Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 264 | Tuesday, February 23, 2021

SALUDAR WINS ANOTHER WORLD TITLE SPORTS P8

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

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RUN SARA RUN?

VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

A weekend road trip of bicycle enthusiasts is spoiled by heavy downpour brought by tropical depression “Auring” along MacArthur highway in Toril, Davao City. Edge Davao

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Sara insists she’s not running and will not change her mind STORY ON PAGE 2

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

NEWS

RUN SARA RUN?

President Rodrigo Duterte kisses the resting place of his father, Vicente Duterte, the former governor of then undivided Davao Province, during his visit at the Roman Catholic Cemetery in Davao City on February 21, 2021. The President consistently visits his departed loved ones even when he was still mayor of Davao City. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

to declare March 1 as Sara insists she’s not running City special non-working holiday and will not change her mind T

By MAYA M. PADILLO e may have heard this refrain, but Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio insists she is not running and nothing will change her mind.

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"No there is no chance," the presidential daughter and sentimental favorite for probable Presidential candidates in the 2022 elections.

Mayor Sara issued the statement during a live broadcast interview on Monday after asking her reactions to several streamers with “Run Sara Run” surfaced recently in Davao City, Davao del Norte, and Davao de Oro. “Naghatag naman ko sa akoang comments about it and wala man sya ga-change and tingali ang mga tao, tungod kay wala ko’y ginahatag

na mga rason kung ngano dili ko gusto mudagan pagka-pangulo sa ilahang tan-aw seguro there is this chance na tingali magbag-o ang akong hunahuna o wala ko nagsulti ug tinuod. But I already answered that and I said na mutubag ko o musulti ko by January 2021, I did, before nag-end ang January 2021 natubag na nato ang question. Is there a chance na magbag-o ang akong hunahuna sa pagkakaron? No there is no chance,” she said.

Mayor Sara said she does not want to enumerate her reasons as

she does not want to offend or hurt people.

“Unsa ang mga rason, I do not want to enumerate the reasons kay dili lang man siya isa ka rason, daghan siya ug because mutaas na ang istorya ug basin maka-offend ug maka-hurt ta sa mga tao,” she said.

The mayor also thanked the people for trusting her.

“Ang ako na lang ginasulti pirmi nagapasalamat ko sa ilahang trust and confidence sa akoa and nagapasalamat ko sa ilahang suporta sa akoa,” she said.

The mayor also ordered for the tarpaulins and billboards to be taken down saying these do not go through proper procedures.

“Asa dapit ang mga

tarps kay atoang ipatanggal.

Mag-remind lang ko sa tanan na ang pagtaud gani ug billboards ug tarps there is a regulation para ana and one of that is kinahanglan ka magbayad sa government. Usually kanang mga ingon ana nga wala’y niagi sa proseso ginatanggal nato.

Kung kabalo mo kung asa let me know kung asa na area so that mapatanggal nato ug mauli nato sa tag-iya,” she said.

Mayor Sara's father President Rodrigo Duterte will end his term next year and there had been clamors for her to make a run for the Presidency.

The popular clamor is reminiscent of President Duterte's journey to the Palace.

al.

his year’s Araw ng Davao celebration will come earlier than usu-

The city government of Davao is set to declare March 1, 2021 as special non-working Holiday in celebration of the 84th Araw ng Davao instead of 16th of March based on the recommendation of the National Historical Commission.

“Next week na ang atoang Araw ng Davao celebration. Mag remind ko sa tanan basin mag-expect sila nga March 16 gihapon.

Nabag-o na based on the recommendation of the National Historical Commission na ang Araw ng Davao is no longer March 16 but March 1.

Next Monday will be March 1,” said Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio.

She said the planned holiday is still on papers but the city is applying for March 1 as non-special working holiday.

“March 1 mao na atong gina-aplayan ug holiday ug ang atong request is a special non-working holiday. Last year, kung mahinumdum

mo daghan ta ug holidays ug giingnan ta sa national government last year this will be the last time that you conduct two holidays in one celebration,” she said.

This year’s “Araw” will also celebrated online. Mayor Sara said the City Tourism Office has prepared online activities that will be participated by the Dabawenyos.

“I hope that people will like their page because naa didto ang mga events tanan nga atong giandam para sa atoang Araw ng Davao celebration from the comfort of your home as we know that there is a stay home order and there is a quarantine.

Puwede ra ninyo matan-aw ang tanan activities sa cellphones or computers and I hope you will enjoy what the city tourism has prepared,” she said.

Mayor Sara said the only face-to-face activities for “Araw” celebration is the flag ceremony and the Misa Pasasalamat. The said activities will be opened to limited number of government officials only. Maya Padillo

VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

Groundbreaking for SIDC bridge slated Q1 this year

By MAYA M. PADILLO sland Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) Mayor Al David Uy disclosed that the groundbreaking for the construction of the the Samal Island-Davao City (SIDC) Connector project is being eyed first quarter of this year.

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Army soldiers clear the highway in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte Sunday (21 February 2021) after a landslide brought about by Tropical Storm “Auring.”

Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army’s 901st Infantry Brigade

Close to 14K families affected

by TD ‘Auring’ in three regions

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bout 13,816 families or 53,236 persons in three regions in Mindanao were affected by the onslaught of tropical depression "Auring" (international name Dujuan), the National Disaster Risk Re-

duction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported.

The latest data as of 8 a.m. Monday show that the residents are from 216 barangays in Regions 10, 11, and the Caraga.

Mark Cashean Timbal, NDRRMC deputy spokesperson, said 12,825 families are temporarily sheltered in 308 evacuation centers.

As a result, 179 houses were damaged in Caraga region alone, according to the

NDRRMC. "Auring" is now heading towards Eastern Samar and may make landfall over the area in the next six to 12 hours, the weather bureau said Monday. (PNA)

Peñalver argued there is no need for a permit because the regulated items will be banned one year from the effectivity of the proposed ordinance.

He added that Paragraph 3, Section 5 of the proposed ordinance contemplates only of regulating the “use and distribution for free” of the SUPs but not the selling.

The proposed ordinance prohibits persons, grocery stores, supermarkets, shopping mall and brand outlets, sari-sari stores, food and/or beverage establishments, or any other business establishment or outlet to sell, distribute for free, or use the SUPs without a special permit to sell, or special permit to distribute and/or use SUP products from the city mayor.

The prohibited SUPs include drinking cups lower than 0.2 mm in thickness (including polystyrene 160 cups); ice cream cups, salad cups lower than 0.2 mm in thickness; condiment, sauce or gravy containers lower

than 0.2 mm in thickness; cup lids and condiment, sauce or gravy container covers; plastic stirrers; cutleries (spoon, fork, knife or a combination thereof), plastic straws; meal box, tray or “clamshell” packaging; cake and pas-

try box, tray or “clamshell” packaging; egg container or “clamshell” packaging; hand gloves; plastic materials used as “buntings”; and plastic materials used as balloon stick.

(Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

Davao envi group fears proposed ordinance vs SUPs won’t solve plastic waste problem

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he Davao City-based environmental group Interface Development Interventions for Sustainability (IDIS) has expressed concern that the proposed measure at the City Council of Davao regulating the single-use plastics (SUPs) may not help address plastic waste pollution here.

Atty. Mark Peñalver, IDIS executive director, told MiindaNews on Sunday that the proposed ordinance, authored by 2nd District Councilor Diosdado Mahipus Jr., contains provisions for the granting of a “special permit to sell” to be issued by the city mayor for the use of the prohibited plastic.

He said the inclusion of a special permit would be a “blanket exception,” which allows selling of the prohibited/regulated SUPs, provided there is a special permit.

Reacting to the statement of Mahipus that the special permit is intended only “during the phase-out period” and “only if there is no alternative in the market,”

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH SALE Notic e is hereby given t hat the est ate of the late MILLIE CO ND E Z CLEMENTE who died on September 21, 2009 has been the subjec t of E XTRAJUD IC IAL SE TTLE ME NT WITH SALE leaving a parc el of land desc ribed as follows: TCT No. 146- 2011012675 E xec uted am ong her HeirsVendors, per Doc . No 112; PageNo. 24; Book No. 45 Series of 2020, of t he NOTARY P UBLI C ATTY. JOSE S. BALI LI

Uy said the proposal was affirmed by the officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Chinese construction company, China Road and Bridge Corporation-Philippine branch, which bidded for the Contract for Design and Build for the project during their visit in Samal last February 17, 2021.

“I asked them when will be the groundbreaking, ang ginasulti nila first quarter of this year. I hope unta before mag-end ang March or April makasugod nata sa construction and hopefully madayon na ang ground breaking,” Uy said in an interview.

Uy also expressed optimism that the construction of the bridge will happen despite opposition of the affected family.

“For the oppositor, kaila naman mo kung kinsa sila, unfortunately naay tulo ka beach resorts na maigo sa construction sa bridge. Naa man ta’y legal remedies ana ug naa pud sila’y legal remedies na magamit pud nila.

But despite opposition magpadayon gyud ang project,”

he said.

Uy said the local government of Samal has already sent a letter addressed to DPWH Secretary Mark Villar requesting him to have the affected property expropriated last year.

“Magpadayon na ang kay project kay nag-request nami through a letter addressed to the Secretary of DPWH. We also have a resolution requesting DPWH to have it expropriated. We sent the letter way back November and December last year for expropriation through a resolution,” he said.

The project, which was first conceptualized in the year 1970 or about 40 years ago, is one of the 75 big-ticket flagship projects under the “Build, Build, Build” program of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

The project will link the existing road networks of Davao City and IGaCoS enhancing the economic activity in both cities. The benefits of the project include a resilient and solid transportation, access to education, employment and business opportunities.

Republic of the Philippines SUPREME COURT REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11TH Judicial Region Branch 12-Family Court Davao City SP. PROC. NO. R-DVO-20 -03496-SP

N THE MATTER OF THE PETITION TO: ALLOW APRILYN SINDAY TO USE THE SURNAME OF HER FATHER GIMAY ON HER CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH bearing Registry Number 97-12, 737; And CANCEL THE SECOND REGISTERED CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF APRILYN SINDAY GIMAY bearing Registry Number 99-2, 458; APRILYN SINDAY also known as APRILYN SINDAY GIMAY, ROWENA S. SINDAY and ALEXANDER A. GIMAY Petitioners, -versusTHE OFFICE OF THE CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR OF DAVAO CITY, Respondent X---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------X

ORDER OF HEARING A verified petition filed on NOVEMBER 25, 2020 has been filed by petitioners, APRILYN SINDAY also known as APIRILYN SINDAY GIMAY, ROWENA S. SINDAY and ALEXANDER a. GIMAY, assisted by counsels ATTY. ARIEL C. SALVO/ATTY. ENI GRACE B FABILA, praying that after due hearing, an order be issued directing the Civil Registrar of Davao city, to wit: 1. ALLOW Aprilyn Sinday to use sssssurname of her father GIMAY in her Certificate of Live Birth with Registry Number 97-12-737;and 2. Aprilyn Sinday hencefort use the name APRILYN SINDAY GIMAY; and 3. CANCEL the second registered Live Birth Certificate of APRILYN SINDAY GIMAY with Registry Number 99-2,458 Moreover, pending the decision granting this petition, to allow APRILYN SINDAY to continuously use the name APRILYN SINDAY GIMAY to conform with her and other transactions and dealings.

Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, this Court hereby set the same for hearing on APRIL 28, 2021 at 8:30 in the morning. Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioners in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Davao, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks All interested persons may appear before this Court on or before the aforesaid date of hearing to show cause if any, why the petition should not be granted. Furnish a copy of this order together with a copy of the petition to the City prosecutor’s Office-Davao city, the Office of the Solicitor General, 134 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City, Atty. Ariel C. Salvo/Atty. Eni Grace B.Fabila-Public Attorney’s Office Department of Justice, Davao City District Office, Hall of Justice, Ecoland, Davao city, The office of the Clerk of Court, RTC-Davao City , Aprilyn Sinday also known as Aprilyn Sinday Gimay, Rowena S. Sinday and Alexander A. Gimay-KM. 12 Suha, Barangay Sasa, Buhangin-B District, Davao City, and the Office of the Local Civil registrar of Davao City.

SO ORDERED. Given on this 25th day of JANUARY 2021 at Davao City, Philippines

(sgd) JILL ROSE S. JAUGAN-LO Presiding Judge

A1 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

Consumers buy commercial rice from a rice stall at Bankerohan Public Market. Rice industry advocacy group claimed that farmers lose billions of pesos due to decline in farmgate prices of palay (unhusked rice) amid continuous entry of rice imports. Edge Davao

DTI-DavOcc trains 40 women on soy sauce, laundry soap making PhilGuarantee expands S credit support to MSMEs ome 40 members of a women’s association in Sta. Maria town in Davao Occidental can now make earnings from soy sauce and homemade laundry detergent powder after undergoing skills training on producing these consumer products.

The members of the Malalag Tubig Women’s Association (MTWA)

learned of the knowledge and skills on Thursday (Feb. 18) through the En-

trepreneurial Mind Setting Seminar and Livelihood Skills Training of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Davao Occidental.

Ma. Joycelyn F. Banlasan, DTI-Davao Occidental program director, said that the skills training aims to deliver new livelihood skills that will provide opportunities for

the participants to have an additional source of income.

The activity, held in Barangay Malalag Tubig, was made possible in coordination with the Program Management Unit (PMU) of Davao Occidental and through the Negosyo Center (NC) in Sta. Maria. (PIA-XI/Samantha Jabol)

not delivered economic returns, such as by means of a spin-off company, licensing or sale, among others.

ITSO as innovation centers The 2020 IPP also recognized Innovation and Technology Support Offices (ITSOs) as “Innovation Centers”, or a community of entrepreneurs and researchers helping find breakthroughs and alternative solutions to address current industry challenges.

A university, college or research center that partners with IPOPHL, an ITSO offers access to patent and scientific and technical databases, assistance in using patent databases, training in patent claim drafting and advice on intellectual property (IP) management, among others.

ITSOs have played a big part in driving UM and

resident-patent filings in 2019, in turn contributing to the Philippines’ hike in the 2020 Global Innovation Index (GII) ranking.

IPOPHL has 83 ITSO-partners to date.

“The express promotion of patent creation and commercialization, no less than by the biggest investment promotion agency in the country, is a landmark development that will further IPOPHL’s push for Filipinos to harness IP for inclusive business and technological growth,” IPOPHL Director General Rowel Barba said in a statement Sunday.

“The move will surely reinvigorate filings activity, help the Philippines climb higher in the GII and fulfill our goal to transition to a knowledge-based economy,” he said.

The IPP’s expansion of IP-related activities is one of the fruits reaped from IPOPHL’s August 2019

memorandum of agreement (MOA) with BOI. The objective of the MOA includes incentivizing IP-generating activities.

Barba's continued membership at the BOI’s Board of Governors has helped ensure that the implementation of the MOA moves forward.

“We will continue work in adding more IP-generating activities in the next IPPs. We hope we can succeed so we can drive more socially relevant and industrially useful IP products and processes into the market,” Barba said.

Other IP-related activities under the rolling three-year plan include generating original content for books, originality being a key criterion for copyrighted works, and requiring business incubator hubs to provide IP management and legal consulting services. (PR)

Patent generation, commercialization incentivized under BOI’s 2020 IPP

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rojects to generate and commercialize patented technologies will now enjoy incentives from the government as these activities have been added into the Board of Investments’ (BOI) 2020 Investment Priorities Plan (IPP).

Signed last Feb. 9 by Trade Undersecretary and BOI head Ceferino Rodolfo, BOI Memorandum Circular 2021-001, which provides the implementing guidelines for the 2020 IPP, identified the commercialization of “uncommercialized patents” as one of the projects falling under the “Innovation Drivers" activity.

U n c o m m e rc i a l i z e d patents refer to invention patents, utility models (UMs) or industrial designs (IDs) that have been granted patent or are registered at the intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) but have

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he Philippine Guarantee Corp. (PhilGuarantee) has broadened its support to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), manufacturing, housing, agriculture and other key sectors of the economy to help keep businesses afloat amid the coronavirus pandemic, with over PHP655 billion in credit guarantee lines opened in 2020.

Out of these credit guarantee lines, a total of PHP180.67 billion in loans were guaranteed by the state agency, or 8 percent above its target of PHP167.21 billion for last year, said PhilGuarantee president-chief executive officer Alberto Pascual in his report to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III. Pascual said the state firm’s MSME Credit Guarantee Program (MCGP) accounted for PHP37.73 billion of the approved credit guarantee lines.

“This was extended to 34 banks across the country to encourage them to continue lending to small businesses affected by the Covid-induced crisis,” he added.

Pascual said the program will be extended until September this year to provide continuing support to affected MSMEs via available access to

working capital loans under credit-risk sharing arrangements with accredited banks.

A total of 2,943 new MSME beneficiaries were served under this program, which as of December 2020, provided guarantees to loans totaling PHP175.1 million. The number of MSME-beneficiaries was expected to have increased in January 2021.

Pascual also said in his report to Dominguez, who is PhilGuarantee chairman, that the state-run firm’s strong partnership with 53 banks resulted to PHP612.81 billion in approved guarantee facilities as of December 2020 to provide these lenders coverage against credit losses from socialized, low, and medium cost housing loans.

A total of PHP501.34 billion of this guarantee facility was availed by the accredited banks, he said.

With PHP175.71 billion in guaranteed housing loans, over 11,000 new housing loan borrowers benefited from this facility in 2020, increasing its coverage to a total of 138,800 housing borrowers, Pascual said.

The amount of guaranteed housing loans was 9.7 percent above PhilGuarantee’s target of PHP160.11 billion in 2020, he added.

VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

EDGEDAVAO

ECONOMY

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he province of Davao del Norte is set to develop and enhance 12 tourism sites this year.

Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) led by Secretary Manny Piñol formally organizes the Davao del Norte Infrastructure Monitoring and Advisory Group (IMAG) to oversee the implementation of major infrastructure projects, including the P20-B Davao City-Samal Island Bridge. Edge Davao

MinDA forms local body to monitor delayed infra projects in Mindanao

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he Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) will formally organize on Wednesday the Davao del Norte Infrastructure Monitoring and Advisory Group (IMAG) to oversee the implementation of major infrastructure projects, including the PHP20-B Davao City-Samal Island Bridge.

MinDA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said the organization of the Davao del Norte IMAG was agreed upon during the meeting on Thursday between

MinDA, Governor Edwin Jubahib, and project engineers of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) involved in the Davao-Samal Bridge

project.

“The Davao del Norte IMAG will be the first of the monitoring groups to be organized in the different provinces of Mindanao to monitor the progress and development of key infrastructure projects, many of which have suffered delays,” he said Sunday.

In Davao del Norte, the IMAG will be headed by Jubahib along with different agencies of government, especially DPWH, the reli-

gious sector, the mayors of the towns where the project is located, and civic organizations as members.

“Institutionalized by the then Mindanao Economic and Development Council (MEDCO) in the mid-1990s, I previously chaired the IMAG for the whole of Mindanao when I was president of the Mindanao Governors and Mayor's league in 1998,” he added.

Piñol said the IMAG proved to be a “very effec-

ay wala na pong naitalang kaso for the last 90 days,” he said.

“So hindi lang po natin maibagay ngayon ‘yung eksaktong numero... pero ito po ay significant po ‘yung number nila at siguro po sa mga darating na panahon ay ibibigay po namin ‘yun sa inyo,” he added.

Morales said the government has distributed aid worth P1.3 billion to hog raisers to help them recover from ASF's impact.

“Sa ngayon po ang

na-release po ng government ay umaabot na po sa P1.3 billion. Ito po ay galing sa contingent fund ng presidente atsaka sa quick response fund ng Department of Agriculture,” he said.

Morales, however, said not everyone has received the aid.

“At gusto po nating humingi ng paumanhin sapagkat alam niyo naman po ‘yung ating mga kasamahan sa region ay meron naman tayong pinag iingatan.

‘Yun pong audit,” he said.

“Bina-validate ng mabuti ito. ‘Yung mga report na ito at nagkataon po, ang report po sa akin umabot po sa cutoff nung December ‘yung huling bayarin dapat, so napag sarahan ng libro,” he said.

The Philippines is already coordinating with the United States for the conduct of vaccine trials against the ASF. However, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the procurement of the anti-AST vaccine has been delayed.

tive mechanism” in giving stakeholders greater involvement in the monitoring of major infrastructure projects by conducting quarterly meetings where all members, especially the construction company, report on the progress of the project.

After the organization of the IMAG for Davao del Norte, MinDA will move to other provinces and convene the same monitoring body, especially in the Panguil Bay Bridge con-

struction, the Alicia-Olutanga Road in Zamboanga Sibugay, and other areas.

“When I was IMAG chairman, a local contractor who was always behind in project implementation was banned by the DPWH on the recommendation of the IMAG. With 14 months left in the presidency of Rody Duterte, MinDA is closely supervising the completion of major projects in Mindanao,” he added. (PNA)

Over 2K barangays reeling from Big-time oil price hike this week ASF effects, says task force

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total of 2,361 barangays in the country have been affected by the African swine fever, the director of the Task Force on Swine Diseases said.

Director Reildrin Morales said the presence of the ASF, which has been found in 12 regions in the country, led to the culling of over 442,000 hogs.

“Pero ang isa pong gusto kong idugtong dito ay marami na rin po ‘yung mga lugar na previously affected sa ASF na sa ating record

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ump prices of petroleum products are up for another round of increase in the coming week, Unioil Petroleum Philippines said.

In its fuel price forecast for February 23 to March 1, 2021 trading week, Unioil said the price per liter of diesel may increase by P1.00 to P1.10.

Gasoline prices, meanwhile, may hike by P1.10 to P1.20 per liter.

Oil companies usually announce price adjustment every Monday to be effective on the next day.

This week, fuel firms implemented price hikes effective Tuesday, February 16. Companies hiked gasoline prices at an average of P0.75 per liter and diesel by P1.25 per liter.

Data from the Department of Energy showed gasoline prices range between P38.85 and P50.70 per liter while diesel prices range from P31.30 to P38.80 per liter.

Year-to-date adjustments stand at a net increase of P4.00 per liter for gasoline and P3.90 per liter for diesel.

4 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

On chances that she might change her decision not to run for the presidency in the 2022 elections:

No, there is no chance.”

Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio

EDITORIAL A matter of life and death Today’s national debate is whether or not to ease the restrictions imposed by our government to check the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic now wrecking havoc all over the world.

The National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) which recommended the placing of the country under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) and like-minded Filipinos specially those in business and industry call it “reopening of the country’s economy.”

The 17 mayors of Metro Manila have agreed to the easing of the curbs but opted to allow only people aged 15 to 65 years to go out.

To Filipinos who worry about the dire consequences of relaxing the restrictions, this is a matter of life and death.

Some noted health experts cautioned against the

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

move calling it premature. This group would rather that the country wait for the much-ballyhooed anti Covid-19 vaccination campaign to start first, claiming that not a single health worker has been vaccinated yet.

Amid reports that rich countries are cornering the vaccine, there is no assurance how fast we could start inoculating a portion of our big population of more than 100 million.

Against this challenging backdrop of uncertainties, the decision to open the country’s economy belongs to President Rodrigo Duterte, who has to study very carefully the pros and cons of the issue.

Mr. Duterte is not known for dilly-dallying a crucial decision. By the time copies of this paper’s edition hit the streets, it is possible he has already given his marching orders.

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

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

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VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

EDGEDAVAO

Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod 19th City Council 40th Regular Session Series of 2020 PRESENT: Vice Mayor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor

Sebastian Z. Duterte

- Presiding Officer Ralph O. Abella Nilo D. Abellera Maria Belen S. Acosta Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique N. Advincula Wilberto E. Al-ag Dante L. Apostol Sr. Conrado C. Baluran Jessica M. Bonguyan Louie John J. Bonguyan Pilar C. Braga Augusto Javier G. Campos III Danilo C. Dayanghirang Jonard C. Dayap Edgar P. Ibuyan Jr. Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod Pamela A. Librado-Morata Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus Jaffar U. Marohomsalic Bonifacio E. Militar Myrna G. L’Dalodo-Ortiz Antoinette G. Principe-Castrodes J. Melchor B. Quitain Jr. Alberto T. Ungab Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte Jesus Joseph P. Zozobrado III ORDINANCE NO. 0400-20 Series of 2020

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER FIVE ARTICLE SIX, SECTION 310 OF ORDINANCE NO. 0291-17, SERIES OF 2017, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “THE 2017 REVENUE CODE OF DAVAO CITY” TO INCLUDE OTHER SIMILAR FACILITIES OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT OF DAVAO Be it ordained by the Honorable Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City, in session assembled, that: SECTION 1. TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER FIVE ARTICLE SIX, SECTION 310 OF ORDINANCE NO. 029117, SERIES OF 2017, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “THE 2017 REVENUE CODE OF DAVAO CITY” TO INCLUDE OTHER SIMILAR FACILITIES OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT OF DAVAO”.

SECTION 2. DECLARATION OF POLICY – Section 153 of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, provides that “Local government units may impose and collect such reasonable fees and charges for services rendered.

SECTION 3. AMENDMENT – Chapter Five, Article Six, Section 310 of Ordinance No. 0291-17, Series of 2017, shall be amended, to read as follows: FROM:

Article Six – City Hospital Services Fees

5

Thoracic – Lumbar (AP Lateral)

APL

Lumbo – Sacral (AP Lateral)

Extremities, Long Bones, AP Lateral Hand and Wrist - AP

P 700.00 P 300.00 P 170.00

4. Laboratory Examination Fees:

Blood Chemistry

Fasting Blood Sugar

Blood Urea Nitrogen

Cholesterol

Creatinine

Uric Acid

Complete blood count

Hemoglobin/Hemotocrit Determination

Bleeding/Clotting Time

P 75.00 P 115.00 P 110.00 P 90.00 P 110.00 P 40.00 P 30.00 P 60.00

TO: Article Six – Fees for Services at City Hospital and Other Similar Facilities of the City Government of Davao Section 310. Imposition of Service Fees at Davao Hospital and Other Similar Facilities of the City Government of Davao.- The following schedule of fees is hereby imposed for services rendered at the City Hospital and Other similar Facilities of the City Government of Davao:

Amount of Fee 1. Medical Fees

In Patient:

Ward Room P 450.00

Delivery Room

Normal Delivery (excluding medicine) P 5,000.00 Out-patient Service:

P.E. Consultation and Prescription

(excluding laboratory and other specific examination) *Free

Hypodermic, IM injection

(excluding medicine) P 50.00

Intravenous injection

(excluding medicine) P 50.00

General Surgical Dressing P 50.00

Suturing of Wound P 50.00 2. Dental Services:

Extraction per tooth

(including anesthesia) P 80.00

Temporary filling per surface P 50.00

Permanent filling per surface P 50.00

Silicate cement P 50.00

Composite filling P 50.00

Prophylaxis P 50.00 3. X-ray Examination Fees

Chest X-ray (PA)

AP Thoracic – Lumbar (AP Lateral)

APL

Lumbo – Sacral (AP Lateral)

Extremities, Long Bones, AP Lateral

Hand and Wrist - AP 4. Laboratory Examination Fees:

Blood Chemistry

Fasting Blood Sugar

Blood Urea Nitrogen

Cholesterol

Creatinine

Uric Acid

Complete blood count

Hemoglobin/Hemotocrit Determination

Bleeding/Clotting Time

P 150.00 P 700.00 P 300.00 P 170.00

P 75.00 P 115.00 P 110.00 P 90.00 P 110.00 P 40.00 P 30.00 P 60.00

Section 310. Imposition of City Hospital Service Fees.- The following schedule of fees is hereby imposed for services of facilities rendered by the City Hospital:

Amount of Fee 1. Medical Fees

In Patient: SECTION 4. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE – If, for any reason, any section or

Ward Room P 450.00 provision of this Ordinance is declared unconstitutional or invalid, other sections Delivery Room or provisions hereof not affected by such declaration shall continue to be in full

Normal Delivery (excluding medicine) P 5,000.00 force and effect.

Out-patient Service:

P.E. Consultation and Prescription SECTION 5. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon

(excluding laboratory and other specific examination) approval. *Free

Hypodermic, IM injection ENACTED, on the 10th day of November 2020, by a unanimous vote of all the

(excluding medicine) P 50.00 Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum.

Intravenous injection

(excluding medicine) P 50.00

General Surgical Dressing P 50.00 ATTESTED: CERTIFIED CORRECT:

Suturing of Wound P 50.00 2. Dental Services: For in the absence of the Secretary: SEBASTIAN Z. DUTERTE

Extraction per tooth Vice Mayor

(including anesthesia) P 80.00 Presiding Officer MA. THERESA A. REYES

Temporary filling per surface P 50.00 cns/bern Acting Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod

Permanent filling per surface P 50.00 (Local Legislative IV) DEC 23 Staff Officer APPROVED : ________________, 2020

Silicate cement P 50.00 ATTESTED:

Composite filling P 50.00

Prophylaxis P 50.00 3. X-ray Examination Fees

Chest X-ray (PA)

AP P 150.00

6

EDGEDAVAO Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod

19th City Council 42nd Regular Session Series of 2020 PRESENT:

Councilor Vice Mayor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor

Edgar P. Ibuyan Jr. - Temporary Presiding Officer Sebastian Z. Duterte Ralph O. Abella Nilo D. Abellera Maria Belen S. Acosta Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique N. Advincula Wilberto E. Al-ag Dante L. Apostol Sr. Conrado C. Baluran Jessica M. Bonguyan Louie John J. Bonguyan Pilar C. Braga Augusto Javier G. Campos III Danilo C. Dayanghirang Jonard C. Dayap Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod Pamela A. Librado-Morata Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus Jaffar U. Marohomsalic Bonifacio E. Militar Myrna G. L’Dalodo-Ortiz Antoinette G. Principe-Castrodes J. Melchor B. Quitain Jr. Alberto T. Ungab Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte Jesus Joseph P. Zozobrado III ORDINANCE NO. 0420-20 Series of 2020

AN ORDINANCE MANDATING THE STRICT IMPLEMENTATION OF SOCIAL OR PHYSICAL DISTANCING OF PEOPLE AND OTHER RELEVANT MEASURES TO CURB THE SPREAD OF COVID – 19 DISEASE IN THE CITY OF DAVAO, PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION THEREOF AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES Be it ordained by the Honorable Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City, in session assembled, that: SECTION 1. TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “Davao City Minimum Health Protocols for COVID-19 Ordinance.”.

SECTION 2. DEFINITION OF TERMS a. Confirmed Case – A person may be considered a “confirmed case” of COVID –19 only if he/she was tested at a national or subnational reference laboratory, or at a DOH – certified laboratory testing facility.

This is regardless of whether the person shows clinical signs and symptoms of COVID – 19. b. Community Quarantine – a measure taken to mitigate the spread of disease from one community to the other. c. Frontliners– include officers and members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), including barangay officials and members of tanod and other offices, agencies and instrumentalities of the government rendering emergency frontline services, border control and other critical services. d. Isolation – refers to the separation of a person or people known or reasonably believed to be infected or contagious from those who are not infected in order to prevent the spread of the disease. Isolation may be voluntary, or compelled by government or public health authorities. e. Other Frontliners – shall include service workers in private establishments providing basic necessities and such activities related to food and medicine production such as public markets, supermarkets, groceries, convenience stores, hospitals, medical clinics, pharmacies and drug stores, food preparation and delivery services, water refilling stations, manufacturing and processing plants of basic food products and medicines, banks, money transfer services, power, energy, water and telecommunication supplies and other facilities. f. Probable Case – a “probable case” of COVID – 19 is: 1. A suspect case who has been tested for COVID – 19 but the results are inconclusive.

2. A suspect case who has tested positive for COVID – 19 but the test was not conducted in a national or subnational coronavirus reference laboratory, or an officially accredited laboratory for confirmatory testing. g. Quarantine – refers to the separation of a person or people known or reasonably believed to have been exposed to a communicable disease but not yet symptomatic from others who have not been so exposed in order to prevent the possible spread of the disease. h. Social Distancing – is a set of non–pharmaceutical interventions (NPI) or measures taken to prevent the spread of a contagious disease by maintaining a physical distance between people and reducing the number of times people come into close contact with each other— with the recommended distance being one (1) to two (2) meters. i. Suspect Case – the following may be considered a “suspect case” of COVID – 19:

VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

1. A person with severe acute respiratory illness – fever 38°C or higher, and cough or sore throat, shortness of breath, and may even include severe pneumonia – whose cause is undetermined prior or testing for coronavirus.

2. A person with influenza – like illness – fever of 38°C or higher, and cough or sore throat – and who lives in or has traveled to an area that reported local transmission of the coronavirus during the 14 days prior to the onset of symptoms.

3. A person with influenza – like illness and has had contact with a confirmed or probable case (see definition of “probable case”) of COVID – 19 in two days prior to the onset of that confirmed/ probable case’s illness or before that confirmed/probable case showed negative on repeat testing.

4. A person with fever or cough or shortness of breath or other respiratory symptoms and is one of the following: 60 years old or older; with a comorbidity or pre – existing illness; in high-risk pregnancy; a health worker.

SECTION 3. SOCIAL DISTANCING IN THE FOLLOWING PLACES – Social distancing of at least one (1) meter (3 feet) radius from one person to another shall be strictly observed in the following places: a. Inside and outside of the business establishments, markets, pharmacies, banks, remittance centers, medical and quarantine facilities, private and government offices and other institutions authorized or allowed to operate under Community Quarantine. b. Entry/exit points, checkpoints, roads or alleys in the Barangays, subdivisions or villages.

SECTION 4. PERSONS RESPONSIBLE – The owner, president, general manager, or such other officer – in – charge of the areas mentioned in Section 3 shall designate adequate security or frontline personnel to ensure the proper observance of social distancing of people within their premises. The Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams shall take the lead in enforcing minimum health protocols in the Barangays. They shall be responsible in inspecting establishments for proper compliance, disseminating information on minimum health protocols, and implement the aims of this Ordinance in their areas of concern.

SECTION 5. SOCIAL DISTANCING MEASURES AND COMMUNITY QUARANTINE GUIDELINES a. Classes – Classes and all school activities in all levels in the City shall remain suspended until lifted by proper authorities. The City Government shall ensure that students remain in their homes during the class suspension. b. Mass gatherings – Mass gatherings such as movie screenings, concerts, sporting events and other leisure/entertainment activities, community assemblies, including religious activities and nonessential work related gatherings are generally prohibited, except when expressly allowed by proper authority. Essential work related activities may continue as long as strict social distancing, defined as the strict maintenance of a distance of at least one (1) meter radius between and among those present, is maintained during the entire activity. c. Community Quarantine – The City Government shall abide by the directives of the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in the imposition of Community Quarantine in their respective jurisdictions. Subject to qualifications that the Inter Agency Task Force (IATF) may further provide, all areas under Community Quarantine shall implement the following 1. Restrict the non–essential entry of people to the subject area, especially persons who are susceptible to infection (those 60 years old and above, immunocompromised or with co-morbidities, and pregnant women), except the following: a) health workers/ frontliners, b) authorized government officials, c) those travelling for medical or humanitarian reasons, d.) persons providing basic services and public utilities, and e.) essential workforce in the City Government; and 2. Restrict the non–essential exit of people out of the subject area, except: a) Health workers/frontliners b) authorized government officials and those travelling for medical or humanitarian reasons, c) persons allowed by proper authorities. d. Work arrangements – Alternative working arrangements, including but not limited to, work – from – home, and creation of skeleton workforce, may be implemented in the City. Flexible work arrangements are also encouraged in the private sector. For this purpose, the pertinent advisories of the Department of Labor and Employment, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the IATF shall apply. e. Establishments – all manufacturing, retail and service establishments authorized or allowed to operate shall remain open, but strict social distancing measures are required to be observed within their premises. Establishments catering to many customers should provide a sheltered waiting area where social distancing rules also apply. Such establishments are also encouraged to create a system to streamline transactions, e.g. appointment system, contactless/ cashless payment, and the like. All establishments are further required to strictly enforce minimum health protocols within their areas, and may deny entry or report to the Davao City Police Office, those persons not following social distancing and minimum health standards. f. Travel – with respect to travel restrictions to and from the City, all authorized workers, whether employed or self–employed, under the Community Quarantine will be allowed to travel. For this purpose, proof of employment and/or business must be presented at border checkpoint. g. Delivery of foods, medicines, and other essentials -the delivery of foods, medicines, and other essentials shall be unhampered, subject to applicable quarantine measures and curfew protocols. h. Mass Transportation – the operation of mass public transportation and public utility vehicles in the City shall be subject to the applicable

VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

operating capacity and protocol as provided by law. The placement of fixed plastic barriers between passengers shall be mandatory in all vehicles used for public transportation. These barriers should be installed in a manner that they effect minimum inconvenience to passengers, and should be rigid enough to not wiggle or flutter as the vehicle moves. Full disinfection of such vehicles, especially those areas accessible by passengers, should be done at least twice a day. i. Private Transportation – Social distancing, wearing of face masks and minimum health protocols shall be observed in all private vehicles at all times, even if operated with only a driver and without passengers. j. Motorcycles – motorcycle riders shall be required to wear fullface helmets at all times when riding a motorcycle. Subject to the requirements and specifications of the IATF in case of motorcycles with a back-rider, a fixed barrier should be placed between the driver and passenger.

SECTION 6. DESIGNATION OF FLOOR OR PAVEMENT MARKINGS – All business establishments, markets, pharmacies, banks remittance centers, medical and quarantine facilities, public and private offices and other institutions located in the City that are authorized to operate under any form of Community Quarantine (CQ) should designate floor or pavement markings within their premises of at least one meter (six feet) distance from one person to another to maintain the required social or physical distancing.

SECTION 7. PENALTY – Any establishment or juridical entity found in violation of any of the social distancing measures under this Ordinance shall be penalized in this manner: 1st offense - administrative fine of Five Thousand Pesos (Php 5,000.00) 2nd offense - administrative fine of Five Thousand Pesos (Php 5,000.00) and one (1) month suspension of business permit; 3rd offense - administrative fine of Five Thousand Pesos (Php 5,000.00) and three (3) month suspension of business permit; 4th offense - administrative fine of Five Thousand Pesos (Php 5,000.00) and six (6) months suspension of business permit; 5th offense - administrative fine of Five Thousand Pesos (Php 5,000.00) and one (1) year suspension of business permit.

If committed by an establishment or juridical entity, the owner, president, general manager or officer-in-charge of such establishment shall be held liable.

If the offender is a public officer or employee, an administrative case may also be filed against him/her pursuant to the Local Government Code of 1991 or the Civil Service Laws, rules and regulations, as the case may be.

In case of natural persons found in violation of Section 3 and Section 5 of this Ordinance, a penalty of community service shall be imposed.

All fines collected will be divided in this manner: 60% to barangay making the citation, and 40% to the City Government.

SECTION 8. ORDINANCE VIOLATION RECEIPT/CITATION TICKET – An ORDINANCE VIOLATION RECEIPT, otherwise known as CITATION TICKET, shall be issued to violators of this Ordinance. The citation ticket shall state the name and address of the violator, the specific violation committed, and the provisions of the succeeding section, “No Contest Provision.” If the violation concerns a business establishment or a juridical entity, its owner, president, general manager, or officer-in-charge thereof shall be cited in the ticket.

SECTION 9. NO CONTEST PROVISION – Any person cited for violation of this Ordinance who does not wish to contest the same and is willing to pay voluntarily within five (5) days the fine imposed or to voluntarily render community service under this Ordinance prior to the filing of a complaint before the Office of the City Prosecutor shall be allowed to do so, and shall pay the corresponding administrative fine as cited in Section 7 at the Office of the City Treasurer. Availment of the No Contest Provision shall exempt a person from criminal liability under this Ordinance.

The City Legal Office and the City Treasurer’s Office shall provide for the procedure for the availment of the “No Contest Provision” and establish a case inventory and recording system of all violators of this Ordinance.

SECTION 10. INFORMATION DISSEMINATION – Proper information dissemination of this Ordinance, social distancing measures and minimum health protocols shall be performed in all establishments, offices, vehicles and other areas frequented by people.

SECTION 11. IMPLEMENTING OFFICES – The members of the Davao City Police Office, Task Force Davao, Davao City Public Safety and Security Command Center, Davao City Transport and Traffic Management Office, City Health Office, Barangay and SK Officials including members of Tanod, Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams, and other City Officials to be determined by the City Mayor.

SECTION 12. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE – If, for any reason, any section or provision of this Ordinance is declared unconstitutional or invalid by a competent court, the remaining sections or provisions not affected thereby shall continue to be in full force and effect.

SECTION 13. REPEALING CLAUSE – All ordinances, resolutions, rules or regulations which are inconsistent with or contrary to the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly.

SECTION 14. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after publication, and shall remain in full force and effect until the declaration of the existence of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern is retracted by the World Health Organization, or when the State of Public Health Emergency due to COVID-19 in the country is lifted.

ENACTED, on the 24th day of November 2020, by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum.

ATTESTED:

EDGAR P. IBUYAN JR. President Pro Tempore Temporary Presiding Officer cns/kjtq

ATTESTED:

7

EDGEDAVAO Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod 19th City Council 5th Special Session Series of 2020 PRESENT: Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor ABSENT: Vice Mayor Councilor

Edgar P. Ibuyan Jr. - Temporary Presiding Officer Ralph O. Abella Nilo D. Abellera Maria Belen S. Acosta Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique N. Advincula Wilberto E. Al-ag Dante L. Apostol Sr. Conrado C. Baluran Jessica M. Bonguyan Louie John J. Bonguyan Pilar C. Braga Augusto Javier G. Campos III Danilo C. Dayanghirang Jonard C. Dayap Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod Pamela A. Librado-Morata Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus Jaffar U. Marohomsalic Myrna G. L’Dalodo-Ortiz Antoinette G. Principe-Castrodes J. Melchor B. Quitain Jr. Alberto T. Ungab Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte Jesus Joseph P. Zozobrado III Sebastian Z. Duterte Bonifacio E. Militar

ORDINANCE NO. 0417-20 Series of 2020 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 0307-20, SERIES OF 2020, ENTITLED “AN ORDINANCE REQUIRING THE MANDATORY WEARING OF FACE MASKS AT ALL TIMES IN PUBLIC PLACES DURING THE COMMUNITY QUARANTINE AND/OR UNTIL AFTER THE STATE OF PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY IS LIFTED” Be it ordained by the Honorable Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City, in session assembled, that: SECTION 1. TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 0307-20, SERIES OF 2020, ENTITLED “AN ORDINANCE REQUIRING THE MANDATORY WEARING OF FACE MASKS AT ALL TIMES IN PUBLIC PLACES DURING THE COMMUNITY QUARANTINE AND/OR UNTIL AFTER THE STATE OF PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY IS LIFTED”.

SECTION 2. AMENDMENT – There shall be an amendment to Ordinance No. 0307-20, Series of 2020, to wit: FROM: SECTION 6. NO CONTEST PROVISION - A person liable or violator of this Ordinance who is apprehended or cited for violation and who does not wish to contest the violation and is willing to pay voluntarily the administrative penalty imposed upon him/her prior to the filing of formal charges with the proper court shall be allowed to pay a penalty of Five Hundred Pesos (P500.00) with the City Treasurer’s Office to avoid being criminally prosecuted within three (3) days from apprehension. Otherwise, the case shall be prosecuted in court. The no contest provision can only be availed once. All proceeds from the payment of the herein penalty imposed shall accrue to the City’s General Fund.

TO: SECTION 6. NO CONTEST PROVISION - A person liable or violator of this Ordinance who is apprehended or cited for violation and who does not wish to contest the violation and is willing to pay voluntarily the administrative penalty imposed upon him/her prior to the filing of formal charges with the proper court shall be allowed to pay a penalty of Five Hundred Pesos (P500.00) with the City Treasurer’s Office to avoid being criminally prosecuted within three (3) days from apprehension. Otherwise, the case shall be prosecuted in court. The no contest provision can only be availed once.

All proceeds from the payment of the herein imposed penalty shall be apportioned as follows: 1. Sixty percent (60%) of the penalty collected per apprehension shall accrue to the apprehending barangay; and, 2. Forty percent (40%) shall accrue to the General Fund of the City.

The share of the barangay shall be remitted directly to the barangay, without need of any further action, on a monthly basis within ten (10) days of the following month. Said amount shall be utilized for COVID-19 response and for other matters incidental thereto.

SECTION 3. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE – If, for any reason, any section or provision of this Ordinance is declared unconstitutional or invalid, other sections or provisions hereof not affected by such declaration shall continue to be in full force and effect.

SECTION 4. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon approval.

ENACTED, on the 19th day of November 2020, by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum.

CERTIFIED CORRECT:

CERTIFIED CORRECT: For in the absence of the Secretary: MA. THERESA A. REYES Acting Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (Local Legislative Staff Officer IV)

APPROVED : ________________, 2020

- On Official Business - On Sick Leave

ATTESTED:

For in the absence of the Secretary:

EDGAR P. IBUYAN JR. President Pro Tempore Temporary Presiding Officer cns/bern

ATTESTED:

DEC 28 APPROVED : ________________, 2020

B1 ENVIRONMENT EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

Although in peril, Lake Lanao still pristine

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

W

ith a surface area of 340 square kilometers (its maximum length is 33 kilometers and its maximum width is 22 kilometers), Lake Lanao is the largest lake in Mindanao. It comes second to Laguna Lake (surface area of 911.7 square kilometers) as the country’s largest lake.

Interestingly, Lake Lanao – located in Lanao del Sur – is one of the world’s 17 ancient lakes. Scientists believe the lake is about 10 million years old. As such, scholars have been pushing for the lake’s inclusion in the World Heritage List of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

“The lake was formed by the tectonic-volcanic damming of a basin between two mountain ranges and the collapse of a large volcano,” Wikipedia states.

“It has a maximum depth of 122 meters (400 feet) and a mean depth of 60.3 meters (198 feet). The basin is shallowest towards the north and gets progressively deeper towards the south.”

Four rivers feed the lake. “Its only outlet is the Agus River, which flows northwest into Iligan Bay via two channels, one over the Maria Cristina Falls and the other over the Tinago Falls,” Wikipedia notes. “A hydroelectric plant installed on the Lanao Lake and Agus River system generates 70% of the electricity used by the people of Mindanao.”

Lake Lanao is home to the Meranaw tribe. The name Meranaw was derived from the name of the lake and it means “the people living around the lake.” It is also the spoken or language of the Maranao people.

Despite the growing population near the lake’s vicinity, the water remains clean, a recent study shows.

“Our Lake Lanao, from all sampling sites, is still pristine; our water is still clean,” said Dr. Fema M. Abamo, a professor of Mindanao State University in Marawi City.

She said those words during her webinar presentation for the regional basic research caravan for Bicol. The caravan was initiated by the Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines (DOSTNRCP).

The water quality of Lake Lanao in five sampling was monitored for two years by using the abundance of one-celled protozoan ciliates as bio-indicators of organic pollution. The sampling sites were located in Marawi City, Ramain, Balindong, Taraka, and Binidayan.

The highest ciliate abundance was observed in the littoral zone of Balindong at 0.0061cells/mL during the dry season. A previous study done in 1989 categorized lakes as ultra-oligo-

trophic when their ciliate abundance is equal to or lower than 2.4cells/mL. Ciliates are single-celled organisms that, at some stage in their life cycle, possess cilia, short hair-like organelles used for locomotion and food gathering.

Most ciliates are free-living forms.

The findings of the recent study placed Lake Lanao in the ultra-oligotrophic category as its ciliate abundance was below the set range in all sampling sites. “Such lake category has very low nutrients, scarce growth of plants and algae, and high dissolved oxygen indicative of a clean, healthy, good water quality and not organically polluted lake,” reported Geraldine Bulaon-Ducusin of S&T Media Service.

Organic pollution occurs when large quantities of organic compounds are released into aquatic ecosystems. Sources of pollution

“Decomposition of these organic materials uses up high amounts of oxygen, thus depriving the fish population of needed oxygen that causes fish kills in the lake,” Bulaon-Ducusin wrote. “These decaying organic compounds serve as substrates for the microorganisms, increasing the bacterial population which in turn supports the abundant growth of ciliates.”

It must be recalled that in June 2018, 11 towns in Lanao del Sur were affected by fish kill in the lake area.

Among the causes cited was “depletion of oxygen due to changes in water temperature.”

Ciliate abundance in the lake varied as the season changed, that is, lower in the non-mixing season and higher in the dry season indicative of nutrient and organic load fluctuations in the lake as the season changed.

According to Bulaon-Du-

usually come in the form of wastes generated by farmers and those engaged in agricultural production, residents living the area, and industries.

When high levels of inorganic nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus are present in water, the plants and algae may overgrow.

When these overgrown plants and algae die, they become organic materials in the water.

cusin, water samples for the study were obtained from 50-100 meters away from the lakeshore in the shallower littoral zone and towards the deeper open water in the pelagic zone.

The results of the study were corroborated by the findings of another group in the same program conducting the physical and chemical characterization of the lake. They found that the lake is not polluted but

still healthy and has good water quality.

The study, funded by the DOST-NRCP, was conducted during a three-year period, but was temporarily suspended when the fivemonth-long armed conflict in Marawi happened. It was allowed to resume only after the Marawi siege.

“The lake was reportedly deteriorating due to increased human population and activities around the lake,” Dr. Abamo said, explaining why there’s a need to conserve the lake’s good condition, especially now that the people have resettled back near the lake after the Marawi siege.

The researchers suggested to the local government to strengthen their policies to maintain the healthy condition of the lake.

“We have recommended to the local government to create and implement stricter policies and ordinances to conserve the lake and regulate and check both the residential and business establishments around the lake,” Dr. Abamo said.

In 1965, Lake Lanao was renamed

by Republic Act No. 4260 then repealed by Republic Act No. 6434 in 1972. In 1992, it was proclaimed as a watershed reservation through Presidential Proclamation 971 to ensure protection of forest cover and water yield for hydropower, irrigation and domestic use.

The lake is home to 18 endemic cyprinids (freshwater fishes related to the carps and minnows).

Unfortunately, 15 of them are now extinct in the wild and two more species could also be possibly extinct, the latest International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threat-

ened Species showed.

The extinct species are Barbodes amarus, B. baoulan, B. clemensi, B. disa, B. flavifuscus, B. herrel, B. katolo, B. lanaoensis, B. manalak, B. pachyceilus, B. palaemophagus, B. palata, B. resimus, B. tras, and B. truncatalus.

B. lindog and B. sirang are considered “possibly extinct” or “critically endangered.” A confirmation like thorough more extensive surveys is needed, IUCN said, to determine if they are “in all probability already extinct.”

Several reasons were cited why these fish species became extinct. Among those mentioned were overfishing and pollution.

Another possible cause: the introduction of 12 different non-native fish species.

The lake also supports a large number of waterfowls. Six bird species can be found in the watersheds surrounding the lake, including white-collared kingfisher, slender bird crow and cattle egret.

Lake Lanao is also facing other environmental problems. In October 2006, a study done by the Mindanao State University discovered massive algae contamination in the lake. Initially, poor sewage and agricultural waste management were seen as the culprits.

But the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), a line agency of the Department of Agriculture, saw otherwise.

It stated that soil erosion from indiscriminate logging and extensive land use and farming were the problems that caused the algae contamination.

“For generations, Lanao Lake has been a potent natural resource that breathes life to the Maranaws, as a source of their food and water, livelihood, religious practices, transportation and sports,” Bulaon-Ducusin wrote.

“But more than anything, the lake has shaped the Maranaw culture and tradition to what it is now and it has become imperative for the Maranaws to preserve its pristine beauty for a better and sustainable future,” she concluded. – (Photos were lifted from the zoon presentation)

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 264 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

B2

Novak Djokovic secured his 18th Grand Slam title after winning the Australian Open on Sunday.

Djokovic’s target: overtake 20 grand slams

N

ovak Djokovic has said he will make overhauling Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s record of 20 grand slam singles titles his priority after he was crowned Australian Open champion for a ninth time.

The 33-year-old, who revealed he had suffered an abdominal tear of the oblique in his third round victory over Taylor Fritz, saw off Russian Daniil Medvedev in straight sets

in Melbourne to secure his 18th grand slam in total. His victory also confirmed that Djokovic will celebrate his 311th week as world No1 next month, finally surpassing Roger

Giannis, Middleton combine for 70 pts

M

ILWAUKEE — Giannis Antetokounmpo had 38 points and Khris Middleton scored 32 to lead the Milwaukee Bucks past the skidding Sacramento Kings, 128-115, on Sunday night (Monday, Manila time).

The Bucks won their second straight after ending a five-game losing streak with a victory over Oklahoma City on Friday night.

Antetokounmpo added 18 rebounds, one off his season high, as the Bucks sent the Kings to their seventh consecutive loss. Milwaukee has won nine in a row against Sacramento.

The Bucks led 28-25 after one quarter but poured it on in the second, leading

by as many as 17.

Milwaukee began to take control midway through the period when Jabari Parker appeared to draw a charge on Antetokounmpo as the two-time reigning MVP sank a short jumper. Milwaukee coach Mike Budenholzer challenged the call, which was reversed, resulting in a blocking call against Parker.

Antetokounmpo made the foul shot to complete the three-point play.

The Kings rallied to cut the lead to eight with just under two minutes left in the half before the Bucks scored six straight to put the finishing touches on a 42-point quarter.

Milwaukee scored the

Federer’s all-time record, although the Serbian admitted his main target will now be competing for more slam titles.

“I don’t feel like I’m old or tired or anything like that,” said Djokovic.

“But I know that biologically and realistically things are different than they were 10 years ago for me. I have to be smarter with my schedule and peak at the right time. So the slams are the tournaments where I want to be able to perform my best.

He added: “Now, after achieving the historic No 1 for the longest weeks at No 1, it’s going to be a relief for me because I’m

going to focus all my attention on slams mostly.

When you are going for No 1 rankings, you kind of have to be playing the entire season and you have to be playing well, you have to play all the tournaments. My goals will adapt and will shift a little bit, which means that I will have an opportunity to adjust also my calendar which, as a father and a husband, I’m really looking forward to that.”

When asked how he would describe himself and his two rivals, Djokovic jokingly opted for “Three Knights of Tennis”. He then pointed

out the motivating force that Nadal and Federer provide him.

“Roger and Rafa inspire me. That’s something that I’ve said before. I’ll say it again. I mean, I think as long as they go, I’ll go,” he said, smiling. “I think in a way it’s, like, a race who plays tennis more, I guess, and who wins more. It’s a competition between us in all areas. But I think that’s the very reason why we are who we are, because we do drive each other, we motivate each other, we push each other to the limit.”

Goran Ivanisevic remains Djokovic’s coach

but the 2001 Wimbledon champion paid tribute to a rivalry that has amassed a combined 58 grand slam titles. .

“It’s amazing what they are doing on the court,” he said. “It’s amazing how they perform in big matches. I’m waiting for Roger to come back. It’s going to be more interesting to see what’s going to happen in French and Wimbledon. It’s just great.

“The race is there.

Who knows. I said a couple years ago Rafa and Novak, they were going to overtake Roger, both of them. I still believe that. I still think so.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo had 38 points and Khris Middleton scored 32 to lead the Milwaukee Bucks past the skidding Sacramento Kings, 128-115. first eight points of the third quarter to build a 22-point lead and held a 99-82 mar-

gin heading to the fourth.

Sacramento pulled within 12 early in the fourth but

the Bucks remained in command throughout the quarter.

Tyrese Haliburton paced the Kings with 23 points.

DaQuan Jeffries added 18.

8 SPORTS

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WORLD CHAMP

Vic Saludar wins another world title

V

ic Saludar became the new World Boxing Association minimumweight champion after beating fellow fighter from Mindanao Robert Paradero in a historic championship bout at the Biñan Football Stadium on Saturday.

In the first world title fight held in the Philippines amid the coronavirus disease 19 pandemic, Saludar, the former World Boxing Organization champion, did just enough especially in the endgame to edge the erstwhile unbeaten Paradero in their all-Filipino showdown via split decision.

Saludar, a native of Cagayan de Oro City, showed his veteran smarts early on by connect ing on good shots especially counter

punches on Paradero during the first two rounds.

Paradero of Va lencia City, Bukid non began pouring it on in the next two rounds, delivering solid body shots to Saludar.

Saludar somehow recovered in fifth and sixth rounds, but Paradero showcased an improved strategy in the next four rounds, even dominating Round 9.

That turned out to be Paradero's last hurrah as Salu dar finally frust rat -

ed him with his left jabs as well as an improved focus.

Despite what looked like a close fight , Alfie Jocosol appeared to be too impressed with Paradero's performance that he gave him a 118-110 scoreline, but Aq uil Tamano had it 115-113 and Danrex Tapdasan tallied 116-112 both in favor of Saludar.

Saludar moved up to 21-4, while Paradero fell for the first time after an 18-0 start . (PNA)

WBA minimumweight champion Vic Saludar in file photo.