Edge Davao Volume 14 Issue 3 |Wednesday, March 17, 2021

DREAMY SOPHISTICATIONS: A DEBUT FASHION EXHIBIT INDULGE P10

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

LOOSENING UP?

VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

f

@EdgeDavao

www.edgedavao.net

edgedavao@gmail.com

Sara suspends FM Pass, other documents STORY ON PAGE 2

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte presides over a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members prior to his talk to the people at the Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on Monday evening. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

P 15.00 • 12 PAGES

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

Funding needed for dog rehab center in Davao

A

Airport personnel load boxes containing AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccines on a refrigerated van at the Davao International Airport on March 10, 2021.

National COVID-19 task force chief implementer Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr. has

disclosed that the country is set to receive around 2.3 million additional COVID-19 vaccine doses this month or early April. Edge Davao

nimal conservation group Bantay Hayop Davao (BHD) is looking for donors to help fund for the construction of a BHD Animal Rehabilitation Center that is expected to address stray problems and help strengthen responsible pet ownership campaign in Davao City.

“We don’t have funds so we are inviting people to also help out for the animals. Para matabangan ang mga dogs na na-impound and naa pa sila’y chances to be rehomed rather than euthanized,” said Rovie Bullina, president of BHD. Bullina said the group is looking at Barangay Angalan in Tugbok, Davao City to locate the center.

“We still do not know when we can have the construction, since this is going to be quite financially demanding. We are hoping for people, the businesses, private companies and individuals to come forward and help us build it. We accept donations, anything that can help build the rehabilitation center and instill the system,” she said.

BHD has been campaigning for responsible pet ownership as this would help address stray problem in Davao City.

“With the growing number of strays and the demand for rehab and rehoming, there is an imbalance. There is an overwhelming number of irresponsible pet

embers of Parliament of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) have filed a Freedom of Information (FOI) bill, which once enacted shall be known as the “Bangsamoro Freedom of Information Act of 2021.”

BTA Bill 83 contains provisions similar to the proposed FOI Act (House Bill 05776) pending in Congress.

It is an effort of the Bangsamoro government to harmonize with President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order on FOI and Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim’s call for moral governance and to provide a local mechanism that upholds people’s right to information.

By adopting a policy of transparency, the Bangsamoro government foresees increased public

trust and empowerment of the Bangsamoro.

The bill directs all offices in the Bangsamoro government to make accessible to the public all official and public records and information unless otherwise stated in the exceptions and by present laws and jurisprudence.

Consequently, the Bangsamoro Information and Communications Technology Office (BICTO) shall establish an online FOI portal so people may conveniently and efficiently access government information.

BICTO will also be designated to monitor the websites of offices and provide them with capacity-building programs to make sure they comply with the policy’s requirements.

LOOSENING UP? M

FFUNDING, P8

BARRM government readies policy on FOI

Sara suspends FM Pass, other documents

By MAYA M. PADILLO ayor Sara Duterte-Carpio has suspended the use of the Food and Medicine (FM) Pass and other documents for travel or movement in Davao City indicating relaxed Covid-19 restrictions.

M

Through a more relaxed Executive Order No. 12 Series of 2021 or an order providing for updated Covid-19 protocols in Davao City released on Monday, it states that the Safe Davao QR (DQR) shall now be the only document that will be used to access goods and essential services.

The city government of Davao re-implemented the FM Pass in November

last year for accessing essential goods and travels after it was suspended for a while. In January this year, the city has implemented a new FM pass to all 182 barangays in Davao City.

The use of new FM pass was imposed as many residents lost their old FM pass.

Apart from the FM pass, EO No. 12 also relaxed other regulations,

for essential meetings and social events, Section 8 states that the Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2021001 of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is hereby adopted. The same JMC shall be used as a guide to the establishments not accredited by the DOT but are issued Tourism Certificates by the City Tourism Operations Office.

Except those who are required by laws and ordinances to get a permit and pay a fee, there is no need to seek permission from the City Mayor’s Of-

fice for the conduct of the events that are already clearly laid out in the DOT-DTI JMC 2021-001.

For purposes of inspection to the compliance of the MPHS of social events under the DOT-DTI JMC, an acknowledgment should be secured online from City Tourism Operations Office.

The said EO allows a gathering of more than 25 individuals for a single event or activity in all public places is considered a mass gathering and shall not be allowed except those covered by Section 8 hereof.

kay taga-Davao City mi,” said Barangay Captain Mark Galvez of Barangay Cabantian.

After the successful caravan held last month, the group will hold a second “Run Sara Run Para sa Bayan” caravan on March 17, 2021, that will be joined by more than 30 persons composed of barangay officials, representatives from the business sector, and deputy mayors from Davao City.

The caravan will kick off with a mass at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Bo. Obrero. From Davao City, the group will have stopovers at Tandag in Surigao del Sur, Butuan City, Sorsogon City, and Samar in Eastern Visayas.

“Gusto namo mahimamat ang mga tao gikan

sa farmers hangtod sa officials ug kung unsa ang rason sa among lakaw.

Amo isaysay kung kinsa si Mayor Inday Sara ug unsa iyang nahimo sa Davao City,” said Brgy.

Capt. Wating Usman of Brgy. 23-C in a press conference.

Usman, who is also the organizer of the caravan, said they will promote Mayor Sara and her accomplishments to get supports from other people.

“Among ipaabot sa mga tao nga ang gibuhat sa mga Duterte dinhi sa Pilipinas labi na sa mga kabus. Labi na how she transformed Paquibato District from NPA infested district. Mao ni amo i-promote.

I-promote namo siya sa grass roots.

Abogado si mam Inday kaya niya i-manage ang tibuok pilipinas,” Usman said.

Usman said the caravan will join in a “Run Sara Run” rally in Manila on March 31, 2021.

He said it is also the goal of the group to bring the caravan in Bulacan, Batangas, and Mindoro.

“Magtinabangay ta nga i-encourage si Mayor Inday nga mudagan sya,” he said.

Meanwhile, Galvez assured that delivery of services to their respective constituencies will continue despite the active participation of the barangay captains in the caravan.

On his part, he said his subordinates should

FLOOSENING, P8

Village chieftains vow to convince Sara to run

D

espite Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio’s pronouncements that she will not run as president this coming 2022 election, a group of barangay captains in Davao Cityvowed not to stop conducting caravans from Davao City to Manila to gather more supporters that will help them in convincing the mayor to run.

“Ang objective ani is to gather leaders and supporters to help us convince Mayor Inday to run. We believe that with people's initiative dili na makabalibad si Mayor Sara na mudagan.

Iikutin namin amg buong Pilipinas. Daghan nag-invite sa amoa as speakers.

Mas katuohan kung kami mu-storya sa mga tao

FVILLAGE, P8

Barangay 23-C chieftain Wating Usman shares the itinerary of his group’s second ‘Run Sara Run’ caravan that will kick off on Wednesday during a news conference in Davao City on Monday

FBARMM, P8

afternoon. The caravan aims to convince Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio to seek the presidency in the upcoming 2022 Presidential election. Maya Padillo

VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

EDGEDAVAO

3

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

Anflo Industrial Estate: The Philippines’ Premier Agro-Industrial Hub

S

everal industries are expecting a rebound this 2021 while the industrial sector posed as the most stable asset in 2020.

Real estate consultancy firm Cushman and Wakefield Philippines reports that the renewed opportunities brought about by the pandemic in the areas of e-commerce, food and groceries, and other essentials are seen

to maintain bright prospects in the industrial segment of the property sector for the year 2021.

This puts Anflo Industrial Estate as an excellent catalyst for economic development, with site development continuously picking up from the inevitable slowdown last year.

Amid the pandemic, the PEZA-registered ecozone has completed its ready built facilities

and warehouses while its cold storage will see completion before the second half of the year as demand has continued to rise during the latter part of 2020.

AIE aims to develop enterprises of all sizes by providing ownership and leasing options equipped with modern infrastructure and services. AIE manages its prime industrial lots and modern ready-built

facilities, and provides its locators access to complete utilities and services such as a wide road network, stable power and water supply, 24/7 security protection, and proper sewage disposal. With the completion of its ready-built facilities last year, AIE provided more options to investors looking for a “plug and play” opportunity for industrial businesses.

AIE reported a total of 15 locators to date, 5 nationalities represented and more than 600 employees already in the park. Among these locators, four of them were able to start their operations despite the pandemic.

Year on year, AIE meets the requirements of demand with its agile site development and within a span of five years since its launch

Asia, ME’s leading workspace provider forays in PH market

T

A hawker peddles calamansi to motorists and commuters along San Pedro Street in Davao City on Tuesday. Edge Davao

Matanao town boosts tourism development

W

ith the great effect of the earthquake catastrophe and the pandemic to the economy of Matanao town, the local government here has dwelled on improving its tourism industry.

Matanao Mayor Vincent Fernandez said that this endeavor has resulted to the discovery and the ongoing development of potential tourist destinations in the municipality such as waterfalls, mountain range and caves.

In fact, four tourist

sites are set to be open to public on April 8, 2021.

And these are the Su’bon Cave, waterfalls, mountaintop, swimming pool/ resorts.

In today’s episode of the Laging Handa Network Briefing with PCOO Assistant Secretary JV

Arcena, the mayor said that they are planning to identify and develop one tourist destination in each of the 33 barangays in Matanao for the tourists to visit.

Fernandez bared that massive road projects are ongoing and on the pipeline in preparation for the LGU’s tourism development endeavors.

He said that he is hoping that the ongoing concreting of roads worth P20 million will be finished by end of 2021 or

n economist forecasts the contraction in remittance inflows to the Philippines to continue in the early part of this year before improving amid the rollout of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccination programs worldwide.

The Bangko Sen-

tral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Monday reported a 1.7-percent year-on-year decrease of cash remittances from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to USD2.895 billion last January.

In a report, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ri-

cafort said the negative turnout of remittances came following the seasonal surge during the Christmas holidays and the continued repatriation of OFWs because of the pandemic.

“For early part 2021, OFW remittances could still continue to contract year-on-year until some

early 2022.

There is also a P9.5 million road construction project leading to a spring resort and lake, he added.

Aside from the tourism improvement, the mayor said that the main road rehabilitation/construction projects will provide easy access for the farm produce of their farmers.

“This will lessen the transportation cost of the farm produce,” he stated.

(PIA-XI/Carina L. Cayon)

of the repatriated/retrenched/laid off OFWs restore/regain the jobs that they have lost in the same host country or in another host country; also until constraints ease further on travel/ flights locally as well as to and from some of the host countries for OFWs,” he said.

Covid-19 vaccine rollout seen to benefit PH remittances

A

in 2016, 33 hectares have been developed including 2.1 hectares of ready-built facilities and warehouses and 2.06 km of roads. AIE reported several exciting projects planned for 2021 including the launch of their commercial area through a one-storey commercial building to cater to the needs of the employees in the park.

he Executive Centre (TEC), the leading premium flexible workspace provider in the Asia Pacific and Middle East, forays into the Philippines market with the opening of its flagship center in the highly sought-after Ayala Triangle Gardens Tower 2 in Makati Central Business District.

TEC’s flagship center in Metro Manila is set to open in the second quarter this year to provide its internationally renowned premium service for domestic and multinational businesses eyeing for first-class flexible workplace solutions within prime locations and prestigious office addresses.

“We move into cities and markets based on Member demand… (The) Philippines is an exciting opportunity to develop our presence globally while supporting the

strategic growth of our members with our premium flexible workspace solutions that is currently lacking in this market,” TEC Philippines country manager Josh Alfafara said in a statement Monday.

Alfafara said many corporations become more cost-conscious and shift towards an agile and responsive business model in times of uncertainties.

“Innovative office solutions that offer cost-efficiencies and the freedom of rapid scale are favored over traditional leases with long rental periods that become a heavy cost. As a result, companies today are changing the way they take up space and are adopting elements of flexible workspace strategies to empower their corporate real estate portfolios,” he said.

DOST provides P5-M loan to surgical mask startup

T

he Department of Science and Technology - Region 1 (DOST-1) has provided PHP5 million assistance to a firm that ventured into surgical mask production, Secretary Fortunato de la Peña reported.

ModulHaus Incorporated of Agoo, La Union, sought the DOST's Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) assistance for this initiative in 2020, he said in a Viber message on Monday.

SETUP is DOST's nationwide program that aims to encourage and assist micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in adopting technological innovations to improve their products and operations. With this program, the DOST helps improve the MSMEs' productivity and competitiveness by providing them a loan that is payable in three years.

"Albeit a startup, the project was funded through SETUP as it is an innovative project and a

considerable Covid-19 initiative," de la Peña said.

The firm's new venture not only aims to mitigate the shortage of surgical masks in the region, but to also help sustain the surgical masks' availability in the market at a lower cost, he added.

ModulHaus' four-ply face masks branded as "Safe Tech" are packed in a box with 25 pieces of face masks.

The firm is yet to commercialize its new product line as it is still waiting for its license to operate from the Food and Drug Administration, according to de la Peña.

As of this month, ModulHaus has produced the first batch of its surgical masks.

De la Peña reported that the funding assistance was used to buy one automatic mask-making machine and two automatic ear tape applicator capable of producing 739,200 surgical face masks per month. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

ECONOMY

5

SEC online submission tool for AFS, GIS, other annual reports goes live

T

A Philippine Airlines (PAL) aircraft parks at the Davao International Airport.

The airline is here to stay, according to PAL president and COO Gilbert Santa

Maria, as the carrier celebrated its 80th year while working on its full recovery after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Edge Davao

SoCot pushes expansion of PRDP-funded dairy project

T

he provincial government of South Cotabato is pushing for the expansion of the thriving PHP47million dairy production, processing, and marketing project in Polomolok town that is supported by the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP).

South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. said Monday they are currently assisting the project’s lead implementer, Unified Engineering Workers

Multi-Purpose Cooperative (UEWMPC), in improving its operations and the marketing of its products.

He said the local government has been continually

coordinating with the PRDP, through the Department of Agriculture-Region 12, to provide the equipment and other facilities needed by the cooperative.

The local government facilitated last year the construction of pre-lactating facilities, specifically a barn and cowshed, milking parlor, calves pen, and quarantine facilities, for the cooperative in Barangay Maligo, Polomolok.

On Monday, DA-12 of-

ficials turned over to the provincial government and the UEWMPC a brand new refrigerated van that will be used in transporting its processed products.

“This will help maintain the quality of their processed milk and eventually allow them to expand their markets,” Tamayo said during the turnover ceremony.

The governor said the cooperative has been working on further increasing its

FSOCOT, P8

he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has launched its online submission tool (OST) for annual financial statements (AFS), General Information Sheet (GIS) and other annual reports.

Starting today, March 15, corporations and their authorized filers may already enroll in the SECOST and thereafter submit their annual reports in digital format and without going to the Commission’s offices.

“Beyond making it easier and more convenient for corporations to comply with their reportorial requirements, the OST should help our stakeholders become more comfortable with digital-based transactions, as we harness the full advantages of new technologies in improving our services,” SEC Chairperson Emilio B. Aquino said.

“This initiative is a key component of the Commission’s ongoing digital transformation, bringing us even closer to the achievement of both our ease-of-doing-business and sustainability goals.”

To start using the OST, the corporation and its authorized filer must first enroll at https://cifss-ost. sec.gov.ph by accomplishing an online form and submitting the required documents.

The documents required for enrollment include a board resolution authorizing its representative to file reports on behalf of the corporation, as well as a copy of their submission of email

addresses and cellular phone numbers or their accomplished GIS using the 2020 version of the form, as required by SEC Memorandum Circular No. 28, Series of 2020.

Once successfully enrolled, the authorized filer may start submitting reports of the corporation, such as the AFS, GIS, Sworn Statement for Foundation (SSF), General Form for Financial Statements (GFFS), and Special Form for Financial Statements (SFFS).

Submissions of Affidavit of Non-Operation (ANO), together with the GIS or AFS, and Affidavit of Non-Holding of Annual Meeting (ANHAM), together with the GIS, will also be accepted through the portal during its initial implementation.

All stock corporations, including the branch offices, representative offices, regional headquarters and regional operating headquarters of foreign corporations, are required to submit their reports using the OST starting this year.

Nonstock corporations will still have the option to submit their reports over the counter, but they will be required to enroll in and submit their reports through the portal by 2022.

Law, consultancy and other firms providing related services to corporations are also allowed to enroll as authorized filers.

Upon successful submission, the reports will be made available to the public through the Online Submission Portal.

Nickel Asia Companies are environmental champions for 2020

T

he awarding of the prestigious Presidential Mineral Industry Environmental Award (PMIEA) to two mining companies under the umbrella of Nickel Asia Corp. (NAC), is regarded as doubly special as it was conferred during the pandemic year.

Cagdianao Mining Corp. (CMC), based in Valencia, in Dinagat Islands, and Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corp. (RTNMC), based in Bataraza in Palawan, are this year’s proud PMIEA honorees presented with the “Presidential trophy” for outstanding initiatives in the pursuit of excellence in environmental management.

CMC and RTNMC are subsidiaries of NAC, the country’s largest nickel supplier.

According to the Mines and Geoscience Bureau (MGB), an agency of the Department of

Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the award is given to operating mines that have shown exemplary performance in the area of environmental enhancement and protection; safety and health; social development; and corporate social responsibility.

“The award for 2020 is made more significant because of the unprecedented challenges posted by COVID-19.

Our employees had to exert double efforts and had to sacrifice personal time in order to achieve our goals, to ensure 100 percent implementation of our commitments to all our stakeholders in the mining communities” explains Engr. Arnilo C. Milaor, Resident Mine Manager at CMC. This is a back-toback win for the Dinagat-based mining company which also collected the Presidential

Award last year.

Cagdinao Mining’s commitment is to the tune of P55.5 Million pesos worth of Annual Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (AEPEP) and P47.3 Million pesos for the development of CMC’s host and neighboring communities through the company’s Social Development Management Programs (SDMP) for 2020 alone.

“The improved living conditions in the mining areas are proof of our commitment to the communities. One outstanding CMC project for example is the 19.2-kilometer farm-to-market road worth P12 Million pesos, connecting 5 barangays from 2 municipalities to the main provincial road, effectively providing the residents access to basic services like the hospital, and, most importantly, efficient access to trade and

commerce,” says Engr.

Aloysius C. Diaz, NAC VP for Operations.

Rio Tuba Nickel, which has won this most-coveted “Presidential Award” for 4 times – 2002, 2015, 2018, and 2020 – never stopped operations and continuously implemented essential programs on environment protection, community development, and safety and health, despite the pandemic and expended a whopping P66.5 Million pesos for AEPEP and P36.2 Million pesos for SDMP in 2020.

“With strict enforcement of preventive measures against COVID-19 to protect employees and our host communities, we did not have work stoppage with no recorded-case of infection within the mine site, and, most significantly, we did not lay-off any worker” shares Engr.

FNICKEL, P8

“The PMIEA trophy depicts environmental excellence in every stage of mining operations. It speaks of pro-people and pro-environment characteristics of the mining industry in sustaining wealth creation and improving the quality of life”

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

On Dabawenyos’ compliance to the protocols implemented by the city despite the relaxing of travel requirements: Makita man nga ang mga tao compliant sila sa face mask which is very basic requirement aning minimum public health standard. Klaro nga nasabtan na sa mga tao and makita man nga pag mugawas ang mga tao naa gyud sila mask, although, sometimes ang uban dili properly worn. Mao ang bag-o nato na campaign is ang mask tabunan gyud ang baba ug ilong.”

Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio

EDITORIALS

Dire situation

No less than the medical experts of our country, particularly the Philippine College of Physicians, are appealing to the public to strictly observe prescribed health measures to stop the alarming increase of Coronavirus disease (Covid 19) infections.

The medical group made the call on Sunday, expressing its deep concern over the surge of infections of almost 5,000 cases a day, nearing the level middle of last year when the country’s medical facilities were almost overwhelmed and the medical frontliners cried “timeout”!

We, concerned citizens, hope that the group’s appeal will not fall on deaf ears. All Filipinos must comprehend the urgency of the situation. By all, we mean not only the civilians and laymen but also and specially the implementers of the health measures as provided for in lawful orders.

Yes, implementers or enforcers of the health protocols should be models of compliance. It is lamentable that no less

than the chief of the Philippine National Police (Mr. Debold Sinas), has been caught twice and heavily criticized for disregarding protocols..Equally sorry is the case of Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque, who has also been criticized for infractions of some protocols. Both high-ranking government officials have very recently tested positive of Covid 19 infection.

If the surge in Covid cases would not be arrested, government authorities will be prompted to enforce more restrictive lockdown protocols in the country, wherever and whenever spike of infections occur.

We all know by now the dire dislocations lockdowns will cause to the Philippine economy and the country’s psychosocial equanimity.

Unless our country is able to arrest this alarming spike in cases of Covid 19, sadly we cannot expect our badly needed economic recovery.

We wish to thank our loyal friends and business partners for joining us in our combined supplement for two events -- “Araw ng Dabaw” marking the 84th Founding Anniversary of Davao as a Chartered City, and the 13th Anniversary of Edge Davao on March 15, 2021. Those who supported the double celebration were Alsons Development & Investment Corp., 1st District Rep. and Deputy

Speaker Paolo “Pulong” Z. Duterte, Aeon Towers, Phoenix Petroleum Phils. Inc., Legacy Leisure Residences, SMART. and Aboitiz Power.

On the second day of the supplement (today), Nickel Asia Corp. and Anflo Industrial Estate threw in their valued support.

Thank you. You are our magnificent business partners.

The Magnificent 9

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

the national association of newspapers

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

ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. Correspondent

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

MAYA M. PADILLO Senior Reporter

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

CHRISTIAN JAY H. RAFAL GRACE M. BORDIOS Layout

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

OLIVIA D. VELASCO SOLANI D. MARATAS RICHARD C. EBONAJASPER OLIVIA D. VELASCO V. BACSAL General Manager PresidentAdvertising Specialist Finance General Manager / VP Operations JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

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

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

VANTAGE POINTS

7

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

OF TRAVELS AND PHOTOGRAPHY As a journalist, I have two things that I like most – aside from meeting and talking with some of the famous people around the world. Those two things are travel and photography. And if you are a journalist, you ought to like, if not love, these two things.

Who doesn’t like to travel and see new places and meet new faces? Along the way, travel enriches not only your mind but also your experience which, according to one adage, “the best teacher.” Some places are quaint; others are eerie if not weird. But there are also places that are exotic, rustic, brilliant, and breathtaking.

“Travel not only stirs the blood – it also gives birth to the spirit,” said Alexandra David-Neel.

When I was still a kid, I imagined myself taking pictures of some celebrities.

When I finally had my own camera, I took pictures of my

family, nature, and other subject matters.

I really didn’t know much about taking pictures – until I met Donald “Don” Rutledge, one of America’s most awarded photojournalists. His travels over a lifetime have taken him into 143 countries and all fifty of the United States. His work has included international assignments from the well-known Black Star picture agency in New York, civil right efforts, including the documentation of the work of John Howard Griffin for his famous work, Black Like Me, to photo stories in Life magazine, Stern magazine in Germany, Paris-Match in France, numerous magazines in Canada, South America, Japan, Europe, and Asia.

I came to know and meet him when he was doing some assignments for The Commission, a publication of the International Mission Board of the

Southern Baptist Convention.

He and Erich Bridges came to do a story of my former boss, Harold Ray Watson (the 1985 Ramon Magsaysay awardee for peace and international understanding). This was in 1996.

Being a journalist, I was asked to accompany them.

During our travels in between or while walking, Don shared some thoughts about photography. And that was how I get my first-hand information on taking pictures. “My main subject matter involved people, showing them in natural surroundings, lifestyles, and the variety of environments in which they live their lives from work environments to pleasures and relaxations, among others,” Don said.

During our time together, I observed that Don took a lot of pictures on one particular scene or activity. On why he was doing that, he replied, “It is much like a writer or a speaker

preparing an article or speech.

They write lots of notes from which the message is narrowed and developed into the final presentation. I take extra pictures for that same reason.”

(With digital cameras now readily available, a photographer won’t have a problem following that tip!)

“In photojournalism,” he said, “there is constant change.

A subject is smiling, frowning, talking, listening, walking, standing, sitting, working, or relaxing. Often in the background, while subjects are being photographed in the foreground, people walk in and out of the picture. Making choices as to when to click the shutter is constant and important. The challenge is both difficult and exciting. The photojournalist becomes ‘eyes’ for viewers and places those viewers into the position where he stood while making the photograph.”

To those who are just start-

ing photography as a hobby or a career, he offered this tip: “New photographers can find excitement in isolating wonderful elements of our world and its people in that viewfinder of their camera. That becomes the photographer’s world. Outside that finder, beyond the moment of clicking the shutter, is of course a world in enormous size and activity but the photographer’s world right then is defined in the viewfinder and he freezes it to hold history as he clicks the shutter.

He continued, “His activity should be more than just raising the camera, looking through the viewfinder and just clicking the shutter. That is a moment of personal history whether it involves special moments of his family or friends, activities of famous and unknown people, or even elements of nature scenes around him.”

DENNIS R. GORECHO PINOY MARINO RIGHTS

500 YEARS OF CHRISTIANITY AND THE SHIPS OF FAITH My early grasp of the history of Christianity in the Philippines at a young age perhaps can be traced to the “Magellan” parody song of fellow Boholano Yoyoy Villame.

“On March 16, 1521. When Philippines was discovered by Magellan.

They were sailing day and night across the big ocean. Until they saw a small Limasawa island.”

“Magellan” was Villame’s first recording in 1972 that became the top-selling record in the Visayas-Mindanao region which narrated the arrival of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in the country in 1521.

Villame was a native of Calape, Bohol, and was the youngest of ten children of a fisherman father and fishseller mother.

He blended Filipino folk melodies, popular tunes and nursery rhymes for his music and then added witty, comedic lyrics with a grammar of mixed Tagalog, Cebuano and English.

“When Magellan landed in Cebu City. Rajah Humabon met him, they were very happy. All people were baptized and built the church of Christ. And that’s the beginning of our Catholic

life.”

Christianity was brought to the Philippines in 1521 when Magellan landed in on the small island of Limasawa in Cebu.

Magellan was heading a Spanish expedition in an effort to find a western sea route to the rich Spice Islands of Indonesia.

On March 31, 1521, the first Mass was celebrated where some 800 were baptized to form the first Catholic community, including Rajah Humabon.

The Sto.Nino de Cebu became the oldest Christian artifact in the Philippines as a gift from Magellan to Rajah Humabon on account of their baptism. Unfortunately, he was killed a month later during the Mactan battle led by LapuLapu.

The Philippine archipelago, which was named after King Philip II, became a colony of Spain until 1898.

After Brazil and Mexico, the Philippines is the third largest Catholic population in the world with some 76 million Catholics, or about 81 per cent of the total country population.

Pope Francis called on Filipinos to renew their commit-

ment to Christ as missionary disciple during the mass he celebrated last Sunday at the Vatican to mark Christianity’s quincentenary in the Philippines.

He urged Filipinos to persevere in the work of evangelization as “the Gospel message of God’s closeness must be constantly proclaimed to others, so that none might perish.”

“Never be afraid to proclaim the Gospel, to serve and to love,” the Pope said. “With your joy, you will help people to say of the Church too: ‘she so loved the world!’”

Part of the logo released by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is a ship that signifies the navigators of the expedition who brought the faith in the country.

A traditional symbolic meaning of the ship is that the church is a means of conveyance between this world and the next.

In Christian tradition, in which earthly life is seen as a pilgrimage, the ship of the church transports the faithful through the seas of the world to the heavenly home.

The boat is often used to portray the church as a vessel

of salvation like in the story of Noah’s Ark and Christ’s voyage on the Sea of Galilee.

The church ferries its cherished cargo of souls through the trouble seas of worldly temptation, unfaith and ill-treatment to finally reach it’s safe harbor on heaven’s shores.

In an era of beliefs in sea monsters and a flat earth that one could sail right off the edge, it took courage for ancient mariners to set sail in boats as they had to trust in God and in each other.

Archbishop of Manila Luis Antonio Tagle earlier said that Filipino seafarers are ‘saint potentials’ .

Referring to Saint Lorenzo Ruiz and San Pedro Calungsod, Tagle noted that they were seafarers and missionaries at the same time before they became saints who sailed to other countries and died for a mission: “to teach the Good News.”

Tagle underscored that the pain brought by separation is a sign of the seafarer’s love, strength, and faith for the good of his family and the country.

“Even if you feel pain when you leave your family and your country, that suffering is not

a reason for you to be ‘paralyzed,’ but inspire you to strive for more,” said Tagle, adding that their hardships will not weaken them but make them even stronger.

For the ordinary seafarers, religion offers strength, hope and peace in relation with their daily work and social relationships on board the vessel.

Despite its glorification due to economic returns, a job of a seafarer is not exactly a walk in the park.

The maritime profession has always been identified as a high-risk workplace replete with health and safety hazards in relation to the risks of accidents, illnesses and mortality.

Religion assists seafarers in coping with dangerous and emotionally challenging workplaces.

The estimated 519,031 deployed Filipino seafarers in 2019—per POEA data—remitted $6.539 billion or around P326.95 billion.

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

8

EDGEDAVAO

Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office No. 11 Libby Road, Bago Gallera, Davao City Petition for Extension of Validity of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ Ordinary Regular Services.

Case No. R11-EV-PJ-2021-3-605 (2016-XI-00605) MARILOU S. FUENTES, Petitioner. x----------------------------------------------------x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Pubic Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation o a PUJ Ordinary Regular service on the route PANACAN VIA BUHANGIN/ ILUSTRE with the use of ONE (1) unit which Certificate will expire on June 20, 2021. In the petition filed March 10, 2021, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MAY 4, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a newspaper of local circulation.

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

This petition will be noted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence.

Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office No. 11 Libby Road, Bago Gallera, Davao City Petition for Extension of Validity of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED UV EXPRESS Services.

Case No. R11-EV-UV-2021-3-284 (2016-XI-00284) ROMEO M. GANASON, JR.,

Petitioner. x----------------------------------------------------x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Pubic Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED UV EXPRESS service on the route: DAVAO CITY - BANSALAN (DAVAO DEL SUR) AND VICE VERSA with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on May 2, 2021. In the petition filed March 5, 2021, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MAY 4, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a newspaper of local circulation.

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

This petition will be noted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/ or oral evidence.

Davao City, Philippines, March 8, 2021.

Regional Director

Petitioner, Marilou S. Fuentes Counsel, Atty. Ernesto Raphael V. Robillo

NICKEL... FROM5

Petition for Extension of Validity of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ Dual Ordinary Regular Services.

Case No. R11-EV-PJ-2021-3-1181 (2001-XI-01181) NOEL C. PALACIOS, Petitioner. x----------------------------------------------------x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Pubic Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ Dual Ordinary Regular service on the route: MATINA and for cargoes as dual service from said place to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on September 21, 2021. In the petition filed March 4, 2021, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MAY 4, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a newspaper of local circulation.

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

This petition will be noted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/ or oral evidence.

Davao City, Philippines, March 5, 2021.

Davao City, Philippines, March 11, 2021.

Dir. NONITO A. LLANOS III

Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office No. 11 Libby Road, Bago Gallera, Davao City

Dir. NONITO A. LLANOS III Regional Director

Petitioner, Romeo M. Ganason, Jr. Counsel, Atty¬¬. Ernesto Raphael V. Robillo

Dir. NONITO A. LLANOS III Regional Director

Petitioner, Noel C. Palacios Counsel, Atty. Marvin G. Camino

Cynthia E. Rosero, RTN’s Resident Mine Manager.

According to Environmental Planner, Janice M. Tupas, Manager of the Mines Environmental Protection and Enhancement Dept. (MEPED) of RTN, the PMIEA scoring is 50% environmental management; 20% safety and health; 20% implementation of SDMP; and

10% for information and education campaign or IEC. “The qualifiers or applicants for the PMIEA must achieve a final rating of more than 95%.

There are significant points also for ‘no unresolved notice of violations’; ‘compliance to operational and legal obligations’, and ‘no fatal

work-related accidents’,” Tupas explains.

Executive Order 399 issued in 1997, which established the PMIEA, states that the award is to recognize “outstanding levels of dedication, initiative, and innovation in various aspects of operations in the country’s minerals sector.”

production to cope with the rising demand in the local markets.

The dairy project, which formally took off last year, is the main supplier of fresh milk being distributed by the local government and the Department of Education (DepEd) in their supplemental feeding programs.

UEWMPC, which is backed by five dairy cooperatives in parts of the prov-

ince, has also started its commercial production under the “Happy Cow Unilicious” brand.

“Previously, we are dependent on outside sources for our fresh milk needs but now we have our own steady milk supply through our dairy cooperatives,” Tamayo said.

A report released by the provincial government said the cooperative mainly pro-

duces flavored milk, plain milk, and yogurt for the local markets, and on trial stage with dairy cheese, butter as well as milk bar.

It supplies processed milk in 200ml pouches to DepEd’s school-based feeding program in the province, which is being implemented in partnership with the National Dairy Authority (NDA), and was able to provide a total of 174,600 pouches in

SOCOT... FROM5

VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

LOOSENING... FROM2

Meanwhile, gathering of less than 25 participants in all public places do not need to seek a permit from the City Mayor’s Office (CMO) or pay fees, unless required by pertinent laws and ordinances. But a letter with the event details by email or hard copy shall suffice for the purposes of inspection to the compliance of the minimum public health protocols (MPHS) in Section 1 hereof.

Section 16 states that public wet markets shall be open from Monday to Sunday from 3 a.m. to 6 p.m.

On the other hand, Mayor Sara said that

Dabawenyos are still compliant to the protocols implemented by the city despite the relaxing of travel requirements.

“Makita man nga ang mga tao compliant sila sa face mask which is very basic requirement aning minimum public health standard. Klaro nga nasabtan na sa mga tao and makita man nga pag mugawas ang mga tao naa gyud sila mask, although, sometimes ang uban dili properly worn.

Mao ang bag-o nato na campaign is ang mask tabunan gyud ang baba ug ilong,” she said.

She said implemen-

tation of the wearing of face shield and distancing is always a challenge.

“Sa face shield daghan kaayo nagasuot nga murag gina-headband or sun visor. But ang face shield dili sa tanan lugar pud siya applicable.

Ang distancing is always a challenge sa mga lugar nga normally magtapok gyud ang mga tao like tindahan, palengke, ug sakyanan. Karon we are now on a downtrend sa cases but it will not last long especially kung ang mga tao manggawas sila ug dili musunod sa minimum health standards,” the mayor said.

owners who don't care about their responsibilities. There is also fewer number of people who are willing nd capable of adopting where they can provide all the needs of an animal,” she said.

Bullina said that many residents in Davao City lack awareness in how to be a responsible pet owner and that the complacency of owners either due to lack of awareness to the existing the laws and ordinances that contribute to the stray problem in the city.

“What brings them to the streets and become strays, then in turn become susceptible to the rabies virus is irresponsible pet ownership. Sadly, despite many would love

to eliminate impounding, with the overwhelming problems caused by irresponsible pet ownership, there is no stopping to that mandate at the moment. It is not the pound that kills the animals, it’s the irresponsible pet owners,” she said.

Bullina also cited the burying of puppies alive in Bunawan, Davao City as a case of irresponsible pet ownership.

“Keeping their animals inside could have prevented these unwanted pregnancies. This shows how generations have neglected to care for their animals properly and justly,” Bullina said.

She cited the importance of spaying and neutering to help decrease

the population of dogs and cats.

On the other hand, BHD is also looking at recruiting members from the different sectors of the city such as professionals, lawyers, veterinarian, INGO workers, CPA, businessmen and businesswomen, law enforcers, animal rescuers, IT specialist, educators, and youth volunteers.

“To make sure that fresh and innovative ideas are gathered to help solve the animal welfare problem aside from rescuing. This include education to increase awareness among Davao City residents and prevent any dog and cat from straying,” Bullina said. Maya Padillo

not worry in case he is on leave as barangay captain because he had personnel who would take care the tasks in the barangay.

“Basta sa akoang ba-

rangay han-ay na ang tanan. I am sure dili sila ma-worry kay ang akoang mga kagawad ako nang gi-meeting. Naa na ko’y mga designation sa

ilaha. Naka-file na pod ko ug leave. Its business as usual sa kada-barangay sa mga kapitan,” he said.

Maya Padillo

The bill also mandates the Bangsamoro Information Office (BIO) to be the FOI Focal Office.

BIO shall oversee the implementation of the bill, including the composition of an FOI Manual, identification of an FOI Receiving Officer per office, and establishment of a request tracking system.

The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), as the

lead implementer of the FOI Program, recognizes this new development as vital to its vision of a whole-of-government approach in enforcing transparency in public service and crucial to the institutionalization of the Bangsamoro government.

PCOO Undersecretary and FOI Program Director Kristian R. Ablan said the FOI Project Management Office is willing to

extend its assistance to BTA in terms of capacity-building activities for FOI implementers.

The bill was introduced by MP Amilbahar S. Mawallil and MP Engr.

Baintan A. Ampatuan, and co-authored by MP Atty. Laisa Masuhud Alamia, MP Atty. Suharto M. Ambolodto, MP Engr. Don Mustapha A. Loong, MP Rasul E. Ismael, and MP Atty. Rasol Y. Mitmug, Jr. (PR)

FUNDING... FROM2

VILLAGE... FROM2 BARMM... FROM2

two batches since last year.

The cooperative has supplied over 24,000 pouches to public schools in Lutayan town in Sultan Kudarat and this city.

PRDP, as part of its convergence scheme, partnered with the NDA for the distribution early last year of at least 120 heads of Holstein Friesian-Jersey cows from Australia to the cooperative.

Adlin Almencion, UEW-

MPC dairy operations manager, they have over 40 cows that are now regularly producing milk, reaching a combined 500 liters a day.

He said they are working to increase their dairy stocks through at least 68 cows that are currently pregnant.

UEWMPC, through the provincial government, proposed for the funding of the dairy project in 2019 under the PRDP and received a “no

objection letter” on Feb. 5 last year from DA and World Bank, which supports the initiative.

The dairy project is so far the biggest that has been approved for the province under the PRDP, which considers it as a pilot project in the country and the first in Mindanao in terms of the partnership with the NDA. (PNA)

VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

EDGEDAVAO

9

Two new motorcycles given to the Mati PNP T he Consulate Generals Office of the People’s Republic of China donated 2 new motorcycles to the Mati Philippine National Police last March 9.

A total of 43 units were turned over to Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio of the City Government of Davao by China’s Consul General Li Lin at the City Hall of Davao.

Thirty-two (32) units were distributed to different police stations in the entire Mindanao. The distribution of the units are as followed: • Malita, Davao Occidental- 1 • Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental- 1 • Digos City- 2 • Panabo City- 1 • Carmen- 1 • Tagum City- 2 • IGACOS- 1 • Mati City- 2 • Nabunturan- 1 • Monkayo- 1 • CIDG Davao- 2 • General Santos City- 2 • Zamboanga City- 2 • Tangub City, Misamis Occidental- 1 • Bongao, Tawi-tawi- 1 • Jolo, Sulu- 1 • Iligan City- 1 • Marawi City- 1 • Tandag City- 1 • Surigao City- 1 • Butuan City- 1 • Cagayan de Oro City- 2 • Malaybalay City, Bukidnon- 1 • Philippine Coast Guard Southeastern Mindanao- 2 Deputy Chief of Police P/Maj. Condado Budac Jr., Traffic/Police Executive Master Sgt. Martirez “Bembo” Lazaro, and PSSG Christopher Doy Labo personally received the units.

On Monday, March 15, the police representatives presented the motorcycles to Mayor Michelle Rabat, who expressed gratitude towards Mayor Inday Sara.

Mayor Michelle said the motorcycle units will be useful in strengthening the security in the recipient LGUs. (CIO MATI)

Mati City Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat, together with two police officers, poses with the two motorcycles donated by the Consulate Generals Office of the People’s Republic of China. (CIO MATI)

10 EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 73 • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018 VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

EDGEDAVAO LIFESTYLE

DUSIT DAVAO AND DFDC CREATE

‘DREAMY SOPHISTICATIONS: A DEBUT FASHION EXHIBIT’

WITH a debutante’s perspective in mind, Dusit Davao and the Davao Fashion & Design Council (DFDC) once again merge their roles in creating “Dreamy Sophistications: A Debut Fashion Exhibit.” This event aims to give a muse the chance to envision her debut dress, matched with the perfect venue.

According to Dodjie Batu, President of DFDC, “The visual centerpiece of the dreamlike setting epitomizes the character of the celebrant and this important milestone in her lifetime. It is but important that this is well thought of and articulated with a degree of sophistication and restrained elegance.”

There are two installations for this themed exhibit. One is set up in Dusit Thani Residence Davao, and the other one is in Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort. The inspiration for each setup differs in a way that it complements the Dusit property where the designs are installed in.

For the city hotel, the theme

is more contemporary and spotlight perfect that it lets the debutante imagine a grand ballroom event. As for the resort, the concept becomes more adventurous and fits debutantes who like destination celebrations.

“Dusit Davao is sophistication in every sense of the word.

Davao Fashion and Design Council is equally embodying that sophisticated sense and sensibility in fashioning a dream and a desire into an experience of a lifetime. This partnership seals that no more no less. When you have the right setting, your star will definitely shine,” said Batu.

This partnership is a product of the past exhibit of the council in Dusit Davao entitled Istilo Lokal. DFDC is led

by Dodjie Batu with the members Aztec Barba, Emi Englis, Bamba Limon, Edgar Buyan, Egay Ayag, Windel Mira, and Benjie Panizales. For the past two decades, the council promotes in establishing the niche of Davao Design and highlighting the talents of our homegrown designers.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021

11

Jerwin Ancajas defends his world title next month.

Ancajas stoked to defend title

R

eigning International Boxing Federation world super flyweight champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas of Panabo City, Davao, will defend his title against Jonathan Javier “Titan” Rodriguez of Mexico on April 10 at the Mohegan Site Casino in Connecticut, USA.

“Ngayon po excited na po na makabalik sa ring kasi yun nga po ma tagal tagal na di naka laban kaya’t excited na po talaga (Now I’m excited to be back in the ring because I haven’t fought for a long time, so I’m really excited),” said Ancajas.

Under the watchful eyes of manager-trainer Joven Jimenez, Ancajas ha sparred with Jonas “Zorro” Sultan (16W-5L-0D, 10KOs) and Eumir Felix Marcial both of

Zamboanga City.

The 29-year-old Ancajas (32W-1L-2D, 22KOS) will be making his 9th title defense of the crown he won against McJoe Arroyo of Puerto Rico via a unanimous decision in 2016 at the Jurado Hall of the Philippine Marine Corp, Barangay Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City.

Ancajas did not have a fight last year because of the pandemic caused by COVID-19.

His last fight was against Miguel Gonzalez of Chile, who he beat by a technical knockout in the 6th round on Dec. 7, 2019 in Mexico.

“Both fighters have very aggressive styles,” said Sean Gibbons, head of MP Productions.

Gibbons said that “Rodriguez is a traditional Mexican kid in great shape”.

The 25-year-old Rodriguez (22W-1L-0D, 16KOs) last fought against Julian Yedras of Mexico, who he knocked out in the 1st round on Dec. 4, 2020 at Las Lomas in Monterrey.

Giannis posts third straight triple-double

W

ASHINGTON — Giannis Antetokounmpo had 31 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists for his third consecutive triple-double to lead the Milwaukee Bucks past the Washington Wizards, 133-122, Monday night (Tuesday, Manila time) for their fourth consecutive victory.

The Bucks pulled away late after letting a 26-point third-quarter lead slip to five midway through the fourth. When the Wizards got within seven in the final minutes, Antetokounmpo scored the next four points to make it a double-digit game again.

Antetokounmpo combined for 64 points, 26 rebounds and 21 assists in the two-game series at Washington that Milwaukee swept. He also had 24 points,

10 rebounds and 10 assists in the first triple-double of this run against the New York Knicks last week.

Antetokounmpo became the third player this season with a triple-double in three games in a row, joining Washington's Russell Westbrook, who did it twice, and Miami's Jimmy Butler. His seventh career 30-point triple-double passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most in team history, and he's the first Bucks player to have three triple-doubles in a row.

The Bucks kept pace with Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia and are now two games back with Brooklyn in between.

Bradley Beal led the Wizards with 37 points after sitting out Saturday to rest a sore left knee.

FGIANNIS, P9

Kouame, Maranon cleared to play for PH

S

enators on Monday allowed Ivorian cager Kakou Ange Franck Williams Kouame and Spanish footballer Bienvenido Morejon Marañon to play in international leagues under the Philippine flag.

All 23 senators present voted to approve on third and final reading House Bill No. 8631 under Committee Report No. 188 granting Filipino citizenship to 34-year-old striker Morejon, hoping to play with Philippine Azkals.

The senators also voted 23-0-0 to pass on third reading House Bill No. 8632 under Committee Report No. 189 granting citizenship to Kouame in the hope of having him join Gilas Pilipinas in international competitions, including the upcoming

window of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers and the country's hosting of 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup. Senator Richard Gordon, chairman of the Committee on Justice and Human Rights, said the naturalization process "values the opportunity to become more closely knit to the fabric of Philippine society”.

“We are excited for them to be naturalized because they have proven that they really want to be Filipinos, but they also have to be exemplary, to be an inspiration to the Filipinos,” he added.

Gordon emphasized that naturalization is a privilege, not a right, and that the candidates must have moral values and

FKOUAME, P9

Giannis Antetokounmpo had 31 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists for his third consecutive triple-double to lead the Milwaukee Bucks past the Washington Wizards, 133-122.

12

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 262 • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2021 VOL.14 ISSUE 3 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2021