Edge10 issue194 SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY- TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2, 2018

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

HORNPIPES, INSTEAD. A sidewalk vendor tries out a hornpipe he is selling at P80 each to lure customers along Ilustre Street in Davao City a day before the New Year’s Eve . The city government of Davao led by

Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio encouraged the public to use hornpipes and other devices that produce loud sounds instead of firecrackers to avoid injuries. Lean Daval Jr.

37TH FIRE VICTIM Multi-agency task force starts probe

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By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR

he last unidentified body of the 37 recovered victims of the NCCC Mall Davao fire last December 23 is now known by the authorities.

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio said that the body belongs to Mikko Demafeliz, a male who was identi�ied by an anthropologist.

This developed as a task force composed of concerned government agen-

cies such as the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) began formally and investigation of the huge pre-Christmas day

Forward to 2018

2017 is about to end and I am pretty sure that everyone is busy with their New Year’s Eve preparations so what better way to welcome the new year than to look back into the events of 2017 and how it affects the way we Dabawenyos will live in 2018.

INduldgeA1

�ire.

Certain regional and city of�icials of the BFP will be among those to be investigated by the task force to determine whether its �ire�ighters acted appropriately during the 31-hour �ire and whether BFP of�ices strictly enforced the law on �ire protection and safety standards on the management of the NCCC mall and the SSI call center.

This was learned from

INdulge

Fire Supt. Fritz Alagano, �ire marshall, who admitted during the press conference last Friday at Royal Mandaya Hotel that BFP regional and city of�icers will also be summoned to the investigation.

Demafeliz is one of the two remaining victims who is in the missing list along with Alexandra Moreno.

The body of Demafeliz was already subjected to DNA test but since the result will be released after at least one month, the mayor ordered the Scene of Crime Operatives (SOCO) to identify the gender of the victim.

The SOCO, however, told the lady mayor that only an anthropologist can do it.

The city then hired anthropologist Richard Taduran to examine the gender of the

37TH,P11

‘Vinta’-affected families now at 152K

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he number of families affected

by Tropical Storm Vinta has climbed to 152,382 or 720,201 persons living in 1,111 barangays in the Mimaropa, Central Visayas, Zamboanga, Northern Mindanao, Soccsksargen, Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and CARAGA regions, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said in its Friday update.

Of the �igure, 21,884 families or 106,758 persons are still being aided in 192 evacuation centers, along with 5,303 families or 26,192 individ-

uals outside evacuation centers.

NDRRMC executive director Ricardo Jalad said one person was con�irmed killed by the effects of “Vinta”, as 163 reported deaths were being validated as of this posting. Missing persons remain at 168.

Still under a state of calamity are Tambulig, Zamboanga del Sur; Bacolod, Lanao del Norte; Lanao del Norte; Labason and Salug in Zamboanga del Norte; Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay; Balabac, Aborlan, and Bataraza in Palawan. (PNA/ Photo courtesy of the City Government of Davao FB page)

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

FIRE PROBE ON. Authorities from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) begin their investigation on Friday into the deadly fire that consumed NCCC mall last week.

Authorities will look into all possible causes of the fire including arson. Lean Daval Jr.

Army’s 10th ID bares 2017 accomplishments

By ANGIE SAVERON

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nits of the 10th Infantry division of the Philippine Army located at Mawab, Compostela Valley Province has made a total of 145 encounters.

From January 1 to December 26, a total of 1,252 New People’s Army personalities have been neutralized.

“Neutralized means either killed, surrendered, captured or arrested,” said Captain Jerry Lamosao, Spokesperson of 10th ID during the AFP-PNP Southern Mindanao Press Corps Media Brie�ing on last Thursday.

He said a total of 272 as-

sorted �irearms were either con�iscated, recovered and/ or surrendered.

“We have a particular collaboration with the stakeholders, local government unit and local agencies and other partners in nation building,” he said.

He said that their �lagship projects are implemented properly particularly the roads inside the Compostella Valley Province, Sarangani, some part of North Cotabato like Makilala up to Arakan Valley.

“We have observed that

ARMY’S,P11

Victims’cries for help give firemen sleepless nights

By CHA MONFORTE Correspondent

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agum City Fire Marshal Chief Inspector Alex Pamaybay said that until now, almost a week after tthe big �ire ate up the NCCC Mall in Maa, Davao City �iremen including him could not yet sleep much for the thought that they failed to rescue the 38 �ire victims.

“We were already on the third �loor, and we heard the voices of call center agents

calling their loved ones saying they’re still alive, but we could not go up farther due to intense heat... about 500 degree centigrade or above,” Pamaybay said.

“We used the �ire exits at the back of the mall going up from �irst, second to third �loor,” he said.

Pending the �inal result of investigation, Pamaybay said

VICTIMS,P11

No displacement in NCCC fire: DOLE 2,000 employees are affected O

fficials of the Davao regional office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) held a series of meetings on Wednesday with the management of NCCC Mall and SSI to ensure that no worker will be displaced in the aftermath of the tragic fire two days before Christmas.

The consultations followed a directive from Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III to provide all possible assistance to the more than 2,000

affected workers.

Also involved were of�icials of the Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC), Occupational Safety and Health

Center (OSHC) and the Employees Compensation Commission (ECC).

Earlier, NCCC management committed that the 616 NCCC Mall regular workers will not lose their jobs and continue to receive their salaries as they will be reassigned to their other business units.

NCCC has submitted a report on the deployment of their regular workers to DOLE and is now being validated.

For the 192 agency de-

ployed workers under Bmirck Cooperative, NCCC said that talks are ongoing regarding the possibility for the workers to be deployed to another establishment or malls in Davao City.

On the other hand, the SSI management has committed that all their employees will be paid their salary up to December 31, 2017.

SSI also added they will be rebuilding within 60 days as they have already found

On Thursday night, policemen shot at the passengers of a white Mitsubishi van along Shaw Blvd. corner Old Wack-Wack Road, which was transporting a woman wounded in an earlier shooting incident in Addition Hills, Mandaluyong, thinking it was the getaway vehicle of the shooting suspects.

Authorities got this impression based on the report

of barangay tanods who earlier responded to the shooting incident in the area.

The incident appeared to be a case of mistaken identity.

The wounded victim, identi�ied as Joana Amboa, was killed along with her companion.

Two others were hurt, including the vehicle’s driver and Amboa’s live-in-partner.

(PNA)

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Aguirre orders NBI probe on Mandaluyong‘misencounter’

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ANILA -- Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to look into the shooting incident in Mandaluyong City that left two people dead and two others injured.

On Friday, Aguirre ordered NBI Director Dante Gierran to “conduct (an) investigation and case build-up over

the deaths of two individuals and injuries of two individuals during a police operation along Shaw Blvd. corner Wack Wack road involving members of the Mandaluyong City Police”.

Aguirre also ordered the NBI to gather evidence and �ile appropriate charges before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against those responsible for the incident.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

EDGEDAVAO

Bello okays P30-M aid to workers of NCCC

NEWS 3

Drunk man welcomes New Year behind bars

By ANGIE SAVERON

A Amount is for emergency employment

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abor Secretary Silvestre Bello III on Wednesday approved the grant of at least P30 million for the emergency employment of workers affected by the NCCC fire in Davao.

The funds will cover employment of the workers or their dependents for a period of 30 days.

More than 2,000 workers are estimated to bene�it from the proposed emergency employment program.

The number includes employees of NCCC, SSI, employees of mall tenants, and other employees of the service providers.

On the part of ECC, the Commission is set to provide P30,000

worth of burial assistance to the 38 who perished during the �ire, including grocery items for the wake which will be followed by the provision of survivorship pension to their families amounting to at least P3,700 per month.

In addition, DOLE, together with OSHC and ECC, will put together funds that will provide families of the victims the amount of P20,000 per family.### DOLE Davao Region

NCCC offers scholarships to dependents of fire victims

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he management of NCCC Mall of Davao is offering scholarships to the dependents of the deceased �ire victims, according to a mall of�icial.

Lawyer Darry Gallego, assistant vice president for corporate services, told reporters that the mall management will take care of the scholarships. Gallego said that the mall of�icials already told the City Mayor’s Of�ice (CMO) that they will enroll these de-

pendents through the NCCC Cares, Inc. “We understand that there are dependents of the deceased and we offered to the City Mayor that we will enroll these dependents in our scholarships through the NCCC Cares Incorporated as a foundation we take care of the scholarships those who cannot afford to send their children. We told the City Mayor that we will enroll the dependents those who rely on the

Mayor Inday grateful for outpouring of help

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ayor Inday Sara Duterte expressed her gratitude to foreign governments and local residents of Davao City for the outpouring of support following the twin devastating events that hit the city last week.

At least 38 people died when the NCCC Mall on Don Julian Rodriguez Ave. in Barangay Ma-a caught �ire on Dec. 23.

But before that, the city was already reeling from the �loods that killed one person and affected a total of 25 barangays.

The People’s Republic of China and the Japanese Government had already pledged to send in assistance to the victims.

Next week, Chinese of�icials are expected to arrive in Davao.

“We are grateful for the

help not just (from) the foreign governments but also (by) the Dabawenyos, daghan kaayong mga dabawenyo nga nitabang.

We listed 6,000 volunteers in a span of six days,” she said. “In behalf of the city mayor’s of�ice, I am very grateful sa ilaha.”

Mayor Inday admitted that if not for the volunteers, the relief operation would not have been as swift.

“It was not easy to gather people to pack the relief goods because the focus at that time was to rescue the affected residents and the clearing operations,” Mayor Inday said.

At least 40,000 relief goods were packed during the 6-day operation through the help of the volunteers.

Part of the relief goods came from Samal City, through Mayor David Uy (50 sacks of rice).CIO

deceased victims,” Gallego said in an interview during a conference with the families of the �ire victims held yesterday at the Orchard Hotel.

For the spouses, Gallego said the company’s human resource department already able had an initial discussion with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the labor agency already signi�ied that they will be assisting the victims families with via livelihood programs.

“There has been an initial coordination with our HR and DOLE,” he said.

For single persons who act as breadwinners of the family, Gallego said, there is a cash assistance that will be course through the CMO. “Initially there’s a cash assistance that we will be running through the of�ice of the city mayor that is why we had this conference because apart from that there may be some

NCCC,P11

SKYSCRAPERS. High-rise buildings are seen sprouting at the business center of Davao City in this undated aerial view of the city. The city’s economy specifically industries in the real estate, business pro-

man who had one drink too many is most likely to welcome 2018, the New Year, behind bars, that is inside the detention cell of the San Pedro Police Station.

Samsudin Macarindang, the drunken man, was hailed to the police station after allegedly causing alarm and scandal (creating trouble) in the Bankerohan Public Market last Sarurday, December 30.

About 4:00 am of the said date, Central 911 called San Pedro Police Station regarding a man who was observed to be drunk and creating

trouble at the Bankerohan Public Market.

The complainant Jamila Dima, 43, vendor and resident of Bankerohan reported that Macarindang was threatening her with harm and that he will destroy her merchandize for no apparent reason.

Mobile 20 manned by PO1 Sunga of San Pedro Police Station brought Macarindang in the station with bruises which was caused by his drunkenness.

Macarindang, 42, married is a construction worker residing at Mini Forest in Davao City.

SC orders gov’t to explain martial law extension

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he Supreme Court ordered government of�icials to comment on the petition �iled by opposition lawmakers belonging to the “Magni�icent 7” bloc assailing the constitutionality of the full-year extension of martial law in Mindanao.

In a two-page order issued Friday, the SC gave the respondents -- represented

by Solicitor General Jose Calida -- 10 days to comment on the petition for a temporary restraining order against the extension.

The respondents were Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Defense Secretary Del�in Lorenzana, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Rey Leon-

ardo Guerrero.

“The petition appears to be suf�icient in form and substance” and consequently required the respondents Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III and Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, among others, to “comment on the petition and the prayer for temporary restraining order or writ of preliminary injunction within a non-extendible period of ten (10) days from notice hereof,” the SC said Last Wednesday, the petitioners led by Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman also asked the high court to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) or a writ of preliminary injunction to stop the implementation of the challenged re-extension pending adjudication of their petition.

SC,P11

cess outsourcing (BPO) and manufacturing will continue its upswing trend in the incoming year according to experts. Lean Daval Jr.

EDGEDAVAO

4 ECONOMY

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

Demand for round fruits up, prices too

By JUDIE VEGA

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n old tradition of Filipinos in welcoming the New Year is to keep round-shaped fruits. New Year’s eve is the time of the year when Dabawenyos, like most Filipinos, troop to the public market, grocery stores and fruit stands to buy 12 round-shaped fruits for display on the dining table.

This is due to the Filipino belief that round fruits will attract good fortune during the incoming New Year. Take note that most coins are roundshaped.

So on New Year’s eve, there is usually an abrupt increase in prices of roundshaped fruits like oranges in Bankerohan and other public markets as well as in the fruit section of city malls.

This was the situation in Bankerohan when this reporter visited the public market last Saturday, December 30. In an interview, fruit vendor Niño told this reporter prices of local fruits doubled, while prices of imported fruits only increased by an average of 5 percent.

The price of locally produced pomelo which used to be P45 per kilo was now P90 a kilo.

ROUND-SHAPED FRUITS. Dabawenyos flock to the fruit stalls along Monteverde Street in Davao City to buy round-shaped fruits in preparation for the celebration of New Year’s Day. Lean Daval Jr. However, the price of marang was down to P50 from P70.

Meanwhile, durian from P100 to P120 to P150, while grapes which are imported are priced at P250 from P200 a kilo. In contrast, the price per kilo of Watermelon had gone up from P20 to P30, along with the price of Guyabano from P35 to P50 per kilo, avocado from P40 to P60, guava from 30 to 50.

Niño said a kilo of yellow mango, used by many to make mango �loat which is a deli-

cious traditional Filipino dessert, now sells at P75 to P120 per kilo, double its former price of P60 per kilo.

“It’s the principle of demand and supply that dictate the prices,” he said.

An average-sized pineapple that normally costs P15 now costs P30 to P60 per kilo while varieties of banana ranged from P10 to P30 per bundle. Cardava is P10 per bundle; latundan is P20 per bundle, while lakatan is sold at

P30 per bundle.

Price of Fuji apple remained at P10 to P20 per piece; oranges are at P12 to P25 per piece depending on its size; green apple and pears ranging to P25 and buko is sold for P30/pc.

Prices may further go up as the last day of 2017 draws near. “On the 31st of December, prices will even go higher but we expect some vendors to drop the prices by about 5 p.m.,” he said.

2011, the growth rates were really low. In that context, it (this year’s growth) is a very good performance. We expect it to be sustainable,” he said.

The Philippine Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew 6.7 percent in the �irst three quarters also on the back of the recovery in external demand, boosting the achievement of the government’s full-year growth target of 6.5 to 7.5 percent.

The economy surged 6.9 percent in July to September quarter, making the Philippines the second fastest after Vietnam and ahead of China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia

and Thailand.

“Our macroeconomic fundamentals remain �irm and stable. In�lation keep within target, and trade continues to grow. Underemployment rate also declined to its lowest level in 10 years,” said Pernia.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) upgraded its GDP growth forecasts for the Philippines this and next year on the surge of the government’s infrastructure program.

It raised economic growth forecasts from 6.5 percent to 6.7 percent for 2017, and from 6.7 percent to 6.8 percent for 2018.

It expected the country

to remain the fastest growing economy in Southeast Asia.

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development ‘s Economic Outlook report for Southeast Asia, China and India, also projected the Philippine GDP growing 6.6 percent this year and averaging 6.4 percent from 2018 to 2022, about 50 basis points higher than 2011 to 2015.

It expected the Philippines to remain the fastest growing economy in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-5 (ASEAN) this year and through 2022, supported by

Niño also admitted that it was a risk on his part to acquire fruits at higher prices for this festive season, knowing he might not be able to sell them all before the advent of New Year.

He and other fruit vendors here also sell 12 kinds of fruits beautifully arranged in a basket.

Niño urged the public, especially those who will stick to the tradition of serving 12 kinds of round fruits on the

table to welcome the New Year, to buy the ready-made basketful of fruits. “They no longer have to worry where to �ind what kind of fruits to prepare,” he added.

Many Dabawenyos still practice the New Year’s Eve tradition of coming up with 12 round fruits, representing each month of the year, A ready-made fruit basket now costs about P600 to P700, depending on the kind of fruits it is made of.

High economic growth sustainable in 2018: NEDA Zamboanga City posts increase in tax collection T he Philippine economy has maintained its position as one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia on robust domestic consumption and government spending, supporting its projected higher growth path over the next few years.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director-General Ernesto Pernia said this year’s economic growth is “very good, spectacular” considering it is post-election year.

“If you look at post-election years in 2015 and then

HIGH,P11

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AMBOANGA CITY -Preparations are underway for the establishment of the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) to institutionalize a hassle-free registration of new business permits and renewal of licenses for 2018.

City Permits and Licensing Division Chief Benjie Barredo on Wednesday said the city government generated an earnings of PhP154 million for January 2017 alone.

Of the total earnings, Barredo said that PhP130

million came from business taxes and PhP24 million from other business related fees and surcharges.

Barredo said the total 2017 collection is higher by 13.24 percent or PhP18 million increase compared to PhP136 million in 2016.

He said this came about as the establishment of BOSS resulted in 416 percent increase in the issuance of new business permits totaling 477 in 2017 compared to only 34 in 2016.

He added that the re-

ZAMBOANGA,P11

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

EDGEDAVAO

ECONOMY 5

Hong Kong biusinessmen eye opportunities in PH

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ANILA -- An 11-man business delegation from Hong Kong has visited the Philippines to explore trade and investment opportunities in the country.

The Board of Investments (BOI) said Friday that the visiting businessmen from Hong Kong eye opportunities in sectors of agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and infrastructure.

Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Executive Director Margaret Fong led the business mission here.

During the business mission, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provided information to the delegation on the business environment in the Philippines.

It was also stressed that the Philippines and Hong Kong can further strengthen economic ties through the recently signed ASEAN-Hong Kong Free Trade Agreement (AHKFTA).

Prior to the meeting with the BOI, the business delegation also met with of�icials of Export Marketing Bureau and Philippine Economic Zone Authority.

According to BOI, Hong Kong remains one of the strongest investment sources for the Philippines this year.

Investment in�lows from Hong Kong investors in January to September 2017 surged 107.1 percent to PHP1.52 billion from PHP732.2 million investments in the same period last year. (PNA)

DICT bats for improvement of PH internet services

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he Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has expressed commitment to improve the speed, access and affordability of internet as it welcomes the possible entry of a third major player in the local telecommunications industry.

A major achievement for the department this year is its agreement with the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) and Facebook to build a broadband infrastructure that would help improve internet speed and accessibility in the country.

The Luzon Bypass Infrastructure will provide a bypass route for international submarine cable systems from the Luzon Strait, which is prone to multiple simultaneous submarine cable breaks.

A submarine cable system that will land in the cable stations and provide direct connections from Luzon to internet hubs in the United States and Asia will be constructed and operated.

Facebook, which will utilize the broadband infrastructure, will provide frequency spectrums equivalent to at least 2 million megabytes per second (Mbps), expanding the capacity available for the government’s information and communications technology (ICT) projects, such as the National Broadband Plan, National Government Portal and the Free Public WiFi program.

“These 2 terabits per second is almost equal to the current combined capacity of Smart and Globe. We will now have the capability to become the third telco player in the country,” DICT of�icer in charge, Undersecretary Eliseo Rio, Jr., said in his address during the signing of the HighSpeed Internet Infrastructure Landing Party Agreement last November.

DICT will operate the bypass infrastructure, maintain the related facilities, and provide last-mile connectivity in the country.

The department will also provide opportunities for minor telco providers to operate the broadband infrastructure on behalf of the government.

For its part, BCDA will build two cable landing stations in Baler, Aurora and Poro Point in San Fernando, La Union connected by a 250km. cable network corridor.

The construction of the cable landing stations and other facilities is estimated to cost the BCDA more than PHP900 million, poised to be funded through the 2018 national budget.

The Luzon Bypass Infrastructure will operate for 25 years from 2019 to 2044 and may be renewed 25 years thereafter.

Free Public WiFi in EDSA Last June, DICT has launched the free Public WiFi project that aims to provide free internet access to commuters along Epifanio delos Santos Ave. (EDSA).

The initiative seeks to ful�ill President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to provide free internet in public places nationwide.

Its initial phase covers all 13 Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) stations from North Ave. to Taft Ave. and the stretch of EDSA from Guadalupe to Cubao on the street level.

The department envisions the free WiFi to eventually cover the entire stretch of EDSA outside the reach of MRT from Mall of Asia to Balintawak.

PLDT and Globe, the two major telco players in the Philippines, have provided their facilities at no cost to the government to ensure the availability of the free public WiFi

DICT,P12

PUPPY FOR SALE. A woman cuddles a puppy being sold along Ilustre Street in Davao City on Saturday which she plans to give to her children as a New Year’s Day presents. Lean Daval Jr.

Seda hotel chain eyes 3,500 rooms in 15 locations by 2019

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ANILA -- Ayala Land Inc., through Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corp., plans to ramp up the rollout of its Seda hotel brand to more than double capacity to 3,500 rooms by 2019, as it rides the tourism boom.

Senior group general manager Andrea Mastellone said the hotel chain will increase the current 1,409 rooms in seven locations to 15 hotels in two years.

Following the launch of

Seda Lio in El Nido, Palawan in the �irst half of 2018, new Seda hotels will be inaugurated in the next two years in Circuit Makati; Arca South, Taguig; the Cebu Business Park; Ayala North Exchange,

Makati; Bay Area, Paranaque; and the Cebu IT Park.

In response to the Bonifacio Global City’s (BGC) sustained expansion, an additional 342 rooms will also be added to Seda BGC in Taguig, the brand’s �lagship hotel.

Seda currently has six other operating hotels located in Cagayan de Oro, Davao City, Nuvali in Laguna, Iloilo City, Quezon City and Bacolod City.

Mastellone expects tourism and traditional �irms on

expansion mode to be Seda’s growth drivers and to �ill the more than 2,000 rooms coming on stream in the next few years.

She said Seda will focus its expansion primarily in Metro Manila and Cebu-Mactan areas.

Mastellone cited studies by the Department of Tourism (DOT) indicating projected room gaps of 69,185 in Metro Manila, and 14,913 in Cebu-Mactan by 2022.

(PNA)

as more and more entrepreneurs turn to Negosyo Centers for assistance for MSMEs and aspiring entrepreneurs.

In the 2017 Negosyo Center year-end performance monitoring report, a total of 614,417 entrepreneurs have been assisted by these centers—leapfrogging from the June 2017 performance report of 595,573 clients assisted since the inception of Negosyo Centers in 2014.

DTI Regional Operations Group (DTI-ROG) Under-

secretary Zenaida Maglaya stressed that the huge surge of entrepreneurs assisted was due to the government’s support for MSMEs and the advancing of MSMEs as economic movers of the country.

“2017 has been the year for Filipino MSMEs as the country hosted the ASEAN. With ASEAN, MSMEs were given the much needed attention in order to advance the country’s economic agenda,” Maglaya said.

With more MSMEs turn-

ing to Negosyo Center for assistance, Maglaya attributed the entrepreneurship surge to the agency’s continuing drive to introduce entrepreneurship as a steady source of income, while also recognizing the agency’s partnerships with other national government agencies, and non-government organizations (NGOs), local government units, and big corporations.

“We’re very grateful to Filipinos that they realize the

al Airport will permit foreign persons from 53 countries including Austria to enjoy visa-free transit treatment for a period of 144 hours when they have a valid connecting �light ticket for a third country (or region).

This policy will be a strong driver for the tourism and aviation industry throughout the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Re-

gion. Air China Limited (“Air China”) will actively facilitate the new visa-free transit policy.

Putting the needs of connecting �light passengers �irst, Air China will improve its products and services to further enhance the quality of its operations and provide passengers with maximum convenience when they enter Beijing.

Air China has a strong net-

Booming business: Countryside entrepreneurship up

A

s part of the Trabaho, Negosyo agenda of the administration, which puts center the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and job generation, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has set its sight on providing both for Filipinos.

This has become prevalent with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reported the growing interest and enthusiasm of Filipinos in venturing into business

BOOMING,P12

Air China will become international passengers’first choice for border crossings

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EIJING, Dec. 29, 2017 / PRNewswire/ -- At a recent press conference, the Beijing Municipal Government announced that, as of December 28, 2017, six points of arrival in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region, including the Beijing Capital International Airport, Tianjin Binhai International Airport and Shijiazhuang Internation-

work of routes and is the ideal for passengers who cross the border into Beijing.

Currently, Air China has over 420 routes of which 101 are international, with 16 regional routes, and connections to 185 cities in 40 countries and regions, covering six continents. We provide passengers over 1.66 million seats on

AIR,P12

EDGEDAVAO

6 PROPERTY

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

It’s a banner year for Esdevco

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

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ecord sales performance, sellout of its first five buildings, inauguration of its first condominium project, and the topping off of the second.

All that sum up a banner year for industry newcomer Escandor Development Corporation in 2017.

“We thank everyone for their effort. Without you, we cannot go this far in a very competitive market,” said Escandor Debelopment Corporation (Esdevco) president and CEO Glenn Escandor during the Matina Enclaves Cellers Christmas Party and Awards Night recently.

Matina Enclaves, the Escandor empire’s maiden voyage into real property development, broke

records in sales and accomplished its construction targets.

Matina Enclaves sold out its �irst �ive buildings with Building B inaugurated last August in elaborate ceremonies presided over by no less than President Rodrigo Duterte.

President Duterte recorgnized Esdevco for leading local investments into the bustling real property market.

Project head Gerald Kent Garces said the company, despite being a new player, battled the established players in the

emerging Davao market.

“For a newcomer, we did well,” he said while challenging the sales team to top this year’s performance in 2018.

Leadinng this year’s awardees are Top Seller Henry Arakan of Rommero Realty, Top Broker Solomon Banez of Banez Realty, Top Saes Manager Merlita Romero of Romero Realty, and Top Realtor Anthony Leuterio of Leuterio Realty.

The year’s complete list of top performers are: Top Sellers for 2017 – 1. Henry Aralan (Romero Realty), 2. Janine Princess Romero (Romero Realty), 3. Ryan Sayson (Leuterio Realty), 4. Carmen Uy (Visitacion Realty), 5.

Joseph Arthur Avila, REB (Leuterio Realty). Top Performing Sellers (certi�icate

for all performing sellers in 2017).

Top Brokers for 2017 – 1. Solomon Bañez, REB (Bañez Realty), 2. Veljean V. Villaraiz, REB (Three V Realty). Top Performing Brokers (certi�icate for all performing brokers in 2017).

Top Sales Managers for 2017 – 1. Merlita Romero (Romero Realty), 2. Dolly Beth Relampagos (ROI).

Top Performing Sales Managers (certi�icate for all performing sales managers in 2017).

Top Realtors for 2017 – 1. Anthony Leuterio, REB (Leuterio Realty), 2.

Maverick Prince Romero, REB (Romero Realty)., 3.

Charity Furog, REB (Furog Realty). Top Performing Realtors (certi�icate for all performing realtors in 2017).

EDGEDAVAO

7 HEALTH

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

Beating dengue without a vaccine

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

S

ix-year-old Lenny was struck with fever one night after two days of rain. But there was something different; she appeared �lushed. She was irritable and had poor appetite although she never complained about food. Sarah, the mother, observed that her daughter’s �lushed skin had some white areas but she just ignored it.

Sarah thought the fever was just ordinary so she did not bring her daughter to her doctor and instead gave her paracetamol, which she believed would help subside the fever. The fever vanished one day only to return the following day. On the seventh day of on-and-off fever, Lenny experienced what most doctors called as “shock.”

“Lenny was breathing rapidly,” Sarah recalled. “She was restless and her pulse was beating fast. Her skin was cold and clammy and she felt drowsy all the time. She was vomiting and bloods were oozing from her mouth. Before, she completely lost consciousness.”

Sarah brought her daughter to the nearest hospital, some thirty minutes away from home. One of the doctors tried pull Lenny out of shock by replacing the �luids and blood she lost but it was all in vain. The doctor failed to save her.

Lenny died of what is

(Second of Three Parts)

considered as the most widespread mosquito-viral disease in the world. “After a dengue patient has gone into shock,” the doctor who tried to save Lenny explained, “it is just a matter of time before multi-organ failure occurs and death becomes inevitable.”

Dengue fever has been with the Philippines since the 1950s but until now it has not been able to eradicate the disease.

The dengue virus does not spread directly from person to person, health experts claim.

It’s transmitted mostly by the female Aedes mosquito. When it gorges the blood of an infected human, the virus enters the insect’s salivary gland, where it incubates for eight to ten days.

After that, the mosquito can pass the virus on to the next person it bites.

Symptoms of dengue vary according to the age and health of the patient. “Dengue should be suspected when a high fever is accompanied by two of the following symptoms: severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, vomiting, swollen glands or rash,” an information sheet from the World Health Organization (WHO) states.

Generally, symptoms last for 2-7 days, after an incubation period of 4-10 days after the

bite from an infected mosquito.

But the deadly form of the infection, called dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), is another story. DHF’s deadly complication is due to plasma leaking, �luid accumulation, respiratory distress, severe bleeding, or organ impairment.

“Warning signs (of DHF) occur 3-7 days after the �irst symptoms in conjunction with a decrease in temperature and include: severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums, fatigue, restlessness, blood in vomit,” the WHO says. “The next 24-48 hours of the critical state can be lethal: proper medical care is needed to avoid complications and risk of death.”

Dr. Lulu Bravo, a professor at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, said that in DHF, cells release chemicals that trigger leakage of plasma from blood vessels. “Fluids accumulate in body cavities, causing profound shock. Death often results from bleeding in the brain, intestines or other organs,” she said.

“Maintenance of the patient’s body �luid volume is critical to severe dengue care,” the United Nations health agency said.

Medical science says dengue is caused by four distinct virus serotypes (varieties recognized as distinct by the immune system). “Not all dengue are created equal,” stressed Dr. Richard T. Mata, a pediatrician who is known for his anti-dengue advocacy. “Some have small leaks others have big leaks. That’s why some patients dehydrate faster than the other. When it comes to den-

gue, you better assume that you have the biggest leak.”

As such, Dr. Mata highly recommends aggressive �luid replacement. “Dextrose plus oral �luids is the key,” he said.

“If the patient is already admitted, he needs to continue taking oral �luids like Oresol and water to push him to urinate at oneto 3-hour interval.”

In the Philippines, dengue is a leading cause of childhood hospitalizations.

“Approximately 36% of annual dengue infection occur among children aged 1-9 years, and the average age of infection is 12 years,” wrote Dr. Maria Rosario Capeding, of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, in Dengue Matters.

Up to 5% of DHF cases are fatal; without proper treatment, the rate rises to 15%.

“Children are much more like to get DHF than adults,” explains Dr. Allan Schapira, who was in-charge on infectious diseases at the WHO regional of�ice in Manila when

this author interviewed him.

“This is the reason why children are much more at risk of dying. In adults, dengue fever usually does not develop to the severe form, DHF. Besides, in many tropical areas immunity builds up during childhood, so many adults do not get dengue fever, even if they were bitten by an infected mosquito.”

In a study conducted over the decade of 2001-2010, it was found that dengue poses a substantial economic and disease burden in 12 countries in Southeast Asia: Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, East Timor, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

During those years, an annual average of 2.9 million dengue episodes and 5,906 deaths were recorded.

“The annual economic burden was US$950 million or about US$1.65 per capita,” the study said. “The annual number of disability adjusted life years (DALYs) was

214,000, which is equivalent to 732 DALYs per million inhabitants.”

The economic burden of dengue is not limited to medical care only. “About 60% of dengue-related costs are not directly associated with healthcare expenditure,” points out Professor Donald Shepard of the Heller School’s Schneider Institutes for Health Policy.

“Loss in productivity from illness and premature death are a common source of indirect costs,” the American health professor explains. “Output from the industrial and service sectors declines as employees are incapacitated or need to stay at home for care for children or relatives. Fear of contagion, ampli�ied by mass media coverage during epidemics, may keep tourists away and therefore have a greater impact in regions that rely on tourism to drive the local economy.” (To be concluded)

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

L

Time to fight back

awyer Manases Carpio, Mayor Inday Sara Duterte’s husband, is a quiet man who is known to just stay away from the political limelight.

Even when he was implicated by Senator Antonio Trillanes IV to corruption and smuggling, he simply defended himself and walked away from trouble.

But there are limits to everything--even to a quiet man’s patience-- and Atty. Carpio thought it was enough. So here he comes with a civil suit against the lawmaker for allegedly maliciously implicating him to corruption and smuggling in the Bureau of Customs. Sen. Trillanes may call it harassment against him but look who is in power? It’s not Atty.

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

Carpio.

The civil suit is any citizen’s recourse where he feels injury is being in�licted on his rights, person and property. In the case of Sen. Trillanes, the lawmaker failed to substantiate his claims of irregularities and merely depended on name calling while blaming some of his colleagues in the Senate for ‘protecting’ the family of President Duterte which includes Carpio being a Presidential son-in-law.

Atty. Carpio, despite his meekness, knows his law.

And now he has learned not to �ight back, but simply to remind Sen. Trillanes that the truth and the law are not an adventure as he may deem it to be.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

JIMMY K. LAKING Associate Editor

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A

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Mindanao crisis, circa 1977

merican consular cables, mostly declassi�ied, are vital sources of historical information, though not certainly factual. They do not only piece together observations from various sectors, but also afford a closer than usual movements on the ground.

In an Apil 13, 1977, the US consul in Cebu, in his report titled ‘Southern Philippines Reaction to Mindanao Crisis’, said Davao and Cebu residents did not see any peaceful resolution in government efforts to �ind an acceptable political formula between the MNLFLibyan President Moammar Qadha�i and the Christian majority in the proposed ‘Autonomous Region’, with each side “expected to object violently to whatever develops.”

The consul accused the Marcos regime of “quietly distributing weapons to Christian residents, increasing the likelihood an ethnic bloodbath when political efforts inevitably fail to satisfy both sides,” adding the issue of creating an autonomous region issue was more contentious than the declaration of martial law.” The Cebu consul added: “There is widespread expectation that [the] MNLF will not accept the [government] interpretation of the Qadha�i-Marcos exchange of notes, and that Christian majority will not accept

MNLF interpretation. Concerned citizens expect either Muslims or local Christians to react violently. They predict intense intercommunal bloodbath as soon as April 17 referendum indicates which side ‘won’ the political round.”

According, reports reaching Cebu said the government was distributing large-scale arms to Christian civilians in western Mindanao, the future seat of the autonomous region, “through municipal mayors and barrio-level civilian home defense force (CHDF) units.”

Adding to tension that was re�lected in the reports was the information that anti-Muslim extremist groups such as the ‘Ilaga; and Christian Liberation Front’ were reactivating and possibly receiving government arms indirectly, citing Lanao del Norte governor Arsenio A. Quibranza and local of�icials in the region.

This was in part con�irmed by Brig.

Gen. Vicente Evidente, Philippine Army 3rd Division commander, who told the consulate a month earlier “that if [the] peace agreement fails, his biggest job will be to keep Christian civilians from running wild against Muslim neighbors”, adding that moderate Church leaders in Davao were worried about a future ‘holy war’”.

The Cebu consular of�ice also received information the government was using black propaganda in discrediting the MNLF

“It was a year that, like all years, a lot of things happened in.” – Hollywood actress Carrie Fisher, known for her role as Princess Leia in “Star Wars” and author of “Postcards from the Edge” It is either a good year or a bad year.

But what makes a year unforgettable are those incidents and events that make a mark in your life. I was reminded by the words of Israelmore Ayivor. In “Become a Better You,” he wrote: “One key quality of all global achievers is that, they keep improving day after day. They set standards that they keep surpassing year after year.”

I like that. To improve, you have to make your present year much better than the previous ones. That way, you can look back and make yourself to step for the next level. Never stagnate but rather keep on moving in the ladder of success.

In March, I went to Manila to receive two Binhi trophies. Binhi is the name of recognition given annually by the Philippine Agricultural Journalists, Inc. (PAJ) and San Miguel Corporation. Named from the Pilipino word which means seed, it is given since 1978 in different categories.

My two recognitions were third places as Best Agricultural Journalist and Best Environmental Journalist. I was cited for my agricultural and environmental features and articles which appeared in EDGE Davao.

I had three Binhi awards before. The �irst time I won it – as Countryside-Based Agri Journalist of the Year – was in 1994.

At that time, the president was Michael M. Alunan and the chairman of the Board of Judges was Press Secretary Jesus C. Sison.

The citation reads: “For overcoming the provincial limitation of the writer’s world of agriculture and producing a body of works that’s national in scope and substance in extolling and pushing for agricultural development.”

In 1997, I won another award for Countryside Agricultural/Environmental Writer. The trophy was signed by Mary Ann Lj. Reyes, PAJ president, and Ramon Ma. Epino, the chairman of Binhi Awards Committee.

“For the journalist’s unwavering espousal of agricultural and environmental causes in provincial publications that ring with ecological alarm, popularize environmental defense and push for remedial measures and renewal,” the citation reads.

It took almost two decades before I receive another award. In 2016, I got the Best Environmental Story for my article on soil erosion (“Topsoil: Going, going, gone?”) which appeared in EDGE Davao.

In June, during the 50 th anniversary celebration of Davao del Sur, I was named as one of the special awardees (in the �ield of journalism) of those who were born or

FAST BACKWARD Antonio V. Figueroa in order to add more Christian support to its “bargaining position”, which could result in more ethnic tension. This development was con�irmed by a report of an unnamed Cebu City of�icial who claimed that by early April 1977 mimeographed copies of MNLF draft presidential decree in thousands were also distributed to Mindanao governors.

Alarmed by these events, the Cebu consul visited Davao City on March 31-April 1, 1977, and found confusion following reports the city would be part of the selfautonomy plan as a component city of Davao del Sur, a province eyed for inclusion in the autonomous region.

Then acting mayor Luis T. Santos,

however, dismissed the idea, saying he would only believe the story if this was contained in a presidential decree, adding Davao City was “an R&R center for both [government] and MNF troops and has only a tiny resident Muslim population.”

But there were other equally but disturbing events found in the consular cable, namely: (i) The media deliberately reported that only �ifty MNLF troops were securing the Cotabato-Davao del Sur highway “to avoid alarming populace”; and (ii) Brig.

Gen. Mariano Baccay, commander of the security forces, eventually managed to force the Muslim troops “by surrounding [the] barrio [where the MNLF �ighters where] and threatened “to kill everyone inside, including Muslim women and children”.

The consular cable did not name the Muslim leader but identi�ied him as a former Davao City lawyer who once visited City Hall and demanded of�ice space as headquarters for him and his staff. Mayor Santos, known for his toughie image, tossed him out with a warning that next time he appeared he “would be arrested on old graft charges and that he would ‘arm the whole city’ before allowing [the] MNLF to take up residence in Davao City Hall.”

On the other hand, Davao-based Catholic activists, during this time, were still undecided on how to guide their

�lock on what to vote during the April 17, 1977 referendum. An internal document received by the Cebu consul listed the pros and cons, and the possible boycott.

Interestingly, the same paper rejected both the government and the MNLF positions saying it “does not meet squarely the Muslim problem nor does it manifest seriousness in solving the Mindanao situation” and the MNLF’s demands.

“Because [the creation of the autonomous region] alienates the Christian majority and is ‘impractical and not feasible’,” the consul commended that “whatever tightrope walk the decisionmakers are attempting in Manila, implementation in the Muslim area is likely to be carried out by the more panicky, bigoted elements. The wholesale arming of Christian civilians and CHDFs is a particularly ominous sign. We expect the peace-and-order situation in western Mindanao could get wore in the near future than it was before the cease-�ire.

Since one side or the other is bound to feel double-crossed by [the government] and therefore obliged to take matters into its own hands.”

Educated minds and rational arguments would dissipate the tension, resulting in the inclusion of the Autonomous Region agenda a decade later in the 1987 Constitution.

(Digos), KZ Tandingan, singer who rose to fame after winning on the �irst season of “The X-factor Philippines” in 2012 (Digos), and Benjamin Lao, the two-time national awardee as Outstanding Farmer from the Department of Agriculture (Bansalan).

Other special awardees were Leonardo Carvajal, Second Lieutenant Armand Lanaja, Engr. Hilario T. Alviar, Jr., Antonia O. Mar�il, Edsel P. Barba, Romualdo C. Crispino, and Edgar Delibo.

In November, I �lew to Talisay City (via Cebu City) to attend the 25th gathering of the of�icials and members of the Foundation for Philippine Environment.

It was the time of giving the awards to the year’s winners of Sarihay Awards.

Sarihay is actually the Tagalog term for biological diversity (biodiversity in short).

It comes from two words: “sari-saring buhay.”

My two-part series on “Saving Davao’s endangered species” was declared as one of the only two reports recognized during the media awards, now on its third year.

The series, which tackled the issue of vanishing Philippine Eagle and walingwaling (both Philippine icons as bird and �lower, respectively), came out on April 7 and April 8-9 issues of EDGE Davao.

In the past, 12 journalists from print, television and radio were recognized for their efforts in raising awareness on the country’s status of environment. But this

year, only two were given the coveted award as most entries “were not able to cut off the score.”

The award given to me was Best Print Special Report. The other winner was Reporter’s Notebook of GMA 7. The highly sensitive yet powerful report on mining, entitled “Bayan ng Mina,” was adjudged Best TV Special Report. Producer Ian Carlos Simbulan came to receive the award.

Also in November, I received three nominations in the 2017 Globe Media Excellence Awards. Although I failed to get an award, I got two �inalist citations. One was for Columnist for my column in EDGE Davao (“Think on these”) discussing the water problem (“Water crisis is real”). My friend Nef Lucson won the award.

I was also cited in the Explanatory/ Investigative Story for Print/Online. My feature on “Davao City bombings” which appeared in “Philippines Graphic” was nominated. Stella Estremera of Sun Star Davao was adjudged winner.

My other nomination was for Reporter for Online News Portal. It was for my story on “saving marine turtles from extinction,” which was carried by Newsline.ph.

To end this piece, allow me to quote the words of Fennel Hudson: “December, being the last month of the year, cannot help but make us think of what is to come.”

The year that was

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

lived in the province.

Other recipients included Atty. Jesus “Jess” G. Dureza, Secretary for Of�ice of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (from Hagonoy), Chief Supt.

Ronald M. dela Rosa, director general of the Philippine National Police (Sta. Cruz), and William “Butch” Ramirez, Chairman of the government’s Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

Also named were Scottie Thompson, a sports personality playing for the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel of the Philippine Basketball Association (Digos), Mea Gey A. Ninura, for her two record-breaking event during the 2016 Palarong Pambansa

10 SUBURBIA RISING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

ARMM braces for ‘Wilma’ Z C OTABATO CITY – Members of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s (ARMM) Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) convened here Friday to discuss preparations for the looming Tropical Depression Wilma.

Data provided by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) showed that the new

weather disturbance, which is potentially stronger than Tropical Storm Vinta, is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility either

Westmincom cites significant achievements in 2017

on Dec. 31 or Jan. 1, 2018.

“Wilma” is expected to cross Southern Visayas and Northern Mindanao, including the ARMM provinces of Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman, concurrent RDRRMC chair, said early storm warnings should be sent to the communities so they could be extra alert in preparing for “Wilma”.

“There is no substitute for preparedness,” Hataman

said during the RDRRMC meeting held at the Shariff Kabunsuan Complex, the provisional seat of the ARMM in this city.

Reports from RDRRMC showed that as of Dec. 28, a total of 61,331 families from 217 barangays in the region had been affected by the recent onslaught of “Vinta”.

The number of those who perished also increased to 36 from 29, while 18 persons remain missing and 33 others were injured. (PNA)

AMBOANGA CITY -- 2017 has proven to be the toughest year in terms of military operations with the onslaught of violent extremism that culminated in the �ivemonth battle in Marawi City.

But the year 2017 also gave the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) the upper hand in neutralizing members of the different armed groups under its area of responsibility.

The command oversees half of Mindanao’s military opera-

tions.

In its annual report, the Westmincom reported that the command has neutralized more than 1,500 terrorists.

“This is the most signi�icant accomplishment,” Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief, said adding the number is so far the biggest achievement in recent years.

Most of the terrorists were killed during the gun battle in Marawi City accounting to 995

AGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development-10 (DSWD-10) has warned anew that those caught selling or buying food packs given to individuals affected by disasters are punishable by law.

DSWD-10 issued the warning even as it continues to receive reports of illicit trading of relief goods in an evacuation center in Iligan City, where hundreds of displaced families from Marawi City are staying.

The selling and buying for

consumption or resale of the DSWD’s food packages and other relief supplies that are intended for distribution to disaster victims is prohibited under Republic Act 10121 or the Phil. Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010.

Per latest data from the DSWD-10, the region has 53,120 displaced families, 51,278 of whom are homebased. Of the total number of IDPs, 1,842 families are living in 33 evacuation centers.

More than half a million residents left their homes in

Marawi following the war government troops waged against the combined extremist forces of the Maute Group, Abu Sayyaf and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. The �ighting lasted for almost six months leaving in its wake destroyed properties and hundreds of lives lost.

DSWD-10 information of�icer Jamila Taha said they �irst received reports of looting of food packs during the distribution of goods at the public covered court in Barangay Tubod, Iligan, on Dec.

9.

WESTMINCOM,P13

ARMM posts P3.2-B DSWD-10 warns anew vs‘buy and sell’of relief goods investments in 2017 C C OTABATO CITY -- The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has accepted PhP3.2-billion worth of investments in 2017, some 53 percent higher as compared to last year’s PhP2.11-B, the Regional Board of Investments (RBOI) reported.

The region’s top investor this year is the TierOne Communications International, Inc. (Tier1) that pitched in Php3-B worth of investments

in telecommunications that included cellular services, broadband connectivity, wireless internet, and public WiFi. Tier1 �irst targeted Marawi City as a pilot area for their project but when the Marawi siege occurred, the �irm shifted their sight to the ARMM compound here as their new pilot area.

Trailing Tier1 is the Bangsamoro Terminal Services, Inc. (BTSI) that invested on a

ARMM,P13

Men were seen loading packed items in waiting vehicles, Taha said. According to the information received by the agency, these relief goods were then sold to unsuspecting consumers elsewhere.

Last month, she said, authorities seized about 1,617 fake Dafacs from IDPs during the food pack distribution.

Some IDPs were said to be in possession of more than one card.

Sommayah Manaleseg, campaign of�icer of Tindeg

DSWD,P13

INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

LIVING

EDGEDAVAO

Forward to

2017 IS ABOUT TO END and I am pretty sure that everyone is busy with their New Year’s Eve preparations so what better way to welcome the new year than to look back into the events of 2017 and how it affects the way we Dabawenyos will live in 2018.

Traffic woes The biggest event, or rather series of events in 2017, are the worsening traffic jams that are happening all across Durianburg in the past year. With many urbanites complaining of much longer travel times no thanks to lack of efficient public transportation and congested roads, many have taken to the malls to seek refuge and ride out the jam.

Some urbanites have taken to working from home or clustering their excursions to adjacent areas near or around the places they live, meaning areas around the villages and the suburbs can expect growth and more commercial activity. For those who do need to be at the city centre daily, many have taken to renting an apartment or room for their weekday needs and then go back home to their suburban abodes during the weekend.

Hopefully, with the Durianburg’s planned mass transit system modernisation and upgrade as well as street and sidewalk rehabilitation programs will fix the problem.

Small space living Durianburg has seen a boom in residential development in 2017 with many high-rise condominiums, townhouses, and apartments taking shape.

These new abodes are closer to the city centre and provide a viable living option for young families, professionals and students alike.

2018 This convenience however has a trade off in the amount of space given which is why I see the rise of interior designers as well as furniture stores that cater to the need of apartment dwel lers in 2018.

Compact and multiu s e smart furniture will b e t h e norm in these spaces

ping also became easier thanks to the effort of telecom players now providing digital wallets such as GCash and PayMaya which their subscribers can use online and offline for their purchases

ma x i m is-

cessed.

Even brick and mortar stores of international fashion brands such as Uniqlo, H&M, Marks &

i n g the living space far from the huge and bulky pieces we normally used to see.

Digital homes Wit h the promise of (hopefully) faster internet speeds, I can finally see the arrival of the internet of things at home here in Davao with many adopters to the technology now controlling the lights and air conditioning of their homes through their smartphones.

Shopping online will also make its presence as more and more people adapt to the idea of digital shopping. Online shop-

ternet savvy ones, have never been more updated and in trend. With just a few clicks of a mouse and a few taps on the keyboard, the latest looks from the runways of the world can now be ac-

Spencer as well as well-known local brands now carry the latest fashion collections to keep up with the needs of every fashionista to look great.

from clothing, gadgets to even cinema tickets.

Updated fashion Thanks to more and more people going online to shop the fashion styles of people in Durianburg, especially the more in-

More to taste The dining landscape has also changed in Durianburg with many chefs putting up their own restaurants in the city.

Away from the malls (who have also embraced more dining concepts than ever before), these establishments

challenge and tease the Dabawenyo palate with what can be done with local as well as imported ingredients.

The clustering of these restaurants and eateries has created food zones where one can literally do a food crawl on foot.

Some of these clusters include the area around Obrero, Damosa, Rizal Street, Matina Town Square, and Juna Subdivision. Expect more details as I explore the areas and share it here in 2018.

More travel choices One of the biggest happenings in 2017 is definitely the launching of more direct air linkages to and from Davao with Air Asia, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines all launching new and revived domestic flights. Davao is now more connected than ever to more destinations giving the city’s travellers more places to explore and experience.

Another big development is the launch of the Davao to Kuala Lumpur direct flights by AirAsia. This direct flight connects Durianburg to Malaysia’s capital and cuts the travel time between the cities from five and a half hours to just three. This also has an added benefit of connecting Davao to the rest of Southeast Asia through the airlines’ main hub, so I can see Dabawenyos going on trips to Bangkok, Chang Mai, Phuket, Seim Reap, Ho Chi Min, on this quicker and hassle-free connection.

All these happenings are definitely exciting and are sure to change and influence the way we Dabawenyo urbanites live. I look forward to 2018 with much gusto for things yet to come and for everyone to enjoy and experience! Happy New Year everyone!

A2 INdulge!

EVENT

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

Globe gives surprise to returning OFWs, tourists GLOBE TELECOM’S I N T E R N AT I O N A L BUSINESS GROUP, together with Philippine Airlines, Puregold, and the Manila International Airport Authority, pulled another Christmas surprise for arriving Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW), balikbayans, and tourists this time from Hong Kong and Singapore.

Upon arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Terminal 2, all passengers of flight PR502 and PR319 from Singapore and Hong Kong, respectively, were welcomed with holiday greetings and Noche Buena gift packs by representatives of the four organizations.

Each passenger received a Jurist Gamban, Globe VP for Strategic Marketing, Noche Buena package and a A returning kababayan from Singapore and her kids cannot contain their happiness over the Christmas surprise which International Business Group (right) and Ria Domingo, P100 e-voucher discount from greeted them upon arrival at NAIA Terminal 2. The kids received plush toys while their mom got a Noche Buena package, Philippine Airlines VP for Marketing (left) lead the surprise gift giving activity.

Grab, together with a free a free Mabuhay Traveler SIM, and P100 transport discount voucher.

Mabuhay Miles Traveler SIM prepared by Globe and its part- ans who work and live abroad this joy and appreciation to our partnership of Globe and PAL. card which gives them 500 bo- ners for OFWs and tourists this come home to be with their hardworking OFWs as well as Globe and PAL are working tonus Mabuhay Miles from PAL, month, following the special loved ones. There is nothing to welcome tourists with our gether to be of service to more free 300MB of mobile data treats provided to passengers of like spending Christmas with signature Filipino hospitality,” Filipinos in and out of the and unlimited calls to Globe PR659 from Dubai last Decem- family in the Philippines, go- said Jurist Gamban, Vice-Pres- country with a common advovalid for one day, plus a 10% ber 7 and to all passengers who ing to Simbang Gabi, enjoying ident for Strategic Marketing cacy of delighting international discount at selected Duty Free arrived in NAIA Terminal 1 on traditional Filipino goodies, for Globe International Busi- visitors and returning Filipinos Philippines shops.

December 17. and gathering for the Noche ness Group. by giving them a wonderful exThis was the third and big“As Christmas draws nearer, Buena feast. We at Globe, and The series of surprises was perience every time they arrive gest one in a series of surprises more and more of our kababay- our partners, wanted to share in celebration of the first year in the Philippines.

ENTERTAINMENT

GMA kicks off 2018 with GMA ONE Online Exclusives MILLENNIALS are in for a wonderful surprise this 2018 as GMA Network unveils three online exclusive shows bannered

by Atom Araullo, Gabbi Garcia, and Joseph Morong.

Beginning January 1, netizens will be able to watch GMA ONE Online Exclusives on GMA’s Youtube channel (www. youtube.com/gmanetwork) featuring not just one, but three shows: “Adulting with Atom Araullo”, “#Goals with Gabbi Garcia”, and “Fact or Fake with Joseph Morong”.

In “Adulting with Atom Araullo”, the new GMA Public Affairs host joins millennials in their journey towards adulthood. Atom gives netizens a peek at his everyday struggles as he faces the responsibilities of being on his own, and living on a budget. And yes, Atom also shares tips on love: how does one go through courtship and online dating?

“We hope to talk about

the different challenges we face as we enter the adult world,” says Atom in an interview. “Nobody teaches us these kinds of things. Sometimes we’re lucky to have friends or family to help us get into it painlessly but for the most part, nangangapa tayo sa ganiyan. Everything from finding your own place, budgeting your money, making career decisions, personal relationships, or taxes, things like these. I feel like a lot of people can relate to these challenges,” he added.

Meanwhile, get inspired by Millennial It

Girl Gabbi Garcia’s videos as she shares her personal objectives in “#Goals with Gabbi Garcia”. A show that will definitely tickle the fancy of the kikays out there, “#Goals with Gabbi Garcia” sees Gabbi exploring her goals in beauty, style, makeup, travel, and music.

“We’re in a new age now where millennials appreciate digital content, they’re really into social media,” says Gabbi.

“The show is very relatable to the youth because in #Goals, we will talk about makeup tutorials, new trends, how a typical

teenager lives her life”.

Kapuso reporter Joseph Morong, on the other hand, debunks false news items in “Fact or Fake with Joseph Morong”. As more news sources are available online, Joseph will try to help millennials spot fake news.

“Fact or Fake’ goes back to one of the tenets of journalism which is fact-checking,” Joseph explains. “In the program, we’re going to define what fake news is as opposed to mistakes, misinformation, and disinformation. Bottom line is, we want to emphasize that in our society where there’s an overflow of information, it is important to be discerning.”

Don’t miss GMA ONE Online Exclusives: “Adulting with Atom Araullo”, “#Goals with Gabbi Garcia”, and “Fact or Fake with Joseph Morong” starting January 1, via GMA Network’s official YouTube account (w w w.y o u t u b e . c o m / gmanetwork) with new episodes uploaded every Monday at 5 p.m.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

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EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

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37th... FROM 1

victim on Thursday.

“The body will now be ready for release to the family of Demafeliz, “ she said.

Duterte said the Davao City Police Of�ice (DCPO) is now conducting a parallel investigation to locate Moreno.

She said the Bureau of Fire Protection 11 (BFP 11) will also continue its retrieval operation inside the burnt mall for the possible recovery of Moreno’s body.

Duterte is also requesting friends and relatives of Moreno to coordinate with the authorities in order to locate her whereabouts.

During the �ire incident last December 23, Moreno was listed among the 37 SSI Philippines Davao employees who went missing.

It was learned that Moreno was not among the 36 retrieved bodies.

the participation of the people are in support to the programs of our national government particularly the peace and security operations,” he said.

He said that the 10th ID also gained this accomplishment because of the participation the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other government agencies.

“Our local chief executives from the regional down to the barangay, they are really supporting our programs so with this 2017 we would like to extend our appreciation and outmost gratitude to our partners in nation building both in government and private sectors,” Lamosao said.

The 10th ID programs for the year 2018 are that they will continue particularly the counter terrorism and anti-terrorism campaign and the Community Support Program (CSP).

“It was already established, yung mga areas na kailangan na tutukan ang mga proyekto na makarating sa malalayong lugar and of course the information gathering efforts kasama ang mga partners lalo na sa business sectors, civilian communities na may mga presensya po ng

mga teroristang NPA and ang ating mga partners na tribal chieftains and tribal leaders” he said.

He said that Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) will also continue however it will be improved and will be called Enhanced CLIP because it was announced by the President during his visit at Eastern Mindanao Command last December 15, Friday that there will be houses to be given to those NPA who surrendered.

“The Enhanced CLIP includes housing that will be led by government agency with the support of Department of Social Welfare Development (DSWD), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Agriculture and other agencies wherein they will focus on helping the NPAs who surrender,” he said “Lastly ang ating 10th ID muli nananawagan sa sambayanang Pilipino lalo na dito sa ating rehiyon na tulungan po natin ang ating mga kababayan particularly yung may mga problema sa con�lict affected areas in terms of information dissemination about delivery of basic services facilitated by our units in the area,” he added.

another building for their operations and assured their workers’ employment as soon as their operations resume.

A proposal for the pay-

ment of workers salary for the 60-day period is also being considered by the principal of SSI in the United States. ### DOLE Davao Region

the �ire started at the textile section, which might explain the quick spread of �ire and the fast billowing of heavy gray smoke.

He added senior �ire of�icers including him were directed to concentrate on rescue operation.

Pamaybay also admitted that they particularly lack �ire�ighting cranes for heights, which he said the government should now study to procure.

He said �iremen who went for the failed rescue need “debrie�ing” to recover from their anguish causing little or no sleep.

All the Bureau of Fire and Protection �iremen and good �iretrucks including six �iremen and one �iretruck from Tagum City were mobilized to help put off the NCCC �ire.

Pamaybay said they were directed by their regional of�ice to go to Davao City around 9:00 A.M. of Dec. 23 just as the �ire started and in just 30 minutes by so fast �iretruck travel they were already at the �ire scene.

Meanwhile, BFP investigators are not discounting the possibility that the cause of �ire is arson. - Cha Monforte, Correspondent

other concerns that they want to tell us,” he said.

As to the distribution of the assistance Gallego said it

will be through the of�ice of the city mayor and the scholarship will be provided until the child graduates. He said

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EDGEDAVAO

TRAFFIC VIOLATOR. A traffic enforcer from the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) fails to see and apprehend a rider who violated the Children’s Safety on Motorcycles Act due to the it is also the of�ice of the city mayor that will set the schedule of the release of the cash assistance.

He said that two days earlier representatives from SSI and NCCC together with the Of�ice of the City Mayor already met. He said it is Mayor Sara Duterte who instructed to let the City Mayor’s Of�ice (CMO) take care of the release of the cash assistance to the families of the victims.

The purpose of the said conference is to inquire the family members how NCCC can further assist them.

“That would have been the primary purpose of the meeting but we understand that they want answers directly related to the incident that we cannot because that is with the BFP right now,” he said.

But majority of the families attended expressed frustrations to the outcome of the conference. They said that the management failed to answer their queries such as assistance from NCCC, reason of the �ire, and why there was no announcement of �ire given to the SSI employees from the security personnel.

“Before the meeting started, our moderator explained that this meeting is not all about putting blame on whoever or establishing liabilities, that is not the point of this meeting because that is under the investigation of the Bureau of the Fire Protection.

Until the report from the BFP comes out we can’t really say anything that will prejudice to the outcome of the investigation,” Gallego said.

The other petitioners are Representatives Tomasito Villarin, Edgar Erice, Teddy Brawner Baguilat, Jr., Gary Alejano and Emmanuel Billones.

In a 29-page petition, the lawmakers said there is “no actual rebellion in Mindanao” to justify the re-extension of martial rule in the southern region.

They also argued that the Constitution requires an actual state of rebellion, not just mere threats, for such proclamation of martial rule.

“Threats of violence and terrorism by remnants of vanquished terrorist groups do not constitute a constitutional basis for extension of martial law because “imminent danger” has been deleted as a ground for imposing martial law under the 1987 Constitution,” the petitioners said.

Solicitor General Jose Calida hit back at opposition congressmen who �iled the petition urging the Supreme Court (SC) to nullify the oneyear extension of martial

law in Mindanao.

“Anyone who says there is no ongoing rebellion in Mindanao is either ignorant of the factual situation there, or protective of the longest rebellion that has plagued our country,” Calida said “Do the petitioners know better than the President and the overwhelming majority of members of Congress who approved the extension of martial law in Mindanao? De�initely not,” Calida said in a text message to reporters.

In a 240-27 vote, both chambers of Congress voted to approve Duterte’s request to extend the declaration of martial law in Mindanao until the end of 2018.

Calida explained that Congress’ vote declaring the extension as valid was a political process.

“The congressional imprimatur on the validity of the extension is a political question that has been resolved by the legislature,” the solicitor general said.

(PNA)

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NEWS 11

heavy traffic congestion along Quimpo Blvd. in Davao City. The city’s main thoroughfares are experiencing monstrous traffic jam brought by the New Year’s Day rush. Lean Daval Jr.

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the government’s infrastructure push and robust domestic private spending.

ASEAN-5 also includes Viet Nam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

2018 The NEDA chief expects government’s spending on infrastructure, exports and good weather will bolster next year’s economic growth.

Pernia said the “Build, Build, Build” program would boost GDP growth, which was expected to increase to 7 to 8 percent.

“We expect to spend more on infrastructure development to help improve regional connectivity and ease the cost of doing business in the country,” he noted.

Six projects, including the PHP37.6 billion worth of new projects, are up for deliberation next year of the NEDA Board chaired by President Rodrigo Duterte.

The three new projects include the Safe Philippines Project, the Bridge Construction Acceleration Project and the acquisition of six marine disaster response helicopters.

The NEDA Board approved PHP1 trillion worth of projects so far this year, including those which would start implementation next year.

These include the Clark International Airport expansion, North-South Railway projects, Metro Manila Subway, �irst phase of the Min-

danao Railway, Cavite Flood Control project and Kaliwa Dam project.

“There are 20 projects already approved both in terms of new and ongoing in terms of adjustments. And then we have six more --three new (projects) and adjustments in three ongoing projects,” said NEDA Asst. Secretary for Investment Programming Jonathan Uy. The government targets to roll out 12 to 15 more projects in 2018.

In terms of policy, the NEDA expects the implementation of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN) to fund government’s infrastructure program, boost revenue-to-GDP ratio and increase the spending capacity of the average working Filipino.

President Duterte last week signed TRAIN, the �irst package of the government’s proposed Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP).

With the CTRP, NEDA’s analysis shows that real gross domestic product (GDP) level will be higher by 0.5 to 1.1 percent by year 2022.

“The implementation of TRAIN is essential as it will increase the spending capacity of the average working Filipino, boost revenue-to-GDP ratio and fund government’s infrastructure and human capital investment program,” added Pernia. (PNA)

newal of business permits had registered 9,955 in 2017 compared to only 2,474 in 2016. The city government launched the BOSS in January 2017.

He said the BOSS will be established at the Centro Latino Hall of the Paseo del Mar, where all of�ices and agencies concerned with the issuance of business permits

will have their designated areas to accommodate business registrants.

The renewal and registration of new business permits will start on January 3, the �irst working day for the year 2018.

The process will last until January 20, beyond which a surcharge will be imposed on late registrants. (PNA)

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12 NEWS

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service. Both mobile service providers have coordinated with the local governments of Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Makati, Manila, Pasay City, the MRT administration and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to complete the installation of the public WiFi service.

With this initiative, commuters will be able to choose the connection that will best serve their needs.

Meanwhile, through its “PipolKonek” project”, the DICT seeks to roll out free public Wi-Fi hotspots in public plazas and parks, libraries, schools, colleges and universities, rural health units and government hospitals, train stations, airports, and seaports, and national and local government of�ices.

There are currently 907 sites where people from Metro Manila and 47 other provinces can connect and use up to 50 megabytes of data daily.

The department aims to reach more than 13,000 public places across 145 cities and 1,489 municipalities.

Entry of third telco player in PH To further improve the state of internet in the Philippines, Duterte has invited China to facilitate the entry of a third major telco player to provide competition to both Globe and Smart in providing internet services.

The Chinese government has selected China Telecom to venture into the local telco

industry.

Duterte has ordered the DICT and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to ensure the entry of the Chinese telco �irm by the �irst quarter of next year.

Both government agencies were directed to approve all applications and licenses within seven days upon submission of requirements and consider them as approved if these were not acted upon within seven days.

The President has likewise warned the judiciary not to interfere in the process of setting up the third telco player.

“That’s how serious the President is on the entry of a third telecoms player. It is being rushed because we need desperately to have better telecoms in this country,” said Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.

The DICT urged telecommunications companies interested to become the third major player in the industry to invest in the installation of �ixed lines to further improve internet service in the country.

The Philippines needs at least 67,000 cell sites to provide additional radio frequencies that are vital in the transmission of data, enable phone calls, send and receive text messages, and browse the internet on mobile phones.

“The main reason why we have one of the slowest

and expensive internet access in the region is that most of us, if not all, connect to the internet via Globe and Smart mobile networks. But they have only 20,000 cell sites, such that around more than 5,000 subscribers share a tower when the more ideal ratio should be one tower per 1,000 subscribers. We need at least 67,000 cell sites to just compare with Vietnam,” Rio said.

The DICT of�icial explained that having more access to �ixed lines would decongest the mobile networks of both telco players improving their services.

Any prospective third telco player could also become a common tower provider of telcos that may be leased by Globe and Smart to increase their services to their subscribers in more areas nationwide.

The DICT and the NTC are preparing the guidelines for the assignment of frequencies to a third telco player.

Both agencies will ensure that the frequencies will be allocated to an organization “with the �inancial and technical clout to really be able to compete and not merely be gobbled up by the duopoly”.

“In fact, we will put that as a condition for granting frequencies, that they will be returned to the government, if and when the organization is bought or merges with Globe or PLDT/Smart,” said Rio. (PNA)

huge help they get from entrepreneurship and how business contributes to society by providing employment and lifting the economy,” Maglaya said.

Philippine MSMEs account for 99.5% of the total number of established businesses and employ 62.8% of the country’s workforce, contributing substantially to the country’s manufacturing output and total employment, making it critical engines of economic growth and development.

To encourage aspiring en-

trepreneurs, Negosyo Centers have also conducted 11,043 skills, managerial and entrepreneurship training programs, the report showed.

Maglaya explained that Negosyo Centers are very effective in reaching out Filipinos in the countryside with DTI tallying a total of 718 centers throughout the country.

Under the current administration, a total of 343 Negosyo Centers were established, she added.

The Republic Act No. 10644 or the Go Negosyo

Act aims to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), promote ease of doing business, facilitate access to grants and other forms of �inancial assistance, Shared Service Facilities (SSF) and other equipment, and other support for MSMEs through national government agencies (NGAs), ensure management guidance, assistance and improvement of the working conditions of MSMEs; and facilitate market access and linkaging services for entrepreneurs. (END)

8,500 routes each week. Additionally, Air China’s route network extends to 1,330 destinations in 192 countries through the Star Alliance. Our impressive route network meets the needs of most foreign passengers.

The 144-hour visa-free policy through the Beijing, Tianjin, and Shijiazhuang airports will meet the needs of third-country tourism.

Air China will also improve the transit hub capacity at Beijing and optimize a seamless transition for visa-tree passengers.

Introducing a 144-hour visa-free transit policy will also increase the number of inbound passengers in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region. Air China will also use this opportunity to make real-time capacity ad-

justments based on transit demand and provide passengers with smooth transit support through Beijing so that passengers from all over the world can make a seamless visa-free entry to Beijing. Moreover, Air China will also launch special tourism products to meet the needs of passengers in partnership with local Beijing travel agencies, and launch a series of related products to invite travelers to embark on a journey to discover the beauty of China, all while bringing a peerless service experience to passengers.

The Joint Beijing Tourism Committee, Star Alliance, and Capital Airport will provide passengers with more convenience In early 2017, Air China, the Beijing Tourism Committee, and the Capital Airport

Company Limited signed an Inbound Tourism Markets Joint Promotions Strategic Cooperation Agreement to provide regular communication and prepare to launch the 144-hour visa-free transit policy. Air China again joined forces with the Star Alliance and the Beijing Capital International Airport to sign the «Under One Roof» Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in December 2017.

The three parties agreed to collaborate closely to improve the Beijing Capital International Airport, making it a �irst-class hub airport, making noticeable improvements to the passenger experience, passengers will enjoy a higher level of convenience through shared airport facilities, optimized transfer procedures, and enhanced alliance services.

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

WESTMINCOM... FROM 10 deaths of combined Abu Sayyaf bandits and Daesh-inspired Maute group members.

“This is the only period that we were able to neutralize largest number of terrorists, including key signi�icant �igures, within the �ive month stretch of the Marawi siege,” Galvez said.

The �ive-month long bat-

tle ended when government snipers killed the leaders behind Marawi siege--Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and the Maute brothers, Oman and Abdullah.

Hapilon was recognized as the emir of the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Southeast Asia.

Galvez said the death of the top leaders coupled with the relentless offensive against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi have diminished the capability of the terror group to launch another major attacks.(PNA)

PhP129 million port related services project in Polloc Port, Parang, Maguindanao.

The BTSI undertaking is seen to provide logistics support to thriving businesses in municipalities of Maguindanao and neighboring Cotabato City.

Other big ARMM investments this year are the water treatment plant and bulk water supply project (PhP40 million) of Mactan Rock TGV Builders Corporation in Maguindanao; general cargo vessel with a capacity of 494

metric tons (MT) providing shipping services to traders in Tawi-Tawi (PhP 33.5 million) of J. Sayang Shipping Lines, Inc.; and aquamarine cold storage and �ish processing facility (PhP32 million) of Abing Seafood Cold Storage, also in Tawi-Tawi.

Lawyer Ishak Mastura, RBOI chair and managing head, said a total of 1,877 jobs are expected to be created from the projects registered in 2017.

He added that agriculture-based projects are still

the most in demand among investors in the region based on the investment proposals they received for 2018.

“We also foresee projects related to infrastructures, energy, as well as, banking and �inance linked to rebuilding war-ravaged Marawi City,” Mastura stressed.

He noted that the regional investment thrust is aligned to the ARMM Investment Priorities Plan (IPP) for 20172019 that was approved by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. (PNA)

Ranao, an organization of Maranao evacuees from Marawi, said many of the IDPs have admitted to selling donated food packs.

“They are not denying it.

And we cannot blame them.

It’s a manifestation of the desperation of the evacuees,” she said in a phone interview Thursday.

Manaleseg said the IDPs have no choice but to sell some of the food items and use the money they earned for their other needs.

“Even the Department of Health said that the IDPs’ diet of NFA rice and canned goods is unhealthy. They knew that the DSWD has not allowed it (selling and

buying of food items), but they also need cash for their other needs,” Manaleseg added.

What the IPDs need, she said, is for the DSWD to have a sustainable cash assistance program so they won’t be forced to sell their donated food packs. (Jigger J. Jerusalem/PNA)

ARMM... FROM 10

DSWD... FROM 10

NEWS13

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

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

14 EDGEDAVAO Sports

EARLY PREP

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

Initial list of events out for 2019 Asean Para Games

T

he Philippine Sports Association for the Differently-Abled (PHILSPADA) has announced the initial list of sports for the Philippine hosting of the 2019 ASEAN Para Games.

In an interview with Radyo Pilipinas2 on Thursday, PHILSPADA president Michael Barredo said archery, athletics, badminton, basketball (wheelchair), boccia, chess, cycling, futsal, goal ball, sitting volleyball, swimming, powerlifting, table tennis, tenpin bowling and triathlon make up the initial list to be presented to the ASEAN Para Council middle of

ATHLETES TO WATCH. Among the top para athletes to watch from the local backyard are Olympic swimmer Ernie Gawilan and chessers James Infiesto and Henry Lopez.

next year.

Barredo also revealed that of�icials of the ASEAN Para Games will be included in the Philippines SEA Games Organizing Committee chaired by Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Barredo said that he has discussed with Cayetano the selection of sports and events as well as the speci�ication of competition and training venues for para athletes.

The Philippines is hoping to surpass its performance in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last September.

Led by Paralympians Adeline Dumapong-Ancheta and Josephine Medina, the Philippines won 20 golds, 20 silvers and 29 bronzes to �inish behind Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Dumapong-Ancheta won the women’s over 86kg event in powerlifting, while Medina ruled the women’s singles SF6-8 category in table tennis.

The three-member cycling team coached by multi-medalist Norberto Oconer was the most productive in the Philippine contingent, winning one gold, four sil-

vers and one bronze.

Indonesia topped the medal board with 126 golds, 75 silvers, and 50 bronzes. Most of the golds came from athletics (40) and swimming (39). Malaysia was second with 90 golds medals, including 36 in athletics and 22 in cycling, to go with 85 silvers, and 83 bronzes. Thailand �inished third with 68 golds, 26 coming from athletics, 73 silvers, and 95 bronzes, while Vietnam placed fourth with 40 golds (17 in athletics and 15 in swimming), 61 silvers and 60 bronzes. (PNA)

Federer opens season at Hopman Cup

P

ERTH -- Roger Federer began his new season at the Hopman Cup 2018 with a win against Yuichi Sugita.

Federer had played Sugita, who plays much of his tennis on the Challenger Tour, just once before: they met on the grass of Halle earlier this year with the Swiss triumphing for the loss of just four games.

The difference in records between the two players could hardly have

been more stark, with the Japanese player having never cracked the top 30 and with just one title to Federer’s 95.

The pair played the opening match of Japan vs Switzerland in the Hopman Cup team format, ahead of Naomi Osaka and Belinda Bencic’s women’s singles element.

The four players would then combine in the �inal match of the session for a mixed doubles clash played

in the FAST4 format.

Federer looks pretty relaxed in his on-court interview, as you might expect, reminiscing about going on from last year’s Hopman Cup to win the Australian Open.

“I feel like the game has evolved,” Federer said.

“I’ve made some adjustments to my game, trying to hit through the backhand more.

“I think I’m playing

very well otherwise I wouldn’t be having the results that I’m having.”

He’ll be back on Tuesday to face Russia’s Karen Khachanov and we’ll be here to take you through it.

NEW SEASON. Roger Federer returned for Switzerland in the 2018 Mastercard Hopman Cup in Perth, Australia.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018

SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

Rockets lose 5th in a row

15

DCPO CUP 2017. City Mayor’s Office (CMO) won the recent DCPO Cup Tagum 2017 over runner-up MPG. The CMO squad (left) is coached by former BS standout Cadel Mosqueda. Photos by Boy Lim

W

ASHINGTON (AP) -- The Houston Rockets won 25 of their �irst 29 games to notch the NBA’s best record, then quickly entered their worst tailspin in nearly �ive years.

Otto Porter Jr. scored 26 points, Bradley Beal and Kelly Oubre Jr. had 21 each, and the Washington Wizards beat the Rockets 121-103 Friday night for Houston’s �ifth straight loss.

It’s the longest skid for the Rockets since dropping seven straight from Jan. 9-19,

B

2013.

NBA scoring leader James Harden matched his season low with 20 points for the Rockets. Chris Paul returned after missing three games with a strained groin and had eight points and six assists in 26 minutes.

Houston had completed a 14-game winning streak before the alarming slide. ‘’We just haven’t had a rhythm in these last �ive games, quite frankly,’’ Harden said. ‘’We had pretty

y tradition, special awards and citations are given to outstanding sportsmen and women every year by the sports media.

Nationally, the Philippine Sportswriters Association (yours truly is a member in good standing) hands out the “Athlete of the Year” award to the best Filipino sportsman/woman who has achieved the most outstanding performance for the previous year.

As of this writing, three world champions – Carlo Biado (billiards), Krizziah Lyn Tabora (bowling) and Jerwin Ancajas (pro boxing) – are being considered. If IBF light �ly titlist Milan Melindo wins his uni�ication bout with WBA champ Ryoichi Taguchi, he could also be included in the list for the most coveted sports award.

I remember for a time there used to be a Davao SCOOP (Sports Communicators

good spurts, but just a consistent, four-quarter game, we haven’t had that. So hopefully we get back home and kind of buckle down a little bit.’’

A night after blowing a 26-point lead in Boston, the Rockets held their last lead midway through the �irst quarter en route to their worst defeat of the season. Houston has by far the most 3-pointers in the league this season but was held to 29.2 percent (14 for 48) from deep.

Though Paul was back, the Rockets were missing center Clint Capela with an orbital fracture for the second straight game. ‘’Mentally we’re �ine,’’ Rockets coach Mike D’Antoni said. ‘’We’ve got some tired legs and missing the big guy in the middle to give us a force to the rim. ... We’ve got all kinds of excuses, but that doesn’t work. It doesn’t matter. We lost. They won.

They’re the better team tonight.’’

World Cup stints for PH shooters

N

ational ri�le shooters Amparo Teresa Acuña and Jayson Valdez will compete in two World Cups next year to prepare them for the Asian Games.

Acuña and Valdez, as scholars under the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Solidarity Program in preparation for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, are assured of slots in the Philippine delegation bound for the 18th Asian Games slated to be held on Aug. 18 to Sept. 2 in Jakarta and Palembang in Indonesia.

The World Cup in Changwon, South Korea will be

held on April 20-30 while the World Cup in Fort Benning, USA is scheduled on May 7-15.

PH BET. SEA Games bronze medalist Amparo Teresa Acuña.

(Photo courtesy of Ampar o Teresa Acuña)

Honoring outstanding Davao athletes

Organization) that handles this activity with long-time Davao City sportswriter Lito delos Reyes at its helm. However, for reasons beyond our ken, the local sports award-giving body temporarily ceased its existence.

I have suggested its revival to Delos Reyes and the chap is agreeable that outstanding Davao athletes who have given honor and pride to the region and the city be consistently cited every year.

There are, of course, a few wrinkles that need to be ironed out.

First, is the leadership totem pole. To revive it, sportswriters must hold a re-organizational meeting to designate of�icers that will serve in interim capacity until formal elections for such are held.

Second, they need to draw up plans and proposals to secure corporate sponsorship for a weekly sports media

SPORTS KEN Fred C. Lumba forum; and Third, to get its own media center (of�ice) for accredited members to congregate and exchange ideas.

Davao City and Region 11 as well have been excellent spawning grounds of the country’s national athletes, a fact that should inspire and motivate all concerned sectors, the sports media particularly, to single them

out annually during the award-giving ceremonies.

I am pretty sure local government of�icials and LGUs will welcome this development as only the sports media are vested with the authority and credibility to determine the athletes eligible and deserving to receive awards and citations for their outstanding performance the past season.

Today, as the illegal drugs trade has almost menacingly engulfed the entire nation and its innocent youths with us virtually made ignorant by the previous regime, it becomes more incumbent on the part of the LGUs to exhort the young men and women in their area to channel their inexhaustible energies to sports.

Thus, the local sports journalists here become traditional partners in youth development even if this were only an implied expression of

their craft. As the media continue to chronicle sports achievements, aspiring athletes with hitherto hidden potentials could surface and emerge to become stars in the horizon.

Assuredly, sports can make our young people become future productive citizens.

They will become peace-loving because they will know that war disrupts the full development of a growing, young individual.

They will appreciate the cross-cultural harmony that sports bring into their lives; that no matter what your creed and ethnic origin, you are still the same human being as they are. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@ yahoo.com.) Psalm 49:10.

“For all can see that wise men die; the foolish and the senseless alike perish and leave their wealth to others.” GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 194 • SUNDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 31, 2017 JAN.1-2 , 2018