Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 314 | Tuesday, April 25, 2023

MAN OF ACTION

VP Sara urges Bukidnon youth to study more, be productive

Rep. Duterte is Top Performing

District Representative in Davao Region: Survey

By MAYA M. PADILLO

First Congressional District Representative Paolo Z. Duterte ranked first in the Top Performing District Representative Survey in Davao Region recently conducted by the RP-Mission Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD).

In a statement released to media, the independent surveying entity said Duterte garnered 81.3 percent of the votes. He was followed by Rep. Maria Carmen Zamora of Davao de Oro province with 80.5 percent.

Duterte said he humbly welcomed the survey results and thanked the general public for their support.

The RPMD recently assessed the public officials’ performance nationwide through the “Boses ng Bayan” initiative, which encourages openness and accountability among public officials.

ary 25 to March 8, 2023, by the RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc., a nationwide survey performed per district in every region with a total of 10,000 respondents who were registered voters.

Meanwhile, Davao City Third District Rep. Isidro T. Ungab scored 77.6 percent followed by Claude Bautista of Davao Occidental (73.5%), John Tracy Cagas of Davao del Sur (70.3%), Cheeno Miguel Almario of Davao Oriental (70.5%), and Pantaleon Alvarez of Davao del Norte (70.9%).

Vice President Sara Duterte urged the participants and the youth to get involved in more productive activities being organized by the local government units (LGUs) as she joined the celebration of the “Kaamulan Festival” on Saturday.

Duterte also told parents to make sure their children will finish their studies and will stay away from illegal activities.

“Let’s bring (our children) to the good side, in going to school, in sports, and things like this -participating in activities (like Kaamulan events organized) by our local government units and our communities,” she told the audience.

Duterte also took the opportunity to thank the people of Bukidnon for supporting her and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during the 2022 elections.

“Finally, we were able to get together after the pandemic, and the seven tribes were kind enough to gather with them,” Gov. Rogelio Neil Roque said in his message.

Valencia City was declared champion in the float parade while Malaybalay City won the street dancing competition. Kalilangan took home the championship for the ground presentation.

Due to budget cuts, only the three LGUs joined the contests.

The Bukidnon Provincial Police Office deployed personnel to monitor and maintain peace and order, while some spectators complained of “strict measures” imposed all throughout the month-long festival.

Nelson Dayanghirang of

The “House of Representatives Public Satisfaction” Davao Region survey was part of the national poll “RPMD’s Boses ng Bayan” conducted from Febru- FMAN, P10

The street dance and float parade, participated in by the province’s seven tribes, are back after a three-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Kaamulan (from the Binukid word “amul” which means to gather) celebrates the customs and traditions of the seven tribal groups that originally inhabited the province -Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon. (PNA)

DCWD assures public enough water supply despite El Nino

The Davao City Water District (DCWD) assured consumers that the supply of water will not be affected even with the El Niño phenomenon by the second half of the year.

DCWD spokesperson JC Duhaylungsod told MindaNews on Friday that majority of the city’s supply at present comes from groundwater sources, which are

more resilient to El Niño compared to surface water.

She said DCWD anticipates higher water consumption from its customers during this period as the phenomenon will bring about higher than usual temperature for prolonged durations.

“Thus, our priority is to ensure that all of our water produc-

tion facilities are operating full blast to ensure service continuity,” she said. She added that the DCWD will be closely monitoring those identified areas that are experiencing intermittent supply during peak hours of water usage to provide interventions as needed.

According to the Philippine

Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), there is 55% probability for El Niño to develop between July and September this year or after the dry season currently experienced in the country.

PAGASA said the drought will likely result in 60% reduction in rainfall.

The impact of this phenomenon, characterized by fewer occurrences of rainfall and typhoons, will be felt starting the last quarter of 2023, and will last until the second semester of 2024, it said.

The next additional water source of this city is surface water, particularly from the P12-bil-

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte graces the street dancing and float parade during this year’s Kaamulan Festival in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon over the weekend. The vice president urged the participants and the youth to get involved in more productive activities being organized by the local government units (LGUs). FB page of Inday Sara Duterte

Coast guard personnel nabbed for alleged rape of young model

By MAYA M. PADILLO

NBI-Davao, PDEA 11 closely monitoring bars in Davao City for illegal drug activities

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI 11) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 11 (PDEA 11) are closely monitoring bars and pubs in Davao City for suspected illegal drug activities.

This developed after Joey Toledo, owner of a bar at the junction of Jacinto and Fatima Streets in Brgy. 32-D, Davao City, was arrested in a buy-bust operation for illegal drug activities on April 23, 2023.

“All the bars are monitored because of this operation. We are checking them one by one. This is to give a stern warning to the bars na operating illegally such like this kasi we will not tolerate and we will be conducting now and then the same we conducted in particular months. We are checking all the bars because of this incident since there are many minors in the bar at the time we conducted the operation,” said Arcelito Albao, regional director of NBI Southeastern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-SEMRO), in a press conference at the NBI 11 office along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City on Monday.

PDEA 11 regional director III Naravy Defensor-Duquiatan said aside from the bars, they are also closely monitoring other establishments that could be venues for selling illegal drugs.

“We are closely monitoring the bars and other establishments so are possible na gateway ng pagbebenta ng illegal drugs,” she said.

She said one of PDEA 11’s mandates is coordinating with the City Anti-Drug Council (CADAC) in conducting orientation and seminars to the employees of the bars and other establishments on the symptoms of illegal drug users and images of drug paraphernalia used during the administration of illegal drugs.

“So, through the effort of our CADAC marami na po tayong naturuan at nabigyan ng seminars with regards to the use and ill effects of illegal drugs,” she said.

Meanwhile, Toledo is facing charges of violation of Sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act 9165 or the “Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002”and Republic Act 10591 otherwise known as the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act”.

The suspect was caught exchanging with the poseur buyer one 5-gram sacket of suspected methamphetamine hudrocloride locally known as shabu worth P30,000. Another 5-gram sachet of suspected shabu and one .38-caliber handgun were recovered from his possession.

TheNational Bureau of Investigation-Davao (NBI-Davao) arrested Philippine Coast Guard personnel Khalid A. Abdullah outside Boxed Up in Doña Vicenta Village, Bajada, Davao City on April 22, 2023 for allegedly raping a 21-year-old model.

Abdullah is facing charges of rape and violation of Republic Act 9208 or Anti-Trafficking-In-Persons-Act and violation of firearms law.

Arcelito Albao, regional director of NBI Southeastern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-SEMRO), pre-

sented the victim and the respondent in a press conference at the NBI 11 office along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City on Monday.

The alleged rape incident happened on April 18, 2023.

“We have all the documents, evidence, and medico-legal,” Albao

said.

The victim alias “Jane” shared with the media that it was the first time he met Abdullah the day she was raped.

She said someone messaged her on Facebook twice using a different account, attempting to hire her as a model for a Philippine Coast Guard event in Panacan. However, she declined. On the third attempt, she said she agreed as someone messaged her on her Instagram account oblivious to the

Cotabato guv brings back health protocols at Capitol

Governor Emmylou “Lala”

Taliño-Mendoza of the Province of Cotabato ordered the re-implementation of health protocols at the Provincial Capitol due to the gradual increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in the province.

Mendoza strongly ordered the department heads and chiefs of Hospitals of the provincial government to immediately imple-

ment the mandatory wearing of face mask, social distancing and the use of hand sanitizers for employees, clients and visitors entering the capitol.

She also instructed all security personnel to maintain strict implementation of the said order.

Based on the Regional Covid-19 tracker of the Department of DOH-Center for Health Development SOCCSKSARGEN

Region as of 6 p.m. of April 23, 2023 there were five new confirmed cases of Covid-19 recorded and 10 new recoveries. No new Covid-19 related death was recorded.

Overall, a total of 78,758 Covid-19 confirmed cases reported to DOH-CHD SOCCSKSARGEN Region wherein 136 (0.15%) are active cases, 75,727 (96.21%)

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 11 (PDEA 11) director III Naravy Defensor-Duquiatan (left), together with Arcelito Albao (right), director of NBI Southeastern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-SEMRO), interacts with local media regarding the arrest of bar owner Joey Toledo following a buy-bust operation on early Sunday morning, during a presser held at the NBI 11 office along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City on Monday. Lean Daval

F

Philippine lenders included in Forbes’ ‘World’s Best Banks’

TenPhilippine banks were included in Forbes’ “World’s Best Banks” which evaluates lenders in terms of digital and customer services, financial advice, and trust.

The survey showed that the top bank in the Philippines was Malaysia-headquartered CIMB Bank, which was among the six banks granted a digital license by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Below is a list of the Philippine banks included in the world’s 450 biggest banks:

• CIMB Bank

• Philippine National Bank (PNB)

• Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)

• Union Bank of the Philippines

• BDO Unibank Inc.

• Land Bank of the Philippines

• Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank)

• Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC)

• Maya Bank

• Robinsons Bank

The survey took into consideration 48,000 customers in 14 languages and 32 countries, covering their opinions on their current and former banking rela-

tionships.

A total of 415 banks or 4% of those that exist across the globe reached minimum scores to be included in the survey, which was conducted in partnership with market research firm Statista.

The lenders were rated on general satisfaction which took account for 30% of the final score, along with whether or not they would recommend the bank, which accounted for another 30%.

The final 40% took into account customer ratings in terms of trust, terms and conditions, digital services, customer services, and financial advice.

PH readies for RCEP participation, eyes Export Dev’t Plan launch: DTI

The Philippines is preparing for its entry to the Regional Economic Cooperation Partnership (RCEP) in June, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said on Monday.

“We’re making sure that the Philippines will be ready now that we are going to be part of RCEP effective 2nd of June... What DTI is going to do is to make sure that we make our businesses and the public aware of the potential gains from RCEP,” he said.

In line with the RCEP participation, the government is also eyeing the launch of its Export Development Plan 2023 to 2024 in the same month, Pascual said.

Pascual said the government would also launch a forum on international trade, which he said is expected to be held annually.

When asked how RCEP would help Filipinos, Pascual said “one of the concrete benefits coming out of this trading blocks is the improved traction of the country

European businesses in Taiwan looking to expand in PH: ECCP

European businesses in Taiwan are looking at expanding into the Philippines and the possible recruitment of Filipino talent given the prevailing geopolitical tensions with mainland China.

According to European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) Executive Director Florian Gottein, a European Chamber of Commerce of Taiwan delegation flew to the Philippines earlier this month to scope possible ventures.

“They’re also looking to the Philippines for different reasons, obviously, because of the geopolitical situation as well. They are also looking into microelectronics, semiconductors in particular,” he said in a chance interview in Makati City.

for investments... Foreign investment means new factories, new operations, that means jobs.”

The Senate earlier ratified the country’s participation in the RCEP, a free trade agreement among the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

RCEP removes up to 90 percent of tariffs in the trading block

Gottein said a number of the firms are also looking to expand and diversify outside mainland China, with the Philippines being one of the possible host countries.

“Some of the companies want to explore the Philippines because even some of their members have operations in mainland China. They’re also diversifying out of it,” he said.

“I mean, I’m not saying that they are now shutting down ev-

erything in China and Taiwan and they’re looking at countries such as the Philippines to completely relocate. They want to diversify given the overall situation,” he added.

China and self-ruled Taiwan are currently facing tensions, with Beijing pushing for unification. Beijing earlier this month launched military drills around Taiwan, which Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen denounced.

Earlier this month Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian said that if the Philippines cared for the 150,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Taiwan, it would oppose ‘Taiwan independence’rather than giving the United States access to military bases near the Taiwan strait.

For his part, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. admitted that he was surprised by the recent remarks, but said that this could be due to the “difference of language” and that the statements may have been misinterpreted.

Gottein said some of the businesses looking to expand already had a footprint in the Philippines, while some are looking to attract Filipino talent to Taiwan, which

Customers wait for their turn at an establishment offering photocopying and other services along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

DTI eyes visiting China to lure more investors

EO 21 to hasten offshore wind projects, says DOE

The Department of Energy (DOE) on Sunday welcomed Executive Order (EO) No. 21 issued by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as this will hasten the rollout of offshore wind (OSW) projects by mandating policy and administrative framework for the optimal development of OSW resources.

DOE said the EO would provide clarity as it will harmonize and streamline permitting processes and leasing fees for OSW projects under a whole-of-government approach and fully implement the Energy Virtual One-Stop Shop (EVOSS) System to cover all relevant government agencies and bureaus.

Under EO No. 21 issued on April 19, “all permitting agencies shall within 60 days from the effectivity of this Order, submit to the DOE a complete list of appropriate permits required by relevant permitting agencies, including all requirements, fees and procedures for the issuance thereof.”

The DOE shall then “review the submission and take appropri-

TradeSecretary Alfredo Pascual said on Monday he plans to visit China later this year to attract more investors as the Philippines readies its participation in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)

ate action on whether they shall:

a) initiate the full integration of applicable permit into the EVOSS platform, provided that all requirements have been submitted; or;

b) require the permitting agency to remediate or supplement a deficient or incomplete submission.”

“With heightened investor interest in energy projects, especially in renewable energy, it is crucial to have a clear framework that would speed up the development of OSW and speed up approvals of necessary permits. We will work together with the concerned government agencies, local government units, and the transmission concessionaire to implement the President’ s directive,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said in a news release.

The Philippines Offshore Wind Roadmap launched last year showcases the Philippines’ potential OSW resources estimated at 178 gigawatts (GW).

To date, the DOE has awarded 63 OSW Contracts with a total potential capacity of 49.928 GW, enough to supply the country’s fu-

China is part of RCEP, which is a free trade agreement among the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

“I am very optimistic about the interest of Chinese enterprises about investing in the Philippines. In fact, I’m scheduling a visit to China, perhaps probably

sometime early third quarter if not towards the end of the second quarter,” Pascual said.

“We can talk about their investments in the processing of minerals, which we’re also discussing with some American and European companies. We can talk about manufacturing, especially I’d like to be able also to talk to companies who are diversifying

their locations and we can try to catch some of them to locate in the Philippines,” he added.

Pascual said China is also interested in tropical food such as durian.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said the country collected $22 billion in “investment pledges” during his recent state visit to Beijing.

The Philippines is a “strategic location” for investments, Pascual said, adding that its young population and vibrant manpower could also attract more businesses.

FDTI, P10

Prices of bread to remain stable throughout summer

The Asosasyon ng mga Panaderong Pilipino (APP) over the weekend assured that the prices of bread and other flour-based products would remain stable, at least for summer. In an interview, APP president Lucito Chavez said suppliers of raw materials have given their assurances that the prices of bakery

inputs would remain unchanged for the rest of the second quarter.

He noted that the series of bread price increases during the last quarter of 2022 until early this year was driven by a brief inflation surge, which, in turn, drove up the prices of flour, sugar, milk, and shortening, as well as diesel.

Diesel is important to the bakery industry because it fires up the ovens used in the mass production of bread, Chavez added.

It was noted that both community and commercial bakeries implemented a series of price hikes in just more than three months, which saw the prices of

Customers wait for their turn at an establishment offering photocopying and other services along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

On the joint operation of National Bureau of Investigation (NBI 11) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 11 (PDEA 11) to closely monitor bars in Davao City for possible illegal drug activities:

“All the bars are monitored because of this operation. We are checking them one by one. This is to give a stern warning to the bars na operating illegally such like this kasi we will not tolerate and we will be conducting now and then the same we conducted in particular months. We are checking all the bars because of this incident since there are many minors in the bar at the time we conducted the operation.”

Consultant

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

JASPER V. BACSAL General Manager / VP Operations JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

GREGORIO GARAY DELIGERO Editorial

MAYA M. PADILLO Senior Reporter

MOSES BILLACURA Sports Editor

ATTY. ARCELITO ALBAO Regional Director, NBI Southeastern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-SEMRO)

The Philippines has about 7,641 islands scattered throughout the country. The three main islands, however, are Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, which are personified by some scribes as Luzviminda.

Of the three main islands, Mindanao seems to be left out. Most people from the other two islands described Mindanao as “war-torn island.” This is the place where battles are common: Christians versus Muslims and communist fighters against military troops. Not to mention kidnappings and massacres.

Some of these may have happened but all these events aren’t true in all parts of Mindanao. If only those who have not been to Mindanao could only visit our very own island, they will definitely change their thinking.

Battles, kidnappings and massacres also happen in other parts of the country. But it seems some media are only highlighting the bad side of Mindanao. Only very few reports about the good things going on here.

But in recent years, this thinking seems to have changed. This is particularly true when Rodrigo R. Duterte, the former mayor from Davao City, became the 16th president (2016-2022) of the Philippines.

Some government agencies

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

MINDANAO AS THE NEXT ECONOMIC PRIME MOVER

have already identified the possibility of making Mindanao as the primary mover in terms of economic prosperity. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is one such agency.

“The DOST recognizes the massive potential of Mindanao as a prime mover of socio-economic development,” stressed Dr. Anthony C. Sales, the DOST XI Regional Director, during the Mindanao Regional Scientific Meeting held at the Acacia Hotel in Davao City recently.

This is manifested in DOST’s continuous promotion of the thriving research and development (R&D) ecosystem in Mindanao and by mapping out sound programs, projects and policies that will aid in the increase of R&D investments and human resources, and enhancement of R&D capabilities.

In recent years, the country’s second largest island (after Luzon) exhibited agricultural advancements in the form of the development of new crop varieties, improved plant nutrition, disease detection and management, and the production of climate-resilient crops, among others.

One good news: The DOST has just completed its 2023 Call Conference, which discussed the agency’s thrusts and priorities in line with the upcoming call for

R&D proposals, with the goal of boosting innovation in the Mindanao region.

The following DOST Councils – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology (PCIEERD), Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), and National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) – will be accepting proposals aligned with the research areas and priorities of each council until May 31, 2023 as part of DOSTs continuous efforts to create a nurturing environment for the science community and support the national economic agenda.

During the Davao scientific meeting, several R&D initiatives were mentioned. Foremost is the Mindanao Renewable Energy Center (MREC) in Ateneo de Davao University. It aims to catalyze and support the conduct of R&D on renewable energy technologies to reinforce energy policy, and utilization and commercialization of technologies.

The MERC is highly relevant, especially with the foreseen increase in energy requirement in Mindanao, particularly in industrialized cities like Davao, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, Butu-

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

Named after the aging Mactan leader of Cebu who ordered his men to attack the visiting Spaniards in 1521, Lapu-lapu Street, in the sixties, was as rustic as any thriving suburban set-tlement one can envisage. Its length, then and now, spans the stretch between Santa Ana Church on the south, and J.P. Cabaguio Avenue on the north.

At the time, Rafael Castillo Street was not yet a figment of imagination.

Though situated two kilometers from the town proper, its was a gravelly path. On week-days, students living in peripheral areas, mostly informal settlers of Bangoy, Soliman, and Agdao and enrolled at Holy Cross of Davao, then an all-boys school, pounded the road regu-larly. Without the auto calesa and the trikes negotiating the street, it was strictly a dirt road. Occasionally, mo-

torbikes and bicycles, usually carrying items on the carriage, were using it.

Lapu-lapu Street, in contrast to today’s landscape which hosts an amalgam of establish-ments, was a lonely track.

Going south from where the road links with Castillo Street, specifi-cally on the left side, was Gotamco, the city’s busiest sawmill. Next to it is Agdao public mar-ket which, at the time, did not include the section that now houses government-owned struc-tures. To the right of the road, the queue of shanties was indisputable to passersby.

From the intersection connecting Francisco Bangoy and Nicasio Torres streets to the Catholic church at the south end of the road, the setting, in today’s context, was a pictur-esque landscape out of an Amorsolo painting. There were residences and there were no

an, Cotabato, and Zamboanga.

Other Mindanao projects mentioned were the Center for Applied Modeling, Data Analytics, and Bioinformatics for Decision Support Systems in Health led by the University of Philippines Mindanao in collaboration with the Mapua Malayan Colleges Mindanao.

There is also the R&D Center for Maternal and Child Health in Mindanao at the Davao Medical School Foundation, Inc., which deals with primary health problems of women and children.

There are also different R&D centers which focus on commodity products that are naturally abundant or proudly produced in Mindanao. Then, there is the Seaweeds R&D Center in Mindanao State University in Tawi-Tawi, which is poised to strengthen the R&D for one of the most common and important resources in the southernmost province of Mindanao.

During the forum, however, some concerns were raised by some scientists. Despite the strides in R&D, funding and procurement remains to be a problem, they claimed.

“Tanggapin natin ng maliit ang funding, mahirap kumuha ng funds. Kung makakuha ka man ng funds, ang hirap gumastos,” observed Fernando P. Siringan, a professor at the University of the

Philippines, Marine Science Institute and an Academician of the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST).

He was talking from experience. The project he is doing for MSI is already running for one year, “yet the things needed weren’t yet procured.”

Siringan said that, on many occasions, even on television, they have already raised their concerns on these issues on funding and procurement. He hopes that the representatives in Congress and at the Department of Budget and Management will address these problems.

“Kasi ay nakakapilay talaga sya sa research, at yung procurement process natin na sana ay makakuha tayo ng maganda at mura ay hindi naman talaga ganoon ang nangyayari. Ang nakukuha natin yung madaling masira at mahal,” Siringan added.

Despite some shortcomings at the national level, Mindanao succeeded in integrating its R&D efforts towards inclusive growth, and closely engaged their stakeholders from the academe, industry, government, civil society organization, and the media to keep their approaches aligned with various frameworks. (With additional report from Geraldine Bulaon-Ducusin, S&T Media service)

LAPU-LAPU STREET, 1960S

two-story structures.

To the right section going south was Castillo Sawmill, next to the Ybañez fishpond that occupied both sides of the road up to Porras Street. The project, which hosted the voracious tilapia, was home by a lonely lagkaw, a small hut strategically built at the center of an em-bankment that divides the pond where the caretaker would take shelter while sniping for naughty children who were angling fish. There was no such feature, though, on the other side.

Young as they were, elementary students had their way of escaping the attention of the caretaker. In the morning, on the way to school, they placed bantaks, fish traps made from bamboo, that were half-buried at the ledge of the pond’s dike, just enough for them to trace when they go home from

school. Always, without fail, the snares had their intended catch.

In some instances, when classes were cut short by faculty meetings and special events, the children, after dismissal from class, would take time to discover clams buried in the rivulet just beside the road. Using sticks and twigs, they disturb the mud or poke small holes to find the crustaceans. Occasionally, there were small crabs also to harvest.

Beyond the pond, in an area now blocked by Porras and Sobrecarey streets, at the time when trash was not yet collected and hauled, was a dump site. The pit, its contents left rotten to the elements, emitted only a slight odor but the pupils, after class, especially after heavy rain the night before, made it a fun activity to scour the mountain of garbage where the ba-nana trunks were disposed of and

to look for mushrooms or scavenge for reusable items.

What made Lapu-lapu Street even more bucolic then is the sight of white herons or egrets scrubbing the pond for food when its water level, just after harvest, has been drained low. The maya, a Eurasian tree sparrow once the country’s national bird, also abounded in the ar-ea, perching on the leaves of pliant thickets and enjoying the whistle of the wind.

Of course, six decades later, the traces of the sawmill, the pond, and the dumpsite are gone. Well-paved and fully developed, the thoroughfare now hosts a long stretch of commer-cial buildings, and a coterie of businesses such as convenience store, wholesale supplier, ap-pliance center, budget hotel, medical clinic, printing press, and motorcycle dealer, among others.

KOREAN SPRING COMES TO DAVAO

Springtime is here!

After having an unforgettable first time experience in the “Land of the Morning Calm” I realized one thing— preserving culture is as important as developing a country’s innovative and modern way of life. Same things apply in South Korea.

The fusion of tradition and modernity in Seoul is just perfect from the amazing Gyeongbokjung Palace, preserved old houses at Bukchon Hanok Village up to the skyscrapers like Seoul Sky Tower. This is what travellers from all over the world are psyched about when they plan to visit Korea.

As part of their vision to promote their beautiful country’s tourist destinations, The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines together with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea has brought “Spring in Joseon” to the southern part of the Philippines–Davao City.

Take a glimpse and dive into a memorable experience in this year’s 2-day Korea Festival at the SM Lanang Premier Fountain Court on April 29-30

2023.

With a wide range of different Korean food and drinks combined with traditional activities, this festival will take you back to the old Korea - as if you are in an episode of Sageuk (Korean historical drama)!

Spring in Joseon marks the new beginning of present-day Korea as it was when Hangeul, the unique Korean characters, was made. From here on, everyone was able to express themselves freely and the Korean literature written in Hangeul also started, giving birth to the world widely loved K-drama and K-pop.

Be amazed and get ready for an eventful weekend that will take you on a memorable journey as you experience the rich culture of Korea! There are tons of activity booths that are free for everyone to enjoy. From traditional Korean spring activities, like Beongseonhwa (kind of flower) Nail Dye, down to playing traditional Korean games, Neolttwigi (Korean seesaw), for sure, everyone has something to look forward to!

Aside from sharing Korea’s tradition and history to

Dabawenyos, there will be aesthetic photo spots that just look like you are in Korea. Feed your mind and your tummy will wow you just like the traditional Korean spring food Hwajeon (flower pancake) and pair it with some drinks you and your friends may enjoy.

But, that’s not all! What’s a festival without some music, right? Get ready to be entertained by the Korean traditional performance team as they showcase their talents in playing and singing traditional Korean songs called Pungmulnori (percussion ensemble) and Pansori (solo musical storytelling). There will also be a special performance by P-Pop

star and breakthrough artist, Mona Gonzales.

Of course, we can’t miss out on our talented Davaoeños as they showcase their skills to this year’s “Everyone’s KPOP: Davao” on the 29th wherein the grand winner will get the chance to perform again on stage on the 30th, capping off the entire festival. This contest also marks the first-ever K-Pop contest in the region hosted by KCC.

This celebration is the perfect opportunity for you and your loved ones to not only learn about the roots of Korean culture but is also the venue to bond, learn and create unforgettable memories together.

KBMC, celebrating 35 years of making life easy

Believe it or not, many parts of the Philippines did not have regular power during the mid1990s. For most businesses, this proved a disaster. But there are early innovators that took the bull by the horns and tamed the beast. Take Kyowa as the perfect example.

Kitchen Beauty MarkeEng CorporaEon, the maker of Kyowa celebrates its 35th anniversary in the Philippines brimming with success stories of innovaEon, market vision, and clear implementaEon of the company’s mission.

KBMC has Kyowa as flagship brand for its small kitchen and household appliances. From launching the first rechargeable lanterns during the brownout years, to the introducEon of the

indispensable rice dispenser—we are aMer all a rice-consuming naEon—Kyowa rode and crested with the waves of economic change and coming out winning.

“It is our mission to serve our customers and make life easy for everyone. We are focused on the people. That’s why we place Kyowa in the posiEon to make life for every Filipino as easy as possible,” says Mr. Marc Tee \ Chief OperaEng Officer of KBMC.

“Our homes, our kitchens should be a place of comfort. Our Kyowa brand has appliances that help you create that comfort zone. Kyowa is here to make life easier for you because the more Eme you save, the more Eme you spend living life,” Mr. Marc Tee adds.

InLife’s Secure 5 offers frequent cash payouts for five years

For a limited time, Insular Life (InLife) is offering Secure 5, an insurance product that provides life protection, guaranteed quarterly cash payouts on the plan’s second year, and the return of total premiums upon maturity in 5 years.

“The circumstances of the past three years have made some people risk-averse. They are uncomfortable with market movements that may impact the fund values of variable universal life policies. We kept this in mind when we developed Secure 5,” said Gae Martinez, Chief Marketing Officer of InLife.

Secure 5 is a five-year guaranteed issue offer (GIO) insurance plan available to individuals between the ages of 0-65. It is best suited for individuals who want their financial assets placed in long-term investments.

“Many Filipinos are avoiding or postponing making financial decisions in the light of all the issues affecting markets. But Secure 5 lets you protect your loved ones while guaranteeing attractive payouts over a 5-year period,” Martinez noted.

Secure 5 has two annual premium payments that start at P250,000 (with a maximum of P12,500,000). Policyholders have the option to place a second annual premium in a premium deposit fund (PDF).

The guaranteed cash payouts or anticipated endowments are up to 4% per annum. The first cash payout is given on the first year of the policy. The subsequent payouts are given quarterly. Once the plan reaches its five-year maturity, the

Three decades on it is the ability to smell the winds of change that spells the brand’s longevity. Kyowa quickly caught the change in the Filipino household, the new decision maker, and the type of residence. The brand is also quick to cash in on the young customer and its flair for new experiences, tastes, and hobbies. In short, it’s all about fully understanding the new lifestyle.

With the changing customer comes a change in look. Literally defined as, today or new day, Kyowa celebrates this landmark with a new logo that beXer embodies its meaning. A rising sun symbolizes the brand as a reliable product that is innovaEve to address a lot of needs. A new day also exudes

warmth and sincerity, and even opEmism, all the posiEve feels of a life worth living.

KBMC also carries Rosse[ known for stainless steel kitchenwares and food service items. catering and restaurant wares. Rosse[ is designed to meet all of your culinary and cooking needs. Kyowa recently launched its Kuroshiro line of appliances that aptly depict sleek and classy in honor of its kuro (black) and shiro (white) definiEon.

While the market is saturated with new brands, there is truth in brand loyalty. Kyowa remains top of mind because it has stayed true to its customers through the years.

“2023 is a big year for KBMC. We love the Philippines, and we hope to stay in the hearts and minds of Filipinos through their kitchen and their homes,” adds Mr. Marc Tee.

policyholder will receive back the total premiums paid, regardless of economic or market conditions.

Meanwhile, InLife continues to be one of the country’s top five insurers in terms of net worth, net income, and assets, according to recent figures from the Insurance Commission.

“As we move forward, we will introduce innovations and develop new products that address the current needs of our customers. In fact, our latest VUL fund strategy, the Systematic Global Sustainable Income Fund, seeks attractive regular income while investing in a global portfolio that also achieves a lower carbon intensity compared to benchmarks. Available in both our Peso and US Dollar plans, the fund has paid close to 6% p.a. in its latest income distribution. This is proof that sustainable investing makes good financial sense,” said Martinez.

She added that this is consistent with the Company’s firm commitment to make significant investments in renewable projects and sustainable initiatives. “InLife has been a trusted insurance company for more than 112 years. With our new sustainable fund and the recent launch of Secure 5, we further strengthen our commitment to advancing financial security for Filipinos and their loved ones,” Martinez said.

Talk to an InLife financial advisor to learn more about the benefits of Secure 5, or visit https://www.insularlife.com.ph/secure5. Follow InLife’s Facebook Fan page for product updates, events, and promotions.

5 ways Companies can support women

as they strive for success and work-life balance

Manila, Philippines — Women empowerment has made great strides in the last few decades. Some have entered previously male-dominated fields, rose to the highest ranks, and set up some of the world’s biggest companies–including Canva, which grew from being a graphic design tool into an end-to-end creativity and collaboration platform.

The challenge now is to create opportunities for more women to shine. Maisie Littaua, Canva Philippines’ Head of Growth, shares some ways that companies can help women take bigger roles, while supporting work-life balance.

Actively pursue diversity and protect equal opportunity

Some companies ask applicants to state their marital status in their applications because of a bias against working moms. However,

more companies are actively building an inclusive workplace.

Take it from Canva Philippines. It champions Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) and has incorporated it in the job hiring process. It removes exclusive language from job postings, and hosts workshops for everyone involved in hiring so they know how to assess candidates and mitigate biases. Canva has also set representation goals across different specialties like Operations, Design, Engineering, and Product, among others so diversity is not just created at one level.

“We need to cultivate more opportunities for women in the workplace, and equal opportunity for career advancement. Women should be able to highlight their strengths, without being hindered by a bias that they might have a child,” says Maisie.

Encourage mentorship and growth “Coaching support can help prepare women for bigger roles,” says Maisie. “They can receive the right guidance from the start and be given the chance to show what they can do.”

Canva’s development program focuses on four areas: craft or technical skills, strategy, communication, and personal leadership. Aside from formal workshops and informal brown bag sessions, each manager is a “coach”, and each employee is a “coachee”. Throughout the year, they have growth and impact chats about personal goals, well-being, and motivation.

Maisie Littaua, Canva Philippines’ Head of Growth, says that creating a culture of mentoring allows women to empower other women, and make a difference in their own spheres of influence.

MAN... FROM 2 DCWD... FROM 2 NBI-DAVAO...

Davao Oriental province got 68.2 percent followed by Davao City Second District Rep. Vincent Garcia (67.4%), Alan Dujali of Davao del Norte (67.2%), Ruwel Peter Gonzaga of Davao de Oro with 65.3%.

District representatives in the Davao Region were evaluated by RPMD based on three critical parameters: district representation, legislation, and constituent service.

District representation refers to how effectively the representative addresses their constituents’ concerns and needs. This parameter assesses the representative’s ability to be responsive and proactive in addressing issues related to their district.

Legislation evaluates the representative’s performance in terms of their legislative output. This parameter considers the representative’s role in proposing and passing bills that positively impact their constituents and the community they represent.

Constituent service refers to how well the representative can assist their constituents in accessing government services and programs. This parameter evaluates the representative’s responsiveness and effectiveness in helping their constituents in matters related to government services, such as health care, education, and social welfare.

Dr. Paul Martinez of the RPMD said assessing district representatives based on these parameters comprehensively evaluates their performance and ability to serve their constituents effectively.

“It highlights the importance of the representative’s role in addressing the needs and concerns of their constituents, passing meaningful legislation, and providing quality constituent service,” he said.

He also said that it is crucial to assess the performance of district representatives regularly, as they play a vital role in ensuring that the needs and concerns of their constituents are addressed.

“By evaluating their performance, we can determine if they are fulfilling their duties and responsibilities to the best of their abilities,” Martinez said.

In order to make sure that district representatives are efficiently carrying out their duties, he continued, regular evaluations of their performance are important.

The sampling margin of error is ±1 percent with a 95% confidence level. They were randomly chosen, and the number of respondents per district was distributed proportionally based on official voting population data.

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currently has an aging population.

“Taiwan is a very senior population already, and they are really looking into the Philippines to get more talent outside also the usual sectors such as hospitality and medical care, so we’re looking into other sectors as well,” he said.

Gottein is set to fly to Europe in June to touch base with potential investors and follow up with companies which met with the Philippine delegation in Brussels last December.

The ECCP in December also said major European firms in the renewable energy sector were looking at entering the Philippine market, including leaders of the billion-dollar industry.

lion Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP) of Apo Agua Insfrastructura in Tamugan River.

Duhaylungsod said the target full operation of the project is tentatively set by June this year.

The Apo Agua is expected to supply around 300 million liters of treated water to DCWD. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

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within 20 years, which Pascual said could boost the country’s foreign direct investments, due to foreign firms that would like to gain access to RCEP member countries.

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fact that it was the same person.

“I was picked up in Matina at 4:20 a.m. on Tuesday. Ingon siya naa daw event sa Coast Guard Panacan, 5 a.m. mag-start. Niagi mi sa may Diversion Road ug niabot mi sa Buhangin. Habang nagabiyahe mi, tingala ko ngano naabot siya ug Cabantian nga dapat ang dalan sa Panacan straight lang, sulti niya short cut daw. Three times siya nagsulti nako na gusto siya mag-ihi, pagka third time naa siya nakit-an na lugar nga ngitngit, nisulod siya sa dalan nga ngitngit kaayo, walay poste, ug suga. Pag-ingon niya nga mag-ihi daw siya, wala siya nibaba naa siya gikuha sa backseat niya, gikuha niya ang iyahang baril. Gitutukan ko niya sa liog, sulti niya hold-up, gikuha niya akong phone. Wala na ko’y any contact nga mapangayuan ug tabang kay naa sa iyaha ang akoang phone. He said kung gusto daw ko mabuhi sundon daw nako ang iyahang isulti. Mao to didto ko niya gi-rape sa sakyanan. Ingon siya nga tarungon daw nako kay nakasalalay sa iyaha ang akong kinabuhi,” she narrated.

She said around 6 a.m. the suspect brought her to an inn and raped her for the second time.

“Around 6 a.m. hayag nato siya sulti niya musulod mi ug inn and

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“We confiscated 10 grams of suspected shabu since it tested positive during the conduct of laboratory examination by PDEA chemist and 1,000 genuine buybust money and one-unit caliber pistol,” Duquiatan said.

The operatives of PDEA 11 conducted case surveillance against the suspect for a month.

Duquiatan said the majority of his patrons are customers of his bar and transactions on illegal drugs were conducted outside the bar.

“We focus on the illegal drug activities on the target since our team also conducted a series of case surveillance and our team identified some of the cohorts of the suspect. Based on our investigation he was a former user of illegal drugs for the past years,” she added.

Duquiatan is encouraging the youth to avoid bars specially if they know that there are illegal drug activities involved.

“If you also view the videos of the netizens who are visiting the bar makikita mo talaga na hindi normal ang ginagawa nila sa loob ng bar. We cannot turn a blind eye to these activities already. Marami ng naging biktima sa illegal na droga and we are afraid that the coming generation ay ma- hook into using illegal drugs and in selling illegal drugs. It is our mandate to enforce the law,” she said. By Maya

M. Padillo

I suggest kay naisip nako na mao na ani ang chance na mabuhi ko ug makahawa ko ani nga lugar. Gina fake na nako tanan. Sunod ko kung asa siya muadto. Gidala ko niya sa inn, ug didto gi-rape ko niya for the second time. Nahatod ko niya pauli. Grabe ang trauma,” she said.

She said the suspect threatened her that he would come back if she will report to the police.

The victim decided to report to NBI-Davao when the suspect chatted with her again thru Instagram on Saturday. An entrapment operation was conducted by NBI-Davao

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GROWING FDIs

Pascual said the recent reforms undertaken by the last 2 administrations, which liberalized foreign ownership in select sectors, could also help boost foreign direct investments.

Among the most attractive sectors to foreign investors is the renewable energy sector, Pascual said.

The government recently revised the implementing rules and regulations of the Renewable Energy Act, allowing 100 percent foreign ownership in renewable energies particularly solar, wind and tidal energy, he said.

Pascual said the recently signed EO that would establish a “green lane” for foreign investors would also entice more businesses to set up shop here.

“There will be hand-holding for investors to go through the process for somebody in the know of the intricacies of dealing with government offices,” he said.

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ture electricity demand.

The EO is expected to accelerate the development of the country’s OSW resources and will contribute to the attainment of the aspirational targets of 35 percent and 50 percent renewable energy contribution to the energy generation mix by 2030 and 2040, respectively. (PNA)

The suspect was apprehended by authorites on Saturday at an establishment.

“Nagdecide ako na magreport dito sa NBI-Davao kasi baka gawin ulit or baka mapatay na ako if magkita kami second time,” she said.

Meanwhile, Albao confirmed that the suspect is a personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard assigned in Davao City for almost a year.

“The vehicle that he used was the same vehicle he used during his arrest and the same firearms that he used during the rape incident and the time during the rape incident,” he said.

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“tasty bread” (loaf bread) and the local staple “pandesal” (salted bread) raised by 10 percent to 15 percent.

However, Chavez explained that historically, the dry season sees a decline in demand for bread, cakes, and pastries.

“During summer, customers prefer cold and refreshing snacks instead of bread or sandwiches. Our sales are always lower when the temperature is high. It is a bad time to raise prices. Fortunately, inflation on our raw materials has stabilized and we will pass on the benefits to our customers,” he added.

The APP, formerly known as the Cuenca Bakers Association, is symbolically headquartered in the town of Cuenca, Batangas, which is touted as the bakers’ capital of the Philippines.

It is currently the largest community bakers organization in the country, and bakeries operated by its members are mostly located in Metro Manila and surrounding areas. (PNA)

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recoveries and 2,854 (3.62%) Covid-19 related deaths.

The DOH 12 reminded Cotabateños to get vaccinated and observe the minimum public health standards. By Maya

M. Padillo

The vehicle is under the custody of NBI-Davao as evidence as well as the firearms.

Albao said that the suspect might be related also to the series of rape incidents in Digos City and Bansalan in Davao del Sur.

“Somebody called me from Davao del Sur during the time of his arrest that this subject might also be related to the series of rape incidents in Digos City and Bansalan Davao del Sur. We are now conducting a thorough investigation with regards to if the same modus ba kasi firearms are being used,” he said.

PBBM leads send off of PH contingent to SEA Games

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. sent off the Philippines’ 840-strong delegation to the 32nd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in a ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City on April 24, 2023.

Carrying the country’s flag, the Filipino athletes will try to vie for podium finishes in 38 disciplines at the region’s biggest biennial multisport event set from May 5 to 17, 2023 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

The Philippine Sports Com-

mission (PSC) assured its full support to all members of Team Philippines including funding preparations, supplies, manpower and logistics.

President Marcos reminded the athletes that the entire nation will be behind them in their

bid to win medals in this year’s showpiece hosted by Cambodia, expressing confidence about their training even amidst the pandemic.

“I thank you all for the honor and glory that you bring to our country,” said Marcos Jr. in his speech before around 700 athletes, coaches, and NSA officials who will be leaving for Cambodia in batches in the coming weeks.

“At ngayon… ‘yung mga iba ngayon napupunta sa Cambodia

ay hindi pa nag-champion, magiging champion pa lang... The hopes and the dreams and the aspirations of our countrymen for the Philippines ride with you,” said Marcos.

The Philippines will look to equal or surpass the fourth-place finish of the team in the previous SEA Games in Hanoi where it took home 52 gold medals.

Marcos said his support to Philippine sports and the athletes will go beyond the coming SEA Games.

“If this administration, this government can do anything more to support our athletes, to support sports in our country, support the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, if there’s anything more than this government can do, the administration can do, that I can personally do, please make sure to tell me because we are all rooting for you and we want to do everything we can do so that you can be successful in your chosen events,” said Marcos.

FRED C. LUMBA SPORTS KEN NO GILAS TEAM YET FOR CAMBODIA SEAG

As we were doing this piecejust less than three weeks before the Cambodia SEAG, coach Chot Reyes has not yet firmed up the national roster for the men’s basketball event.

News filtering out of the mainstream say that not all those named in the pool are coming to attend the practices.

Reyes bemoans the fact that defending titleholder Indonesia has been in training camp a month ago and is intently scouting for the best naturalized American player to beef up its ranks.

Pinoy sports fans won’t like what they are reading.

It is okay to them if Gilas lost

to a highly touted opponent like South Korea, China, Iran, Lebanon or even Japan.

But losing to an opponent whose national sport is football and badminton is unacceptable. They call it a hard slap on the face, an insult to the intelligence.

It is very likely that Indonesia will “die” to defend and retain the SEAG basketball crown.

It has been the dream of every SEAG opponent to beat the Philippines in the dribble and drive game.

Gilas should also be wary of Thailand who before was the Philippines’ perennial challenger.

Now that they have wtinessed

how Indonesia did what was difficult to achieve, the Thais are now also emboldened to fix their basektball philosophy and preparations.

No longer is it safe for the Philippines to ignore the brewing developments over that side of the basketball fence.

The Cambodia tilt starts May 5 and every diligent coach knows that early preparation and training are key ingredients in winning and losing.

Reyes and Gilas folks received so much flak after their ugly defeat in the hands of the Indons last year who were handled by former Gilas mentor Rajko Toroman. Of course, it is re-assuring that

Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee is Gilas main man and naturalized player.

Pinoy cage fanatics would want that JunMar Fajardo and Japhet Aguilar play alongside JB as the trio should easily match up or overshadow any trio from the opposing teams.

RR Pogoy will miss the action but there’s Calvin Oftana to sub him.

Throw in Scottie Thompson, Dwight Ramos, Robert Bolick and Ray Parks Jr and Chot has his own “Magnificent Seven.”

Chot can also call in Carl Tamayo, Kevin Alas, Jamie Malonzo and Jason Castro.

Kiefer and Thirdy Raevna are

always willing to don the national uniform amd serve the country. There’s also Aaron Black and UAAP standout Jerome Lastimosa. Gauging by the relaxed and confident manner by which the SBP and Reyes are treating the SEAG joust, we cannot erase the possibility that another nightmare might occur in Pnom Penh.

But nobody likes to be hit by lightning twice.

Despite this unfavorable conditions that we hear, read and watch, you and I must always place our unswerving faith in the Pinoy cage hero. (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is flanked by Rep. Richard Gomez, PSC Chaorman Richard Bachmann, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino and Sen. Bong Go.

MINDANAO’S BEST

PCCL-Escandor Cup Mindanao Finals gets going April 26-30 at DCRC

BY NEIL BRAVO

Only two teams from Mindanao will earn a ticket to the Philippine Collegiate Champions League Visayas-Mindanao Finals and from the looks of it, the battle will be tough. Real tough.

The so-called “home boys” composed of Davao City champion Jose Maria College along with fellow Davao qualifiers Holy Cross of Davao College and Rizal Memorial Colleges will be up against the island’s best.

Despite playing on home court, the Kings, Crusaders and Bulldogs do not necessarily enjoy the proverbial homecourt edge.

It’s anybody’s ballgame. Out to overcome whatever advantage the home boys have are a bunch of title-hungry visiting teams from hoop-crazy corners of Mindanao. And homecourt advantage doesn’t seem to appear on their side of Google.

From General Santos City, there’s the many-time qualifier Holy Trinity College who should be dying to return to

the big stage anew.

Representing Cagayan de Oro City, there’s Liceo de Cagayan University--a perennial champion and contender.

And then there’s Zamboanga City titleholder Southern City Colleges.

The was among Mindanao’s top collegiate hoop squads begin on Wednesday, April 26, at the Davao City Recreation Center.

The teams will play under the bracket elimination format with the top two teams moving on to the finals under the supervision of the SBP-XI chapter.

The champion team of this tournament supervised by the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas Region 11 under sports patron Glenn Escandor will earn a slot to the PCCL Vis-Min Finals.

Chris Catarong, shown here driving strong to the hoop, will lead Jose Maria College in the Escandor Cup PCCL Mindanao Finals. (PCCL-Escandor Cup photo)