Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 131 | Friday, September 11, 2020

ARE WE RUNNING OUT OF FISH? AGRITRENDS P9

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‘HEAR OUR SIDE’

VOL.13 ISSUE 131 • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

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Billboard structure owners appeal to Mayor Sara STORY ON PAGE 2

Employees of City Engineer’s Office (CEO) dismantle the metal structure of an advertising billboard near Generoso Bridge, Matina, Davao City on Thursday. Edge Davao

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 131 • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

‘HEAR OUR SIDE’ Billboard structure owners appeal to Mayor Sara

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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ll billboard structures along Bankerohan, Sandawa Road and Bolton Bridge are going down permanently starting today as the city government enforces an ordinance that prohibits the obstruction of view to the majestic Mt. Apo and the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS).

A team member of the City Engineer's Office (CEO) watch as two other CEO employees dismantle the metal structure of an advertising billboard along Matina, Davao City on Thursday. Edge Davao

DPWH working towards start of Davao-Samal bridge const’n

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he Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is working its way towards the construction of the Davao-Samal Interconnector Island Bridge amidst the pandemic.

DPWH Undersecretary Emil Sadain said DPWH “is completing the conceptual design Davao-Samal bridge by end of September, which includes the procurement documents that are necessary before we can proceed with the bidding.”

He discussed this progress about Davao-Samal Interconnector Bridge during the Radyo Pilpinas #LagingHanda Network Briefing episode on Monday, September 07, anchored by Communications Secretary Martin Andanar.

“The bidding for the design and build contract will start by October to November”, he added.

The DPWH will then push to arrange “for the financing of the project through the China government through the China Infrastructure and Development Cooperation Agency”.

“They will fund this iconic bridge. The winning contractor will enter into a 5-year construction period, which will start by January next year,” Sadain explained.

Guesting on the same

episode of #LagingHanda Network Briefing, Island Garden City of Samal Mayor Al David T. Uy pressed for the construction of such bridge which the Mayor said had been talked about since his childhood.

Uy revealed that DPWH personnel were in Samal since last week to do a ground survey particularly on oceanographic survey.

“We are set to talk about the areas to be surveyed this week because I believe they have til the end of September to complete the data,” Uy said.

Meanwhile, Uy said that no complaint has so far been filed that would constitute as “Writ of Kalikasan” pertaining to the construction of Samal-Davao Interconnector Bridge.

“We haven't received anything,” he said referring to Writ of Kalisan that was reported earlier, would be slapped against the bridge interconnector construction.

The mandate of Writ of Kalikasan is drawn from Article II Section 16 of the 1987 Constitution, which says “The State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.” (PIA XI/ Jeanevive Duron Abangan)

City Engineer Joey Felizarta said the dismantling of billboard structures is based on the city government of Davao’s City Ordinance No. 092-2000 prohibits obstruction of the view of Mt. Apo and the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) by billboards.

Engr. Cirinia Grace Catubig, officer-in-charge of the City Building Office (CBO), said owners of the structures were already informed to voluntarily dismantle their structures following the decision of the Supreme Court (SC) last year.

“Last year pa nakabalo ang mga owners pag-gawas sa decision sa Supreme Court. Kami sa Building Office nag-sulat na sa ilaha to voluntarily dismantle and we also forwarded it to City Engineering Office (CEO)

for implementation. The demolition will be executed by the CEO Demolition Division if the billboard owners will not voluntarily demolished,” Catubig said in a text message.

Structures to be dismantled are those situated from Bankerohan/Generoso Bridge up to Sandawa Road going to McArthur Highway in Matina and structures installed from Bolton Bridge to Sandawa Road going to Quimpo Boulevard to near the first gate of Felcris Centrale.

“These are restricted areas as per our city ordinance,” said Catubig.

Catubig added that knocking down of the structures is also based on the SC’s decision which the city government of Davao had won after the billboard owners filed complaint to

Grant.

After food, the next biggest expenditure of the city was P17.3-M for the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE), followed by cremation at 6.5-M, purchase of construction materials for the renovation of quarantine facilities according to standards set by the Department of Health at 6-M, payment of Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction testing for locally stranded individuals at 5.2-M, purchase of Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR) and payment of electricity bills for four PUI (Persons Under Investigation) facilities/ centers at 514,195.01.

Out of the PhP 425.4M for grocery and food packs, PhP 324.2 million was spent for the purchase of 611,687 grocery packs for distribution in the city’s three legislative districts at 530 pesos per pack while PhP 101.3 million was spent for the daily provision of distribution of food packs “for personnel involved in COVID-19 related activities such as social workers, drivers, frontliners, patients in various quarantine facilities/centers personnel assigned in checkpoints, hospital carpenters, CSWDO per-

sonnel assigned in packing and provision of lugaw and lomi to various barangays.”

The July 31 report said there were 2,103,394 beneficiaries of the food packs.

PPEs, renovation, RTPCR, respirators, electricity bills The PhP 17.3-M was spent on procurement of PPEs for the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), the main referral center for COVID-19 cases, and other COVID-19 facilities in the city. Of this amount, PhP 10.7-M was spent for 10,000 medical grade PPEs; PhP 4.9-M for 30,000 N95 masks; PhP 1.1-M for 5,000 safety goggles (or 220 pesos each) for frontliners and other personnel working in COVID-19 related activities and 540,000 pesos for 60,000 gloves.

Based on the total amounts indicated in the report, the city purchased PPEs costing 1,070 pesos each, N95 masks at 163.33 pesos each; safety goggles at 220 pesos each, and gloves at nine pesos per pair.

The breakdown of the 6 million pesos spent for the purchase of construction materials for the renovation of seven quarantine facilities according to stan-

the court last March 28, 2006.

Based on reports, Davao Billboard and Signmakers Association (DABASA), Incorporated filed a case on March 28, 2006 for the injunction and declaration of nullity of City Ordinance No. 092-2000 and order of demolition dated March 17,2006. The group also alleged that the City Ordinance is unconstitutional as it is inconsistent with the National Building Code or the Presidential Decree No. 1096.

The Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 14 of Davao City granted the respondent’s petition on April 17, 2006 and declared null and void Sections 7, 8, 37, 41 and 45 of the said ordinance, which was last affirmed with modifications by the Court of Appeals (CA), reinstating the validity of Section 41 stating the “restricted areas” for installation and display of any advertising and propaganda materials in areas identified by the ordinance.

In a decision released

by Supreme Court on February 21, 2018, regarding

FHEAR, P10

92% of Davao City’s P462-M Bayanihan fund spent on grocery, food packs

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ow did Davao City spend its 462-million peso Bayanihan fund to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic?

At least 425 million pesos or 92% of Davao City’s 462-M from the Bayanihan Grant went to the purchase of grocery packs for distribution to 182 barangays across the city’s three congressional districts, and for daily provision of food packs for medical and other frontliners, according to the fund utilization report as of July 31 posted on the website of the city government.

The Bayanihan Grant is a one-time assistance equivalent to a month’s Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) share to enable local government units to “boost their capacity in immediately responding to the COVID-19 emergency.”

The IRA is the annual share of local government units from national internal revenue taxes. The formula for computation takes into account the LGU’s population (50%), land (25%) and equal sharing (25%) so LGUs with a bigger population and land area get a bigger share of the IRA pie.

Among Mindanao’s 33 cities and 27 provinces, Davao City has the largest share in the Bayanihan

dards of the Department of Health is as follows: 1.3-M for the ALS (Alternative Learning System) Building in downtown Davao City which could accommodate 149 persons; 975,115 pesos for the University of the Philippines Mindanao Training Gym which could take in 26 persons; 967,544 pesos on the Pasalubong Center and RMC Gym which could accommodate 238 persons; 951,640 pesos for the Kapitan Tomas Monteverde Elementary School that could house 70 persons; 773,750 pesos for the UP Mindanao Faculty and Staff Housing that could admit 81 persons; 700,752 pesos for the Boy Scout of the Philippines-Malagos which can accommodate 332 persons and 308,301 pesos for Queensland Motel which can house 176 persons.

The city also spent PhP 5,179,020 for RT-PCR testing of 1,298 locally stranded individuals who arrived in the city.

The service provider, Davao One World Diagnostic Center, a private firm, charges 6,500 pesos for an RT-PCR test. The PhP 5.1-M for 1,298 arrivals is equivalent to 3,990 pesos per test.

F92%, P10

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 131 • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

President Rodrigo Duterte has granted “absolute pardon” to US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton amid public fury over an Olongapo City court order for the American’s release. Former Laude family lawyer Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque on Thursday said he would “continuously and faithfully serve the Filipino people” in the

Davao City's anti illegal gambling campaign continues, DCPO says

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he City’s top cop assured that the campaign against all forms of illegal gambling continues despite the pandemic. He said the campaign goes relentless even on holding illegal cock derbies which causes mass gathering of residents.

Police Colonel Kirby John Kraft, director of the Davao City Police Office recalled that the first cases of COVID-19 were due to the derby at the Matina Gallera.

He revealed that the case of arrested respondents in the illegal derby conducted in Barangay 10-A is already at the City Fiscal’s Office and is awaiting bail.

Kraft said the respondents including a barangay chair, barangay kagawad and a militia are detained at the DCPO headquarters stockade.

He said numbers game like the last two digits remains illegal and he is gathering pieces of evidence against men-in-uniform who are in cahoots of its modus-operandi.

Kraft warned the station commanders that the proliferation of numbers game in their respective areas is a ground for relief.

“It shows that they are not performing as station commanders in their respective areas he said.

rivate schools have reached only half of their enrollment figures from last year, a group said Thursday, as the coronavirus pandemic continues to rage.

About 2 million learners have registered in private schools, which is about 46 percent of their 4.3 million students last year, said Joseph Noel Estrada, managing director of the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA).

"I think hanggang 50 percent lang talaga ang aabutin this year," he told ABS-CBN's TeleRadyo.

(I think the enrollment this year will only reach 50 percent of last year's fig-

ure.)

Some 400,000 private school students have transferred to public schools as of Aug. 27, he said.

Eleazardo Kasilag, president of the Federation of Associations of Private School Administrators (FAPSA), said enrollment could improve if public schools' scheduled Oct. 5 opening would be delayed.

"Magbabalikan ‘yan sa private schools. Kasi hindi naman lahat gustong tumigil [ng pag-aaral], hindi naman lahat gustong mag-public school," he said.

(Students will return to private schools because not everyone wants to quit

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Private schools see enrollment halved

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NEWS 3

last two years of President Duterte’s administration despite perceived differences in their convictions on the issue.

Presidential Photo

Bypass project to be operational by 2023 F

By MAYA M. PADILLO inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez announced that the Davao City Bypass Construction Project is expected to be operational by 2023.

Speaking before business leaders in the opening of the virtual 29th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) and Sulong Pilipinas-Mindanao session held online via Zoom on Thursday, Dominguez disclosed that on June 16, 2020 the Philippines and Japan signed the loan

agreement for the supplemental financing of P18.5 billion (JPY35 billion) for the second phase of the said project.

Dominguez signed the accord on behalf of the Philippine government.

The project involves the construction of a 45.5 kilometer four-lane by-

pass road from Barangay Sirawan in Toril, Davao City to Barangay J.P. Laurel in Panabo City. The usual travel time between these two points of 1 hour and 44 minutes via the Maharlika Highway is expected to be reduced to 49 minutes once the bypass road is opened to motorists.

Aside from the bypass road, the project also includes a 2.3-kilometer mountain tunnel that directly connects Barangay Matina Biao and Barangay

avao Light and Power Co., Inc. will conduct a series of power interruptions on September 13, Sunday, affecting customers in Cabantian, Indangan and Acacia.

These service disruptions will be necessary to facilitate line upgrading and pole relocation works along Cabantian Road affected by the DPWH road widening project.

The first service disruption will be for one (1) hour from 3:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m.. This is necessary to transfer load from the af-

fected lines to nearby lines and avoid longer duration of power interruptions.

Normalization or return of load back to its normal setup will be for 30 minutes anytime between 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m..

Specifically affected are customers from Cabantian Road corner entrance to Emily Homes Subdivision going to Deca Homes Indangan and Ciudades in Indangan and nearby areas.

Another power interruption for two (2) hours and 30 minutes will be

conducted on the same day from 4:00 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.. affecting customers from entrance to Rancho Palos Verdes in Indangan going to portion of Acacia and nearby areas.

Moreover, a three (3)hour and 30 minute power interruption will also be experienced by customers from Cabantian Elementary School going to Deca Homes Indangan and Ciudades in Indangan including neighboring areas from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m..

Davao Light apologizes for the inconvenience

Waan in Davao City, reducing travel time between the said points to less than 5 minutes from the usual 44 minutes when passing through local roads.

Dominguez said advanced Japanese knowhow and technology will be adopted for the construction of the bypass road and tunnel.

He also said Mindanao will remain at the “front and center” of the Duterte administration’s “Build,

brought about by this scheduled power interruption. But it will exert all efforts to restore electric service as scheduled or earlier. However, there may be instances where restoration may extend beyond the schedule due to unavoidable circumstances.

Please contact our 24/7 Customer Contact Service at 229-3572, 0917-864-2793 (Globe) or 0920-970-1357 (Smart) for any power interruption that will fall outside the given schedule.

FBYPASS, P10

Service disruptions on September 13 in Cabantian, Indangan, Acacia

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 131 • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

Lawmakers seek higher 2021 budget for DTI

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Workers fold a huge tarpaulin while metal structures of advertising billboards are being dismantled near Generoso Bridge, Matina, Davao City on Thursday.

Edge Davao

Vibrant PH agri key to faster recovery, poverty reduction

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ransforming Philippine agriculture into a dynamic, high-growth sector is essential for the country to speed up recovery, poverty reduction and inclusive growth, according to the latest report released by the World Bank.

Titled “Transforming Philippine Agriculture During Covid-19 and Beyond,” the report said transforming the country’s farming and food systems is even more important during the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic to ensure strong food value chains, affordable and nutritious food, and a vibrant rural economy.

“Modernizing the country’s agricultural sector is a very important agenda for the Philippines,” said Ndiame Diop, World Bank Country Director for Brunei, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, said in a statement.

Diop said with the ex-

ception of a few small natural resource-rich countries, no country has successfully transitioned from middle- to high-income status without having achieved an effective transformation of their agri-food systems.

“Transforming agriculture and food systems is always challenging. But the country’s new vision for agriculture, it’s current thrust for diversification and use of modern technologies, and its effective management of food supply during this pandemic clearly indicate that the country is well-equipped to overcome the challenge,” Diop added.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar said the coun-

try’s vision is a food-secure and resilient Philippines with prosperous farmers and fisherfolk.

“Realizing this vision will require dedicated efforts among major agri-fishery industry stakeholders, led by the Department of Agriculture, to continuously empower farmers, fisherfolk, agricultural entrepreneurs, and the private sector to increase agricultural productivity and profitability, taking into account sustainability and resilience,” Dar said.

The report, which was prepared as part of World Bank support to the Department of Agriculture’s “new thinking” in agricultural development, suggests shifting away from a heavy focus on specific crops towards improving the overall resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of the rural sector.

In the past, spending has gone mostly toward price supports for selected

crops and goods, as well as subsidies on inputs such as fertilizer, planting materials, and machines.

Global experience shows that while ensuring the availability of key inputs remain important, reorienting significant public spending toward investments in public goods —including research and development (R&D), infrastructure, innovation systems, market information systems, and biosecurity systems— results in faster poverty reduction and greater productivity gains through an overall modernization of agriculture.

The report said small farmers have difficulty accessing inputs and markets for their produce, while buyers such as agribusiness enterprises and wholesalers find it difficult to get the quantity and quality of produce that they need for processing on a timely basis.

American benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was at USD36.65 a barrel at the same time for a 0.29-percent decrease after ending the previous session at USD36.76 per barrel.

Oil prices fell below USD40 per barrel for the first time since June as countries worldwide have started to fear a second wave of the coronavirus,

which may necessitate new restrictions and/ or lockdowns that would drive oil demand further down.

The demand concerns were further fed after Saudi Arabia’s state producer, Saudi Aramco, announced it would cut October prices for its sales to the US and Saudi’s main market Asia.

The number of coro-

navirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases worldwide is now over 27.5 million, according to the latest data from Johns Hopkins University.

As the US leads the number of cases with more than 6.3 million as of Wednesday morning, India follows with over 4.3 million cases while Brazil trails with more than 4.1 million cases. (Anadolu)

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Oil prices fall below $40 as virus threatens economies

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rude oil prices fell on Wednesday as the global coronavirus outbreak continues to threaten global economies while further fueling demand concerns.

International benchmark Brent crude was trading at USD39.67 per barrel at 0607 GMT for a 0.27 percent decrease after closing Tuesday at USD39.78 a barrel.

he House of Representatives’ Committee on Appropriations is pushing for a higher budget for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) next year, seeing its crucial role in economic recovery amid the pandemic.

House Committee Vice Chair, Rep. Manuel Zubiri, who presided over the budget hearing Wednesday, has assured DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez that lawmakers “will clamor for (a) bigger budget” for the department.

Lopez said the proposed overall budget for DTI is PHP22.4 billion in 2021, lower than the PHP23.3 billion for this year.

About PHP20.1 billion of the budget proposal will be shared among its attached agencies and corporations, which also went down from nearly PHP21-billion allocation for this year.

A big chunk of the budget will go to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority with PHP13.5-billion allocation.

Attached agencies such as the Board of Investments is allotted with PHP383 million, the Philippine Trade Training Center with PHP69 million, Design Center of the Philippines (DCP) with PHP110 million, Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines with PHP124 million, and Cooperative Development Authority with PHP611 million.

DTI-attached corporations, including Aurora Pacific Economic Zone Authority, is set with a budget of PHP168.7 million, Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) with PHP141.9 million, and Small Business (SB) Corp. that manages the microfinancing program Pondo sa Pagbabago at

Pag-Asenso or P3 Program with PHP1.5 billion.

For the organic office of DTI, its chief said the budget is reduced to PHP5.35 billion next year from PHP6.65 billion this year.

Many of the members of the lower House expressed their disappointments for DTI’s budget cut amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic that impacted several businesses and displaced a lot of Filipino workers.

Zubiri said the proposed budget for DTI is not even 1 percent of the PHP4.5-trillion national budget eyed next year.

“The fact that it is not one of the top 10 departments with a big allocation is not a good indication,” Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. said.

He added the budget for micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) assistance should be increased.

Marikina City 2nd District Rep. Stella Luz Quimbo also flagged the slashing of the budget for MSMEs at PHP2.2 billion for 2021 from PHP2.65 billion this year.

Valenzuela 1st District Rep. Weslie Gatchalian said the budget of DTI’s microfinancing arm, SB Corp., remains the same before and during the pandemic at PHP1.5 billion wherein it should be more aggressive in rolling out loans for MSMEs. Gatchalian proposed to come up with a resolution to increase DTI’s overall budget, particularly for the SB Corp. and programs assisting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“DTI now will play a big role in jumpstarting our MSMEs,” said Gatchalian.

“We need to strengthen entrepreneurship.” (PNA)

IMF chief warns global economic crisis due to pandemic 'far from over'

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he global economy is showing signs of bouncing back from the severe downturn caused by the global coronavirus pandemic, but a full recovery is "unlikely" without a vaccine, IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva said Wednesday.

In a column co-authored with IMF chief economist Gita Gopinath, the officials stressed that governments should continue to support workers and businesses since the unprecedented nature of the crisis could give rise to a wave of bankruptcies and job destruction.

As lockdowns have eased and businesses around the world have been allowed to reopen, there has been a "sharp rebound of output, consumption and employment," they said in Foreign Policy magazine.

The massive scale and speed of government support has helped cushion the blow and allowed for the initial rebound, Gopinath and Georgieva wrote.

"This crisis, however,

is far from over," they said.

"The recovery remains very fragile and uneven across regions and sectors.

To ensure that the recovery continues, it is essential that support not be prematurely withdrawn."

Businesses, even insolvent firms, will need continued help to prevent destruction of millions of jobs. That could include governments taking equity in firms or providing grants in exchange for higher tax rates later, they said.

But governments will have to be cautious in how they distribute their scarce resources, and some companies will inevitably fail, especially in industries like travel that may not survive or will be curtailed in a post-pandemic world.

And, "Though the world has learned to live with the virus, a full recovery is unlikely without a permanent medical solution."

With 128 coronavirus vaccines currently under development, there is a strong chance a solution

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ECONOMY 5

VOL.13 ISSUE 131 • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

BACK-TO-BACK TURNOVER CEREMONIES AT AEON TOWERS. Aeon Luxe Properties, Inc. continues its turnover ceremonies of premium condominium units to Aeon Towers residents at the condo lobby on September 4-5, 2020.

(Left-Right) ALPI President and CEO Mr. Ian Cruz turning over the ceremonial key to the representing clients with

Senior Vice President for Sales Mr. Andrew Bautista. ALPI Executives Ms. Almira Mariano, Marketing Communications Director, Engr. Daniel Manalo, Vice President for Operations and Ms. Jonna Serafin, Vice President for HR, Training and Quality Assurance handing over the turnover kit to condo owner.

Turnover of Aeon Towers units to owners resume

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erailed by community quarantine restrictions imposed by the city government amidst the coronavirus crisis, Aeon Luxe Properties finally resumed its turnover ceremonies for owners of the residential units at Aeon Towers.

Recently, back-to-back ceremonial events were held at the Condo Lobby of Aeon Towers where condo owners officially received their turnover kit including the keys to their units.

The condo owners also had a quick visit to take a look at the final finish of their chosen units that has the breathtaking views of the city skyline and Samal Island.

The owners were briefed about the house rules and construction guidelines by the Property Manager for a more in-depth discussion and well-coordinated move-in process.

Aeon Towers management ensures the residents that they are ready to cater more clients who wishes to have their units turned over to them as there will be a series of turnover ceremonies that are expected in the succeeding months.

These turnover cere-

monies are witnessed by the Mr. Ian Cruz , Aeon Luxe Properties President and CEO, Mr. Andrew Bautista, Senior Vice President for Sales, Engr. Daniel Manalo, Vice President for Operations, Ms. Jonna Serafin, Vice President- HR, Training & Quality Assurance, Ms. Almira Mariano, Marketing Communications Director, Mr. Jester Hospital, Project Development Manager, Mr. Luis Dollesin, Sales Admin Manager and Arch. Marichelle Casado, Property Manager.

“Mula noong nag-resume kami noong August 7, kumikita kami pero umaabot lang ng average of 15% lang ang sales namin compared doon sa expected na sales namin monthly. Supposed to be kumikita kami ng almost more or less P2 billion ng lotto sales per month pero ngayon, umabot lang kami ng P350 million per month,” Garma said.

“So ‘pag bumaba ang charity fund, bababa ‘yong nire-remit namin sa Universal Health Care, contribution namin sa Philhealth, bababa din ‘yong mga shares ng mga pinagbibigyan namin na mandated kami magbigay,” she added.

Garma said she is hoping that after a lone bettor in Quezon City won the Ultra Lotto 6/58 on Sunday

and took home more than P300 million, more Filipinos will be interested to bet anew.

“Sana hindi lang ‘yong mga mahilig pong tumaya para suwertihin, ‘yong mahilig din sanang tumulong, bahala na kung suwertehin o hindi ay tumaya na rin sana ng lotto for the sake lang po na ‘yong pera mapupunta po sa charity naman,” she said.

PCSO lost P7-B in revenues due to Covid-19 pandemic

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he Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) lost about P7 billion in revenues in the four months that its lotto operations were halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, its general manager Royina Garma said Wednesday.

Garma said the lockdowns greatly affected PCSO’s revenue, which was meant for their charity fund.

Globe to build 900 cell sites with tower firm partners

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lobe Telecom Inc. said Wednesday that around 900 cell sites across the country are set to be built by its common tower firm partners as part of the company's efforts to improve services and connectivity.

In a statement, Globe chief finance officer and chief risk officer Rizza Maniego-Eala said that the company’s partnerships with Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc. (AIC), ISOC-edotco, Transcend Towers Infrastructure (Philippines), CREI Philippines (CREI) and Frontier Towers & Associates (FTA) have “advanced to active acquisition and build phases.”

“The partnerships with towercos will greatly complement the company’s target in expanding its capacity and coverage throughout the country.

These projects will be a

catalyst for change in the industry as telcos are empowered to deploy beyond their individual capabilities in a cost efficient manner,” Maniego-Eala said.

She said Globe has finalized a pole lease agreement with AIC and is seen to increase its footprint by about 200 sites in several parts of Cebu, Davao, and Subic.

“In addition, 300 macro sites will be completed for deployment in North Luzon and South Luzon while 400 more sites will be assigned within the year to cover Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao,” Maniega-Eala said.

“The count is projected to increase expansively once the pilot sites of these projects are launched,” she said.

Globe has entered into an anchor tenant in a build-

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Inflation remains manageable amid pandemic, Diokno says

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he Philippine economy contracted by 9 percent in the first half of 2020 due to the pandemic but price pressures continue to be manageable, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno said.

In his presentation during the hearing for the proposed 2021 national budget at the Senate on Wednesday, Diokno cited the 16.5-percent negative output, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP), in the second quarter this year, deeper than the 0.7 percent in the first quarter.

He said strict movement restrictions implemented by the government to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) affected the economy.

“Nevertheless, price pressures remain manageable,” he added.

The average rate of price increases in the first eight months this year stood at 2.5 percent, at the lower half of the government’s 2-4 percent target band

from 2020-2022.

“If we will compare domestic inflation with other countries, the prices of consumer goods and services in a typical Filipino basket are rising at a healthy pace,” Diokno said.

Diokno said the high inflation rate is detrimental to the economy since “it erodes the purchasing power of households and discourages investments.”

He, however, said deflation is similarly bad “as consumers and investors will lose the incentive to spending (and) invest.”

“Such behavior dampens economic activity which results in higher unemployment,” he said.

Philippine monetary officials forecast inflation to average at 2.6 percent this year, at 3 percent in 2021, and at 3.1 percent in 2022.

“Inflation is projected to remain manageable for the rest of the year and to settle within the inflation target range over the policy horizon,” he added.

(PNA)

A sidewalk vendor selling framed paintings wait for customers along C.M. Recto Avenue in Davao City on Thursday. Edge Davao

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 131 • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

In questioning the city’s Signage Ordinance No.092-2000 prohibiting billboard structures that obstruct the view to Mt. Apo: Since this is an ordinance on billboards and signage it is but proper that stakeholders will be involved and be consulted. We were not consulted. Kaya dito nag-umpisa ang problema. One concrete example, ayaw nila palagyan ng billboard ang Bankerohan kasi matabunan daw ang view ng Mt. Apo. If you are coming from Mercury Drug going to Matina passing the Bankerohan Bridge, the Mt. Apo is at far right while the billboards are on the left side. Yun pa lang is a big mistake already.

There are a lot of mistakes in the sections of the ordinance that is why we filed a case para i-amend ito kasi maraming defect. We filed a case at nanalo kami sa Regional Trial Court (RTC) at sa Court of Appeals (CA), pero na-reverse sa Supreme Court (SC).”

Engr. Cirinia Grace Catubig

Officer-in-charge of the City Building Office (CBO)

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VOL.13 ISSUE 131 • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

VANTAGE POINTS

LIVING

FRED C. LUMBA SPECKS OF LIFE

ARE THERE ANYMORE GOOD MEN LEFT In a huge population of more than 100 million, would it be exasperatingly hard to find someone to fit the bill?

Or is it more like searching in a haystack?

The huge financial mess discovered – and exposed by a whistle-blower - in the Philhealth corruption scandal indicts the cultural impunity that has been in existence and in practice for many decades, nursed in fact by the benumbed indifference of a timid and tolerant society.

The Philhealth issue is not the tip of the iceberg, mind you.

Many more earth-shaking exposes’ in yesteryears and recent past have come and gone but the authors of the evil schemes have not been convicted and jailed. It appears that they are able to squeeze themselves out of the discomfiting situation by securing the services of “talented” lawyers who smartly navigate the legal waters with a variety of “swimming” methods and styles.

Yes, it can no longer be denied that our justice and penal

system is pockmarked with loopholes, if you know what I am pointing at.

Rumors that we have thugs and crooks in robes in the judiciary are no longer rumors. Many criminal cases involving scions of rich, prominent and politically-connected families are able to buy their way out of a sure conviction because there is a crooked system existing.

One sickening horrific fact is that while we have an extradition treaty with the USA, Filipinos who are facing court suits conveniently escape by taking the first plane out to Uncle Sam’s territory where they enjoy the “fruits” of their labor.

Criminal minds and plunderers are ironically encouraged to push through their sinister plots to engage in pilferage and thievery because they are not scared of the penal laws existing in the country.

The death penalty is being re-introduced only because the increasing surge of criminality is now – again – being felt and expe-

rienced.

Ordinarily, however, the spate of corruption controversies no longer surprise and shake the Pinoy nation.

They have gotten used to these wrong-doings because they have become integral parts of their contemporary life.

But with the grave anti-social effects of Covid 19, Filipinos are now realizing (and recognizing, I hope) that they need to collectively voice out their rightful indignation because these corruption scandals have got to stop as the wrong-doings are negatively affecting the government and the people in a monstrous manner.

Unfortunately, Philhealth appointees have been – one after the other - exiting disgracefully, hounded by issues about negligent and lax management, dereliction of duty, incompetence and such other concerns, even bordering on inutility.

Everybody is agreed that the matter is systemic.

From top to bottom, the culture of corruption has ebbed

down to its lowest level that nothing – it seems – can solve or even minimize it to a tolerable level.

Perhaps, PRRD should ask for a volunteer.

Instead of scouting for talented managers and executives that will man and head government offices, the President could ask the nation if there is anyone willing to volunteer and serve the country in a position that has no political backing or support.

In this way, the volunteer-appointee will not suffer from political pressures if he had been otherwise backed or recommended by a powerful politician.

I believe there are still many capable Filipinos out there willing to take up the challenge.

These are the guys who silently do their jobs and accomplish their tasks with noble objectivity and diligence.

Enough of bureaucrats.

Enough of the ‘padrino’ connection. Enough of the old traditional “you and me” brotherhood.

I would strongly espouse this volunteer-ism concept.

CELEBRATE OCCASIONS WHILE PRACTICING SOCIAL DISTANCING

We have tried everything possible under the sun but our government remains in bondage to corruption, thievery and illegalities.

A volunteer-appointee I think will do better under the circumstance because he is not indebted to anyone but to the appointing authority alone.

Therefore, he will have much leeway to hire and fire, whenever necessary and implement the changes he sees to be effective and efficient.

At least, PRRD need not search in a haystack.

Napoleon Hill, author of the much-acclaimed Think and Grow Rich, said: “No man ever achieved worthwhile success who did not, at one time or other, find himself with at least one foot hanging well over the brink of failure.”

Challenges will not stop daring us in the face.

It is up to us if we cower in fear or take the dare. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo. com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES.

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

WHAT MAKES A TRUE LEADER?

“The political scene is per- thority on leadership, has writhaps thebeen mostover public IT has six arena ten a very comprehensive book where people have expressed entitled, The 21 Indispensable months since the who startlead Qualities of a Leader. In his their distrust in those of the global pandemic them. These are not easy times introduction, he posed these in which to be a leader.”

-- Henry questions: “What makes people and I am sure many of andmiss Richard Blackaby, authors us socialising with want to follow a leader? Why do of Spiritualand Leadership reluctantly comply with friends, celebrating people *** one leader while passionately times ourtofamilies.

Andwith it came pass that following another to the ends of While the need to goof His the earth? What separates leadGod saw the sufferings people Egypt. we He had out is in strong, haveheard to ership theorists from successful them responsible crying out because stay andofdothe leaders who lead effectively in miseries were home experienc- the real world?” our partthey to stay ing. He wanted to rescue them Maxwell enumerated the 21 as much possible,So,but from their as bondage.

He qualities -- in alphabetical order just we can’t beto -- as follows: character, chariscalledbecause a man named Moses bring God’s does chosen people out Have ma, acommitment, together, not mean unique onlinecommuniparty of Egypt. cation, courage, we can’t celebrate toOnlinecompetence, chat groups and “Who am I, that I should go virtual discernment, generosity, gether. roomsfocus, are now easto Pharaoh and bring the Israel- initiative, listening, passion, posareEgypt,” some Moses creative new ily available. can create itesHere out of asked. itive attitude,You problem solving, waysMoses to celebrate while social partiessecurity, with guests was terrified to be- themed relationships, self-discome the leader. In their book, dressed cipline, servanthood, distancing. according to teachabilithe Spiritual Leadership, authors ty and vision.

Henry and Richard Blackaby Now, here are some wrote: “Leadership. Everyone thoughts from various leaders experiences it, or the lack of it, in and thinkers from around the their daily lives. Those called to world: lead can find doing so a daunting Character: “Leadership is task. Those expected to follow the capacity and will to rally men can experience frustration when and women to a common purtheir leader is unable to lead.” pose and the character which There are 850 different defi- inspires confidence.” -- Bernard nitions of leadership. That was Montgomery, British Field Marwhat Warren Bennis and Burt shal Nanus found when they were Charisma: “How can you writing their collaborative book, have charisma? Be more conLeaders: Strategies for Taking cerned about making others Charge. It is no wonder why to- feel good about themselves than day’s leaders have a hard time you are making them feel good measuring up their level. There about you.” -- Dan Reiland, vice are too many standards to meet! president ofvideos leadership developNetflix Party allows friends subscribed to Netflix to sync their and watch movies Dr. John C. Maxwell, an aument or TV shows together. The added chatroom allows party-goers to chat with each other.

Commitment: “People do not follow uncommitted leaders. Commitment can be displayed in a full range of matters to include the work hours you choose to maintain, how you work to improve your abilities, or what you do for your fellow workers at personal sacrifice.”

-- Stephen Gregg, chairman of Ethix Corporation Communication: “You can have brilliant ideas, but if you can’t get them across, your ideas won’t get you anywhere.” -- Lee Iacocca, American automobile executive Competence: “The society which scorns excellence in Waterfront Insularbecause Davao’s Pasta and Sauces plumbing plumbing isis a kitaofhumble various gourmet freshand pastatolerand activity luscious that can be and ates sauces shoddiness inreheated philosophy enjoyed at home. because it is an exalted activity will have neither good plumbing nor good philosophy.

Neither theme at home or have their its piped nor its theories will hold own virtual background set-up water.” -- John Gardner, Amerito theme. canthe novelist And what is“Courage a party withCourage: is rightly esteemed the first of may human out games? While some qualities… because it is the choose to do multi-player quality which guarantees all othgame parties on their gamers.”-- Winston Churchill, British ing consoles or PCs, another Prime Minister way Discernment: to have fun is by“The hosting first of holes: you’re in arule BINGO party.When The BINGO one, stop -- Molly cards candigging.” be emailed and Ivins, American columnist printed in advance with the Focus: “What people say, party host responsible in they what people do, and what drawing theare number-letter say they do entirely different things.” -- Margaret Mead, ancombinations. thropologist To make the party complete, Generosity: personfood was arrange to have “No packaged

ever honored for what he re- himself.” -- Louis Nizer ceived. Honor has been the reSecurity: “No man will make ward for what he gave.” -- Calvin a great leader who wants to do Coolidge, American president it all himself or get all the credit Initiative: “Success seems for doing it.” -- Andrew Carnegie, to be connected with action. industrialist Successful people keep moving.

Self-discipline:“A man withThey make mistakes, but they out decision of character can don’t quit.” -- Conrad Hilton, ho- never be said to belong to himtel executive self… He longs to whatever can Listening: “The ear of the make captive of him.” -- John leader must ring with the voices Foster, author of the people.” -- Woodrow WilServanthood: “The true son, American president leader serves. Serves people.

Passion: “Without passion Serves their best interests, and Seda s Food Tolatent Go offers manyand Misto’s favourite dishes for pick-up. manAbreeza’ is a mere force in so doing will not always be possibility, like the flint which popular, may not always imawaitsSeda the shock of the ironTobe- press.

But on because true leaders streaming their screens. from Abreeza’s Food fore it can give forth its spark.” are motivated by loving concern Go or food kits like Waterfront -Henri Frederic Amie, Swiss rather than a desire for personal Insular Hotel’s Pasta & Sauces Drive by receptions moral philosopher glory, they are willing to pay the Celebrations weddingsauKit delivered the guests in Positive toAttitude: “The price.”

-- Eugenelike B. Habecker, are a big deal and it is often advance to be enjoyed together greatest discovery of my gener- thor ation isthe thatonline human beings can difficult Teachability: what you to exclude“It’s friends, during party. alter their lives by altering their learn after you know it all that family, and the extended famattitude of mind.”

-William counts.”

-John Wooden, BasketHost a viewing party ily. While live video of the James, psychologist ball coach Miss goingSolving: out for a“The movie are a future great way to Problem mea- ceremonies Vision: “The belongs with Why not host a share the joyful occasion, a cresure friends? of success is not whether to those who see possibilities you have a tough problem they becometo obvious.” virtual viewing party instead?to before ative way for people be close deal with, but whether it is the -John Scully, Chief Executive Facebook allows the creation to the couple is to invite guests same problem you had last year.” Officer of viewing parties on their to form a “drive-by reception,” -- John Foster Dulles, US SecreTo end this piece, here is a platform.

Netflix on the other- final with guests forming a parade, tary of State statement from Chinese handRelationships: allows viewing“The parties honking and Lao-Tzu: cheering in most philosopher “Tothe lead important single ingredient via the Netflix Party app for in people, safety ofwalk theirbeside cars. them ... As the formula of success know- forWhile the best people Chome, the apps allowsisfriends we leaders, still havethe spend ing how to get along with peodo not notice their existence. who are subscribed to the some more time social disple.” -- Theodore Roosevelt, The next best, the people honor streaming channel to watch a tancing, it does not mean that American president and praise.

The next, the people movie or TV show together, happyand celebrations stop.

Responsibility: “When a fear; the next,should the people man points finger at someone hate ... When the to best leader’s the app alsoahas a chat box so It all comes down finding else, hecan should is done the people friends shareremember what theythat work creative and fun ways tosay, put‘We a four of his fingers are pointing at did it ourselves!’” think of the scene currently smile on someone’s face.

8

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VOL.13 ISSUE 131 • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

Is your current conditioner letting you down?

Time to switch to get salon level hair!

I

t goes without saying that with the many things you’ve probably learned about yourself during quarantine, being fully aware of your surroundings is one of them. You can only do so many activities at home that even the nooks and crannies in your house are now worthy of attention. So much that you’ve probably rearranged your bedroom layout, revamped your house, DIY-ed your clothes, and have definitely done something to your hair.

Almost half a year into the lockdown, you’ve most likely noticed almost all of your hair flaws by now. And since hair salon appointments are still a thing of the unknown future, you’re probably left wondering how to deal with those pasaway strands, or more commonly known as tutchang.

How to deal with tutchang, really?

Yes, you’ve probably heard of tutchang before. But do you know what actually causes it to go cray? Tutchang is the frizzy baby hair at the roots caused by everyday exposure to heat, humidity, and frequent use of heat-styling tools that

weaken your hair fibers.

These strands can stay pasaway throughout the day even after you set it with a hair styling product.

Your previous salon treatments might have tamed your tutchang — but with no salon treatments now, you might be noticing them sticking out more than usual.

Even if you’re rocking the best video call OOTD, tutchang can take the spotlight from you with every popping strand.

Here’s the good news, you don’t have to rely on salon treatments to treat tutchang, a great conditioner can actually do that for you. So, what are

you supposed to do when your current conditioner isn’t as effective as you thought it would be? Sis, you need to switch it up.

If your current conditioner isn’t dealing well with tutchang, maybe it’s time to move on and trust the miracle of starting anew by exploring better products for your hair woes.

It’s time to make the switch to the REAL Collagen Miracle If you’re looking for the solution to tutchang, so you can achieve your smoothest hair ever, Look no further than the new Pantene Collagen Miracle Intensive Serum Conditioner! It contains real collagen — an ingredient that has done wonders for the skin is now in a conditioner. You won’t have to even look back on your past conditioners now that you’ve found the one.

Pantene Collagen Miracle Intensive Serum Conditioner is formulated with a blend of Pro-Vitamin B5, miracle serum, and real collagen — sealing in nutrients and locking in moisture, turning dry, frizzy hair into shiny, smoother hair (from roots to tips!) every day. This hair conditioner targets damaged strands

and strengthens it to become frizz-free and salon-smooth all day.

You can now bid goodbye to wondering when your next salon appointment will be! No need to

get back with your old conditioner now that you can tame tutchang and achieve salon-level results with Pantene Collagen Miracle Intensive Serum Conditioner.

Sit back, relax, and fight tutchang by switching to Collagen Miracle — checkout Pantene products through Lazada or Shopee from the comfort of your own home.

strongly advocates helping people make informed purchases by sharing real product experiences. It promotes responsible and sensible shopping through shared conversations and reviews among its members, which consists of shoppers across all ages and product categories.

Last November 2019 to January 2020, HTC conducted a survey among 335 moms (from 20-45 years old, with kids 3 to 7 years old located in Metro Manila) to compare PROMIL® FOUR with other milk brands in a ‘blind’ test and

taste engagement.

Results reveal that 9 out of 10 Home Tester Club moms would switch to PROMIL® FOUR after trial for its taste.

Rina, a mom from Makati City, shares that PROMIL® FOUR’s right amount of sweetness is what her kid loves the most. “As compared to other brands, it provides the exact amount of taste for my kid without needing to add sugar. I have tried other brands of growing-up milk and I didn’t like how they were very sweet”.

Melody, mom to Ava, echoes the concern of most moms about sugar content. “We’ve been looking for a milk formula with less sugar. From my observation, the used glass of [PROMIL® FOUR] milk didn’t attract ants. It also tastes healthier, so I decided that this is the milk that I will give my daughter.”

Maylene couldn’t be happier that Thea, her daughter, finds PROMIL® FOUR not too sweet and really has the milky taste that is just right for the taste buds of kids.

Aside from the taste, mommy respondents agree that another important factor for them in choosing the right milk is the nutrients found in the product.

Jenny shared that her daughter Sherra usually

drinks a glass of milk when she gets home from school.

At first, her daughter was not enthusiastic when she tasted PROMIL® FOUR. However, it changed after a few more tries, and now her daughter loves it. According to Jenny, “It’s a good transition for me because PROMIL® FOUR offers more nutrients than the other milk brand we’ve been using. We’re sticking with it from now on.”

Another mom named Carla was surprised upon discovery of the nutrient content of PROMIL® FOUR. ”Actually, it’s only now that I learned the kind of nutrients of this product.

Wow, there’s a lot! I’m really going to give this milk to [my daughter] Crystal”.

PROMIL® FOUR is scientifically designed with important and essential nutrients to support a child’s proper growth and mental development to help nurture the gift.

In the PROMIL® FOUR Test and Taste challenge, HTC validated the survey with actual reviews of moms who participated in the activity. The result: 9 out 10 Home Tester Club moms in Metro Manila would switch to PROMIL® FOUR after trial.

What about you, moms? Test and taste your child’s milk to experience the difference yourself.

WHAT MOMS LOOK FOR IN CHOOSING THE RIGHT GROWING-UP MILK FOR THEIR KIDS

E

very mom’s goal is to support their kids with good health, proper growth, and mental development. It’s hard do it alone but with the right growing-up formula milk—the goal is attainable.

Wyeth Nutrition™, manufacturer of PROMIL® FOUR, partnered with the world’s biggest e-community of shoppers – the Home Tester Club (HTC) to find out what moms look for in choosing the right growing-up milk for their kids.

Home Tester Club

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 131 • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

AGRITRENDS

9

Are we running out of

FISH?

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

U

nlike rice, which is considered a political commodity, fish are neglected in the media – except only where there is a fish kill. After all, fish are touted as “the last wild meal in the human diet.” As fish are “poor man’s source of protein,” they are not given second thought by researchers.

But the truth is, the Philippines may soon doesn’t have enough fish to feed its growing population. For the past years, the country’s municipal and commercial catch of fish have dramatically declined.

“We are running out of fish and running out of time. For a country known for marine biodiversity, there are very few fish left to catch,” deplored Vince Cinches, Oceans Campaigner for Greenpeace Southeast Asia.

Fish provides more than half of the protein requirement of most Filipinos. “Unless we look for other sources of protein, the food intake of Filipinos will be greatly affected,” said Dr. Rafael D. Guerrero III, a fishery expert and academician at the National Academy of Science and Technology.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), a line agency of the agriculture department, reported that the population and size of small pelagic fish species such as sardines, “galunggong”

(scad) and “matambaka” (ox-eye scad) “are already dwindling.”

Roy C. Alimoane, the director of Davao-based Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Cen-

t e r, mourned “the almost unabated plunder” of the commons – unoccupied land and waters that are shared resources for people to use – that has caused fish depletion in the country. “Like the other vital resources such as forests, Philippine fisheries are about to collapse,” he said.

The country’s marine

resources are vast – 200 million hectares of coastal and oceanic territorial water area. Dr. Edgardo Gomez, former director of the Marine Science Institute of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, at one time reported that “nearly all waters within 15 kilometers of shore are considered overfished.”

“Our fishery resources are beset with problems,” confirmed a BFAR official.

Fishery resources refer to inland (lakes, rivers, freshwater swamps, and fisponds), coastal, and offshore waters.

Overexploitation has been cited as one of the culprits why fish catch has been declining.

Oceans, which are global common property resources, are open with few limitations to all takers. Vessels from wealthier countries dominate the ocean catch.

Although fish stocks are a renewable resource, many of them are strained to the limit. “Over the years, they have suffered from a widespread notion that the seas are inexhaustible and economic pressures that have encouraged overexploitation,” the Washington, D.C.-based Worldwatch Institute deplored.

Fishery experts claim that all fishing activities depend on a fragile resource

base which, if mismanaged and overexploited, can easily collapse. “Overfishing is the primary cause of dwindling fish population,” notes Peter Weber in his book, Net Loss: Fish, Jobs and the Marine Environment.

The fishing industry reportedly employs about five percent of the country’s total labor force. Some of those involved in fishing employ illegal methods like using cyanide, dynamite and trawls.

It’s not because of poverty that some of these fishermen resort to destructive fishing methods.

“Easy money – that’s why they go into illegal fishing,” said a source, who added that if one fisherman is making big money from his illegal activities, others follow suit.

About 70% of all communities in the country are found along the seaside.

Population pressures have been cited as another reason why fishermen harvest marine products exhaustively without even thinking about the future. “If other fishermen will catch these fishes, I might as well catch them first,” said a fisherman from Sta. Cruz in Davao del Sur. Unfortunately, the illegal fishing methods don’t only lessen the fish population but destroy the habitats of these marine creatures. Take the case of coral reefs, the rainforests of the sea.

While the country sits on the world’s second largest coral reef, only 1 to 2.5% of the reefs are still intact while 60% are heavily damaged. “Its destruction can greatly reduce fish production, thus endangering the fish supply in the country,” said Letecia Ramos-Shahani when she was

still with the senate.

An estimated 10-15 per cent of the total fisheries come from coral reefs.

About 80-90 per cent of the income of small island communities comes from fisheries. “Coral reef fish yields range from 20 to 25 metric tons per square kilometer per year for healthy reefs,” says Dr. Angel C. Alcala, former environment secretary.

About 40 percent of the country’s coral reefs have been obliterated by cyanide fishing. The Haribon Foundation estimated more than 4,000 cyanide-using aquarium fish gatherers in the country; another 2,000 are into live food fish collection. “These fishermen spray some 400,000 kilograms of sodium cyanide on coral reefs every year,” the International Maritime Alliance-Philippines said in

FFISH, P10

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the Petition for Review on Certiorari under Rule 45 filed by then City Engineer Leoncio Evasco Jr, the court reversed and set aside the decision and the amended decision of the Court of Appeals dated June 14, 2011 and October 13,2011.

There are about 20

identified billboards located in Generoso Bridge that violated the code under Section 8 of the City Ordinance No.092 and these billboards were reported granted permits and installed before the Building Code was amended in the year 2005.

Kraft emphasized that the Social Amelioration Program is an assistance given by government to ease the impact of the pandemic to the ordinary people’s way of life.

He said residents must use the assistance properly in buying for their daily needs, and not on gambling activities.

Kraft lauded the station commander of San Pedro Street and other stations

which are performing their duty against illegal gambling.

He warned that the police will continue its campaign against illegal gambling especially now that COVID-19 cases are still rising.

“Illegal gambling is not tolerated and it is a national policy of the Philippine National Police,” Kraft said.

(PIA XI-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

school, not everyone wants to go to public schools.)

Private schools will continue accepting students until November, he said.

Estrada earlier said he hoped enrollment in private schools improve once the proposed Bayanihan to Recover as One Act

(Bayanihan 2) is signed into law.

Bayanihan 2 will provide allowances for qualified students, displaced teachers and non-teaching personnel. President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to sign the measure into law next week, said his spokesman Harry Roque.

will be found, but "we must urgently devise multilateral solutions" to ensure

adequate supply and distribution, Georgieva and Gopinath wrote.

to-suit agreement with Transcend Towers Infrastructure (Philippines) as well as tower lease agreements with ISOC-edotco, CREI and FTA. “These infrastructure partnerships demonstrate Globe’s commitment to improve the network quality experience of our customers. It is, likewise, highly supportive of the government's initiative to increase

ICT infrastructure in the country,” Maniego-Eala said.

“Globe continues to increase its network capacity to support the data services needs of customers and stakeholders in light of accelerated digitalization efforts across various sectors including e-payments, e-government, telehealth and distance learning,” she said.

ing of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Philippine Sports Commission, and the Department of Health.

On the other hand, the UAAP will monitor CHED's own investigation on the alleged bubble training incident.

CHED has given UST a show-cause order for the latter to explain why it should be spared from sanctions.

"The association will follow these developments before discussing the next action on the case," the UAAP BOT said. (PNA)

officer Marcy Venezuela, and STATS chief executive officer Edrin Panganiban.

“We are beyond grateful for having JJ [Atencio] and JHI in the team for the past three years and a couple more. Despite the COVID-19 situation, he still chose to stay on. He is as determined as we are to see everything through. More than the financial aspect of things, the moral support they have given us from the start is priceless. JJ is like a father or a brother to the players and us coaches. His kindness and faith in the team truly inspires us,” said Bo Perasol.

For his part, UP Fight-

ing Maroons team manager Atty. Agaton Uvero stressed how the team struggled in the past and how supporters like Atencio and STATS help to keep them on track for years to come.

“Sir JJ Atencio was one of the first to give hope to our program. A believer in the value of education, he graciously sponsored the team’s first overseas training when all we had to show was a promise to do our best. Four years after, we now have a sustainable program and a team that is going to be competitive for many years to come. We will always be grateful for his support,” Uvero said.

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The city also spent 960,000 pesos for the purchase of 20 units of Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) for the SPMC isolation facility and 514,195.01 pesos for “electricity bills for four PUI facilities/centers.”

Based on the total amount indicated in the report, the cost of each PAPR is 48,000 pesos.

Management of the Dead The city spent 6.5-M pesos on “cremation expenses for expired COVID-19 and/or COVID-19-related cases.” Of this amount, 2.9-M pesos went to the Cosmopolitan Memorial Park (apparently referring

to Cosmopolitan Funeral Homes) for 50 cadavers; 2.6-M pesos to the Davao Memorial Park for 38 cadavers; and PhP 992,000 to Angel Brillantes Funeral Homes for 95 cadavers.

Bsased on the amounts recorded in the report, cremation at Cosmopolitan Memorial Park (apparently referring to Cosmopolitan Funeral Homes) costs 58,000 pesos each while cremation at the Davao Memorial Park costs 68,421 pesos each.

Angel Funeral Homes’ service for 95 cadavers is at 10,442 pesos each.

Davao City’s number of COVID-19 deaths as of July 31 was only 39 so were

the remaining 144 of the 183 cadavers suspected COVID-19 cases?

MindaNews asked Ivan Cortez, the city’s Acting Local Planning and Development Coordinator and one of three members of the Local Finance Committee that prepared the Bayanihan fund utilization report, about the number of cadavers and deaths and why the disparity in amounts although the rates of Cosmopolitan and Davao Memorial were closer compared with Angel’s.

Cortez told MindaNews City Health Officer, Dr. Joy Villafuerte, would be in the best position to answer.

Villafuerte told Min-

daNews “hindi naga-cremate ang Angel” and that “deaths due to COVID-positive and COVID suspects are buried by cremation.”

If COVID-19 suspects are supposed to be cremated, and Angel does not cremate, what were the 95 cadavers serviced by Angel Funeral Homes that cost the city nearly a million pesos?

Villafuerte sent no reply. MindaNews followed up on the query on Monday evening, Tuesday and Wednesday but she sent no answer.

In May, Mayor Duterte mulled the establishment of a city-owned crematorium. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

Build, Build” program as the Department of Finance (DOF) has managed to secure highly concessional funding support for infrastructure and peace-building projects in the South despite the pandemic-induced crisis.

Among these programs is to assist the government in its ongoing peace-building and development efforts in Mindanao, including the ongoing confidence-building initiatives in the Bangsamoro Auton-

omous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the recovery and rehabilitation efforts for Marawi City.

He said together with the hundreds of road, railway, port and irrigation projects all over Mindanao, these investments will support job creation, strengthen inclusive and sustainable growth, and promote lasting peace in the region.

The DOF had also signed the financing agree-

ments for grants amounting to a combined $97 million extended by the European Union (EU) for the government’s development and peace-building programs in Mindanao.

These grants are for the Mindanao Peace and Development Program-Rise Mindanao (MINPAD-Rise Mindanao) and Support to Bangsamoro Transition Program (SUBATRA).

The first-ever virtual MinBizCon is co-organized by the Philippine Chamber

of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII).

Dominguez also emphasized the key role played by the business community, spearheaded by the PCCI, in mobilizing multi-sectoral support behind the Duterte administration’s game-changing reforms that have propped up the country’s fiscal position ahead of the global crisis triggered by the coronavirus pandemic.

Government support can help overcome this market failure by bringing together buyers and producer organizations and providing support for the preparation and implementation of profitable business plans that benefit both parties, it added.

In situations where farmers need support to help them access markets and improve their livelihood, or when compensation measures are needed for farmers affected by trade policies such as the rice liberalization in the Philippines, direct cash payments or cash transfers can be a better option, as

practiced in many countries like Turkey, European Union, and the US, the report said.

These direct payments have many advantages, such as giving farmers more choices and encouraging private sector development in upstream (inputs and agricultural services) and downstream (processing, marketing) markets, thereby helping farmers connect to these markets and opportunities.

The report said interventions like farm consolidation (including cooperative farming schemes for instance), better extension services, e-commerce, and

investments in agribusiness start-ups can further advance modernization of Philippine agriculture.

“These paradigm shifts will be crucial to meet the emerging domestic and global market opportunities, while creating jobs, raising farmer incomes and ensuring the food security needs of the country and meeting the new challenges of climate change,” Dina Umali-Deininger, World Bank Practice Manager for Agriculture and Food for East Asia and the Pacific, said.

World Bank’s support to the Philippines includes long-running programs

aiming to raise agricultural productivity and reduce poverty in rural communities.

A current example of this is the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) which aims to help increase rural incomes and enhance farm and fishery productivity.

Several projects are in the pipeline to help raise agricultural productivity, resiliency and access to markets of farmers and fisherfolk in selected ancestral domains in Mindanao and improve management of coastal fishery resources in selected coastal communities. (PR)

a statement.

Coral reefs have also been destroyed by dynamite fishing. Estimates vary but the minimum figure indicates that at least 10% of the more than 700,000 municipal fishermen in the country are hardcore explosive fishermen.

Mangroves, which thrive in sheltered tidal flats, coves, bays, and river estuaries, are not spared from denudation.

The current rate of mangrove deforestation ranges from 2,000 to 3,000 hectares per year, according to Dr. Guerrero.

Mangroves are very important to marine life, Dr. Guerrero says. They serve as sanctuaries and feeding

grounds for fish that nibble on detritus (fallen and decaying leaves) trapped in the vegetation, and on the bark and leaves of living trees.

Aquaculture seems to be the answer to the fish shortage in the country.

But on second thought, further pressure is placed on the marine ecosystem by aquaculture’s reliance on wild stocks to supply seed.

Another ecological impact: the need for land and water. In the Philippines, lands usually converted into ponds are waterlogged areas and wetlands (marshes), cultivated ricelands or drylands. Water supply usually comes from irrigation canals or rainfed.

“The conversion of ricelands to ponds is dictated by economic use of the land,” the BFAR said.

“Lands converted into tilapia ponds are more profitable than ricelands as reported. But massive conversion of irrigated ricelands into tilapia ponds may affect rice production in the future.”

In some lakes, the number of cages and other aquaculture ventures exceeded the desired number.

As these minimize waves and water current, eutrophication results. “When water movement is very low, supply of dissolved oxygen is affected,” the BFAR expert explained. “The bottom layers of the water can

be devoid of dissolved oxygen while the surface layer can be saturated.” The outcome: fish kill.

Escapes of domesticated farmed fish into rivers, lakes, and coastal areas have become a growing risk to already decimated stock of wild fish. Yet, such escapes are not uncommon. In an article which appeared in “Worldwatch” in 1995, author Anne Platt McGinn noted: “In tropical freshwater systems, two-thirds of escaped fish species have become established.”

Now, if aquaculture is to serve its purpose in helping avert fish shortage, these ecological issues must be fully addressed.

submitted to the Philippine Sports Commission. Venues, such as the PhilSports Arena, are also being prepared.

Petecio said she and the

other members of the boxing team are determined to get back to work as soon as possible, as they are still gunning for Olympic berths.

“Sana ma-aprubahan dito na makabalik kami kaagad,” she said.

Petecio missed out on a chance to qualify for the Olympics during the

Asia-Oceania qualification tournament last March.

The top seed in the featherweight division, Petecio bowed to Japan’s Sena Irie in the quarterfinals.

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Kyle Lowry willed the Raptors to a Game 6 win. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Raptors win in 2OT T to force a Game 7

JHI backs Maroons in UAAP 83,84

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or the first time since Kawhi Leonard’s bouncing miracle last year, the Toronto Raptors will play a Game 7.

To get there, it took a game just as wild as that win over the Philadelphia 76ers so many months ago.

Trading haymaker after haymaker in two overtimes, the Raptors outlasted the Boston Celtics in Game 6 for a classic 125122 win.

Throwing many of the Raptors’ punches was, who else, Kyle Lowry, who led all scorers with 33 points on 12-of-20 shooting (6-of10 from deep), plus eight rebounds, six assists, two steals and just one turn-

T

over. His final points came on a clutch fadeaway to give the Raptors a fourpoint lead with just a few seconds remaining.

Supporting Lowry in overtime was Norman Powell, whose free throws sealed the game for the Raptors. Powell finished with 23 points.

The Celtics seemed headed for advancement for much of the first half,

when the Raptors struggled to get anything going on offense. Meanwhile, Jaylen Brown posted 21 first-half points, and eventually finished with a teamhigh 31. Jayson Tatum and Marcus Smart both posted 20-plus points, the latter scoring a triple-double.

The Raptors and Celtics will play Game 7 on Friday.

Bizarre ending to regulation Before overtime, regulation ended with a bizarre sequence of events. Referees were involved.

With the clock ticking down, Kemba Walker, who finished with just five points, drove for a game-winning layup and

missed. Raptors wing OG Anunoby got the rebound, but quick hands from Smart and Daniel Theis appeared to force a jump ball.

However, one official noticed Lowry calling a timeout just as Anunoby got his hands on the ball, and the timeout was ultimately granted.

Given a chance to win the game with two seconds left, the Raptors inbounded to Pascal Siakam. With the Celtics having a foul to give, Tatum fouled Siakam to break up the shot. The Raptors’ second attempt resulted in a dramatically close 3-point attempt from Siakam, and the game reached overtime.

of banning the former University of Santo Tomas (UST) coach on Wednesday.

"After a thorough deliberation, the UAAP BOT ratified the decision of the BMD to ban coach Aldin Ayo indefinitely from participating, in any capacity, in all UAAP events and UAAP sanctioned-activities," a UAAP BOT statement read.

The UAAP BMD made

the recommendation last week following the end of UST's probe on the alleged bubble, which at the time it took place was not allowed.

"The ban is based on the UST report that showed Ayo endangering the health and well-being of the student-athletes under his charge when he conducted the training during a government-declared state of public

emergency intended to arrest the Covid-19 outbreak," it added.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases only allowed college student-athletes to train again on Monday, although they can only be really cleared once the practice protocols have been set by a technical working group consist-

UAAP bans Ayo indefintely

he University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) handed Coach Aldin Ayo an indefinite ban after allegedly conducting a training bubble in his hometown of Capuy, Sorsogon amid the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

This after the league's board of trustees (BOT) approved its board of managing directors' (BMD) recommendation

FUAAP, P10

he University of the Philippines Men’s Basketball Team (UPMBT) will still have Januarius Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiary STATS Performance Apparel among its top supporters for the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Seasons 83 and 84.

JHI Chairman and chief executive officer JJ Atencio has been bankrolling the UPMBT’s training camps in Las Vegas, Serbia and Tokyo in 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has ruled out overseas trips for the Fighting Maroons but Atencio and company are still including advanced training as part of their plan.

“Our journey with the UPMBT started three years ago, when, acting on a strong gut feeling, we decided to be major sponsors, despite the team’s just coming out of a lackluster season, the absence of significant community support, and my not even being a UP alumnus. We wanted to be part of the dream and help create something that eventually we could all be proud of. Fast forward to today, it’s a completely different situation, isn’t it?” asked Atencio.

Atencio is a graduate of UP’s Katipunan rival, Ateneo de Manila University, but believes he has a mission with the Fighting Maroons and it is not yet done.

“While the team has accomplished a lot these past years, the work isn’t fin-

ished yet. That dream continues to unfold. Success is a process after all, and we continue to be motivated and encouraged to keep on supporting and being part of this journey - in good times and bad. We think that the next two years will be really good for the team,” said Atencio, who is now taking up his master’s degree in UP. Atencio said he believes that foreign training is a game changer that can quickly produce the desired results. “We’ve seen it. After three straight years of training abroad, we placed fifth the first year, second in the second year, and third after last year’s training. We’re still committed to sending the team for training abroad in Seasons 83 and 84 as soon as it’s possible,” Atencio added.

Besides the team outfits and the commitment to send the team abroad for training, Atencio announced that JHI are providing the Maroons with data analytics technology.

“What’s also exciting for us starting this year is analytics. That’s one of the things we are working on with the team and that’s what we’re looking forward to -- how it would help them,” Atencio bared.

Present in the memorandum of agreement signing were Atencio, UPMBT head coach Bo Perasol, team manager Atty. Agaton Uvero, nowheretogobutUP Foundation founder Renan Dalisay, JHI chief operating

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Petecio training hobbled by poor internet

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ven in training, Dabawenya Olympic hopeful Nesthy Petecio has a formidable foe -- poor internet.

With the training guidelines still being readied, Petecio has been training virtually. The featherweight gold medalist in the AIBA Women’s World Boxing Championships last year, has been taking part in the Philippine boxing team’s virtual training sessions.

However, internet speeds in the province cannot cope with the speed of her punches. Or the instructions of her coach. With the poor internet connection in the province, she has not been able to train on a regular basis.

While her rivals from other countries have plunged into preparations for next year’s Olympic Qualifiers, Petecio is still in her hometown in Davao del Sur and awaiting the time she gets back into the gym and train.

Regarded as a virtual shoo-in to the Tokyo Olympics, Petecio needs only to win in the next Qualifiers.

“Nag-aantay po kami na maaprubahan po na pwede na bumalik. Papabalikin na po kami ng Manila ‘pag may approval na po, para makapag-focus po talaga,” said Petecio during a recent interview on Radyo Pilipi-

nas. “Kasi, kailangan po talaga na eh, kasi ‘yung ibang bansa po, nakakapag-training na po sila ng normal.”

According to Petecio, her rivals from Thailand, Vietnam and Japan have already begun training again, while her coach Nolito “Boy” Velasco believes the boxers from India never stopped their preparations.

Both the Philippine Olympic Commitee (POC) and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) remain optimistic that the country’s Olympic hopefuls can resume their preparations soon, as they await the official green light from the government.

Mariano “Nonong” Araneta, the chef-de-mission to the Tokyo Olympics, said recently that health and safety protocols have already been

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Nesthy Petecio has been training remotely via online sessions with her coach but poor internet connectivity in the province is hampering her training.