Libertad newspaper by Karlo Alexie Puerto

IT’S COMPLICATED

City not to close dorms even after multiple violations BY KARLO ALEXIE PUERTO

WORRIES. Several Indian students studying at the Davao Medical School Foundation (DMSF) expressed their concerns to Davao City Administrator Atty. Melchor Quitain in special session. KARLO ALEXIE PUERTO VOL. 1 ISSUE 5 | JANUARY 2015

he local government will not shut down the operation of three dormitories operated by the Davao Medical Education and Management Services (DMEMS) after they found out that the said dormitories are unregistered and had not paid taxes. “If we shut down the dormitories, what will happen to our Indian students? That is their dwelling house. As of now they have to comply with

the documents for the permit,” Dava o City Business Bureau head Law renc e Ba t i nding said in a press conference Earlier, City Treasurer Rodrigo Riola said in a local television interview that DMEMS’ three dormitories in Jacinto corner Juan Luna streets, J.P. Laurel Avenue and Marfori Subdivision have not paid taxes from January 2013 until December 2014 and his agency have sent notices that the fines would amount > IT’S COMPLICATED, 22

W W W .LI B E R T A D .C OM .PH

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NEWS

WORK ALL NIGHT. Employees from the Commission on Elections are working double-time to fast-track the preparation for the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections scheduled on Fevruary 21, 2015. ELAINE MAGISTRADO

OVERLOOKING. This photo of a resort residence in the Island Garden City of Samal stands between the so-called ‘vanishing island’. LOUISE JANREE SACCO

Congress to postpone SK Polls

Davao-Samal bridge study underway BY JANE MARIE C. ECHAURE

he Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) business and tourism stakeholders are in high hopes in boosting the island’s tourism and economy when the Samal-Davao bridge will be constructed. During the weekly Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao, Arceli Ayuste, president of the Davao del Norte Provincial Tourism Council, says that they already have three for-

eign investors who are bidding for the megaproject namely China, Japan and Australia. “The prospect bridge was already inspected by [Public Works] Secretary Singson and we are already in the feasibility study. After it is completed we will give it to the investors because it is a build, operate and transfer (BOT) project,” Ayuste said. She also added

that the investors “want to see the potential bridge income if they will invest it in the Davao Region.” Ayuste mentioned that the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) XI has already allocated more or less P20-million for the feasibility study. It is expected that the study will be finished this year and in 2016, the 1.6 kilometer bridge is expected to be-

gin ground works, establishing an important link between Davao City on the mainland Mindanao landmass and the island garden city. “12 to 10 years ago I am not into the bridge, I want the island separated from the mainland until the time comes that there is a need to put up a bridge because during peak season, the line of the cars for the ferry boats is very long.

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BY ADELINE CLAIRE E. PONTERAS

Last December, the queuing took three hours” she said. She said that by building the bridge, the island can accommodate more people who want to visit and invest in the island. Ayuste said that every year, there is a growing population of tourists in the island, locals and foreigners alike. The Regional Development Council XI (RDC) tapped the Department

of Public Works and Highways XI (DPWH) to conduct the full feasibility study of the project. In 2007, BusinessWorld reported that London-based MCC Capital Projects Ltd. planned to construct the Davao-Samal bridge with financial backing from Middle East banks under a BOT contract, however the company has been silent on the plan since then.

OPTIMISM. Davao del Norte Provincial Tourism Council president Arceli Ayuste expressed enthusiasm in sharing the developments about the proposed Davao-Samal Bridge. JANE MARIE ECHAURE

he congress have agreed to postpone the upcoming Sanguniang Kabataan (SK) elections from February 2015 to October 2016 in synchronization with the barangay elections as confirmed by House majority floor leader Neptali Gonzales II. House Bill 5209 is a proposed amendment to Republic Act 9164 also known as the ‘Act Providing for Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan.’ One of the main objective of HB 5209 is “to allow Congress (to have) more time to legislate the

appropriate amendments to applicable provisions of the Local Government Code.” The House committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms panel chairman Capiz Rep. Fredenil Castro said the committee report did not cover the proposed amendment to reform SK in Republic Act 10632 “An Act to Postpone the Sangguniang Kabataang Elections on October 28, 2013 amending for the Purpose Republic Act 9340 and for other Purposes.” Castro immediate-

ly supported the bill as he also spoke put the importance “lawmakers to thoroughly scrutinize the proposed reorganization of the much-politicized and graft-tainted youth council to ensure that it would not spoil the needed reforms.” Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes later in 2013 expressed his thoughts towards the suspension of the SK elections. He wished the lap may give the congress ample time to think over the proposal to abolish the youth council, which he believes is a

“breeding ground” for corruption. “We want to postpone it and see what will happen. Kapag nakapag-function ang barangay without an SK, we will try to work for its abolition. Kung kailangan, then we will have the elections in 2016 (If the barangay can function without the SK, we will try to work for its abolition. If it’s still needed, then we will have the elections in 2016),” Brillantes said. The original plan of the October 2014 SK election postponement was to give

time for the congress to make necessary reforms before it will continue the elections, yet no change has been made and the suspension is about to end which sets the beginning of the February 2015 SK polls. “I’m very optimistic that it would be postponed, I just don’t want to say for sure. I don’t think we should have any election for SK unless reforms have been passed. Because in the old system, it’s not really working,” said Brillantes in another interview with Rap-

pler. Nonetheless, no law has been signed yet and the Comelec preparation for the SK polls continue. “In fact, we’re ready for the start of the election period. More or less, we have since accepted that as long as there is no order or law postponing the SK polls, we would proceed. At this point, tuloy na tuloy (it would take place),” said Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez. Meanwhile, the Comelec has scheduled a gun ban throughout the scheduled election period.

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NEWS

Duterte begins nationwide ‘listening tour’

Davao to purchase 13,000 garbage bins By Karlo Alexie C. Puerto

he Davao City government is set to procure 13,000 new garbage bins to be deployed around the city. City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) officer-in-charge Engineer Liza Madrazo said the 13,000 additional bins is to be used by the city’ 182 barangays. Also, she said that they are currently drafting an operational manual to ensure that the garbage bins will be used properly. “Pareha sa nahitabo

karon nga naa ra sa mga balay, gina personal na which is dili dapat kay it is intended for the public. Naa pud uban nga ginabuhat ug device, pag naay sakyanan nga guba, naa sa tunga ang mga bins. (Some use the garbage bins for their own personal use, which should not be. There are even some who are using it as an early warning device or a barrier of malfunctional vehicles),” Madrazo said. The local government loaned P600 million to fund the

By Karlo Alexie C. Puerto

purchase of the bins, together with the acquisition of 11 new compactor trucks and the repair of nine existing compactor trucks that are still serviceable. In 2005, the city government purchased 20,000 garbage bins, and CENRO estimates that 10,000 garbage bins are currently distributed at various collection points and 400 are at CENRO’s compound in Ma-a for special deployments such as during Kadayawan Festival DETERIORATING. The City Government of Davao plans to replace the old garbage bins it purchased in 2005. ELAINE MAE MAGISTRADO and Araw ng Dabaw.

avao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte has already started ‘listening ’ to the heeds of his countrymen as he and his team have begun a two-month national listening tour. “I would just like to listen,” Duterte told Libertad during the sidelines of his speaking engagement ‘Pakigpulong kang Digong’ hosted by the Ateneo de Davao University Political Science Department. Former North Cotabato governor Emmanuel Piñol said that the Davao City mayor has already opened the possibilities of him running as president in the 2016 presidential polls. “Before, he would even tell everyone who asks him ‘I’ll shoot you’,” Piñol said. Beginning January

Four Davaoeños top PRC Board exams F

our Davaoenos topped the recently released results of the dentistry and pharmacist licensure examination. On the dentistry board examination, Ben Jay Maxino of the Mindanao Medical Foundation College ranked first, while Jan Michael Silvosa and Shahzaadee Bello Imlan of Davao Medical School Foundation (DMSF)

By Louise Janree Sacco

landed second and sixth, respectively. Jona Mari Chiong Alinas placed as the top one passer from the University of Immaculate Conception in the pharmacist board examination. Imlan said in a Facebook interview that she was not able to sleep well a night before the expected release of the board examination results. “I even woke up

at 3:00am kasi my stomach felt weird. Siguro dahil na rin sa kaba and excitement which is I think normal naman (I even woke up at 3 a.m. because my stomach felt weird. I guess the nervous and excitement which I think is normal),” Imlan shared. She added that she got the news around 6:30pm of January 20 when her dean called her

thru phone and got shocked saying that she rank as the top six in the exam. “I even asked him many times na ‘totoo doc?’ ganyan. Then I started shouting and all for hearing such a good news (At first, I got shocked and I even asked him many times “is it real?” then I started shouting and all for hearing such a good news),” she told Libertad. Im-

lan considered it as an achievement for the hard work and undying love and support which she received from her parents, friends and relatives. “I’m floating in the air,” she expressed in joy. As of now Shahzaadee has no concrete plans yet. “I don’t know. Maybe (I’ll have a) specialization or (I will) be an associated dentist

first, mahirap kasi magtayo ng own clinic agad-agad, (It’s very difficult to build my own clinic),” she said. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced that 36.97 percent or 268 out of 725 examinees passed the dentistry exam while 56.30 percent or 1,292 out of 2,295 examinees passed the pharmacist exam.

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Delayed Driver’s License irks Davaoeños bY Fairah Pendatun avaoeños are hours of waiting in still waiting for line just to get have the release of the my license but they plastic card of their only gave me a redriver’s license which ceipt and told me to has been delayed for use it for the mean months now. time,” Quimno said. Vaughn Quimno, “It’s already been AGE, a resident of three months but SPECIFIC PLACE they still haven’t Davao City, had ap- release my plastic plied for his driver’s card,” he added. license November The Land Transporof last year but still tation Office (LTO) doesn’t have his li- Regional Director cense up until now. Atty. Gomer J. Dy said “I endured the long that the delay doesn’t process and the long only occur in Davao

City but also in other regions. He said that delayed process for the license plastic cards is because of the growing number of applicants every day. As for the meantime, the LTO have instructed the applicants to use the receipts of their application as their driver’s license while waiting for their plastic cards to be released.

22, Duterte is scheduled to visit Butuan City, Zamboanga City and Pagadian City in Mindanao, Cebu City in the Visayas and Bulacan and Nueva Ecija in Luzon for the month, giving speeches promoting federalism and also listening to people’s clamour in the side. Also, he is set to visit th e cities of Antipolo, Dumaguete, Dipolog, Dagupan, Baguio, Tuguegarao, Mati and Iloilo in February. Piñol said that they are hoping Duterte will get satisfactory results in the next poll surveys by firms such as Social Weather Stations (SWS) and Pulse Asia. “If he will get high ratings, we’ll encourage him to run,” Piñol said. If he will not join the presidential race, Duterte said he will

retire from politics. “[If I will retire in 2016,] I’ll choose my daughter [over my son to become mayor] not because she is my daughter but because she has already proven that she has the capacity,” Duterte answered on who shall be his successor. His daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio, also known as Inday Sara, served as Davao City mayor from 2010 to 2013 when Rody reached the ‘three simultaneous terms’ rule and ran instead for vice-mayor. Inday Sara did not run again for office after her term because of pregnancy and her brother Paolo Duterte ran for vice-president while Rody ran again for mayor. Both Dutertes won their positions unopposed.

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NEWS

BUSINESS

Global oil prices decrease further

Sta. Cruz chief police relieved

by Angela Caesar Grant C. Rabino

By Karlo Alexie C. Puerto

he Chief of Police of Sta. Cruz Municipal Police Station in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur was sacked following the grenade explosion inside the police station, which left two people dead on arrival and six police authorities wounded. In a press release, PNP-Police Regional Office (PRO) XI said that their acting regional director Police Chief Superintendent Wendy Rosario immediately relieved Police Senior Inspector Jamila De Castro, the Chief of Police and four other PNP members of Sta Cruz Municipal Police Station from service on Friday while the other personnel of the police station will be up for a refresher course

Mercado: Binay got P200M in BSP deal

By ormer Makati Vice-Mayor Ernesto Mercado accused Vice-President Jejomar Binay of getting almost P200M worth of kickbacks from private property developer Alphaland Corporation on the land deal between the developer and the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP). During the continuation of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing regarding the overpriced Makati City Hall Parking Building II on Thursday, Mercado said that the initial five percent Binay has received was used on his electoral campaign for Vice-President in 2010. “Kinuha ni VP Binay ang five percent sa

Louise Janree Sacco Alphaland deal para I know they are the gamitin sa kanyang youth members of eleksyon (Binay got the BSP who were the five percent from involved,)” Mercado the Alphaland deal to said. be used as campaign As he would be filfunds in the elec- ing charges at some tions),” Mercado told of his collegues, Merthe senators present. cado then apologizes Mercado would be to them. filing a plunder case Anomalous transacagainst Binay and of- tion ficials from both BSP During 1976, BF Goand Alphalad. odrich Philippines, “Ngayong umaga, now called Sime ipepresenta ko po at Darby donated a one magsasampa pagkat- hectare property at apos nito ng kaso sa the Ayala Avenue and Ombudsman, at kung Malugay Street in kinakailangan, pu- Makati City in 2004. punta po akong civil A joint sale agreecourt, gagawin ko po ment, which was dahil sangkot po rito signed for the sale of ang mga kabataang the lot which Binay miyembro ng BSP approached Dar(This morning, I’m by and negotiate to going to present and them which Mercado will be filing after stated. this case on the Om“60-40 sharing. 60 budsman, if needed percent to the Boy I’m going to the civ- Scouts for the land, il court because for > MERCADO, 22

in February. Initial reports said that operatives from Sta. Cruz Municipal Police Station arrested 56-year-old former soldier Reynaldo Salang for bringing calibre .45 short gun, hand grenade and bolo at Barangay Zone 4 after his presence was reported to them. He was already detained, however he was still unruly inside the prison cell even if his college school mate Daniel Bacon tried to convince him to calm down. Salang grabbed a hand grenade from his undergarments and threw it to a group of on-duty police personnel. Following his action, police authorities shot Salang as they believed he was about

to get another hand grenade. Rosario ordered for a further investigation of the incident, while the relieved officers will be temporarily reporting to the Regional Personnel and Holding Unit of PRO-XI pending the results of the investigation. For the meantime, Police Chief Inspector Glenford Dumaque Alberto from the Davao del Sur Provincial Police Office (PPO) will act as office-in-charge of Sta Cruz police and personnel of Davao Sur Provincial Public Safety Company (PPSC) will temporary man the Station while the original personnel of the station will be on training.

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hilippine-based oil companies announced a heavy price effective last January 18 on the back of the continued decline in the worldwide crude prices. Price rollback by Sea Oil, Shell and Petron effective 12:01 early morning of January 18. Prices decreased by P1.25 per liter both in gasoline and kerosene while P1.45 was decreased per liter of diesel. Considering the global oil market, Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) shared certain downsides for lower gas prices published by The Daily Journal. Lower crude oil prices cause regional economic disruptions. States such as Alaska,

Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas have been bright spots for the U.S. economy with rapid job growth investment because of the oil boom. With oil prices about half of what they were a year ago, they easily could become a drag. Geopolitical tensions are also considered scenarios that may arise after a long stability of oil prices at a lower rate. The price of oil is so low it remains unprofitable for many countries that depend heavily on oil revenues to prop up their economies. The countries with the most exposure such as Iran and Russia which are already under economic sanctions from the West - run the risk of be-

coming unstable. The longer prices remain low, the more desperate oil-dependent countries may become. However, for some such as Saudi Arabia, which has built up massive financial reserves, instability is not expected to be a problem. Lower oil prices derails governments’ initiatives of an environment-friendly society. Lower gas prices have provoked motorists to purchase more cars and use them more often, relieving the reason to conserve and reduce the greenhouse gases causing climate change. Also, many experts believe it could control investment in alternative energy. > GLOBAL OIL, 22

Kiwanis int’l offers alternative arm By Monique Loise P. Abellana

he Kiwanis International announced their new signature project of the Philippine South District in partnership with the Ellen Middle Foundation based in California. It is an artificial limb made from poly propylene. It is intended not only for the children who unfortunately do not have their arm right now, but it is offered for all who needs it. “We have decided to come up with this since it can be an alternative arm for those children and elders, who were victims of fireworks or any kind of accident,” Kiwanis International district governor Allan Sira said.

The organization is looking for beneficiaries in Davao and any areas in Mindanao in celebration of their 100 years in excellent service worldwide. “Today, we are giving this for free to those victims, who wanted to have an alternative hand again. If there are schools or groups who want this material, you can immediately contact us,” Gov. Sira added. The device will cost around 3,000 up to 5,000 commercially. It will only be attach to the amputated arm of the beneficiary. 100 on the spot limbs will be given to the first registrars while another 400 for additional recipients. “It is easy to use and

we required more or less 500 units for them. This is a first come, first serve system for all so that it would be fair,” Gov. Sira explained. Nevertheless, the Kiwanis International are inviting to avail these artificial limbs since it is limited and they can only offer minimal device. “If there are already groups, who are prepared, we can demonstrate and teach them how to use this,” Gov. Sira noted. The Kiwanis International is an organization that focuses on serving children and have established different kinds of programs and projects which aided people worldwide.

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COMMUNITY

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Hunger games no more? BY Angela Caesar Grant C. Rabino

INCONVENIENCE. Residents of Artiaga Street in downtown Davao complains about the mud and the floodwater that stagnates in their area after heavy rainfall. ELAINE MAGISTRADO

Road flood prevention resulted to community flooding By Adeline Ponteras

rtiaga Street is located at the center of highly urbanized Davao City. It used to be a low risk area for flooding despite that it is near the sea water in Quezon Boulevard. On 2013, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has paved the way for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Quezon Boulevard road. The project was done to address the series of flooding that the city experienced in 2012 which also resulted to brownouts for some areas in Ecoland to Puan going to Mintal said the Davao Light and Power Company. In Quezon Boulevard, an amount of P44,322,292.36 is allotted for the rehabilitation. DPWH regional information officer Dennis Flores said they have to “undertake road repairs to align with the elevation of the newly-reconstructed portions” in the areas. The concern of DPWH on the road construction is the

flooding problem on the road especially in Quezon Boulevard where the sea water overflows along the road. “Gi-anticipate na nato ang possible problem in the future. So unahan na lang gyud nato diba? Kesa mas maglisud na ta in the next years (We are anticipating the problem in the future. Why not step ahead before it, right? Rather than we’d suffer in the next years),” Flores said during a 2013 interview. Due to the elevation of the road, approximately 2 meters of elevation, the water that used to clog in the road subsided to the communities along Quezon Boulevard. “Dili na kayo ga baha sa dalan pero sa mga balay ug eskinita man sad padulong ang baha (It doesn’t flood in the road anymore instead it went to the houses and alleys),” said Steven Hinsoy, resident of Artiaga. Despite the fact that the Quezon Boulevard road doesn’t

flood as it used to, it affected the communities whose houses are now below the baseline of the road. “Noong bata pa ako di naman bumabaha dito kahit malakas na ang ulan (When I was a kid it doesn’t flood here even if it’s raining hard),” said Eboy Veragara, resident of Artiaga and TODA leader. “Ngayon, kahit konting ulan lang bumabaha na sa mga eskinita (Today, even if it’s light rain it would flood in the alleys),” Vergara adds According to the residents, the flooding has become a major hassle to their lives especially early mornings when they are about to go to work or school. “Perwisyo kay basa ang dalan. Dugay kayo mubaba ang tubig. Kun dili sad putik kayayo (Nuisance because the way is wet. The water subsides slowly. Or else, it’s very muddy),” Hinsoy said. The barangay has traditionally depended on relied on taking care of the capacity of their drainage sys-

tem. Enforcement of proper waste segregation is followed and monitored by the barangay officers. “Ankle length or more ang baha sa loob ng bahay. Wala kaming magawa kay natural lang man ang mag ulan. Mag linis lang kami after (The flood is ankle length or more inside the house. We can’t do anything because it’s a natural phenomenon to rain. We just clean up after),” says Gerald Tan, resident of Artiaga Street. Due to the flooding cause by the subsided water from Quezon Boulevard road and drainage, a seasonal clean-up for drainage is done by the barangay together with the community. “Kadtong gina sala namo ang kanal. Murag ang basura gikan sa laing barangay madala diri saato mao gina habwa tas limpyuhan namo (When we filter the canal. It’s like the garbage from other barangays is circulated here that’s why we uncover and clean it),” says Commit-

tee on Environment head Reynaldo Gales. “Kay dili man adlaw adlaw, di man sad ta kaingon kanusa mag ulan ug kusog diri, ushaya ra namo malimpyuhan mao usahay gab aha gihapon (It’s not every day, we can’t say when will it rain, we just clean it sometimes that’s why it would still flood sometimes),” he adds. “Okay na yung sa labas bumaha wag lang pumasok dito sa loob ng bahay… Di mo man maasa laaht sa barangay (It’s fine when it floods outside just don’t let it come into the house… You can’t depend on the barangay for verything),” says Tess Eslabon resident of Artiaga. “Nagpalagay nalang kami ng wall sa may gate para di makapsok ang tubig kahit hangang tuhod na Gaya noong nakarang taon na malakas ang ulan (We put up a wall in our gate so that the water will not come in even if its knee length… Just like the past years when it’s raining hard),” Eslabon adds. Despite the individual efforts of the

barangay and community, the flooding was not absolutely stopped. “Ang barangay pabor sa project sa gobyerno, syempre… Ang mga tao gusto lang ng maayos na daanan... At malinis (The barangay is in favour of the whatever is the plan of the government while the people just want a good and clean pathway),” Vergara said. “It solely depends on the elders here because I personally don’t know kung ano ang decision nila. Sila man rin ang authority. Pero sana ipataas nila ang place dito para wala nang water magpasok (“It solely depends on the elders here because I personally don’t know what’s there decision. They are the authority as well. But I hope they will elevate this place so that no water will enter),” pleads Tan. Hopefully, both barangay and community may be able to commune and come up with a resolution to solve the flooding in Artiaga Street.

ransportation is an inseparable factor of the society. It is responsible for the improvement that is seen in every society in such way of meeting travel necessities of the people. However, lack of jeepneys is one of the major and daily problems that residents in Barangay Cabantian, Davao City are grumbling about. Although the barangay is regarded as one of the fast growing and progressive urban barangays in Davao City, there is still not enough public transport to serve its commuters. From adults to the young ones, everyone is very alert and patient for a vacant jeepney since there are a lot of residents waiting in street corners. It’s like the hunger games, except that what’s being fought for is a jeepney ride to work and school. “Mahirap talaga. Takbo dito, takbo doon. Morning pa lang pawis ka na tapos late ka pa (It’s really hard. You’ll run here and then you’ll run there. It’s still early in the morning yet you are already late and covered with sweat,” Jennie Ongcay, a resident of Barangay Cabantian said. With this, students like Ongcay who also share the same sentiment do not have a choice but to leave much earlier than the

usual for them to be able to ride the available jeepneys. Conversely, due to the fact that 80% of the population in Barangay Cabantian are depending on PUJ as their main means of transportation to work, school and other whereabouts, the office of the barangay council were direct enough to admit that there is really a shortage of units to cater the commuters of Barangay Cabantian. In line with this, the office of the barangay council had the initiative to make a resolution last April 7, 2014 requesting the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to open additional Public Utility Jeepney (PUJ) units in every existing transport association and organization in Barangay Cabantian. “The resolution requesting for additional units in Cabantian has already been approved by LTFRB. This is open to anybody regardless of where they came from but it is still up to the homeowners and transportation associations,” Nilo Cabiles, Barangay Captain of Cabantian said. Moreover, the homeowners association of each subdivision in the barangay were given a copy of the resolution letter having the resolution no.

ACCESSIBILITY. Jeepneys around the city makes transportation inside Davao City more easily available and accessible. ELAINE MAE MAGISTRADO 16-089. Each of the homeowners association also did their part as to approving to support the barangay resolution. They even made another resolution requesting LTFRB to open additional PUJ units in their respective subdivisions. One of the homeowners associations in the barangay who made another resolution was the Emily Homes Homeowners Association (EHHA). They have stated in the resolution that was made last October 8, 2014 that the population in the said subdivision has totally increased but the operated PUJ in the area has decreased due to defective units. Also, they have other concerns still in line with the problem. “Mas gwapo jud kung ang mag franchise kay taga Cabantian ra pud (It is really better if the ones who will franchise are also residents of Cabantian),”

Maximo Botona Jr., EHHA President said. Botona also stated some reasons to why they would still prefer the residents of Cabantian to have a franchise. “Maka benefit man pud ang mga taga Cabantian ug para dili maglisod ug contact sa operator kung naay problema (The residents of Cabantian can also benefit from this and so that it will be easy to contact the operator whenever there is a problem),” he emphasized. On the other hand, there is an undergoing road construction in Barangay Cabantian particularly in Buhangin Memorial Park up to Holy Trinity Village such that jeepneys have to pass by near Diho Subdivision to diversion road. With that, build up of heavy traffic most especially in the morning is now evident in diversion road, Buhangin. That being the case,

the LTFRB advised Botona to find a new line that would cater the commuters from Barangay Cabantian down to the city. Botona, along with the EHHA, immediately made another resolution last October 30, 2014 requesting LTFRB to open new line of PUJ units in Emily Homes Subdivision, Cabantian. The proposed route was from Emily Homes Subdivision, Barangay Cabantian to Agdao Public Market via Mamay Road, Barangay Angliongto, Damosa to Lanang Road, Water District to Cabaguio Avenue, Flyover Agdao then left to Bangoy Street to Agdao Public Market, Lapu-Lapu to Cabaguio Avenue and back to origin. “Mas gwapo ni nga ruta para sa mga taga Cabantian labaw na kung magbayad ug kuryente ug tubig ug kung muadto sa palengke. There is really a need to approve

the proposed route (This is a better route for the residents of Cabantian especially when they need to pay water and electricity bills and go to the market),” Botona said. As of now, the EHHA is positively waiting for the approval of the said request. Even so, the LTFRB is still on process for possible actions. As for Cabiles, he is asking the residents of the barangay to extend their patience and be positive for the outcome of the resolutions with regards to their concern that are already raised to the LTFRB. Cabiles also said that as for now, commuters must leave earlier than the usual to avoid traffic and be able to ride the available jeepneys without being late. Consequently, residents are now hopeful for a positive response and immediate actions from LTFRB and local government.

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TRAGEDY Justice delayed, justice denied H earing bad news especially about a family member or relative would cause anyone in their right senses either to panic, mourn or even emotionally break down in worst cases. Dolly, a 47-year-old mother residing in a coastal barangay of downtown Davao, tells her tale of how his son left them without a farewell message. Prologue “Si Jay [her son] naa’y higala nga Ramil ang pangalan. Pirmi man na sila gakuyog, pero wala ko nanghilabot sa ilahang duha kay lagi gasalig man ko nila. (Jay had a friend named Ramil. They always go out together, but I did not mind what they are doing because I trust them both),” Dolly started. She said that Jay told him that Ramil have very controversial transactions every now and then, causing her to be more alarmed. “Pagkadungog gyud nako nga shabu ‘to, gi-ingnan gyud nako ang akong anak nga undangi ning kabuang kay madisgrasya unya sila (When I heard it was illegal drugs, I told Jay to stop going with Ramil before anything drastic happens),” she continued.

By Karlo Alexie C. Puerto Jay acknowledged cinity nor Mario. her advice, however “Wala gani ko’y kaJay still see Ramil at libutan ug asa na siya. a regular basis. Gi-pangutana nako sa Threat police station kung Dolly shared that naa ba naka-blotter Ramil already told pero wala’y record Jay not to go with didto (I did not know him because Ramil where he is. I asked had already received the nearest police death threats regarding station of his wherehis involvement in abouts however there dealing illegal drugs. was no record),” she “Natingala gani ko then continued. na naa ma’y niadto She already had sa balay nga gipangi- doubts as to her son’s ta ako anak unya ga- fate, however she bii, gisundo pa gyud kept a little optimism (I was surprised that hoping that she will another man went still find him alive. looking for my son Farewell at the house at night, The day after he was and fetched him),” reported shot, she saw she said. a television report that Jay had not yet re- two men inside rice turned home after sacks were seen dead four hours that made in Panabo City, at least his mother worried. 70 kilometers from “Nagsige na gani ko downtown Davao. tuyok sa among baShe then rushed to rangay, mura ko’g the funeral parlor and nabuang (I roamed there she found his around in the commu- son, together with Ranity, I looked crazy),” mil. she described her or“Natingala gani ko deal. kay humok pa iyang She then received lawas. Kang Ramil gahi a call from a certain na (I was shocked Mario, who she later that his body is still recognized as the per- like he’s live, but Rason who went to their mil’s remain is already house hours ago. in a dead state),” she “Ana pa siya, ‘Dol- described what she ly, si Jay gipusil ang saw, referring to the tiil sa may inn (Dolly, freshness of the body. Jay was shot at his feet She went home, still near the inn),’” she puzzled, of who could narrated. have done this to She rushed to the them, especially her crime scene; however son. she did not see her Typical young adult son’s body in the vi- Marie, Jay’s live-in

partner, says he is a responsible father to their only child, who is 2 years old now. “He’s very responsible, masaligan gyud (You can really trust him),” Marie shared. Marie said he did not fail to feed them even if he only works as a habal-habal driver “He would take care of Grace (our daughter) when I’m on duty,” Marie said while showing his photo with his then fourmonth old daughter. His friend Adrian, who is a pedicab driver, also praised him for being a responsible partner to Marie. “Buotan kaayo na siya, muuli pa man gani kung magkaproblema sa balay (He’s very concerned, he would even go home if there are problems at home),” Adrian shared. Denied What pains Dolly most is the absence of justice in Jay’s death. “Sakit gyud nga wala natagaa’g hustisya. Kung ikaw namatyan, mangita man gyud ka’g basulon (It really hurts to be denied justice. If a love one of yours die, you will surely look for someone to blame), she lamented. While she does not expect that justice be given to Jay, she is just giving way for God’s > JUSTICE, 10

TRAGEDY

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rUGGED. Displace Davaoe RUGGED. Displaced Davaoñeos try their luck on the streets for them to eat. ELAINE MAGISTRADO

Series of unfortunate events By Monique Loise P. Abellana

n every person’s life, there will always be events that are always unexpected. It may be something that is difficult to accept, or an incident that is heartbreaking. “I cannot believe what happened in my 2014. Maybe it is the worst year of my life,” This was statement of Luisa Nelua, 17, from Bangkal Davao City. Nelua had a younger sister, and a mother, who is working as a messenger in a small business company. While her father died four years ago because of an accident. It was on October of last year when she got sick and was immediately confined at the San Pedro Hospital (SPH) because of dengue and measles for one week. Luisa decided to go to the hospital since her fever was inconsistent for almost four days while her measles

came out when she was already admit. The doctor advised her to be isolated which means she really has to use the private room for the other patient’s safety. The bills and their money that is supposed to be her enrollment payment for that next month made her bothered. “I’m really worried because that money should be used for my enrollment yet I still don’t have the power to stop my mother since paying the hospital bills are the priority,” Luisa said. By November, Aya, her sister, 10, was infected of measles plus her sister’s asthma also occurred unexpectedly so she also needs to go to the hospital and stayed for a week just like what she experienced. They tried another private hospital because maybe it will make it lesser for them to pay but sadly it still

reached for almost 30,000 because of the medicines, and especially the type of room that was also offered by the doctor. This was also the same as her payment during her stay at SPH because there were lots of laboratory examinations done to monitor her platelets. She was more worried because they only have few in their savings and the only thing that would pay it is through borrowing money from the others. “Good thing, my godmother helped us pay some of our debt in the hospital since our money got tight. She was like my fairy godmother and I’m Cinderella. I’m so thankful to her kindness,” she said. The next month after, Jema, Nelua’s mother, thought that it is just a challenge to her being a single parent. She also thought maybe this time she can now start saving again for

her children. Nelua’s grandmother, Daisy, lived with them for several years but not on the same roof. She has her own house beside it. One day, her grandmother felt weaker and seemed strange because she rather stay on her bed laying all day. She even don’t want to eat, she also pee on her underwear. She was asked if she wanted to go to the hospital so that her health would be monitored yet she refused and chose to stay in her bed. “My mother asked her if she would like to go to the hospital so we can know what her diagnosis is but maybe it is because of her diabetes that is why she acted like that,” Luisa commented. After 3 days, her grandmother passed away at 6am for unexplainable reason and her bed, after she was picked by the St. Peter Funeral Homes,

was full of ants. Days before her departure, she asked to Jema, her daughter, that who are those two men standing beside her which simply means that there are souls who came to see and fetch her. Also is that she said, she dreamt of someone is talking to her and they were at the heaven. It was another expense for Jema but because she was already applied for this kind of insurance before, it helped her deplete her payments and also she decided that her mother’s coffin will be put on top of her husband. “My membership in St. Peter helped me a lot but until now, I still don’t know what to feel because it sadden me that my mother left us yet at the same time, she is already with my father and my husband,” Jema said. Christmas came and it was the loneliest celebration for Luisa’s

family they got only lechon manok (roasted chicken), liempo (roasted pork belly) and rice on their table. After the Christmas break, Luisa noticed that her right breast is bigger than the other. She tried to touch it and she felt something inside like a circular ball at her nipple portion. She told her mother and eventually went to the doctor, who is expert in breast procedures, referred to her by her cousin. The doctor checked both of her breast by touching it using both of her pointing and middle fingers. She found out that it is not only one but two lumps so she advised her to have her mammogram first before she can give her medications. A mammogram is a mammography exam that is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breasts SERIES, 22

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EDITORIAL

OPINION

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How long will Duterte say no? By Jane Marie C. Echaure

Binay’s character assassination

olitics is something in connection with governance, but Philippine politics is more so about the money and the reputation than the commitment and dedication to serve. Character assassination already became a staple in Philippine politics, and it covers everyone from the grassroots level up until the Vice-Presidency and Presidency. It is essential that that we know about who we have voted for, however banking on testimonials from one source may not be the best way to know it. Vice-Mayor Ernesto Mercado may have worked with the Vice-President before, but their friendship and working relationship severed when Binay asked his son Junjun to run as Mayor of Makati, instead of supporting Mercado’s bid in the mayoralty race.

It may seem that Mercado still cannot get over with the incident, therefore he tries to discredit Binay in Senate hearings by spilling over information regarding their alleged transactions in the Makati City government, and now the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) where Binay is the head. Mercado may have documents in some transactions of the Binays, but why he should do it? The former Vice-Mayor would be foolish enough to unveil himself of his illegal insertions in government contracts together with Binay. Practically, no criminal would ever admit of his crime unless he is caught in the act. In fact, he has a pending graft case in the Ombudsman, therefore it would not help his case if he would flaunt out in public what he and Binay had been doing

in Makati and with the BSP. Or, was Mercado part of the bigger plan by the opposition? It could be, but giving an assurance to Mercado of his freedom after incriminating himself for the other party would not likely happen as of the moment either because the opposing party does not have the right connections yet or the opposing party is not an incumbent official. To Mercado, you know your cause of speaking before the public about the details of the anomalous transactions, however you could have strengthened your claims if you could present people that also have involvement in the different deals. Get more people to back you up, but unless you do not, you will still look like a bitter soul trying to seek revenge of what Binay has done on you.

ince its debut in February of last year, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte has been keen and firm that he will not run for Presidency in spite the efforts of the Pilipinas 2016 Duterte Movement. But many ask, how long will this keep up? The movement was launched by at least 100 barangay captains of Davao City with lead convener Mar Masanguid. He and his party strongly believe that Duterte has all the qualifications to run for president. Born in 1945 in Maasin, Leyte, Rodrigo Duterte was the son the then Governor of Davao Vicente G. Duterte and teacher and civic leader Soledad Roa. Being part of a political family, it is no wonder that Rody, as they call him, also gained interest in politics. After becoming a lawyer and served at the Davao City Prosecutors Office, he was appointed officer-in-charge mayor and later on ran and

won the Mayor’s seat in 1988-1998. He also ran for the House of Representatives and became congressman of the 1st district. He ran for the mayoral post again and was elected mayor for three consecutive elections. He also became vice mayor while his daughter Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio took over as Mayor. Currently, Rody is in his eight term as Davao City Mayor. Aside from his long list of government related posts, many admire Duterte for his leadership most especially by the policies he implemented in the city. For 12 years, the ordinance for firecracker ban has been diligently followed by Davaoñeos. Strong implementations of no smoking and liquor ban at 1am are also unfailingly shadowed. And just last year, the 40kph speed limit ordinance caused a stir to the whole city but was still obeyed by everyone.

Under his terms, the city is considered the fourth safest city in the world. Apart from the unrelenting barangay captains, a number of governors, mayors, congressmen and other known personalities also showed their support. Some of which is the former executive director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Eduardo Del Rosario and even former President Fidel V. Ramos gave hints that he too supports the movement. So far, the Pilipinas 2016 Duterte Movement already garnered 4 million votes from all over the country and still counting. But with all of these efforts, Duterte remains consistent to his answer- saying he will never run for the highest position in the country. “You must be crazy. I said I am not interested to be president. I am not qualified to be president. I cannot

dream of what I cannot be but I can only aspire for what I can be,” he said in an interview. Many wonder what he means by him not being qualified for the position. With years of experience and numerous acknowledgements of the field of governance, undoubtedly no one will believe him. And most importantly, his experiences aren’t far from the accomplishments of his future contenders, if ever, like Vice President Jejomar Binay, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas and Senator Grace Poe. But is it because Duterte honors friendship more than power that is why he won’t run? If we all remember, Duterte has maintained a tight connection with known rebel groups such as the New Peoples Army (NPA), Moro Islamic Liberation Font (MILF) and MILF leader Nur Misuari.

Duterte has had long history of good relationships with rebel groups, having to be tapped when they release hostages and open discussions for negotiations. These relationships have become the source of peace in the city and even outside Davao. Indeed, he has a point that if he were to run and become president, he’ll have to solve and most probably demolish these rebel groups. Because if not, how can he be an effective leader if he’ll favor his friends who are mortal enemies of the government for so long? The debate of whether or not Duterte will run for President might come to an end soon as the filing of candidacy for the 2016 elections is already this October. The leaders who started the movement and the big names that support it are still very positive that Mayor Duterte will change his mind. But the question is,

will Duterte will keep his word that he will never run and just retire at the end of his term? Will he retire leaving a wonderful legacy to Davaoñeos or will he make a new mark to the lives of the Filipinos? How long will Duterte say no to the calling of millions? Will he be able to keep his word- especially when his reasons are him not fitting, his lack of budget and his friendship? Both ways, if he chooses not to, many will be disappointed and a lot of efforts will be put to waste. But if he will run, he’ll become a hypocrite and his ties with the most petrifying group in the country will be at stake- and might even come to an end. Will he or will he not? October is fast approaching and the deadline is almost up. The election that will determine the country’s future is fast approaching. How long will Duterte say no?

Binay for president, why or why not? By Monique Loise P. Abellana

he current Vice President, Jojo Binay, will pursue his plans running for the position of a President for the 2016 because it is his dream since he was a child. Jejomar “Jojo” Cabanatuan Binay is born on November 11, 1942 at the Paco Manila. He is the son of Diego Medrano Binay and Lourdes gatan Cabauatan. He is known for his

excellency in providing development and serving the people through leadership and commitment. He is not a typical man since he was able to studied in different universities. Such as during his elementary in the Philippine Normal College, high school at the University of the Philippines Preparatory High School. He also graduated

Bachelor of Arts major in Political Science and Bachelor of Laws at the University of the Philippines, Master of Public Administration and Master of Laws at the University of Sto. Tomas, Master’s in National Security Administration at the National Defense College of the Philippines, Master’s in Management at the Philippine Christian University, Diploma

in Environment and Natural Resources Management, and lastly, Faculty of Management and Development Studies at the University of the Philippines Open University. His achievements are what the people is looking for a president. Having those degrees will surely commend him. But the question, does he fits to the qualities of being a president?

Jojo Binay also served for more or less 29 years. He had been the Mayor of Makati, Chairman of MMDA, director in LRT Authority, Laguna Lake Development Authority, Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, governor of Metropolitan Manila Commission and etc. The people might think he can be the next president because of his great

leadership yet they do not know the real reason behind his success. Binay encountered different issues and it was pointed out through the use of media. There were many allegations being made but it will not stop him. He think of this as a challenge since all people undergo to rumors just to make it taste bad.

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OPINION

IN FOCUS

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Importance of Youth Participation in Politics By Adeline Claire E. Ponteras

he Philippines is the only country that allots government position for the youth. Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), is the youth council in each barangay in the Philippines. It is the local youth legislature in the village and therefore led the local youth program and projects of the government. The SK Chairman led the Sangguniang Kabataan council while the Kagawads, or councilors, approved resolutions and appropriated the money allotted to the council. Commission on Elections 3rd District Election Officer Atty. Danilo Cullo says that, “Youth participation is important because we know that these youth sector will become future leaders when these present leaders will end their term or when they turn that they cannot function, these present generation will be the one to replace them. So as part of their training ground,” SK was es-

tablished. The Sangguniang Kabataan was made out of the Kabataang Barangay (KB), established during martial law by President Ferdinand Marcos to give youth a chance to be involved in community affairs and to provide the government means to inform youth of the government’s development efforts and was abolished when the Local Government Code of 1991 was enacted. Former SK Chairman of Barangay Cabantian Davao City Jenny Danielle Ongcay says that SK was able to “help a lot awaken the youth,” within her barangay. She was able to encourage the youth to participate in her projects such as sports development program for basketball, volleyball and tennis which is an outlet of her advocacy against drug abuse. Instead of using drugs, youth should make use of their time in playing sports Ongcay adds.

Yet, because of concerns that the SK is a breeding ground for political dynasty and youth exposure to corruption, on September 24, 2013 the Congress of the Philippines passed the Republic Act No. 10632 that postponed the scheduled October 2013 SK elections and left vacant all the SK positions until new officers are elected. “You cannot underestimate the capacity of the youth, because we believe they have dynamism and enthusiasm. They are more idealistic supposedly, that when they vote they would consider the qualification, dignity, morality of the candidate. Not money because that’s where the trapos come in,” Atty. Cullo says. “The first question is if the candidate is qualified for the position, do not vote him or her because he or she is beautiful of rich. Can she do the job without depending to other people? Is he/she morally

right? That when he/ she is already in the position will he/she not take advantage of the position. And is he/she an honest person?” Atty. Cullo adds. On August 19, 2014, the Commission on Elections determined its plan to hold the SK Elections on February 21, 2015 in Resolution no. 9896 which includes the deletion of SK voters turning 18 years old on or before the February 21, 2015. On September 5, 2014, the Commission on Elections passed resolution no. 9899 which states the rules and regulations for the registration of members of the SK happening from September 20 to 29, 2014 in connection with the rescheduled SK elections happening this February 21, 2015. “It is better that SK is present to become representatives of the youth and it is easier to address the issues of the youth,” says Ongcay. “The purpose of the

youth is to become catalyst of social reform or social change towards a nation that the basic problems pf the society is already or immediately addressed, towards a society where there is equality and toward a society where we serve our fellowmen and not the foreigners,” says Spokesperson of Southern Mindanao Kabataan Partylist Paul Dotollo. “In this time, we are very exposed to social and political issues and crises, it is but the right for the youth to engage in politics,” Dotollo adds. The SK council is back after its postponement, even without the reforms that a lot of people expected, may help the government and the whole nation to develop and improve as it is the purpose of SK. “My encouragement for them this coming SK elections is to start right, because of you will not start right, at an early age you will already be corrupted,”

final thought of Atty. Cullo. The ongoing voter’s registration and registration for the May 2016 national elections will be postponed to give way for the SK Elections starting January 22 until March 22, 2015. The filing of candidacy will be on February 7 until February 10, 2015, except February 8. Starting February 11until February 19 will be the campaigned period and finally the voting day will be February 21. Despite the outburst call of Comelec Chair Sixto Brillantes Jr. to postpone further the SK election, no finalization has been signed yet by the Congress. Furthermore, Comelec still push through with the preparation for the SK elction this February. As Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said, “As far as the Comelec is concerned, when January 22 comes, there’s no looking back for us.”

OVER THE HORIZON. Residents of the Island Garden City of Samal hopes that one day the proposed Davao-Samal bridge will be built, connecting IGaCoS and Davao City. ATENEWS FILE PHOTO

WEATHERPROOF. Spectators of the Papal motorcade in Leyte endures the rain just to get a glimpse of the Pope. AYEE MACARAIG/Rappler

Davaoeños join ‘Pope Francis fever’ V

iva Il Papa Francesco! The festive and also solemn mood of the Papal Visit of Argentine-born Jesuit cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, known as Pope Francis, has reached multitudes of Filipinos from around the archipelago, aside from those who are in the center of the Papal Events in Manila and Tacloban through technology. Luckily, few Davaoeños were able to see the ‘Pope of Firsts’ up close and personal and they shared their personal experience to Libertad. Eye in the sky Davao-based teacher and blogger Alwyne Jan Perez, known in the blogosphere and blogging community as AJ Perez, was one of the few Davaoeños that have access to the nerve center of the Papal Visit, the International Media Center (IMC). He told Libertad that the opportunity to cover the Papal Visit came when an USbased international Catholic website tapped him as one of their eyes in the scene. “I was excited when OBS (One Billion Stories) contacted me and asked me to cover for them, all-expense paid. I did not

hesitate saying yes, I know this chance will be once in a lifetime,” he added. Perez told Libertad that the International Media Centers, located in both Diamond and Manila Hotels, are one of the best ways to view the whole Papal Visit in one central location. “With cameras from all corners and a feed from all places of interest in the Papal Visit, the IMC has the 360 degree view of every single location for Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines, including Tacloban City and Palo in Leyte,” Perez described. He, however did not stay that long in the International Media Center to monitor the video feeds and listen to the nightly press conferences by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines and the Vatican. “I went out really, and was lucky I saw the Pope very close, like seven meters or so,” he said while narrating his experience during the Meeting with Families at the Mall of Asia Arena. He detailed what he felt when he saw the Pope for the first time. “It was thatt time that I knew what

by Karlo Alexie C. Puerto the One Directioners out because we were feel once they see the told that our trip will band. Naging fanboy not be sponsored,” Fr. din ako ni Pope! (I Puerto narrated. also became a fanboy When he saw of the Pope!),” Perez the Pope, he felt shared. starstruck and He also said that he amazed. and his colleagues’ “When he entered efforts to cover the the Manila Cathedral Papal Activities on the processional, and attend them I, together with themselves were my co-priests, lost worth it. our composure “I wanted to attend and brought out the last Papal mass and our cameras and audience at Luneta, phones to capture kaya pumunta kami the moment they sa Luneta at 2am saw him,” Fr. Puerto para makapwesto. shared. Naulanan man kami He, however ay okay lang yun, the returned to the sacrifice was worth p r o f e s s i o n a l the experience. behavior when Meet the boss the Mass officially Fr. Leomel Puerto, started. parish priest “The feeling of of Immaculate excitement was still Conception Church there, however I just in Mintal, Davao need to contain the City and head of the emotions since I’m Davao Archdiocesan inside the Cathedral, Youth Coordinating already in the middle Apostolate (DAYCA) of a Mass,” Fr. Puerto of the Archdiocese, added. shared his tale of the According to him, ‘Pope Francis fever’. this is not the first He shared to time he saw the Pope Libertad how he up close. was selected to go to “I have seen him Manila and attend the in South Korea last First Papal Mass with year during the Asian the Philippine clergy Youth Day, pero the at Manila Cathedral. Philippine visit was “The organizing more festive and committee allowed warm-welcoming,” he 10 priests from the said as he compares Archdiocese [of his Asian Youth Day Davao] to attend the experience and the Mass with the Clergy. Papal Visit in Manila. 30 of us registered, He felt very however some backed privileged to see the

Pope up close and personal, and even hear mass from the Pope himself. “Kung hindi lang ako naging pari (If I am not a priest), I would not have this opportunity to Him personally up close. I would just be contented seeing our leader on television,” Fr. Puerto said in delight. The innocent’s view Zoe Huang, a third year high school student at a Catholic institution, felt excited the time she was chosen by her school to join their delegation in the Youth Encounter at the University of Santo Tomas (UST). “I said ‘oh my gosh’ the time I learned about it. Para akong nawala sa sarili (I think I was lost) for a few minutes,” Huang told Libertad. She and her schoolmates went to UST, getting a good spot of the Pope, and got shocked that Pope passed by their place. “I felt I was in heaven. I felt blessed,” Huang shared. Common denominator According to the three, the common denominator of their Pope Francis experience was His message of hope. “I remember when one child asked the

Pope, ‘why did God allow it to happen?’, the Pope immediately asked her to get near him and he hugged her. I think that gesture shows hope,” Perez said. Fr. Puerto also said that the visit was the Pope’s way of showing love to the victims of typhoon Yolanda that struck Eastern Visayas on November 2013. “The moment the Pope said ‘I’m late, but I’m here’, I felt that he has genuine mercy and compassion,” Fr. Puerto reflected, connecting with the Papal Visit’s theme “Mercy and Compassion.” Huang said that it also inspired the youth to be hope of the nation. “It was very striking for us, I even remember what Jose Rizal said, ‘Ang kabataan ang pagasa ng bayan (The youth is the hope of the nation),” Huang realized. In conclusion, the Pope has brought positive messages to the Filipino people. The Pope may have returned to Rome already, but the Filipino people will be forever grateful of his visit to the country in times of negative news and tragedies.

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GLOBAL

Kuwaiti newspaper shut down

No longer safe to buy electronics in S’pore?

By Louise Janree Sacco

UWAIT - AlWatan, Kuwait’s leading commercial newspaper has been closed down, which has been highly critical of the government referring its failure to comply with legally required financial terms. Al-Sabah, owner of the said newspaper stated on their corporate website, that the decision of the court had been challenged. “A representative from the commerce ministry came at 6.30pm — beyond the official working hours — and handed over a missive that included the decision of the minister,” it said.

On Monday, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry released the decision that the newspaper violated the minimum capital requirements. According to the Kuwaiti law, the commercial licenses of companies, losses worth more than 75% of their capital are cancelled. The Ministry said in the statement Tuesday that the law on a number of companies after warning them to put something right on their financial point. Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah al-Sabah, state minister for cabinet affairs told the media Tuesday

outside parliament that the decision was not “politically motivated”. The Al-Watan newspaper one of the largest newspaper in Kuwait owned by the former oil minister Sheikh Ali Khalifa al-Saba and it is managed by his son Sheikh Khalifa. The newspaper has supported by the government traditionally, except in the past two years when it adopted a tougher line. The media group also has a television channel, which was not closed due to it having a different license. The newspaper’s website was still accessible as of press time.

by Karlo Alexie C. Puerto

video of a Vietnamese tourist begging to refund his money in Sim Lim Square which went viral caused stir in the Singapore government, proposing that these establishments be monitored. In a report by Kyodo, Singapore’s Minister of State for Trade and Industry Teo Ser Luck told Parliament on Jan. 19 that over the last three years, there have been 2,000 complaints lodged against retailers in these three shopping malls alone, including People’s Park Complex and the Lucky Plaza Mall. “Foreign tourists are the best target because they don’t have time to complain,” entrepreneur Gabriel Kang, who set up a crowd funding campaign to raise

Half of Japanese abstains in sex - survey By Jane Marie C. Echaure OKYO, JAPAN percent, 5 percentage having sex. – A big issue is higher from two years Because of this, the causing a stir now in ago. country is facing its Japan as more than According to the lowest birthrate. (Stahalf of its population survey, married men tistics sa birthrate ng admitted that they no confessed that they Japan reflecting delonger have sex with were too tired from creases) their partners causing work, others said that It is already in the a very low birthrate in they’ve become sex- stage where there are the country. ually inactive after more aged people In a survey conduct- their wives gave birth. compared to children ed by the Japan Fam- While for the married and young adolesily Planning Associa- women, they said that cents. tion, they found out it was too bothersome The survey covered that 48.3 percent of and fatigue from 3,000 respondents men and 50.1 percent work. aging from 16 to 49 of women no longer Among the male re- years old. However, have sexual interac- spondents, 17.9 per- the surveyors have tions with their part- cent of them said that not identified the ner. The total per- they have little, no proportion between centage of both men interest at all or even men and women. and women is at 44.6 extreme dislike in

Saudi king dies at 90 R

by Fairah Kleanne Pendatun

oyal officials have announced that Saudi Arabia King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz has already passed away. Reports said that the 90-year-old royalty died inside the hospital after losing his weeks-long battle with pneumonia. His half-brother King Salman got the throne as the next ruler of the predominantly-Muslim kingdom and said that he will continue what his predecessors have done. “We will continue adhering to the correct policies which Saudi Arabia has followed since its establishment,” King Salman said in a speech broadcast on state

television. Abdullah had suffered frequent bouts of ill health in recent years, and King Salman had recently taken on the ailing monarch’s responsibilities. Prior to announcing Abdullah’s death, Saudi television cut to Koranic verses, which often signifies the passing of a senior royal. Muqrin, one of the late king’s half-brothers aged 60 was also named the new crown prince, royal official statement said. Abdullah, Salman and Muqrin are all sons of the founder of modern Saudi Arabia, King Abdulaziz, usually referred to as

Ibn Saud, who died in 1953. King Salman appointed Interior Minister Prince Mohammed bin Nayef as deputy crown prince and his own son Mohammed bin Salman as defense minister. However, other ministers including foreign affairs, oil and finance departments were kept in place. The late King will be buried in an unmarked grave immediately after Friday prayers, practicing the tradition of Wahhabism or the ultra-conservative form of Sunni Islam being practiced across the oil-rich state. > NO LONGER, 22

funds to help the Vietnamese tourist, told Kyodo News. Kang calls for the government to change the law. “Every month these people are cheating millions of dollars. How come they can continue business?,” he questioned. In the Singapore Parliament on January 19, legislator Irene Ng aked whether the bad impressions caused by errant retailers in Sim Lim Square has affected Singapore’s bid as a tourist and shopping destination. “The government will review the current legislation to strengthen the law so that quicker action can be taken,” Teo promised the Parliament. Teo also said that their agency will also try to prevent errant

retailers from forming new companies. “We need to take action against such retailers who affect consumer confidence and dent Singapore’s reputation,” he added. C o n s u m e r s ’ Association of Singapore executive director Seah Seng Choon said that there are numerous complaints involving Sim Lim Square regarding errant retailers. “[They] often take advantage of tourists and foreigners who are unaware of the reputation of Sim Lim Square or do not speak or understand English properly,” Seah explained to Kyodo. Seah also said that these errant retailers make use of unfair practices such as doing misleading > NO LONGER, 22

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FEATURE

UNVERTAIN. Boat passengers at Lipata Port in Surigao City wait for the public storm warning signals to be removed for them to continue their journey. ROEL CATOTO/MindaNews

BLANK SPACE. Being a mother is a noble profession, whatever societal status one has. ELAINE MAGISTRADO

Experiencing Seniang: Tales of suffering and survival By Louise Janree Sacco

t has been a very rough and tiring for me and for the others as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical S e r v i c e s Administration (PAGASA) stated that there will be a typhoon coming to the Philippines before the 2014 ends. On the 28th of December my family and I supposed to be traveling from Tagbiliran going to Cagayan de Oro and heading to Balingwan going to Camiguin when the news says that tropical typhoon “Senyang” will hit the Philippines with its speed of winds of 55 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and will first landfall in Mindanao specifically in Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte

and will be going to Bohol where we are on that moment and Camguin where it is on signal no. 1. At 6:15 on the evening we have travelled to Tagbilaran going to Jagna where we can ride a boat bound for Cagayan de Oro. But, after of two hours of travel we arrived at the place, 8:45 p.m. where all people are about to sleep and getting ready for the typhoon that will hit Surigao, 2:00 in the morning. All ticketing outlets have suspended their transactions and cancelled their boat trips. They will be releasing tickets possibly on the 4th of January. It shocks us that we will be spending our New Year in Bohol that supposed to be on the that day we will arriving in Camiguin and on 31st we were

able to go home and will spend New Year in Tagum. So, my aunt decided that to spend the night in a lodge to sleep and tomorrow will go back to Manga District, Tagbilaran and will spend some time in my uncle’s house while waiting for the lift of trip suspension. On the 29th, at 4:00 in the morning the typhoon “Seniang” made its landfall in Barangay Bakulin, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. We felt that typhoon releases its power, the rain is not heavy but the wind was strong but the sea was so calm. Travelled again for two hours and stayed for one and a half day and still waiting for the trips. On the next day, it landfall in Bohol on the same speed at 2:00 in the morning

but, we were all asleep and haven’t felt the heavy rain and wind. In the morning, around 7 you can see how the typhoon ruined some places in Bohol; trees fell down, some places was flooding and electricity posts were uprooted. Me and my family we are so thankful that nothing happened to us that we were all safe and still we were waiting for the lifting of boat suspensions that my aunt went to the port and wait for the tickets to be release. At exactly 12:00 p.m. authorities from the port lift the suspension and started to sell the tickets. We left Bohol at 7:10 in the evening and travelled for nine hours heading to Cagayan de Oro, the sea was so calm and the typhoon

was really gone. We arrived at Cagayan de Oro about 4:00 a.m. of December 31, 2014 and headed to Balingwan going to Camiguin. Another three hours of travel. My aunt decided that we will spend the New Year in Camiguin. The bridge that connecting Cagayan de Oro and Butuan got destroyed that heavy buses and trucks cannot pass by, only motorcycles are allowed. So we have to walk or to ride a motorcycle but we preferred to walk and it was far a little, another bus waiting and accepting passengers going to Butuan, a one-hour travel. Finally we’ve arrived in Camiguin safely and stayed there for three days. After a one week and a half of traveling, I finally must say

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that experience is unforgettable that it was so difficult and tiring that you have to wait patiently and watch news in order to be updated of what was happening. Tiring because you have still lot things to think and you don’t know what to do anymore, you want to go home and spend your New Year with family but it did not happened, the long hours on going home and that you are not comfortable on your sitting position. We are so lucky that we do not sometimes experience typhoons compared to other places here in the country. The experience that I have experienced was an adventure experiencing the ‘first time’ in my life is something a realizations and lessons.

A letter to the single mothers By Angela Ceasar Grant C. Rabino

o all the single mothers who have been working hard for their children – I write to tell you that your job as a single parent should be commended. I had thought that no one will ever be as lucky as me. I once had a complete family – a mother and a father. We eat on the same dining table, we pray together and most importantly, we love each other. But sadly, an unexpected event happened - my father has gone ahead of us. I was in my third year in high school when my father passed away. At that time, it was extremely hard for us to accept the fact that he was gone. And yet, my mother taught me important lessons in life – to accept things and believe that everything has a reason and most significantly, to stay strong and keep moving forward. Since then, my mother embraced all the responsibilities as a single parent. She never fails to provide me things that I need despite the fact that she has to do it without my father. From my tuition fee, allowance, books and other daily needs – she is in charge of these. Also, I am totally amazed how she budgets money and organizes things. Anyhow, mothers are known to be good at budgeting and organizing. And I am sure a lot of you does all of these too – not to mention mothers are expert in almost everything. Indeed, single or not, mothers are allin-one – to the extent of possibly beating robots.

Notably, my mother serves as my physician when I am sick and a professional cook to prepare our food. When the faucet is broken, she automatically becomes a plumber. And she can also be a gardener who plants vibrant and attractive flowers in our front yard. In fact, when I need a comfort, my mother gives the warmest hug I could ever need. She serves as my alarm clock, not just to wake me up early but also to constantly remind me about being good and to do what is right.

“Being a mother and at the same time a father to your children is tough yet rewarding.” Moreover, I believe that the support and guidance that you give us is exceptional and unique - providing us beyond our needs makes us feel loved and special. And I believe that being a single mother was never easy and that makes you someone who is worthy to be praised for. I am proud of you. As a daughter, I have seen how my mother strived hard for my education – the greatest gift a parent can give to their children. And it is also my responsibility to study hard in return.

At any rate, being a single mother like you teaches your child to be compassionate and fearless. And as a consequence, it gives us a lesson to never give up in life despite of some unwanted events. In return, your efforts will soon be paid off! With this intention, every child who is well taken care of wants nothing but also happiness for their parents. On the other hand, I would like to congratulate you for being an independent and strong woman. Despite the challenges in life, you remained focused and faithful in everything that you have done. Also, I salute you for being still and silent regardless of the difficult situation that you are facing now. Even if you are tired, you still managed to keep going and that is something to be proud of. Even more, being a mother and at the same time a father to your children is tough yet, rewarding. As a result, your children will look up to you and do the same thing you did for them to their future children. Above all, a mother’s love is unconditional and that’s what makes you wonderful. I hope that your children will thank you enough for all the sacrifices that you have done for them. Also, may they value and appreciate every effort that you have made for their future and for the family. And may they realize how hard it is to lose a partner in life and be a single parent. Thank you for being patient and hardworking enough for your family. And may you continue to inspire other people.

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FEATURE

ENTERTAINMENT

Of Aliwagwag and Cateel’s Outstanding Resiliency

Miss Colombia gets Miss U crown BY ELAINE MAE MAGISTRADO

By Frazn R. Sta Teresa

he family have always wanted to take trips in the greener pastures away from the confines of the city and Davao Oriental is just the perfect place to have your little getaway from all the incessant stress that keeps shoving in your existence. It was actually an unexpected trip and I didn’t know what to anticipate for it was my first time to travel in Davao Oriental. Learning that Cateel was one of the affected areas of the unimaginable onslaught of typhoon Pablo last 2012, hundreds of houses and trees gravely turned the town upside down leaving the families in distraught, hungry and homeless. But the aim for this trip is to have a sneak peek of the ever famous and the national treasure of Cateel is the Aliwagwag falls. Located in Barangay Aliwagwag within

the Aliwagwag Protected Landscape, The Aliwagwag Falls is dubbed by the Cateeleños as the pride of Cateel for the exotic falls that possess a series of more than 130 cascading waterfalls and considered by the hydraulic engineers as the highest and most wonderful falls in Mindanao. Obviously thrilled to see the work of art, we still have to wait a little more for there is still a 30-minute travel to endure from the town’s Poblacion. True to their words, finally seeing it in real life, Aliwagwag falls was heaven on earth. It was so beautiful and enchanting I could not almost believe it. At first impression, you would say it’s a stairway to heaven in a literal context. Before arrival, I already took the initiative to research about the falls on the internet. The photos alone do not justify the beauty before my eyes. There was even a huge

trunk that lie strewn on the falls caused by the offensive typhoon but it was still a sight to behold after two years proving that beauty continues to increase and does not pass on. While on the road, I cannot help but notice the newly constructed and colourful duplex type housing units. I immediately thought that these could be the implemented Resettlement Project of the National Housing Authority (NHA) to be given to those families who had lost their homes after the catastrophe. Confirming my hunch, I praise both the residents’ resilience and courage to keep moving on and the whole provincial government under the leadership of Davao Oriental Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, proving that if Filipinos keep on working together, we can surpass any unimaginable catastrophe.

SERENE. A photo of post-Pablo Aliwagwag Falls in Cateel, Davao Oriental two years after the strong typhoon hit the province. FRAZN STA. TERESA

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BEAUTY AND Miss Universe Paulina VegaVega of Colombia BEAUTY ANDBRAINS. BRAINS. Miss Universe Paulina of Colombia proudly wears the competition crown at the end of the grand proudly wears the competition crown at the end of the grand corocoronation in Miami, Florida. ASSOCIATEDPRESS PRESS POOL POOL PHOTO nation nightnight in Miami, Florida. ASSOCIATED

Boyce Avenue invades Davao By Monique Loise P. Abellana

merican rock band Boyce Avenue, will be coming to the Philippines on February 15 for a live concert at the SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang Premier in Davao City. The boy band is known for their melodic rock and acoustic roots sound. They are consisted of the three brothers Alejandro, Fabian, and Daniel Manzano. The band releases original music as well as covers

of contemporary and classic songs via their YouTube channel. They have been p e r f o r m i n g worldwide. They are also considered by music streamintg website Spotify as the most streamed international artist in the Philippines. This is not their first time in the country as they have already performed as front acts of Kris Allen and the Jabbawockeez for their Phillipine

shows. Tickets cost P3,300 (Gold), P2,200 (Silver), and P880 (Bronze) for their Davao concert. Prior to this, the Boyce Avenue will perform on February 14 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Manila as part of their two-day country tour. The concert is brought by Ovation Productions. For ticket inquiries, you may call 09326376185 or 09162867088.

aulina Vega of Colombia was crowned Miss Universe 2014, besting 88 contestants during its grand coronation Sunday night (Monday morning Manila time) held at Florida International University in Miami, Florida. Vega, a 22-yearold business administration student from Barranquilla town in Colombia, said the first time she joined beauty pageants were during the elimination phases of Miss Universe in their country. “It will be a dream come true to represent the woman of today. A woman that not only cares about being beautiful and being glamorous, but aso cares about being a professional, intelligent, hardworking person,” the newly-crowned beauty earlier said when asked about the role of the pageant’s winner. Vega also said that after her Miss Universe term, she will return schooling. Las Vegas, Nevada native Miss USA

Nia Sanchez, 24, was announced first runnerup, while Miss Ukraine Diana Harkusha was crowned second runner-up. Coming fourth was Miss Jamaica Kaci Fennell and Miss Netherlands Yasmin Verheijen fell fifth. North Cotabato native Miss Philippines Mary Jean Lastimosa, 27, meanwhile failed to make it to the top five beauties, breaking the winning streak already set by her predecessors Venus Raj, Shamcey Supsup, Janine Tugonon and Ariella Arida, who all made it to the Miss Universe’s top five. Lastimosa expressed her gratitude to her supporters and fellow Filipinos on Instagram. “So proud to be a Filipino! Man, can’t express how grateful I am to everyone! I’m filled with love right now! Love you all! God bless us! Mabuhay!,” read her Instagram post. A graduate of Computer Engineering from the University of Mindanao in Davao City, Lastimosa hoped to follow the footsteps of Miss Universe Gloria

Diaz in 1969 and Margie Moran in 1973, claiming again for the Philippines the top spot that it did not have for more than four decades. She sported a white mermaid dress by Colombian designer Alfredo Barrazza, whom Stella Araneta of the Binibining Pilipinas Charities chose, before she was booted out of the top five. Miss Universe 2013 reigning beauty Gabriela Isler of Venezuela shared during the live broadcast her visit to Yolanda-struck areas in the Philippines. The Miss Universe organization then announced that it raised $250,000 as part of their social responsibility arm for relief efforts to these areas. The Miss Universe 2014 was to be staged on the fourth quarter of 2014, however business tycoon Donald Trump and Miss Universe president Paula Shugart announced on the pageant’s official website the postponement of the pageant to January 25.

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to P517,603, with chances of increasing. Also, the City Health Office (CHO) released a report saying that the dormitories, including its food commissary, have violated sanitation rules and do not possess necessary sanitary permits. CHO had initially ordered a closure of the facilities, but gave DMEMS consideration and required total renovation and cleanup. MERCADO, 6 and 40 percent to Sime Darby,” Mercado said, he allegedly claimed that it cost almost P 1 billion. According to Mercado, BSP would be getting the 15 percent of the project while the Alpha land would be getting 85 percent, he questioned the percentage that was given to the BSP, which it should be 20 percent rather than 15 percent. Gerry Limlingan, Binay’s allegedly finance officer informed Mercado that he will be receiving the 20 percent but the five percent will be going to the fund of Binay that he will be using during the vicepresidential election campaign. “Iyan ang naging malaking kamalian ko, ang napapayag ako ni Gerry Limlingan (That was the biggest mistake I got after allowing Gerry Limlingan),” Mercado said. He added that Binay called him and asked for his signature to sign the contract before he will be leaving abroad. But the five percent that Binay have, was shared to the development

SPORTS property of the Noble Care Management Corp., which Babes Oreta owned. “Sinabi sa akin ni Babes Oreta na huwag akong mag-alala at bahala na sila ni Gerry Limlingan na itago ang share ni VP Binay, dahil mayroon siyang kumpanya — ang Noble Care Management Corp. — kung saan itatago at lilinisin ang share ni VP Binay sa deal na ito (Babes Oreta said that I shouldn’t be worried of it, that she and Gerry Limlingan would took care of it and they would be cleaning Binay’s name on the share that they are dealing),” he said. In August 2008, Alpha land gave Noble Care 20,310 shares and a P100.4 million loan. But Alphaland bought back the shares for P 89 million and written off the debt in November 11, 2010. From that transaction, Binay received P188,973460 which was done during his birthday. Response On the other hand, Binay denies all the anomalies which all Mercado said. Also, lawyer Rico Paolo Quicho, Binay’s spokeperson for political affairs denied the said allegations of receiving P 200 million. “Si Vice Mayor Mercado lahat ng kasalanan n’yang ginawa ay sinisisi nya ngayon kay Vice President Binay,” he said (It’s all Vice Mayor Mercado’s fault, he all did these things and now he’s blaming Vice President Binay),” Quicho said. He also added that Mercado was the one asking for kickback. “Sinabi na naman ni Vice Mayor Mercado na mayroon na naman pong kalokohan pero malinaw na siya ang humingi (Also, Mercado said that

there’s something going on but it’s very clear that he’s the one asking for it.),” he explained Quiche also said that from the start Mercado negotiated and signed the deal between the BSP and Alpha land. “I am sure you will remember that you made less than subtle hints that some ‘benefits’ were due to you for agreeing to conclude this project, and I am sure that you will also remember that I explained to you that Alphaland was a joint venture company with the Ashmore Group, and that every transaction was closely scrutinized by Ashmore,” Oreta supposedly told Quicho According to Nicolas & De Vega Law Offices, the transaction between the two parties are valid and deed absolute sale. GLOBAL OIL, 7 Moreover, even after the dramatic fall in oil in the wake of OPEC not cutting production, oil is likely to go lower in the medium-term. With this, OPEC presented certain reasons why the price of oil will go lower. One of the reasons is the fair value oil that is determined primarily based on supply and demand. Going local, it all depends in the situation of the international oil market. The Philippines do not have the resources to produce oil. With this, the Philippines import oil from other countries. “Swerte ta because we are importing almost 100% oil products. Ang crude oil gina-import from Saudi Arabia and ang refined petroleum products gina-import

sa new industry traders like Petron and Caltex (We are lucky because we are importing almost 100% oil products. We import crude oil from Saudi Arabia and new industry traders import refined petroleum products),” Engr. Nilo Geroche, Chief Science Research Specialist said. Consequently, oil price is the root cause of all price increases. With this, it is important that investors understand the divergence in oil prive between various timeframes. In the short to medium term, price is likely to be lower but in the very long-term, the price is likely to be much higher.

JUSTICE, 10 intervention on his death. “Wala ko’y mabuhat kay hinlo man pagkapatay. Ako nalang ni gipaubaya sa Iyaha (I can’t do anything because there was no evidence that would lead to the suspects. I just placed my full trust in the Lord),” she lightly remarked. SERIES, 11 diseases in woman. The mammography is a type of imaging which uses a lowdose x-ray system to examine the breasts. The result of it was true that there were two lumps called adenoma found on her right breast. Adenoma is a type of non-cancerous tumor or benign that may affect some various organs. It is derived from the word “adeno” which means pertaining to a gland. The difference between a benign tumor and a cancer is its slower growth and lower capacity to spread. Thus, adenomas are much

less aggressive in terms of growing than adenocarcinomas that are malignant and cancerous. Every individual have cells in the body that has a tightly regulated system which dictates when it needs to grow, mature and eventually die off. Tumors and cancers occur when cells lose this control and divide. Moreover, it ended up going to a breast mass surgery because she sometimes feels the pain of it and her mother does not either want her to suffer it. “My cousin also has this but my doctor cannot assure if it is from our genes because usually it occurs in those women who are still menstruating. The procedure made me cry because I was awake that time though my doctor injected an anesthesia but still there were no promises made that I will never feel any pain,” Luisa said. The operation was not that successful because the other one was not able to locate immediately because of the 2nd anesthesia that was injected. So she has to wait again for years to heal the wound so she can have her procedure again. These incidents are considered a series of unfortunate events in the life of Luisa. They are also financially challenged until now because of those tragic moments that came to their lives. “It was my unlucky year because the money is the one who can provide what we need. My mother is really unfortunate because she always tries her best just to make sure we are okay and she can provide what we need but I knew that

we are her treasures,” she said. Today, her family is now slowly rising through her mother, who looks for sidelines, and herself who applied for as scholarship in her school. She insisted to help her mother so she would be a less burden to her. “Even though we were challenged by the Almighty, we knew that He will give us problem that He knew we can surpass it. We can do it as long as we are together. I’m happy that we are on the processing of excelling from what happened last year,” Luisa added. NO LONGER, 17 or false claims to persuade customers to sign on the dotted line and get the money. When these businesses get blacklisted, these errant sellers would resort to hide their names and unit numbers, shutting down the blacklisted stores and opening a brand new story under a different owner. Tourists from the around the world knew that Sim Lim Square was famous for IT, however one retailer from outside the mall thinks it will be more than difficult to clean up the mess errant retailers have done. “The government has been very slow to take action...it’s too late now, it’ll take many years to bring back the name,” Muhammad Furqan Khan told Kyodo. Data from the Singapore Tourism Board states that visitor arrivals reached 15.6 million in 2013, generating $23.5 billion in tourism earnings. (With reports from Kyodo)

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Indian Aces dominates IPTL Season 1 By Adeline Claire E. Ponteras

he first International Premier Tennis League (IPTL) season was dominated by the Indian Aces winning 54.6 percent of their matches at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City happening last November 28 and ended December 13, 2014. The event sponsored by CocaCola Company and Qatar Airways was participated by 4 teams in Asia which includes the Singapore Slammers, 3rd runner-up Manila Mavericks and 2nd runner-up United Arab Emirates Royals. The IPTL Challenge Trophy and a

US$1 million were the grand prizes. Each team had played 12 matches with 5 different categories which includes men’s singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, mixed doubles, and past champions’ singles. Philta vice president and Davis Cup administrator Randy Villanueva said that the IPTL Season 1 was a success. “Tennis in the Philippines was very productive in 2014,” Villanueva said. “For one, the dream of many Filipino tennis fans finally came true when more than 30 world-ranked players led by superstars and grand

slam winners visited the Philippines. We at Philippine tennis are very happy that a big and world class league like the IPTL has recognized the tennis market in the Philippines,” he added. Right after the ending of the season, Singapore Slammers’ player Australian sensation Nick Kyrgios expressed his excitement to play in the tournament next year in his twitter account. IPTL founder and 12-time tennis grand slam doubles champion said that two more cities will most likely be added for the season 2 of

Blue Cup 2015 kicks off By Adeline Claire E. Ponteras

lue Cup host Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) High School team dominated the tournament with 4 wins and 0 loss. The Under 17 Football Invitational 9-A side tounrnament kicked off last January 9 until January 11 at the Fr. Martinez Sports Center Football Field The first ever BLUE Cup was organized by the University Athletics Office of AdDU in cooperation with the parents of the varsity players of the host team. AdDU Athletics Office said that “the program aims to develop stronger ties among our student-athletes

and that of various schools who will be participating in the invitational.” AdDU athletics director Noli Ayo said four teams including AdDU High School, Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) and Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) from Butuan City are participating for the competition. AdDU College coach Ramon Beleno III said they were the last team to be invited for the Cup after a Cebu-based team backed out for some important reasons. “Na inform kami Wednesday afternoon then Friday afternoon

na ang first game kaya hindi kami naka prepare. Wala pang training ang team. Masyadong nag enjoy sa Christmas break (We were informed Wednesday afternoon then the first game is on Friday afternoon that’s why we weren’t prepared. The team haven’t trained yet. We enjoyed the Christmas break too much),” Beleno said. Following AdDU High School (4-0) is the FSUU with 3 wins and 1 loss. AdZU ranks at 3rd place with 1 win and 2 losses while AdDU College stands at the bottom with 0 wins and 3 losses.

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SPORTS

VICTORIOUS. The School of Engineering and Architecture of Ateneo de Davao University wins the annual cheerdance competition of the university. JANE ECHAURE

Lady Eagles dominates round 1 By Adeline Claire E. Ponteras

he Ateneo Lady Eagles defeated the De La Salle University Lady Spikers to win in five sets, 25-22, 25-27, 16-25, 25-14, 15-9, to sweep the round one of the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament last January 11 at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City. Reigning league MVP Alyssa Valdez led the defending champions with 26 points while Amy Ahomiro chipped in 13 markers to lead Ateneo to its seventh straight win to close the first round of the tournament. La Salle team captain Ara Galang only scored 11 points in

their 2-1 lead in the match after winning the second and third sets. The happy mantra of the Lady Eagles took them to a dominant fourth set performance and went on to win the match on the fifth set. La Salle suffered its first loss of the season for a 6-1 standing behind the defending champions with 7-0 standing. On third rank is the National University (4-3), followed by the University of the Philippines (3-4), Far Eastern University (3-4) and Adamson University (3-4) on the fourth rank. University of Santo Tomas (2-5) stays at the fifth place

and University of the East (0-7) at the bottom. At the end of the first round, the Best Scorer so far is Ateneo’s Alyssa Valdez with a total of 155 points, followed by the Lady Bulldogs’ Jaja Santiago with 129 and La Salle’s Ara Galang in third place with 126 points. Yet Santiago took the top position for the Best Spiker producing an output of 40.84 percent success rate. UST’s Marivic Meneses tops in blocking while Ara Galang is the league’s Best Server with 18 aces. Ma. Arielle Estranero of UP is the best digger but Ateneo’s Den-

den Lazaro grabbed the best receiver spot. Her teammate Jia Morado is the best setter. The Lady Eagles are leading in numerous team categories which includes the spiking, digging, setting and receiving departments. The DLSU Lady Spikers grabbed two other team statistical categories with blocking and serving divisions. After a slow start in the competition, the Lady Bulldogs have found their rhythm under their new head coach, Roger Gorayeb. They have greatly improved in their

floor and net defense right after the insertion of Coach Roger. Back-up setter Jocelyn Soliven quickly climed up to the number seven spot for the best setter rankings after being promoted to the starting line-up in place of the veteran Ivy Perez. Underdog no more are the UP Lady Maroons. Former team setter Nicole Tiamzon has been a revelation and now becoming one of the key spikers for the Maroons. Adamson’s Amanda Villanueva took over the load for her team after key player Bam Pineda graduated. Both

ladies has proved a lot in the first round and surely will do more for their team in the second round. The traditional powerful leading teams, FEU and UST, are currently slowed down on the first round. It was all but nothing for the UE Lady Warriors having zero wins. Since season 76, the Lady Warriors has never won a match. Surely fans will be expecting more from the round one underdog teams on the second round of the competition. The start of the second round matches was postponed due to the Papal visit and will resume right after.