Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 55 | Sunday-Monday, June 14-15, 2020

EDGEDAVAO

WHY SOME NBA PLAYERS ARE RELUCTANT TO RETURN TO THE COURT?

Serving a seamless society

SETTLEMENT

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

f

@EdgeDavao

www.edgedavao.net

SPORTS P11

edgedavao@gmail.com

P 15.00 • 12 PAGES

Mediation conciliation resolves decade-long labor dispute in Sumifru Compostela STORY ON PAGE 2

Representatives of Sumifru Philippines led by Corporate Lawyer Atty. Bernice Joana L. Piñol, Vendor Relations Manager, Rommel B. Dilig, DOLE Senior Labor Employment Officer Isidrick Paqueo, DOLE Davao de Oro Provincial Head Neil Allan Baban, and DOLE LEO III Lym R. Ongoy during the preliminary discussions of the settlement and checking of documents.

Atty. Carlo Ancla (standing) along with his staff, surrounded by NAMASUFA workers, discussing the content of the quitclaims and facilitating the signing.

WORLDWIDE COVID-19 NUMBERS BOARD

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

PHILIPPINES

WORLDWIDE

CONFIRMED: 7,732,485 • DEATH: 428,236 • RECOVERED: 3,956,272

CONFIRMED: 24,787 • DEATH: 1,052 • RECOVERED: 5,454

As of June 13, 2020, here’s the Top 5 list of countries with most number of COVID-19 cases 1. U.S.A CONFIRMED: 2,116,922 DEATH: 116,825 RECOVERED: 841,934

2. BRAZIL CONFIRMED: 829,902 DEATH: 41,901 RECOVERED: 427,610

3. RUSSIA CONFIRMED: 511,423 DEATH: 6,715 RECOVERED: 269,370

4. INDIA CONFIRMED: 309,603 DEATH: 8,890 RECOVERED: 154,231

5. GREAT BRITAIN CONFIRMED: 292,950 DEATH: 41,481 RECOVERED: --

SOURCE: https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

Vicente Barrios, leader of NAMASUFA PP90 workers, requestor of SEnA

Mediation conciliation resolves decade-long labor dispute in Sumifru Compostela

A

peaceful settlement has finally been reached between 92 plantation workers from Compostela and Sumifru (Philippines) Corporation in a Conciliation Mediation sanctioned by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region XI on Tuesday (June 9, 2020) in Compostela, Davao de Oro. In the said Single Entry

Approach (SEnA) which is

One of the workers receiving cash settlement.

a settlement procedure of all labor issues brought forward by NAMASUFA PP90 leader Vicente Barrios to DOLE Region XI Senior Labor Employment Officer (LEO) Isidrick Paqueo, the workers were duly represented by counsel and manifested their desire to claim separation pay in lieu of reinstatement and to move forward in mutual agreement with Sumifru.

The claims are based on

the ruling of the Supreme Court in the case of “SUMIFRU (PHILIPPINES) CORP. (surviving entity of a merger with Fresh Banana Agricultural Corporation and other corporations), Petitioner vs. NAGKAHIUSANG MAMUMUO SA SUYAPA FARM1 (NAMASUFA-NAFLU-KMU), Respondent” (G.R. No. 202091), which declared the PP90 workers as regular employees of the said company.

In the presence of DOLE Davao de Oro Provincial Head, Neil Allan Baban, Senior LEO Paqueo, LEO III Lym R. Ongoy, Sumifru Vendor Relations Manager, Rommel B. Dilig, and Sumifru Corporate Lawyer Atty.

Bernice Joana L. Piñol, all 92 banana workers voluntarily received the separation pay and cash bonuses given out on the spot by Sumifru.

Compostela Vice May-

DOLE 11 officers facilitating the settlement.

or Levi Ebdao and Bravo Company Commander Lt. Arthur Garidan gladly welcomed the settlement between Sumifru and the workers as a significant development to the local government’s peace and order efforts as some of the NAMASUFA PP90 members are NPA returnees who wish to be reintegrated to society and become productive members of the Compostela community.

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

EDGEDAVAO

3

4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

Teamwork needed to beat Covid-19 pandemic: Go

S

enator Christopher Lawrence Go on Friday urged his fellow Filipinos to be united to ensure the successful fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Go made the call as he acknowledged that public cooperation is necessary to combat the Covid-19.

“Ngayong kinakaharap natin ang mga pagsubok na dulot ng Covid-19, huwag din sana nating kalimutang ipamalas ang pagtutulungan at pagbabayanihan (Now that we are facing challenges due to Covid-19, let us not forget to exhibit unity and teamwork),” he said.

As of Friday, the Philippines has recorded 24,787 confirmed Covid-19 cas-

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio checks a military vehicle with Task Force Davao commander Colonel Consolito Yecla at the sidelines of the ceremony for the commemoration of the 122nd Philippine Independence Day on Friday. Edge Davao

Davao, Mindanao projects on advance FS stages

By MAYA M. PADILLO he Feasibility studies (FS) of Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP), Davao City Expressway, and the Samal-Davao Connector, which are all under the Build, Build, Build Program of the Duterte administration, have been completed and approved at the local and regional levels, local development councils and the Regional Development Council (RDC).

T

Based on documents acquired by Edge Davao, the Davao City Expressway project, with the De-

partment of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) as implementing agency, will be funded through Official

Development Assistance (ODA) and is targeted to be completed in 2026.

The project status includes FS reports will be subject for review of the said department and for finalization. Once the FS is finalized, it will be submitted to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) for review and approval of the Investment Coordination Committee (ICC).

The DPTMP, a project aims to introduce a modern bus system in Davao City to replace current Public Utili-

sisyon,” Roque said.

The President’s spokesman said Duterte will announce his decision of Monday, June 15— the same day when the GCQ in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Central Visayas, Pangasinan, Zamboanga City and Davao City expires.

Roque, however, expressed doubt that Metro Manila and Cebu City will shift to a more relaxed MGCQ. “Tama po kasi ‘pag nag MGCQ, ‘yung public gatherings up to 50% papayagan na. Ang transportasyon 50 to 100 [%] na at pati 'yung sinehan at pagsimba ay papayagan na at 50% capacity,” he said.

“Pero 'yung numero ng Metro Manila at Cebu ay parang hindi pa akma na magbukas nang ganyan.

Pero bahala nga po ang Presidente kasi binabalanse natin ang ekonomiya at sapat naman ang kakayahin magbigay ng medical doon sa magkakasakit ng critical, ‘yung critical care capacity natin,” he

added.

“It’s a gamble po na hinayaan natin ang Presidente na magdesisyon,” he emphasized.

The Palace official said while public health is important, it is equally important to consider that Metro Manila’s staying under quarantine is costly for the economy.

Siyempre po ganu'n palagi ang debate... pero kasama sa debate... ang may sakit karamihan ay mild o 'di naman kaya ay asymptomatic.

“Gaya ng aking sinabi ‘yan po ay isang maingat na pagtimbang sa ekonomiya at kalusugan,” Roque said.

He stressed that “no one can predict how the President decides.”

Interior Secretary Eduardo Eduardo Año on Friday said the National Capital Region will most likely remain under GCQ after June 15.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana meanwhile on Friday said if he would have his way, Metro Manila would be under a more relaxed MGCQ.

Fate of CQ in the hands of PRRD

T

he fate of community quarantine in the Philippines is in the hands of President Rodrigo Duterte as the inter-agency body will let the chief executive decide the next steps to contain the spread of COVID-19 while balancing public health and the economy, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said on Saturday.

“Meron na pong rekomendasyon. Ang rekomendasyon bahala na po si Presidente,” Roque said in an interview.

“Nakikita natin na ang numero po medyo hindi bumababa sa Metro Manila at sa Cebu City. Pero kung anong gagawin, iniwan na po kay Presidente,” he said.

The Palace official said Metro Manila and other areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) may transition to modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), return to modified enhanced community quarantine, or remain under GCQ. “Pero kahit anong option po diyan, iniwan na po kay Presidente ang de-

ty Jeepneys (PUJ), tricycles and other means of public transport, will be implemented by the Department of Transportation (DoTr) and will be funded through ODA. The project is targeted to be completed in 2023.

For the Davao-Samal Connector, the contract negotiation for the project’s Detailed Engineering Design (DED) has just been finished and the start of the DED preparation is tentatively set in July 2020.

The certification dated May 31, 2020 from City

FDAVAO, P9

es, with 1,052 deaths and 5,454 recoveries.

Go issued the statement the same day the country observed the 122nd anniversary of the Philippines’ independence from Spanish rule.

The country’s first president, Emilio Aguinaldo, proclaimed the Philippines’ independence from Spain in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898.

The proclamation of independence made the Philippines as Asia’s first free and united nation from the clout of Western powers.

Joining the Independence Day celebration, Go said the sacrifices of the country’s forefathers

FTEAMWORK, P9

PH not among countries calling for stop of Covid-19 'infodemic'

T

he Philippines has yet to join the roster of countries who have lent their support to a UNbacked call to end an "infodemic" in the middle of the COVID-19 crisis.

The Latvian mission to the United Nations published a copy of the "Cross-regional statement on 'infodemic' in the context of COVID-19" on Twitter, which in part read, "The spread of the 'infodemic' can be as dangerous to human health and security as the pandemic itself.

Among other negative consequences, COVID-19 has created conditions that enable the spread of disinformation, fake news and doctored videos to foment violence and divide communities."

In a tweet on March 28, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he world was facing an "infodemic" of misinformation.

The World Health Organi-

Heavy equipment are seen at the construction site of Davao City Coastal Road Project Times Beach segment on Saturday. The Davao City Coastal Road Project including Bucana Bridge project with the De-

zation explains the term as "an excessive amount of information about a problem, which makes it difficult to identify a solution."

A total of 132 countries have endorsed the statement which was co-authored by Australia, Chile, France, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Latvia, Lebanon, Mauritius, Mexico, Norway, Senegal, and South Africa.

"It is critical states counter misinformation as a toxic driver of secondary impacts of the pandemic that can heighten the risk of conflict, violence, human rights violations and mass atrocities,: said the statement, calling for the immediate stop of misinformation.

It is important, the statement said, that "free, reliable, trustworthy, factual, multilingual, targeted, accurate, clear and science-based information" be made available to all,

FPH, P9

partment of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) as implementing agency has a status of “implementation ongoing”and targeted to be completed in 2022.

Edge Davao

5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

World economy could suffer 'significant scarring': IMF exec

T

Even as Digos has transitioned to the more lenient modified general community quarantine, this neighborhood store maintains safety protocols such as keeping plastic barriers and the wearing of face masks in this photo taken on Friday. MindaNews photo by ERIC SB LIBRE

he economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic could inflict "significant scarring" worldwide and the outlook for recovery remains highly uncertain, IMF chief economist Gita Gopinath said Friday.

The fund in April projected a global economic contraction of 3.0 percent, but Gopinath said the updated forecasts due out June 24 "will be very likely worse."

"There is profound uncertainty of recovery," she said in a virtual address to the 7th Asian Monetary Policy Forum.

Noting the damage done in particular sectors like transportation, as well as the growing risk

DTI reiterates health protocols as limited dine-in resumes in restos

DOT 11 to extend loans A to affected businesses

By MAYA M. PADILLO he regional office of the Department of Tourism (DOT 11) said it will be extending financial capital through loans to the tourism businesses in Davao Region affected by the health crisis.

T

DOT 11 Regional Director Tanya Rabat-Tan said in a virtual presser that extending loans to the affected tourism related businesses is part of the objectives of the Philippine Economic Stimulus Act, which will provide funding tourism response and recovery programs to assist affected tourism stakeholders all over Davao Region.

“Giving stakeholders in tourism access to financing is part of the

agency’s response and recovery program ng DOT as a whole. Once approved, kasama nito ay talagang yung mga loans to be extended. But it’s not yet final because they have yet to prepare the guidelines,” she said.

It is not clear if these loans are interest-free or has interest, according to Tan. “Pero mababa na interest. So as to the details, wala pa but definitely part of that program is extend-

PRRD economic adviser eyes 'pooled' PCR tests to cut costs

P

residential Adviser for Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion said Friday the private sector was looking at pooled polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to make the process cheaper.

Pooled PCR testing, wherein more than 5 samples will be placed in a single test kit, is being studied to give businesses an alternative aside from the rapid test kit that identify antibodies instead of the virus, Concepcion said.

Several medical groups earlier opposed the use of rapid test kits, which Concepcion endorses, due to high false positive cases.

Using PCR tests to confirm COVID-19 cases is the "gold standard" in testing, the Department of Health earlier said.

"Pooled PCR testing is something that’s being

done in other countries...

You speed up the process of testing, you cut down the cost of testing as well," he said.

"Accessibility and affordability is our objective," he added.

Concepcion said he met with the Philippines Medical Association who agreed that "it's better to test than not to test."

The PMA, the private sector's Project Ark and other companies will "solidify" testing efforts to rescue the economy from the pandemic fallout, he said.

Metro Manila transitioned to general community quarantine on June 1, to allow the gradual reopening of the economy.

More workers were allowed to go back to work, with some undergoing rapid tests paid for by their employers.

ing financial capital to the stakeholders,” Tan said.

DOT 11 is currently looking forward to the approval of the Philippine Economic Stimulus Act, which was crafted by the DOT. “Wala pang final sa proposal pero meron ng sound proposal ang DOT but nasa consultation stage pa siya at hindi pa talaga approved sa Congress. Meaning after approval sa Congress mapupunta pa sa Senate yung act. It’s hard pa to give exact figure but lumalabas yung P58 billion, but no final details yet until it is released,” she said.

Tan said as soon as the national government declared ECQ and subsequently LGUs declared

lockdowns due to the crisis, flights were cancelled, most the tourism related establishments had to shut down without clarity as to when they can operate again, and greatly affecting tourism stakeholders.

“Around 5,000 employees of the establishments in Davao Region accredited by DOT are affected. Because of the quarantines, most of the establishments are not operating. The COVID crisis really affected the tourism industry in Davao Region and this is because of travel restrictions that caused cancelations of flights,” she said.

Tan has presented action plans for the recov-

FDOT, P9

of bankruptcies and persistent job losses, coupled with expected changes in consumer behavior "one has to be concerned about the path of recovery."

"Many of these variables point to significant scarring effects," she said, which would leave lasting damage on the global economy.

In its World Economic Outlook in April, the Washington-based crisis lender warned that the downturn could be worse if the pandemic was prolonged or saw a resurgence.

The World Bank last week said it expects the global economy to contract by 5.2 percent, in the most widespread crisis in 150 years.

trade official on Saturday reiterated health and safety protocols as restaurants are set to resume partial dine-in operations on Monday amid continuing COVID-19 quarantine measures.

“We have the interim guidelines on COVID Prevention in the workplace issued by DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment) and DTI (Department of Trade and Industry),” said Undersecretary Ruth Castelo of the DTI’s Consumer Protection Group.

Castelo said restaurants would only be allowed to accept dine-in customers at 30 percent capacity.

Since quarantine measures were enforced in March, restaurants had only been allowed to operate for take-out and delivery orders.

“Kung dating 10 ang kanilang customers, 30 percent lang ngayon so 3 or 4 maybe, kasi ang kailangan talaga natin 'yung 1 meter physical distancing even with workers doon

sa restaurant,” Castelo said.

(If they could accommodate 10 customers before, 30 percent of that would be 3 or 4 maybe because we have to observe the 1-meter physical distancing even with workers.)

Customers must scan the QR code of an app or fill up a health declaration form upon entry to the restaurant. Foot baths, alcohols and sanitizers must also be provided by the restaurant.

Face-to-face seating is also discouraged if restaurants couldn't provide protective dividers.

“Inside the restaurant, kung ang seating for a table is for 4 people, 2 lang sila, diagonal ang upo because we discourage 'yung face-to-face seating. Kung ‘di sila makapag-provide ng any kind of divider para maproteksiynan kung mag face-to-face man, diagonal na lang muna ang seating nila,” she said.

(Inside the restaurant, if the seating for a table is for 4 people, only 2 will

FDTI, P9

Two ambulant fish vendors brave the highways of Santo Tomas, Davao del Norte to sell their products on Saturday. Armando Fenequito

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

“Cross-regional statement on ‘infodemic’ in the context of COVID-19”: The spread of the ‘infodemic’ can be as dangerous to human health and security as the pandemic itself. Among other negative consequences, COVID-19 has created conditions that enable the spread of disinformation, fake news and doctored videos to foment violence and divide communities.”

Official statement, Latvian Mission to the United Nations signed by 132 member countries

EDITORIAL

Infodemic

Without a doubt, one thing that has kept everyone coping with the stressful health crisis brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic are the streams of information that constantly flood all media platforms.

Infodemic, as it is now given a name, has been as dangerous as the pandemic itself. It has ripped across a wave of confusion that only made worse how people cope with the crisis.

Recently, the Latvian mission to the United Nations published a copy of the “Cross-regional statement on ‘infodemic’ in the context of COVID-19” on Twitter, which in part read, “The spread of the ‘infodemic’ can be as dangerous to human health and security as the pandemic itself. Among other negative consequences, COVID-19 has created conditions that enable the spread of disinformation, fake news and doctored videos to foment violence and divide communities.” In a tweet on March 28, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he world was facing an “infodemic” of misinformation. The World Health Organization explains the term as “an excessive amount of information about a problem, which makes it difficult to identify a solution.”

The statement has, by far, generated the support of some 132 countries all endorsing the statement which was co-authored by Australia, Chile, France, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Latvia, Lebanon, Mauritius, Mexico, Norway, Senegal, and South Africa.

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

the national association of newspapers

Printed by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Building, Quirino Avenue, 8000, Davao City, Philippines Tel: (082) 224-1413 301-6235 Telefax: (082) 221-3601 www.edgedavao.net editorial@edgedavao.net marketing@edgedavao.net edgedavao@gmail.com

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

MAYA M. PADILLO Senior Reporter

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

CHRISTIAN JAY H. RAFAL Layout/Cartoons

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

OLIVIA D. VELASCO D. MARATAS RICHARD C. EBONA OLIVIA D. VELASCO JASPERSOLANI V. BACSAL General Manager Finance Advertising Specialist VP Operations General Manager JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

The statement read in part: “It is critical states counter misinformation as a toxic driver of secondary impacts of the pandemic that can heighten the risk of conflict, violence, human rights violations and mass atrocities.

It is important, the statement said, that “free, reliable, trustworthy, factual, multilingual, targeted, accurate, clear and science-based information” be made available to all, and that all stakeholders have a responsibility to guide people though which information is correct... “We call for action by all Member States and all stakeholders to fight the “infodemic” to build, to quote the Secretary General, a “healthier, more equitable, just and resilient world.”

Conspicuously missing in the list of 132 endorsers of the statement is the Philippines which probably is deeply hit by this infodemic.

Nevertheless, the government is constantly reminding citizens to stop spreading fake news especially relating to the coronavirus pandemic to avoid confusion.

This warning, however, will not suffice if the information vehicles from the government will not be steadfast in disseminating the correct information. It is likewise important that the information come on time.

Oftentimes, information from government agencies like the Department of Health (DOH) are overtaken by the so-called “radyo baktas.”

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

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

EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020 VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

VANTAGE POINTS

COMPETITIVE EDGE

7

7

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

BAGOBO FAMILY MONUMENT Before the new Davao international airport was moved to Buhangin district on December 1, 2003, Sasa Airport was then the region’s primary airline hub. Eight months earlier, though, it became the site of one of the most gruesome attacks to hit the city. On March 4, 2003, the airport was violently assaulted, which led to the death of 22 persons and the injury of 143.

Lost from public consciousness following the transfer of the airport to its new location was the iconic Bagobo Family Monument, a sculpture that greeted flyers entering Airport Drive. The project was created to enhance the aesthetic appearance of Davao and to attract more tourists to the city.

The initiative was an offshoot of the challenge posed by tourism secretary Jose Antonio U. Gonzales in June 1987 while gracing as guest of honor and speaker the joint meeting of the ten Rotary clubs in the region.

Central to his speech was the national government’s plan to

develop and improve tourist facilities and attractions, especially the need to upgrade the aesthetics in the city.

During his discourse, Gonzales challenged the clubs to come out with projects along his concept and assured the organizations he would make available a million pesos to the chosen proposal. The timetable for the submission was within one year.

Upon hearing the offer, the board of Davao Beautiful, Inc. (DBI), a tourism-oriented group, promptly inquired about the Gonzales project. A meeting was set with the Rotary, then headed by Dr. Nicanor del Rosario, which led to giving DBI the task to pursue the challenge.

Without losing time, DBI immediately drew up a plan, which fit the perspective of Gonzales’ idea. To ensure it reached the tourism secretary, Miguel Iñigo, a DBI board member, hand-carried the papers to Gonzales in his Manila office in November 1988. But before the undertaking was funded, the

secretary required the DBI to transform into a foundation so it could qualify as beneficiary of state funds.

After complying with the prerequisites, DBI proceeded to put on track the beautification project. Funding for the proposed monument amounted to P130,000, which was released on January 23, 1989.

Seven months later, the Bagobo Family Monument was turned over by tourism secretary Peter Garrucho to the city government on August 16, 1989, during the Araw ng Kadayawan. Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, in a ceremony held at Sasa Airport, accepted the donation.

On December 14, 1989, Catalina Santos-Dakudao, then regional director of the tourism department in southern Mindanao, received a call from her main office turning down the request to reprogram the still unreleased money that was part of the Gonzales promise.

The frozen fund was later transferred to the Philippine Tourism Authority (now Tourism Infra-

structure and Enterprise Zone Authority or TIEZA) which disbursed the money according to the budgetary requirements of the proposed projects.

The Gonzales challenge, whichstarted with the Bagobo monument, later spawned other Bagobo-centric creations.

One of the most popular was the sculpture of a Bagobo holding a durian fruit. It was created by Augusto Suazo, a Davao painter, and executed by Ruperto Solon. The statue shows a man standing and wearing an indigenous attire while holding durian with both hands. A similar work but without a pedestal, stands at the junction of Bajada flyover.

Another variation is the statue of a Bagobo in lotus position with durian between his palms. Also, a Bagobo-inspired landmark is the huge steel statue of a Bagobo in Epol, Marilog district, Another tourist monument is the contentious Carabao Monument in Toril District.

The brainchild of city councilor

An immersive opportunity:

Renato Bangoy, then chair of the local legislature’s committee on parks and playground beautification, the project cost P182,000 and was built on a lot donated by his family.

According to Bangoy, the project was a reminder for the people of Toril that once upon a time the monument’s location was pastureland and the nearby Lipadas area was where water buffalos washed and drank.

The monument, which drew controversy, was inaugurated on August 1, 1991 with Fr. Pedro Lamata, parish priest of Toril, officiating the Mass. Soledad Duterte, mother of the city mayor, graced the event. The memorial was later turned over to the barangay hosting it.

Another iconic tourist landmark is the Golden Kris son its hilt, a Moro weapon proudly standing at the junction of Lanang and Agdao. The attraction was built on April 9, 1991, under the auspices of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines and the Sons and Daughters Association, Inc. of Davao City.

MCM launches Digital Learning Bootcamp 2020 HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

M

MCM’s YOUR online BLOOD ed by MCM. PRESSURE matics, Business, alayan Colleges MindWHEN GOESmay UPproceed to anao, a Mapúa School learning tools In order for Humanities and this link: https:// Blackparticipants Social Sciences, bit.ly/MCMDIGIannounced Dig- such Blood pressure is the force its cietyfirst of Hypertension, report- as nausea, vomiting, confusion, main to culprit.” he points out. that your blood exerts against ed: “Because they haveboard shown anxiety, chest pain, and muscle Generally, hypertension is Julian Gonsalves, a former Learn, maximize the and Basic EdTALBOOTCAMP ital Learning Bootcamp the walls of your blood vessels. based on 2020, studies that although tremors. treated with medicines. “The colleague when I worked at the Blackboard online ucationdepends for inand Institute followof Rural the This pressure depends on the and the previous BP levels were “TheColonly way to detect hy-learning choice of medication International inviting all SHS College resistance of the blood vessels achieved, there are laborate, already pertension is to have a health on the individual and any unReconstruction, revealed the Mic- experience, they coming Grade 11 subsequent inand how the heart to work. signs to of high BP on the heart, professional measure blood derlying medical conditions secret of his parents’ living unstudents inhasMindanao expe365, Miwill Nations need atheydeBasic and Hypertension is another kidneys, brains, and rosoft arteries. pressure,” the United may students; experience,” wrote til 90 structions years old. “Two cloves of rience the fully name for high bloodfirst pressure.

Theyintegrattherefore determined health agency says.

“Having Adam Felman for Medical News fresh garlic chopped fine, once crosoft Teams, vice such as a Algebra, Gener- link to the “MCM One in four Filipino adults has the threshold at which these blood pressure measured is Today. Medications for hyper- a day, works wonders on blood ed online learning system damage in Zoom, Panopto, computer unit,include: al Physics, BusiDigital” account hypertension, according to a target-organ starts quick and painless.

Individu- tension diuretics, bepressure and cholesterol,” he national survey.

By the time to occur.

And based on their als can also measure their own ta-blockers and alpha-blockers, disclosed.

“I follow the same the region — MCM Digital — Wiley Plus, and laptop or a tab- ness and Man- that will be sent they reach the age of 60, almost analysis, it starts from a BP of blood pressure using automat- calcium-channel blockers, cen- practice religiously.”

Learnlet;anand agement, through the andwillget opportunity toHg.” use Cengageed devices, half havethe elevated blood 130/90 mm however, evalu-internet tral agonists, peripheral adren-and Fitness enthusiast Johnpressure.

A person whose BP readation by a health professional ergic inhibitor, vasodilators, anna Villaviray Giolagon has this ing to complete connectivity of at P ro g ra m m i n g email address MCM’s powerful learnBlood pressure (BP) isonline ings are 120 to 129 systolic and is important for assessment of giotensin-converting enzyme suggestion: “Apart from followtasks least 1 Mbps for and andCoding provided upon written as two numbers.

The less than 80 diastolic learning has ele- risk and associated conditions.”

(ACE) inhibitors, angioten- for ing what your doctor said, you ing tools for FREE! first (systolic) number rep- vated pressure. He has Stage 1 Actually, there are two sin receptor blockers. can also pause your day, find designed for in- asynchronous incoming college your

registra-

resents the pressure in blood hypertension if the readings are types of hypertension. In priBut there are other ways of a quiet/private corner where Thiswhen the Digital themselves inor coming Grade 11 sessions at your students.

A full tion. vessels heart con130 to 139 systolic 80 to 90 mary or essential hypertension, and lowering blood pressure. you can just sit and not be distracts or beats.

The second (didiastolic.

A reading of 140/90 the cause of high blood presIn fact, those who experienced turbed.

Learning Boot- the first fully in- and 1st Year Col- least 2 Mbps for course on Math, “While For any addiastolic) number represents the mm Hg or higher is considered sure is unknown and this hap- it have been trying some other seated or reclined, camp bewhen tegrated online and lege students. s yofnpatients. c h r o nmethods. o u s Humanities, tional inquiries pressure in will the vessels Stage 2 hypertension, anypens to 95 percent Allow me to shareand just pay attention to how you’re the heart rests between beats. thing higher than 180/120 mm “In these patients, we can still some of those techniques but breathing.

Trace your breath held on June 1 to learning system Thesetreat and tasks sessions.

Social Science about the MCM A few years back, the Amer- is hypertensive crisis. control the hyper- just a warning: the tricks may from the nostrils down to the 13, 2020Association, and is the in Mindanao. will be delivFamiliarizaalso made Learning ican Heart Health experts consider tension by addressing some of do wonder will for them but be not for chest Digital down to the belly and American College of Cardiology, hypertension as a “silent killer.” the risk factors involved,” says you.

So, you better stick with the reverse path.

Breath nordescribed as an The partic- ered in either with the onavailable for 2020, and nine other health organiza- “Most people with hypertenDr. Willie T. Ong, tion a well-known what your doctor says. mally Bootcamp or if you slow down your tions released new guidelines sion are unaware prob- book author cardiologist.

Rain Rivera Ramas, from breathing then better. immersive ex- ipants will beof the synchronous orand line system and demonstration please feel free for lowering the numbers of lem because it may have no It is called secondary hy- General Santos City, advised to “Breathing like this for as perience given access tosymptoms,” asynchronous willto initiate duringprescribed the bootatwilladthe diagnosis ofinside hypertension warning signs or pertension whentools it is due take the medicines short to as a email few minutes do to 130/80 millimeters of merstates the World Healthlearning Organi- a specific disease, likeprogram, kidney by your immedi- wonders for your blood presMCM’s Online MCM’s online sesthe af- doctor. camp“Ifperiod. missions@mcm. cury (mm Hg) and higher for all zation (WHO). “For this reason, disease, illegal drug use, hyper- ate, soaking feet and hands in sure.”

Learning learning portal, sions allow for or ter which, parTo has proven register Meanwhile, edu.ph those or conadults. The previousSysguidelines it is essential that blood pres-toactive thyroid a tumor.

This very warm water with set the threshold at 140/90 mm sure is measured regularly.” happens in 5 percent of pato work, personally as it draws secondary hypertension tem, aiming to “MCM Digital” participants to ticipants will be for this activity tact +63918 918 Hg for people younger than age In some instances, symp- tients, according to Dr. Ong. the blood from the core to the must manage what causes demonstrate where theneedallowed se- and get a chance +63999 65 and 150/80 for and those ages toms they do occur.can Theyget can a in- feel for “Doctors to differen- toextremities,” he says. their 1626, blood pressure to go up.

65 and older. clude early morning headtiate between primary from For long-term, he suggests Among the medical conditions give participants explore and get different modal- lect short learn- to win amazing 227 7493, or On why the change, Dr. Ra- aches, nosebleeds, irregular secondary hypertension,” Dr. a diet that would reduce vis- that cause it are kidney proban opportunihands-on expeities ofOngremote ing modules 831 fael Castillo, member of Unitheart rhythms, vision changes, explains, “because some ceralon fats. prizes, “In fact, myinterestblood lems, +63917 sleep apnea, thyroid or ed Kingdom-based Executive and buzzing in the ears.

Severe secondary causes can be compressure has been very stable adrenal gland problems, and ty to immerse rience utilizing learning provid- General Mathe- ed participants 8048.

Council of the International So- hypertension can cause fatigue, pletely cured if we address the since I started losing weight,” some medicines.

8 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

StaySafe.PH contact-tracing app developer allays security concerns A

Online seller to gov't: We're willing to comply, but give us more time

M

ultisys Technology Corp, developer of the state-backed StaySafe.PH contact tracing app, said Friday the platform was created to save lives, as it sought to allay cybersecurity concerns raised by some officials.

The app is "complying with data privacy" laws, has security layers in place and is free from spyware, said Multisys CEO and founder David Almirol Jr.

Resigned Department of Information and Communications Technology Usec. Eliseo Rio earlier said that the app was chosen by the coronavirus task force "without any

NOTICE OF LOSS/THEFT/DESTRUCTION/ MUTILATION/DEFACEMENT

Notice is hereby given of the loss/theft/destruction/ mutilation/defacement of the following AGRARIAN REFORM/ LANDBANK BONDS on (date) __________.

Registered Owner ANTONIO L. LABAD ANTONIO L. LABAD

Serial No. AR-0018205 AR-0018206

Face Value 344,734.60 32,862.78

Any person/entity other than the registered owner who has claim/ interest on the above Bond/s is requested to notify immediately the BOND SERVICING DEPARTMENT, Land Bank of the Philippines, 26th Floor, Land Bank Plaza, M.H. Del Pilar cor Dr. Quintos St., Malate, Manila. Any such claim presented on this/these bond/s after the period of two (2) years counting from the date of the fourth publication of this Notice shall no longer be entertained. NOTARY PUBLIC ATTY. FATIMA IRENE T. ADIN. March 06,2020 *First, Second, Third or Fourth, as the case may be.

Doc. No.253; PageNo.152; Book No.184; Series of 2020.

technical vetting."

"There is no such thing, because the intention of the app is to save lives. We don’t even realize that anyone would like mention about spyware, basically its a very simple contact tracing but it has a complex back-end," Alimirol said.

The app only collects mobile numbers used for sign ups, he said. Once migration is complete, the system and the data will

be handed over to the government , he said.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque on Thursday said the role of the developer was limited to the collection of information which will be stored with the Department of Health.

Global brands such as Apple and Google have also developed their own contact tracing platform to identify potential COVID-19 cases.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late GLORIA G. ALDAY who died on August 7, 2005 at Davao City, Philippines has been the subject of EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE executed by Maria Loretta Cabrera-Balbuena, as the sole and only heir of the deceased per Doc. No.196; PageNo.41; Book No.XXII Series of 2020, of the NOTARY PUBLIC ATTY.MOHAMMAD JAMALUDIN A. GUINOMLA.

n online seller on Friday called on the government, particularly the Bureau of Internal Revenue, to give those into online business enough time to get back on their feet after the pandemic before requiring them to register and pay appropriate income taxes.

“Pakiusap ko po sa gobyerno, ‘wag naman po muna ngayon. Napaka wrong timing naman na patawan kami ng tax pinipilit pa lang naming tumayo,” Edgar, not his real name, said in an interview.

“We will definitely comply pero not now, napaka wrong timing lang po.

Magko-comply kami sa tamang panahon siguro one or two years... ‘wag lang ura-urada,” he said.

Earlier, the BIR released Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 60-2020 notifying “all persons doing business and earning income in any manner or form – specifically those who are into digital transactions through the use of any electronic platforms and media, and other digital means – to make sure their businesses are registered pursuant to the provisions of Section 236 of the Tax Code, as amended, and that they are tax compliant.

BIR's order covers partner sellers or merchants, as well as other stakeholders such as payment gateways, delivery channels,

internet service providers, and other facilitators.

Likewise, the BIR wants these businesses to declare their past transactions for taxation purposes.

While those earning less than P250,000 a year are exempted from paying income tax, Edgar said the 3% percentage tax for gross income receipts, annual fees, among others are still a burden for online sellers.

“Merong registration fee, merong annual fee, merong kung ano anong registration kaya malaki rin ang mawawala,” he said.

The BIR earlier said that online sellers need not worry as the agency will be reasonable on their declarations and no hefty fees will be charged such as P500 registration fee and P30 documentary tax stamp.

“Ang masakit, wala na nga kaming nakuhang ayuda from government, nagsara ang negosyo ko tapos ita-tax pa kami ng ganito. Gumagagawa kami ng diskarte para mabuhay,” Edgar said. “[W]ala na nga kaming nakuha ay pipigain pa kami nang pipigain ng gobyerno,” he added.

In a separate statement, the Department of Finance said the aim of the BIR circular is to encourage online sellers to register and “not to go after online merchants for unreported sales or unpaid taxes.”

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

TEAMWORK... FROM 4

for the country’s liberty should be remembered.

Go also said the values they had exhibited should be emulated.

“Ang Pilipinas ay isang malayang bansa dahil ipinaglaban ng ating mga bayani ang ating kasarinlan. Pahalagahan din natin ang kanilang sakripisyo pati na rin ang kalayaang inihandog nila para sa atin (The Philippines is a free nation because our heroes fought for our freedom.

Let us value their sacri-

fices and the freedom we have because of them),” he said.

With a free nation, Filipinos would enjoy a better life, Go said.

“Kapag nagawa natin ito bilang isang nagkakaisang bansa, tiyak na sama-sama tayong susulong patungo sa isang mas malusog at mas maunlad na kinabukasan (If we become a united nation, we will enjoy a healthier and more prosperous future),” he said. (PNA)

sit and diagonally because we discourage face-to-face seating. If they can't provide any kind of divider for face-to-face seating then customers would have sit diagonal from each other.)

She said the detailed guidelines cover precautions that should be followed by customers and staff from ordering to food service.

The guidelines apply to all kinds of food establishments, even carinderias.

The partial dine-in operations, Castelo said, would also serve as practice for restaurants and customers to get used to health protocols under the new normal as restrictions are gradually eased.

“Kung mayroon man kailangang i-correct, ayusin na nila bago dumami 'yung tao,” she said.

(If there are things to correct, better do it now before more people start going back to restaurants.)

Castelo warned that restaurants found violating health protocols could face temporary closure.

“We encourage all of them to comply para hindi na ma-disrupt negosyo nila. Kasi pag nakita nating may violation, isasara natin 'yun so ayusin na po nila ngayon,” she said.

(We encourage them to comply so as not to further disrupt their business. Because if we see a violation, we will close them.)

lys kempi), Flatback (Chelonia depressa), and Black Sea (Chelonia agassizi).

Unfortunately, all eight species are listed under the Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, which means the trade of these species and subspecies is strictly “prohibited except for educational, scientific or research and study purposes.”

The Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources has also classified the eight species as endangered. This is so because “their populations are in danger of extinction and whose survival is unlikely if the causal factors continue to operate.”

The Philippines is a signatory of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and implements the Pawikan Conservation Project nationwide through the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Since 2001, hunting, sale and killing of

marine turtles have been banned in the country.

But despite sincere efforts by the government and some environmentalist groups to save marine turtles from extinction, the decimation of the endangered species continues unabated.

“All of the species found in our country are endangered except for the hawksbill which is critically endangered,” said Dr. Arnel “AA” Yaptinchay, founder and director of the Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines. “The only sure thing is that marine turtle populations are under tremendous threats and if these are not stopped, extinction is imminent.”

Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources believes so, too. “Unless we, Filipinos, seriously take on the task of protecting the much-endangered marine turtles, these ancient creatures will soon be gone (from our waters),” Haribon, which is regarded as a pioneer of the environmental movement in the Philippines, said in a statement.

gry and be willing to pay the price by outworking everyone around you. Aspiring players must understand this -- that there is no such thing as natural talent.

As such, they should value hardwork in order to improve because skills can be learned and acquired over time through constant and deliberate practice with the guidance of a good coach or mentor. As the saying goes, “hard work always beats talent.”

I never had the privilege of watching Vito play or even see video clips of him. However, I have heard from many of those who were his contemporaries and I am convinced he truly is a class act. He surely has left a great imprint in local hoopdom.

To watch the feature on Vito Orcullo, here's the link: Davao's All-Time Basketball Greats Part 2: Vito Orcullo (Crispa, MICAA)

DTI... FROM 5

PAWIKAN... FROM 10

VITO... FROM 12

DAVAO... FROM 4

9

Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) and the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources 11 (DENR 11) indicates that the project area is not within the National Integrated Protected Area System (NIPAS).

The Samal-Davao Connector, with DPWH as implementing agency, will be funded through ODA and is targeted to be completed in 2023.

DoTr Assistant Secretary for Special Concerns Eymard Eje in a phone interview said the Embassy of China in the Philippines promised to send the short list of bidders for the Mindanao Railway Project (MRP) this month.

The P82.9-billion project will be financed through an official development assistance (ODA) from China, but still awaiting for the short list bidders that would serve as the project’s contractor for the first phase of MRP TagumDavao-Digos (MRP TDD) segment.

The bidders from China will bid for two packages, project monitoring consultancy and the design and build contractor. Once the Chinese government submits the list, DoTr will proceed with the bidding procedures.

Meanwhile, the Davao City Coastal Road Project including Bucana Bridge project with DPWH as implementing agency has a status of “implementation ongoing”. The project is targeted to be completed in 2022.

On the other hand, the Davao City Bypass Construction Project with

DPWH as implementing agency has a funding source through ODA is being eyed to commence constructions in six to eight months. The project is targeted to be completed in 2022.

The Phase 1 of Mindanao Railway Project (MRP) is also being eyed to commence constructions in six to eight months. The MRP Phase 1 with DoTr as implementing agency, which will be funded through ODA, is targeted to be completed in 2022.

Other major projects in Mindanao under Build, Build, Build Program being eyed to commence constructions in six to eight months are Ambal Simuay River and Rio Grande de Mindanao River Flood Control Projects with the DPWH as implementing agency has a funding through ODA and is targeted to be completed in 2024; Emergency Assistance for Reconstruction and Recovery of Marawi, which is funded through Asian Development Bank (ADB) grant and DPWH as implementing agency, has a funding source through ODA and is targeted to be completed in 2023; Kabulnan-2 Multipurpose Irrigation and Power Project with National Irrigation Administration (NIA) as implementing agency has a funding source through ODA and is targeted to be completed in 2026; Road Network Development Project in Conflict Affected Areas in Mindanao with DPWH as implementing agency has a funding source through ODA and is targeted to be completed in

2024; Panguil Bay Bridge with DPWH as implementing agency has a funding source through ODA and is targeted to be completed in 2022; Tawi-Tawi Interlink Bridges with DPWH as implementing agency has a funding source through ODA and is targeted to be completed 2023; Guicam Bridge with DPWH as implementing agency has a funding source through ODA and is targeted to be completed in 2023; and New Zamboanga International Airport with DoTr as implementing agency is being funded through ODA and is targeted to be completed in 2025.

Other projects in Mindanao with status on advance stages of FS are M’Lang Airport in Central Mindanao with DoTr as implementing agency will be funded under General Appropriation Act (GAA) and is targeted to be completed in 2023; Agus-Pulangi Rehabilitation Project with National Power Corporation (NPC) as implementing agency will be funded through ODA and is targeted to be completed in 2028; Marawi Rehabilitation, which will be funded through China grant with Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) and DPWH as implementing agencies will be funded through ODA and is targeted to be completed in 2022; Laguindingan Airport with DoTr as implementing agency will be funded unsolicited Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and is targeted to be completed in 2020; and Davao International Airport (DIA) with DoTr as implement-

ing agency will be funded unsolicited PPP and is targeted to be completed in 2028; and the Agus 3 Hydroelectric Power Project (225 MW) with the Department of Energy (DOE) as implementing agency will be funded through PPP and is targeted to be completed in 2020.

Meanwhile, projects with “implementation ongoing” status are Sindangan-Bayog-Lakewood Road in Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte with DPWH as implementing agency is being funded under GAA and is targeted to be completed in 2022; Cagayan de Oro Coastal Road with DPWH as implementing agency is being funded under GAA and is targeted to be completed in 2020; Surallah-T’Boli-San Jose Road, South Cotabato with DPWH as implementing agency is being funded under GAA and is targeted to be completed in 2021; Malitubog-Maridagao Irrigation Project with NIA as implementing agency is being funded under GAA and is targeted to be completed in 2021; Reconstruction and Development Plan of Greater Marawi (JICA grant) with DPWH as implementing agency is being funded through ODA and is targeted to be completed in 2021.

Edge Davao tried to get comments and clarifications from DPWH central office and NEDA 11, however, they declined to talk except DPWH 11 spokesperson Dean Ortiz, who promised to give the detailed updates of the Davao projects as soon as he’s back to work next week.

and that all stakeholders have a responsibility to guide people though which information is correct.

"We call for action by all Member States and all stakeholders to fight the “infodemic” to build, to

quote the Secretary General, a “healthier, more equitable, just and resilient world," it said.

The administration has constantly given reminders for Filipinos to stop the spread of fake news

about the virus, adding it should rely on information from government offices and agencies and not from those taken solely from social media and word-ofmouth.

The Bayanihan Law

which grants President Rodrigo Duterte additional powers to address the COVID-19 crisis also contains a provision which punishes those who create or spread false information about the viral disease.

ery of the tourism industry in Davao Region and topping the list is capitalizing on getting back travelers’ confidence that they feel safe and secure in their travel and leisure activities.

To achieve this, Tan said they will equip the stakeholders with appropriate tools and knowl-

edge for the tourism workers and stakeholders. DOT gives relevant trainings and nothing is more relevant now than providing digital marketing skills and virtual and selling promotions to include recorded and live stream virtual tours.

Intraregional travel, or movement of travel-

ers within the region, is also seen to spearhead the tourism recovery for Davao Region.

DOT 11 has also partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Technical Education and

Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for the program “Taralets”, which supports local products and produce and linking them with tourism establishments, is also expected to take off within the year to assist both tourism stakeholders, as well as local farmers and manufacturers.

team haven’t played in the playoffs and don’t understand the attention to detail you have to play with in the playoffs,” Zeller said.

“That was what I enjoyed hearing from MJ, especially as a younger team.”

Jordan’s tenacity and desire to win at all costs were exhibited during the “Last Dance.”

That meant at times emotions boiled over at Bulls’ practices resulting in altercations between teammates, including one notable exchange of blows between Jordan and Steve

Kerr.

Hornets guard Terry Rozier joked that after watching the “Last Dance” he probably would have got into a few fistfights with Jordan, too.

“I would have taken the Steve Kerr route,” Rozier said with a laugh. “I’m super-competitive.”

But Rozier is not sure Jordan’s aggressive approach would work with some of this generation’s players.

“I feel like you have to pick your poison,” Rozier said. “One thing with be-

ing teammates with guys in this league is you have to learn who they are first.

Some people don’t like to be confronted in front of others; some people you have to pull aside. So I feel like it is a mixture of learning your teammates and knowing when to call them out.... so that people don’t have a bad taste in their mouth about one another.”

Zeller said Jordan admitted as much in the meeting.

He said the 57-yearold Jordan talked about his post-Bulls tenure with the

Washington Wizards when his feedback and criticism wasn’t as well received.

“He said he wishes that he would have done that a little bit differently” in Washington, Zeller said.

“The next generation of players that had come in didn’t really want to hear the same feedback and the harshness that he used his during his days in Chicago.

He wishes that he would have taken Jerry Stackhouse under his wing and taught him how to be a better leader as opposed to trying to do it all himself.”

PH... FROM 4

DOT... FROM 5

JORDAN... FROM 11

10 ENVIRONMENT EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

Saving pawikan from extinction

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

T

he international community celebrates June as the World Environment Month. The environment does not only refer to the surroundings but everything that encompasses it. Thus, the Encyclopedia Britannica defines it as “the complex of physical, chemical and biotic factors that act upon on organism or an ecological community and ultimately determine its form and survival.”

Environment also includes biological diversity, or biodiversity for short.

The Philippines, with more than 7,000 islands (especially if it is high tide), is considered by respected scientists as one of the countries with the highest degree of biodiversity in the world.

Our country, if you care to know, is home to about 170,000 faunal species, most of which are insects and are mostly unidentified. That’s according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Twelve thousand plant species and 960 animal species are found in Philippine forests.

Of the identified animal species, over 500 are birds and 167 are mammals.

Out of the 500 known coral species worldwide, about 488 coral species in 78 genera are found in the Philippines. There are only about 50 species of seagrasses in the world. A total of 16 species can be found in the country, and this is the second highest diversity that exist in one country; only Western Australia has more with 17 species. At least 2,000 fish species are found in the Philippines.

For the uninformed, Brazil has a total land area of 3,286,488 square kilometers while the Philippines has a total land area of 115,800 square kilometers. The neighbor Indonesia, another biodiversity-rich country, has a total land area of 741,101 square kilometers.

“As the world celebrates World Environment Month,” said AboitizPower, the holding company for the Aboitiz Group’s investments in power generation, distribution, and retail electricity services, in a statement, “it is important to reflect on the many ways humans impact the planet and its flora and fauna. This also serves as a reminder to spread positive energy to all aspects of life on Earth.”

June is a busy month for Fermin Edillon and his team at AboitizPower distribution unit Davao Light.

The group, which is overseeing the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park at the coastal area of Punta Dumalag, has been trying to save the endangered pawikan (marine or sea turtles) from extinction.

The park, which is completely wireless and is built entirely using recycled materials, serves as a sanc-

tuary not only for marine turtles but also for dozens of rare bird species. Here, they are safe from disturbance.

Even at night, lights and lamps are not used, except for flashlights of roving guards and staff, in order not to disturb or confuse the pawikans’ nesting in the area and others which considered the park as their home.

Every time there are visitors at the park, Fermin and his team do their part in educating students and guests by hosting tours around the park and allowing visitors to release baby hatchlings into the sea and watch them crawl through the sand and swim into the ocean.

“Visitors are taught that

it is critical to a pawikan’s early stage of life to grovel through the sand and into the ocean on their own,” the statement said. “The pawikans imprint themselves onto their birthing place, wherein after a few decades, they will return and make their own nests as parents for a new generation of hatchlings.”

Visitors, particularly the younger generations, must know this fact. “It is important to let the youth understand the situation of the pawikans and all other endangered species, so that while they are still young, they are already aware of what they should do and how they could take action to save our wildlife,” Fermin pointed out.

In partnership with the

regional office of DENR and the local government of Davao City, the team at the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park established a Pawikan Rescue Center inside the park as a testament to their commitment to conserve and protect the pawikans and their marine habitat.

Last May, an injured female hawksbill turtle was discovered and immediately turned over to the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park to ensure proper care and rehabilitation. The pawikan was a victim of spear-fishing practices, and had to undergo critical medical procedures in order to survive.

“We at Davao Light and AboitizPower are fully committed to our cause of saving the pawikans. We must all carry this responsibility so that our future generations will be able to see them. It can be through small acts such as keeping our coastal areas clean, not littering, and having safe practices when fishing.

These are very simple but have a large impact on pre-

serving our environment,” Fermin was quoted as saying.

Since 2014, a total of 4,811 hatchlings across 42 nests have been discovered and released into the sea since Fermin’s team started collecting data. Fourteen marine turtles have been rescued, and five are currently being nurtured at the Cleanergy Park.

Marine turtles belong to the order Chelonia, an order of reptiles that has existed and flourished since prehistory with very little change in their basic structure.

Of the eight species of marine turtles known to man, five of them can be found in the Philippines.

These are the Green Sea (known in the science world as Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricate), Loggerhead (Caretta caretta), Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), and Leatherback (Dermocheyls coriacea).

The three others are the Kemp’s Ridley (Lepidoche-

FPAWIKAN, P9

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

11

Cage clinics ‘Godfather’ passes away

N

ic Jorge, whose pioneering basketball clinic started the careers of many Filipino players, died on Saturday morning, the PBA confirmed in a tribute to Jorge on its website.

BEST Center Sports Inc., more commonly known as BEST clinic, which Jorge founded in 1978, described him as “a game changer.”

“He was a big man indeed . . . a game changer and maverick whose impact on Philippine sports will never be forgotten. May you rest in peace Coach Nic,” a statement read on Facebook.

Jorge was 78.

Before it became

The NBA is taking the league to Disney World to resume the season.

a full-blown industry, Jorge’s BEST clinics were the go-to training center for youth basketball players.

The likes of Kiefer Ravena, Chris Tiu, Larry Fonacier, and two of the PBA’s 40 greatest players, Jerry Codinera and league MVP Benjie Paras, were BEST alumni.

Jorge coached two clubs in the PBA, Galleon and Manhattan, and he also called the shots for the men’s national team when the Philippines hosted the 1978 FIBA World Cup, and the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons.

Jorge is survived by his wife, Marilyn, and four children.

Why some NBA players are reluctant to return to the court?

W ith some NBA players reportedly concerned about the length of their stay in the league’s Orlando-area “bubble,” the league plans to have the vast majority of teams done for the season relatively quickly.

The NBA shutdown in March due to the deadly virus outbreak but is expected to return in late July once final details are worked out between the league and the National Basketball Players Association.

Speaking on a podcast

by New Orleans Pelicans guard J.J. Redick, union executive Brogdon cited

several reasons why some players are having second thoughts, including coronavirus safety issues and concerns over isolation for weeks in the Florida “bubble” environment.

“I’ve talked to a few guys that are super interested in sitting out possibly,” Brogdon said. “I was actually talking to (Oklahoma City guard) Chris Paul the other

day, and he said, ‘Man, this is an individual decision that every man has to make for himself.’

“And I think that’s exactly what it is. It depends on your perspective.”

Brogdon said that some players are concerned about going into quarantine for weeks as major changes in the black community are underway across the United States in the wake of George Floyd’s death while in police custody and the worldwide protests and social movements that followed.

Playing basketball when racism and police brutality concerns are high might not be a comfort-

Jordan talks to Hornets about being uncomfortable, winning

C

HARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Michael Jordan helped build the Chicago Bulls into a winner as a player.

He’s desperate to do the same thing in Charlotte as the owner of the Hornets.

Charlotte players say Jordan spoke to them recently via video conference call about what it takes to be a champion, emphasizing the need for accountability — even if it means making teammates comfortable.

Those are some of the same qualities that were on display during the 10part documentary the “Last Dance,” which focused on Jordan’s sixth and final NBA championship run with the Bulls.

In the hour-long conference call that came

after the conclusion of the “Last Dance,” Charlotte point guard Devonte Graham said Jordan told players they can’t be uncomfortable “calling out teammates” in practice when things aren’t going as planned or mistakes become repetitive.

“That’s going to make you guys even better,” Graham said reiterating Jordan’s remarks. “You’ll bond better. Your team is stronger. There is more of a respect level, instead of not saying anything and letting guys mess up over and over and over again, and you’re losing and losing.”

Jordan hasn’t come close to matching his success as a player since taking over majority control of the Hornets 10 years ago.

Charlotte has never made it out of the first

round of the playoffs and has only won three postseason games in the Jordan era.

In an effort to stop that cycle of mediocrity, Jordan hired Mitch Kuchak as the team’s new general manager in 2018 and the Hornets have since embarked on a rebuilding process which included parting ways with three-time All-Star Kemba Walker last offseason in an effort to focus on developing young players.

Jordan took questions from players and spoke directly about the difference between what it takes to win in the regular season and the playoffs.

Hornets center Cody Zeller said that was an important message for a young team to hear.

“A lot of guys on our

FJORDAN, P9

able mix for some players, Brogdon said.

“Some guys are going to say, ‘For health reasons, and COVID, and the longterm effects that we don’t understand about COVID, I want to sit out,’” Brogdon said.

“Other guys are going to say, ‘The black community and my people are going through too much for me to basically be distracted with basketball. I’m not going to prioritize this over the black community.

I’m going to sit out.’

“Then there’s another group of guys... who are going to say, ‘This is the most amount of money I’m going to make in my life-

time. It doesn’t make sense to hand this money back. I can do so much good in my community if I have this money.’

“It’s a matter of perspective. I think guys are gathering to really talk about and dive deep into the idea of not playing.”

Brogdon also says players should note the focus they will draw as the playoffs continue.

“The attention on you and your platform actually grows the farther you stay in Orlando,” he said.

“That’s a perspective I want guys to think about and understand before they make a decision.”

Another issue for some

Charlotte Hornets owner Michael Jordan speaks to the media about hosting the NBA All-Star basketball game during a news conference in Charlotte, N.C. Jordan spoke to his Hornets players recently

could be the lack of visits by family and friends at the Disney World complex until after the first playoff round -- nearly seven weeks after the anticipated start of mid-July training camps -- and the lockdown status of the bubble.

Reports say hotel workers could enter and exit the bubble area, which could add to safety concerns about possible contraction of the deadly virus.

Brogdon averaged 16.3 points, 4.7 rebounds and 7.1 assists for the Pacers when the shutdown came with Indiana at 39-26 and fifth in the Eastern Conference.

via video conference call about what it takes to be a champion, emphasizing the need for accountability, even if it means making teammates comfortable (AP Photo/Chuck Burton, File)

12 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

VITO'S LEGACY W

ho is Vito Orcullo?

For those who haven't heard of the name or read a sports news story with that name repeatedly mentioned, Vito is one of Davao's top basketball players of all time.

I recently featured Vito in my Youtube Channel "Let's Get it On With Neil Bravo" in a special series where I recall the best cagers Davao has ever produced.

Born on February 5, 1955 in Dumanjug, cebu, Vito's family moved to davao in 1968 where they settled permanently and raised the basketball legend.

Vito began his basketball career as a member of the high school varsity in his junior and senior years at the Saint Peter’s College in Toril before making it to the varsity team of the Ateneo de Davao University in college where he graduated with a degree in BSBA Major in Management. Among the high points of his collegiate playing days was when he anchored the Blue Knights to the championship in the Davao City Athletic Association (DCAA) meet in 1975. After his stint with the Blue Knights, he invaded the commercial ranks where he played for such teams as Kalinan timber, Eastcoast Development Enterprise (EDE), the fabled Cua Ceen squad (owned by the late basketball patron Boy Cua's family) and Stanfilco.

Standing 5-9 and playing point guard, Vito was picked by the vaunted Crispa team to play in the MICAA for the amateur team of the Redmanizers. He played alongside Rudy Distrito and often shared scoring honors with the 'Destroyer.'

Naturally-gifted at playing quarterback, Vito blossomed into one of the country's premier point guards and was a member of the 1980 and 1981 Crispa team that represented the country in the Medan and Indonesia invitational tournaments. They won the championship in both tournaments. Vito also donned Crispa's Paul Jordan outfit that won the national seniors tournament.

He considers 1981 as his best season in the MICAA where he steered the team to the finals but lost the championship to Apcor which was led by another great quarterback in Mon Cruz.

Vito recalls during his Ateneo days where he battled teammates Rene Matute and Jun Sintos in scrimmages. He considered both the best point guards he played with.

Vito is credited for bringing in three Davao bigs to the NCAA when, as assistant coach to Adriano "Bong" Go, he recruited Buboy Berami, Randy Bangoy and Sunday Salvacion. Salvacion later was voted MVP of the NCAA and had a memorable stint in the PBA with Ginebra, SMB, and Meralco, among others.

Vito's playing style was influenced greatly

by Walt Frazier of the New York Knicks.

As a recognition to his outstanding performance in the 1981 MICAA, he was cited by the late sportswriter Pyke Jocson in Sports Weekly Magazine as part of the Mythical 5 for the 1981 MICAA season and was considered as among the MVP candidates.

Unfortunately, an injury forced him to retire from basketball.

Vito left basketball and pursued another career using his education. The rest, as they say, is history. Vito is now branch manager of one of the biggest insurance and investment firms in the land--Sun Life Canada Philippines.

Here's Vito's advice to aspiring basketeers from Davao: "To become successful in basketball or even in life, you have to be focused, stay hun-

FVITO, P9

VOL.13 ISSUE 55 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JUNE 14-15, 2020

Vito Orcullo