Edge10 issue183 December 14, 2017

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ONE MORE YEAR

Martial Law extended in Mindanao T

he Philippine Congress on Wednesday overwhelmingly voted to extend martial law in Mindanao for the entire 2018.

The Senate and House of Representatives, convening in a joint session, granted President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for the extension of martial law and the suspension of the privilege of writ of habeas corpus for a period of one year from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2018.

A total of 240 members of Congress voted to approve the resolution of both houses calling for martial law extension in Mindanao, while only 27 voted against it.

There was no abstention.

A total of 14 senators voted in favor of the motion and four were against it, while 226 House ONE,P10

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte addresses the members of the Malacañang Press Corps during the Christmas Party in Malacañan Palace on December 12, 2017. KARL NORMAN ALONZO/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

SSS to open new branches

By JUDIE VEGA

T

he Social Security System is putting up two new branches in Mindanao next year as part of its efforts to expand its ‘geographical footprint’ in the midst of a growing membership base.

Emmanuel Palma, assistant vice president for southern Mindanao said the new branches slated for opening

next year are located in provincial sites and districts with a high demand for SSS transactions.

These branches will process SSS numbers, applications and bene�it claims such as sickness, maternity.

“About 121,000 branch account members of the SSS in Mindanao will have easier access to our services as we

open our new branches in Nabunturan and in Calinan, Davao City,” said Emmanuel Dooc SSS president and chief executive of�icer during the Kapihan sa SSS Davao City on Wednesday.

“We have already sites in these places but we are still �inalizing it with Gaisano Nabunturan even as we are still looking for a bigger

site for our Calinan branch,” “he added.

Palma said that the newly proposed branch is to decongest the main Davao branch and to make SSS accessible to its members including the self-employed and voluntary paying members including those in the informal sector.

SSS,P10

A Filipino Christmas feast INdulge A1

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte witnesses the signing of the deed of donation between Liong Tek Go Family Association Inc. (LTGFAI) Executive Vice President Tiong Rosario and Education Undersecretary Annalyn Sevilla during the turnover ceremony in Malacañan Palace on December 12, 2017. The P7-million donation

from LTGFAI will be used for the construction and repair of school buildings in Marawi City. REY BANIQUET/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

280,000 households pinpointed as poor

Out of 836,000 households in Davao region

By ANGIE SAVERON

O

ut of approximately 836,000 households surveyed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Davao region, a total of 280, 224 households in Davao Region are identified as poor during the period May 2015 to January 20, 2016.

The DSWD has identi�ied approximately 5,000,000 households considered as poor out of 15,000,000 house-

holds assessed nationwide.

The 2017 survey was put on hold due to lack of budget and due to martial law.

“After the validation we ran out of funds, so there are places that we were not able to conduct the survey. In those places where there are people who complained that they are poor but were not included in the Listahanan,”said Mae P. Valentin, regional �ield coordinator during the Stakeholders Forum conducted by DSWD at the Metropolis Suites on December 13, Wednesday.

She said that the previous

survey had a budget of P 18 million nationwide.

She said that DSWD was not able to immediately conduct the data sharing of the result of the survey because of the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and that they needed to comply its requirements. DSWD had to negotiate with the National Privacy Commission to allow them to share the data they have gathered.

Abas said that with the 2017 performance, DOT is optimistic that growth would continue in 2018.

Abas reported that tourist arrivals from January to September 2017 increased despite the declaration of martial law in Mindanao.

The arrivals of foreign travelers hit 113,305 for the

�irst nine months of 2017 compared to 96,902 for the same period last year.

In the same period, the arrival of overseas Filipinos accounted for 31,482 compared to 17,573 in 2016.

Domestic travelers only recorded 1,918,355 in 2017 compared to 2,046,627 in 2016, Abas said, as travelers

from affected areas related to the Marawi incident were not able to travel.

With these �igures, Abas said the total volume in 2017 for the �irst nine months was pegged at 2,063,142 visitors for domestic, foreign, and overseas Filipinos compared to 2,161,102 in 2016.

280,P10

DOT sees more tourists in Davao region in 2018

T

he Department of Tourism in Region 11 (DOT-11) is looking forward to 2018 with more tourist arrivals and higher tourist receipts.

This, as 2017 performance indicates a positive trend in tourist arrivals, said DOT-11 chief operations of�icer Zuhairah Abas.

DOT,P10

BI to deport UK pedophile

T

he Bureau of Immigration is set to deport a British national who was convicted of attempting to meet and have sex with a girl in the United Kingdom two years ago.

According to BI Commissioner Jaime Morente, Mark Christopher Wyatt, 42, was arrested by members of the bureau’s fugitive search unit (FSU) at his home along Quezon Ave. in Camiling, Tarlac on December 8.

He said that British authorities had sought the arrest of the convict after learning that he had �led the UK in violation of his parole or for “breaching a supervision order and noti�ication requirements”.

“We will send him back to the UK where he will be returned to prison because he left the country during his period of supervision,” the BI chief said.

“Being a convicted child sex offender, his continued presence here

poses a real threat to Filipino children anyone of whom could be his next victim,” Morente further said.

On the other hand, FSU chief Bobby Raquepo said that Wyatt arrived in the country more than a year ago.

He said the Briton was placed on the bureau’s wanted list last May after UK’s National Crime Agency, through the British embassy in Bangkok, alerted the BI about his presence in the country.

The embassy said that Wyatt was convicted in March 2015 for attempting to meet a 16-year-old after grooming and sending her pictures of his private parts.

The foreigner reportedly left the UK on Nov. 3 last year after claiming to police authorities there that he had a girlfriend in the Philippines.

He had a return ticket dated Dec. 2, 2016 but was a no-show in his return �light. (PNA)

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

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4 NEWS

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

SSS pensioners no longer need ACOP S ome 1.32 million retiree pensioners of the state-run Social Security System are no longer required to report for the Annual Con�irmation of Pensioners Program (ACOP) or the yearly reporting to SSS to ensure the continuous payment of their monthly pension.

SSS President and Chief Executive Of�icer Emmanuel F. Dooc said 58.64 percent of the 2.3 million pensioners as of end-September 2017 will bene�it from the removal of the ACOP compliance requirement for retiree pensioners based in the Philippines.

“In ful�illment of our duty to bring better quality services to our dear pensioners, we are

glad to announce that retiree pensioners who are residing here in the Philippines are no longer required to go to any SSS branch on their birth month for the ACOP starting October 30 this year,” Dooc said. Instead, SSS is conducting veri�ication procedure to con�irm if the pensioner is still alive and entitled to SSS bene�its.

ACOP requires pensioners to annually report to SSS to ensure the continuous payment of their bene�its. It was implemented in 2012 to avoid circumstances wherein the rightful recipients are not receiving their monthly bene�it.

All retirees residing outside the country, total disabil-

SSS,P10

Michael Zee (left), Google’s former Director of Legal for Asia-Pacific, made a rare and his first visit to Davao on December 11 and 12 to touch base with the Philippine team of Onerent, a real estate tech

startup where he is a key investor. Zee is welcomed by Rico Mok (center), Chief Technology Officer and Onerent co-founder, and Shake Tuason, VP of Culture & Branch Operations.

Reds puts off release DSWD bares household of captive policemen

survey results in forum C T

By ANGIE SAVERON

he Department of Social Welfare and Development conducted a stakeholder’s forum on December 13, Wednesday at Metropolis Suites Davao City.

The forum aims to share the result of the household assessment survey conducted last May 2015 to January 20, 2016 and to educate the participants about the Data Sharing Protocol & Data Privacy Act of 2012 or Republic Act 10173.

“We also want them to understand why they need to have a memorandum of agreement once they want to request a sensitive data because they might go to prison if someone (who is not in the moa) will know about it,” said Mae P. Valentin Regional Field

Coordinator on the sides on the Stakeholders Forum This was attended by 30 participants from national government agencies such as Commission on Higher Education, Department of Health, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Provincial Local Government Unit and Non- Government Organizations.

“We only look into agencies who have social programs,” said Valentin.

The guideline in sharing

the data gathered from the Listahanan (Memorandum Circular 12 Series of 2017) was discussed during the forum.

It’s objective is to serve basis in prioritizing the poor as bene�iciaries of Social Protection Programs. It aims to establish a systematic way of data sharing, ensure data security mechanisms are in pace and increase coordination between agencies.

RA10173 is a law pro-

DSWD,P10

ommunist rebels called off the scheduled release of the two police of�icers they abducted in Placer town in Surigao del Norte early last month, citing the military’s refusal to suspend operations to facilitate the captives’ safe return to their loved ones.

Ka Maria Malaya, spokesperson of the National Democratic Front in Northeastern Mindanao (NDF-NEMR), said in an emailed statement that PO2 Jhon Paul M. Doverte and PO2 Alfredo L. Degamon were supposed to be released on Dec. 5 as part of the NDF’s gesture of peace and in re-

with technology, managing over $500M in assets and expanding throughout the US. It is currently hiring in Davao at recruiting@ onerent.co.

REDS,P10

No reason to postpone 2018 village polls: DND

D Michael Zee (standing, upper right) gives an inspiring message to the Onerent team in Davao, encouraging them to level up as Onerent scales up in the coming year. Onerent simplifies the rental process

sponse to the ardent request of their families to be reunited with them this Christmas.

New People’s Army guerrillas wearing vests and uniforms of the police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group snatched Doverte and Degamon on Nov. 13 at a police outpost in Barangay Badas, Placer town.

Malaya said they decided to cancel the scheduled release of the two policemen after the military refused to heed the Third Party Facilitator’s call for them to stand down.

“All units of military and

efense Secretary Del�in Lorenzana on Wednesday said he sees no reason for the scheduled May 2018 barangay (village) elections in Mindanao to be postponed despite Congress’ approval of one-year martial law extension.

“We see no reason why the barangay election will not push through,” Lorenzana told Senator Francis Escudero during the latter’s interpellation during the Congress’ joint session to tackle the martial law extension request at the House of Representatives.

Escudero wanted to know the intention and plan of the Duterte administration with respect to the upcoming barangay elections in Mindanao

in relation to the proposed oneyear extension of martial law.

Lorenzana further explained that the postponement of barangay elections would be a “case-to-case basis” such as if there were violent incidents that would prevent the electorate from voting.

He said his department would advise the Commission on Elections (Comelec) accordingly if such incidents happen.

Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra explained that the matter of postponing any election lies at the discretion of the Comelec based on recommendations by people who know the peace and order situation in localities concerned.

NO,P10

EDGEDAVAO

5 ECONOMY

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

Dominguez hails Bicam’s of proposed tax reforms

F

inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III is happy with the Bicameral Conference Committee’s approval of the �irst package of the proposed tax reform, gains from which is seen to reach PHP130 billion, near the PHP157 billion projected by the Department of Finance (DOF).

In a brie�ing after a �ield visit at the LafargeHolcim cement production plant in Norzagaray, Bulacan Tuesday, the Finance chief said the Committee’s approval of the initial Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) bill encourages Finance of�icials to work harder for the next batches.

“We are now ready for the TRAIN to leave the station,” he said, citing its advantage on the Duterte administration’s infrastructure program called “Build, Build, Build”.

“The PHP130 billion that we expect from the TRAIN, the net revenue effect, is certainly very close to the bill, the net revenue, that was passed in the House (of Representatives) so we are pleased that the legislature has given us to

where we go to begin a really serious infrastructure program,” he said.

Under the Bicam-approved measure, which is awaiting rati�ications from the House of Representatives and the Senate before it is submitted to the Of�ice of the President for signature, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) will have the biggest revenue gains because of the higher excise taxes on fuel.

“The Bureau of Customs will be fully empowered in effect, especially since we are also implementing a fuel marketing system,” he said citing that this system would be implemented in 2018.

Fuel marking will be in place next year and Dominguez said this program would certainly help the government, particularly the BOC, identify smuggled, misdeclared or under-declared fuel.

Fuel marking is a process wherein a liquid solution is mixed with the oil product to check its grade and for the government to check if the company is paying correct taxes. (PNA)

COMMITING SUPPORT. Aboitiz top executive Arturo M. Milan, incoming president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII), signs the commitment board indicating support for the Davao Regional Development Plan (DRDP) 20172022, after attending a DRDP roadshow conducted by the Regional

Development Council (RDC) in Region 11, headed by Davao del Norte Gov. Anthony G, del Rosario, RDC chairperson. The roadshow held at the NEDA-RDC Center in Bangkal, Davao City was for the private sector and business community. ANTONIO M. AJERO

Davao mulls importing coconuts from Indonesia IT-BPM upsurge C expected in 2018

T

he of�ice property market is expected to continue expanding next year with a resurgence of the information technology-business process management (IT-BPM) and growth of the offshore online gaming industry.

David Leechiu, chief executive of�icer of Leechiu Property Consultants (LPC), anticipates a “dramatic resurgence” of the IT-BPM industry in 2018 resulting from reaf�irmed relations with the United States (US) and the bicameral version of the comprehensive tax reform law which is friendly to the ITBPM industry.

Leechiu noted the recent upgrade of the Philippines’ credit rating is also a positive development.

“Handful of the world’s largest companies by market capitalization are in �inal stages of setting up shared services operations that will be employing tens of thousands of Filipinos, which will assure the world that all is well in the Philippines,” he said in a press brie�ing on Tuesday.

Leechiu said there is a “very good chance” that Metro

Manila of�ice take-up would reach 800,000 to 850,000 square meters in 2018.

Metro Manila of�ice takeup rate is forecast in 2017 to register at an all-time high of 750,000. As of end-November, take-up was at 728,305 sqm.

“Exponential growth from the offshore online gaming industry fuelled robust of�ice demand and more than made up for a slack from the IT-business process manufacturing Industry,” he said.

Leechiu further said online gaming expanded by 306 percent from only 56,700 sqm in 2016 to 230,102 sqm as of the end of November.

IT-BPM takeup, on the other hand, was 28 percent less at 347,660 sqm as of November from 485,100 sqm in 2016.

Online gaming �irms took up spaces mostly in Bay City, the business districts rising along Manila Bay. Bay City accounted for 67 percent of all online gaming takeup as of last month.

Meanwhile, vacancy rate across Metro Manila registered at a manageable 6.62 percent. (PNA)

oconut-based processors in the Davao Region need to tap other sources of raw materials, including Indonesia, to meet the tight demand caused by the growing number of entrepreneurs, an official of the Department of Trade and Industry said.

During the DTI-11 Annual Media Interface on Tuesday at the Pinnacle Hotel and Suites here, DTI-11 regional director Maria Belenda Q. Ambi said regional coconut production could no longer meet the demand of a tighter market competition.

“In terms of coconut raw materials, we have a lot of processing establishments here in coconut. Our supply is no longer enough in Davao Region to sustain the operations,” she said.

She said many of the co-

conut processors, in particular those making coconut oil, are also expanding their operations, due to higher global demand.

She said they plan to take advantage of the Davao City-General Santos-Bitung, Indonesia sea route that was launched last April 30 in the city.

She cited Mindanao is closer to Indonesia, which is currently the largest coconut producer in the world.

Even if local processors would import raw nuts from

Indonesia, Ambi said they can still earn higher income because they are into value-adding.

“It’s a win-win situation for us,” she said.

Based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, Mindanao’s coconut production in 2016 only reached only 8.3 million metric tons.

Davao Region had the highest production with 1.89 million MT, followed by Northern Mindanao with 1.8 million MT, Zamboanga Peninsula with 1.52 million MT, Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao with 1.3 MT, and Cotabato Region with 958,350 MT. Davao Region Industry Cluster Inc. chair Tata M. Fernandez said Mindanao faces a 3-million MT coconut de�icit a year that many of the local

processors source out from Visayas to �ill the supply gap.

Fernandez said the de�icit is caused by a stagnant production vis-à-vis a demand that grows between 3 percent and 5 percent a year.

He said if the de�icit continues, it will cripple the growth of the coconut industry.

Romeo L. Castañaga, provincial director of DTI-Davao del Norte who is also country head of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area SME working group, said shipping companies have already signi�ied an interest to deploy smaller vessels to the newly-opened sea route.

He identi�ied these companies as the Zamboanga City-based Aleson Shipping

last year.

PSA data showed that production of chemical products signi�icantly contributed to the decline of VoPi, which the sector fell by 61 percent last October.

Four major sectors also contributed to the decline of production volume including tobacco products, down by 39.4 percent; textiles, down by 28.3 percent; footwear and wearing apparel, down by 27.5 percent; and paper and paper products, down by 18.9

percent.

On the other hand, factory output of construction-related manufacturers remained robust in October.

The National Economic and Development Authority said that the production of construction-related materials is attributed to higher demand for industrial and commercial buildings coupled with higher government infrastructure spending and capital outlays.

Meanwhile, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary

Ernesto Pernia said making government services ef�icient to businesses and embracing innovation across all sizes of establishments would help in boosting manufacturing output.

“Ef�iciency in delivering business-related government services or ease of doing business still needs to be improved.

Ideally, business procedures across all national agencies and local government units must be automated,” said Pernia. (PNA)

DAVAO,P10

Manufacturing output, value on slow mode

M

anufacturing industry’s production volume and value slowed down in October this year, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported Tuesday.

Volume of production index (VoPi) for October this year declined by 6.5 percent, from a 9.9 percent growth in the same month in 2016.

Likewise, value of production index (VaPi) went down by 6.3 percent in October 2017 from 4.5 percent growth

6 ECONOMY Total trade grows 10.4% in October T he country’s total trade grew by 10.4 percent in October 2017 from 4.6 percent in the previous month after exports recorded its 11th consecutive month of positive growth, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Tuesday.

The PSA, an attached agency of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), said exports increased by 6.6 percent to USD5.37 billion, while imports posted a double-digit growth of 13.1 percent to USD8.21 billion.

The de�icit in the total balance of trade in goods amounted to USD2.84 billion in Oc-

tober 2017, higher than the USD2.22 billion de�icit during the same period last year.

“We are encouraged by the performance of Philippine trade in recent months, especially with the consistent positive performance of exports.

Cooperation and trade initiatives are integral to sustaining these gains,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and NEDA Director-General Ernesto M. Pernia said in a statement.

Pernia is optimistic that exports of agricultural products and semiconductors, which continue to comprise a huge portion of Philippine exports, would improve further in 2018.

EDGEDAVAO

From L-R: Annie Garcia, President, SM Supermalls; Jeffrey Lim, President, SM Prime Holdings; Hans T. Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee, SM Prime Holdings; Ernest Cu, President and CEO,

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

Globe Telecom; and Willy Ocier, President, Philippine Global Communications, Inc.

Globe, SM team up for seamless digital P3-B worth of cigarettes experience in Supermalls through GoWiFi with fake stamps burned

I

magine seamless digital connection while shopping and dining in SM Supermalls. Through the partnership and collaboration of Globe Telecom and SM Supermalls, mall goers will now be able to experience quality connectivity with GoWiFi Auto. This premium GoWiFi service allows customers to surf all day in 34 selected SM malls nationwide.

Ernest Cu, president and chief executive of�icer of Globe Telecom, Hans Sy, chairman of the executive committee of SM Prime and Willy Ocier, president of Philippine Global Communications, Inc., recently signed a memorandum of agreement last November 23, 2017, Thursday at China Blue, Conrad Hotel to roll out GoWiFi Auto.

“The new GoWiFi access in SM Supermalls is in line with our company’s mission to create wonderful experiences for customers that include premium con-

nectivity even while they are out with their family and friends,” Cu elaborates in a statement.

He says having GoWiFi access in all 34 SM malls gives customers a swift and dependable option when they connect to the internet while shopping, dining inside the mall.

The landmark partnership was witnessed by Globe Telecom executives, including Don Rae, head of the WiFi Business Group; Christopher Cheng, vice president of the WiFi Business Group; Adrian Te, di-

rector of the WiFi Business Group, and Dominador Perez, head of rollout and deployment, WiFi Business Group.

SM top executives who joined Sy included Jeffrey Lim, president of SM Prime, and Annie Garcia, President of SM Supermalls.

Globe GoWiFi Auto is a seamless way to connect to WiFi automatically while in a GoWiFi coverage area.

Customers who avail of the GoWiFi Auto will be able to connect automatically to the Internet and enjoy uninterrupted browsing without ads, and without having to enter user names and passwords.

GoWiFi Auto also allows customers to connect automatically when moving to other locations within the mall and extends browsing time beyond the free daily time allotted to users.

A one-time free trial allows new users to access

verseas Filipino Workers and their families are encouraged to explore agri-business investments in Western Visayas to help not only themselves but also create employment for others.

Peter Sobrevega, Department of Agriculture (DA-6) Regional Technical Director for Research, on Tuesday said there are a lot of agri-business investments in the region with the available commodities here like coffee, cacao, �lowers, fruits, vegetables and other agricultural products.

“We have a lot of farm

products and commodities that our OFWs could invest from production, processing, value adding up to marketing of these products,” he said.

Sobrevega said that a number of OFWs have savings that they could use to invest particularly in food production. There are also some OFW families who could engage in agri-business out of the remittances they receive.

“This would really help our economy because this would create employment opportunities to our fellows, at the same time improve our food produc-

tion and we could have quality products out of their agri-business venture,” he said.

Sobrevega said there are already some returning OFWs and their families in the region that have organized themselves into groups for the production of mushroom.

Some of these groups have already availed of the training conducted by DA-6 to make their mushroom production an industry in the region as it is in high demand.

He said that they are willing to further assist more OFWs in the region particularly in cre-

GoWiFi Auto for three days from the moment of successful activation on the GoWiFi portal. The free 3-day trial promo runs until December 31, 2017.

GoWiFi internet access can be used by Globe and TM customers as well as customers from other networks.

Both prepaid and postpaid users can use the paid premium GoWiFi service where charges can be deducted through their load and postpaid bill.

The 34 SM malls branches with GoWiFi Auto include: SM Southmall, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM City Cebu, SM City Consolacion, SM City Sucat, SM Center Angono, SM City Novaliches, SM Center Sangandaan, SM City Baguio, SM City Olongapo, SM City Baliwag, SM City Iloilo, SM City San Jose del Monte, SM City Bacolod, SM City

ating their project proposals to ensure that their investments are sustainable and pro�itable.

A forum for OFWs and their families is ongoing in this city.

Spearheaded by the DA-6 in partnership with other government agencies like the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration and the National Economic and Development Authority, the three-day forum which will end on December 13, gathered around 175 participants composed of OFWs and their families from Western Visayas. (PNA)

GLOBE,P11

OFWS urged to explore agri-business O

M

ANILA -- Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III on Tuesday personally witnessed the destruction of cigarettes with fake tax stamps con�iscated from the warehouses of Mighty Corp. in Bulacan and Pampanga last March.

The event, held at the Norzagaray cement production plant of LafargeHolcim, was the �irst for the Philippine government after implementing a strong drive against tax evaders.

In a brie�ing, Dominguez said some 229,428 boxes or 114.714 million packs of cigarettes worth PHP3.316 billion had been delivered to the ce-

ment company’s geocycle compound in Bulacan.

These cigarettes included Mighty Menthol 100s, Marvels Menthol and Marvels FK. Dominguez said destruction of the cigarettes through a process called co-processing is being done to ensure that none of these go back to the open market and deprive the government of the necessary taxes.

“More importantly we want to deliver the message that tax evasion does not pay.

Our revenue agencies are alert, adepth and empowered to ensure that taxes due specially sin taxes are properly collected,” he said.

P3-B,P11

Tourist arrivals in 10 months up by 11.54%

T

he Department of Tourism has recorded an 11.54 percent increase in tourist arrivals compared to 2016 with the in�lux of Chinese tourists becoming the second largest number to come to the Philippines from January to October 2017.

According to the data released by the DOT, international arrivals for the 10-month period reached a total of 5,474,310 compared to 4,908,017 of the same span in 2016, a marginal increase of 11.54 percent.

DOT Secretary Wanda Corazon Tulfo-Teo said South Koreans remain the country’s top visitor market with 1,332,141 arrivals, representing 24.33 percent of the total arrivals, followed by China with 810,807 arrivals, comprising 14.81 percent of the market

share.

Meanwhile, comprising 14.34 percent of the total, United States dropped to third place with 785,269 arrivals.

For this year, Japan and Australia reached 490,857 and 206,443 respectively.

“With the surge in Chinese and Indian arrivals, we are optimistic to hit the target of at least 6.5 million as set by the National Tourism Development Plan for 2017-2022,” said Teo. Compared to last year’s �igures for the same period, Chinese arrivals jumped 39.28 percent, while India visitors rose 20.28 percent.

In terms of revenues, the DOT said visitor receipts recorded a double-digit gain of 36.28 percent or PHP243.23

TOURIST,P11

EDGEDAVAO

SUBURBIA RISING

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

7

Marine Protection Area guardhouse in Burgos, Cortes town in Surigao del Sur.

Troops neutralize 354 Abu Grenade found at Sayyaf men since January DPWH-Cotabato

Z

AMBOANGA CITY -- Government security forces have neutralized 354 members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in a continued offensive against the ASG in Western Mindanao since January this year, a top military official announced.

This, as President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) to continuously pursue the ASG to deny them of safe haven and to prevent atrocities.

Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief, told the Philippine News Agency that the number of neutralized

ASG members this year is “�ive times higher” compared to 75 in 2016.

Of the 354, Galvez said 127 of them were killed in separate clashes in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

He added that 137 have surrendered while the remaining 90 were arrested.

He said a total of 230 �irearms were also recovered, seized and surrendered to the different units.

Meanwhile, he said the number of kidnapping incidents had drastically reduced to 12 this year from 23 in 2016.

Galvez attributed this to the conduct of continuous offensive and joint cross border patrols the navies of the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Violent incidents perpetrated by the ASG have also decreased to 77 this year from 123 recorded in 2016

based on Westmincom report These violent incidents included harassments, bombings, kidnappings, and killings.

Galvez said the campaign against the ASG would continue until all leaders and members are neutralized.

Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said there are still an estimated of 400 Abu Sayyaf bandits in the province.

Sobejana said they are headed by Radulan Sahiron, the one-armed and the oldest ASG leader, with six sub-leaders. (PNA)

Monday.

“More booths, because they’re more than a hundred, which are located in private lots, would soon be padlocked,” the mayor said.

Rodolfo Gantuangco, an of�icial of the Miracle Pick Gaming Corporation, franchise holder of STL for North Cotabato, said he was surprised by the move of the city government.

“The Miracle owns these booths. As franchise holder, we are no longer required to pay local taxes,” he said in Cebuano.

Gantuangco, a former vice mayor of Kidapawanan, said the company will �ile charges against the city government.

“Our lawyers are already told to prepare the charges,” he said.

He argued that the local government “is just an extension of the national government. We pay our taxes directly to the national government because we are the franchise holder of the STL here.”

But Evangelista said he is not swayed.

“We held to the belief that

only the main of�ice of the Miracle Pick Gaming, which is located at Barangay Lanao here, is exempted from local taxes. But their booths, which are placed outside of the main of�ice, are not excused so they have to pay taxes.”

He said Miracle must pay fees for locational clearance, zoning clearance, building permit, and for �ire inspection safety certi�icate.

They are given 60 days to comply with the requirements, the mayor added. (Malu Cadelina Manar/MindaNews)

Kidapawan padlocks STL booths

K

IDAPAWAN CITY – The city mayor’s of�ice has padlocked close to a hundred small town lottery booths (STL) for various violations.

Mayor Joseph Evangelista said these booths stood along road-right-of-way and within 100 meters away from places of worship and educational institutions, in addition to not having business permits.

An inspection team from the mayor’s of�ice, city legal of�icer and city treasurer started padlocking the booths on

C

OTABATO CITY -- Police bomb experts deactivated a live grenade found Tuesday inside the compound of the Department of Public Works and Highways-Cotabato District Of�ice on Ramon Rabago Sr. St. here.

Police said the PRB-423 grenade, believed to have been hurled by saboteurs from outside the compound, was discovered at around 5:50 p.m. at the vicinity of the of�ice’s administrative section.

The bomb disposal unit used a water disruptor to rid of the grenade found sans its safety lever pin. Probers have yet to determine the motive behind

the foiled grenade attack.

Also on Tuesday, members of the military bomb disposal unit disarmed an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) found by the roadside along Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao.

Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division civil military operations of�ice, said residents alerted authorities over the EID presence in the area.

Besana said the bomb, packed in a container full of black powder and construction nails, bore the signature style of the Jemaah Islamiyah and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. (PNA)

Cotabato, Maguindanao officials back ML extension in Mindanao

C

OTABATO CITY -- Local of�icials here and in nearby Maguindanao province are strongly supporting the extension of martial law in Mindanao for one year, citing it has done good things for their respective constituents in this part of the country.

In separate statements, both Cotabato City Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi and Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu raised a resounding “yes” when asked about the matter.

“The martial law declara-

tion earlier this year has done so much on the peace and order situation of this city, so I am for its extension,” Guiani-Sayadi said.

The mayor’s stand was supported by the city’s 37-member Liga ng Mga Barangay who signed a manifesto expressing their support to the move.

Police records indicated that crime rate dropped by over 50 percent in the city following the martial law declaration on May 23 this year by President Rodrigo Duterte.

COTABATO,P11

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

T

Respect the decision

he people’s representatives in both the Senate and the House of Representatives have spoken in a resounding 240-27 vote to extend Martial Law in Mindanao from January 1 to December 31, 2018.

Convening in a joint session, congressmen and senators granted President Duterte’s request for the extension of martial law and the suspension of the privilege of writ of habeas corpus for a period of one year. The decision was unquestionably overwhelming. A total of 14 senators voted in favor of the motion and four were against it, while 226 House members approved the motion and 23 rejected it. There were no abstentions.

The President placed the entire Mindanao under martial law last May 23 after Maute Group terrorists laid siege on Marawi City and in July, Congress, in a special joint session,

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granted the extension of martial law until Dec. 31 this year.

The mandate of placing the entire MIndanao under Martial Law is an af�irmation that we have transcended from the dreaded de�inition of Martial Law during the Marcos era to the Martial rule that we have experienced today under President Duterte’s watch. People have become more vigilant and those enforcing the law--the military and police--are also cautious of the fact that everyone is watching them for possible violations and abuses.

This present-day Martial Law is vastly different and it has shown how we have learned from the past and evolved to exist and appreciate that the law is actually designed for our protection and security.

With this prevailing vigilance, there is nothing to fear about Martial Law. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

JIMMY K. LAKING Associate Editor PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

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

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Dengvaxia a faux pas?

S

en. JV Ejercito, chair of the senate committee on health, wants a thorough probe on the (mis) use of the Sano�i antidengue vaccine which has created quite a stir that could open a Pandora’s box.

More than 700,00 school children were already immunized when pharmaceutical giant Sano�i Pasteur announced that the vaccine could worsen the disease in those not previously exposed to the infection.

In a radio interview, the senator from the city of San Juan said personalities involved in the purchase and application of the French-manufactured medicine will be summoned accordingly.

The Ejercito health committee is the secondary panel that will jointly investigate the brouhaha.

The Blue-Ribbon Committee will take the lead role in the senate inquiry whose chair is the talkative senator Richard Gordon.

Ejercito said if it would necessitate the summoning of exPresident Noynoy Aquino, then so

M

ore than just a political issue, the conundrum about money classi�ied as ‘ill-gotten wealth’ was a favorite staple in the run-up to the 2016 national elections. Former Davao City mayor Rodrigo Duterte, now president, confronted the issue as the most dif�icult because he had to enlist the services of sneaky lawyer which he now calls ‘presidential legal counsel.’

For the record, it was Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV who spilled the beans, though unresolved until now, that Duterte, who has been consistently contradicting his statements about his actual wealth, possessed ill-gotten wealth he supposedly amassed through ghost employee’s salaries, intelligence funds, and other forms of moneymaking ventures.

But the term ‘ill-gotten wealth’ takes on different meaning, albeit slightly, when taken in historical context. Austin Craig, the Rizal biographer, once wrote that the Muslims of Sulu, despite the illrefute connected to them due to piracy, was more prudent when dealing with treasures gathered from activities we now classify as illegal.

“The Sulus,” he wrote, “although they are ready to do anything for the

be it. “If the committee �inds any solid grounds to subpoena the former president, then we will do it so that he can shed light on the issue.”

Understandably, parents of the concerned school children are all howling in protest because of the probability that, instead of taking a cure, their children’s health and welfare have been put in jeopardy.

Finger pointing by partisans that are exploiting the panic is the normal order of the day. The architect/s of Dengvaxia, ideally, should face the music.

The story goes around that Sano�i of�icials were able to talk with PNoy in 2015 in Paris. From there, how the negotiations went and how the deal was ironed out before the Aquino government bowed out in 2016 have become hot topics in coffeeshop talks.

Ejercito said former health Secretary Janet Garin who was reportedly involved in the initial phase of the immunization, has expressed willingness to appear but because of a sudden death in

SPECKS OF LIFE Fred C. Lumba the family, she would be allowed some kind of privacy during her period of grief.

Sano�i has denied that they treated Filipino school children as guinea pigs. It pointed out that the vaccine was released after clinical studies in a number of countries in Asia and South America, and after securing approval and licensing from the Food and Drug Administration.

The World Health Organization

however refused to endorse Dengvaxia until after experts have made a conclusive opinion.

What is agonizingly pestering is the fact that the DOH undertook the massive vaccination campaign despite reservations made by health experts and health personnel.

There are reports that former DOH Sec. Pauline Ubial expressed reservations on the use of Dengvaxia but the vaccination was continued in the Duterte administration because of rumored pressure from some members of the House of Representatives.

While the public expects a lengthy senate probe before a conclusive �inding can be arrived at, angry sectors are inclined to think that some monkey business has occurred because of the huge P3.5B �inancial transaction taken from taxpayers’ money.

This is condemnable, to say the least.

The reasonable suggestion is for Sano�i to return the money

paid for by the Philippine government which I do not see to have a calming effect because of the threats hovering over the heads of the affected 700,000 plus school children.

Returning the money cannot guarantee the health hazards the children went through and the agony of their parents will be positively reversed.

Should not some people go to jail for this atrocious impunity?

Should not the entire Filipino nation rise up as one and ask for justice in behalf of the 700,00 plus innocent school children who are now �idgeting and whose young lives are in danger of getting snuff out?

Tapang at Malasakit should lead the way. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo. com.) Heb.12:28. “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

A little known story about a Spanish Manila governor who enriched himself illegally and unfairly was highlighted by Percy Hill, in ‘A Christmas Gift of the Greeks,’ which came out in the December 1927 issue of The American Chamber of Chamber Journal: “Suf�ice it to say that the coffers of [Don Enrique] Venegas [a governor in fact] were over�lowing amid all this misery. He affected the state of a grandee, with coaches and out-riders, and he even used the governor’s guard of halberdiers. With his ill-gotten wealth he constructed the �inest palace ever seen in Manila, a palace later con�iscated by the King, which afterward served as the of�icial residence of all the governors from 1651 to 1863.

The stone foundations facing the Ayuntamiento on Plaza McKinley are seen even today. Under this regime no man of wealth was safe from Venegas’s machinations, no woman from his desire, no property owner was brave enough to refuse him.”

Fast forward, in 1960, during the presidency of Carlos P Romulo, a high pro�ile investigation into ill-gotten wealth was reported, involving high-ranking of�icials of

government. The report, in part, was summarized in the ‘Business Views’ of a leading journal: “The Department of Justice forms a panel of prosecutors, initiating the prosecution of ten former government of�icials charged with having unlawfully enriched themselves while in of�ice as indicated by their having amassed wealth manifestly out of proportion to their legitimate incomes; those charged include a former commissioner of internal revenue, a suspended director of the Bureau of Supply Coordination, an assistant to the Director of Customs, and assistant to the Director of the National Bureau of Investigation, a former division chief of the Bureau of Customs, a former immigration of�icer, two Bureau of Internal Revenue examiners, a former ACCFA administrator and a former ACCFA provincial operations manager; the preliminary investigation must be completed before November 12 as under the old Anti-Graft Law (R. A. 1379) on which the complaints are based, provides that petitions seeking the con�iscation of ill-gotten wealth may not be �iled within one year of a national election.”

A saying has consistently reminded us that better than money, health is wealth.

‘Ill-gotten wealth’

sake of plunder, even to the taking of life, yet are not disposed to hoard their ill-gotten wealth, and, with all their faults, cannot be termed avaricious. They have but few qualities to redeem their treachery, cruelty, and revengeful dispositions; and one of the principal causes of their being so predominant, or even of their existence, is their inordinate lust for power. When they possess this, it is accompanied by a haughty, consequential, and ostentatious bravery. No greater affront can be offered to a Sulu, than to underrate his dignity and of�icial consequence.”

This was in 1842 when there was no bank to speak of yet in the Philippines.

Ill-gotten wealth has also been the bane of people who claim to serve God in all their purity.

George John Younghusband, in ‘The Philippines and Round About, with Some Account of British Interests in These Waters,’ written in 1899, wrote: “A man of God on whom rests the most solemn vows of holiness, chastity, and poverty, living amongst a simple and impressionable race a monster of iniquity, an extensive landowner, nursing his ill-gotten wealth, a monument of lechery and debauch. Let us hasten to add that

FAST BACKWARD Antonio V. Figueroa the Philippines himself is far from being morally immaculate.

During martial rule, under President Ferdinand E. Marcos, some sectors approved the use of ill-gotten wealth, acquired unfairly or illegally, for purposes that are bene�icial to the poor. This concept was made popular by Robinhood, a heroic outlaw in English folklore, who stole money from the af�luent and distributed them to the underprivileged.

Adeline Knapp, in ‘The Story of the Philippines,’ (1902) underscored this practice, saying: “In those days men saw no wrong or absurdity in devoting ill-gotten to carrying on good works.”

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

ONE... FROM 1 members approved the motion and 23 rejected it.

Under the Constitution, the Congress, voting jointly, has the sole power to extend martial law. A majority vote of the two chambers -- or at least 158 members -- is needed to pass the motion.

To recall, President Duterte placed the entire Mindanao under martial law last May 23 after terrorists inspired by the Islamic State (IS) laid siege to Marawi City.

Congress, in a special joint session in July, granted the

extension of martial law until Dec. 31 this year at the President’s request.

In his letter dated Dec. 8, Duterte asked Congress to further extend the declaration of martial law in the whole of Mindanao for 2018 to totally eradicate terror threats posed by remnants of IS-linked terrorists and by communist rebels in the region.

He said extending martial law for another year would help state security forces crush the rebellion in Mindanao and ensure public safety.(PNA)

Eddie Jara SVP Mindanao operation group said that the SSS aims to open many branches as possible and to upgrade existing of�ices as one of priorities and primary thrusts to better serve their members needs.

“We also hope that this increased access and visibility will also encourage more people to join SSS,” said Jara.

The SSS’ growth in the region is attributed to Davao’s reputation as one of the most livable cities in the Philippines where peace and order is remarkable, stimulating progress through multinational

investments in the process.

The opening of new branches is considered one of the strategies for social security coverage.

Dooc said that there are 40 branches in the whole of Mindanao.

The SSS has a total of 304 of�ices, 24 of which are located abroad mostly in Middle East. “SSS operation in Mindanao is hitting its target both in terms of revenues as well as its previous initiatives, and the improvement of ef�icient and quality service that we are extending to the millions of members of SSS, “ said Dooc.

“It was settled recently, we already have guidelines, we also have Memorandum of Agreement so we can now share,” she said.

She said that they needed to ensure that DSWD will not break any law upon sharing the result of their survey because it is a sensitive matter.

The data gathering which ended on November 2017 is a part of the On Demand Application (ODA) of DSWD. The DSWD assessed 9,377 households out of 12,981 households it surveyed this year but some transferred their residences while some can no longer be traced.

She said that the some regions have already saturated their results however the Region XI was delayed due to martial law the data should have been saturated last July She said that The latest

data they have was the survey last November 2017 but she cannot divulge the data yet because the data will undergo a process and will be validated by Proxy Means Test (PMT) which determine if the household is poor or not.

Valentin clari�ied that that the person who underwent the household assessment does not immediately qualify the person to be listed on the Listahanan.

“That is what we have been telling the people, that they will not be automatically a bene�iciary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program even if they have undergone the survey because the 4P’s has different criteria. The Listahanan is an information system,” she said.

The Listahanan aims to remove political interference in choosing the bene�iciaries of 4P’s in the barangay.

She, however, remains bullish the performance will still improve at the end of the year.

Meanwhile, Abas said DoT has lined up activities that would open Davao’s destinations for foreign markets.

She said by January 2018, the tourism sector here would join an international and a domestic travel expositions.

She said DoT is coordinating for a big delegation that would join the Malaysia Travel Fair from January 19 to 21 organized by the Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association (MITA) with 650 booths and some 75,000 visitors expected.

“We want to be part of this travel fair because many travelers check the different offerings showcased in this

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Pagasa station in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. MindaNews file photo by H. MARCOS C. MORDENO exposition,” she said.

She said a team would join the largest Travel Fair in Cebu slated on January 27 to 29 to promote Davao destinations in the Visayas market and international travelers because Cebu already has several international �lights.

Abas said that while DOT’s goal is to make Davao’s presence known to other international markets by high-

lighting selected places like the Camp Manuel in Tuburan, Mawab, Compostela Valley province where visitors can witness �ield exhibitions and drills of the men in uniform.

“Kakaiba kasi ito sa mga foreigners (this is different for foreigners),” she said.

She also cited the sur�ing site of Mati City and the rich natural resources of Davao Occidental.(PNA)

ity, survivor pensioners, and dependent children and their guardian, meanwhile, are still required to comply with ACOP. Based on SSS Circular No. 2017-012, the schedule of compliance for retiree pensioners residing abroad and total disability pensioners is on their birth month; survivor pensioners on the birth month of the deceased member; while minor or incapacitated dependent pensioners should comply with their guardian on the birth month of the member or deceased member.

“Compliance six months before the schedule shall be allowed and considered as early compliance if the pensioner complied with the ACOP on the previous year,” the circular read.

Dooc clari�ied however, that ACOP compliance for retiree pensioners based in the Philippines who are 85 years old and above and survivor pensioners who cannot report

personally due to sickness, illness, or injury will still be checked through a mandatory home visit by SSS employees.

Medical Fieldwork Service (MFS) or the home visit by SSS doctors may also be provided for total disability pensioners.

SSS reminded its pensioners that non-compliance with ACOP will result in the automatic suspension of their pension on the month after the birth month of the pensioner or SSS member.

“Resumption of pension shall be within two months from the date of the compliance of the pensioner. All recalled pensions from the pensioner’s depository bank, if any, and all accrued pensioner shall be remitted to the pensioner’s depository bank for crediting to the pensioner’s account,” SSS said.

As of end-September this year, total number of SSS pensioners stood at 2.31 million.

tects individual personal information stored and communication system of the government and the private sector or Data Privacy Act, Executive Order 2 Series of 2016 which prescribes the procedure that will guide public of�icial in operationalizing full public disclosure and transparency in the public service and NAP General Circulars Nos. 1 and

2 which prescribes the rules and regulations governing the Management of Public Records.

The penalties for violation RA10173 range from imprisonment of six months to seven years in prison and a �ine ranging from P500,000 to P 8 million, depending on the gravity and frequency of the crime committed.

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police force should stand down for six days in six towns of the province to pave way for the safe release but the military failed to do so as they continued its military operations,” she said.

Lt. Col. Tomas Allen, commanding of�icer of the 30th Infantry Battalion did not reply to text messages asking for his comment on the issue.

Capt. Francisco P. Garello Jr., civil-military operations of�icer of the 36th Infantry Battalion said they will issue a press statement.

Bishop Rhee Timbang of the Philippine Independent Church, who heads the Third Party Facilitator earlier said the police had agreed to stop their operations for six days for the safe release of the captives but the military has not responded.

“It is indeed very unfortunate that it was canceled. The release was almost within reach, since the party which has custody of the two police of�icers as POW (prisoners of war) had already given its

commitment to release them,” Timbang said.

“The cancellation meant that the anguish and anxiety of the families of the police of�icers is prolonged. It also meant that the AFP and PNP are more interested with their policies rather than the lives of their personnel.

“The AFP and PNP are not interested to act quickly because PO2 John Paul Doverte and PO2 Alfredo Degamon Jr are low ranking personnel only. It implies that there is really a compelling reason why the peace talks have to continue, and President Duterte has to reconsider his declaration of an all-out war against the NPA,” he added.

“In war, there is no victor, only victims. The victims here are the ordinary people and the low-ranking soldiers and police,” he stressed.

The Third Party Facilitator had initiated several releases of captive police of�icers in Surigao del Norte since 2014. (Roel N. Catoto/ MindaNews)

He also assured that the martial law extension “is not intended to lead to a situation where elections will not be conducted.”

“That is never the purpose of the president’s proclamation of martial law,” Guevarra said.

Comelec earlier said that they would be in consultation with security of�icials, Department of Interior and Local

Government, Department of National Defense, Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines with respect to what steps they would be undertaking.

Last September, Comelec postponed barangay elections in the entire Mindanao, which is currently under martial law.

Polls were originally scheduled October 2017. (PNA)

Lines Inc. and Cebu-based Asian Marine Transport Group which owned the 500-TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) M/V Super Shuttle RORO 12 that was used during the April 30 launch.

However, the M/V Super Shuttle RORO 12 did not sustain its operations while the Gensan loop was temporarily suspended due to insuf�icient load factor. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)

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INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

EVENT

EDGEDAVAO

A Filipino Christmas feast FOR FILIPINOS, Christmas is a time of plenty when parties, drinking, and of course good food. And while there are many restaurants to choose from for the holiday season, there is nothing more comforting than to have great tasting Filipino food.

This signature warmth and comfort of southern hospitality is what inspired the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao to offer a special Filipino holiday feast for the season and I was one of the lucky few to have a preview of Cafe Uno’s holiday lunch buffet.

For the entire month of December, Waterfront Insular Davao’s buffet restaurant Cafe Uno partners up with the dynamic culinary team of Chef Roland and Jackie Laudico to create a unique spread of familiar Filipino dishes as well as new twists to classic Filipino flavors.

Some notable dishes are the Filipino-

style sushi (Chef Lau’s version of raw tuna and salmon slices on sushi rice but topped with green papaya salad and smoked fish), Hardinera (an Ilocanostyle meatloaf with pineapples), and the Rellenong Manok. The entrees were completed with a whole roast turkey as well as home-made holiday ham.

Chef Jackie showcased her mastery of dessert as she prepared Fruitcake-style Biko and a delicious Biko Pannacotta which I must say was my favourite dessert of the meal.

Christmas in the Philippines is definitely festive and to celebrate it with comforting Filipino food is literally the icing on top of the cake.

The Holiday Lunch Buffet is available at Waterfront Insular Hotel’s Cafe Uno and is priced at Php750 nett per person. For reservations or inquiries, you may call them at (082) 233 2881 to 83.

Happy eating for the holidays!

A2INdulge!

FOOD

EDGEDAVAO

Pin it!

Edible Christmas gift ideas

IT ALL BOILS DOWN to the single most decent thing we can give one another come the holidays. Many fail to realise but a simple act of kindness is enough to make the heart go thumbing a gazillion times than usual.

For one, material things lasts for a long time, yes, but at the end of the day, it’s not the amount or the fanciest of gifts that you can give that matters -- it’s knowing the person whom you are gifting to. And on my nofail-gift list always includes the gustatory senses.

Edible gifts has always been around. From tins of homemade goodies to store bought aesthetically arranged munchies, food, as a gift, is always a welcome treat. And before we say goodbye to the best remaining days of 2017, let’s create some inexpensive edible gifts perfect for anyone on your list. These things need not be branded. It’s you being able to remember what they like that would make this extra special. It’s the little things all throughout the year that matters. True, it pays to be an observant.

Coffee-holic friend Grab some coffee packs -- if your friend loves a particular brand, then hoard on those. Get some skewers and tape them at the back of each coffee pack. Rummage through your piles and grab a basket or anything of sort that you do not use. Pile ‘em and add personalised touches to make it even more special.

Want a homemade coffee-holic gift? Grab a mug, coffee filter and coffee dripper and wrap it! This not only makes for a sosyal gift but more so, a gift that will have your

recipient smiling from ear to ear.

Choco lover Officemate Who doesn’t have a friend that cannot seem to live without a chocolate in sight? This can either be placed in a vase or as a bouquet.

Mix and match your friend’s faves and make sure that the loot is full.

No need to buy the fancy ones, just the ones that your friend enjoys munching on.

Thematic Friend My friends love particular cartoon characters and holidays. For my halloween lovin’ friend, I wanted to create something that will remind her of her fave holiday. Not that I excel in DIY 411, so I made the most out of what I have at home.

I opted to create a cauldron like vase and added her fave peanutchocolate pieces. The ring on the outside is made of mini chocolate balls formed to look like a wreath of sort.

English Tea, please!

My mom loves tea. She fancies them on a daily basis. Instead of just giving her a box, I wanted to make sure she’ll always remember my gift. So I ended with a basketful of tea packets perfect for her cravings. Up your A game with some washi tapes and decorate to suit the holidays.

Want to make it even more special? What pairs well with tea? Biscuits. Add some pieces of biscuits to elevate your tea basket. I prefer those packed individually (biscoff singles is one that I prefer). Or you could always add some chocs for that added sugar kick.

For my latest food finds, follow me on Instagram @iamleebai and Facebook @theroyalchefeats. Happy munching, royalistas!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

Jessa and Dingdong return with joint album

December 2 – 5, 2017 Only

UNEXPECTEDLY YOURS Sharon Cuneta, Robin Padilla Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG

12:20 | 2:45 | 5:10 | 7:35 | 10:00 LFS

MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS Johnny Depp, Daisy Ridley, Michelle Pfeiffer Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

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DADDY'S HOME 2/ *COCO Mark Wahlberg, Linda Cardellini, Mel Gibson/ *Anthony Gonzales, Gael Garcia Bernal Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

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WONDER/ *JUSTICE LEAGUE Jacob Tremblay, Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson/ *Ben Affleck, Gal Gadot Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG/*PG

10:50 | 3:20 | 7:50 LFS/ * 1:00 | 5:30 | 10:00 LFS

STAR MUSIC brings in double the musical excitement as OPM hitmakers Jessa Zaragoza and Dingdong Avanzado are coming out with their joint album, the much-awaited “20/30 Commemorative Anniversary Album,” to mark their 20th and 30th showbiz anniversary, respectively.

This special album has 10 beautiful tracks plus two bonus tracks featuring some of their original hits, exciting cover songs, and a duet from the couple entitled “Panghabangbuhay.”

Jessa’s versions include “Hindi Na Bale” featuring Michael Pangilinan, and “Maghihintay Sa’yo,” originally performed and popularized by Dingdong. It also carries the Phenomenal Diva’s songs “Ibigay Mo Na” and “Ikakasal Ka Na.” Dingdong, meanwhile, revived the OPM classic

by Rey Valera, “Walang Kapalit.” Also part of the

album is his version of “Paalam Na,” a Rachel Alejandro song he originally composed which he performed this time together with Angeline Quinto.

The commemorative album wouldn’t be complete without a medley of Jessa’s biggest hits “Bakit Pa,” “Pa’no Kaya,” and

“Di Ba’t Ikaw,” but all performed by the original Prince of Pop. It also includes Dingdong’s “Wish I Could” sang by the couple’s daughter, Jayda Avanzado, as well as the theme song of the new ABSCBN Kapamilya Gold series “Hanggang Saan” entitled “Sa Ngalan ng

Pag-ibig” sang by Jessa, plus bonus tracks “Bakit Mo Ako Iniwan” (Jessa) and “Iibigin” (Dingdong).

The much-awaited album will be available at the “20/30: Dingdong Avanzado and Jessa Zaragoza Anniversary Concert” happening on Friday (Dec. 8), 8pm at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila.

Joining the couple in their one-night show are guests Jayda, Angelina Quinto, Jason Dy, Lloyd Zaragoza, Xian Lim, and Ogie Alcasid.

Grab a copy of the couple’s “20/30 Commemorative Anniversary Album” at their concert.

Interested parties may call Ticketworld at 8919999, log on to ticketworld.com.ph or call SM Tickets at 470-2222 or log on to smtickets.com for ticket inquiries and reservation. For more details, visit Starmusic.ph, like Star Music on facebook. com/starmusicph, and follow it on Twitter and Instagram @ StarMusicPH.

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

EVENT

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

NCCC celebrates 39th anniversary

By BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO NCCC Mall has always been a foremost favourite amongst shoppers in the city. From kids to just about everyone, a trip to the city’s most visited shopping destination is always a fun and exciting moment. Not only do you get a glimpse of everything on your list; everything sold is perfect for anyone’s budget.

As they celebrated 39 glorious years, NCCC treated dabawenyos to a jam-packed variety of shopping surprises last December 1, 2017.

Gracing the event was Choice Mart Ambassador and Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte, who made the celebration even more memorable when she made a special appearance at the NCCC Supermarket Mall Davao. Shoppers and invited local media were able to spend time

with the beloved Mayor Inday who then gave an awe inspiring Christmas message for everyone in attendance.

At the NCCC Mall Davao Activity Center, ASAP cover boy Tanner Mata headlined NCCC Supermarket’s Anniversary Party. Joining him were Tawag ng Tanghalan alumni Sam Mangubat and Eumee Capili.

Together with them was Kyle Echarri from The Voice Kids. Fresh from her Himig Handog 2017 win, Moira Dela Torre also took part in the celebration.

On the same day, NCCC Mall Tagum kicked off an amazing gustatory event at their open parking space -StrEAT Food Fest. Participating exhibitors included Master Sisig, J-bites, Tita Rosita’s, Eduardo’s Kitchen, Hungry, Steak ni Juan, Sabroso Café Bistro, Balinsasayaw, Wingmasters, Tiffany Ice Cream, JM’s Shawarma,

Taco Boy, Greenwich, Pepsi, and Fruit Stand One. Food market was open from December 1 to 3, 2017.

That’s not all. December 1 also marked the start of the holiday weekend sale. Shoppers can save up to 70% and avail of price-off coupons worth P200 and P500 when they shop at NCCC. Similarly, the NCCC Department Store launched Biyahero 001, an all-around travel partner brand which offers affordable and high quality travel essential items that are innovative, well-built and attractive.

Come and enjoy the many choices at NCCC. Again, congratulations and cheers for more years!

The Anniversary event gathered more than 20,000 shoppers -- who actively participated in the prepared event games and shared some onstage moments with the celebrity guests.

UP AND ABOUT

GCash ‘Scan to Pay’ feature now at The SM Store nationwide

GCASH MOBILE WALLET SERVICE announced today that its scan to pay feature is now available at all SM Store nationwide and at the information booths of SM malls.

This development makes it more convenient for customers to do their shopping, especially this holiday season as shoppers can already easily pay for their purchases without the need to bring cash.

Using GCash scan to pay method is like a walk in the park. A customer with a smartphone only needs to either download or update to the latest version of the GCash App, create an account and fund the GCash wallet through cash-in centers located across the country. Once done, the customer just has to tap on Scan QR and point the phone’s camera at the item’s QR code to pay.

The SM Store is the latest addition in a growing list of merchants which

have embraced the GCash App scan to pay feature.

Among the early adopters are Mercato Centrale in Bonifacio Global City and Ayala Malls, particularly Glorietta.

Anthony Thomas, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mynt, the financial technology company owned by Globe Telecom, Ant Financial, and Ayala Corp., said they have already begun the rollout of the QR code acceptance.

“We’re not installing a device but just a sticker with a QR code. The customer simply scans that sticker so no need for additional machines for transactions and there’s no cost to the machine but more benefits to the merchants. Cash is still convenient but there’s also the issue of security and handling. With GCash scan to pay feature, we’re bringing that down to the level where merchants can adapt,” Thomas explained.

With the addition of The SM Store, the use of the GCash scan to pay

feature continues to gain support among the top malls and merchants in the country.

Other well-known merchants currently using the feature are the Max’s Group of restaurants, apparel brand Bench, and international brands specialty retailer Stores Specialists, Inc. (SSI). Smaller sellers located at celebrity bazaar destination Noel Bazaar and in Mercato have also adopted this new cashless payment option.

Over the next few months, GCash will continue to aggressively roll out the use of the scan to pay feature in other locations nationwide to encourage more people to use it and enjoy its benefits.

Learn more about GCash by visiting www. gcash.com. Follow us on our social media channels: www.facebook.com/ gcashofficial,www.twitter.com/gcashofficial, and w w w.i n s t a g ra m .c o m / gcashofficial.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

TOUGH... FROM15 of 1:20:19. Second was Navy’s Michael Nuyad (1:24:27) followed by Fiscal Benjamin Uy of Surigao (1:25:15), Jake Reyes of CSG Regional Civil Security Unit 12 (1:32:24) and Navy’s Lt. Rhet Mark Likiyan (1:39:47).

Christopher Rodriguez of Surigao SurCyc and veteran Dexter Nonato of Podium Reliance Davao shared the limelight by ruling their respective age categories.

Rodriguez topped the men’s 25 to 29 age category.

Jefferson Tabacon of Activo Trivengers from Tagum placed second while Renie Rollon Albiso of PORBO from Kidapawan City came in third.

Nonato, on the other hand, dominated the 30-35 category followed by Nelson Madula of TYK Bikeshop and Jayrald Deiparine Daraydo of PORBO. “Nidula gihapon ko maski ika 40th day of the death sa akong Papa. Gialay nako ni sa iyaha akong daug,” said Mad-

ula.

In Maguindanao, provincial of�icials said peace and order had also improved much following the curtailment of big-time illegal drug operations and the series of successful military campaign against the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

“I agree on the extension of martial law because it is the best option for Maguindanao and Mindanao as a whole right now,” Mangudadatu said.

In North Upi, Maguindanao, town of�icials, through its municipal peace and order council, has passed separate resolutions Monday supporting the continuing war on drugs and martial law extension.

The President declared martial law in Mindanao on

May 23 this year after the Maute and Abu Sayyaf terror groups took siege of Marawi City.

The battle to retake Marawi by government forces from the hands of the terrorists ended on Oct. 23 following the deaths of Abu Sayyaf chieftain Isnilon Hapilon and Maute ringleader Omar Maute.

Congress, upon the request of the President, has earlier approved the implementation of martial law in Mindanao up to Dec. 31, 2017 due to the Marawi war.

On Dec. 8, the President has asked Congress to extend further the declaration of martial law in Mindanao for the whole year of 2018, on efforts to sustain the momentum on eliminating terror groups and eradicate illegal drugs on the island. (PNA)

This follows the expected rise in global prices of agricultural exports and World Semiconductor Trade Statistics’ expected 7-percent growth in global sales.

Pernia said the gains and positive outlook would be accompanied by initiatives, such as ASEAN Seamless Trade Facilitation Indicators that could help in reducing trade transaction costs by 10 percent by 2020.

He said the ASEAN-Hong Kong, China Free Trade Agreement and ASEAN–HKC Investment Agreement signed last month would also increase and facilitate trade in goods and services within the region.

“Against this backdrop, Philippine exports will likely remain in the positive territory and should pick up due to higher demand during the holiday season,” he added. (PNA)

Molino, SM Center Pasig, SM Megamall Fashion Hall, SM Aura Premier, SM City San Mateo, SM City Santa Mesa, SM City Cauayan, SM City Masinag, SM City Santa Rosa, SM City San Pablo, SM City Rosales, SM City Tarlac,

SM Center Valenzuela, SM City Trece Martires, SM CDO Downtown Premier, SM City Cagayan de Oro, SM City Cabanatuan, SM City Calamba, SM City Puerto Princessa, and SM City San Fernando Downtown.

The top three winners in the age category received P3,000, P2,000 and P1,000 in that order. A total cash prize of P90,000 was awarded by BJMP RO-XI Assistant Regional Director for Administration J/Supt. Ferdinand Pontilo, who represented BJMP ROXI Regional Director J/SSupt.

Amelia Rayandayan.

He was assisted by events supervisor J/SInsp. Nuhi Tah and J/Insp. Edo Lobenia. Race director was JO2 Harvey Bryan Malnegro.

The event was sponsored

by Ulticon Builders Inc., Trail Outdoors, Podium Multisport Davao, Basecamp, Beach Break by Randy Pabatao, Dark Frog, Beach Camp, Bagani Active Wear, Bikerboy, Barracks Barbers and Shaves All In, Casa Estrella, Sabay sa Alon and the Citywide Cycling Association of Davao (CICAD).

Proceeds will be used for the charity projects of BJMP RO-XI.

COTABATO... FROM 7

TOTAL... FROM 6

GLOBE... FROM 6

NEWS11

JETRO to enhance Manila-Tokyo trade Economic roadshow seen a success

T

he Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) has committed to further enhance trade and investment cooperation between Manila and Tokyo as it congratulated Philippine officials led by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III for their successful economic roadshow held last September in Tokyo.

In a letter to Dominguez, JETRO executive vice president Yuri Sato cited “the success of the Philippine Economic Brie�ing 2017” organized on September 26 in the Japanese capital to showcase before investors the vast investment potentials under the Duterte administration’s “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure modernization program.

“With seven key Cabinet members of the Philippine government presenting their commitment to Japanese

investors regarding deregulation of foreign direct investment and tax reform, the brie�ing received high praise from participants,” Sato said in his letter.

JETRO is a Japanese government-related organization that works to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world. It hosted a luncheon session following the brie�ing.

Besides Dominguez, the other high-ranking of�icials at the brie�ing were Executive

Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Secretaries Ernesto Pernia of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Benjamin Diokno of the Department of Budget Management (DBM), Mark Villar of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and Arthur Tugade of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. “JETRO will continue its efforts to increase cooperative activities between the Philippines and Japan.

We would appreciate your continued kind support and encouragement,” Sato told Dominguez in his letter.

During the brie�ing in Tokyo, Dominguez had cited the “robust and mutually bene�icial relationship” between Manila and Tokyo for the past six decades.

He also thanked Japan

for its continued support for the Philippines’ economic development on the watch of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who has pledged a 1-trillion yen (9 billion USD) investment and development aid package to the country.

Dominguez said the Philippines’ planned �irst subway line, made feasible and possible through Japanese �inancing and technical support will be “a great monument to the friendship” between the two countries.

The exchange of notes between Manila and Tokyo for the JPY104.5 billion loan (about $929.1 million) for the Metro Manila Subway Project (Phase 1) of the DOTr was signed in November during the of�icial visit of Prime Minister Abe here to take part in the 31st ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings. (DOF)

business growth next year.

The pioneering food, animal feeds and livestock company booked a net income of PHP107 million in the �irst three quarters of 2017 from a measly PHP5 million during the same period last year.

Sarmiento attributed the three-quarter pro�it growth to robust performance of the company’s poultry and animal feed business, as well as lower input costs, due to enhanced ef�iciency of poultry operations and lower prices of raw materials.

Meanwhile, the company announced it will undertake another round of debt-to-equity conversion and undergoing quasi-reorganization.

The debt-to-equity conversion, its second in four years, worth PHP400 million, will be done to eliminate the company’s remaining debt.

Vitarich pursued a debt-to-equity conversion agreement four years ago that wiped out a substantial portion of its debt, a process which led to its complete and successful rehabilitation.(PNA)

Vitarich to spend P130M for new feed mill in 2018

L

isted agribusiness �irm Vitarich Corp. is earmarking PHP130 million in capital expenditures (capex) next year in an effort to expand its production capacity and achieve a target revenue growth of more than 30 percent.

The company allotted about PHP80 million in capital spending in 2017.

Vitarich President and Chief Executive Of�icer Ricardo Manuel Sarmiento said next year’s capex would be spent primarily on warehouse and support for

its feed mills.

“Our capacities are full.

That is why we are excited with the new feed mill (in Davao) that we just inaugurated and automation of the feed mills in Iloilo, plus the doubling of the capacity of our Davao dressed plant. All of which were completed end of third quarter so we are quite excited and ready for next year,” he told reporters on Tuesday.

Sarmiento said its poultry and animal feed segments would continue to drive

billion for the period of January to September, a signi�icant rise from the PHP178 billion earnings for the same period in 2016.

“The department will continue an aggressive marketing efforts, including through social media. We will promote emerging or developing desti-

nations to entice more visitors from across the globe,” said the DOT chief.

The DOT has launched the “It’s More Fun in the Philippine Farms” and revived the “Bring Home a Friend” program as part of its strategy to reach 12 million tourist arrivals by 2022. (PNA)

“We are totally focused on our mission to raise revenues for the government that the government needs to build a vibrant and inclusive economy for our people,” he said.

Discovery and con�iscation of the said cigarettes allowed the government to run after Mighty Corp. and

required it to pay billions worth of unpaid taxes.

The cigarette company has entered a settlement deal with the government to pay its tax obligations amounting to PHP25 billion. Its initial payment of PHP3.44 billion was made last July.

TOURIST... FROM6

P3-B... FROM6

DEED OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE INTESTATE OF ESTATE GODOFREDO DEVENECIA CIRINEO JR.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of GODOFREDO DEVENECIA CIRINEO JR. has been the subject of an Deed of Extrajudicial Settlement of the Intestate of Estate executed among his heirs, per Doc. No.30; Page No.06; Book No. X; Series of 2016, of the NOTARY PUBLIC ATTY LEO S. GILLESANIA. Nov. 13, Dec 06 and 13, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

12 COMMUNITYSENSE

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

Rotary guv visits Davao’s ‘mother club’

T

he governor paid the club a visit and he was visibly impressed.

The visitor is Art O. Tan, incumbent governor of Rotary International District 3860, one of the 10 RI districts in the Philippines.

The club is the Rotary Club of Davao, sometimes called the “Mother Club,” being the �irst Rotary club organized in Mindanao 79 years ago.

It was part of what Rotarians call Governor’s Visit, which the district governor is obliged to do in his one-year term. Art Tan, the district governor (DG) of Rotary year 2017-2018, has to visit each of the district’s 98 clubs across the Visayas and Mindanao covered by RI District 3860 and see how they are doing with the multifarious projects, programs and advocacies of the great century-old world movement. As of this week, District Governor Art, a lawyer by profession, has visited all but two of the 98 clubs in his district.

The members of the Mother Club headed this year by President Filomeno “Fil” Divino, received the visiting governor in style. Instead of coming to the luncheon meeting at the Kanato Room of the Royal Mandaya Hotel in their usual

club uniform and sundry other casual wear, the RCD members arrived in coat and tie, with the lady Rotarians and spouses also in formal attire.

The day’s master of ceremonies was Ferdinand Maranion, a club past president and the chairman of the altruistic Rotary Club of Davao Foundation no less.

The District Governor was accompanied by District Secretary Jose Fortunato “Chi” Fuerte Uy and Assistant Gov. Arthur Uy. A side event of the Governor’s Visit was the induction of the RCD’s Rotaract Club based in the DMMA Academy. The of�icers headed by President Harold Banggay were sworn in by past District Governor Salvador “Bading” Angala.

About half of those present were RCD’s past presidents whose leadership and array of

projects were legacies in their own right.

It was an occasion for the RCD of�icers and members to recite the litany of their club projects, done by the chairmen of the various committees, and capped by the report of President Fil, himself.

Among the committee directors who reported out were Rotarians Jimmy Llames, Heu-

mann, Mayette Pavino, PP Arnold Navales, Caesar Cabading, and Bien Nino.

President Fil himself concentrated on club projects along the Rotary’s six areas of focus and avenues of service such as peace and con�lict prevention, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, econom-

in early 2018 will target 100 patients.

UCPB has been supporting Operation Smile with funds, employee-volunteers, executive time and of�ice space since 1986. To date, Operation Smile has treated 32,000 cleft children and young adults across the country, including 3,474 in Davao City.

Apart from health and wellness, UCPB is actively supporting three other United Nations Sustainable Development Goals namely: quality and inclusive education; sustainable forest management and biodiversity; and poverty alleviation.

Shown above with one of the patients, Joshua, and his mother are: (front) Davao City

Administrator Atty. Zuleika Lopez; (back, from left); Phoenix Petroleum, Inc. Vice President Atty. Raymond Zorrilla; UCPB President & CEO Higinio Macadaeg, Jr.; UCPB Executive Vice President Edmond Bernardo; UCPB Director Atty.

Filemon Cimafranca, Jr.; UCPB Vice President Hermilo Bagabaldo; and Davao City Chief of Staff Atty. Raul Nadela, Jr.

ic and community development, international service, youth service, and community service. In his report, President Fil rattled off decades-old ongoing projects and new initiatives addressing some of the community’s top social concerns.

In his speech, District Gov. Tan encouraged the current RCD team to be aggressive in its membership campaign, to

include honorary members whose commitment and resources can enhance the club’s capability to deliver its projects and advocacies. He told the club not to forget to recruit lady members who have their innate outstanding talents and passion for community service .

Images of the some highlights of the day are shared in this spread:

UCPB, Phoenix, Ulticon Builders bring Operation Smile mission to Davao City

U

CPB, in partnership with its clients, Phoenix Petroleum and Ulticon Builders, brought recently an Operation Smile volunteer surgical team to Davao City to do free surgery on 38 children with oral cleft.

This is the �irst of two missions that the bank and its two clients are sponsoring in Davao City. The next mission

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

13

EDGEDAVAO

BSP rolls out KRN EDGEDAVAO at GenSan library is in need of Serving a seamless society

G

ENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has partnered with the city government for the expansion in the area of its innovative Knowledge Resource Network (KRN).

BSP and the local government formally signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Wednesday morning for the rollout of the KRN through the city public library.

City Mayor Ronnel Rivera signed the agrement on behalf of the city government and deputy regional director, lawyer Thelma Pantig, for the BSP. Pantig said the KRN is an information and knowledge sharing initiative that aims to enhance the public’s understanding on the BSP’s functions, programs and activities.

It seeks to help educate residents on economic and �inancial concepts and issues and empower them to contribute more meaningfully to

3 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

economic development, she said.

Under the program, BSP will set up a Knowledge Resource Collection at the city library that will house updated BSP publications such as books, reports, guides, manuals, primers and brochures.

It will also provide access to online publications and research assistance services that will be made available for free.

Rivera lauded the BSP for choosing and partnering with the city as among its expansion sites for the KRN. “This will enable our constituents to learn more what the BSP has been doing,” he said during the MOU signing.

Aside from the regular public users, the mayor said they would extend the use of the KRN to city personnel.

In a project briefer, BSP said it “envisions KRN to be a catalyst for economic development by empowering the

public to make informed and better economic and �inancial decision through easy access to information and services.”

It said the program involves the: setting up of a BSP Resource Collection in each partner library where agency publications would be displayed.

BSP will train its partner librarians to maximize the use of information resources and facilitate resource sharing.

The agency will speci�ically provide free updated BSP publications, signage and BSP logo for the resource collections, conduct free training/ brie�ing sessions on online publications.

It will also conduct research/statistical databases available on its website, and provide reference and research service assistance to partner libraries on subjects related to economics and �inance.(PNA)

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

EDGEDAVAO

14

VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 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 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

TOUGH AS NAILS U

BLASTING OUT. Apo Golf and Country Club president Atty. Manny Nitorreda digs deep for a bunker shot during the year-ending AGCC Monthly Medal on Sunday. Boy Lim

Tabac, Velez, rule BJMP Duathlon

E

lias Tabac and Mildred Velez dominated the �ield to win the top individual honors in the BJMP Off Season Duathlon on Sunday at the City Jail Road in Ma-a, Davao City.

Tabac, who represented Tagum Tribuddies, clocked one hour and 10 minutes to rule the Men’s Elite Category.

He pocketed P7,000 cash plus a trophy and gift packs. He was followed in second place by Jed Polistico of Tinitarian Wild Cats from General Santos City at 1:16:43.

I

April John Maniyog of MCV55 Davao City �inished third in 1:29:22.

Polistico and Maniyog earned P5,000 and P3,000, respectively.

In the women’s race, Velez took an early lead atop her mountain bike and never reliquished it in the run stage clocking 1:41:41 to win the title.

She was followed by TRIAD’s Dolly Yustre and Reymalyn Guiterez.

Rodel Bustamante of Philippine National Police topped the Lawmen category with a time

TOUGH,P11

t was really wonderful to know that the Children’s Games for Marawi kids were held at the Basak Elementary School through the initiative of Aaliyah Dimaporo and husband Jordan Cimafranca with the support of their family and friends.

As everybody knows in Mindanao, the national government just recently liberated Marawi City from the terrorist Maute Group and rebuilding the wartown city has already started.

I am not actually surprised that Aaliyah took the initiative to conduct the games for the affect-

OVERALL WINNER. Men’s champion Elias 30-35 CLASS. Dexter Nonato Tabac (middle) with second placer Jed (middle) ruled the 30-35 category Polistico and April John Maniyog. with Nelson Madula (2nd) and Jayrald Daraydo (3rd).

WBO As-Pac Youth titlist faces Digos prospect

ndefeated WBO Asia Paci�ic Youth Light Flyweight champion Vince Paras will face the former national team stand-out Aldren Moreno of Digos City in a non-title bout on December 17 at the Robinson’s Place in General Santos City.

Paras, who is managed

by Maasim Mayor Jojo Lopez is still unbeaten with 12 straight wins and 10 knockouts while Moreno of MP Digos Gym already has three straight victories with two knockouts.

“This is a good match-up.

Lalaban kami kasi pumayag si Vince Paras na lumaban ng eight rounds lang (We are going to �ight because Vince Paras agreed to �ight for eight rounds),” said Moreno’s fa-

ther-trainer Renato.

The 19-year-old Paras won the vacant WBO Asia Paci�ic Youth light �lyweight title by a unanimous decision against Jimboy Haya last June 10 in Mandaue City. He previously scored a �irst round knockout win against Marlou Sandoval last August 30 at the Bulua covered court in Cagayan de Oro City.

The 22-year-old Moreno, on the other hand, stopped former Philippine Boxing Federation minimumweight champion Ronie Tanallon in the 4th round last September 1 in Digos City.

The boxing card will be held in celebration of the birthday of eight-division world champion Sen. Manny Pacquiao. (PNA)

Aaliyah and the Children’s Games in Marawi ed children. Probably about nine years ago, compadre Joy Encabo, now Asec in Malacanang, Rico Biliran, then of Mindanews, another compadre JB (that’s Jong Banluta) accompanied PSC chairman William “Butch” Ramirez to discuss sports for peace projects with the then Lanao Governor Mohammad Khalid Q. Dimaporo.

That afternoon, a lady approached chairman Ramirez and we easily noticed her great smile.

She turns out to be the young governor’s sister, Aaliyah.

Of course, as a courtesy, we greeted the lady and introduced our-

CLEAN SLATE

By MOSES P. BILLACURA

selves.

Who could ever forget that smile pare Joy? Anyway, Professor Henry

Daut of the Mindanao State University, who now works for the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Sports Institute, was thankful for the initiative of Aaliyah and her team to give the kids the opportunity to be happy.

More than 200 kids were introduced to soccer and karatedo, recreational games were also played and a magician provided them entertainment to their delight including their parents.

While the national government doubly work hard to rebuild Marawi and with caution if there are still remnants of the Maute

Group (I hope they are all gone!), we are so happy to know that Aaliyah and her team, Prof.Daut and PSI coordinators were able to push through with this activity for the kids.

This is the kind of activity we would to see more often in Marawi. Why not? For the kids have the right to play and enjoy after that horrendous event.

Keep up the good work Aaliyah and I hope this initiative will inspire others to make a move to give you a call and organize more events for the children of Marawi.

Shukran.

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 183 •THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017