Edge10 issue180 December 9-10, 2017

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 164 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, FRIDAY-SATURDAY,DECEMBER NOVEMBER10-11, 17-18,2017 2017

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

HOSPITALS PROBED

Private clinics told: Submit lists of Dengvaxia kids ?

By JUDIE VEGA

O

FFICIALS of the Department of Health (DOH) in Region 11 Friday assured Dabawenyos that no government hospital and health center has administered the highly controversial Dengvaxia vaccine against dengue on any child in Davao City and other parts of the Davao area.

Dr. Annabelle Yumang, DOH-11 assistant regional di-

rector, told reporters covering “Connect,” a health and scienc-

es media forum, that Davao City was not included in the

distribution of the controversial vaccine during the nationwide dengue immunization campaign.

Dr. Yumang said that the Davao Region was not one of the pilot areas of the country’s �irst public dengue immunization program started during

the Aquino administration.

However, while DOH has no doubt that the government hospitals and health centers were not involved in Dengvaxia vaccination, it is not sure about the private hospitals and clinics.

This is why the DOH is

checking the private sector whether it had been administering Dengvaxia shots, Dr. Yuman said.

“We would like to assure the public that we’re not taking the Dengvaxia issue sitting down. And that if there are

HOSPITAL, P10

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte does a duet with one of the performers during the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 84th Anniversary Celebration at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium in Malolos City on December 8, 2017. REY BANIQUET/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Evasco scores low utilization of budget O f�icials of 12 government agencies suspected of misbehavior, including unreasonable low utilization of budget and slow implementation of projects, face the prospects of being charged with graft and corruption by the

Ombudsman, according to Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco Jr. on Friday.

Evasco made the remarks during a press conference a day before the formal launch of Biyaya ng Pagbabago at the Freedom Park in Davao City last Satur-

day. Biyaya is a mechanism aimed at improving the services of the 12 agencies under the Of�ice of the Cabinet Secretary.

The 12 agencies under Evasco’s of�ice are the Philippine Coconut Authority , Cooperative Development

Authority, TESDA, Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, National Anti-Poverty Commission, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, National Food Au-

EVASCO, P10

Flight of the Phoenix

INdulgeA1

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

The 250-foot Research Vessel Petrel docks at the port of Surigao City on Thursday (7 Dec 2017). The hi-tech vessel found 5 Japanese warships sunk during the Battle of Surigao Strait in World War II during a week-long expedition towards the end of November. MindaNews photo by ROEL N. CATOTO

China confirms more Davao Doctors steps up aid to PH in 2018

W

hile an of�icial announcement has yet to be made, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines con�irmed Friday that more humanitarian and �inancial support to the country are to be expected next year.

Chinese Embassy Spokesperson Li Lingxiao

disclosed this after China extended its latest �inancial aid to Pampanga, which had been badly affected by the avian �lu outbreak last August.

“We will announce future donation and assistance project in due time,” Li told the Philippine News Agency

T

By JUDIEE VEGA

he Davao Doctors Hospital has stepped up its campaign on cancer awareness by launching again the Christmas Tree of Hope as part of the CHINA, P10 celebration of its 2nd Christmas Day of Hope in partnership with DDH BalikAlay Foundation to make the yuletide celebration more significant.

50 Zambo biz establishments don’t grant 13th month pay

he Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported that at least 50 local business establishments are not granting 13th month pay to their employees.

This was disclosed by Ian Lahi, Labor Employment Of�icer of DOLE Zamboanga City Field Of�ice, citing this was discovered during inspection and monitoring conducted by the agency’s Labor Law Compliance Of�icer.

Lahi said they have also received 30 complaints concerning non-payment of the 13th month by the employers to the employees.

Lahi said they will take appropriate actions to ensure employers comply with Presi-

cancer awareness drive T

dent Decree (P.D.) No. 851 that grants yearend bene�its to the workers.

P.D 851 requires employers to pay 13th month pay to their rank and �ile employees, regardless of the nature of their employment and irrespective of the methods by which their wages are paid, provided they worked for at least one month during a calendar year.

The 13th month pay shall not be less than one-twelfth (1/12) of the total basic salary earned by an employee in a calendar year.

Lahi appealed the employers to release the 13th month pay of their employees on or before December 15 in time for the yuletide season. (PNA)

Corine Casia, Davao Doctors Hospital customer care of�icer said, that as one of the premier health care providers in the country, the DDH is not only taking the big leap of be-

ing an outstanding institution that offers quality medical services it is also committed to reaching out communities and touching lives of individuals who need assistance and

support.

“One of its major programs is Ribbon of Hope Cancer awareness campaign aimed at raising awareness of the public about cancer through conduct of lay forum for various companies and communities. It also designed to create a cancer support group to patients and their families, eventually building a home for cancer patients who will be having their treatment here in Davao.

The home will cater to cancer patients of all ages,” said Casia.

“This awareness activity

encourages partner organizations and companies to put up a Christmas tree in their respective establishments,” she said.

Casia said that the campaign invites companies and organization to put up a Christmas tree in their respective of�ices or establishments that shall be decorated with ribbons that represent all types of cancer.

Companies who will participate in the activity will be given an opportunity to be

Manila Koji Haneda is scheduled to sign �ive grant contracts for school building projects in the Philippines on Dec. 13.

In a statement, the embassy said the new package of assistance will form part of Japan’s commitment to development efforts in the Philippines.

This includes construction of 22 units of school buildings with school furniture such as armchairs and blackboards in four elementary school and

one high school.

The contracts are for classroom constructions for schools Santo Niño High School in Talibon, Bohol; Bagong Buhay Elementary School in Ormoc City, Leyte; Bonifacio Elementary School in Surigao City; Catalunan Grande Elementary School in Davao City; and Julian P. Gomilla Elementary School in Ilog, Negros Occidental.

The Government of Japan,

as the top of�icial development assistance donor for the Philippines, launched the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects in the Philippines in 1989 to reduce poverty and help various communities engaged in grassroots activities.

At present, the embassy said 525 grassroots projects have been funded by GGP. “Japan believes that this

DAVAO, P12

Japan to sign 5 grant contracts for classroom const’n in PH

M

ANILA--Japan is set to provide the Philippines a new package of assistance amounting to USD477,444, or about PHP 23 million, for school building projects.

The projects will be funded through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) implemented by the Embassy of Japan.

Japanese Ambassador to

JAPAN, P12

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

New blood in the Chamber

Milan new DCCCII president; Dela Cruz reelected chairman

A

RTURO “Art” M. MILAN, retired head of Davao Light and Power Co., Inc., and now adviser for Mindanao of Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc., was elected new president of the multi-awarded Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) in an unprecedented suspenseful election, Saturday, that was resolved after three

ballotings.

On the other hand, Antonio “Tony” T. dela Cruz was reelected chairman of the DCCCII board of trustees (BOT).

Close �ights Both Milan and dela Cruz won their posts by the skin of your teeth, so to speak, that is, by just one vote over their respective rivals. Dela Cruz was

MILLAN. New President

GO. Incumbent President

DELA CRUZ. Reelected Chairman

QUINTO. Election Committee Head

MILAN, P10

2018 DCCCII OFFICERS: Past president Robert “Boyet” Quinto, (third from left, standing), chairman of the committee supervising the election of five members of the board of trustees (BOT) and later the officers of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry , Inc., is photographed with the newly elected DCCCII officers to be sworn office next month and serve in 2018, which happens to be the 50th anniversary of the chamber’s founding. From left, standing: Al D. Balagot, incumbent president Ronald C. Go, Bonifacio T. Tan,

Quinto, reelected chairman of the board Antonio T. dela Cruz, newly elected president Arturo M. Milan, John Carlo B. Tria, Juanito Ricky M. Tagabucba and Antonio M. Ajero. From left, seated, executive director Marc Faith A. Wales, Jocelyn A. Romero, Jennifer V. Sazon, Teresita M. Pascual, Yvonne F. Cabada, Belinda L. Torres and Marilou Ampuan. Not in photo is Anastacio “Jun” D. Cubos Jr. who topped the election of five trustees. (DCCCII Professional Management Team)

4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

Gov’t strives to help returning Marawi IDPs start anew: Andanar

M A student cadet runs past a huge tarp put up by students and officials of the University of Science and Technology of the Philippines in Cagayan de Oro City demanding swift justice for slain school president Ricardo Rotoras on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

ANILA -- Communications Secretary Martin Andanar on Friday said the government, through Task Force Bangon Marawi, is striving very hard to keep up the hope that returning Marawi residents would go back to a peaceful and prosperous Marawi as more internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the battle-scarred city return to their homes.

In a Palace brie�ing, Andanar said that as of December 7, 14,319 families or 71,595 persons have already returned to their homes in the 19 barangays (villages) that were previously cleared by the military.

He said these returnees

are being provided with basic services and livelihood programs for them to start a new beginning.

According to him, the returnees have already accessed support and maintenance services from the Department of Social Welfare and Development amounting to PHP116,530,934.

This included �inancial assistance, pabaon food packs, hygiene kits and kitchen kits.

“On the supply of electricity, 54.12 percent of Marawi City is energized, according to the Lanao del Sur Electric Cooperative (LASURECO). This includes barangays where residents have already returned

ANILA -- The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has inked an agreement with concerned housing agencies on the relocation of around 100,000 informal settler families (ISFs) that will be affected by the construction of the NorthSouth Railway Project (NSRP) next year.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and of�icials of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Friday with Presidential Commission on Urban Poor Chairperson, James Mark Terry Ridon; National Housing Authority General Manager Marcelino Escalada Jr.; Social Housing Finance Corporation president Arnolfo Ricardo Cabling; and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council Chairman Eduardo del Rosario.

The MOA will enable government agencies to provide affordable housing assistance for ISFs that will be relocated due to the construction of the railway project.

“Talaga pong kinakailangang ma-relocate ang ating mga kababayan na nakatira malapit sa riles, para sa kanilang kaligtasan (We really need to relocate the informal settlers living near the railways for their safety),” PNR Chairman Roberto Lastimoso said.

“Ang MOA signing po na ito ay isang patunay na ang mga ahensya ng pamahalaan ay nagtutulung-tulong para sa pagsasakatuparan ng mga pangako ng administrasyon (This MOA signing is a proof that the government agencies are united in ful�illing the promise of the administration), Tugade said.

For his part, Cabiling said,

DOT eyes Davao as M ‘Muslim-friendly’ city

GOV’T, P12

DOTr, housing agencies agree to move 100K families along PNR

T

he Davao City government and tourism industry players have strengthened partnership to transform Davao as premier destination for Muslims in time of the launching of the Davao–Kuala Lumpur direct flights on December 21.

Department of Tourism (DOT) 11 Director Roberto Alabado III said DoT, the city government, and other stakeholders have been working hard to put in place the availability of facilities and services to meet requirements for Muslim tourists.

This move, he said, has been doubled or even tripled

now that there is a direct route to Malaysia frequented by Muslim tourists.

Connectivity to a destination is a major factor that will entice tourists to visit the place, he said. And Davao has the sites such as beaches where most of these tourists, including the Muslims, can visit and enjoy.

“We are making ourselves

House to harmonize 4 Bangsamoro Basic Law bills

M

ANILA -- A joint committee in the House of Representatives has formed a sub-committee to draw up a working draft bill that will harmonize all four bills proposing the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

According to a statement on Friday, the House committee on local government, committee on Muslim affairs, and committee on peace, reconciliation, and unity approved the creation of a sub-committee to be chaired by Zamboanga Sibugay Rep. Wilter Wee Palma II. At least three members from the three mother committees will form part of the sub-committee.

The sub-committee will be tasked to consolidate House

Bill (HB) 6575 by Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez; 92 by Deputy Speaker Bai Sandra Sema; 6121 by Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo; and 6263

by Lanao del Norte Rep. Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo.

The four bills all seek to provide the autonomous region of Mindanao more �lexibility, a wider range of authority in politics, economy, and �inance.

The proposed BBL will signal the creation of the Bangsamoro government that is parliamentary in structure, to be managed by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.

South Cotabato Rep. Pedro Acharon Jr., committee on local government chair, said while the bills are speci�ic to

HOUSE, P13

ready,” Alabado said.

Alabado bared there are ongoing talks to further meet other requirements to draw more Muslim tourists to Davao.

DOT 11 operations chief Zuhairah Abas said that Air Asia direct �light to KL has kept them working to establish Halal facilities.

But the positive effect on this connectivity, she said is the increasing interests of Malaysian businessmen to invest in the food sector.

“They want to come to invest in food not only on operating a restaurant but as a supplier of food that are already Halal certi�ied,” she said.

Except for the meat, these are foodstuffs not found here, she said.

Abas said there are already initial talks between Malaysian investors with the Davao City Investment and Promotion Center (DCIPC) on the prospects of investing in Davao.

She said that a Filipino company also wants to invest in Halal slaughterhouse in Biao, a barangay of Tugbok district.

The Davao City Halal Council, she said, has ongoing discussions with the service sector on how to improve establishments become Halal-compliant.

“The business owners in

DOT P12

A view of Tago River taken in Tandag City on Tuesday, December 25, 2017. MindaNews photo by H. MARCOS C. MORDENO

DOTR P12

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

5 ECONOMY

COURTESY CALL ON CITY MAYOR. The Joint Foreign Chambers in Mindanao, composed of the American Chamber under Pres Leoncio Villa-Abrille (4th from left); Canada Chamber led by Chairman Ricky Tagabucba (3rd left); European Chamber under Chairman Antonio Peralta; (3rd from right) and Japanese Chamber headed Pres.

Seisuke Nakao (2nd right); paid a courtesy call on Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio in City Hall. The Joint Foreign Chambers (JFC), non-profit, apolitical and international business associations, were optimistic on the future of the business partnership with the city when Mayor Duterte-Carpio expressed her assurance to help and

work closely with them in the promotion of opportunities for trade and investments. Other in photos from left are Annie Quitay, Amcham membership coordinator, Ma. Rowena. CanCham communication and administrative officer and Cora Del Campo, JCCM officer-in-charge.

IFC in East Asia and the Pacific

Contractor wants MinDA to take over project

LGUs, chambers should press First Green Bond Investment for for Mindanao railway: Vic Lao BDO Issues First Green Bond for $150 Million

M

anila, December 8, 2017— The Philippines’ largest bank, BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO), has issued its �irst green bond, raising $150 million to expand �inancing for private sector investments that help to address climate change.

This marks the �irst green bond issued by a commercial bank in the Philippines. IFC, a sister organization of the World Bank and a member of the World Bank Group, is the sole investor in the bond.

This is also IFC’s �irst green bond investment in a

�inancial institution in East Asia and the Paci�ic. The pioneering green bond will provide an alternative source of long-term green �inance in the country and contribute to the Philippines’ target of reducing carbon emissions by 70 per cent by 2030 relative to its Business As Usual (BAU) scenario and conditioned on international support.

The funds will be used exclusively to �inance climate-smart projects including renewable energy, green buildings, and energy-ef�i-

BDO, P13

L

OCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS and chambers of commerce in the affected cities and provinces should see to it that the much-vaunted Mindanao Railway Project is fast-tracked and implemented by the national government as promised by President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

This was the statement of business leader Vicente T, Lao in the sidelines of the annual general membership assembly of the Mindanao Business Council at the Marco Polo Hotel last Friday. Min-

BC is chaired by Lao. Lao, who is a bigtime contractor himself and was involved in the project development processes as onetime chairman of the Regional Development Council, said he is worried that it is taking government a long time to start the railway project.

LGUS, P13

VIC LAO

Security Bank, M. Lhuillier ink channel partnership Cirtek raises USD67-M

S

ecurity Bank Corporation (SBC)and M. Lhuillier partnered for a credit-to-bank remittance agreement using Security Bank’s Interbank Fund Transfer, Auto Credit, and Bills Payment facilities.

The partnership will allow SBC clients to utilize all 2,300 branches of M. Lhuillier nationwide to make deposits to Security Bank accounts and do bills payment to SBC’s merchant partners. The sign-

from preferred shares

Present during the signing ceremony were officers and working teams from both institutions led by Security Bank President & CEO Alfonso L. Salcedo, Jr. and M. Lhuillier President & CEO Michael L. Lhuillier. ing ceremony was held at recognized for its prod- recognized by The Asset the Security Bank Centre uct innovation and tech- Triple A Transaction Bankin Makati City. nology-based �inancial ing Awards as the Best Security Bank is widely solutions. The Bank was SECURITY, P13

M

ANILA -- Semiconductor manufacturer Cirtek Holdings Philippines Corp. raised USD67 million from the issuance of preferred shares, proceeds of which will partly fund strategic acquisitions.

“The successful issuance of dollar preferred shares places the company in a strong position to pursue strategic and growth initiatives leading to an

expanded international presence,” said Cirtek chief �inancial of�icer Anthony Buyawe.

The company told the local bourse the demand for dollar-denominated preferred shares was signi�icant, particularly from retail investors.

Buyawe noted indicative demand was USD110 million at the higher end of the pricing range of 6.25 percent to 6.75 percent per annum. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO

6 COMPETITIVE EDGE

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

TRMH lights up giant Christmas tree

SWITHCING ON. DOT 11 regional director Roberto Alabado, Irene Glenne Escandor, Violy Escandor and TRMH gen. manager Benjie Banzon switch on the Christmas tree’s lights.

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

BLESSING. TRMH VP Gerome Escandor, Irene Glenne Escandor, matriarch Violy Escandor and Rev. Amado Arroyo after the Christmas tree’s blessing.

O

ne of Davao’s much-awaited events of the season is The Royal Mandaya Hotel’s traditional Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

The giant hotel Christmas tree was �inally up and sparkling on December 1 with the switching on rites held at the hotel’s grand lobby.

The ceremony was witnessed by no less than Department of Tourism regional director Roberto P. Alabado III with the hotel’s matriarch Violy Y. Escandor, grand daughter Irina Glenne D. Escandor and

TRMH general manager Mr. Benjamen J. Banzon, Jr. “It has always been our tradition to put up the Christmas tree in celebration of the Christmas season. This year, the tree blended well with the renovations of the hotel,” said Banzon.

The hotel underwent a P14 million renovation which was inaugurated on the same occasion.

Rev. Amado Arroyo blessed the hotel’s towering holiday tree as the Davao Girls choir performed 25 minutes of lively Christmas songs.

TOWERING TREE. The Royal Mandaya Hotel’s festivelyadorned Christmas tree.

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

7 SUBURBIA RISING

Comval celebrates “Provincial Thanksgiving Day 2017”

C

ompostela Valley Province – The Provincial Government celebrates its annual Thanksgiving Day or Interfaith Day under the Provincial Spiritual Development and Values Restoration Program (PSDVRP) held on December 8, 2017 at the Capitol Ground, Cabidianan, Nabunturan, Comval. It banners the theme “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God,” which was taken from the book of Philippians Chapter 4, Verse 6.

More than 2,500 participants coming from various religious denominations joined the celebration of thanksgiving in the province. As early as 4 in the morning, the Dawn March for “7 Spheres of in�luence” kicked off in front of the

Provincial Capitol, with seven stations dropping by in the buildings located beside the capitol building for a �ive-minute prayer.

The assembly proceeded at the Tribal Hall, Council of Women, PDRRMC, Provincial Engineering Of�ice,

Commission On Audit, Department of Education, after which they all �locked at the Capitol grounds for the program.

Leading the signi�icant event is Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy who expressed his gratitude saying “Mao

kini ang panahon nga dili lang ang individual prayers but ang hiniusang kusog sa tanang mga katawhan sa tanang lungsod sa atong probinsiya. In unity, we are stronger,” Gov. Uy added.

Dr. Richard T. Mata – Pediatrician/Evangelist, one of the invited speakers, shared his wisdom and inspiring thoughts in lifting up the spiritual life of every participant. He also rendered a prayer for all Comvalenyos and the whole province as well after his message.

“In all things you have to give thanks for all what we do,” said Dr. Mata.

Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said the clash happened at around 2:30 p.m. Friday at Sitio Buling-Buling, Barangay Su-uh, Old Panamao town.

Sobejana disclosed the

troops were on combat patrol when they clashed with 20 Abu Sayyaf bandits led

by Radullan Sahiron.

Sahiron, known as the one-armed bandit leader, is the oldest among the remaining leaders of the Abu

Sayyaf Group (ASG).

Sobejana said the �ire�ight lasted for about 10 minutes after which the ASG members �led to different directions leaving behind their slain comrades.

(PNA)

rector for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said the three remains were recovered ar around 10 a.m. Thursday at the borders of Piagapo and Dado Balindong towns in Lanao del Sur. Their identities and the perpetrators remained unknown as of posting.

Mijares, who is based here in Parang town in Maguindanao and quoting a belated report from Lanao del Sur police of�ice, said residents alerted the police about the cadavers buried in a shallow grave. They said several unidenti�ied men arrived in the village the night before and they

heard several gunshots.

Residents told police that the gunmen appeared to be Maute terrorist members since they wore black uniform and brandishing black ISIS �lag.

Mijares said the information from the villagers is being validated by the police and the military. (PNA)

Also gracing the occasion is the Secretary of the Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs Francis N. Tolentino who delivered the message of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

“Sa lahat ng religious leaders and members of this community, napaka-palad po ng Compostela Valley dahil nagkakaisa kayong lahat dito, sabi nila a community in prayers will always prosper,” said Tolentino.

Meanwhile, before the start of the program the interfaith prayers were led

by Rev. Pastor Jolly Furio for Christian, Imam Ustadz

Abdul Basit Basir for Muslim, and Rev. Fr. Dick Anthony Cortado represented by Executive Assistant Miguel Guzman for the Catholic.

The participants are pastors from the different municipalities and the invited pastors outside Comval, priests, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Rescue Teams of the Province, Capitol Employees, Indigenous People (IPs), DepEd personnel, Muslims, provincial and municipal of�icials led by their mayors. (Rey Antibo/ID comval)

Troops kill 3 Abu Sayyaf men in Sulu clash Roadside bomb hurts 7

Z

AMBOANGA CITY -Pursuing government forces killed three Abu Sayyaf bandits and recovered two �irearms in a clash in the hinterlands of Sulu, a top military of�icial said Saturday.

Police recover remains of 3 men executed by Mautes

P

ARANG, Maguindanao -- Police authorities in the coastal town of Lanao del Sur recovered remains of three persons believed to have been abducted and executed by remnants of Maute brothers.

Chief Supt. Graciano Mijares, police regional di-

soldiers in Maguindanao

C

OTABATO CITY – Seven government troops were hurt following a roadside bomb explosion shortly before dawn Saturday in Barangay Mirab, North Upi, Maguindanao.

Sr. Supt. Agustin Tello, Maguindanao police directior, identi�ied those wounded as Maj. Romulo Ducay, Cpls. Ryan Cabual, Arnel Jiun, Oliver Albo, Alvin Sangadan and PFCs Johnny Panday and Gerwin Perez, all of the 5th Marine Battalion stationed in Barangay Mirab.

The victims were subsequently brought to the

in�irmary inside Camp Siongco, the headquarters of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division situated in Barangay Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Tello said military and police probers are still trying to determine the group behind the attack.

“Our investigation is still going on,” he told reporters here.

Accordingly, the village of Mirab is one of those considered as peaceful areas in North Upi, with the villagers maintaining close alliance with military troops for security of their agricultural lands. (PNA)

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

EDITORIAL

Dealing with one China

C

hina has made it clear in its foreign trade relations with other economies to deal with only the mainland China, not with Taiwan.

That strong message has been overly emphasized

by China including its trade relations with the Philippines.

So what happens if the Philippines, through the Manila Economic and Cultural Of�ice (MECO) signs a bilateral agreement with the “other” China--Taiwan?

China has made it clear they are not happy with the bilateral investment agreement between the Philippines and self-ruled Taiwan. China maintains that Taiwan has no right to any of�icial foreign ties. China says Taiwan has no right to diplomatic recognition because it is part of China. Defeated Nationalist forces �led to Taiwan at the end of China’s civil war in 1949.

In the wake of the signing of the PH-Taiwan agreement, China quickly reacted by saying “it had no prob-

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

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

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 JUDELYN VEGA MEGHANN STA. INES Reporters ARMANDO B. FENENQUITO JR. 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

the national association of newspapers

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) 09101864939 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

lem with ‘normal’ trade relations other countries had with Taiwan, but opposed any kind of of�icial exchanges.” With China’s trade relations �lourishing with the Philippines under the current administration, China is just all too concerned with the latest development.

China and the Philippines have maintained good relations after President Duterte managed to handle the looming crisis between the two nations over a territorial dispute in the South China Sea. Given the newfound friendship, China expects that the Philippines sticks to the “one China” principle and prevent the Taiwan issue damage relations between the two countries.

Now, whether or not the Philippines take back the Taiwan deal or proceed with it is another question.

The extent and implications of the agreement must be carefully reviewed within the context of existing trade relations especially with Beijing.

EDGEDAVAO

T

wo decades after its opening, the port of Davao, by 1928, was already a huge earner for the government, something the authorities was happy about given the numerous bureaucratic dif�iculties that had to be hurdled before it was �inally allowed to operate.

The port’s dramatic rise in terms of customs collections was later highlighted in the 1928 Annual Report of the Insular Collector of Customs addressed to the Finance Secretary Vicente Aldanese.

Comparably, the port, of�icial records show, collected P49,316.36 more than the previous year, which was attributed to the increased import and export of all items or commodities that were subject to foreign taxation. The total customs receipt of Davao port in 1928 amounted to P224,697.35 as against the prior year’s P175,380.99.

Entry of foreign liners and the expansion of trade and commerce at the port of Davao was hugely in�luenced by the booming abaca plantations that produced quality hemp for the foreign market. These �ibers were not only in demand in the world market; they were also coveted for their strength and durability, especially for use in defense requirements.

T

o prevent for a person being infected by human immunode�iciency virus (HIV) – the microorganism that causes Acquired Immune De�iciency Syndrome (AIDS) – health workers are prescribing the �irst �ive letters of the alphabet: ABCDE. Since sex is the most prevalent mode in the transmission of the virus, the �irst three letters premised on that fact: A stands for “abstinence,” meaning no sex at all; B for “be faithful,” in other words if you get engaged in sexual activities, be sure to remain faithful to your sexual partner; and C for “condom,” highlighting the use the latex rubber particularly to those who have multiple sexual partners.

D urges to those who are intra-drug users: “don’t share needles.” The last letter, E, stands for education on HIV/AIDS. “HIV is highly preventable,” a health of�icial from the Davao regional of�ice of the Department of Health pointed out.

“The government can only provide you information, diagnosis, and treatment.

But the most effective way of preventing HIV still heavily depends on the practices of informed individuals.”

There are four critical conditions that must be ful�illed if HIV is to be transmitted by a particular route. First, HIV must be present in a body �luid (semen, vaginal �luids, blood or blood products). Second, HIV must survive during the period it is out of the body. Third, HIV must get into a person (skin forms a barrier to HIV so the virus must enter where the skin is

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Port of Davao, circa 1928 Moreover, the internal revenue receipts also appreciated from P2,006.64 in 1927 to P30,254.52 the following year.

This was due to the operation of a bonded warehouse at the port, which allowed the direct import of petroleum products. This was the �irst time in the port’s history that collection for the highways special fund was done, which amounted to P27,841.18.

The annual report declared: “The total foreign trade of the port of Davao during the year [1928] reached the amount of P13,762,805, of which P927,255 represent the value of imports and P12,835,550 that of exports as compared with P11,184,541 in 1927, of which P428,674 represent the value of imports and P10,755,867 that of exports.”

On the part of the import trade, the port’s income doubled than that of the previous year due to the entry of petroleum products. In terms of export, trade registered positive results that amounted to P2-million increase over the value of exports from the preceding year.

Among the principal commodities imported and exported in 1928 are as follows: for export, the articles, to cite a few, included wheat �lour, cotton goods, �ish products, manufactures of iron and damaged or more delicate, e.g. the mucus membrane of the anus and vagina). Lastly, suf�icient HIV must be transferred into the person to make an infective dose.

“In the early stages of HIV infection, the body shows no symptoms,” informs the Remedios AIDS Foundation, Inc. (RAF). Among the non-speci�ic signs and symptoms of HIV infection are: intermittent or persistent fever, fatigue, weakness, diarrhea, malaise, loss of weight, generalized swelling of lymph nodes (in neck, arm pits, or groin), skin infections (such as whitish patches in the mouth and tongue), sores (in the genital area, buttocks, or mouth).

“Not all signs and symptoms may occur to HIV positive individuals,” the RAF points out. “These are called opportunistic infections, since they happen when the immune system could no longer �ight the disease.” Death is not caused directly by HIV, but by one or more infections.

As stated earlier, sex is the most prevalent mode of HIV transmission.

As such, it is but wise to use condom when performing sexual acts. “Complete abstinence from sex is unrealistic and even reducing the number of sex partners does not guarantee avoidance of HIV,” wrote John Hubley, author of “The AIDS Handbook: A Guide to the Understanding of AIDS and HIV.” “Even if you adopt a message of one partner for life, your partner may not and thus you can still be at risk of catching HIV.” Condoms – also known as rubbers,

FAST BACKWARD Antonio V. Figueroa steel, meat and dairy products, gasoline, and kerosene; for exports, the products included abaca, copra, and lumber, among others.

The annual report also disclosed that during the year in review a total of 19 vessels from abroad, with a total tonnage of 76,204, docked at the port, sharply smaller than 1927’s 27 direct entrances, which had an aggregate tonnage of 99,968. Of these foreign steamers, 37 �lew the United States �lag, 26 from Japan, and 19 from Great Britain.

For other vessels entering the port,

Condom vs HIV

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

French letters, durex and even raincoats and gumboots – have been available for a long time and have been promoted both as a method for family planning and for prevention of sexually-transmitted infections (STIs). In recent years, condoms have been endorsed by health experts as a way to curtail HIV infection.

“Consistently used condoms provide signi�icant protection against HIV, pregnancy and STIs,” said an information carried by the website, www.aidsmap. com. “The degree of protection they offer against HIV and STIs is signi�icantly better than any other single prevention method, taken in isolation, other than sexual abstinence or complete mutual monogamy between two people who have tested negative for HIV.” Hubley also wrote: “Laboratory

mainly interisland, there were 67 ships with a net total tonnage of 239,642, as against the 54 liners that called port the previous year, which had only a total tonnage of 203,501. The report continued: “During the same period 43 vessels engaged in foreign trade, with a net tonnage totalling 166,120, were cleared for foreign ports direct, as compared with 43 of such vessels, with an aggregate net tonnage of 163,433, in 1927; while 39 vessels engaged in such trade, with a total net tonnage of 149,725, were cleared through other ports of entry during 1928, as compared with 38 vessels engaged in the same trade, with an aggregate net tonnage of 140,036, in 1927.

“During the year, 79 coastwise vessels entered this port with a net tonnage totalling 48,998, as compared with 38 entrances of such vessels, with an aggregate net tonnage of 43,998, in 1929; and 78 vessels, with an aggregate net tonnage of 48,516, were cleared from this port during the year, as against 92 vessels in 1927, with a net tonnage of 43,971.”

Moreover, it was reported that seven ships, with a total capacity of 49.95 tons,

were registered in 1928 for the bay and river traf�ic, including a lighter, a vessel with auxiliary engine, and motor launches. Fifty-three vessels with an aggregate net tonnage of 378.08 were issued licenses, 40 of these were for the bay and river traf�ic while the remainder were for coastwise trading.

For one reason for another, elven vessels in the bay and river traf�ic, with a total net tonnage of 43.44, were removed from the register in 1928.

Con�iscations were also included in the Annual Report of the Insular Collector of Customs: “Two seizures were made during the year, one of 43 bundles of gunny sacks for being unmanifested and one of 71 packages of Chinese playing cards brought in by a Chinese passenger in his baggage. Disposition of these seizures according to law was pending at the close of the year.”

Seizure of Chinese playing cards predated the 1928 haul. For violating the customs and opium laws, 13 packs of Chinese playing cards were con�iscated in Manila alone in 1921; 277 packages in 1922; 16,710 pieces in 1924; 4,308 sheets in 1925; 54,733 sets in 1926; and 4,210 sets in 1927.

studies have shown that HIV cannot pass through the thin membrane of the condom (even air and water do not pass through the condom and these molecules are much smaller than HIV).”

While condoms offer useful and vital protection, they have also become associated with promiscuity and in�idelity.

During the 15th International AIDS Conference in Bangkok in 2004, the Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni advocated for HIV prevention based on “optimal relationships based on love and trust.” He didn’t approved of “institutionalized mistrust, which is what the condom is all about.” He thought of condoms “as an improvisation, not a solution.”

(Museveni later complained of being misunderstood. In fact, he signed an article in “The Lancet” stating that condoms formed a valuable part of HIV prevention.)

Five years later, in 2009, Pope Benedict XVI reignited the controversy when he commented that AIDS in Africa “cannot be overcome…through the distribution of condoms, which can even increase the problem.”

But when use improperly, condoms may even compound the problem. “Incorrect use of condoms can compromise their effectiveness, thereby increasing the risk of HIV transmission, even when they are used consistently,” wrote J. Wilton in an article published by CATIE, Canada’s source of information

on HIV/AIDS. “There are many ways condoms can be used incorrectly and research shows incorrect condom use is common.”

Some types of incorrect use can cause condoms to break, slip or leak, thereby increasing the risk of HIV transmission.

“This type of incorrect use includes using condoms that are too small or too large; using damaged or expired condoms; unrolling male condoms before putting them on; reusing condoms; not pinching the tip of the male condom when putting it on; using sharp objects to open condom packages; not using enough lubrication in combination with condoms; using oil-based lubrication with latex or polyisoprene condoms (oil-based lubrication is safe to use with nitrile and polyurethane condoms); or not holding the rim of the male condom when pulling out,” Wilton wrote.

Other types of incorrect condom use can increase the risk of HIV transmission even though the condom does not break, slip or leak. Wilton cited the following examples: “Some people may put a condom on late (after intercourse has started), remove the condom early (before ejaculation has occurred), or put the condom on inside out and then �lip it over to use. These types of incorrect use can increase the risk of exposure to HIV.” “It is bad enough that people are dying of AIDS,” Hollywood actress Elizabeth Taylor once said, “but no one should die of ignorance.”

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

HOSPITAL... FROM 1 people or there will be culprits and if it is proven that there’s a cause of action against them then this administration will not hesitate to use the full force of the law against them,” said Yumang.

Yumang said they still need to determine the actual number of patients who received Dengvaxia shots with by private hospitals and doctors so they can monitor their condition.

“We still don’t have the records of the private sectors or the private physicians who have vaccinated with Dengvaxia, and we currently requesting private doctors and medical societies such as the Davao Medical Society and Philippine Pediatric Society Davao chapter to submit a list of children they have vaccinated with Dengvaxia” she said.

According to Yumang, the DOH already sent letters to the private health sectors starting Friday asking to send their own list of children vaccinated with Dengvaxia if they have, to assure that these children will be closely monitored by DOH 11.

Yumang also encouragedd parents to immediately bring their children who have been vaccinated with Dengvaxia to the health centers or hospitals if they see dengue symptoms starting to show such as fever, headache, rashes and body pains to prevent their condition from progressing to severe levels.

Yumag explained that Dengvaxia, which was manufactured by pharmaceutical �irm Sano�i Pasteur was procured during the administration of former President Benigno Aquino III. It is the �irst vaccine to be licensed in the world for the prevention of dengue. The vaccine has been granted marketing authorization in 2015 by Mexico.

Based on the information

obtained by DOH 11 from Sano�i Pasteur, the new analysis evaluated long-term safety and ef�icacy of Dengvaxia in people who had been infected with dengue prior to vaccination and those who had not.

The analysis con�irmed that Dengvaxia provides persistent protective bene�it against dengue fever in those who had prior infection. For those not previously infected by dengue virus, however, the analysis found that in the longer term, more cases of severe disease could occur following vaccination upon a subsequent dengue infection.

A statement from the Department of Health Of�ice of the Secretary that on November 29, the DOH received a preliminary brie�ing on update information on the dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia, from Sano�i Pastuer. Based on the report, the dengue vaccine has shown consistent and sustained bene�it for those who were previously infected with the dengue virus.

In the light of this new analysis, the DOH will place the dengue vaccination program on hold while review and consultation is going on with experts, key holders and the World Health Organization.

On the same information revealed that the vaccination is essential to the integrated approach in dengue prevention and control. Currently, there is no reported case of severe dengue infection among those who received the vaccine.

“The DOH assures the public that it is serious in carrying out its mandate to always guard the health and well-being of its constituents.

Thus, it shall ensure that vaccine are always safe and effective to optimize its health bene�its,” Heath Secretary Francisco T. Duque III was quoted to have said last Friday.

thority, National Youth Commission, Of�ice of the President – Presidential Action Center, Philippine Commission on Women and the Presidential Commission on the Urban Poor.

Biyaya ng Pagbabago was conceptualized by the Cabinet secretary “in response to President Duterte ‘s call for pagbabago, pagmamalasakit, at patuloy nap ag-unlad.”

Secretary Evasco said that the agencies are called upon to “get out of your shell and reach out to people; listen to what they need.”

He lamented that upon assumption to of�ice, the Duterte administration discovered that the 12 agencies have a utilization rate of only 60 percent of their budgets approved by Congress.

The low utilization of budget is attributed to fear of releasing money following the controversial Napoles fund scam and stricter rules of the Commission on Audit (COA), “aside from some money going to the pockets of corrupt of�icials,” he said.

According to Evasco, the low utilization of funds takes a toll on the lives of the people. It also results in people, specially the poor sector, not feeling the effects of programs designed to alleviate poverty and joblessness.

“We are linking back to the people through the Kilusang Pagababago (KP),” he said.

KP is a mass convergence of people and organizations from the grassroots, Indigenous Peoples and the Urban Poor. KP is more known as a

EVASCO... FROM 1

Paul Mayer, deep sea pilot and researcher of R/V Petrel, talks about the remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) to reporters at the Surigao City Port on Thursday (7 Dec 2017). The hi-tech vessel located

5 Japanese warships sunk during the Battle of Surigao Strait in World War II during a week-long expedition towards the end of November.

MindaNews photo by ROEL N. CATOTO

support group of President Rodrigo Duterte’s campaign against illegal drugs, criminality, corruption, and poverty.

Evasco wants to see an increase of the fund utilization by implementing the programs and projects aimed at bringing poverty down to 14 percent from 26 percent of the population at the end of the administration of President Duterte.

Evasco emphasized the participation of the people with the partnership of KP in accessing the programs of the Duterte administration.

He said that the Biyaya mechanism should result in better services of all government agencies to improve quality of life of the Filipino people.

“It should contribute to the upliftment of six million poor and marginalized Filipinos at the minimum out of poverty towards a comfortable life,” the Cabinet secretary said.

KP will also help in reporting the performance of the agencies.

Evasco would like to see how fund utilization translates into alleviating poverty.

With the presence of Project Performance Monitoring Of�ice, Evasco is optimistic the money infused for anti-poverty programs of the 12 agencies are fully utilized and used up so that programs and projects really delivered to their intended benefciaries.

Evasco said that Biyaya ng Pagbabago is a mechanism that will result in better services of all government agencies to improve quality of life of the Filipinos, contribute to

the upliftment of six million poor and marginalized people at the minimum out of poverty towards a comfortable life, and empowered, organized and movement for change.

The Biyaya ng Pagbabago kicked off on December 1 in Ifugao, Mountain Province with the Of�ice of the Participatory Governance, Strategic Action and Response (STAR) as lead agencies.

Participatory Governance Undersecretary Joselito Libres earlier said Biyaya, which means gift, is part of the vision of the Duterte administration for greater people participation for economic inclusivity and foster participation in governance.

It involves a multi-sectoral and multi-agency service. It brings programs to the grassroots so that people know how to access them, claim the bene�its of government programs especially livelihood.

“If people know how to access the different programs of the government especially those in the rural communities, they will be liberated from poverty,” Libres said.

“The President is persistent in addressing the issue of poverty,” he added. The Biyaya ng Pagbabago partners with Kilusang Pagbabago (KP) in delivering the government programs.

Alexander “Rocky” Balili, lead convenor of KP, had said that a nation is mature if people are more educated and successful if people are active in claiming government programs. ( With Lilian C. Mellejor/PNA)

ly PHP200 million after 420,000 chicken, ducks, and quails were culled.

In a ceremony held in Pampanga, Zhao said he “felt for Filipino friends in Pampanga”, saying China also suffered many cases of bird �lu in the past.

“A friend in need is a friend indeed,” he said. “We sincerely hope that this humble share of assistance

(PNA).

“Yes, there will be more in 2018.”

On Dec. 5, Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua handed over a total of

PHP7.7 million to Pampanga to help lift local farmers and their families affected by the bird �lu outbreak.

The poultry sector in Pampanga lost near-

CHINA... FROM 2

would add strength to the endeavor by Pampanga government and people in recovering from their losses in an effective and productive manner.”

In a statement, the embassy said it stands ready “to strengthen cooperation with Pampanga, and work with the Philippine side to further advance China-Philippines relations”. (PNA)

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11TH Judicial Region Branch 12 Davao City

PETITION FOR THE ALLOWANCE OF THE LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF EULITA MESINA MORANDANTE WITH PRAYER FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR AND FOR CUSTODY AND APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN OF MINOR-HEIR, JANSAR EUMIELL MESINA MORANDANTE,

SP. PROC. NO.: 12,340-12

SARILEN YBANEZ LUPIAN, Petitioner.

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x ORDER

In the Order of this Court dated November 28, 2013, Dr. Rolando Z. Gañac was chosen as Special Administrator.

Wherefore, Dr. Rolando Z. Gañac is hereby appointed as Special Administrator in this case.

As provided for in Section 2, Rule 80 of the Revised Rules of Court, the powers and duties of Special Administrator are as follows:

“Sec. 2. Powers and duties of Special Administrator -Such special administrator shall take possession and charge of the goods, chattels, rights, credits and estate of the deceased and preserve the same for the executor or administrator afterwards appointed, and for that purpose may commence and maintain suits as administration. He may sell only such perishable and other property as the court orders sold. A special administrator shall not be liable to pay any debts of the deceased unless so ordered by the court.”

Dr. Rolando Z. Gañac as Special Administrator shall put up a bond pursuant to Section 4, Rule 81 of the Revised Rules of Court which states:

“Sec. 4. Bond of special administrator. – A special administrator before entering upon the duties of his trust shall give a bond, in such sum as the court directs, conditioned that he will make and return a true inventory of the goods, chattels, rights, credits and estate of the deceased which come to his possession or knowledge, and that he will truly account for such as are received by him when required by the court, and will deliver the same to the person appointed executor or administrator or such other person as may be authorized to receive them.

The Bond of Dr. Rolando Z. Gañac is hereby fixed at Php50,000.00.

As such Special Administration, Dr. Rolando Z. Gañac shall be entitled the amount of Php10,000.00 monthly as Special Administrator’s Fee excluding transportation expenses and all incidental expenses. However, claims for these expenses must be subject to approval by the Court.

SO ORDERED. Davao City, Philippines, January 2, 2014.

(SGD)PELAGIO S. PAGUICAN Judge Nov. 27, Dec. 4 & 11, 2017

INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

ARTS AND CULTURE

Flight of the Phoenix PHOENIX PETROLEUM PHILIPPINES, INC. (PNX) is the leading independent and fastest-growing oil company in the Philippines. Since its first station in 2005 in Davao, it has expanded nationwide. Its business covers the trading of refined petroleum products and lubricants to retail and commercial channels, operation of oil depots and storage, and transport services.

To celebrate Phoenix Petroleum’s fifteen colorful years of success together with its parent company UDENNA Corporation, they present an art exhibit titled: “Beginnings & Beyond”, in further support of their company’s mission and vision, and as a homage and praise to their hometown—Davao City.

The exhibit was opened at SM Lanang Premier on December 8, 2017 and will be held until December 16, 2017 at the malls’ upper level ground floor.

The exhibit is a collection of excellent, diverse, and original artworks tastefully and carefully curated by renowned artist and curator, Victor Secuya. “The featured paintings are images of Davao and Mindanao filtered through the artists’ visual vocabulary, singular vision, and unique interpretation of Mindanao men, women, children, flora, and fauna,” the curator states. On display are the works of twelve Davao-based artists, namely: Venerando “Rey” Bollozos, Adolfo Buenaventura, Mariano “Anoy” Catague, Rogelito

“Jun” Cayas, Amanda Echevarria, Louella “Dadai” Joaquin, Alynnah Macla, Gilbert Miraflor, Welehito “Lito” Pepito, Teody “Bong” Perez, Mishael “Misha” Pueblas, and Victor Secuya.

“The featured artists are serious and professional practitioners with credible body of works manifesting great imagination, excellent skills, and strong academic visual foundations. They all have their respective unique aesthetics, style, and character. Their unifying thread is their love for Mindanao, dedication to their craft, and clear vision of their artistic destiny,” shared Vic Secuya.

This exhibit is a benchmark for Phoenix Petroleum’s advocacy towards the arts and a continuation of their CSR program by nurturing the Philippine pride—especially the Mindanaoan legacy. With its vision to be an indispensable partner in the journey of everyone whose life it touches, the company is committed to deliver world-class services, empower people, and inspire every Filipino’s entrepreneurial spirit.

EDGEDAVAO

A2INdulge!

EVENT

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

New horizons at Aeon Bleu

AEON LUXE PROPERTIES, INC. (Aeon Luxe) the property development arm of the FTC Group of Companies, recently held their Christmas party and awarding ceremony for their top performing agents and agencies last December 6 at the Davao Convention Center.

The well-attended Cochella-themed event featured fun music and lots of dancing, but the most exciting bit of the evening was when Aeon Luxe’s vice president for sales Andrew Bautista revealed an exciting new project for the local property developer. Dubbed Aeon Luxe, it is a mixed-use four-tower development which promises inland resort living at the heart of Davao City.

Already known for its skyline-defining flagship project the 33-level Aeon Towers and the pioneer in luxurious and high technology condominium living on Mindanao. Aeon Bleu is designed and planned by LPPA Design Group, Inc., who is responsible for the design of many iconic condo communities around the Philippines.

As described by LPPA’s managing partner and CEO Leo Pariñas, the design of Aeon Bleu evokes terraced mountains with a central water feature created by a medley of themed pools. The curves on the facade of the towers reflect the curves of the Davao River.

Amenities for Aeon Bleu include a SkyDome Club House which houses an indoor basketball court, a mini-theater, children’s playground, game room, restaurants

and cafes, and function rooms. For those who love the outdoors, there are four themed pools, a jogging path, a playground, a playpen for cats and dogs, and a boardwalk. There is also a commercial zone where daily needs and services and be availed.

Davao’s skyline is definitely changing, and with the launch of Aeon Bleu, it may seem that this rapid change is just starting and giving Dabawenyo urbanites more choices on the kind of homes and lifestyle they want.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

A4INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

EDGEDAVAO VOL. ISSUE 180• SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017 VOL. 1010 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

11 PROPERTY

Matina Enclaves releases December updates

Building B and C

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

C

onstruction of the Matina Enclaves’ Building C has shifted to interior works according to its latest construction update released by developer Escandor Development Corporation (Esdevco).

Building C is the second condominium building under construction in the highrise residences sector of the sprawling complex owned by local investor Escandor family whose diverse business include The Royal Mandaya Hotel and security agency DASIA (Davao Allied Security and Investigation Agency Inc.) According to Esdevco, project updates as of December 6, 2017 reported the ongoing painting works and plaserting of lintel beams for the building’s windows.

Also underway are

the concrete pouring for �loor perimeter wall, installation of electrical wiring, installation of metal furring for ceiling, installation of corridor railings, and truss roofing at the atrium.

The Matina Enclaves has turned over one building by far and has sold out �ive under the Enclaves Towers cluster.

Sales of the property has been brisk with the company extending exciting and affordable packages as well as discounts.

The Matina Enclaves is located at Quimpo Boulevard in Ecoland, Davao City.

North Elevation

12 NEWS DAVAO... FROM 2 visited by the ROH team including DDH oncologists for the free cancer awareness lay forum to share inputs and answer queries about cancer.

She added that to share inspiration to cancer patients, the Pin-A-Message is being initiated to encourage DDH community to write message or prayers in a heart shape card for cancer patient. Afterwards, it shall be posted in the huge heart exhibit at the DDH cancer center.

“Trees shall be adorned with ribbons representing twelve types of cancer. Each ribbon contains a message of hope or a prayer for cancer victims for example Pink ribbon for breast cancer patients, violet for all cancers, blue for bladder cancer gold for childhood cancer and white for cervical cancer” said Casia.

“Also to ful�ill the campaign’s objective in building a shelter for cancer patients, the iPledge for ROH is being initiated to have an avenue to share monetary donation, aside from the donation boxes in the hospital,” she added.

According to Casia, the Christmas Tree of Hope was of�icially launched last November 16, 2016 with a lighting ceremony at the hospital’s driveway.

Representatives from government sectors, partner institutions, and DDH management and staff witnessed the lighting ceremony.

“Through this, the celebration of the yuletide season will be more meaningful not only to support our brothers and sisters who battle with cancer, but also to be aware of the importance of knowing facts about cancer. This call of tak-

ing generous and genuine responsibility to the society will bene�it not only the stakeholders of the community, but also to the whole nation in general,” virus, however, the analysis found that in the longer term, more cases of severe disease could occur following vaccination upon a subsequent dengue infection.

A statement from the Department of Health Of�ice of the Secretary that on November 29, the DOH received a preliminary brie�ing on update information on the dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia, from Sano�i Pastuer. Based on the report, the dengue vaccine has shown consistent and sustained bene�it for those who were previously infected with the dengue virus.

In the light of this new analysis, the DOH will place the dengue vaccination program on hold while review and consultation is going on with experts, key holders and the World Health Organization.

On the same information revealed that the vaccination is essential to the integrated approach in dengue prevention and control. Currently, there is no reported case of severe dengue infection among those who received the vaccine.

“The DOH assures the public that it is serious in carrying out its mandate to always guard the health and well-being of its constituents.

Thus, it shall ensure that vaccine are always safe and effective to optimize its health bene�its,” Heath Secretary Francisco T. Duque III was quoted to have said last Friday.

project will not only strengthen the friendship between the peoples of Japan and the Philippines but also contribute to

further fostering a strategic partnership between Japan and the Philippines towards the future,” it added. (PNA)

reelected chairman over Ronald C. Go, incumbent chamber president, 8-7, while Milan nosed out Bonifacio T. Tan, twice a past president, also 8-7.

The winning candidate for president was proclaimed by past president Robert “Boyet” Quinto, chairman of this year’s chamber election committee, after three ballotings among the 15 members of the BOT. In the �irst balloting, Milan and Tan got six votes each, while three votes went to Roni Go, who earlier politely declined the nomination but was denied by the body because the declining was done after the nomination had been of�icially closed.

In the second balloting, Milan and Tan got seven votes each, as one ballot was invali-

dated because it still carried the named of Go despite his not being a candidate anymore. The counting of the 15 votes in the third balloting seesawed between Milan and Tan up to the 14th ballot. When the 15th ballot was read it was for Milan.

Other of�icers elected and later proclaimed by election committee chairman Quinto were Yvonne F. Cabada, executive vice president; Teresita “Tessie” M. Pascual , vice president for agribusiness; Belinda “Belle” L. Torres, VP for industry; John Carlo B. Tria, VP for professional services and ventures; Anastacio “Jun” D. Cubos Jr., VP for trade and commerce; Jennifer V. Sazon, corporate secretary; and Al D. Balagot, corporate treasurer. Members of the board of trustees (BOT) are Go, Tan, Jocelyn A. Rome-

JAPAN... FROM 2

MILLAN... FROM 3

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

ro, Juanito Ricky M. Tagabucba and Antonio M. Ajero.

DCCCII election system As stipulated by the DCCCII constitution and bylaws, chamber members are called upon to hold an election every December to replace �ive of the 15 members of the board of trustees whose term of of�ice expires at the end of the year.

This set of �ive newly elected trustees, who are to serve for three years, will then join the 10 trustees whose term has not yet expired and thereupon elect the of�icers -- chairman, president and others-- to serve during the next chamber year which commences in January.

In the history of the chamber which will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, it is not unusual that comebacking past presidents would fail to muster the number of votes to get a slot in the �ive vacancies in the BOT. In last Saturday’s election, this happened to three past presidents.

New blood In last Saturday’s election for trustees, one re-electionist and four �irst-timers made it to the �ive vacant slots. The �irst-timers are: Jun Cubos, retired Davao Light executive and now renewable energy

company owner, who topped the election; Al Balagot, a certi�ied public accountant; John Tria, an entrepreneur and business columnist of Manila Bulletin, Edge Davao and editor of an online magazine; and Marilou Ampuan, a travel and tour operator, of�icer of an Islamic Business Council and advocate of “halal” system, while the second-timer is Belle Torres, owner of a BPO company and school.

Signi�icantly, last Saturday’s elections were heavily participated in by past presidents either as candidates or as voters.

Quinto was chairman of the election committee who also voted for his company and in his behalf as past president.

The other past presidents were dela Cruz, Tan, Sofronio M. Jucutan, Daniel Lim, John Y. Gaisano Jr., Joji Ilagan-Bian, Jose B. Custodio, and Sebastian L. Angliongto. The 10th president was incumbent Roni Go. Past presidents Protacio “Cocoy” Tacandong’s accounting �irm was represented by his associate Cedric Caterio, while the two companies of past president Dr. Ma. Lourdes G. Monteverde were represented by her son. AMA

during the �irst and second batch of Kambalingan (homecoming),” Andanar reported.

Additionally, LASURECO, in cooperation with other electric cooperatives in Mindanao have also already completed 73 percent of the primary electric lines in Barangay Sagonsongan, where the transitional shelters for IDPs are being constructed.

“The Small Business Corporation, a government corporation under the Department of Trade and Industry that assists the micro, small, and medium enterprises have distributed up to PHP10,000 worth of loans to each of 100 eligible IDP borrowers to help them start businesses,” the Palace of�icial said.

These were distributed last December 5 and 6. “The sub-committee on business and livelihood also continues to provide sari-sari store kits, sewing tools and machines, carpentry and electronic technician kits to the IDPs in different evacuation centers and to those residents who have already returned home to Marawi,” Andanar said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Education (DepEd) is set to launch “Brigada Eskwela sa Marawi” on December 13 at Amai Pakpak Elementary School, with the actual implementation beginning on December 14 to 15.

The Palace of�icial said that each DepEd division of�ice (DO) in the country will

be paired with a Marawi City division school to assist.

Only the Mindanao of�ices will facilitate the actual implementation, while the DOs from Luzon and Visayas will mobilize the resources they would need.

“After the kickoff, quick school level programs will be conducted, which will consist of a community signing session for a manifesto ensuring schools as zones of peace,” Andanar said.

In the meantime, the local government unit of Marawi has already conducted community mapping in barangays under cluster number 3 for the forthcoming next leg of Kambalingan.

Andanar said the result of the community mapping will be triangulated with the DSWD database while the concerned barangay LGUs will submit a master list of the returning IDPs. Meanwhile, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said that DOH continues to respond to the health challenges faced by displaced families.

He said the IDPs are being regularly provided medical check-ups through the “Tamang Serbisyong Pangkalusugan para sa Pilipino Services,” which included a provision of medical supplies as part of the ongoing medical assistance to all IDPs, whether staying in evacuation centers or home-based.

(PNA)

GOV’T... FROM 4

DOTR... FROM 4

“We assure you that the houses that we will provide for the affected ISFs are livable, affordable, and inclusive.”

NSRP, also known as the PNR South Long Haul, is a 653-kilometer railway project that will run from Manila to Batangas, Laguna, Bicol, and Sorsogon.

The rail line is expected to

reduce travel time from Manila to Laguna from two and a half hours to 45 minutes, while travel time from Manila to the Bicol region will be cut in half from 12 hours to 6 hours.

Construction of the PNR South Long Haul is set to start in 2018 and the railway is expected to be operational by the second quarter of 2022.(PNA)

Davao are excited and showed a positive response to our campaign in making the city as a potential Halal hub,” she said, citing one establishment plan of converting to a Muslim restaurant.

There are also talks with hotels to put a sign inside the room that will spot which direction is facing the Black Stone for Muslims to pray.

Abas said local government units and the Ulamas are also working together to beautify their mosques and the surrounding as these are areas that Muslim tourists would visit, she said.

Abas is positive on the increase of Muslim travelers with the opening of KL direct route.

She said AirAsia has a lot of connectivity to the Middle East.

“Muslims travel to places because it is part of their belief to worship and praise the creation of Allah through nature and Davao has a lot of natural wonders that they haven’t experience yet,” she said.

“We need to complement what the airline company has offered by showcasing our destinations to sustain the direct route as this is important in improving our tourists arrivals,” she said.

She said Air Asia’s maiden �light from KL to Davao on December 21 is fully booked as well as its return �light on the same day. The frequency of the �light is four times weekly on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. (Digna D. Banzon/ PNA)

DOT... FROM 4

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

HOUSE... FROM 4 the quest for autonomy of Muslim Mindanao, it can have a signi�icant impact on the economy, �inance and politics of the whole country.

“This is to accord the people in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao the opportunity to chart their own future within the ambit of our constitution,” Acharon added.

Tawi-Tawi Rep. Ruby Sahali, committee on peace, reconciliation, and unity chair, said the BBL’s passage is essential to address the decades-long Bangsamoro con�lict and help achieve peace and development in Mindanao.

“Let us make sure that the law we’re going to legislate will be all-inclusive, meaning all the peoples’ rights within the Bangsamoro will be upheld, our dignity and cultures will be preserved and will remain intact,” Sahali said.

For his part, Lanao del Sur Rep. Mauyag Papandayan, committee on Muslim affairs chair, said the proposed BBL would help the Bangsamoro people achieve a “genuine and meaningful governance in self-determination based on their distinct historical identi-

ty and their ancestral homeland.”

House Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas earlier said there is no need to hold a special session to tackle the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) as the lower chamber aims for the bill’s passage by March 21.

“With respect to the BBL, the Speaker (Pantaleon Alvarez) has given his commitment to the President that we will �inish it before we adjourn on March 21,” Fariñas said in an ambush interview.

Fariñas said the House committees will be conducting public consultations in the involved areas and affected stakeholders. The three House committees handling the BBL are the local government, peace and reconciliation, and Muslim affairs.

“The committee has set a schedule to go around the involved areas and stakeholders... Kung mag-special session, hindi naman namin pwedeng i-compress lahat ng schedule na iyun, (If there’s a special session, we can’t compress all the schedule),” he said. (PNA)

cient equipment.

Nestor V. Tan, President & CEO of BDO, said, “Climate

change is a very real concern in the Philippines. It is one of the most vulnerable coun-

BDO... FROM 5

13

EDGEDAVAO

tries globally to the impacts of such change. This bond demonstrates our corporate commitment to come up with business solutions to address the challenges of sustainability. This also aligns with our goal of growing BDO’s climate business, and ultimately, fostering the nascent climate �inance market in the country.

We are glad to partner with IFC, a global expert in green �inance.”

Vivek Pathak, IFC Director for East Asia and the Paci�ic, noted, “The issuance is an example of BDO’s leadership in developing climate �inance in the country. By building on our long-term partnership with BDO, we aim to create a vibrant green bond market in the country and stimulate private sector investment in renewable energy and energy ef�iciency. Further, by setting the standard and the benchmark for green bonds issued in accordance with the Green Bond Principles which IFC helped develop, we hope to pave the way for other issuers and investors to access �inancing through this product, at a time when demand for green infrastructure and oth-

er sustainable investments are high.”

The �inancing is expected to help save 93,000 tons C02 emissions per year by 2022.

The issuance is a culmination of an advisory engagement on sustainable energy �inance between IFC and BDO that started in 2010. It helped establish sustainable energy �inance as a core part of the bank’s sustainability strategy. BDO expanded its climate-smart portfolio from zero to over $500 million, which made it the country’s market leader in climate �inancing.

IFC is one of the world’s largest �inanciers of climate-smart projects for developing countries. Since 2005, IFC has invested $18.3 billion in long-term �inancing from its own account, and mobilized another $11 billion through partnerships with investors for climate-related projects. In all, IFC has issued $7.25 billion in green bonds in 12 currencies. These issuances are part of a global strategy to develop the green bond asset class in emerging markets.

He said that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has its hands full of many big ticket projects that he doubted it could have the

time to focus on the railway and start its construction next year.

Lao suggested that the implementation of the proj-

LGUS... FROM 5

ect be taken over by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) so it could its construction start immediately.

During the Habi’t Kape media forum at Abreeza last Wednesday, MinDA assistant executive director Romeo Montenegro said that the railway’s detailed engineering is being worked out now and that the project could �inally start on the third quarter of 2018.

The �irst phase of the project covers about 100 kilometers from Tagum City in Davao del Norte to Digos City in Davao del Sur, passing through Davao City.

Montenegro said that it will have eight stations along the way.

The budget of the �irst phase is some P9 billion.

During the meeting, Lao discussed the achievements

of the MinBC in the year about to end and its projects next year.

“The year 2017 is a hodgepodge of events that affected us not only in the local scene, but also made headlines in the international community. It’s a year that built frontiers that could have limited our movements, but also an avenue that provided us more opportunities as we face brand-new challenges,” Lao said.

He said the crisis of Marawi has overwhelmed the public eyes, and suddenly Mindanao was in the spotlight once again.

“But our resilience and dynamism as an organization has soared through these troubled times,” he said. (30)

Cash Management Bank in 2016 and as the Best Service Provider - eSolutions Partner Bank from 2013 to 2016. In addition, The Asset Triple A Digital Enterprise Awards 2015 and 2016 awarded Security Bank as the Best Electronic Bank for the Philippines. The Bank has also been named as “Bank of the Year-Philippines” for 2016 by The Banker, a

distinction which it also won in 2015 and 2012.

M. Lhuillier is considered to be the pioneer and one of the biggest and most reliable pawnshops / remittance companies in the country today. It has over 2,000 branches nationwide and has growing presence in the US with an extensive network of global partners.

SECURITY... FROM 5

14

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180• SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

Advertise with

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Tel No. 082.221.3601/224.1413 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com marketing@edgedavao.net

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS

15

WINNERS. Winners of the recent 1st Rancho Palos Verdes Member-Guest Best Ball Tournament receive their prizes durring the awraind ceremonies at the RPV Clubhouse. Boy Lim

Pacquiao reaching out BJMP Duathlon lures over 100 to UFC star McGregor E F

ilipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao says

BACK TO THE RING. Manny Pacquiao said he would be able to fight in April when he has a break from his legislative duties.

John Gurzinski/ Getty Images

T

his is a commendable boxing idea, another timely shot in the arm, I would say.

Our national boxers have come home empty-handed in the previous Olympics and Asian Games which tells us that something vital needs to be recti�ied or improved.

I like the PPBC’s (PSC-Paquiao Boxing Cup) geographical design. It begins and ends in GenSan, home of the legendary 8-division world boxing champion. The program has also accurately pinpointed the spawning regional grounds where raw but potentially talented youths can be discovered.

Which is what ideally should be the case.

In my decades of experience covering and writing the sports scene, I have observed that all National Sports Associations have developed a form of inertia since they have

he has reached out to UFC star Conor McGregor for a potential boxing match in April.

Pacquiao, 38, hasn’t fought since July. He surrendered his WBO welterweight title to Jeff Horn, in a controversial decision in Australia. He is considering a return in 2018.

Pacquiao told AFP that a �ight between him and McGregor would be “OK with both of us.” That said, Pacquiao indicated talks have not progressed very far at this point.

“Initially, but we have not yet had any follow-ups,” said Pacquiao, when asked if there has

been communication between the two camps.

“It depends who they can �inalize as my opponent by April.”

McGregor’s camp did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

An April �ight between Pacquiao (59-7-2, 28 KOs) and McGregor (21-3) would seem like a long shot -- although the same was said about McGregor’s �ight against Mayweather.

McGregor, 29, hasn’t defended his UFC lightweight championship since winning it in November 2016, and UFC president Dana White has repeatedly stated he’s looking forward to McGregor getting back into the Octagon.

PSC-Pacquiao Boxing Cup become dependent on the Palarong Pambansa, the UAAP and the NCAA in their search for youthful talents.

What a shame.

The PPBC national competition is geared only for the 15-16 years age group in the boys and girls division.

PSC Chair Butch Ramirez announced that no national team member can take part to ensure a level-playing �ield.

Aside from amateur boxing clubs, LGUs are also enjoined to form their respective squads. There are many LGUs whose mayors are genuinely interested in promoting boxing in their respective towns and cities and are af�icionados of the sport. They need not worry about the logistics because such is provided for in the Local Government Code.

Even if this may appear to be a duplication of the National Amateur Boxing Championships the ABAP has

SPORTS KEN Fred C. Lumba been traditionally staging annually ever since, the PPBC serves to continually stoke the hunger and thirst that motivate the ever-increasing young boxing population.

The credibility of the of�ice of Sen.

ntries to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) XI Off Season Duathlon have swelled over the century mark.

The race is set on Dec. 10 at the City Jail Road in Ma-a.

Race director JO2 Harvey Bryan Montenegro of BJMP XI said among the Elite racers are Dexter Nonato of Podium Reliance, Christopher “Tophe” Eyao and Edwin Pilonggo of Davao Toyuzo and Jan Grino of Wadab.

The other Elite teams are Caraga SURCYC, Porbo, BikingCoy, TriBuddies and Sante Barley.

The race will start at 5:30 a.m. with a 5-kilometer run followed by a 35-KM bike and end with a 3-KM run.

Cash prizes amounting to

Manny Pacquiao is at stake here even if the marketing promo strongly says only the PSC is �inancially funding the nation-wide slugfest.

Make no mistake about it. That Pacquiao lent his name and integrity to the title of the competition indicates in no small matter how serious he is in contributing to the discovery and identi�ication of future national standouts who may bring home the elusive �irst Olympic gold medal.

Which means that no stone should be left unturned. No stone, I repeat.

Funding is �irst and foremost a source of irritation in many national competitions. Complaints usually arise where there is a lack.

I would suppose that the good senator has already earmarked and released his share of the huge budgetary requirements.

I say “huge” because I know the

P7,000 for �irst place, P5,000 for second place, and P3,000 for third place awairt the winners. Running apparel will also be awarded to the top three �inishers in the over-all male and female categories.

Cash prizes of P3,000, P2,000, and P1,000 will also be given to the top three winners in the competitive age groupers – (male and female) 25-29, 30-35, 36-40, 41-45 and 46-50.

The event is sponsored

by Ulticon Builders Inc., Trail Outdoors, Podium Multisport Davao, Basecamp, Beach Break

by Randy Pabatao, Dark Frog, Beach Camp, Bagani Active Wear, Bikerboy, Barracks Barbers and Shaves All In, Casa Estrella, and Sabay sa Alon.

meticulous details in the charting of the budget requirement for a national sports event.

Organizing the PPBC is peanuts for the PSC. Ramirez has a large staff of men and women capable of running the operations even with their eyes closed.

Which is why I am tempted again to strongly suggest that the PPBC be institutionalized so that there is something beautiful the young boxing fans can dream about and look forward to every season every year.

More than saying “cheers” to Manny Pacquiao and to the PSC, I say “Bravo” to the hordes of boxing participants and coaches and LGUs who will actively take part. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@ yahoo.com.) Eph. 2:10. “We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 180 •SUNDAY-MONDAY, DECEMBER 10-11, 2017

MURPHY’S LAW Freak hit sidelines ace pitcher as PH settles for silver in Pacific School Games

SHINING SILVER. The Philippines girls softball squad with PSC Commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey pose after winning the silver medal in the 10th Pacific School Games in Adelaide, South Australia on Friday.

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

A

USTRALIA -- The dreaded Murphy’s Law beset a hardluck Philippine girls softball squad on Friday.

Indeed, if anything bad can happen, it will.

A batted ball struck the left hand of ace pitcher Glory Alonzo forcing coach Russel Hulleza to take her out of the �inals against New South Wales for good.

With the 11-game winner Alonzo gone, so are the fortunes of the Philippines which lost 0-8 to the Sydney softballers in the gold medal game of the 10th Paci�ic Schools Games at the Adelaide Shores softball �ield.

Before the �inals, Alonzo had given up only 10 runs in 12 games in an outstanding no-relief job. She was thrust into the starting job position after top hurler Kaith Ezra Jalandoni

was promoted to the Seniors squad that saw action on the same week in Japan.

“The coaching staff had no choice but to take her out and that did us in,” said Commissioner Chares Maxey of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), who had been the team’s top cheerleader in the tournament. “I have seen how the girls fought despite being undersized. They played with a big heart to the end, it is just unfortunate that a freak accident decided our fate.”

The Philippines advanced to the �inals with a 3-2 win over Queensland.

The team had beaten New South Wales in their �irst assignment 1-0 which sparked a winning run that stretched to 12 games in the tournament for girls aged under 17 years old.

INJURED. Pitcher Glory Alonzo was accidentally hit by a ball and was taken out of the game.