Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 182 | Thursday, November 12, 2020

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VOL.13 ISSUE 182 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2020

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DAYS Warning up on possible dengue outbreak STORY ON PAGE 2

Fishermen wait for the sun to set before heading out to sea off a beach resort in Darong, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur on Tuesday afternoon.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced that it will distribute P5,000 worth of cash and food assistance to thousands of fisherfolk in the Davao Region as part of the government’s response to the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. Edge Davao

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 182 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2020

President Rodrigo Duterte convenes members of his cabinet and Senator Christopher Lawrence Go to discuss various updates at the Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse on Tuesday night. Joining the meeting are Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Labor and Employment Secretary Silvestre Bello III, Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez, Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Joselito Bautista, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, and Spokesperson Herminio Harry Roque Jr. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

RAINY DAYS Warning up on possible dengue outbreak

By MAYA M. PADILLO hile everyone is doing all the protocols for safety against Covid-19, the Davao City Council reminded Dabawenyos of other infectious diseases that have an adverse effect to the community such as dengue.

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According to Councilor Mary Joselle Villafuerte, in October 2019 Davao City has recorded 2,500 cases of dengue and nine deaths.

“The Philippine government also declared a National Dengue Epidemic as dengue cases reached more than 360,000 nationwide. Ayaw na natin maghintay ng ganyan. We want

this program in place up to barangay level,” Villafuerte said via Messenger.

Experts warned people to be safe always especially on rainy days as it is also seen as the peak of dengue infection. The common diseases during the rainy season include diarrhea, water-borne borne diseases such as malaria and

dengue.

“Kahit po may Covid ayaw natin kalimutan na may ibang sakit na significant din ang epekto sa komunidad,” Villafuerte said.

This is also the reason why Villafuerte, who is also the chairperson of the Committee on Health of the 19th City Council, has proposed a resolution to enact an ordinance strengthening and institutionalizing the Davao City Mosquito-Borne Diseases Prevention and Control Program, which was recently passed and approved during its third and final reading.

Section 4 of the ordinance is the creation of a

he Department of Health (DOH) has called on the public to temper expectations on a potential vaccine by Pfizer and BioNTech being 90% effective against COVID-19, considering that the results are still in early stages.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire made the appeal after President Rodrigo Duterte

said that there is nothing to fear about COVID-19 because vaccines are ready while lamenting that these are expensive.

“Hindi naman kailangang matakot sa COVID-19.

Ang kailangan natin maging laging vigilant, laging handa, laging cautious and aware, laging sumusunod sa minimum health standards (washing of hands, physical distancing, ban on

mass gathering),” Vergeire said in an online briefing.

“Itong bakuna ng Pfizer ay napaka-encouraging po, but we should temper our expectations and remain grounded on the reality na ginagawa pa lang ito,” Vergeire added.

The President earlier said that the government intends to borrow $300 million for the procurement of vaccines against

Davao City Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Mosquito-Borne diseases prevention an control that will be chaired and co-chaired by the City Mayor and City health Officer respectively and members that include SP Committee on Health, City Social Services and Development Office (CSSDO), City Information Office (CIO), Liga ng mga Barangays, Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs), Ancillary Services Unit (ASU), City Environmental and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO), and COVID-19.

The Duterte administration only earmarked P2.5 billion for purchase of COVID-19 vaccines under its proposed 2021 national budget.

The Health department has earlier said the amount is not enough as 12.9 billion is needed to purchase vaccines enough to immunize at least 20

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DOH urges public to temper expectations on potential Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine

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Gov't to borrow $300-million for Covid-19 vaccines procurement

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he government is planning to borrow USD300 million to purchase doses of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine for all Filipinos, President Rodrigo Duterte said Tuesday night.

Duterte, however, acknowledged that it might take some time before the country acquires doses of a vaccine since pharmaceutical companies would prioritize their nations first. “(Finance Secretary) Sonny (Dominguez) says that he can borrow money of USD300 million. So malaki iyan. Makakabili tayo but I think it would do as well to also realize that unahin talaga nila iyong mga tao nila (That’s huge.

We can purchase the vaccine but I think it would do as well to also realize that they would prioritize their people first),” he said in a taped public address. “So, you can expect that within the few months until next year, all of those vaccines produced will be used for the Americans.”

The President acknowledged that purchasing the vaccines early would be expensive but noted that the threat of Covid-19 has become less scary as some pharmaceutical firms in the US and China have made progress in developing the life-saving vaccines.

US pharmaceutical firm Pfizer, which developed the vaccine with the German drugmaker BioNTech, announced that its potential Covid-19 vaccine was

90 percent effective, based on its clinical trials.

“China na o Pfizer of America, mayroon na sila.

So hindi na nakakatakot talaga ang Covid. But sa pagka ngayon magbili ka, mahal (China or Pfizer of America, they already have a vaccine. Covid isn’t so scary anymore. But if you buy them now, they’ll be expensive),” he said.

Duterte also said that once the vaccine supply is available, the government would prioritize the poor in the distribution.

“As I have promised, ang gastos ng gobyerno itong bakuna para sa lahat ng Pilipino. Kaya nga uumpisahan natin sa mga mahihirap, pataas na ano (the government will shoulder the cost of the vaccine for all Filipinos.

That’s why we will start with the poor going up),” he said, noting that middle- to high-income Filipinos could pay for their own vaccine.

Duterte sought patience from the public, reiterating that the challenge lies in the vaccine supply rather than the acquisition of funds.

“So iyan mga kababayan ko, basta mabakunahan kayo. Kailan?

Maghintay lang tayo. Pera?

Makahiram tayo kaagad.

Ang suplay ang problema.

Kung sino iyong country nakapag-imbento, naturalmente unahin niya iyong mga tao niya. That's the reality of life (Let’s make sure you get vaccinated. When?

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NEWS 3

TESDA-11 introduces training program on contact tracing

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he Technical Education and Skills Authority (TESDA-11) in the region has introduced the Contact Tracing Level II Training Program, a new program which was developed in partnership with the academe and other international bodies.

TESDA-XI Regional Director Lorenzo Macapili said that the program is open to 21 to 59 years old individuals who will be trained for 15 days, Macapili bared during last week’s second episode of Dagyaw: Virtual Town Hall Meeting, which focused on employment discussion.

He said the program’s instructors and trainers are from TESDA training institutions who were trained by the Department of Health Region XI on contact tracing.

Under the program, the learners are taught on core competencies such as conduct case investigation and contact identification, conduct profiling of contacts and follow-up, conduct referral to health facility quarantine, facility and

other relevant agencies, conduct health education programs, perform data recording and reporting and conduct monitoring and surveillance.

The other competencies are on the implementation and monitoring, infection control policies and procedures, basic first aid and maintain high standard of patient client services.

The learners will also be provided with monetary benefits such as P160 support fund per day, a P500 internet connection allowance, P500 worth of health/personal protective equipment, and a one-year accident insurance coverage.

As of Nov. 5, Macapili disclosed that there are 25 available slots in the Provincial Training Centre in Mintal; 50 slots in Korea Philippines Vocational Training Center in Tibungco; 25 slots in Wangan National Agricultural School, and 25 slots in Carmelo de los Cientos Sr. National Trade School in Padada, Davao del Sur. (PIA-XI/Samantha R. Jabol)

arious instrumentalities of the government, private corporations, civil society, academe and other sectors have banded together with an initiative dubbed as Pilipinas Kontra Gutom (Philippines Against Hunger).

The virtual launch held this morning (Nov. 10) was led by Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles who is the current chief of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Zero Hunger.

According to Nograles, the anti-hunger program of the government is the Duterte administration’s legacy to the people.

“The Duterte administration envisions the anti-hunger, anti-poverty program as a lasting gift to the Filipino people, a legacy that should be enjoyed by generations to come,” the Cabinet Secretary said during the launch.

Nograles said the government despite the pandemic has never lost its sight in its goal of eliminating hunger.

“While we continue to dance with the virus, and at the same recover from its adverse effects, we are also battling an equally important fight our fight against hunger,” Nograles said.

He added that if hunger is left unaddressed it is a violation of the basic human right.

The cabinet secretary said that in this pandemic there is an urgent need to start the anti-hunger program.

“In the recent SWS survey we have seen the number of hungry Filipinos increase from 4.2 million to 7.6 million, with 2.2 million experiencing severe hunger” He said.

The survey in Septem-

ber showed a hunger incidence of 37.6% the highest since 2012 which recorded 23.8%.

President Rodrigo Duterte, in January of this year signed Executive Order 101 which ensures a whole-of-nation approach to eradicate hunger and achieve food security. The goal is to end hunger by 2030.

Nograles also cited the role of the private sector who are ready and willing to pitch in to the initiative.

The founding members from the private sector of the initiative are among the largest corporations in the country these include San Miguel Corporation, McDonalds, Coca-Cola, Johnsons and Johnsons Philippines, Metrobank and Dole Philippines.

During the virtual launch, several private partners pledged and committed their support to the movement.

The Pilipinas Kontra Gutom is a multi-sectoral collaboration of each and every Filipino. Nograles said.

With the movement concerned organizations and individuals can contribute to anti-hunger efforts through programs that support farmers and food producers, malnutrition advocacy for kids below five years, as well as assistance in the form of meal donations during crises among other initiatives.

“Lahat Kasali, Lahat Kasalo” (Everyone participates, everyone partakes) Nograles said of the movement.

“Hindi natin kaya kung tayo magkanya-kanya,” Nograles added emphasizing a unified approach to combating hunger. (PIA XI/RG Alama)

The Maguindanao Integrated Provincial Health Office and the Islamic Relief Worldwide-Philippines conduct handwashing campaign as basic Infection Prevention Control (IPC) strategy versus the spread of COVID-19 in selected villages in Maguindanao. Photo taken on Tuesday (10 November 2020) in

barangay Tuayan Mother, Datu Hoffer Ampatuan municipality. L-R: Mye Tahir, IR Community Development Officer; Abdulmuin Ampatuan, punong barangay; Bai Erisha Sinsuar, public health nurse; and Joy Daman, IR Livelihood Development Officer. MindaNews photo by JULES L. BENITEZ

Electric coops in Davao Govt, private sector join forces to end hunger Region told to improve V E

By MAYA M. PADILLO lectric cooperatives in Davao Region were told to improve their facilities for a more steady power supply and to minimize power interruptions.

Recent rash of power outages have affected students and teachers doing blended learning mode of education.

Engineer Nilo Geroche, director of the Department of Energy (DOE)-Mindanao Field Office, said in a virtual presser on Wednesday that the region is experiencing power interruptions and brownouts and among the reasons cited were obstructions near power lines of the electric distribution utilities like the trees.

“We can always experience power interruptions and brownouts unang rason is attributed to obstructions ang mga linya nga daghan kahoy. Ang uban due to technicalities, maintenance schedule.

Also unforeseen na rason kay mag-bar down atong mga power plants. There are so many factors why

we are experiencing power interruptions,” Geroche said.

According to him, the Regional Development Council 11 (RDC 11) has approved their proposed resolution urging electric coops to enhance their facilities and to minimize power outages.

“Though, we cannot eliminate brownouts 100 percent. Pero regarding sa system nila we really urged electric coops and probably sooner or later we will also conduct similar meeting with electric coops within Region 11 kung medyo makita namo kung duna gihapon significant interruptions and we might be requesting again the RDC 11 to pass a resolution urging these electric coops to improve their facilities para ma-minimize atoang power interruptions,” Ger-

oche said.

Among areas in Davao Region, he said Davao City has stable power supply as it is being managed by a private utility, which is efficient in terms of operation and maintenance.

“Power is very essential. Anything under the heat of the sun. Labi na karon in the recovery of our economy it is very important that we have stable supply of power including in our education sector because of this blended learning program sa atoang Department of Education 11 (DepEd 11),” he said.

He added that during the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) the power consumption in Davao Region surged because of this blended learning program, which is being mostly done in the students’ residences.

“Regarding sa power consumption during the period of ECQ, duna ta’y recorded na 11 percent reduction in the entire Mindanao. Pero sa residential and industrial (sectors) duna’y kalainan, during

ECQ ang atong industrial sector power consumption nibaba about 13 percent while the residential consumption surged because of the home quarantine.

There is a surge in demand ug nag-contribute ani ang blended learning program,” he said.

In terms of power capacity, Geroche also shared that as of November 9, 2020, the Mindanao peak demand is reported at 1,610 megawatts (MW) and still has available capacity of 2,885 MW, which is a considerable excess capacity of about 1,275 MW. “I want to point out that, although, we have enough power supply in Midnanao in consideration that we have many power plants in Mindanao Regions, but then we should not be complacent and we are still urging fellow Mindanaoans to practice energy conservation. Very important ang role ng energy and power during this time of pandemic and we are hoping we have continuous supply of power during time of pandemic,” he said.

husband, who got it following a wedding at a hotel where he was working on October 18.

As of November 9, Valencia has 233 individuals who have tested positive for Covid-19, with 188 recoveries, 43 active cases, and two deaths.

Murillo said all the active cases are locally-transmitted, adding that the infections at the shopping mall have significantly contributed to the rise in local

Covid-19 cases.

The mall has about 500 employees, more than half of whom were believed to have come in contact with the infected co-worker.

Murillo said all of them have been subjected to Covid-19 testing.

Murillo said the mall workers who contracted the coronavirus are all asymptomatic and now staying at the city’s isolation facilities.

A directive issued by

Valencia Mayor Azucena Huervas earlier said the mall would remain closed “until further notice”.

Huervas also enforced a zoning containment strategy within the mall area.

The city government has also declared within the 500-meter radius from the mall as the “containment zone” where any movement is limited only to accessing essential goods and services. (PNA)

Bukidnon mall closed after 19 workers infected with Covid-19

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he local government of Valencia City in Bukidnon has temporarily closed a shopping mall after one of its employees tested positive for the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) and infected 18 co-workers, an official said Tuesday.

Dr. Paul Murillo, Valencia vice mayor and head of the city’s incident command center, said the employee in question contracted the virus from her

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 182 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2020

DMCI Holdings trims profit decline to 34% in Q3

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A vendor cleans and sorts mussels that he will sell at Bankerohan Public Market in Davao City on Wednesday. Edge Davao

DOF chief hopeful PH economy can recover by managing COVID-19 risks

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inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III is hopeful the Philippine economy can go back on track.

This, after the economy shrank 11.5 percent in the third quarter, marking the first time in 35 years that the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) contracted for three straight quarters.

In a meeting with President Rodrigo Duterte Tuesday, Dominguez said the country’s experience with COVID-19 the past several months shows that managing risks is the best way to revive the economy.

“Our experience with COVID-19 over the past several months tells us two things. First, the economy is strong enough to recover if we enable it to do so.

Second, our best recourse to help the economy is to manage the risk,” he said.

“Managing the risks instead of avoiding them will allow us to safely open more of the economy and help the Filipinos recover their sources of income.

This will also put the Phil-

DTI assures no price hike on Noche Buena items

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s Christmas celebration approaches, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has assured consumers that there will be no price increase on Noche Buena products compared to their prices last year.

On Tuesday, the DTI released the latest suggested retail price (SRP) list for these products which will be effective until a new SRP bulletin will be published next year.

Noche Buena products included in DTI’s SRP list are ham, fruit cocktail, cheese, sandwich spread, mayonnaise, keso de bola, spaghetti pasta, elbow and salad macaroni, spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, and creamer.

SRPs of some brands, however, will be valid for specific periods.

For 410-milliliter Angel Kremdensada, its PHP52 SRP will be valid from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31, 2020 only.

SRPs of products of Dole and Seasons brands are also valid for the entire December.

SRPs for 3-kilogram Today’s Mixed Fruit and 3-kg Del Monte Fiesta in

Extra Light Syrup are also valid only from Dec. 15 to 31, 2020.

DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez earlier thanked manufacturers for agreeing not to increase SRPs of Noche Buena products amid the coronavirus disease pandemic and the recent typhoons that have burdened the lives of many Filipinos.

“Most of those that requested for (an) increase are just minimal increments of 3 to 5 percent.

As we coordinated with them, we asked them that if the increases are minimal, maybe it’s possible not to implement these since we are in a pandemic,” Lopez said in Filipino during the Laging Handa public briefing Monday.

“And we get positive feedback from them.”

Meanwhile, Laban Konsyumer Inc. (LKI) president and former DTI official Victorio Mario Dimagiba said prices of Pinoy Tasty and Gardenia bread are steady.

Dimagiba said Gardenia increases its prices by an average of PHP2 for 600-gram packs every year. (PNA)

ippines back in its solid growth and development trajectory,” he added.

Dominguez also thanked the Filipinos for their sacrifices and their resilience.

“These concerted efforts did not come without a cost. Our experience in 2020 thus far shows our resilience as a nation...

We are aware of and are thankful for the many sacrifices the Filipino have to make,” he added.

The negative growth in the July to September period followed a revised 16.9 percent contraction of the GDP in the second

quarter from a year earlier, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

First quarter GDP had earlier also been revised to -0.7 percent from -0.2 percent.

This means that the GDP has contracted 9.7 percent in the first three quarters of the year, as the Philippines struggled to control the spread of COVID-19.

The Philippines has the second-highest number of coronavirus cases and COVID-19 deaths in the Southeast Asian region.

iversified engineering conglomerate DMCI Holdings Inc. recorded a 34-percent drop in consolidated third-quarter net income from PHP2.8 billion to PHP1.9 billion owing to weak contributions from its integrated energy, construction and water businesses.

Real estate arm DMCI Homes accounted for 55 percent of the consolidated profits as its third-quarter contributions surged 70 percent year-on-year to PHP1 billion.

Over the nine-month period, DMCI Holdings booked PHP3.9 billion in consolidated net income, 58 percent down from PHP9.3 billion last year.

Excluding PHP592 million in losses from sales cancellations for a DMCI Homes project, core net income declined by 52 percent from PHP9.3 billion to PHP4.5 billion.

“Among our businesses, Semirara and DMCI were hit hardest by the Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic. We saw sharp drops in demand and prices for both coal and electricity because of the economic slowdown,” DMCI Holdings chairman and president Isidro Consunji said in a statement Tuesday.

Consunji attributed the deterioration of construction earnings to lower productivity and extraordinary expenses related to the coronavirus.

Core income contributions from Semirara Mining and Power Corporation plunged by 64 percent from PHP4.7 billion to PHP1.7 billion primarily

due to anemic market conditions and the imposition of coal import quotas in China last August.

DMCI Homes contributed PHP1.1 billion core income, 40 percent lower from PHP1.8 billion last year, because of lower revenues due to the imposition of lockdowns which slowed down construction productivity.

From PHP664 million, D.M. Consunji Inc. booked a net loss of PHP97 million because of expenses related to Covid-19, lower construction accomplishments due to the lockdowns, and higher costs due to right-of-way issues for infrastructure projects.

DMCI Power posted an 18-percent growth in earnings contributions from PHP341 million to PHP403 million on the back of higher electricity sales and upward tariff adjustment for its Aborlan power plant.

Strong China nickel demand coupled with a 41-percent jump in production and the prevailing Indonesian nickel ore export ban allowed DMCI Mining to boost its income contributions by 190 percent from PHP87 million to PHP252 million.

Contributions from affiliate Maynilad fell 22 percent from PHP1.6 billion to PHP1.2 billion owing to lower commercial sales and average effective tariff, aggravated by higher amortization and depreciation expenses.

Lower interest income led to a PHP54-million net loss for the parent and other investments compared to a net income of PHP185 million during the same period last year. (PR)

The local government of Rosario in Agusan del Sur recently availed of LANDBANK’s RISE UP LGUs Lending Program to finance the acquisition of heavy equipment, purchase of land, and construction of public terminal and public market.

Agusan del Sur LGU hopes to level up with P392-M loan from LANDBANK

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he local government unit (LGU) of Rosario in Agusan del Sur has sought the assistance of Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) to finance priority projects amounting to P392 million under the Bank’s Restoration and Invigoration Package for a Self-sufficient Economy towards Upgrowth for LGUs (RISE UP LGUs) Lending Program.

Part of the projects to be financed by LANDBANK for this 2nd class municipality are the acquisition of heavy equipment, purchase of land for local development, and con-

struction of a public terminal and market.

“We are honored and excited to partner with the Rosario LGU as we see their dedication in assisting our stakeholders, which are the farmers. We hope that, in a way, this will contribute in cushioning the effect of this pandemic to the local economy,” said LANDBANK CARAGA South Lending Center Head Arnel M. Caalim.

Additionally, the LGU is looking to purchase one six-wheeler and one 10-wheeler trucks for its logistical requirements, as well as a dump truck and a garbage compactor

with auto-loader for better disposal and segregation of waste materials.

The heavy equipment are seen to reduce operational expenses and provide additional income to the local coffers as these can be rented-out to neighboring LGUs. Meanwhile, the development of their public terminal and market will also help Rosario farmers augment their income since more consumers will be able to reach them while cheaper market stall rentals can be offered to them.

“We would like to thank LANDBANK for being a partner of LGU

Rosario in pursuing our dreams especially in our quest for developmental projects that will benefit our constituents, provide their basic needs, promote health and public safety and hopefully improve our economic stability,” said Rosario Municipal Mayor Jupiter Abulog.

A LANDBANK depositor since the 1990s, Rosario LGU is hoping to further strengthen its partnership with the Bank in terms of providing accessible financial channels to their people.

“We are also looking forward to the installation

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Economy seen improving further in Q4 of this year

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n improvement in economic performance is expected to continue even if it remains in contraction in the fourth quarter of 2020 while positive growth can start only next year.

In a virtual briefing Tuesday, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort said he forecasts the fourth-quarter output to stay between -8 to -9 percent while it is projected to range between 6 to 7 percent next year.

“The estimate for this year is somewhere between -9.5 percent to -7 percent,” he said.

The government on Tuesday reported that growth, as measured by

gross domestic product (GDP), posted an -11.5 percent print in the third quarter, better than the -16.9 percent in the previous quarter.

In the first nine months this year, growth contracted by around 10 percent, deeper than the -5.5 percent full year projected by economic managers.

Authorities believe that the “worst is over” for the domestic economy this year as continued reopening boosts economic activities.

Domestic output is expected to recover between 6.5 to 7.5 percent next year before eventually getting back on track on its original growth path by 2022.

(PNA)

BSP: FDI inflows log fourth straight month growth in August, up 46.9%

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oreign direct investments (FDIs) posted four straight months of increase in net inflows in August as investors continued to bet on the country’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said Wednesday.

Data released by the BSP show that FDIs yielded a net inflow of $637 million in August, up 46.9% from $434 million in the same period in 2019, marking the fourth consecutive month of year-onyear expansion.

FDI includes investment by non-resident direct investors with an equity capital of at least 10% in a resident enterprise, and investments made by non-resident subsidiaries or associates in a resident direct investor.

FDIs can be in the form of equity capital, reinvestment of earnings, and borrowings.

“The FDI net inflows increased for the fourth consecutive month, owing to investors’ renewed confidence as the National Government’s fiscal stimulus and BSP’s accommodative monetary policy stance to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic gained traction along with the easing of quarantine measures in the country,” the central bank said.

“The growth in FDI net inflows during the month was largely on account of the 72.2% growth in net investments in debt instruments, which amounted to $459 million from $267 million in the comparable month last year,” it said.

Net investments in debt instruments consist mainly of intercompany borrowing or lending between foreign direct investors and their subsidiaries or affiliates in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, net equity capital placements during the month originated mostly from Japan, the United States, and the British Virgin Islands.

These were invested mainly in manufacturing, real estate, financial and insurance, and professional, scientific, and technical industries.

On a cumulative basis, the FDI net inflows contracted by 5.6% to $4.4 billion in January to August as compared to the $4.7 billion net inflows in the same period last year.

“The four consecutive months of growth since May resulted in the considerable narrowing of the cumulative net FDI contraction of 27.9% in April 2020,” the BSP said.

“The lower cumulative net FDI contraction of

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Megaworld income rebounds in Q3, says 'optimistic' as economy reopens

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roperty giant Megaworld said Wednesday its net income rebounded in the third quarter after two consecutive quarters of declines due to the lockdowns imposed to check the spread of COVID-19.

Megaworld said net income in the July to September period grew 7 percent to P2.2 billion from the previous quarter. Revenues also grew by 9 percent to P9.5-billion from P8.7-billion in the second quarter.

However, net income in the January to September period was still down 40 percent at P8.1 billion, from the P13.7 billion recorded in the same period

last year. Consolidated revenues also fell 30 percent year-on-year to P33.3 billion from P48.1 billion last year, the company said.

The property developer said it was optimistic that business will continue to improve as the economy further reopens.

“We are seeing a lot of optimism now as we have begun the recovery of our mall business, and our office leasing business continues its growth,” said Megaworld chief strategy officer Kevin Tan. The company said rental income grew 13 percent to P3.4 billion during the third quarter from P3 bil-

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ECONOMY 5

A keyboardist plays his instrument while wearing a face mask and face shield inside a department store in Malaybalay City on Tuesday, 10 November 2020.

MindaNews photo by H. MARCOS C. MORDENO

PH economy slips by another 11.5% in Q3 T atively perkier economic activity in the third quarter was a good sign even as the country remains in recession.

“The economic team is optimistic that the worst is over for the country,” Chua said in the virtual briefing, pointing out that the local economy is “on the mend.”

The economy has suffered the biggest blow due to the pandemic, which has forced the country to impose strict lockdowns, and cut off local and international tourism to prevent further infections.

Metro Manila, the country’s main economic hub, reverted to a two-week lockdown in August to slow down infections . Stay-athome rules have been loosened since then.

Malacañang is saddened to hear the country’s GDP sank by 11.5% in the third quarter.

But the Palace is also relieved, saying the figure shows the economy is recovering.

“Ang mensahe po natin: nandiyan pa po si COVID,

pero alam na natin po kung papaano maiiwasan si COVID. Kinakailangan na po talagang buksan ang ekonomiya [We share this message: COVID is still here, but we already know how to avoid getting infected. We really need to reopen the economy further],” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in his regular media briefing.

Only Metro Manila, Batangas province, Iloilo City, Bacolod City, Tacloban City, Iligan City, and Lanao del Sur remain under general community quarantine, while the rest of the country has been placed under more relaxed rules.

Though Neri added the country’s Q3 economic contraction could have been lowered to a single digit to boost the economic confidence among businesses.

“But we could have done better. We have not been able to keep up with our neighbors since all of them are already in a single-digit decline since the second quarter,” Neri said.

He projects the government can still achieve a single-digit contraction if proper measures were implemented to curb the coronavirus and mitigate the economic impact of past typhoons that ravaged some parts of the country.

“Maybe give more priority to health-related expenditures that will boost the confidence of consumersm: Neri pointed out. “Tracing in the Philippines is very behind our neighbors and this gives the people the less confidence to go out.”

However, the group IBON pinned the blame on a “stingy” government, saying the Duterte administration’s refusal to spend more on stimulus programs is keeping poor families and small businesses struggling.

Government spending eked out a 5.8% increase for the quarter, while all other spending drivers remained depressed. Household consumption, which has long been driving activity, plunged by 9.3% from last year and pulled down the overall gross domestic product (GDP) by 6.6%.

Spending on valuables, including jewelry, suffered a 53.2% nosedive. Construction was the second-worst performer at -43.5%, followed by durable equipment which dropped by a third.

Neri stated that consumer confidence among Filipinos in Q3 somehow improved with the relaxation of quarantine measures.

“People are buying more

for 2020 from 15-percent contraction to -5 percent due to Covid and higher cost of operations (shuttle, logistics, etc.),” SEIPI president Dan Lachica said in an e-mail Tuesday.

Lachica said industry forecast will be better next year, assuming the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) bill that will be passed by the lawmak-

ers will be favorable to industries, as well as the availability of Covid-19 vaccines.

“Our 2021 forecast is 7 percent (growth), assuming favorable CREATE outcome and availability of vaccine,” he added.

Philippine Statistics Data (PSA) data show that electronic products remained the country’s top export from January to

September 2020.

Export revenues of electronic goods in the first nine months of the year reached USD26.2 billion, or 57 percent of the USD45.9-billion total exports during the period.

However, exports of the industry declined by 11.4 percent from January to September 2020 from the same period in 2019.

(PNA)

he Philippine economy shrank by another 11.5% in the third quarter as the COVID-19 crisis continues to hold back consumer spending and business activity.

The Philippine Statistics Authority said existing quarantine rules stood in the way of an economic rebound. However, the July-September decline was shallower than the record 16.9% contraction in the second quarter.

National Statistician Dennis Mapa said there were big improvements in domestic activity, with the national output rising by 8% from the second quarter.

Last year, the economy expanded by 6.3%. Market watchers did not expect a fall this steep.

The industrial sector slid by 17.2%, while services – once the growth leader given a bustling labor market – dropped by 10.6%, also pulling down the headline figure the most.

However, data showed all three sectors saw stronger activity when compared to the second quarter, led by a 9.5% uptick in services.

‘Worst is over’ Acting Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua said the rel-

FPH ECONOMY, P10

Electronics makers see smaller slump this year

T

he Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation Inc. (SEIPI) has revised slightly upwards its industry growth outlook for this year but is still in negative territory to reflect the impact of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

“We have upgraded our industry projection

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On reminding Dabawenyos of other infectious diseases that have an adverse effect to the community during the rainy season such as diarrhea, water-borne borne diseases such as malaria and dengue:

The Philippine government also declared a National Dengue Epidemic as dengue cases reached more than 360,000 nationwide. Ayaw na natin maghintay ng ganyan.

We want this program in place up to barangay level ... Kahit po may Covid ayaw natin kalimutan na may ibang sakit na significant din ang epekto sa komunidad.”

Councilor Mary Joselle Villafuerte

EDGEDAVAO

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ENTERTAINMENT

‘PRIMA DONNAS’ AIRS ALL-NEW EPISODES

FOLLOWING its half-year hiatus, GMA Network’s well-loved and top-rating drama series ‘Prima Donnas’ finally airs its much-awaited fresh episodes beginning November 9 on the Afternoon Prime block.

Prior to the suspension of tapings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, viewers were on the edge of their seats with the riveting and shocking plot twists in the family drama.

Kendra’s (Aiko Melendez) dirty antics to earn Jaime (Wendell Ramos) and Lady Prima’s (Chanda Romero) trust continue to put the life of Lilian (Katrina Halili) in great danger.

Out of desperation and without Jaime’s permission, Donna Marie (Jillian Ward), Donna Belle (Althea Ablan), and Donna Lyn (Sofia Pablo) sneak out to visit Lilian who has an important revelation to the three Donnas.

With the continuation of the original series, the cast members - excellent character actress Katrina Halili as Lilian Madreal; hunk celebrity dad Wendell Ramos as Jaime Claveria; veteran and awardwinning actress Ms. Chanda Romero as Lady Primarosa Claveria; basketball legend and admired comedian and actor Benjie Paras as Agaton; versatile actor James Blanco as Ruben Escalante; fast-rising teen star Elijah Alejo as Brianna; and one of the industry’s formidable and multi-awarded actresses Ms. Aiko Melendez as Kendra Fajardo together

with GMA’s brightest and sought-after teen stars Jillian Ward as Donna Marie; Althea Ablan as Donna Belle; Vince Crisostomo as Cedric Villarazon; Will Ashley as Nolan - expressed what they feel about their highly-anticipated brandnew episodes, experiences during their 21-day lock-in taping, and what’s in store for the Kapuso viewers as the story continues.

Katrina is elated for viewers to witness the continuation of the story and the fruits of their hard work, “Dahil maraming nabitin na eksena, lahat ng mga katanungan masasagot na sa nalalapit na fresh episodes.

Lalo po itong pinaghandaan ng buong production.”

“I’m very grateful and excited dahil malapit nang mapanood ng viewers ang aming pinaghirapan. Taping under the new normal was such an experience

and also very challenging for the whole team,” adds Wendell.

Meanwhile, Chanda expresses her admiration towards her co-stars’ professionalism, “As an actor, bumilib ako sa lahat ng members ng cast. We stopped taping months ago noong maglockdown dahil sa pandemic.

Pero hawak pa rin nila ‘yung roles na ginagampanan nila. In fact, mas intense ang performance nila ngayon, mas may kulay ang characters.”

“Masaya kami sa lock-in taping. Ang nagustuhan ko lang ay very organized ang buong staff.

Alaga kaming mga artista. Naging close kami lahat. The only challenge is being away from my family that long,” shares Benjie.

James, on the one hand, hints at the direction of his character, “Abangan nila ang papel ni Ruben sa buhay ni Lilian. Mabait ba o masama ang kanyang karakter.”

In addition, Elijah teases viewers on Kendra and Brianna’s wicked schemes against the Claverias, “Dapat po nilang abangan kung ano pa pong gagawin ng mag-inang Kendra at Brianna sa mga Claveria.

Abangan din po nila si Brianna 2.0 dahil sigurado po akong kaiinisan po nila ulit ako.”

“Masaya na may nerbyos at kaba but confident na magugustuhan ng mga viewers ang aming pagbabalik kasi talagang pinaghirapan ng lahat. Mula sa crew, staff, artists at directors,” assures Aiko.

Jillian, in turn, hopes for the continuous support from their fans, “Super happy po and at the same time medyo anxious since eight months po kami nawala sa TV. Sana po ‘di pa rin bumibitaw ang viewers namin lalo na po at marami pang mas exciting na mangyayari.”

Althea also admits feeling

tested with the circumstances upon returning to work, “Challenging po talaga ‘yung unang scene ko dahil matagal-tagal din napahinga ang character ko. Medyo kinakabahan po ako kung mapo-portray ko pa ba siya nang maayos o kung kilala ko pa ba ‘yung karakter ni Donnabelle.”

Meanwhile, Vince is delighted with the camaraderie formed between the team during their lock-in taping, “Mas naging close kami sa isa’t isa, mas nakilala ko pa sila individually, and nakakatuwa ‘yung nabuong samahan. But of course, with the added safety precautions na kailangan namin sundin para na rin sa ikabubuti ng lahat.”

“Excited dahil after ilang months may bagong episodes nang mapapanood ang mga sumusubaybay sa amin. Of course, masaya rin dahil makikita nila ‘yung effort and team work naming lahat,” adds Will.

Finally, the show’s esteemed director Gina Alajar describes how the team braced themselves for the new normal taping, “We had a series of meetings. Pinagusapan namin kung ano-ano ang mga dapat namin gawin to take care of ourselves. We also talked with the actors and everyone concerned in the show of what’s going to happen kaya when the protocols and guidelines came out, we were kind of ready na.”

Don’t miss the brand-new episodes of ‘Prima Donnas’ beginning November 9, weekdays at 3:25PM, only on GMA Network.

UP AND ABOUT

‘KAPIT-PINAS’ TO RAISE FUNDS FOR TYPHOON VICTIMS

IN JUST THREE WEEKS, the Philippines has been devastated by two strong typhoons, Quinta and Rolly, which affected hundreds of thousands of our kababayans most especially in Luzon. This prompted over 100 youth organizations from the Kapit-Mindanao network to join forces once again and organize an online and offline bayanihan effort called Kapit-Pinas, which aims to raise funds and in-kind donations for the typhoon victims.

Convened by advocacy-based group Millennials PH and the Kapit-Mindanao network, the campaign will be running from November 1 to 30, 2020. People can course their cash donations online or drop off in-kind goods at designated points. The campaign will benefit 12 target areas that were badly affected by the onslaught of these typhoons, namely,

Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Masbate, Catanduanes, Marinduque, Quezon, Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, Batangas, Cavite, and Laguna.

“Imagine the struggle of facing two super typhoons during a time when our country has yet to beat the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a call for me and the team to work on another #SocialMediaBayanihan campaign because we need each other now more than ever and youth-led organizations must continuously collaborate to help those who are affected by these disasters,” said Meryl Hilda Jalani, national president of Millennials PH and Kapit-Mindanao co-founder and national convenor.

The campaign was already able to raise PHP 735,000 which is a combination of cash and in-kind donations from its partners, Tanging Yaman Foundation and

Premium Megastructures, Inc., three days after the launch last November 2, 2020.

The fund and relief packs obtained through Kapit-Pinas will be distributed through community-based groups located in the above-mentioned areas that have their own disaster response initiatives in line with the requirements

of their communities. Some of the needs include food items like canned goods, instant noodles, water; hygiene and dignity kits; and shelter materials. The first wave of relief distribution will begin on November 7, 2020, in Albay.

Banking on the original battle cry of the Kapit-Mindanao cam-

paign, “Aabutin natin ang bawat sulok ng Mindanao,” the network has now expanded from reaching the unreached in Mindanao to helping disaster-stricken brothers and sisters in Luzon. With this, “Aabutin natin ang iba’t ibang sulok ng Pilipinas” is now its goal.

Kapit-Pinas calls on everyone to donate through this link: tinyurl. com/KapitDonate and also join the call to reach more people through the hashtags #KapitPinas and #SocialMediaBayanihan. Local personalities like mental health advocate Dr. Gia Sison and actor Christian Bables also expressed their support for the initiative.

For updates and further inquiries, follow the Millennials PH pages on Facebook (fb.com/ millennialsforPH), Instagram (@ millennialsph_), and Twitter (@ millennials4ph) or send an email to millennialsph.org@gmail.com.

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COMMUNITY SENSE

World Tourism Day 2020: Bouncing back in the middle of pandemic TOURISM not only allows tourists to enjoy unique experiences, but also provides jobs, economic empowerment, and gives communities the ability to protect and promote their natural surroundings, as well as their culture and heritage.

In fact, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has designated 2020 as the “Year of Tourism and Rural Development”, an opportunity to promote the potential of tourism to create jobs and opportunities.

However, is there still hope that tourism can still play its role of providing jobs and opportunities as well as preserving and promoting natural and cultural heritage considering that it has been the worst affected of all the major economic drivers in the middle of the pandemic?

The Joji Ilagan International Schools highlighted the importance of tourism amid the pandemic in line with the recent celebration of World Tourism Day by bringing together students and industry professionals across the country and its international partners from Malaysia, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Indonesia to discuss and share ideas on “Tourism and Rural Development” online.

“With the global pandemic, the industry is facing an unprecedented time but now more than ever, this reminds us of the important role of

tourism wherein tourism can be a driver of growth and recovery amidst the pandemic,” said Nicole Niña Hao Bian-Ledesma, chief operating officer of JIB Schools through Viber.

Over 800 tourism students and 150 professionals participated in the virtual “Global Tourism Student” forum that focused on recovering tourism amidst the pandemic. The students representing the five Asian countries such as Hong Kong, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines shared and discussed their respective country’s tourism industry before, during, and after the Covid-19 pandemic.

Each of the student shared how their tourism industry leaders are dealing with the recent problem and as well as their strategies and plans to bounce back.

Invited student speakers were Ruben Jan Mascariñas of JIB Schools; Erica Sit of Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Sharma Daisey Sundram of Malaysia’s University Technology of Mara; Than Son Phan of Duy of Tan University in

Vietnam and Ida Ayu Kusumi Dewi of Bali Tourism Polytechnic.

A tourism industry forum was also conducted that brought industry experts together with international speakers which include Dr. Andy Nazarechuk, international education consultant and Dr. Vikneswaran Nair, dean of Graduate Studies and research and professor of Sustainable Tourism in the University of Bahamas.

Both speakers are also past presidents of Asia Pacific Council of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education (APacCHRIE).

Nazarechuk said outdoor travel and adventure are the

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AGRITRENDS

9

TOBACCO IS NOT JUST FOR SMOKING

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

W

hen Christopher Columbus returned to Spain after discovering America in 1492, one of the things he brought back was tobacco.

Five hundred years later, smoking has become a worldwide habit, and hundreds of millions of people are now using tobacco in various forms.

History records showed that tobacco was introduced in the Philippines in the late 16th century during the era of Spanish colonization when the Augustinians brought cigar tobacco seeds to the colony for cultivation. When William Dampier visited Mindanao in 1686, he observed that smoking was already a widespread custom.

These days, tobacco use is likened to “slow-motion suicide,” to quote the words of Dr. Halfdan Mahler, former director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO) of the United Nations. “Smoking is hazardous to your health,” the US Surgeon General said.

Tobacco, known in the science world as Nicotiana tabacum, “has always had negative press,” Danny Ebelhar, an American tobacco farmer from Owensboro, was quoted as saying

by Bloomberg News. “But now, it may come back to be a benefit to mankind.”

This is particularly true in the case of agriculture. In fact, some Fil-

ipino farmers are finding tobacco as an ally against pests. Take the case of 35-year-old Serapion Mariano, who has been growing corn for almost a decade now in his farm lot in Bansalan, Davao del Sur. Like other crops he used to plant before, corn is susceptible to attacks of insects and diseases.

One of the problems he encountered lately is the common stalk borer. Corn plants from 2-24 inches tall may be attacked. Damage to corn caused by the pest is characterized by wilting and/or dying of the upper leaves or by ragged irregular holes chewed in the newly unrolled leaves.

The common stalk borer, experts say, is caused by the insect boring into the stalk at the soil level and tunneling upward.

The insect may also climb up the plant and tunnel downward into the whorl, creating the ragged holes.

A considerable amount of sawdust-like borer feces can be seen in the whorl or coming out of the borer’s entry hole in the stalk.

In the past, Mariano

used chemical pesticides to destroy the insects that attacked his crops.

But after attending twoday training on organic farming at the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) in Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur, he found out that there’s a better way of getting rid of the insects.

“One of the best ways to eradicate the insects is by using tobacco spray,” Mariano said.

Here’s what he did. He boiled 250 grams of dried tobacco leaves and stems in four liters of water for 20 minutes. After that, he allowed the water to cool and then filtered it through layered cotton cloth. He added four more liters of water to the solution and 50 grams of bar soap. He then poured the solution into corn funnels to kill stalk borers.

According to MBRLC technicians, the tobacco solution can also be applied as a soil drench around plants to kill cutworms. It can be used to spray beans to prevent rust disease and also to control aphids, beetles, cabbage worms, caterpillars, grain weevils, leaf miners, mites, stem borers and thrips.

The tobacco solution, MBRLC technicians claimed, is especially effective against biting or sucking insects. When applied weekly with a brush, it is effective against ticks

and fleas in cattle.

The Educational Concerns for Hunger Organization (ECHO) has developed another kind of tobacco spray. One kilogram of crushed or bruised tobacco stalks and leaves are soaked in 15 liters of water for 24 hours. The solution is then filtered; and three to five tablespoon of liquid soap is added. It is sprayed immediately on plants.

“Use tobacco sprays in the evening to allow them to work in the night,” the Florida-based ECHO reminds. “And in general, do not spray potatoes, peppers, tomatoes, eggplant or any plant in the Solanaceae family in order to prevent the spread of viruses.”

Another warning from ECHO: “Do not let people or animals drink the solution, and when spraying, wear protective clothing – especially a mask, or apply solutions with a watering can only. Do not eat vegetables within four days of application and wash them carefully when you do.”

“For centuries, gardeners have used home-made mixtures of tobacco and water as a natural pesticide to kill insect pests,” the Science Daily reported.

A “green” pesticide industry based on tobacco could provide income for tobacco farmers, and as well as a new eco-friendly pest-control agent, the

scientists say. They describe a promising way to convert tobacco leaves into pesticides with pyrolysis. That process involves heating tobacco leaves to about 900 degrees Fahrenheit in a vacuum, to produce an unrefined substance called bio-oil.

The scientists tested tobacco bio-oil against a wide variety of insect pests, including 11 different fungi, four bacteria, and the Colorado potato beetle. The oil killed all of the beetles and blocked the growth of two types of bacteria and one fungus.

“Even after removal of the nicotine, the oil remained a very effective pesticide,” the scientists who conducted the study claimed.

In Germany, the journal Green Chemistry reported that a team from Technical University in Munich, has isolated the said chemical from tobacco leaves. “Using (the said) chemical, the scientists created a biodegradable, non-toxic and environment-friendly repellant that can be sprayed directly onto crops of all types,” wrote Ben Coxworth in New Atlas.

In laboratory tests, aphids passed over plants that were treated with the spray, going instead for untreated plants. And as a side benefit, the repellant also kills several types of gram-positive bacteria that are harmful to human beings.

In the Philippines, the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) of the Department of Agriculture has discovered that tobacco dust can help lessen the population of nuisance snails that inhabit fishponds and fish cages.

A team of researchers from the Iloilo-based Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center conducted field testing in fishponds in Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, Pangasinan and Ilocos Sur to know the efficacy of tobacco dust.

The findings confirmed it. “Tobacco dust is organic, readily degradable, and environment-friendly,” the NTA said in a press statement. “The absence of pesticide residues contributes to the marketability and exportability of local fish and ensures consumer safety, aside from being free from chemical residues.”

But it’s not only in agriculture that benefits from tobacco but medicine as well.

“Tobacco, divine, rare super excellent tobacco, which goes far beyond all panaceas, potable gold and philosopher’s stones, a sovereign remedy to all diseases,” English author Robert Burton once said.

Filipinos have also been using tobacco as a medicinal plant. The website of the Healing Wonders of Philippine Medicinal Plants gives brief information: “The (tobacco)

FTOBACCO, P10

10 EDGEDAVAO DENGUE... FROM2

City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO).

Among the functions of the task force is to conduct monitoring in communities near respective offices in compliance to mosquito-borne viral disease prevention and control measures, come up with mosquito-borne disease advocacy communication plan and standard messages, ensure the conduct of the 4 o’clock habit in every household and in schools and offices, and direct the implementation of plans and activities of the task Force mosquito-borne diseases that will curb morbidity, economic burden and deaths caused by dengue as well as abnormalities and deaths caused

by Zika virus and Chikungunya and other mosquito-borne diseases.

Villafuerte said the proposed ordinance is now at the City Legal Office.

“Para tan-awon kung legal ang tanan provisions, then kay Mayor Sara for her signature. Then back to the City Health Office (CHO) para ma-implement,” she said.

Villafuerte added that she drafted the ordinance with close coordination Beth Banzon of CHO and Engineer Antonietta Ebol of the Department of Health 11 (DOH 11).

Villafuerte added that during the Executive-Legislative Agenda (ELA) last 2019, preventing mosquito-borne diseases came out as one of priorities of CHO. “So pinag-aralan natin and finally yan po ang naging product ng several committee hearings and consultations,” she said.

Just wait. Money? We could borrow immediately. The supply is the problem.

Naturally, the country that invents the vaccine would prioritize its people. That's the reality of life),” he said.

The President said recent vaccine developments mean hope that life would return to normal.

“The vaccine is near.

There is a hope for mankind. Pero ako, wala pang bakuna ito, hindi na ako takot. Maybe, maybe not, depende sa suwerte mo sa buhay. But for the suc-

ceeding generations, mga anak ko, mga apo ko, I am quite confident with the thought that they have a refuge which they can take shelter dito sa Covid storm (But for me, even without the vaccine, I am not scared. Maybe, maybe not, depends on how lucky you are in life. But for the succeeding generations, for my children, my grandchildren, I am quite confident with the thought that they have a refuge that they can take shelter from the Covid storm,” he said. (PNA)

of a LANDBANK ATM in our office since this will be the first one in the entire municipality. Currently, we still have to travel to our neighboring municipality if we want to withdraw or deposit cash from the machine so this will really be helpful to our people,” Mayor Abulog added.

RISE UP LGUs Lending Program is a new offering of LANDBANK to local governments that aims to facilitate the regional and local development in its area by integrating the different

players in the agricultural value-chain, and finance other innovative programs of LGUs which can bring back the confidence of its constituents in the local economy.

Interested borrowers of the LANDBANK RISE UP LGUs Lending Program 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.

lion in the previous quarter as quarantine restrictions have been eased.

“Megaworld Lifestyle Malls also more than doubled its revenues during the third quarter compared to the previous quarter as relaxed lockdown protocols allowed people to start shopping and dining in malls,” the firm said.

Mall revenues rose 117 percent to P400-million in the third quarter compared to the previous quarter even as Megaworld Lifestyle Malls still offered rental discounts to its retail and merchant partners.

The company’s hotel properties also recently reopened in Tagaytay and Boracay.

against Northport, but contributed six boards and eight assists.

The 31-year old gunner beat out Phoenix’s RJ Jazul, Ginebra’s Stanley Pringle, Meralco’s Chris Newsome, and the NLEX duo of Kevin

Alas and Jericho Cruz for the weekly citation handed out by members of the media covering the PBA beat.

Black, for his part, prevailed over Terrafirma’s Roosevelt Adams and Magnolia’s Aris Dionisio. (PR)

han Act 2.

The PSC has confirmed receipt of the 180 Million funding under the Bayanihan Act 2. The necessary

administration to effect the remittance are now being done and are expected to be released by the first week of December.

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million of the 110 million Filipino population.

“Hindi na talaga nakakatakot ang COVID. But sa ngayon, magbili ka mahal.

But as I have promised, gastos ng gobyerno itong bakuna para sa lahat ng Pilipino. Kaya umpisahan natin sa mga mahirap,"

Duterte said during his Tuesday night address.

The Philippines has recorded 399,749 COVID-19 cases so far. Of this num-

ber, 361,919 recovered while 7,661 died.

The number of active COVID-19 cases is at 30,169.

5.6% can be generally attributed to net inflows in equity capital investments (other than reinvested earnings) and debt instru-

ments for the period May to August 2020,” it added.

The net equity capital placements during the first eight months of 2020

came mostly from Japan, the Netherlands, the United States, and Singapore.

Investments were channeled largely to man-

ufacturing, real estate, financial and insurance, administrative and support service, and wholesale and retail trade industries.

restaurant food, clothes, and footwear than in the second quarter,” he said. “The only sector that does not see improvement in spending is the recreation sector.”

In terms of production, financial and insurance activities led the charge with a 6.2% growth, followed by a 4.5% increase in public administration and social security. Agriculture as well as information and communication managed to grow as well. But transportation and storage, accommodation and food service activities, and other services suffered deep losses.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases has since relaxed quarantine rules and allowed more industries to return to full capacity.

More commuters have also been allowed to ride public transport, with the government shifting to a one-seat apart policy rather than a one-meter distancing while aboard trains, buses, and jeepneys.

Still, Chua said new

rules imposed since October will usher in a “clearer” path to a strong rebound in 2021.

Deeper slump seen The 11.5% contraction in the third quarter has rendered unattainable the original -5.5% GDP forecast by the economic team for the entire 2020, Mapa said.

The economy has suffered a 10% fall for the first nine months, and this can only be reversed if the economy pulls a miracle and expands by 6.6%, Mapa added.

“Immediately after this, the DBCC (Development Budget Coordination Committee) process will start to reassess where we are,” Chua said. He noted that unemployment may average 11% while poverty incidence may range between 16% to 17.5%.

Construction projects, which was earlier touted to pave the way towards quick recovery, has not translated to sizeable gains during the period as value-adding output dropped for the quarter. Chua said among

the challenges are rolling out projects with lacking requirements, sites under localized lockdown, the implementation of minimum safety protocols on site, and the entry of foreign experts who cannot fly in due to travel restrictions.

Four typhoons that hit between October and November, including the most destructive Super Typhoon Rolly which ravaged Bicol and parts of Southern Luzon, may also dampen fourth quarter activity, but Chua remained optimistic.

“Given the policy changes and the further opening up of the economy and the policy not to revert to stringent lockdowns, I think the trend really is further improvement in the fourth quarter. Hopefully, we will see better or positive yearon-year quarter growths starting early next year,” Chua said.

Neri mentioned the government must prioritize the completion of its construction projects under the Build, Build, Build program and solve corruption-re-

lated issues to help make single-digit contraction in the last quarter of the year possible.

Economists now see an even dimmer picture for the rest of 2020, with the latest PSA report triggering downward adjustments in forecasts.

“A large driver of the rebound was the easing of strict lockdown restrictions.

But with the virus still not under control, a further scaling back of containment measures will take longer, meaning life is unlikely to return to normal anytime soon,” Capital Economics’ economist for Asia Alex Holmes said, now seeing a -9.5% print for the full year.

Global bank HSBC also gave a -9.6% forecast. “Local mobility data remain among the weakest in the region and quarantine restrictions are still broadly in place, so the pace of the recovery is likely to remain sub-par compared to countries that have managed to contain the virus earlier,” according to economist Noelan Arbis.

leaves are antispasmodic, discutient, diuretic, emetic, expectorant, irritant, narcotic, sedative and sialagogue. They are used externally in the treatment of rheumatic swelling, skin diseases and scorpion stings.

“Wet tobacco leaves can be applied to stings in order to relieve the pain,” the website said. “They are also a certain cure for painful piles. A homeopathic remedy is made from the dried leaves. It is used in the treatment of nausea and travel sickness.”

People with mental illness are twice as likely to smoke. The good thing is that they may get some benefits from their habit.

The Journal of the American Medical Association reported that people who suffer from mental disorders such as attention

deficit disorder, schizophrenia and the like may experience positive effects from smoking.

The medical profession found out that doses of nicotine have a shortterm normalization effect on the EEG (electrical activity in the brain).

“Nicotine has long been a useful tool for researchers interested in probing the nervous system,” Dr. Ovid Pomerleau, director of the Behavioral Medicine Program of the University of Michigan, was quoted as saying.

There are studies, mostly conducted in the United States, which showed that nicotine can normalize some of the psychophysiological deficits seen in patients with schizophrenia, a longterm mental disorder characterized by loss of contact with reality, hallu-

cinations, delusions, and abnormal thinking.

“We did not set out to study nicotine, we set out to study schizophrenia,” explained Dr. Robert Freedman, of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Colorado.

“But anyone who spends any time with schizophrenia soon realizes that they smoke a great deal. Indeed, a much higher percentage of schizophrenics, both male and female, are heavy smokers than in the general population, and they smoke the higher tar brands.”

Another good news: smoking lowers risk of obesity, a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have a negative effect on health.

Thanks to nicotine, which researchers found out to be an “appetite suppres-

sant.” Result of the study was published in the journal Physiology & Behavior in 2011.

The relationship between smoking and weight control, however, is a little bit complicated. “Nicotine itself acts as both a stimulant and appetite suppressant; and the act of smoking triggers behavior modification that prompts smokers to snack less,” wrote Christopher Wanjek in an article published in the website of Live Science. “Smoking also might make food less tasty for some smokers, further curbing appetite.”

Yes, tobacco is not only for smoking. “Good food, good sex, good digestion, and good sleep: To these basic animal pleasures, man has added nothing but the good cigarette,” said American journalist Mignon McLaughlin.

trend right nowadays as people want to go out after months of being locked down in their houses.

He encouraged the audience to explore and see what is special in the community that can be an asset in rural development.

Meanwhile, Nair stressed that pre-Covid-19, Asia was regarded as the fastest growing destination for international and domestic tourism and on

the post-Covid-19, Asians will still explore what the new norm is going to be.

He also presented the key motivators that will prompt people to travel – health and safety, family travel and domestic tourism, and travel sales, promotions and deals.

“Before Covid-19 pandemic, this event is done face-to-face. Bringing all these international attendees would have proven

to be a challenge. Taking advantage of today’s situation where online events are becoming the new normal, this year’s event is a true testament that tourism brings people together,” Ledesma said.

Organized by Voluptuaria, a JIB tourism student organization, the event was also joined by Tanya Rabat-Tan, regional director of the Department of Tourism (DOT-11), who

promoted hospitality as the Filipino brand of service; Gatchi Gatchalian, president of Davao Tourism Association (DATA), who led the virtual toasting of “sikwate”, a Filipino hot chocolate drink made from “tableya”.

UNWTO has declared every 27th of September as World Tourism Day to highlight the major contribution of tourism in the global arena.

BSP... FROM5 PH... FROM5

TOBACCO... FROM9

ALL IN... FROM8

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VOL.13 ISSUE 182 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2020

11

Los Angeles Lakers star Lebron James expressed he didn’t like the NBA new season to start soon, will have to contend with a December 22 opening.

72-game NBA season P set to return in December

Lee named PBA Player of the Week

T

he upcoming NBA season is set to start on December 22, the league and the union confirmed on Monday night.

Under the deal the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association forged, the season will come back with a 72 game-schedule for each team, rather than 82 games.

Negotiations with free agents will be allowed to

start at 6 p.m. on Nov. 20, they said in a statement, adding that signing will be permitted at 12:01 p.m. on Nov. 22, calling it “an extraordinarily fast window for the NBA, which typically has about a week spanning the start of talks and

the beginning of signings.”

The salary cap and tax level will also remain unchanged. The cap was USD109.14 million the past season, with the tax level at USD132,627,000.

In October, the Los Angeles Lakers from the Western Conference won the 2020 NBA title, defeating the Miami Heat from the East 4-2 in finals series.

Hit by the coronavirus

pandemic, the 2019-20 NBA season became one of the most extraordinary seasons in the league’s history.

The virus forced the organizers to pause the season in March.

On July 30, the teams resumed play in a secluded complex in Florida popularly known as the Orlando Bubble, where they also lived and practiced.

(Anadolu)

aul Lee hasn’t lost his swagger even in the PBA bubble being held at Smart Clark Giga City in Pampanga.

The ‘Angas ng Tondo’ again came up with big games for Magnolia as the Hotshots boosted their drive for a possible Top Four finish heading to the quarterfinals of the Philippine Cup. The former UE Red Warriors lit up the scoreboard and averaged 25.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists for the period Nov. 3 to 8 and emerged as the Cignal TV-PBA Press Corps Player of the Week.

The Hotshots won all their four games during that stretch -- five in all dating back to the Manila Classico -- to raise their record at 6-4 heading to the final stretch of the

eliminations.

Meralco guard Aaron Black, meanwhile, copped Rookie of the Week honor with an average of 5.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists in quality minutes off the bench as the Bolts went on a solid 3-1 record in a week to fan their first All-Filipino conference playoff hopes for the first time since 2015.

Lee started the week with a 27-point explosion in the Hotshots’ 102-92 victory over previous league leader TnT Tropang Giga, a 29-point job in a 103-89 beating of Terrafirma followed by a 31-point outburst in a 7062 win over Rain or Shine, which he capped with back-to-back fadeaways late in the game.

He slightly cooled down with 14 points

FLEE, P10

Rain Or Shine enters PBA quarterfinals

R

Ray Parks of TNT looks for an opening against ROS defender Javee Mocon. PBA Images

ain Or Shine completed the cast of the 2020 Philippine Basketball Association playoffs after turning back TNT, 8074, on Tuesday night at the Angeles University Foundation Sports and Cultural Center.

The Elasto Painters scored the game's last six points, a huge layup from Kris Rosales and clutch free throws from Norbert Torres and Javee Mocon to prevent the Tropang Giga from completing a comeback.

Mocon and James Yap each scored 16 points for ROS, which now needs to beat Phoenix on Wednesday night in hopes of sneaking into the Top 4, which will merit a twice-tobeat advantage in the quarterfinals.

Mocon finished with a double-double as he too

grabbed 10 rebounds.

Rosario had 18 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, and two blocks, while Erram added 14 markers, 13 boards, and one steal for TNT, which now needs to look at the results of the remaining games to determine if they will still get a quarterfinal bonus despite falling to 7-4.

Box Scores: Rain Or Shine 80-Mocon 16, Yap 16, Belga 12, Borboran 10, Norwood 9, Rosales 6, Ponferada 5, Torres 4, Arana 1, Onwubere 1, Wong 0, Nambatac 0, Tolentino 0 TNT 74-Rosario 18, Erram 14, Parks 11, Pogoy 9, Vosotros 6, Washington 4, Semerad 3, De Leon 0, Montalbo 0, Carey 0, Flores 0 Quarterscores: 13-19, 43-38, 67-57, 80-74 (PNA)

12 SPORTS

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VOL.13 ISSUE 182 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2020

ALL IN PACKAGE Team sports also benefit from Bayanihan 2

N

ational athletes in team sports are set to receive the remaining 50% of their June and July allowances and shall continue to receive their full allowance up to December. Along with the rest of Team Philippines, they shall also receive the “special amelioration package” given by the government.

Benefitting from these are 199 athletes and 39 coaches belonging to teams of eight sports, namely; aquatics-water polo, baseball, dragonboat, handball, ice hockey, softball, underwater hockey, and volleyball.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Butch Ramirez thanked the congress, senate and President Rodrigo Duterte for including the national team in the coverage of Republic Act No. 11494.

“A community coming together really makes a whole lot of difference,” remarked Ramirez, citing the instrumental help of Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President, Rep. Abraham Tolentino in getting the funds to give back

the 50% cut on the national team’s allowances.

Allowances of team sports are limited to a few months before and after a major international competition such as the Asian Games or the Southeast Asian Games, because of the considerable budget it entails.

However, fresh from the rousing success of Team Philippines’ overall championship finish in the 30th SEA Games, the PSC Board approved the extension of allowances until July of this year. And now, with the crisis that has hit everyone hard on all fronts, the sports agency approved to continue this until the end of the year and included team sports in the budget from Bayani-

FALL IN, P10

Filipino cager Thirdy Ravena showed he belonged in the Japanese B.League with his impressive play through his first two games with SanEn NeoPhoenix over the weekend. Posting averages of 12.5 points on 43-percent shooting clip, to go with 5.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists, the 23-year-old lived up to the hype as he immediately proved his worth to his new team.