Edge Davao Volume 14 Issue 238 | Wednesday, December 22, 2021

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

VOL.14 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

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TERROR THREATS

Security cluster advises Dabawenyos to remain vigilant amid 2 bomb threats STORY ON PAGE 2

Residents of Surigao City queue for potable water after water supply, electricity and telecommunications were cut off as typhoon “Odette” pummeled the city.

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

President Rodrigo Duterte is assisted by Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong”Go during a meeting with local officials of Negros Occidental and national and local based government agencies to assess the extent of Typhoon Odette’s damage as well as discuss the response and relief efforts of concerned government agencies at the Kabankalan City Hall in Kabankalan, Negros Occidental on Monday. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

TERROR THREATS

Aid pours in for Siargao Island

Security cluster advises Dabawenyos to R remain vigilant amid 2 bomb threats

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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he city’s security cluster warned Dabawenyos to be vigilant against terroristic attacks amid two bomb threats on Tuesday currently being investigated.

The city government of Davao issued a notice to the public on Tuesday concerning the two bomb threats currently investigated by the security cluster of Davao City.

The city reminded that violent extremism is a scourge around the globe and Dabawenyos should, at all times, remain vigilant.

The notice also said threats may be politically

motivated particularly from people who have evil intent.

Retired Police Lt. Colonel Angel Sumagaysay, head of the Davao City Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) is leading the security cluster, told Edge Davao that the security cluster has a joint investigation as to the veracity of the reported two bomb threats.

“Yes, nabasa ko rin sa

socmed na ito. Either true or not ang threat letter pero sa part ng security cluster, we are not taking it lightly,” he said.

Sumagaysay assured the Dabawenyos that Davao City is safe and secured.

“In place, naman ang security nato ug ato pud gi-awhag ang katawhan to support aning ato gina-propagate na Culture of Security,” he said.

Sumagaysay is referring to the Culture of Security program, which is a people-centered campaign that encourages Dabawenyos to

adopt vigilance as their way of life. The campaign “May Nakita? Dapat Magsalita!” is an order encouraging Dabawenyos to adopt the Culture of Security as part of their way of life.

Through the campaign, Dabawenyos are urged to volunteer themselves for inspection and help in the implementation of security measures in the city; report all suspicious persons and activities in their community; remind friends and family of all the security regulations within Davao City; and

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elief goods for victims of typhoon “Odette” (international name: Rai) have started to arrive on Saturday, December 18, from civic groups and individuals who wanted to alleviate the plight of people devastated by the disaster.

Lawyer Lucille Sering, a native of Siargao and former secretary of the Climate Change Commission, chartered a private chopper on Saturday to check the situation on the island and to extend financial help.

She shelled out at least 200,000 pesos from her personal funds to the different towns on the island for their most immediately needs.

capacity in areas under Alert Level 2.

Under Alert Level 5, a skeleton workforce under alternative work arrangements will be adopted as approved by the head of agency unless a greater on-site capacity is required in agencies providing health and emergency frontline services, laboratory and testing services, border control, or other critical services, in accordance with the relevant rules and regulations

issued by the Civil Service Commission.

Government agencies and instrumentalities remain fully operational regardless of the alert level of the area where they are located.

Duterte signed the memo following reports that some government agencies and instrumentalities have “such a small proportion of their total workforce on-site that the delivery of public services suffers as a result.”

“There is a need to balance health considerations and the continuous delivery of public services, regardless of the alert level system prevailing in a particular area,” the memo read.

Under the memo, heads of all agencies and instrumentalities of the executive branch, including government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs), may increase the onsite workforce of their offices

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Fisherfolks, solo parents in District 2 receive aid

PRRD orders increased on-site F gov’t workforce amid pandemic P resident Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the increase of on-site government workers to ensure the continued delivery of public services in the country.

Memorandum Circular No. 93, signed by Duterte on Friday, mandates at least a 40 percent on-site workforce capacity in areas under Alert Level 4, 60 percent on-site workforce capacity in areas under Alert Level 3, and 80 percent on-site workforce

“We need drinking water,” she reiterated.

Sering, who also gave out cash assistance to her relatives, appealed to her friends in the different parts of the country and abroad to extend help to the typhoon victims in Siargao.

Her words that “more choppers will land and more is coming” came true.

Vice President Leni Robredo, who is running in the presidential race, arrived on the island on Sunday, December 19, and visited Del Carmen, Dapa and General Luna towns.

She donated sacks of rice and promised to send more help.

isherfolks and solo parents in Davao City’s District 2 received aid from Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Monday.

Go has partnered with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and provided P3,000 each to the beneficiaries thru the Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, which is part of DSWD’s protective services for the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable/disadvantaged individuals.

They were also assessed for a livelihood grant from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and scholarship grants and training from

the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

They also received a 3ply facemask, vitamins, meals, food packs, bicycles, tablets, and shoes for men and women.

On Tuesday, Go was invited to the distribution of DSWD-AICS and assistance to the solo parents and fisherfolks in Barangays Pampanga and Hizon in Davao City.

Meanwhile, Go was not only involved in providing aid to the Dabawenyos but he was also committed to assisting the victims of super typhoon Odette.

After he distributed as-

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NEWS

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A call for help from Siargao, Surigao del Norte. MindaNews photo by ROEL N. CATOTO

Electric coop assures aid to couple, daughter who died of electricution 1st Covid-positive health worker in Mati City dies of complication

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23-year old male health worker in the City of Mati becomes the 102nd Covid-confirmed death today, December 21.

MC-2264, male from Barangay Dahican was first infected with Covid-19 on August 27, 2021 and had recovered from the infection. He was re-infected on December 15 and was rushed to the Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum City for admission.

He died in the said hospital today, December 21, due to complication

called tension pneumothorax. MC-2264 was the first health worker to have died and was fully vaccinated.

His death was however confirmed to have not been caused by the Covid-19 but due to the complication.

Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening condition that develops when air is trapped in the pleural cavity under positive pressure, displacing mediastinal structures and compromising cardiopulmonary function. (CIO MATI)

Responders may celebrate Christmas in Bohol: Baloran

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ue to the extent of the disaster brought by super typhoon Odette and the number of victims who need assistance, some of the responders sent by the city government of Davao may spend Christmas in Bohol.

This was bared by retired police colonel Alfredo Baloran, chief of Davao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO).

Baloran explained that in every disaster, it is part

of their operation to wait until the area is cleared and everything is settled before they leave.

“Hangtod kanus-a sila didto? Sa among trabaho hulaton namo na ma-clear na ang area ug ma-plastar na ang tanan bago namo biyaan ang isa ka lugar. Maong giingon namo during sa pre-deployment briefing, they should expect na basin maka-celebrate ang uban didto ug Christmas. Hopefully, ma-restore na ang

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By MAYA M. PADILLO

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he Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (Nordeco), formerly Davao del Norte Electric Cooperative (Daneco), assured assistance for the couple and their 13-yearold daughter who died on the spot after being electrocuted from a high voltage wire on December 19, 2021.

The victims were identified as Ronaldo Capangpangan Gabucan, 45, his live-in partner Antonina Orello Sasil, 45, and their 13-year-old daughter Ray Ann and residents of Purok 3, Barangay Busaon, Tagum City, Davao del Norte.

Authorities in Tagum

City reported that the victims were on board a motorcycle traveling along Purok 5 Cabugan in Barangay Busaon when they got in contact with a live wire hanging from the Nordeco electric post along the road.

In a statement, Nordeco assured necessary as-

sistance to the bereaved family and prays for the repose of their souls.

“Nordeco expresses its sincerest sympathy to the families of Ronaldo Gabucan, Antonina Sasil, and Ray Ann Gabucan who unfortunately lost their lives in an electrocution accident involving its line,” it said.

Meanwhile, Nordeco continues to provide services to ensure an efficient and reliable power supply to its consumer owners.

On December 15, 2021, Nordeco hold a

he Tupad Pangako Program of Davao del Sur has once again paved way for the second batch of former rebels to complete various skills training and basic education to prepare them to reintegrate back into their respective communities and regain normal life.

The 17 FRs from across Davao del Sur recently graduated from a three-month livelihood skills training held at the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) in Baran-

gay Kinuskusan in Bansalan town.

The FRs also received Christmas gift packages from the provincial government of Davao del Sur, Cor Jesu College of Digos, Department of Interior and Local Government of Davao del Sur and among others.

The FR-trainees have learned on knowledge and practical skills on agriculture, welding, manicure, pedicure, massage, electrical, entrepreneurial, as well as on spiritual

development, and among others.

Under the program, they have also undergone reorientation and reorganization on their mindset to abandon communist terrorist views, and exposure to practical human development.

Brig. Gen. Potenciano Camba, commander of the 1002nd Brigade of the Philippine Army, expressed gratitude and congratulated the FRs who completed the reintegration program, and he

switch-on ceremony for its Sitio Electrification Program (SEP) at Maribaga Tugop, Kingking, Pantukan, Davao de Oro. With a total project cost of P2,842,146.43, the project will benefit 41 households.

In his message, Davao de Oro Governor Tyron Uy expressed his gratitude to Nordeco along with the support of the National Electrification Administration (NEA) that the SEP has been granted for the benefit of the residents of Maribaga Tugop.

encouraged them to achieve their goals after the livelihood training.

Camba also recognized the other government agencies and private sector partners, saying “Sa ating mga partners, salamat kaayo sa inyong tanan (To our partners, thank you) for planting the seeds of spirituality, productivity and hope.”

“Truly here in Davao del Sur, the bayanihan spirit is alive because all are helping

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2nd batch of ex-rebels graduate from DavSur’s Tupad Pangako T

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

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A pump attendant waits for customers at a gas station in Matina, Davao City on Tuesday. Oil firms have implemented another round of price increase on petroleum products starting Tuesday morning. Edge Davao

Damage to PH agri caused by ‘Odette’ pegged at P333.4M

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amages to agriculture brought about

by Super Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai) has increased by P157 million, according to data released by the Department of Agriculture (DA).

Latest data from the DA show that damage and losses estimate damages at P333.4 million as of 11 a.m. on Monday, December 20, up from P176.4 million on Sunday afternoon, December 19.

The figure includes 19,640 metric tons (MT)

and 23,198 hectares of agricultural areas, affecting 12,750 farmers in Calabarzon, Bicol, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Central Mindanao, Davao, and Caraga.

Affected commodities include rice, corn, high value crops and fisheries, with

the figures still subject to validation.

“The DA continuously coordinates with concerns NGAs, LGUs, and other DRRM-related offices for the impact of Odette, as well as available resources for interventions and assistance,” the DA said.

The DA said it will also provide at least P1.35-billion worth of assistance to farmers and fishers affected, including P1 billion of quick response fund, P148

million in rice seeds, P100 million under the Survival and Recovery Assistance Program, P1.64 million of fingerlings and assistance to fisherfolk, P625,150 worth of drugs and biologics, and available funds from the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp.

Odette left the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Saturday afternoon, after causing “total devastation” in areas under its path.

technological innovations. “[This is] in terms of Fish Biotechnology, establishment of Food Safety laboratories, and support for the conservation and management of fisheries projects in Guimaras,” DA Undersecretary for Agro-Industrialization and Fisheries Cheryl Nativadad-Caballero said in an interview with Philippine News Agency.

“With these proposed strategic areas for part-

nership, the Philippines would be able to improve the reliability of its exports for octopus, eels, and other high value species anchored on traceability and catch documentation systems,” she added.

DA-BFAR said the new partnership will likewise strengthen international cooperation and the development of a platform and framework for Korean and Filipino experts to engage in technical con-

sultation and discussions on issues concerning seafood trade, trading sectors, technology transfer, and innovation.

The cooperation also seeks to strengthen capture fisheries and aquaculture through technology adoption and development, including postharvest, product value-adding, trade, and coastal and marine fishery management; facilitate the exchange of ex-

PH, SoKor expands pact on fisheries cooperation

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he Philippines and South Korea signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Monday to formalize the arrangement that will ensure the food safety of fish and fishery product exports.

The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) said the MOU will boost the relationships between the two countries as they plan to further improve

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France to lend PH P14 billion to support disaster response

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rance has committed to lend the Philippines the equivalent of P14 billion to support and build up disaster risk reduction efforts at the local level, the Department of Finance said.

In a statement, the DOF said that it signed a €250-million policy-based loan with the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), with the funds aimed at scaling up local governments’ disaster risk management capabilities.

“The Disaster Risk Reduction Enhancement at the Local Level Programme seeks to support LGUs in a sustainable trajectory, as well as build the resilience of local economies and communities,” the DOF said.

The funds will “support the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in the process of decentralizing the mandate and services for disaster risk reduction and climate change management to the Local Government Units (LGUs). It will not only help build the capacity of the LGUs but also support ongoing reform

programs throughout the country, taking into account the demands of the ‘new normal’ that seeks to address public health emergency concerns, as demonstrated by the COVID-19 experience,” the DOF added.

The AFD, a French public financial agency that funds and supports development, climate and sustainability programs overseas, said that the loan is the result of a long-time partnership with the DILG. “It aims to further develop our cooperation on disaster risk management and climate change adaptation capacity for a period of three years. It is also in line with France’s commitment to support climate action under the Paris Agreement, in order to help the Philippine Government meet the ambitious targets it set for itself when it submitted its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the UNFCCC earlier this year,” said AFD Country Director Laurent Klein.

The news came after Typhoon Odette swept

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ECONOMY

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ICT Davao president laywer Samuel Matunog says the recent internet outage after typhoon “Odette” hit parts of the Visayas and Mindanao revealed that telecommunications companies lacked resiliency measures to prevent disruption of internet connectivity in the south. Edge Davao

Telcos lack ‘resiliency measure’ for net connectivity in Mindanao – ICT expert DITO hits 5M subscribers, posts P2 billion revenues

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ITO Telecommunity said it now has 5 million subscribers and has posted P2 billion in revenues, nine months after its commercial launch last March.

The telco, which is a joint venture between Dennis Uy and China Telecom, said it has also reached more than 500 areas nationwide.

DITO chief administrative officer Adel Tamano said the country’s third major telco has also laid out more than 22,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables and has constructed more than 4,100 towers.

He said these towers were more than enough to service DITO’s more than 5 million subscribers nationwide.

“It bears repeating that some have said that rolling out DITO in the time given was impossible,” Tamano added.

The country’s newest telco meanwhile welcomed news that most

of its network remained operational or have been restored after the onslaught of typhoon Odette.

“Though it was inevitable that DITO suffered network outages, rapid pre-deployed disaster teams saved the day. Disaster resilience of the DITO network was built into our rollout plans,” said DITO Chief Technology Officer Ret. Major General Santiago.

DITO will be providing 1,000 preloaded SIM Cards to first responders in the affected areas to help coordinate relief and recovery missions by the government, Santiago added.

Last Friday, DITO CME Holdings Corp, the listed firm operating DITO telco set the final offer price of its stock rights offer at P4.88 per share.

DITO CME said it will offer about 1.64 billion common shares, the proceeds of which will be used to fund DITO telco’s expansion.

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of the island.”

While the immediate cause was the typhoon, he noted that it only showed that telephone companies are not prepared to ensure communication lines and

internet access would not be disrupted after the onslaught of a devastating typhoon.

“While the immediate cause may be typhoon Odette, the more fundamental cause may have been the insufficiency of the resiliency measures employed by (telecommunications) companies to ensure Mindanao will not and will never be deprived of internet access,” he said.

Alfredo Baloran, head of Davao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, told Davao

City Disaster Radio (DCDR 87.5) on Monday that communication lines were down, but responders here were able to employ contingency plans in monitoring the rivers.

He added that they are proposing for the procurement of satellite phones next year to augment the disaster response capabilities of the city to prepare for typhoons with similar intensity as that of super typhoon Yolanda on November 3, 2013.

He said using the satel-

marker symbolizes [what] crop production [really is], [it] encourages urban agriculture.

Everything that we have put in there are tools in plant production,” UPLB-EL project leader, Dr Fernando C. Sanchez Jr., explained during the opening.

Secretary William Dar and other DA officials led the ribbon-cutting ceremony and ceremonial turnover of the shovel to symbolize food cultivation and production through EL. Funded by the DA-Bu-

reau of Agricultural Research, under the Plant, Plant, Plant program, the garden promotes EL in urban communities as an additional source of available, fresh, and nutritious food.

It supports the efforts of the DA to establish food-resilient communities amid the Covid-19 pandemic and promotes urban farming by incorporating available technologies such as organic farming, vertical farming, hydroponics, and horticulture.

“This project was in-

spired by our desire to provide more food in poor urban areas. It is important that we start this at the DA. This area is planted with organic vegetables and integrates horticulture,” Undersecretary Zamzamin Ampatuan said in his message of acceptance of the EL garden.

EL is a farming approach where artistry and basic landscaping principles are aesthetically combined with crop production to provide households with steady supply of vegetables. (PNA)

he recent internet outage after typhoon “Odette” ripped through parts of the Visayas and Mindanao revealed that telecommunications (telcos) companies lacked resiliency measures to prevent disruption of internet connectivity in the south, an official of the Information Communications Technology (ICT)-Davao said.

Atty. Samuel Matunog, ICT Davao president, said in a text message on Sunday that the recent internet disruption on the island was by far the “most disruptive and costly to the economy

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Agri dept promotes edible landscaping

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new landscape with edible crops that forms into the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) logo was unveiled Monday at the agency’s central office along Elliptical Road in Quezon City.

The project dubbed “Hardin ng Kalusugan at Pagkain” (Garden of Health and Food) was an initiative of the Institute of Crop Science, University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) College of Agriculture and Food Science, and Edible Landscaping movement.

“The design of our

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

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On the release of a P15,000 cash assistance for each of the 85 athletes and 20 coaches from 24 sports who were affected by typhoon Odette:

My heart breaks for them. Napandemic na binagyo pa,” comments Ramirez. However, he also said that it is during these times where the heart of champions beat stronger. “They are trained to overcome, to survive and to win. They might be sad for a while but the champions in them will prod them to rise up and help themselves and those around them so that together they can get through this.”

PSC Chairman William Ramirez

EDITORIAL Outstanding citizens If there are reasons why Davao is a popular place, one of them is because of its outstanding citizens. These citizens have made a name in various aspects of human endeavors.

Many Dabawenyos made a name for themselves in agriculture for instance. We have Antonio O. Floirendo, the Cavendish banana king; Francisco S. Dizon Jr. of the Davao pomelo fame and Charita Puentespina, orchid queen, to name a few.

Dabawenyos are also famous for durian, which has now invaded the United States and other international markets.

The Alcantaras, the offsprings of the venerable Conrado C. Alcantara, have dominated fish export products, too.

Their laudable efforts not only strengthen food security in the country, they also give employment to millions of thousands of workers.

Lately, Dabawenyos have actively engaged in friendly competition in the international cacao (chocolate) market. Thanks again to Ms Charita Puentespina who opened her chocolate museum, the first in the country, and the never-ending advocacy of Val Turtur of the CIDAMI (Cacao Industry Development Association of Mindanao, Inc.), a successful movement pioneered also by the indefatigable Chari Pu-

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Just recently two farmers made Dabawenyos proud again by making it to the prestigious International Cocoa Awards (ICA). The two Davao farmers joined the roster of the best cocoa producers in the world. Yes, out of 235 samples from 53 cocoa-producing countries!

ICA, through the Coca Excellence (CoEX) Program, is a biennial global competition recognizing the value of the world of cocoa (cacao) farmers by providing them global recognition and celebrating the diversity of flavors from different origins in the world.

Cheers to ACA Gold Award Winner Arthur Lagoc from Talandang, Tugbok District, Davao City. The recognition validates not just his own work but also the work of generations before him.

Congratulations also to ICA Silver Awardee Winner Carlos Barsicula from Sawata, San Isidro, Davao del Norte.

A retired military personnel, Barsicula’s triumph is a testament that even small-holder cocoa farmers from a remote area can be at par with the world’s best.

Misters Lagoc and Barsicula, sirs, Dabawenyos are mighty proud of you.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

MAYA M. PADILLO Senior Reporter

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

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HENRYLITO TACIO SERAFICA D. J. WEIS THINK ON CORNER THESE! IBP DAVAO

WHO IS TEK OCAMPO? When my friend Tek Ocampo asked me if he should join politics, I told him affirmatively. “Now is the time for you to serve your fellow man,” I told him. “I am sure you can make a difference to people who mattered to you most, including your family.”

In the beginning, there were some stumbling blocks.

He was hesitant to run but after clearing everything and weighing all the pluses and minuses of being a politician, he finally decided to go with it.

And so last September 30, Tek was one of the newest members of the Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod – commonly referred to as Hugpong – welcomed by Mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio in an online convention.

Tek is running for councilor for the First District of Davao City.

For those who do not know him, he went to Davao Christian High School, where he graduated in 1989. From there, he studied at the Ateneo de Davao University where he had taken AB Mass Communication. He graduated in 1993.

In 2006, Tek – who will turn

50 on February 2 next year – had the opportunity of going to Australia where he took Peace Journalism at the University of Sydney.

Perhaps not too many know that he started his journalism career with ABS-CBN as a trainee reporter in 1993. In that same year, he worked as a reporter for ABC TV 5. He lasted for six years in the said television station.

When Tek joined GMA, he became the TV News Anchor of “Testigo: GMA Super Balita.”

This was on October 4, 1999. He made a name of himself as a national reporter for GMA News when he left the show in 2002.

After his stint with GMA Manila (from 2004 to 2005), he came back to Davao to anchor the “Testigo” program once more. He was also the TV News Anchor of “One Mindanao,” where people could have their daily dose of local news and events around Davao, General Santos City and Cagayan de Oro region.

The website, IMDb.com, describes Tek “as an actor.” He appeared in the music video, “Kapuso Stars: Buong pusong

maGMAhalan” (2017) and “Isang puso ngayong Pasko” (2020), also a music video. He appeared as himself in the television series, “Balita Pilipinas” (2011).

In 2017, Tek was among the Davao City-based journalists invited during the Globe Media Summit and Davao Media Freedom Day co-hosted by the Mass Communication Department of Ateneo de Davao University.

He talked about his experience as a broadcast journalist.

Unlike what most people think, journalism is not always glamorous, he pointed out. Most often, news is unpredictable and some events can affect journalists not only physically but also psychologically and emotionally. He cited the case of the war on Marawi.

But journalists have a job to do and must do the reporting – no matter what so people may be informed. “I’ve been in the industry for 22 years but I still get nervous when I go on air,” he admitted. “Every day is a learning experience.”

Tek held many offices when it came to journalism groups.

He was former vice president

for TV of the AFP-PNP Press Corps. He was likewise former vice president for TV of Davao Press Club. In addition, he was the former chairman of the Regional Public Safety Battalion Advisory Council. He is also a member of the Davao City Sports Writers Association.

Now, if he will be selected as one of the councilors this coming May election, he wants to increase the benefits and services for the senior citizens – or people who are sixty years old or over.

Tek is also thinking of socializing housing for people with no informal settlements.

For those who don’t know, informal settlements are areas where groups of housing units have been constructed on land that the occupants have no legal claim to, or occupy illegally. It also refers to unplanned settlements and areas where housing is not in compliance with current planning and building regulations (unauthorized housing).

He also has programs for the laborers so they can be alleviated from poverty and will have a sustainable source of income. In addition, he wants

to strengthen and improve the medical services for the poor people.

In order to help the young people, he will be supporting some sports development programs for the youth. People with disabilities are included; he wants to enforce the programs for this sector.

Tek also wants to expand the modernization of the transaction for the local government so that it will be easier for the people who want to go into business in Davao City.

Likewise, he supports the continuation of free education and to add more benefits for deserving students who are under this program.

Tek also wants to give attention to the needs and recognize the rights and benefits of those belonging to the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) community.

Tek also has programs for women’s sector, transport sector, fisher folks, and media. He is also thinking of making laws that will address some situations while the city is still under the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

‘DAVAO’ IN DUTCH RECORDS Outside accepted local traditions, foreign accounts afford also a window on how place names are recorded in logs by visiting mar-iners. The seventeenth-century Dutch narratives, for instance, have much to enlighten us when it comes to resolving how ‘Davao’ was originally pronounced.

In ‘Triumph of Moro Diplomacy,’ Dutch historian Ruudje Laar-hoven cited in at least two places that Davao, as pronounced in oral transmission, was recorded as Dabu. The oldest such version is the account of Fiscal Daniel Ottens’ journey to Mindanao on board the vessel Orangie, which started its journey from Indonesia on August 30, 1628.

Ottens was sent out on a mission ‘to find out how far Spanish authority had encroached upon Mindanao; what support could

be expected from the Mindanao and Sulu people in an expedition against the enemy; what the political situation was involving Mindanao kingdoms and the Spaniards; and what the local people produced and traded.’

The fiscal even brought along letters and gifts for the kings of Sarangani, Tubok, Buayan, and Solock. His first destination was Cammarian (Camalian), in the town of Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, where Mangada, the king of Sarangani, was residing.’

A meeting was set between Ottens and the gugugu (prime min-ister of the domain), Kachil Londo, but the dialogue ended in frus-tration because the Dutch did not come with the news to attack the Tandag fort in Surigao del Sur, which was what Dutch governor Jacques Lefebvre, the fifth administrator of Moluccas,

promised four years earlier.

Later, in his meeting with the king, Ottens reported that Man-gada promised that in case of conflict his realm would gather thousands of bowmen and javelin throwers from the districts of ‘Malita, Bagobo, Canating, Djabo (Davao), Youw (Hijo), Mateau (Matiao), Sommeleg (Lupon), and Leyne, plus 10 totally equipped korakoras (i.e., ships).’

In the eighteenth-century logbook of Captain Paulus de Briev-ings and Ensign Jacob Cloeck, both Dutch mariners, found in the Records of the General States Archives in The Hague, Netherlands, Davao is also mentioned several times.

On board the ships De Bije and Larijcque, the Dutch mariners, in reports covering the period from June 15, 1700 to January 14, 1701 that brought them

to Maguindanao, wrote about ‘a river near Dabu in the Bay of Boutuan.’ ‘Dabu’ refers to Davao while ‘Bay of Boutuan’ denotes Davao Gulf. In another logbook entry, Dabu is also mentioned as a river.

‘We did not inquire about the island [of] Sarangany,’ the log-book entry goes, ‘and the places on the Dabu River and the larger part of the Bay of Boutuan.

When we encountered the Saran-ganians…, they told us that they keyser [Dutch emperor] appoints chiefs and regents there to his liking. We did not want to make an issue on who actually owns the island and Dabu area in order not to give any displeasure to the keyser or cause any estrangement. Neither did we inquire about the affair between him and the King of Buayan with whom they are continuously at war.’’

Davao is likewise documented in Jesuit priest Fr. Mateo Gisbert’s ‘Diccionario Bagobo-Español’ (1892) and in Englishman Thomas Forrest’s ‘A Voyage to New Guinea and the Moluccas’ (1969). Gisbert records the term dabo while Forrest enters it as Dabow.

It was local historian Rogelio Lizada, author of Sang-awun sa Dabaw (Once Upon a Time in Davao) who first postulated that Da-vao was pronounced by three Bagobo subtribes as davoh, or duh-woh, which is uncannily similar to what the Dutch and English ex-plorers had recorded.

In 1985, an ethnologic study done on the Davao placename also affirmed that its pronunciation is toponymic or referring to the landscape. In Fr. Gisbert’s lexicon dabo refers to a precipice.

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EVENT

Acacia Hotel Davao’s Resident Manager Agot Serrano.

DOT Regional Director Tanya Tan, Acacia Hotel Davao Director of Sales and Marketing Cherry Maddela, Resident Manager Agot Serrano, and City Tourism Office Head Generose Tecson light up the Christmas Tree.

Department of Tourism Region XI Director Tanya Tan.

Acacia Hotel Davao DOSM Cherry Maddela, DATA President Gatchi Gatchalian,Owner of Elysia Spa Bernie Alag,EVP of DATA Cherry Al-ag ,Senior Sales Manager Sybil Sevilla,Resident Manager Agot Serrano.

THE HOLIDAY SPARKLE COMES HOME TO ACACIA HOTEL DAVAO

TWO YEARS after its opening, Acacia Hotel Davao is finally dressed for the holidays with the first lighting celebration of its dazzling Christmas Tree last November 19, 2021.

Wrapped in Autumn leaves and warm hues of gold and ochre, the marvelous tree exudes the warmth, hope and love which are the hallmarks of the season.

“This year, we want to remind everyone about the true meaning of Christmas. Despite of all the challenges that we are dealing with, let us not forget that there’s still a lot of things to be thankful for. May we continue to find joy in simple things and in giving more importance on what truly matters” shared Resident Manager Agot Serrano. “ Acacia Hotel

Christmas” The simple ceremony was led by the Department of Tourism Regional Director Tanya Rabat-Tan, Davao City Tourism Head Generose Tecson, Acacia Hotel Davao’s Resident Manager Agot Serrano and Director of Sales and Marketing Cherry Pea Maddela.

Davao has chosen the colors of Autumn as it makes us realize that there’s hope in every downfall and that new beginnings are beautiful. Let us all cherish every moment with our loved ones as we embark to a brighter tomorrow. Everyone, thank you for joining us tonight as we celebrate our first Christmas Tree Lighting and 2nd Year Anniversary.

May we all have a remarkable

Made for joyous celebrations The event also signaled the launch of Acacia Hotel’s Christmas Season offerings that are sure to make the holidays more holly-jolly memorable and exciting. With celebrations at home in mind, take home a traditional Ginger Bread House at Php 1,200 nett, irresistible Fruit Cake at Php 828 nett and assorted Christmas Cookies at Php 428 nett

per box.

Craving for a feast? Ignite your senses with Acacia Hotel Davao’s mouthwatering holiday buffet spreads. Gather everyone around the table to have a merry Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet at Php 2,188 nett per person or for the New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet is priced at Php 2,022 nett per person and delectable highlights such as Lechon Roll, Roasted Beef Chuck Roll and Roasted Turkey.

Have a merry staycation with your family or loved one and savor genuine Filipino hospitality with Acacia Hotel Davao’s ‘Tis The Season room package at Php3,588 nett per room per night which includes breakfast for two and a surprise Christmas gift. Level up to their Christmas In The Air room package for an all-in

experience which is inclusive of breakfast for two, a surprise Christmas gift and a dinner buffet for two on December 24, 2021 only.

Welcome 2022 with a well-rested you and relish the decadent specialties that will give you a cheer for the new year with Acacia Hotel Davao’s In With a Bang room package at Php 4,288 nett per room per night. The stay includes breakfast for two and complimentary party hats and trumpet. Complete your year end with their New Year Cheer room package at Php 7,188 nett per room per night inclusive of breakfast for two and New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet for two on December 31, 2021.

Congratulations to Acacia Hotel Davao on your first Christmas Tree lighting and cheers to happier days ahead!

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COMPETITIVE EDGE

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Gifts of good cheer and good health at SURPLUS You can find all these essentials at the newly reopened Surplus store at the second level of SM Makati

‘T

is the season for sharing at Surplus!

And this Christmas, give your loved ones gifts of good health and good cheer from its wide selection of novelty and essential items.

There are gifts of wellness to make their homes healthy and happy - infrared sensor alcohol dispensers, air revitalizers, and wooden aroma humidifiers, as well as rest easy massagers, hot compresses, and steam easy nasal and face steamers.

WFH family members and friends will love our Japanese tatami chairs and foldable laptop tables, and ring lights.

For those constantly on the go, keep them cool and hydrated anywhere with a

Foldable laptop table for your work from home needs. Available at Surplus.

Have a goodnight’s sleep with this memory foam pillow from Surplus

7-inch fan with light, water tumblers, and insulated water bottles, and carry their things around in a foldable trolley.

All these and more are available at Surplus stores, including the newly renovated store at SM Makati and those located in most SM Supermalls Nationwide.

For a more convenient shopping experience, you may check out Surplus at Lazada and Shopee just follow SurplusPH and download SM Malls Online. Surplus Order to Deliver is also now available; join their Viber community bit.ly/surpluscommunity and follow them on Facebook and Twitter @SurplusPH and Instagram @Surplus_ph for more details.

Relieve aching muscles with these hot compress pads in fun colors.

Create a relaxing environment in your homes with this air revitalizer from Surplus.

Infrared sensor alcohol dispenser.

Seat, relax and watch your favorite movies comfortably with this Japanese tatami chair. Available at Surplus.

Relax after a hard day’s work with this rest easy massager.

Upgrade your vlogging skills with this 4 in 1 vlogger set that has all the accessories you need for a great video recording.

Relieve nasal congestion and achieve better skin health with this steam easy nasal and face steamer.

This adjustable ring light with a phone holder and tripod is perfect for lighting up your zoom meetings or shoots.

Soft, breathable bath towels from Surplus.

Wooden aroma humidifier.

Stay cool anywhere with this handy 7” fan with light. Available at Surplus.

Stay hydrated with these cool tumblers from Surplus.

Check out this foldable trolley for easy storage, ideal for groceries, office supplies, and home tools.

Available at Surplus.

Colorful insulated tumblers for your favorite drinks

Lightweight, compact, and trendy Japanese foldable bag.

Surplus SM Makati has an exciting new look and a wide variety of fashionable finds, essentials and novelty items.

AboitizPower energizes oil-fired plant to help restore power in Cebu

C

ebu Private Power Corporation (CPPC) is a power plant located in the heart of Cebu City, embedded within the Visayan Electric Company (VECO) franchise area, and has the unique capability to deliver power directly to VECO circuits and its customers.

AboitizPower distribution unit, Visayan Electric, is ramping up its efforts to restore power and aid in the recovery of the affected communities in Cebu. With power transmission lines and substation assets severely damaged, transporting electricity from generators to distribution utilities and communities continues to be a challenge.

In response to the affected communities’ need for immediate power res-

toration, AboitizPower deployed a team to energize its oil-fired power plant, operated and managed by its subsidiary, Cebu Private Power Corporation (CPPC).

CPPC is a power plant located in the heart of Cebu City, embedded within the Visayan Electric Company (VECO) franchise area, and has the unique capability to deliver power directly to VECO circuits and its customers.

Four CPPC power generator units started delivering 18 MW of power supply directly to VECO on Sunday morning, providing much needed electricity starting with priority areas like hospitals, government facilities,

and the Metro Cebu Water District pumping stations.

CPPC expects more of its power generator units to operate in the next 24

hours, aiming to double power output to 36 MW. During the CPPC power plant energization activities, Cebu City Mayor Mi-

chael Rama said, “We are extremely grateful to AboitizPower and its business units Visayan Electric Company and CPPC for the swift response to provide the much needed power to our communities. This is very crucial to Cebu’s recovery from the impacts of the typhoon.”

“We’re also hoping that National Grid Corporation’s transmission lines and substations can be fixed and operate at the required capacity as soon as possible, so that the power supply to VECO, our key infrastructure facilities, and the people of Cebu can return to normal,” Rama added, “We are really fortunate to have the power gen-

eration capability of CPPC right here in downtown Cebu City, to help us out in this difficult time.”

“The initial power output from CPPC is very limited and will be sent to hospitals like CCMC, Vicente Sotto, Chong Hua, and Perpetual Succor, as well as to MCWD so that water supply can be restored, and to the Cebu Provincial Capitol.

Until NGCP restores power transmission services, the electricity supply situation in Cebu city will likely remain inadequate. We ask for the public’s continued patience and understanding as we are doing our best to deliver electricity to our customers as soon as it is available,” VECO Chief Operating Officer Raul Lucero

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participate in implementing the culture of security within their workplace, school, purok, subdivision and to be an active part of their community defense system.

Dabawenyos are requested to report imme-

diately information about planned terror attacks and report any suspicious activities to Task Force Davao hotline numbers: Landline: 224-0911; Smart: (0999) 227 1111; Globe: (0917) 131 4333.

Private choppers also landed on Sunday in Catangnan with a group of businessmen dropping relief goods and water filtration devices.

The Junior Chamber International (JCI) – Legaspi, a young civic organization advocating for positive change, will be sending a barge loaded with relief goods and heavy equipment, among others, on Thursday for Siargao to help the local people.

It is expected to arrive on Saturday at the port of Dapa.

The other chapters of JCI in the different parts of the country are collecting donations for victims of Odette, which also devastated parts of the Visayas.

On Monday, December 20, former senator Bongbong Marcos, another presidential contender, also arrived in Del Carmen airport, via a private jet with Mayor Luis “Chavit” Singson of Narvacan town, Ilocos Sur. “I brought relief goods and water filtration,” Marcos told this reporter.

Siargao-born Communications Secretary Martin Andanar also arrived on the island at 11:00 am Monday, bringing with

him satellite dishes.

Senator Francis Tolentino also arrived Monday afternoon, bringing cash assistance and relief goods to Del Carmen and San Benito.

The staff of Senator Kiko Pangilinan also arrived Monday to distribute relief goods on the island.

A resort in General Luna will be utilizing two VSATs (very small aperture and satellite phones) to help the crisis center of the local government unit.

On Friday, President Rodrigo Duterte conducted aerial inspection over Siargao and Dinagat Islands and landed in Surigao airport.

“He promised to give one billion pesos for infrastructure projects and one billion pesos for the victims in Surigao del Norte through the DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development),” Surigao del Norte Governor Francisco T. Matugas said.

“Odette,” which made its first landfall in the Philippines in Siargao Island at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 16 , “totally devastated” the area, Matugas said earlier.

(Roel N. Catoto / MindaNews)

tanan ug ma-plastar na ang mga lugar didto sa Visayas aron makabalik pud sila dayon diri sa Davao ug makauban nila ilang pamilya sa pagsaulog sa pasko,” he said on Monday through Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR).

On December 19, 2021, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio led the sendoff ceremony for the 106 Dabawenyos composed of rescue and medical teams from the City Health Office, Davao City Central 911’s Emergency Medical Sevices (EMS), Uban Search and Rescue (USAR), Fire Auxiliary Services (FAS), Southern Philippines Medical Center doctors, and social workers from City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to help the victims of typhoon Odette in the Municipality of Ubay, Bohol Province.

“Gipadala sila sa Vi-

sayas aron mutabang sa atong kaigsoonan nga nabiktima sa bagyong Odette. Hopefully, makatabang gyud to ug dako sa atong mga kaigsoonan didto sa Visayas,” Baloran said.

He added that the city government of Davao also sent heavy equipment to help in the clearing operation in Surigao del Norte, which was severely pummeled by typhoon Odette.

“Seguro gabii naabot na ang heavy equipment didto aron mutabang sa pag clearing sa mga areas na natabunan dala ning bagyong Odette,” Baloran said.

Surigao City now looks like a war zone and based on the photos shared on social media, many properties and infrastructure were smashed after being battered by typhoon Odette. By Maya M. Padillo

lite gadgets, communication lines of the responders will not be disrupted even after the occurrence of strong typhoons.

After typhoon Odette barreled through the Visayas and Mindanao, major

telcos Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company, DITO Telecommunity and Globe Telecom announced that internet services were disrupted due to multiple fiber cable cuts. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

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VOL.14 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

Lower demand pushes global oil prices down

G

lobal oil prices fell on Monday fueled by concerns of rising Omicron variant cases worldwide, resulting in lowering oil demand expectations.

International benchmark Brent crude was trading at USD71.21 per barrel at 0740 GMT for a 3.14 percent decrease

after closing the previous session at USD73.52 a barrel.

American benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was at USD68.28 per barrel at the same time for a 3.64 percent loss after trade ended at USD70.86 a barrel in the previous session.

Reports of the spread

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sistance on Monday, he immediately went to Negros Occidental with President Rodrigo Duterte to ensure the implementation of government rescue, relief, and recovery efforts in the affected communities from the tragedy caused by Typhoon Odette similar to what they did in Southern Leyte and Surigao Del Norte on Saturday, and in Cebu and Bohol on Sunday such as aerial inspection and situation briefing in Kabankalan City with local officials of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental; officers of DSWD, Department of Energy (DOE), DTI, Department of Transportation (DOTR), Department of

Health (DOH), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Office of the Civil Defense (OCD), and other agencies as well as the police and military ranks.

“Sisiguraduhin ng Pangulo na mabibigyan ng sapat na atensyon at tulong ang lahat ng mga lugar na lubhang naapektuhan ng bagyo.

Walang tigil ang pagde-deploy ng kagamitan, ayuda, at personnel ng gobyerno at sisikapin naming mabisita ang iba pang mga nasalantang lugar tulad ng Palawan sa susunod na mga araw,” Go said in a statement. By Maya M. Padillo

beyond the minimum percent.

“Department secretaries may require heads of agencies over which they have control or supervision, or which are attached to their departments, to implement a larger on-site workforce should the one set by the agency head be insufficient for the delivery of services, as determined by the department secretary,” the memo read.

Agencies providing health and emergency frontline services, laboratory and testing services, border control, or other critical services, shall require an on-site workforce that is larger than the minimum, as may be necessary to deliver their mandates.

In all cases, the requirement on on-site workforce shall be subject to social distancing requirements and other minimum public health standards.

The offices of the legislative and judicial branches of government, independent constitutional commissions and bodies, and local government units are strongly urged to adopt the provisions of this circular.

The entire Philippines is currently under Alert Level 2 status.

Under Alert Level 2, activities are allowed at 50 percent indoor venue capacity for fully vaccinated individuals and at 70 percent outdoor venue capacity.

Previously, government agencies and instrumentalities were required to adopt a 20 percent on-site workforce capacity in areas under Alert Level 4, 30 percent on-site workforce capacity in areas under Alert Level 3, and 50 percent on-site workforce capacity in areas under Alert Level 2. (PNA)

out to fulfill the tupad pangako program for our former rebels,” he stated during the graduation ceremony.

The other officials who graced the commencement rites were Vice Governor John Tracy Cagas who represented Governor Marc Cagas and Provincial Director Mika-Chan Magtulis of DILG Davao del Sur. The TPP was launched last year through the collaborative efforts of the provincial government headed by the late Governor Douglas Cagas and other government agencies in the province such as the DILG, 39th Infantry Battal-

ion, Davao del Sur Police Provincial Office, as well as the MBRLC as a partner agency from the private sector.

The program aims to help facilitate the mainstreaming of former rebels as productive citizens by providing them with the necessary skills, knowledge, spiritual enlightenment and assistance to completely transform their lives.

The program is pursuant to President Duterte’s End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) endeavors. (PIAXI/Franchette Delfin with reports from Carina L. Cayon)

through parts of Visayas and Mindanao, leaving at least 375 dead by the PNP’s latest count and towns flattened.

The Philippines is one of the nations hardest hit by natural calamities brought about by climate change.

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of the new variant are suppressing economic recovery with travel restrictions and lockdowns now put in place in many countries.

The Netherlands went into lockdown on Sunday ahead of the holiday season to prevent the further spread of the variant.

The Israeli Ministry of Health recommended the addition of 10 countries, including Turkey and the US, to a no-fly list in the travel table.

US President Joe Biden is due to an-

nounce his new strategies to combat the virus as the number of cases has reached a record level in New York and New Jersey and the capital Washington DC. Health officials in the US urged people to get booster shots and wear masks while entering the holiday season.

The variant has also surfaced for the first time in Iran and Ukraine, while Spain has become one of the most high-risk countries due to the increasing case numbers. (Anadolu)

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said.

AboitizPower continues to mobilize its field teams to accelerate power restoration and relief operations activities in affected areas.

Teams from its other distribution units like Davao Light and Power, Subic Enerzone, and Cotabato Light were deployed to assist in the power restoration efforts in Cebu.

coach Monty Williams and Gonzaga coach Mark Few. Williams has been an assistant before, under former US coach Mike Krzyzewski. Spoelstra and Few were involved in coaching the US select team, which was assembled to practice against the Olympic team, this past summer.

“Coaching the USA men’s national team comes

with great responsibility — one that calls for a group effort with a team of coaches committed to the team, to the goal and to each other — and I couldn’t ask for a finer group of high character individuals to help me lead our national team,” Kerr said. “Our goal, of course, is to win and make our country proud. We will work hard to do so.”

Weightlifting ng Pilipinas (SWP) has a small gym which was washed-out in the reports we received.”

Ramirez added.

Iroy is leading the charge of efforts, connecting with the Armed Forces of the Philippines for the transport and delivery of goods like mattresses and water bottles.

Odette, which has an international name Rai, is the 15th typhoon to hit the Philippines this year. According to Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA), Odette weakened slightly from a Category 5 to a Category 3 storm after making a landfall Thursday on Siargao Island.

“This is indeed a wonderful gift for them especially since the yuletide season is right around the corner, their wish to have electricity has now become a reality,” Uy said.

SEP is one of the projects of the National Electrification Administration (NEA) that aims to light up sitios/puroks in every corner of the country especially those in remote areas.

periences, information, technologies, and expertise; and facilitate the promotion of fisheries trade and business investments between Korea and the Philippines.

Both parties are looking forward to the next Joint Fisheries Committee meeting, with the Philippines expressing intent to host the mid-2022 event in Manila.

The first Philippines-Korea Memorandum MOU on Fisheries Cooperation was signed

by DA Secretary William Dar and Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries Minister Seong-hyuk Moon in November 2019 on the occasion of the Republic of Korea - Association of Southeast Asian Nations Commemorative Summit held in Busan. (PNA)

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Kerr to coach Team USA

S

teve Kerr saw everything that Gregg Popovich went through as coach of the US men’s national team, saw exactly how difficult it was last summer for the Americans to emerge from the Tokyo Olympics with another gold medal.

And when he walked off the floor for the last time in Tokyo, he was drained.

“It wasn’t easy,” Kerr said.

It was just further proof that the days of US cakewalks to gold are over. He decided to take the job anyway.

Kerr was formally announced as the next coach of the US men’s team on Monday in San Francisco

(Tuesday, Manila time), a not-very-well-kept secret in recent weeks that the Golden State coach would be taking over for Popovich and leading the Americans — if they qualify — into the 2023 Basketball World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Kerr’s assistants will be Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, Phoenix Suns

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PSC organizing relief efforts for Odette victims of the national team

P

hilippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez gave instructions over the weekend to organize relief efforts for members of the national severely affected by typhoon Odette.

The PSC management committee, led by PSC Executive Director Atty. Guillermo Iroy Jr. met Monday to finalize the logistics for the care package.

“This is a force of nature that we cannot control. However, we can do

our share to help them get through this. We will do all we can with the resources available, ” Ramirez said.

The PSC has been monitoring the situation of the members of the Philippine National Team affected by typhoon Odette which ravaged the Visayas and Mindanao region late last week.

“We are closely keeping track of the situation of our athletes. There is quite a number affected like in Bohol where Samahang

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Steve Kerr would be the 16th different coach to take the US men into an Olympics.

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PSC chairman Butch Ramirez with athletes.

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CASH GIFT Nat’l team athletes to receive Christmas ‘bonus’ from PSC

M

embers of the national team will be receiving a cash gift of P10,000 pesos each as the Philippine Sports Commission prepares to release the said financial bonus this week.

PSC Chairman William Ramirez and PSC Commissioners Mon Fernandez, Celia Kiram, Charles Maxey and Arnold Agustin approved the Christmas monetary gift in their last board meeting despite challenges in the sports agency’s resources.

“Whatever hinders the income of our benefactors, hinders our cash flow too. However, the holidays will come nevertheless, and we wish for our athletes and coaches to be able to celebrate well with family too,” explained Ramirez, adding that this Christmas gift is on top of their monthly allowances.

Despite the many challenges this year, especially for those hit by Typhoon Odette last week, the sports chief wishes our athletes to have a meaningful observance of the holidays with their families.