Edge10 issue189 December 22-23, 2017

VOL. 10 ISSUE 186 164 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, • FRIDAY-SATURDAY,DECEMBER NOVEMBER22-23, 17-18,2017 2017

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EDGEDAVAO

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

Serving a seamless society

A young student of an international school cries as she is experiencing stage fright while performing a Christmas dance routine with her classmates during the school’s Christmas presentation on Wednesday night. Lean Daval Jr

ROUGH SEAS

Sea travel in Samal islands cancelled

By JUDIE VEGA

T

he head of the Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office has warned against venturing out over the seaboards of Eastern Mindanao due to moderate to rough seas triggered by Tropical Storm Vinta.

Emmanuel Jaldon, DRRMO head, said the warning is addressed to �isher folks and

travelers using small crafts.

At the same time, he said the city information of�ice has

announced that the Philippine Coast Guard has cancelled on Thursday all boat travels between Talicud Island and the main island of Samal because of Tropical Storm Vinta.

Sea travel between Davao City and Samal Island will also be no longer allowed after 5 pm on Thursday.

The low pressure area

(LPA) off Mindanao that entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Wednesday morning; December 20, has developed into a tropical depression and was named “Vinta,” affecting the eastern section of Mindanao.

Information obtained from DOC/ Central 911 Min-

ROUGH,P10

UMBC homecoming INdulge A1

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

CONCERNED. President Rodrigo Duterte checks the condition of one of the hemodialyis patients he visited at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City on Wednesday. Also in the photo is Defense

Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Health Secretary Francisco Duque III. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Council okays P8-M aid for typhoon-hit areas

‘Vinta’to make landfall in Caraga – Davao area

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

T

he Davao City Council has approved the P8 million request of Mayor Sara Z. Duterte as assistance that areas in the Visayas recently hit by Typhoon Urduja.

In yesterday’s city council’s special session, the resolution got the unanimous vote to extend assistance to 11 areas in the Visayas..

Of the total, the cities of Ormoc and Tacloban will receive P1 million each while

the provinces of Samar, Northern Samar and Eastern Samar will also get P1 million each.

The municipalities of Biliran, Llorente, Santa Fe, Barugo and Zumarraga will receive P500,000 each. The as-

sistance will be drawn from the quick response fund the city. During the session, City Budget Of�icer Emelinda Gallego said the city still has P91.4 million (QRF).

With the assistance the city still has P83.1 million QRF that will be used until December 31 this year.

City council �loor Bernard Al-ag said upon the turn-over of assistance all of the LGU are required to submit to the city a liquidation

of expenses.

“They need to submit that to us because it is a mandate coming from the Commission on Audit, “ he said.

City Disaster Risk Reduction Management of�icer Emmanuel Jaldon said during the deliberation that the basis of the assistance is the declaration of state of calamities in the typhoon-affected localities by their local government units.

SPO1 Nelson Galvan and PO3 Ronnie Relator who investigated the case said that the victim is a local resident.

Witness Orlando Daytic, also is a resident of same place, said he saw the victim at around 3 a.m.

December 21, he saw the victim talking with four unidenti�ied male teenag-

ers at the entrance road of Sta. Teresita Village.

The victim who was believed to be under the in�luence of liquor at the time, sustained a stab wound in the stomach that caused his untimely death. A kitchen knife measuring about six inches long from tip to handle was recovered about 200 meters away from the

crime scene and is believed to be the weapon used by the still unidenti�ied suspects in killing the victim.

The body of the victim was brought to Rivera Funeral Parlor in Barangay Sasa, Davao City for autopsy.

Case trackers are now ascertaining the identity of the suspect/s.

Water delivery man, 48, stabbed to death

By ANGIE SAVERON

A

WATER re�ill delivery man was stabbed to death in Purok 1, Kubkob, Sta. Teresita Village, Barangay Cabantian, Davao City about 5 a.m. of December 21, Thursday.

The victim, one Celso Vitor O�illa, alias Isoy, 48, was found dead about 200 meters away from the entrance road of the village.

T

ropical depression ‘Vinta’ is expected to make landfall “over Caraga – Davao Region” between Thursday evening (December 21) and Friday morning (December 22), according to Severe Weather Bulletin 2 issued by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued at 11 p.m.

Wednesday.

Vinta, the weather bulletin said, “has slightly intensi�ied as it moves westward over the Philippine Sea” and Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal number 1 has been raised over Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, and northern Davao Oriental,

But the weather bulletin also cited “possible inclusion” of the provinces of Dinagat Islands, Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, and Bukidon “in areas under Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 1 within six hours.”

Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang activated its Incident Command System (ICS) Wednesday afternoon during an emergency meeting of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) as the province braces for “serious �looding” in low-lying areas.

Baganga in the northern part of Davao Oriental was where super typhoon Pablo made landfall on December 4, 2012.

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 3

Diokno justifies stand on second MCC grant

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he Philippines withdrew its application for second assistance from the Millennium Challenge Corp. for policy independence.

Budget and Management Secretary Benjamin Diokno, in a brie�ing Wednesday, stressed this as he said President Rodrigo R. Duterte wants to implement projects under this term without any external intervention.

He said funding offers from donors should be given “out of the goodness of your heart” without any consequence.

“Kung gusto mong magbigay, magbigay ka out of the goodness of your heart pero ‘wag kami paki-alamanan. (If

you want to help give it out of the goodness of your heart but don’t meddle with us),” he said.

Diokno said the Philippine government even returned funds such as those given by the European Union (EU) to ensure that implementation of projects under the Duterte government would not be hampered by rules set by any organization.

He stressed that not getting the MCC grant is not a loss for the Philippine government because the country continues to receive funding offers from various countries like Japan, China and South Korea.

He said these countries

DIOKNO,P10

Delivery of 2 frigates still on track: PN chief Coast Guard to impound

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elivery of the country’s �irst two missile-armed frigates, which are designed to be capable of engaging surface, subsurface and air threats, is still on track, acting Philippine Navy �lag-of�icer-in-command Rear Admiral Robert Empedrad said late Wednesday.

“The frigate (project) has not been delayed. Tuloy-tuloy siya (It is continuing) and delivery time is still the same (�irst quarter of 2020) and we are going to process that,» he added.

The Department of National Defense (DND) and Hyundai Heavy Industries signed a PHP18 billion contract for two frigates including its weapon systems and munition last Oct. 24, 2016.

But he admitted that the frigate program still has a lot of challenges to hurdle before being completed.

Some of the issues include how to prepare and train PN personnel to man and operate these modern ships, where to dock them, and where to source the missiles and torpedoes which are the frigates’ main armaments aside from its main guns and secondary gunnery systems.

The acting PN chief said that determining where to acquire these weapons is a big challenge as torpedoes alone takes two years to manufacture.

“So we have to process that so that pagdating ng frigate ay may bala (na siya),” he added. (PNA)

SAFETY PRECAUTION. Fisherfolk put their small fishing boats on a bamboo raft at a coastal community in Davao City on Thursday as

ALL SET. Davao City Central 911 head Emmanuel Jaldon discusses the preparations for the inbound severe weather condition which is expected to hit Davao Region today and will affect 54 disaster prone

areas of the city during I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday.

Lean Daval Jr

unregistered watercrafts

By ANGIE SAVERON

O

plan Guyud will be launched next year by the Philippine Coastguard Davao in order to apprehend unregistered water craft both motorized and not motorized.

“Lahat ng watercraft natin na hindi na register sa Safety Security Environmental Numbering System (SSENS) ay iimpound namin until such time na maka provide sila ng kaulukang documents doon sa mga bangka nila,” said Lt.

George Maganto, commander of the Coast Guard Davao Station during an interview at the sidelines of AFP-PNP Southern Mundanao Press Corps Media Brie�ing on Wednesday.

He said they will launch

safety precaution before a severe weather condition which is expected to hit Davao Region today. Lean Daval Jr

this program on January next year because they started their SSENS registration last July.

“Actually pinahabaan namin ang period para ma-cover namin ang buong area ng Davao Gulf,” he said.

He said that Bucana, Samal, Sta. Ana and Daliao area have high numbers of registered boats.

He said almost 5,000 watercrafts have been registered with some 500 boats are not

registered.

“Ang tantya namin ma’am ay nasa 500 pa ang hindi namin na register kasi gi- cover na rin namin yung un-motorized Bangka sa circular kasi namin ang kasama lang doon ay yung motorized,” he said.

Coast Guard Philippines Davao has included the un-motorized boats because they have received reports that criminals use it as a getaway �loating assets.

ith President Rodrigo Duterte declaring a unilateral Christmas truce against the New People’s Army, the Department of National Defense urged all military to be vigilant and mindful of their safety during the cease�ire.

“We also direct our Defenders to maintain their vigilance and be mindful of their safety in their areas of responsibility during the cease�ire,” DND public affairs of�ice chief Arsenio Andolong said Thursday.

In line with Duterte’s order, the Armed Forces of the Philippines will be implementing a unilateral

cease�ire which will start 6 p.m. of Dec. 23 to 6 p.m. of Dec. 26 and 6 p.m. Dec. 30 up to 6 p.m. this coming Jan. 2.

“We urge those who are waging war against our sovereign government and in�licting harm on the Filipino people to spend this period in re�lection and seriously reconsider returning to the fold of law,” Andolong added.

Also, the DND public affairs of�ice chief is encouraging all citizens to cooperate and stand with government troops who are ensuring peace and security in the entire country. (PNA)

Troops told to stay alert despite truce W

EDGEDAVAO

4 ECONOMY

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

Alvarez: Slashed budgets of 24 solons reallocated

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ouse Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez on Thursday said the budgets slashed from several opposition lawmakers and some members of the supermajority coalition had been reallocated to fund government priorities, such as education and the welfare of police o�icers and soldiers.

In a statement, Alvarez said the removed funding will be reallocated to free college

education in state universities and colleges and to augment the salaries and bene�its of the military and police, “who are in the frontlines of the government’s war against terrorism and criminality.”

“I mean what I say and I am not in the habit of saying one thing and doing another.

If there’s money, then I’ll see to it that it would be properly allocated. As much as possi-

ALVAREZ,P10

7-day TDF attracts bids

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ield of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ seven-day Term Deposit Facility declined Wednesday but its bid coverage ratio improved after the facility attracted bids higher than the offering.

Data released by the central bank showed that weighted average accepted yield of the shorter-dated facility went down to 3.4004 percent from 3.4542 percent during the auction last week.

However, its bid coverage ratio improved to 1.1553 from last week’s 0.9730 after the PHP40 billion offering was met by tenders amounting to PHP46.212 billion.

Citing the central bank’s liquidity forecast, BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo said the projection is for the BSP to mop up as much as PHP40 billion in this week’s auction.

“Since the 28-day TDF was scrapped and the BTr rejected all bids recently banks competed for the unchanged volume of the seven-day TDF,” he said.

Last week, the BSP announced that it will not be offering the 28-day facility due to sustained undersubscription in the recent weeks.

This is due in part to the recent sale by the Bureau

7,P10

Water interruption to hit mostly Bago Aplaya areas

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avao City Water District advises of a scheduled water service interruption in most areas in Bago Aplaya on December 28, 2017 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Affected areas are portion of Davao-Cotabato Road (from junction of Mergrande Road towards junction of Sto. Rosario Village), Ideal Subd., Saavedra Village (SANAI), Bliss Compound, Paderog Compound, BALAI Village, DUSNAI Village, Torejos Compound, Tayo Compound, Unggay Compound, Albeza Compound, ARC Compound, Divino Compound, and Sto. Rosario Village.

This will give way to the tapping of a newly installed pipeline to DCWD’s existing pipeline for the mainline improvement at Purok 18, Espinosa Compound in Brgy. Bago Aplaya. Once completed, the project will allow for the accommodation of additional service connections in Espinosa Compound.

On behalf of the DCWD management, general manager Engr. Edwin V. Regalado asks for the understanding and cooperation of would-be affected customers. They are also advised to store enough water prior to the scheduled water interruptions. Water supply may be restored earlier if work goes smoothly or later if unforeseen problems arise.

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

ON TARGET. City Treasurer’s Office’s Bella Linda Tanjili (right) and Villa Dureza say the agency is expected to hit its target collection of P7 billion this year as the total collected as of November already

reached P6.7 billion. Tanjili also said during I-Speak media forum on Thursday that the agency is targeting a collection amounting to P7.8 billion next year. Lean Daval Jr

Clark project proves PRRD’s political will Says Dominguez Clark expansion

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inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said the rollout of the Clark International Airport expansion project within the first 18 months of the Duterte presidency demonstrates the “strong political will of the government to get things done fast” for the benefit of the people.

Dominguez said that unlike in the previous administration when one big-ticket project— the Cavite-Laguna Expressway—took all of 50 months from conception to the start of implementation, the infrastructure projects on the Duterte watch will commence over the next few months.

“This shovel ready project was approved in the �irst 18

months of the Duterte administration. It demonstrates the political will to get things done,” the �inance chief said.

“This administration brooks no delay in building the projects that the people need and the public deserves,” Dominguez said.

“The infra investments will underpin all efforts to build an economy truly bene�icial to all

Filipinos. They will drive our economic growth and disperse the fruits of modernization to areas outside Metro Manila,” added Dominguez.

This venture is among the �irst big-ticket infra projects to be built using the Duterte administration’s “hybrid” PPP (Public-Private Partnership) formula, in which the government starts the initial phase of the project’s construction and later bids out the project to the private sector.

The Clark airport expansion project is listed as a “locally funded-Public Private Partnership” project in the build.gov. ph website.

Dominguez, who represented the economic team at

the groundbreaking rites for the new passenger terminal of the Clark airport, cited the importance of the project in completing the infrastructure network in Central Luzon, and capturing what the “Build, Build, Build” program aims to achieve, which is to put up a “coherent national logistics circuit” in support of rapid and inclusive growth.

He noted that the Clark complex serves as the nexus of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) and the projected Tarlac-Nueva Ecija-Aurora Expressway (TNEAEX), comprising an economic zone that will eventu-

er International Pte. Ltd. (AP International) signed a share purchase agreement (SPA) with SunE Solar B.V. for the acquisition of 100-percent equity interest in Sunedison Philippines Helios BV. The acquisition cost was not disclosed.

AboitizPower’s whol-

ly-owned subsidiary, Aboitiz Renewables Inc., and Sunedison invested in Maaraw Holdings San Carlos, Inc. (Maaraw) and San Carlos Sun Power Inc. (Sacasun) for the San Carlos solar project.

“The SPA paves the way for the divestment by Sune of its participation

in the Sacasun project and AboitizPower’s acquisition of all of Sune’s equity interest in the Sacasun project held by its subsidiaries,” said AboitizPower.

It added the offshore execution of the deed of transfer is subject to certain closing conditions under the SPA. (PNA)

CLARK,P10

Aboitiz obtains 59-MW solar project in Negros

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boitiz Power Corp.

(AboitizPower) on Wednesday said it has acquired full ownership of the 59-megawatt solar project in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, AboitizPower said its subsidiary, AboitizPow-

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

ECONOMY 5

EDGEDAVAO

Bureau bares 41T business renewals D

By JUDIE VEGA

avao City’s business bureau has recorded 41, 164 total applicants who filed their application for renewal of business and mayor’s permits for 2018.

Atty.

Marissa Marasigan-Torentera, head of the business bureau, said that their records showed that the big percentage of applicants comprised of retailers and services while 6, 710 new

businesses have �iled their application for next year.

The one-stop shop renewal of the Davao City Government in coordination with the Business Bureau and other government agencies is

TOEING THE LINE. Lawyer Marissa Torentena of Davao City Business Bureau says a total of 41,164 businesses are expected to renew their business permits next year scheduled on January 2 to 20 at

Sangguniang Panlungsod building and NCCC mall’s one stop shop outlets. Torentena graced I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr

still at the SP building, Bolton St. Davao City and Kadayawan Hall of NCCC Mall in Matina.

The one-stop shop schedule starts January 2 with extended of�ice hours on select-

Atty. Torentera said that starting December 19-29 they already started to print the application for the renewal which applicants can submit their initial documents like

the original Business permits and receipts.

Documentary requirements for renewal are Barangay Clearance and Income Tax

he Philippine Navy’s frigate project would push through despite the relief of Vice Adm. Ronald Joseph Mercado from the Navy’s top post, Defense Secretary Del�in Lorenzana said Wednesday.

“Kaya nga naming siya tinanggal, para matuloy (We relieved him so that the project would push through)» he added.

Mercado was relieved Tuesday after the defense

chief cited loss of trust and con�idence in the integrity and leadership of the naval of�icer.

This was brought about

by Mercado’s alleged �ixation on one company to supply the combat management system (CMS) of the frigate project, whose contract was won by South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries.

The CMS handles the weapons, sensors and other

ed dates (January 3-5, January 12-15, January 19) and ends January 20 from 8 am to 12 midnight at the SP building.

The last day of renewal at the NCCC Mall will close at 10 pm.

PEZA urges LGUs to give more perks for ecozones T T

he Philippine Economic Zone Authority has urged local government units to give additional incentives for economic zone developers in order to attract more investments in the countryside.

PEZA Director General Charito Plaza said LGUs may provide perks like free rental for 10 years for land properties to be used by developers in putting up new economic zones.

“How much is the rent versus the development they

(investors) can introduce and the job they can create?” she said.

“We would like to add more incentives and motivate LGUs to give more incentives,” the PEZA chief added.

Plaza added that the investment promotion agency

eyes to establish two public economic zones per region to spur economic development throughout the country.

The country has four public economic zones.

“Public economic zones are more attractive to investors because the rent is very cheap,” she added.

Meanwhile, PEZA will be holding the �irst Global Economic Zone Convergence in April 2018, wherein the agency is inviting economic zone developers to share best practices and also promote oppor-

tunities in the Philippines in establishing economic zones.

Plaza said that PEZA aims to launch the country’s economic zone map during this international event next year.

Previously, she said PEZA eyes at least 300 new economic zones in the country in 2018.

In the �irst 10 months of the year, PEZA registered PHP203-billion worth of investments, up 89 percent from last year’s investment pledges of PHP107.3 billion.

(PNA)

also happy with the signing of the �irst package of tax reform, which cut personal income tax, impact of which on government revenues would be countered by higher excise taxes of several items like fuel.

For the day, the local currency opened at 50.25, a big jump from the 50.43 a day ago.

It traded between 50.34 and 50.25, resulting to an average of 50.30.

Volume for the day reached USD490.80 million, lower than the USD604.7 million Tuesday.

The currency pair is seen to trade between 50.20 and 50.40 Thursday.

On the other hand, the main equities index �inished the day’s trade at 8,362.61 points, down 0.04 percent or 3.35 percent.

The broader All Shares followed after it fell 0.17 percent, or 8.52 points, to 4,893.62

points.

Half of the sectors also shed during the day, led by the Property with 0.44 percent and followed by the Financials, 0.18 percent; and Holding Firms, 0.02 percent.

Volume for the day reached 830.54 million shares amounting to PHP5.26 billion.

Losers led gainers at 110 to 84 while 50 shares were unchanged. (PNA)

Frigate project to push through: Sec Lorenzana

S

FRIGATE,P11

Diokno says opposition solons to obtain funding

Peso up on tax reform law signing; PSEi dips B

igning into law of the PHP3.767-trillion 2018 national budget further lifted the Philippine peso Tuesday while the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) declined for the second day in a row on fears of the impact of the tax reform act.

The local cuurency �inished the day at 50.29 from 50.39 a day ago.

A trader said investors are

BUREAU,P11

udget and Management Secretary Benjamin Diokno on Wednesday took exemptions to reports that opposition lawmakers’ proposed 2018 projects will not get funding, saying that this information “was based on some misinformation.”

In a brie�ing Wednesday, Diokno said some districts will have reduced appropriations although he declined to give speci�ics on the adjustments.

“But there will be a distinction between those who are

allies of the administration and those who are not,” he pointed out.

The Budget chief said this system is not new since this has been in the policy even before Martial Law. He, on the other hand, clari�ied that projects to be funded, or those that will not be �inanced, did not only come from lawmakers’ proposal but also from district engineers and provincial governors, among others.

DIOKNO SAYS,P10

EDGEDAVAO

6 SUBURBIA RISING

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

NPA frees 2 cops G in Surigao village NPA fighters in formation. MindaNews file photo

SoCot, Sarangani workers to receive cash incentives

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Police Of�icer 2 Jhon Paul M.Doverte and Police Of�icer 2 Alfredo L. Degamon, were abducted by the rebels while they were manning an outpost in Placer town, also in Surigao del Norte last Nov. 13.

Serrano said the NPA rebels turned over the police

of�icers to Surigao del Norte Vice Gov. Arturo Egay and Surigo City Vice Mayor Alfonso Casurra at around 1:30pm in Sitio Tiltilan.

The release came after President Duterte declared a cease�ire with the rebels in the spirit of Christmas.

“The President announced last night a suspension of military operations from December 24 to January 2, 2018,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.

Roque said the Philippine government expects the

Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the NPA, to reciprocate and “do a similar gesture of good will.”

In an earlier interview with reporters in Manila, Duterte said he wanted the public to feel safe during the Christmas festivities.

Capt. Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of the 4th Infantry Division said they will abide with the President’s directive and will order all the Army units in their command to stand down starting on Dec. 24.

Sitios Martesan and Misalan, both in Barangay Tonganon, Carmen.

The Army’s 6th Infantry Division also launched air strikes against the ISIS-linked BIFF faction of Abu Toraife, the target of military operations in the area.

In a statement, Major Gen. Arnel dela Vega, 6th ID chief, said the air strikes were

launched after local residents and alert villagers, including members of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) con�irmed the presence of foreign terrorists with the BIFF in Barangay Tonganon, a thickly forested area in the borders of Carmen and Aleosan towns.

The air strikes followed a clash between BIFF and soldiers of the 34th Infantry Bat-

talion that hurt three infantrymen and a militiaman.

Injured and being treated at a military hospital in Maguindanao were Sgt. Wenceslao Nacional, Cpl. Gerry Culaban, Pvts. 1st Class Ignacio Cinco and Joel Looc and the militiaman identi�ied only as Lacuesta.

Five BIFF men were killed

ew People’s Army rebels released two police officers they had held captive since last month hours after President Rodrigo Duterte declared a unilateral ceasefire with the rebels for the Christmas season.

Chief Inspector Renel Serrano, Philippine National Police Caraga spokesperson said rebels from NPA Guerrilla Front 16 released the two policemen in Sitio Tiltilan, Barangay Mahanob, Gigaguit town in Surigao del Norte Wednesday afternoon.

5 BIFF men killed, 5 gov’t soldiers hurt in clash

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IDAPAWAN CITY -- Five members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were killed while �ive government troops injured during a clash Tuesday in a remote village in Carmen, North Cotabato.

Moreover, some 200 families evacuated to safer grounds following the clash that erupted shortly before dawn at

5,P11

ENERAL SANTOS CITY – Local government workers in South Cotabato and Sarangani provinces are set to receive P14,000 to P30,000 in cash incentives this month.

The incentives were part of the mandated bene�its and those set under the Collective Negotiation Agreements (CNAs) signed between the two local governments and their respective provincial workers unions.

South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes said Wednesday they had allocated some P22.8 million for the CNA bene�its of all regular capitol employees.

She said such funding, which was approved last week by the provincial board as part of supplemental budget number 04, would be drawn from their savings under the maintenance and other operating expenses or MOOE of provincial government of�ices.

DBM circular No.2017-12 provides that CNA incentives are given to management and rankand-�ile employees of the government in recogni-

tion of their efforts in accomplishing performance targets at lesser cost and in attaining more ef�icient and viable operation.

Last year, all eligible provincial government employees received P25,000 each as CNA bonus.

Aside from this, the governor said they would release before Christmas Day the P5,000 Performance Enhancement Incentive (PEI) of their employees.

She said permanent and casual employees, including elective of�icials, would receive the PEI. In Sarangani, provincial employees will be receiving a CNA incentive of P14,000 as set under the newly-signed agreement between the local government and the Sarangani Provincial Employees’ Union.

Wilson Lapiz, SPEU president, said the new CNA would take effect for three years as in the previous agreements.

Aside from the CNA incentive, he said they would receive hospital bene�its of not less than P100,000.

(HST/PNA)

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

SUBURBIA RISING7

Davao Oriental Gov orders preemptive evacuation in preparation for ‘Vinta’

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avao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang on Thursday noon ordered a preemptive evacuation of residents in floodprone and landslide-prone areas and those living along the shorelines on the northern part of the province which has been placed under storm signal number 2 along with Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur, as tropical strom ‘Vinta’ moved towards Eastern Mindanao.

Dayanghirang activated the province’s Incident Command System (ICS) Wednesday afternoon during an emergency meeting of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management

Billboards are emptied of their tarpaulins and signages in Cagayan de Oro City on 21 December 2017 as safety measure for the arrival of Tropical Storm Vinta. MindaNews photo by MANMAN DEJETO Council (PDRRMC) and on Thursday ordered ICS teams to be deployed to “areas that are anticipated to be affected.”

Troops from the Philippine Army, Philippine National

Police, Philippine Coastguard, as well as volunteer groups have also been mobilized and currently on alert status in preparation for the landfall that is expected “over Caraga

– Davao region area” between late Thursday night (December 21) and Friday morning (December 22).

Baganga in the northern part of Davao Oriental was

Statement of governor Nelson

December 21, 2017 he Province of Davao Oriental once again faces yet another challenge due to Tropical Storm “Vinta” that is expected to bring possible �looding and landslides in some parts of our province.

As per latest Weather Bulletin Storm from the DOST-PAGASA, a Storm Warning Signal Number 1 has been raised over Davao Oriental threatening to bring heavy torrential rains and �loods especially on the Northern parts of the province, particularly the towns of Boston, Cateel, Baganga, and Caraga.

As of yesterday, the province has already activated its Incident Command System (ICS) as we have convened the members of our Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. The province’s ten municipalities and 1 city have as well activated their ICS, thus, mobilizing all avail-

T

able assets and resources.

We have sat down with concerned agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology for us to be able to know the real extent of the impact of the storm. We have already deployed heavy equipment and emergency vehicles down to the municipalities that would be affected. We have pre-positioned food packs at the provincial level and have requested additional food packs from the Social Welfare Department.

Moreover, I have ordered the suspension of classes in the whole province.

Today, at 1pm, our Incident Command Teams will be deployed to the areas that are anticipated to be affected.

Troops from the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coastguard, as well as volunteer groups have also been mobilized and currently on alert status as the DOST-PAGASA predict that the landfall will be between

where super typhoon Pablo made landfall on December 4, 2012.

In a statement emailed to the media at 12:39 p.m. Thursday, Dayanghirang said they

evacuation to ensure safety of the people living in �loodprone and landslide-prone communities and those households living along the

STATEMENT,P11

DAVAO,P11

Region 12 economy sustains momentum

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this evening and tomorrow morning.

I have ordered the mayors and barangay chairmen of northern Davao Oriental to implement a pre-emptive

face yet another challenge due to ‘Vinta’ which is “threatening to bring heavy torrential rains and �loods especially on the northern parts of the province,

ENERAL SANTOS CITY -- When local terrorists laid siege to Marawi City in May, some people feared that Region 12 or Soccsksargen could be next.

The region is geographically close to Marawi and there had been reported movements these past months of armed bands linked to terror groups that might be plotting similar strikes in the area.

But the feared spillover of the Marawi crisis, which led to the declaration of martial law in the entire Mindanao, never happened until it was eventually contained by government forces �ive months later.

As in most areas in Mindanao, it was “business as usual” in Region 12’s four provinces and �ive cities despite the crisis and the extended martial law.

Economy-wise, the region’s key drivers -- agriculture and �ishery production,

services and processing – have rebounded and posted positive growths throughout the year, likely exceeding initial projections.

“Marawi did not have any signi�icant effect to the region. Overall, this is a vibrant year for us economically, and it was much better than last year,” said Arturo Valero, regional director of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) in Region 12.

The key factor this year was the resurgence of the area’s agriculture sector, which was hit hard by the onslaught of the long dry spell triggered by the El Nino Phenomenon in early to mid-2016.

Citing initial production reports as of the third quarter of year, Valero said the area’s major crops have rallied back, with some even posting double-digit growths.

He said there was noted slowdown in production for

REGION,P11

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

Safety first

t could be a wet Christmas for some parts of Davao and several others in neighboring regions in Mindanao. Tropical storm “Vinta” (international name “Tembin”) is expected to hit ground late Thursday or early on Friday based on weather updates from PAGASA. The storm comes on the heels of the recent destruction left by “Urduja”. We have yet to recover from the havoc wrought by Urduja when Vinta is about to strike its wrath. While we hope that nothing sort of destruction of “Pablo” proportion to hit Davao Oriental, it is also prudent to remind residents to keep safe amidst the brewing storm. It is

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always better to be safe than sorry, as they say.

In these times of the approaching storm, it is helpful to be updated of the weather conditions and to be prepared in the event of disaster. Government agencies must be working round the clock at this point even with the Christmas holidays to make sure that rescue and relief mechanisms are in place.

Even then, the Filipino indomitable spirit should not be dampened despite threats of a storm. There are many ways to celebrate Christmas and one of these is to spend a peaceful time with the family indoors and tucked safe from the storm.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Dengvaxia and the chronic lack of leadership

L

istening to the Dengvaxia hearings prompts me to react vigorously on the Aquino brand of leadership.

This was on full display, a repeat of the Mamasapano debacle and the Luneta siege aftermath that forever rained on his supposedly spotless image, a repudiation of “Daang Matuwid” and setting the stage for the electoral defeat of one Mar Roxas.

This particular CNN Philippines report dug deep: “Aquino, who attended the joint hearing of the Senate Blue Ribbon, Health, and Finance panels into the Dengvaxia vaccine controversy as a resource person, said no questions were raised

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hristmas is the most wonderful time of the year for Christians. And for Muslims, yeah sort of. It’s the most wonderful time of the year to explain Islam to the Non-Muslims because belief in Jesus as God’s messenger is one of the common beliefs shared between Islam and Christianity. There may be differences but if explained properly, it is hoped that you, the reader, will make much sense about how Islam views Jesus Christ and why Muslims do not celebrate Christmas.

JESUS IN ISLAM. Muslims believe that Jesus performed miracles such as healing the sick, feeding large number of people by making little food enough for them and of course, giving life to the dead.

Muslims believe in it too, except that we believe that it was done with the permission of Allah and not because of his divinity or being son of God. Allah said in the Quran, “Jesus will be a messenger to the Children of Israel, who will say, ‘Indeed I have come to you with a sign from your Lord in that I design for you from clay that which is like the form of a bird, then I breathe into it and it becomes a bird by permission of Allah. I cure the blind and the leper, and I give life to the dead - by permission of Allah . And I inform you of what you eat and what you store in your houses.

Indeed in that is a sign for you,

when the now-controversial vaccine was bought during his term.

“Bago nagdesisyon ang gobyerno sa Dengvaxia, habang nagdedesisyon, pagkatapos magdesisyon, at hanggang ngayon, walang nagparating sa akin ng pagtutol sa bakuna,” he said.

[Translation: No one advised me against Dengvaxia during the decision-making process, after we procured, and until now.]” (http://cnnphilippines. com/news/2017/12/14/ D e n g va x i a - d e n g u e - va c cine-Pnoy-Aquino.html) His response is a repeated story where he tries to absolve himself from any wrongdoing,

MY TWO CENTS’ John Carlo B. Tria using the lamest of excuses: not knowing, and not being told, or worse, waiting to be told. What about doing Complete Staff Work? What about

due diligence? Research.

This becomes distressing when we realize the fact that 3.5 billion pesos in taxpayers money was realigned from somewhere else just to make the purchase. How they spin that off as proper will be one for the books.

Let the truth emerge and the lessons be learned. The axe wil fall on people after.

Congressional investigations being in aid of legislation should not be pushed forward or backward by anyone whether inside or outside government.

Remember Mark Taguba?

Was he not charged? Filing of criminal charges can always take place after the congres-

sional hearings, which is the proper venue for it.

Meddling in such an investigation will only taint the proceedings as a political exercise and mute its effectand destroy the credibility of the next steps needed to craft and implement laws to correct errors.

For now, we have been treated to a travesty of his presidency, where lame and hackneyed explanations are pushed by his partisans as “leadership”.

Dengvaxia proved to be PNOYs undoing. Coming after similar �iascoes, it only cements his reputation for chronic, repeated and deep lack of real leadership.

PAGANISTIC RITUALS WHILE THEY ARE GLORIFYING THE DAY OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS. As you have seen here this is a clear deception wherein some people sacri�iced their faith in order to attract more members and for some material gains, how could we allow ourselves to be deceived?

This kind of deception is not acceptable in Islam and it is a major sin that we lie about and change the matters of our religion even for good intentions.

4. WHAT ARE THE EVIDENCES THAT DECEMBER 25 IS THE BIRTHDAY OF JESUS? Actually, there is not a single evidence. First, all the circumstances involving the birth of Jesus in the Bible and in the Qur’an (Surah Maryam:25) all proves that Jesus was not born in the winter season.

Secondly, before the establishment of Christmas, every year, from December 17, the Romans celebrate a feast for Saturn, the ancient god of farming in a feast called SATURNALIA. This celebration lasts for about 7 days and ends on December 25…most of the Romans also celebrate the long day after the winter solstice by participating on rituals dedicated to MITHRA, the ancient god of light of PERSIA. There are no historical accounts of December 25 before the institution of Christmas other than the Pagan rituals.

Why do we have to imitate the pagans? Why do we have to lie that this is the date of birth of Jesus?

5. DOES CHRISTMAS BENEFIT THE SOCIETY? The Bible neither gave any regulation on how Christmas should be performed nor does it indicate anything that suggests that it could ever be a religious celebration.

Rise of crime rates during Christmas season is alarming and this is because people have different interpretations of what Christmas is. People see Christmas as a time for excessiveness in material things by wasting money on food or even vice such as alcohol, fornication, and others.

Excessiveness is not a part of Islam. Therefore, there is no Christmas in Islam.

It is clear in the teachings of Islam that Jesus is only a prophet and not God and not a god.

Muslims love and respect Jesus the way we love and respect all the prophets. In fact, Jesus was mentioned by name 25 times in the Quran, only mentioning good things about him, but we do not worship him or celebrate his birthday.

For more information about Islam, watch Mensahe TV at Cignal Channel 184. For your comments, questions and suggestion please drop me an email at mujahidnavarra@gmail.com. Have a nice day.

The most wonderful time of the year

if you are believers.’” ~Quran 3: 49.

WHY IS THERE NO CHRISTMAS IN ISLAM? In spite of the love of the Muslims to Jesus we do not celebrate Christmas because of reasons that we want you to understand.

1. DID JESUS CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS? According to Historians, the Bible never even mentioned that Jesus celebrated his birthday. Moreover, his disciples and his early followers never did the same. Indeed we can �ind the best example from our prophets.

If he is the truth, the way, and the light, why do we do something he did not order us to do?

2. WHEN WAS CHRISTMAS FIRST CELEBRATED? The Roman Catholic Church �irst celebrated Christmas on a festivity they call as the Feast of the Nativity in 336 AD. The word Christmas only entered the English language in the year 1050 AD in the form of the word christes maesse, which means THE FEAST OF CHRIST. Jesus did not celebrate Christmas and this is a festivity invented by man only. In Islam man cannot invent matters of religion because it will only lead him astray from the straight path and he will only do harm to himself by doing so. Any innovation in religion is not acceptable even if we have the best intentions. Does not Allah know His

UNDERSTANDING ISLAM

Mujahid Navarra

religion better than us humans?

Allah said in the Quran: “Are you teaching Allah with your religion while Allah knows whatever is in the heavens and the earth, and Allah is Knowing of all things?” ~Quran 49:16.

So what is the use of adding or subtracting to God’s religion?

Indeed Christmas is only an innovation in religion.

3. WHAT IS THE REASON FOR ESTABLISHING CHRISTMAS? Although the bible mentions about the birth of Jesus in some detail it never mentioned the exact date of this event…The Roman Catholic Church chose December 25 as the date of the birth of Jesus SO THAT THEY CAN ATTRACT THE PAGANS INTO EMBRACING THE CHRISTIAN FAITH BY ALLOWING THEM TO PRACTICE THEIR

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

TAXI... FROM 1 danao Weather Forecast that the Caraga and Davao Region will have cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms due to the Trough of LPA. The rest of Mindanao will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers due to localized thunderstorms. The Eastern section of Mindanao will have moderate winds coming from the Northeast to North with moderate seas.

Emmanuel Jaldon, head of the disaster risk reduction management of�ice, said that scattered to widespread rains is expected over Eastern Visayas and Eastern Mindanao.

“The rest of Mindanao will have light to moderate winds coming from the Northeast with light to moderate seas,” he told the I-Speak forum in City Hall.

Jaldon said that Residents of these areas must undertake appropriate measures against �looding and landslides and

coordinate with their respective local government and disaster risk reduction and management of�ices.

He added that �isher folks and those with small sea crafts are advised not to venture out over the seaboards of Eastern Mindanao due to the moderate to rough seas associated with the approaching Tropical Depression.

Jaldon said that expected landfall between Caraga - Davao Region on Thursday December 21 evening to Friday December 22 morning.

Jaldon said that Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal Number 2 as of Thursday was raised over Surigao del Sur and northern Davao Oriental Wednesday afternoon. But Pagasa said that the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Compostela Valley, and Davao del Norte might also be included.

According to a press release from the provincial information of�ice e-mailed at 9:07 p.m., the PDRRMC reported that the towns of Boston, Cateel, Baganga, and parts of Caraga are expected to be affected by the heavy rains up to 40 mm within the next three days.

Sharon Mendoza-Alegado, provincial director of the Department of Science and Technology said this amount of rainfall is way above the “red” warning of 30 mm. She said if this continues, it would result in “serious �looding in low-lying areas.”

As of 10 p.m. Wednesday, ‘Vinta’s’ center was estimated at 605 km east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, packing maximum winds of up to 55 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 65 kph, the weather bulletin said.

‘Vinta’ is forecast to move west at 20 kph and will be 130 km east of Hinatuan by Thursday evening; 75 km west southwest of Dipolog City in Zamboanga del Norte

by Friday evening, 145 km South Southwest of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan by Saturday evening, 585 km west of Puerto Princesa, outside the Philippine area of responsibility by Sunday evening and 615 km west southwest of Pagasa Island, Palawan by

Monday evening, also outside the PAR. Scattered to widespread moderate to heavy rains are expected over Eastern Visayas, Caraga and Davao Region within 24 hours. “Residents of these areas must undertake precautionary measures, coordinate with their respective local disaster risk reduction and management of�ices, and continue monitoring for updates,” the bulletin said.

Fisherfolk and those with small seacraft are advised not to venture out over the eastern seaboard of Mindanao due to the moderate to rough seas associated with the approaching ‘Vinta,’ it said.

Governor Dayanghirang ordered close monitoring of all areas, especially barangays surrounding the Cateel Irrigation System in Barangay Aragon, Cateel.

On pre-emptive evacuation, Dayanghirang said they will “rely on the wise judgment of the barangay chairmen who are directly on the ground.”

The Department of Interior and Local Government has alerted the barangays and encouraged residents to prepare their “Go Bag” or survival kit consisting of basic necessities such as food and water good for at least three days.

even compete to fund projects under the Duterte administration because of the positive economic outlook of the country.

Amid the Philippine government’s withdrawal for an MCC grant, the Bud-

get chief said being considered as a possible bene�iciary for a grant from the independent US government agency is already a plus.

“We should be happy with that,” he added. (PNA)

VINTA... FROM 2

DIOKNO... FROM 3

PLANS BARED. Engr. Grace Catubig of the Office of City Building Official provides the details of the office’s plans and programs for next year during I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr

ALVAREZ... FROM 4 ble, once funding for a project has been approved, then it is good to go,” Alvarez said.

“But in extraordinary cases we have to re-allocate funds for other priorities, such as education and the welfare of policemen and soldiers. This is what happened in the 2018 budget,” he added.

On Wednesday, Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman on Wednesday claimed that opposition lawmakers and other targeted legislators in the House of Representatives have “zero allocations” under the 2018 General Appropriations Act. He said a total of 24 solons suffered from budget cuts.

“Steadfast critical dissent and perceived “wayward-

ness” have left the respective constituencies of two-dozen solons destitute of infrastructure projects under the 2018 General Appropriations Act,” Lagman said.

Lagman belongs to the opposition bloc called Magni�icent 7. Other members include Representatives Tom Villarin, Gary Alejano, Edgar Erice, Teddy Baguilat, Raul Daza, and Emmanuel Billones.

Alvarez questioned the PHP3.8-billion budget allocated for projects in Lagman’s district.

“We would be very happy to hear from him where this huge funding has gone,” Alvarez said.

of the Treasury (BTr) of Retail Treasury Bond (RTB), wherein it issued a total of PHP255.4-billion worth of �ive-year retail securities.

RTBs are called as such

because they are intended for small investors, since minimum placement is PHP5,000 and additional investments are also on increments of PHP5,000. (PNA)

He said funding will also depend on how worthwhile the projects are.

Asked if it is legal to change the appropriations instead of funding it based on the proposal, Diokno said “Congress can do that.”

“We went through the process - - the House, the Senate, the various committees. So,

what came out of that? Congress has the power to authorize, that’s their power,” he said.

Diokno, meanwhile, clari�ied that Congress has the power to authorize the budget but not implement the projects.

“The budget is the most political tool for legislation that’s why it involve both Congress and Executive,” he added.

7... FROM 4

DIOKNOSAYS... FROM 5

On Tuesday, President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed into law the 2018 General Appropriations Act or the PHP3.767 trillion national budget.

Next year’s budget is 12.4 percent higher than this year’s PHP3.350 trillion and accounts for about 21.6 percent of gross

domestic product (GDP).

Bulk of the funding was allocated for social services at 37.8 percent, followed by economic services, 30.6 percent; general public services, 17.4 percent; debt burden, 9.9 percent; and defense, 4.3 percent.

(PNA)

Returns and other documents that will determine the corresponding taxes, fees, and charges which is need to submit on January 2.

Additional documentary requirements as set by the Revenue Code of Davao includes Mayor’s Permit, previous receipts of payments, notarized List of Employees, Community Tax Certi�icate, Fire Safety Inspection Certi�icate, and Special Power of Attorney (SPA) for Single Proprietorship, Board/Partnership Resolution, and Secretary’s Certi�icate for other

types of organizations.

“Faster processing of a new business permit is possible if pre-required documents have been complied,” she said during the Ispeak media forum at City Hall on Thursday.

Ideally, Atty. Torentera said, the renewal of permits is completed within just a day.

But the processing of the permits is expected to last until January 20, 2018.

She added that renewal of business permit beyond January 20 will have a corresponding surcharge of 10 percent.

ally be serviced by rail from Manila and, if feasible, possibly also by a passenger fast rail system.

“The improvement of the passenger terminal will complete the synergy of all the infrastructure investments made in this region. That captures what the Build, Build, Build program aspires to achieve: a coherent national logistics circuit that will support our country’s rapid and inclusive development,” Dominguez said.

Also at the groundbreaking rites were former President and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo; Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and other members of the House of Representatives; Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea; Secretary Arthur Tugade; Senators Joseph Ejercito and Richard Gordon; Governors Lilia Pineda of Pampanga and Susan Yap of Tarlac; and the city mayors of Pampanga.

BUREAU... FROM 5

CLARK... FROM 4

ustralian alumni

INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

EVENT

EDGEDAVAO

UMBC homecoming

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO DECEMBER is the time of the year when people seem to come together. After all, it is the only month when there are several holidays. And it is also the time when Jesus Christ, man’s savior, was supposedly born (on the 25th).

This is the reason why a lot of Filipinos living or working abroad are coming back home – to be with their loved ones.

As they mingle with their families, they also renew their friendship with neighbors and schoolmates (in high school and/or college).

No wonder, December is also the time of homecoming in schools, colleges and universities. People are looking forward as to what happened to their former classmates. Some of them are already successful in their chosen careers; a few may not have pursued their dreams; but

mostly there are those who got married and have children (if not grandchildren) of their own.

That was what we learned during the alumni homecoming of the University of Mindanao Bansalan College (UMBC).

More than a hundred former graduates of the university came to join the oncea-year reunion.

This year’s homecoming was sponsored by high school graduates of Batch ’94. “The reunion was somewhat spectacular since everything seemed to be new among those who attended the reunion. It was a very different reunion,” said Oshea Espolong (nee Romanillos), who is a member of the host batch.

“As part of the host batch, I considered it as successful since from the beginning we aimed to provide the most entertaining homecoming. We even hired professional local entertainers and best audio

and video system from Davao City.”

But what really entertained those who attended the homecoming was the jokes and actions made by two stand-up comedians from Davao City. “I really laughed out loud,” commented Jeannyline T. Arriaga. “Although I was alone in my batch, I still enjoyed it since the jokes were funny.”

The town mayor, Ms. Quillen Sarte – who studied at the university for three years and was even a student official – came and graced the affair. She delivered a speech that inspired most of those who attended the homecoming.

The new dean, Ms. Jenny Belarmino, also updated the members of the alumni as to what happened when they left the college and how it will look like in the future.

The 2017 alumni officers include the following: Ferdinand Estremos, president; Haydee Madrid, vice-president; and Genoveva Diray, secretary.

See you same date, next year!

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

EVENT LAST DECEMBER 17, through the efforts of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology XI community relations team, 100 kids from Marahan West Elementary School were brought to SM City Davao for a fun day at the mall. The group was headed by school principal Christian Aubrey Dura.

“This will be the children’s first time to visit a mall. We are just as excited as the kids,” Mr Harvey Malnegro of BJMP shared. The kindergarten to grade 6 students from Marilog District travelled 3 hours to the city center.

Most of them, proudly donning their traditional tribal garb.

Earlier, BJMP organized a benefit duathlon to raise funds for the Fun Day at the Mall. The sports event was able to cover for the kids’ meals and purchase of gifts from their wish list—school bags, shoes, umbrellas, toy cars, among others.

The children were welcomed with Bears of Joy by SM Cares volunteers led by assistant mall manager Engr. Warren Rey Bautista. The stuffed toys were donated by the shoppers and business partners of SM City Davao.

With their new toy bears wrapped in their arms, the kids watched Olaf’s Frozen Adventure at Cinema 3. “Hala, dako nga TV! (Wow, a huge television!),” the kids expressed their awe as they step in the dark theater

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

SM, BJMP bring joy to 100 Matigsalog children

and set eyes on the cinema screen for the first time.

The mall’s special guests also experienced

riding the mall train and the carousel, a treat from SM Storyland; skate on Adventures on Ice, SM

Davao’s Christmas attraction; as well as play in World of Fun. “In SM City Davao,

we make sure that every year, we bring cheers to everyone during Christmas season… especially

kids. With the Bears of Joy campaign, we bring joy to the less privileged and at the same time, promote the value of charity among our shoppers and partners,” Engr. Bautista said.

Spread the holiday cheer this season. SM Bears of Joy are still available at the mall’s ground floor, Annex building. For P200, a shopper gets a pair of bears—one to keep, and another to share.

SM City Davao’s other beneficiaries are communities identified by the City Social Service and Development Office and the Department of Social Welfare and Development XI.

UP AND ABOUT

Jazz up to 2018 at the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao

By BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO WELCOME THE NEW mances, trendy cocktail food YEAR with the festive and beverages, games and prizcolors of Mardi Gras es. All for the price of Php2,018 and end 2017 with spar- nett per person. kles! Say hello to a new The ‘Beads and Bling, it’s a page, new beginnings Mardi Gras thing’ New Year’s and dreams. Go ahead Eve party will be held from 9:00 and grab your beads and am on December 31, 2017 to bling to a jazz fete at the 1:00 am on January 1, 2018.

Waterfront Insular HoPrior to the party, guests tel Davao on New Year’s may indulge in a lavish Media eve. Now, planning a big Noche at Php1,500 nett per pernight out with your loved son from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm ones is as easy as 2-0-1-8! at Café Uno and complete the Before turning a new leaf, year 2017 truly deserves a proper farewell. On the last night of the year, a spectacular party ambience awaits at the Garden Pavilion where guests can enjoy a countdown party with live music, crowd-pleasing perfor-

celebration with a thanksgiving mass at 7:00 pm at the hotel’s expansive garden area.

Executive Chef Bien Chavez’s heavy cocktail buffet highlights a variety of appetizers that will surely ignite your palate. More so, a carving of Roast Prime

Rib and Beef, Ham, and Turkey, a Panini station; good tasting mains; Mardi Gras desserts, a live dessert buffet and more.

The Mainstream Jazz Band,

notable for out-of-town engagements, promises an entertaining evening with a mix of jazz and blues, classic and contemporary. Dancing duos and some

aerial work are also sure to give you a jazz fever all through the night.

A few moments to midnight, a simultaneous drop of thousands of balloons and beats from homegrown talent DJ Torch Gacuma will commence as guests celebrate the remarkable end of one year and the start of another with family and friends.

Kids 6 years old and below will be free of charge while those who are 7 to 12 years old will be charged with a 50% off the regular ticket price. A special 20% discount is also extended to senior citizens with a valid ID. For inquiries and reservations, you may call trunk line no’s. (082) 233 2881 to 83 or direct line (082) 300 8881.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

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EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

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FRIGATE... FROM 5 equipment related to combat.

Lorenzana also clari�ied that before signing the contract for the frigate program last year, he had a consultation meeting with ranking Navy leaders, including Mercado who was Western Command chief at that time, to determine if they had any problem or misgiving on the project.

When no opposition came from the naval of�icers, Lorenzana said he proceeded to the Navy headquarters in Roxas Blvd., Manila and signed the contract.

In the contract, Lorenzana said the shipbuilder has the authority or power to select the maker or manufacturer of the CMS. “The CMS is very important to the project but there is a speci�ication there. They were in the contract, the technical working groups’ discussion. You cannot put a compa-

ny there to put the CMS, ilagay mo lang capability na gusto mo (just state the capability that you want). Now Hyundai said that they can, they will put the capabilities, CMS there according to speci�ications and we will �ind that out when they deliver that. Pag na-deliver yun at hindi nasunod yung speci�ics nyan (Once that is delivered and the speci�ications are not met), we will not accept the project and we have to reconnect to them so that they can correct whatever is de�icient,» he added.

He added that Hyundai is not keen on Mercado’s proposal as it is more expensive and not in the contract.

Once delivered and commissioned in 2020, the frigates will be the �irst Filipino warships capable of neutralizing surface, subsurface and air threats with missile and other modern armaments. (PNA)

while three other followers of Abu Toraife were injured and carried away by their comrades, according to villagers.

Brig. Gen. Nolly Samarita, commander of Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade, said the air strikes were launched to prevent the terrorist group from launching retaliatory attacks on civilian communities in North Cotabato.

In a separate statement, Major Gen. Carlito Galvez, said the military is doing everything to prevent the IS-linked group from getting closer to civilian populated areas.

“The BIFF are known for harming civilians to avenge the losses they incurred in military

operations,” Galvez said.

Samarita said the BIFF were preparing to launch attacks even on Moro communities in the borders of Aleosan and Carmen towns when the MILF provided intelligence information to government forces, thus the preemptive strikes.

Displaced families are now housed in village centers and public schools in Barangay Lawili, Carmen and local government units emergency teams have responded to attend to their needs.

Following Tuesday’s clash, more police and military checkpoints were setup along portions of the Cotabato-Davao highway. (PNA)

particularly the towns of Boston, Cateel, Baganga, and Caraga. The province has 10 towns and one city.

He urged residents in the affected towns to “do their fair share of the preparation as the government cannot do it alone” and to also “look after themselves and their families by preparing ‘Go Kits” or survival kits packed with food and basic necessities.”

He appealed to the public to be calm. “Let us coordinate and cooperate with the authorities and not be a burden to them. To those who know they are in a danger zone such as in the coastlines, evacuate as soon as possible. For �isherfolk and owners of small seacrafts, do not venture out to sea,” he said.

He also tasked the PDRRMC to coordinate closely with their counterparts at the municipalities to ensure that all identi�ied evacuation cen-

ters are safe and suitable for evacuation and equipped with necessary tools and equipment.

Signal 1 Placed under Signal 1 are the rest of Davao Oriental, Dinagat Island, Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, North Cotabato, Maguindanao, the northern part of Davao del Sur, Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, and Zamboanga del Sur, according to the Severe Weather Bulletin 5 issued at 11 a.m. Thursday by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

Mindanao has 27 provinces and 33 cities and two more Mindanao provinces may be added to the list under signal 1 as the PAGASA advisory cited “possible inclusion” of Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga Sibugay in Mindanao, and

5... FROM 6

DAVAO... FROM 6

EDGEDAVAO

the southern part of Negros Oriental and of Negros Occidenal “in the next bulletin” to be issued at 2 p.m.

Vinta (international name ‘Tembin’) is expected to make landfall “over Caraga – Davao Region area” between late Thursday evening (December 21) and Friday morning (December 22) morning.

As of 10 a.m. Thursday, ‘Vinta’s’ center was estimated at 340 km east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, packing maximum winds of up to 65 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph, the weather bulletin said.

‘Vinta’ is forecast to move west at 18 kph and will be in the vicinity of Cagwait, Surigao del Sur by Friday morning; 205 km west of Dipolog City in Zamboanga del Norte by Saturday morning; 160 km west southwest of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan by Sunday morning; and 655 km west of

Puerto Princesa City by Monday morning, outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal of the The Eastern Mindanao Command under Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal has directed its units particularly those in the areas to be affected by ‘Vinta’ to prepare and closely coordinate with different local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Councils (DRRMC) for the disaster response “without disregarding the duty to secure the communities from terrorist attacks and other atrocities.”

The directive also called for the preparation of the different assets — �loating, �lying, and heavy equipment — from all Armed Forces units in Eastern Mindanao “for possible deployment in the conduct of disaster response, including the activation of their respective disaster response task forces if necessary.” (MindaNews)

shorelines.

I have also directed the PDRRMC to coordinate closely with their counterparts at the municipalities to ensure that all identi�ied evacuation centers are safe and suitable for evacuation and equipped with necessary tools and equipment.

Meanwhile, I also urge the residents to do their fair share of the preparation as the government cannot do it alone.

We also urge the public to also look after themselves and their families by preparing ‘Go Kits” or survival kits packed with food and basic necessities.

The effects of this storm can be eased through unity. I am appealing to the public to be calm amidst the approaching threat. Let us coordinate and cooperate with the authorities and not be a burden to them. To those who know they are in a danger zone such as in the coastlines, evacuate

as soon as possible. For �isherfolk and owners of small seacrafts, do not venture out to sea.

Everyone is advised to take necessary precautionary measures, to be alert, and to watch and listen for the latest updates on the radio, television, or to trusted social media.

To our key partners in the government and private sector, I am truly counting on your participation. This is not new to us as we have been experiencing this kind of event almost every year.

Finally, I urge everyone to strengthen our faith to the God Almighty as we face this trial together.

As always, let us work together in our efforts to create disaster-resilient communities. It is my hope that everyone will stay safe in the coming days.

Thank you!

some crops but none posted negative �igures.

A report released by NEDA-12 cited that the region’s palay production during the �irst half of the year reached 505,877 metric tons (MT), a signi�icant increase from the 368,954 MT during the same period in 2016.

Palay production made the biggest leap from 220,516 MT in 2016 to 419,077 MT this year, increasing by 24.91 percent during the �irst quarter and a staggering 929.38 percent in the second quarter.

Seven out of the 10 major crops of Region XII posted positive growth rates as of the second quarter of 2017, with abaca, banana, cacao, mango, pineapple, rubber and sugarcane registering increased

production.

Fish production in all categories -- commercial, municipal inland, municipal marine, and aquaculture -- posted an average increase of 37.46 percent early in the �irst quarter, with commercial �ish production recording the highest growth at 43.87 percent.

But commercial �ishing landings slightly decreased from 66,455.22 MT to 65,970.35 MT by the second quarter “due to the lesser appearance of major species such as frigate tuna, roundscad and yellow �in tuna in the traditional ocean �ishing grounds in the western part of the Paci�ic Ocean.”

As of the third quarter, the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) reported a about 5 percent

STATEMENT... FROM 6

REGION... FROM 6

NEWS 11 reduction in �ish landings at the city �ishport complex here or from 154,080 MT in 2016 to 151,163 MT this year.

But the city, which hosts six of the country’s seven tuna canneries, remained the top �ish producer among seven other �ish ports.

In terms of investments, the Department of Trade and Industry’s Board of Investments reported the entry of P1.29 billion worth of new ventures in the area as of the �irst half of the year.

Housing developer Communities General Santos, Inc., the company behind Camella Cerritos, infused a total of P422.52 million for the development of economic and low-cost horizontal housing projects here and nearby Koronadal City.

Century Paci�ic Agricultural Ventures, Inc. invested P245.68 million for the development of a coconut milk production plant for exports in Purong Lansong, Barangay Tambler here.

Valero said there were other several big-ticket investments that came in and are underway in parts of the region.

He cited the opening last month of the CityMall in Koronadal City as well as the expansion of the Biotech Farms, Inc. in Tantangan town that initially invested around P1.1 billion last year and several other tuna-related industries here.

“There are ongoing explorations by some foreign investors as well and we can see that with the visitors that were coming in on a daily basis,” he said.

Valero said there has been a noted in�lux to the area of businessmen coming from Japan, China and Taiwan.

“We have seen them in �lights from Manila to General Santos. They are in Soccsksargen not for tourism but for business. These are indications of potential foreign investments,” he said.

Owing to these, the of�icial said they have adjusted expectations for the region’s growth targets this year.

He said that based on economic �igures as of the third quarter, Region 12 could surpass the projected national average growth rate of 6.7 to 6.8 percent this year.

Last year, the region posted a growth rate of 5 percent based on its Gross Regional Domestic Product, up from 3 percent in 2015.

For 2018, Valero said they expect the region’s economy to sustain its momentum and potentially reach its targeted 8 percent growth rate.

“Barring any natural calamity or man-made distractions, we’re seeing our economy going back to full strength next year,” he said.

But he acknowledged that there will be some challenges ahead, especially in terms of the area’s security situation.

He speci�ically cited the recent encounters between government troops and New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in the boundary of Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato provinces, and in parts of North Cotabato.

Based on reports, he said there are certain areas in the region that are infested by the NPA and its sympathizers.

“This the downside of all these gains. Right now, the impact not much signi�icant but I hope that these will not affect our overall production,” he added.(PNA)

workouts, but at the same time it’s how I feel the next day, and it’s getting lighter and lighter, which is a good sign.’’

Thomas is as close as ever to making his debut with Cleveland, which acquired him last summer in the blockbuster trade that sent Kyrie Irving to Boston. Since training camp opened, the Cavs’ timeline for Thomas was for him to be playing games by the end of December.

That now seems possible.

The Cavs, who have won 18 of 20, host Chicago on Thursday and are expected to practice twice before their Christmas Day matchup against the Golden State Warriors, whom they’ve met in three straight Finals.

Cleveland has games in Sacramento and Utah next week before returning home on Jan. 2 against Portland. The next day, the Cavs will play in Boston, where Thomas spent

more than two seasons and where he hoped to play longer before being traded.

Since the deal, Thomas has talked about being motivated to show the Celtics they were wrong to let him go.

Although he has not suited up for the Cavs, Thomas has been embraced by the city’s fans. As a way of giving thanks for their support, he teamed with World Vision - a humanitarian aid organization he has partnered with for seven years - to host children from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland at the party. ‘’The biggest thing is just putting smiles on these kids’ faces,’’ said Thomas, who played basketball and video games. ‘’You really don’t know what they’re going through or what they don’t have. It’s about having fun today.’’

Thomas said he has been touched by the warm welcome he’s gotten in Cleveland.

THOMAS... FROM 15

EDGEDAVAO

12 ENVIRONMENT

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

Ready for the next disaster?

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

‘

The calamity that comes is never that one we had prepared ourselves for.

– Mark Twain

The scene seemed to come out straight from a Hollywood movie, The Impossible, except that it didn’t happen in Thailand but in the Philippines, particularly Compostela Valley, during the time when typhoon Pablo struck the province.

As onrushing water held them captive, Rogelio Saging held tight his three young children with his eldest son Rudyard close behind. His wife Violeta was also trailing them. But the current was so strong; the water was loaded with silt, gravel, boulders and clumps of fallen trees that they almost lost their hope of surviving.

Then, the unthinkable happened. The parents saw how a fallen coconut tree hit the head of their third-year high school son Rudyard and carried him away from their grasp. All was chaotic after that; they, too, were swept away by the strong current of �lood.

Around 2 in the afternoon, it was a joyful and tearful reunion as the parents had found all four children all well – except for Rudyard, who was in a very critical condition. Rescuers had found him barely clinging to his life. Rogelio had only few precious moments to talk with his dying son before his torn and mangled body �inally gave up.

This real-life story is just a preview of what will happen in the future as more intense typhoons will hit the country. Normally, the Philippines experiences tropical cyclones of up to 20 a year.

In recent years, stronger typhoons have become more frequent.

“By the end of this century, tropical cyclones are expected to intensify, with a projected increase in the average instantaneous maximum wind velocity at the Philippine coast,” said the executive report of “Getting A Grip on Climate Change in the Philippines,” a World Bank publication.

Climate change has signi�icantly contributed to these disasters. “Climate change is expected to lead to more intense typhoons, higher sea levels, and storm surges,” says another World Bank report, “Turn Down the Heat: Climate Extremes,

Regional Impacts and the Case for Resilience.”

Filipinos are urged to be prepared for the worst impacts of climate change.

“Weather patterns could become unpredictable, as would extreme events; hurricanes could become much stronger and more frequent,” wrote Lulu Bucay in a pamphlet issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

But typhoons and �loods are not the only disasters that hit the country every year. It is also devastated every now and then by landslides, drought, earthquakes and even volcanic eruptions.

“The Philippines is one of the most disaster-prone places on Earth,” says Kathleen Tierney, director of the Natural Hazards Center at the University of Colorado.

“They’ve got it all. They’ve got earthquakes, volcanoes, �loods, tropical cyclones, landslides.”

However, the Philippines is not alone in this dilemma.

“Every year, between 600 and 800 natural disasters occur, some small and localized, others affecting several countries and many thousands of people,” writes Bob Hansford, disaster risk management advisor at Tearfund, a Christian relief and development agency.

Disaster often recur in the same place – annually or with a gap of some years. In 2009, tropical storm Ondoy pounded Metro Manila and its surrounding areas. This year, Metro Manila and its neighboring places were under water again.

In his article, “Managing disaster and building safer communities,” Hansford talk about the four things that happen when a disaster strikes: emergency response, rehabilitation, mitigation, and preparation.

“In the �irst few days and weeks after a disaster, there is a need for search and rescue, medical care, food, water, sanitation and shelter, as well as emotional support,” explains on what an emergency response is.

Rehabilitation comes next. “As the weeks pas, houses need to be repaired, water supplies restored, and livelihoods re-instated,”

Hansford says. “Rehabilitation is often called recovery.”

Mitigation is closely linked to rehabilitation. Examples include: stronger or raised houses, water pumps on raised platforms, alternative crops to cope better with �lood or drought.

“Mitigation activities help to ‘build back better,’ making the community more resistant to future hazards,” he says.

Preparation is getting ready for the next disaster that comes. For a storm or �lood, it means establishing

a warning system, setting aside food or water stocks, making ready an evacuation center or training volunteers.

In the Philippines, �loods have become a common occurrence. It is not only Metro Manila that suffers from �looding but other provinces as well. What can be done to save lives? “In the event of a disaster, warning communities can make the difference between life and death,” the Tearfund said.

In “Disasters and the Local Church,” authors Bill

Crooks and Jackie Mouradian shares some examples of early warning systems: depth market posts, rope and belts, lookouts, and raising the alarm.

In some countries, communities place a series of bamboo poles in a river, with depth marks (as on a ruler) along the pole. Three colors are often used: green at the bottom, meaning “safe”; yellow in the middle, for alert level; and red nearer the top, which means “danger.”

“The color gives an indication of how quickly

the water is rising,” Crooks and Mouradian points out. “During heavy rain, some community members should be given the task of monitoring the water level and warming the community if the water reaches the danger level.”

Rope and bells is common in the Philippines but not often used. In this method, ropes are tied over the rivers, with �lags and small bells attached. If the river level rises, the bells ring, alerting people to the imminent danger.

In some parts of Afghanistan, during the �lash �lood season a community will send young men to herd goats in the high hills and watch for surges of water in the stream bed. “If the lookout sees the water rising quickly, he will alert the community through �iring an air ri�le, blowing a horn, or another signal that can be heard over long distances,” the two authors write.

What should the people do once the water level has reached the critical stage?

“Once the water has risen above the danger level, all members of the community must be alerted, and those in danger must be asked to move to higher ground,” said Crooks and Mouradian.

Many communities have

developed ways of passing on warnings including using church bells, mosque loudspeakers, mobile phones, gongs and megaphones (carried by volunteers on bicycles).

In �lash �loods, the water rises very quickly.

“Where mobile phones are working, messages can be passed by mobile from upstream to downstream locations, alerting people to approaching �loods,” Crooks and Mouradian suggest.

What about landslides, another common occurrence during heavy rains?

They happen when the soil on a slope become unstable, and quantities of soil, mud and rock start to move down the slope. They cause serious damage and are dif-

�icult to predict.

The Tearfund publication shares this tip on what to do during landslides: In high-risk areas, volunteer teams can check for earth movement during periods of heavy rainfall and be prepared to give warnings to people if a landslide is starting.

In addition, appropriate tools should be kept accessible to dig out casualties, plus First Aid materials. A school, church, or other public building can become an evacuation center – preequipped with clean water and latrines.

“Disasters bring with them great challenges,” says Alice Keen, the Tearfund editor. “Rescue, response, and recovery are followed by re-

construction and rebuilding lives. But the work doesn’t stop there. Reducing the risk of future disasters is the key to preventing the loss of more lives.”

The world’s weather has completely changed.

Filipinos should not be complacent when it comes to disasters. Senator Loren Legarda, who chairs the Senate Committee on Climate Change, reminds us: “There will be many more typhoons, earthquakes and other natural hazards that will come our way. But, let us not be content in having beautiful systems for disaster response and relief. The challenge at hand is to do more and to do better in prevention and risk reduction.”

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

Security Bank customer advisory- Holiday Season

I

n line with the holiday season from December 24, 2017 to January 1, 2018, please be advised regarding Security Bank branch schedules.

Selected branches are ready to serve you on December 24, 2017 (Sunday) and December 30, 2017 (Saturday).

All Security Bank branches will be closed on December 25, 2017 (Monday), December 31, 2017 (Sunday) and January 1, 2018 (Monday). All ATM

or Point-of-Sale machines, as well as our Internet Banking facility will still be available for your banking transactions during these dates.

Business as usual for all branches from December 26 to 29, 2017 (Tuesday to Friday).

For the full list of branches and schedules, customers may visit http://securitybank.com/ banking-advisory/ Please be guided accordingly.

from BMX to mountain bike, folding bike or road bike.

“Kahit anong klaseng bikes. Kahit ordinary bike lang. Sama-sama po tayong mag fun ride upang ipakita muli natin ang ating tapang at malasakit para sa ating bansa,” said Paholio.

The bikers will assemble at the Rizal Park at 4:30 a.m. and will jump-off at exactly 5:30

a.m.

Registration is free but participants must still have to register at the CICAD secretariat in order to qualify for the raf�les during the closing program at 8 a.m.

Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio will be invited as the guest speaker.

“We will �inalize the route next month,” said Paholio.

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EDGEDAVAO

NEWS13

USeP President delivers 1st State of the University Address

T

o present the signi�icant achievements and plans of the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), Dr. Lourdes C. Generalao, delivered her �irst State of the University Address (SOUA) on December 15, 2017 at the USeP Gymnasium and Cultural Center.

Dr. Generalao, as the 6th President of USeP, highlighted in her SOUA the triumphs of USeP in the last two years. Among these include the revolutionized programs in line with the ASEAN Economic Community; the possible nationwide expansion of the College Education Behind Bars program; the burgeoning infrastructure projects in the USeP Obrero, Tagum-Mabini, Bislig, and Mintal campuses; the successful research and extension programs implemented in different communities in Mindanao; partnerships with international institutions; and notable performances of students and graduates in different regional competitions and licensure examinations.

Aside from noteworthy achievements, Dr. Generalao also presented her plans for USeP in line with the University’s Strategic Plan 2018-2021. Among these include becoming a recognized

RADIATE EXCELLENCE. Dr. Lourdes C. Generalao delivers her first State of the University Address as the 6th President of the University of Southeastern Philippines ASEAN research university, having ASEAN competitive graduates and professionals, creating a vibrant research community, providing proactive research-based economic empowering extension services, and generating capacity for innovative resource generation.

The SOUA, conducted to promote transparency between USeP and its stakeholders, re�lects the commitment of the University to provide academic, personal, and

professional growth for everyone.

With its capacity to in�luence individual lives and larger communities, Dr. Generalao encouraged USeP students, faculty members, and personnel to radiate excellence in all aspects.

“We are called to demonstrate, even in the subtlest of ways, excellence in every task we do. Let this be the legacy for which USeP will become known,” Dr. Generalao underscored.

With the unrelenting sup-

port given by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and other partner agencies, Dr. Generalao believes that USeP will soon establish academic prominence, not only in the entire Philippines, but in the international scene as well.

The transcript of Dr. Generalao’s �irst State of the University Address may be viewed at the of�icial USeP Facebook page (@ USePof�icial) and website (www. usep.edu.ph). (USeP PR)

14 MOTORING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

Save lives, replace those airbags

U

nless you’ve been living under a rock, there’s a massive recall concerning defective Takata airbags.

Supposed to save lives in the event of a devastating crash, these airbags could become potential grenades since their uncontrolled explosion could send shrapnel into the face of a vehicle’s occupants.

The US-based National Highway Traf�ic Safety Administration or NHTSA estimates that about 65-70 million airbags will need to be replaced, and that’s in the US alone. Everyone from Honda to BMW to Ferrari to McLaren is affected.

This safety recall isn’t just limited to the US either, it’s a global thing. And after a series of internal investigations, a number of carmakers have raised their hands and con�irmed that some vehicles marketed and sold in the Philippines are affected.

Subaru is one of these brands and in a proactive measure, they have begun reaching out to their clients to inform them that their airbag needs replacing. Their exclusive Philippine distributor, Motor Image Pilipinas and

their authorized dealerships have begun sending out SMS and direct mailers to affected owners telling them to have their airbag replaced.

Mr. Alvin Pisig, Motor Image Pilipinas’s National Head for Aftersales says that Subaru Corporation had initially informed them that only the 2005-2007 WRX and WRX STI models (aka “Hawk Eye”) were affected by the Takata airbag recall. Since then, Subaru Corporation expanded the scope to cover the 2009-2012 Forester (SH) and the 20092014 Legacy and Outback (BM and BR) as well. As of December 2017, only 22 percent of affected vehicles has had their airbags replaced.

In terms of the type of airbag covered by the recall, Mr. Pisig said that only the front passenger’s airbag is affected.

Subaru Corporation has determined that all other airbags such as the driver’s airbag and side impact airbags are safe.

A few weeks ago, Motor Image Pilipinas’s Customer Service (CS) team sent me an SMS saying that my 2011 Subaru Forester XS is part of the recall. I immediately dou-

ble-checked if they had the right unit. Since the SMS identi�ies the vehicle by its VIN Number, it can be veri�ied in two ways.

First, see if the VIN Number matches the information on the LTO Certi�icate of Registration (CR). If the VIN identi�ied matches the alphanumeric string in the Chassis Number space, your car is part of the recall. Second, check the VIN Number stamped on the vehicle, located by the driver’s door jam. If the alphanumeric code matches, you’re part of the recall.

At this point, remember to relax: the airbag won’t unexpectedly explode in your face.

The most prudent thing to do would be to call your nearest (or preferred) Subaru dealership and set an appointment to have the defective airbag in�lator replaced.

The entire process takes only 2 to 3 hours, but setting that appointment makes sure that the in�lator is readily in stock.

It also cuts the waiting time considerably since they’ll be able to tell you if their service bays are full at a particular day or time.

Once you arrive at the Subaru service center (in this case, the newly opened Subaru Pasig along C5 Northbound) bring your car in as if you’re going in for routine service.

Once the service adviser enters the VIN Number or Plate Number (if you have previous records), he’ll be able to double-check if your vehicle is indeed one of those identi�ied in the airbag in�lator recall. If you belong to a multi-Subaru

household, such as myself, they’ll be able to determine which vehicles are affected by the recall and pinpoint which ones haven’t had their airbags replaced. In my case, it’s a total of three: a 2009 Subaru Forester XT, a 2011 Subaru Forester XS, and a 2012 Subaru Outback 3.6R-S).

Normally, you’re not allowed to access the service area, but for the purpose of documentation, I was allowed to see what goes behind a Takata airbag in�lator replacement.

If the defective airbag in�lator was located on the driver’s side, this would have been an easy job. However, since it’s the passenger’s airbag that’s affected, it necessitates taking the dashboard apart to get to the defective in�lator.

Like taking apart a giant jigsaw puzzle, the mechanic skillfully removes the entire

lower dash panel as well as the center console (near the shifter) just to reach the airbag in�lator located to the left of the passenger’s aircon vent. Around 30 minutes later, he’s able to pull out the old airbag in�lator.

The old (detective) airbag in�lator is the one on the right. Next to it is the replacement one, the one with the pink and orange protective plastic sleeve.

After putting in the replacement airbag in�lator and closing up the car, he then puts the defective one in the box and �ills up a form addressed to Subaru Corporation. This is likely part of a safety audit to let them know that there’s one less car on the road with a defective Takata airbag.

Once the mechanic veri�ies that all the accessories are working (radio, climate

control, interior lights), he sends the vehicle for a quick car wash and is then released to the customer.

Subaru quotes an average waiting time of 2-3 hours to have the Takata airbag in�lator replaced, but in my case, the wait was just about an hour and a half including the time it took to have the car washed. Plus, you don’t have to pay a single cent. Replacing the defective airbag in�lator is free of charge.

So if you can’t �ind the time to bring in your car for a defective airbag in�lator replacement, let me tell you this: there’s no more excuse for you. Not only can you enjoy free coffee and a car wash, but those two hours are certainly well-spent knowing that you can drive home with peace of mind; there’s no longer a potential grenade residing in your car’s dashboard.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 15

DEEP TROUBLE. Dabawenya golfer Ella Nagayo digs deep in the bunker during the final day of action in the 2018 Victoria Junior Open in Melbourne on Thursday. Nagayo was trailing in second in her class going into the fourth round.

CICAD sets 2nd Tapang at Malasakit Fun Bike Run

T

HE Citywide Cycling Association of Davao (CICAD) will be staging next year its second Tapang at Malasakit Para sa Pagbabago on March 11, Sunday in Davao City.

This was agreed during CICAD’s year-ending meeting held Wednesday at the Jaltan Magallanes.

“We need to make again this kind of fun ride to show that we still strongly support the Duterte administration both national and local,” said founding CICAD president and now Chairman Salva-

dor “Jun” Paholio Jr. Also present at the meeting were the other new CICAD of�icers led by its new President Dominic Carpio.

CICAD had successfully organized the �irst Tapang at Malasakit bike fun ride last March 13, 2016 around the major streets of Davao City. It was joined by more than 800 participants from different clubs and associations.

“We will still be inviting them and we will also invite the other regions,” said Paholio.

All types of bikes are welcome to join

CICAD,P13

Thomas suits up for Cavs next week

I

NDEPENDENCE, Ohio (AP) -- Isaiah Thomas played Santa Claus on Wednesday. Soon, he’ll be playing point guard for the Cavaliers.

Thomas said he could be on the �loor in games as early as next week for Cleveland after being sidelined with a hip injury that knocked him out of last season’s playoffs. Thomas has progressed to the point where he will be scrimmaging 5 on 5 in the next few days with the possibility of playing in games with the Cavs before the year ends. ‘’When that time comes to where I’ll be out

there, I’m sure everybody is going to know and I’ll be out there playing the way I’ve always played,’’ said Thomas, who hosted a holiday party for some area kids at the team’s training facility. ‘’I’m just trying to get as close as 100 percent as possible and to be out there to be special. Not just to be out there and be another body. However long that takes - it might be next week, it might be a week after that. We don’t know and we’re really not trying to put a date on it because it just depends on how my recovery is. ‘’I’m ramping up my

THOMAS,P11

Lakers end Rockets’ streak

H

OUSTON (AP) -- Lakers rookie Kyle Kuzma set career highs with 38 points and seven 3-pointers against the NBA’s hottest team, and he wasn’t all that impressed with it. ‘’Why not? I scored 30s in summer league, so...,’’ he said before trailing off.

The stakes were a little higher Wednesday night.

Kuzma helped the Lakers overcome James Harden’s 51 points and end the Rockets’ winning streak at 14 games with a 122-116 victory. ‘’It’s a better team but it’s the same mentality,’’ Kuzma said. ‘’I’ve got the same mentality every time I step on the court. I try to play my hardest and just be locked in.’’

Houston lost for the �irst time since Nov. 14, while the Lakers snapped a three-game skid. It was tied before Los Angeles scored 10 straight points - while Houston missed seven shots in a row - to go up 110100 with about four minutes left.

Houston ended an almost four-minute scoring drought when Harden made a free throw, and he added three more after being fouled on a 3-point attempt a few seconds later to cut it to 110-104. But former Rocket Corey Brewer, who �inished with 21 points, made a 3-pointer before Lonzo Ball hit two free throws to make it 115-104. ‘’The fact that we were able to kind of punch them early and you knew that run was coming and then �ind our composure again and hit some big plays and get some big stops, it was really good to see from our group,’’ Lakers coach Luke Walton said.

Harden powered Houston on a night when Chris Paul had just eight points before

leaving early in the fourth quarter with a sore left leg.

The Rockets made seven free throws down the stretch but hit just four �ield goals in the last eight minutes all in the �inal 1:05. ‘’We didn’t play defense at all tod ay,’ ’ Houston’s Trevor Ariza s a i d . ‘’They got whatever they wanted and when that happens, you lose.’’

Kuzma was unstoppable in the �irst half, making all nine of his shots, including six 3-pointers. He cooled a bit after the break and �inished 12 of 17 overall and 7 of 10 from deep.

The Lakers led 100-92 after a 3-pointer by Josh Hart with about nine minutes to go, but the Rockets scored the next eight points. Ariza led the way in that span, scoring �ive points and blocking a shot by Brandon Ingram.

The Rockets opened the third with a 6-1 run for their �irst lead of the game, 65-64, with about 9 1/2 minutes left in the quarter.

Paul tied it on a 3-pointer later in the third, but Brewer made the last �ive points of the period to put the Lakers up 94-89 entering the fourth.

The Lakers led by 22 points during the �irst half, but Houston used a 12-2 run midway through the second to cut the de�icit and a 7-2 spurt to end that quarter to get within 63-59 at halftime.

LOSING EFFORT. James Harden fired 51 points for the Rockets whose 14-game win streak came to an end.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 189 •FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22-23, 2017

STAR IN THE MAKING

B

Arum has high hopes for Davao boy Ancajas

rihgt days are ahead for Davao’s boxing pride IBF super�lyweight champion Jerwin Ancajas.

Hall of Fame boxing promoter Bob Arum is thrilled over the prospects of seeing the Panabo City native display his stuff on US soil. Ancajas traces his humble beginnings to the old Almendras Gym boxing facility at the back of the Davao City Recreation Center.

In a report published on Philippines boxing website Philboxing.com, Arum is reportedly excited over Ancajas’ fourth defense of the IBF 115-lb title against Israel Gonzalez of Mexico on Feb. 3 in Corpus Christi, Texas.

“We signed him up for three �ight in 2018 and if he does well, we will sign him up again for another three (in 2019),” said Arum in the report.

“We are going to make him a star,” he said.

Ancajas, who has

FUTURE BOXING STAR. Dabawenyo world champion Jerwin Ancajas with Presiddent Roddrigo Duterte. (Philstar photo) kicked off his preparation, is feeling the same thing that the initial phase of his

buildup started last week in Magallanes, Cavite.

“It’s my dream to �ight in

the US. Soon, it will become a reality,” said Ancajas.

Arum has included

Ancajas in his grand plans for 2018 that will involve boxing legend Manny Pac-

quiao.

According to the report, Pacquiao has �inally reached out to Arum and that the Filipino senator is eyeing to make a ring return sometime in April in the US. “We are going to �ind him a date in April,” said Arum, noting that it was Mike Koncz, Pacquiao’s Canadian adviser who delivered the message to him.

Things will clear up in the next two weeks, said Arum, stressing that determining the April date will largely depend on the 39-year-old Pacquiao’s Senate schedule.

One thing is clear, though.

“Manny doesn’t want to �ight in an undercard and he wants an interesting �ight (when he returns),” he said, stressing that the �ighting icon does not want to appear in the Jeff Horn-Terence Crawford showdown on April 21 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.