Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 100 | Thursday, August 6, 2020

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In face of disaster, residents ‘forget’ about warning calls and Covid-19 protocols STORY ON PAGE 2

A resident move his family’s precious belongings from their house to the street to spare them from the flash flood in Bangkal, Davao City on Tuesday evening, 04 August 2020. MindaNews photo by GREGORIO BUENO

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

MELTDOWN

In face of disaster, residents ‘forget’ about warning calls and Covid-19 protocols

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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n a night of heavy downpour and rising water, what’s the first thing you wish to do? Would you still think of grabbing your face mask and ensure you are treading through floods in ‘pandemic-ally’ safe distance away from the other panicking residents?

On Tuesday night when driving rains caused waters to rise in some areas in Davao City, the Covid-19 safety nets were put to acid test as residents literally panicked in the maze of answering to disaster warnings and keeping with the health protocols.

Without a dry run to this scenario, Dabawenyos simply suffered a meltdown. And for Davao Central 911, this has emerged as a new challenge.

Davao Central 911 chief Emmanuel Jaldon blamed it on complacen-

cy of some Dabawenyos to flood warnings which ultimately resulted to panic and failing to observe Covid-19 protocols such as social distancing and wearing of face masks.

Jaldon is referring to Dabawenyos affected by flooding due to heavy downpour on Tuesday that started past 4 p.m., who did not heed the early warning calls.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office-Operation Center (CDRRMO-OpCen) advised barangays along Talomo River channels

to preposition resources, alert communities, and to closely monitor areas that are prone to flood, street flooding and landslide.

“For instance, the flooding yesterday, the DRRMO-Opcen has already triggered the early warning siren calling for immediate early evacuation, that timeframe if heeded, will reduce significantly the risks of exposure of people from dangerous flood waters and Covid-19 as well because they can already prepare for it,” Jaldon said.

“Sadly, people are very complacent. It is a perennial attitude. We rescue practically the same people over and over again in spite of ample early warnings given by our DRRMO. As a result, ang uban wala na nagsuot ug masks because mataas na ang tubig and trapped na sila sa flood waters risk-

ing exposure to Covid-19.

I just hope people will be more aware on what to do.

Mostly, especially diyan sa Central Park along the river bank,” he added.

Jaldon said Central 911 conducts the usual response protocols plus best effort in ensuring individual’s protection measures by 911 responders during actual response activities.

“From my understanding of risks reduction in this kind of situation, the primary responsibility rests on each individual in terms of protection be it for Covid-19 coupled with any other form of disaster,” he said.

Heavy rains have caused the creek tributaries of Talomo River at barangay Balengaeng to overflow.

Heavy rains continued until 7 p.m. that resulted to flooding in Taal, Bang-

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15 resorts, 1 hotel facing possible closure in Mati

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ifteen resorts and one hotel operating without the necessary papers and registrations are facing possible closures from the City of Mati LGU. Mati Tourism and Promotions Office head Dashiel Indelible Jr. said they have already served notices of violations to the erring tourism-related establishments (TREs) over the weekend.

Aside from the 16 unregistered TREs, the MTPO also called the attention of some registered resorts and hotels for minor violations on the minimum health protocols such as failure to report contact tracing forms, social distancing, mask and sneeze guard/ face shield.

Indelible said the health protocol violators were advised to strictly enforce the protocols or face sanctions.

On Monday, August 3, the MTPO facilitated a monthly meeting with the hotels and resort owners.

Under the Department of Tourism Administrative Order No. 2020-002 “Guidelines on the Operations of Hotels and Other Accommodation Establishments Under a Community Quarantine”, areas under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) like the City of Mati, accommodation establishments may undertake normal operations and may accommodate bookings of all guests, whether for work or leisure provided that operations shall be at 50% operational capacity only.

Attending the event were City Tourism Officer Dashiel Indelible, Committee on Tourism Chairman City Councilor Eric Rabat, Mati Tourism Council chair Mikee Rabat, City Administrator Atty. Alejandro Aquino, Provincial Tourism Head Miguel V. Trocio, Francis Jason Bendulo of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Charlemagne Bagasol of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office , Carlo Rey Cortez of the Incident Management Team, Romy Amolata of the Public Safety Office, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, Chamber of Commerce representative Angie David, and representatives from hotels and beach resorts in the City of Mati.

TREs and tourists alike are advised to strictly follow the regulations imposed by the DOT and DOH: 1.) Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) from DOT 2.) No booking, No entry policy 3.) Health guidelines signage upon entry 4.) Thermal Scanner 5.) Foot Bath 6.) hand washing station/hand sanitizer 7.) Wearing of Mask 8.) Wearing of face shield 9.) Observe physical distancing 10.) Information Board 11.) Isolation Area 12.) Report form (sub-

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Involve more experts in battle against Covid-19, Go tells IATF

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Medical frontliners wait to assist arriving patient outside the emergency section of Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City on Wednesday. The Philippine government needs to hire nearly 3,000

health workers to help in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic as virus infections continue to surge. Edge Davao

enator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Tuesday urged the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) to consult more subject-matter experts from various fields and involve groups that are willing to share their expertise.

He said a whole-of-nation approach is needed to overcome the prevailing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) health crisis.

“Bukas po tayo sa mga suggestions mula sa mga doktor, ekonomista, at iba pa dahil marami naman pong gustong tumulong.

Pakinggan po natin ang mga hinaing ng iba’t ibang grupo tulad nitong mga nasa medical community (We are open to suggestions from doctors, economists and others who want to help. Listen to the voice of different groups like in the medical community),” he said.

As an elected representative of the people, Go said he will continue to engage with various sectors and assure them that their voices will be heard by the government.

Regarding the suggestions of some groups to reimpose most stringent enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), Go said

officials must balance various national interests and consider the capability of the government to provide assistance to the poorest of the poor and other vulnerable sectors.

“Wala naman pong may gusto na bumalik tayo ulit sa ECQ pero kung hindi po tayo magtutulungan, mapipilitan po na higpitan muli ang mga patakaran para mapigilan ang lalong pagkalat ng sakit. Ikonsidera rin natin kung kaya pa ng ating pondo at kung may maibibigay pa ba tayong ayuda kung sakaling kailanganin nating patigilin muli sa trabaho ang mga tao at magsara nanaman ang mga Negosyo (Nobody wants to go back to ECQ but if you will not cooperate, we will be forced to reimpose most strict quarantine to stop the spread of the virus. We will consider the availability of funds for cash aid if we there will be work stoppage),” Go said.

On Sunday, President Rodrigo Duterte approved the recommendations to revert Metro Manila, Cavite, Bulacan, Laguna, and Rizal to more stringent modified ECQ in response to medical community’s call for “breather” and to intensify government response against the coronavirus. (PR)

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

NTC-11 hits 2020 collection target amid health crisis

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TikTok user Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles says the Philippine government sees no basis to ban the Chinese video app sharing TikTok after some countries have expressed security concerns over its use. Nograles

previously used TikTok to share his tribute videos to Covid-19 frontliners.

Edge Davao

he National Telecommunications Commission in Davao Region (NTC-11) said it has collected over PHP68 million within the first seven months of the year, surpassing their target for 2020 by PHP4 million.

NTC-11 Director Nelson Cañete reported that for July alone the agency managed to generate some PHP39.8 million in revenues.

"As of last month we already surpassed our target of PHP64 million for this year despite the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic," Cañete said during the virtual BizForum held Tuesday.

He said 75 percent of the collection came from telecommunication companies on fees for the renewal of permits and also on the modification of their equipment to improve services.

The remaining 25 percent are from registration

of handsets, stores for mobile phones, and repair shops for cellular phones.

During the forum, Cañete addressed the issues on poor internet service in the country, saying it has been a problem long before the coronavirus pandemic and compounded even further by high bandwidth usage when most Filipinos had to work or study at home.

Cañete said the problem lies with telecommunication firms, echoing President Rodrigo Duterte's recent tirades about poor connectivity in the country.

Most of the telcos, he said, still have backlogs in their tower installations that go as far as two years.

Cañete urged telcos to "comply with the requirements" so that local governments can issue permits for them to build more towers and increase capacity.

Still, Cañete was sympathetic with most of the

he Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has released over PHP153 million in medical assistance to a total of 21,240 indigent beneficiaries nationwide for July.

In a statement released on Wednesday, PCSO general manager Royina Garma said of the total amount of assistance, PHP74.4 million was given to 8,378 patients that needed hospital confinement, PHP54.1 million went to dialysis sessions of 10,675 patients and PHP22.9 million was given to 1,957 patients needing chemotherapy treatments while post-operation medication amounting to PHP2.1 million was given to 213 patients and assistance for hemophilia treatments amounting to PHP158,100.00 was pro-

vided to 17 individuals.

The assistance was processed through the various departments under the Branch Operations Sector of PCSO. The National Capital Region (NCR) Department released the highest amount of assistance at PHP39 million for medical expenses of 3,536 patients.

This was followed by the Northern and Central Luzon (NCL) Department providing PHP38 million to 5,400 patients, Southern Tagalog and Bicol Region (STBR) released PHP28.9 million as provision for 4,943 patients, Visayas Department granted PHP26.5 million to 3,901 patients and Mindanao Department dispensed PHP21.2 million to 3,460 patients.

The Medical Access Program (MAP) is de-

Terminated workers in Davao T Region on the rise: DOLE 11

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PCSO: Over P153-M aid released to 21K indigent patients in July

By MAYA M. PADILLO n official of the regional office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE 11) announced that more workers have lost their jobs as establishments continue laying off amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.

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DOLE 11 regional director Ofelia Domingo said that as of July 15, 2020, there have been 10,651 workers who were terminated by their employers. She said this number is collated from the 510 establishments that provided DOLE 11 with their termination report.

“Medyo lumalaki siya

and that is only as of July 15, 2020,” she said.

Domingo said majority of the workers terminated are coming from the administrative and support services that includes security agencies, BPOs, and manpower agencies.

DOLE 11 has extended assistance to the displaced workers through

NAPC launches survey to see if govt's Covid-19 response effective

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he National Anti-Poverty Commission said they have developed a survey to determine whether or not the government's response to the COVID-19 crisis has been effective.

Speaking at an online press conference on Wednesday, NAPC Secretary Noel Felongco said the Post-Distribution Monitoring Survey aims to gather information and generate insights on the "appropriateness, effectiveness, and the immediate outcomes of the social amelioration programs, most especially the cash subsidy as well as food and non-food relief packages."

Felongco said they want to know if aid reached the right people, recommended what actions can be replicated or improved, and identified the strengths of the meth-

ods of aid distribution.

"The survey tool seeks to gather data for NAPC policy recommendations to fight worsening poverty aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic," said Felongco.

The agency said the survey would be conducted via face-to-face and telephone interviews, as well as online and social media surveys.

NAPC said those who will be surveyed will be chosen through different methods depending how the survey will be conducted.

"All of the findings and recommendations that will be drawn from the PDM survey will help the agency in incorporating the aspects of how the pandemic has worsened the poverty situation in our country in the drafting of the National Poverty

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DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program and Emergency Employment Programs (DILEEP), which seeks to contribute to poverty reduction and reduce the vulnerability to risks of the working poor, vulnerable and marginalized workers either through emergency employment, and promotion of entrepreneurship and community enterprises.

“We already requested for funding from DBM but I cannot specify kung magkano yun,” said Domingo.

During the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine

(ECQ) in Davao Region, DOE 11 has assisted terminated employees via TUPAD or Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers, which is a community-based package of assistance that provides emergency employment for displaced workers, underemployed and seasonal workers, for a minimum period of 10 days, but not to exceed a maximum of 30 days, depending on the nature of work to be performed.

With the looming Bayanihan 2 bill that allotted P140 billion as a

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Passengers crowd a tricycle and ignore health protocols as rain falls heavily in Bangkal, Davao City on Tuesday night. Edge Davao

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

Gov’t considers tax perks for firms maintaining workforce

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he government is studying to provide tax incentives to companies that would maintain the number of their workforce amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic and community quarantine measures, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said on Tuesday.

“We’re trying to consider for companies that they do not reduce workforce could be given an additional year of tax holiday or tax incentive as a way to incentivize them not to remove workers. This has been considered now,” Lopez said during the joint webinar of European business groups.

He added that the government is pursuing policies, including legislation, which would improve businesses and the investment climate despite the pandemic.

These bills include the

Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) bill that will reduce corporate income tax to 25 percent from 30 percent; Retail Trade Act to liberalize the retail sector; and the Public Service Act that eases foreign restrictions in some service industries.

Moreover, Lopez expressed hope that the unemployment and underemployment figures in June improved from the 17.7 percent unemployment rate and 18.9 percent underemployment rate in April.

“We hope to see, since we started to reopen latter part of May, we are hoping that the June number would show a slightly better number than 17.7 (percent),” he said.

The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that 7.3 million Filipinos were unemployed in April as the government placed Metro Manila and the island of Luzon under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), the most stringent community quarantine measure, in mid-March.

The government started to ease lockdown measures in May. However, Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal reverted to modified ECQ until August 18.

These areas have the most number of enterprises in the country and employ a significant number of Filipinos.(PNA)

pple Inc. has no interest in acquiring TikTok, the company said on Tuesday, denying a report by news website Axios from earlier in the day.

Axios, citing sources outside Apple, earlier re-

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ported the iPhone maker has expressed interest in buying the ByteDance-owned firm.

Microsoft Corporation is currently negotiating a deal to acquire the popular short-video app, with a 45day deadline imposed by

President Donald Trump's administration.

Last week, Trump said he was planning to ban TikTok amid concerns its Chinese ownership represents a national security risk because of the personal data it handles.

via Shopee's payment services such as credit card and debit card, cash on delivery payments, ShopeePay, and others," it said.

The recent fee increase is not related to the on-going digital transaction tax, the platform said.

"This move aims to create a healthy e-commerce ecosystem that sustainably benefits both buyers and sellers in the

actions," Shopee told ABSCBN News.

"Shopee's goal has always been to provide the best user experience, and we want to build a sustainable business through strong local user engagement," it added.

Shopee said it would continue updating its e-commerce platform with new features and to offer attractive promo-

tee on Ways and Means on July 29 approved the proposed additional 12 percent VAT on all transactions done online, covering foreign companies such as Netflix, Google and Facebook. The measure is yet to be approved and enacted into law.

Albay Rep. Joey Salceda earlier proposed a bill seeking additional taxes

Apple Inc. says it has no interest in buying TikTok

Contact center employees work at a call center establishment in Davao City. Department of Labor and Employment 11 (DOLE 11) has disclosed that majority of the workers terminated in Davao Region due to Covid-19 pandemic are from the business process outsourcing sector. Edge Davao

24 banks, e-payment companies Shopee raises seller transaction fee to keep business 'sustainable' -commerce platform ee charges sellers on all long-run and facilitates tions and campaigns. waive PESONet, InstaPay fees Shopee said Tuesday successful transactions seamless payment transThe House Commit-

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ome 13 financial institutions and digital payment firms are waiving their PESONet and InstaPay transaction fees until end-September this year while 11 banks will do it until yearend.

In a statement Tuesday, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) released an updated list of banks that are waiving fees for electronic money (e-money) transactions in line with the regulators’ “call to strengthen the use of digital payments to help curb physical payment transactions amid the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Banks that will waive PESONet and InstaPay transaction fees until end-September this year are BDO Unibank, Inc. Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank), Bank of the Philippine Island (BPI), Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), China Banking Corporation (Chinabank), Bank of Commerce, Robinsons Bank Corporation (Robinsons Bank), Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank), China Bank Savings, Inc. (China Bank Savings), Philippine Bank of Communications (PBCOM), which is also extending the PHP1 fee due to system constraints) and Equicom Savings Bank, Inc. The statement said PayMaya Philippines Inc. (PayMaya Philippines) and G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI) are also extending the fee waiver until end-September.

Relatively, banks that

will not collect PESONet and InstaPay transaction fees until the end of this year include the Union Bank of the Philippines (Unionbank), Asia United Bank Corporation (AUB), Land Bank of the Philippines (Landbank), Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Security Bank Corporation (Security Bank), Sterling Bank of Asia, Inc. (Sterling Bank of Asia), Standard Chartered Bank (Standard Chartered), East West Banking Corporation (EastWest Bank), United Coconut Planters Bank (UCPB), Maybank Philippines, Inc. (Maybank), and Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC), which waives the fees for retail customers and reduces the fees from PHP150 to PHP50 for corporate clients.

On the other hand, the BSP said Philippine National Bank (PNB), MUFG Bank, Ltd., and Bank of China-Manila branch have yet to announce their decision on the fee waiver.

Digital payments in the country posted a big jump following the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in mainland Luzon from March 17 until May 15 and extended until end-May for the National Capital Region (NCR).

Other local governments outside of Luzon also implemented community quarantines to address the rise of coronavirus dis-

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it raised its transaction or handling fee charged on all successful transactions to keep the business "sustainable."

The transaction fee was increased to 2 percent from 1.5 percent on Aug. 1, Shopee said. The fee is imposed in all successful transactions via its payment services.

"Shopee transaction fee is a handling fee Shop-

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Workers pull a cable as they prepare to place new line which is part of a telecommunications company's rehabilitation and maintainance project along Matina, Davao City on Wednesday. Edge Davao

ECONOMY 5

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

Kani Sushi Bake now available at FamilyMart

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Michael MacDonald, Chief Digital Officer and Executive Consultant of Huawei Asia Pacific.

Huawei program cultivates talent ecosystem in Asia Pac

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uawei Technologies today hosted its Huawei Asia Pacific ICT Talent Forum 2020 to explore ICT talent trends and talent development strategies in the Asia Pacific region. At the online event joined by over 2,000 participants, the company announced a new certification program to develop a comprehensive ICT talent ecosystem to pave the way to sustainable digital transformation.

Under the theme “Connection, Glory, Future,” the forum gathered industry experts and IT professors to discuss the continuing need for highly-skilled ICT workforce and propose sustainable plans to help the region solve ICT workforce shortage. The Huawei Asia Pacific ICT Certification Program, announced at the event, is open to students and ICT practitioners who have joined or plan to join in the Huawei Asia Pacific ICT Academy. The program runs from August 4 to November 30, 2020.

Participants who pass the

exams in the shortest time will be awarded on a first come, first served basis.

Technology has come a long way in the past decade. In recent years, the world has witnessed a diverse range of breakthrough technologies.

“The foundation of the new ICT industry now consists of Cloud Computing, Big Data, the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence,” said Michael MacDonald, Chief Digital Officer and Executive Consultant of Huawei Asia Pacific, during his speech on building a healthy ICT ecosystem.

With the emergence of advanced technologies, basic IT skills will no longer suffice. “As enterprises redefine their job requirements, this new ICT landscape will leave us with an estimated shortage of about 5 million professionals. We aim to globally develop 2 million ICT professionals over the next five years to match high demand for skilled workers. In 2020, we are going to build more than 200 Huawei ICT Academy and train 10000 ICT certification in Asia Pacific region. ICT talent ecosystem is Huawei’s long-term strategy and we will work with universities and local HALP partners to help students and ICT practitioners become more competitive in their careers,” MacDonald announced.

As a leading global ICT solutions provider, Huawei is committed to building a complete ICT talent ecosystem that helps maintain continuous growth of the industry chain. In the past years, the lack of highly-skilled

workforce has been a growing concern for countries around the world, including the Asia Pacific region. The region has one of the world’s fastest-growing ICT sectors. As advanced technologies such as AI and 5G become pervasive, the region needs to work with various sectors to set standards that efficiently connect talent with opportunities in the digital age.

To tackle this challenge, Huawei built a talent ecosystem to support the transfer of qualified employees to the ICT industry, in line with its talent cultivation strategy.

The ecosystem consists of three initiatives: the Huawei Certification, the Huawei Academy and the Huawei ICT Competition.

The Huawei Certification, a talent system standard covering 100 certification exams and 22 technical fields, has certified more than 260,000 ICT students and employees, including 19,000 in Asia Pacific. Launched in 2013, the Huawei ICT Acade-

exploration in the development of hydrocarbon resources.

He noted that this study is vital to both domestic and foreign investors who make business decisions on the viability of the exploration.

Briguez added that the government needs to accelerate the development of new energy supply with the declining reserves in the Malampaya gas field.

“We envision new oil and gas discoveries to augment and replace (the) Malampaya reserves,” he said, noting that the PNOCEC is pursuing some exploration plans for oil, gas, and coal, such as new service contracts in Cotabato,

Cagayan, East Palawan, and the West Philippine Sea, as well as high-revenue coal projects, such as in Zamboanga Sibugay and Cagayan.

“One challenge we have is the resolution of the maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea. We hope to have a resumption of petroleum operations in SC (service contracts) 58, 59, and 75 – these are all in (the) West Philippine Sea, west of Palawan. We hope to boost exploration of hydrocarbon resources in this vast area,” Briguez said.

In the same online forum, the House of Representatives’ “power bloc” – Ako Padayon Pilipino Party-list Rep. Adriano Ebcas, Apec Party-list Rep. Sergio

Dagooc, Recoboda Party-list Rep. Godofredo Guya, and Philreca Party-list Rep. Presley de Jesus – called for the implementation of national defense and security policies to attain an independent and sustainable energy supply.

The lawmakers have filed House Resolution 1063, directing the Committee on National Defense and Security and other appropriate committees to conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation on national security issues affecting energy security in the country and the implementation of national defense and security policies to attain an independent and sustainable energy supply. (PNA)

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PNOC-EC eyes study to make oil, gas drilling marketable

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he state-run Philippine National Oil Company - Exploration Corp. (PNOC-EC), along with the Department of Energy (DOE) and the University of the Philippines (UP), will conduct an extensive study to make the country’s 16 sedimentary basins marketable for oil and gas exploration, its president and chief executive officer, Rozzano Briguez, said.

During the Energy Independence Crucial to National Security virtual Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel on Tuesday, Briguez said a geophysical and geological study on these 16 sedimentary basins aims to attract new investments to boost

amilyMart adds Premium Kani Sushi Bake by small local business, Baked by Machew, to its menu for the #WeSupportSMEs program.

The latest trending Japanese dish in the country has arrived in FamilyMart.

Starting today (August 5), FamilyMart stores will be offering the famous Premium Kani Sushi Bake in partnership with a small local business, Baked by Machew, as part of the convenience store chain’s campaign to support small to medium enterprises (SMEs).

A homemade, all-natural, and no-preservatives specialty of Chef Matthew Lim, the Premium Kani Sushi Bake is made of layers of Japanese rice mixed with sushi vinegar, slices of mangoes, special kani mixture, topped with black sesame seeds, nori powder, and capelin roe.

An addition to FamilyMart’s growing Japanese menu, the dish is microwavable and comes with nori on the side.

“We are excited to be part of FamilyMart’s #WeSupportSMEs project since it has undoubtedly helped SMEs, much like ourselves, in these trying times. Valuing the same set of principles and mindset, we believe FamilyMart will help us grow further. Given their reliability, positive reputation, and vast clientele, it has set itself to be a stepping stone for SMEs out there, and we are grateful to be part of the growing fam,” Baked Machew owner Chef Matthew Lim said.

Baked by Machew is

the latest and second SME partner of FamilyMart under its #WeSupportSMEs program. The program lets FamilyMart carry the best products of small local businesses in its stores for walk-in and delivery purchases. Through this, FamilyMart is able to help SMEs reach more customers and make use of its network and services. In June, FamilyMart launched the campaign by partnering with APERITIF and offered its famous cookies in its stores.

“We launched #WeSupportSMEs to help alleviate the economic impact of COVID-19 in the country and support small food businesses get back on their feet through collaborative partnership. After the success of APERITIF and its gooey cookies, we are excited to welcome and introduce Baked by Machew as our new partner. Their Premium Sushi Bake is a great addition to our growing array of Japanese food selection,” FamilyMart Philippines General Manager Bernard Suiza said.

Baked by Machew’s Premium Sushi Bake and FamilyMart’s signature Japanese meals, such as ramen, onigiri, and bento, among others, are available at all FamilyMart stores, and can be ordered online for delivery via Facebook Messenger at m.me/familymartph, email at delivery@familymart.com.ph, call, SMS, Viber, Whatsapp, and Telegram at 09176216758, or by visiting the online store at familymartph.company. site.

July inflation accelerates to 2.7%, fastest in 6 mos.

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nflation quickened in July based on government data released on Wednesday, its fastest pace in 6 months due to rising transport costs.

The consumer price index rose 2.7 percent in July, within the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas' estimated range of 2.2 to 3 percent, and between 2.2 to 2.8 percent based on a Reuters poll of 13 economists.

Core inflation, which strips out volatile food and fuel items, was at 3.3 percent.

"Ito ay sanhi ng mabilis na pagtaas ng presyo ng pamasahe sa tricycle na nagtala ng 33.9 percent inflation nitong Hulyo 2020 mula sa 26.8 percent noong Hunyo 2020," said National Statistician Usec.

Claire Dennis Mapa.

(The higher inflation was due to higher tricycle fares which registered a 33.9 percent inflation rate in July from 26.8 percent in June.)

Transport inflation reached 6.3 percent for the month, from a negative in March, April and May. "The BSP forecast inflation to average 2.3 percent this year and 2.6 percent in 2021," ING Philippines senior economist Nicholas

Mapa told ANC. "I think the higher but still benign inflation print is a reflection of a weaker economic activity in the Philippines right now," Mapa said.

"The things that saw a rise in price pressures, basic commodities, transport prices going up because you can no longer share a ride, you have to take a ride by yourself…as long as the virus is out there, we’ll probably be seeing this trend going forward," he added.

Metro Manila, Cavite, Rizal, Bulacan and Laguna were placed back under modified enhanced community quarantine from Aug. 4 to Aug. 18 to give the healthcare system "breathing space" as cases surged.

Under MECQ, more businesses would have to close again, including gyms, internet shops and salons, while dine-in were again suspended to contain the spread of COVID-19.

BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno earlier said reverting back to MECQ has "limited impact" on the economy.

Second quarter economic growth will be re-

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6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

On the complacency of some Dabawenyos to flood warnings which ultimately resulted to panic and failure to observe Covid-19 protocols such as social distancing and wearing of face masks: For instance, the flooding yesterday, the DRRMO-Opcen has already triggered the early warning siren calling for immediate early evacuation, that timeframe if heeded, will reduce significantly the risks of exposure of people from dangerous flood waters and Covid-19 as well because they can already prepare for it. Sadly, people are very complacent. It is a perennial attitude. We rescue practically the same people over and over again in spite of ample early warnings given by our DRRMO. As a result, ang uban wala na nagsuot ug masks because mataas na ang tubig and trapped na sila sa flood waters risking exposure to Covid-19. I just hope people will be more aware on what to do. Mostly, especially diyan sa Central Park along the river bank. From my understanding of risks reduction in this kind of situation, the primary responsibility rests on each individual in terms of protection be it for Covid-19 coupled with any other form of disaster.”

EMMANUEL JALDON Davao Central 911 chief

EDGEDAVAO

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NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

MAYA M. PADILLO Senior Reporter

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG ATHENA JILLIAN BRAVO NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN MEGHANN STA. INES FERINA SANTOS Lifestyle

CHRISTIAN JAY H. RAFAL Layout/Cartoons

ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. DR. MAURO L. PUYOD CHA MONFORTE Cartoonist Correspondent Consultant Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. BORBON • MARY ANN C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO DAVAL SR.,TRIA • NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY Columnists: ANTONIO V.“ADI” FIGUEROA • HENRYLITO D. TACIO •B.JOHN CARLO • MUJAHID NAVARRA ••FRED C. LUMBA • DENNIS R. GORECHO ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO •“GICO” G. S. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER GREGORIO G. DELIGERO VIDA MIA VALVERDE • HAROLD CAVITE M. PEREZ

OLIVIA D. VELASCO SOLANI D. MARATAS RICHARD C. EBONA JASPER V. BACSAL OLIVIA D. VELASCO General ManagerPresident Advertising Specialist General Manager/Finance VP-Operations JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE MANILA MARKETING OFFICE RICHARD C. EBONA LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-YacapinProduct Sts. Development officer Cagayan de Oro City Address: No. 18 Purok 4B, Madelo Street, Lower Bicutan, Taguig City Tel: (088) 852-4894 Mobile number: +63 947 265 2969(smart); +63 916 955 8559(globe)

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

EDGEDAVAO LIVING

SON YE JIN IS THE NEW FACE OF SMART SIGNATURE

AFTER CAPTURING THE HEARTS OF FILIPINOS with her hit K-dramas, South Korean superstar Son Ye Jin is making her mark as the new face of Smart Signature, the postpaid brand of mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. The big announcement came two months after PLDT’s wireless subsidiary launched its ‘Simple, Smart Ako’ campaign, which set off a strong clamor for Smart to bring Son Ye Jin under its fold and closer to her Filipino fans.

Making her own mark “Son Ye Jin’s appeal is undeniable among Filipinos who have been swept by the Korean wave, and we are thrilled to fulfill their wish. This is one way of supporting the Hallyu passion of our customers, who put their trust in our network so they can binge-watch the latest K-dramas, stream K-Pop hits, and stay updated on their K-idols online,” says Jane J. Basas, Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Wireless Business at Smart.

“More than this, we know Son Ye Jin embodies the Smart Signature brand as it simplifies the postpaid experience so customers can make their mark in their career or passion,” she adds.

“As an actress, I am always grateful for having a platform to entertain and touch the lives of others through my craft. I thank Smart for giving me a way to specifically reach out to my Filipino fans and inspire them to make a mark in whatever path that they have chosen. I wish to see you all soon,” says Son Ye Jin, who earned the title ‘Queen

of Melodramas’ in South Korea for her string of hit series and movies.

“Simple. Smart Ako.” In Smart’s latest TV ad, Son Ye Jin confidently rides a motorcycle and navigates the city through the fast lane, alluding to the prioritized, worry-free, and elevated lifestyle that Smart Signature provides its customers, powered by the country’s fastest mobile data network. The ad also powerfully ends with Son Ye Jin affirming, “Simple.

Smart Ako.” “’Simple, Smart Ako’ gave us a clear guiding principle when it comes to serving our customers – that is, to make amazing experiences and cutting-edge technology simple and accessible to every Filipino. We are embracing this same approach as we commit to simplifying the postpaid experience so our postpaid customers can enjoy a Signature lifestyle,” says Alfredo S. Panlilio, Smart President and CEO and PLDT Chief Revenue Officer.

Prioritized, worry-free, and elevated lifestyle With Smart Signature, subscribers are prioritized to get first dibs on new technology and mobile innovation as well as the latest digital content. The recent launch of Smart 5G as a commercial service is proof of this as the initial phase covers provision for all Smart Signature customers, who can now enjoy blazing-fast data speeds on Smart 5G-certified devices at select Smart 5G spots in Metro Manila.

With its well-designed plans, Smart Signature also keeps postpaid subscribers worry-free when it comes to connecting with family and friends, or

staying online for work, play, or entertainment. Smart Signature caters to different lifestyles by offering SIM-Only or Device Plans that come in S, M, L, and XL. Each plan features generous data inclusions starting at 5 GB for only P999 per month to up to 60 GB for only P2,999 per month, so customers can go from virtual work meetings to streaming the latest K-dramas on their phone with ease.

Smart Signature also delivers an elevated lifestyle for loyal customers, who can enjoy perks and rewards through points earned via MVP Rewards, among other unique experiences and privileges awaiting sub-

scribers throughout the year.

Country’s fastest mobile data network Smart Signature is powered

by Smart LTE, which has been recognized by third-party analytics firms as the country’s fastest mobile data network.

Ookla, the global leader in internet testing and analysis, cited Smart as The Philippines’ Speedtest Awards Winner for mobile network speed during Q1-Q4 2019. To win this award, Smart achieved a Speed Score™ of 17.40, with average speeds of 19.62 Mbps for download and 9.45 Mbps for upload.

On the other hand, Opensig-

nal, an independent mobile analytics firm, reported in its April 2020 Mobile Network Experience Report for the Philippines that Smart remained ahead of the competition in terms of Video Experience, Upload and Download Speed Experience, Voice App Experience, Games Experience, and 4G Availability.

Make your mark with Smart Signature now! Learn more about the Smart Signature Plan perfect for your lifestyle at smart.com.ph/signature. Sign up as a new subscriber, or upgrade your current Smart Postpaid Plan at Smart Stores nationwide or the Smart Online Store at store.smart.com.ph.

IMBESTIGADOR AIRS ALL NEW EPISODES THIS AUGUST VIA ‘QUARANTINE CRIMES’ ACCORDING TO the Philippine National Police, crime rate has dipped in the country by 50% with the implementation of quarantine amid the coronavirus pandemic. Despite the decrease however, several crimes made headlines and even sparked outrage during the quarantine period.

This August, GMA News and Public Affairs’ longest-

running investigative program Imbestigador returns with “Quarantine Crimes”—a series of all-new episodes that feature various crimes that happened during quarantine.

On August 8, Imbestigador features the sensational case of Fabel Pineda, a 15-year-old girl who was killed in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur last July 2. Prior to her death, Fabel filed a com-

plaint against two policemen of San Juan, Ilocos Sur who arrested her and her cousin for violating the curfew. Based on Fabel’s account, the two officers initially offered to bring them home, but they ended up being molested by the two policemen.

Fabel then filed a case against them. But days later, Fabel was gunned down.

Several groups and netizens

denounced what happened to Fabel and her cousin. The two police officers were since relieved from their posts and charges were also filed against them. Will the families of the victims ever attain justice?

Don’t miss Imbestigador’s “Quarantine Crimes”, beginning this Saturday, August 8 after Wish Ko Lang, 4:45 pm on GMA-7.

8

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

LANDBANK, LGUs tie up for economic recovery loan program vs pandemic

T

he Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK), together with the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP), the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP), and the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP), are working together to ensure extensive dissemination and coordination for the availment of the newly launched RISE UP LGUs (Restoration and Invigoration package for a Self-sufficient Economy towards UPgrowth for LGUs) lending program for eligible Local Government Units (LGUs) in the country.

LANDBANK allotted an initial P10 billion for this program, which offers credit assistance to provincial, city, and municipal governments to finance de-

velopments and innovative programs in their localities.

The RISE UP LGUs Lending Program is being offered by LANDBANK to support LGUs in the im-

plementation of economic recovery plans aimed at reviving the local economy in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The partnership was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in a virtual launch event during a special meeting of ULAP member-leagues and officers on July 29, 2020.

LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia C. Borromeo and ULAP National President and Quirino Governor Dakila Carlo E. Cua led the virtual signing, together with LPP National President and Marinduque Governor Presbitero J. Velasco, Jr., and LCP Secretary General and Calapan Mayor Arnan C. Panaligan. Also present during the event was League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) National President

(1st row, left to right) Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) President and CEO Cecilia C. Borromeo, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) National President and Quirino Governor Dakila Carlo E. Cua, (2nd row, left to right) League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP) National President and Marinduque Governor Presbitero J. Velasco Jr., and League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) Secretary General and Calapan Mayor Arnan C. Panaligan

and Narvacan Mayor Luis C. Singson who expressed his support to the provisions provided in the MOU. Under the MOU, ULAP, LPP, LCP and LMP will disseminate information on the RISE UP LGUs Lending Program to its member-LGUs. LANDBANK, for its part, will provide reference and information materials, and quickly respond to queries, as well as attend invitations of LGUs to discuss RISE UP LGUs and other available lending programs.

“Through the RISE UP LGUs Lending Program, our aim is to help you revitalize struggling businesses, restore investor-confidence in your respective localities, and promote local development. LANDBANK is here to help you grow into more sustainable and self-sufficient communities that can

withstand the impact of future crises,” LANDBANK President and CEO Borromeo said in her message.

ULAP National President Governor Cua said the RISE UP LGUs is “a lending program conceptualized to complement economic stimulus packages that may be developed by the National Government for LGUs.” “With LGUs feeling the adverse economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, this loan program is a way we can help LGUs improve their capacity to provide basic services for their constituents as they respond to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as fund support services for local enterprises to stimulate local economies. With the country expected to experience its first economic recession in two decades,

interventions are needed to help prop local businesses and create alternative economic opportunities.

RISE UP LGUs should help capacitate LGUs to do just that,” Governor Cua said.

Under the RISE UP LGUs Lending Program, eligible LGUs can borrow a loan amount depending on their project requirements, provided that the total loan exposure (including the proposed loan under the program) is not more than its Net Borrowing Capacity per Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) computation/certification.

Interested LGUs may contact the nearest open LANDBANK Lending Center or Branch nationwide, or call LANDBANK’s customer service hotline at (02) 8-405-7000 or at PLDT Domestic Toll Free 1-800-10-405-7000.

sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for an extensive dissemination of information about LANDBANK’s RISE UP LGUs Lending Program to help LGUs implement local economic recovery plans from the COVID-19 crisis.

Joining them is (3rd row) League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) National President and Narvacan Mayor Luis C. Singson who expressed full support for the program.

9 HEALTH EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

Milk: An almost complete food for babies

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

W

hen someone mentions the word “milk,” what comes to your mind right away? Milk in cans, those being packed in plastics or cartons, or simply placed in bottles?

Milk is considered to be a complete food. Nutritionists claim milk contains several important nutrients: a glass of milk gives you calcium, protein, iodine, potassium, phosphorus, vitamins B2, B12 and D, and zinc.

Unfortunately, we Filipinos don’t drink milk just like we do with coffee or soft drinks. “Milk isn’t traditionally part of the Filipino diet,” said Corazon Cerdena, who conducted the 1997 Formative Research on Milk and Milk Products for Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI).

Perhaps one of the main reasons why we don’t drink milk when we are already teenagers and adults – most of us believe milk is only for children! – is because we really don’t have a dairy industry.

It was revealed during the National Dairy Congress in Camiguin in 2018 that the Philippines import about US$800 million of dairy products each year, with local producers only supplying one percent of demand.

Dairy products are the third-most imported agricultural product in the country – after wheat and soybean. About 85% of what we import is in powder form. The powder is then processed into liquid form before it is shipped for local consumption.

The Global Agricultural Information Network

(GAIN) report from the United States Department of Agriculture said that 39% of the dairy products we import come from New Zealand. The United States trailed with 24% and Australia with 6%.

The first food children ever tasted is milk from their mothers. Experts usually ask mothers to breastfeed their babies first before using other types of milk. The reason: mother’s milk has colostrum, which contains antibodies that provide protection to the newborn baby as well as the nutrients and growth factors.

“A woman’s body is a sacred temple,” wrote Suzy Kassem, author of Rise Up and Salute the Sun. “A work of art, and a life-giving vessel. And once she becomes a mother, her body serves as a medicine cabinet for her infant. From her milk she can nourish and health her own child from a variety of ailments.”

There’s one good reason why mothers should breastfeed their babies: breast milk can fight diseases, including measles, which has recently staged a comeback after mothers failed to have their babies vaccinated.

“A mother’s milk has what you call antibodies against measles that would give the infant against many diseases.

It’s called passive immunity,” Dr. Robin Navarro, a

cellular and biochemical medicine specialist, was quoted as saying by Manila Bulletin.

Dr. Ameleen B. Bangayan, who was one of the organizers of the First International Breastfeeding Conference in Davao City some years back, agreed.

She said mother’s milk “is the optimum source of nutrition” for babies. Which is why she urged mothers to breastfeed their babies up to six months.

Dr. Hiroshi Nakajima, former director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO), described breast milk in these words: “The sole truly universal food for the entire human species.”

The WHO, along with two other United Nations agencies – the International Labor Organization (ILO) and UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) – said that the breastfeeding rate among mothers in the Philippines has significantly increased.

The three UN agencies cited recent figures released by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute showing breast-feeding rates to have increased from 36% in 2008 to 47% in 2011. In addition, the

initiation of breast-feeding within one hour of delivery also rose to 52% in 2011 from 32% in 2008.

Some years back, the national breast-feeding rate was only 16%. Experts believe the low rate was due to advertisements made by the formula milk industry. It reportedly spent billions of pesos to promote its products through ads in televisions, radios, and

newspapers.

“Advertising is the main way that big corporations convince mothers who can breastfeed that the bottle is best,” writes Father Shay Cullen, of Preda Center, in his column. “It became so effective that breast-feeding dropped and mortality rates for children one to two years old vastly increased.”

A global study showed the Philippines – with 82,000 annual deaths – as one of the countries accounting for 90% of deaths among those under five years old. The study also disclosed that only 16% of 4- to 5-month-old babies were breastfed exclusively while 30% were formula fed.

Most formula milk ads contain “false medical claims,” to quote the words of Dr. Nicholas Alipui, then UNICEF country representative.

Emphasizing “the vast difference” between breast milk and baby formula, he explained that milk from mothers had superior quality and contained nutrients and antibodies that would help raise children with strong immune systems.

Breast milk is a living substance that is impossible to duplicate or replicate in industry.... No technology is capable of

replicating or duplicating mother’s milk. That’s a fact. Any claim to the contrary is a lie,” Dr. Alipui pointed out.

By breastfeeding her baby, a mother can save money. Filipino mothers spend 21.5 billion pesos a year on infant formula.

That’s about 2000 pesos a month per child, according to UNICEF. As the best source of nutrition for babies, breast milk has been proven many times over that breast milk has components that help protect the child against infection and disease.

Dr. Nakajima said breast milk, until recently, has served as “a vital link for nutrition and survival across the entire span of human existence, nurturing the newborn, the infant, and the young child during the most vulnerable years, all the while providing a powerful source of protection from infectious disease.”

Breast milk, the United Nations health agency explains, is more than a simple collection of nutrients. For thousands of years, in all continents, babies have been breastfed for a simple reason: mother’s milk is natural.

“Mother’s milk is a living substance of great biological complexity that

FMILK, P10

10 EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

LEGALIZATION... FROM2

15 RESORTS... FROM2 mitted to City Tourism every Wednesday of the week) 13.) Counter sneeze guard 14.) Duly accomplished registration form 15.) No mask, no entry policy To TREs who have the certificate to operate from DOT yet failed to comply with the DOT memo circu-

lar 2020-002 on “health and safety guidelines”, Indelible said their certification could be revoked.

The composite team of the City of Mati composed of the BPLO, CDRRMO, City Tourism and Promotions Office, CDRRMO, PNP/ Tourist Police, and Public Safety will conduct joint inspection twice a month to ensure that

hotels and resorts are following the health protocols.

Also discussed during the meeting is the newly-crafted City Ordinance No. 427, s. 2020 or the “City of Mati Disiplina Panahon sa Pandemya Ordinance”.

Councilor Eric Rabat meanwhile assured the resort and hotel owners that the City of Mati LGU would

help businesses in complying with the health protocols so that they would not face possible closure. “ I would like to thank you all for your cooperation.

I am hoping after this meeting we can come up with a good result. Rest assured that the City of Mati will support your business,” said Councilor Rabat. (CIO MATI)

NTC-11... FROM3

“standby fund” for the government’s pandemic response and economic recovery efforts, DOLE has proposed an employment recovery plan that is

anchored on the concept of “Balik-Probinsiya” and will continue and enhance the implementation of the TUPAD program for the next three months to

employ “returnees” and those in the barangays.

“We are tapping the emergency employment of three months with a minimum wage. This will

target informal workers of “Balik-Probinisya”, however, we are still looking forward sa approval ng request namin for funding sa DBM,” Domingo said.

signed to augment the medical needs of the Filipinos nationwide, particularly the need for hospital confinement, chemotherapy, dialysis, and post-transplant medicines. The program is funded by revenues from PCSO games nationwide.

Garma said the PCSO was able to assist through

the issuance of guarantee letters to patients under hospital confinement, chemotherapy, dialysis and medicines for hemophilia and post-transplant.

She said in these trying and challenging times PCSO once again stepped up in aiding the Filipino people, especially the marginalized sector through

its MAP. Garma said amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) crisis, the agency is taking the necessary steps to continue providing medical assistance to the increasing number of indigents seeking help from PCSO. “The PCSO shall continue to provide medical

assistance for every Filipino in need to ease their financial burden and in healing our less fortunate kababayans especially in these challenging times.

We are hand in hand with the national government’s efforts in eradicating the virus and its effects on health and the economy," she added. (PNA)

Reduction Plan," he added.

NAPC provided a timeline on how long the survey would take, with orientations starting the

first two weeks of August 2020.

Data collection is scheduled on the last two weeks of the month. By

October, NAPC said survey results would be released to concerned government agencies.

The survey is targeted

to be completed by the end of the year, ending with specific commitments and actions to be taken by government agencies.

on online transactions as Filipinos pivot to digital for their payments, groceries and other essential needs during the

COVID-19 lockdowns.

Metro Manila, Rizal, Cavite, Bulacan and Laguna were placed under modified enhanced com-

munity quarantine until Aug. 18 to give the healthcare system some "breathing space" as cases surge.

During the period pub-

lic transport is prohibited while logistics and delivery services catering to online shopping are still allowed to operate.

my has involved over 900 higher education institutions to offer ICT courses and training for over 45,000 students each year.

To date, the company has set up 103 ICT Academy in the Asia Pacific region.

The company also started the Huawei Competition in 2015 to promote talent development through

an international knowledge-based contest. “The competition allows the students to get recognized and secure valuable employment at leading enterprises,” said MacDonald.

Huawei Philippines has launched the ICT Academy and partnered with 21 major universities and colleges all over

the Philippines, including Mapúa University, De La Salle University, MSU-IIT, USeP, CIIT, Chiang Kai Shek College, STI, UST, Cebu Technological University, Universidad De Zamboanga, and Bicol University, among others.

The company will continue to explore new ways to cultivate ICT talents and

to support governments around the world as they develop ICT infrastructure. With the ultimate goal of bridging the gap between demand of enterprises and the supply from universities, Huawei aims to help Asia Pacific countries lay a strong ICT foundation for many decades to come.

It was the Mavs’ first victory since arriving at Walt Disney World and allowed them to remain the only NBA to avoid three straight losses this season.

De’Aaron Fox scored 28 points and Buddy Hield had 21, but the Kings

could not close out a game they controlled almost from the opening tip until the end of regulation.

“I thought we settled too much down the stretch instead of trying to put pressure on the rim,” Sacramento coach Luke

Walton said.

Dallas scored the final six points in regulation to force overtime, then tied the score again at 102 when Tim Hardaway Jr. made three free throws with 3:10 to play.

Doncic broke the tie

with a short basket and the Mavs scored the next five points and never trailed again.

“I believe we had seven stops in a row to end regulation, which was huge,” Dallas coach Rick Carlisle said. “It was a guts win.”

a men's final at Flushing Meadows, Nadal edged Daniil Medvedev 7-5, 6-3, 5-7, 4-6, 6-4 in four hours, 50 minutes. That gave Nadal four titles at the U.S. Open and a total of 19 across all the Grand Slam tournaments, just one away from Federer's career mark.

Federer will be absent from the US Open, too, but because of two operations on his right knee this year.

The last Grand Slam tournament contested without either Federer or Nadal was the 1999 US Open — four years before Nadal made his debut at one of the sport's four most prestigious events.

The USTA has given repeated indications it intends to go forward with the US Open, despite the spikes in cases around the United States, saying in a news release last week: "New York State continues to be one of the safest places in the country as it relates to the COVID-19 virus."

That is currently true — although the area was a major US hot spot early in the pandemic, so much so that a building at the US Open site was used as a temporary hospital.

New York hospitals saw more than 18,000 patients with COVID-19 at a time in

mid-April when infections surged and more than 750 patients with the illness died each day in hospitals and nursing homes.

Those figures plunged in May, and rates of hospitalizations and new positive COVID-19 cases have been relatively stable since June.

There are still concerns about travel, as Nadal noted.

The USTA is planning a doubleheader of sorts at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. The Western & Southern Open, a hard-court tournament normally played in Cincinnati, was moved to the US Open site this year be-

cause of the pandemic and is scheduled to be played Aug. 20-28.

That is supposed to be followed by the US Open itself. And then, two weeks after the US Open closes on Sept. 13, the French Open is scheduled to begin in Paris, having been postponed from its usual May start.

"I know our fans will be disappointed to not have Rafa playing this year's Western & Southern Open and US Open," Allaster said.

"However, for the fans and and the sport, we look forward to being inspired by him when he decides he's ready to play."

kal, and Barangay Talomo Proper. Forced evacuation was conducted as flood water reached knee level.

There was also reported flooding at Sunny Ville in Brgy. Talomo Proper and forced evacuation was also conducted as flood water reached waist level.

As of 10 p.m. Talomo River subsided.

The city government of Davao through CDRRMO evacuated around 600 individuals affected by flooding in Brgy. Talomo to Our Lady of Lourdes Parish.

The Public Safety and

Security Command Center (PSSCC), Central 911, Davao City Police Office (DCPO) and Task Force Davao were deployed in the evacuation centers for the safety of the evacuees.

Meanwhile, Kusina ng Bayan under the Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) distributed hot meals while the city health office (CHO) brought surgical masks and medicine to the affected families.

Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio sent 1,000 reusable face masks for the affected families.

telcos, which he said are commonly burdened by redundant and often unnecessary permitting requirements imposed by local governments. The problem, he said, is compounded by the opposition of residents near a proposed tower over health concerns.

"Our internet really is poor because when we compare our speed with Singapore, which has a download speed of 104.85

mbps. Our actual reading in Davao City particularly in Matina Aplaya area was only 4.85 mbps," the NTC11 chief said.

"With the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) being on top of this together with the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT), the NTC and the LGUs, we expect that these tasks be fast-tracked," Cañete said.

(PNA)

ease (Covid-19) infections.

BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno said the rise of e-money transfers and e-money payment transactions since mid-March makes monetary authorities confident of hitting their goal to have about 70 percent of adult Filipinos to be part of the formal financial system, by having

at least basic deposit accounts, by 2023.

He earlier said that about 3.8 million deposit accounts were opened during the ECQ in line with the government’s social amelioration program (SAP) while about 4 million accounts were opened digitally between March 17 and end-April. (PNA)

leased Thursday, Aug. 6.

Diokno earlier said the second quarter would be the worse and that the third quarter would likely be better, before the MECQ reversion was announced.

The BSP cut key in-

terest rates by 175 basis points this year, bringing the benchmark to a record low of 2.25 percent. Diokno said the BSP has room for more policy actions if needed to support the economy.

not only provides unique protection against disease, but also stimulates the baby’s own immune system,” the WHO points out.

The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, after which “infants should receive nutritionally adequate and safe complementary foods while breastfeeding continues for up to two years of age or beyond.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics pointed out the importance of breastfeeding. It said: “Extensive research using improved epidemiologic methods and modern laboratory techniques documents diverse and compelling advantages for infants, mothers, families, and society from breastfeeding and use of human milk for infant feeding.

These advantages include health, nutritional, immunologic, developmental, psychologic, social, economic, and environmental benefits.”

Breast milk is easily digested by babies, so they don’t have to face the problem of constipation.

Breastfed babies rarely have ear or respiratory system infections, allergies, stomach problems like diarrhea and vomiting.

Children who were breastfed exclusively for at least three months had better intelligence scores later in life than those who received formula, according to a study in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

Children who are artificially fed or breastfed for only 6 months or less, are at an increased risk of developing cancer before age 15, according to Dr. M.K. Davis in an article which appeared in Lancet. The risk of artificially fed children was 1-8 times that of long-term breastfed children, and the risk for short term feeders was 1-9 times that of long-term breast feeders. – ### (Photos courtesy of UNICEF)

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TERMINATED... FROM3 PCSO... FROM3

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Practices of teams like the Gilas squad will have to wait until the MECQ is lifted.

GAB hopeful practices can resume soon

G

ames and Amusements Board (GAB) Baham Mitra has expressed optimism that provinces that reverted to modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) would have their quarantine status downgraded to a less strict general community quarantine (GCQ) so that professional athletes could resume their practice.

“Sa tingin ko, magi-improve at tingin ko, makakapag-practice na tayo (The way I see it, the situation will improve and

we can resume our practice) in two weeks’ time,” Mitra said in the online Philippine Sportswriters Association forum.

Nadal to skip US Open due to coronavirus pandemic

D

efending champion Rafael Nadal will skip the US Open because of the coronavirus pandemic, putting on hold his bid to equal Roger Federer's men's record for Grand Slam titles.

Nadal explained his decision in a series of tweets sent in Spanish and English on Tuesday (Wednesday, Manila time).

"The situation is very complicated worldwide, the COVID-19 cases are increasing, it looks like we still don't have control of it," Nadal wrote.

The 34-year-old from Spain called sitting out the tournament scheduled to begin Aug. 31 in New York "a decision I never wanted to take," but added that he would "rather not travel."

"Rafa is one of the greatest champions in our sport and we support his decision," US Open tournament director Stacey Allaster said.

The current No. 1-ranked woman, Ash Barty, already had announced she would be

missing the US Open. The US Tennis Association's entry list announcements on Tuesday noted that 2019 women's champion Bianca Andreescu is in the field — at least for now; players can withdraw until the start of play — but made no mention of Nadal.

The professional tennis tours have been on hiatus since March because of the COVID-19 outbreak, with play resuming for women on Monday in Palermo, Italy. The first men's event on the main tour is scheduled to be held later this month.

Nadal's plan to skip the US Open came shortly after the Madrid Open, scheduled for September, was canceled because of the pandemic.

"We know that the reduced tennis calendar is barbaric this year after 4 months stopped with no play," Nadal wrote on Twitter. "I understand and thank for the efforts they are putting in to make it happen."

In last year's thriller of

FNADAL, P10

He based his optimism on what he saw on Monday when people rushed to the grocery stores, markets, and banks to prepare themselves for the quarantine imposed in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite, and Laguna.

“Kung napansin nyo kahapon, parang nag-traffic.

Tapos lahat ng bangko at groceries, puno (If you noticed yesterday, it looked like there was heavy traffic. And then all the banks and groceries were full). It looks like nobody wants to get out of their homes

in a week or two weeks’ time,” Mitra said. “Tingin ko, na-alarma ang lahat ng tao (I think the people were alarmed).”

Professional athletes living in areas under MECQ, especially the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), Philippines Football League (PFL), and Chooks-To-Go Pilipinas 3x3 players, were getting ready to resume their training as soon as next week when President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday night placed the areas back to MECQ following a

“timeout” request from a group of doctors.

But with how the people acted on the eve of the return to MECQ, Mitra expressed his optimism.

Based on the joint administrative order set by GAB, the Philippine Sports Commission, and the Department of Health, professional athletes could return to practice in areas under GCQ, although in small groups.

The PFL and ChooksTo-Go Pilipinas 3x3 are eyeing bubbles for their season in Carmona, Cavite

and Calamba, Laguna, respectively.

The PBA, on the other hand, already ordered its players to undergo swab testing later this week but with the latest development, it was postponed to sometime later this month.

The PBA board will decide in September if its postponed season would push through or not.

For now, in provinces under MECQ, only individual activities, such as jogging and biking, are allowed. (PNA)

L

110.

Doncic was sensational, finishing with 34 points, a career-high 20 rebounds and 12 assists.

At 21 years, 158 days, he became the youngest player to finish a game with 30 or more points, 20 or

more rebounds and 10 or more assists, shattering Oscar Robertson’s previous mark of 23 years, 12 days.

“We needed that,” Doncic said. “We played, I think, one of the worst games ever and we won.

We didn’t play good. We still hang in there, help each other, never give up.

I’m proud of the win.”

Kristaps Porzingis added 22 points and seven rebounds before fouling out late in regulation.

Doncic leads Mavs over Kings in OT uka Doncic punctuated a historic triple-double by making the tiebreaking shot with 1:57 left in overtime on Tuesday (Wednesday, Manila time) and leading the Dallas Mavericks past the Sacramento Kings, 114-

Luka Doncic was sensational, finishing with 34 points, a career-high 20 rebounds and 12 assists.

FDONCIC, P10

12 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 100 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

File photo shows basketball games played at the Arcadia Activity Center at the third level of Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center. Basketball practice and scrimmages are still barred in Davao City despite the relaxed quarantine status to ensure everyone’s safety from Covid-19.

NOT FINAL JAO on sports practices may still be tweaked: GAB chief

G

ames and Amusements Board (GAB) chairman Baham Mitra said the joint administrative order (JAO) that the board formulated with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Department of Health (DOH) about sports practices amid the health crisis can be tweaked if the need arises.

During the online Philippine Sportswriters Association forum held Tuesday, Mitra bared that the PSC is pushing for amendments to the JAO. "Marami pa po silang proposed amendments and additions doon, sabi sa akin ni teammate Marc (Velasco, national training director).

(They have many proposed amendments and additions to it, teammate Marc told me)," he said.

The JAO was initially made to allow professional athletes, particularly the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), Philippines Football League (PFL), and the Chooks-To-Go Pili-

pinas 3x3 teams, as well as martial arts practitioners, such as boxers and mixed martial arts fighters, to resume their training amid the pandemic.

The PSC's proposed amendments are in light of the national athletes' bid to qualify for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

The PSC met with several national sports associations during the past two weeks to discuss the protocols they were setting up.

Meanwhile, Mitra added that the JAO could be amended "to adapt with what's happening."

However, he hinted that the rules in areas under modified enhanced

community quarantine (MECQ) would stand for now.

"It's working," Mitra said.

For now, only athletes based in areas under general community quarantine are cleared to train again.

With Metro Manila and Cavite reverted to MECQ, the PBA and PFL have to postpone their scheduled return to training till late August.

Laguna has also been placed under MECQ, but Chooks-To-Go Pilipinas 3x3 commissioner Eric Altamirano said this is just a "slight delay" and would have no major impact on scheduling its upcoming season. (PNA)