Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 215 | Tuesday, December 22, 2020

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Davao restaurateur deploys food trucks in city’s depressed barangays By MAYA M. PADILLO

An abandoned elderly woman makes sure that the gift she received won’t lose out of her sight by placing it on her lap during a Christmas gift-giving held at a retirement house in Calinan, Davao City over the weekend. Edge Davao

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 215 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2020

16 names potential presidential bets in 2022 elections -- study

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BIG HEART Domingo Ang’s Marinatuna food truck which serves tuna lugaw to Davao City’s barangays. Photo from Domingo Ang FB account

Davao restaurateur deploys food trucks in city’s depressed barangays By MAYA M. PADILLO

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ealth experts say undernutrition may make people more vulnerable to Covid-19 as it weakens immune system. With this in mind, a Dabawenyo restaurateur made an immediate effort to fight hunger by deploying food trucks in various barangays in Davao City. Domingo Ang, owner of Marinatuna, brings his kitch-

en to the communities and serves tuna lugaw through food trucks to the people particularly those in depressed barangays living in hunger and poverty, who are likely to suffer the most in this time of pandemic.

Army helps settle clan war in Maguindanao

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he Philippine Army, with the help of town officials of Rajah Buayan in Maguindanao, has put an end to a long-standing family feud that had claimed lives and destroyed properties in the past. The Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion, led by Lt. Colonel Elmer Boongaling, facilitated the covenant signing on Dec. 20 of warring families to end the bloody family feud in Barangay Panadtaban of Rajah Buayan town. With the help of Mayor Yacob Ampatuan and Vice Mayor Bai Sittie Jinn Princess Lumenda, the Army brought the warring families to the negotiating table and made them sign a peace

covenant and swear before the Qur’an that they will no longer use violence to settle their misunderstanding. “They request that their names be withheld,” Ampatuan said of the families locked in “rido” (family feud) for decades. “What is important is they buried their misunderstanding and vowed to work together in their village as true brothers and sisters in Islam,” the mayor added. Boongaling said more settlement programs would take place in the coming days as the Army and the local government of Rajah Buayan prioritized clan war settlement to attain peace and development. (PNA)

Through the program Davao Anti-Hunger Initiative Program, it provides supplemental nutritious food to the masses, needy, and those who lost their jobs. “We served tuna lugaw, banana, etc. It is part of my vision to make Marinatuna a provider of affordable fish and seafood to the masses of Davao especially to the needy. We also sell fish at affordable price and deliver them to the barangays,” Ang said. The food trucks are mov-

ing and Ang is coordinating with barangay to use covered courts to enforce quarantine protocols. “Lugaw is cooked at Marinatuna lugaw commissary. We warm it at the food truck if needed. We also sell our fish through Isda ng Bayan at subsidized low prices to the less fortunate in the barangays,” he said. Ang said this anti-hunger initiative, which is supported by many concerned citizens

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10th Infantry Division Commander MGen. Reuben Basiao PA presents the 15 surrendered firearms of the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels to Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang and Davao Del Norte

ith less than two years before the presidential elections, several politicians and private sector executives are among the potential candidates for the highest post in the land in the May 2022 national and local polls. According to the sentiment analysis in the social media platform-Facebook by research firm-BluePrint.PH, and its Singapore-based partner on Data Mining and Artificial Intelligence, 16 are likely candidates for the presidential post. Among them are Senators Bong Go, Manny Pacquiao, Risa Hontiveros, Grace Poe, Pia Cayetano, and Tito Sotto; and former senators Bongbong Marcos and Manny Villar. Others are Vice President Leni Robredo, former House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, Leyte 4th District Rep. Lucy Torres- Gomez. The names of Davao Mayor Sara Duterte, Cavite Governor Jonvic Remulla, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, human rights lawyer Chel Diokno,

and businessman Ramon Ang are also in the list. Eero Brillantes, BluePrint. PH chief executive officer, said the sentiment analysis was based on the social media data extracted from June 1, 2020, to Nov. 30, 2020 scanning a total of 344,761,479 data points or Facebook engagement such as likes, shares, reactions and comments. “If we go by our big data metrics, about 16 names are frequently being mentioned on social media, particularly Facebook, as potential presidential candidates,” he said in a statement. “All have paths to the presidency. Social media networking activities alone through Facebook can generate 22 percent-35 percent of the votes in 2022,” Brillantes added. He said there are four components to a serious campaign -- ground game, the air war through mainstream media, network engineering (social media), and big data for decision support. Brillantes said the 16 names have at least one of

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City to demolish riverside houses

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esidential structures built along the city’s five major rivers will be demolished, Mayor Sara Duterte said. Duterte told the city government-run Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR 87.5) on Friday that the local government prohibited the building of these structures, which must be removed to keep the dwellers from danger when the rivers swell. The city’s major rivers are Davao, Lipadas , Lasang, Matina Pangi, and Talomo. “We want to protect human lives from any incident along the rivers,” she said. She said several residents in the city’s riverside communities have voluntarily demolished their houses after they were informed by local government of the risks. “Several Dabawenyos readily accepted the explanation of our team on our basis why it is prohibited, what is the possible impact if anything happens to the rivers. Many of them readily demolished their structures, although there are few who resisted. So, we have to demolish their structures,” she said.

Duterte said riverside communities in the city have been mapped out. She added that affected dwellers will be referred to the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) and City Social Services and Development Office to get food assistance from the local government and possible assistance for relocation. Duterte explained that not all affected families will be relocated as the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) will assess them if they are qualified for the program. CPDO head Ivan Cortez said on Saturday that the immediate concerns are the structures built on top of the river dikes. He added that a definite schedule of the demolition has yet to be worked out in compliance with all the directives, but voluntary demolition is encouraged given the risks involved. “At a quick glance, you can outrightly say these structures should not remain there and should be removed for their own safety given the unpre-

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Governor Edwin Jubahib during a press conference in Maco, Davao De Oro late last week. (DPAO, 10ID)

VOL.13 ISSUE 215 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2020

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

NPA front total surrender, welcomed by Davao guvs

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Barangay Lobo in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur needs help as the newly-constructed bridge connecting the village to other parts of Cantilan was destroyed when Tropical Depression ‘Vicky’slammed across northeastern Mindanao on Friday, December 18, 2020. Lobo Barangay Captain Escobal Angeles is appealing to authorities to provide his village of 926 residents

a hanging bridge to allow them access to food and other supplies. The village used to have a hanging bridge but it was taken down when the concrete bridge, funded under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan project, was opened. Photo courtesy of ESCOBAL ANGELES

Work restrictions, quarantine push back NHA’s projects in Davao City By MAYA M. PADILLO

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he National Housing Authority (NHA) disclosed that due to work restrictions and community quarantines brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic the target completion dates of the agency’s projects in Davao City and Davao Region have been pushed back. NHA’s ongoing projects under the Government Employees Housing Program (GEHP) are the Madayaw Residences located in a 2.95-hectare property along Sierra Madre, St. in Bangkal, Talomo District. It is a 16 low rise residential buildings with Model A-42 square meters and Model B-36 sqms average unit sizes. It will be completed with a total of 640 units with community facilities such as one multi-purpose covered court,

one unit tricycle terminal, one unit daycare center, and one unit livelihood training center. The Blue Farm Villa, which is a two-storey duplex type housing units, is situated in Brgy. Biao Escuela, Tugbok District in a 14.63 hectares area. It has a total of 1,000 units with an average unit size of 80 sqm lot area. The community facilities to be developed are one covered basketball court, one talipapa, one tricycle terminal, one material recovery facility (MRF), one unit livelihood training center, and one health and day care center. Another two-storey duplex type housing units is the Maresca Homes in Brgy. Cogon, Babak District in the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) in Davao del Norte. The project will soon rise in

‘Vicky’ leaves 6 dead, displaces over 8,000 families in Caraga

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ropical Depression (TD) Vicky left six persons dead and displaced over 8,000 families in Caraga over the last two days. The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Caraga (DSWD-13) said a total of 8,673 families or 34,861 individuals were directly affected by “Vicky” in 140 barangays of the region. In Surigao del Sur, four persons died due to flooding, Col. James T. Goforth, the director of Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO), told the Philippine News Agency on Sunday. He identified them as Nilo Lagura from Barangay Quirino in Madrid town; Tropio Bacor from the municipality of Lingig; Elizer Jalapit from Lianga; and Conseno Bongcayao from Tago. “Based on our monitoring as of Sunday noon, a to-

tal of 264 families or 21,478 individuals were directly affected by TD Vicky in Surigao del Sur,” Goforth said. He added that police personnel in different units and stations in the province are still on high alert as clearing operations are ongoing in different towns. In Agusan del Sur, Armando R. Gomez, the chief of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), said two persons were reported dead due to floods. Gomez said that an employee of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) died in an accident while crossing a flooded road in Barangay Tagapua, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur on Saturday. A senior citizen was also reported to have died in Talacogon town.

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a 16.93 hectares property. It will house a total of 1,000 units with average unit sizes of 80 sqm lot area and 60 sqm floor area. Included in the development plan is the construction of one covered basketball court, one three-storey elementary school with 15 classrooms, one talipapa, one tricycle terminal, one MRF, one livelihood and training center, and one health and day care center. A two-storey duplex housing Ciudad de Dahican in Brgy. Dahican, in Mati City has a project area of 7.77 hectares. It will house a total of 500 units with an average unit size of 80 sqm lot area. The Community facilities to be developed are one covered basketball court, one talipapa, one tricycle terminal, one MRF, one unit livelihood training center, and

health and day care center. The GEHP was formulated in line with Section No. 2 of Administrative Order No. 9 Series of 2011, which states “the NHA is directed to formulate, manage, and lead the implementation of a Revitalized Government Employees and AFP/PNP Housing Program”. The GEHP is intended to provide decent, affordable housing to uniformed personnel, including members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), and other Government Employees. The Program features an enhanced housing design

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Residents, apparently oblivious to physical distancing, swarm the food stalls beside Plaza Rizal in Malaybalay City on Saturday, 19 December

wenty-six former New People’s Army (NPA) members including the top leaders under the guerilla front 33 (GF33) received overwhelming support and assistance from Davao Region governors and chief executives in a press conference last December 17, 2020, during the presentation of firearms and rebel returnees held at 1001st Brigade in Maco, Davao De Oro following their voluntary surrender to the Philippine Army last December 14, 2020, that led to the total dismantling of GF33. Davao De Oro Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy, together with Davao Del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib, Davao Oriental Governor and Regional Peace and Order Council chair Nelson Dayanghirang, Davao Del Norte 1st District Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez, and New Corella, Davao De Oro Mayor Jorjan Federiso, extended support to the surrenderees by providing cash, livelihood, and food assistance. Gov. Jubahib, Gov. Uy, and Mayor Federiso gave livelihood assistance, food packs, hygiene kits, and P10,000 to each the surrenderees while Rep. Alvarez offered a scholarship program, free hospitalization, and medical assistance. Gov. Uy said it will coordinate with Gov. Jubahib to further augment the needs of the former rebels while waiting for the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip) assistance for the 26 returnees. “This is the manifestation that the whole of the nation approach is working. We want to prove to you that we are sincere despite the propaganda against the government, give us a chance,” Gov. Uy said. Gov. Jubahib commended the surrenderees for leaving the armed conflict and choosing peace as it fast tracks the implementation of government projects towards geographically isolated disadvantaged areas in the region formerly influenced by the terrorist group. Former Guerilla Front 33 Secretary alias Kaloy expressed his gratitude for the government’s support of their surrender while affirming the good treatment they are experiencing under the folds of the law. Kaloy also exposed the corruption inside the NPA as well as confirming the con-

nection of the Makabayan Bloc supporting the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). “The income of GF33 from extortion activities under Commander Hyper and Marlon reaches to P220,000 but when the time I took the command, they only gave me P90,000,” Kaloy said. He said that their extortion income comes from politicians and party lists seeking permit to campaign, businesses like bus and van companies as well as banana plantations. Kaloy added that the NPA has a policy under Sub-region 4 that all P50,000 collections will be given to the regional committee while lower collections are claimed to the sub-region groups like guerilla front 33. Meanwhile, Kaloy exposed the connection of Makabayan Bloc supporting the CPP while refuting the claim of the Makabayan Bloc that they are fake surrenderees presented by the military. “Nakita nako diri nga nisulod kay si Pedro Arnado sa Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas ilalom sa Anakpawis nga member sab sa Regional Peasant Bureau. Pero nakabalo mi nga ang Makabayan Bloc apil ang Alliance of Concerned Teachers, Bayan Muna, Gabriela, ug Kabataan Partylist sila mga members sa partido komunista sa Pilipinas ubos sa central committee.” Kaloy added. Kaloy also identified several surrendered firearm’s rebel owners among their front to solidify their claim as legitimate rebel returnees. On the other hand, local chief executives commended the troops of the Philippine Army on the total dismantling of the 20-year old GF33 operating between Davao Del Norte and De Oro through the series of focused military operations and community support programs of the 25 Infantry Battalion (25IB) and 60th Infantry Battalion (60IB) that lead to fifteen (15) recovered firearms. Last December 12, troops of the 25IB clashed with GF33 that resulted in the death of one NPA amazon and the yield of alias Brando, and Mawi along with their three high-powered firearms. On the following day, GF33 commanding officer alias Khan, Secretary alias Denden and alias Marlou surren-

2020. MindaNews photo by H. MARCOS C. MORDENO

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4 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 215 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2020

On President Rodrigo Duterte not protecting Police Senior Master Sgt. Jonel Nuezca, the police officer who killed a mother and her son in Tarlac:

Kinokondema po natin ‘yang nangyari diyan sa Tarlac. At lilinawin ko lang po, hindi po ito service-related na double murder. So ang pulis pong ‘yan ay hindi po pupuwede mag-invoke ng kahit anong depensa na may kinalaman sa kaniyang katungkulan ang pagpatay na ‘yan (We condemn what happened in Tarlac. And I want to clarify – this is not a service-related double murder. So that policeman cannot invoke any defense related to his duty in the murder case).” Presidential Spokesperson

Harry Roque

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VOL.13 ISSUE 215 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2020

VANTAGE POINTS

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ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

DAVAO’S FIRST GLOBAL CONVENTION The first international gathering in Davao City, held on November 15-20, 1994, was an offshoot of the creation of Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia and Philippines (BIMP) East ASEAN Growth Area (EAGA) a year earlier during the state visit of President Fidel V. Ramos in Brunei Darussalam. Dubbed as The Polygon, the borderless geopolitical quadrangle (triangle in some arrangements) originally included regions east of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the assembly was officially called the East ASEAN Business Conference and Exhibits. The convention, first scheduled on May 26-28, 1994, at the Central Bank building in Davao City, was cancelled after Indonesia and its business participants withdrew “in protest against the holding of a conference on East Timor” at the University of the Philippines in Quezon City. It was moved to November 15-20, 1994. President Ramos, in his keynote speech, traced the ori-

gin of the BIMP-EAGA concept: “The East ASEAN Growth Area (EAGA) was a mere concept which I started discussing with the ASEAN heads of government in October 1992, particularly President Soeharto of Indonesia, when we all met in Brunei on the silver jubilee of His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. But such was our belief in the desirability—and workability of the idea—and such were our commitments to making it happen—that, with this convention, the EAGA has now become a practical reality. “While we all have our individual strengths, it makes sense for those of us within a common geographic and cultural zone to use the complementarities of our economies. “In the global markets for the twenty-first century, the countries that will best survive and prosper are those that cooperate with their logical economic partners in achieving synergistic efficiencies among them. “Thus, the governments and peoples of ASEAN have a

strategic stake in EAGA’s success. And for EAGA to work as a sound economic concept it must be supported by the political commitment of our national leaders, and of our business sectors.” The growth triangle concept was formally introduced by Singapore deputy prime minister Goh Chok Tong in 1989 as part of a proposal to Malaysia and Indonesia to create a development zone involving three corresponding regions adjacent in locations. Ramos expounded on the recent positive developments the economic arrangement had so far produced, saying: “The direction [of the concept] has clearly been toward free trade even before the GATT-UR [GATT Uruguay Round agreements]. Unilaterally, we have pared down a past list of 2,720 items restricted for import by 95 percent to a much shorter list of only 193 protected items. “Liberalization is the central theme of our economic growth.

“Over the past two years we have liberalized and deregulated key industries that were long monopolized and cartelized by vested interests. In the telecommunications industry, for instance, we are witnessing unprecedented investments and growth as a result of deregulation. In Mindanao alone, 1993 saw a 27 percent increase in telephone line capacity and the placing of digital interconnection of telephone services in most major urban centers. “Recently, we also opened up and decartelized interisland shipping and insurance and are moving to more deregulation in land and air transportation. More Filipinos now enjoy better and cheaper services because of the resultant competition. “We have passed laws that provide broad opportunities for the private sector to invest in key public infrastructure projects through expanded build-operate-transfer arrangements with Government.” Greatly benefitting from the BIMP-EAGA is Davao. Since

it hosted the 1994 global conference, the city has tremendously grown economically, earning the sobriquet as the country’s gateway to the east ASEAN region. As a testament to this incredible progress, the region now hosts over a dozen consular offices and the destination of numerous international airlines. Collectively, the BIMP-EAGA covers a total land area of 1.6 million square kilometers with a combined population of roughly 58 million. Geographically, the economic arrangement encompassed the sultanate of Brunei Darussalam, the provinces of Maluku, Kalimantan, Manado City, Sulawesi, West Papua and Papua in Indonesia; Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan in Malaysia; and Palawan and Mindanao in the Philippines. In terms of ecosystem, BIMP-EAGA comprises two of the world’s largest rainforests found in Borneo and Papua, and biodiverse marine systems in the South China Sea, Celebes Sea, and Sulu Sea.

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

WHAT CHRISTMAS REALLY MEANS “I do come home at Christmas,” Charles Dickens – the man who wrote A Christmas Carol – once said. “We all do, or we all should. We all come home, or ought to come home, for a short holiday – the longer, the better – from the great boarding school where we are forever working at our arithmetical slates, to take, and give a rest.” But what do you tell your children about Christmas? What do you understand about Christmas? Is Christmas all about giving and receiving presents? Or is it about Christmas trees and Santa Claus? Why am I asking those questions? Well, I received an email from a friend. I am not sure if he wrote it or the story was forwarded to him, but it made me ponder: What is the true meaning of Christmas? Please read the story below before answering the question: Just a week before Christmas I had a visitor. This is how it happened. I just finished the household chores for the night and was preparing to go to bed, when I heard a noise in the front of the house. I opened the door to the front

room and to my surprise, Santa himself stepped out next to the fireplace. “What are you doing?” I inquired. The words choked up in my throat and I saw he had tears in his eyes. His usual jolly manner was gone. Gone was the eager, boisterous soul we all know. He then answered me with a simple statement: “Teach the children…” I was puzzled. What did Santa Claus mean? He anticipated my question and with one quick movement brought forth a miniature toy bag from behind the tree. As I stood bewildered, Santa said again, “Teach the children! Teach them the old meaning of Christmas, the meaning that modern Christmas has forgotten.” Santa Claus then reached in his bag and pulled out a fir tree and placed it before the mantle. He explained, “Teach the children that the pure green color of the stately fir tree remains green all year round, depicting the everlasting hope of mankind, all the needles point heavenward, making it a symbol of man’s thoughts turning toward heaven.”

Father Christmas again reached into his bag and pulled out a brilliant star. “Teach the children that the star was the heavenly sign of promises long ago,” he said. “God promised a Savior for the world, and the star was the sign of fulfillment of His promise.” Then Santa Claus reached into his bag once more and pulled out a candle. “Teach the children that the candle symbolizes that Christ is the light of the world, and when we see this great light we are reminded of He who displaces the darkness,” he said. Once again Santa Claus reached into his bag and removed a wreath and placed it on the tree. “Teach the children that the wreath symbolizes the real nature of love,” he said. “Real love never ceases. Love is one continuous round of affection.” Santa Claus then pulled from his bag an ornament of himself. “Teach the children that I, Santa Claus, symbolize the generosity and good will we feel during the month of December,” he pointed out. He then brought out a holly leaf and then explained, “Teach the children that the

holly plant represents immortality. It represents the crown of thorns worn by our Savior. The red holly berries represent the blood shed by Him.” Next Santa Claus pulled from his bag a gift and said, “Teach the children that God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten son.” (Please read John 3:16.) Santa Claus then reached in his bag and pulled out a candy cane and hung it on the tree. “Teach the children that the candy cane represents the shepherds’ crook,” he said. “The crook on the staff helps to bring back strayed sheep to the flock. The candy cane is the symbol that we are our brother’s keeper.” Father Christmas reached in again and pulled out an angel: “Teach the children that it was the angels that heralded in the glorious news of the Savior’s birth. The angels sang Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace and good will toward men.” Suddenly I heard a soft twinkling sound, and from his bag he pulled out a bell. “Teach the children,” he said, “that as the lost sheep are found by the sound of the bell, it should

ring mankind to the fold. The bell symbolizes guidance and return.” Santa Claus looked back and was pleased. He looked back at me and I saw that the twinkle was back in his eyes. He reminded, “Remember, teach the children the true meaning of Christmas and do not put me in the center, for I am but a humble servant of the One that is, and I bow down to worship him, our Lord, our God.” This reminds me of the words of Frank McKibben. “This is Christmas: not the tinsel, not the giving and receiving, not even the carols,” he wrote. “But the humble heart that receives a new wondrous gift – the Christ.” To end this piece, allow me to quote the words of an author: “Until one feels the spirit of Christmas, there is no Christmas. All else is outward display-so much tinsel and decorations. For it isn’t the holly, it isn’t the snow. It isn’t the tree, not the firelight’s glow. It’s the warmth that comes to the hearts of men when the Christmas spirit returns again.” Merry Christmas to everyone!

EDGEDAVAO DAVAO 6 8 EDGE

VOL.13 ISSUE 215 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2020 VOL.13 ISSUE 214 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 20-21, 2020

Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod

19th City Council 32nd Regular Session Series of 2020

PRESENT: Vice Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte - Presiding Officer Councilor Ralph O. Abella Councilor Nilo D. Abellera Councilor Maria Belen S. Acosta Councilor Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique N. Advincula Councilor Wilberto E. Al-ag Councilor Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus Councilor Dante L. Apostol Sr. Councilor Jaffar U. Marohomsalic Councilor Conrado C. Baluran Councilor Bonifacio E. Militar Councilor Jessica M. Bonguyan Councilor Myrna G. L’Dalodo-Ortiz Councilor Louie John J. Bonguyan Councilor Antoinette G. Principe-Castrodes Councilor Pilar C. Braga Councilor J. Melchor B. Quitain Jr. Councilor Augusto Javier G. Campos III Councilor Alberto T. Ungab Councilor Jonard C. Dayap Councilor Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte Councilor Edgar P. Ibuyan Jr. Councilor Jesus Joseph P. Zozobrado III Councilor Pamela A. Librado-Morata

ABSENT: Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang Councilor Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Councilor Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod

- OB-Attended a Peace Building Seminar in Paquibato, this City - On Official Business

ORDINANCE NO. 0345-20 Series of 2020 AN ORDINANCE REPEALING CITY ORDINANCE NO. 130, SERIES OF 1989, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE PASTING OF ANY KIND OF PROPAGANDA MATERIALS IN THE CITY STREETS AND IN ANY PUBLIC PLACE IN THE CITY OF DAVAO Be it ordained by the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City, in session assembled, that: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “AN ORDINANCE REPEALING CITY ORDINANCE NO. 130, SERIES OF 1989”. SECTION 2.REPEALING CLAUSE – City Ordinance No. 130, Series of 1989, otherwise known as “AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE PASTING OF ANY KIND OF PROPAGANDA MATERIALS IN THE CITY STREETS AND IN ANY PUBLIC PLACE IN THE CITY OF DAVAO” is hereby repealed on the basis of ambiguity and being superseded by REPUBLIC ACT 11479. SECTION 5. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately after posting in two (2) conspicuous public places and publication for three (3) consecutive days in a local newspaper of general circulation in the City of Davao. ENACTED, September 15, 2020, by a majority vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian present, there being a quorum. CERTIFIED CORRECT:

ATTESTED: SEBASTIAN Z. DUTERTE Vice Mayor Presiding Officer cns/ray

For in the absence of the Secretary: MA. THERESA A. REYES Acting Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (Local Legislative Staff Officer IV)

OCT 16 APPROVED : ________________, 2020

ABSENT: Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang Councilor Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Councilor Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod

- OB-Attended a Peace Building Seminar in Paquibato, this City - On Official Business

ORDINANCE NO. 0346-20 Series of 2020 AN ORDINANCE REPEALING CITY ORDINANCE NO. 51, SERIES OF 1989, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “AN ORDINANCE REGULATING THE OPERATION OF VIDEO GAME MACHINES FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES IN DAVAO CITY” Be it ordained by the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City, in session assembled, that: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “AN ORDINANCE REPEALING CITY ORDINANCE NO. 51, SERIES OF 1989”. SECTION 2.REPEALING CLAUSE – City Ordinance No. 51, Series of 1989, otherwise known as “AN ORDINANCE REGULATING THE OPERATION OF VIDEO GAME MACHINES FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES IN DAVAO CITY” is hereby repealed for it is already superseded by City Ordinance No. 0227-04, otherwise known as the ‘INTERNET CAFÉ ORDINANCE OF DAVAO CITY” as amended by Ordinance No. 0387-12. SECTION 5. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately after posting in two (2) conspicuous public places and publication for three (3) consecutive days in a local newspaper of general circulation in the City of Davao. ENACTED, September 15, 2020, by a majority vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian present, there being a quorum. CERTIFIED CORRECT:

ATTESTED: SEBASTIAN Z. DUTERTE Vice Mayor Presiding Officer cns/ray

Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod

For in the absence of the Secretary: MA. THERESA A. REYES Acting Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (Local Legislative Staff Officer IV)

OCT 21 APPROVED : ________________, 2020

Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod

19th City Council 32nd Regular Session Series of 2020

PRESENT: Vice Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte - Presiding Officer Councilor Ralph O. Abella Councilor Nilo D. Abellera Councilor Maria Belen S. Acosta Councilor Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique N. Advincula Councilor Wilberto E. Al-ag Councilor Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus Councilor Dante L. Apostol Sr. Councilor Jaffar U. Marohomsalic Councilor Conrado C. Baluran Councilor Bonifacio E. Militar Councilor Jessica M. Bonguyan Councilor Myrna G. L’Dalodo-Ortiz Councilor Louie John J. Bonguyan Councilor Antoinette G. Principe-Castrodes Councilor Pilar C. Braga Councilor J. Melchor B. Quitain Jr. Councilor Augusto Javier G. Campos III Councilor Alberto T. Ungab Councilor Jonard C. Dayap Councilor Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte Councilor Edgar P. Ibuyan Jr. Councilor Jesus Joseph P. Zozobrado III Councilor Pamela A. Librado-Morata

ABSENT: Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang Councilor Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Councilor Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod

- OB-Attended a Peace Building Seminar in Paquibato, this City - On Official Business

ABSENT: Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang Councilor Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Councilor Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod

- OB-Attended a Peace Building Seminar in Paquibato, this City - On Official Business

ORDINANCE NO. 0347-20 Series of 2020 AN ORDINANCE REPEALING CITY ORDINANCE NO. 86, SERIES OF 2000, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “AN ORDINANCE ENACTING THE RED TIDE MONITORING AND QUARANTINE ORDINANCE OF DAVAO CITY”

ORDINANCE NO. 0348-20 Series of 2020 AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 212, SERIES OF 1991, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “AN ORDINANCE BANNING THE DISTRIBUTION OF BANDERA MAGAZINE AND OTHE PAPERS, MAGAZINES AND OTHER PRINTED MATERIALS DISPLAYING OBSCENE PICTURES IN THE CITY OF DAVAO

Be it ordained by the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City, in session assembled, that:

Be it ordained by the Honorable Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City, in session assembled, that:

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “AN ORDINANCE REPEALING CITY ORDINANCE NO. 86, SERIES OF 2000, BY REASON OF CITY ORDINANCE NO. 0173-05”. SECTION 2.REPEALING CLAUSE – City Ordinance No. 86, Series of 2000, otherwise known as “AN ORDINANCE ENACTING THE RED TIDE MONITORING AND QUARANTINE ORDINANCE OF DAVAO CITY” is hereby repealed by reason of City Ordinance No. 0173-05. SECTION 5. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately after posting in two (2) conspicuous public places and publication for three (3) consecutive days in a local news paper of general circulation in Davao City. ENACTED, September 15, 2020, by a majority vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian present, there being a quorum. ATTESTED: SEBASTIAN Z. DUTERTE Vice Mayor Presiding Officer cns/kjtq

CERTIFIED CORRECT: For in the absence of the Secretary: MA. THERESA A. REYES Acting Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (Local Legislative Staff Officer IV)

OCT 16 APPROVED : ________________, 2020

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 212, SERIES OF 1991”. SECTION 2.REPEALING CLAUSE – City Ordinance No. 212, Series of 1991, otherwise known as “An Ordinance Banning the Distribution of Bandera Magazine and other papers, magazines and other printed materials displaying obscene pictures in the City of Davao” is hereby repealed because the subject publishing firm already ceased its print publication. SECTION 5. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately after posting in two (2) conspicuous public places and publication for three (3) consecutive days in a local news paper of general circulation in Davao City. ENACTED, on the 15th day of September 2020, by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum. ATTESTED: SEBASTIAN Z. DUTERTE Vice Mayor Presiding Officer cns/kjtq

CERTIFIED CORRECT: For in the absence of the Secretary: MA. THERESA A. REYES Acting Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (Local Legislative Staff Officer IV)

OCT 16 APPROVED : ________________, 2020

9

EDGE DAVAO 7 EDGE DAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 214 215 • TUESDAY, SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER DECEMBER 22, 2020 20-21, 2020

Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod

19th City Council 32nd Regular Session Series of 2020

PRESENT: Vice Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte - Presiding Officer Councilor Ralph O. Abella Councilor Nilo D. Abellera Councilor Maria Belen S. Acosta Councilor Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique N. Advincula Councilor Wilberto E. Al-ag Councilor Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus Councilor Dante L. Apostol Sr. Councilor Jaffar U. Marohomsalic Councilor Conrado C. Baluran Councilor Bonifacio E. Militar Councilor Jessica M. Bonguyan Councilor Myrna G. L’Dalodo-Ortiz Councilor Louie John J. Bonguyan Councilor Antoinette G. Principe-Castrodes Councilor Pilar C. Braga Councilor J. Melchor B. Quitain Jr. Councilor Augusto Javier G. Campos III Councilor Alberto T. Ungab Councilor Jonard C. Dayap Councilor Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte Councilor Edgar P. Ibuyan Jr. Councilor Jesus Joseph P. Zozobrado III Councilor Pamela A. Librado-Morata

ABSENT: Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang Councilor Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Councilor Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod

- OB-Attended a Peace Building Seminar in Paquibato, this City - On Official Business

ORDINANCE NO. 0349-20 Series of 2020 AN ORDINANCE REPEALING CITY ORDINANCE NO. 568, SERIES OF 1992, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE SELLING OF IMMORAL DOCTRINES, OBSCENE PUBLICATIONS AND EXHIBITIONS AND THE SHOWING OF INDECENT SHOWS AND PORNOGRAPHIC FILMS DISAPPROVED FOR PUBLIC EXHIBITIONS AND REGULATING ADMISSION TO MOVIE HOUSES Be it ordained by the Honorable Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City, in session assembled, that: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 568, SERIES OF 1992”. SECTION 2. REPEALING CLAUSE – City Ordinance No. 568, Series of 1992, otherwise known as “An Ordinance prohibiting the selling of immoral doctrines, obscene publications and exhibitions and the showing of indecent shows and pornographic films disapproved for public exhibitions and regulating admission to movie houses” is hereby repealed by reason of Presidential Decree 1986, Series of 1985, and Republic Act 3815. SECTION 5. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately after posting in two (2) conspicuous public places and publication for three (3) consecutive days in a local news paper of general circulation in Davao City. ENACTED, on the 15th day of September 2020, by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum. CERTIFIED CORRECT:

ATTESTED: SEBASTIAN Z. DUTERTE Vice Mayor Presiding Officer cns/kjtq

BIG... FROM2

MA. THERESA A. REYES Acting Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (Local Legislative Staff Officer IV)

OCT 16 APPROVED : ________________, 2020

joint venture with Marubeni Corporation of Japan. It became the first company from the Philippines to conduct international fishing in the waters of Palau and Papua New Guinea. Unwavering in his faith and his tuna dream advocacy, he turned Marinatuna into Davao’s best tuna and seafood restaurant making it as a tourist destination and household name creating a healthier option in Davao City’s gastronomic scene. Yet, like other restaurants in Davao City, Marinatuna is not also spared from the wrath of Covid-19 pandemic. Ang said the pandemic has brought Marinatuna to struggle and to survive. Rather than crumble, he said the pandemic has inspired the restaurant to create and innovate such as creating tuna budget healthy meals for the masses at affordable prices. “We believe that when Covid-19 pandemic is over we will be in a good position to expand to more budget healthy tuna meals in new stores or more franchise outlets nationwide. We believe that God will always make a way for us,” Ang said. Currently, there are three Marinatuna restos in Davao City.

compared to the old AFP/PNP Housing Program, with models such as one-storey duplex, two storey duplex, low, medium, and high Rise residential buildings. The NHA GEHP Projects have three main objectives: promote competitive and commendable units to the

public; provide an opportunity for all government employees to apply for decent housing; and expand housing options for government employees. The Office of the General Manager of the NHA assured that all on-going projects are expected to be completed by 2022.

WORK... FROM3

Councilor Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Councilor Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod

16... FROM2

Be it ordained by the Honorable Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City, in session assembled, that: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 1329, SERIES OF 1993”. SECTION 2. REPEALING CLAUSE – City Ordinance No. 1329, Series of 1993, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “AN ORDINANCE PENALIZING RECRUITERS, PIMPS, FUNHOUSES, OPERATORS AND CUSTOMERS WHO VICTIMIZED WOMEN TO COMMIT A LIFE OF PROSTITUTION AND OTHER LEWD ACTIVITIES” is hereby repealed by reason of Republic Act 9208 and City Ordinance No. 5004, Series of 1997, as amended by City Ordinance No. 1032-02. SECTION 5. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately after posting in two (2) conspicuous public places and publication for three (3) consecutive days in a local news paper of general circulation in Davao City. ENACTED, on the 15th day of September 2020, by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum. CERTIFIED CORRECT:

SEBASTIAN Z. DUTERTE Vice Mayor Presiding Officer cns/kjtq

these components, but none have all the four components. “Social media will be a major battleground at 22 percent-35 percent potential votes. The ground game and mainstream media through advertising and public relations will account for the 65 percent-78 percent of vote generational potential,” he said. Brillantes said Big Data will be crucial in determining the right messaging and priority spending across many segments of the electorate. Blueprint.PH also did a tandem engagement analysis of potential presidential can-

didates based on the social media and traditional media of 16 personalities. It said political personalities with the highest media coverage on traditional media and posted on Facebook are Robredo followed by Pacquiao, and Moreno. The Manila mayor also ranked highest in the ability to engage social media influencers to promote ideas that could generate interest and potential votes, followed by Robredo, Go, Pacquiao, Duterte, Marcos, Remula, Hontiveros, Sotto, Poe, Cayetano, Diokno, Torres-Gomez, Cayetano, Ang, and Villar. (PNA)

“As of Saturday evening, the remaining 958 families who evacuated from the different barangays in Agusan del Sur had already returned to their respective homes,” Gomez said. He also said the PDRRMO, in coordination with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Offices (MDRRMOs) and other agencies of the government in Agusan del Sur, is conducting 24/7 monitoring especially on the water level of the major river systems in the area. In Butuan City, the local government said that a total of 636 families or 3,031 individuals from 16 barangays were evacuated to 19 evacuation centers during the onslaught of TD Vicky. The city government is also closely monitoring the water level of Agusan River which, as of noontime of Sunday, already decreased

to 1.83 meters from 2.01 meters on Saturday. The Department of Public Works and Highways in Caraga (DPWH-13) said clearing operations are being conducted along Tagonon Bypass Road in Bislig City and in Sitio Tandawan, Loyola, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. All other affected major roads in Agusan del Sur are now passable after clearing operations were conducted by the DPWH. Meanwhile, DSWD-13 said that its Caraga Quick Response Team (QRT) members are continuously rendering 24/7 duty to the Emergency Operations Center (EOC). “The Field Office of the DSWD in Caraga is ready to provide augmentation assistance to the families affected by the flooding brought by Tropical Depression Vicky,” the agency said. (PNA)

VICKY... FROM3

- OB-Attended a Peace Building Seminar in Paquibato, this City - On Official Business

ORDINANCE NO. 0350-20 Series of 2020 AN ORDINANCE REPEALING CITY ORDINANCE NO. 1329, SERIES OF 1993, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “AN ORDINANCE PENALIZING RECRUITERS, PIMPS, FUNHOUSES, OPERATORS AND CUSTOMERS WHO VICTIMIZED WOMEN TO COMMIT A LIFE OF PROSTITUTION AND OTHER LEWD ACTIVITIES

ATTESTED:

For in the absence of the Secretary:

of Davao City and donors, is a long term program and in fact has been providing free tuna lugaw and feeding to the needy for almost 17 years now. “We started a joint effort with the city government of Davao when President Duterte was still the mayor through Lugaw Feeding Program, which is a version of a soup kitchen for the less fortunate individuals in Davao City,” he said. Ang said that customers are encouraged that for every meal they buy at Marinatuna, a bowl of tuna lugaw is served to the people in the nursing homes, orphanages, and barangays. Homegrown Marina Tuna offers a sumptuous dining experience with a variety of seafood and choices of Japanese, Chinese and Filipino-Davao fusion specialties. Ang, who is a CPA and has a passion and love for tuna, established Marinatuna on June 18, 2001 after successfully organized the First International Tuna Transhipment Port in Toril Davao City under the term of then Mayor Rodrigo Duterte in 1995. As a leading tuna exporter, together with his father Ricardo Ang Sr., he pioneered the first tuna purse seine fishing and tuna long line operation in

ABSENT: Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang

For in the absence of the Secretary: MA. THERESA A. REYES Acting Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (Local Legislative Staff Officer IV)

OCT 16 APPROVED : ________________, 2020

CITY... FROM2

dictability of weather,” he said. But he also said that clearing all river dikes of structures is of utmost concern because “common sense will dictate that these settlers put their families in harm’s way.” Section 5 of the 2013 to 2022 Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance of Davao City states the guidelines “in the utilization, exploitation, development, conservation and protection of water resource,” providing the prescribed setbacks and/or easements along the entire length of the banks of rivers, creeks and streams, shores of the sea, lakes, and waterways.” It said that a five-meter setback along banks of waterways in urban areas except for the portion from the mouth of the Davao River up to the Maa-Marfori Bridge Area which should have a 30-meter wide river easement for road and promenade purposes; 20 meters easement for the same in all agricultural; 40 meters for forestal and conservation areas; and 40 meters for shores of the seas, lakes and similar bodies of water. It added that setbacks/ easements shall be subject for

public use such as recreation, navigation, floatage, fishing salvage and other activities. Davao City emerged as the fifth most resilient among highly urbanized cities (HUC) in the country based on the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) 2020, which measures the competitiveness level of the LGUs based on economic dynamism, government efficiency, infrastructure, and resiliency pillars. The city’s ranking as overall most competitive HUC inched up to second this year from third last year. Duterte also reminded the Dabawenyos to brace for landslides and flooding this rainy season. As of 2:05 p.m. on Saturday, the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office reported that all areas within the city are experiencing partly cloudy to cloudy skies due to the localized thunderstorms. It added that all river channels are monitored at safe levels while the coastal status remains calm. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

dered to the 25IB. The move of GF33’s leaders sparked the surrender of eleven (11) more NPA regulars while 60IB also brought four (4) NPAs to surrender. Eastern Mindanao Command Commander Lt. Gen Jose Faustino noted in his speech the huge significance of the surrender of the top leaders of GF33 and its impact on other rebels while praising the success of the community support programs. “Today we have the local peace engagements, our local chief executives down to

the barangay level. Instead of talking to the national level, we are now talking to the level of the fronts. Look how effective it is, we all know there’s no progress with the talks on the national level with the recent peace talks.” Lt. Gen. Faustino added. Meanwhile, Davao Region governors and local chief executives vow to continue their peace efforts and their support to the former rebels while calling for unity towards peace and development despite the onslaught of the pandemic. (DPAO, 10ID)

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SPORTS 8 SPORTS

EDGE DAVAO EDGE DAVAO

VOL.13 VOL.13ISSUE ISSUE211 215• THURSDAY, • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 22, 2020

DESPITE INJURY

Parks still on track for best player award

T

NT Tropang Giga swingman RayRay Parks remains on top of the statistical points race for the PBA Philippine Best Player of the ConFRED Cup C. LUMBA ference SPORTS (BPC) award KEN following the tabOLYMPICfiMEDAL HOPE. Newly-turned pro Eumir Marcial is the biggest hope for an Olympic medal. ulation until the recently concluded nals, as revealed on Tuesday.

Four Pinoy Olympic hopefuls Parks, who missed the eighth with 32.9, and Scotlast three games of the Tro- tie Thompson is ninth with pang Giga’s championship 32.8. series against Barangay Rounding out the Top Ginebra due to a calf injury, 10 are NorthPort’s Chris got emember, an averageguys, of 38.2 we staare stillStandhardinger in the search for (seventh the first tistical points, way ahead elusive Olympic gold.of with 34.6 statistical points) Phoenix In Fuel and Phoenix’s myMaster book,Calvin Carlos Yulo, Hidilyn Jason Diaz, Perkins Eumir Abueva, who 37.1. – in this(10th with 32.7). Marcial and OJhas Obiena order - are the four outTerrafirma’s Perez iswho have Thethe Topbest 10 chances have an instanding nationalCJ athletes to third with 35.7, while Abue- side track of making the win a gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics next year. va’s teammate Matt Wright “Special Five”, a mini version theahead diminutive gymnast fromMythical Leveriza,Five Malate, is Yulo, slightly of Parks’ of the that who is now RR ranked number world also in men’s comrade Pogoy for one willinbethe awarded next floor exercise, continues to reap appreciation from his fourth with 35.65 compared month. to the latter’s 35.64. alike. Meanwhile, the Dyip’s peers and superiors As clarified by CommisRoosevelt the His preparations and training areAdam well remains underway sioner Willie Marcial re- totop in the stats race and uninterrupted – thanks therookie substantial support cently, BPC butSports not theCommission with 20.3 –statistical from thethe Philippine which arepoints, very Most Valuable Player will but Meralco Bolt Aaron Black necessary if he is to reap honors for the country. be awarded in a special rite (second with 17.3) and the Becauseinhis sport relies onBarangay’s fluid accuracy precisometime January. Arvinand Tolentino sion timing, (Yulo) must keep s weight his Three Caloy Ginebra players (fifth with 15.5)ideal have for a good height. Which plays major role in his also made themeans, Top 10. nutritionshot at awinning the Rookie winning and losing. medalafter number Stanley PringleThis is isinOlympic of the gold Year award their sixth with 34.8 statistical teams made a long playoff one. points, Japeth Aguilarweightlifter is run. (PNA) Hidilyn, the finest the Philippines has

R

ever produced, is a very serious person who knows what

she wants and how she will get it. She has learned important lessons in her previous big tournaments (the 2016 Rio Olympics, the World Championships and the 2018 Asian Games where she emerged a consistent medalist). I will be sad if Hidilyn does not snatch the gold in her individual event. She can already measure her strength against her strongest rivals because she has fought and seen them perform. This early I could say that Hidilyn strikes fear in her opponents. This is Olympic gold medal number two. Eumir Marcial will probably have to bear the heaviest brunt, literally speaking. He will need to bust the beaks of his opponents in the middleweight division and prevent himself from getting injured in order to somewhat ensure his safe passage. His first pro outing two weeks ago resulted in a convincing UD win over a not-so-known pug but that is good enough to drive away butterflies in the stomach. With determination combined with proper hanRay Parkshis Jr drives to the basket. PBA dling, management and financial support, Marcial is also

expected to go for the gold. This is Olympic gold medal three. OJ Obiena is the pole-vaulter who is earning his spurs in various European athletics tournaments where the best in the world take part. He has captured gold medals in several European tournaments, besting some who will be his likely rivals in Tokyo. His father, Ernesto, has been a former national athlete for years who was able to rear a son who would follow in his footsteps. At 6’2”, it appeared unlikely he would take up a sport that is not very popular with Pinoy fans. Like Marcial, Obiena will have his hands full against world-class opposition from the US, East European entries and even from host Japan itself. He is the dark horse. This is Olympic gold medal four. I pray I am not wrong. Still, we have other Olympians unnamed here who could surprisingly bring home the bacon, so to speak. Again, I pray I am not wrong. Cheers! (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

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