Edge Davao 10 Issue 150, October 29-30, 2017, Sunday - Monday

VOL. 10 ISSUE 150• SUNDAY-MONDAY, OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

SPRUCING UP. A man cleans and paints stacked tombs at Wireless Cemetery in Madapo Hills, Bankerohan, Davao City on Saturday. Dabawenyos are expected to troop to cemeteries all over the city to visit their departed loved ones as they mark All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. Lean Daval Jr.

BRING OWN FOOD

Among health tips issued by DOH for Undas

By ANGIE SAVERON

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ring your own food and drinking water.

“This is to prevent diarrhea and other related diseases,” said Yasuy Avila, regional Department of Health education and promotion officer in providing a list of dos and don’ts for people to observe during All Soul’s Day. Avila gave the advisory during the Connect Health and Science Forum on October 27, Friday.

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Foremost, she said, is for the public to avoid dehydration and heat stroke by drinking plenty of water from 10 in the morning until 2’oclock in the afternoon.

“This is the hottest point of the day, that is why as much as possible they should drink plenty of water, especially those who will be visiting the memorial parks which are open,” she added.

Yasuy also reminded the vendors to observe proper hygiene in terms of preparing and storing of food products. “In terms of preparation, cooking and storing of food we are urging them to observe proper hygiene, to observe proper preparation, because every time there is an event like this there are reported cases of food poisoning,” she said.

She said the best time

to visit to the cemetery is early in the morning or late afternoon. Due to the unpredictable weather, she also recommends the brining of umbrellas.

Yasuy added that for the duration of Undas, the regional hospitals and DOH regional office will be in code white, meaning they are on high alert to be able to respond with the required number of doctor and nurses.

Supplement

The Dabawenyo as citizen of the world (Page S1-16)

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 150• SUNDAY-MONDAY, OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

SOFT SIDE. President Rodrigo Duterte reveals a soft spot for children as he greets the pupils of the Center for Brighter Beginnings, Inc. who showed a gesture of respect to the President during the school’s 25th founding anniversary cel-

AFP to sustain upgrades in tactics, equipment

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fforts to transform the Armed Forces of the Philippines into a world-class military force will continue, newly-appointed Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero said.

“Operationally, we will continue to improve our capability to address current and future challenges. We will revisit our war fighting doctrines to consider new battlefield environments and subsequently train and equip our soldiers to operate in the same,” said Guerrero, in his speech during the change

of command ceremony held in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Thursday.

He was referring to the AFP’s urban warfare capability, a lack of which was demonstrated in the just-concluded campaign against the Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City.

Urban warfare refers to specialized tactics and maneuvers used in fighting in built-up areas and cities.

Guerrero also said that the AFP Modernization Program will continue to give the

rmy Chief Lt. Gen Rolando Bautista, on Friday urged troops of the newly-created infantry battalion to shun disruption by politicians, but continue to work in achieving military objective.

In his speech during the send-off ceremony of the 89th Infantry (Makatao) Battalion at the 10th Infantry Division Headquarters in Tuburan, Mawab, Compostela Valley, Baustista said, “Kalimutan ninyo ang mga disruption ng mga politiko (Forget all about disruptions of the politicians).”

Instead, Bautista said soldiers must serve the bat-

talion and to expect nothing, but only the best service.

“The command will be behind you and support you all the way,” he vowed.

Bautista led the send-off ceremony, a newly-created battalion to be based in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte and will be under the command of Lt. Col Luciano Caiman. It is the 13th battalion under the 10th ID that included Task Force Davao and Joint Task Force GenSan. It’s creation is aimed to hasten the Army division’s mandate of protecting the people and securing the region.

Bautista hopes the troops

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ebration at the Davao Convention and Trade Center in Davao City on Friday night. Also in the photo is School Director Rossa Charissa. KIWI BULACLAC/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Davao City sets stage for Christmas festivities T

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

This after Mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio signed the Executive Order (EO)No. 42 series of 2017 “Constituting the Executive Committee for the 2017 Pasko Fiesta sa Davao” on October 25.

Duterte-Carpio stated that the order aims to maximize the objectives of Pasko Fiesta 2017 and to ensure the smooth implementation of various activities identified for this year’s celebra-

tion.

“There is a need to constitute, organize and create an Executive Committee, defining it’s functions and roles, and responsibilities, as well as the different activities that will be implemented, “ Duterte-Carpio stipulated in the order.

The executive committee will be composed of the mayor as the chairperson and Vice Mayor Paolo Z.

Duterte as the vice-chair person.

The members of the committee are City Administrator’s Office, City Tourism Operation Office, City Social Services and Development Office, City Budget Office and City Accounting Office.

“The Pasko Fiesta sa Davao is an annual event of the City Government of Davao, in partnership with the private sector, to celebrate the Filipino tradition during the Holiday Season come the last quarter of the year,” the mayor said in the order.

eacher Baicona Hassan, 41, was anxious as she walked the final steps to her house that she had not seen since the ISIS-inspired Maute terrorists seized Marawi City on May 23.

She and other residents of Barangay East Basak adjacent to Barangay Basak Malutlut where the first shots were fired that Tuesday afternoon five months ago, joined a Peace Caravan Thursday that would prepare for their return next week.

Entering the orange gate, Hassan broke into tears when she saw what used to be home

for her husband and three children, in shambles.

“I think I lost all my appliances that I bought through hard work. They looted my home,” Hassan said, after carefully inspecting all the rooms of her two story-house.

In her bedroom, Hassan found the beds turned around and the sheets soiled, their clothes strewn all over the floor.

“The looters picked our best clothes. They left us with our old ones,” Hassan said, wiping the tears from her face.

She continued to her kitchen where she found her refrig-

erator, washing machine and oven gone.

“My only relief is that our house was not destroyed like the others. My family can clean all the mess,” Hassan said.

Farther down the street, 65-year-old Haji Norain Cabugatan wailed after seeing what has become of her home.

The looters found her jewelry box which she stashed inside a cabinet in her bedroom.

She left all of her valuables when she fled last May 23 to a neighboring area, thinking that the fierce gun battle would be over in a matter of hours.

he Davao City government is now preparing for the city’s Christmas celebration this coming December.

The mayor added that this celebration is also a season when the city also commemorates peace and unity.

The order said the celebration also aims to share the spirit of giving and merry-making among city residents, especially those marginalized people.

“Through the staging of various activities as a way of creating a festive atmosphere in the city during the said quarter, and the same time promote and showcase the Dabawenyo’s talents, creativity and ingenuity,” the order said.

“I am fond of the watch that was given to me by my late husband. I lost a lifetime of memories,” Cabugatan said.

The first batch of evacuees – 6,469 families from nine barangays outside the war zone — will finally return to their homes between October 29 and November 2: October 29 in Basak Malutlut; Oct. 30 in Marawi poblacion and East Basak; Oct. 31 in Loksadato and Green; November 1 in Matampay and Tampilong; and Datu Saber and Panggao Saduc on November 2. (Froilan Gallardo / MindaNews)

Troops told to shun ‘political disruption’ Marawi‘bakwit’says she lost‘lifetime of memories’ A T FTROOPS, P11

VOL. 10 ISSUE 150• SUNDAY-MONDAY, OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 150• SUNDAY-MONDAY, OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

Duterte grants 6th grader’s request for a video greeting

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resident Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday took time to oblige to a Filipino 6th grader’s request for a greeting, as he shot a short video message saying a simple “hello” to the boy’s teacher and classmates.

In a handwritten letter dated Oct. 25, 11-year-old Andre Gabriel Custodio Esteban, who resides in Fresno, California, USA and student of the Fresno Adventist Academy, asked the Philippine leader for a video clip for a school report.

On Oct. 28, Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go posted a 48-second clip showing the President saying “Hello,” to Mrs. Ricchiuti, Andre’s teacher, and giving the Pinoy child

a heartwarming advice.

“Good day, I would like to say hello to Mrs. Ricchiuti, and the students in Fresno Adventist Academy, in California, USA, especially to you Andre,” Duterte said in the video.

“Andre, I received your letter request and I am most happy to oblige. I am sure that you will do a great report about our beloved country, the Philippines,” he added.

“Continue being a good son and study well, and may God bless you and your family and all of us in this planet Earth.”

Andre, in his letter, explained that he will be presenting a Nationality Report on the Philippines on November 15. (PNA)

‘Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2017’activated

IN GREAT COMPANY. Governor Claude Bautista of Davao Occidental poses for a photo with Reina de Davao Occidental 2017 Mary Elvi Teocil Dimzon

(3rd from left) from the municipality of Sta. Maria and her court during the pageant’s coronation night in Malita on Friday evening. Lean Daval Jr.

Duterte to future leaders: ‘Strive to be good always’

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ust like any parent, President Rodrigo Duterte can only advise children to be good and not to give their mother and father any problem.

The President had to find the right words to communicate with his youngest audience so far -- the preschoolers of the Center for Brighter Beginnings, Inc (CBB), a pioneering center specializing in Early Childhood Education in Davao City.

Taking notice of one girl biting her nails, Duterte admitted he has the same habit when he ponders over things that he wants to do for everybody.

“Alam mo anak, alam mo bakit minsan nakikita ninyo ako nagagalit sa

TV? Kasi yung mga bad people, ayaw ko sila dito sa mundong ito. Kaya gusto ko silang mawala para wala ng gugulo sa buhay ninyo (You know my child, you know why you see me angry on TV? Because of the bad people, I don’t like them here in this world. So I want them gone so that no one will make trouble),” the President said in his conversation with the children Friday night at the Davao Convention Center.

Duterte expressed his dream for the children to have a peaceful place to live

Over 13,000 drivers caught violating Davao traffic code

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rivers comprised the most number of violators of the city’s traffic ordinance that has been implemented starting September 11 this year, the Transportation and Traffic Management Office said.

As of October 20, there were 23,664 violators of the Comprehensive Transport and Traffic Code of whom 13,935 were drivers and 9,729 were jaywalkers, Joel A. Santos, strategic intelligence assistance office at the CTTMO, said.

The number means P4.7 million from the citation tickets but only around 60 percent had

paid so far, he said.

He said the law covers even non-residents of the city and appealed to commuters and drivers to follow the traffic rules such as following the designated loading and unloading areas.

“We are trying to manage the traffic in the city because it is getting congested. The city experiences boom, and the population of the vehicles is increasing,” he said.

Santos added that the jeepney modernization plan of the national government will help ease the traffic not only

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in the future.

“At pag lumaki na kayo kagaya ng mama mo pati papa, ang buhay ninyo ay hindi masyadong problem.

Walang gulo, walang magsnatch, walang mag-kidnap (And when you grow up like your mama and your papa, you will not be in trouble, no more snatching, no one will kidnap),” he said.

He said he wants a world for good people only.

“Yung hindi matino eh magkakaroon tayo ng problema dyan. Magagalit talaga ako (Those who are not good we will have problem with that),,” he said.

This as the President explained on why his critics are calling him “bad boy” and accused him of hurting

bad people, sendig them to heaven.

“Sabi ng iba, bad boy daw ako kasi sinasaktan ko daw yung mga taong masama at minsan sabi nila, pinapadala ko sila sa heaven, mauna na sila sa atin kaya ganun (Some people say I am a bad boy because I hurt bad people and they said I send them to heaven, so they go ahead of us),” he said.

Duterte, however, said that as a government servant his work is to protect the people and the country to preserve its sovereignty.

“Yung nakita ninyo (What you are seeing), everything is working, functional at walang problema (no problem),” he said.

(PNA)

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he Department of Transportation (DOTr) has activated “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2017” in preparation for the commemoration of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day next week.

Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2017 will be implemented from Oct. 30 to Nov. 6 wherein transport agencies will carry out initiatives that would provide assistance to motorists and passengers.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade has directed all offices of the department and its attached agencies to be on heightened alert to ensure the safety and security of passengers who will troop to the provinces during Undas.

Transport terminals, booths and counters should be manned at all times during the monitored travel period to ensure the safety of passengers, as well as prevent long queues and other untoward incidents.

They were likewise directed to communicate accidents and emergencies in real time and maintain all hotlines and feedback mechanisms fully operational.

Public advisories, such as safety tips, common types of violations at expressways, and

safety and security regulations in airports, seaports, and other transportation hubs, shall be issued. Tarpaulins bearing emergency and hotline numbers will be posted in conspicuous areas within the agency’s jurisdiction.

For its part, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued special permits to 948 buses that will service passengers going to the provinces for the All Saints’ Day commemoration.

The special permits will be valid from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3, according to LTFRB board member and spokesperson, Aileen Lizada.

Data from the LTFRB show that Northern Luzon has the most number of units approved at 557, followed by Southern Luzon with 274, Bicol with 93, Visayas with 22, and Mindanao with two.

The Board will inspect provincial terminals along Epifanio de los Santos Ave. (EDSA) on Monday.

“We aim to inspect terminals if they provide facilities, such as seats with comfortable backrest and good ventilation at waiting areas, well-maintained restrooms that are free and accessible to PWDs, priority lane,

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Alquiza, Ongkingco top YMCA elections

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SSISTANT Secretary Mariano R. Alquiza of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) topped the annual elections of new trustees of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) Davao City chapter last Saturday.

Alquiza is the incumbent YMCA-Davao president but he has to run during this election as his two-year stint as trustee ends in December.

In last Saturday’s balloting he ranked No.1 among seven trustees who got elected.

Ranked No. 2 with only one vote behind was retired Public Works and Highways District Engineer

Fernando S. Ongkingco Jr.. who is this year’s immediate past president before Alquiza. Ongkingco is currently executive vice president of the organization.

Other trustees elected are Russel U. Barrizo, Wehelito N. Pepito, Ulysses Y. Solis, Erdsan Rene S. Suero, and Lourdes M. Mission in that order.

The seven elected trustees will be joined by six trustees whose terms have not yet expired in a joint meeting mid November to elect the officers of YMCA Year 2018. The six trustees with unexpired terms are Isagani G. Javier, Manuel S. Tagud,

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Labor Assistant secretary Mariano R. Alquiza (at left) and former Davao City District Engineer. Fernando S. Ongkingco Jr.

5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 150• SUNDAY-MONDAY, OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

Holcim nets P2.3B for January-Sept.

B uilding solutions provider Holcim Philippines has posted a 57.6-percent decline in its profit in the first three quarters of the year on lower volumes and prices.

Holcim told the local bourse its net income reached P2.3 billion in January to September from P5.42 billion during the same period last year.

The company’s profit in the third quarter alone reached P337.2 million compared with P1.8 billion in the previous year on cost pressures from rising energy expenses and the declining peso.

Holcim said tighter competition and higher production expenses challenged its performance in the third quarter, but the company continues to sustain its investment and expansion plans in the country.

“We remain steadfast in our support for Philippine growth and in the many opportunities in the market. We note the government’s recent report that infrastructure spending has started to pick up,” said Holcim Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer Sapna Sood.

“To this end, the transfor-

mation of our company continues in order to better serve our customers and support the development of the country,” said Sood.

Holcim continues to ramp up its support for Mindanao with its P2.7-billion expansion project in Davao and the groundbreaking of its upgraded facilities this month in rites to be attended by key government and top company officials.

This will bring its cement production capacity in the city to 2.2 million metric tons, as part of raising its total cement capacity by 2019 to 12 million metric tons from the current 10 million metric tons.

The company is also continually pursuing and co-developing solutions and technical services, together with its clients and partners, that result in effective time and cost efficiencies, a key focus of the government’s infrastructure program.

Given the business conditions, it is further strengthening its cost management efforts through logistics excellence, renegotiation of energy and procurement contracts to improve variable costs, and fixed cost management. (PNA)

Nograles puzzled by Tugade’s failure to suspend BURI firm

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ransportation Secretary Arthur Tugade is unwittingly endangering the lives of the tens of thousands of commuters who take the MRT3 everyday for issuing a notice of termination of contract for its maintenance service provider Busan Universal Rail Inc. (BURI) without imposing any suspension order, Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta Partylist Rep. Jericho Nograles today said.

Speaking before the weekly media forum Kapihan sa Annabelle’s, Nograles said that while he welcomes the decision of Tugade to finally issue BURI a notice to terminate in relation to its MRT3 maintenance service contract, doing so with any prior suspension of its maintenance work on MRT3 facilities potentially exposes the system to a possible sabotage.

He said that the baby diaper that was found on one of the MRT3 power lines could be a case of sabotage as he noted that the ones responsible were apparently aware that this particular portion of the rail line had no CCTV camera. He added the culprits would have to exert extraordinary efforts to even place the object on the power line.

Nograles said that issuing the notice of termination without the suspension of its operation still allows BURI personnel adequate access to MRT3 facilities and equipment and this makes the entire sys-

tem exposed to a possible sabotage.

“Nag-issue ang DOTr ng notice to terminate sa BURI pero bakit hindi nila ito sinuspend. Kahit nga sa eskwelahan bago mo ikick-out ang isang estudyante kelangan mo munang isuspend. Kahit sa trabaho bago mo patalsikin ang isang empleyado eh kelangan mo muna itong isuspend habang gumugulong ang proseso ng termination. Secretary Tugade should have ordered the suspension of BURI pending the full termination of its contract which understandably has to go through proper legal procedures,” Nograles said.

Nograles added that while he is happy with the decision of the DOTr through Undersecretary for Legal Affairs and Procurement Reinier Paul Yebra to file charges against former transportation officials led by former Department of Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, he is puzzled on why other key personalities involved in the highly anomalous contract were spared.

Nograles is its highly questionable as to why Marlo Dela Cruz, who was a top incorporator of the companies that handled MRT3 maintenance during the Aquino administration was not among those who were charged by the the DOTr. (HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES)

HONORED GUEST. President Rodrigo Duterte is welcomed by homegrown Phoenix Petroleum Phils. President and chief executive officer and Presidential Adviser on Sports Dennis Uy upon the President’s arrival at the Davao

Convention and Trade Center in Davao City for his attendance at the 25th founding anniversary of the Center for Brighter Beginnings, Inc. (CBB) on Friday night. RENE LUMAWAG/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

P843M allotted for PUV modernization program

Along with a P2.5-B financing plan

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he government is spending P843 million next year to jumpstart the nationwide implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, a lawmaker said on Saturday.

The initial funding for the program, officially launched only in June this year, has been included in the 2018 budget of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), according to Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel, a member of the House appropriations committee.

“It is a highly constructive program overall. The government is basically stepping in to

assure the public a better way to commute in the years ahead, while giving PUV operators and drivers the opportunity to upgrade their vehicles,” Pimentel said.

The lawmaker stressed that the operation of PUVs on public roads is a privilege granted by the government.

“This is why we have a franchising system. Those who are in the business of running PUVs

have to live up to higher operating standards to ensure that commuters are safely, efficiently and conveniently transferred,” Pimentel said.

The modernization program is also expected to help drive jobs creation in the automotive industry, a key sector of the economy, Pimentel, also a member of the House transportation committee, pointed out.

“There’s also no question the shift to low-emission vehicles will help reduce pollutants and improve air quality in a big way,” he added.

Under the program, all PUVs that are more than 15 years old will be phased out

and replaced with new models equipped with automated fare collection systems, digital security and dashboard cameras, Wi-Fi Internet connectivity, GPS tracking devices and speed limiters.

A combined P2.5-billion special financing plan from two state-run banks will extend lowcost loans to enable PUV operators and drivers to acquire the newly designed passenger buses, vans and jeepneys.

The new PUVs will run either on Euro 4 compliant diesel engines that discharge 68 percent less particulate matter,

surprised and amazed of the aroma and the taste of the Philippine coffee.

The farmers, Juan said were a hit among those who joined the competition and they were called by coffee roasters to buy the coffee.

“That is why our market for specialty coffee are the roasters because they pay three-folds of what ordinary peoplepay. In the US they will look for the top quality coffee for their own style of roasting,” Juan said.

The buying price of Robusta as a commodity is at P80 to P90 while the roasters pay P150. The Arabica before was priced at P140 to P150, now the selling farm price of coffee from Balutakay Farmers Association of Davao del Sur is at P250.

“I think that is how we will empower the farmers by producing quality coffee that could

command higher market price,” she said.

“We have a grading sheet for our coffee,” she said, “and in fact the quality of Philippine coffee is one of the top where some scored at 86,” she added.

The PCBI have graders that were trained by the Coffee Quality Institute and they are called Professional Q Graders and Certified Q Graders.

She said the new wave of coffee shops that are sprouting anywhere in the Philippines sell coffee before at P40 to P50.

Now, specialty coffee ranges from P120 to P140 and even up to P180 if the preparation is done openly.

She said this development would encourage to produce more specialty coffee.

“We hope to double our entries from 80 in 2016 to 160

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Farmers learning the ropes in producing specialty coffee

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or good agricultural practices, the Philippines Coffee Board Inc. has cited Filipino small farmers for slowly and intricately learning the process of producing specialty coffee.

PCBI president and co-chair Pacita Juan also attributed this to the continuing awareness of producing quality coffee where farmers grow his coffee and taste his produce.

“And it is only when you taste your own coffee that you will know how good is your coffee produce,” she said.

Following the right steps of production, she said the farmers now label their products by indicating its moisture level.

“Nagkaroon na sila ng (They have the) information on what is being asked of the specialty coffee market,” she said.

Moisture level of coffee must be maintained between 11 to 12,

but ordinary farmers could not afford to buy a P20,000 moisture meter.

This is where coffee farmers are asking the support of government to help them acquire postharvest facility.

Juan said the IPs, most especially, need help to improve their production and access the market.

She recalled that in 2016, there were 80 entries of the Kape Pilipino and the two winners from Bukidnon, the Arabica and Robusta scored in the 80s.

The winning entries were sent to Seattle, Washington to see how coffee is “cupped” and judged by the international buying community.

Juan said the American roasters and other buyers during that exposition were looking for them as they were

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6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

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Safety during Undas

s the country observes a long holiday to observe ‘Undas’, traffic on roads leading to provinces and cemeteries is expected to be heavy. It’s therefore best to be prepared for the worse and to be ready for any emergencies.

Millions of Pinoys will be visiting their dead in the typical Pinoy tradition complete with some revelry. The Phillippine National Police (PNP) did some very useful tips for everyone during the All Saints week as people are expected to leave their homes in the city and provinces to troop to the cemeteries to pay respects to their dead.

Some of the basic reminders for those who will be leaving their houses without a caretaker: Make sure all doors and windows are locked. If possible, block them so neighbors will know if burglars try to break in. ∙ Do not leave notes outside the house indicating you will be away. Leave the radio on so it will look like someone is inside the house.

Ask trusted neighbors to keep guard over the house and inform them of the trip details.

Do not leave candles and plugged appliances, especially electric or gas stove, unattended.

Do not leave items outside the house (e.g. clothes, bicycles, vehicles).

When going on the road with their own car, people should: ∙ Keep in mind the “blowbagets” rule: battery, light, oil, water, brakes, air, gas, engine, tire and self. Make sure all of them are in good condition before traveling.

Always bring your driving documents, including driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance certificate.

Make sure the safety lock of your car doors are working, especially if you are traveling with children.

Avoid one-handed driving and never use a cell phone while on the road.

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If you are driving at night, use headlights and signal lights properly.

As much as possible, don’t bring a car if you have the option to walk going to the cemetery.

For those taking public transport: Avoid wearing expensive and flashy jewelry. Avoid bringing large amounts of money.

Don’t bring too many items when commuting.

For women, children and senior citizen commuters, it is advised to be early at bus terminals, airports and seaports.

Report immediately to authorities if you see a suspicious-looking person or package within the immediate vicinity.

Be wary of pickpockets inside vehicles. Report incidents to the nearest Police Assistance Post.

Once inside the cemetery, people should: ∙Bring sufficient food and water. Always remember that liquor is not allowed in cemeteries.

Have protection against heat and rain (e.g. umbrella, face towel, cap, shades, raincoat).

Never bring deadly weapons. This include firearms, ammunition, and bladed weapons.

Refrain from using loud speakers and gambling (e.g. playing cards) Place candles in a safe areas to avoid fire.

Remind children not to roam around when in crowded places. Have them wear IDs or put notes in their pockets for their identification.

Maintain cleanliness in surroundings. Bring your own trash bag and put it in the right disposal area.

Take note of the first aid stations and police assistance booths in case of emergency.

The cardinal rule in this season is it’s better to be safe and to be ready.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

JIMMY K. LAKING Associate Editor PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG ANGELIE SAVERON BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO Reporter MEGHANN STA. INES NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA Lifestyle CHA MONFORTE LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. ARLENE D. PASAJE Correspondents Cartoons Photography Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. Columnists: D. TACIO G.•DELIGERO • JOHN CARLO TRIA • VIDAGOTIANSE-TAN MIA S. VALVERDE•• NICASIO FRED C. LUMBA • ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA BORBONHENRYLITO • MARY ANN “ADI”• GREGORIO C. QUISIDO LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NIKKI ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ

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VANTAGE POINTS

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Finding something in getting lost

A

ttending the Scientific World Conceptions 2017 at the University of Vienna- Institute Vienna Circle in Austria lifted me out of my reality of pain and loss into that of science and philosophy. Immersive study (of genomics at that!) in a faraway country may have been the right prescription. Rigors of the course notwithstanding, it was getting lost in the streets of Vienna and Paris that educated me the most. Despite best laid plans, it seemed I was jinxed to get lost, with or without someone by my side.

Another reality is created when what matters is the here and now. The new sights and sensations built a bubble that I reveled in. Though,

I

n a capitalist society such as ours, it is difficult to maintain a balance between serving the needs of the poor via the delivery of basic social services and catering to the concerns of the business sector and the other publics.

It is always that labor and capital peacefully co-exist to a certain degree but that labor – comprised by a majority of daily wage earners who belong to the lower C, D and E classes – will always seek to get more for members of its working force.

A Third World country like the Philippines, try as it must to lift itself out of the present doldrums, is hard put in introducing fresh and innovative (though not exactly original) concepts of governance because there is no strong middle class that will support them.

But make no mistake about it: All organizations are pyramidal in nature.

Without a solid foundation below, the leaders sitting at the top will find their tenure uneasy and uncomfortable because any democracy will

or because, I knew very well that this bubble would soon burst, every wrong alley, train, museum corridor, or person even, was something to be savored. Hearing different languages or accents of the same language, and discussing the nature of language rewired the synapses of my already taxed brain. Some things translate or get lost in translation. Whatever the case may be, a gem is inevitably found.

Wandering in unknown places, I stumbled into an eerie ancient Latin mass, a violinist playing in the shadows, and an antique books seller who thinks the Philippine President is crazy. All my senses came alive. My eyes feasted on the architecture of the

CATNIP Vida Mia S. Valverde Old World, missing neither gargoyle nor saint. My nose etched the scents of persons in my head. My tongue feared no unfamiliar flavors. My ears attuned to music that was either hummed by a sleepy person or pulsed out of an underground bar. And my skin!

My skin prickled in the Vienna

summer sun, in the mist of the showers by the River Seine, and in the space of things unspoken. Just as my skin spans the contours of my body, so does it envelope the state of my being.

At a rooftop bar on my last night in Paris, the bartender handed me a vodka spritzer, gratis, as if to toast to newly formed realities. A friend, when served with a royal dessert in Vienna, exclaimed, “Goodness, this is not my life!”.

With that, he punctured the bubble. We laughed and enjoyed ourselves, nevertheless.

Conference presentations and dissertations be damned. Not. I am filled with expectation about whatever else the world may unconceal for

me. In the same breath, I am captivated by the utter reality of death and the possible meaninglessness of things. A walk through the catacombs under the grand cathedral of Vienna only sharpens my sentiments. Rotting human bones crammed in dark and dank places certainly make the case for nothingness of human life. When the nothingness threatens to engulf, it helps that somebody is willing to walk the catacombs with you.

The Scientific World Conceptions may have tested me in the rigors of genomics, philosophy, and ethics. It was in getting lost, however, that I found pieces of my fragmented self.

implemented to the letter.

Take the Senior Citizens Act and the PWD Act that grant perk and privileges to these two types of citizens.

Not all business entities covered by these laws honestly give correct discounts to elders and to the disabled.

Some make it difficult for seniors and PWDs to get what the law stipulates. You know what I mean, don’t you?

“Discovering” the law rather than “enacting” means a direct consultation and dialogue with the concerned public. Instead of taking the long, arduous process of legislation, LGUs can “discover” the law by directly consulting the sectors in need and in trouble. By applying a referendum, LGUs can immediately translate this “voice of the people” into executive action.

Already, 22% of our population are living under the poverty line. Before a bill becomes a law, it enters the legislative mill where it stays in the shelf for quite sometime, unless certified urgent and priority by the President.

The poor who need gov-

ernment attention pronto do not deserve to wait for a time.

Remember the adage: What use is the grass (hay) if the horse is dead?

Our political system and the kind of governance we practice is too centralized to be effectively dishing out the basic social services promptly. Before government assistance is granted, approval from the higher authority in Imperial Manila has to be secured BECAUSE THIS IS WHAT THE LAW SAYS (emphasis mine).

This has been the order of the day for so many decades.

How then, can the government advance the interests of the poor who are in the millions?

I heard someone whispering: “Discover the law via federalism.” (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) Rom. 4:3-4: “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character and character, hope.” GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

Advancing the rights of the poor

continue to exist and prevail only when the government is of, for and by the people.

Inflation eats up everything a breadwinner earns for the day and saves nothing more for the family. The unabated increase in the prices of commodities puts the poor at a disadvantage, even assuming a family enjoys three square meals a day.

Some economic experts think that the law on minimum wage is making more life difficult to unemployed people to get jobs because employers who cannot pay the minimum wage will simply deny applicants even if they need them.

Which means that more idle job seekers will remain unemployed unless they are willing to work on an “under the table” agreement.

This is a major problem that has been stalking our government since the minimum wage law was enacted.

Thus, the ranks of unemployed fresh college graduates are ever increasing because employers cannot afford to compensate them per

SPECKS OF LIFE Fred C. Lumba requirements of the law.

Everytime our government is besieged and confronted by issues that create headaches, there is always the kneejerk suggestion about passing a law to remedy them.

It always comes automatically as if the legislation will erase the problems permanently.

There is a school of thought I want to share with you.

It is about “discovering” the law.

I think we all are agreed that we have too many laws that some are not even being

8 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 150• SUNDAY-MONDAY, OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

PH eyes 14% poverty incidence dip by 2020

P

residential Communication Operat ions Office Assistant Secretary Ana Marie Paz Banaag on Thursday reiterated the administration’s goal to reduce poverty incidence in the Philippines by 14 percent in 2020.

This, as she underscored partnership with China in realigning the country’s program to ease implementation of the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022.

In an interview on the sidelines of the China-Philippines Dialogue 2017, Banaag said Beijing cooperates with different departments in the government to offer assistance needed in a specific agency.

“The PDP aims to decrease poverty incidence by 14 percent by 2020. We want to realign and we want to have the PDP, under the NEDA and under the Ambisyon 2040, yung lahat ng programa natin aligned sa mga programa ng China.

With that, hindi tayo mahihirapan,” she told reporters.

“Sa mga programa ng

ating iba’t ibang ahensya, tumutulong sila (China). We have meetings with different departments kung ano ang kakailanganin natin to which China can support,” she added.

At the PCOO, Banaag said there are several bilateral and multilateral agreements with other state media groups in China, one including the memorandum of agreement with China Radio International (CRI) to conduct training sessions and sharing of content.

State-run media groups PTV4, Radyo Pilipinas and the Philippine News Agency also have separate memorandums of understanding (MOU) with CRI and Xinhua News Agency.

Banaag said “the Philippine-Chinese relations has never been as warm as before.”

She reaffirmed that President Rodrigo Duterte’s “deep engagement” and “constructive approach” towards China already started yielding good results. (PNA)

Dominguez debunks claim on supposed drop in FDIs

F

inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has debunked unfounded concerns over the supposed drastic drop in the flow of foreign direct investments into the Philippines as he pointed to the recent “healthy” $2.3-billion capital infusion by two global firms in the country’s manufacturing and energy sectors.

Dominguez said some quarters pointing to this alleged drop in FDIs have failed to present the complete picture, omitting reinvestments that should have been included in assessing FDI data. “(These quarters have) not captured the entire data, and reinvestments by foreign companies in the Philippines have actually been quite healthy,” Dominguez said at a recent forum on the Philippine economy in Washington DC. He cited two recent new FDIs—the $1 billion investment by Japan Tobacco International (JTI) in acquiring the assets of cigarette manufacturer Mighty Corporation, and the separate $1.3 billion deal between the Philippines’ Energy Development Corporation (EDC) and a consortium of foreign investors backed by Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (MIRA) and Arran Investment Pte. Ltd., which is an affiliate of Singaporean sovereign wealth fund GIC. Dominguez said investor confidence has been boosted by such initiatives as the

higher public spending on infrastructure and other priority programs, tax reform, and trimming of the Foreign Negative Investment List (FNIL).

Japanese investment house Nomura has also issued a report saying that it expects the Philippines to remain a magnet for foreign investments, dispelling misleading claims that FDIs fell by 90.3 percent year-on-year in the first half of 2017.

Nomura noted that yearon-year FDI data had been distorted by a large base effect from the purchase by Japanese banking giant Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ of a large stake in Security Bank last year, which led to a surge in inflows of about $2 billion in April 2016.

After omitting this base effect, Nomura estimated that total FDI inflows went up by about 65 percent yearon-year in the first half of 2017.

Nomura also said FDIs would likely pick up in the near term because of the capital infusions by Macquarie and GIC in the energy sector and JTI’s buyout of Mighty Corp.

Nomura likewise pointed to reforms such as the shortening of the FNIL to allow more FDIs to come in and the roll-out of some foreign-funded infrastructure projects as the other factors contributing to a spike in foreign investments this year. (DOF)

RARE FARE. Restaurateur Erwan Heussaff (left) and his brother-in-law, Argentinean businessman Nico Bolzico introduce their premium beef product

imported from Argentina called Bolzico beef to Davao City through fine dining restaurant Bondi and Bourke on Saturday. Lean Daval Jr.

OFWs warned against ‘third-country’ hiring O

verseas Filipino Workers who are currently employed have been warned again to be more careful in accepting jobs from other countries.

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration issued the warning after receiving reports that Filipino household service workers (HSWs) in Hong Kong, Singapore and Cyprus were lured into transferring to countries like Dubai, Mongolia, Turkey, and Russia.

The agency noted that

they later found out the conditions of employment not ideal or worse the offered jobs are non-existent.

“The recruiters are mostly nationals of the third country who have Filipino partners in their illegal activities,” the POEA said in a statement.

There are reports of

workers who fell into this racket paying exorbitant fees for just being able to travel to the third country using tourist visa and even without assurance of employers waiting for them.

“Reports also said those who found employment are sometimes abused by the employers, and for lack of proper work documents, the hapless workers were arrested and deported by immigration authorities,” it added.

The agency said that re-

cruitment through a third country is considered illegal recruitment if neither the recruiter nor the employer has proper authorization from the Philippine government.

The POEA reminded Filipinos that applicants for overseas jobs should have the appropriate work permit or visa or employment contract approved by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office and processed by the POEA before leaving the country. (PNA)

ternational borders,” he said at the CMS’ 12th Conference of the Parties (COP 12) in Metro Manila.

Further raising public awareness on migratory species’ benefits and the threats they face will complement the international cooperation that countries are doing through CMS, Chambers said.

With increased public awareness and understanding of the matter, he said there’s more potential for people to help conserve migratory species.

Migratory species are animals that cyclically and predictably cross one or more national jurisdictional boundaries in response to seasons, availability of food or need to reproduce, said the Philippines’ Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB).

“Animal migration can be found in all major animal groups,” BMB added.

Experts cited food, pollination and pest control as among migratory species’ benefits.

Such species also have

potential as medicinal sources and eco-tourism draws, they said.

Countries must elevate conservation efforts through CMS to continue benefiting from services that migratory species provide, Dr. Chambers said.

CMS is an inter-governmental treaty under the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) that provides the global platform for conservation and sustainable use of migratory animals and their habitats.

(PNA)

Threats fuel need to save world’s migratory species

A

n expert has raised the urgency for stronger international cooperation on conserving migratory species worldwide.

There must be better synergy on the matter as habitat destruction, pollution, live catching and other dangers continue to threaten the survival of these species, noted Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) Executive Secretary Dr. Bradnee Chambers.

“This is critical for species that migrate through in-

VOL. 10 ISSUE 150• SUNDAY-MONDAY, OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 9

Lagdameo: passion and innovation fuel development

I

nnovation, creativity, passion and purpose are the elements that made Ricardo “Cary” F. Lagdameo a successful entrepreneur and an inspiration to the business arena. This year, another milestone was etched as he became one of the finalists of the SGV Foundation, Inc.’s Entrepreneur of the Year 2017, representing a Davao-based real estate business. Lagdameo was among the roster of 19 industry entrepreneurs nominated for this prestigious award.

Ricardo F. Lagdameo

Water service interruption in some areas in Brgy. Dalaiao Toril on Nov. 2

D

avao City Water District advises of a water service interruption on November 2, 2017 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM affecting these areas in Brgy. Daliao, Toril: Nakada Village, Doña Manuela Subd., and Doña Rosa Subd.

This water service interruption is needed for the tapping and looping of the newly installed pipeline to the existing pipeline for the mainline improvement at Phase1, Doña Rosa Subd. in Brgy. Daliao, Toril. Once completed, the project will allow for accommodation of additional service connections.

On behalf of the DCWD management, general manager Engr. Edwin V. Regalado asks for the understanding and cooperation of would-be affected

customers and advises them to store enough water prior to the scheduled water service interruption. Water supply may be restored earlier if work goes smoothly or later if unforeseen problems arise.

The general public may visit DCWD website (www. davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www. facebook.com/davaowater) or call the Central Information Unit / Call Center through the 24-hour hotline 297-DCWD (3293) and press “1” on their phone dial for the latest daily water updates. Contact 09277988966, 0925-5113293, and 0908-4410653 for other updates, complaints, queries, and matters pertaining to DCWD services. (Katrina Belen M. Roble)

“I’m very proud to be sharing this recognition with

Davao, which has long been ready for the big leagues,” said

NOTICE OF LOSS Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) under LOYOLA PLAN ISSUED TO THE FOLLOWING PLANHOLDERS, TO WIT: PH NAME NO.

1.EUSEBIO BUCHAN

2.SULPICIO M. AQUINO

CFP NO.

CONTRACT

30169

5130539

were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

10/30,11/6&13

Lagdameo, who shared that he believes that innovation can

bring forth opportunities for more business investments in Davao.

This young entrepreneur had quite a number of experiences in the country’s trade capital and abroad to begin his career before settling down south to finally enter into the family business.

Back then, Lagdameo started off as an investment banker, gaining experience

FLAGDAMEO, P11

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF INTESTATE ESTATE OF SPOUSES LEONILO L.DALUT AND MELECIA R. DALUT

Notice is hereby given that the estates with TCT Nos. 146-2010009324, 146-2010009325,146-2010009326, T-347253, T-341064,T 357884 Davao City registry, TCT No. 004-2014002005 Quezon City Registry OCT No. P-62405 Province of Cotabato registry of the late SPS. LEONILO L.DALUT AND MELECIA R. DALUT has been the subject of an Extra Judicial Settlement of Estate executed among their heirs, per Doc. No. 185; Page No.37; Book No. X; Series of 2017, of the NOTARY PUBLIC LEO S. GILLESANIA JR.

10

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EVENT

EDGEDAVAO

NCCC brings more holiday choices

‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE HAPPY AND GIVING. And yes, the yuletide season has truly made its presence felt.

With the merriest holiday kicking in, more so is the spirit of love and gratitude. In line with this, NCCC Retail Specialists, Inc. will make your Christmas Celebration even more colorful with an ultimate guide to a hassle-free and sulit Holiday Shopping!

provide free deliveries via Grocery Express for NCCC Supermarket and Grocer-Ring for Choice Mart branches which proves that Christmas shopping can be easy and hassle-free..” shares Ms. Rhia Yap-Clarinan, Store Manager, NCCC Supermarket Mall Davao.

Gift ideas for your Christmas Giveaways With Holiday Choices 2017, shoppers can choose from an array of bundled gift ideas ideas either as personal presents or corporate incentives. With each bundled gift highlighting various essentials -- from food choices to recipes prepared for a memorable holiday -- you need not look elsewhere to find that perfect gift for anyone on your list.

“Our Holiday catalog provides a complete selection of everything we need during Christmas celebrations. We also customize party needs and

NCCC Gift Card Last minute shopping?

Don’t fret. Say it with an NCCC Gift Card.

For shoppers who are looking for a better way to express love for special people, be it a friend, a family member, an employee or a colleague, an NCCC Gift Card is the best gift you can give. Let them enjoy the perks of choosing a memorable Holiday present and you’ll surely be one to receive the grandest of gratitude from them.

Premium Cakes for a delightful celebration Bread Factory, NCCC’s

ultimate bread and cake maker, officially unveils its premium cakes holiday collection. Everyone can now enjoy the sweetness of the holidays with these new additions on their repertoire of flavours. Choose from Coffee Java Cake, UbeHalol and Mango Crunch Cake roll. Not only are they delicious, they are also very affordable.

Christmas party, anyone?

Eat and Feel Good while having your holiday shopping Another must-try experience for NCCC shoppers is the introduction of Wasabi Warriors, Davao’s hippest sushi place from Australia, is now certified concessionaire of NCCC Supermarket. An authentic Japanese dish with sushi selections ranging from pork, chicken, seafood and vegetables on their shelves will surely have you craving in an instant. With its interesting Warrior story, it has been believed that when you eat with the Wasabi Warriors, you are honoring practices that are good for the ocean, earth and animals.

For the next days, when you find yourself looking for that particular something for a special someone on your list, head on to NCCC Supermarket and have a blast browsing their shelves for the perfect gift you can ever give. Don’t forget to get something for yourself too. Happy Holidays and see you at NCCC!

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EVENT

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 150•SUNDAY-MONDAY OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

30

Thank you for

Cebuana Lhuillier celebrates 30th anniversary with music nancial services industry.

Services such as pawning, remittance, microinsurance, micro loan solutions to name a few. Nowadays, PJLGC has also ventured in other industries such as TO ENABLE FILIPINOS to have better ac- hotel and restaurant mancess to financial institutions has always been agement, Information a favourable business solution aimed for by Technology, retail, real entrepreneurs. At this day and age, the no- estate and sports managetion has been attained and is lived for by the ment. many. And this is what Cebuana Lhuillier is PJ Lhuillier Group of -- country’s leading non-bank financial ser- Companies is the proud vice provider with a heart. parent company of Cebuana Lhuillier -- the Established in 1988, the of Companies (PJLGC) country’s leading and dynamic and multi-in- owns and operates a num- largest non-bank finandustry PJ Lhuillier Group ber of businesses in the fi- cial service provider. This year, Cebuana Lhuillier celebrates its 30 years in the industry with a concert series held in major key cities in the country and introduced a new addition to their growing financial provider services.

Dubbed “Thank You for 30!”, the concert series showcased the many talented artists in the country. Of which, top Cebuana Lhuillier endorsers, country’s pop princess, Sarah Geronimo and pambansang bae, Alden Richards gave everyone a reason to smile and party like never before.

Together with them were Mark Bautista, Ronnie Liang, Julian Trono and Ella Cruz. Also on stage were members of GForce and Maneuvers.

Also in attendance were the men and women behind the Cebuana

By BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO Photo credits: CEBUANA LHUILLIER FACEBOOK FAN PAGE

Lhuillier brand, family and friends, local media partners and guests who opted to spend their Friday night in the presence of the many Cebuana

Lhuillier patrons. More so, filling the gymnasium were concert goers who made the event extra special.

Before the concert, se-

lected Cebuana Lhuillier patrons were invited to join the games prepared solely for them. Cash prizes and tokens were distributed.

Aside from the concert series, Cebuana Lhuillier also introduced a new addition to their roster of services -- the Microloans Portfolio. With its addition, the company’s evolution into a microfinancial institution is now complete.

“Thank You for 30!”, the concert series, kicked off last September 1, 2017 at the Mall of Asia in Manila. Followed by a concert at the Hoops Dome in Cebu last September 22, 2017 with the October 20, 2017 concert at the USEP Gymnasium in the city being the last of the series.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 150•SUNDAY-MONDAY OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

UP AND ABOUT

EDGEDAVAO

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Kids go fa-boo-lous this Halloween in SM FA- B O O - L O U S FUN AND EXCITEMENT await kids in SM Supermalls in Davao this Halloween.

October 24, 2017 only

HAPPY DEATH DAY/ *THOR: RAGNAROK Jessica Rothe, Israel Broussard, Ruby Modine/ *Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleton Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

R13/*PG

12:20 | 2:30 | 4:40 LFS / *7:00 | 9:45 LFS

LOVING VINCENT/ *GEOSTORM Douglas Booth, Jerome Flynn/ *Gerard Butler, Andy Garcia Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG/*PG

12:30 | 2:35 LFS / *4:40 | 7:05 | 9:30 LFS

THE FOREIGNER Jackie Chan, Pierce Brosnan Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

R13

12:10 | 2:30 | 4:50 | 7:10 | 9:30 LFS

SEVEN SUNDAYS/*BAD GENIUS Aga Muhlach, Dingdong Dantes, Enrique Gil/ * Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG/*PG

11:25 | 1:50 LFS / *4:15 | 6:45 | 9:15 LFS

Mall-wide trick-ortreat activities will happen on October 31, 2017 in SM Lanang Premier from 11 AM to 4 PM and in SM City Davao from 12 PM to 5 PM. Registration runs from October 20-31: in SM Lanang Premier’s Global Pinoy Center (near SM Bowling Center at the Second Level) and in SM City Davao’s designated registration booth in the Ground Level of the main mall.

The activity is open to kids ages 12 and below.

Every P1,500 single or accumulated purchase within October 20-31, 2017 from any SM Lanang Premier store/restaurant entitles shoppers to register one participant. In SM City Davao, a P1,000 single or accumulated purchase within the same period qualifies for registration.

The following are to be presented for registration: a proof of purchase, a Birth Certificate photocopy, and a filled out registration form.

More fun awaits kids who dress up fa-boolously in SM Lanang

Premier. The mall’s Halloween Costume Contest, open to kids 4-12, will be on October 31, 2017, 3 PM to 5 PM at the SMX Convention Center Davao. A P1,000 single or accumulated purchase from participat-

ing mall stores qualify one registrant. Kids may register to become the Hallowking and the Hallowqueen.

For full mechanics, call SM Lanang Premier at 285-0943 and SM City Davao at 297-6998.

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 150• SUNDAY-MONDAY, OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

AFP... FROM 2

military the necessary land, air and naval platforms needed to enable it to fulfill its various security missions.

“We will aggressively implement our modernization program and fast-track the procurement of advanced weapon systems that provide cost-effective and precise target engagement, long-range and high-endurance un-

manned systems, and modern air and naval platforms for strategic lift, interdictions, surveillance and reconnaissance,” the new AFP chief said.

Guerrero succeeded Eduardo Año, who retired Thursday upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56 for uniformed personnel. (PNA)

will live up and bring its “Makatao” name and to take care the communities they will serve.

Bautista reminded troops victory in war is displaying the right attitude. He also highlighted the importance of continued training. The troops of the 89th IB have completed a four-week organizational training.

“Dapat tuloy-tuloy ang training (Training should continue). Preparation builds confidence and confidence overcome fears,” he stressed.

He also reminded troops that they are serving a region where they will face the strongest communist insurgents – the Southern Mindanao Regional Command of the New People’s Army.

He said the soldiers should also remember that they are serving Davao Region where

seasoned and veteran soldiers fight the NPA. Bautista was also a 10th ID Agila soldier. He served the 41IB, the 73rd and the Task Force Davao. Bautista also told battalion commander Caiman to always instill good habits among his troops.

“It is hard when new soldiers learn bad habits,” he said.

Bautista said the 89th IB has the big role in the pursuit for lasting peace in the region.

He added not to allow terrorism, saying such ideology should find no place in the country. Bautista said the military has earned the trust of the civilians from the Marawi crisis.

He said the military should maintain this level of recognition of the civilians. “We have no more chance to reach this status,” he said. (Lilian C. Mellejor/PNA)

among others. We would also want to check if there are adequate security personnel and help desks to address the concerns of passengers,” Lizada said

in a text message to reporters.

DOTr attached agencies and offices were instructed to submit a post-Undas report for evaluation. (PNA)

in Metro Manila but also in other places like Davao where traffic is increasing.

The city government is eyeing a High Priority Bus System project that is seen to decongest traffic and address the growing need for a mass transport system.

He said the major streets in the downtown area experience heavy traffic from 7-9 a.m. and 4-8 p.m.

Santos reminded that a re-routing scheme will be implemented on All Saints’ Day and All Souls Day in roads leading to cemeteries in the city.

He said it’s a one-way traffic from Fr. Selga Street corner F. Torres Street to Circumferential Road corner Jade Street for those going to San Pedro Memorial Park, Forest Lake Memorial Park, Orchard Road Memorial Park, Davao Masonic Center, Wireless Cemetery, and Roman

Catholic Cemetery.

Vehicles going to San Pedro Memorial and/or Forest Lake may take Jade Street and turn left to Turquoise Street while Fr. Selga Street corner Circumferential Road going to Catholic Cemetery will be closed.

For visitors to Buhangin Memorial Park, it’s a one-way traffic along the stretch of Cabantian Road from Milan, Buhangin to corner Mamay Road.

Cabantian-Jehovah Road will be closed and vehicles may use Mamay extension, turn right to C.P. Garcia Highway, and turn right to Buhangin.

At Chinese cemetery, it’s one-way along Circumferential Road, from corner Gahol Street to corner Bacaca Road. All vehicles going to Chinese cemetery coming from Bacaca Road may use JP Laurel Avenue. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)

Antonio B. Partoza Jr., Antonio M. Ajero, Albor V. Batao Jr. and Ildefonso B. Berdan. They will likewise elect two trustees for the youth, now represented by trustee Robert John U. Ajing.

Before the election, Alquiza reported to the general mem-

bership assembly the many accomplishments of his administration this year, including an impressive increase in youth membership, activities and a multi-million peso “One Time Big Time” fund-raising drive.

Also a positive report was

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 11

TROOPS... FROM 2

DOTR... FROM 4 OVER... FROM 4

ALQUIZA... FROM 4

PROPER SHADE. Cemetery workers apply paint on the road gutter at the Wireless Cemetery in Mahapo Hills, Davao City on Saturday in preparation for the commemoration of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. Lean Daval Jr. that of Treasurer Ilde Berdan which revealed an increase in the funds of the YMCA Davao.

Also in attendance during

the general assembly and election last Saturday were past presidents Leoncio P. Villa-Abrille, Ricardo V. Villegas

and Jose B. Custodio and past trustees Pacencio M. Rosalem Jr., Ma. Lita Montalban and Jose Valenzuela Jr.

57 percent less nitrogen oxides and 50 percent less carbon monoxide, or on electric batteries that have zero exhaust gas emissions.

The modernization pro-

gram also reforms the franchising system to strengthen control over and regulation of PUVs. Fewer new franchises will be issued to PUV operators and

drivers who will be compelled to organize themselves into cooperatives or firms to build up accountability, enforcement and compliance. (House of Representatives)

P843M... FROM 5

FARMERS... FROM 5 in the next Kape Pilipino 2018,” she said.

According to Manny Torrejon of PCBI, the secrets are not

secrets after all. “Clean your farms. Taste and cup your coffees. And be serious about quality. The other secret is in the

processing,” he said.

Torrejon has been cupping coffee for over 20 years now.

(Digna D. Banzon/PNA)

with small and medium sized enterprises, before joining the family business as the head of Damosa Land, Inc., the real estate arm of the Anflo Group of Companies. Coming from a homegrown family, he saw the culture of diversity in Mindanao as an inspiration for him to further grow the business and make Damosa Land a unique company among its competitors. Sharing the same commitment to development with Anflo Group’s array of thriving businesses whose primary vision and mission is to contribute to the economic growth of Davao City and the entire Davao Region, Damosa Land rose to become one of the leading real estate companies in the region. It launched mixed use development projects such as the Damosa District, a landmark in the city that features a PEZA-accredited IT Park, business offices, and food and lifestyle establishments where business and leisure meet. It hosts major events and happenings in the city, further boosting tourism in this part of the region.

The commitment for development and progress seen in these landmarks expanded to collaboration, something a very committed business man would do not just for the com-

pany but for the community, as well, which reflects Lagdameo’s brand of leadership.

“I always encourage our employees to turn around challenges and focus on what creativity and passion can do,” said Lagdameo, who believes in empowerment and puts confidence in his people’s work and capabilities. Giving much value on giving back to the community, he envisions to aide, as well, in the progress of Davao City and the Davao Region.

With the sustained progress in the city came opportunities for residential investments, which paved the way for Damosa Land to develop its first horizontal and vertical residential properties. It did not stop there as soon enough, Damosa Land revisited where the larger conglomerate, where it all started, is rooted – agriculture. Complementary to its agro-industrial operations is its PEZA-accredited special economic zone and the 88-hectare mixed use complex in Panabo City. The special economic zone, with its proximity to the international container terminal, renders the locators an advantage that is unique from among all the ports in the country. The mixed-use development, on the other hand,

gives diverse opportunities to research and development as well as tourism with agriculture as its focal point. With this, what the future holds in Mindanao is something to be awaited for, with Damosa Land’s aggressive but calculated moves.

And it takes a good leader, only the one who is able to see opportunities in the unique and rather challenging topography of Mindanao. This vision is what Lagdameo shares with his late grandfather, Don Antonio O. Floirendo, Sr. With the region highly adapting to modernization, Lagdameo ensures that progress gels well with diversity in his mission. Part of Damosa Land’s success is the result of commitment, passion for innovation, working with a heart for its people, and the undying fire for development that will further take Mindanao far more in the future. With his recent accolade as finalist in the Entrepreneur of the Year, Lagdameo serves as a testament that, with sincere vision for development, a community can flourish into becoming a melting pot of opportunities.

“If you do your job with heart, do it right, and with a vision of helping communities, you can be very successful,” said Lagdameo.

LAGDAMEO... FROM 9

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Extension of Validity of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service.

Case No. R11-EVPJ-2017-10-2010 (2003-XI-02010) ERMO B. LUNAG, Petitioner.

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ Dual Ordinary Regular service on the route: BUHANGIN VIA JP LAUREL AVENUE and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on December 10, 2018. In the petition filed on October 20, 2017, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of the said Certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on NOVEMBER 21, 2017 at 8:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

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

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

WITNESS the Atty. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ , Regional Director, this 27th day of September 2017 at Davao City.

Atty. CATTLEYA B. ACAYLAR Attorney IV

Oct. 30, 2017

12 EDGEDAVAO Sports

REWARD

VOL. 10 ISSUE 150• SUNDAY-MONDAY, OCTOBER 29-30, 2017

PSC hands out P29M in incentives to Asean Para Games, Aimag medalists and coaches

T

HE Philippine Sports Commission released P29 million as incentives for the medalists of the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games and the Asean Para Games and their coaches in a simple ceremony at the PhilSports Arena on Friday.

Meggie Ochoa and Annie Ramirez of jiu-jitsu led the list of medalists who claimed their incentives, by virtue of Republic Act 10699 or the Amended Sports Benefits and Incentives Act. Ochoa and Ramirez, who were the two gold medals winners of the Philippines in the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, received P2 million each after ruling their respective events in jiu-jitsu.

Cendy Asusano and Ma. Cielo Honasan of athletics, meanwhile, each took home P450,000 after winning three gold medals apiece in the Asean Para

Games. According to the law, a gold medal winner in the Asean Para Games receives P150,000.

“The PSC is supportive of athletes and coaches who work hard to bring honor to the country,” said PSC chairman William Ramirez. “The life of an athlete is not a walk in the park, but moments like this make it all worthwhile.

Aside from Ochoa and Ramirez, the Philippines also copped 14 silvers and 14 bronzes, while the country also bagged 26 golds, 28 silvers, and 59 bronzes in finishing fifth in the Asean Para Games.

Philippine Sports commission (PSC) chairman William Ramirez