Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 75 | Wednesday, July 8, 2020

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VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

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Muslim vendors repack calamansi at a roadside makeshift stall at Bankerohan Public Market in Davao City on Tuesday.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has reported that the country’s inflation rate slightly picked up to 2.5% in June after four consecutive months of deceleration. Edge Davao

Behavior of residents among factors in placing Brgy. 23-C in hard lockdown: Sara STORY ON PAGE 2

WORLDWIDE COVID-19 NUMBERS BOARD

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

PHILIPPINES

WORLDWIDE

CONFIRMED: 11,747,386 • DEATHS: 540,836 • RECOVERED: 6,741,764

CONFIRMED: 46,333 • DEATHS: 1,303 • RECOVERED: 12,185

As of July 7, 2020, here’s the Top 5 list of countries with most number of COVID-19 cases 1. U.S.A CONFIRMED: 3,040,833 DEATHS: 132,979 RECOVERED: 1,324,947

2. BRAZIL CONFIRMED: 1,626,071 DEATHS: 65,556 RECOVERED: 1,072,229

3. INDIA CONFIRMED: 720,707 DEATHS: 20,178 RECOVERED: 440,192

4. RUSSIA CONFIRMED: 687,862 DEATHS: 10,296 RECOVERED: 454,329

5. PERU CONFIRMED: 305,703 DEATHS: 10,772 RECOVERED: 197,619

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

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs) under the Hatid Tulong Initiative program of the national government are subjected to health screening and RT-PCR test upon arrival at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) from Metro Manila arrived in Davao City early morning of Tuesday. CIO

STUBBORN Behavior of residents among factors in placing Brgy. 23-C in hard lockdown: Sara

By MAYA M. PADILLO ayor Sara Duterte-Carpio said on Monday the behavior of residents are among the factors in placing Barangay 23-C in hard lockdown for 14 days beginning July 4.

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“Giistorya namo ang barangay captain, nag-ingon na gyud siya nga naglisod siya sa mga tao nga patuohon or pasundon ang mga tao. Daghan sa ilaha mosunod pag naay magbantay, pag wala, di na sila mosunod. Pareho aning mask, kung walay mobuyag sa ilaha, dili pud sila mag mask. When in fact paggawas nato sa atong gate, mag-mask na kitang taan daan,” Mayor Sara said in a live interview with Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) 87.5 on Monday.

The mayor explained that there is a need to implement tough restrictions in the said barangay due to high incidence of local transmission of Covid-19 as seen by the doctors. ““Daghan na ang ginatan-aw (batasan sa mga

tao, kakayahan sa barangay, and assessment sa doctors) before mag decide nga mag Barangay ECQ (hard lockdown).

Nganong kinahanglan man sila i-lockdown? Nakita sa mga doctor nga paspas kaayo ang transmission, daghan sila nga confirmed COVID-19 cases. Ug dili nato gusto madala nila sa gawas sa ilang barangay ang sakit. Of course, dunay (COVID-19) testing. Ang mga mag- positive kuhaon sila and then ibutang sila sa quarantine facilities para matanggal ang positive, ug para maputol dayon ang transmission,” Mayor Sara said.

“Ang gusto sa doctor humanon ang isa ka cycle sa life sa virus, so 14 days and according to them ang last person na matakdan on the 14th day, magkasakit na siya or mag-man-

ifest siya ug symptoms within the next 14 days.

Kumbaga, padaganon ang virus until ma- exhaust iyang life span sa sulod,” she added.

Mayor Sara said another challenge is how to make safety campaign easy for the residents in the said barangay to understand and follow. “Ang atong kampanya madali siya masabtan sa general public and we try to make it nga dali siya masabtan sa general public. Ginaingon nato nga upat kabuok ang dapat atong buhaton: stay at home, wear mask, distansya, hugas kamot gamit ang sabon ug tubig. But usahay man gud dunay’ mga tao mura wala gani “blind faith” nga musunod dayon. Naay ubang tao nga kinahanglan nato pasabton kung ngano mag-mask man ta?.”

She added there is a need to develop and adjust the campaign in the level of the residents’ understanding. “Since sagol-sagol ang nagpuyo sa Brgy. 23-C, we also have

language barrier. Kitang tanan bisayas, naay uban mas makasabot sila sa tagalog, ug naay uban dili kasabot ug bisaya ug dili pod kasabot ug tagalog.”

Some residents also don’t read the safety materials and protocols.

“Duna mi gina develop nga mga materials para sa ilaha didto sa sulod na we feel nga kinahanglan i-explain ngano kinahanglan ka musunod because ingani duna’y virus, muagi siya dinhi sa laway mga mulupad sa hangin, because dili man gud ta tanan pareho ug pagsabot,” she said.

The Office of the Vice Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte has volunteered to develop campaign materials that are all images or pictures only.

“We will explain sa mga tao kung unsa ilang angay buhaton pinaagi sa pictures. We hope that while we are doing this campaign, pagkahuman sa 14 days dunay pagbag-o nga makita nato sa attitude or behavior sa mga tao,” Mayor Sara said.

DOH to highlight new, active cases in reporting COVID-19 numbers

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he Department of Health (DOH) will highlight the additional as well as the remaining active cases in reporting updates on COVID-19 numbers starting on July 10, Friday.

DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire on Tuesday said they will no longer report the ‘fresh’ and ‘late’ cases.

"By July 10, that would be this week, we would be introducing our new way of reporting cases where there would be no fresh and late cases anymore,” she said in an interview.

“We will just be providing the general public the additional cases and we will be highlighting on the active cases instead of the cumulative number of total cases,” she added.

Vergeire explained that active cases refer to persons who tested positive for COVID-19 staying in hospitals, quarantine facil-

ities, or under self-quarantine at home.

The active cases exclude recoveries and fatalities, she added.

“We will be putting the epidemiologic curve just to show people when the disease really started, the onset of illness of these individuals who were tested positive,” she said.

She noted that the total number of COVID-19 cases will still be reported so that the public will have an idea of the total number of infections since the start of the spread of the disease.

According to Vergeire, active cases will be highlighted since this number shows the remaining cases that need to be managed.

On Monday, the Philippines recorded 1,258 “fresh” cases bringing the total to 46,333 cases, with 12,185 recoveries and 1,303 fatalities, according to the Department of Health.

Gov't lifts suspension of non-essential travel

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he Philippine government has lifted its restrictions on non-essential travel by Filipinos amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Malacañang announced on Tuesday.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the government’s COVID-19 task force made the decision on Monday.

“Huwag muna po tayo tumalon sa tuwa. Bawal pa rin ang turismo pero ang

mangyayari po ay ‘pag bibiyahe mayroon po tayong mga requirements na dapat ipakita sa ating Bureau of Immigration," he said in a televised briefing.

The task force also set conditions on the non-essential outbound travel of Filipinos.

These include the submission of confirmed roundtrip tickets for those traveling on tourist visas

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VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

Pulong, DOLE-11 distribute cash aid, food packs to 1.4K workers

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Davao City Tourism Office head Generose Tecson reminds foreigners, especially foreign students, temporary residing in Davao City to follow the guidelines against COVID-19 issued by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) like wearing face mask and practice social distancing. Edge Davao

n partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment in Davao Region (DOLE-11), the office of 1st District Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte distributed cash assistance and food packs to some 1,400 marginalized workers on Monday.

In a statement, the lawmaker’s office said workers were composed of barbers, masseurs, and parlor beauticians.

“They received cash from the government’s assistance program to mitigate the impact of the national health emergency due to coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19),” the statement said.

The beneficiaries received PHP3,960 cash assistance as compensation under DOLE’s program the “Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers” (TUPAD).

Aside from the cash assistance, Duterte’s staff

also distributed food packs to beneficiaries.

“The distribution of food packs focused on the “poorest of the poor” from all 54 barangays in the first district. Duterte’s office is set to distribute more assistance to other marginalized workers,” the lawmaker’s office said.

James Michael Vergara, a representative from the lawmaker’s office, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) Monday that the Presidential son will continue to help the marginalized sectors--especially amid the Covid-19 crisis.

“As we go through this crisis, we hope that it will ease out sooner and the public cooperation is critical in achieving this,” Vergara said.

Earlier, Duterte’s office also distributed food packs to displaced workers, including public utility jeepney and tricycle drivers. (PNA)

he Philippines is facing a second wave of HIV epidemic as COVID-19 blocks access to life-saving testing and treatment services, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS said Tuesday.

“In the Philippines, we are seeing a second wave of epidemic, particularly targeting young men who have sex with men and transgender,” UNAIDS Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific Eamonn Murphy told CNN Philippines’ New Day. HIV -- or human immunodeficiency virus -- destroys the cells in the body that fight diseases or infection. If left untreated, it could progress to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome or AIDS, which could lead to death.

Murphy noted that the young people are more sexually active and more dynamic in the way they live; thereby ‘creating a new generation’ that is at risk of getting HIV. He said that the upward trend among the youth aged 15 to 24 years old has been observed across Asia and the Pacific.

Globally, lockdowns aimed at avoiding COVID-19 transmission have prevented access to services, increased stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV, he pointed out.

To address this problem, Murphy said countries need to find ‘innovative’ solutions such as delivering PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, a drug that can reduce a person’s risk of contracting HIV, and testing

sees ‘2nd wave’ DSWD 11 goes digital for UNAIDS of HIV epidemic in PH second tranche of SAP T

By MAYA M. PADILLO he regional office of the Department of Social and Welfare Development (DSWD) will go digital for the payout of the second tranche of the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) cash aid in Davao Region.

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Grace Subong, DSWD regional director, said in a virtual presser that the agency has recently inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with licensed Electronic Money Issuer (EMI) Starpay for the distribution of the second tranche to the targeted 298,043 beneficiaries in the region.

The partnership gives beneficiaries the opportu-

nity to receive their government subsidies through accredited Financial Service Providers (FSP). Recipients identified by the DSWD will be able to use and withdraw their cash in accredited banks and institutions in a faster, easier, and safer process.

“For Davao Region gipaning-kamutan nga ang tanan beneficiaries maapil na sa digital payment. Ang

Two 30-minute power interruptions on July 10 in Bunawan

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avao Light and Power Co., Inc. will conduct two 30-minute power interruptions on July 10, Friday, affecting customers in Bunawan.

These service disruptions will be necessary to facilitate relocation of Davao Light 69kV line poles affected by the bridge and road widening project in the area.

To avoid longer duration of power interruptions, load from the affected lines will be transferred to nearby lines anytime between 12:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m..

Normalization or return of load back to its normal set-up will be anytime between 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m..

Specifically affected are customers from Daniel M. Perez Central Elementary School up

to Shell Gasoline Station near Purok 7 Bunawan and neighboring areas.

Also affected are customers along road going to Mahayag and Bosque up to San Isidro Piatos and nearby areas.

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

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

atoang facility service provider dinhi sa region is Starpay, which has partner remittance centers that include Western Union, MLhuiller, and RCBC,” Subong said.

According to Subong, DSWD 11 is targeting to distribute the second tranche this month. The distribution of the second tranche will be done in Davao City only as the only area in Davao Region identified based on the resolution of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging and Infectious Diseases (IATFMEID) and the issuance of Executive Order (E.O) No. 112 that identified areas

under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in May this year.

“The rest of the provinces and municipalities are those additional or waitlisted only, who were identified by the LGUs as eligible and tungod wala na’y allocation na left out sila,” Subong said.

In an emailed statement, Starpay states that the DSWD’s initiative to tap the company comes on the heels of the growing need to implement safety precautions, as well as to ensure funds go directly to beneficiaries in a safe and secure manner. Starpay, a Filipino-owned financial

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A teacher puts a plastic barrier in front of a table while conducting enrollment at an elementary school in Bangkal, Davao City on Tuesday. Edge Davao

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

Inflation picks up to 2.5% in June

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nflation slightly picked up to 2.5% in June after four consecutive months of deceleration, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported Tuesday.

A plastic partition is placed at the reception counter of Beefit Gym as part of the safety protocols for fitness gyms in Davao City which were allowed to

resume operations after the city was placed under the MGCQ status.

Diokno reiterates no penalty rules on unpaid dues during ECQ period

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orrowers need not worry about additional interest for payments due within the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) period that were not paid, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno said.

In a virtual Palace briefing Monday, Diokno said the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act specified that deadlines for payments of loans for car, mortgage, and credit cards, among others, were suspended when parts of the country were placed under ECQ. He said the deadlines should have been extended to either June or July.

“There should be no interest on interest or penalties,” he said, clarifying that the interest that should be slapped on the customers are only those imposed before the ECQ. Diokno said the central bank has extended relief measures to the banks to help the sector so bank clients, either individuals or firms, need to only discuss with the officers of their banks on what to do with their loans.

He also asked the public to report to the BSP any complaints they have regarding banks.

Meanwhile, Diokno said they have not received any report of rural bank closures caused by the pandemic.

In his presentation, Diokno said some rural banks closed shop in the past because of competition, as more major banks opened additional branches.

The crisis caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), he added, “is unlike any we have encountered before given the

source, the immediate and far-reaching consequences on the global economy, and the corresponding responses of governments.”

In the case of the Philippines, he said the government entered the pandemic at a strong position because of sustained domestic expansion and low inflation, among others.

“Unlike other countries, we are in a strong position to face this crisis as we also have greater monetary and fiscal space,” Diokno said.

He said domestic growth, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP), has been growing by at least 6 percent since 2012, with this year’s growth target earlier set between a range of 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent.

The growth target has been changed by the inter-agency Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) to a contraction of between 2 percent to 3.4 percent as a result of the pandemic.

This, after GDP contracted by 0.2 percent in the first three months of the year, the first negative growth after the last quarter of 1998, ending the expansion in the last 84 quarters.

Diokno said second-quarter growth will be a deeper contraction but said that macroeconomic fundamentals remain strong and economic policies to address the impact of the pandemic are targeted.

“Going forward, the BSP will remain data-driven in crafting monetary policy as it considers the range of tools and policy measures available that may be required to combat the crisis.

The BSP is prepared to use

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The latest reading compares with the 2.1% in May 2020 and the 2.7% in June 2019.

According to the National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa, the latest uptick is caused by higher transport costs in June, following the easing of restrictions under the general community quarantine (GCQ).

Public transport was suspended since March and was only reallowed on June 1 albeit on a limited basis and under a two-phased approach.

Mapa said tricycle fares in June increased by 26% across the country to an estimated P17 per passenger from P12 previously.

In Metro Manila alone, tricylce fares rose by 43.7% month-on-month, and 129.3% on a year-on-year basis.

"Because of the social distancing guidelines, they may accommodate only a single passenger. That is why they are adjusting the price," he said in a virtual briefing.

"We've seen that under

the transport index, this is primarily the mode of transportation of low-income households and it contributes a significant increase in the overall transport index," added Mapa.

Aside from tricycle fares, higher prices were also seen in both bicycles and tricycles, which grew by 7.5% in June versus the 5.3% in May. Food Among the 11 major commodity groups, the top contributor to the June inflation was food and non-alcoholic beverages with an annual rate of 2.7%, contributing 45.5% to the overall inflation.

"Right now, the food index which is the index which is the index with the biggest share in the overall inflation, is still downward," said Mapa.

"We're still seeing for example, downward trend in several of the food items but of course there are items that are starting to increase," he added.

Health In the same briefing,

1.5 billion shares capped at ₱24 each, allowing it to raise ₱35.9 billion. A separate six billion units will be listed as outstanding shares owned by existing investors.

This is the biggest fund raising exercise so far for 2020, and will even outstrip the ₱20.83 billion raised by companies from the capital market from January to June as activity slowed down due to the pandemic.

Share prices will be finalized on October 9, according to the proposed IPO sched-

ule, and will be offered to investors between October 13 and 19. The shares will be listed on the main board of the Philippine Stock Exchange by October 26 under the symbol CICT. Based in Pampanga, Converge is owned and run by its chief executive officer Dennis Anthony Uy and his wife Maria Grace Uy as president and chief resources officer. He is not the same person as Dito Telecommunity founder Dennis Uy. "We intend to use our

Mapa said health inflation remained stable at 2.8%, the same recorded in May, amid the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.

"We covered a number of items in the health index and we are tracking this on a monthly basis and we've seen that the health movement is relatively stable," he said.

Mapa noted, however, that the data did not include changes in prices of personal protective equipment (PPE), a key item used by healthcare workers, which has seen an increase in demand.

"Remember the inflation rate is 2012 base year, so consumption is actually based on 2012 consumption, so those are the items in the next adjustment. This will be considered when we rebase," he said.

Education inflation also dropped to 1.6% in June from 4.7% in May, which Mapa attributed to the delay in the start of the school year still due to the coronavirus.

"This is slow compared to May and I think this is also due to the delay in the opening, so purchases in school items might have been delayed," he said.

Education

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Internet provider Converge ICT to go public by October

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nternet service provider Converge ICT Solutions formalized its plan to go public by October, only the second company to pursue an initial public offering amid the pandemic.

The Securities and Exchange Commission said Friday that it received the prospectus for Converge's IPO plan, which is scheduled in October. The firm, officially known as Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions, Inc., will be offering some

net proceeds from the offer primarily for capital expenditure requirements to accelerate our nationwide fiber network rollout and other general corporate purposes," read Converge's prospectus shared by the SEC. The company reported ₱9.14 billion revenues in 2019, according to the regulatory filing.

The firm tapped global banks Morgan Stanley and UBS AG as joint global coordinators and bookrunners,

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After months of being out of stock, the much sought-after 70% Isopropyl alcohol is back on the shelves at a supermarket in one of the malls in Digos City in this photo taken 6 July 2020. MindaNews photo by ERIC SB LIBRE

5 FEATURE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

From home to the frontlines

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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rom home care, more women are on the frontlines in the fight against Covid-19.

In this pandemic, two Dabawenyas have braved the dreaded virus and joined the gallant fight from the frontlines.

Reservists Sergeant Abegail B. Dionela and Sergeant Jenny Pearl E. Quiocho, both members of the 7th Air Force Wing Reserve of the Philippine Air Force Reserve (PAFR), joined the Joint Reservist Task Force Metro Davao and put their lives at risk as they take guard on the frontline.

While most of the women stay at home for work, house keeping, and child care in the middle of the pandemic, these two women were patrolling for the border control at the checkpoint in Tagum City from April 13 to May 5.

They also helped in the

relief repacking and distribution for the Covid-19 affected Tagumeños. Both also helped the Department of Social and Welfare Development 11 (DSWD 11) in the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) validation in Tagum City.

Despite the risk of getting infected, the two still make sure that they thoroughly enjoy their jobs in the frontline—and committed to continue to serve the country.

“Maybe I’m lucky enough not to be sick in times like this. As a frontliner, I have given the opportunity to serve others in a very difficult situation not as an ordinary citizen but as a reservist of the Philippine Air Force,” said Dionela.

On her part, Quiocho

said being part of the Philippine Air Force Reserve gave her an opportunity to take an active part as a frontliner in ensuring safety and the health protocols are being followed in her assigned area of responsibility.

“It was an empowering experience. I realized that as women reservists we can lead, take action and make impactful contribution to our society,” she said.

It is no doubt that in this time of pandemic, more and more women are now included in the recovery decision-making and are leading the health response, yet, exposing them to a greater risk of infection.

Dionela and Quiocho have what it takes to be courageous, independent, and fearless amid Covid-19.

“I felt that women are empowered during the pandemic. We took part in different roles to ensure the safety of our fellow country-

men during quarantine implementation. I have given a choice of my own freewill of putting myself at risk and at the same time being of service to others,” Dionela said.

Pre-COVID-19 pandemic, the two also participated in the relief distribution and medical mission, a

post-earthquake activity at New Israel, Makilala, North Cotabato last November 9, 2019; relief distribution and medical mission at Piape, Padada, Davao del Sur last December 28, 2019; and surgical mission (Alis Bukol) activity at Camp Panacan Hospital, East-

ern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) last February 29, 2020.

The two ladies personify to the saying that “what men can do, women can do better.” Women are now able to fly combat aircraft, serve in artillery units, serve as com-

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6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

Creating road harmony and safety cannot be achieved overnight. It’s a long and arduous process which involves everyone--cyclists, motorists, pedestrians and law enforcers. The imperfections and obstacles notwithstanding, it is more important that Davao City has decided to take the journey towards road safety and clean environment by reducing carbon footprint.

EDGE DAVAO Editorial

EDITORIAL

Baby steps

Davao City’s bike lanes, like all things new, have to start from scratch.

The imposition of the bike lanes in Davao’s main roads, for starters, is a leap of faith for the city government and the biking community of Davao. It’s a big, bold move. Even to the point of being risky. That’s because, there is no formal bike lane education and awareness involving the entire community. As expected, the initial would be chaotic.

But that is understandable.

There are mixed reactions from both the cycling community and motorists from the get-go of the bike lanes. That’s a positive sign though as it means everyone is concerned and are eager to learn.

Obviously, the more glaring defects that emerged from the imposition of the bike lanes are the obstructions--both movable and immovable--along the path. It is even more compounded by the passive driving culture of motorists and reckless

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

pedestrian behavior. There is also the awakening to the defects in road construction which the Department of Public Works andHighways (DPWH) can address in the future.

In short, the imperfections surfaced because of the bike lane’s imposition. Without such, these ‘defects’ would not have been unearthed.

Creating road harmony and safety cannot be achieved overnight. It’s a long and arduous process which involves everyone--cyclists, motorists, pedestrians and law enforcers.

The imperfections and obstacles notwithstanding, it is more important that Davao City has decided to take the journey towards road safety and clean environment by reducing carbon footprint.

Bicycles are a big help in achieving cleaner air. And if the city takes it a step forward by taking out the police cars from the sidewalks and replace them with bike-riding patrol cops, these baby steps would be a breeze.

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)

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VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

VANTAGE POINTS

COMPETITIVE EDGE

7

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DENNIS R. GORECHO PINOY MARINO RIGHTS

MAYOR (SHIP’S COOK) AND THE SEAFARER’S HEALTHY DIET “Taking responsibility for the health of all human souls on their ships also defines the shipowners’ sense of humanity and justice. No ship sails without a human crew.”

Thus declared the Supreme Court in the case of Oscar Paringit vs. Global Gateway Crewing Services, Inc. ( G.R. No. 217123, March 28, 2019) where it pointed out that a crew properly nourished, adequately fit, and enjoying humane working conditions will redound to the benefit of the shipowners.

The proverbial saying ‘you are what you eat’ is the notion that the food one eats has a bearing on one’s state of mind and health.

Without safe, adequate, varied and nutritious meals prepared and served in hygienic conditions, seafarers would not be able to perform their duties effectively on board ship.

Seafarers are on board vessels in the high seas for a substantial length of time and food supplies are usually frozen, preserved, smoked, salted and canned meats as these items are not easily perishable.

On the other hand, fresh

fruits and vegetables cannot last long in the high seas.

A seafarer had no choice of what to eat on board except those provided on the vessels and these consisted mainly of high-fat, high-cholesterol, and low-fiber foods. (Leonis Navigation v. Villamater , G.R. No. 179169 March 3, 2010 ) The shipowners are mandated under the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 (MLC2006) to make sure that food and drinking water supplies shall be suitable in respect of quantity, nutritional value, quality and variety, having regard to the duration and nature of the voyage, the number of seafarers on board as well as their religious requirements and cultural practices as they pertain to food.

MLC2006 recognizes the need of ensuring that sufficient food and drinking water of appropriate quality are served on board by qualified and trained catering personnel.

The ship’s cook, who is more popularly called “Mayor” by his fellow crewmates, is the person whose primary responsibility on board a ship is to prepare food for the crew of the ship.

His role extends beyond the preparation of food to include maintenance of the kitchen and ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of food and drink preparation areas and the handling and storage of food and stores.

The ships’ cook must be trained, qualified and found competent for the position through the completion of the duly approved training course, which covers practical cookery, food and personal hygiene, food storage, stock control, and environmental protection and catering health and safety.

It is an anecdote among seafarers that the cook is befriended by many so that they can ask extras for the day’s meal.

But the life of a cook, just like any other seafarer, is not always a walk in the park.

In Tamin vs. Magsaysay Maritime Corp. (G.R. No. 220608, August 31, 2016), while on kitchen duty and chopping pork knuckles for lunch, the chopping knife accidentally slid down and cut the cook’s left forefinger at about 1.5 inches, causing it to detach from the joint bone.

The Supreme Court ruled

that the loss of his index finger does not preclude an award for total and permanent disability because, in labor laws, disability need not render the seafarer absolutely helpless or feeble to be compensable.

It is enough that it incapacitates him to perform his customary work.

Since his entire left hand was permanently affected, he would not be able to resume his previous occupation and the probability that he would be hired by other maritime employers would be close to impossible.

In Teodoro vs. Teekay Shipping Phil.

(G.R. No. 244721 February 5, 2020), the Supreme Court considered the loss of vision of the cook’s left eye as attributable to the sudden extreme changes in temperature from the upper deck to the freezer during the hauling and storage process for the food provisions.

The panel of voluntary arbitrators pointed out that the company’s personnel were exposed to extreme temperatures without the proper protective clothing, thus, creating a more dangerous work environment that resulted

An immersive opportunity:

to the seafarer’s permanent blindness in the left eye and his incapacity to resume the same line of work.

The Supreme Court noted that the Grade 7 disability rating assessment by the company-designated physician negates any claim that the non-listed illness is not work-related.

In Torillos vs. Eastgate Maritime Corp. (G.R. No. 215904, January 10, 2019), the Supreme Court affirmed that the illness, lumbar spondylosis, was work connected though it may be degenerative.

The Court ruled that it was aggravated by his work as chief cook whose duties involved heavy manual labor such as carrying the heavy provisions of the ship, preparation and serving of all meals for the entire crew of the vessel, cleaning of dining, kitchen and work areas and of utensils.

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

MCM launches Digital Learning Bootcamp 2020

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GOD BLESS THE ty to immerse rience utilizing learning provid- General Mathe- ed participants 8048. the person’s primary rea- complements and enhances us and for whom we owe our having too much of one thing PHILIPPINES!

8 EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020 VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

EDGEDAVAO

LIVING

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The programme aims to standardise the hygiene and sanitation measures hotel players need to implement as precautionary measures during COVID-19 in order to manage ongoing health risks.

The “HygienePass” also builds the Filipino travellers’ confidence in RedDoorz hotels by enabling them to easily identify ‘safe’ hotels, and reassure them that they are staying in establishments which implement and maintain a set of robust hygiene and cleanliness measures independently supported by a medical professional.

Starting with the Luzon region,

RedDoorz Philippines will ensure all its 250 properties will undergo a comprehensive audit which is required to obtain the certification programme. This process will be in close coordination with one of the prominent public health physicians today who will also be RedDoorz’s trainer and consultant for the programme, Dr. Renzo Guinto, M.D., DrPH. “I’m very keen on supporting RedDoorz on this initiative for there’s now a great need to recognise public health and safety measures and I’m pleased to learn how committed RedDoorz is in implementing the programme for hotels given the ‘new normal’ requirements of the consumers.

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efforts, monitor quarantine and public health safety guidelines, and help these hotels prepare for the reopening of the economy. I’m thrilled to join forces with RedDoorz and combine our expertise to ensure the betterment of health and safety of our traveling Filipinos,” says Dr. Guinto.

RedDoorz has developed a proprietary digital technology solution to help counter the virus spread and to enable key elements of the audit and certification process. It is to be implemented digitally in light of the recent people mobility restrictions enforced by governments across the Philippines.

RedDoorz hotels will have to ap-

ply and maintain several rigorous sanitation and hygiene measures on a daily basis covering temperature checks of hotel staff employees & incoming guests, adoption of specific cleaning methodology, and anti-bacterial products and equipment used to disinfect rooms and public areas, and heightened general hygiene practices. A comprehensive audit process will be carried out and independently assessed by the expert before the certification is awarded and must be measured day-to-day for the certification to remain valid.

Amit Saberwal, Founder & CEO RedDoorz, commented: “As one of the leading hotel brands in the

Philippines, it is very important for us to plan ahead and ensure that we are implementing the appropriate cleanliness, hygiene, and sanitary measures across all our properties that travellers are confident we are committed to their health and safety. We are confident that with the seal of ‘HygienePass’, we will be able to quickly establish the new industry standards of sanitation and hygiene, and these in turn will help bolster consumer confidence once recovery starts to happen.”

RedDoorz has also launched the “HygienePass” certification programme in Indonesia, Singapore, and Vietnam by partnering with the relevant local medical health authorities. The certification will eventually be open for adoption by any hotel business that wants to meet the new industry standards for cleanliness and sanitation, ensuring to be the solution for a wide range of independent hotels who currently lack digitisation and sanitary validation processes.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

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TANGLAD: HOPE FOR FILIPINO UPLANDERS L

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

emon grass comes in various names: barbed wire grass, silky heads, citronella grass, camel’s hay, cochin grass, and fever grass. In French, it is known as herbe de citron while Indians call it bhustrina or sera. In Thailand, it is known as takra while Filipinos simply call it as tanglad. Scientists have given the name Cymbopogon citratus for it.

Most Filipino farmers neglect this crop as it can be grown anywhere and is a common backyard plant.

What they don’t know is that the crop can be turned into a profitable venture.

That was what Emmanuel Piñol found out when

he visited the mountains of Murcia in Negro Occidental recently. The head of Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) wanted to replicate the technology in the country’s second largest island to help “improve the lives of our people.”

His MinDA team and a farmer leader from Bukidnon were brought by Auke Idzenga, a recipient of the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2011, to a mountain village to check on more than a decade ram pump system, which provides water to farmer households in Sitio Ananggue, Buenavista.

“I discovered that the ram pump system does not just provide water to a

village of about 45 households but livelihood and hope, as well,” Piñol wrote of his experience that was posted in his personal Facebook account.

According to Piñol, the water from the ram pumps is used in the cultivation and processing of lemon grass, which is planted in the mountain village.

“Instead of bringing down the harvested lemon grass, Auke and his Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation, Inc., established an oil processing facility right in the village powered by burning bamboo or wood,” the MinDA chief reported.

The Australian government has extended a

P1-million development assistance and the farmers are now building a concrete structure to serve as their processing facility, laboratory and office.

The lemon grass oil which the farmers produced is sold at P2,500 per liter. Another product, called hydrosol – the healthy water produced during the distilling process – is sold for P3,000 per plastic jar.

According to Piñol, the lemon grass oil is used as the main ingredient for massage oil and also for cooking and food flavoring.

The hydrosol, on the other hand, could be mixed with natural water or coffee.

Last year, the Davao Investors Association reported that there’s a huge demand for lemon grass oil for cosmetic purposes in South Korea and Europe.

Aside from being a profitable crop, planting lemon grass in upland areas also has another benefit. Lemon grass helps prevent soil erosion since only the leaves are harvested.

“Since the mother plants are allowed to ratoon or regrow, the roots hold the soil preventing soil erosion,” Piñol said.

This is good news. Estimates from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

showed about 10,000 cubic meters of arable soil per hectare are eroded annually, such an amount is equivalent to one -meter layer of soil thickness removed per hectare per year.

“Without soil, there would be no food apart from what the rivers and seas can provide,” said Edouard Saouma, former head of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.

“The soil is the world’s most precious natural resource. Yet, it is not valued as it should be. Gold, oil, minerals and precious stones command prices which have led us to threat soil as mere dirt.”

Harold Ray Watson, an agricultural missionary who used to direct the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center and a recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award for international understanding in 1985, considered soil erosion “an enemy to any nation.” “(Soil erosion is) far worse than any external enemy coming into a country and conquering it because erosion is an enemy you cannot see vividly,” Watson said. “It’s a low creeping enemy that soon possesses the land.”

Going back to lemon grass. According to Auke, the lack of knowledge on

the benefits of lemon grass oil and hydrosol prevents farmers from expanding because of its limited market.

“It’s a niche market so we could not expand because it would saturate the market and depress prices,” Auke said.

If only given the much-needed exposure in terms of its benefits and its contribution to environmental protection, Piñol believes “lemon grass oil and hydrosol would gain popularity and create a bigger market.”

What most Filipinos don’t know that lemon grass is good for those with Type 2 diabetes.

“About 95% of Filipino diabetics have Type 2 diabetes, mainly caused by lack of exercise and poor diet,” wrote Irene M. Villaseñor and Juane Marco B. Gonzales, authors of a paper published by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

The website of Organic Facts, organicfacts.net, gives this bit of information: “Lemon grass has been proven beneficial in treating Type 2 diabetes.

Studies have shown that the citral present in it helps maintain optimum levels of insulin and improves the tolerance of glucose in

FTANGLAD, P10

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GOV’T... FROM2

and adequate travel health insurance to cover rebooking and accommodation expenses.

The country of destination should also have no entry ban for Filipinos and the traveler must execute a declaration acknowledging

the risks in traveling and follow the COVID-19 guidelines for returning Filipinos such as the mandatory RTPCR testing and quarantine.

Roque said the new policy will be effective 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette.

technology (FinTech) company built more than five years ago, is now helping DSWD in its responsibility of dispersing billions of pesos worth of social amelioration funds for an estimated 18 million poor Filipino families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Ang mahitabo is, katong beneficiaries nga naay second tranche ang DSWD 11 will issue a list based on the social amelioration card (SAC) to Starpay. One of the major requirements is the mobile number as Starpay will send a message to the beneficiaries informing them of the schedule and name of the remittance center to get the cash subsidy. Wala nato ang proseso before nga DSWD mismo ang muhatag sa cash,” Subong said.

For areas with no access of technology and no remittance centers, Subong said Starpay will do mobile payout.

“Meaning sila mismo muadto sa certain area and they will do the direct payout. Of course, they will ask for some documents,” Subong said.

The Starpay app is available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store where beneficiaries only need to sign in to their

newly-created accounts.

The creation of these accounts helps to onboard a significant number of the population who are still unserved and underserved by traditional financial institutions. The app provides users access to convenient services such as e-load and bills payment, with more services on the way. Starpay also has partner conduits where users can conveniently withdraw their funds if needed.

All transactions, withdrawals and funds usage of the beneficiary are recorded in the app and is therefore more convenient for the end-user and more transparent to the government as it goes direct to the user and eliminates mishandling, also guide the government in understanding the needs of every Filipino family whose lives were affected by the recent pandemic.

“DWSD has piloted the digital payment of the second tranche of SAP in the National Capital Region (NCR). Nakita didto sa pilot ang ka-paspas based on the presentation of the central office in a day they can pay more than 100,000 beneficaries. This process will help and address delay of distribution of SAP,” Subong said.

The Department of Education (DepEd) earlier said there will be no face-toface classes until a vaccine against the coronavirus disease will be available.

The same data released by the PSA showed that upticks were also seen in alcoholic beverages and tobacco

(18.5%); housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels (0.4%), and communication (0.4%).

Meanwhile, slower annual upticks were recorded in recreation and culture (1.2%) and restaurant and miscellaneous goods and services (2.3%).

as well as BPI Capital and BDO Capital for local dealings.

Converge is only the second to pursue an IPO this year, as financial markets and the local economy grapple with the disastrous impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It could be among the rare winners during the crisis, gaining an additional 50,000 residential customers in May alone – the biggest increase seen on record.

"Demand for fixed broadband in the Philippines has accelerated with the onset of COVID-19, as WFH (work from home) arrangements and social distancing became the 'new

normal,'" the company said.

Billionaire businessman Injap Sia's grocery chain MerryMart went public last month, with its stock price soaring from its ₱1 guidance price. Meanwhile, Altus Property Ventures, Inc. entered the local bourse via introduction in June.

Converge said it is the biggest high-speed fixed broadband operator in the country, taking a 54 percent share in subscriptions for high-speed residential connections. Through optic fiber rather than copper cables, Converge said its broadband deals offer speeds which are 2.2 times faster than that offered by competitors.

the full range of its monetary instruments and to deploy monetary policy and regulatory relief measures as need-

ed to save lives, jobs and livelihoods consistent with its price and financial stability goals,’ he added. (PNA)

Last month Halep said she does not currently plan to play the U.S. Open.

Halep, however, said

she could reconsider if the pandemic situation improved by the entry deadline in mid-July.

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the body.”

Another website, healthyeating.sfgate.com, reported: “A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2007 looked at the impact of administering lemon grass to rats. After 42 days of taking 125 to 500 milligrams of lemon grass per kilogram of body weight once a day, the rates had improved fasting glucose levels.”

The study said that based on the results, the researchers claim that “lemon grass may help to treat or prevent diabetes” but added that “more research is needed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness for humans.”

One of the best ways to serve lemon grass is in the form of a tea. The following are needed: clumps of lemon grass, one cup of water, and coconut sugar to taste. The outer layer of lemon is peeled and discarded. The peeled clean leaves are boiled for 5 to 7 minutes. Coconut sugar may be added if required.

Once done, the boiling water is poured into a cup and stirred before drinking it hot.

Lemon grass is commonly used in teas, soups, and curries. The oil is used as a pesticide and preservative. The aromatic herb is used in Caribbean

and many types of Asian cooking and has become very popular in the United States.

But one good thing about lemon grass is that it has been under study for its medicinal purposes. Lemon grass has 65-85 percent citral that contains active ingredients like myrcene, citronella, citronellol, and geraniol. Citral is a mobile pale-yellow liquid used in perfume and as flavoring; it can also be found in lemon peel.

In some countries like Malaysia and those in Central America, lemon grass is cultivated for its oil (which is used in pharmaceutical preparations and skincare products). The Book of Herbs, authored

by Dorothy Hall, said lemon grass contains vitamin A and is good for “those who wish to have bright eyes and a clear skin.”

Lemon grass has “many uses in folk or traditional medicine in many different cultures, and is a common home remedy for many ailments,” wrote the Asian Hospital and Medical Center (AHMC), which described lemon grass as “more than a kitchen condiment.”

For one, lemon grass has a detoxifying effect.

“Lemon grass has been known to have a detoxifying effect on the body’s

digestive system, specifically the pancreas, liver, kidney, and bladder,” the AHMC said. “The herb is said to help lower levels of uric acid, cholesterol, and other toxins in the body. In addition to this, it can help stimulate digestion. As a result, lemon grass can help prevent gastroenteritis and indigestion. The herb has also been known to promote blood circulation. People who suffer from high blood pressure may find that drinking lemon grass tea can reduce blood pressure.”

Regarding the antimicrobial properties of lemon grass, a study published in Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice in 2012 found that an oil extract from lemon grass inhibited growth of streptococcus bacteria in the laboratory.

Lemon grass is also a good mouthwash. Two tablespoonfuls of chopped leaves are soaked in one glass of hot water for 30 minutes. The infusion is strained first before being used as mouthwash.

How good is lemon grass in controlling cholesterol levels? A study done by the University of Wisconsin in 1989 found that people with high cholesterol who took 140-milligram capsule of lemon grass oil daily noticed a reduction in cholesterol levels. “They

also experienced a significant decrease in blood fats,” the study said.

Like most herbs, lemon grass has some drawbacks.

“Some people can experience food allergy symptoms after eating lemon grass, although this effect is fairly unusual,” wrote Joseph McAllister in an article published by Livestrong. “Individuals who are vulnerable to lemon grass allergies may experience an itchy skin rash or hives on the skin after eating lemon grass, as well as chest pain and constriction, throat swelling and difficulty breathing.”

There are also some precautions in using lemon grass oil. “People who are diabetic or hypoglycemic should avoid its application because the oil can reduce your blood glucose levels and is not recommended for people already on anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive medications,” the website, newhealthadvisor.com states.

“Children, pregnant women or nursing mothers should not use the oil orally. People suffering from liver or kidney disorders should consult their physician first before using the oil.” – ### (Photos were taken by the MinDA Media Team in Sitio Ananggue, Buenavista, Murcia, Negros Occidental)

kits to people via couriers and doing online counseling.

“It is critical that we get these medicines out to young people who are sexually active,” he said.

“In some countries like the Philippines where condom access is difficult, PrEP is a major success."

The Philippines —

while quite innovative compared to other countries — has to put more effort to quickly convince those in key populations at high risk of contracting HIV to avail themselves of services, Murphy said, stressing that the critical issue is "the scale and pace."

Worldwide, a total 3.5 million HIV infections have

been recorded since 2015, with 1.7 million cases reported in 2019 alone, according to a report released

by UNAIDS on Monday. It warned that the number will continue to rise if there are no renewed response efforts amid the pandemic's disruptions to HIV-related services.

“COVID-19 is threaten-

ing to blow us completely off course. It's going to potentially push back all the successes that have been achieved. It's going to create barriers to those already in treatment,” Murphy said.

UNAIDS -- composed of 11 United Nations organizations -- seeks to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030.

bat medics, and assigned to combat-support roles located on the front line.

“A risk that I opted to take not only for myself but for my family. It is a difficult decision that needs the support of my family for me to be guided in taking the right direction,” Dionela said.

What started as accept-

ing the challenge to lose weight by joining the military, has become the calling of these two Dabawenyas.

Dionela, a former television commercial model who previously worked in Malacañang, and Quiocho enrolled in Basic Citizen’s Military Training (BCMT) conducted by Philippine Air

Force by the Air Force Reserve Center. It is an entry level training course undertaken by Filipino Citizens wanting to enlist in the reserve force.

“At first, we decided to join the military because we want to lose weight! Hahahaha! We’d like to know if we can finish the training

for 30 days (Saturdays and Sundays). But when we enrolled, we found out that there were more challenges and adventures for us. Not only that, we had the opportunity to learn how to use a gun. We also undergone personality development and basic first aid trainings,” she said.

Hidilyn Diaz of weightlifting, Pauline Lopez of taekwondo, Margielyn Didal of skateboarding, and the Gilas Pilipinas Men in the inaugural 3x3 basketball event.

In the meantime, Fernandez, a former national athlete in 5x5 basketball, said, “We shall await more information and instructions from the IATF on the joint working group between GAB, DOH, and PSC so we can proceed more efficiently and effectively.”

‘A good development’ Meanwhile, GAB chairman Abraham Mitra thanked the IATF for approving the protocols set for the return of professional team practices.

“This is a good development for the entire professional sports community.

Pro sports events have been

stalled for four months now and this kind of development is really something to look forward to,” the former Palawan governor said in a separate statement.

The PBA only played one game, the opening game of the 45th season between San Miguel and Magnolia, on March 8.

On the other hand, the start of the PFL season has been postponed numerous times due to Covid-19, although Araneta, also the president of the Philippine Football Federation (PFF), remains keen on pushing through with the season although without the Copa Paulino Alcantara.

The PFL season will be special because the champion will earn a seat in the AFC Champions League (AFCCL) group stages next year. The runner-up will

enter the AFCCL qualifiers.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Wednesday night, Mitra initially bared that five people, four players, and a trainer will be allowed to train for a certain period inside a practice facility in provinces under general community quarantine (GCQ) like Metro Manila and Cavite.

The practice sessions will become more lenient to allow up to 10 people at a time once Metro Manila and Cavite join Laguna as provinces under the modified GCQ. However, the PFF revealed in another statement that the IATF allowed them to let 10 people take part in a certain practice period.

“We thank both IATF and GAB, headed by Chair-

man Abraham Mitra, for their approval in ensuring that professional sports may push through despite the ongoing pandemic,” Araneta said. “The next step now is to ensure the health and safety of the players, as we prepare for the eventual start of training of PFL teams.”

“With the IATF’s approval, PFL teams can now proceed to train so that players’ match fitness is achieved and injury is prevented during the eventual resumption of PFL,” PFF secretary-general Ed Gastanes added.

Mitra said one group of athletes and trainers will be allotted one hour to do their drills, and after 30 minutes of sanitizing the practice area, the next group can practice as well.

(PNA)

UNAIDS... FROM3

FROM HOME... FROM5

BACK... FROM12

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VOL.13 ISSUE 75 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2020

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Christaens leaves Ceres Negros

A

nother Ceres Negros mainstay has just left the reigning Philippines Football League (PFL) champion.

Defender Jeffrey Christaens announced on Sunday he is leaving the club that he called home for six seasons.

However, the tone of his Instagram post announcing his decision to leave Ceres Negros further fueled speculations about the future of the club.

“It’s sad what happened to this beautiful club,” Christaens began his statement.

The ongoing row between the Yanson Family affected Ceres Negros since Vallacar Transit, which the family owns, mainly bankrolls the team.

Despite the family feud, Ceres Negros stayed in fo-

Japeth Aguilar of Barangay Ginebra was fined P20,000 and ordered to do swab tests and a 14-day quarantine.

Bucks, Kings close facilities after positive COVID-19 tests

2 PBA players penalized T for playing pickup game

J

apeth Aguilar and Adrian Wong were ordered on Monday to undergo swab testing and a 14-day self-quarantine after videos and photos of them surfaced in social media while playing pickup basketball despite the general community quarantine (GCQ) in Metro Manila.

The decision was part of the sanctions Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) commissioner Willie Marcial slapped on the Ginebra star and Rain Or Shine rookie on Monday.

Marcial, along with Deputy Commissioner Eric Castro and legal

counsel Melvin Mendoza, met with Aguilar and Wong so the players can air their side of the story.

Both former Ateneo players were apologetic for their actions.

Contact sports like basketball remain prohibited during GCQ, although

Halep hopes to play in Palermo next month

R

omanian women's world number two Simona Halep hopes to take part in next month's Palermo Open, the first WTA event to be held after the shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, she said on Sunday.

"I have not yet made a clear decision but I hope to start with Palermo," last year's Wimbledon champion Halep told reporters in the Romanian city of Cluj-Napoca before her return to the court after a four-and-a-half-month absence.

"It's hard without tournaments, I miss them, I hope we can travel quietly and without fear soon, because it's a little worrying.

"My life has changed, everything is different. But the fact that I didn't travel

a lot was also a good thing, because I rested a lot, I wanted this. I hope all the madness is over."

The 28-year-old Halep has not played since her win over Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina in the final of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships on Feb. 22.

Halep agreed to participate in an exhibition doubles match in Cluj-Napoca on Sunday, teaming up with her compatriot Horia Tecau.

"I miss playing and I really enjoy participating in this tournament," she said.

The WTA season will return on Aug. 3 with the Palermo event with organisers hopeful of inviting some of the world's best players .

FHALEP, P10

the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases already allowed the PBA to do light practices again.

Marcial also handed a PHP20,000 fine each for both players as well as an order for them to undergo 30 hours of community service.

He asked both Aguilar and Wong to do their first swab test by Tuesday and have another by the end of their quarantine.

Also seen in the social media posts was Terra Firma rookie Isaac Go, but the number one pick of last year’s draft was

cus late into the PFL season last year and went on to capture the league and the Copa Paulino Alcantara titles.

The club’s future suddenly became a hot topic when just one day after James Younghusband, another Ceres Negros star, announced that he is calling it a career, rumors swirled about the squad folding up.

PFL commissioner Coco Torre, though, said there was no formal withdrawal made by Ceres Negros, meaning that at least for now, the club is staying.

Meanwhile, despite the rumored shaky situation in the Bacolod-based club, Christaens was thankful to the team.

“You have a place forever in my heart!” he said.

(PNA)

spared from the sanctions as he is currently loaned to the Gilas Cadets program.

Marcial met with Go last Thursday to remind him of the government and PBA guidelines during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Also seen playing pickup hoops was B. League Asian import Thirdy Ravena.

Neither the league nor the San-en NeoPhoenix, the Japanese team that recruited Ravena, have made a statement regarding the pickup basketball session as of posting.

(PNA)

he Milwaukee Bucks and Sacramento Kings of the National Basketball Association closed their practice facilities due to positive COVID-19 tests, the teams said on Monday, as the league prepared to resume its season.

Teams across the league are expected to travel to Orlando, Florida, this week to restart the season, which was abruptly suspended in March due to the COVID-19 outbreak, with players living and playing at Walt Disney World.

A spokesman for the Bucks confirmed the team had closed its practice facility after receiving test results from Friday but declined to comment further.

The team's first

scrimmage in Florida is scheduled for July 23 against the San Antonio Spurs.

A member of the Kings' traveling party to Orlando also tested positive, prompting the closure of the team's practice center.

A spokesman said the team still plans to travel to Orlando this week. Its first scrimmage is July 22.

The Denver Nuggets and the Brooklyn Nets also closed their practice centers after players tested positive last month.

The Orlando restart officially begins on July 30.

The NBA said last week a total of 25 players and 10 staff members had tested positive for COVID-19 since June 23, when testing began.

Simona Halep (ROU) during her second round match against Caroline Dolehide (not pictured) in the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

Reuters

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BACK TO WORK

PSC wants athletes bidding for Olympics to be back training I t’s time to buckle down to work for the country’s Olympic hopefuls.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) said it will work with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) for athletes vying for spots in next year’s Tokyo Olympics to resume their training.

This after the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) approved on Friday the resumption of practices for professional basketball and football clubs.

“We plan to meet with POC and CDM (chef de mission) Nonong Araneta to discuss the resumption of training (of) the national team, especially the Olympic hopefuls,” PSC officer in charge Mon Fernandez said in a statement.

While the return to practice of Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), Chooks-To-Go Pilipinas 3x3, and the Philippines Football League (PFL) teams was mainly highlighted in IATF Resolution 51, the joint administrative order (JAO) put up by the PSC, Games and Amusements Board (GAB), and the Department of Health actually goes for all sports.

The JAO lists down “the guidelines on the conduct of health-enhancing physical activities and sports during the Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic.”

Notable athletes still looking to make the Olympic cut include Rio Olympics silver medalist

FBACK, P10

Members of the Philippine national team and personnel of the PSC recently underwent Covid-19 testing.