Edge10 issue132 October 4, 2017

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

DEEP HUDDLE. Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. director Manuel Orig (right) confers with Councilors Danilo Dayanghirang (left) and Diosdado Mahipus while the City Council discusses the proposed amendments to the company’s per-

mit application to develop the bulk water system project in Tamugan River during the regular session at Sangguniang Panlungsod on Tuesday. Lean Daval Jr.

MAYOR IRRITATED

Inday explains urgency of BOC x-ray use

By ANTONIO M. AJERO

D

AVAO CITY Mayor Sara D. Carpio appeared irritated by the slow action of the leadership of the Davao of�ice of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to two resolutions of the City Peace and Order Council and the City Tourism Council to have the mothballed P250-million x-ray machine in the Sasa Port reopened and used to enhance the security and safety of the city from terrorist attacks, aside from the facility’s vital role in preventing smuggling, graft and corruption and entry of illegal

drugs and all other contraband goods, which are given priority by the Duterte administration.

“Our point with the CPOC (City Peace and Order Counccil) is to use the x-ray machine because of the urgency of the security threat,” Mayor Sara told a reporter in a text message.”Ambot land pud nganong dili nila gusto gamiton ang x-ray.

Nothing surprises me anymore sa Customs. Naa silay kaugalingon na world, (I don’t know why they don’t like to use the x-ray.

Nothing surprises me anymore

in Customs. They seem to have their own world.)”

The lady city mayor reportedly made the remarks after learning that acting Davao customs collector Erastus Sandino Austria had stated he was not inclined to reopen the Designated Examination Area (DEA) where the x-ray machine is installed arguing that it cannot be done because of an old opinion of a former Solicitor General that the contract between the BOC and businessman Rodolfo Reta, owner of the Aquarius

Container Yard (ACY) where the DEA is located, had already been terminated.

ACY owner Reta had earlier �iled several cases against the BOC for the sudden closure of the DEA in February, 2010.

As a result of his administrative and criminal complaints, the Ombudsman dismissed from the service lawyer Anju Nereo Castigador, the acting Customs collector responsible for the questionable closure of the DEA. Reta also fought in court the

MAYOR, 10

SMX Davao celebrates Occasions

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

Enough energy supply assured

BACK IN CIRCULATION. Councilor Nilo Abellera Jr. interacts with members of the media during a news conference where he clarified some issues on Tuesday at Sangguniang Panlungsod. Lean Daval Jr.

Karlo urges colleagues to promote federalism

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ouse Appropriations Committee Chairman Davao City Representative Karlo Nograles has urged fellow lawmakers to take advantage of the legislative recess to further educate their constituents on the present effort to amend the Constitution in the shift towards federalism.

Nograles said that the members of Congress, whether for or against the measure, should be able to objectively

explain to their constituents the advantages and disadvantages of shifting from the present unitary form of government to federal form so that they can properly decide when it is presented to them in a referendum.

“Filipinos have never been more aware of the concept of federalism until now. Thanks to the efforts of President Rodrigo Duterte. As we return to our districts in the coming

KARLO, 10

PRRD to welcome Trump in PHL visit

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n a sign of improving relations, President Rodrigo Duterte is now looking forward to welcoming US President Donald Trump in November for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)/East Asian Summit in the Philippines.

“We con�irm US President Donald Trump’s visit to the Philippines this November,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said.

He said Trump’s visit “underscores the improving PH-US ties and President Duterte is looking forward to welcoming the US President in Manila.”

President Trump will join other world leaders who will attend ASEAN/East Asian

Summit in the Philippines.

“As host country, we hope to make the event productive and pleasant to our foreign guests. We will let them experience our world-famous Filipino hospitality to make sure they would have good memories of their stay in the Philippines,” Abella said.

Philippines-US relations had soured during the administration of President Barack Obama as Duterte sought to distance the country from the US and enter into friendlier relations with China and Russia.

Recently, however, Duterte said he is adopting a friendlier stance towards Washington, acknowledging that the US has also been helpful to the Philippines. (OPS)

By ANGIE SAVERON

T

he Department of Energy does not foresee any energy shortages in Davao City for the next �ive years but has not ruled out outages that may arise calamity, accidents and emergencies.

“We don’t expect outages based on the supply shortage, but outages can happen anytime like emergencies o mabanggaan atong poste it can always happen,” said Redentor Delola Assistant Secretary of The Department of Energy during the Ener-

gy Investment Forum and Stakeholders Conference on October 33, Tuesday at Grand Regal Hotel.

The power situation in Mindanao as of September 13, 2017 is placed at an average Installed capacity of 3,141 Megawatts (MW) and Average Available Capacity of 2,097 MW. He said the DOE has come out with a policy on resiliency that will be will be submitted for public consultation. “This will address the

outages caused by typhoons, post damages by improving the standards of the power plants, the distribution lines to be more resilient in terms of natural and man-made calamities,” said Delola.

He said that the calamities cannot be fully prevented but the DOE has been improving its system to be more resilient on this matter.

da. We likewise pray for the speedy recovery of the more than 500 people who were reported injured,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said during a Palace brie�ing.

“We join the peace-loving people of the international community in denouncing this latest act of violence,” he added.

The deadly mass shooting

happened during a music festival in Las Vegas.

The gunman, who was identi�ied by US authorities as Stephen Paddock, 64, opened �ire on concert-goers on Sunday night (Monday afternoon, Manila time), killing at least 59 people and injuring over 500.

Malacañang said no Filipino casualties have been reported by the Philippine

To realize this initiative, the DOE has been conducting performance assessment and

audit of all the generation facilities, transmission network and the distribution sector.

“There are actually initiatives being done regularly by the distribution committee and management committee, they are the one responsible for the monitoring of the audit process in all plants to ensure that the plants are well maintained,” he said.

The DOE is looking for gaps in policy issuance and regulation to improve the sys-

ENOUGH, 10

Palace condemns Las Vegas shooting

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alacañang on Tuesday denounced the deadly mass shooting incident in Las Vegas, Nevada and extended condolences and prayers to the victims of the latest case of violence in the United States.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the more than 50 victims who died because of the mass shooting in Las Vegas, Neva-

consulate in Los Angeles.

“Nonetheless the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has instructed Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz to proceed to Las Vegas to look into the condition of our kababayans as well as Filipino tourists who happened to be in the area at the time of the shooting incident and who may need assistance,” Abella said. (PNA)

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

AFP assures Mautes of humane treatment

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hile the remaining Maute Group terrorists have expressed their willingness to �ight to death, the Armed Forces of the Philippines assured the public that those who will be captured in the ongoing clearing operations will be treated humanely.

AFP public affairs of�ice chief Col. Edgard Arevalo gave this assurance as military units in the area could obtain a lot of critical battle�ield information which could hasten the clearing of areas in Marawi City still being held by the lawless elements.

“They (Maute terrorists) are on the losing end

(so) we encourage them to give up. We are giving them this assurance that they will be treated humanely but of course they would really have to face the consequences of their actions,” he said.

As of this posting, Mauteheld areas in Marawi City are con�ined to eight to nine hectares with an estimated 50 bandits manning the defense position.

Number of hostages are still at 43 with 749 Maute Group terrorists slain in the ongoing operations.

Government losses are still 155 soldiers and police of�icers while captured weapons are at 795. (PNA)

Ex-soldier neutralized in anti-drug operation

L

aw enforcers in Compostela Valley Province killed an ex-soldier after an attempt to �ireback at the operatives during the implementation of search warrant on Tuesday midnight.

The report of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 11 (PDEA 11) identi�ied the killed suspect as Daz Montefolca alias Daks, 42 years old former member of the Philippine Army.

Report bared that around 12:10 a.m. of October 3, operatives of PDEA 11 along with Nabunturan Municipal Police Station, Compostela Valley Province Drug Enforcement Unit, Compostela Valley Province Provincial Public Safety Company and Criminal Investigation and Detection Team of Compostela Valley Province implemented search warrant at the house of Montefolca in Purok 9, Barangay Poblacion, Nabunturan, Compostela Valley Province .

However during the im-

plementation of search warrant, Montefolca fought and pulled his .38 revolver and exchanged gun�ire with the operatives which resulted to his death.

The operatives rushed him to Nabunturan Doctor’s Hospital but he was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

Recovered during the anti-drug operation were six sachets of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride known as shabu composed of two big plastic sachets, a medium sachet and 3 small sachets weighing 15 grams with a street value of P180,000, assorted drug paraphernalia and the .38 revolver.

The PDEA 11 reported that his live in partner identi�ied as Nolaizah Lumiguez was also arrested.

Lumiguez, the live in partner of Montefolca is now detained at PDEA 11 detention facility.

EX, 10

ON SOLID GROUND. Lawyer Manuel Quibod, dean of the Ateneo de Davao University school of law, provides the details of the cases filed by businessman Rodolfo Reta against the Bureau of Customs 11 emanating from a

contractual dispute on the use of the latter’s container yard as designated examiner area (DEA) wherein a state-of-the-art x-ray machine was installed to screen cargoes. Quibod is the lead counsel of Reta. Lean Daval Jr.

Duterte warns vs bloated casualties in war on drugs

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resident Rodrigo Duterte set the record straight on the casualties of his administration’s war on drugs, saying the international community is fed bloated �igures forced by the opposition into Philippine media.

“Now, count the number of Filipinos, children, mothers, and fathers killed since the advent of drugs. And they vary in number, (saying) that we killed 10,000 or 12,000,” the President said during the 56th Anniversary of the Philippine Constitution Association (PHILCONSA) at the Manila Hotel on September

26, 2017.

“Where do you get the facts? You must be idiots.

You’re just reading newspaper and say, ‘This Duterte is a killer,’” he said.

“Or you rely on the bias of your representatives because the opposition gave it to them. That has always been… the issue. Even when I was mayor,” he added.

Various media groups have said the number of deaths in the war on drugs has reached 13,000, but Duterte disputed this.

He said in his �irst year as President, the number

of anti-drug operations has reached 70,854, with a total of 3,811 deaths.

“These are legitimate encounters duly recorded,” he said.

He said the number of police of�icers killed during operations has reached 85, while those wounded number 215.

Soldiers killed in drug-related operations number 146, while those wounded number 2,592.

The President said other countries appear to doubt the of�icial government �igures.

3 foreign groups seen as ‘shabu’suppliers- PDEA

T COURTESY CALL. Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte welcomes Ms. Chinatown Philippines 2017 Joy Wu as she paid a courtesy call to the City Council at Sangguniang Panlungsod on Tuesday. Lean Daval Jr.

“Now, there are some countries which are insulting us to open our records to them, everything. Who are you to do that to my country? If you don’t believe our records, then go out and �ind something else to do. We do not fabricate,” he said.

“And you say that we are killing our own countrymen? For what reason?

‘You enjoy slaughtering your own countrymen’?” he added.

Despite his strong stance against drugs, Duterte continues to enjoy broad support from Filipinos. (PNA)

hree transnational drug traf�icking organizations are the biggest sources of methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, a Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) of�icial said on Tuesday.

In a statement, PDEA Director General Aaron N. Aquino identi�ied these as the United Bamboo Gang (Bamboo Triad), 14K Triad or Hongkong Triad, and Sun Yee On Triad, three of the most powerful DTOs involved in the global illegal drug market.

These triads, which have their roots in dialect groups, trade guilds or political movements, are now responsible for much of the world’s drug traf�icking and vice establishments.

“The Bamboo triad, which is based in Taiwan, was formed during the 1950s.

Their members are engaged in almost every illegal activity imaginable, from prostitution, gambling, extortion to gunrunning, human traf�icking and illegal drug smuggling on a worldwide scale,” Aquino said.

The triad members are actively operating in the US, Canada, UK, France and Australia, as well as virtually in every country in Asia, including the Philippines.

The 14K Triad was founded in Guangzhou, China in 1945 as an anti-communist task force. Four years later, it relocated to Hong Kong following the defeat of national-

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EDGEDAVAO

4 ECONOMY

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

DTI: Liberalizing retail trade not a priority

D

epartment of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez said the government can look into other sectors that can be opened to foreign investors instead of liberalizing retail trade.

In a chance interview Tuesday, Lopez told the Philippine News Agency that liberalizing retail trade is not a priority for DTI. “For DTI, it is not a priority,” Lopez said in Filipino.

“There are still other sectors that need investments that can be liberalized ahead and to update some laws like on public utilities,” he said.

Under the 10th foreign investment negative list (FINL) signed by former President Benigno Aquino III, retail trade enterprises with paid-up capital of less than USD2.5 million is one of the eleven economic activities with no foreign equity is allowed.

On Monday, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said liberalizing retail trade and construction sectors are being considered to be included in the 11th regular FINL, which will also be the �irst FINL of the Duterte administration.

Pernia mentioned that economic managers are looking into

lowering the minimum paid-up capital from USD2.5 million to USD200,000 for foreign retail enterprises to operate in the Philippines.

“The purpose is to make the consumers happier,” he said.

Lopez also echoed that consumers will have better choices if the country will open further its retail trade sector to foreign players.

The DTI chief likewise said Filipino small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will be able to compete even if the government will liberalize retail trade, noting that even with the entry of foreign brands like H&M and Forever21, among many others, local retail enterprises were still able to compete.

“There’s competition. Consumers already enjoyed many products,” he added.

Moreover, the trade chief mentioned that opening up retail trade activities to foreign players could be an opportunity for local SMEs as they can be suppliers to these international brands.

But on the other hand, Lopez mentioned that the government should deliberate if retail trade is something to prioritize in liberalizing the economy to foreign players.(PNA)

7Ms seen to trigger MSMEs prosperity

F

ilipino micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can compete locally and globally with the help of the 7Ms strategy of the Department of Trade and Industry, especially with the country experiencing economic growth.

DTI-Regional Operations Group Assistant Secretary Blesila Lantayona said the 7Ms strategy for Philippine MSME Development, which are mindset, mastery, mentoring, market, money, machines, models, will propel MSMEs to make headway in increasing the competitive market.

“The 7Ms strategy of DTI for MSME Development holistically equips the small business sector to make headway in increasing the competitive market while contributing to the larger cause of sustaining the entrepreneurial revolution,” Lantayona said during the 3rd CALABARZON Regional MSME Development Conference in Antipolo, Rizal.

The DTI currently sits as chair of ASEAN 2017 and has hosted a series of high-level meetings among economic ministers of the 10 Member States of ASEAN and the region’s trade partners—the recent of which is the 49th ASEAN Economic Ministers’ (AEM) Meeting and Related Meetings last September 6 to 11.

Explaining the 7Ms strategy, Lantayona said that the strategy will equip even the

smallest entrepreneurs to be success and innovation driven as well as pro-active in developing their businesses and become better entrepreneurs.

“Through the framework of 7Ms, we will empower empower those at the bottom of the pyramid and marginalized sectors with the right mindset and knowhow to be able to move up in life,” Lantayona explained.

She also underscored the importance of placing the interest of MSMEs at the center of the ASEAN Economic Community through “sharing of knowledge and experience of how MSMEs can bene�its from ASEAN integration.”

MSMEs are integral to the economic development and growth of the ASEAN region as they outnumber large enterprises in both quantity of establishments and share of the labor force they employ.

The ASEAN MSMEs comprise the 95-99% of all business establishments, generating between 51% and 97% of employment.

Lantayona said that the ASEAN Economic Community is expected to bring bene�its to MSMEs as the region’s “integration and its openness to the global economy through the free trade agreements will attract investments from large corporations in ASEAN which provide MSMEs with opportunities through the value chain integration.” (DTI)

HOLDING ITS OWN. A fruit vendor piles up pomelos at a fruit stall along Magsaysay Avenue in Davao City on Tuesday. Davao City does not only take

pride in its famous durian but pomelo which is now considered as the city’s signature fruit. Lean Daval Jr.

Damosa’s mixed use project in IGaCoS on within 6 months

D

amosa Land Inc. is set to start a new mixed-use project within the next �ive months, its top of�icial of the homegrown development �irm said.

Ricardo F. Lagdameo, company vice president, said the company is still securing the permits so that it could start the project, which is located in the Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte.

“You know, it takes time to secure the documents, so we are looking at between the last quarter and the �irst quarter (for the start of the project),” said Lagdameo, a third gener-

ation member of the Floirendo family whose late patriarch, Don Antonio O. Floirendo, started his company in the 1940s in the city as a dealer of cars.

The project, earlier said Lagdameo, will be within a nine-hectare lot and will have a residential component. He, however, did not provide more details pending its start.

The upcoming project will become the �ifth in the last �ive years for the company, the land development arm of the An�locor Group of Companies, among the most diversi�ied companies locally.

The company has developed its high-end subdivision Fairlane, a 2.7-hectare subdivision designed to become as an exclusive subdivision. The company recently added another hectare to the project as buyers were clamoring for more units.

The company has also been developing the six-building Seawind, a condominium project that provides its buyers with the best view of the nearby Samal island. The company is expected to reduce the timeline of the project by about two years as the project is nearly sold out. Only about 160 units

have yet to be sold.

Another major project that the company has implemented is the An�locor Industrial Estate, an economic zone whose main locator is the company’s port, the Davao International Container Terminal, a modern privately-run wharf.

Early this year, the company launched its what could be the biggest project ever, the 88-hectare mixed use project in Panabo City. The project, which will have a residential and commercial component, will also become the location of the unit of the University of the Philippines-Los Banos. MFS

ipino motorists’ gas-up experience. Visa’s newest card feature allows cardholders to pay for Caltex fuels more conveniently by waving Visa payWave-enabled cards on contactless terminals.

Aside from the grand prize winner, Caltex also gave away Php100,000 worth of StarCash to three lucky winners each.

“Partnering with Visa for the payWave contactless technology has allowed us to enrich our loyal customers’ fueling experience with value-added services,” said General Manager, Philippine Products, and incoming CPI Country Chairman Louie Zhang.

“We are pleased to partner with Caltex to reward Visa cardholders when they use Visa payWave to pay for their fuel purchases. Congratulations to all our winners, including Mr. Dominic Tan, who walks away with the grand prize of one million pesos. We remain committed to bringing more relevant rewards for our valued cardholders and hope that more Filipinos get to

experience the bene�its of using contactless payments in the Philippines,” said Stuart Tomlinson, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines and Guam.

Customers may get in touch with their local banks to inquire about Visa payWave.

The Caltex Drive Away a Millionaire promo ran from April 15 to July 31, 2017 in all participating Caltex stations. Per DTIFTEB Permit No. 4157 Series of 2017.

About Caltex Philippines Caltex™, the retail brand of Chevron Philippines Inc., offers high quality products and services. There are close to 700 service stations strategically scattered throughout the Philippine archipelago and employees working in several areas of business such as Marketing, Lubricants and Terminal operations.

The Chevron products that are available in the Philippines include Caltex with Techron® fuel and Caltex Diesel with Techron®D, Havoline® and Delo® oils. More information on

Chevron Philippines Inc. is available at www.caltex.com/ph.

Visa Inc. Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) is a global payments technology company that connects consumers, businesses, �inancial institutions, and governments in more than 200 countries and territories to fast, secure and reliable electronic payments. We operate one of the world’s most advanced processing networks — VisaNet — that is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second, with fraud protection for consumers and assured payment for merchants. Visa is not a bank and does not issue cards, extend credit, or set rates and fees for consumers. Visa’s innovations; however, enable its �inancial institution customers to offer consumers more choices: pay now with debit, pay ahead of time with prepaid or pay later with credit products. For more information, visit www.visa.com.ph, http://visaapnews.asia/ and @ VisaNews.

Caltex-Visa payWave Drive Away a Millionaire promo announces grand winner of P1M Visa credit

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anila, Philippines, October 3, 2017 — Caltex, marketed by Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), has recently announced the grand winner of Php1,000,000 to be credited to his Visa card from the Caltex-Visa payWave Drive Away a Millionaire promo, Dominic Tan of Davao City.

Tan, a regular user of Visa and other Caltex rewards partners such as Robinsons Rewards Cards and HappyPlus, has been going for fuel ups to the same Caltex station in Bajada, Davao City for the past seven years.

“I actually did not believe when I �irst got the news. I immediately called my wife and she also could not believe that I won a million pesos. We’re very happy right now with this huge gift from Caltex and Visa, and we will surely have a lot of time together with our kids enjoying this prize,” Tan shared.

Caltex has improved payment facilities in participating stations through the Visa payWave technology to enhance Fil-

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

ECONOMY 5

PH assures full backing for AIIB, Belt and Road

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HANGHAI—Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has assured China of the Philippines’ full cooperation with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the Belt and Road program, both of which, he said, will “bring lasting bene�its to all countries of this region” as these “will set the conditions for more comprehensive trade” in this part of the world.

Dominguez, at the same time, thanked China for its generosity in supporting the Duterte administration’s ambitious infrastructure modernization program, noting that “over the past few years, we have developed numerous bilateral mechanisms that will allow closer coordination between our two countries across a broad range of issues and concerns.”

“These bilateral mechanisms are the scaffoldings helping us build a truly functional bilateral relationship,” said Dominguez at a brie�ing on the Philippine economy organized by the Bank of China at the Shangri-la, Pudong here.

Given the “great strides” that have been achieved towards building a common market among the Philippines and the other member-economies of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations , which will create a large enough market to make their industries achieve econ-

omies of scale, Dominguez said the Philippine economy can “perform as a gateway to a very large and increasingly prosperous Southeast Asian regional market.”

Dominguez said he believes the comprehensive cooperation between the Philippines in China, while currently only in its early stages, will “function as a driver of growth in the region” over the next decade.

“We are grateful for the enthusiastic support China has offered to help as grow our economy rapidly. I am sure there are many complementary points that will ensure the sustained growth of an inclusive economy in the Philippines,” Dominguez said.

“There is much to look forward to in our trade and investment partnership. There is much ground for optimism in the vitality of this partnership,” he added.

Dominguez said that while the Philippines and China have been good friends historically, their development ties “may be said to have blossomed only recently” following two signi�icant initiatives from Beijing, namely its effort to build a distinct �inancial community for the region via the AIIB and the Belt and Road initiative, “which might be considered the largest and most comprehensive cooperation project of this century.”

(DOF)

PLDT Group initiatives for OFWs shortlisted for Asia CEO award

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he PLDT Group’s efforts to improve the lives of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have earned the notice of the prestigious Asia CEO Awards.

The group’s OFW program, implemented by PLDT subsidiary PLDT Global, is shortlisted under the Heart for OFWs category of the largest business awards event in the Philippines. Winners of the Asia CEO Awards will be announced on October 17 at Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay.

PLDT Global implements professional development and livelihood programs which help prepare OFWs for the possibility of going back to the Philippines to �ind employment or start a business here.

It also has several information programs for OFWs. These include an anti-illegal recruitment campaign, as well as a publication for the Filipino community in Hong Kong which features content about legal matters, country policies and updates, and wellness.

These efforts are on top of the PLDT Group’s provision of services that connect OFWs with their loved ones back home.

OFWs can send remittances to relatives in the Philippines conveniently and securely through PayMaya.

This is a Visa card linked to an app which enables them to send money with a few clicks on their mobile device. Their PayMaya account can also serve as a savings account.

PayMaya Philippines is a subsidiary of Voyager Innovations, the digital innovations arm of PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications.

Another service allows OFWs in Hong Kong to have a Hong Kong number and a Smart Philippine virtual number in one SIM. This allows their loved ones in the Philippines to call and text them at regular local rates.

Meanwhile, Marino Link Plus provides internet access to Filipino seafarers. Smart subsidizes the installation cost of high-end broadband satellite terminals on ships, so Filipino of�icers and crew at sea could keep in touch with their families back home.

PLDT Global has presence in over 10 countries with high OFW concentration. It has a growing network of 100 partners and 40,000 touchpoints worldwide that allow it to offer services in 130 countries.

[END]

NEW FLIGHTS. A Philippine Airline aircraft flies over Sasa wharf in Davao City on Tuesday. PAL announced the opening of its new routes like the Davao-Siargao- Davao flight via Cebu starting December 1 and it is consid-

ering to open international flights from Davao connecting it to Japan, Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and China between 2018 and 2020.

Lean Daval Jr.

Senate urged to improve House version of TRAIN

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ocioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia has urged the Senate to make its version of Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) bill “closer” to the version of the House of Representatives.

On the sidelines of the opening of the 28th National Statistics Month, Pernia said he would like to see better net revenue for the government in the Senate version of the TRAIN bill to support the administration’s program, particularly funding

the infrastructure projects of the Duterte administration.

It was after the Senate Committee on Ways and Means has approved Senate Bill 1592, a watered down version of the TRAIN bill, giving the government lower net revenue for next year compared with the House Bill (HB) 5636.

The Department of Finance (DOF) has estimated that the approved version of the Senate panel will only gain PHP59.9 billion for the government in 2018, which is half of

the PHP119.4 billion estimated net revenue in HB 5636.

Both the upper and lower houses’ versions are lower than the proposed version of the DOF, which aims PHP149.6-billion revenue for the government during the �irst year of implementation of the tax reform program.

“We’re still hoping that the Senate version will improve and move closer, if not, the same level of the House version at least,” Pernia told reporters.

“We are working behind the scenes and trying to talk to other senators to support our desire and our aspiration,” he added.

Pernia also mentioned that the Senate can look into tweaking provisions on excise tax to get higher revenue for the government.

Moreover, Pernia said the administration remains optimistic to roll out the �irst package of the comprehensive tax reform program by January 2018. PNA)

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Globe Business helps Philippine logistics firms maximize reach via digital marketing, big data

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ith the various challenges in the Philippine logistics industry’s shift to being fully digital, Globe Business, the information and communications technology (ICT) arm of Globe Telecom, recently held the Logistics Industry Roadshow, an event that aims to educate logistics companies through industry insights, and showcase how digital marketing can help maximize their reach and leverage on speci�ic audience targeting which will lead to savings and cost-ef�iciency.

Over 25 marketing professionals from various logistics organizations such as Grab, LBC Express, Federal Express, ACM Landholdings and UBE Express attended the forum held at the Globe Tower in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Globe Business Cluster Sales Head Tisha Sadorra emphasized the importance of the forum to the logistics industry.

6 SUBURBIA RISING EDGEDAVAO

President Rodrigo Duterte inspects a nipa hut built by Army engineers for evacuees at the evacuation camp in Barangay Bito Buadi Itowa in Marawi City on Monday, Oct. 2, 2017, Day 133 of the Marawi Crisis. This is the President’s sixth

DTI, EU call for social make camp participants

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OTABATO CITY - A foreign-funded group and the Department of Trade and Industry in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DTIARMM) are pursuing applicants for this year’s “Local Changes: A Social Enterprise Ideation Camp.”

In partnership with the Strengthening Civil Society Participation in Social Enterprise Education Development (CSOSEED), DTI-ARMM Sec. Anwar Malang on Tuesday said the project is funded by the European Union (EU) and co-�inanced and implemented by the British

Council.

Slated in Davao City on Nov. 5-11, the week-long camp aims to assemble diverse individuals who would like to explore their creative side while offering space to exchange, foster, think, and collaborate about social innovations through social enterprise.

Malang said, through the camp, CSO-SEED hopes to encourage individuals to use social enterprise to create visions for a better, secure and more prosperous future.

He added the camp is open

DTI, 13

Drug suspect shot, 2 others nabbed

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ENERAL SANTOS CITY -- A suspected drug pusher is in critical condition after he was shot by police operatives while reportedly attempting to escape during a buy-bust operation here on Monday night.

Sr. Insp. Fernando Manuel, chief of the city police’s drug enforcement unit, identi�ied the suspect as John Rafael Eco alias Toto, 22, of Niyog Street in Barangay Dadiangas South.

He said police agent initially purchased from Eco a sachet of suspected metamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu worth P1,000 near the corner of Jose Catolico Avenue and Tiongson Street in Barangay Lagao at past

6 p.m.

But he said the suspect later noticed the presence of police operatives and tried to escape aboard a red pick-up type multicab.

Manuel said they were forced to shoot Eco after he allegedly acted to draw a handgun and tried to run over some members of their team.

Eco sustained a gunshot wound on the left side of his head and was rushed to the city government-run Jorge P. Royeca Hospital but was later transferred to the intensive care unit of the St. Elizabeth Hospital.

The police of�icial said they

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visit to Marawi. He, however, did not meet with the evacuees nearby who were not allowed to enter the site. It is not clear if all the houses will be painted with mlitary colors. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

DTI provides stores for Marawi bizmen

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he Department of Trade and Industry is providing stores to Maranao entrepreneurs who are among the internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Marawi brought by clashes between government troops and Maute group.

DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez said his agency is working on four commissaries for Maranao businesses in nearby cities and provinces of Marawi as livelihood assistance under the Bangon Marawi initiative of the Duterte administration.

These commissaries are on top of the retail spaces that the

big malls will offer to Maranao MSMEs. DTI is partnering with big mall operators to provide spaces in malls for Maranao entrepreneurs.

Lopez also asked mall operators to waive the six months advance payment for Maranao traders and let them pay their rental on a monthly basis.

The DTI also launched the Bangon Marawi Product Store at the DTI Building along Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City last Friday.

The Bangon Marawi Product Store features Maranao

products such as brasswares, wooden furniture, wearables, Maranao woven products, jewelry, fashion accessories, and Maranao native delicacies.

The DTI has partnered with Bangsa Moro Federal Business Council, the Tugaya Local Government, the Muntinlupa Local Government, and Magsaysay Shipping and Logistics for the Bangon Marawi Product Store.

“While our government is working tirelessly to give them respite in the wake of the tragedy af�licting their city, DTI has come up with its own way to

help our Mindanao countrymen,” Lopez said.

“Given that the Maranaos are inherently traders, we thought it appropriate to �ind a way to help them showcase their products and bring them to the mainstream market,” he added.

DTI is part of Bangon Marawi, an inter-agency task force for the recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of Marawi City and other affected localities, following the damages to public infrastructure and private properties due to clashes in the area. (PNA)

Antonio Fernando Blanco on Tuesday said.

This city has been known as the City of Flowers and was later promoted as Asia’s Latin City.

Zamboanga City was then called “Jambangan” - a Malay term for land of �lowers.

Before the Second World War, the downtown area and its public square was festooned with �lowers.

Blanco said they have started procuring seedlings that would be distributed to the ba-

rangays leaders.

He said the of�icial launch of the campaign will be on Monday, October 9, at the scenic Paseo del Mar. The launch coincides with the activities of the month-long celebration of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival.

Blanco said that part of the process is also to encourage this city’s residents to maintain cleanliness.

“A clean surrounding will entice people and visitors to enjoy walking and watch the

sceneries,” Ricardo San Juan, tourism consultant and former DOT regional director, said.

The initial number of barangays that will be part of the campaign are those within the 13-kilometer radius from downtown.

“Gradually, we will expand it,” San Juan said.

For the main thoroughfares, the DOT plans to plant �lowers at all center islands.

Blanco said the main driver of the promotion is the community themselves. (PNA)

DOT to launch beautification drive in Zambo

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AMBOANGA CITY -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) is set to launch “Mi Ciudad: Limpio y Floriao” (My city: clean and blooming), a beauti�ication campaign to boost tourism in this southern port city.

“We have made arrangement and received commitment from the local government of Zamboanga, barangay of�icials, and owners of business establishments downtown to be part in this campaign,” DOT Regional Director

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COMPETITIVE EDGE

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Sara sees lives of farmers improved through cacao M ayor Inday Sara Duterte is hopeful that the lives of small cacao farmers in the city will transform as the local government aggressively pushes for the development of cacao industry.

On Monday, the mayor led the formal opening of ‘Cacao City’ at the Pasalubong Center on Palma Gil St. here Monday.

It is a project undertaken by the LGU, through the City Agri-

culture Of�ice, and the private sector.

The Cacao City would serve as a show window and a retail outlet for cacao products, including chocolates. Davao City has been aiming to become the country’s chocolate capital.

It is like a ‘chocolate cafe’ -- where one can drink hot sikwate and buy cocoa products like tableya and ready-to-eat

chocolate bars.

“We envision that this is the venue for the buyers and suppliers together,” she said.

“This is a venue where we can help more SMEs and more small farmers get into cacao farming and cacao processing.”

The objective, she said, is for cacao farming to become a pro�itable venture -- eventually transforming lives of farmers.

“We hope in the end, it will

help uplift the lives of fellow Filipinos. This is one of our projects under our program on poverty alleviation,” she said.

For Davao City to become the ‘Chocolate Capital of the Philippines,’ there is a need to provide the opportunity to small entrepreneurs, marginal farmers, upland farmers, and the indigenous people to become major players in the cacao and chocolate industry.

anila, Philippines. October 2, 2017 - Hanabishi, the country’s leading homegrown appliance manufacturer, sealed a partnership with transformational leader Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on September 26 at the Hanabishi Main Service Center in Meycauayan, Bulacan.

The partnership, which is in line with Hanabishi’s efforts to give back to the Filipino community, entitles TESDA students to a one-year dual-training program. This program covers a three-month training with TESDA and the opportunity to complete the remaining months with partner organization Hanabishi.

“It is a privilege to be able to partner with organizations such as Hanabishi that share our level of commitment and the value we have for education,” TESDA Provincial Director of Bulacan Grace Castillo expressed.

“Through this partnership, we want to produce well-rounded individuals who are highly trained in the classroom and on the job. Students who will join this program are truly blessed as they will be able to practice knowledge from school in real life with the help of a renowned brand such as Hanabishi. Even better, they have the opportunity of getting hired,” Castillo added.

Hanabishi has always giv-

en emphasis to corporate social responsibility programs.

The company has joined a series of activities organized through its partnership with the GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF). These initiatives aim to extend support to impoverished and calamity-stricken communities in different parts of the country.

But while the partnership with GMAKF focuses on reinforcing Hanabishi’s commitment to restore and maintain comfort in Filipino homes through the donation of appliances, its recent partnership with TESDA will allow the company to play a more active role in the community by creating job opportunities and giving students better ac-

cess to such. It is inspired by the famous proverb, “Give a man a �ish and you feed him for a day, but teach him how to �ish and you feed him for a lifetime.”

“We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to TESDA for opening their doors to us. Through this partnership, we will be able to equip more Filipinos not only with the technical know-how and skills they need to �ind work but also with the values and guiding principles of the company that led us to where we are now. We are really hopeful all our trainees will be transitioned into their of�icial jobs by the end of the program,” Hanabishi President Jasper Ong shared.

“We want our farmers to become producers of globally-competitive quality chocolates,” she said.

Leo Leuterio, head of the Davao City Agriculture Of�ice, said the LGU is serious in helping the cacao sector.

He noted that Davao City has already made a mark as a destination for cacao enthusiasts -- as it now boasts of the “tree to bar production choco-

late experience”.

One of the popular tourist destinations in Davao now is the Chocolate Museum in Malagos.

“If you want to do it right, the chocolates and cacao are right here in Davao,” Leuterio said. “Davao is now part of the global map for cacao and chocolates that is why we put up a centerpiece of cacao here through the Cacao City.” CIO

wo committees in Congress have recently approved a resolution endorsing to the President the renewal of travel tax exemption (TTE) granted to travelers going to any focus areas of Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area or BIMP-EAGA using Mindanao and Palawan gateways.

Filed under Resolution 1270 by Davao del Sur Rep. Mercedes Cagas, the house special committee on the EAGA affairs urges President Duterte to issue a directive that exempts air and sea passengers originating in Mindanao and Palawan from paying travel tax fee amounting to PhP 1,620.

Cagas said the exemption will encourage more investors to look at Philippine-EAGA routes as potent connectivity and investment jump-off points, taking lead from the launch of the Davao- General SantosBitung, Indonesia shipping route earlier this year.

“It is imperative upon the national government to capture interest of travel service providers to invest in Philippine-EAGA routes by providing the necessary incentives, including, among others, the TTE for

international travels from Mindanao to EAGA destinations,” she added.

The committee proposes that the exemption will be implemented for a period of three years within 2017-2025 wherein it can be subjected for review and impact analysis in terms of its effectiveness to generate revenue to the government.

In terms of foregone revenues, Cagas added that these are considered “insigni�icant” especially when placed next to the “projected economic and social gains to Mindanao, Palawan, and the country as a whole” that the TTE policy will help usher.

Meanwhile, the House Committee on Tourism chaired by Leyte Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez has also approved and endorsed the travel tax exempt measure to the Of�ice of the President, noting that it will help reduce the cost of travel to EAGA, and subsequently, increase tourism in Mindanao and Palawan.

The exemption was �irst implemented by former President Fidel Ramos in 1995 in support of the newly established BIMP-EAGA sub-regional cooperation.

Since then, the policy

Congress backs travel tax exemption for BIMP-EAGA

Hanabishi inks partnership with TESDA T M

Hanabishi partners with TESDA as they reinforce their commitment in reaching out to more Filipino communities (L-R) Hanabishi Vice President for Operations Candice Ong-Ang, Hanabishi Vice President – Finance and Marketing Cherish Ong-Chua, TESDA EBT/DTS Focal Erlinda Sagum, TESDA

Provincial Director for Bulacan Grace Castillo, ATEC Technological College, Inc. President Edgardo Santiago, RTCCL – Guiguinto Center Administrator Gilbert Castro

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8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

Mysterious

here is something suspicious on why the Bureau of Customs in the city wanted to keep the designated examination area (DEA) closed down.

The facility is actually the subject of a litigation to determine whether or not the contract on the DEA between the BOC and the owner of the container yard is still binding on both parties.

Acting Davao customs collector Erastus Sandino Austria repeatedly claimed the contract had been revoked in a press conference and bared a plan to transfer the x-ray machine elsewhere. Meaning, the agency is putting up a new DEA and will abandon the current facility while the case is pending in court.

The pronouncements have been questioned by the counsel of the container yard owner saying the same are incorrect and misleading.

Lawyer Manuel Quibod, dean of the Ateneo de Davao University school of law, made the reaction to the pronouncements of Acting collector Austria about the x-ray machine inside the Aquarius Container Yard owned by businessman Rodolfo Reta of Sasa, Davao City.

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GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE MANILA MARKETING OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE Richard C. Ebona | Product Development officer LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager EDMUND D. RENDON Unit 6, SouthbankMarketing Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts.Address: 04 Orilla St. Purok 4B Lower Bicutan, Taguig City Specialist Cellphone number: 09472652969 General Santos City Cagayan de Oro City JAMILA C. CANONIGO AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Email Address: edgedavao@gmail.com Mobile: (Smart) 09104501042 Tel: (088) 852-4894 Circulation Marketing Specialist

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

Quibod is the lead counsel of Reta in his cases against the agency.

The BOC and Reta had a contract signed in 2009. The case dates back to 2010 when the then collector of BOC and Reta had disagreement leading to the padlocking of the DEA. But there are reports that the former collector did it to hide an attempt to smuggle in thousands of sacks of rice from Thailand worth millions of pesos. The same collector had since been dismissed from service for irregularities.

Which leads us again to this current situation where the BOC deems the contract terminated and the machine transferred. The BOC said the agency has a new x-ray machine.

The mysterious fact is that why can’t the BOC operate the new machine where they wanted to put up a DEA while the case is being determined in court as to the contract with the old DEA? And why is the BOC assuming the contract does not exist anymore when it is still under judicial determination?

The BOC, already notorious for corruption and smuggling, should clean its act. It does not help that they insist on something that has no legal force to stand on.

EDGEDAVAO

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ccording to a program of the University of Arizona, the word “Ombudsman” is a Swedish term dating back to the 1800’s. “It means a person who has an ear to the people. It is used worldwide to designate impartial, con�idential and independent of�ices that receive inquiries and concerns from groups of people, and work to achieve fair solutions.”( http:// ombuds.arizona.edu/aboutombuds/origin) A fomer sociology professor of mine from Sweden speaks of an Ombudsman that is necessarily impartial, fair and not prone to excitable intrigue, witchunts or in�lated accusations that may serve to upset the social system existing under a monarchy.

This is part of the premise upon which trust is placed on

T

o be poor and be without trees is to be the most starved human being in the world. To be poor and have trees is to be completely rich in ways that money can never buy.” – Clarissa Pinkola Estés, author of “The Faithful Gardener: A Wise Tale About That Which Can Never Die.” The Philippines is touted to be Pearl of the Orient Seas.

Lindsay Bennett, author of the island guide, “Philippines,” described the country in this manner: “Images of dreamy beaches and crystal waters surely dominate our perception of the Philippines, but the landscapes are many and varied, from coastal atolls to mountain ranges, from sand beaches to vast tracts of dense tropical rainforests.”

But what makes the Philippines truly a paradise is its endemic wildlife species.

“Diversity is the key to all life here,” Bennett wrote. “Animals and plants have developed innumerable adaptations and specialisms that differ from one community to the next.”

But the paradise is in big trouble as some of its unique wildlife species may soon join the dodo into extinction. To name just a few: Philippine eagle, Philippine tarsier, tamaraw, and waling-waling.

According to the Wa s h i n g t o n - D . C . - b a s e d

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VANTAGE POINTS

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The Ombudsman needs to redeem itself him both by the people and their rulers.

The ombudsman’s presence allowed power to be regulated and stability maintained. Note that Sweden to this day is a monarchy with a parliament.

With that, it would therefore be useful to examine the present circumstances of our own Of�ice of the Ombudsman to know where it is consistent with its intentions.

Needless to say, the of�ice has become controversial. It stands accused of extortion attempts in the previous administration, and recently, had its integrity shorn like a sheeps coat in front of a public intrigued by stories woven from questionable sources.

The current fracas surrounding it stems from announcing, through its Deputy Ombudsman Melchor

MY TWO CENTS’ John B. Tria Crandang what amounted to evidence from the Anti Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to bolster its intended investigation of the President’s bank accountsinformation that was long shown to lack credibility.

The AMLC eventually denied giving the Ombudsman any information. Despite this, the presidents detractors employed spin to help cover up the Ombudsman of�icials gaffe by insisting that the council indeed gave Carandang such information before its head was replaced.

Certain media outlets even opted to pit the Ombudsman vs the President for entertainments sake.

The Ombudsman’s of�ice on the other hand issued public statements seen to publicly contradict the Presidents in what the public then perceived as a looming con�lict.

Alas, days after, this mistake was ampli�ied further by Deputy Ombudsman Melchor Crandang’s public admission that the information was obtained from documents held by media, that he

only happened to read.

According to a report bybthe Philippine Daily Inquirer, “he was reading through the documents shown to him by the media during an ambush interview in response to media’s inquiry on the status of the complaint after more than a year since its �iling and in stating that a request was made to AMLC as part of the regular investigative process.” was his statement.

In light of the AMLCs denial, the error played itself out in full view of a public whose interest in this enture episode was whetted no end by another guy named Antonio Trillanes.

That said, The Of�ice of the Ombudsman, a body meant to be fair, impartial and non political, allowed itself, with its own words, to be perceived as a protagonist in a con�lated contest with the President.

severe �looding in the late 1980s and early 1990s, illegal logging continues today,” wrote Butler.

Aside from logging, other causes of deforestation in the country include: legal and illegal mining operations, agricultural �ires (as a result of kaingin farming), fuelwood collection, and rural population expansion.

Spreading cities have also contributed to decimation of forests. “Asphalts is often the last harvest for many forests,” the late National Scientist Dioscoro Umali, a Ramon Magsaysay Award recipient, once said.

In recent years, some Filipino environmentalists fear “that plantation agriculture, especially oil palm, could emerge as the newest threat to remaining forests.”

As those forested areas devoid of its cover, soil erosion, river siltation, �looding and drought have become the rule rather than exception.

“Soil erosion is an enemy to any nation – far worse than any outside enemy coming into a country a conquering it because it is an enemy you cannot see vividly,” deplored Harold R. Watson, recipient of the 1985 Ramon Magsaysay Award for peace and international understanding.

“It’s a slow creeping enemy that soon possesses the land.”

Water crisis looms. “There has been a drop of 30% to 50% in the country’s water resources in the past 20 years or so,” pointed out Dr. Rafael D. Guerrero III, a national scientist.

“We have lost most of our forest of old over the past 50 years and along, with them, many of the ecological services they provide,” deplored Peter Walpole, executive director of the Environmental Science for Social Change (ESSC).

Meanwhile, Ashley Arriaga woke up very early in the morning. She took a bath and ate the breakfast which her mother prepared. She went downstairs and took two seedlings of narra, which will be planted in a watershed near the school.

“Our teacher told us to bring seedlings of any trees,” said Ashley, a grade four pupil of Villa-Doneza Central Elementary School in Bansalan, Davao del Sur. “This will be our contribution to reforest the watershed which has given us water through the years.”

She’s thinking. I hope other Filipinos will have the same persuasion.

For as American President Theodore Roosevelt said: “A person without children would face a hopeless future; a country without trees is as almost as helpless.”

Trouble in paradise

Population Reference Bureau, “more than 400 plant and animal species in the Philippines are currently threatened with extinction.”

The reason for their disappearance: vanishing forests. “The once spectacular primary forests of the Philippines are now a relic of a bygone era,” wrote Rhett Bulter in a feature published in the website of Mongabay.

“What little primary forest does remain exist on the island of Palawan.”

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization reports that between 1990 and 2005, the Philippines already lost a third of its forest cover.

“But the country’s deforestation is down since its peak in the 1980s and 1990s,” it adds.

When Ferdinand Magellan “rediscovered the Philippines on March 16, 1521, forests blanketed 95% of the country.

When the Ormoc City tragedy happened – which left 8,000 people dead – timber cover was only 18%.

Logging – either legal or illegal – has been cited as culprit for the rapid disappearance of the country’s forest cover.

“Forests were decimated at an astonishing rate of 300,000 hectares per year,” wrote Jose Ma. Lorenzo Tan in an article which appeared in “Philippine Daily Inquirer.” Toward the

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

end of the administration of Ferdinand Marcos, forest hectarage was down to 7.2 million hectares, “about half of what it was when he came to power.”

“Who had the privilege of cutting trees?” asked Marites Danguilan-Vitug in an article she wrote for “World Paper.”

“The wealthy and wellconnected. They lived in the big cities. Some even sold their rights to the forest concessions and lived off the green of the land. Moreover, money for logging supported candidates during election campaigns.”

Then People Power came and Corazon Aquino became the president. But still the problem continued to exist.

“Despite government bans on timber harvesting following

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MAYOR... FROM 1

NO STONE UNTURNED. Members of the City Council exchange views on the technicalities and other matters while deliberating the proposed amendments to Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc.’s permit application to develop the

bulk water system project in Tamugan River during the regular session at Sangguniang Panlungsod on Tuesday. Lean Daval Jr.

KARLO... FROM 2

ENERGY... FROM 2

weeks, let us fortify this awareness of federalism among our constituents as we prepare for the big switch,” Nograles said.

Both the House of Representatives and the Senate will be on break from October 12 to November 12, in time for the annual observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. Nograles said the monthlong break should give solons ample time to bring their constituents up to speed on Congress’ imminent action on federalism.

“It’s our job as partners for change of the Duterte administration to explain to our people the bene�its of having federal states instead of the overly-centralized government that we have under the unitary set-up,” noted the Davao lawmaker.

The biggest drawback on the current unitary form of government as experienced by common persons is over-centralization, which more often than not forces individuals to travel all the way to Metro Manila just to complete a government transaction or avail of a service.

“Through federalism, the country’s future federal states would be given the necessary leeway to solve the various problems speci�ic to their region,” Nograles said.

He believes that this will also help solve longstanding

problems, such as insurgency, terrorism and poverty.

To make the switch to federalism, the three decades-old 1987 Constitution must �irst undergo amendments. The House leadership’s preferred method to accomplish this is via Constituent Assembly.

Nograles said he expects House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez to follow through with his vow last July that he would ask both Houses to convene into a Constituent Assembly should Malacañang fail to form a Constitutional Commission within the year.(House of Representatives) Nograles reckoned that a Constituent Assembly is the best method available in revising the existing Charter.

“Compared to a Constitutional Convention or ConCon, a Constituent Assembly would save the government millions of pesos as we no longer need to elect delegates for the task of amending the Charter. The sitting lawmakers will themselves be the delegates. And since we lawmakers have �ixed terms, we will have a de�inite time period for the job. This means we will achieve our goal faster,” Nograles explained.

Federalism was among the top advocacies of then Davao mayor Duterte when he ran for president last year. He won via landslide.

Royal Melbourne’s Seve Jones shot 69 in the second round, Connor McDade with the same score in the third round and eventual champion Kobori with 69 today.

A staggering 50 players were balloted out of the tournament which received a record-high number of entries including 47 Interstate players and 16 international players from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and New Zealand.

Kil’s name will be engraved alongside the likes of Burtta Cheney (1935), Margaret Masters (1951– 54), Lindy Goggin (1969), Rachel Hetherington (1991), Su Oh (2008 and ’10) and last year’s champion Alizza Hetherington.

While Kobori joins Kevin Hartley (1951), Ian Stanley (1966), Bob Shearer (1963), Marc Leishman (2001), Bryden Macpherson (2007) and Todd Sinnott (2009).

PLAYING... FROM 16

tem.

Aboitiz Power Corporation is also �inding itself crowded by other players in the �ield. “The power sector is moving toward fully liberalized, purely private sector driven so we are actually encouraging investor not just the big that we know. There are a lot of new investment coming in that are not just own by Aboitiz, ” said Delola.

In Mindanao, there are already other companies investing in the energy sector using small hydro plants, solar energy and biomass. “But in terms of capacity ang pinaka dako sa Mindanao is still PSA (Power Supply Agreement) that is still government owned.,” said

Delola There are indicative projects for Mindanao amounting to 2,538 megawatts indicative capacity in the pipeline for the next �ive years. “This 2,538 megawatts is scattered allover Mindanao, this is a mix of coal energy, hyro energy, geothermal energy and solar energy,” he said.

The indicative megawatts is comprised of 48 percent is coal, 50 percent is renewable energy and two percent for the oil based. The renewable energy is composed of 29 percent hydro energy and four percent is biomass energy, 16 percent is solar and one percent geothermal.

The seized suspected illegal drugs were submitted at Laboratory while cases for violation of Section 6, Section 11 and Section 12 of Republic

Act 9165 the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 are being prepared against Lumiguez. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

has been renewed and extended six times and was lifted in 2008 which resulted to the closing of several international �lights including Davao to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia and Davao to Manado in Indonesia.

Currently, the Philippines is the only country in the BIMP-EAGA region that has a policy on collecting international travel tax charges.

With the renewed interest on the Philippines through the recent opening of �lights from Davao to Kuala Lumpur (Air Asia) and Zamboanga to Sandakan (Cebu Paci�ic), Mindanao Development Authority Chairman Secretary Datu Hj. Abul Khary Alonto sees the renewal of the TTE policy as a step forward in sustaining and accelerating socio-economic development for the country, especially in

Mindanao.

“As it is quite challenging for the Philippines to establish direct connection with the neighboring countries simply because our areas are separated by seas, the renewal of this policy will help bring the Mindanao and Palawan’s vast potential to the forefront as we work towards BIMP-EAGA’s greater goal of increasing trade, tourism, and investments,” Alonto added.

Launched in 1994, the BIMP-EAGA sub-regional cooperation is designed as a key strategy to accelerate social and economic development of less developed areas in participating countries. The travel tax exemption initiative is identi�ied under the sub-region’s strategic pillar focusing on enhancing connectivity within and beyond BIMP-EAGA.#

EX... FROM 3

CONGRESS... FROM 7

stand of the BOC that the memorandum of agreement (MOA) between him and the bureau had been terminated. After Reta’s winning in the regional trial court and the Court of Appeals, the case over the claimed MOA termination is now pending with the Supreme Court.

In a press conference last week, Collector Austria bared his plan to transfer the x-ray machine out of Reta’s container yard, in effect stalling the request of the CPOC headed by Mayor Carpio to have it used again as part of the urgent measures for the security and safety of the city against terrorist elements and all other trouble-makers.

A similar resolution, this time passed by the City Tourism Council, also asked the authorities to reopen the x-ray machine which has been a white elephant for more than seven years from the �irst quarter of 2010 up to yesterday, Oct. 3, 2017 after its controversial closure.

Austria’s stand that the BOC contract with businessman Reta had been terminated was contradicted by Ateneo de Davao Law dean Manuel Quibod, lead counsel of Reta.

Quibod said that the pronouncements of the acting customs collector about the DEA “are not correct.”

“For the record, we would like to make this declaration in behalf of our client, Mr. Reta, the operator of the Aquarius Container Yard, because we have to answer and refute the pronouncements made by Collector Austria as regard the status of the ACY,” Quibod said.

He said “Hindi tama yong kanyang sinabi. Infact it is a deception, in fact parang niloloko niya ang mga tao sa kanyang mga pronouncements, kasi ypng mga bagay na sinabi ay hindi totoo. Hindi siya alinsunod sa mga nangyari sa kaso.

And I think kulang siya ng mga konkretong impormasyon or the correct information as regards the case. So an gaming pananaw ngayon, hindi tama yon.

Parang niloloko niya ang mga tao at gusto naming e-correct yan,” he added.

Just an opinion For one, Dean Quibod said the OSG opinion is only an opinion. “That is not controlling . Infact, there is no judicial pronouncement at the moment.

That OSG opinion, that was way back during the time of then Solicitor General (now Supreme Court Associate Justice Francis)

Jardeleza.”

He said that “when we were dealing with the previous collectors, they never invoked that OSG opinion because that opinion will always be the position of the government , but that is not a controlling view insofar as this case is concerned.”

Quibod said several years ago, the OSG �iled a case in Manila for a judicial con�irmation of the termination of the contract.

Unfortunately the case was dismissed already by the Court of Appeals because of the pendency of the case in Davao.

Sub judice Quibod also said the collector should be very careful of his pronouncements because there such a legal principle called sub judice.

“He should not make a comment as regards the merits of the case insisting on the OSG opinion because the lawyers had never invoked that opinion.

We were surprised why that opinion is being invoked now.

One, the lawyers of OSG did not invoke that. Two, the collectors before him did not invoke that opinion because they were aware that it is only an opinion, it will not control anybody. In fact, we are not bound by that opinion.”

Quibod said that the transfer of the X-ray machine is not legally permissible, adding it cannot be done at the moment.

He said the OSG attempted twice to have that x-ray removed from the container yard of Mr. Reta but failed in both attempts.

“When they �iled a motion to have that removed from Mr. Reta’s container yard, we opposed that so their motion to have the machine relocated was not granted,” Quibod said.

“They made a second attempt to get that x-ray machine out, but again this was disallowed because we discovered that the x-ray machine was included in a long list of ceased items that they want recovered, Dean Quibod bared.

Compromise settlement However, as to the eventual settlement of the disputes between Reta and the customs bureau, Quibod said that the legal panel of the ACY owner believes that there is no legal impediment to such a positive development in the case.

Mayor Sara herself said that the ACY operator (Reta) is willing to compromise and allow the use of the x-ray under litigation.

ist forces. At present, it exerts considerable in�luence over West Kowloon, Yuen Long and Kwun Tong and is engaged in large-scale drug-traf�icking around the world.

Sun Yee On Triad started in Hongkong in 1919. Presently, it is based in mainland China and Macau and has more than 55,000 members worldwide and is said to be the most organized and wealthiest triad society.

The 14K and Sun Yee On Triads are arch-rivals with a propensity for violence. Both are supplying Mexico’s Sinaloa drug cartel, a dangerous and

powerful international drug traf�icking organization based in Mexico City, with raw materials needed to manufacture shabu, as demand skyrockets.

Ties between these triads and Sinaloa cartel were outlined in a report by the Mexican Attorney General’s Of�ice in 2013.

Details of the Sinaloa Drug Cartel connection in the country was discovered in the wake of the con�iscation of some PHP420 million worth of shabu during a joint PDEAPNP Christmas Day raid in 2013 at a game fowl ranch in Lipa City, Batangas..(PNA)

3... FROM 3

INdulge!

STYLE

THE FIRST SIGNATURE EVENT OF SMX CONVENTION CENTER DAVAO, OKASYON, A Celebrations Fair, ended on a high note last weekend with almost 1,000 people in attendance during the 3-day event.

Event suppliers for weddings, debut and other occasions plus fashion designers, hair and make-up artists and photographers all put together their best visual displays from cake designs, floral arrangements, table settings and centerpieces to printed invitations, make up and photography studios.

The event’s highlight was a fashion show on the bridal forecast for 2018 featuring designs by Bamba Limon, Benjie Panizales, Dodjie Batu, Edgar Buyan, Edgar Ayag, Emi Englis, Windell Mira and Aztec Barba from the Davao Fashion Design Council, some ready to wear ensemble from SM Men, SM Woman and Fashion Forum of The SM Store.

Capt. Ronald Go, President of the Davao Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., Art Boncato, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry, Councilor Cherry Banguyan, Agnes Pacis, Vice PresidentSales and Marketing of SMX Convention Center, Maricel Davis, Board Member of NutriHealth, Dr. Ameleen Bangayan, Head of Lactation Management Committee of Davao Doctors Hospital, Dr. Karen Lee Alabado-

Laurel, Board Member of Philippine Dermatological Society-Southern Mindanao Chapter and Ronalyn LagumbayTorreon were among the models who walked the runway wearing SM Store and Fashion Forum creations. A classy floral collection by Jade Polizon of Cameo Event Styling added more whimsy to the fancy looking set up.

SMX Davao was able to do a turnaround of the venue to show the attendees that it can also accommodate any type of social event and not just corporate events and conferences. Celebrating its 5th anniversary this year, SMX Davao has been catering to big events in the Davao Region such as the 2017 ASEAN Summit, Miss Universe 2016 Tapestry Fashion Show and major international concerts.

Okasyon, A Celebrations Fair was made possible by APM Group,

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132•WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

SMX Davao celebrates

OCCASIONS

Cameo Event Styling, Eight Productions, Invex Philippines, Park Inn by Radisson Davao, SM Lanang Premiere, SM Store, Team Maquillage and Artistry Brand, Davao Fashion Design Council and Golden Touch.

Other featured event suppliers included AlterModerne Events, Confex and Co. Bakehouse, El Bonita Events, Party Deco Creative Events, Pearl Farm Beach Resort, The Organic Studio and Amiya Resort among others.

The event also featured informative talks by Cherry Al-ag on “Entrepreneurial Tips for Budding Events Suppliers”, Emi Englis on “Dress up!: Making Your Presence Your Ultimate Present” and Team Maquillage and Artistry for “Basic Skin Care and Make-up Application”.

The next Okasyon, A Celebrations Fair will be in September 2018.

For booking inquiries, please email eventsales@ smxcc.com.ph or call (082) 285 1045.

A2INdulge!

EVENT

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132•WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

First Tokutokuya From Japan opens in Davao

By BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO WE ARE ALL FOR SHOPPING. Most often, our shopping habits depend on our budget. Nah, it’s not cheap shopping -- it’s actually smart shopping. And with the numerous international stores opening in the city, there’s no more excuse to forego any shopping spree.

A new Japanese discount store recently opened its doors to Dabawenyos. Tokutokuya from Japan opens in the Philippines at the Gaisano Mall of Davao for all to enjoy.

Likened to 100-Yen shops or the American Dollar Tree stores that carries a formidable selection of items you can’t find elsewhere, the store treats anyone and everyone to an endless access of quality Japan items at a reasonable price range.

Present during the opening were Specialty Stores Operation Coordinator Mr Albert Alfonsa, Specialty

Stores Logistic Head Mr Bobby Yunting and Head of Specialty Stores Mr. Mauro Carmona.

Tokutokuya from Japan is perfect for people especially the travelers and residents. At Tokutokuya, their products are guaranteed Japan-exclusive that will surely have you smiling from ear to ear. From household items (microwave safe plastics) to colorful character items (Hello Kitty, My Melody) to bath essentials, cosmetics, novelties, school supplies and food products, everything you need is here.

One best thing about Tokutokuya is their wide range of Japan food products that’s been a staple craving for those who are looking for gastronomic adventures. Instant noodles, munchies, chocolate chip cookies, candies to pantry staples of sauce, seasoning and powders, re-creating your faves is now simply within reach. And yes, they have the oldest brand of Japanese beer on their shelves -- Sapporo.

Tokutokuya is a franchise store from Japan. Their first in the country, they plan to expand and reach, not only Dabawenyos, but to more Filipinos all over the archipelago.

Entering the Philippine market, the company is expecting positive outcome and is looking forward to more stores in the near future.

‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY! Do your early Christmas shopping at the SM KIDS’ SALE from October 1 to November 5 and get up to 50% off on your favorite brands for your little ones! Exciting freebies also await you at the Children’s Wear Department. Head to the nearest The SM Store now!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132•WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

Marian Rivera reveals inspiration for ‘Super Ma’am’ HOT ON THE HEELS of her successful return to primetime television via GMA Network’s Super Ma’am, Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera-Dantes was recently in town to give her fans a ‘supernaturally fantastic’ weekend via a Kapuso Fans Day.

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After a two year and two month hiatus, Marian reveals that she is more than excited to get back to working on a primetime series.

Joining her on that afternoon of fun and kilis are Marian’s leading men, new Kapuso heartthrob Matthais Rhoads and actor-comedian Jerald Napoles.

When asked if there are any changes or difficulties in working for a TV series now that she is a mom, Marian reveals that it is all about time management and support from her husband, Dingdong, and GMA Network.

About her role as Super Ma’am, Marian reveals that is is her dream to be a teacher if ever she was not an actor. “Pinapangarap ko kase maging teacher. At pinapakita ng Super Ma’am kung papano ang tamang pag-trato sa ating mga teacher.

(I dreamed to be a teacher. Super Ma’am shows how to treat our teachers right)” she said.

“We continue to give back to our Mindanaoan viewers for their un-

wavering support to our programs and stars,” says Oliver Amoroso, Vice President and Head of GMA’s Regional TV Department. “I know a lot of our viewers have been waiting for Marian to return to Davao and

finally, we are bringing our Kapuso Primetime Queen this Saturday to them. Together with Jerald and Matthias, we are certain that Marian will make her fans in Mindanao very happy,” he adds.

EDGEDAVAO

A4INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132•WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

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

11 HEALTH

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

Death by self (First of Two Parts)

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

It was around eight in the evening when a security guard heard a big bang at the entrance-exit of the parking lot of one of the biggest malls in Davao City. He was at the ground floor at the time. So, he tried to find out what the noise was all about. He was shocked to see a bloodied man, wearing a white polo shirt and black cargo pants, lying face down.

T

he victim was later identi�ied as Nestor, who was only 26 years old. Did he fall from the fourth level parking of the mall accidentally or did he commit suicide? The answer to the question was found in his Facebook account; he posted in his wall that he was planning to do it.

“I decided to go hindi dahil sa kasalanan ko ngaun… dahil matagal ko na tong plano, sana pala ginawa ko na noon di na sana ako nka gawa pa ng ibang kasalanan at makapanakit ng damdamin ng ibang tao,” he wrote. (“I decided to go not because of the mistake I did now…

I had planned this before, if I had done it before I would have done other mistakes that would hurt the feelings of others.”)

A lady friend commented that he should not to do something drastic, he replied: “Dli ni sya dautan teh mao jud ni sya akong disisyon (This is not wrong, sister, this is really my decision).”

In Cebu City, a 17-year-old girl leaped to death from a seventh-�loor from a school building. “The administration and studentry are so shocked about the unfortunate incident that claimed the life of our student, Jonah Mae, who committed sui-

Photos taken from the net cide by jumping out of the window…” said the of�icial school statement.

A �lashback. Before the incident, the student reportedly “displayed erratic behavior while attending her class.” She even tried to climb out of the classroom’s window. Fortunately, the teacher was able to restrained the student. She called the guidance counselor, named Marcus, who then fetched the student and brought her to the counselling of�ice.

The guidance counselor contacted the mother of the student. While waiting, he asked some questions. From their conversation, he learned that “she has been physically, verbally and psychologically abused by her parents at home.” However, Jonah Mae did not elaborate when asked why.

He also learned that she tried committed suicide several times already. At one time, she ingested a dozen packs of monosodium glutamate. In another occasion, she gulped a dozen of amoxicillin and biogesic.

Then the mother arrived.

“When Jonah sensed that her mother was around, she asked to go to the comfort room,” the

of�icial statement said. “Escorted by a guidance counselor to the women CR, Jonah quickly went inside the cubicle and locked herself up. And things quickly happened in seconds as she slipped out of the cubicle’s window.”

In 2014, the Geneva-based World Health Organization published “Preventing Suicide: A Global Imperative,” its �irst report on suicide as a public health issue. Suicide takes place as often as every 40 second, the report said.

An earlier WHO report said the Philippines has suicide rates (per 100,000) of 2.5 for men and 1.7 for women. This fact may be appalling for Filipinos but the numbers are way too small compared to those in Western countries.

In fact, the Philippines has one of the world’s lowest suicide rates. The 2000 Philippine Health Statistics from the Department of Health (DOH) showed only 1.8 per 100,000 people to have in�licted harm on themselves. In comparison, European countries had the highest �igures which ranged from 30 to 42 per 100,000.

Suicide is a major contributor to premature mortality around the world. Approxi-

mately 32% of the world’s suicides occur in Western Paci�ic region.

“While acknowledged as an important and neglected health issue, it remains a low priority in most Western Paci�ic countries due to competing health problems, stigma and poor understanding of the condition,” wrote Maria Theresa Redaniel, May Antonnette Lebanan-Dalida, and David Gunnell, authors of “Suicide in the Philippines: time trend analysis (1974-2005) and literature review.”

According to their study, the incidence of suicide in males increased from 0.23 to 3.59 per 100,000 between 1984 and 2005. Similarly, rates rose from 0.12 to 1.09 per 100,000 in females. Among females, suicide rates were highest among the age bracket of 15-24 year old, while in males rates were similar in all age groups throughout the study period.

The most commonly used

methods of suicide were hanging, shooting and pesticide ingestion.

In non-fatal attempts, the most common methods used were ingestion of drugs or pesticide ingestion.

Family and relationship problems were the most common problems reported.

“While suicide rates are low in the Philippines, increases in incidence and relatively high rates in adolescents and young adults point to the importance of focused suicide prevention programs,” the study concluded. “Improving data quality and better reporting of suicide deaths is likewise imperative to inform and evaluate prevention strategies.”

“Certainly, the actual rate in the Philippines is probably higher, with many doctors agreeing not to report deaths as suicides because of the stigma. But even if we could get the true �igure, it would probably still be relatively low,” Dr. Michael Tan wrote in his weekly column in a national daily.

Suicide, the process of purposely ending one’s own life, has always been viewed negatively in most culture. But not in Asia, where 60% of all the suicide deaths in the world are reported from. In fact, two of the countries with relatively huge suicide rates are Japan and South Korea, which have a very high level of competition that starts right from childhood.

“Although some attempt-

ed or completed suicides come as a shock even to family and friends, clear warnings are given in most cases,” notes “The Merck Manual of Medical Information.” “Any suicide threat or suicide attempt is a plea for help and must be taken seriously. If the threat or attempt is ignored, a life may be lost.”

For health purposes, the Merck manual calls it as “suicidal behavior.” It says: “Suicidal behavior is an all-too-common health problem. Although most suicidal behavior does not result in death, 10% of people who try to kill themselves using a potentially fatal means do die from their actions.”

Suicide is for real and it is unfathomable why people try to cut their lives short. “It’s dif�icult to understand how a person could not give value to a survival instinct, which is to stay alive from a standpoint of a non-suicidal person,” wrote Dr. Gia B. Sison, a practicing medical doctor who specializes in occupational medicine and a strong mental health advocate.

Quoting a book, “Clinical Manual for Assessment and Treatment of Suicidal Patients,” Dr. Sison further wrote: “The thought of suicide most often occurs when a person feels they have run out of solutions to problems that seem inescapable, intolerably painful, and never-ending.” – (To be concluded)

12 PROPERTY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

Matina Enclaves Bldg C now 78%

Building C and Building B

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

Pipeline at 3rd floor

3rd floor elecrrical layout

E

scandor Development Corporation recently released its latest construction updates for the second condominium building construction work of its maiden venture Matina Enclaves.

Building C is now at 78 percent and is on track for a topping off set this month.

The latest update was released based on September 30 report.

The construction update bared that Building C’s progress consists of the following: installation of electrical wirings; plumbing works; installation of pipelines; �illing of wall partition. These progress all lead to the preparations for the Topping Off Ceremony.

Four other fully sold condominium buildings of the signature project of homegrown developer Escandor Development Corporation (Esdevco) are set for construction.

Homebuyers of the sprawling complex will be waking up with the majestic view of the picturesque Mt. Apo virtually framed on their windows.

Matina Enclaves, built with an environment-friendly mindset, is a virtual patch of nature where a community thrives amidst a metropolitan setting.

A few steps away is the Davao City Golf Club, a vast ground of lush greenery for one enamoured with the sport.

Around the complex are pathways dotted with trees where one can walk, jog or bike.

The amenities too are family-oriented--a clubhouse with recreational facilities for both the young and old, lap pool, and soon, the Arcadia which is a modern gaming complex right across the road.

To top it, Matina Enclaves is a gated complex which only means that exclusivity is mixed with leisurely condo living.

View from pool deck

DEED OF EXTRAJUDICIAL PARTITION AND SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE LATE CARMEN PIMENTEL NUEZ Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late CARMEN PIMENTEL NUEZ has been the subject of an Extrajudicial Partition and Settlement executed among her heirs, per Doc. No.164; Page No.33; Book No. CLXXVII; Series of 2017, of the NOTARY PUBLIC RODOLFO C. RAPISTA.

Roof deck

Sept. 27, Oct. 4 and 11, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

IMPORT... FROM 15 president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, adding that they allowed teams to recruit up to three imports for the �irst time to increase the level of excitement and competitiveness among a record of nine competing teams.

“The mere fact that almost all teams will parade three imports means that they are serious in winning the title. This is going to be very exciting.”

Not to be outdone, Cignal, Cocolife, Sta. Lucia, Generika-Ayala and F2 Logistics also did good scouting jobs in recruiting their respective reinforcements.

Over�lowing with �irepower at the wing spot with the presence of Honey Royse Tubino, Janine Marciano, Rachel Anne Daquis, Paneng Mercado and national team member Jovelyn Gonzaga, the HD Spikers tapped a pair of middle blockers in Beth Carey of Australia and Alexis Matthews of the US as well as libero Mami Miyashita of Japan.

The Asset Managers, meanwhile, will parade

high-�lying Taylor Milton and Tai Manu-Olevao while the Lady Realtors grabbed two Canadian national team members in middle blocker Marisa Field and libero Kristen Moncks as well as Bulgarian national team open spiker Slavina Koleva.

The Lifesavers also hired 6-foot-5 American open hitter Katelyn Driscoll and Croatian Katarina Pilepic, dubbed as the “Croatian Hammer” during her stint for Arizona in the Division I of the US NCAA. The Cargo Movers, for their part, will be bannered by Kennedy Bryan of the US and Maria Jose Perez, who saw action for the Venezuelan national team in the Beijing Olympics and the FIVB Grand Prix.

So far, only expansion team Iriga and collegiate side University of Santo Tomas have yet to release the names of their respective foreign players.

They are expected to submit their �inal rosters anytime this week.

to youth organizations, civil society organizations, cooperatives, community, or people’s organizations seeking to deepen their social impact in a more sustainable manner through entrepreneurship.

“The camp is open to the youth and even to the elderly who are willing to learn through

the project. They must submit a two-minute video, which will explain the impact of their social enterprise idea to the community,” he added.

A seed funding of PhP100, 000 and a one-year mentoring support will be given to each generated idea that best �it the contest’s criteria. (NYP/PNA)

DTI... FROM 6

DRUG... FROM 6

have long been monitoring the movements of the suspect, who is the son of Barangay Dadiangas South councilor Alvin Eco. “He is included in our drug watch list,” Manuel told reporters.

The suspect’s family has protested and called for a deeper investigation into the alleged drug buy-bust operation.

A family member, who asked not to be named, said Eco had no vices and was not involved in any illegal drug-related activity.

Meantime, in Koronadal City, police operatives recovered around P165,000 worth of suspected shabu and marijuana from two suspected drug pushers in a buy-bust operation at a portion of Block 6, Marañon Village of Barangay Zone 3 at around 4:15 p.m. Monday.

Chief Insp. Jomero Sentinta, deputy chief of the Koronadal City police station, identi�ied the suspects as Jeffrey Bantilan, 29, and Nathan Joseph Santos, 22, who were residents of Koronadal City and Polomolok town in South Cotabato, respectively.

Recovered from the suspects were one small, two medium and three big packs of shabu, a pack of dried marijuana leaves, various drug paraphernalia and a caliber .22 pistol.

The suspects, who are currently detained at the Koronadal City police station, would be charged for violation of sections 5 and 11 or selling and possession of dangerous drugs, under Article II of Republic Act (RA) 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002 and RA 10591 or illegal possession of �irearms.(PNA)

Mercury-Laced

A

non-pro�it watch group on harmful chemicals in products and wastes has revealed the sale in Davao City of imported skin whitening cosmetics banned by the Food and Drug Administration for containing mercury, a highly toxic substance.

The EcoWaste Coalition disclosed in a press released it send media publictions it was able to purchase 14 non-noti�ied skin lightening creams costing P50 to P150 each from retailers in

Davao City.

All the 14 items analyzed by the EcoWaste Coalition for mercury are contraband cosmetics that have not gone through and passed the quality and safety veri�ication of the FDA. Thony Dizon, Coordinator of the EcoWaste Coalition’s Project Protect, revealed that he bought the items last week from beauty and herbal product stores located at Bankerohan and DCLA Uyanguren.

“We deplore the illegal sale

NEWS 13 of mercury-loaded cosmetics that are supposed to lighten the skin and remove age spots, blotches, freckles and wrinkles.

We are requesting Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte and DCPO Director PSSupt Alexander Tagum to mobilize the resources at their disposal to protect Dabawenyos from being duped into buying these poison cosmetics,” he said.

Upon returning to Quezon City where the EcoWaste Coalition is based, the items were screened for mercury using an X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) device.

XRF screening results indicate high concentrations of mercury up to 41,400 parts per million (ppm) in 11 items in violation of the maximum allowable limit of 1 ppm under the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive.

Yudantang 10-Day Specific Eliminating Freckle Spot & Double Whitening Sun Block Cream from Taiwan topped the list with 41,400 ppm, followed

by S’Zitang 10-Day Whitening & Spot Day Night Set (2,803 ppm), S’Zitang 7-Day Speci�ic Whitening & Spot AB Set (2,660 ppm), Jiaoli 7-Day Speci�ic Eliminating Freckle AB Set (2,468 ppm), Jiaoli Miraculous Cream (2,392 ppm), S’Zitang Yang Bai Su (1,467 ppm) and Jiaoli Speckle Dispelling and Whitening Cream (1,287 ppm).

Ansina Whitening Sunblocking Cream and Erna Whitening Cream screened negative for mercury but are still illegal to sell for lacking the required cosmetic product noti�ication as per FDA Advisories. Another product, a non-noti�ied S’Zitang

Perfect Magic Peeling Cream (Snail & Papaya), also screened negative for mercury.

The 9th ASEAN Cosmetic Committee endorsed the 1 ppm limit for mercury contamination in cosmetics in 2007, while the US FDA banned cosmetics with over 1 ppm trace amount of mercury way back in 1973, Dizon said.

The global community through the Minamata Convention on Mercury has agreed to phase out by 2020 skin lightening cosmetics with mercury above 1 ppm.

According to the World Heath Organization, “the main adverse effect of the inorganic mercury contained in skin lightening soaps and creams is kidney damage.”

“Mercury in skin lightening products may also cause skin rashes, skin discoloration and scarring, as well as a reduction in the skin’s resistance to bacterial and fungal infections,” the WHO warned. (ECO-COALITION) The WHO has also warned that mercury in skin lightening products and other cosmetics is subsequently disposed into wastewater contaminating the marine ecosystems.

“The mercury (from cosmetics) then enters the environment, where it becomes methylated and enters the food-chain as the highly toxic methylmercury in �ish,” the WHO explained.

“Pregnant women who consume �ish containing methylmercury transfer the mercury to their fetuses, which can later result in neurodevelopmental de�icits in the children,” it said.

14 MOTORING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

Reviewing the 2017 Mazda 6

M

azda has been steadily rolling out G-Vectoring Control or GVC throughout its entire line-up.

In fact, their entire passenger car range from the cheeky Mazda2 to the sleek Mazda6 all have it now. The mission of GVC is to unite the different components of Skyactiv: Engine, Drive (transmission), and Body into one seamless package. Think of GVC as Mazda’s version of torque vectoring, only better. Instead of being reactionary which is typically the case, GVC is proactive, working the moment the driver moves the wheel. Of course, all this GVC talk questions whether it’s made every Mazda drive the same way now.

Well, it’s a yes and a no.

Having driven the GVC-

equipped Mazda2 and Mazda3 already, getting into the saddle of the Mazda6 feels extremely comfortable. Sneakerheads can relate, but driving one Mazda after another is like owning three different shoes of the same brand. They may have different designs or trimmings, but the overall �it is the same. And boy, is it good.

One trait that differentiates the Mazda6 from its siblings is how it belittles its size. Compared to the “what you see is what you get” size vis-à-vis handling on the Mazda2 and Mazda3, the Mazda6 does better at hiding its girth.

Compared to other executive sedans (or wagons) out there, visibility is quite good with just minimal blind spots. It doesn’t feel bloated or cumbersome

to drive. The sight lines are already great in tight, urban con�ines, but they’re truly a godsend when tackling curves and corners. Having said that, the Mazda6 could have scored perfect in visibility if only they equipped it with blind spot indicators. An available feature on the Mazda3 and CX-5, it’s nowhere to be found on the Sports Wagon. Though adjusting the side mirrors to the outer �lanks do help, a wayward motorcycle or two can still manage to sneak through the Mazda6’s rear three-quarter blind spot.

As the grand tourer of Mazda’s passenger car range, the Mazda6’s driving components are tweaked for that task. Unlike the Mazda2’s quick responses to steering inputs for instance, it takes more prodding to get the Mazda6 to dance. The steering is honest and precise, but it’s nowhere as responsive as the Mazda2 or even Mazda3. It’s all deliberate though since what it gives up in agility, it gains in comfort and stability. With the exception of audible tire noise, it’s well-balanced, with a �irm yet pliant ride. New for 2017 is the aforementioned GVC system. In the

Mazda6’s case, the GVC does well to cut back on steering corrections, but its operation isn’t as transparent here. At the limit, the cutting of engine power is actually noticeable.

This could simply be that the Mazda6 is a smoother car, but more likely, it’s GVC going against the laws of physics; and physics always wins.

With all that handling prowess at its disposal, the engine does start to sound like a downer. The normally-aspirated 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G’s 187 horsepower, 250 Nm of torque may be alright for a typical passenger car, but on paper, the Mazda6 Sports Wagon could do with more power. In reality though, there’s no shortage of pull whatsoever. The engine note does sound a bit raspy, but whether it’s stop-and-go traf�ic or high-speed overtaking on the highway, it’s got game. The engine and transmission are so well-tuned that reaching for the paddles shifters or even the Drive Selector (Sport) mode are almost always unnecessary.

Fuel economy remains at a respectable 6.85 km/L in the city (average speed 11 km/h) and 16.94 km/L (average speed 56 km/h) on the highway.

Aside from the poor headroom (poorer than even the Mazda3’s), the Mazda6 is roomy. It strikes a great balance between sportiness and comfort, enabling it to tackle long-distance drives just as well as the daily commutes to and from the of�ice. Compared to its smaller siblings, it’s got the best seats with the best levels of support at all the right places. The rear passengers do feel shortchanged compared to those in front, but they won’t be complaining. Despite its shortened wheelbase, it’s the same in terms of shoulder, leg, and knee room. And as a wagon, the biggest attraction of the Mazda6 is its larger cargo hold. However, be forewarned that this is with the cargo net retracted. With it in place, the loading height is severely cut allowing just two full-sized luggage and two carry-ons to �it with almost no space to spare.

Though largely carried over unchanged from the 2015-2016 update, the 2017 model does offer revised gauges featuring a full-colored LCD display that replaces the previous one’s archaic-looking single-color multi-information display. Also new is the subtle

wrap-around Mazda Speed body kit and net-type luggage separator.

Mazda is offering the only executive-segment wagon in the market through the Mazda6 Sports Wagon and frankly, that’s saying a lot. Often considered as the best all-rounder in the entire automotive landscape, wagons have all the bene�its with none of the side effects. They handle well, don’t take up a lot of space, and yet remain �lexible and practical.

With crossovers and SUVs dominating the top-of-mind choice now, the Mazda6 now happens to appeal almost purely towards emotions—a truly heart over mind choice.

Though the Mazda6 has always appealed to those who want something a bit more driver-centric than the usual, it doesn’t compromise on the comfort expected of an executive car. Furthermore, G-Vectoring Control bakes a deeper sense of emotionality. While its implementation here is much rawer than on the Mazda2 or Mazda3, it still adds the right dose of change to keep the Mazda6 Sports Wagon on the positive side of the handling (carguide.ph)

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 15

EARLY BIRDS. Some of the early registrants to the Alveo Ironman 70.3 pose for a group photo. Mikey Aportadera photo

Close to 1,500 sign up for Ironman

By FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA

C

ity Sports Developmenr Of�ice of�icer-in-charge Mikey Aportadera said on Tuesday the number of registrants for the Alveo Ironman 70.3 has reached close to 1,500.

In his Facebook accounnt post, Aportadera said that as of 8:00 am Tuesday, 1,460 have registered for the country’s biggest triathlon event set March next year in Davao City.

Presidential son-in-law and husband of Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio are among the more than a thousand partic-

ipants who registered during the �irst day of the nationwide on-site simultaneous registration of the Alveo Ironman 70.3.

“The biggest ful�illment of an athlete is to �inish the race and that will be my goal,” Lawyer Manases “Mans” Carpio said. Carpio was among the 200 early registrants on Sunday in Davao City.

Carpio will compete in the relay challenge together with Aportadera, the City Sports Division head and another teammate.

Carpio bared he will be

competing in the running event while teammates Aportadera for biking and the other for swimming.

He said the reason of his participation in this big race is his health since he is getting older.

“Kailangan na talagang maging healthy, medyo tumatanda na kasi (I really need to be healthy because I am getting older),” he said.

Carpio said he is now going to the gym as part of his preparation for the upcoming race in March 2018.

“We will be also having a full training with my teammates for us to have coordination,” he said, adding that he does not mind of not winning the race because it is more important for him and his team to �inish the race.

“Iba kasi ang ful�illment pag natapos mo ang race (It will give you a sense of ful�illment if you �inish the race),” he said.

Aportadera also said that aside from the cash prize, the biggest bene�it is for the health.

“The biggest impact of this

competition is to promote a healthy lifestyle and to avoid diseases as athletes train for the upcoming competition,” he said.

Meanwhile, Aportadera said the city government and their private organizer Sunrise Events is expecting to draw about 1,500 participants not just from the Philippines but also from other countries.

Davao City is hosting The Ironman 70.3 as a special event to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Ironman in the Philippines.

The participants will race through the city’s fusion of nature and urban infrastructure.

Ironman 70.3 is one of a series of long-distance triathlon races organized by the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC).

The “70.3” refers to the total distance in miles (113 kilometers) covered in the race – including the 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike race, and the 13.1-mile run. Prior to the launch of the 70.3 series in 2005, the WTC races were then known as Half Ironman.

(Funny Pearl Gajunera/PNA)

ary Harris scored 25 points in 21 minutes, Nikola Jokic added 16 and the Nuggets (2-0) defeated the Los Angeles Lakers, 113-107, on Monday (Tuesday, Manila time).

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope led the Lakers (0-2) with 15 points, �ive rebounds and four assists. Lonzo Ball �inished with eight points and four assists, but also had four turnovers in his second preseason game.

NUGGETS: Paul Millsap �inished with 11 points, two assists, two blocks and two steals.

LAKERS: Julius Randle had a solid night with 12 points and 10 rebounds in just 23 minutes.

Dallas 106, Milwaukee 104

Jonathan Motley hit a layup with 4.1 seconds left to lift the Dallas Mavericks to a 106-104 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday (Tuesday, Manila time).

by John Henson with 11 points and four rebounds.

BUCKS: Rashad Vaughn �inished with 20 points for Milwaukee and missed a 30-footer at the buzzer. ... Greg Mon-

roe had 12 points and seven rebounds.

MAVERICKS: Nerlens Noel played 15 minutes off the bench and had �ive points and two steals.

Import-laden PSL Lakers still winless in preseason GP fires off Oct. 21 G A

proli�ic American spiker will be making her return but will be tested by a sturdy new group of powerful spikers when the 2017 Philippine Superliga (PSL) Grand Prix �ires off on Oct. 21.

Lindsay Stalzer will be making her fourth tour of duty as she suits up for Petron in a bid to knock the crown off the head of her former team, Foton, in the season-ending conference of the country’s most prestigious club league.

After steering the Tornadoes to a pair of Grand Prix titles, Stalzer will be back to connive with veteran international campaigner Hillary Hurley of the United States and libero Yuri

Fukuda of Japan, who served as one of seven foreign players for PSL Manila in the FIVB Women’s Club Championship last year.

With Stalzer crossing enemy line, the Tornadoes recruited three European stars in Dragana Perunicnic of Montenegro and Sara Klisura and libero Katarina Vukamanovic of Serbia.

Perunicnic, Klisura and Vukamanovic are said to be personal choices of Serbian coach Moro Branislav, making Foton a heavy favorite to clinch its third consecutive Grand Prix title.

“This is turning out to be the biggest and most competitive PSL Grand Prix ever,” said PSL

IMPORT, 13

Motley scored all nine of his points in a fourth quarter that saw the Mavericks outscore the Bucks 31-20.

Dallas’ starters were pulled after one quarter of action. Harrison Barnes was 4 of 6 from the �ield and had nine points. Dirk Nowitzki had �ive points in 10 minutes of action.

Khris Middleton led the Bucks with 12 points, followed

LEADING SCORER. Gary Harris fired 25 poibts for Denver.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 132• WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

PLAYING HURT

Ella finishes 8th in Victoria finals

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

M

SWINGDERELLA. Ella Nagayo bucked a hip injury to finish 8th.

ELBOURNE, Australia – An injured Alessandra Christine “Ella” Nagayo struggled all week and �inished 8th in the Girls Under 14 division of the tough 2017 Victorian Boys and Girls Championships at Yarra Yarra Golf Club on Friday.

The 13-year old Dabawenya nicknamed “Swingderella”, who is on golf scholarship in Australia, carded a four day total 336 in the �inals featuring the best junior golfers around Victoria. The daughter of former city councilor and now Labor Attache to Australia Rachel Zozobrado-Nagayo and gol�ing businessman Danny, also �inished joint 31st overall, not bad for one who played with a hip injury.

“She really wanted to play. I told her it’s okay not to play but she insisted.

Ella did her best despite her condition and I am proud of her results,” said father Danny.

Younger brother Daaniel caddied for the �irst time for Ella.

“I am happy to carry the bag for Ate,” said Daniel who was set to play in the Stuart Appleby Rookie Series in Sanctuary Lakes.

For the second year running all four tournament days were held at the famed Yarra Yarra without a cut, ensuring all players four rounds of competition golf.

With the wind howling, it proved to be a challenging week of golf with just three sub-70 scores.

New Zealand’s Kazuma Kobori and Bella Kil of New South Wales took the overall boys and girls titles.

The boys contest was tight heading into the �inal round with �ive players within three shots of overnight leader Jye Pickin.

Kobori started the day even further back, trailing Pickin by �ive strokes with 18 holes to play.

With the pressure off, Kobori kept his head down

and eyes off the leaderboard, eventually carding the lowest round of the day, a 3-under 69, to �inish one shot clear of the �ield.

The 15-year-old dual member of Pegasus and Rangiora Golf Clubs will be travelling home with excess baggage, after taking out the under-16 trophy as well.

Kil managed to extend her lead to six strokes early in the fourth round but it wasn’t all smooth sailing.

With only a few holes to play Kil’s lead had vanished, opening the door for fellow New South Welshwoman June Song.

One group ahead, Song had levelled with Kil however a bogey on the last kept Kil in front.

After Kil slid her birdie putt 4-foot past the hole, the door wasn’t closed yet.

But with composure beyond her years Kil rolled in a par to avoid a three-way playoff and to claim the title by one shot.

PLAYING, 10