Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 224 | Thursday, January 7, 2021

MALAYAN COLLEGES MINDANAO GEARS UP FOR MODERNIZED LEARNING

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A motorist navigates through an almost zero visibility road in Marahan, Marilog District, Davao City on Wednesday morning.

Davao City and nearby towns are experiencing cloudy weather conditions with scattered light to moderate to occasionally heavy rains due to Intertropical Convergence Zone. Edge Davao

Parishioners who attended mass at St. Francis Assisi urged to undergo testing STORY ON PAGE 2

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VOL.13 ISSUE 224 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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President Rodrigo Duterte talks to the people after holding a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Active Lifestyle Center in Matina, Davao City on Monday evening.

The President has signed laws extending the validity of appropriations under the 2020 national budget and the Bayanihan to Recover As One Act or Bayanihan 2. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Parishioners who attended mass at St. Francis Assisi urged to undergo testing

By MAYA M. PADILLO arishioners who attended masses at St. Francis Assisi in Ma-a from December 22, 2020 to January 1, 2021 are encouraged to undergo swab testing.

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The call was made to prevent further transmission after three priests and a seminarian of the St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Barangay Ma-a have tested positive for Covid-19.

Dr. Ashley Lopez, focal person of Davao City Health Covid-19, said individuals who were seated near the confirmed Covid-19 cases are encouraged to go to the nearest swab testing centers.

“Katong uban na tanaw ninyo naka simba didto o nakabisita from December 22, 2020 to January 1, 2021 ug tan aw ninyo me-

dyo duol mo or you were exposed to the confirmed cases, puwede ta muduol sa pinakaduol nga swab centers so that you can be tested. Katong naa gyud sa atbang o nakahalubilo sa priests ug seminarian. If you suspect yourself, feel free to do so ka’y wala ta’y limitation sa atong testing,” Lopez said.

Lopez said they have already identified the closest of the close contacts of the 18 individuals identified who are closely exposed to the confirmed cases and they are already swabbed and waiting for their test

results.

Upon the recommendation of the City Health Office (CHO), St. Francis of Assisi Parish- Maa is currently suspending all its operation including all liturgical celebration beginning January 2, 2021, until further notice.

Lopez reminded Dabawenyos to continue to be vigilant and always observed the minimum public health protocols especially now with the presence of the new Covid-19 variant.

“Hangyo ko sa tanan to continue living with the new normal we have to apply the minimum public health standards whenever we go it is the only way we could protect ourselves from transmission. Naa gihapon ang Covid and now we have the new Covid variant ug ang pinakaduol ron

he Commission on Elections (Comelec) has allocated over PHP400 million for the procurement of software to be used for the automated elections in May 2022.

In an invitation to bid released on Tues-

day, the Comelec set PHP452,522,321.43 as Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) for the purchase of Automated Elections System (AES) Software for the election management System (EMS), vote counting machines (VCMs) and

consolidation and canvassing system (CCS).

It said a complete set of bidding documents may be acquired by interested bidders at the Special Bids and Awards Committee (SBAC) Secretariat Office for PHP50,000 or down-

naa sa Hong Kong. To date, we have four confirmed cases of Covid variant and this is related to the UK variant,” he said.

As of January 6, 2021, Davao City has recorded 50 confirmed Covid-19 cases making a total of 983 active cases.

“In my previous reports I’ve been mentioning about 2,300 active cases karon eventually karon 983, buot pasabot ,although, we have several cases per day, naga taas ang atong recoveries,” he said.

For now there are a total of 7,699 recoveries with 121 new recoveries out of the 9,107 total cases since March last year up to the present.

“Meaning 84.5 percent of the cases were already recovered,” he said. loaded from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) and the Comelec website with the applicable fee to be paid later on.

The pre-bid conference

Comelec begins bidding for May 2022 polls software

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DavOr youth group sends out HALIK to far-flung communities

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embers and support groups of youth organization, Lumon Community, went several extra miles, reaching out far-flung communities to share blessings during the 2020 holiday season.

Braving some challenges along the way, they set out to four villages in Davao Oriental together with the Kiwanis International, 701st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine , 67 Infantry Battalion, 71st Infantry battalions on December 26, 27, 28 and 30 last year.

In a phone interview, Lumon Community President RJ Pandili revealed having gone out of his way with youth colleagues to do their way of extending H.A.L.I.K., an adopt-a-community project which stands for Health, Agriculture, Livelihood, Indigenous Culture, Knowledge.

Evolving from the usual one-shot community outreach activity, Project H.A.L.I.K. is aimed giving support to communities in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) and giving long term solutions for the problems they suffer for a long time, Pandili explained.

Lumon Community previously had other community launching of Project HALIK but its sorties before closing the year 2020 were directed at reaching the villages of Lawaan of Barangay Kinablangan in the municipality of Baganga; Mantunao, Taytayan, Cateel; Sitio Butigan, San Jose, Boston; and in Taguibo, Oregon, Governor Generoso.

Linking with youth or-

ganizations especially with the Sangguniang Kabataan in every target areas, Lumon Community in convergence with civic and military partners organized one-day HALIK launch conducting hair-cut, distributing food packs; circumcising young boys; extracting tooth, giving-away school supplies and conducting advocacy talks.

Aside from the concept of adopting a community, what stands unique with Project H.A.L.I.K. is the conduct of “Advocacy Talks” which is a way of giving importance on “Culture and Tribe”, and providing knowledge on various subject matters that children and youth in target communities want to know and learn.

Upon leaving the area, Lumon Community makes sure that the local youth organization adopts the H.A.L.I.K. project sites, Pandili said explaining the need for sustained effort to touch base with the youth sector in the area.

“2020 sure was a tough year for all of us…. ,“ Lumon community expressed such sentiment in its Facebook page, however, it conveyed a message that it successfully overcome challenges in its bid to serve.

“We overcome and that there is resilience in the face of these adversities,” it said while expressing optimism to contribute to finally realizing sustainable peace and inclusive development” in year 2021.

Pandili revealed having organized the Lumon Com-

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EDGEDAVAO

DavNor prepared for new COVID-19 strain

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avao del Norte is prepared to deal with the fast transmission of the new COVID19 ‘B. 1. 1.

7.’ strain in case it reaches the province.

During One DavNor Network’s morning radio program, Kasamtangang Katikaran sa Kalambuan (KKK), today, January 5, 2021, Provincial Health Officer II, Dr. Alfredo Lacerona, is optimistic that with the province’s high number of isolation facilities, iy will be able to deal with the new COVID19 strain.

“Dugay nana nga gi pangandaman sa probinsya. Si Governor Edwin, iya nanang gi impose jud nga dapat andam ta sa pag isolate (The province has long been preparing for that. Governor Edwin [I. Jubahib] has been imposing that we should be prepared to isolate),” Lacerona said.

According to Lacerona, the prominent characteristic of the new COVID19 ‘B117’ strain well-known in the U.K., is that it is “more than 70 times faster” in transmission.

Therefore, the province’s high number of isolation facilities is the preparation to counter the new strain’s rapid-transmission nature.

“Andam ta mu house ug inkaso unsa ka paspas, naa tay sobra 1000 isolation facilities sa tibuok probinsya (We are ready to house, no

matter how rapid, we have over 1000 isolation facilities in the entire province),” he said.

Supporting this, Secretary Martin Andanar has previously confirmed that Davao del Norte is among those with the highest number of isolation facilities in the country.

“So andam ta. Gani, hantud karon libre gihapon ang atong paghatag ug ayuda, pagkaon sa atong mga isolated persons (So we are prepared. Actually, even now we still provide free assistance and food to our isolated persons),” Lacerona added.

As such, Lacerona called on the residents of Davao del Norte to report if they feel that they are at risk of being COVID19 positive since there are more than enough room to cater them.

“Hangyo lang gihapon ta sa mga taga Davao del Norte nga kung naay bati-on, ayaw lang ug kahadlok. Mag report lang sa atoang mga COVID operation centers kay para matabangan (We are pleading to the people of Davao del Norte that if they are experiencing symptoms, do not be afraid. Do report to our COVID operation centers so we can help you),” he said.

“Kay inkaso manginahanglan sila ug facility para

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NEWS 3

Councilor Mary Joselle Villafuerte proposes Covid-19 Immunization Program Ordinance in preparation for the arrival of Covid-19 vaccine in Davao City. Edge Davao

Covid-19 Immunization Ordinance proposed

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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ouncilor Mary Joselle Villafuerte has proposed Covid-19 Immunization Program Ordinance in anticipation of the availability of Covid-19 vaccine in Davao City.

The proposal is scheduled to be heard at the committee hearing on January 11 and 14 this year.

“We are a highly urbanized city composed of almost 2 million in population ug dili na mabuhat sa isa ka adlaw ug isa ka semana or isa ka bulan and it would take probably one to two years to come up and maximize or cover the immunization process in the whole Davao City that is why a proper plan should be done at this level so that when opportunity comes kay kabalo man ta nga ang Davao City is also prioritized as one of the

pilot city or province that could avail the upcoming vaccine,” said Dr. Ashley Lopez, focal person of Davao City Health Covid-19 in a live interview with Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) 87.5 on Wednesday.

Villafuerte, who is also the chairperson of the committee on health, said among the challenges now is to ensure that the vaccines procured by the government are safe.

“If you read about vaccine development, parang nasa Phase 3 pa lahat so talagang malaking challenge sa ating gobyerno na ang ating mga vaccines na

he University of the Philippines in Mindanao is calling for justice for its 2017 cum laude graduate Christine “Ica” Dacera, who was allegedly raped and found dead in a Makati hotel room on New Year’s day.

The 23-year old flight attendant from General Santos City, finished BA Communication Arts, major in Media Arts at UP Mindanao in this city. She was also a member of the University’s Dance Ensemble.

“We urge the authorities to investigate and serve the justice she deserves. It is high time to dismantle the macho-feudal system that perpetuates sexual violence.

We call for accountability. We call for justice,” UP Mindanao said in a statement Tuesday.

Himati, the student publication of UP Mindanao, also called for justice for Dacera, who worked as flight attendant of Philippine Airlines (PAL) Express.

“This revolting tragedy reminds us of the relentless attempts to shrink the democratic spaces of women — a by-product of the macho-feudal system in our society. Nowhere is safe when simply existing serves as an invitation for violence to those who wish to violate,” Himati said.

Friends, classmates and professors also called for

ma-aprubahan ng FDA ay iyong pinaka-safe,” she said.

Based on the report of an international news outlet, under Phase 3, these trials can determine if the vaccine protects against the coronavirus, measuring what’s known as the efficacy rate. Phase 3 trials are also large enough to reveal evidence of relatively rare side effects.

Villafuerte also clarified that local government units (LGUs) are not allowed to personally procure the vaccines. This is in line with the pronouncement of the Department of Health (DOH) that only the national government is authorized to buy vaccines given emergency use authorization (EUA) by the FDA. DOH has also urged LGUs that are planning to

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UP Min calls for justice for alumna Christine Dacera

T Christine Angelica Dacera’s graduation photo. She finished BA Communication Arts at the University of the Philippines in Mindanao in 2017, cum laude. Photo from Remembering Christine Dacera FB page

justice as they paid tribute to Dacera in their social media posts.

“Our desire is for the truth to come out in the interest of justice,” the airline company said in a statement on Tuesday.

Dacera, it said, was an “upstanding and professional PAL Express crew member who will be sorely missed by her colleagues and friends.”

As of Tuesday, only three of the 11 persons who were at the party that Christine attended have come forward. Philippine National Police chief General Debold Sinas on Tuesday night issued an ultimatum urging the eight others

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

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Economists forecast RRR cut as early as Q1 2021

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urther cut in banks’ reserve requirement ratio (RRR) is expected this quarter since the uptick in inflation rate last December is considered as a factor for monetary authorities to keep key rates steady anew.

Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol seeks the amendment of the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) to assure farmers that the mar-

ket will not be flooded with imported rice when they harvest. Edge Davao

Contribution hike to benefit SSS members: SSS prexy

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ocial Security System’s (SSS) contribution rate hike starting January 2021 will benefit its members since claims will be based on their contributions, SSS president and chief executive officer Aurora Ignacio said.

During the Laging Handa briefing aired over state-owned PTV-4 Tuesday, Ignacio said they are implementing the increase in contribution rate and the minimum and maximum monthly salary credits in accordance with Republic Act 11199, or the Social Security Act of 2018.

“Gusto rin po namin kayong tulungan na maibigay sa inyo yung tamang benepisyo na kakailangan ninyo sa pandemic na ito.

(We want to help you receive the benefits that you will need during this pandemic),” she said.

Under RA 11199, SSS contribution rate will increase by 1 percent each in 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2025 to bring the rate to 15 percent by the end of the period.

For this year alone, the minimum monthly salary credit (MSC) was hiked from PHP2,000 to PHP3,000 but this excludes the kasambahay (househelp) whose MSC will remain at PHP1,000, and the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are required to pay PHP8,000.

Maximum MSC has been raised from PHP20,000 to PHP25,000.

For SSS members who

are land-based OFWs in countries with Bilateral Labor Agreements (BLAs) with the Philippines as well as for sea-based OFWs, the 1 percent contribution hike will be divided between them and their employers, bringing the breakdown to 4.5 percent and 8.5 percent, respectively.

Ignacio said there are clamors for the postponement of the contribution hike but they cannot decide on this alone because this is based on a law.

She, however, said that if a law has been approved for the contribution increase postponement or if President Rodrigo R. Duterte orders for its suspension, then SSS executives will heed the directive.

She vowed the continued disbursement of benefit claims to SSS members but asked for understanding among their members, citing the balancing act to address the impact of increased benefits distribution on the actuarial life of the estate pension fund for private sector workers.

SSS officials earlier expected to collect about PHP43 billion worth of contributions from their members this year.

Ignacio admitted the difficulty in achieving this now given the impact of the pandemic on the workers.

She said they expect benefit claims to hit PHP231 billion.

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help generate more tax revenues that will help finance the government’s infrastructure programs.

The bid to help address the impact of the pandemic was the primary factor for the aggressive cuts in the central bank’s key rates last year, which brought the current level to 2 percent, slashed off with a total of 200 basis points.

“For the meantime, the lack of additional funding for fiscal stimulus measures would still lead to more monetary easing measures that help reduce borrowing costs,” Ricafort added.

In a report, ING Bank Manila senior economist Nicholas Mapa discounted any cut in the BSP’s key rates in the near term after the acceleration of inflation rate, which is its highest after hitting 3.8 percent in February last year.

He said the latest inflation print brought the real domestic interest rate to -1.5 percent to date, so the “BSP (is) not likely to cut policy rates anytime soon.”

“We forecast inflation to remain at 3 percent for 1Q (first quarter) 2021 with BSP likely keeping policy rates unchanged with (BSP Governor Benjamin) Diokno possibly

In a report, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort said acceleration to 3.5 percent of the rate of prices increases last December from month-ago’s 3.3 percent “could somewhat temper/limit any further monetary easing measures for now, especially and particularly on local policy rates.”

Ricafort attributed last month’s rise in inflation partly to weather-related impact on agriculture products in different parts of the country and increased demand during the holidays.

“Thus, for the coming weeks/months, any further monetary easing measures, especially any further cut in banks’ RRR, remain possible as the economy needs all the support measures that it could get at this time largely due to the adverse economic effects of the Covid-19 lockdowns/pandemic, amid the lack of addition-

al funding for more fiscal stimulus measures, thereby making more monetary easing measures possible to help improve prospects of economic recovery, going forward,” he said.

Inflation averaged at 2.6 percent last year, within the government’s 2-4 percent target band until 2024.

Last year, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reduced banks’ RRR by as much as 200 basis points to help provide banks with additional liquidity for lending.

This cut is half of the 400 basis points that the central bank’s policy-making Monetary Board (MB) authorized BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno to implement in the near term.

Ricafort forecasts further easing of quarantine measures in Metro Manila in the early part of this year into modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) from the current GCQ to further increase economic activities and

USD51.09 a barrel.

American benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was at USD47.45 per barrel at the same time for a 0.36-percent decrease after it ended the previous session at USD47.62 a barrel.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies, including Russia, a group known as OPEC+, failed to agree at Monday’s meeting on wheth-

er to keep the current 7.2 million barrels per day production level or increase the quota.

The group, however, will resume talks later on Tuesday.

Prices succumbed to downward pressure not only on the inconclusive OPEC meeting but lingering concerns over low demand, which were not helped with the UK’s announcement of a new national lockdown that will

start Wednesday and run until around mid-February to stem the soaring number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases in the country.

Geopolitical risks also exerted pressure on oil prices when Iran’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) on Monday seized a South Korea-flagged oil tanker in the waters of the Persian Gulf for allegedly violating maritime environmental laws. (Anadolu)

in the NCR (National Capital Region) also rose partly because of the holidays.

Hopefully, that would start to go down in January,” he said.

Mapa said the spike last month in the prices of vegetables, particularly garlic, onions, and tomatoes, was possibly due to the spillover effects of typhoons that hit the country in the previous months.

“The celebrations particularly last Christmas and the New Year pushed the demand (for these vegetables) to increase and also we have concerns related to the supply... Because of the typhoon, most probably we had supply problems,” he added.

Mapa said the index of vegetables accelerated to 19.7 percent in December 2020 from the previous month’s 14.6 percent.

He also attributed the higher inflation of food and non-alcoholic bever-

ages to the slight increase in rice prices at 0.1 percent in December 2020 after 19 months of negative inflation.

“This is because of the varieties of rice na pumapasok (entering the country) and the prices, of course, would vary and that caused actually the slight increase in the rice inflation for the NCR,” he said.

Mapa said rice inflation outside the NCR, however, remained negative last month.

“I cannot tell right now if this is the start of an upward trend. We will see in the next month or two kung talagang magpa-positive na siya (if it is really going to be positive),” he added.

The PSA reported that food and non-alcoholic beverages, with inflation of 4.8 percent last month, have a 54-percent share in the overall inflation.

Mapa further said higher transport costs, particu-

larly tricycle and jeepney fares, were also among the main sources of acceleration of the December 2020 inflation.

“We are seeing this (rise in inflation) since the (coronavirus) lockdown that fares are really high particularly on tricycles in areas outside the NCR and even here in the NCR,” he said.

Mapa said the NCR registered an inflation of 3.2 percent last month from 3.5 percent in November 2020, while those in areas outside NCR rose to 3.7 percent from 3.3 percent.

The PSA said two regions in areas outside NCR registered the highest inflation -- the Region 2 or Cagayan Valley and Region 5 or Bicol Region.

On higher inflation in Cagayan Valley, Mapa said “definitely, this is caused by the typhoons and flooding experienced in that region.”

(PNA)

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Oil prices down over adjourned OPEC+ meeting

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il prices fell on Tuesday over uncertainties due to the adjournment of the OPEC+ group meeting in which differences arose among member countries in their agreement of a production cut quota for February.

International benchmark Brent crude was trading at USD50.84 per barrel at 0634 GMT, and compared to Monday, marked a decrease of 0.49 percent after closing at

Inflation hits 3.5% in December; 2020 average settles at 2.6%

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he country’s inflation rate soared to 3.5 percent in December 2020, bringing the full-year figure to 2.6 percent, as food prices rose amid the seasonal spike in demand due to the holiday season and possibly the spillover effects of typhoons, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Tuesday.

In a virtual press briefing, PSA Undersecretary and national statistician Dennis Mapa said last month’s inflation rate picked up to its highest level since March 2019 mainly brought about by an increase in prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages, particularly meat like pork, vegetables, and fish.

“So on meat, we know this is partly on (high) demand and the ASF (African swine fever) where we have a problem on the supply so that one caused the increase… (Price of) corn

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VOL.13 ISSUE 224 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

ECONOMY 5

World Bank sees more countries in 'deep debt distress' this year

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had and several other countries are already in deep debt distress and more will join their ranks this year, given the severity of the global recession triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, World Bank Group President David Malpass said.

“Unsustainable debt levels are a major obstacle,” Malpass said. “It was made worse by the pandemic substantially worse, both in terms of domestic and external debt burdens.”

He said it was critical to reduce the debt burden on poorer countries to foster investment and support the global recovery.

China, the biggest creditor by far with 65% of official bilateral debts, had to focus on its response, given sharp declines in countries’ ability to service those debts, he said.

Adjustments were clearly needed to ensure debt sustainability assessments reflected lower short-term and long-term interest rates, Malpass said, noting that debt reductions could occur through cuts in debt stocks, but also by lowering interest rates on existing debts.

The African oil producer Chad may need a deep reduction in the net present value of its debt, and creditors would need to work with the country to find a viable solution to its debt overhang, Malpass told reporters on Tuesday.

“For some countries, it’s a red alert,” he said during a teleconference.

“We need to find ways to adjust the debt burden, so that the burden of debt on people in poorer countries can be reduced dramatically.”

He said Zambia had already defaulted on some

of its debts and restructurings were underway in Angola and Ecuador but declined to name other countries facing acute problems. He said the Bank and the International Monetary Fund were currently assessing the debt sustainability of countries facing problems.

The novel coronavirus, which has killed more than 1.85 million worldwide, has hit emerging market and developing countries particularly hard, exacerbating heavy debt burdens already faced by many countries before the crisis.

he Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) is reminding all local government units (LGUs) throughout the country to put up a Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS), a system that will make it easier for the public to transact with the government.

During the Laging Handa briefing Tuesday, ARTA

director general Jeremiah Belgica said they will start inspecting the LGUs on Wednesday.

“This January, we will prioritize highly urbanized cities particularly in NCR (National Capital Region),” Belgica said.

He added the ARTA team will inspect LGUs’ compliance with the re-

quirements of BOSS, and will also help them on how to establish the system.

BOSS is a single-window application system where the transacting public could submit all the application forms and documents in a single window only, avoiding the routing of documents and minimizing

business has been pivotal, especially this year when safety has been of prime concern,” said Phoenix President Henry Albert Fadullon. “By partnering with Limitless and offering our discounted vouchers online, our customers were treated to a big discount without them having to line up at the stations.

It’s safer, and also more convenient because the vouchers can be redeemed anytime,” he added.

Exclusive to Limitless

to avail of discounted vouchers, which have no expiry, and can be used at participating Phoenix retail stations upon refueling. Over P1 million worth of Phoenix fuel vouchers were sold during the flash sale, which is estimated to have attracted over 2,200 new Limitless members in the course of two days.

“Unlike other fuel discounts offered in the past, the Limitless flash sale eliminated the need to queue at stations, mak-

safety, those who were able to take advantage of the sale only need to show the vouchers on their Limitless app when they gas up so the transactions are contactless. Made possible through a digital channel, it’s an ideal innovation that perfectly suits our current circumstances, and customers can expect more regular promos on the app,” said Celina Matias, Phoenix Vice President for Integrated Marketing and

ARTA to inspect LGUs’ compliance with BOSS

A 'trisikad' driver and his passenger brave the heavy downpour along Chavez Street in Davao City on Wednesday.

Edge Davao

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FARTA, P8

Diokno expects within-target Phoenix strengthens thrust for digital with online flash sale hoenix Petroleum our promos. Incorporat- members, the online sale ing the process easier. For inflation amid December uptick further reinforced ing e-commerce into our gave customers the chance further convenience and

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he rate of price increases in the country posted a further uptick to 3.5 percent in December 2020 but Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno said this remains transitory given the recent weather disturbances.

Last month’s inflation print is higher than the previous month’s 3.3 percent.

In a Viber message to journalists Tuesday, Diokno said average inflation in 2020 stood at 2.6 percent, within the government’s 2 to 4 percent target band until 2024.

“The BSP continues to expect inflation to settle within the target range over the policy horizon,” he said.

Diokno said risks to the domestic inflation rate in the coming months “continue to lean toward the downside owing mainly to the continued uncertainty

caused by the pandemic on domestic and global economic activity.”

“Nevertheless, upside risks emanate from the possibility of an early rollout of Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) vaccines in the Philippines, which is expected to ease the existing lockdown measures and expand further operating capacity of the economy,” he said.

Diokno said the rollout of vaccines in other countries is also expected to result in a stronger-than-expected global economic recovery, and this “could present upward price pressures on global oil and food prices.”

“The BSP stands ready to deploy its full arsenal of instruments as needed in fulfillment of its mandate to maintain price and financial stability conducive to sustainable economic growth,” he added. (PNA)

eading Philippine carrier Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB) recently took delivery of its second ATR cargo freighter, further strengthening its cargo operations to and from domestic airports with short runways. At present, only a third of the airports in the Philippines can accommodate jet aircraft, while the rest can only be served by turboprops.

The ATR 72-500 aircraft with tail number RPC7253 was converted at the Sabena Technics DNR S.A.S. facility in Dinard,

France. CEB’s first freighter that arrived in August 2019 was likewise converted at the same facility. Both ATR freighters, operated

by CEB’s subsidiary Cebgo, are equipped with a Large Cargo Door, allowing for capacity to be as much as eight (8) tons of palletized cargo.

Apart from its two ATR freighters, CEB has also recently modified one of its A330 aircraft into an all-cargo configuration, removing seats so that cargo can be carried in the main

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its push for the digital platform by offering discounted fuel vouchers through Limitless, an app-based loyalty program. Last December 28, Phoenix fuel vouchers in P1,000, P500, and P100 denominations were offered on the Limitless app at 80% off during the independent oil player’s first digital flash sale.

“As our brand further evolves, we have also innovated the way we offer our products and conduct

Cebu Pacific welcomes second ATR freighter

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A motorist redeems his discounted fuel voucher at a Phoenix gas station through the Limitless app

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6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 224 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

On the proposed Covid-19 Immunization Program Ordinance in preparation for the availability of Covid-19 vaccine in Davao City: If you read about vaccine development, parang nasa Phase 3 pa lahat so talagang malaking challenge sa ating gobyerno na ang ating mga vaccines na maaprubahan ng FDA ay iyong pinaka-safe.”

Councilor Mary Joselle Villafuerte Proponent and chair, Committee on Health

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

CHRISTIAN JAY H. RAFAL Layout/Cartoons

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

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ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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VANTAGE POINTS

LIFESTYLE

MALAYAN COLLEGES MINDANAO GEARS UP FOR MODERNIZED LEARNING HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

GET READY FOR THE NEXT PANDEMIC

“In any outbreak or emergency, some factors will always be beyond human control and unique to the event,” said the Geneva-based World Health Organization (WHO) in a statement. “What is certain, however, is that careful preparedness and rapid response can limit loss of life, societal disruption and economic losses.”

In his book Connections, James Burke wrote: “Why should we look to the past in order to prepare for the future?

Because there is nowhere else to look.” To which American statesman Benjamin Franklin added, “By failing to prepare, MALAYAN COLLEGES you are preparing to fail.”

MINDANAO (MCM), It’s not only for natural dian extension Mapúa sasters that theof world should University be preparedin – the evenSouthfor epiern region Philipdemics.

Forof thethe first time in history, has the prepared world is observpines, for ing entirely the International Day of an digital classEpidemic Preparedness last room structure through December 27. ItConferencwas called for Zoom Video by the United Nations ing with Globe.

TheGeneral teleAssembly to advocate the imcom company initially portance of the prevention of, made Zoomfor available for preparedness and partner-

faculty members, to support MCM in its journey towards 21st-century education.

ship against epidemics.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of investing in systems to prevent, detect and respond to infectious disease outbreaks,” the WHO said of the coronavirus disease 2019 that is wreaking havoc around the globe.

“With COVID-19 having now killed more than 1.7 million people, devastated economies, upended societies and exposed the world’s vulnerabilities in the starkest ways, the value of health emergency preparedness has hit home like never before,” said UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

“As we strive to control and recover from the current pandemic, we must think about the next,” he continued.

“Unfortunately, it is easy to imagine a virus just as infectious but even more lethal.”

In a press statement, Guterres said the world can already draw many lessons from the experiences of the past.

“Preparedness is a sound

investment, costing far less than emergency expenditures,” he pointed out. “Societies need stronger health systems, including universal health coverage. People and families need more social protection. Communities on the frontlines need timely support.”

The UN official suggested that “more effective technical cooperation” among countries is needed. “And we need to pay greater attention to the encroachment of people and livestock into animal habitats; 75% of new and emerging human infectious diseases are zoonotic.”

All these must be done in a scientific manner, he pointed out. “Across this work, science must be our guide,” Guterres stressed. “Solidarity and coordination are crucial, within and among countries; no one is safe unless all of us are safe.”

It is but fitting to raise awareness on epidemics on a certain day of every year.

“In the event of the absence of international atten-

tion, future epidemics could surpass previous outbreaks in terms of intensity and gravity,” the WHO said in a statement.

“There is great need of raising awareness, the exchange of information, scientific knowledge and best practices, quality education, and advocacy programs on epidemics at the local, national, regional and global levels as effective measures to prevent and respond to epidemics.”

The International Day of Epidemic Preparedness falls on the birthdate of Louis Pasteur, the French biologist for ground-breaking work on vaccinations.

“In honoring his work, I salute today’s medical professionals, front-line personnel and essential workers who have carried the world through this emergency with such remarkable commitment,” Guterres said. “As we recover from the pandemic, let us resolve to build up our prevention capacities so that we are ready when the world faces the next outbreak.”

“ICT solutions are a big aspect of making distance learning successful. Amidst challenging times, these technologies PINOY MARINO RIGHTS fill the gap between teachers and students, to enable them to communicate and work togeth- assist students in the future.” session recording, co-annotaMCM now offers fully online er,” said Danilo Tiongco, Direc“Zoom acts as more than just tions, digital whiteboards, intecourses for senior high school, tor of IT at MCM and Chief a communications work tool,” gration with existing learning college undergraduates, and Information Officer of iPeople, Peterthe Maquera, management breakout With excellence The year 2021 for me mentioned In 2019, Metropoli- situation andsystems, of the risk of col- postgraduates.

The sinking of the passenstarted with a bang, literally, Manila Development Au- lision. ger vessel MVat Dona Paz on Inc.—a partnership between the tan Senior Vice President for Globe rooms that allow participants and relevance the core of the due to a car accident. thority documented 31,279 It added that every vessel December 20, 1987 was conYuchengco Group of CompaBusiness. “It’s built with virto form smaller groups within a Mapúa-led school, MCM conwayCorporation. home from the motorcycle accidents Met- shall at all times proceed at a sidered one of the worst nies On andmy Ayala tual classroom security toinkeep meeting—and the list goes on.” tinues to as mold young Filipinos grocery evening of January 1, ro Manila—or an average of safe speed so that it can take peacetime disaster and the He added, “Despite the intri- disruptions at bay. The video Gearing up to become an to become globally competitive, my car was hit along C5 ex86 incidents a day, with 394 proper and effective action to worst in the 20th century. cacies of fully online courses, conferencing tool when inteextensively digital institution, especially during these changtension in LasforPinas City by a deaths making them the main avoid and Zoom be stopped ing times.

At around 10:30 p.m., we’re grateful the support grated with existing cameras MCM collision started using To enable this, the MV inspeeding Lalamove motorcy- killer on the road. within a distance.

Dona Paz collided with a motor Globe continues to provide us. delivers better clarity and offers Video Conferencing for its anstitution created a flexible learncle driver.

If the road rules are to moAny action taken to avoid tanker, MT Vector, near Dumali Not After only did give us turned access torists, high definition audio qualityRegas collision nouncements The Point ing system that the accommodates mythey car safely the International shalland be webinars. made in ambetween provinces of to Plans, well. Apartforfrom these, Zoom school alsoand made thedue collaboa fully online and setup, including leftZoom in anEducation intersection, thebut mo- ulations Preventing Colli- ple time with regard Marinduque Oriental Minthey also coupled with technimakesat learning outcomes easier to ration availableofforgood somesea- doro. the availability of electronicallytorcycle directlyitrammed on sions Sea 1972 (COLREGs) the tool observance cal and for our are through features such as chat, faculty members to use during published certifithesupport right side oftraining my car causing to mariners. manship.

Withbooks, only course 25 survivors, heavy on the front COLREGs are published by online Under Dona Paz was even named faculty dents members so they candoor content sharing, remote control, classes.the “give way” MV cations with industry partners, and shattering the window. the International Maritime Or- rule, when two power driv- the Asia’s Titanic as the colliFortunately, I did not suf- ganization (IMO) and set out, en vessels are crossing so as sion resulted to the death of fer the common injuries from among other things, the “rules to involve risk of collision the 4,341 passengers. side-impact crashes that in- of the road” or navigation rules vessel which has the other on The vessel was overclude head concussion or trau- to be followed by ships and her starboard side shall keep crowded, with at least 2,000 matic brain injury, neck or back other vessels at sea to pre- out of the way and shall if the passengers not listed on the injuries, herniated discs, whip- vent collisions between two or circumstances of the case per- manifest.

STARnerve CINEMA kicksliving more the lavish royal life. who is filming docu- crossing DayaReese lash, damage, spinal cord vessels. mita avoid ahead of in thehigh-definiThe maritime profession off 2021 inand royal fashion Her wish unexpectedly mentary Orovessel. island. tion and commercial-free damage, paralysis.

Causes of any ship colli-about other has always been identified as as the popular comession true as she include meets blatant Unfortunately forIfReese, SKY Movies I only hadloveteam minor cuts due may hunecessary on to avoid colli- Pay-Pera perilous job on board vessels of Entrataglasses. and her uncanny look-alike— he knows View, showing Januto Maymay the splintered man error as well as any tech- about sionher or secret. allow more time to as-until that cross ocean boundaries It isBarber classified nical malfunction. sess the situation, a vessel shall for and Edward pair as up a T-bone Princess Ulap (Maymay) But things get a little comary 21. Subscribe onlyreplete with health and accident the front The COLREGs were ad-as Caleb slacken orand take all 48-hour safety hazards, in relation to once morewherein in the romanof the mysterious kingplicated fallsits in speed P150 enjoy of one vehicle strikes the side opted as a convention on Ocway off by stopping or reversthe at risks of accidents, illnesses tic-comedy flick “Princess dom of Oro. The princess, love with the fake princess. access upon purchase of another at an intersection, tober 20, 1972 and entered ing her means of propulsion. and mortality.

DayaReese,” now showwho has been planning Will Reese’s pretendthe comfort of your home. forming the shape of a “T” at into force on July 15, 1977 Adverse effects of a colliThe ing on SKY Movies Payto escape her grandiose ing lead to a happy ending Subscribers with SKY- job of a seafarer is, inthe point of impact . with 160 ratifying parties as of sion include injury or death of deed, not exactly a walk in the Per-View, distributed by lifestyle, then offers Reese with her prince charming, cable, SKY Fiber with HD I have nothing against August 1, 2020. life to passengers or crew, the park.

CineXpress. a huge amount of money or will the truth make her impact Cable TV, and SKY Fiber motorcycle drivers but they Under the convention, environmental moreso The European Maritime The rom-com to switch places withshall her. at all grand dreamifaone mess? with Box subscripshould bear in film, minddithat they every vessel times of the vessels is All-In carrying Safety Agency declared in a rected Barry Gonzalez, her crazy to lookout Avidby moviegoers and material tion can avail of this are notbythe kings of the road asUpon maintain a quest proper any harmful dangerreport that there were 745 follows the misadventures as a well-respected special offer. their carelessness may leadpretend to sight and hearing as MayWard well as fans ousalike for can marine life, andpay-per-view finan- work-related fatalities among of Reese (Maymay)—a princess, Calebmeans experience wacky mysky.com.ph/cinexdamages, injuries and worse, by she all meets available so as Reese’s cial losses to the Visit owners of the maritime workers and nearfatalities. to make a full appraisal of the vessels. con artist who dreams of (Edward), a young reporter misadventures in Princess press to subscribe.ly 9,000 persons injured be-

DENNIS R. GORECHO

Meanwhile, a new strain of COVID-19 – which is potentially 70% more contagious than earlier ones – has been reported. On December 14, British authorities told the WHO that a new variant had been identified.

The WHO, regarding the United Kingdom strain, issued this statement: “There is not enough information at present at present to determine if this variant is associated with any change in (the) severity of clinical disease, antibody response or vaccine efficacy.”

Among the countries where the mutated virus has been reported include Japan, and e-learning platforms Singapore, Hong Kongforand virtual class collaboration.

Australia.

Globe’s introduction of Zoom Another COVID-19 varito MCM’s culture is the onlyone the unant, different from beginning what school earthed inofthe UK,the was reported in South Africa. hopes will equip students to Because of this newprofesdevelbecome digitally-versed opment, President Rodrigo R. sionals. As students and parents Duterte approved the extensettle into the New Normal, sion the travel ban for flights Globeofcontinuously works with from the UK for another two academic institutions and local weeks; the ban is originally set government to ease31. the to expire onunits December transition to a completely digital realm. Globe aims to recreate the way students learn through a suite of connectivity, communication, and collaboration solutions that spark their enthusiasm for education. At the same time, Globe engages organizations to view this period of ambiguity as an opportunity to encourage all Filipinos to take part in creating a safe and digital nation—ready to transform the world. tween 2011 and 2020, among other tragic statistics of this Curious minds need tools sector. that enable ideas to ceaselessly theand “Good flow.For Givecenturies, your students Samaritan” maritime rescue faculty members the confidence doctrine seafarto present, encourages collaborate, and ers to go to the aid of life and thrive in a virtual environment property in distress, including through Zoom Video Conferthose involved in collisions. encing.

Get in touch Regardless of with who your is at GlobeinBusiness Account Man-at fault a collision incident agerhigh or visit ourvessels websitethat to learn the seas, susmore about our specialized tained minimal or no damage are obliged to rescue mariners education offers. distressed or shipwrecked by the mishap.

The United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea says that every signatory to the convention must require the master of a ship flying its flag to render assistance to any person found at sea in danger of being lost and to proceed to the rescue of persons in distress.

The exemption is when the assisting vessel, the crew or the passengers on board would be seriously endangered as a result of rendering assistance to those in distress.

Atty. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. For comments, email info@sapalovelez. com, or call 09175025808 or 09088665786)

STARTING 2021 WITH A COLLISION

“PRINCESS DAYAREESE” AIRS ON SKY MOVIES PAY-PER-VIEW

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munity in Year 2018. Taking off in the municipality of Caraga at the east coast of Davao Oriental, it had gone to various villages in the Province doing community outreach activities they labelled with various noble terms such as “Paglaum” or Hope, “Pangandoy” or dream; “Panag-uyon” or Unity which Pandili as “short-term” efforts to assist a community.

“Now, we are adopting a community implementing projects such as construction of comfort rooms, and setting up of potable water system,” he said referring to the evolved Project H.A.L.I.K.

Pandili puts premium on active volunteerism of youth members in generating a number of support groups from the civic, military and the government sectors to haul Project H.A.L.I.K. services to various far-flung communities.

“It shows how many people could be reached out just by simple kindness and willingness to help. Distance is not a thing when your heart is widely open for loving and sharing other people,” Lumon Community expresses this thought in its Facebook page. (PIA XI/ Jeanevive Duron Abangan)

is set on Wednesday at 10 a.m., online via Microsoft Teams.

The deadline for the submission of bids is on Jan. 20, 2021, at 9 a.m. at the Bureau of the Treasury (BTR) Convention Hall of the Palacio del Gobernador Building in Intramuros, Manila.

The opening of bids is set on the same day at 10 a.m. at the same venue.

It also reminded that only Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least 60 percent interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, are allowed to partic-

ipate in the bidding.

The Comelec added that the bidding will be done through open competitive bidding procedures using a non-discretionary "pass/fail" criterion.

The EMS compiles the number and profile of registered voters, their geographic locations, polling precinct information, among others, all of which are necessary for designing the official ballots.

The CCS does the automated tallying and monitoring of data received from polling precincts and lower levels of the board of canvassers. (PNA)

e accommodate sila, daghan ta ug facility (Because if they are in need of a facility to accommodate

them, we have a lot of facilities),” he added. (Jan Vincent Leuterio, PIA-XI)

personally procure Covid-19 vaccines to work with the national government to ensure a smoother immunization campaign against the virus.

“LGUs are not allowed to personally procure Covid-19 vaccine.

DOH lang ang puwedeng tumanggap ng mga vaccines and release to the LGUs kahit na mag-allocate tayo. Sa tanong na magkano, depende kung ano yung ating vac-

cine. Iba-iba ang costing ng mga vaccines for example ang pinakamahal is Moderna. Only FDA can issue an EUA. We will wait for FDA kung i-grant ba nila and EUA sa mga nag-a-apply or mag-a-apply pa na mga companies,” she said.

It can be recalled that Davao City is being eyed to be one of the priority cities in the country to receive Covid-19 vaccine.

to surrender in 72 hours or be hunted down. No warrant of arrest had been issued when Sinas issued the warning.

Dacera, according to post-mortem reports, died of ruptured aortic aneurysm but her family in a press conference on Tuesday said they sought another autopsy.

CNN Philippines quoted Paolo Tuliao, one of the lawyers of the

Dacera family, as saying they are ” disputing the findings of the SOCO, ‘yung post-mortem report na they claimed the cause of death was aneurysm” because “they didn’t specify sa report ‘yung mga hematoma, ‘yung mga bruises that were found on the victim’s body, that’s why we (sought) another post-mortem report from an independent medico-legal.” (MindaNews)

In the first 10 months of 2020, SSS disbursed compensation benefits amounting to PHP159.47 billion to about 3.56 million members and beneficiaries.

Loan releases extended to 3.20 million members amounted to PHP58.03 billion as of end-November 2020.

Pension loan releases for 69,813 retiree-pensioners totaled to PHP3.17 billion for the same period.

Contribution collections as of end-October 2020 reached PHP169.73 billion, 5.4 percent lower than the PHP179.34 billion during the same period in 2019. (PNA)

the number of steps.

The ARTA chief added that full automation of government services, including electronic signature and e-payment, is strongly recommended during this time of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic to avoid the risk of contracting the virus when transacting with government offices.

“It’s possible now because we have software made by DICT (Department of Information and

Communications Technology) for electronic business permitting and licensing system,” Belgica said in Filipino.

He said e-signature and online payment systems are also being made available to fully automate government transactions.

“While we are automating our system, it is important that we also implement e-signature and online payment,” he added. “This is the direction our government is taking.” (PNA)

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Duterte extends validity of 2020 budget, Bayanihan 2

P

resident Rodrigo Duterte has signed laws extending the validity of appropriations under the 2020 national budget and the Bayanihan to Recover As One Act or Bayanihan 2 as the country continues to grapple with the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Duterte signed Republic Act 11519 which allows appropriations under Bayanihan 2 available for release, obligation, and disbursement until June 30, 2021.

The 2020 budget expired last Dec. 31, 2020.

He also signed RA 11520 which allows appropriations under Bayanihan 2, including budgetary support to govern-

ment-owned and controlled corporations, available for release and disbursement until Dec. 31, 2021.

Bayanihan 2, which lapsed last Dec. 19, 2020, provides for a stimulus package of PHP140 billion in regular appropriation and PHP25 billion as standby fund to be utilized to cushion the effects of the pandemic and strengthen the efforts in gradually reopening the economy.

It is the second installment of the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act (Bayanihan 1), which gave Duterte emergency powers to address the Covid-19 crisis in the country.

The DBM is authorized to formulate rules and regulations for the implementation of RA 11519

and necessary guidelines for the implementation of RA 11520.

A total of PHP148 billion in the appropriation under the two laws are still unreleased, according to the DBM. Data from DBM showed that PHP110 billion from the 2020 national budget has yet to be released.

Around PHP38 billion of the PHP140 billion funding under the Bayanihan 2 has also yet to be released.

Last Dec. 14, Duterte certified both legislations as urgent to address the Covid-19 pandemic.

Both laws were signed by Duterte on Dec. 29 but only released to reporters on Wednesday. (PNA)

indanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol is seeking the amendment of the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) to assure farmers that the market will not be flooded with imported rice when they harvest.

“Earlier today, local radio station DXND asked me in a live interview on what should be done to avert a looming world rice supply crisis as Vietnam, the Philippines' main source of rice, has itself started importing rice from India. I made two simple recommendations based on my experience as a local government executive, former Agriculture Secretary, and most of all, as a farmer,” he said.

Apart from the amendment of RTL, the MinDA chair also seek at using an amended Magna Carta for Small Farmers as the legal leg, government could set a ‘palay’

farm gate price of P20 per kilo to be followed by both the National Food Authority (NFA) and the commercial traders.

Piñol added that if such recommendations are considered, the farmers will immediately start plowing the fields to plant rice because they know they will make money. “To avert an impending world rice supply crisis, however, these recommendations must be implemented right away,” he said.

He also recounted that in early 2000 when the price of milled rice went through the roof and the Philippines had to import rice at over $1,000 per metric ton.

“With the farm gate price of Palay hitting historic high, almost all available spaces, including the road allowance along the national highway were planted with rice. The point is if the rice farmer knows he will make money and he will be protected by the gov-

ernment, he would not even wait for the free seeds or fertilizer or the ridiculous "cash and food aid" being distributed by the Department of Agriculture (DA),” Piñol stressed.

Those who are saying that we do not have the area to plant rice should join me in my journeys to the countryside in Mindanao and I will gladly show them the vast unutilized plains around the Agusan Marsh, Liguasan Marsh, and Lake Lanao, just to name a few, he further added.

“Some may view these as over-simplifying a complex global supply problem but that is what it really is, a simple problem with simple solutions. So many ideas could be presented to address the problem but everything boils down to one question: Will the rice farmer make decent income-producing rice?” he further said.

utilizing his provisional 200 bps reduction in RR by 1Q should 4Q (fourth quarter) 2020 GDP disappoint,” he added.

Gross domestic product

(GDP) registered a lower contraction in the third quarter of 2020 at -11.5 percent from decades-high of -16.9 percent in the previous three months.

Authorities expect fourth-quarter economic output to post further improvement on continued reopening of the domestic economy. (PNA)

Strategies. She also added that the e-gift feature on the app has been especially useful during the holidays stating, “It allowed users to buy and give vouchers without leaving home.”

Since the start of community quarantine measures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Phoenix

introduced several digital-based initiatives to sustain business operations. These include the implementation of cashless payment at its fuel stations, the introduction of its fuel delivery service for SMEs, and the launch of online ordering and delivery services for its LPG business.

In June, the company announced its partnership with Limitless, which has since offered its members points for valid purchases at partner establishments including Phoenix. Limitless now has more than 100,000 members who have access to perks and other exclusive privileges.

deck.

“We saw this pandemic as an opportunity to recalibrate our business and optimize operations to address the needs of our customers. There is a growing demand for cargo to and from the Philippines and our fleet of dedicated cargo aircraft allows

us to address this while doing so in a more efficient manner,” says Alex Reyes, President and CEO of Cebgo.

CEB has ensured transport of essential goods is not hampered, especially during this time. The carrier continues to anticipate its cargo business to continue

flourishing, and its investment in these dedicated cargo aircraft supports its commitment to continue providing affordable and accessible air travel services for everyJuan.

More information on CEB cargo may be found here: https:// www.cebupacificair.com/cargo

classic Mythical Selection.

Parks, Pringle, Pogoy, Wright, and Perez are in the running for the two guard spots in the Elite Five, while Abueva is in the frontcourt list, where three will be chosen.

Also included in the forward/ center list are Ginebra's Japeth Aguilar, TNT's John Paul Erram,

Alaska's Vic Manuel, Phoenix's Jason Perkins, Magnolia Ian Sangalang, San Miguel's Arwind Santos and Moala Tautuaa, and NorthPort's Christian Standhardinger.

The only Leos staples that will be handed out are the Most Improved Player, where Perkins, Phoenix's Justin Chua, Rain Or Shine's Javee Mocon, NLEX's

Raul Soyud, and Meralco's Reynel Hugnatan are the final nominees, and the Samboy Lim Sportsmanship Award, where Abueva, who showed that he is a different person after serving a lengthy ban in 2019, is a finalist along with Ginebra's Scottie Thompson, NLEX's Kevin Alas, and Rain Or Shine's Gabe Norwood. (PNA)

Piñol seeks RTL amendments M

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9

Honorio “The Rock” Banario is looking forward to a good year.

Banario looks to a good run in 2021

F

ormer ONE Featherweight World Champion Honorio “The Rock” Banario of the famed Team Lakay of Baguio City, Philippines, is looking to embark on another run at the ONE World Title this year.

The 31 year old feels reenergized and extra motivated to build on his sole victory in 2020 -- a close split decision against fellow top featherweight Shannon Wiratchai of Thailand.

After spending the hol-

idays with close family, and helping out Filipinos in need with his brethren at Team Lakay, Banario wants to tell fans to expect an epic resurgence for the Philippines’ premiere martial arts troupe.

“New Year with my

family was very fulfilling.

It was my second New Year celebration with my son and wife. We spent it in our province with our loved ones,” said Banario.

“I met with the team before New Year’s Eve, and we spent the end of 2020 giving out aid to people in need. Coach Mark and the team agreed to all do a small donation program. There are so many people out there who had a rough year, who had to go through the pandemic, through floods and calam-

ity, and endured days of hunger. The very least we could do was help out in our own little way.

“This year, the team is very motivated to bounce back as we adapt ourselves and our training methodologies to the ‘new normal.’

We are all reinvigorated and fired up to return to our dominance in the Circle.”

Banario was one of the few bright spots for Team Lakay in 2020. The team suffered a series of painful setbacks as former cham-

pions Eduard Folayang and Kevin Belingon, as well as rising star Lito Adiwang all experienced defeat late in the year.

Once the inaugural ONE Featherweight World Champion, Banario wants nothing more than to return to his former glory, and to wear the gold around his waist again.

“I want to fight more in 2021, and reestablish myself as a top fighter in my division. Hopefully, I can claw my way back up to a title shot by the end of the

Parks, Pringle lead contenders for BPC

B

Stanley Pringle of Ginebra and Ray Parks of TNT are seen to be the frontrunners for the Best Player of the Conference (BPC) for the recently concluded PBA Philippine Cup.

year. Of course, my other wish is to be healthy physically, mentally, and spiritually. I wish that for all, not just for myself,” said a determined Banario.

“I really want to become a champion and hold that belt again. To do that, I have to stay strong in challenging times and constantly move forward to pursue my dreams. That goes for the rest of the team also. We will prove once again that here at Team Lakay, champions are not born, they are made.”

obby Ray Parks and Stanley Pringle are being touted as the top contenders for the Best Player of the Conference (BPC) for the recently concluded PBA Philippine Cup as voting began on Tuesday.

Parks, TNT's current spark plug, finished the bubble conference as number one in the statistical points race but Pringle, Ginebra's streaky combo guard, could get a strong case to earn votes after leading the Barangay to their first PBA Philippine Cup title since 2007.

Votes from the media covering the games, the PBA commissioner's office, and the players will be collected until the following Monday as the finalists for the BPC plum looks to sway them in their favor.

The final nominees for the BPC award are Parks,

Pringle, the Tropang Giga's Roger Pogoy, Phoenix Fuel Masters’ Matthew Wright and Calvin Abueva, and Terrafirma Dyip's Jaymar Perez.

The BPC will be named in a special awards night on January 17.

The PBA will be shying away from the traditional Leo Awards and will only award the BPC instead of the Most Valuable Player alongside other special awards.

Instead of the usual Rookie of the Year plum, an Outstanding Rookie award will be given to one of the following: Ginebra's Arvin Tolentino, Meralco's Aaron Black, Terrafirma's Roosevelt Adams, Alaska's Barkley Eboña, and Magnolia's Aris Dionisio.

An Elite Five award will also be given instead of the

FPARKS, P8

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VOL.13 ISSUE 224 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

READY FOR 2021

AAK Davao gears up for online tournaments this year

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

A

fter reaping success in several Covid-19 era tournaments on online platforms, the Association for the Advancement of Karatedo (AAK) Davao City Chapter will continue holding online classes daily from Monday to Saturday.

AAK Davao chief instructor and Karate Pilipinas XI director Rommel Tan said AAK Davao’s online classes have been working effectively in honing the skills of their students in compliance to the IATF-imposed restrictions.

AAK Davao recorded two overall second place finishes in 2020 with their smashing performance in the 2020 Karate Pillipinas E-Kata Championships and the 3rd Annual Karate Hakuakai Philippines Championship Online Karate E-Kata International tournament.

Tan revealed that AAK Davao is now gearing up for

a series of online kata tournaments set to start late January.

“This is part of our yearly preparation for upcoming tournaments however, since we’re are still in the pandemic state, we have to still do our trainings online,” Tan said in a statement. “We have to prepare early to achieve more for 2021.”

Davao karatekas under the AAK wing have consistently won in local and international competitions prior to the pandemic. Its success in the online platform has proven that it is capable of sustaining its programs despite the restrictions for combat sports.