Edge10 issue181 December 12, 2017

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in his speech during the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 84th Anniversary Celebration at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium in Malolos City on December 8, 2017, reiterates that he is bent on fulfilling his campaign promise of eliminating corruption in government. ROBINSON NIÑAL JR./PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

BATTLE OF SKILLS

Visayas-Mindanao zonal competition features 62 entries PH pushes for inclusive globalization in meeting

By ANGIE SAVERON

T

he first Visayas-Mindanao Zonal Skills Competition rolled off on Monday in Davao City in a bid to showcase the world-class competence and skills excellence of technical-vocational graduates from nine provinces of the Visayas and Mindanao.

A total of 62 participants coming from regions six, seven, eight, nine, 10, 11, 12 and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao are competing, said Francisco B. Jucar, vice-chair of the national technical committe.

“Dito muna po yung zonal, Visayas at Mindanao muna.

Katatapos lang ng Luzon.

Bini-bench mark muna naming yung huling test package na ginamit sa Abu Dhabi, al-

though nakikita namin na talagang mahirap,” Jucar told the Kapehan sa Dabaw press conference on Monday at SM Ecoland Davao City.

This �ive day competition commenced on December 11 and will end on December 15. The competitions will be held in three different venues namely; the Regional Training Center- Korea Philippines Vocational Training Center in Davao (RTV-KPVTC Davao –

WORLD-CLASS. Francisco B. Jucar (right), vice-chair of the national technical committee discusses the importance of the first VisayasMindanao Zonal Skills Competition and the competency level the of Filipino TESDA trainees in preparation for the World Skills Competition during the Kapehan sa Dabaw press conference on Monday. Together with him is Rolando V. Dela Torre (left) Provincial Director, Co- Vice Chair, National Technical Committee. Photo by Angie Saveron Buhisan Tibungco Davao City), Philippine Women’s College of Davao –Juna Subdivision Davao City and in Arlyn L.

Basquez Academy of Beauty in Roxas Ave. Davao City.

“The winners for this

BATTLE,P10

T

he Philippines will be pushing for three key agenda for inclusive globalization during the 11th World Trade Organization Ministerial Conference from December 11 to 13 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez cited the country’s priorities in the WTO meeting which include eliminating trade-distorting domestic support and export subsidies, special

PH,P10

A grand upgrade INdulge A2

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

Militant groups and Indigenous Peoples stage a lightning rally in front of the 27th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Tupi, South Cotabato on Human Rights Day, Sunday, December 10, 2017, to protest the December 3 killing of eight Lumads in Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. Among those killed were

Davao cacao farmers get‘chocolate bonus’

A

food manufacturing �irm is offering “chocolate bonus” to Davao cacao farmers starting this month as its way of giving back to their clients.

Guadalupe Ocial, Kennemer Foods International area manager for South Mindanao, said the company would plow back to the farmers the amount of PHP4 for every kilo sold to the traders.

The traders will get a PHP2 share per kilo delivered to them. She said this is the

company’s way of giving back to their clients and that the company’s international buyers also want the farmers to share the bene�it of what they earned.

Ocial quoted KFI chief executive of�icer Simon Bakker, who said: “We want the farmers to get the right price.”

Ocial said pass on price to traders are regulated. For instance, if the buying price is at PHP34 per kilo for wet beans the traders’ price to the farm-

T

DTI unveils new brands at MTE

By JUDIE VEGA

A

round twenty-seven new brands--outcome of the Department of Trade and Industry Region 11 brand equity development program--were launched at the opening of Mindanao DAVAO,P10 Trade expo- Christmas Event starting on Monday until December 17 at the Activity Center of Abreeza Mall Davao.

ML extension to curb terrorist threats: DND he extension of martial law in Mindanao is essential to completely curb threats from sympathizers of the Maute-ISIS, the Department of National Defense (DND) said Sunday.

“It will help us to continue our momentum in our campaign against the Daesh (Arabic word for ISIS) and their sympathizers and not to do so will allow them to regroup again. (And) as you know there have been reports that they are recruiting already in the Lanao area so I think this

Datu Victor Danyan and his two sons. Danyan is chair of the T’boli-Manobo S’daf Claimant Organization (TAMASCO) which is opposing coal mining and coffee plantation expansion in the area. MIndaNews photo

by BONG SARMIENTO

will help curb their activities on the ground,” DND public affairs chief Arsenio Andolong said in an interview.

“If we dont have martial law, it will be very dif�icult for the rehabilitation of Marawi and the other war torn areas in the area,” he added.

“We’re going to move logistics ano yung mga equipment, pagka sila’y nakakaikot ng malaya dun, they can hamper yung pagre-rebuild natin di ba, kasi paano natin matutuloy yun eh kung hindi natin

ML,P10

Organized by Mindanao Trade Expo Foundation Inc. (MTEFI), the event aimed to assist MSMEs in showcas-

ing its products and services during the Christmas season.

Ma. Belenda Ambi, regional director of DTI XI said

the DTI started its Brand Equity Development Program as part of its newly launched programs. It is part of department’s new strategic initiatives in a bid to develop and promote new and highly potential homegrown brands.

“This is to develop home grown new brands for promotion both domestic and international markets,” said Ambi.

Ambi said that they recognize using brands and make it known; seller will be more

competitive whether in the local international program and positive to the consumers the will relate it to quality and taste of the product where you can demand your prize.

Ambi said that there were 27 exhibitors / participant of micro, small and medium enterprises who enrolled and passed the program underwent the following set of activities: Phase 1 – Brand Equity development Seminar and

DTI,P11

Biz firms advised: Stop giving‘taxes’to NPAs

T

To help end insurgency problem

he chair of the Mindanao Business Council has urged the business sector to stop paying “revolutionary taxes” to the New People’s Army as they will only delay the solution to the insurgency problem in Mindanao.

In an interview at the side-

lines of the MinBC 2017 Annual General Membership Meeting and Partners Forum Friday night, MinBC chair Vicente Lao urged companies to “put your foot down somewhere because the government feels if you support them, the short-term bene�it is (your equipment)

don’t get burned. But longterm effect of that is you are dragging the solution or you are making that worse.”

Lao said an “initial setback” may be expected as a result of not paying revolutionary taxes to NPA but refusing to pay will contribute to the overall solu-

tion to the insurgency problem.

President Rodrigo Duterte had earlier warned he would shut down businesses, most especially mining �irms, that are continuously paying “revolutionary taxes” to the NPA. The NPA and the Commu-

BIZ,P10

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

Mindanao products highlighted in expo

By JUDIE VEGA

T

he week-long Mindanao Trade at the Abreeza Mall aimed to highlight newly- designed products produced by selected micro, small and medium enterprises with the assistance of prominent industrial designer Stanley Ruiz. Rosevic Del-Rosario- Cembrano, Mindanao Trade Expo Foundation Inc. president said with the trade fair, Mindanao products are taking the center courtesy of the DTI region XI , the Philippine exporters Confederation, Inc. and Abreeza Ayala Malls.

According to Cembrano, the NewYork-based designer Stanley Ruiz was hired to conduct a series of product development session with selected Davao City micro, small and medium enterprises. “ The products are outputs arising from the sessions with Ruiz under the Brand Equity department Program,” said Cembrano.

Cembrano said that Stanley is a graduate from University of the Philippines

– Diliman, renowned for his ‘transcultural’ designs, and for combining traditional craft techniques with contemporary design aesthetics and in fusing industrial and natural materials to produce home accessories and furniture pieces. “ The designer stint with DTI- DCFO is part of the agency’s OTOP Next Gen Program, which aims to level the MSMEs’ products and services by coming up with new or better offerings with signi�icant im-

NEW DESIGNS. The Mindanao Trade Expo- Christmas event opens it doors to the public to highlight local, innovative Products’ together with DTI XI Regional Director Ma. Belenda Ambi and MTEFI President

Rosevic Del Rosario-Combrano and with the MTE guest at Activity Center Abreeza Mall Davao on Monday. Photo by Judie Vega

provement and innovation in the area of quality, product development, design, marketability, brand development , among others,” she said.

She added that aside from trade fair, special settings are the prototypes as a result of the product development course conducted by re-

nowned designer Stanley Ruiz under the supervision of DTI and DCFO. Cembrano said that eleven MSMEs were selected to

law,” she said adding that the city cannot even issue a permit to transport because the law prohibits transporting �irecrackers in Davao City.

Earlier, the Police Regional Of�ice 11- Regional Civil Security Unit (PRO 11 –RCSU) bared there have been inquiries whether they can get a permit to transport �irecrackers and other devices for

Christmas and New Year’s revelries passing through Davao City.

RCSU 11 chief, Supt. Cydric Earl Tamayo, said he has to follow the ordinance. If a trader from Tagum wants to sell �irecrackers in Davao del Sur, he has to go through other areas where �irecrackers are not totally banned.

Tamayo said the city has

an existing ordinance banning �irecracker and the local government has the right to strictly implement it within its territory.

He said traders may go to Davao del Sur through Butuan City, Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon then Kidapawan. He said traders have to spend more on freight or, Tamayo said,

Revenue and of Local Government Finance Securities and Exchange Commission Insurance Commission the Central Board of Assessment Appeals and treasurers of local government units “There is a presumption in the law that when one accumulates wealth beyond his lawful income, then there is a presumption that it is ill gotten and we can �ile a forfeiture case under Republic Act 1379,” Agabin said in a RIPS brie�ing for Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III during a

recent DOF Executive Committee (Execom) meeting.

Agabin said that additionally, “under our tax laws, all income, whether legally or illegally acquired, its subject to tax, and therefore, those who have acquired ill gotten wealth should pay taxes for the illegally acquired income.”

Agabin said the RIPS has already requested for the income tax returns of some of the of�icials and employees under investigation by the of�ice.

“If they do not pay taxes,

that is tax evasion and they will be liable criminally. Their properties are also subject to levy and distraint. If you recall the case of Al Capone, the authorities �iled tax evasion cases against him. That is what we are studying,” he said.

Investigations conducted

by RIPS against of�icials and employees under the DOF’s jurisdiction involve only administrative proceedings that it �iles either before the Of�ice of the Ombudsman or the Civil Service Commission

be part of the product development session with Stanley Ruiz as follows: Great Gifts and Souvenirs Internation-

MINDANAO,P11

Sara: No transport of‘paputok’through city House to reopen probe

T

raders of �irecrackers and pyrotechnics have to think again about bringing in these small explosive devices through Davao City to nearby provinces.

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio maintained that the ban on transporting of �irecrackers and pyrotechnic devices through Davao City.

“It is not allowed in the

SARA,P11

DOF eyes 2-pronged actions v. erring execs

T

he anti-corruption arm of the Department of Finance is eyeing the �iling of tax evasion charges on top of forfeiture cases against its of�icials and employees suspected of amassing ill-gotten wealth.

Finance Undersecretary Bayani Agabin said the personnel covered by the anti-corruption investigations of the DOF’s Revenue Integrity Protection Service include those assigned at the Department and its attached agencies--Bureaus of Customs of Internal

DOF,P11

on dengue vaccine mess

T

he House good government and public accountability committee will reopen its inquiry into the Department of Health’s P3.5-billion dengue fever immunization drive with the emergence of new material information about Dengvaxia’s safety and the program’s dubious funding.

“We will renew our probe in light of Sano�i Pasteur’s admission that Dengvaxia is unsafe for people who never had dengue fever, plus evidence that payments for the supplies of the vaccine were not authorized in the 2016 General Appropriations Act,” said Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel, committee chairman.

Pimentel said when his panel �irst investigated the DOH’s controversial schoolbased dengue immunization program, Sano�i Pasteur had not yet acknowledged that Dengvaxia could worsen symptoms for vaccinated people who contracted the disease for the �irst time.

Based on the committee’s initial review, Pimentel said it was clear there was “unwarranted haste” in getting Dengvaxia approved for use on Filipino children, and to adopt an aggressive inoculation plan using the world’s �irst-ever licensed dengue vaccine.

“Many of us in the committee were in fact dumbfounded by the excessive rush to allow the use of the vaccine and to get the program going,” Pimentel said.

“Questions were raised as to why we had to be the �irst country in the world to launch in April 2016 a public inoculation plan against dengue, when the DOH could have simply waited for the results of further studies as to the safety and ef�icacy of Dengvaxia,” Pimentel said.

The DOH suspended the dengue immunization drive on Dec. 1, shortly after Sano�i Pasteur said its long-term follow-up study of its Dengvaxia

HOUSE,P11

EDGEDAVAO

4 ECONOMY

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

NSW explores stronger trade cooperation with PH M

akati City – The government of New South Wales (NSW) expressed its confidence in the Philippine (PH) economy and wants to explore strengthened trade and investment cooperation ties between PH and NSW.

In a meeting with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez on 7 December 2017, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian conveyed their government’s intention to enhance their relationship with PH. A state located on the east coast of Australia, NSW imports telecommunication equipment and parts, passenger motor vehicles, medicaments, re�ined petroleum, and computers.

“We welcome Australian investors and businesses that will help us uplift the lives of those at bottom of the pyramid and enable the Philippines to contribute in the global value chain. New South Wales has expressed strong con�idence in our economy and the business environment stability under the Duterte Administration and wish to partner with us,” said Sec. Lopez.

The trade chief highlighted the growing manufacturing sector and encouraged NSW to partner with PH in research and development. The trade

chief also shared the PH government’s initiatives in streamlining and automating services to improve doing business in the country.

“We will continue to work on opening areas of investment and increase employment and business opportunities for all Filipinos,” Sec. Lopez added.

Meanwhile, Premier Berejiklian shared that many Australian businesses, especially in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, are attracted to PH’s encouraging economic state and enormous potential. Apart from the impressive 6.9% GDP growth, the NSW premier highlighted the good traits of Filipino workforce and the work culture they have.

With infrastructure-related construction as one of the priority areas for expansion of NSW, Premier Berejiklian also opened the discussion on a possible partnership through the sharing of expertise and technological know-how in the industry.

NSW BOOSTER. Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez shakes hands with New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian

after both officials came to an understanding on NSW’s intention to enhance its trade relationships with the Philippines. (DTI photo)

Consultant says Davao still magnet to investors New South Wales wants to

D

avao City continues to attract more investors particularly real estate developers based on the in�lux of business executives, tourists, and inquiries on business opportunities in the city.

Prime Philippines, a Manila-based consulting company, said President Rodrigo Duterte remains to be the drawing power to the growing attention Davao City is getting.

This includes the interest of foreign investors who are looking for better options. This development is validated by several consulting companies already set up of�ices here to help investors in the real estate industry look for opportunities and help them analyze the local setting.

In its report, Prime Philippines said the attention on the city has continued to be height-

ened although it also faced temporary setbacks a few weeks after the declaration of Martial Law in May. Prime cited the visit last year of a foreign delegation brought by the British Chamber of Commerce-Philippines.

Then British Ambassador Asif Ahmad led the group of about 50 executives from 30 companies.

In that visit, Chris Nelson,

president of the chamber, said that most of those executives who joined have started initiating possible joint venture initiatives with their local counterparts.

“We want to take advantage of the better economic opportunities that the country is experiencing,” he said. Since then, members of the group have been visiting the city

non-pro�it watch group promoting children’s health and safety on Monday released a list of toys that may put a child at risk of physical injuries and chemical exposures.

“Children are uniquely susceptible to the negative effects of shoddily made and chemically laden toys as their immature bodies and minds are still growing and developing, It is the re-

sponsibility of toy manufacturers, distributors and vendors, and even individual toy givers, to offer toys that meet quality and safety standards in recognition of the right of children to safe games and toys to play with,” reminded Thony Dizon, Chemical Safety Campaigner, EcoWaste Coalition.

“While all children are vulnerable to injuries and chemical exposures, children from

families living in poverty may be at increased risk due to their lack of purchasing power and their lack of access to product safety information, justice and redress,” he added.

In a bid to keep unsafe toys out of children’s hands, the EcoWaste Coalition has come up with a list of hazardous toys (haztoys) that are often sold without the required market authorization from the Food

and Drug Administration (FDA), the country’s toy regulator.

“Through this list, we hope to hammer home the need for consumer awareness and vigilance against unsafe toys this Christmas season,” Dizon said.

“It is not an exhaustive list of toys in the market that may present various health and safety hazards to innocent children,” he clari�ied.

CONSULTANT,P11

Watch Group bares hazardous toys list A

WATCH,P11

boost economic ties with PH

T

he government of New South Wales aims to strengthen its trade and investment ties with the Philippines, particularly sharing its expertise and technological know-how and participating in infrastructure projects.

In a statement Monday, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez said the government of New South Wales expressed its interest to boost its economic relations with the Philippines, after New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian visited the country last week.

New South Wales is located in Australia’s east coast.

“We welcome Australian investors and businesses that will help us uplift the lives of those at bottom of the pyramid and enable the Philippines to contribute in the global value chain. New South Wales has expressed strong con�idence in our economy and the business

environment stability under the Duterte Administration and wish to partner with us,” Lopez said.

“We will continue to work on opening areas of investment and increase employment and business opportunities for all Filipinos,” he added.

In his meeting with Berejiklian, the trade chief highlighted the country’s manufacturing sector, wherein Australian companies can also participate, especially in research and development.

On the other hand, the Berejiklian noted that the businessmen from New South Wales are looking at opportunities in the Philippines’ information and communications technology (ICT) sector.

Among the top imports of New South Wales include telecommunication equipment and computer, as well as passenger motor vehicle, medicaments, re�ined petroleum.. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

ECONOMY 5

Ayala Land to expand office, mall operations

P

roperty giant Ayala Land Inc. is expanding its shopping malls and of�ices portfolio to support the achievement of its 2020 growth plan.

ALI chief �inance of�icer and treasurer Augusto Bengzon expects next year to equal or exceed the 190,00 square meters of mall spaces and 180,000 square meters of of�ice spaces it opened this year.

The company is targeting to double its mall spaces to over 3 million square meters by 2020 from 1.66 million this year and increase its of�ice spaces to 1.5 million square

meters from 840,000 square meters planned for 2017.

“If you look at our 2020 plan, we should be opening the same amount possibly,” he told reporters Friday.

Bengzon said they would establish malls in areas where there are rapid increases in economic growth, particularly in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon.

ALI grew its pro�it by 18 percent to PHP17.8 billion in the �irst nine months of 2017.

Shopping centers posted revenues of PHP11.8 billion, while of�ices contributed PHP4.47 billion. (PNA)

PH bags credit rate upgrade from Fitch

Due to macroeconomic outperformance

F

itch Ratings has upgraded the long-term foreign currency rating of the Philippines to “BBB” from the minimum investment grade of “BBB-.”

The new rating is assigned a “stable” outlook, which means there are no pressing factors that could trigger an adjustment within the near term.

After over four years of status quo, the international debt watcher has �inally acknowledged the further strengthening of the Philippines’ credit pro�ile. This is the result of a long series of critical structural changes, including rising share of investments to the country’s gross domestic product, surge in manufacturing sector growth, better �iscal management that has resulted in rising revenues and declining debt burden, signi�icant increase in public investments in infrastructure and social services, and broad range of �inancial sector reforms that have further strengthened the banking system, among others.

In its report released late evening of Sunday, Fitch cited the Duterte administration’s bold infrastructure development agenda and its comprehensive tax reform program, both of which are expected to bring material bene�its to the Philippine economy in the years ahead.

According to Fitch: “Strong and consistent macroeconomic performance has continued, underpinned by sound policies that are supporting high and sustainable growth rates.”

It added that the Philippines is expected to remain among the fastest growing economies in Asia Paci�ic, with GDP growth likely to hit 6.8 percent next

year and in 2019.

Credit ratings are a measure of a country’s (or any rated entity’s) willingness and ability to pay debts as they fall due. Because rating agencies take into account many factors in assessing a sovereign’s credit worthiness including its macroeconomic fundamentals and institutional strength, higher ratings help to improve a country’s image before the local and international investor communities. Higher ratings, therefore, also contribute to a more robust assessment of investors of the country’s growth prospects and investment environment.

The country’s economic of�icials welcomed the much awaited upgrade from Fitch.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said: “We are pleased that Fitch is �inally convinced that the Philippine economy now is much stronger and more resilient than in 2013, when they granted the Philippines its �irst investment grade credit rating of BBB-.”

“Our macroeconomic fundamentals are on par with, if not better than, those of higher-rated sovereigns and continue to improve. Our economic growth in recent years has been one of the fastest in the region and among our rating peers.

Our �iscal position is much stronger now on account of administrative measures we are implementing to improve revenue collection ef�iciency of the BIR and BOC, and the budget and expenditure reforms being pursued by DBM,” Dominguez added.

“Our growth prospects are also brighter compared with those of our neighbors and peers. The Duterte Adminis-

PH,P11

Children greet churchgoers after dancing to the tune of a Christmas song at the Redemptorist Church in Iligan City Sunday morning (10 December 2017). MindaNews photo by BOBBY TIMONERA

Kitakyushu City eyes Davao’s cacao beans K

itakyushu City in Japan could be the next destination of Davao City’s cacao beans.

Kitakyushu City of�icials hinted on the possibility of sourcing cacao beans from the city for its chocolate industry during Mayor Inday Sara Duterte’s visit there.

During her November 28 visit to Japan, Mayor Inday and Kitakyushu City Mayor Kenji Kitahashi also signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a Green Sister City Cooperation.

“The mayor of Kitakyushu is interested in Davao’s cacao beans as a source for their chocolate industry. They are familiar

with the Malagos Chocolate as it has won various awards internationally and want to check out the possibilities in that area,” Mayor Inday said.

Kitakyushu City has offered to help Davao with its solid waste management. In turn, Davao City could supply the Japanese city with quality cacao beans.

Mayor Inday said the Kitakyushu mayor is familiar with the cacao produced by Malagos Agri-Ventures Corp. Malagos cacao beans was recently cho-

sen as one of the best 50 (out of the 166 bean samples submitted) cacao beans samples during the International Cocoa Awards held in Paris.

Mayor Inday, who spoke before delegates of the Kakao Konex 2017 held here from December 5-6, narrated how Kitakyushu City produces peculiar chocolates.

“They produce chocolates formed into nuts and bolts and you can play with it while eating; it’s not sweet and a little bitter,” she said.

Kitakyushu City is also known as the City of Iron because of the large ironwork companies in the area. Because

of this, the Neji choco, which is 57 percent made of cacao and shaped like nuts and bolts, became the most sought after souvenir from the city.

Mayor Inday said she is hopeful that the popularity of Davao’ cacao beans in the international market would allow micro and macro farms and farmers to maximize their production.

Mindanao accounts for 90% of the Philippine cacao production, with Davao identi�ied as the country’s chocolate capital. The city government has recently launched Cacao City to help promote the city’s cacao industry. CIO

laid out in the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022,” he added.

“We urge everyone to support the critical reforms like the tax and other regulatory reforms needed to sustain and even ramp up economic growth,” he said.

The administration is expecting that the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act or TRAIN will be implemented as soon as it is enacted into law before year-end. “This tax reform package will boost the country’s revenue-to-GDP ratio, fund theBuild, Build, Build program, and also increase the spending capacity of the poor and the working Filipino,” Pernia said.

The Build, Build, Build program is expected to ratchet up

public construction spending in line with the government’s target to raise infrastructure spending to reach up to 7.4% of GDP by 2022. This will intensify investments on public infrastructure to improve connectivity and ease the cost of doing business in the country.

“More than this, on our part, we are pushing for ease of entry of foreign investments to take advantage of foreigners’ interest in our country,” Pernia said.

Taking action from the President’s directive to take immediate steps to ease restrictions on certain investment areas, the Economic Development Cluster (EDC) recently approved the recommendations of the 11th Regular Foreign Investment

Negative List (RFINL). The recommendations cover easing of restrictions on practice of professions, mass media, communications, educational institutions and health-related sector.

Pernia said that the Fitch forecast of Philippine GDP growth of 6.8 percent af�irms that the country’s economic performance will be consistent, as the economy is poised to be one of the fastest- growing in Asia.

In Fitch’s release today, the rating indicates that “expectations of default risk are currently low” and “capacity for payment of �inancial commitments is considered adequate” but “adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.”

(NEDA)

NEDA elated at RP’s credit rating upgrade

S

ocioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia welcomes the raising of Philippine credit rating to stable or “good quality” from the previous BBB- by Fitch Ratings.

“This news is a welcome development especially at a time that we are seeing a sustained improvement in government spending. The upgraded rating re�lects the steady and strong economic performance of the Philippines and the �irm con�idence of investors,” the Cabinet of�icial added.

“This positive outlook and ratings from global credit watchers encourages the whole of government to be more ef�icient and swift in executing the needed policy reforms, programs and projects

6 SUBURBIA RISING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

Lumads protest killing of 10 tribesmen in SoCot K

ORONADAL CITY (M i nd a News / 11 Dec) – An estimated 500 human rights advocates and indigenous peoples protested Monday the killing of 10 tribal members (not eight as reported earlier) during an alleged encounter between the military and communist rebels in a remote village in South Cotabato province.

The protesters, who picketed the provincial capitol here since Sunday night, sought justice for the victims and lambasted the military, which claimed the victims killed on December 3 in Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu town were New People’s Army (NPA) members.

“The victims were civilians and not NPA members. They are opposing coal mining and coffee plantation operations in their village,” Jimmy Balbino,

Human rights advocates and Lumads hold a rally in front of the provincial capitol on Monday (11 Dec 2017) to protest the Dec. 3

killing of 10 tribal members in the village of Ned, Lake Sebu town, South Cotabato. MindaNews photo by BONG S. SARMIENTO

regional spokesperson of Kahugpungan sa mga Lumad sa Halayong Habagatang Mindanao (Federation of Indigenous Peoples in Far South Mindanao), told MindaNews.

Among those killed were Datu Victor Danyan, chairman of the T’boli-Manobo S’daf Claimant Organization (TAMASCO), and three of his family

members, said Sister Susan Bolanio, executive director of Oblates of Notre Dame-run Hesed Foundation, Inc. The community of Datu Danyan in Datal Bonlangon is a mission area of Hesed Foundation for more than a decade now, helping the tribal members in their struggle against coffee plantation and coal min-

ing as well as providing them farming livelihood alternatives.

Bolanio, who conducted a fact-�inding mission in the area, said 10 other tribal members were missing following the encounter between the military and NPA rebels there.

“According to community members, there was a series of shellings of 105mm Howitzer

storm surge victims was facilitated by �irst district Rep. Celso Lobregat.

Of the total, 242 are from Barangay Labuan; 43, Limpapa; 16, 13, Sinunuc; Patalon; �ive, Ayala; �ive, Recodo; three, La Paz; and, two, Talisayan.

Lobregat on Monday said the TUPAD bene�iciaries will

work for 15 days in their respective barangays and will receive PhP296 daily salary.

Each will receive a total of PhP4,440.

“This is the way the national government through the DOLE is helping the victims of the storm surge,” he said.

The bene�iciaries have

undergone an orientation last Friday for them to know their obligations as TUPAD bene�iciaries.

Hundreds of residents were displaced when a storm surge hit the west coast of this city in October, this year.

The hardest hit was Barangay Labuan. (PNA)

New People’s Army (NPA) �ighters who belonged to the Dulangan-Manobo tribe operating in Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat, turned over two ri�les in simple ceremonies held at the Makabayan headquarters here.

He identi�ied them as Ruben Balagay alias Ka Rustom, 19, and Marlon Dayao alias Ka MarMar, 20, both members of the NPA Platoon MyPhone led by Ka Ampog.

Cabunoc said Ka Mar-

mar was with a certain Datu Victor when they engaged elements of the 27th Infantry Battalion in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato last week.

Datu Victor and �ive of his followers died in the clash. The 33rd IB chief said the two surrenderees debunked allegations of the left that the soldiers massacred the tribal members.

“These are living witnesses of the clash and it was not a massacre but a legitimate encounter,” Cab-

unoc said.

A total of 80 former NPA rebels so far yielded to the 33rd IB and have availed of the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).

In exchange for their ri�les, the former combatants have received P20,000 each as start-up livelihood funds.

“We continue to encourage our tribal brother to avail of the government’s reconciliation program and live normal lives,” Cabunoc said. (PNA)

Storm surge victims benefit from DOLE program

Z

AMBOANGA CITY -- A total of 336 victims of storm surge have been employed by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through the agency’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantage (TUPAD) workers in nine west coast barangays in this city.

The employment of the

2 more rebels yield to Army in Sultan Kudarat

P

RESIDENT QUIRINO, Sultan Kudarat -- Two more communist �ighters have surrendered to the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion here Sunday, raising the number of communist rebels to have voluntarily yielded to the government in the 33rd IB area of jurisdiction to 80, an Army of�icial said.

Lt. Colonel Harold Cabunoc, 33rd Infantry “Makabayan” Battalion commander, said the two

cannons, followed by gun�ire from different directions in Datal Bonlangon. This resulted to chaos that forced the community members to run for their lives,” the nun said.

Five community members were also wounded, including an eight-year-old child, during the alleged encounter that also displaced more than 200 resi-

dents, she said.

Bolanio said that a ranking NPA leader was killed during the military operation, but his remains was found distantly from where Datu Danyan was slain.

In a statement, Capt. Arvin Encinas, spokesperson of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said that “only seven NPA members” and two soldiers were slain during the encounter.

On Sunday afternoon, the protesters held a lighting rally in front of the 27th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Tupi town, South Cotabato. The 27IB was one of the two military commands that conducted the operation in the tribal community.

Sadrach Sabella, Karapatan regional spokesperson, described the death of Datu Danyan and the other tribal members as a “massacre.”

“We want justice for them.

They were simple civilians who are �ighting for their rights over their ancestral lands,” Sabella said.

Besides seeking justice for the 10 killed tribal members, the protesters also expressed their opposition to coal mining, the militarization of Lumad communities, the imposition of martial law in Mindanao and US imperialism, among others.

(Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)

DSWD helps 128 victims of human trafficking cases, abuse vs women

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ENERAL SANTOS CITY -The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Region 12 has assisted some 128 cases of human traf�icking and abuses against women this year in parts of the region.

Dennis Domingo II, DSWD Region 12 information of�icer, said Monday the initiative is part of their mandate to address issues as well as cases of abuses and exploitation among women in the area.

He said they have been also working closely with various agencies to raise more awareness regarding the campaign.

Domingo said 65 of the assisted cases involved women who were victims of armed con�lict, in detention, emotionally battered, disturbed, abandoned, solo parents, and those seeking child custody and child support.

He said his year they have recorded 63 cases of traf�icking among women, some of whom were minors.

“There is a need for us to really understand that women rights must be supported not only by our of�ice but the entire Filipino people,” Domingo said in a statement.

“Violence against women happens every day in homes, in the workplace and in schools.

However, with our efforts to end it, we will ensure that women rights will not be taken for granted and exploited,” he added.

The of�icial said DSWD12 continues to monitor the “alarming” number of cases of abuse and exploitation of women in the region.

He said the initiative is in partnership with local government units and law enforcement agencies.

Also known as Soccsksargen, Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and North Cotabato, and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.(PNA)

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

Activists stage a lightning rally in front of the 4th Infantry Division headquarters in Camp Evangelista, Cagayan de Oro on Friday, December 8, 2017. The activists are demanding an end to militarization that is

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allegedly targeting Lumads in Mindanao and elsewhere, an allegation the military has denied. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

Maguindanaons urged to be vigilant after twin blasts

N

ORTH UPI, Maguindanao -- Local of�icials of this town have appealed to the public to be vigilant and help prevent crimes and violence following the grenade attack that hurt a police of�icer on duty and another blast that injured members of Philippine Marines on Saturday dawn.

Mayor Ramon Piang appealed to the public not to allow saboteurs to disrupt the peace and order of this town in Maguindanao.

“To all Upians (people of Upi), please let us not allow anyone to destroy the prevailing peace and order condition of our town,” Piang said following the twin blast that hurt eight government forces.

“Let us work with Task Force Upi and the local government. Be agents of peace and be vigilant in our surroundings,” he added.

PO2 Esmael Alabat, a member of Upi town police force, was seriously injured when a

ri�le grenade �ired from M-203 ri�le from a distance landed at the roadside police outpost at about 12:15 a.m. Saturday.

Senior Supt. Agustin Tello, Maguindanao police provincial director, said Alabat was one of the police of�icers assigned with the 1st Maneuver Platoon of the Provincial Public Safety Company.

Alabat sustained shrapnel injuries in the head and body and is now recuperating at a private hospital here. (PNA)

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III during ceremonies at DOH-Manila.

It was a citation from DOH central of�ice to government agencies that actively and religiously support health programs aimed at making every Filipino healthy.

The DOH conducted nationwide surveys on the implementation of DOH’s anti-smoking campaign in

all government of�ices and DepEd-ARMM earned a rating of 91 to 100 percent in its compliance with the advocacy.

Magno, a non-smoker, told reporters credit should go to all employees of DepEdARMM across the region.

“We would not have achieved this feat if not for the support of our rank-and�ile personnel,” Magno said.

(PNA)

ARMM agencies cited for smoking ban compliance

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OTABATO CITY -- For religiously banning smoking among its employees, two regional agencies in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) bagged the 2017 Red Orchid Award from the Department of Health, of�icials said Sunday.

ARMM Education Secretary John Magno said he received Friday the “Red Orchid citation plaque” from

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

B

Global showcase

efore the giants of China and Iran came to dominate the basketball scene in Asia, there was the Philippines which was once indestructible in the sport of basketball..

The Philippines was once a regular �ixture in basketball in the quadrennial Olympics and �inished third in the 1954 World Basketball Championship. It was also the �irst to establish a professional basketball league in 1975 similar to that of the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the United States. However, the migration of basketball players to the pros also began the slide of the country’s performance in the international arena as pros were barred from playing in the amateur rules that were enforced by the international sports body and the Olympics. Until lately when open basketball was introduced in the Olympics, pros were allowed to play in the amateur international level.

The Philippines, thru the Gilas Pilipinas basketball program, slowly got back to contention again in Asia and made it to the FIBA World Championships in 2014. As it emerged into the basketball map again, the country took a chance to bid for the 2019 World Cup but lost to China. On Sunday, the Philippines won the bid to co-host the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, together with Japan and Indonesia. The Samahang Basketbol ng Pil-

EDGEDAVAO

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ipinas (SBP)triumphed in its mission this time around, two years after failing to win hosting rights for the 2019 edition of the event.

The World Cup is a different level and we can expect that the gains in basketball in particular to spill over to tourism in general. It will also provide added stimulus for businesses as well as investments.

The 2023 World Cup will only be the second time that the Philippines will host basketball’s showpiece event. The �irst one came in 1978 when Yugoslavia defeated the then-Soviet Union in the �inal held at the Araneta Coliseum.

In the 2023 edition, 32 countries are set to battle for basketball supremacy. Indonesia and Japan will each host eight countries, with group round games to be held in Jakarta and Okinawa. The 16 other teams will play their group round games in Manila, which will also host the quarter�inals, semi�inals, and the �inals. The gold medal game will be held at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan, where a record crowd of over 50,000 fans are expected to watch.

It’s still a long wait to go before the 2023 World Cup but this early, the country could cash in on the build up to prepare for the big event and drum up interest among basketball fans around the world.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

JIMMY K. LAKING Associate Editor PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

9

Between REVGOV and Mindanao Independence

“Maybe most people don’t understand the implication of declaring a revolutionary government, Robredo said when asked by reporters about the rallies held by Mr. Duterte’s supporters in favor of a revolutionary government” (Philippine Daily Inquirer, December 1, 2017) How naive is the assessment above of our Vice President on what’s happening now in our country. She’s like an ostrich sticking her head into the sand so as not to see the approaching storm of change in the horizon. For the information of Vice President Robredo and her Yellow Army, the country today is at a crossroad. This simply means that the Filipino people are at a point when we have to choose between different courses of action. This is brought about by the slow pace of change or “pagbabago” in the country due to the legal obstacles in our current unresponsive and oppressive Constitution. And for this valid reason our people are very anxious and restless nowadays.

Yes, the Filipino people are now confronted with two courses of action.

These are: Through direct democracy, support a Revolutionary Government to revise our

D

VANTAGE POINTS

avao region may not be the epicentre when it comes to seeing and hearing beauty pageant winners turning to politics after their reign or as a result of marriage. Most popular among them is Imelda Romualdez, a former Miss Manila, who used her marriage to Ferdinand E. Marcos as a stepping stone towards political fame. She eventually became assemblyman, Metro Manila governor, congressman, and Human Settlements minister.

Locally, two beauty queens immediately come to mind.

Merced Edith Nakpil-Rabat was Miss Philippines 1956 but later became Davao Oriental lawmaker and deputy tourism minister following the political footsteps of her husband, basketball icon Francisco ‘Paking’ Rabat, who served as governor of the same province.

Nakpil-Rabat’s pedigree was quite impressive. Her mother, Anita Noble, was Miss Philippines 1926, and her father was Juan Nakpil, the 1973 National Artist for Architecture. Her grandparents on the father side were Julio Nakpil, the �irst secretary of Andres Bonifacio and compose of the �irst national anthem, and Gregoria de Jesus, the lakambini of the Katipunan.

Another beauty queen who has made a name of politics is Mariss Salvador-Abella, who was Mutya ng Dabaw 1977. Married to Santo Domingo barangay captain Ralph Abella and now on her �inal term, she is the daughter of three-term Davao City councillor Pedro ‘Pedring’ Salvador (19922001). Her aunt, Claudia Salvador, was many times the village chief of Buhangin

�lawed 1987 Constitution and shift to a Federal-Parliamentary Constitution for adoption of our people via nationwide plebiscite say in 2019. This Course of Action will be good for our nation.

Or be forced to accept a NO FEDERALPARLIAMENTARY Constitution and face a strong revival of the Mindanao Independence Movement after the term of President Duterte in 2022. This course of action will surely NOT BE GOOD for our nation for this will lead to Mindanao secession.

Remember what President Duterte said recently that a no federal system scenario will not be acceptable to Mindanaons especially the Moros. Now Vice President Robredo, ANO AND SAY NIYA RITO?! This is a good case of you cannot have your cake and eat it too.

For your education, Madam, may we suggest that you discard your Yellow Coat, tour Mindanao with an open mind and get the pulse of the Mindanaons anent the issue of Federalism vis-a-vis Mindanao Independence. This way, Madam, you will have a better appreciation of the true aspiration of Mindanaons and why we are prepared to bite the bullet to free ourselves

from the clutches of Filipino Imperialists.

TAMA NA, SOBRA NA ang pangongontrol at paggatas niyo sa Mindanao!

Andres Bonifacio established a revolutionary government to oust Spanish colonizers. Pres. Cory Aquino resorted to a revolutionary government to kick out a Filipino Dictator. Why cannot Pres. Duterte declare a revolutionary government with a People Mandate to liberate us from

Filipino Imperialists? Why not indeed?

I yield below part of my space to a very serious article titled “ Only a revolutionary government can overthrow The Philippine Oligarchy” by former Secretary of NEDA Romulo Neri and edited by former Press Secretary Rigoberto Tiglao. Per Neri, he wrote this article last 2016 for a cabinet member of President Duterte. “ On our oligarchy state “The Philippines is an oligarchy state dominated by powerful business interests who �inance elections. These business oligarchs make and break politicians and overawe a weak and politicized bureaucracy. They dictate and distort public policies to survive themselves at the expense of the public good through legislative and regulatory capture….

“On Constitution reforms “The constitutional reform process should be started and directed towards unicameral-parliamentary and federal systems of government. Parliamentary government system is more supportive of a strong and professional bureaucracy and more responsive to public sentiment.

“A revolutionary government will be declared to overcome the constitutional, legal and institutional obstacles to the President’s ability to deliver on his election promises and the high public expectation within his term of of�ice.

“The main rationale for these measures is to minimize implementation delays which are severely costly. An advisory and consultative council with representatives from each province will be convened to replace the existing legislative bodies as a transition measure.

A grass roots-based political party system with clear development agenda will have to be formed. Political parties will be united with common development, goals and projects both local and national that will develop local communities and support poverty alleviation and job creation while improving the business and investment environment, the national level”.

There you are. What do you think?

Clearly, the REVGOV thing is not just a passing fancy. Expect bigger and louder pro- REVGOV rallies in the coming months. Please don’t take these for granted.

various tilt.

Elizabeth Clenci of Mandaue City landed second runner-up in the Miss Grand International held in Phu Quoc, Vietnam, on Oct. 27, 2017, while Nelda Ibe of Tarlac City was runner-up in the Miss Globe contest held in Tirana, Albania, on Nov. 3, 2017. Mariel del Leon of Manila, daughter of actors Christopher de Leon and Sandy Andolong, was top 25 in the Miss International tilt held in Tokyo, Japan on Nov. 4, 2017.

Laura Lehman of Manila landed in top 40 in the Miss World held in Sanya, China, on Nov. 18, 2017, while Rachel Loiuse Obregon Peters of Canaman, Camarines Sur, made it to top 10 in the Miss Universe held at Las Vegas, USA on Nov. 26, 2017.

Chanel Olive Thomas of Cairns, Australia, was in top 10 in the Miss Supranational, held in Poland and Slovak Republic on Dec. 1, 2017 while Yves Campos of Cebu was top 20 in Mister Supranational, held in Krynica Zdroj, Poland, on Dec. 2, 2017.

Award-winning entertainment writer Ricky Lo wrote his column (The Philippine Star, March 13, 2007) about a number of beauty queens who entered politics, win or lost. Some joined the government and created a good impression, among them: Pura Villanueva, the �irst beauty queen of the Manila Carnival in 1908, was statesman Teodoro Kalaw, the national librarian. Their daughter, Maria KalawKatigbak, was Carnival Queen in 1931 and became senator in 1961. Trinidad De Leon Roxas, Carnival Queen of 1920, was the �irst beauty queen to become First Lady when

husband, Manuel Roxas, became president.

Virginia Llamas, 1922 Carnival Queen, married Jose P. Romulo, one-time president of the UN General Assembly. Mercedes Montilla, 1936 Carnival Queen and daughter of Gil Montilla, the �irst speaker of the Philippine Assembly, ran for mayor in Sipalay, Negros, to replace her husband who was killed before the elections. Cristina Castaner, 1956 La Flor De Manila, married Juan Ponce Enrile, who became senator, secretary of Justice and Defense minister.

Gemma Cruz, Miss International 1964, was appointed Director of the National Museum in 1968 and became a member of the National Historical Commission. She was Tourism Secretary during the Erap administration. Pilar Pilapil,Bb. PilipinasUniverse 1967, ran for the Senate in 2004 but withdrew. Clavel Asas Martinez, Miss Caltex �inalist 1967, was elected member of the Philippine Congress representing the fourth district of Cebu in 1998.

Nini Ramos Licaros, Bb. PilipinasInternational 1968, was one-time councilor of Makati while Aurora Pijuan â₠Miss International 1970, ran for congressman in Makati. Elsa Payumo, Miss Caltex 1963, one-time councilor of Makati.

Nelia Sancho, 1969 Bb. Pilipinas �irst runner-up and 1971 Queen of the Paci�ic, tried her luck in the 1987 Senate polls. Rio Diaz‚ 1977 Mutya ng PilipinasAsia Paci�ic, meanwhile, was elected vice mayor of Pontevedra, Negros Occidental, in 1998. Star Singson Querubin, Mutya ng Pilipinas-World 1989, was elected Manila councilor.

Pageant winners as politicians

while a �irst-degree cousin, James the son of Claudia, is on his third term as of the same barangay.

Of course, there are also notable beauty queens in our midst that have focused their energy in other initiatives.

1973 Miss Universe Margarita MoranFloirendo is busy with her socio-cultural undertakings while 2002 Miss Kadayawan Juliana Palermo (born Alvi July Juanico) is now into food business, which carries the label J Palermo Diner.

The Filipina as beauty pageant winner has become a world legend. The Philippines, without dispute, is now the only country that has snared all the �ive major global titles, dislodging Valenzuela.

Based on performance, it has won tiaras in Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss International, Miss Supranational, and Miss Grand International. In 2017 alone, the Philippines has brought home nine— yes, 9!—crowns, both in men and women competitions.

Baguio native John Fernandez Raspado, on May 11, 2017, snared the Miss Gay World in Madrid, Spain. Half a month later, Rizza Paula Infante, a resident of Silay City, Negros Occidental, won the Miss Culture World Heritage, which was held in the country, in San Juan City, May 26, 2017.

Meanwhile, Al-Hakam Reggie Dimalanas of Buluan, Maguindanao, took home the Mister Culture World Arts title in that same competition.

Beatrice Andrada of Quezon City and Canada snatched the Miss Asia-Paci�ic in a pageant held in Ilo, Peru on May 28, 2017.

FAST BACKWARD Antonio V. Figueroa Shirleena Joice Espinosa of Olongapo City won the Princess of the World 2017 in Bulgaria on July 26, 2017. On the other hand, Kathleen Paton of Boracay, Aklan, brought home the crown in the Miss Teen International 2017 held in Bangkok, Thailand, on September 23, 2017.

Moreover, Teresita Ssen Lacsamana Marquez, daughter of actors Joey Marquez and Alma Moreno, won the Reina Hispanoamericana crown on the country’s �irst try, held in Sta. Cruz, Bolivia on Nov. 4, 2017. Karen Ibasco of Manila won for the country its fourth Miss Earth; the pageant was held at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City, on Nov. 4, 2017. Jodel Padao Mesina of Cebu won the country’s �irst Miss Top of the World Plus Size in Singapore on Nov. 13, 2017.

Seven other Filipino pageant contestants also made good showings in

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

PH... FROM 1 safeguard mechanism (SSM) for agriculture, and a Ministerial decision on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) work program considering development levels of countries.

Lopez said in order to have a global fair trade, trade-distorting domestic support by developed and developing countries retaining domestic support entitlements as well as the elimination of all forms of export subsidies must be substantially reduced, if not, eliminated.

As the country’s chief negotiator in the WTO, Lopez will bat for inclusive global trade that will encourage participation of MSMEs in the global value chain.

“The Philippines places great importance on the role of MSMEs in promoting inclusive growth. However, we believe that even among MSMEs, competition needs to be fair among them -- as what may be medium-sized enterprises in

a developed country, may already be a large company in a developed country,” he added.

“Thus, we are pushing for a discussion on a comparable de�inition of MSMEs,” he said.

The trade chief said the Philippines will seek appropriate arrangement within the existing framework of the WTO and relevant committees like the creation of a Working Group under the General Council studying the impact and bene�its of the multilateral trading system to MSMEs and considering the needs and interests of the MSMEs depending on the levels of development of each country.

Lopez also backs the agenda of the Department of Agriculture to ensure SSM for agriculture.

“SSM would allow developing countries to temporarily increase tariffs on agriculture products in cases of import surges or price declines,” the DTI chief said.

(PNA)

competition will eventually represent Visayas and Mindanao in the Battle of the Best for the National Skills Competition in January 2018,” said Gaspar Gayona, regional director of the Technical Education Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

He said the winners of the Philippine National Skills Competition will represent the country in the upcoming 12th ASEAN Skills competition in Thailand in 2018 and hopefully represent the ASEAN in the 2019 World Skills Competition in Russia.

Jucar said the winners from Luzon, Visaya and Mindanao will undergo further training in the training camp.

From this pool of trainees will emerge the country’s representatives to the upcoming ASEAN competition naman sa Septemtber 2018 in Bangkok Thailand.

He said that majority of the competitions will be held at Buhisan and the The Fashion Tech and Beauty Therapy and Hairstyling will be held in different areas.

They will be competing in skills such as Automotive Technology, Beauty Therapy,

Cooking, Electrical Installation, Electronics Graphic Design, Hairdressing, Information Networking Cabling, IT Network Systems Administration, IT Solution for Business, Mechanical Engineering CADD, Mechatronics, Plumbing and Heating, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning, Restaurant Services, Web Design and Fashion Design.

This competition has adopted and aligned its standard with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Skills Competition Standards. The winners will be awarded with gold, silver and bronze medals and everyone who were able to gather a minimum total of 500 points will also be given a certi�icate of excellence in recognition for meeting the completion standards.

The battle of skills is in line with Section 30 of the Republic Act no. of 7797, an act creating the TESDA which states that “To promote quality skills development in the region and the view of participating in international skills competition, the authority, with the active participation of the industries shall organize and conduct National Skills Olympics.

ers must be at PHP32 and they cannot go beyond the ceiling price.

She added that international buyers want farmers, as main producers, would bene�it from the pro�it of the industry and not only the consolidators like Kennemer and their respective companies and traders. Without the farmers, Ocial said there are no grinding companies and chocolate

makers.

“They want to take good care of the farmers by also sharing the pro�it as a way of encouraging them to produce more quality beans,” she said.

She said her company would release the chocolate bonus starting this month.

“We require the traders to submit the list of farmers where they sourced out the beans,” she added.

BATTLE... FROM 1

DAVAO... FROM 2

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte flashes his signature pose with the officials of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) during the agency’s 84th Anniversary Celebration at the Bulacan Capitol

Gymnasium in Malolos City on December 8, 2017. KARL NORMAN ALONZO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

“This will be in a payroll form where the farmers acknowledge receipt (of) the corresponding bonuses and said payroll will be submitted back to us,” she added.

Kennemer Foods International, Inc. is a Philippine agribusiness company specializing in the growing, sourcing and trading of high-quality agricultural crops such as fermented cacao beans sourced from smallholder farmers.

Ocial said Kennemer was established in 2010 with

its buying and post-harvest center in Talandang, Tugbok, Davao City.

“We buy beans both from the farmers and through the traders where we process the seeds,” she said.

Ocial, who manages the Kennemer area in Calinan, said among their clients are Puratos, Mars, and Olam International where they process the beans based on the protocol requirements of these international buyers.

(PNA)

ma-secure yung area, papunta pa yung mga engineers natin e baka ma-ambushna yung mga ganun ba,” Andolong said.

When asked whether terror threats remain in Mindanao, Andolong said “there is a threat. In terms of seriousness kasi relative yun sa iba-ibang areas eh, pero meron, it is there, it is credible.”

On July 23, the Congress, voting 261-18, extended martial law in Mindanao until yearend.

In October, Lorenzana announced the end of the �ivemonth long con�lict between government forces and Maute terrorists in Marawi City following the death of top terrorist leaders Omar Maute and Isnilon Hapilon.

Andolong, meanwhile, echoed Defense Secretary Del�in Lorenzana’s stand saying there would be no holiday cease�ire with Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

“Nagsalita na si Secretary Lorenzana dyan that he is not inclined to declare a suspension of military operations this Christmas because it will give them (NPA) a chance also to continue their attacks on our outpost, they are taking potshots at our troops and policemen and he does not relish that and we will be giving them a chance do all of that during the Christmas season,” he added. PNA)

The law provides that it is the policy of the State to “protect life, liberty, and property from acts of terrorism, to condemn terrorism and those who support and �inance it and to recognize it as inimical and dangerous to the national security of the country and the welfare of the people, and to make �inancing of terrorism a crime against the Filipino people, against humanity, and against the law of nations.”

Lao hopes government would immediately act on addressing the peace and security situation in Mindanao so that the business sector “can channel our �inances and resources” to developing Mindanao.

He said some of the companies resorted to paying revolutionary taxes to the NPA to prevent trouble, as they were “left to fend for themselves” by the security sector in the past.

“No military was there to protect them before. The President is correct, if you give, you exacerbate the problem,” Lao said.

“We have to decide once and for all, if I go against the

nist Party of the Philippines (CPP) had been designated as terrorist organizations with Proclamation No. 374 signed

by President Rodrigo Duterte on December 5, pursuant to RA No. 10168, also known as the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2002.

Justice secretary Vitaliano Aguirre was subsequently directed to �ile a petition in the Regional Trial Court (RTC)

under the provisions of the Human Security Act for its judicial af�irmation.

The proclamation said the law “criminalizes the �inancing of terrorism and dealing with property or funds of designated persons/organizations, and prevents and suppresses the commission of said offenses through freezing and forfeiture of the property or funds of said designations persons/organizations, among others.

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NPAs, the communists, well everybody has to recon�igure your relationship with the NPAs. Because if you continue to support �inancially, I will close you down,” Duterte said last November 21 in “Ang Huling Tikas Pahinga: Isang Pagpupugay sa mga Bayani ng Marawi” in Taguig.

Duterte issued Proclamation 360 on November 23, ordering the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Jesus Dureza and the government peace negotiators to stop all peace talks with the communist group for failing to show “sincerity and commitment in pursuing genuine and meaningful peace negotiations as it engaged in acts of violence and hostilities, endangering the lives and properties of innocent people.”

The Proclamation was issued two days before the peace panels of the government and the National Democratic Front would resume a “discreet” �ifth round of talks on November 25 to 27, 2017 in Oslo, Norway. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

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:

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

11/28,12/5&12

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TRAVEL

EDGEDAVAO

A grand upgrade

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO DAVAO’S ICONIC HOMEGROWN LUXURY HOTEL JUST GOT GRANDER. The Royal Mandaya Hotel has upgraded its facilities to the tune of P14 Million and the new look has gotten oohs and aahs from its guests.

Entering the hotel’s main lobby, the first telltale sign of the novelties are the dazzling raindrop chandeliers illuminating its main lobby.

Turning up to one of Dvao’s most popular meeting venues--the Kamayo Cafe--was spruced up and has beecome a lot more spacious. From its high ceiling are raindrop-inspired chandeliers with one side framed with mother of pearl shell tiles handcrafted from Cebu.

The Cafe likewise transformed its VIP room into one of the hotel’s showpiece relocating it to an elevated corner all glassed up to its sides overlooking the hotel’s façade and a view of the city’s famous J. Palma St. It can accommodate 33 diners comfortably. Aside from its looks, the hotel’s battery of chefs also whipped up some new, exciting selections.

TRMH general manager Benjamen Banzon, during the inauguration of the hotel’s newlyrenovated facilities, said the renovations are their way of saying that the hotel aims to forge ahead or to be at par with the best in the industry.

The main man behind the new look--Architect James Jao--bared the theme of the renovations is ‘eco-deco’ design representing the best pieces of the Philippines.

Department of Tourism regional director Roberto Alabado praised the hotel management for its continued approach towards improving its facilities as the truly Davao homegrown establishment represents the region in the hotel industry.

The changes in TRMH, however, does not end there. Soon, it will add a third tower. Excitement times ahead for Davao’s royal pride.

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

HELLO BALER!

AFTER THE FIRST TWO LEGS IN MINDANAO, namely Siargao and Lanuza, the Philippine Surfing Championship Tour (PSCT) continues the competition up north in Luzon. The municipality of Baler, Aurora has been made famous by a number of indie and mainstream films that had been filmed on location. The 2015 indie film Apocalypse Child which was shot on location in Baler, dives into the province’s laidback surf culture and gives us glimpses of Canili Dam, Secret Spot, Aniao, and Lindy’s Point - the places one needs to visit having watched this film.

Synonymous with surfing, Baler is a small town whose history can be traced from the early 1600s. One of the places the locals place a high regard is Ermita Hill where in 1735, a tsunami hit the town and killed thousands. Those who survived, only a few families, were those who were able to head up to higher ground - the top of Ermita Hill. It’s been said most of the population can trace their ancestry back to those six families that survived the disaster.

While most tourists come to Baler to learn how to surf,

most take advantage and go to on tours to see what else Baler has to offer. For this week, we’ll focus on the happenings on Sabang Beach, Baler’s most popular destination where both experienced surfers and surf students can enjoy riding waves.

The third PSCT places anchor in Baler, bringing along surfers from all over the Philippines to compete and claim the coveted title and prize money of PHP 100,000 for the men’s shortboard division.

Baler’s very own top surfer, 19-year-old Neil Sanchez, claimed the PHP 100,000 prize purse of the Oakley Pro Baler after an astonishing match-up against one of Siargao’s top surfers, Piso Alcala, in a 30-minute beach break duel in front of Aliya Surf Resort.

After winning the PSCTLanuza leg, Sanchez kept himself in shape by practicing his maneuvers all throughout the week, just like a warrior preparing to defend his homebreak.

Sanchez scored a 9.25 during the early minutes of the finals and maintained his dominance in most parts of the heat. Al-

cala struggled to get his needed combination score to take the lead as Sanchez was on fire during his heat.

“I’m really thankful that my homebreak gave me the waves I needed to win this leg. I really can’t explain how I’m feeling right now. Thank you to my sponsors for supporting me and to God for giving me the strength. I’m so happy!” said Sanchez.

With a little experience competing in the international surfing stage, Sanchez who is ranked second in the PSCT leaderboard said he was honored to face a seasoned surf athlete like Piso Alcala who, on the other hand, had countless victories in the Philippines and overseas.

Alcala won the national and international surfing cups in Siargao way back in 2014. He was also the only Filipino who reached the Quarterfinals in this year’s World Surf League Qualifying Series (WSL QS) 3000 held in Siargao.

Let’s take a look back to that epic Semifinal match-up between Sanchez and John Mark

Tokong, which was dubbed as a “Monumental Aerial Battle.”

The crowd roared as the two aerial specialists exchanged their arsenals of powerful snaps and maneuvers, decorating their scorecards with high scores.

During the 3-minute mark, Tokong spotted a clean righthander and paddled for it. He landed a clean frontside 360 air and took the lead. However, with less than a minute left in the clock, Sanchez pulled off an incredible clutch combination of power snaps and 360 front side air, snatching the victory over Tokong. The spectators said it was the best match-up that they’ve seen in Baler so far.

“I thought I was going to lose when I saw John Mark landed his aerial. I maintained my focus during that last minute. All of a sudden, a wave showed up right in front of me. I gave my very best to get a high score. I said to my self, this is it, I’m going to the finals. I was so happy,” said Sanchez.

Tokong, who kept his head up with his iconic afro, was in all smiles when he went out of

the water and embraced Sanchez, exclaiming that it was one of the best heats that he ever experienced. He then walked straight to the crowd to commend them for their support.

“I really thought I already did it since I was able to execute my last aerial and take the lead.

I didn’t notice that Neil was able to get a good wave. It was a great heat. I will give my best and try to win on the last leg in La Union,” said Tokong.

Nilbie Blancada from Siargao dominated the Women’s Division defeating La Union’s top female surfer Daisy Valdez and fellow Siargaonons Ana Mae Alipayo and Jolina Uriarte.

“We’re glad that the waves are better now compared to yesterday. I was just trying to enjoy surfing with my friends, it was like a normal surf session for us out there,” said Blancada.

During the awarding ceremony, Vice-Governor Rommel T. Angara congratulated Sanchez and all the surfers who joined the Oakley Pro Baler. He also mentioned that he will continue his support for the growth of competitive surfing in the province of Aurora and make an effort to have another PSCT leg in Baler in 2018.

“I’m happy that the PSCT has put a lot of effort to professionalize the sport of surfing in the Philippines. I’m also proud of Neil Sanchez for representing Baler in the league. I will make sure that we will support the PSCT Baler leg next year,” said Vice-Governor Angara.

For this leg, PSCT only had a shortboard open division for both men and women. Despite this, both first-time visitors (which made up a big chunk of the audience) enjoyed watching the Philippines’ tops surfers battle it out in Luzon’s famed surf spots.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

Leila Alcasid is latest MYX celebrity VJ FROM WRITING and posting on her blog site and curated Instagram feed, budding artist Leila Alcasid steps up to be MYX’s Celebrity VJ for the month of December.

December 2 – 5, 2017 Only

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More than just being the 20-year-old daughter of OPM icon Ogie Alcasid with former wife and beauty queen Michelle van Eimeren, this next gen It girl is all set to make a name for herself as she prepares for her first studio album. Now, Leila takes up a bigger challenge as she hosts favorite MYX shows featuring today’s hit Pinoy and international music.

Meanwhile, Filipino balladeer Christian Bautista captivates music fans as “MYX Headliner,” while Chris Lopez and his musical alter ego, Moophs, also turns up under the “MYX Spotlight” as he showcases homegrown EDM (electronic dance music) all month long.

Catch Leila as MYX Celebrity VJ on “Pop MYX” until December 9, “Pinoy MYX” on Dec. 10 to 16, “Mellow MYX” on Dec. 17 to 23, and “My MYX” on Dec. 24 to 30. Watch MYX on Skycable channel 23.

For more information on MYX programming, log on to www.myxph.com, follow MYX on Instagram (@myxph) and Twitter (@MYXPhilippines).

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 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 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

DTI... FROM 2 Consultation by Geiser Maclang, Phase 2 – Brand Design and Seminar/ Workshop and Consultation by Bluethumb Design Studio and Phase 3 – Digital Mareting and E-commerce Seminar and Consultation by Sinag Consultancy Group.

According from Ambi that these 27 seven Trademark Application came from Davao City which has a 13 participants, Davao del Norte with 4 participants, Compostela Valley with 4 participants, Davao del Sur with 3 and Davao Oriental with 2 participants.

“The products of our participants and their brands will be part of MTE- Christmas Event’s Special setting.” she

said.

Furthermore, Ambi said that local graphic designers were hired to improve the brand logo and design of the participating MSMEs and eventually, had their trademarks registered in coordination with Intellectual Property Of�ice.

“The program is a concrete response of the Agency to help in achieving the deliverables set under the Negosyo at Trabaho component of the Philippine development Plan 2017-2020 and in realizing the goal of a Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Buhay otherwise referred to as the Ambisyon Natin 2040,” she said.

(CSC). The Ombudsman has the power to initiate forfeiture proceedings against public of�icers.

The BIR is the agency tasked under the DOF to �ile tax evasion cases.

From January to September 2017, decisions were promulgated by the Ombudsman and CSC �inding several employees and of�icials of the BIR and Bureau of Customs guilty of Grave Misconduct and Serious Dishonesty and �inding anomalies regarding the accomplishment and �iling of their Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth reports, the RIPS said in a recent statement.

Agabin earlier said RIPS is targeting lifestyle checks on at least 70 more employees in the main of�ice and its attached agencies such as the BOC and BIR before the yearend in line with the Duterte administration’s goal of weeding out corruption in government.

He said the investigation covers of�icials and employees who have acquired real estate and personal properties with amounts not commensurate to their annual salaries.

The RIPS said its of�ice adds at least 10 more personnel covered by lifestyle checks every month.

“We started actively initiating investigations last January, so we are targeting around 70 plus by the end of the year,” RIPS director Gilberto Espinosa said.

From January to September 2017, decisions were promulgated by the Ombudsman and CSC �inding several employees and of�icials of the Bureaus of Customs and of Internal Revenue guilty of Grave Misconduct and Serious Dishonesty and �inding anomalies regarding the accomplishment and �iling of their Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) reports, the RIPS said in a recent statement. (DOF)

�irecrackers and pyrotechnics may be transported by sea crafts to Panabo City.

The Police Regional Of�ice (PRO) XI has reminded local government units (LGUs) on the enforcement of the �irecracker ban, saying they are required to identify designated areas for the �ireworks display.

Tamayo warned the public not to use �irecrackers and pyrotechnics in non-designated areas as set by Executive Order No. 28 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte.

Davao City and the towns of Bansalan and Sta. Cruz in Davao del Sur are not required to identity �ireworks display sites because of their local ordinances ban all �irecrackers and pyrotechnics.

“Anybody who will use �irecrackers outside the community �ireworks display areas will be apprehended,” he said, adding that anyone who violates the order will be penalized up to PHP30,000 and up to six months imprisonment.(PNA)

al, Inc., Maria Vinecraft, Inc., Yvette’s Bags and Beads Collection, Carmelite Sisters of the Sacred Heart, Matgsalug Council of elders of MArilog District Davao City, Bumanlag Art Gallery, Nino Franco, ZOCOD, Emi-Alexader Englis Couture, Edgar R. Buyan Cou-

ture and Artes de San Vicente. “ A wide array of locally-produced products and services ranging from Mindanao arts and crafts, home décor and house ware, gifts and premium items, furniture, fashion, beauty and wellness, fresh and processed food, tourist

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NEWS11

EDGEDAVAO destination, among many others will be showcased in the bazaar, highlighting

holiday bargain items at very reasonable price, “ she said.

vaccine showed that people who never had dengue had an increased risk of a severe case and hospitalization from the third year after immunization.

The Food and Drug Administration has also ordered Sano�i Pasteur to stop the sale, distribution and marketing of Dengvaxia in the Philippines.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque on Thursday said the Philippine government

may sue to compel Sano�i Pasteur to buy back P1.4-billion worth of unused Dengvaxia shots and to establish an indemnity fund to guarantee the hospitalization and treatment of vaccinated children who will become sick.

Sano�i Pasteur is the vaccines division of French multinational pharmaceutical company Sano�i S.A.(House of Representatives)

and participating in business events.

The increasing number of locators from outside the city and the expansion of foreign companies prompted the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) to step up to the challenge by expanding their businesses.

“We need to seize the opportunities as even outsiders have come to the city to invest,” said DCCCII president Ronald Go said as he took note of the growth not only of the city’s economy but the country’s in general when government economists reported a 6.9%

rise in gross domestic product in the third quarter.

This �igure was higher than analysts were expecting. Go urged local investors to either come up with new business ideas or expand their businesses . He said they must “not wait for others to leave us behind, (so) let us move faster,” in reference to outsiders who have been eager to put in their investment packages.

But even before the call was made, homegrown companies had already been on the prowl to pounce on every opportunity that they could see.

(PNA)

Among those that landed on the EcoWaste Coalition’s list of 10 “haztoys” are baby rattles, �idget spinners, a xylophone, doll �igures, a “Shrilling Chicken,” duck bath toys, toy arti�icial nails, a Rubik’s Cube-like toy, a toy car, and battle swords.

I. Baby Rattles. Sold very cheaply for as low as P15, rattles come in various types and sizes and are often sold without choking hazard warnings in violation of R.A. 10620, or the Toy and Game Safety Labeling Act. Rattles can break and release the small beads, bearings or balls inside, posing a choking hazard to helpless babies.

II. Fidget Spinners. Also called hand spinners, these popular toys contain bearings and bushings that many come off and get ingested by children.

Aside from its small parts that may detach and its pointed edges that may cause cuts or lacerations, the EcoWaste Coalition found a “Ninja Animation” hand spinner adorned with a yellow paint containing dangerous lead concentrations amounting to 125,100 parts per million (ppm), way above the 90 ppm limit. Lead, a toxic metal, can wreak havoc on the developing brain, leading to reduced intelligence.

III. “Wonderful Music Xylophone.” While lead was not detected on the other coated metal bars of this musical instrument, the orange bar was found to contain 10,800 ppm total lead, in violation of the 90 ppm limit under the DENR’s Chemical Control Order for Lead and

Lead Compounds.

IV: Doll Figures. Cadmium, a carcinogenic chemical, was detected on the paint coatings of these unlabeled dolls at 1,200 ppm. Like lead, cadmium can disrupt the development of a child’s brain, causing learning disabilities.

V. Shrilling Chicken. This “screaming” chicken toy may contain banned substances such as di(2- ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and short chain chlorinated paraf�ins (SCPPs).

A laboratory analysis contracted by the EcoWaste Coalition found a sample of Shrilling Chicken laden with 19.1% DEHP, exceeding the 0.1% limit. Luxembourg banned Shrilling Chicken in 2017, Spain in 2016, and the Czech Republic in 2014 due to its DEHP content. Swedenbanned it in 2013 for containing highly toxic SCPPs. VI. Floating Duck Bath Toy. Supposedly a fun companion for babies during bath time, this toy may contain DEHP. A laboratory test commissioned by the EcoWaste Coalition found a vinyl rubber duck laced with 18.87% DEHP, way above the 0.1% limit.

VII. Toy Fashion Nail Set. The adhesive used to attach these arti�icial nails contains Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), which is listed among the substances that must not form part of cosmetic products under the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive. According to a health warning by the FDA, “DBP has the ability to cause allergic reactions, (which)

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can induce a state of hypersensitivity in the immune system.”

VIII. Dian Sheng Eatena Puzzle Cube. This Rubik’s Cube-like toy tested positive for toxic �lame retardant chemicals OctaBDE and DecaBDE, which are commonly found in the plastic casings of cathode ray tube TVs and computer monitors. Based on tests conducted at the Czech Republic in 2015, this China-made toy purchased in the Philippines contains 108 ppm of OctaBDE and 293 ppm of DecaBDE, which are chemicals know to disrupt human hormone systems, affecting the brain and the central nervous system.

IX. Police Cool SUV. Sold on the sidewalk for P20, this plastic toy car contains 1,380 ppm

of bromine, an indicator that the material may contain polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) from recycled e-waste plastics. PBDEs are targeted for global elimination under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants.

X. Battle Swords. These toy weapons measuring 25 to 30 inches long have the potential to cause blunt force injuries to the eyes, face and body due to the plastic blade, especially when played without adult supervision.

“We hope consumers will heed our call for toy safety. All children deserve nothing less than safe toys that are well-designed, durable, age-appropriate, and non toxic,” Dizon emphasized. (ECOCOALITION)

tration is fast-tracking crucial structural reforms – including the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program, the bold infrastructure development agenda, and liberalization of the investment regime. All this will help accelerate economic expansion, spread development, and increase income in lagging regions. While we are not targeting ratings per se, I am con�ident that with these reforms, there will be more positive rating actions in the next couple of years,” Dominguez also said.

Under the Duterte administration’s infrastructure development agenda, dubbed “Build

Build Build,” the government programs to spend between $160 billion and $170 billion on infrastructure projects all over the country until 2022.

The �irst package of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program, which is undergoing deliberations at the Bicameral Conference Committee, seeks to cut personal income tax rates, thereby increasing takehome pay of Filipino workers; it also seeks to lift certain value-added tax exemptions, impose higher excise tax on oil and automobile, and slap a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages.

(DOF)

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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

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

Big prospects for Philippine mangoes (First of Two Parts)

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY HENRYLITO D. TACIO

T

here are several varieties of mango grown in the Philippines. But when people talk about the fruit, they are actually referring to mango carabao. The fruit is elongated and kidney-shaped, weighs about 240 grams, with thin, yellow pulp, very tender taste and slight aroma.

The Philippine mango is one of the best mangoes around the globe. In fact, former Agriculture Secretary Leonardo Q. Montemayor said the variety has found its way in the Guinness Book of World Records as “the sweetest of its kind in the world.”

During the “Mindanao Mango Stakeholders’ Forum,” the current Agriculture Secretary, Emmanuel F. Piñol, was quoted as saying: “You talk to anybody and they will tell you that the best mango in the world is the Philippine mango.”

So popular is Philippine mango that about 147,166 hectares were planted to this kind of variety as of 2016, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). That year, about 659,014 metric tons of Philippine mangoes were harvested. In comparison, some 187,834 hectares were planted to other varieties of mango, with 814,055 metric tons production.

Most of the Philippine mangoes in 2016 were planted in Davao del Sr (131,44 hectares), followed by Davao del Norte (1,039 hectares),

then Davao Oriental (860 hectares), Davao City (569 hectares), and Compostela Valley (505 hectares).

In terms of production, Davao del Sur also topped in 2016 with 39,023.68 metric tons with Davao City as second (3,975.25 metric tons), then Davao del Norte (2,275.64 metric tons), Davao Oriental (1,612.65 metric tons), and Compostela Valley (325.08 metric tons).

After banana and pineapple, mango is the third most important fruit in terms of volume of production. But in recent years, production of mango has been declining.

From 1.5-million metric tons in previous years, the production plummeted to only a little over 800,000-metric tons in 2016, according to Piñol.

The production fares no better in 2017. PSA data showed that for the third quarter (August to September) dropped by 5.4% – from 58,600 metric tons in 2016 to 55,400 metric tons in 2017.

The PSA attributed the low production in the third quarter of 2017 to lesser trees induced due to the anticipation of rainy weather in Zamboanga Peninsula (Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga City) and Northern Mindanao (Misamis Occidental).

According to PSA, Central Visayas topped all the mango producing regions contributing 33% to the national total.

Northern Mindanao ranked second with 20.5% share and Caraga with 12.1%.

Carabao mango contributed 80.8% of the total mango production during the period, according to PSA. The Philippines is one of the world’s leading mango producers and exporters.

Karina Fernandez-Stark, Vivian Couto and Gary Geref�i, authors of “The Philippines in the Mango Global Value Chain,” pointed out: “The Philippines holds a relatively signi�icant position in the mango global value chain (GVC). The country has been an important player in the global market since the 1980, with exports taking off in the 1990s. By 2015, the Philippines ranked seventh in exports of fresh and dried mango, with US$91 million in fresh and dried mango exports for a 4% share of the global market.”

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said the Philippines accounts for an average of 10% of the world fresh and dried mango exports.

“Leading processors have been steadily gaining access to regional and global markets,” the three authors

wrote in their paper. In 2015, the major export destinations were the United States (24%), Hong Kong (17%), South Korea (13%) and Japan (12%).

Among its other foreign markets are Australia, Singapore, and some European countries (Belgium, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Finland, Poland, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom).

As a fruit, mango is eaten as dessert (ripe) or relish (immature), depending on fruit maturity. However, it can also be processed into a number of unique products such as dried, puree, juice, nectar, chutney, pickle mango scoops, roll, powder, and halves or scoops in light syrup. In addition, mango can be used as �lavoring for ice cream, bakery products, and confectionaries.

“The Philippines is primarily present in the production and processing stages of the chain,” the three authors noted. “Fresh mango exports are limited given poor performance in cold chain management, packaging, and pre-export SPS treatments, which prevents exporters from complying with standards required by key markets.”

SPS refers to sanitary and phytosanitary compliance.

The three authors, in their introduction, wrote: “While it has been a strong player in the industry for some time, a series of constraints undermine the Philippines’ potential to upgrade its position.

One of the main problems limiting export performance of fresh mangoes is the failure to meet strict SPS requirements in key markets.”

Despite the clamor of Philippine mangoes abroad, the production is still low in the country. “Mango production in the Philippines is often small-scale,” the three authors reported. “In 2015, the average farm size of mango producers was only 1.34 hectares. As a result, participation in fresh mango exports is often tied to yield more than farm size. Lower yielding farms frequently sell to the local market and to processors.”

Mango production occurs throughout the country, with the largest production in Luzon followed by Mindanao and the Visayas.

Because of the demand of Philippine mangoes all over the world, the government is batting for its

production in the country.

Among the prospects and strengths of growing mango include the following: Mango growing is in line with the initiatives of both government and private sectors in terms of production, processing and marketing support; · Once productive, a 1015 year old tree will yield approximately 500 kilograms; · There is a niche market for both fresh and processed mangoes, locally and abroad. The export market is expanding; · Technologies from propagation to post-harvest handling have been tested, veri�ied and adopted nationwide; · Processing technologies are also available and continuing efforts are exerted to develop new products; · There is a pool of experts in the country that can be tapped to provide technical assistance to mango growers and processors; · Research and development activities on emerging pests and diseases are given priority by relevant agencies of the government. (To be concluded)

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

13

EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

OBITUARY CECILIA SALVO DAVAL Peacefully joined her creator on December 8, 2017 at the age of 66 Her husband Lan, children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters and relatives request the pious readers to pray for the eternal repose of her soul.

Her remains lie in state at the Cosmopolitan Funeral Parlor, Camus St. Davao City Interment will be announced later.

is in need of

3 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Qualifications: • BS Marketing Graduate • Male/Female • With Pleasing Personality

DRIVER Qualifications: • at least 21 years old, male • with Driver’s License • physically and mentally fit Submit application letter and resume to: ELLA P. TINGZON HR/Admin Supervisor Edge Davao Review Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., E. Quirino Avenue, Davao City Or email at edgedavao@gmail.com or ella_tingzon@yahoo.com

14 MOTORING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

2018 Jeep Wrangler retains iconic look

J

eep has just unveiled the all-new 2018 Wrangler, a thoroughly modern off-roader that stays true to its roots. It features advanced engine options, safety features, and convenience technology.

Built atop a body-onframe design, the 2018 Wrangler (codenamed JL) receives a multitude of improvements that optimize its ride, handling, and NVH. It continues to use a �ivelink coil suspension both front and back but retuned to provide a more comfortable ride when traveling on pavement.

Bolted on to this are lightweight, high-strength aluminum components including the doors, door hinges, hood, fender �lares, windshield frame, and swing gate.

depth is at 762 millimeters.

Inside, Jeep uses better quality materials and improved build quality. The “heritage-inspired” interior features a lot of available convenience features including a push-button start/stop and water-proof surround sound audio system. The instrument cluster has been modernized with a 3.5 or 7-inch TFT LED display while the infotainment system uses the newest Uconnect system

The design itself is instantly recognizable with several design homages including the iconic seven-slot grille. That said, designers paid close attention to aerodynamics, sweeping the grille back and increasing the windshield’s rake. And like previous Jeep Wranglers, the windshield is foldable but since it incorporates a four-bolt design, it can be folded in as little as 5 minutes. LED lighting is used all around, from the signal lights to the headlights and taillights.

Of course, the design has also lead to a best-inclass approach angle of 44 degrees, a breakover angle of 27.8 degrees, and a departure angle of 37 degrees.

Ground clearance stands at 10.9 inches (276 millimeters) and water wading

with either a 7 or 8.4-inch screen. Android Auto and Apple Car Play come as standard.

Powering the 2018 Jeep Wrangler are three engine choices including one diesel. The entry-level engine is the 3.6-liter V6 Pentastar.

Powering more than 5 million cars on the road today, its proven reliability and low-end torque is very important when tackling challenging terrains. It’s been tweaked to deliver 285

horsepower and 352 Nm of torque.

Moving up, is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. Rated at 270 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. It uses a direct injection system coupled with a twin-scroll, low-inertia turbocharger with an electronically actuated wastegate. Keeping the turbo safe, Jeep mounted it directly to the cylinder head while a dedicated cooling circuit lowers the intake air, throttle body, and turbocharger temperatures.

The sole diesel, the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 delivers 260 horsepower and 599 Nm of torque. Developed by Chrysler-owned V.M. Motori, it meets North American emissions standards thanks to numerous changes done to it including a new nozzle design, low-friction pistons, and more.

All but the 3.6-liter V6 Pentastar gets a standard 8-speed automatic transmission (the Pentastar-powered Wranglers come with a 6-speed manual as standard). With two overdrive ratios, it improves the Wrangler’s fuel economy and reduce unwanted NVH. The Rubicon models also have a tweaked crawl ratio of 77.2:1.

Auto Nation Group, Inc.,

the exclusive distributor of Jeep in the Philippines couldn’t give a precise timeline for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler’s Philippine arrival.

However, Jeep has of�icially said that it will be making the all-new Wrangler JL alongside the current JK model at its Toledo, Ohio assembly plant. With production for the US market just starting, dealer delivers are expected around the �irst quarter of 2018. In the meantime, the current Wrangler JK is expected to continue into production at least up to March 2018.

Expect the all-new Jeep Wrangler to arrive in the Philippines no earlier than the third quarter of 2018.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

Celtics avenge loss to Pistons

15

BLASTING OUT. Stella Barnes blasts out of the bunker during the Monthly Medal tournament of the Apo Golf and Country Club on Sunday. Boy Lim

D

ETROIT (AP) -- The Boston Celtics prevented Andre Drummond from scoring in the paint and quieted Reggie Jackson on the perimeter.

That helped Boston get revenge from a rare loss in a 91-81 win over the Detroit Pistons on Sunday.

When Detroit beat the Celtics last month, Drummond scored 26 points and Jackson had 20. In the rematch, Drummond didn’t make a shot until late in the game and �inished with just six points on 1-of-5 shooting while Jackson was 0 for 9 with two points. ‘’We were locked in,’’ said Boston center Aron Baynes said. ‘’Our offense wasn’t as crisp as we wanted it to be, but defensively we had a game plan and we stuck with it. We were trying to pack the paint and make them make plays from the outside. Last time, they really had whatever they wanted inside the paint.’’

The Eastern Conference-leading Celtics bounced back from a loss Friday night at San Antonio, extending their feat of losing consecutive games only once this season. ‘’We responded not only to that loss at home (to Detroit), but also to the tough Spurs loss,’’ said Boston’s Kyrie Irving, who scored 16 points. ‘’We want to continue to build character and identity for our team and be responsive with a quick turnaround.’’

Al Horford had 18 points, Jaylen Brown scored 12, reserve Marcus Smart also had 12 points and smooth-shooting rookie Jayson Tatum scored 11 for the Celtics.

Tatum made a 3-pointer late to help hold off a potential comeback by the Pistons, putting Boston ahead by eight points with 1:55 left.

Boston shut down the Pistons’ offense after giving up a season-high 118 points on 52 percent shooting in the loss to them. On Sunday, the Celtics held Detroit to a season low in points and forced it to miss two-thirds of its shots.

LEADING THE WAY. Kyrie Irving scores for the Boston Celtics

Petron, F2 begin finals series

Games Today: (Filoil Flying V Centre)

4:15 pm – Cocolife vs Foton 7:00 pm – F2 Logistics vs Petron

H

unger will be a major factor when Petron and F2 Logistics kick off their Chooks to Go-Philippine Superliga (PSL) Grand Prix best-of-three title series today at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

Game 1 is set at 7 pm following the bronze medal match between Cocolife and Foton in the 4:15 pm �irst match of this prestigious club tourney bankrolled by Mikasa, Grand Sport, Senoh, Mueller, Island Rose, Cloudfone and UCPB Gen. After slicing through the eliminations with a commanding 7-1 win-loss card, both the Blaze Spikers and Cargo Movers crushed their respective foes in the quarter�inals before emerging victorious in the semi�inals to book a �inals duel for the second time this year.

Petron went through the wringer before pulling off a 30-28, 21-25, 25-23, 25-21 victory over defending champion Foton while F2 Logistics creamed Cocolife, 25-17, 2516, 25-17, in the semi�inals of this league that also Ger�lor and Gold’s Gym as technical

sponsors and ESPN5 as broadcast partner over the weekend at Mall of Asia Arena.

This will be the fourth consecutive time for the Blaze Spikers to advance to the �inals of the season-ending conference while the Cargo Movers are in quest of their �irst Grand Prix crown since joining the league last year.

Although they won the prestigious title in 2014 with American sweetheart Alaina Bergsma and Brazilian playmaker Erica Adachi at the helm, Petron coach Shaq Delos Santos stressed that they are very hungry to regain the crown.

“We know that for the past two years, we’re always being beaten by Foton for the title,” said Delos Santos, who was part of George Pascua’s coaching staff when the Blaze Spikers ruled the Grand Prix three years ago.

“That’s why winning the title this time means a lot to us. We are very hungry and we will do everything to win it. It’s no longer a question of roster, imports or any other factors; it’s now a question of heart and desire.”

Delos Santos noted that they suffered a crushing fourset loss to the Cargo Movers in their lone encounter this conference, 21-25, 25-20, 23-25, 19-25.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 181 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

WINNERS’ CIRCLE Guiang, Simbulan top BMV Golfest

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

R

yan Guiang and Herjojo Simbulan will have their names etched in the elite list of winners of the exclusive BMV Law Firm Invitational Golg Tournament.

Guiang and Simbulan captured the top honors in Saturday’s fourth edition of the by-invitation-only 18-hole tournament celebrating the 19th anniversary of the Batacan, Vicencio and Montejo Law Firm at the scenic Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club course.

Guiang �ired a gross 7 over par 79 to win the overall gross title while Simbulan carded a

two under par aggregate on the System 36 scoring format to take home the overall net trophy.

Tony Aguilar won the Class A gross title with an 8 over par 80 while Korean expat Ahn Jae Kwan bested BMV managing partner Atty. Ed Batacan for the Class A net title winning it via countback after they both scored 71s.

Peter Deloria shot an 88 to win the Class B gross crown via countback while Benjie Menor took the Class B net diadem with a net one under par 71.

Ronals Lu won the Class B

gross title with a 101 while Tina Bandolon broke the gender barrier after winning the Class C net title with a one over par 73 aggregate.

Batacan and senior partners Atty. Perla Vicencio and Atty. Vincent Paul Montejo awarded the prizes to the winners.

The tournament was sponsored by Motortrade, Trumph motorcycles, King TV Siano pocket TV, BILREY Construction Team CROCS, ALVEO, BENLIFE, Colourwide, and Fireball Security.

TEE OFF. Atty. Batacan (second from right) with some of the golfers taking part.

WINNERS ALL. The winners of the BMV Law Firm Invitational Golf receive their prizes during the awarding MEN AND WOMEN OF BMV. BMV partners lawyers Ed Batacan, Perla Vicencio and Paul Montejo with their associates. ceremonies.