Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 96 | Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022

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VOL.15 ISSUE 96 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2022

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FREE BUS RIDE VP Sara launches ‘Libreng Sakay’ in major PH cities STORY ON PAGE 2

Candidate Sitti Rohilmina Emani of the Sama tribe sheds tears as she shares her tribe’s struggle for equality and education during the Hiyas sa Kadayawan 2022 launch at Acacia Hotel in Davao City on Wednesday. Edge Davao

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 96 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2022

Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa says he is one with the families of drug war victims in seeking justice but not on rejoining the International Criminal Court (ICC), which will investigate the bloody anti-drug campaign of the Duterte administration. Edge Davao

FREE BUS RIDE S

I’m with drug war victims’ families in seeking justice but not on ICC: Bato

VP Sara launches ‘Libreng Sakay’ in major PH cities

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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In a statement, Vice President Sara Duterte, who initiated the implementation of the free transport ride, said she was hopeful the project will help Filipinos save fare expenses.

In her message during the official launch ceremony of the OVP Libreng Sakay program at Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange, she said she is hoping that through this program her office will be able to provide relief to some Filipinos who

rely on public transport for their daily commute to work, to school, and many other places.

Two buses will be functional in Metro Manila, one in Davao City, one in Cebu City, and another one in Bacolod City.

For Davao City, the areas of Lasang, Toril, and Calinan are the designated pick-up stations. The operation will start from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Monday and Tuesday for Lasang area passengers,

Wednesdays and Thursdays for Toril residents, and Fridays and Saturdays for Calinan-bound commuters.

In Metro Manila, the pick-up of passengers will start as early as 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. from Mondays to Saturdays and will follow the usual EDSA bus way.

Mandaue City will start ferrying passengers from Jagobiao from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays, while Cebu City will commence at 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. en route from SM Seaside to IT Park.

For Lapulapu City shuttles from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays, starting at the Mactan Eco-

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deep.

Intensity IV was felt in Manay, Tarragona, and Caraga, Davao Oriental.

Intensity III was felt in the City of Mati and Baganga, Davao Oriental; while intensity I was reported in the City of Davao.

Instrumental intensity I

was recorded in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro; Malungon, Sarangani; and the City of Davao.

Reported intensity is the traditional way of knowing the intensity based on reports of people who felt the earthquake while instrumental inten-

he Office of the Vice President (OVP) together with the Department of Transportation (DoTr) launched “Peak Hours Augmentation Bus Service (PHABS)- Libreng Sakay” in key cities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao on Tuesday.

nomic Processing Zone (MEPZ) 1.

For Bacolod City bus will also start its pointto-point ride from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. except on Saturdays.

The free bus transport will also serve other selected barangays in the city on scheduled days.

The buses, which are all wifi-ready, were initially lent for OVP use, but Duterte said these “would be more useful” if they were deployed in some key areas of the country to be used by the commuting public for free.

“Sa ating limang wifi-ready buses para sa OVP Libreng Sakay Program, dalawang bus ang inilaan para sa ating mga kababayan sa Metro Manila, isa

sity is measured using an intensity meter that measures ground acceleration.

Meanwhile, aftershocks are likely, while damage is not expected from this earthquake.

Damage starts at intensity VI, based on Philvolcs’ scale. (PNA)

FFREE, P10

Magnitude 5.6 quake jolts DavOr

magnitude 5.6 earthquake hit Davao Oriental early Wednesday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

The tectonic quake struck 51 km. southeast of the municipality of Manay at 3:19 a.m. It was 20 km.

enator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa on Wednesday said he is one with the families of drug war victims in seeking justice but not on rejoining the International Criminal Court (ICC), which will investigate the bloody anti-drug campaign of the Duterte administration.

“I am with them in their seek of justice. Kasama po nila ako. Sabihin ninyo lang kung ano ang matutulong ko sa inyo and nandito lang po ako tutulong ako sa inyo...kasi ako ayoko rin talagang mayroong abuso na ginagawa lalong lalo na ang ating kapulisan,” Dela Rosa said in an interview.

(I am with them in their pursuit of justice. Just tell me what can I do to help because I also do not want abuses, especially if these are perpetrated by the policemen.)

“Ayaw na ayaw ko po ‘yon pero, my God, pasensya na kayo kung magkakaiba ‘yung paningin natin.

Dadalawang korte lang ang haharapin ko — ‘yung ating korte sa Pilipinas at ‘yung korte natin doon sa langit,” he added.

Dela Rosa, a former Philippine National Police chief who was tagged as the chief architect of Duterte’s drug war, said even the complainants would not allow themselves to be prosecuted or tried by foreign courts which have no personal knowledge of what is happening in the country.

“Hindi po ako magpapa-under sa mga korte ng mga banyaga. Kahit kayo man siguro... kayo mga complainant ngayon, kung kayo maakusahan, I’m sure ayaw ninyo magpa-prosecute at magpa-try sa mga banyagang korte na walang alam sa nangyayari dito sa ating bansa,” he added.

(I will not submit to

these foreign courts. Even these complainants, I’m sure they do not want to be prosecuted or tried by foreign courts which have no idea about the situation in the country.)

In an interview with reporters on Tuesday, Dela Rosa said the truth on the drug war should be revealed by the Philippine courts.

“Sabi ko nga sa inyo e. Right here, right now, pwede ninyo akong bitayin basta ang magbitay sa akin ‘yung korte ng Pilipinas hindi foreign court,” he said.

On Monday, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s said the Philippines has no intention to rejointhe ICC. The decision was welcomed by Dela Rosa, saying he is “happy” with Marcos’ decision being the “number two accused” in the cases pending before the ICC. Atty. Kristina Conti, who represents around 200 families of drug war victims, earlier expressed concern over Marcos’ decision not to rejoin the ICC. She said the local investigation focuses on individual cases of killings that would only go after people involved in police operations.

The ICC probe, on the other hand, would cover the bigger picture of the deaths including the pattern of the incidents, faults in policies, and the mastermind or most responsible for these ‘widespread’ and ‘systematic’ killings.

The ICC recently “invited” the Philippines to provide observations on its request to reopen the investigation into the Duterte administration’s anti-drugs campaign, which is blamed for thousands of deaths of drug suspects.

FI’M WITH, P10

NEWS

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Candidates for this year’s Hiyas sa Kadayawan pose for photographs during the media presentation held at Acacia Hotel in Davao City on Wednesday. Edge Davao

‘Hiyas’ bets advocate for right to education, cultural preservation DavNor gov vows support for “PinasLakas” vax program

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overnor Edwin I. Jubahib of Davao del Norte has committed his support for “PinasLakas” strengthened COVID-19 vaccination drive while reminding the public that the struggle against the pandemic “is far from over.”

In his message read by Provincial Administrator Josie Jean Rabanoz during the PinasLakas Davao del Norte launch this morning, Jubahib called on all Dabaonons to support the directive to strengthen

the COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Jubahib echoed the call to “maintain a strong wall of immunity”. He set the target to reach 90 percent coverage of senior citizens belonging to A2 category, and 50 percent of the general population to get the 1st booster dose.

“Sa akong mga kaigsoonang Dabaonon, wala pa nahuman ang atong pakigbatok kontra-pademya,

FDAVNOR, P10

GenSan City ASF-free, defensive measures up

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eneral Santos City has no more cases of African swine fever (ASF) infection, a veterinary official said Wednesday.

“The last infected hog in the village of Baluan had been culled and per monitoring, no single case of ASF was reported,” said Dr. Emilio Gargaran Jr., acting chief of the city veterinary office (CVO).

Earlier, General Santos Mayor Lorelie Geronimo

Pacquiao issued an executive order for strict border controls to prevent and control the spread of ASF in the city.

At least 77 hogs in the village of Baluan have been culled by the CVO as part of effective preventive measures to prevent further infections among local hogs, and spare hog raisers from further losses.

Aside from preemptive

FGENSAN, P10

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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he eleven candidates for this year’s Hiyas sa Kadayawan were officially presented to the media at the Acacia Davao Hotel in Davao City on Wednesday.

The candidates, representing the 11 tribes of Davao City, presented various advocacies emphasizing the right to education, ethnic representation, and cultural preservation.

Sitti Rohilmina Emani of the Sama tribe shed tears during the presentation as she shared the struggle of his tribe due to discrimination, the reason why she is advocating for equality and

the right to education for the Sama tribe (Badjaos).

“My advocacy is education kasi karamihan sa amin hindi nakapag-aral kaya gina-look down ang aming culture. I want to promote education para ipakita sa lahat na kaya din namin na ipakita sa inyo kung ano ang aming livelihood. I also want to promote cultural awareness kasi marami sa ating ka-

bataan ay hindi marunong kung ano ang kasuotan ng aming tribe,” Emani said.

Leizly May Mendoza of the Bagobo-Tagabawa tribe is advocating the strengthening of cultural identity and continuity of her tribe.

“Kabalo ko sa akong sarili na well-preserve namo ang among tradisyon and culture and gusto nako ma strengthen. Na-preserve naman sa among ancestors ang amoang traditon, culture, and belief and I want to strengthen that kay kami man ang next generation sa amoang tribu,” she said.

Mendoza also said that

he 30 percent water rate hike will start to reflect in the August billing according to an official of the Davao City Water District (DCWD).

Recently, DCWD announced that it is implementing the water rate adjustment of 30 percent starting this month wherein the minimum charge

before the adjustment is at P137.30, and with the 30 percent adjustment is now at P178.50.

“To get the picture of how the 30 percent adjustment would affect our customers let’s just use ang kadtong residential connection with one half inch size connection, mao ni ang pinaka daghan nga

service connection. From the minimum charge which is the first 10 cubic meter na konsumo sa atoang mga customers the minimum charge prior the adjustment is at P137.30 with the 30 percent adjustment mahimo ni siyang P178.50,” said Jovana Cresta T. Duhaylungsod, deputy spokesperson of DCWD, during Wednesdays

her tribe is grateful to Vice President Sara Duterte for wearing their traditional attire during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA).

She said that by wearing their tribal attire, Duterte not only represents the Bagobo-Tagabawa tribe but also the Moros and Indigenous People (IP) of Davao City.

“We the Bagobo-Tagabawa really appreciate, proud and blessed kay gisuot ni Vice President Sara Duterte ang amoang tribal

Habi at Kape media forum.

Davao City’s water supply distributor has filed for a 60 percent rate increase, which it plans to implement over three years.

“We conducted a public hearing last year as part of our information dissemination to notify our customers.

On that public forum we

F’HIYAS’, P10

DCWD’s 30% water rate hike to reflect in August billing T

FDCWD’S, P10

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

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Acacia Davao Hotel marketing manager Graziella Izza Cadiente extends her appreciation to the city government of Davao and the organizers of Hiyas sa Kadayawan 2022 for holding the media presentation of the candidates at the hotel on Wednesday. Edge Davao

DA eyes imposing SRP on some agri products

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he Department of Agriculture (DA) is eyeing the implementation of a suggested retail price (SRP) for some agricultural products to protect consumers amid the continuous rise in prices.

Among the targeted products of the DA are pork, onion, and sugar products.

The DA assured that stakeholders will be consulted before implementing the SRP on the said agricultural products. “‘Yung mga producers po ay kausap natin, they know already. Sila mismo nagsasabi sa atin na ang

farm gate bumaba, ito gumalaw,” said DA Undersecretary Kristine Evangelista.

(We have talked to other producers and they already know. They’ve been telling us that prices at the farm gates are lowering.)

However, several retailers expressed pessimism about the SRP saying it will be difficult to implement it

due to the varying prices from the suppliers. “’Yung iba mataas ang bigay, yung iba naman mababa,” Cres Noda, a pork retailer, said.

(Others give it at a high price, some at a low price.)

Her remarks were echoed by the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG), who said the DA should carefully study its proposal as retail prices change depending on the farmers’ expenses.

SINAG also suggested that the department, instead of imposing the SRP,

to push for the lowering of farmers’ operating costs.

The DA said it is currently studying the distribution of cash subsidies.

The Budget and Management Department had previously released over P8-billion to provide P5,000 cash assistance for rice farmers.

“The cost of production is greatly affected when there is an increase sa presyo ng ating mga feeds,” Evangelista said.

“Maghahanap tayo ng ibang sources ‘no para mayroon

family’s economic status falls below the poverty threshold, who work as full-time housewives, and do not have part-time nor home-based work that is compensated.

Under the bill known

as Housewives Compensation Act, a financial assistance equivalent to P2,000 per month shall be given to housewives.

It shall be released by the Department of Social Welfare and Develop-

ment, with the support of the concerned local government units, as the case may be, subject to the following conditions: a) The child or children is/are enrolled in

FDA, P10

P2,000 monthly wage for stay-at-home moms eyed A

lawmaker wants a P2,000 monthly compensation for stay-at-home housewives.

In House Bill 668 of Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, compensation shall apply to all housewives whose

FP2,000, P10

Pinoy inventors want to be part of PBBM’s ‘developmental program’

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group of Filipino inventors is seeking an audience with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to personally express their willingness to help the Chief Executive achieve his “developmental program” for the country.

“That’s our call. We are united today, the group of the Filipino Inventors Society for our ranks to be heard,” Filipino Inventors Society (FIS) president Ronald Pagsanhan said in a media forum in Quezon City on Tuesday.

“Our main purpose is how we can contribute to the development of our country. Let’s be part of the developmental program of our President, so that’s what we’re asking the President to support us. We have more courage if we know that we have the support of our President,” he added.

The group also appealed for support from

lawmakers.

“Of course, we will also ask the Congress and the senators to listen to us,” he said. “We talk more about politics on social media, we should also give more attention to technological science. This is where we should pay attention for the development of our country.”

He said the head of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) should be ready to accept all.

“He/she should not only just be a political appointee, He/she have a heart for inventors, have a heart for technologies, have a heart for science,” he said.

Former FIS president and now Vazbuilt head Gary Vasquez, science research specialist Hanz Alejandra and Filipino-Japanese Engineer Dr. Bert Hasimoto were also present during the forum. (PNA)

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ECONOMY

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Davao City Water District (DCWD) deputy spokesperson Jovana Duhaylungsod interacts with members of the media during this week’s Wednesdays at Habi at Kape at Abreeza mall where she announced the looming water rate increase, which will be implemented starting this month. Edge Davao

MSME Week 2022 celebration in Region 11 highlights local products Non-performing consumer loans put more pressure on PH banks

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on-performing loans (NPLs) that were extended to small companies are putting more pressure on Philippine banks compared to those extended to large companies, a report by the Fitch Ratings said.

In a report that assessed the impact of interest rate hikes in Asia Pacific banks, which was released on Tuesday, Fitch Ratings said net revenue impact of the rate hikes on domestic banks is “mildly favorable” and is “moderate” in terms of asset quality impact.

It said domestic banks posted the biggest increase in NPLs among its counterparts in South East Asia in the last two years “driven by delinquencies in consumer loans.”

The report said pulling out of pandemic-related measures to buoy the banking system from the impact of the pandemic also played a role in the rise in NPLs. “We believe there are lingering impairment risks among consumer and SME borrowers whose finances have yet to recover from 2020’s se-

vere shock,” it said.

The report added acceleration of inflation rate both here and abroad contributed to the interest rate tightening, which also hurt the peso.

Inflation rate increased to 6.1 percent in June due in part to the highest oil prices in the international market.

Fitch Ratings forecasts inflation to average at a level higher than the government’s 2 to 4 percent target band until 2023.

This, it said, is the reason why it forecasts the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) key policy rates to end 2023 at 4 percent, from the current 3.25 percent for the overnight reverse repurchase (RRP) rate.

With the domestic banking system backed mainly by rate-insensitive current account and savings account (CASA) deposits, the debt rater said the domestic banking sector has “a strong ability to manage deposit cost.”

“Changes in the policy reverse repo (repurchase) rate have not historically been fully passed through

FCONSUMER, P10

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manship and exceptional quality.

The week-long celebration is highlighted by the Madayaw Dabaw: MSME Week 2022 Celebration, Produktong Dabawenyo, Ato Ni Buy! physical trade fair and the MSME Conference 2022 cum Awarding of the Search for the Most Outstanding MSMEs. A wide array of locally manufactured products, such as cacao, coffee, coconut, processed foods including fruits and nuts,

wearables and homestyle, and bamboo are on sale/ display.

DTI 11 Regional Director Maria Belenda Q. Ambi said that this is a good opportunity for the local MSMEs to showcase their products.

“Our theme underscores our MSMEs’ resilience and how the pandemic highlighted the vital role of e-commerce in their entrepreneurial journey. Likewise, it features how the different government agencies and the private sector are directing their efforts in steering the country towards a gradual and sustainable path to economic recovery, especially

because of the pandemic,” the local trade chief said.

Ambi noted that the global crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected major industries, resulting in the transformation of the business landscape. At the same time, small businesses have taken a particularly severe impact, as commented by the RMSMED chair, Dr. Maria Lourdes Monteverde, during the recently conducted council meeting.

Meanwhile, Ambi emphasized that the MSMEs, despite being the first ones to experience the negative impact of the pandemic, showed grit.

governance, we want to reach out to more people to let them know what (the) government is doing with their money in a way that even the common folks will understand,” she said.

Usapang Budget will feature updates on the plans, programs, activities, and projects of the administration in a manner that will be easily understood by the public.

Pangandaman highlighted that the Facebook page will also be the plat-

form for DBM’s latest initiative with the same name.

“The page will live stream DBM’s newest digital program of the same title, in line with President (Ferdinand) Bongbong Marcos’ thrust to institute mechanisms for transparency and accountability,” she said.

Pangandaman said Usapang Budget will be more interactive.

“Dito po, aside from explaining kung paano mag-budget ang

gobyerno at kung saan ginugugol ang pondo ng bayan, maaari din pong magtanong ang mga tao upang sila’y maliwanagan (Here, aside from explaining the government’s budgeting process and where it allocates people’s funds, people can also ask questions so they will be enlightened),” she added.

Pangandaman encouraged the public to like, follow, and share the Usapang Budget Facebook page.

(PR)

he celebration of this year’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Week in the Davao Region will highlight local products.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 11, in coordination with the Regional MSME Development Council, celebrates MSME Week 2022 from August 3 to 7 at the Abreeza-Ayala Mall Activity Center in Davao City.

With the overall theme “RISE (Resilient, Innovative, Sustainable, and Empowered) MSMEs in the Digital Economy,” the celebration focuses on the local entrepreneurs as well as on products that exude laudable crafts-

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DBM launches ‘Usapang Budget’ official FB page

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epartment of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman announced Tuesday the launching of DBM’s second official Facebook page “Usapang Budget” that aims to connect with and relate budget concerns to ordinary Filipinos.

Pangandaman said it will inform the people of the latest information on the government budget and spending in an engaging, less technical manner.

“In the spirit of good

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

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In launching the Office of the Vice President (OVP)Department of Transportation (DoTr) “Peak Hours Augmentation Bus Service (PHABS)- Libreng Sakay” in key cities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao on Tuesday:

Sa ating limang wifiready buses para sa OVP Libreng Sakay Program, dalawang bus ang inilaan para sa ating mga kababayan sa Metro Manila, isa sa Davao City, isa sa Cebu, at isa rin sa Bacolod. Ang mga bus ay ipinahiram sa atin para magamit ng OVP. Ngunit, mas kapakipakinabang ang mga ito kung magagamit ng libre ng ating commuting public.”

Vice President SARA DUTERTE

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ATHENA JILLIAN BRAVO NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN MEGHANN STA. INES FERINA SANTOS Lifestyle

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

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VANTAGE POINTS

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HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

YES, DROWNING CAN BE PREVENTED Perhaps not too many Filipinos know that last July 25, the Philippines joined the international community in observing the World Drowning Prevention Day. In fact, two days after the observation, the Department of Health (DOH) conducted a social media talk show entitled, “Anyone can drown, no one should.”

More than 236,000 people die annually from drowning – among the leading causes of death for those aged one to 24 years, and the third leading cause of injury deaths around the world, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

“The majority of drowning deaths, more than 90%, occur in low- and middle-income nations,” the United Nations health agency deplores.

The Philippines is a case in point. “More than 3,000 Filipinos perish from drowning each year,” the health department said. “Children are particularly vulnerable to this preventable injury.”

It was a warm Sunday morning and most of the families were out in Coaco Beach in Davao City. Five-year-old Jane was swimming along with other kids along the seashore. No adults

were looking for them. Jane’s mother, Charlene, was busy preparing their food for lunch while the father, Jonathan, was buying soft drinks in the nearby store.

Suddenly, three consecutive big waves hit the kids. Jane was carried away into the deeper part and before she knew it, she was already gasping and drinking a lot of water. The other kids could not help her since they, too, didn’t know how to swim.

It was just a matter of a minute and Jane went down to the water. Luckily, Aida, a neighbor who was also on the beach, came and immediately rescued Jane.

But it seemed it was already late. Jane was already pale and was not moving anymore. “Will somebody help us,” Aida shouted. Everyone who heard the shout came running. “What happened?” Charlene inquired and when she saw it was her daughter, she was shocked.

Fortunately, Ferdinand, Aida’s son, and his friend, Renato, were around. Both had attended a first aid workshop a couple of weeks ago conducted by the Philippine National Red Cross. Sensing that Jane was no longer breathing, the two immediately did mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. First, it was Fer-

dinand who breathed into Jane’s mouth. Afterwards, Renato took over. Three minutes later, Jane vomited some water and started breathing again.

Charlene was crying and smiling when she saw her daughter had been brought back to life. They immediately brought her to the hospital. “Thank you very much,” she told Ferdinand and Renato. “You have saved the life of my daughter just on time.”

Jane was lucky.

Statistics don’t lie. “About eight persons die every day due to drowning, and more were reported to be victims of near drowning (10 cases per day),” said the country report presented at the World Conference on Drowning Prevention in 2011.

A study done by the United Nations Children’s Fund showed the drowning rates were highest among boys and girls less than 5 years old compared to other age groups and higher among females than males for all age groups.

In addition, the drowning rates were higher among males under 5 years and among those under 15 years compared to females of the same ages. This gender difference was largest for male toddlers whose relative

risk for drowning death was 1.5 times higher than female toddlers, the research pointed out.

“Every year, around the world, hundreds of thousands of people drown,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO Director-General. “Most of these deaths are preventable through evidence-based, lowcost solutions.”

Michael Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg Philanthropies, described drowning as a global public health challenge.

“In many cases, we know what works to prevent drowning.

We’ve developed tools and guidance to help governments implement solutions – and if we do more together, we really can save thousands of lives,” he said.

WHO has recommended six evidence-based measures to prevent drowning, which include installing barriers controlling access to water, and training bystanders in safe rescue and resuscitation techniques.

Recent studies have shown that children drown in pools, spas, buckets, toilets, and bathtubs. A child can drown in as little as two inches of water and in less time than it takes to answer the telephone.

Here are some drowning prevention tips, which we gathered from various sources: • There is no substitute for adequate supervision. Children need to be watched. Never leave children unattended in or around pools or spas - not even for a second.

• Access to the pool or spa area should be limited by locked doors, windows and self-closing, self-latching gates on fences surrounding the pool. Latches should be above the reach of children.

• Do not allow children to play in pool areas. Keep toys out of the area.

• Keep rescue equipment such as a long-handled hook and a ring buoy with a rope hanging near the pool.

• Always keep chairs, tables, or toys away from the pool or spa fence to keep children from using them to climb over.

• Do not allow anyone of any age to swim alone. Drowning happens to adults too. When you are entertaining a group of children or adults, have a designated pool watcher who is responsible for keeping track of everyone.

Examples of safe water behavior by adults are important for young children.

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

HEIRS OF M.Y. MARUYAMA In American forestry records, the company known as The Heirs of M.Y. Maruyama comes out as one of three lumber firms operating in the later 1920s in the northwest coast of Da-vao Gulf under Forest District No. XIII, with jurisdiction over Davao and Mati. The two other firms were Tagum Trading Company and Davao Sawmill Company.

The stable progress experienced by the lumber industry was linked to the steady demand for the lumber for housing and the rising prosperity experienced by the local population. Japanese control of business in the district was not limited to lumber and the firewood business; they also lorded it over in building con-struction, making of furniture, and fishing. Lumber cut by sawmills were exported to Japan and some sold locally.

In 1932, The Heirs of M.Y. Maruyama strategically moved their original mill in Davao town to Tigatto, transferring its op-eration to an area closer to the source of logs.

Philippine director of forestry Arthur F. Fischer, in his Annu-al Report of the Director of Forestry of the Philippine Islands from 1929 to 1933, de-

scribed the Maruyama sawmill as having a rated daily capacity of 2,000 board feet in 1929 but was even-tually raised to 5,000 board feet the following year. In his 1925 report, he detailed the status of the lumber industry in Davao, saying: “There are 7 sawmills operating in the district, one of which is a band and the rest, circular. The lumber cut by these mills was sold locally and to Japan. Apitong, lauans, tangile, guijo, and narra were the principal species export-ed. The local market has been fairly good owing to great activity in house construction.

“There were 30 ordinary timber and 76 ordinary minor products licenses in force during the year. Four of the tim-ber licensees operating on the northwestern coast of Davao were active. A few of the minor products licensees in-voiced more than the amounts granted in their licenses. Almaciga, rattan, tanbark, lumbang, firewood, and char-coal were the principal minor forest products gathered. The mangrove species cut for firewood was tangal in pref-erence to all others.”

Sometime in 1932 or 1933, with the sawmill business thriv-ing,

the company, owned by Japanese M.Y. Maruyama, opened a new venture as dealer in railway hardware.

The World Survey of Foreign Railways (1933), prepared by the U.S. Foreign and Domestic Commerce Bureau, placed the address of his business in Davao with I. Murakani as manager.

Maruyama’s involvement in railways coincided with the exe-cution of the innovative plan of Gen. Paulino Santos, then the country’s prisons director, to build a 3-km railroad system in-side Davao Penal Colony. The objective of the project was to facilitate the transport of inmates to rice fields in the morning and hauling them back to prisons late in the afternoon.

Whether the company was involved in railroad supplies to the colony or not, Maruyama had the vision of seeing that, sooner or later, a railroad system, first recommended in 1922 by Bureau of Agriculture horticulturist P. I. Wester, an American, be put on track in Davao region.

When war broke out, Maruyama’s company was forced to close, and its founder met a tragic fate in the hands of Japanese soldiers. He was executed

on suspicion he was spying for the enemy given his business connection to American-inspired en-terprises in the district.

Spared from the brutality of fellow Japanese were Maruyama’s wife and four children, the eldest being seven years old when the gruesome incident happened.

Except for Tadatsugu Maruyama, who was born in 1942 in Mintal, his brothers were enrolled at the Mintal Elementary School prior to the conflict.

An interesting family story of the Maruyamas took place in 2014 when Tadatsugu, now a 72-year-old philanthropist, visited the school along with Dr. Atsushi Sasaki, past president of Ro-tary Club of Wakayanagi and past assistant governor of Rotary International District 2520 of Miyagi, Japan, to make donations.

He personally donated P100,000 to build the school’s library in memory of his father who always inculcated in his children the value of education.

At the time, Antonio M. Ajero, editor-in-chief of Edge Da-vao, was the president of the Rotary Club of East Davao, sister club of the RC of Wakayanagi. Ajero personally met Dr. Sasa-ki, who

is hosted by RC East Davao almost every year, and Mr. Tadatsugu. Ajero and other officers of the club escorted them to Mintal Elementary School when they handed over their cash and book donations.

Tadatsugu’s story was slightly different. His father was a doctor and was serving the Japanese hospital in Mintal when the Liberation Forces started to bomb Davao. The bombing runs prompted the doctor to evacuate his family to a safer place and would only visit the hospital to check on the pa-tients. One day, Japanese soldiers, acting on suspicion that the doctor was spying for the enemy, killed him.

In relating his family’s story in Davao, Mr. Tadatsugu said that actually three of his loved ones – his father physician and his two older brothers died in Mintal. One older brother drowned in Mintal River, while another older brother died of poisoning after eating a certain poisonous fruit. When the Japanese Imperial Army surrendered, his mother and surviving sib-lings were repatriated to Japan.

He wrote a book on his family’s wartime story and gifted Ajero a copy. However, the book was written in the Japanese language.

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EDGE EDGE DAVAO DAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 96 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2022

COMPETITIVE EDGE

Digital banking remains consumers’ preferred financial tool – but security still a top concern Recent news on phishing scams have once again raised questions on the security of digital financial transactions. While technology is advancing to deliver safe banking experiences, scams and fraudsters are also expanding the many ways they can trick consumers online.

Despite this, more and more people are choosing to go digital for their banking needs, with digital payments being a top choice for online financial transactions in this new normal. With this increase, there is an even greater need for tighter security versus cyber fraud as scammers become bolder. Consumers

are now expecting more of service providers to help create greater awareness of cybersecurity when it comes to online financial transactions.

Komo, the fully digital banking service that combines all the musthave features of an online banking platform, is leading the charge. Komo enables users to meet their daily banking needs with ease, convenience, and most importantly, security, all with a few taps on the app.

Backed by Eastwest’s decades of banking experience, Komo is no lightweight when it comes to performance, creating a new legacy for truly secure online financial

transactions. Komo expertly combines digital convenience with solid banking security – enabling users to ensure each activity they do in the app remains safe and uncompromised.

Komo is all about putting consumers in control of their money in the easiest, most secure way – and that begins from the moment they create their savings account straight from the app. The feature-rich app allows users to track and monitor all their transactions in real time at a glance, and even ensures their money’s security with the ability to instantly lock their free VISA Debit Card in case of loss or potential

dubious encounters with scammers. This lock feature protects customers’ cards from unwanted ATM withdrawals, POS swiping, and online shopping. Transferring funds to another account or paying bills are also made seamless through the user-friendly interface of Komo; while OTPs provide a first layer of security, the biometrics ensure you can log on to your app when the SMS OTPs take forever to arrive.

Having the app conveniently accessible also means gone are the days when one has to go to their bank branch or ATM, or even call the hotline to lock their card or change their PIN -- ensuring they immediately secure their account wherever they are.

Visit the Apple Store, Android Play Store, Huawei App Gallery, and Oppo App Market to download the Komo app on your smartphone; with just one valid ID and with biometric security, you can create your Komo savings account and start enjoying Komo’s expansive and highly secure service and features.

Digital banking is no

72 year old widow from Tanay Rizal claimed her Lotto 6/42 Jackpot Mandaluyong City.

On July 12, 2022, a 72 year old widow from Tanay, Rizal claimed the Php17,419,093.40 jackpot prize for the Lotto 6/42 drawn last July 7, 2022 with a winning combination of 09 - 10 - 42 08 - 13 – 41 at the PCSO Main Office, Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City.

The new millionaire shared that her numbers were a combination of birthdays and ages from family members. Living with her grandchildren, the jackpot winner said that for the last 20 years she devotedly invested in lotto games and was only halted due to pandemic. She then resumed playing last July 6, 2022 and on July 07, 2022 she hit the biggest break of her life. “Wala akong trabaho o di kaya ay pensyon man lang. Umaasa na lang ako sa aking mga anak. Tumanda na ako sa paglalaro ng lotto at di ko lubos akalain sa ganitong edad ko mapapanalunan ang jackpot. Bilin ko lang sa mga kapwa ko na tumatangkilik ng lotto ay wag sila mawalan ng pag asa, sa gabay ng Diyos at sa tamang pagkakataon di natin masasabi baka makamtan nyo rin ang inyong inaasam” the winner added. She was still overwhelmed by emotions at

the moment and has to plan where she will use her prize money.

The other winner of the Lotto 6/42 lotto drawn last July 07, 2022 from San Jose, Occidental Mindoro is yet to claim the other half of the jackpot prize of Php34,838,186.80.

For consolation prizes, 88 players who got 5 correct numbers will go home with Php24,000.00 each while 3,286 players with 4 correct numbers will bag Php800.00 each and 48,934 players with 3 correct numbers will receive Php30.00 each.

PCSO Chairperson and Ad Interim General Manager Anselmo Simeon P. Pinili encourages the public to continue supporting PCSO’s projects and programs through patronizing the lotto and other PCSO games. “Kami po ay nagpapasalamat sa ating mga kababayang walang sawa ang pagtangkilik sa mga palaro ng PCSO nang dahil sa inyo parami nang parami ang natutulungan ng aming Ahensya.

Tatlumpong porsyento ng perang inilaan ninyo sa pagtangkilik ng palaro ng PCSO ay napupunta sa kawanggawa” Chairperson and Ad Interim Pinili said.

Under the Tax Reform Acceleration and Inclu-

sion (TRAIN) Law, prizes above 10,000.00 are subject to 20% tax.

All winnings should be claimed within one year from the date of the draw otherwise the same would be forfeited in favour of the charity fund pursuant to PCSO Charter (Republic Act No. 1169).

Lotto results and oth-

er details of the PCSO games, products and services can be viewed at the PCSO Official Website, PCSO Facebook Page and PCSO GOV in Youtube.

Following the policy, the PCSO withholds the identity of the winners for security reasons. By Aaron Erwin E. Austria / Photo by: Eric Delos Reyes

Photo shows Dr. Alexander Castillo, Executive Assistant VI of the Office of the Chairperson and Ad Interim General Manager Anselmo Simeon P. Pinili turnover the check to Lotto 6/42 jackpot winner.

longer a buzzword – it’s today’s reality. With Komo, you can enjoy total control of your finances and the ease and convenience of online banking without the worry. To know more about how Komo is making sure your digital

banking experience is safe and secure, visit https:// w w w. k o m o . p h / a n ti-fraud. Click on this link https://komo-ph.onelink. me/bFI9/017z3x5m and download Komo today to experience the best of digital banking!

SHDA backs

Pag-IBIG Fund bulk sale of acquired assets The Subdivision and Housing Developers Association (SHDA), together with Pag-IBIG Fund, urges several groups and employers to access the affordable shelter financing program through the Fund’s bulk and group sale of its acquired assets.

“For over 50 years, SHDA has remained steadfast, not only in articulating the advocacy of the housing industry but also in championing the welfare of the member developers and providing its members more opportunities. Pag-IBIG Fund, on the other hand, has been SHDA’s partner in providing affordable home financing to our kababayans,” said SHDA National President May Rodriguez during the fourth Kapihan.

During the virtual event entitled “Own a Home for Less: Pag-Ibig Fund Acquired Assets For Bulk Sale,” Pag-IBIG Fund emphasizes that part of its mandate is to ensure that the housing loan programs consider all stakeholders involved and that it caters to both the demand and supply of the housing industry.

“This is why we manage the Pag-IBIG Fund prudently to keep our interest rates low and our home loans affordable. This is also why we have inclusive programs that cater to all Philippine workers, including the socialized housing market,” said Marilene C. Acosta, Pag-IBIG Fund Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Home Lending Operations Cluster.

Regular and Buyer-Initiated Bulk Sale The Kapihan discussion focused on how members can purchase Pag-IBIG Funds’ bulk and group sale of its Real and Other Properties Acquired (ROPA) or acquired assets through their employers. Members are entitled to a 40 to 45 percent discount upon approval of their loan of at least P10 million worth of properties.

For regular bulk sales, buyers should avail at least P10 million worth of properties under the Negotiated Sale only, while for buy-

er-initiated bulk sale (BIBS), ROPA may be in various stages for disposal, which are first and second Public Auction or Negotiated Sale.

Pag-IBIG Fund urges the buyers to purchase properties in bulk or group sale for a much higher discount rate of 40 percent for approved P10 million to P50 million worth of properties; 42 percent discount for more than P50 million to P100 million; and 45 percent for sales of more than P100 million for both regular bulk sale and BIBS. The Pag-IBIG Fund also clarified that if the buyers fail to secure properties worth P10 million in their first attempt, they are still entitled to bid or submit another request for three consecutive attempts within five successive postings of properties to meet the ceiling prices set by Pag-IBIG to qualify for the discounts.

Pag-IBIG Fund only approves cash payments or short-term installments and requires a fee of 5 percent of the net selling price. On top of the down payment, a P5,000 cash bank per property for short-term installments is needed.

Once Pag-IBIG Fund approves the properties under regular bulk or BIBS, the members of employees, associations, or cooperatives will have to sign a memorandum of agreement with PagIBIG Fund stating the properties sold and the terms of payment, including the qualified discount.

With the considerable discount on buying bulk sales, Pag-IBIG Fund and SHDA encourage cooperatives to extend their services to their employees to access the government’s affordable housing.

Employees and active members of associations may visit the Pag-IBIG Fund’s website to know more about the regular bulk sale and BIBS, as well as the properties ready for disposal under negotiated sale, first and second public auction at https://www.pagibigfund.gov.ph/.

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VOL.15 ISSUE 96 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2022

ENVIRONMENT

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Instead of using plastic water bottles, why not use those that can be used again and again.

W

hen people talk of single-use plastics, they always think of plastic bags and sachets. But single-use plastics also include plastic bottles, which are typically used to store liquids such as water and soft drinks.

Plastic bottles were first used commercially in 1947 but it didn’t catch attention because they were expensive to make. In 1973, Engr.

Nathaniel Wyeth patented polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, which could withstand the pressure of carbonated liquids.

When PET was commercially introduced, plastic bottles became popular with both manufacturers and customers because they are lighter, cheaper and easier to transport than glass bottles.

But the biggest advantage of plastic bottles over their glass counterparts is

their superior resistance to breakage, in both production and transportation. As a result, the food industry replaced glass bottles with plastic bottles.

It was just a matter of time that plastic bottles were used in packaging water. Plastic water bottles became a hit among consumers, who consider it as a safer alternative to 19th century municipal water supplies that could be contaminated with pathogens like cholera and typhoid.

What most Filipinos don’t know is that plastic water bottles are not sustainably made.

Most plastic water bottles end up being thrown away.

THE HAZARDS OF SINGLE-USE PLASTICS

(Second of Two Parts)

Text and photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO “Plastic bottles are commonly made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is petroleum-based and non-renewable,” writes theonemovement.co’s Ariana Palmeiri. If you fill a plastic water bottle so it is about 25% full, that’s about how much oil took to make the bottle.

It takes three times the amount of water in a bottle of water to make it as it does to fill it, according to healthyhumanlife.com. In like manner, it takes almost 2,000 times the energy to manufacture a bottle of water than it does to produce tap water.

Despite these facts, water sold in plastic bottles continues to be popular.

In fact, one million plastic water bottles are sold every minute globally, The Guardian reports. That’s about 20,000 bottles every second.

Water left in a plastic bottle for a long time is not safe to drink. Although water, in and of itself, does not go bad (the reason why there’s no expiration dates), the plastic bottle water is contained in does “expire.”

“Typically, water is bottled in PET for retail bottles,” explains drinkwater.com. “What’s alarming about this type of bottles is that plastics contaminate the liquid bottle once expired or exposed to excessive heat, including exposure to sunlight or hot cars.

The toxic chemicals that are contained in this plastic will enter the water, not only affecting the taste of the water but also creating serious health implications for the consumer, as well.”

Although there’s really no precise way to predict exactly when the plastic will leach into the water, “the two-year expiration date is more of a guess of when the water bottle is most likely to have been exposed to heat or when it’s starting to degrade.”

Although PET bottles are approved for single use and for reuse, many manufacturers and consumer advocates urge the public to limit their PET bottles to one time use only. Plastic bottles are discouraged to be used, especially those that show even slight signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or dings.

“These allow chemicals to more readily leach out of them. Keep in mind that tears can be microscopic and hard to see. That’s one reason why one-useonly plastic bottles aren’t recommended for reuse,” writes healthline.com’s Co-

rey Whelan.

“Use plastic bottles with caution,” Whelan urges. “Never heat or reuse them.”

Most of those plastic water bottles bought are thrown away after drinking the water. Only 9% of plastic gets recycled. Most of those plastics find their way to landfills.

Studies show that 80% of plastic water bottles end up in landfills. In the environment, plastic bottles take 450 years to break down into tiny microplastic (that still pollutes and leaches toxins),” writes Palmeiri.

In a landfill, a single bottle can take up to 1,000 years to break down.

“When plastic water bottles end up in landfills, they still absorb and leach toxic chemicals as they break up into tiny polluted pieces,” Palmeiri writes. “Plus, all landfills eventually leak.

This means that runoff from landfills, carrying toxic chemicals from our waste, can easily end up in our waterways.”

Some thrown away

FHAZARDS, P10

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sa Davao City, isa sa Cebu, at isa rin sa Bacolod. Ang mga bus ay ipinahiram sa atin para magamit ng OVP. Ngunit, mas kapaki-pakinabang ang mga ito kung magagamit ng libre ng ating commuting public,” she posted on her Facebook Page.

Duterte said the project will support the national government’s Libreng Sakay Program, and at the same time, it is hoped that this meager contribution will translate to daily savings for our public transport-riding kababayans.

In an order dated July 14, the ICC gave the Philippines until September 8, 2022, to provide any observations on the planned reopening of the probe.

The ICC then instruct-

ed its prosecutor — represented by Karim A. A. Khan and Colin Black — to submit any response to the observations of the Philippines by September 22, 2022.

ug gikasubo ko nga dili pa kita luwas sa maong hulga sa atong panglawas. (To my Dabaonon brethren, we’re not yet done with our fight against the pandemic; and I am sad to say that we are not yet free from this threat to our health.),” he said.

He noted the emergence of sub-variants of COVID-19 and he pointed out that the preliminary vaccine shots “do not guarantee us full coverage protection.”

“The only way forward is to cloak ourselves with additional layer of protection,” he said as he agreed with the Department of Health (DOH) to submit for vaccination and to take booster vaccination for additional protection.

He pitched this public call for massive vaccination as he looked forward

for every Dabaonon to live a normal life, and to make a living without having to fear of getting infected with COVID-19.

“Kung mamintinar nato ang atong wall of immunity, sayon alang kanato ang pagpabalik sa atong mga anak sa balay-tulunghaan, mapalagsik pagbalik ang turismo, matabangan pag-recover ang mga negosyo ug trabaho; mapagaan ang trabaho sa atong mga healthworkers, ug labaw sa tanan, kita magpuyo sa kahapsay ug kalinaw, (If we maintain our wall of immunity it will be easier for us to return our children to schools, reinvigorate the return of tourism, help businesses and jobs recover, make the job of health workers easier and most of all that we live in peace and normalcy),” he said.

depopulation, Gargaran said, a mobile disinfection truck, donated by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), is being used in cleaning and disinfection activities in the area.

He said teams from the CVO and BAI have been deployed to several barangays to conduct continuous surveillance activities.

“It is worthy to note

that Baluan and two nearby barangays that we placed under close surveillance are now free of ASF as no new infections have been detected,” Gargaran said.

He said the city government is continuously reminding hog raisers to strictly implement and improve their biosecurity measures to protect their farms from all kinds of disease.

silang alternative na mapagkukunan ng feeds and other agricultural inputs”.

(The cost of production is greatly affected when there is an increase in the prices of feeds. Let us look at other sources first so they’ll have an alternative on where to get their feeds and other agricultural inputs.)

Apart from the SRP, the DA said it is also looking into importing sugar supplies to stabilize its price on the market.

“The amount of sugar

will be discussed tomorrow with the stakeholders because we have to make sure first, we have a proper inventory kung ano yung ating supplies situation.

What we’re looking at right now is the supply at hand,” Evangelista said.

(The amount of sugar will be discussed tomorrow with the stakeholders because we have to make sure first, that we have a proper inventory of our supply situation. What we’re looking at right now is the supply at hand.)

to bank lending rates,” it said.

To date, the BSP’s policy rates have been hiked by a total of 125 basis points.

The report said “the conglomerate-dominated business landscape gives corporations consider-

able bargaining power, and competition for high-quality assets often means that banks are hesitant to raise rates quickly.”

“Therefore, we expect lending spreads to widen only moderately,” it added. (PNA)

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‘HIYAS’... FROM3

attire. This is very sentimental kay dako ni ug bili sa amoa. Ug para sa akoa katong nag discriminate nga katawhan dili pud ko maghatag sa ilaha ug lain na komento kay wala man pud ko kabalo kung unsa ang sulod sa ilahang kasingkasing kay sa tinuod lang wala man pud sila na educate kung unsa gyud ang amoang tribal attire.

They can say whatever they want pero kami isip Bagobo-Tagabawa will never fight back kay kung mufight back ka, mubalik man sad na sa imoha, what you do to others will be done also sa imoha. I know who we really are ug kabalo mi sa among identity ug kabalo mi kung unsa ang meaning, it is not just a costume but a tribal attire ug kaning suot nako karon gikan pa ni sa amoang ancestor,” she said.

Other candidates are Emelyn Armodi (Ata tribe), Krezyl Joy Ungab (Bagobo-Klata), Dianaruth Campong (Matigsalug), Lady Ray Bangga-an (Obo-Manuvu), Erika Kandog (Iranun), Alneza Bangasin (Kagan), Jiaria Mae Sakal (Maguindanaon),

Beauty Rose Gandarosa (Maranao), and Maisara Mendoza (Taosug).

The Hiyas sa Kadayawan aims to showcase the diverse beauty of Davao City’s eleven ethnolinguistic tribes. It is also among its goals to add more visibility to the city’s minority populations and expand its platform through socio-cultural representation in the form of a city-wide cultural talent show.

Along with the coveted crown, the winner will also receive P100,000.

The first runner-up or the ‘Hiyas sa Pinaghiusa’ will receive P80,000 while the second runner-up or the ‘Hiyas ng Kalambuan’ will get P60,000. The non-title holders will each receive P25,000.

The winners of the competition will also be working closely with the City Tourism Office.

The cultural presentation phase of the competition will be held at the Babtawan Amphitheater in Magsaysay Park on August 6, 2022. The grand coronation will be on August 17, 2022 at the RMC Petro Gazz Arena in Davao City.

explained that the DCWD needs 60 percent adjustment,” she said.

The rate adjustments will be implemented in tranches.

“But seeing the effects of Covid-19 and the recent inflation and the increase in prices instead of implementing the 60 percent one-time, we devised a strategy to cushion the effects ani na adjustment sa atoang mga customers by implementing the 60 percent in tranches. That is

why for this year, only 30 percent of the 60 percent lang sa ang atoang i-implement,” Duhaylungsod said.

Duhaylungsod said the rate adjustment is necessary for DCWD to generate funds for service area expansion and keep up with public and private infrastructure developments in the next 10 years.

“So that we can continue our operations and services as well as our expansions and programs,” she said. By Maya M. Padillo

Jakarta, Indonesia -- to share his story.

In around three weeks, it will be one year before the World Cup, and a countdown clock courtesy of official timekeeper Tissot will be unveiled to mark the occasion.

Meanwhile, Crocker said FIBA is satisfied at the LOC’s progress in the hosting, after another inspection of the Philippines’ three venues for the tournament: the Ara-

neta Coliseum in Quezon City, the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, and the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

“We’re very excited about what we’ve seen.

We know we’ve got a great organizing committee here in the Philippines who are very professional. We’re very excited that we’re going to have a great event here in the Philippines,” he said.

public schools with at least 85 percent attendance; b) The child or children manifest responsible behavior in preparation for eventual independence from the full-time services of the mothers; and c) The family (father, mother and children) attends a quarterly barangay assembly aimed at empowering the family to become responsible members of their locality, and at reducing the time burden of unpaid care for women living in poverty.

“The state must therefore recognize the work of stay-at-home women, mothers or housewives as valuable economic activity,” Salceda said in his explanatory note.

“Yes, it is time to make payment for their housework and give them wages for the work they continue to bear out at home.

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“The homemaker or housewife deserves at least an amount equivalent of a minimum wage, considering that household work is also a fulltime job,” he added.

HAZARDS... FROM9

plastic water bottles, which are buoyant, can be carried to the oceans. “These bottles may very well be carried by wind, storm water, or other processes to sewers, rivers, lakes and other waterways that may ultimately deposit the bottle in the ocean,” National Geographic notes.

“At any given time, the plastic bottle is one of the top three pieces of trash found in the ocean,” stated 4ocean.com.

“When plastic bottles end up in the oceans, they pose another kind of threat entirely,” writes Palmeiri.

“It’s estimated there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050. The plastic in the ocean poses a risk of being ingested by marine mammals, fish, and sea birds.”

Another threat from plastic bottles are the microplastics, small plastic debris pieces measuring 5 millimeters or smaller. Although the World Health Organization says there is no evidence consumption of microplastics affect your health, it is still an area of concern.

In a study published in 2018 in Frontiers in Chemistry, it was found “plastic contamination is rampant in plastic water bottles.”

The study analyzed 259 bottled waters sold in several countries. It was found that 93% of them contained microplastic synthetic polymer particles, reported Time’s Markham Reid.

“Many of those particles weren’t all that small,” Reid wrote. He quoted Sherri Mason, author of the study and a sustainability researcher at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, as saying: “Some were definitely visible without a magnifying glass or microscope.”

Not only that, plastic water bottles shed hundreds of chemicals into the water they hold, according to a study which was published in Journal of Hazardous Materials.

Scientists had known for years that chemicals can leach out of plastic.

Leaching happens when chemicals from the plastic mix with whatever liquid you put inside.

“Water stored in older

plastic bottles contained the highest levels of plastic-related chemicals,” wrote Lindsey Konkel Neabore for Science News for Students. “Running the bottles through a dishwasher worsened the leaching.

After a single wash cycle, more than 3,500 different compounds ended up in a bottle’s water.”

Dishwashing, the study found out, appeared to boost the release of a plastic’s chemicals.

If you drink from plastic bottles, never leave them in your cars. Or taking them with you to the beach or pool as this could heat them to a temperature that’s deemed unsafe.

“Chemical leaching occurs when heat causes the toxic chemicals from the plastic to be released into the water,” home.drinkflowater. com says.

The plastic leachate can have detrimental health effects. One of the chemicals found in plastics is bisphenol A (BPA), which is banned in countries around the world due to its toxicity.

A synthetic hormone, BPA mimics estrogen. “BPA exposure is linked to multiple health effects including fertility issues, altered brain development, cancer and heart complications,” says cleanwateraction.org’s Tapum Pied.

“The plastics chemical family of phthalates also is at the top of researchers’ list of concerns,” the Harvard University reports.

“Like BPA, phthalates are endocrine disruptors, chemicals that can enter the body through food and personal care products and interfere with hormones the body itself produces.”

Another concern: plastic water bottles can harbor harmful bacteria. “Which is why most manufacturers recommend you use them only once,” webMD.com says. “In truth, bacterial growth in water bottles is a much bigger concern than chemical leaching.”

WebMD.com says bacterial growth can happen quickly from the ordinary use of touching your mouth to your bottle. “Even unfinished beverages left at room temperature can have startling bacteria growth throughout the day,” it says.

They reinvented themselves by adopting digital solutions for their business, acquiring new skills, diversifying their customer base, and maximizing digital platforms for their enterprises.

With the lifting of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) and the opening of the economy, the conduct of the trade event and awarding of MSMEs are seen as an avenue to promote entrepreneurship and inspire more local entrepreneurs to continue amid the setbacks since the government has been doing its best to extend the necessary assistance.

“This week-long celebration intends to give

honor to our entrepreneurs as well as find inspiration as they rise in these challenging times, especially by recognizing their efforts as we award the Most Outstanding MSMEs in 2022,” Ambi said.

“We will look into how the entrepreneurs turned the pandemic into a season of opportunities and how they have continued to thrive amidst economic hardships and uncertainties. Their success stories will surely bring inspiration to many,” she further shared, adding that these inspiring MSMEs will be the face of resilience, innovativeness, competitiveness, and empowerment.

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EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 11

La Salle clobbers AMA to seal semis spot

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coOil-La Salle secured the No. 2 seed in the 2022 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup after a comfortable 92-49 victory against hapless AMA Online, Tuesday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Despite playing without Gilas Pilipinas forward Kevin Quiambao, La Salle still rolled to victory behind Raven Cortez who contributed 21 points and 12 rebounds.

Aaron Buensalida, Benjamin Phillips and Isaiah Blanco all reached double-digits, as the Green Archers finished the elimination round with a 5-2 win-loss record.

They join top-seeded Apex Fuel-San Sebastian in the Final 4, where they await the winners of the quarterfinals featuring Adalem Construction-St. Clare, Marinerong Pilipino, CEU and Builders Warehouse-UST. “We wanted to be in the No. 2 spot so napaka-importante nito sa amin kasi we go to the semis right away,” said assistant coach Gabby Velasco, who spoke in lieu of chief tactician Derrick Pumaren.

La Salle opened the game with a 19-6 run, and led, 46-19, at the halftime

break. Their advantage ballooned to 44 points, as they thoroughly stifled AMA in the game.

John Cris Yambao was the only bright spot for AMA with 18 points, a rebound, an assist and a steal.

AMA finished the tourney at the cellar with a listless 0-7 card, joining Wangs Basketball @26-Letran to the exit door of the eight-team tournament that marked its return from a twoyear hiatus amid the pandemic.

The scores: EcoOil-La Salle 92 Cortez 21, Buensalida 12, B. Phillips 11, Blanco 10, Austria 9, Escandor 9, Nwankwo 6, Estacio 5, M. Phillips 5, Macalalag 4, Alao 3.

AMA Online 49 - Yambao 18, Baclig 6, Villamor 6, Ceniza 6, Pineda 3, Malones 3, Cruz 2, Reyes 2, Gonzales 2, Kapunan 1, Cruz 0, Fuentes 0, Camay 0.

Quarters: 19-6, 46-19, 75-37, 92-49.

Former Ateneo de Davao Blue Knight Francis Escandor had his best showing so far in a La Salle uniform with 9 points.

FIBA World Cup mascot JIP introduced to Pinoy fans

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JIP, the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Mascot, is equipped with an LED face that allows its communication with millions of fans in many different languages. Photo courtesy of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

IP, the official mascot of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, was introduced to Filipino fans on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Atrium.

JIP -- an acronym of the co-hosts Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines -- is considered a key component to the success of the 2023 edition of the world meet.

“JIP will provide a fun aspect to the FIBA World Cup 2023. Through his story, he will bring in more fan engagement and media exposure,” said Ramon “Tats” Suzara, the master implementor of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC).

“One of the LOC’s objectives is to make basketball a more inclusive game, and the presence of JIP in our campaigns will draw the youth into the picture, an age group we cannot ignore, as they represent the next generation of players and fans,” added LOC deputy executive director Erika Dy. Suzara and Dy were present alongside FIBA

Basketball World Cup 2023 executive director David Crocker and LOC executive director Sonny Barrios in the introductory event that also had a photo booth, arcade basketball, art tables, and an intermission from rock band Sponge Cola.

For its part, FIBA sees JIP and his launch as yet another step forward in the co-hosts’ preparations for the World Cup 2023.

“This is still a celebration of the World Cup 2023. I know the work all three countries put in together and I think it’s a great mascot. It symbolizes three countries working together. We want to show how basketball can make an impact outside of sport,” said Crocker.

The members of Hype Streetball PH and hosts Eric ‘Eruption’ Tai and Denise Tan welcome JIP onto the stage. Photo courtesy of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

The members of Hype Streetball PH and hosts Eric ‘Eruption’ Tai and

Denise Tan welcome JIP onto the stage. Photo courtesy of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

JIP is also a symbol of sustainability, with his story stressing the importance of recycling and taking care of the environment.

“The idea is we need to keep doing the right things for the world.

Through basketball, and a story like JIP’s, we can make a difference,” said Crocker.

“The basket behind him promotes proper waste disposal and recycling. In addition, non-recyclable waste is converted into energy, to power his shoes. Overall, the futuristic concept of JIP is the perfect preview of how innovative and high-tech the FIBA World Cup 2023 will be,” Dy explained.

After his launch, JIP is set to visit schools and local communities -- not just in the Philippines, but also in co-host cities Okinawa, Japan and

FFIBA, P10

12 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

STRONG COMEBACK

VOL.15 ISSUE 96 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2022

Asusano bags discus throw gold in ASEAN Para Games

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URAKARTA – After a rush of eight golds overnight, Filipino para-athletes struggled Wednesday, mustering a lone gold courtesy of thrower Cendy Asusano in the women’s shot put F54 in the morning action of the 11th ASEAN Para Games at the Manahan Stadium here.

Disqualified in the discus throw last Tuesday due to a loose strap on the throwing chair, Asusano came back strong and won the gold with a new personal best of 5.65 meters on her fourth

try, surpassing her old mark of 5.50 meters in the 2017 Malaysian edition of the sportsfest.

It was the Pasig-based athlete’s second mint out of three events after handily winning the

Disqualified in the discus throw last Tuesday due to a loose strap on the throwing chair, Asusano came back strong and won the gold with a new personal best of 5.65 meters on her fourth try, surpassing her old mark of 5.50 meters in the 2017 Malaysian edition of the sportsfest.

javelin throw in opening day of action of the 11-nation showcase for the best para-athletes in the region.

“Nabawi ko po yong DQ (disqualification) ko kahapon ng Martes. Kinalimutan ko po para hindi ma-stress. Praise God at nanalo naman po,” added Asusano, who had swept all of her three events in the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur five years ago.

Over at the Jatadiri Sports Complex in Semarang, swimmers Roland Sabido and Arnel Aba added silver and bronze medals, respectively, to the country’s collection in the stint backed by the Philippine Sports Commission.

Sabido was second in the men’s 100-meter backstroke S9 event in one minute, 15.820 seconds while Aba bagged the bronze medal in the men’s 100-meter butterfly stroke S9 event in 1:23.40.

But the PH swimmers hope to recover from their anemic showing today with 2017 Malaysian ASEAN Para Games gold medalist Gary Bejino, veteran Ernie Gawilan and Angel Otom

expected to vie for gold Thursday.

Contributing bronze medals in athletics were King James Reyes and Andy Avellana in the men’s 1,500-meter T46 race and Men’s High Jump T42/T63 event, respectively.

Table tennis likewise delivered a bronze through the Class 10 mixed doubles tandem of Pablo Catalan Jr. and Minnie Cadag, who took a 6-11, 8-11, 4-11 loss to Indonesia’s Komet Akbar and Aminah in the semifinals.

Overnight, judo also gave the country its first medal in the sport courtesy of Deterson Onas in the men’s J1-60 kg class.

The Philippine men’s wheelchair basketball squad were set to play a pivotal preliminary match in the afternoon against host Indonesia in the 5x5 event at the GOR Sritex Arena, with the winner setting up a showdown for the gold against pacesetting Thailand.

The charges of Vernon Perea kicked off their campaign in the event with a 26-6 rout of the Cambodians two days ago but fell 9-30 to the Thais last Tuesday.