no effect as the killings continued unabated.

Media and rights groups say the Philippines is one of the world’s most dangerous places for journalists due to a “culture of impunity” where firearms are common and powerful figures believe they are above the law.

In the most infamous incident victimizing members of the press, 32 journalists were among 57 people murdered, known as the Maguindanao Massacre in the southern Philippines on Nov. 23, 2009, allegedly by members of a powerful clan who

wanted to eliminate a rival’s political challenge.

The alleged masterminds and close to 100 out of the 200 suspects have been arrested and are currently being tried in court.

The trial may take years considering the huge number of suspects.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), a New York-based media outfit, has condemned the fatal shooting of Pascual and called on Philippine authorities to investigate the case and prosecute the perpetrators. “We condemn the murder of Johnson Pascual and are concerned that he will become just another poorly investigated, unprosecuted crime, the sort that is commonplace in the Philippines,” said Bob Dietz, CPJ’s Asia program coordinator. CPJ data for 2011 show that four journalists have died through violent attacks so far, but only the deaths of Romeo Olea and Gerardo Ortega have been determined to be related to their work as journalists. The Philippines ranks as the world’s third worst for the prosecution of journalists’ killers, CPJ’s Impunity Index shows. [PNA]

of killings ‘Theinspate the country

BizQUIPS

prompted media organizations to mount an intensified campaign to “stop killing journalists” but the slogan seems to have no effect as the killings continued unabated.

‘IT’S like a fighting target.

We’re expecting a recovery in the third and fourth quarter but given the weakness in the first half; it is going to be tough.’

--Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, on the government’s desire to increase exports by 10 percent in 2011.

’

10 VOL. 4 NO. 32 october 10-16, 2011

competitive edge

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

HP, BSP say ‘no to fakes!’ A deathly apparition A

midst the growing threat of counterfeit goods in the country, HP Philippines and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the nation’s monetary authority, join hands to launch a phenomenal advocacy against the production and proliferation of fakes and counterfeits. Dubbed as NO to Fakes. KNOW the Original!, the campaign seeks to raise public awareness and commitment to stop the proliferation of counterfeits, including frequently counterfeited items such as banknotes (Peso bills), Original HP ink and toner cartridges.

“Both HP and BSP are targets of counterfeiters. We are very happy to take this first step to make people aware and to educate them on what’s real and not. We look forward to more partners to join this advocacy campaign,” said Armando Pascual, Country General Manager, Imaging and Printing Group, HP Philippines.

The Philippines hopes for the removal of the country from the United States’ blacklist of countries tolerating intellectual piracy and counterfeits. In the past weeks, several government agencies have seized and destroyed counterfeit goods – from designer products to electronics. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas continues to protect the Filipinos from counterfeiters by working closely with police authorities while HP collaborated with the National Bureau of Investigation, which seized about 22,000 fake ink and toner cartridges worth P12 million in this year alone.

To combat the proliferation of fake peso bills, the BSP has introduced several new

T

NO TO FAKES. HP’s Charles R. Lizares talks about HP’s Mobile Authentication tool and the company’s participation in the national campaign against fakes and counterfeit.

security features in its new generation Philippine banknotes.

HP has also launched a new Mobile Authentication tool to help customers identify counterfeit cartridges more easily and conveniently.

The HP mobile Authentication tool features a QR code on both HP original ink and toner cartridge security labels.

Customers can simply scan the QR code on the security label to immediately confirm authenticity, or validate the label by entering the cartridge serial number at the HP mobile authentication website.

As part of its global anticounterfeiting program, HP takes a proactive approach to alerting and educating consumers on how to identify counterfeit printing supplies. HP also incorporates state-of-the art technology in

the products and cartridge packaging to help consumers identify fraudulent supplies.

Customers can learn more about how to avoid purchasing counterfeit cartridges at www.hp.com/apac/nofakes.

With these measures in place, HP customers can experience the quality and reliability of original HP ink cartridges, including twice as many pages than refilled cartridges, and reliability all the time in contrast with 42% of refilled cartridges tested that were dead-on-arrival or failed prematurely.

Strengthening these initiatives, the NO to Fakes.

KNOW the Original! Campaign seeks to educate individuals and businesses on the economic risks of counterfeit goods, including billions of pesos in annual losses.

he Carabao Dive Center asked me to accompany two Japanese divers.

Of course I didn’t pass up the chance to go scuba diving, and I was really looking forward to it because we were going to San Juan Reef.

This dive site, which is very close to the Hof Gorei beach resort on Samal Island, is a favorite of mine because of the abundance of huge coral heads present (mostly hard coral) and the myriad of species of marine life that call it home. I was telling the Japanese couple (retirees from Tokyo) about how I enjoyed San Juan Reef, and it turned out really well in the beginning — visibility was at least 30 feet and there was hardly any turbidity (in spite of the heavy downpour the night before).

We planned a dive where we would bottom at about a hundred feet, take in the surroundings for a few minutes, skirt the sloping wall towards the southeast while climbing, then explore the reef level at about 40 feet for the remainder of the first dive.

It all went quite well — lots of photo opportunities for my charges, great visibility, warm waters (max of about 85°F / 29°C), thousands of colorful, hyperactive tropical fish — until we got to the last leg of the plan.

What greeted us at the southeastern portion of the reef was dismaying. No: horrifying. Looming in the distance, was an apparition that seemed to blur the coral formations ahead. It didn’t register in my mind right away because of its unthinkable size. Then it hit me, and the realization was painful. It was a ghost net, about the size of a volleyball/ basketball court.

For some inexplicable and unfathomable reason, local fishermen dispose of old or damaged fishing nets into the sea. Some months ago, a diver-photographer told me that these underwater pollutants were called “ghost nets”. I’ve been seeing such things from time to time, but usually no bigger than a few feet long. I wish you would never have to see what I did that day — it felt like a punch in the gut.

On my second dive, two fellow Dabawenyos — Brgy.

Capt. Jun Laud of Ma-a and Van-Van, one of his volunteers from the barangay rescue team — joined me in an effort to clear as much net as possible. It was in shallow water, about 20 feet, so we were able to stay underwater for a solid hour and a half. But we could only do so much. The offensive netting covered a lot of bristly coral heads, so that it was extremely tasking trying to extricate the super fine threads.

A lot of fish were caught in the ghost net’s deathly clutches: angels, damsels, puffers — most of them doomed to die. I was able to free a filefish and a juvenile triggerfish and another that I didn’t recognize, but that was it.

What was most gutwrenching for me was seeing two harlequin mantis shrimps hopelessly entangled in the net’s nearly invisible fibers.

We were desperate to free the pair, but to no avail. One was

by Bloggie Robillo

above the net and the other below, both beyond rescue due to their constant struggling to get free. What if they were mating? What if more were trapped? It was my first time to see harlequin mantis… but what a depressing circumstance!

Ghost nets are highly destructive. They ensnare marine animals, big or small, and they can suffocate coral.

In this incident, it was very shallow and currents at San Juan Reef are nutrient-laden, so that algal growth is at an accelerated rate; I saw a few staghorn coral heads already completely covered by algae.

Endangered marine turtles, even dolphins, can also get entangled in these wantonly discarded nets.

Three months ago I wrote about destructive fishing practices and that it would take a bottom-up approach to curb them. Clearly, what’s needed is to get local fishermen to truly understand the harm in their actions. I mentioned that it would take time for this to happen. But when??

Tomorrow, I hope more

divers will join us in getting rid of that nasty fishing net from San Juan Reef. It will take a concerted effort, and it will certainly take time and lots of patience. I’m just glad that the people I dive with are as conscientious of the environment as I am, and are always there to lend a hand.

Aside from the environment, the presence of these undersea pollutants will hurt our tourism industry. It was quite embarrassing for me during our surface interval, talking to the Japanese tourists about the ghost net. The couple came to Davao for scuba diving, nothing else. I wonder how they truly felt about seeing that horrific sight…

When will local government units involved take action? When will the plans emanating from the various organizations active in the Davao Gulf finally see the light of day? Clean-up dives, while noble, are transient measures, mere stop gaps that don’t really address the root of the problem. What we need are rigorous and resolute actions by everyone concerned.

BizQUIPS

‘IF the proposed project of Herhof would push through, the sanitary landfill will be turned into an echo park and composting area.’

--Joseph Dominic S. Felizarta, chief of the Davao City environment and natural resources office (Cenro), on the multi-million German recycling company.

competitive Edge

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER

october 10-16, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 32

Globe launches media awards

A

YALA-OWNED Globe Telecommunications launched its Davao Media Excellence Awards in its desire to recognize media performances in several categories.

In the launching and the unveiling of the awards at the Royal Mandaya Hotel last Thursday, Yolanda C. Crisanto, corporate communications head of the company, said the company hopes to support the media community in the city by recognizing the outstanding performance of its members.

“We at Globe Telecom decided to launch the Davao media Excellence Awards because we believe

this will provide the provincial media community the kind of support that fosters excellent performance by provincial journalists,” said Crisanto, although she said her company is finalizing the criteria for the awards which will culminate in the awarding next year.

Among the categories, she said, are stories in business, information technology and environment, disaster response and entrepreneurship, peace, education and social progress.

She said the company “will honor opinion writers, radio commentators, and television reporters for their dayto-day coverage as well as feature stories,” she added.

“We share with you the desire for peace that fosters economic development in a land rich in resources, culture and top caliber people. We know excellent journalism plays a significant role in realizing the vision of a peaceful and progressive Mindanao,” she added.

The company has also recognized the contribution of blogging as this kind of journalism “has gained momentum and significance in social and political landscape,” she said, adding that also to be awarded will be the “Blogger of the Year.”

The company launched a similar activity in Cebu City last month.

11

LAUNCHING. Globe Telecom corporate communications head Ma. Yolanda C. Crisanto and VisMin head for external affairs Jerry Yntig unveil the Davao Media Excellence Awards last Thursday at the Royal Mandaya Hotel.

48th PMAP annual confab slated in CdO, Oct. 12-14 C

SAFETY MEASURES. Safety, is a prerequisite to uninterrupted service. As part of the electric distribution utility’s safety procedure, Davao Light and Power Company lineman, Kenneth Lim, installs covers on its line in preparation for the actual live maintenance works. Such precautionary measure along with the use of modern hot line tools allows the utility crew to work safely on the lines without causing service disruption. The program enabled significant reductions in the power interruptions as well as the number of customers affected when implementing upgrading of distribution lines to keep up with the growing power demand, such as the one in Maa Diversion Road recently.

RUSH SALE COMMERCIAL / INDUSTRIAL LOT 8,355 SQ.M

ALONG HI-WAY MATI CENTRAL

COMMERCIAL / RESIDENTIAL LOT 3,497 SQ.M

Along Hi-way, Bucaran, Babak, Samal

Please Call : 082-225-3766 0918-901-3035

agayan de Oro City will host for the first time the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) 48th annual conference on October 12-14, 2011 at the Atrium in Limketkai Center.

‘Tao muna, Tayo na!’

HR Mandate in the New World will address how the four forces of change are posing challenges to individuals, there implications on HR management and what appropriate interventions are needed to address the impact of the change both on individuals and organizations.

As our environment continually and dynamically evolved, we suddenly realize we are now completely operating in a new business landscape. There are four forces that brought about

this change : the emerging Asian markets, rapid technological developments, shifting societal values and our natural environment.

These forces are creating dynamic impact on people in their business and social environment. People and organizations can be reactive or proactive in this situation. However, it is people’s capabilities that will enable them to proactively respond to these forces of change and in the process create the competitive edge for their organizations.

Thus, Tao muna.

In this case, it is our role and responsibility as HR professionals to take on the initiative and drive the change process by equipping people with the required capabilities. Given this, it is imperative that we

resolve and commit to take on this challenge. Tayo na!

Conference methodologies include in-depth and intensive discussions, open space technology, social technologies, outdoor experiential learning, environment friendly proceedings.

Speakers will be Rico M. Hizon of British Broadcasting Corporation, Damian Domingo O. Mapa of Microsoft Philippines, Inc., Elisea G. Gozun presidential assistant for climate change and Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, Ph.D. of CARD (Center for Agriculture and Rural Development).

The annual awards night will feature the 2011 awardees for Employer of the Year, People Program of the Year and People Man-

ager of the Year. There will also be a fellowship and the PMAP Expo.

PMAP national president Schubert Caesar C. Austero is inviting all those who are interested in experiencing the fun in learning together and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow people managers.

Supervisors, managers, HR practitioners, business owners, HR students are welcome to attend. Registration fee is P 8,500.00 for PMAP members and P 12,000.00 for non-PMAP members.

For registration please contact the PMAP secretariat at (02) 7261532 or email us at pmap@pmap.org.ph or cacay.poncedeleon@ pmap.org.ph [LAD]

DATE 2011 to open EDGEDAVAO business matching The Business PAPER is looking for:

Account Executive Qualifications: 25-35 years old Male or Female College Graduate Pleasing Personality Good Moral Character Can work with less supervision

Interested applicants submit your resume with recent 2x2 ID pictures to: Human Resource Department Zion Accuprint Publishing, Inc 14 Alcrej Bldg. Quirino Ave. Davao City Tel. No. (082) 221-3601

D

ATE organizers in Davao City will open a business matching activity that aims to provide a venue for businesspersons to meet the right customers and suppliers.

The business matching event, dubbed ”Buyers-Sellers Exchange,” will be launched as part of the 13th Davao Trade Expo celebration on October. Themed “Sustainable Agriculture through a strong PublicPrivate Partnership,” the event promises a favorable ground for entrepreneurs to encounter potential business partners for their respective enterprises.

This affair also aims to help potential buyers meet

the top vendors and create trade relations that will enhance Filipino exporters’ competitiveness in global market.

It will be a great business opportunity for them to meet outstanding suppliers and may engage their business lines in buying and sourcing Davao products that will meet an increased customers’ expectation.

Interested participants can arrange appointments from 9:00AM-5:00 PM of October 20-22, 2011. The said activity to be held at Kadayawan Hall of NCCC Mall is at its best initiated to make the right connections and establish quality sales lead across the regions.

BizQUIPS

‘WE are extremely bullish about the prospects of the Philippine tourism industry. We have committed substantial resources to build up our capacity and be a major player in this sector.’

--Andrew Tan, chair of the Alliance Global Group.

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

ict hub

12 VOL. 4 NO. 32 OctOber 10-16, 2011

Filipino software firm wins int’l award T

HE country’s cyber services industry has once again proven its global competitiveness, when Filipino software development company, Orange & bronze Software labs (O&b) bagged an award in the recent South East Asian SME Forum (SEASME) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Winning the silver in the Human Assets category at the Tiger Awards of the SEASME, O&b bested many companies from South East Asia by having the most productive investment in its workforce, ranging from staff training to social responsibility.

The SEASME Tiger Awards was created to celebrate the success and acknowledge the vital role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as the backbone of South East Asian economies.

Receiving the award for O&b was its president and cEO, calen Martin legaspi, who was also a delegate and a participant of the SEASME Forum.

“From the very beginning of our company, we’ve been very committed to developing our people to the highest standards, probably much more than most SMEs. it feels very rewarding to receive international recognition for our efforts.”

legaspi said.

“Part of what we strive for is to keep them challenged by providing interesting projects, to support their personal lives with work-life balance initiatives, and to continually improve their skills through mentorship and training programs,” he added.

As a consulting firm where its reputation is dependent on the quality of work of its software developers, legaspi stressed, “it is important we keep them well-rounded, keep their skills up-to-date, and overall happy with the workplace and their job.”

He said, “we also encourage employees to develop software projects that are not within the scope of their official work duties.

We have an incubation program where our employees’ personal software products and projects have a chance to make it to the mainstream, with O&b providing marketing and operational support.”

“One such project is Haybol.ph, founded by two of our senior developers.

We have some other incubation projects in the works, which we will launch when they are ready,” he added.

Aside from its initiatives within the organization, O&b

is also a strong supporter of the Philippine academe. legaspi believes that one way to improve software engineering in the country is to make educational reforms in the field of iT. “We contribute and volunteer for projects aimed to improve the quality of our educational system, including conducting free seminars for university cS and iT professors, providing iT Training curricula to TESDA [Technical Education and Skills Development Authority], and working with cHEd [commission on Higher Education] to evaluate the quality of instruction in colleges and universities around the country,” legaspi stressed. legaspi added that for Filipino software companies to become globally competitive, they should not only invest up front in technology, infrastructure and process, but also espouse a culture of professionalism and accountability in their organizations.

“Those things sound so basic yet are sorely lacking in most of our traditional Filipino companies, which is the reason why the traditionals are held back while the more forward thinking are making such pronounced progress,” he said.

EJF-REM CASE NO. 12,942-11

-versusVISMINDA H. SANGO married to, Prospero F. Sango Mortgagor/s. x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SALE Upon extra-judicial petition for foreclosure and sale under Act 3135, as amended, filed by National Home Mortgage Finance corporation against VISMINDA H. SANGO married to Prospero F. Sango with postal address at countryville executive Homes Lot 28 blk.18 cabantian, buhangin, Davao city, to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of August 15,2011 amounted to Php 694,575.54, Philippine currency, plus other legal expenses incident to foreclosure and sale; the undersigned Sheriff IV of regional trial court, Davao city; the undersigned will sell at public auction on October 27,2011 at 10:00 A.M. or soon thereafter, at the main entrance of Hall of Justice, ecoland ,Davao city to the highest bidder for cash or MANAGer’S cHecK and in Philippine currency, the following real property together with all the improvements thereon, to wit: Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-245187 “ A parcel of land xxx (Lot 28, blk. 18xxx) situated in the barangay of cabantian, city of Davao, Island of Mindanao xxx. containing an area of ONe HUNDreD tWeNtY (120) SQUAre MeterS, more or less xxx.”

All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above-stated time and date. that in the event the public auction should not take place on the said date, it shall be held on November 24, 2011, without further notice.

Prospective buyers are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the titles herein described real property/ies and the encumbrances thereon , if any there be.

Davao city, Philippines, September 21, 2011.

FOr tHe eX-OFFIcIO SHerIFF: (SGD.) DEXTER P. SALCEDO Sheriff IV

Noted by: (SGD) ATTY. EDIPOLO P. SARABIA, JR. clerk of court VI & ex-Officio Provincial Sheriff

Copy furnished: The Mortgagor- VISMINDA H. SANGO H. SANGO married to Prospero F. Sango The Mortgagee -NHMFC PUBLISHER – EDGE DAVAO POSTING – 3 conspicuous places ( Edge- 10/3,10,17 )

Scammers profit from Steve’s death

S

cAMMERS are taking advantage of , offering mourners everything from funeral tickets to free iPads, in an attempt to prey on people’s gullibility to turn a profit.

One such scam invites hapless victims to “Win 1 of 15 Macbook Pros in Memory of Steve Jobs,” while another offers “Photos of the Funeral and the coffin.”

Yet another fake link urges visitors to “Remember Steve Jobs” by clicking “to purchase one of his inventions,” and a similar site reads, “Video foot-

age and images will be here uploaded live from the funeral ceremony.” The link does include clips of an actual funeral, but not of Steve Jobs.

Scammers are also making the rounds on social networks like Facebook, tricking users into reposting false links that promise free iPads to those who type “RiP Steve” as a status message.

The spate of online scams is not uncommon, as public figures and celebrities are often dangled as bait before unsuspecting internet browsers.

For example, the death

republic of the Philippines reGIONAL trIAL cOUrt 11tH Judicial region branch 15, Davao city

rePUbLIc OF tHe PHILIPPINeS reGIONAL trIAL cOUrt 11tH JUDIcIAL reGION OFFIce OF tHe cLerK OF cOUrt-SHerIFF DAVAO cItY NATIONAL HOME MORTGAGE FINANCE CORPORATION (NHMFC) Mortgagee,

WInneR. O&B President and CEO Calen Legaspi receives the silver award for the Human Assets Category at the Tiger Awards of the SEASME in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

republic of the Philippines reGIONAL trIAL cOUrt 11tH Judicial region branch 15, Davao city SP. PROC. NO. 11,419-11

IN tHe MAtter OF tHe PetItION tO cOrrect tHe eNtrIeS IN tHe certIFIcAte OF MArrIAGe OF PetItIONer VIOLItA ALcOtAS MALAbAD-ADLAWAN PArtIcULArLY Her NAMe AND Her PAreNtS NAMeS, AND tO cOrrect tHe eNtrIeS IN tHe certIFIcAte OF LIVe bIrtH OF Her cHILDreN MeLANIe MALAbAD,ALISA SHeYN MALAbAD AND JULYANAH Ace MALAbAD ADLAWAN ,PArtIcULArLY tHeIr MIDDLe NAMeS,SUrNAMeS, AND tHe cOMPLete NAMe OF tHeIr MOtHer VIOLITA ALCOTAS MALABAD-ADLAWAN, Petitioner, -versusTHE OFFICE OF THE CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR OF DAVAO respondent AMENDED ORDER this is a verified petition to correct the entries in the certificate of Marriage of petitioner Violita Alcotas Malabad-Adlawan particularly the following: 1. Petitioner’s name from VIOLetA A. LIbreS to VIOLItA A. MALAbAD; 2. Father’s name from LeONArDO LIbreS to LeONArDO MALAbAD; 3. Mother’s name from ZAIDA A. ALcOteS to ZAIDA A. ALcOtAS. A. In the certificate of Live birth of MeLANIe MALAbAD, particularly the following: 1. Her middle name from ALcOtOS to bLANK; 2. Her surname LIbreS to MALAbAD; and 3. Her mother’s name from VIOLetA ALcOtOS LIbreS to VIOLItA ALcOtAS MALAbAD; b. In the certificate of Live birth of ALISA SHeYN MALAbAD, particularly the following: 1. Her middle name from ALcOtOS to bLANK; 2. Her surname from LIbreS to MALAbAD; and 3. Her mother’s name from VIOLetA ALcOtOS LIbreS to VIOLItA ALcOtAS MALAbAD and c) In the certificate of live birth of JULYANAH Ace MALAbAD ADLAWAN, particularly the following: 1. Her middle name from LIbreS tO MALAbAD; and 2. Her mother’s name from VIOLetA ALcOtAS LIbreS to VIOLItA ALcOtAS MALAbAD Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance let the petition be heard on October 28, 2011 at 8:30 a.m.,at the session hall of this court, on which date, hour and place, all interested persons are hereby cited to appear and show cause if they have any, why this petition should not be granted.

Let copy of this Order and Petition be published before the hearing date at the expense of the petitioner in a newspaper of general circulation in the city of Davao once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks. Give the Davao city civil registrar and the Solicitor General copies of this Order.

SO OrDereD. Davao city, Philippines, September 20, 2011 (SGD)RIDGWAY M. TANJILI Judge Serve on: Atty. Citadel L.C. Trasmontero, PAO, Davao City The Local Civil Registrar, Magallanes St. Davao City Solicitor General. 134 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Office of the Clerk of Court,Regional Trial Court, Davao City VIOLITA ALCOTAS MALABAD-ADLAWAN, Purok 14, Brgy,Bunawan, Davao City

of singer Amy Winehouse spawned Facebook links to “shocking footage” of her final moments that instead led people to a survey site. And Osama bin laden’s death , promising further news of his capture, which infected users’ computers once they entered the site.

Another popular tactic involves e-mails or links falsely reporting celebrity tragedies.

People who open e-mails about lindsey lohan’s fatal car crash, for example, may find their computers ridden with malware instead.

SPEC. PROC. NO 11437-11 IN re: tHe MAtter OF cOrrectION OF eNtrIeS IN tHe certIFIcAte OF rALPH ArtHUr FLOreS Yee AND MeA MAe ANN FLOreS Yee, PArtIcULArLY tO DeLete/LeAVe bLANK tHe DAte AND PLAce OF PAreNtS MArrIAGe AND cOrrectION OF tHe LASt NAMe OF INFOrMANt. MYRNA U. FLORES, Petitioner, -versusTHE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF DAVAO CITY respondent, x-----------------------------------------------------------------x ORDER

by this verified petition and for the reasons therein stated, the above-named petitioner, assisted by counsel, seeks for an Order of this court directing the civil registrar of Davao city for the following corrections, to wit: to delete/ leave blank the date and place of parents’ marriage in the certificate of Live birth of her children, namely ralp Arthur Flores Yee under Lcr No. 4,370(b84) and Mea Mae Ann Flores under Lcr No. 92-4,755; correct entry No. 14, the informant’s name , in the certificate of Live birth of Mea Mae Ann Flores Yee from Myrna F. Yee to Myrna U. Flores, her true and correct full name, and Allow the children to use/carry their father’s family name Yee. Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, the same is hereby set for hearing before this court, sitting at the Hall of Justice, candelaria St., ecoland, Matina, Davao city, on November 21, 2011 at 2:00 in the afternoon, at which place, date and time any interested person may appear and show cause, if any, why the same should not be granted.

Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioner once a week for three (3) successive weeks in a newspaper published in the city of Davao and of general circulation in the said city and the provinces of Davao as determined by raffle in accordance with law.

Furnish, each with a copy of the petition and of this Order the Local civil registrar of Davao city and the city Legal Office of Davao city as counsel for the city of Davao SO OrDereD Given this 22nd day of September, 2011, in Davao city, Philippines (SGD) VIRGINIA HOFILEÑA-EUROPA Judge Serve on: 1. Atty. Merlinda Labanon-buca-Davao city 2. the city legal Office- Davao city (w/copy of the petition) 3. the city civil registrar-Davao city (w/ copy of the petition) 4. the Office of the clerk of court (for raffling)

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER

GoVernance OctOber 10-16, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 32

13

Davao City joins LGUs implementing business permits, licensing system T

HE Davao city government targets joining the roster of lGus that have completed and are implementing a business Permits and licensing System (bPlS).

TheNational competitive council Roadshow held at Grand Men Seng Hotel recently, city Planning Officer Roberto P. Alabado iii disclosed that the bPlS which is now a priority program of the local administration is instrumental in upgrading the services of the lGu.

“This also gives us a benchmark as to how we are fairing with other cities,” he said. it is also in Davao city that new policies were created to satisfy the needs of most new SMEs. The city allows the issuance of a temporary business permit which the business enterprise can use for one month while the official permit is being processed.

Ncc private sector cochairman Guillermo luz lauded Davao city for join-

ing the existing 221 lGus who have been implementing bPlS. There are today 119 lGus which are in the process of fixing processes to finally implement a complete bPlS. This program is aimed at streamlining the business permit and licensing system in the country towards the targetted 480 lGus by 2014. bPlS follows a standard that limits the processing time of lGus to issue business permits and licenses to a maximum of 10 days from

lands under the private-public-partnership (PPP) system.

He said many underutilized lands in the city have high potential to become productive, citing more than 5,000 hectares are potential for rice production if irrigation systems are available.

The areas in barangays Gumitan and Suawan in the Marilog district are available for rice farming, having about 1,000 hectares and 600 hectares, respectively.

There are only 2,000 hectares of riceland in Davao city .

Avila said the biggest land area potential is agroforestry with a vast area of 105,000 hectares. According to the Wikipedia, agroforestry is an integrated approach of using the interactive benefits from combining trees

and shrubs with crops and/or livestock.

Avila said such crops as banana, durian, other fruits and vegetables can also be produced in these areas. Focus of this year’s DATE event will be on high valued crops such as fruits and vegetables, saying that such crops are the center of the urban gardening program that the city Agriculturist Office is pushing towards the end of this year until the start of 2012.

During the DATE the cAO will conduct a onestop-shop “Do-it-Yourself Farm land Development” where small-scale farmers and interested individuals with two to three-hectare farms lands will be taught the basics of making their lands productive. [PIA-11/

City gov’t looks for farm investors for idle lands c

iTY Agriculturist leonardo Avila sees the coming agri-trade exposition as an avenue to invite investors to develop idle agricultural lands in the Davao city.

Avila says more than 90,000 hectares or about 60 percent of the city’s 163,000-hectare agricultural lands are underutilized, noting that these are ready for use.

The former city councilor who assumed last June last year as head of the agriculture office told media in Monday’s Kapihan sa Dabaw , that some 72,000 hectares of the lands are productive.

Avila considers the 2011 Davao Trade Expo (DATE) to be held at Nccc Mall in Davao city on October 2022 as an opportunity to look for investors to improve idle

CARINA L. CAyON]

MRDP trains more advocates for environmental protection

A

GROuP of environment advocates was formed recently to help push the advocacy on environmental protection and conservation.

The Department of Agriculture’s Mindanao Rural Development Program (DAMRDP)taps municipal personnel and representatives of people’s organizations as core of advocates to carry out advocacy and communication campaigns in 12 covered sites for year-3 implementation of the Natural Resources Management (NRM) component. They are the third batch of advocates. in the training-workshop held in Davao city, MRDP have convened the information and municipal NRM focal persons in the towns of Dimataling, Zamboanga del Sur and Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay from Region 9; Misamis Oriental and Plaridel, Misamis Occidental from Region 10; Gov. Generoso, Davao Oriental and Malalag, Davao del Sur from Region11; Kiamba and

Maitum, Sarangani Province from Region 12; Tago and cagwait, Surigao del Sur in caraga Region; and South ubian and Panglima, Sugala, Tawi-Tawi.

Deputy program director Arnel de Mesa during the training stressed the important role of information and education in the success of NRM interventions.

“We will be partners of environmental conservation and protection. And we need (the core of advocates) to help the cause of the program push forward and reach the grassroots,” De Mesa said.

“Here in Mindanao we are blessed with bountiful natural resources, but we will lose fast all of these gifts when our community lack the knowledge and awareness on how to protect them and use them sustainably,» he added.

Among the issues the participants identified as major problems their towns are facing included illegal fishing, indiscriminate cutting of forest trees and mangroves, and the lack of awareness of their

constituents on environmental concerns.

“We’ve been doing community education to help protect our natural resources.

Now after the training, having identified the real issues and the right communication strategies, we will intensify our campaign and hopefully be more effective,” said Virginia Namocatcat, a participant from Plaridel, Misamis Occidental.

A communication plan (comm Plan) specifying an environmental issue and the strategy to resolve it was the final output of this trainingworkshop facilitated by the infoAcE unit.

“This commPlan will serve as our lamppost as we go through our advocacy tasks,” said Elizabeth Talam, another participant from Plaridel.

“We can use the knowledge we gained from this training not just for MRDP concerns but also with the other tasks we do in our respective lGus,” she added. [SHERWIN B. MANUAL/ DAMRDP]

the date of submission of the application form.

This also requires the lGu to have a unified form each for new applications and renewals as well as to have a imited number of steps in processing applications and renewals. luz bared that the Philippines dropped four notches from ranking 144th in 2010 to 148th this year as per the Doing business Survey conducted by the iFc. Singapore leads the survey since 2009 and tailed by other ASEAN

countries like Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam.

The survey shows that the Philippines needs to prioritize efforts in starting a business, dealing with construction permits, and closing a business. The Ncc called the attention of concerned government agencies like the Department of Trade and industry, bureau of internal Revenue, local government units, and the Department of interior and local Government to work on these priority areas.

Aside from bPlS, the Ncc also pushes for other priority projects such as the Performance Governance System balanced Scorecard, the Philippine business Registry (PbR), the National Single Window (NSW), and the Transparency in budget Delivery.

Ncc is mandated to promote and develop competitiveness strategies and push for the implementation of an action agenda for competitiveness and link it to the Philippine Development Plan. [PIA

11/MAI GEvERA-MACAPAGAT]

AGRIBUSIneSS. City Agriculturist Leonardo Avila (right) discusses the new systems introduced by the Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio administration to develop the countrysides through agriculture while Perfecto B. Rom Jr., program director of an entity giving insurance for farmers, explains the new concepts in agricultural development. The two will expand discussion of their respective topics during the October 20-22, 2011 Davao Trade Expo (DATE) at the NCCC Mall in Matina. [toMAS AVAnceÑA]

Binay funds projects in Sarangani

V

icE President Jejomar binay and two senators, who were in Alabel, Sarangani last Monday, pledged to fund infrastructure and livelihood projects in Sarangani through the intercession of Vice Governor Steve chiongbian Solon. in an interview, Solon bared that binay promised to give a senior citizens building each to Glan and Maitum towns.

“We are still waiting for the budget to be downloaded and as we said last week the budget is ready but still in the process and we’re just waiting for it,” Solon said.

The vice governor, who is also Task Force Sarangani director, thanked Sen. Vicente Sotto iii for giving P2.2 million worth of livelihood assistance to the integrated barangay Defense Force (ibDF) Project.

The ibDF is under Task Force Sarangani which oversees civilian security concerns across the province. “congressman (Manny) Pacquiao, Governor Migs (Dominguez), senators and other provincial officials are helping these projects and the barangay defense forces are the community volunteers (trained) to respond to natural and man-made calamities and we are just helping the community respond to calamities because they are the first line of defense,” Solon said.

weekly winners

September 30 Efren briguez Francisco Madero Jeziel Sempron Arlen Garudo

October 1 Dexter Jala Sarah leah May confesor

ily chryst Sandoval Tessie Aldworth

October 2 Helen Eloisa cortes Gemma ubenga Sarena Jenner

October 3 Mayza Martinez Aminoden Abdullah Estrella Paulino Yuri-live Yuson

October 4 bernardo Gimagan jr.

Erlen amba Roseller Quiros Darlene Rose Rabor

October 5 Eden Siason Maricar bacudo Marites Piedad ivy Duremdes

October 6 Franc Ano-Os Alona Gariquem Joy Damasco Janith bonifacio

October 7 Monaliza bebillo Jocelyn Derequito Ma. lou francia corral Elizabeth Macasaet

BizQuiPS

‘IT’S bad enough that Filipinos are abused and insulted in other countries.

Will we allow this even in our country?’

--Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, insisting that the Department of Foreign Affairs should summon US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. for his comments on sex tourism in the Philippines.

14 VOL. 4 NO. 32 october 10-16, 2011

Agri trends

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

Agri secretary affirms mango industry support A

griculture Secretary Proceso Alcala guaranteed the Philippine mango industry of his department’s support when he guested at the 13th National Mango Congress at the Isla Jardin del Mar resort in Gumasa, Sarangani.

“Rest assured that the Department of Agriculture will continue its support programs, including the establishment and rehabilitation of nurseries and foundation scion groves, household and village processing assistance and crop improvement, especially for climate change adaptability,” Alcala told the 322 delegates last September 30 at the end of the three-day congress.

Alcala reported a seven percent growth in the annual production of mangoes in 2010 which was reportedly “prompted by the continuous flower induction in Central Luzon, CALABARZON, Bicol and all the Visayas regions.”

However, a decline of 5.3 percent during the early months this year was noted.

He said this was caused by changing weather condi-

tions and the early rainy season which may have been triggered by climate change.

Last year, fresh mango exports reached 20,115 tons worth US$15.2 million. The country also exported dried and processed mangoes at 3,600 tons and 9,328 tons, respectively. The combined exports of fresh, dried, and processed mangoes last year earned a total of more than US$50 million.

Despite these figures, Alcala still noted a shortage in supply and urged growers and producers to plant more, challenging them to surpass last year’s produce, considering that the DA is working with the sector “in improving handling and transport systems.”

Alcala lauded the importance of this year’s congress theme, “Positioning the Philippine Mango Strongly in the World Market,” timed with the huge demand for Philippine mango.

“I-ayos lamang po natin na matugunan po ang mga kailangan gawin ng industry upang patuloy na tangkilikin

ng ibang bansa ang ating mangga. Ito po ay para sa inihahangad ng industry ng mangga sa pandaigdigang

pamilihan at maging sa Pilipinas,” Alcala said.

Major mango producers in the country are the Ilocos

region, Zamboanga Peninsula, Central Visayas, Central Luzon, and SOCSKSARGEN (South Cotabato, Sultan

Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos) area. [Beverly C. Paoyon/Sarangani Information Office]

Davao Oriental: Land of coconuts Going mangoes Healthier diet W

ith President Benigno S. Aquino bringing home the good news of potential foreign investments in the Philippines’ coconut water, the coco haven in the South Davao Oriental is again in aggressive mode.

Producing the most number of coconuts nationwide at one billion nuts annually from its 156,837 hectares, Davao Oriental is out to recapture foreign markets as the world goes for the value to health coconut water.

With more than 100,000 coconut farmers in the province alone to benefit from this global trend, Davao Oriental sees a new hope in what many have condemned as a dead industry.

Though a bit too early to realize to the max the full potential of the coconut investors, local or foreign, are expected to make a bee-line to Davao Oriental to cash in on this bonanza. Even today, there are geo-textile producers, virgin coco oil producers, coco lumber dealers, fresh coco traders, and food processors maintaining investments in the province.

Davao Oriental is not only an exporter of crude oil and copra pellets, it has made use of technology to produce virgin coco oil, coco coir, peat, and other items made of coconut. Records show

that exports reached 816,863 metric tons of crude oil and pellets from 1997 to 2001 valued at $185.7 million.

Coco water Adding to the potentials of the coconut is the trend towards use of coconut water as an energy drink. The Department of Trade and Industry Davao Oriental office shared that some businessmen have started inquiring about suppliers of coconut water.

DTI provincial director Ma. Belinda Ambi said one investor is interested in getting supplies of organic coco water.

In fact a Chinese investor is exporting coco water and coco meat from the province. “ The good news for our farmers is that the demand is not just for coco water from young coconuts but they even want those from mature coconuts,” she said.

Philippine Coconut Authority Region 11 director Lornito Orillaneda said the region has so much mature coconut water which is usually wasted. Instead of throwing it away, we are now teaching the farmers how to process this coco water.

Thirty percent of the coconut’s content is water, thus, PCA constantly tells the farmers to make use of this part of the coconut.

Buko juice is the coco water sourced from a young

seen to boost

demand abroad G coconut. However, bulk of the coconut supply is mature coconuts. This gives hope to coco farmers as they can now make money out of mature nuts.

PCA shares that a simple process of pasteurization is required to remove the oily portion of the mature coco water and turn it into the popular “buko juice” or the coco water from the young nut.

Studies show that coco water is actually more nutritious than whole milk because it has less fat and doesn’t contain cholesterol.

The coco water is also bet-

ter than processed baby milk since it contains Lauric Acid which is present in mother’s milk. It also contains natural sugar, salt, and vitamins.

Coco Coir Another useful part of a coconut is its coco fiber which can be made into geonet or coco coir. It is known to be a good material to prevent soil erosion and for slope stabilization.

The DTI announced that additional investments on the coco coir industry in Davao Oriental was noted following the launching of the coco coir industry last March. [PIA 11/ Mai Gevera-Macapagat]

City agri office turns to SMS to help farmers

T

he Davao City Agriculturist’s Office is turning to SMS or text messaging to reach out to farmers in the City.

Officer-in-charge Leo Avila, said they are currently using Smart Communication’s info board system to help farmersl particularly via technical assistance and for public service announce-

ments.

Launched in November last year, Davao City is the country’s first local government unit to have an agriculture infoboard. Philrice is the national government agency which pioneered the use of infoboard for agriculture.

Farmers enrolled in the infoboard are sending an average of 5,000 messages per

month. Avila says there are at least 3,000 farmers enrolled in the system.

The infoboard lets farmers connect to a network of clients and members through a platform which enables them to send text broadcasts and text blasts. It is offered to various government agencies

by Smart Communications as a form of their corporate so-

cial responsibility (CSR).

The importance of the infoboard was shown during the green moth caterpillar infestation in Calinan, which was reported to the office by a concerned farmer through the infoboard. Green moth caterpillars consume the leaves of coconut trees, they multiply easily with one moth averaging 80 eggs.

lobal demand for fresh fruits, including mangoes from the Philippines, may rise as consumers shift to healthier diets.

This was the upbeat outlook shared by Ross Wherry, chief of party of the United States Agency for International Development - Growth with Equity in Mindanao Program (USAID-GEM), to the delegates of the 13th National Mango Congress on September 29.

In positioning the Philippine mango to the global market, he said “strong partnership and efficient teamwork with various players in the value chain is extremely important.”

The “favorable climatic and geographic advantages” in Mindanao made it to be in the excellent position to take advantage of this market trend.

Clearly, Wherry said, the continuing expansion of fruit industry specifically mangoes “is starting to boost the economic growth in Mindanao and is also helping to create a

more conducive and vibrant (place) for peace and development.”

According to Wherry, thousands of jobs are directly generated by this industry while thousands of farmers are also being able to access with the sector for their livelihood.

USAID is currently helping fruit growers and processors “expand access into lucrative markets such as China, Japan, South Korea, the Middle East, United States and Europe,” Wherry said. However, he encouraged accountability from the sector that “(We will) help but you have to sell.”

USAID is providing wideranging technical assistance to thousands of producers in Mindanao like trainings on farming technologies, among others.

Wherry said his agency was proud to see the assistance of the American government which has facilitated especially in terms of job, income and export for revenues. [Beverly

C. Paoyon/Sarangani Information Office]

BizQUIPS

‘THEY kill each other. That’s sad. What a pity because majority of NIA (National Irrigation Administration) engineers are Muslims and they are supposed to develop Muslim communities.’

--North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Talino-Mendoza, on the killings (of 300 persons since 1989) related to the multi-billion peso MalibutogMaridagao irrigation project.

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER october 10-16, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 32

E-mail: edgedavao_editorial@yahoo.com.ph

STYLE

15

Life to a landmark P16

A Brit ovation at Debenhams D

ebenhams alights on Davao at a time when a spectrum of clothing lines such as theirs makes perfect sense for the burgeoning south.

They arrive to a market that is ready to embrace more choices especially in the sensible luxury that is right up the alley of this respected British retailer.

Last September 29, their newest store at Abreeza Mall was unveiled to the public with a fete that was graced by executives of Debenhams and its Philippine franchise

The Business PAPER

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holder Rustan Specialty Office Concepts, representatives from Ayala Malls and fashionable Davaoeños. The launch of the 850-square meter space, which is the brand’s very first outside Metro Manila, was met with the upbeat energy of eager shoppers. Top models and adorable tots gave a relaxed romp around the store, acquainting guests with some of their latest styles for the season and the range of collections and goods that they carry. Housing exclusive inhouse brands such as Red Herring and Collection and lines from their Designers at Debenhams range from the likes of Matthew Williamson, Jasper Conran and Julien Macdonald, Debenhams is destination all in its own for womenswear, menswear and childrenswear.

At any given time, the brand keeps its image current by keeping abreast with the latest trends but at the same time remains a holdfast of its distinct British heritage.

The store at present beholds an array of autumn/winter trends for the ladies that take inspiration from strong color palettes and vintage dressing. Day to evening looks in rich fabrics line the racks, all streamlined to suit the modern woman who enjoys the play of opulence with clean

silhouettes. Particular favorites of mine are the colorblocked tunics and animal prints. The brand’s outlook towards the men’s collections stirs them in the traditional direction with a nod to the collegiate and nautical. Rich oxbloods and racing greens sit alongside varsity colors, completing the rugged look

Ayala Land President Tony Aquino and Davao Vice-Mayor Rody Duterte

Jinggoy Salvador with Debenhams’ British gentlemen Peter King and Alun Hughes

men favor once paired with basic khakis and blacks.

Outfitting kids for every age group is likewise brought up to par with its more adult counterpart with pieces that are styled cute and comfortable. Little girls who like to play dress up will revel in the sumptuous party dresses and sparkly prints while sporty graphics and dapper denim will keep boys-on-the-go stylish at play.

A rewarding shopping experience is what one waits to find at Debenhams and it is made all the more enticing by their loyalty program. You can earn

Pauline Benedicto with Bong and Tricia Sebastian Amylou Aarts, Rose Alcantara & Jackie Dizon

Debenhams’ Tessa Catacutan, GM Steven Sarmenta and Lou Rulloda

This writer with Bianca Uy and Stephanie Ong

points while you shop by simply signing up for their Loyalty Card and get the chance to avail of privileges such as a 10% discount on your birthday week and double points on any item from the Designers at Debenhams range. With a scour of goods and reputation of sol-

idly tasteful stock, this British brand stands more ready than ever to style up Davao.

Debenhams is located at the ground floor of Abreeza Mall.

Visit the other Debenhams stores located at Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Rustan’s Makati and Trinoma.

16

The Business PAPER

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EVENTS

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 4 NO. 32 october 10-16, 2011

Black Out or Get Out B

lack Out or Get Out. It’s actually a name of a game that is popular among Frat boys in the United States. They usually play the game in Frat parties and they often lead to craziness. Obviously, the game does not stop until all the participants either Black Out or Get Out. This was the obvious inspiration for my September 10 event at the Marco Polo Davao’s Eagles Bar. The Black Out or Get Out Party was somewhat of a ‘thank you’ to the guests who made it to my Anniversary Party. The Confessions of a Partyphile Anniversary Party that happened last July 30 was such a huge success (and due to VERY insistent public demand), that I felt it would only be proper that I threw a follow-up party that would be a whole lot cheaper, and a whole lot funner.

Thinking of a concept came really easily to me; I had always wanted to throw a Black Out or Get Out Party just because it hasn’t been done before, the concept was simple, and it seemed like a lot of fun. So I decided to do just that, and I decided to offer the booze at virtually no added expense.

You see, it would not feel like a ‘thank you’, if we served overpriced alcohol for this party. So, Eagles Bar and Confessions of a Partyphile agreed to sell tickets for 250 bucks (as usual) but give away Bottomless Cocktails for free…for the whole night.

To lubricate the dance floor, DJ Gary spew out some of the most banging beats in Davao City. His unique mix of current radio favorites, classic dance floor ditties, and proper doses of 90s and early 2000s music, allowed the tipsy partyphiles to let go, let it all out, dance to the beat, and (in some odd cases) huddle together while jumping up and down (don’t ask me…I don’t understand it).

To start the boozing, we played several drinking games. The first one was the party’s namesake:

College men take a break and party.

Lyle Nuere and Yashee Fornillos

Partyphiles donned ensembles wth black to celebrate the Black Out or Get Out Party

Megan Sta. Ines, FG Wong and Jazzie Tan.

Black Out or Get Out, which required contestants to drink a shot of Rum without chasers, every time I would ring a bell. The winner downed 11 tall shots of the poison of choice, and went home with gift certificates from Zab’s Buffet.

There was also a cocktail drinking contest that required the contestants to consume a glass of Blue Frog (a blue-tinted cocktail that contained four different types of liquor) through a feeding bottle; and

Melissa Tavora and DJ Gary.

Not the usual. Non-staples in the party scene made it to the Black Out or Get Out Party to enjoy their bottomless cocktails.

two more games that are simply too complicated to explain on print (or I’m just lazy like that).

One game down, and several people were already tipsy. The fact that there were several birthday celebrators for the night probably helped a lot as well, because people got really festive and really friendly.

Everybody socialized and made new friends; and danced with each other like crazy. Or maybe that was just the bottomless cocktail at

work.

All these crazy elements make for a really fun and exciting night.

More than that, it made the first ever Confessions of a Partyphile Black Out or Get Out Party truly memorable; definitely one for the books. The truth is, the only measure of success for this type of party is how many people would end up drunk, and I am glad to report that this Confessions of a Partyphile soiree was another successful event.

LIVING

THE BUSINESS PAPER october 10-16, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 32

LEFT: The Oboza House and its manicured lawn. ABOVE: Wooden art deco details in the main dining area. BELOW: The cold kitchen.

Life to a landmark With Davao City currently experiencing a boom in construction, old structures give way to new building and when I learned that the old Oboza House that is located at the junction of Rizal and Ponciano Streets will be leased out, I was honestly scared as to what new tenant will do to this beautiful example of Filipino art deco architecture.

My fear was put at ease when I found out that it was Claude and Tess le Niendre of Claude’s Cafe who will be doing the renovation and is now the new address of Davao’s premiere French restaurant. As one enters the compound’s gate, you immediately notice the well-manicured lawn and frangipani trees and their pink and white blossoms that user one back to a more genteel time.

Nothing was spared as details of the Pre-World War II wooden house were lovingly preserved. Its

wooden latticework that once allowed air to pass through the house were kept intact but now it has a clear glass pane underneath, making air-conditioning possible while allowing light into the building.

The rooms on the upper floor of the house is now the main dining room of Claude’s Cafe with two smaller bedrooms each transformed into intimate function areas. Around the area, are pieces of furniture that have either been re-comissioned or refurbished and add an eclectic air to the restaurant.

I personally love the show kitchen that is in plain view of the main dining area. Framed in wood and glass, the show kitchen is actually a cold kitchen, since open flames are not allowed inside.

The lower portion, or silong, of

Cellar de Oboza has a more intimate and relaxed athmosphere.

the house is where you will find Cellar de Oboza, a casual dining restaurant featuring Filipino comfort food owned by Vince and Tricie Arcenas.

Whereas the upper floor of the Oboza House is opulent, Cellar features more understated interiors with cozy earth tones highlighted by brilliant green and cheerful yellow hues. Off to the side of Cellar’s main dining area is its service bar and a small Filipino pasalubong or gift counter that carries products such as organic green coffee, organically grown rice and other Filipino delicacies that one can purchase and bring home.

I am a fan of new developments like sparkling new malls and condos but one has to also learn to appreciate structures of the past

What used to be a dark dreary cellar is now bright, cheerful and cozy.

UP AND ABOUT

SM Davao 3-Day Sale on Oct 14-16!

All roads lead to SM City Davao on October 14, 15 and 16 as SM Davao opens its doors for the most anticipated sale event of the season—the SM 3 Day Sale!

Enjoy up to 70% discount on great selections and get a chance to win 1 of the 4 DeVant LEDTech LCD TVs! Catch the first 2-Hour SMAC Sale on Friday from 10 AM to 12 NN, for additional discounts at SM Department Store, Ace Hardware, Surplus Shop, Levi’s and Toy Kingdom.

Exciting events are also set to complete the shopping weekend. Join the Kapuso Night on Friday featuring GMA’s hottest stars and catch young actor Martin Del Rosario on Saturday live at the Event Centre!

Kiss your rainy season blues away with fun time and great shopping experience at SM City Davao, where we all come together.

Mall hours are extended to 12 MN on Friday-Saturday (October 14-15) and up until 10 PM on Sunday (October 16).

Claude’s Cafe’s main dining room transports one back to the time of the Philippine Commonwealth.

as these mostly hand-made structures serve as a reminder of our identity as a city. And I thank both Claude’s Cafe and Cellar de Oboza for breathing life to a landmark and making it easier for the Dabawenyo to appreciate.

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VOL. 4 NO. 32 october 10-16, 2011

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER

games

ROTARY SPORTSFEST. The 25th Davao Inter-Rotary Bowling Tournament opens at the NCCC Bowling Center with defending champion Rotary Club of East Davao, led by president Val Dionisio, as host (below, rightmost photo).

District Gov. Nonoy Villa-Abrille throws the ceremonial ball (center), signaling the start of the four-week sports festival

october 10-16, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 32

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which includes this year darts (killers) and 9-ball double billiards contests. RC Davao 2000, led by president Arcel dela Cruz, won the best uniform award (left). Former vice mayor Louie Bonguyan of RC West Davao is a billiards bet.

Hostilities resume Sunday afternoon, October 9.

[BGphotos]

Sta. Ana leads Rotary bowlfest T

HE Rotary Club of Sta. Ana, champion team of the 2009 Inter-Rotary Davao Bowling Tournament, led in the first outing of the 2011 edition of the 25-year old tournament, at the NCCC Bowling Center last October 2.

Leading 5 Sta. Ana, captained by president Allan Fabian, scored 1,538 pinfalls in two games, against the 1,487 of East Davao, the reigning champions under president Val Dionisio.

In No. 3 spot is Rotary Club of Davao, also known as the mother club, under president Oka Gonzales with 1,476 pinfalls. Fourth ranked is RC Matina Davao led by Bal Sarabia, with 1,408 while RC Toril Davao under president Lorna Ricardo is 5th with 1,404.

Also in contention are the Rotary clubs of South Digos, Downtown Davao, Digos, South Davao and WalingWaling in that order.

It was from RC Sta. Ana, then skippered by Lope Austria, that East Davao, presided by Tony Ajero, grabbed the cham-

P

AL’s VP for Corporate Communications Joey de Guzman informed this corner that the Ladies Interclub on Oct.11 to 14 has been moved to November.

Once the airlines’ operations normalize, de Guzman said they will announce the new dates as soon as possible.

This is good news for our Davao lady golfers who now have more time to hone their skills.

Right, team captain Imee Garcia of Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club? *** Davao City High School Batch ‘81 officers led by Dr.Romel Bernardo could not thank enough supporters

pionship last year.

Individual performances In individual performance, Art Galendez of RC Sta. Ana topped in average score in two games, followed by Efren Elbanbuena of East Davao, Marc Fernandez of RC Digos.

The rest of the 17 top scorers were Rotarians Sammy Talaboc, Nap Liloc, Rene Dalayon, Tony Batao, Danny Amenamen, Jules Mejos, Ton, Dadz Mahipus, Danny Congson, Nandie Subido, Lucy de leon, Bajun Reyes, Maeng Tabije. Neil Arendain, Hector Magno, Billy Parilla and Soc Cadayona.

The second outing was slated Sunday, October 9, according to senior assistant governor Vir Sojor, this year’s tournament director of the annual sportsfest.

Sojor said this year’s sport festival includes darts (killers) and 9-ball double billiards also at the NCCC bowling center.

Stress on fellowship Rotary District Governor Leoncio “Nonoy”

VillaAbrille who keynoted the opening, said fellowship of Rotarians from various clubs and members of their families is more important than winning the tournament.

Billiards In billards , RC Central Davao defeated RC West Davao, RC Davao won over RC North Davao and RC South Digos prevailed over RC South Davao.

There were few games in darts (killers).

RC West Davao defeated RC South Digos, while RC North Davao prevailed over RC Davao. The unplayed matches were scheduled for October 9.

Best in uniform RC Davao 2000 led by lady president Arcel dela Cruz was adjudged the best in uniform, while Miss Jamaica Tepanero of RC South Davao was proclaimed the 2011-2012 Rotary Muse.

The tourney opening was also graced by the presence of three past district governors – Bading Angala of RC West Davao, Boy Reyes of RC East Davao and Billy Parilla of RC Matina Davao.

GOLFER OF THE WEEK

I

Suzann Pettersen

t all started when I was born on April 7, 1981, in Oslo, Norway.

Encouraged by my family, I took an interest in sports at an early age, and played my first golf tournament 6 years old. I live in Orlando, Florida and am member of Bay Hill as well as Oslo Golf Club.

I had a successful amateur career, and became a five-time Norwegian Amateur Champion (19962000). I won the British Girls Championship in 1999.

Represented Norway in the Espirito Santo Trophy World Amateur Championship in 1998 and 2000, and won World Amateur Champion in my second appearance.

Represented Europe in the 1997 and 1999 Junior Ryder Cup. I turned professional in September 2000. Won my second professional tournament in France ”The French Open”, and finishing 2nd on the Order Of Merit and won the Rookie Of The Year title.

I have won 10 international tournaments, and I am a Major Champion as well as a 5-time Solheim Cup Team player for Europe.

My life as a golfer is more like a life as an athlete. I love sport in general. I happen to play golf, but has a passion for many other sports as well. Tennis and skiing being two of the sports I adore. Through the years I have seen sport is so much more than sport in itself. It unites people; you learn so much from sport about partnership, leadership, decision-making, fair play etc.

It is like music. No matter where you are, who you are people enjoy it. Either as a professional athlete, as a fan or from the corporate perspective. The sport of golf also supports so many local charities.

Golf gives back, and this is something I do on my own as well. Especially towards kids which is my initiative among others.

When not doing fitness

or golf training, or following other sports I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Means so much to me. And I can sneak into bed or my living room enjoying a book, watching a movie or simply indulge a great meal.

Sometimes with a nice glass of red wine.

My roots are in Norway. I am a proud Norwegian. Such a great country, and good people. That said I have learned by travelling meeting people all over the world that we have all something great. We can all be together, and we can all make a difference. [WWW. SUZANNGOLF.COM]

PAL golf reset, City High dev’t program of the recent 1st Scholarship Run. Dr. Bernardo and his classmates like Susan Paredes are excited to work on the next Scholarship Run as sponsors like Castrol GTX have committed to support them again.

I hope that Magnolia Juice Drink, Stadium Buffet Restaurant and Sports Lounge, Astrochairs, MinolaLegaspi Oil, JB Management, JNR International Training, JC Joctris Industries and Engineering Services, Pediatrica Inc., Bontee, Ice Peak, Knollman, Daily Apple, Vital Purified Water, RDL, San Miguel Corp., Colgate Phils., UniFrutti, RunClub Davao, UCPB Bajada, UMBN, the Davao City Mayor’s office and volunteers

from Trimocc, Y Competence and Explorer Group will still be around next year.

Deserving students need help and because of you guys, they will be able to finish a vocational and even a university degrees. *** Allow me to go back to coach Jose Alther Rivera of the Davao City National High

School.

They just put in place the DCNHS Sports Development Program for studentathletes.

This is a special project that will develop, not only their skills in sports, but to make sure that the right character is developed in them while they are in school. The value formation sessions,

they hope, will also become part of their lives that they will continue to become productive citizens and role models.

The teachers will also exert more effort in helping them with their academics, which are not really their core strength.

I find this project so beautiful and the dedication of teachers like coach Alther and his team will for sure make the biggest difference in the lives of the studentathletes.

They just launched their project on Facebook hoping that this will draw attention and support from corporations looking to expand or even set up their social responsibility activities this

year.

The student-athletes, I tell you, need your support as they also aspire to excel in their chosen fields in athletics, arnis, badminton, basketball, boxing, chess, football, volleyball, sepak takraw, taekwondo and table tennis.

Call coach Alther or Dr. Rivera, to make it a little formal, at 09291766869.

Believe me, Alther is an honest man who will make sure that every centavo you give or equipment is properly accounted for. *** Happy birthday to long-time amiga Marianne Hipe-Maninang, pinanggang Times editor Amy C. and Rev.Jim Leffew of the Grace Baptist Basketball Team.

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