Issue 97 Wednesday, August 16, 2017

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

IT’S ON

ADDITIONAL PIECE. A worker holding a decorative plastic Durian fruit walks by the Kadayawan dome which is being assembled and will be used for Kadayawan sa Davao 2017 activities at San Pedro Square in Davao City on Tuesday.

Lean Daval Jr.

Mayor Sara declares Kadayawan officially open

EDGEDAVAO Sports T STILL SUPREME

By ANGIE SAVERON

Ateneo wins Flying V cage title

SPORTS P15

he 32nd Kadayawan Festival has officially opened on Monday after Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio banged the gong three times to represent Davao’s three major ethnic populations: Lumad, Christians and Muslims.

In her speech, Mayor Sara expressed gratitude to the partners, private sector partners of the City Government, sponsors as well the different sectors to include local and national government agencies

for making the 32nd Kadayawan Festival possible.

“Ang pinaka importante sa tanan, ang akoang pasalamat ug pagtimbaya sa atuang 11 tribes na gipangunahan sa atong Deputy Mayors, kung dili tungod sa inyuhang participasyon dili mag malampuson ang atuang pag selebrar sa Kadayawan sa Davao,” she said.

She added that while Davao City is in celebration, the city is commiserating with the suffering of

the people of Marawi.

“We are with you, we are one with you because we are one nation,” Duterte said.

Capt. Rolito Go, the president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce also shared his message in the vernacular. “Daghan ta diri nagka hiusa para sa nahimong Davao City karon,” Go said.

He said that with unity, the city can do so much.

He praised the executive committee for doing

its best to make this celebration successful. “ Ang akong kasing-kasing, ang akong buong pagkatao, ang akong huna-huna ay tinuod nga Dabawenyo,” said Go. The theme of this year’s Kadayawan is Stand tall,United. Resilient. This was shown through the Tribal village and other activities prepared for everyone. “Nalipay jud ko kay daghan ni tambong sa opening at lalong lalo

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

INDIGENOUS MUSIC. Hiyas sa Kadayawan 2016 Inna Betil Garcia of the Bagobo K’Lata tribe plays the ‘kulintang’ outside the tribe’s traditional house at the Kadayawan village in Davao City on Tuesday. Lean Daval Jr.

Delay in passage of BBL seen

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elay in the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is to be expected as the draft law, as of August 14, has yet to reach Congress exactly four Mondays after its submission to President Rodrigo Duterte in Malacañang.

House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Jr. last month announced he was optimistic that they would be able to pass the BBL and the 2018 budget before yearend. In March, he told MindaNews that if the bill is certified as urgent by the President, “conservatively, sa House, give me a month or two” to pass the measure.

Senate President Aquilino Pimentel did not give a time frame but he cited the BBL as one of the priority measures the Senate should pass.

The 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed by the government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on March 27, 2014 provides for the creation of the Bangsamoro, a new autonomous political entity that would replace the 27-year old Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The purpose of the law,

DELAY,10

Bird virus harmless to humans :DA expert

But public warned not to be complacent T

By Paula Kim Feliciano

he Avian Influenza Subtype A(H5N1) from Pampanga City is non-pathogenic or incapable of causing disease if contracted by humans, Department of Agriculture Veterinarian and Coordinator for Avian Flu Dannie Apelo assured a round table discussion at SM Ecoland on Tuesday.

However, Apelo strongly

reminded the general public not be complacent towards the issue, as this A(H5N1) infection from livestock and poultry produce can still mutate inside the body and can possibly come out as pathogenic or a deadly disease.

Apelo said that once the collection of samples from poultry and livestock farms begin, farm owners, employees or any indi-

vidual who steps foot on farms and will test positive for Avian or Bird flu will be quarantined for 72 hours up to 5 days in care of the Department of Health.

Apelo reminds the public about six easy steps dubbed as “BIRDIE” to control and prevent Avian Influenza or Bird Flu: Biosecurity and Disinfection: Intense cleaning and

disinfecting zones should be established; Isolation and Quarantine: Birds, exposed and other Animals; Reporting and Surveillance: Report to the nearest agricultural or veterinary office any unusual death or illness of chickens and other birds; Depopulation and Dis-

markings were among those recovered in areas in Marawi that were cleared by government troops.

He admitted however that ammunition boxes with ARMSCOR Philippines markings were among those discovered by government during clearing operations. Armscor Philippines is a local gun and ammunitions manufacturer, dealer and importer.

Government Arsenal chief Maj. Gen. Jonathan Martir (ret) on the other hand claimed they cannot monitor the distribution of the ammunition that are manufactured in the Government Arsenal Bataan plant after turning them over to the AFP’s Logistics

Command.

Nograles said he saw the photos of the ammunition boxes which are purportedly issued by the DND’s Government Arsenal and he is deeply concerned that government-manufactured firearms and ammunition are falling into the wrong hands and are being used to kill and maim government security forces.

“The worst thing that we can have is magkaroon tayo ng mga ganitong encounters (in Marawi) tapos ang ginagamit na bala ng mga kalaban natin ay galing sa government arsenal,” Nograles said.

Nograles also quizzed the DND on the progress of its com-

pliance with President Duterte’s instruction for the immediate acquisition of various life-saving medical equipment that are direly needed by military hospitals.

These medical equipment includes Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines, catherization laboratory and hyperbaric chamber.

Lorenzana admitted there were delays in the acquisition of these equipment due to bidding and procurement problems.

Nograles noted however that the DND has yet to conduct the bidding process for P537-Million worth of hospital facilities that are supposed to benefit wounded

Region 8 cops get hybrid cars DND asked to probe sale of govt ammos to Maute T

he Philippine National Police in Eastern Visayas will receive 45 brand new Toyota Prius hybrid cars from the Department of Energy (DOE) on Wednesday.

The cars were donated by the Japanese government to areas affected by super typhoon “Yolanda”.

PNP Regional Director Chief Supt. Elmer Beltejar said the ceremonial turn-over would be attended by the Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhide Ishikawa and Police Attaché of Japan and key officials from the DOE. The turn-over was supposed

to take place last July, but signatories of the donation were not available, prompting the regional police to postpone the activity.

The hybrid patrol cars will be distributed to police offices in Eastern Samar, Samar, Leyte and Tacloban City.

“The DOE will also provide PHP200,000 annual budget for the next five years for maintenance of the car,” Beltejar told PNA. Before the turn-over, three policemen for each recipient police station were trained on the handling, driving and maintenance of the cars.

REGION,10

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ouse Appropriations Committee Chair Karlo Nograles today asked the Department of National Defense to conduct a deeper probe on reports that the ammunition being used by the Maute group as they battle government forces in Marawi City are coming from Government Arsenal, which is the government’s ammunition plant in Bataan and from private arms and ammunitions manufacturers.

In yesterday’s budget presentation of the Department of National Defense , DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana did not categorically deny that ammunition boxes with Government Arsenal

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS

3

Ex-Mayor, 5 others slapped graft raps T

he Office of the Ombudsman (Ombudsman) has ordered the indictment of former Sta. Monica, Surigao del Norte Mayor Rosalinda Penera for violation of the anti-graft and corrupt practices act for irregularities in the disbursement of funds for a core shelter project.

Also ordered indicted are municipal officials Dianette Evangelista, Aurea Menil, Gilbert Dagcuta and Lei Amor Laplana, and private individual Rodolfo Arlan.

Graft probers found out

that Penera and the others approved and facilitated the purchase of a parcel of land from Arlan in 2010 for the core shelter project worth PHP980,000.

However, documents showed that the purchase was made without prior authorization from the Sangguniang Bayan (SB) and despite the absence of an appropriation ordinance.

In its resolution, the Ombudsman said that “public respondents manifested gross inexcusable negligence from the processing of the

EX,10

Solons tackle proposal for joint South China Sea study

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he House of Representatives’ foreign affairs committee on Tuesday went into an executive session to discuss the possibility of conducting a joint exploration with China in the South China Sea. During the House hearing, Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano called for a closeddoor session over the government’s plan to enter into a joint venture and development project with China in the heavily-disputed waters of the South China Sea. “We will answer during

the executive session the possibility of joint exploration and development,” Cayetano said.

Cayetano assured that the administration will pursue a joint exploration deal that would be legal and constitutional.

“I will assure you, any legal framework will conform with local laws and the Constitution,” Cayetano said.

Cayetano also said the joint exploration deal would be more beneficial for the country than that of Malampaya project.

SOLONS,10

HOW TO. An Ata demonstrates his tribe’s traditional way of cooking chicken at the Kadayawan village inside Magsaysay Park in Davao City on Tuesday. Lean Daval Jr.

AFP blames NPA for Delay of peace talks T

he New People’s Army is the one to blame for the government’s decision to cancel peace negotiations.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo made the statement when asked why the peace talks with the rebels died down.

“It is because of the

atrocities committed by the NPA, and (as) far as the AFP is concerned, we have been always been supportive, we have always been been accommodating with regard to call and efforts (for peace),” he added in Filipino.

The Duterte administration has cancelled the ongoing peace negotiations with the rebel group

following a series of unprovoked attacks against civilians and military personnel early this year.

This includes an attack against a Presidential Security Group convoy in Arakan, North Cotabato last July.

“The ball was in their court, (the government showed goodwill) in freeing political prisoners and there were even

some members of the progressive groups who were appointed to top government posts but despite that, they did not comply with the Commander-in-Chief’s request that they stop their extortion activities, killing of civilians, ambush of soldiers not engaged in combat operations against them,” Arevalo stressed. (PNA)

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

PH lists 12 commitments for new OGP action plan

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he government launched Tuesday the fourth Philippine-Open Government Partnership (OGP) National Action Plan during a high level regional conference held at the Philippine International Convention Center.

The PH-OGP National Action Plan 2017-2019 listed 12 commitments under the first OGP action plan of the Duterte Administration with the theme “Co-creating Governance Outcomes with the Filipino People.”

“Our participation in the Open Government Partnership clearly shows that the Duterte administration is determined to deliver our promise to listen to the people and serve them better,” Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Benjamin Diokno said.

“We spent several months crafting the new National Action Plan with our citizens from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, and we are proud that we have developed an action plan that is not only attuned to our development goals, but more importantly, responsive to the needs of our people,” added Diokno, who is also the chairman of the PHOGP Steering Committee.

In his keynote speech during the conference, Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco Jr. noted that the new action plan is unique as it features a sub-national commitment, strengthening the engagement of local government units (LGUs) in OGP. He added the latest action plan focuses on crafting commitments that would make direct and positive impact to the lives of ordinary Filipinos.

Of the 12 commitments of the Philippine government, which will be implemented from 2017 to 2019, seven are new commitments, while five are continuing commitments

from the past three action plans.

The 12 commitments under the PH-OGP National Action Plan 2017-2019 are strengthening civil society participation in local planning and development; engaging communities in the fight against corruption, criminality, and illegal drugs; improving the ease of doing business; expanding and institutionalizing the citizen participatory audit; empowering citizens with the feedback mechanism on services provided by the government and government-owned and controlled corporations; passing legislation on access to information; Providing e-participation tools through the national government portal and promote its use to the whole of government; increasing transparency integrity and effectiveness in the management of public resources; increasing transparency and accountability in the extractive industries; revolutionizing mechanisms for evacuation and disaster response; improving delivery services to informal settlers and resettled families and empower them through community organizing; and pushing for Open Legislation processes through social media and the web.

OGP Deputy Chief Executive Officer Joe Powell noted that the Open Legislation process in the latest action plan is a “fantastic innovation in the Philippines”, which should be replicated by other OGP participating countries.

To date, OGP has 75 participating countries across the globe.

The Philippines is among the eight founding nations of OGP in 2011, which also include Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, Norway, South Africa, United Kingdom, and United States. (PNA)

F

By Lars Wittig Country Manager, Regus Philippines

AFFORDABLE.Native Durian fruits are sold for P100 per kilo at the Kadayawan village inside Magsaysay Park in Davao City on Tuesday. Prices of the fruit at the fruit stalls around the city vary from P120 to P150 per kilo. Lean Daval Jr.

Enough pork assured for incoming months

By PAULA KIM FELICIANO

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here will be enough FMD-Free pork for the anticipated high demand for the incoming “Ber” months, Department of Agriculture veterinarian, Dannie Apelo assured on Tuesday.

Apelo explained that the due to the increase in commercial hog exporters from the region, the burden to meet local demands falls on back yard growers.

He also said that the

agency is also maximizing its efforts in encouraging more and more backyard hog growers to cater to local demand.

One of the agency’s efforts is through the fattening operation, or the dispersal of piglets to validated or capable hog growers for their initial piggery business.

However, Apelo said that DA operatives are still in quarantine checkpoints

safeguarding all incoming and outgoing poultry, swine or goat produces as FMD can possibly be transmitted to any cloven-footed animals.

Apelo explained that the due to the increase in commercial hog exporters from the region, the burden to meet local demands falls on back yard growers.

With this, incomes will be augmented and malpractices will be avoided to prevent

It’s the year of flexible working -improve your policy now

lexible working is on the rise in the Philippines. In fact, according to the latest report from Colliers International, there are around 60 flexible office space operators as of end-2016, with the area dedicated to flexible workspaces reaching 228,000 square meters.

Colliers expects the number to grow by 10 percent annually in the next three years as demand for co-working spaces is spurred by the millennial-dominated workforce.

Our findings, from Regus commissioned research, found that 41% of businesses place improving flexible working policies high on their agenda this year due to increased demand from staff. 63% of our respondents also state that nowadays any job they take has to offer flexible working too.

If you’re looking to improve your staff’s work-life balance, here are a few things to think about when revising your policy.

Make your policy even more flexible: If you’re currently only offering flexitime or compressed working hours, it could be time to go that one step further and offer a home or remote working option too. The government is already taking initiatives such as implementing a four day work week scheme in some government offices, as well as other flexible work arrangements.

The People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP), the premier organization of HR practitioners and people managers in the country with a membership of more than 1,800 corporate and individual members, conducted a survey in one of their recent monthly meeting attended by more than 200 members. The results showed that 81% of the respondents are in favour of a 4-day work week scheme. The companies also shared that they provide benefits to their employees to lessen the effect of traffic like flexible work schedule, free shuttle, work from home option and gas allowance.

deadly diseases within piggeries.

Moreover, Edward So, president of the Davao Hog Raiser Association (DHRA), said on Monday at the Kapehan Sa Dabaw at the SM City Annex that being labeled as FMD-free country, opens various opportunities for existing and potential hog growers, most especially in Davao City, to go into the piggery business and fill in the gap.

Don’t forget the details: It’s important to make sure that your staff understand exactly what each term in your policy means, and what is expected of them if they do decide to give flexible working a go. Let them know what they’ll need to apply, what equipment the company will provide, and, if applicable, how their new working arrangement might affect the way they pay tax.

Plan ahead: As well as explaining how a worker becomes flexible or remote, your policy needs to outline why a candidate might be rejected from your scheme. This could include anything from reasons of necessity – they’re a vital cog in your office – or if their role requires more supervision. It’s important to outline your assessment methods so that you can’t be accused of discrimination further down the line.

Educate your workers: If flexible working is new to your company, make sure everyone knows how it’s going to work. Your managerial staff might be worried that it could have a negative impact on productivity, but that’s where research and training will help reassure them. A change of scenery – whether it’s at home or a business space – can improve productivity.

Introduce trial days: Allowing your staff to work from home for one day per week before offering them full-time opportunities can help them assess whether they think it will work in the long-term.

This will also give you and your managerial staff a chance to check that they’re still as productive as normal while letting them get used to working in a different environment.

Business has changed drastically over the last few decades, whether through the rise of new technologies and flexible working.

To remain attractive and retain young talent, it’s important for companies embrace flexible working practices and promote work-life balance for their workforce.

ECONOMY

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

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DTI imposes 30-day period prior to sales promo permits

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he Department of Trade and Industry in Davao Region announced that it will strictly implement the 30-day requirement for sales promo applications.

This means that those who would like to conduct a sales promotion activity must ensure that their application documents have already been submitted to DTI 30 days prior to the start of the promo period.

Sales Promotion is defined as a “technique intended for broad consumer participation which contain promises of gain such as prizes, in cash or in kind, as a reward for purchase of a product, security, service or winning in contest, game, tournament and other similar competitions which involve determination of winner/s and which utilize mass media or other widespread media of information. It also means techniques purely intended to increase sales, patronage and/or goodwill of a product.”

Article 116 of Republic Act 7394, or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, states that “No person shall conduct any sales campaign, including beauty contest, national in character, sponsored and promoted by manufacturing enterprises without first securing a permit from the con-

cerned department at least 30 calendar days prior to the commencement thereof.”

The 30 days requirement is imposed to give the concerned government agency, including DTI, ample time to evaluate the sales promotion application and other pertinent documents.

DTI-Davao Regional Director Maria Belenda Q. Ambi explained that if the application and its attachments are correct and complete, DTI can immediately issue a permit.

“This requirement is actually an advantage as well in the part of the applicant.

If the applicant’s documents are found incomplete, for example, he or she, or the establishment they are representing, will still have sufficient time for any necessary corrective actions in order to be approved,” she said.

She further advised the business establishments to plan and file their sale promo permit applications with DTI with enough lead time to meet their implementation date target.

For more information on securing a sales promotion permit from the Department, visit the nearest DTI Provincial Office or contact DTI-Davao Regional Office at (082) 2240511 local 417.

(DTI)

PH farm sector grows by 6.18% T

he agriculture sector grew by 6.18 percent in the second quarter of 2017, bolstered by increased output of crops and poultry.

Data provided by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), an attached agency of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), showed that agriculture at current prices grossed PHP422.36 billion, up by 11.41 percent from the previous year’s record.

Gross output in agriculture expanded by 5.71 percent in the first half.

The crops subsector, with a share of 50.75 percent of the total agricultural production, posted output increase of 11.72 percent.

Palay and corn posted output increments of 11.72 percent and 45.97 percent, respectively.

Improvements in production were recorded among the other crops except for coffee, mango, tobacco and abaca.

The PSA said poultry sub-sector, accounting for 16.02 percent of the total agricultural output, posted an increase of 8.36 percent.

Chicken contributed to the subsector’s performance with its 9.32-percent increment in production.

On the other hand, production of livestock and fisheries subsectors went down by 1.38 percent and 2.93 percent, respectively.

The livestock subsector, contributing 16.38 percent to total agricultural output, contracted by 1.38 percent.

Except for dairy, all components of the subsector recorded output losses.

Production in the fisheries subsector declined by 2.93 percent, as output gains among milkfish, tilapia, skipjack and seaweed did not offset the losses incurred by the other species.

The PSA said farmgate prices also went up on the average by 4.93 percent during the reference quarter.

Price increments were recorded in all subsectors: crops at 1.59 percent, livestock at 14.06 percent, poultry at 1.58 percent and fisheries at 7.55 percent.

Prices received by farmers increased by an average of 4.17 percent from January to June 2017. (PNA)

REASONABLE PRICE. An elderly woman smells the native chocolate produced by indigenous people and sold at Magsaysay Park on Tuesday for P30 per pack.

Lean Daval Jr.

Leagues of governor councilors back TRAIN

More funds seen for infra development outside Manila

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wo of the country’s national organizations of local government executives have separately expressed their full support for the proposed Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN) on the belief that it will make the tax system more “equitable, progressive and efficient” while raising more funds for infrastructure development and social services outside Metro Manila.

In separate resolutions, the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP), which groups together the country’s 81 provincial governors, and the 16,500-strong Philippine Councilors League (PCL) said the TRAIN will help fulfill President Duterte’s 10-point socioeconomic reform agenda and at the same time keep the Philippines fiscally stable.

The TRAIN, the first package of the Duterte administration’s Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP), was approved

by an overwhelming majority of the House of Representatives as House Bill No. 5636 on May 31 and is now under consideration by the Senate.

HB 5636 and Senate Bill 1408, the tax reform bill filed by Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III both aim to significantly lower personal income tax rates by making the first P250,000 in income of compensation earners tax exempt.

Both bills also contain revenue - enhancing provisions such as broadening the value-added tax (VAT) base, and adjusting the excise taxes on fuel and automobiles, among other measures.

The LPP, which has Ilocos Gov. Ryan Luis Singsong for president and Albay Gov. Al Francis Bichara for chairman, said in its resolution that it was “endorsing a more equitable, progressive and efficient tax reform program to accelerate infrastructure development, generate jobs and livelihood, equitably distribute wealth

and income among our people, and ensure regional and provincial growth all over the country.”

In Resolution No 2017-006 certified by the LPP secretary general, Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto, the League also said a “reform[ed] tax system will ensure the strengthening of the (country’s) macroeconomic fundamentals, secure financial stability and enforce a simpler and equitable tax regime.”

A separate resolution adopted by the PCL said , meanwhile, that “while the lowering of income taxes would lead to a reduction in government revenues–the lifeblood of the government–the expansion of the VAT, if legislated separately, would mean additional sources of funds for vital rural development projects of our respective Local Government Units, including the needed investments in health, education, and infrastructure for the Filipino people under Ambisyon 2040”, which is the Duterte adminis-

tration’s blueprint to eradicate extreme poverty, transform the country into a high-middle economy by 2022, and to high-income one by 2040.

The PCL, chaired by Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang of Davao City, said in its resolution that the League is backing TRAIN because it “recognize[s] the need for infrastructure and social programs for urban and rural development.”

“We hope that this simple gestures of expressing our approval will help the upper house to decide on this urgent bill,” said the PCL in a letter attached to the resolution. The letter was signed

by Dayanghirang and PCL national president Luis “Chavit” Singson of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur. The version of the TRAIN approved by the House is a consolidation of HB 4774 --the original bill endorsed by the Department of Finance (DOF) and authored

by Quirino Rep. Dakila Carlo Cua --with 54 other tax- related measures. (DOF)

Jr., Dominguez cited the BSP’s resolve in “courageously maintain[ing] its independence” even in the most trying times.

Dominguez lauded Tetangco for leading the BSP for a period of 12 years that was marked by the continuous growth of the economy, a stable currency, low inflation and strong international reserves as well as the adoption by the institution of global best practices in central banking.

“Say (Tetangco) is

probably the most awarded central banker in the world. He led the BSP in his inimitable low-key style. He does not hector. I suspect he charmed people into seeing things his way. He personified the demeanor and the calm confidence the nation’s top banker should have. With Say at the helm, the BSP was kept away from controversy even as the institution’s policies had great consequences on everyone,” Dominguez said.

“I am sure that the same quiet but persuasive leadership will continue with Governor Nestor Espenilla,” he added.

Espenilla knows every challenge and tool available to the BSP to keep the country’s banking system strong and well regulated, Dominguez said.

“It is always reassuring to have a new leader who is an old hand,” said Dominguez, referring to Espenilla who has been with the BSP for the last 36 years. (PNA)

DOF welcomes Espenilla as Bangko Sentral governor

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inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has paid tribute to the immediate past and current governors of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for their “adept management” of monetary policies, which has earned global recognition for the country’s central banking institution.

In his testimonial during last week’s dinner tendered in honor of BSP immediate past governor Amando “Say” Tetangco Jr and current governor Nestor “Nesting” Espenilla

6 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

Coca-Cola started the delivery of beverage products to Camp Evangelista as a symbol of their support for military troops in the area. Coca-Cola was welcomed by Major General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Division Commander of the 4th Infantry Division. Atty. Adel Tamano, Coca-Cola Philippines VP for Public Affairs and Communications and Rommin Diaz, Coca-Cola FEMSA PhilippinesExternal Communications and Sustainability Area Manager.

Coca-Cola powers Filipino troops ASEAN Lighting ‘opportunity in Marawi with beverage supply to draw attention’ to Hamiguitan E

D

avao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang is grateful for the ASEAN Landmark Lighting Ceremony here, saying that the event held at the foot of the world-famous mountain range has showcased his “uniquely beautiful” province at a larger stage.

Marking ASEAN’s 50th Anniversary on Tuesday, August 8, Mount Hamiguitan in San Isidro town was one of the 73 sites in the country participating in the simultaneous nationwide ASEAN landmark lighting ceremony highlighting the Philippine chairmanship of the ASEAN 2017.

“This ASEAN Landmark Lighting Ceremony at our crown jewel gives us the opportunity to showcase our world-famous heritage site, which is the first and only mountain range in the Philippines to have been inscribed in the World Heritage List.

Thanks to the ASEAN for this excellent opportunity to draw the attention of visitors, and remind local residents of the outstanding universal value of this mountain range,” says Governor Dayanghirang who led the lighting of the ASEAN lantern at the World Heritage Park.

“We share the belief that it is through cooperation and positive engagement that we lay the foundations for greater economic integration. We all share a single vision of prog-

ress, a vision that finds its roots in a common heritage.”

“This historic ASEAN Landmark Lighting here is very helpful for us as the province of Davao Oriental is now positioning itself to become a big player in the tourism industry. Gone are the days when we were low in the hierarchy of places to visit and invest in. Today, foreigners and Filipinos both are discovering, and rediscovering, what we have to offer. The good news is that opportunities for success in tourism abound in this province, and that’s because of our unique tourism offerings. Aside from this beautiful mountain range and wildlife sanctuary, we have more than enough beaches, mountains, waterfalls and lakes to accommodate the thousands of tourists in search of a getaway, encouraging many local entrepreneurs to find ways to reinvent the business of fun.

We now have the facilities, the skills and the competence to get things done,” says Governor Dayanghirang.

Governor Dayanghirang cited the ASEAN’s collaborative strategies towards achieving the shared goal of “coming together and helping each other to make the most of the region’s potentials.”

“While many of our neighbors in the region may be ahead of us in terms of tourist arrivals, I am so pleased to

say that through hard work and creativity, we are quickly catching up. Today, I am so pleased to announce that we have made stunning progress.

We are now among the best tourism destinations in the country. That only shows just how focused we are on our tourism programs. We in the provincial government have been doing our part to develop our own tourism industry.

We are offering competitive fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to tourism enterprises and we are now working on developing and improving our tourism infrastructure from roads to airport, ports and terminals. From the onset, we have identified tourism as what we call a low-lying fruit waiting to be picked.

It is the perfect industry to focus on. Tourism booms benefit not just those at the top, it also benefits local restaurant owners, food producers, transport organizations, souvenir craftsmen, schools that produce tourism professionals, and the list goes on and on. This unprecedented boom in our tourism has vastly altered our economic landscape. Thanks to my predecessor, former governor, Cora Malanyaon, for spearheading the highly ambitious initiative to inscribe Mount Hamiguitan to the highly prestigious World Heritage List,” adds the governor.

Meanwhile, Guest Speaker Department of Interior and Local Government Regional Director Alex Roldan stressed the many benefits of the ASEAN community not only in terms of tourism but also in terms of economic progress.

“Being an ASEAN member would not only allow the different peoples of the ASEAN region to interact through a relaxed travel regulations within the member countries, but most importantly the exchange of knowledge, education and job opportunities. A freer connection between the Philippines and other nations in the ASEAN would provide wider opportunities who want to dream it big in other countries.”

“Another goal of ASEAN is to increase foreign investments by removing restrictions and adopting international best practices. This means enhanced job opportunities for ASEAN citizens as well, and a better quality of life. We will have more options, we have more choices”.

“Building ASEAN in truth cannot be established by our leaders. It is the people in these nations who would make the final decision. It is the people of these nations who believe that we can all develop as one, we can live in peace and harmony could make the concept of integration become a reality,” he said. By Ferdinand Zuasola

very day, countless Filipino soldiers display gallantry, courage,and true heroism in the name of duty to our country.

The Coca-Cola System in the Philippines takes this time to honor and salute all Filipino troops stationed in various parts of Mindanao – the men and women who have dedicated their lives to reclaim and ensure peace for our fellow Filipinos.

Starting last August 4, Coca-Cola Philippines, bottling partner Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines, and Coca-Cola Philippines Foundation, committed to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines by providing supplies of beverage products that will contribute to their well-being during their time of service.

The troops deployed in Marawi City will be given priority. A steady supply of beverages, which includes sports drink brand Powerade, Coca-Cola, and bottled water Wilkins Pure will be provided daily. Aside from being a beverage, bottled water is also used in the battlefield to clean and treat wounded soldiers.

Major General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Division Commander of the 4th Infantry Division in Northern Mindanao said that the support given by companies like Coca-Cola and private individuals boosts the morale of the soldiers. While combat is the expertise of the troops, going to war and putting their lives on the line is the least of the things that they hope for.

The Coca-Cola System in the Philippines will also be extending additional support through the implementation of various sustainability programs for the Filipino troops and their families. A memorandum of agreement

will be signed between the parties to formalize the support for our uniformed personnel.

The Coca-Cola Company The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is the world’s largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with more than 500 sparkling and still brands and nearly 3,900 beverage choices.

Led by Coca-Cola, one of the world’s most valuable and recognizable brands, our company’s portfolio features 21 billion-dollar brands, 19 of which are available in reduced-, low- or no-calorie options. These brands include Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero, Fanta, Sprite, Dasani, vitaminwater, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply, Del Valle, Georgia and Gold Peak. Through the world’s largest beverage distribution system, we are the No. 1 provider of both sparkling and still beverages. More than 1.9 billion servings of our beverages are enjoyed by consumers in more than 200 countries each day.

With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our company is focused on initiatives that reduce our environmental footprint, create a safe, inclusive work environment for our associates, and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. Together with our bottling partners, we rank among the world’s top 10 private employers with more than 700,000 system associates. For more information, visit Coca-Cola Journey at www.coca-colacompany. com, follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/CocaColaCo, visit our blog, Coca-Cola Unbottled, at www. coca-colablog.com or find us on LinkedIn at www. linkedin.com/company/ the-coca-cola-company.

7 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

Rafael Ayala hands over a cheque worth 102,500 pesos derived from Eden Nature Park’s room promo to GMA 24 Oras Davao’s TV News Anchor Tek Ocampo as donation to the GMA Kapuso Foundation for the rehabilitation of Marawi City. Also present from left to right: Segment Host Real Sorroche and co-Anchor Sarah Hilomen-Velasco, Eden Nature Park and Resort’s Operations Manager Celia Sutton with Marketing Manager Brenda Ocampo.

Fun under the August sun

Davao Light customer office opens on August 18 and 21

The Great Kadayawan Trade Fair and Bazaar 2017 D

C

elebrate The Great Kadayawan with us!

So to start the fun under the August sun, starting from August 17-20 “The Great Kadayawan Trade Fair and Bazaar” will be held at Davao Convention and Trade Center. There will be more than 200 booths, artisans and exhibitors who will be selling different items and proudly Davao’s product like hand-made crafts. Step up and make your #OOTD statement on exclusive fashion stalls and avail one time bargain and discounts!

Try to check out on dif-

ferent food carts that serves good food while watching live performances with your family and friends.

Get the chance to MEET & GREET with Ms. “Stephany Stefanowitz” (Ms. Earth Air 2012) and Hunk Model Artist Mr. “Laurence Mossman” For those of you who can’t get enough from the Kadayawan fever, people who like to go on food trippin’ and food bloggers out there, the fun never stops!

From Aug. 24-27 and Aug. 31- Sept. 3, “Davao StrEATfood park” will be held at Bajada J.P. Laurel Avenue.

See, Explore and Experience Davao as you shop and dine and a lot more!

Everyone is invited! So save the dates for this month and let’s have fun under the august sun This Kadayawan!

For more information visit Mocha Productions Facebook page: MOCHA Events Production – Jette’s Event (@mochaproductions88) INSTAGRAM: mochaproductionsdavao Contact us: 0925-6188825 or 0917-7202566 (Tel. 225-2217) This is event is brought

to you by: HONDA PHILIPPINES INCORPORATED / GLOBE In Cooperation with: PEPSI / SAN MIGUEL BREWERY INC. / Z TECH ADVERTISEMENT / EMCOR / CINEMATHEQUE / / C TREE HOTEL / SMART / NEW PLACENTA PSALMSTRE / MAGHNET / BELLY CHON / FRESHKO/ SALTED QUAD / FRANKENSNOW / RIB SIDE GRILLAH! / CHINO’S DELI And media partnership with: EDGE DAVAO / AMBOX DAVAO / MAGIC 89.1

month.

Families can enjoy hit Kapamilya shows like “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano,” “La Luna Sangre,” and “ASAP,” in lifelike moving images and enjoy the cinematic sound via ABS-CBN HD. Moms can relax while watching hit movies and classic teleseryes on Cinema One, Jeepney TV, and TAG. They will also find the latest on travel, food, and fashion trends like Chef Claude Tayag’s show, “Chasing Flavors” on Lifestyle.

Dads get to catch sports

events on S+A HD, action movies on CineMo, and news and current events on ANC, DZMM TeleRadyo, and ABS-CBN Regional Channel (ARC).

Kids and teens meanwhile, can tune into the various shows of MYX for the latest on music, watch YeY for cartoons, and watch Knowledge Channel for educational shows.

Kapamilya 99 also includes local channels, PTV4, INC, UnTV, ZoeTV, EWTN, SKYdirect Freeview channel, Star Cinema on SKY PPV,

and the Aquarium Channel.

For existing subscribers, load your SKYdirect box with Kapamilya 99 plan by texting KAPAMILYA99 <space> <BOX ID> to 23667 using your ABS-CBNmobile, Globe Prepaid and TM load. Subscribers who will convert their ABS-CBNmobile load into a SKYdirect Kapamilya 99 load will also get five extra days on their plan. To subscribe to SKYdirect, text SKY to 23668. For more information, visit mysky.com.ph/ skydirect.

Newest Sky direct prepaid offer features exclusive channels from kapamilya network

A

bigger Kapamilya viewing experience everyday awaits Filipino families nationwide as SKY introduces Kapamilya 99, the newest SKYdirect prepaid plan that exclusively features ABS-CBN Network’s entertainment, kiddie, music, news, and sports channels. Among these channels are Cinema One, DZMM TeleRadyo, ANC, MYX, Jeepney TV, TAG, Lifestyle, S+A HD, CineMo, YeY!, ABS-CBN Regional Channel (ARC), and Knowledge Channel for only P99 a

avao Light and Power Company’s frontline customer services will be available for the public on August 18 and 21, special non-working holidays, in celebration of the 32nd Kadayawan and the Ninoy Aquino Day, respectively.

Davao Light’s full service centers in SM Lanang Premier and in SM City Davao in Ecoland will be available to accept payment and customer services from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Meanwhile, Ponciano office and the Panabo branch will be available from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Toril and Calinan payment offices will be open on the said days from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon, and from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM. Only Sto. Tomas collection office will not be available for the public on August 21.

Meanwhile, Davao Light offices in the Davao del Norte area namely the Panabo branch and the Sto. Tomas collection office will have their normal operations on August 18 as these are not covered by the holiday proclamation.

Davao Light Call Center service will remain available 24 hours through 229DLPC (3572).

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE AND PARTITION OF THE LATE NOE FELIX ABRIO-BANGOY WITH WAIVER Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late NOE FELIX ABRIO BANGOY has been the subject of an Extra Judicial Settlement of Estate and Partition with Waiver executed among his heirs, per Doc. No.299; Page No.60; Book No. 39; Series of 2017, of the NOTARY PUBLIC CAESAR E. BARCENAS

Aug. 3, 9 & 16, 2017

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

W

Local business force

ith Davao City now on the radar of business investments and expansion-both local and foreign--one significant development that is evolving is the emergence of the local entrepreneurs who have joined the big players in the booming property market.

The recent inauguration of the first residential condominium of the Matina Enclaves is a prime example of homegrown business entity braving the crowded real estate development market.

Developed by the Escandor Development Corporation (Esdevco) and owned by the Escandor family known for its security agency and hotel business, the maiden property venture is a testament that Davao is ready to compete.

The project prides itself of being proudly Davao

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

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

tapping local resources like local designer and local contractor aside from having a local developer.

Aside from Esdevco, local players like FTC Group of Companies who develops the 33-level Aeon Towers, long-time developer Kisan Lu and several other mid-level to low-cost housing developers, are keeping the local resources a force to reckon with. Familiarity with the local environment or local market knowledge gives local firms the advantage in coming up with a product that suits the market.

More than that, a strengthened local business community prepares the city towards the looming Asean integration. Having strong local business capital will be the foundation of a progressive market the city is bound to be.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor JIMMY K. LAKING Associate Editor

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

PAULA KIM T. FELICIANO KENNETH IRVING K. ONG GRACE B. PLATA BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO ANGELIE SAVERON MEGHANN STA. INES Reporters NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA Lifestyle CHA MONFORTE LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. ARLENE D. PASAJE Correspondents Cartoons Photography Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. Columnists: D. TACIO G.•DELIGERO • JOHN CARLO TRIA • VIDAGOTIANSE-TAN MIA S. VALVERDE•• NICASIO FRED C. LUMBA • ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA BORBONHENRYLITO • MARY ANN “ADI”• GREGORIO C. QUISIDO LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NIKKI ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ

the national association of newspapers

OLIVIA D. VELASCO D.D. MARATAS RICHARD C. EBONA OLIVIA D. VELASCO JOCELYN S. PANES SOLANI SOLANI MARATAS General Manager Finance Advertising Specialist General Manager Director of Sales Finance OREAL L. REAL Marketing Assistant

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE

LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager EDMUND D. RENDON Unit 6, SouthbankMarketing Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Specialist General Santos City City JAMILA C. CANONIGO AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Cagayan de Oro Mobile: (Smart) 0948-823-3685 Tel: (088) 852-4894 Circulation Marketing Specialist

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

Richard C. Ebona | Product Development officer Cellphone number: 09169558559 / 09085486859 Email Address: edgedavao@gmail.com

EDGEDAVAO

A

s ASEAN celebrates 50 years, the regional blocs significance as an economic power has become more prominent given the high growth rates of its members when compared with the rest of the world.

Truly, 600 million citizens are a formidable trading block, almost the size of Europe and capable of challenging wealthier subcontinental groupings.

That said, Mindanao alone has a population larger than many European countries, the bulk of which have declining populations and economies.

ASEAN Infrastructure Fund (AIF) will benefit the Philippines and the rest of

T

he ocean is the lifeblood of our planet. It gives us food and mitigates climate change. Every second breath we take is generated by the ocean. But the ocean is in critical condition.” – Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol of the Department of Agriculture Foreigners who have never been to the Philippines yet picture our country of dreamy beaches and crystal waters.

After all, we have more than 7,000 islands scattered all over the place.

“It’s not surprising that beaches are one of the big draws of the Philippines,” wrote Lindsay Bennett in her book aptly titled “Philippines.”

“Whatever your mood, there’s something to suit: from kilometers of fine white sand with not a soul in sight, to party islands, to specialist watersports beaches, to tiny, sandy isthmuses in the lee of tropical islets.”

Breathes there a Filipino who have never seen a salty water in his life. “Filipinos’ lives have always been oriented toward the sea,” wrote Sandra Volpp in a chapter “Handbook Philippines: Society, Politics, Economy, Culture.” “It is thus hardly surprising that about 70% of all communities are found along the seaside.”

Why am I writing this? It’s because June is touted to be the World Oceans Month.

“Oceans play a central

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97• WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Inclusive ASEAN financial system the organization’s membereconomies by way of sustaining the momentum of their economic growth and creating more jobs for their peoples.

In addition, the ASEAN Finance Ministers Process (FMP), is pushing initiatives to liberalize financial services and capital accounts, develop the region’s capital markets, set up a regional payments and settlements system, and establish the AIF to promote the use of regional savings in financing infrastructure development that will support connectivity across the region.

The FMP, which is chaired by our own Finance Secretary Dominguez, has role in the world’s natural systems, such as regulating our climate and absorbing carbon dioxide,” pointed out Oceana Philippines, a member of an international advocacy organization dedicated solely to marine conservation. “They also provide livelihoods to numerous fishers around the world, feed millions of people, and have the capacity to feed healthy seafood meals to a billion people, forever, if they are protected.”

In the Philippines, the ocean is a direct source of livelihood and food for more than a million Filipinos. Government data showed around 1.7 million fisherfolks, 39.2% (about 690,343) are living below poverty level.

“It’s a shame for an archipelagic country with beautiful dreamy beaches, and being the center of the center of the global marine biodiversity, to have fisherfolk living under the poverty line,” deplored Vince Cinches, Philippines oceans and political campaigner for Greenpeace Southeast Asia.

Indeed, “fishing is one of the most important sources of livelihood of the poor in the countryside,” wrote Volpp. “But their lives have been made harder by commercial fishing vessels encroaching on fishing grounds.”

Cinches gives this bit of information: “For a day of commercial fishing operation

This will no doubt build a “seamless regional financial system” we all need to harness more inter-country trade to make ASEANs 600 million a strong economy.

The envisioned “regional economic community” will enable all the member countries to use each other’s strengths to sustain rapid growth.

MY TWO CENT’S Being located in the John Tria banana, coffee, cacao and also identified four areas coconut belts enables of cooperation, namely, the the country to harness ASEAN Insurance such strengths, apart from C o o p e ra t i o n , the mineral rich islands that Cooperation in ASEAN can produce ore and other Customs, Cooperation in Taxation and the ASEAN raw materials to power Countering Terrorism, industry.

Supplying other ASEAN Financing and Anti-Money countries and trading Laundering. with them makes us a

strong collective of diverse economies able to produce practically everything the rest of the world.

Moreover, the easier sharing of talent across borders allows us to harness each others skills to also strengthen trade and our regional economy.

The seamless financial system helps us trade and exchange more effectively.

Trade pulls up each member and makes it more competitive, and the block, a competitive one holding its own against east Asian economies like China, and powerhouse India. ASEAN has arrived.

We in Davao are in the middle and te frontline of this change.

average volume of their catch has thus been reduced by 43% over the past few years.”

According to Cinches, “an estimated 10,000 blasts due to dynamite happen every day.”

The cost: P240,000,000 each day.

Dynamite fishing is just one. Using cyanide in catching ornamental fishes and those mouth-watering “lapu-lapu” and “mameng.” Each year, about 150,000 kilograms of sodium cyanide are used in catching those fish inhabiting the ecologically-fragile coral reefs.

Around $80 million is lost each year.

“Cyanide fishing may not be as rampant as in the 1970s and 1980s, it is still being done in the Philippines,” said Dr. Alan White, who used to be the chief of party of the Coastal Resource Management Project in Central Visayas.

“I believe that most cyanide used presently is for food fish and it is difficult to know how wide spread its use is,” Dr. White pointed out. “It is still a major problem in Palawan and other areas where the live food fish trade is important.”

The oceans are also loaded with garbage. A recent study, “Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean,” which was published in the journal “Science,” listed the Philippines as the third highest producer of plastic wastes thrown into the ocean – after China and

Indonesia.

“Almost 15 years of poor implementation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (RA 9003) and unheeded calls for a national ban on the undoubtedly problematic and persistent plastic bags apparently helped a lot in putting the country at third place in the study’s embarrassing list,” said Aileen Lucero, national coordinator of the EcoWaste Coalition.

The oceans are in deep trouble indeed! Cinches said it right: “The oceans of our childhood as we know them might just become a distant memory if we don’t stop bombing our seas, choking it with garbage, emptying of its fish, and contaminating it with chemicals.”

Nicholas Lenssen, author of a Worldwatch report on the status of the oceans, begged: “The oceans could soon lose their vitality if people aren’t encouraged to become stewards of a shared resource, rather than plunderers of a common frontier.”

Let’s heed the call. “Let’s celebrate World Oceans Month by saving the oceans in our own way,” Oceana urges. “Like joining coastal cleanups, refusing single-use plastic, making sure the seafood we eat are sustainably caught, signing petitions that aim to protect our waters, and empowering others to be ocean conservation advocates!”

Imperiled Oceans

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

inside the municipal waters, artisanal fisherfolk are deprived of two-month fish catch.”

As a result, majority of the country’s fishing grounds are now overfished. In fact, 10 out of 13 majority fishing grounds “are under intense fishing pressure.” “In the last five years, municipal-capture fisheries production is in decline, from 1.37 million metric tons in 2010 to 1.21 million metric tons in 2015,” Cinches wrote.

But overfishing by commercial fishing vessels are not the only problem. There are others. “Local fishermen compound the problem by engaging in unsustainable practice of dynamite fishing,” Volpp wrote. “This method reduces their manual input by two-thirds but has damaging effects in the medium term. The

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

IT’S... FROM 1 na po sa suporta n gating 11 tribes,” said City Tourism Officer Regina Rosa Tecson. She also said that starting this Thursday going to the weekend the major hotels in the city are already fully booked and they are expecting an influx of tourists to the City.

Festival director Gatchi Gatchalian announced at the Kapehan sa Dabaw Monday morning the final list of competitors for the major events. There will be 11 provincial participants and nine Davao based participants for the indak indak sa kadayawan. There are five confirmed tribes for Dula Kadayawan. Pamulak sa kadayawan there will be six participants for the big category, nine for the small category and for the new category called “Lahi” which will be animal driven there will be five participants and lastly there will be seven non-competing or corporate floats. For sa Habi Kadayawan in partnership of SM Lanang Premier there are 13 designers but with a total of 15 entries. The Sayaw Kadayawan at the Sm City Davao drew nine participants from the children category and nine for open category. For Tunog sa Kadayawan there will be 10 competing song writers, Pitik Kadayawan will have 12 participants.

The Kaundayawan which will be held Palma Gil Street beside people’s park will have 40 committed food vendors and the famous Singaporean street food advocate Chef Sito. The doodle art competition called Mugna sa kadayawan has 20 entries in the professional category, and 20 entries for the student category. “We are aiming to be the doodle capital of the Philippines,” said Gatchalian. The size panel board which will serve as the canvas for the artist will be 40x8 ft. This event is in cooperation with Boysen. All artworks will be displayed in the Kadayawan Village.

The official opening of the Kadayawan Festival coomenced on Aug. 14, Monday, “We are ready and we are prepared for the whole week, masyado na kaming excited.”

Gatchalian said. He also mentioned that Mayor Sara Duterte- Carpio will be present on the opening of the Kadayawan Festival together with other councilors and is expecting 500 guests. After the opening ceremony of Kadayawan, the official opening of Kadayawan Village commenced. The Kadayawan Village will be open to the public during park hours.

The set-up of the four mega tents for the Kadayawan dome is also underway “The entrance will look like a dome at bale

apat yun na Mega Tent na pinag dugtong dugtong namin,” Gatchalian said. .

This will be the venue for the Inda-Indak sa kadalanan, Pitik sa Kadayawan, Pamulak sa Kadayawan and other major Kadayawan events. “Performance area po ito sa para sa major events natin sa kadayawan para kahit umulan man o umaraw definitely padayun gyud atong mga competitions;” Gatchalian said. Upon the arrival of tourist will surely feel the Kadayawan vibe because the airport is decorated with kadayawan insprired decrations. “paglabas mo talaga ng tube may nakalagay na madayaw greeting, which is all part of the Kadayawan preparation,” said Gathalian.

Last Saturday morning, August 12 the additional security forces arrived to help secure the Kadayawan Festival. “I will not give the exact figure but more than a thousand na, (number of security forces) for Arm Forces of the Philippines pa lang yun hindi pa kasali ang sa Philipine National Poice,” said Commander Colonel Erwin Bernard Neri on an Interview. Task Force Davao Commander added. “Lahat ng security operations ay ginagawa ng Task Force Davao together with the Davao City Police ay mag papatuloy yun,” said Neri.There will be check points in all major entry points in Davao city, aside from that there will be plenty random check points to ensure that every one who will be entering Davao city will be checked. “hinihiling rin naming sa mga dadalo sa kasiyahan ng Kadayawan na wag na pong mag dala ng Backpacks, madedelay lang sila dahil i-ccheck po namin yun.” Neri added.

The alert level of the security forces is high with or without threat. “ i would also like to ask the help of the public, na kailangan na mag tulung-tulungan tayo dahil napaka-importatne po na mag observe rin po kayo ng mga suspicious person na naka motor, i-report po agad sa 911, Davao City Police Office at sa Task Force Davao,” Neri said.

There are also parties that will be happening at Kadayawan dome such as Smart night, SMB night and Coke night. There are also celebrities that confirmed to attend in the celebration. The confirmation for the VIP is yet to be revealed but is welcome to join the celebration. “Ang mga major hotels po natin at fully booked na,” said Gatchalian.

The official media partner is the Davao Digital Influencers which is headed

by Glenn Santillian. The

SECURITY MEASURE. Auxiliary police and police personnel conduct body frisking and check the identification cards of visitors at the main entrance gate of Magsaysay Park on Tuesday. Lean Daval Jr.

official fan page is the Kadayawan sa Davao “Make sure to like our page, so you can get updates aandun lahat ng mechanics ng ating online promos,” said Gatchalian. He also said to follow the instagram and twitter accounts @kaday-

awanfest. “We took into consideration ang social media dahil libre siya, so that’s the fastest and the most real time updates na pwede nating gawinsa ating kadayawan activities,” said Gatchalian.

according to the draft BBL, is to “establish a political entity, provide for its basic structure of government in recognition of the justness and legitimacy of the cause of the Bangsamoro people and their aspiration to chart their political future through a democratic process that will secure their identity and posterity and allow for meaningful self-governance.”

The CAB also provides that the ARMM is deemed abolished upon ratification of the BBL and the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) appointed by the President will then take over. The BTA will govern the Bangsamoro through parliamentary means, until the first set of officials is elected.

Like the Aquino administration, it’s now a race against time again also for the Duterte administration because the ARMM’s next election is on May 13, 2019, synchronized with the national elections. If the BBL is not passed soon, the ARMM election in 2019 will proceed as scheduled.

The CAB provides for at least a year’s transition into the regular Bangsamoro government, which means the proposed 80-member BTA, whose members the President will appoint, should be in place by June 30, 2018.

The Commission on Elections needs six months to prepare for the plebiscite that would ratify the BBL. This means the BBL has to be passed by December 2017 at the latest.

Delay in the passage of the BBL will not only delay the creation of the Bangsamoro autonomous gov-

ernment but will also delay the decommissioning of the MILF’s weapons and combatants.

According to Congress’ calendar, both houses will have sessions until October 13, will take a break from October 14 to November 12, will resume sessions from November 13 to December 15, and will take a break again from December 16, 2017 to January 14, 2018.

Plenary sessions are held Mondays to Wednesdays while committee meetings can go beyond Wednesday.

There are only 26 plenary session days in Congress and 42 days (inclusive of Thursdays and Fridays) between August 15 to October 13.

“Wala pa rin” Maguindanao Rep. Bai Sandra Sema, Deputy Speaker for Mindanao told MindaNews Monday evening that the draft BBL had not been transmitted to the House. “Wala pa rin” (not yet here), she said.

In reply to MindaNews’ query on Saturday on where the draft law is, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said it was on its way to Congress. “The documents are already with the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office (PLLO) and may be submitted (to the two houses of Congress) by Monday.”

The draft BBL, however, has yet to reach the House of Representatives and the Senate as of August 14.

Secretary Jesus Dureza, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, told MindaNews on August 14 that there is “no new info” about the transmittal of the draft BBL to Congress. (Mindanews)

DELAY... FROM 2

REGION... FROM 2 The hybrid cars will help police personnel in patrolling their area to maintain peace and order and respond to emergency situations.

Earlier, the DOE also turnedover eight hybrid cars to national government agencies in Eastern Visayas such as the Philippine Information Agency, Department of Trade and Industry and Office of Civil Defense.

Part of the agreement for the donation of hybrid cars is for

the recipients to help DOE in the research, performance testing and promotion of alternative fuel vehicles for local adaptation.

The hybrid cars are powered using electricity and fuel.

The Japanese government provided to the Philippine government 500-million-yen (about PHP250 million) grant for the procurement and delivery of the hybrid vehicles under the Japan Non-Project Grant Aid. (PNA)

posal: Dispose allaffected poultry products to prevent he spread of disease; Information; Education: must be distributed to inform and educate the public on Bird Flu. Apelo also said that Department of Environment and Natural Resources, is also maintaining its surveillance for wild animals, and caged birds being smuggled through the city’s backdoors as they are highly possible carriers of the avian flu.

All ports will also be closely watched by the Philippine Nation Police and the Philippine Coast Guard for any possible resistance

from the existing Memorandum Circular.

Those who are travelling with caged animals, most especially birds, will be strictly required to present a shipping permit which includes the point of origin and veterinarian health certificate upon entering Davao City.

However, failure to do so, will mean non-entry to the city, and in any case of resistance, caged animals will be confiscated, with accordance to the law.

Apelo also announced that tire and foot baths in airports will also be re-established, as this will play a huge role in preventing Avian or Bird Flu from ever entering the City.

disbursements of funds as they should have known of the irregularities of the purchase transaction as per their functions. Despite this, they still pursued the transaction, thereby giving unwarranted benefits to Arlan.”

“In addition, conspiracy can be inferred from the respondents’ respective participation in the purchase transaction as they aimed their acts towards the accomplishment of the same unlawful object,” it added.

(PNA)

He earlier cited the Malampaya project as an example of how the Philippine Constitution allowed the exploration of natural resources despite the cooperation with some foreign corporation or foreign entities.

The USD4.5-billion Malampaya gas-to-power project is a joint undertak-

ing of the Philippine national government and the private sector.

It was spearheaded by the Department of Energy and developed and operated

by Shell Philippines Exploration B.V. on behalf of joint venture partners Chevron Malampaya LLC and the PNOC Exploration Corporation. (PNA)

BIRD... FROM 2

EX... FROM 3

SOLONS... FROM 3

INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97• WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

LIFESTYLE

EDGEDAVAO Lianga light house mutely witnessing the sun rising from nearby Pacific Ocean. The light house was built in the 1960s.

Redefining tourism development:

The case of Lianga, Surigao del Sur

By JONALLIER M. PEREZ

A

t first glance, as a traveler, you would not be particularly satisfied by what you read online about Lianga in Surigao del Sur. In fact, there is not much to read about, with the exception of the handful articles about its Mahogany Road and Bao-Bao Falls.

When you hit the search key about Surigao del Sur, what come out are the far more popular destinations, such as Hinatuan’s Enchanted River, Britania Group of Islets in San Agustin, Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig City, Cagwait’s white beaches and caves in Lanuza, among others.

And almost nobody talks about Lianga.

When I was first asked by its neophyte and aggressive Mayor, Homer U. Pedrozo, to assist the municipal government craft its own tourism development plan last April 2017, I was a bit apprehensive that Lianga may not have much tourism potentials at par with its neighbors in the province.

Of course, I was wrong when, in primary started coming in, Lianga’s hidden gems begin to reveal themselves. Where a local government unit so desirous of participating in the booming tourism industry but is not particularly blessed with natu-

ral attractions, we rather recommend that it focuses its resources on some other industries. I know of one city in Mindanao that keeps on wasting its limited public funds on hard selling destinations and confusing its target audience because of vacillating priorities instead of improving its being one of the most strategic service hubs in the region where it belongs.

The project crafting the 5-year Lianga Tourism Development Plan is about to end by August this year. This constitutes the first phase of the Mayor Homer U. Pedrozo (sitting, 4th from right) led the participants of the pioneering Lianga Tourism-Related Industry Congress conducted bigger development ap- last July 31-August 1, 2017 gathered public and private tourism players to help craft its tourism roadmap. proach adopted by its local government. Subsequent phases will involve the construction of national government-funded tourism infrastructures and the establishment of community-based tourism business operations.

And the most significant realization after intensive data gathering and analysis is the fact that Lianga could emerge as the most important tourism support community.

A tourism support community refers to an area, usually because of its strategic location or the presence of key services and materials, which will complement SEE,A4 The 115-year old Layno Residence. This ancestral house, built in 1902, is just one of the ten or so ancestral houses in downtown Lianga still in livable condition. Heritage tourism is one of the development approaches explored by Lianga’s municipal tourism office.

A2INdulge!

TRAVEL

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

KADAYAWAN

at

EDEN

NATURE PARK VISIT DAVAO and discover the food, culture, and the most colorful festival. There is no better and fun place to visit and celebrate the amazing bounties of nature at Eden Nature Park and Resort’s Kadayawan Celebration.

Eden Nature Park is located in Barangay Eden, Toril, Davao City.

It is about 30 kilometers from the city proper and is situated at around 3,000 feet above sea level. Eden has evolved from a simple nature park to a multi- activity tourist destination. The resort offers day tour packages and various attractions abound in the 80- hectare property – food outlets, a fishing village, a butterfly garden, hydroponically- grown vegetables, a flower and herb garden, adventure rides, and a cultural village that showcases the various tribes of Mindanao. The multi- faceted experiences that individuals and group get as they visit Eden is one of the reasons why Trip Advisor has ranked Eden Nature Park as number 1 in “Things To Do” in Davao City.

To mark the 32nd Kadayawan Festival celebration, the resort is offering a special rate to travel aficionados.

Until August 31, enjoy an overnight stay for 3, 200 in Camellia Room, Gardenia Room, Holiday Lodge, Vista Cottage and Begonia Room with buffet breakfast at Vista Restaurant. Family Cottages and Mountain Villas are 20% off.

Dine at Vista Restaurant and avail the buffet lunch package which includes an access to the resort. Vista Restaurant has become an institution in Davao City’s dining scene.

Experience the food and the relaxing ambiance this restaurant in the highlands has to offer. Get a free

MVT Bridges Philippines, Purok Malakas, General Santos City for more Information Please contact Cellphone Number 09460154748. Look for Shane S. Liquit Marketing Consultant

overnight stay for four (4) for every twelve (12) lunch packages availed.

Terms and conditions apply. Watch the live performance of Kultura Edeng on August 18, 19, and 20 from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at the Lower Veranda, Vista Restaurant.

A special 10% discount on buffet lunch and snack packages will be given to all tourists who will visit Eden until August 31, 2017. To avail the discount, a valid ID must be presented.

Enjoy traditional Filipino food at Eden’s Fishing Village. Dine at Fisher’s Grill or dine in huts on stilts overlooking the deer park. Diners can fish at the fishponds surrounding the Fishing Village and have their catch cooked the way they want. Get a FREE iced tea for every availment of the Fishing Village Package.

Head on to Davao’s favorite destination, Eden Nature Park is open daily for day tour from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. PR

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

Kadayawan tunes and bites THIS KADAYAWAN WEEK, discover Davao flavors anew at SM City Davao’s South by Mouth Food and Music Festival on August 16 to 18 and at SM Lanang Premier on August 18 to 21.

Get on a gustatory adventure with over 15 food concepts at the SM Davao’s Parking C. Among the exhibitors are Sisig Factory, Fat Boy’s Kitchen, Shatter, Citrus Squeezed, Nonong’s Grill and Pokerito Poke Bowls.

Also bringing their offerings down south are Kamay Kainan, Sugbajeros, Stre3ts, Pitstop, South Wings, Gypsy’s, Lechon Haus, Tita Rosita’s, Greenwich and Confex & Co. Catch pinoy rock band Silent Sanctuary on August 17, 6 PM. Davao local acts are also set to entertain food trippers on Wednesday and Friday.

At SM Lanang Premier, over a dozen well-loved local food brands are set to display delights that

are worthy of Instagram food snaps and self-in-

dulgent binges. These include the Lobster Shack,

La Bodeguita, Backyard Burgers, Viet Café, Cucina Ilocana, Munchtown, Pyro, Neon Pigeon (cold brews!), Perch, Alibaba, and more!

Up Dharma Down will also be joining the festivity as they serenade Dabawenyos on August 19, 7PM in the Northwing Event Grounds.

Gather your friends and enjoy the long Kadayawan weekend in your favorite SM Supermall.

Follow @smlanangpremier and @smcitydavao in social media for more updates.

A4INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017 Andanan River boasts of one of the best preserved mahogany forests in the country.

It is the future site of sea foods floating restaurants to be developed by the local government.

Other activities include mangrove forest tours, estuary water sports, such as boating, kayaking, and hook-and-line fishing, among others.

FROM,A1

the bigger, over-all tourism experience offering of the province or region, for example. Lianga is situated right between the far more developed and iconic destinations in the province. No tourist coming from Tinuy-an Falls and Enchanted River goes to Britania Islets and Cagwait, for example, without passing through Lianga. Right now, even in the absence of the necessary public infrastructures, food and beverage establishments inside the Lianga bay walk area are favored destinations among local and foreign tourists wanting to devour seafoods while in transit between north and

south of the province. A ing Enchanted River in anga is highly accessible, rudimentary behavioral the south, for example. with available transporsurvey conducted by the Second, Lianga is just 25 tation almost round-theproject team affirms this. minutes away from San clock. Third, Lianga ocSo, what exactly are the Francisco, the commer- cupies the central part of circumstances explaining cial and transportation the Lianga Bay, a signifithis? hub of Agusan del Sur. cant fishing ground that First, Lianga occu- Connectivity-wise, Li- supplies the famous sea pies the most strategic location in the province so far. It sits right in the middle of the province, right along the national highway. The far more popular destinations are both found in the north and south of Lianga. The distance is perfect, making it far more convenient for the travelling South Koreans, for example, to take their lunch in Lianga Few realize that Lianga Bay is one of the most significant sources of on their way to Britania sea foods in Surigao del Sur. Lobsters are commonly sold in any of in the north after visit- Lianga’s eateries along the bay.

foods Surigao del Sur is famous for, such as wild crabs, lobsters and highend species of fish. And, fourthly, arguably, Lianga has better F&B private operators compared to its neighbors. Yes, some

enterprising individuals sell packed foods at the Enchanted River in Hinatuan, but doing so does not give one a pleasant culinary experience unlike when one does it along Lianga Bay.

Lianga’s Marine Protected Area covering 132.06 hectares and is home to 42 species of reef fishes, 36 genera of corals, 14 species of mangroves and 8 species of seagrasses. The host Brgy. Ganayon has its own nursery for mangrove propagules.

EDGEDAVAO

11 MOTORING

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

Step Up Your Everyday Drive with the New Chevrolet Trax

T

he new Chevrolet Trax offers fresh design, sophisticated interior, and premium features The new Chevrolet Trax features new levels of safety and connectivity including its 7-inch touchscreen MyLink Infotainment System with easy smartphone pairing Available in two variants: LS AT and LT AT. The new Chevrolet Trax is powered by a first-in-its class 1.4L ECOTEC turbocharged engine.

Chevrolet Philippines – The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI), the exclusive importer and distributor of Chevrolet automobiles and parts in the country, introduces a new expressive take on Chevrolet’s global urban SUV – the new Chevrolet Trax.

The new Chevrolet Trax builds on the high quality performance of its predecessor, with a focus on improving customer appeal through refinement, exceptional fit and finish and the use of premium materials throughout the vehicle’s interior.

With its contemporary design elements, including an all-new front-end appearance and a fresh premium interior, complemented by a suite of active safety features and an upgraded infotainment system, the new Chevrolet Trax is set to step up your everyday drive.

Dynamic drive with turbocharged performance The new Chevrolet Trax is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 140 horsepower at 4,900-6,000 rpm and 200Nm of torque at 1,850-4,900 rpm.

Matched with a six-speed automatic transmission, the new Chevrolet Trax is agile enough to navigate through the city, and refined and powerful enough to make those longer trips just as enjoyable.

Contemporary Design The new Chevrolet Trax boasts a modern appearance that leverages the new Chevrolet global design language including major styling enhancements on its front and rear fascias. Its sculptural and sophisticated design speaks of

the crossover SUV’s agile and fun-to-drive personality.

The new Trax crossover SUV sits on an 18-inch aluminum alloy rims and features a chrome skidplate, giving it a sporty stance on the road.

The front fascia incorporates Chevrolet’s new proportioned dual-port grille. New sleek headlamps flow around the corners and into the front fenders. The Trax now has halogen projector headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lamps as well as LED tail lamps. Chrome also accents the outboard fog lamp bezels.

The new Chevrolet Trax is available in eight different colors: Summit White, Abalone White, Switchblade Silver, Black Meet Kettle, Boracay Blue, Son of a Gun Gray, Pull Me Over Red, and Velvet Red. Premium Interior The Trax’s premium styling continues inside, with a fresh new console design including contrast trim detail and sweeping dash design all focused around the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Its modified instrument panel interprets Chevrolet’s signature dual-cockpit design more expressively, with an upper dashboard that flows uninterrupted across the panel to enhance the perception of spaciousness.

The new Chevrolet Trax offers multiple seating configurations, providing room for up to five passengers and flexible cargo space for objects of up to eight feet long with the front passenger seat folded down.

Also new for the Trax is an instrument cluster that features a new gauge display with prominent analog speedometer and tachometer readouts along with digital displays from the standard driver information center.

Enhanced connectivity and new active safety features The new Chevrolet Trax’s redesigned center instrument panel offers an upgraded 7-inch touchscreen Chevrolet MyLink Infotainment System designed to support the latest connectivity technologies,

including seamless mobile phone integration, voice commands, and steering wheel controls.

Numerous active and passive safety features are available in the new Chevrolet Trax, with six airbags, keyless entry, Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Cornering Brake Control, Traction Control System, Rear Wheel Boost, Roll Over Mitigation, Panic Brake Assist, Straight Line Stability, Engine Drag Control, Hill Start Assist, and Hill Descent Control, all designed to help drivers to prevent potential crash situations.

Superb comfort and convenience The new Chevrolet Trax has smart features that provide comfort and convenience for both driver and passenger. It comes with electronic cruise control, push start/ stop button, tire pressure monitoring system, reverse camera, 230-volt socket, and heated power side mirror with turn signal lamp.

Chevrolet Complete Care The new Chevrolet Trax is backed by the Chevrolet Complete Care Program to give customers a worry-free drive.

It comes with the Chevrolet 5-year Warranty Program, which offers coverage of five years or 100,000 kms, whichever comes first; automatic enrollment in the 24/7 Chevrolet Emergency Roadside Support for 3 years, with an option to renew on the 4th year of ownership; access to 24/7 Customer Care Hotline; guaranteed one-hour express service for select services; and non-stop service in select service centers.

The new Chevrolet Spark is now available in authorized Chevrolet dealerships nationwide. Pricing for the Trax is as follows: Chevrolet Trax 1.4L LS AT : Php 1,123,888.00 Chevrolet Trax 1.4L LT AT : Php 1,358,888.00 Get to know more about the Chevrolet Trax by visiting any of the authorized Chev-

rolet dealerships nationwide or by logging on to chevrolet. com.ph or liking the Chevrolet Philippines Facebook page.

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 100 countries and selling more than 4.0 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive & active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www. chevrolet.com.

Chevrolet Philippines – The Covenant Car Company Incorporated is the exclusive importer and distributor of Chevrolet automobiles and parts in the Philippines. Chevrolet Philippines is located at the 5th Floor, ALCO Building, 391 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, 1209 Makati City. Chevrolet has twenty five (25) dealer partners in the Philippines – Chevrolet Alabang, Chevrolet Commonwealth, Chevrolet Greenhills-EDSA, Chevrolet Makati, Chevrolet North-EDSA, Chevrolet Otis-Manila, Chevrolet Pasig, Chevrolet Quezon Avenue, Chevrolet Shaw, Chevrolet Bacolod, Chevrolet Baliuag, Chevrolet

Batangas, Chevrolet Carmona, Chevrolet Cagayan de Oro, Chevrolet Cebu, Chevrolet Dagupan, Chevrolet Davao, Chevrolet Iloilo, Chevrolet Isabela, Chevrolet Pampanga, Chevrolet Sta. Rosa, Chevrolet Tarlac, Chevrolet Imus Cavite, Chevrolet Ilocos Norte, and Chevrolet General Santos City.

For more information, you may visit www.chevrolet.com. ph.

Contact Person: Jona Loren Atienza Assistant Manager Marketing Services Chevrolet PhilippinesThe Covenant Car Company Inc. j o n a . atienza@ccc-chevrolet.ph

12 BIGGER PICTURE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

A glimmer of light for drug addicts

(Photos courtesy of the Provincial Government of Compostela Valley)

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

A

t the height of the election campaign two years ago, then Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte warned that if the disorder brought by illegal drugs will not end, the Philippines will become a narco state.

In a press statement, Duterte said the country is showing alarming signs of becoming a narco state. “In the national capital region where the country’s capital is situated, the government admitted that 92% of barangays are already infiltrated by illegal drugs,” he said.

According to Duterte, international drug syndicates have already penetrated the country. He cited the Sinaloa drug cartel as a case in point; it is “a Mexican-based group considered the largest and most powerful drug trafficking organization in the west.”

“This is a clear national security threat,” he declared. “This is an invasion of a new kind. Drug lords, domestic and foreign, have declared a war against our families and children, and the government is helpless about it.”

“Drug abuse has ruined many lives,” declares Dr. Willie T. Ong, an internist-cardiologist and consultant at the Manila Doctor’s Hospital and Makati Medical Center.

“The threat of illegal drugs is real and it’s closer than we think. In the Philippines, the drug abuse situation has actually increased over the years.”

Alan Peter Cayetano, then a senator, thought so, too. In his opening statement before the members of the United Nations Human Rights Center (UNHRC), he said: “Illegal drugs can easily destroy a whole generation.”

Senator Risa Hontiveros, a staunch critic of the president, said that drug addiction is not simply a law and order concern. “It is a public health and justice issue,” she was quoted as saying by media.

This is the reason why she filed Senate Bill 1313, the Barangay Health and Rehabilitation Strategy, which “seeks to create health intervention and rehabilitation programs and centers for drug dependents to respond to the assessed needs of drug dependents.”

In Compostela Valley, Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy launched the Oplan Liwanag, a community-based transformative intervention for voluntary surrenderers for reform (VSR). Only those categorized as “mild” to “moderate” surrenders are endorsed to the program. “We refer those who are considered severe cases to rehabilitation center for further assessment and proper intervention,” he explained.

Gov. Uy hopes to achieve progress of the efforts of all sectors and pro-active sectors and pro-active approaches of local government units and the anti-drug abuse councils. “As we support the platform of President Duterte’s administration, we prepare ourselves for this difficult but noble task of securing the future of our constituents; we will continuously assert that the unity is the way to go,” he pointed out.

Compostela Valley – which will be known as Davao de Oro in the years to come – covers a total area of 4,479.77 square kilometers occupying the northeastern section of the Davao Region. As of 2015, it has a total population of 736,107 and ranked the 40th out of 81 provinces in terms of population. The density population is 160 people per square kilometer.

Generally, the illegal drug situation in the country is jointly analyzed and established by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). “In Compostela Valley, the drug problem is not merely a security or health issue,

but also encompasses social, psychological and economic interests, requiring the unified involvement of government agencies and civil society,” said the accomplishment report of Oplan Liwanag program which this author obtained.

As of July 7, 2017, the number of surrenderers totaled 15,706.

About 902 were identified as reformed voluntary surrenderers (RVS). Some 1,226 were enrolled in the Oplan Liwanag. The oldest participant was 52 years old while the youngest was 21 years old.

“Our family was shattered when I started doing illegal drugs,” said one of those who graduated from the program. “I thought it was good in the beginning but I was completely wrong. I don’t think I would to return to what I had done before. In those days, we didn’t have peace in our family. My wife and I quarreled always.”

Oplan Liwanag, which was piloted at barangay Banlag in the Municipality of Monkayo on December 5, 2017 and culminated on February 7, 2017, is actually a 2-month program which aims to rehabilitate and reform the mild to moderate drug addicts through lectures and workshops on spirituality, psychosocial, health awareness, marriage and family enrichment and livelihood training skills.

The spiritual enrichment is done on the first week since the first integration of the program is to reintegrate the VSR to his/her relationship with God. “It is to set the mind and hearts of the VSR and lead them to healing and reconciliation,” the report said.

The rest of the three weeks are focused on psycho-social, health awareness and marital and family enrichment. Another month is allotted for skills and livelihood training, which is conducted by the province office of the Technical Education and Skills

Development Authority (TESDA).

Also included in the program is their heart of volunteerism. They VSR are trained for standard first aid and basic responder’s training conducted by the volunteers of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management.

Oplan Liwanag was formally presented to the chief executive of the local government units during the meeting of provincial chapter of the League of the Municipalities of the Philippines. The mayors then were hesitant at first because of the budgetary requirements that the program e “At first, the mayors were hesitant because of the budgetary requirements of the program,” Gov. Uy recalled. “However, after I gave them the background on how the program was to be initiated and how it will address the present situation of drug problem in the province, they showed their support by activating their Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council.”

In addition, Gov. Uy directed the Provincial Action Team to make initiatives in presenting the program to the Liga Ng Mga Barangay as the barangay officials are the direct implementers of the program. Massive information dissemination was conducted in each municipality for better understanding of the program.

Aside from the Oplan Liwanag program, each local government units of the province are urged to strengthen their municipal police office’s operation in PNP’s Project Double Barrel to control the existing drug problem of their localities.

The program is now on its third roll out. The Provincial Action Team is also finalizing the after-care monitoring of the RVS who graduated from the program. “We have been doing some coordination meetings with the

national government agencies as to how they can contribute to the interventions under the program,” Gov. Uy says.

The youthful governor, however, believes compassion is the one of the best acceptable ways to get engaged in the drug problem of the country. “The Oplan Liwanag Program considers those who got into drug addiction as victims,” he said. “They may have

committed wrong choices in the past. They may have caused inconvenience to other people, in one way or the other but this is not a sufficient reason to leave them. We can only win the war against illegal drugs by an initiative that enhances their human dignity. The ultimate goal is to turn drug dependents from victims to victors. Only then we can say, we truly succeeded.”

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

DND... FROM 2 military personnel, such as the Php150-Million for the general repairs of the V. Luna General Hospital, the Php 327-Million for the OR/ER facility of V. Luna General Hospital and 60M for Enlisted personnel barracks.

Nograles also questioned the practice of the DND in procuring second-hand and refurbished aircraft and other equipment as he found it strange that the AFP would prefer old and refurbished materials over brand new ones.

He cited the case of the DND’s procurement of the 13 refurbished UH-1D helicopters during the Aquino administration where 2 units have already

crashed causing at least three fatalities.

During the hearing, Philippine Airforce Chief Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina admitted that one of the recently acquired UH-1D chopper crashed due to mechanical failure as the engine is already too old to be still in use.

“What the investigating team found out is, there was really a problem on the engine. It was really a material failure. The engine has been operating with the aircraft more than the other engines from the other aircrafts. So being really second hand aircraft we can only rely on our best effort in terms of maintenance,” Fallorina admitted.(PNA)

EDGE DAVAO Serving a seamless society

is in need of

LAYOUT ARTIST Submit application letter and resume to: Ella Tingzon, HR Department Edge Davao Review Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., E. Quirino Avenue, Davao City Or email at edgedavao@gmail.com

13

The Davao City Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. announces that the term of employment contract with its Executive Director Ms. Mary Antonette “Maan” Doromal has ended at the close of business on August 1, 2017. She will be pursuing other endeavors. Thereby, the transactions, communication, and inquiries usually directed to her may now be directed to the Chamber’s Professional Management Team, attention of Ms. Leishe Jane Sechico-Handucana, until the Chamber installs and announces a new Executive Director. Ms. Doromal may still be seen with us at the Chamber, but strictly on project consultancy basis.

The Davao Chamber, through its Officers and Board of Trustee, wishes to extend its deep gratitude to Ms. Doromal for her dedicated service to the institution.

14

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97â&#x20AC;¢ WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

SPORTS 15

11 PH bets to SEAG are world champs Carlo Biado (billiards)

Rubilen Amit (billiards)

OJ Delos Santos (Karatedo) Harmie Constantino (golf)

I

t’s four days to go before the 29th Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and while the attention focuses on the sports closes to Filipino fans like basketball, there are a bunch of Pinoy athletes who are stars in their own sport.

The Philippines will try to improve on its sixth place finish in the last staging back in 2015 with eleven national athletes bringing with them an impressive World Champion status easily installing them as favorites for the gold medals come the August 19-30 biennial meet.

Carlo Biado, the country’s Pool Champion in the recent World Games in Poland, spearheads the list alongside two-time World Women Ten Ball winner Rubilen Amit.

Rider Ryan Cayubit and Taekwondo jin Francis Aaron Agojo are like-

wise both World University Games champion while boxer Eumir Felix Marcial is a former World junior boxing titleholder.

OJ Delos Santos holds the current World Shoto Cup Karate Kata crown while sailor Geylord Coveta is the regning champion in the World RX-One Sailing Championships.

Golfer Harmie Nicole Constantino is one of the three-man squad which bagged the World Women Junior Golf crown last year while the team of Jason Huerte, Rheyjey Ortouste and Mark Joseph Gonzales carries the honor as King’s Cup World Sepak Takraw doubles champion.

PSC trains Children’s Games volunteers T

TEAM BUILDING. Participants of the Volunteers for Sports training perform a team building activity during the three-day event organized to prepare them for the Sports for Peace Children’s Games set on Friday and Saturday, August 18 and 19, at Mergrande Ocean Resort in Davao City. PSC

he Philippine Sports Commission (PSC)-Philippine Sports Institute honed 35 volunteers from Muslim, Lumad and Christian communities over the weekend to assist participants of the Sports for Peace Children’s Games set on Friday and Saturday at Mergrande Ocean Resort in Toril.

PSC consultant Sergio Opeña, overall in-charge of the Children’s Games, said the Ates (elder sisters) and Kuyas (elder brothers) were trained not only as volunteers for the children but as community leaders who will continue to promote grassroots sports program in line with President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s directive to bring sports to the countryside.

The training held August 11 to 13 at the Sacred Heart Spirituality Center in Barangay Catalunan Grande featured team building, leadership, basic child psychology, leadership, sports as a vehicle for peace and vision of PSC, among others.

Participants came from as far as Barangay Pañalum, Barangay

Sirawan and Barangay Sasa while Muslim and Maranao volunteers were from Mini Forest in Boulevard. Churches involved were St. Jude Thaddeus Parish, San Pedro Parish and Fatima Parish.

Brother Noelvic Deloria of the Brothers of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart spearheaded the training that was facilitated by the Kaliwat Theater Group.

Opeña said, “The Ate and Kuya concept will be replicated all over the country. They will become Volunteers for Sports. Every 10 children in the Games will have an Ate or a Kuya who will lead them during the two-day inter-faith children’s games for peace.” Volunteers are aged 18 to 25.

Some 350 Muslim, Lumad and Christian children 12 years old and below will participate in the upcoming Games wherein they will all be staying at the beach resort.

Similar programs will be held in other parts of the region including Digos City, Island Garden City of Samal, Mati City and Panabo City.

The Sports for Peace Children’s

Games is a brainchild of PSC Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez who earlier said that the Filipino children are the real gold medals, not those the country is chasing in the Olympics, Asian Games or Southeast Asian Games.

Unesco has lauded the PSC and the Philippine Sports Institute (PSI) for the Children’s Games, a major component of the agency’s grassroots sports development program.

Unesco consultant Caroline Baxter Tresise considers the program as “aligned with what Unesco promotes.”

Chairman Ramirez, meanwhile, said: “We are excited about the journey of Children’s Games. It’s not easy but we are excited the Philippine government has this program and it just so happened that we have an ongoing crisis in Marawi City. We hope the Children’s Games will bridge the gap between Muslims and Christians.”

He added that at least 50 Children’s Games will be held before this year ends. PSC-PSI

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 97 •WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2017

STILL SUPREME

Ateneo wins Flying V cage title

CHAMPIONS. Flying V credit and collection officer Angelie Cinco and retail area manager Cril Gutierrez award the trophy to the Ateneo de Davao University Blue Knights led by coach Jess Evangelio. Boy Lim

MVP. Axel Doromal (6) of Ateneo receives his MVP award from former PSC Commissioner Leon “Binggoy” Montemayor. Boy Lim

By ATHENA JILLIAN BRAVO

A

teneo de Davao University added the 2017 Flying V basketball title to its trophy-rich championship shelf with a 77-880 conquest of archrival Holy Child on Sunday at the RMC Flying V Gym. The Blue Knights banked on the gutsy plays of Axel Doromal to break free from a tight first half which ended in a 33-all standoff. The spritely Doromal took matters into his own hands in the second half exploding for 11 points inhe third and finishing it off with 13 in the final period for a game-high 29 points.

Doromal later on won the Most Valuable Player honors hands down.

The current crop of Blue Knights, who had played together for years since their passerelle

days, won its first title without former head coach Miggy Solitaria who now sits as one of the assistant coaches at the De La Salle bench in the UAAP and top scorer Francis Gabriel Escandor who now plays for De La Salle Zobel in Manila.

Former Philippine SportsCommission Commissioner Leon “Binggoy” Montemayor awarded the trophies to the winners as well as the individual awards.

The Blue Knights are coached by Jess Evangelio. The team is composed of Andre Nebria, Rafael Presbitero, Axel Doromal, Dariel Manliguez, Christian Bacalso, Isaac Go, Miguel Castillo, Lex Blanco, Jethro Taculin, Lance Carr, Joachim Agamon, Zhou Go, Joakim Weil, Kent Batilo, and Ion Angeles.