Edge Davao 10 Issue 27

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

RELENTLESS Over 4,000 smoking ban violators nabbed T

HE newly-formed Davao City Vices Regulation Unit has recorded the apprehension of 4, 487 individuals in its relentless drive to crack the whip against violators of the city’s 15-year ban on smoking.

The violators were issued with citation tickets, which they will settle within three days. First-time offenders will pay an administrative penalty amounting to P500, attend the smoking cessation counseling, and return the citation ticket to the police station.

Police will file cases against those who will fail to return the citation tickets.

Under the ordinance, succeeding violations, however, will automatically be filed in court -- even if the violators have complied with the requirements.

Minors, on the one hand, will be required to report to the Davao City Social Services and Development Office for assessment and referral to the smoking cessation clinic for counseling and to the Barangay Council for the Protection of Children for a diversion and rehabilitation Program.

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

F RELENTLESS, 10

PREMIUM COMMODITY. A young boy fills up hundreds of water gallons with potable water at a makeshift store inside Sta. Ana Port in Davao City on Tuesday. A beach resort in the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) commissioned some people to fetch potable water as its regular supply is no longer enough due to the increase of guests arrival. Lean Daval Jr.

Chinese offer 15 slots for Davao City scholars Damosa Land wins

top property award

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

A

TOTAL of 15 selected students from Davao City are set to study in Naning, China under the Educational Exchange Program as part of the

sisterhood agreement between the cities of Naning, China and Davao City.

The students will have a full scholarship in any school in Naning

and they are also free to choose their courses. The Naning government will also cover the accommodation of the scholars.

F CHINESE, 10

See page 12

From Left to Right: Danilo A. Manlangit, AVP for Damosa Land, Ricardo Floirendo Lagdameo, VP for Damosa Land, and Anna Victoria Gatchalian of DLI’s Business Development accept the Property Guru Philippines Property Awards plaques and trophy

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

RARE FIND. Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III (left), newly-appointed Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. (center) and Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella pose for a photo at Malacañan Palace on Monday evening. Abella announced Espenilla’s appointment as the new BSP Governor on the same day. ROBINSON NIÑAL/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Anti-drug drive in Kabacan gaining ground, says mayor

T

HE war on drugs waged since July last year has been gaining ground in this town, a known transshipment point of prohibited drugs from Maguindanao and Bukidnon provinces and Cagayan de Oro City, the town mayor said.

Mayor Herlo Guzman, Jr. also denied reports that a shabu laboratory exists in his town.

Kabacan, with a population of 82,000 as of the 2015 census, is the crossroad of highways going to Bukidnon, Maguindanao and North Cotabato, thus illegal drugs are dropped here from the sur-

rounding provinces, the mayor said.

Guzman said the intensified and massive police and military anti-drug operations led to the arrest of 82 individuals, including non-residents, since last year.

The latest successful operation was carried out Monday with the recovery of PHP75,000 worth of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu and the arrest of nine suspected drug peddlers and users.

On April 30, close to PHP1 million worth of suspected shabu was also seized by joint

F ANTI-DRUG, 10

Bangsamoro peace process‘lasting solution’vs. terrorism — AFP exec

T

HE long-term solution to end terrorism in Mindanao hinges on the success of the Bangsamoro peace process, said an Armed Forces of the Philippines military commander who is overseeing the government’s campaign against terrorist groups in the island.

Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, on Tuesday said the military fully supports the Duterte administration’s peace agenda, particularly the implementation of the peace agreements the government has signed with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

“The outcome of the peace process has a direct correlation with our problem on terrorism,” Galvez told the Philippines News Agency in Zamboanga City.

Galvez said he recently met with the leaders of the Moro fronts, who relayed to him that terror groups in Mindanao are capitalizing on the delay in the implementation, especially the political track, of the peace agreements.

“IQ (MILF former chief negotiator Mohager Iqbal) said that if the future of the BBL (Bangsamoro Basic Law) and the peace process between the government and the MILF and MNLF will be tentative, there is

F BANGSAMORO, 10

‘Bin Laden’ body claimed by Imam

By JECIA ANNE OPIANA

T

HE Davao City Police Office has confirmed that the body of “Bin Laden,” the Abu Sayyaf member killed during the encounter in Lower Dampa, Magtuod, Ma-a in Davao City last May 2 was already claimed on Saturday, May 6.

According to Talomo Police Station spot report dated May 7, at around 11:40 AM of May 6, Imam Mohamad Taya

Ainin, a resident of Barangay 21-C, Piapi Boulevard, Davao City personally appeared at the Angel Funeral Parlor to claim the body.

The imam identified the suspect as one Bin Laden Lim, 18 years of age and a resident near Mosque, Bangkal, Davao City.

DCPO Chief Alexander Tagum said that the imam was not a family member but

merely following the Muslim tradition which would require the dead to be buried within 24 hours.

On May 2, a suspicious Toyota Hilux and a red motorcycle with armed men were spotted in Bangkal around 5:00 o’clock in the afternoon.

The policemen were able to catch up with the said vehicles at Purok 1-B, Lower Dampa in Magtuod, Ma-a where the

shootout happened, resulting in the killing of Bin Laden. The remaining two suspects however eluded in the ensuing hot pursuit launched by the authorities.

Police recovered a .38 revolver with five ammunition, blasting cap, a detonating chord, M26 fragmentation hand grenade, and three pieces of electronic chips from fallen suspect.

gal drugs.

“There was impunity during the previous administration, but it was from the criminals and from the drug lords,” Cayetano said as he described the incidents in the previous years.

The senator pointed out that in many cases of heinous crimes in the country, the suspects are usually confirmed users of shabu. He further cited a technical brief by the World Health Organization (WHO), which cited violence as among the physical consequences of the use of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS)

like methamphetamine.

“The World Health Organization pointed out that the dependence and chronic usage of ATS is associated with psychosis and causes cognitive impairment, aggression and violence, and social and family disruption,” he said, citing a WHO document on the consequences of substance abuse.

“The Filipinos have witnessed how the use of illegal drugs like methamphetamine led to violence and destroyed the lives of many,” he added.

Cayetano was reacting to a recent statement delivered by an American doctor during

a drug policy forum in the Philippines, saying there is no evidence that shabu causes violence. The statement was reposted by UN rapporteur Agnes Callamard in her social media account.

“Illegal drugs can easily destroy a whole generation,” Cayetano said in his opening statement before UNHRC members.

He cited that young people are the most vulnerable to the temptation and evils of prohibited drugs.

“It is projected that we will have 32.7 million Filipinos

UN told: Shabu, violent crimes interrelated in PH

S

ENATOR Alan Peter Cayetano appealed to members of the United Nations Human Rights Center to recognize the relationship of illegal drugs, especially methamphetam ine hydrochloride or shabu, with violent crimes and poverty in order to understand the Philippine situation.

Cayetano on Monday explained to the UN Body the extent of drug-related crimes by showing video clips and news reports of gruesome cases in highly urbanized areas in the country, where the perpetrators were mostly high on ille-

F UN, 10

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 3

Kadayawan sa Dabaw goes global Annual festival starts this August celebration as planned

By JECIA ANNE OPIANA

C

OMMITTEE on tourism and beautification chairperson Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre revealed of a plan to transform the celebration of the 32nd Kadayawan 2017 on August into a “Global Kadayawan.”

Speaking during the Pulong-Pulong ni Pulong on Tuesday, Councilor Alejandre said that as planned, Kadayawan organizers will invite ASEAN communities from Indonesia and Malaysia to showcase their culture together with the 11 tribes of Davao.

“For me, ang atoang Kadayawan is really for the lumads. Ginawelcome nato sila to showcase their culture.

Naa tay mga kauban diri nga taga laing nasud nga makakita sa ilang kultura. Daghan pud ang mga Indonesian and Malaysian sa Davao. Basically, it’s a matter sa pagplastar lang na siya sa atong programa sa ila-

T

ha. Gani, kita pud naa sad tay mga programs na performed sa laing nasud. I guess we can learn from each other, in terms of tradition, culture, in terms of arts.”

Alejandre, however, hastened to add the newly-formed executive committee has yet to discuss the details of the expanded celebration.

On May 3, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio signed an executive order creating the executive committees and its members for the celebration of the 32nd Kadayawan sa Davao Festival.

According to the EO, the executive committee will be chaired by Mayor Duterte-Carpio and co-chaired by Davao City Chamber of Commerce President, Ronald Go. Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte will sit as the vice-chairperson.

Other members of the

F KADAYAWAN, 10

UNFOUNDED. Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of Philippine Army’s 10th ID, says they are incensed of Anakpawis representative Ariel Casilao who accused the AFP of being responsible for several killings and of demanding the withdrawal of troops in Compostela Valley Province. Lean Daval Jr.

Davao City Council approves P7.5M for Roxas blast casualties

HE city council of Davao has approved the allotment of P7.5 million for the victims of Roxas Night Market bombing

incident which occurred on September 2, 2016.

This came about through two separate ordinances approved by the City during

its 18th Regular Session on Tuesday.

The first ordinance gave authority to the city mayor to utilize a portion of the

trust fund obtained from donations in the amount of four million five hundred thousand (P4,500,000.00) as grant-in aid for the livelihood

assistance of the victims of the September 2, 2016 Roxas Night Market blast.”

The second ordinance authorized the city mayor

to utilize a portion of the trust fund obtained from donations in the amount of three million pesos

F DAVAO, 10

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

Duterte names Espenilla incoming BSP governor

P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Monday named Nestor Espenilla Jr. as the incoming Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas .

The announcement was made by the President during the 15th Cabinet Meeting in Malacañang.

Espenilla, who served as Deputy Governor of BSP for six years, will succeed current Governor Armando Tetangco whose 6-year term ends in early July.

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said Espenilla’s appointment is highly welcomed by the market due to the latter’s deep and excellent monetary policy and banking regulatory experience. “His work has helped strengthen the country’s banking system and placed it among the healthiest in ASEAN. One could say that Espenilla has served as co pilot of Gov. Tetangco as he helped the country navigate the different financial crises faced by the country and the region,” he

said.

“Having been with the BSP for 36 years, Espenilla has all the right tools and experience to take on the governorship post,” Abella said.

As Deputy Governor, Espenilla heads the Supervision and Examination sector of BSP, which oversees the supervision of banks and other nonbank financial institutions under the jurisdiction of the BSP. He serves concurrently in various BSP high-level policy committees including Advisory Committee on Monetary Policy; Financial Stability Committee; Inclusive Finance Steering Committee; and Payment and Settlements Steering Committee.

Espenilla also represents the BSP at the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) where the Philippines is one of the only two non-G20 member countries invited to participate, and in the Basel Consultative Group (BCG), where he chairs the Workstream on Financial Inclusion.

(Cielito M. Reganit/PNA)

INTERCONNECTIVITY. Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Development Management officer Rolando Pinsoy interacts with reporters during a news conference for the Climate Resilience and Green Growth in Mindanao forum held at Grand Regal Hotel in Davao City on Tuesday. Lean Daval Jr.

‘Political will’ a must in DTI issues circular on proper concluding RCEP: Lopez use of certification marks

T

HE Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) issued a Memorandum Circular to clarify the proper use of the Philippine Standard (PS) mark and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers on products under mandatory certification.

The BPS disseminated Memorandum Circular 16-04 or the Clarificatory Policy on the Use and Monitoring of the Product Certification Marks prescribed by the Department Administrative Order (DAO) 04:2008 (“The New Rules and Regulations Concerning the Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and/or Safety Certification Mark Scheme of the Bureau of Philippine Standard”) and DAO 05:2008 (“The New Rules and Regulations Concerning the Issuance of the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) under the Product Certification Mark Scheme of the Bureau of Philippine Standards”). The office also noted of their Implementing Guidelines to address concerns of manufacturers, importers and traders on the use of the prescribed PS Mark logo and on the location where to affix the ICC stickers. This took effect on December 22, 2016.

The Circular specifies that the PS mark or ICC sticker should be placed, as a general rule on the product itself, except if the mark/sticker is not practicable affixing to the product, e.g. ballast, self-ballasted lamps, single/double capped fluorescent lamps, incandescent lamps, circuit breakers, electrical tapes, wires, cables and flat cords; and if affixing the sticker to the product will cause damage to its original

packaging such as on television set, air conditioning unit, refrigerator and microwave oven. If the product is affixed on the packaging, the importers, distributors, dealers, traders or retailers shall ensure that the box/package of the displayed unit is available for verification by DTI monitors/ enforcers.

During the conduct of monitoring and enforcement activities, the DTI monitors/ enforcers shall be given access to the stock room or store warehouse to verify that all remaining originally packed inventories bear the corresponding PS mark or ICC sticker. Failure of the importer, distributors, dealers, traders or retailers to present the appropriate product’s box/package, the Circular cites that it shall be construed as a violation of the provisions and be dealt with in accordance with the established rules and policies.

Meanwhile, the correct design of the PS Mark, including the license number, is prescribed in Annex C of the IRR of DAO 04:2008. The PS license number shall be part of the PS mark indicated at the bottom of the said mark.

More importantly, this Circular will benefit the consumers. Considering that the industry has been clarified on the issue of where to place the PS and ICC marks on a certified product, it will be easier for consumers to locate these marks thus, are assured of their safety,” DTI -BPS officer-in-charge Lawyer Marimel D. Porciuncula emphasizes, “ “With this Circular out, DTI’s monitoring and enforce-

F DTI, 10

Calls on negotiators to find ways to solve pending issues

A

LL 10 ASEAN member states and the six Free Trade Agreement partners should show “political willingness to move the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) forward,” the country’s trade chief asserted.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said that political determination of all 16 RCEP participating countries is most crucial in pushing for the substantial conclusion of RCEP, following 17 rounds of negotiations since 2012.

China, Korea, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and India are the six FTA partners of the 10 AMS Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Viet Nam and the Philippines.

Speaking at the opening of

The potential 3.5 billion market Being negotiated to bring about positive and beneficial outcomes, RCEP is seen to intensify trade and investments, lower trade barriers, facilitate

trade, and galvanize the gains from regional economic integration—among the most dynamic economies in the Asia-Pacific region.

Now on its 18th round in Manila, RCEP is armed with the momentum of having thus far concluded chapters on Small and Medium Enterprises (SME), Economic and Technical Cooperation, and, in principle, the Competition Chapter.

“With our markets integrated, we will be more attractive and competitive in partnering for change and in engaging the world. As host, the Philippines is keen on opening up opportunities for SMEs to play an integral role in the global value chains,” Sec. Lopez said.

The full and effective implementation of RCEP can expand the current 620 million

ASEAN market to a greater integrated market of 3.5 billion with the six FTA partners, accounting for almost half of the world’s population and almost 30 percent of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

For ASEAN, RCEP is a reflection of the organization’s thoughtful and deliberate process of integrating the region into the global economy, building on the ASEAN + 1 FTAs with ASEAN Dialogue Partners.

Sec. Lopez reiterated that RCEP should translate to generation of more jobs and creation of more business opportunities for ASEAN citizens.

ident Duterte to map out an ambitious economic plan that aims to transform the economy into a high middle-income one by 2022 and reduce poverty to 14 percent by that time.

“This is an opportune moment for the Philippines.

Beneficial tailwinds and ample headroom will help us grow at a faster rate. Higher growth is certain. The task of leadership is to ensure this growth in inclusive and will result in poverty reduction as quickly as possible,” Dominguez said in his closing remarks at the 50th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank here.

Dominguez is the new chairperson of the ADB Board of Governors.

He said the Duterte administration will meet “head on” the challenge of reversing inequality among the country’s regions by investing heavily in boosting farm productivity and improving the country’s logistical backbone in order to facilitate trade across its islands.

He said this challenge falls squarely into the theme “Linking People and Economies for Inclusive Development” adopted for the 2018 ADB Annual Meeting that will be hosted by the Philippines next year.

To realize the 2018 theme’s goals, Dominguez called on the ADB to “begin a process of reinvention” so that its programs could be

realigned to meet new global realities.

These new realities, he said, include the shifting of the balance of economic power to Asia, the rising economic nationalism and hostility to globalization in the US and Europe, and the emergence of new multilateral lending institutions such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank .

As for the Philippines, the key elements of its inclusive growth strategy are a “massive infrastructure program to bring us up to par with the region and a comprehensive tax reform package that will support robust economic investments in the country’s future,”

the 18th RCEP Trade Negotiating Committee (TNC) Meeting and Related Meetings on 8 May, Sec. Lopez, as chair of ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Meeting, enjoined lead negotiators to “find solutions to all remaining challenges” that hinder RCEP conclusion.

“We want to find solutions as soon as possible because I think we are nearing substantial conclusion. Let us find ways to solve remaining issues,” he said, hoping that related meetings in the future will not be pressed by the same challenges of today.

Call for an expedited negotiation “RCEP is indispensable as it is designed to be pragmatic,

F POLITICAL, 10

Inclusive growth is main target of Duterte administration: DOF

W

ITH prospects for the Philippines’ higher growth “certain,” the main task of the Duterte administration is to ensure that the domestic economy becomes an inclusive one and is able to reduce the incidence of poverty as quickly as possible, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said here over the weekend.

Dominguez said that five years after the Philippines last hosted the Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in 2012, the country has progressed in reducing poverty incidence, improving fiscal stability and increasing its rate of growth, which enabled the new government of Pres-

F INCLUSIVE, 10

ECONOMY 5

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

China firm sees growing demand for energy buses

U

PHOLDING the philosophy of environmental protection, China-based Yutong Bus Group has expressed optimism that more countries will patronize its new energy buses in the coming years.

“We are confident that more and more governments are really considering this (energy bus) and they are very serious especially after most countries signed the COP21 agreement,” Kent Chang, vice general manager of Yutong International Business Department, told foreign journalists who visited Yutong headquarters in Zhengzhou, Henan.

In 2016, Chang said Yutong delivered over 26,800 energy buses but only less than 100 units have been sold outside of China.

He said the Chinese government has been making big investment in air pollution reduction by giving subsidy to the city bus operators who can introduce energy buses.

“Many of our friends abroad, they want also energy buses but which government can also do what Chinese government is doing,” Chang said.

He said energy buses will be a good choice to let the governments keep their promises under the COP21, a short for the 21st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

“So we have confidence for those countries in the next five years especially the city buses operators and mostly these sectors will need more and more new energy buses particularly fuel-electric buses,” he said.

The Zhengzhou Yutong Bus Co. started in 1998 with only 761 produced units but the number dramatically in-

creased to 71,900 units delivered in 2016, bringing the total to 600,000 produced units, including over 100,000 energy buses.

“As the world’s major bus and coach supplier, Yutong is trusted by customers with its products and services which can better meet the customers’ needs,” Tang Yuxiang, president of Yutong Group, said in a statement.

Since 2005, Chang said Yutong Group has exported more than 48,000 buses, including 160 units delivered to the Philippines, most of them ordered

by Yellow Bus Co. in Mindanao.

He said Yutong will deliver fuel-electric buses to Singapore, Paris and London this year.

“We are getting more and more international tenders from European market because this year they are pushing to push for energy buses,” Chang said.

Chang said Yutong has formed a 5-25 meter complete product lineup of more than 200 series consisting of ordinary, medium-level and high-end products, covering various market segments including highway passenger transit, tourism, public transport, commuters, school and specialized buses.

He said Yutong energy buses include: fuel-electric, gas-electric, plug-in hybrid, full electric, fuel cell and dual-source trolley buses.

Chang said the company has invested so much in research and development for the state-of-the-art technologies to achieve the perfect combination of safety, reliability, energy-efficiency, environment friendliness and intelligence “so as to manufacture quality buses for our customers.” (PNA)

FOOD PARK. Despite the heavy downpour, Dabawenyos continue to arrive at the Roxas Night Market to munch on the different varieties of street food sold at the area on Monday night. Lean Daval Jr.

‘Dutertenomics’ to grace Cambodia, China forums P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s economic managers are set to present to foreign businessmen the Philippines’ economic and social development blueprint in a forum dubbed as “Dutertenomics”, during a visit to Cambodia and China from May 10-15.

In Cambodia, Pres. Duterte will participate at the World Economic Forum (WEF) for ASEAN on May 10-11 and the “One Belt, One Road” Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing on May 14-15 aimed at further boosting the coun-

try’s economic ties with China and the rest of the world.

Launched prior to the ASEAN 30th Leaders Summit in Manila late last month, Dutertenomics also aims to accelerate poverty reduction and transform the Philippines into a high- to middle-income country by 2022.

The economic policies of the Duterte administration have a 10-point socioeconomic agenda which are primarily aimed at reducing poverty from 21.6 percent in 2015 to 13 to 15 percent by 2022.

The Philippines stands to

rice before or by July this year.

He said it was discussed to President Rodrigo Duterte in a recent meeting the advantages of allowing the private sector to import rice rather than the government-to-government (G2G) scheme, which only the National Food Authority (NFA) will monopolize rice importation.

“We let the private sector also import. They know the market and the timing of importing rice,” the trade chief

said in Filipino.

Lopez added that the government would also gain revenues from the 35 percent tariff on rice if it allowed the private sector to import the staple food.

In G2G scheme, the government has to fund the importation.

Also through the scheme, the government loses if it has oversupply of rice, as it tends to sell the commodity at a lower price. Because of this,

the government had a loss of about Php 200 billion in the past, according to the official.

But the Cabinet member noted that allowing the private sector to import rice will not result to flooding the market with imported rice, as doing so will only push the prices of the commodity to be cheaper.

Lopez added that the quantity to be imported shall be based on the shortage of domestic supply. (PNA)

“LFC has always stood by what is just and fair in dealing with its employees, customers, other business partners and the communities where it operates. The company is steadfast in exercising only what is legal and lawful in all of its dealings and agreements,” it said in a statement.

LFC is confident that as a law-abiding company it will

continue to forge good and transparent relationships with various stakeholders.

In turn, it expects that it is given its due to peacefully and safely operate under an environment that guarantees that LFC’s personnel, operations and facilities are not endangered nor unfairly undermined.

The company has re-

newed its offer for all parties, especially the breakaway group formed under Madaum Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association Inc. (MARBAI) and the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), “for a continuing constructive dialogue that shall hopefully and finally resolve all issues that pertain to the portion of the farm that is

EO to allow rice importation seen

A

N executive order allowing private sector to import rice will soon be out, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez told reporters Monday.

On the sidelines of the 18th Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Trade Negotiating Committee and Related Meetings, Lopez said Malacañang Palace would release an EO regarding the country’s policy on importing

Lapanday backs peaceful dialogue, Mindanao dev’t

L

APANDAY Foods Corporation will not be distracted by recent events as it renews its willingness to remain a major contributor to the growth and development of Mindanao.

The company made this pledge in the wake of the recent coordinated attacks to its packaging plants in Mandug, Davao City.

F LAPANDAY, 10

hugely gain from joining the Belt and Road Initiative as it is in consonance with the Duterte administration’s massive trillion-peso infrastructure program called “Build, Build, Build” that would usher in the country’s “golden age of infrastructure” in the next five years.

Big-ticket infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, mass urban and subway systems are among the key priorities under the administration’s development agenda. Some of the identified projects will be funded by China.

During his state visit to China last October 2016, Pres.

Duterte and Chinese Pres. Xi Jinping agreed to engage in more cooperation such as the country’s participation in Xi’s flagship “One Belt, One Road” initiative.

The initiative will launch a series of infrastructure projects across three continents, linking Asian markets with economic circles in Europe and Africa.

CIPG-PCOO MOU ON MEDIA EXCHANGE

F DUTERTENOMICS, 13

PDIS pushes prioritizing programs and key projects

G

OVERNMENT implementing agencies should prioritize programs and projects that will really address the needs of Filipino people to allocate budgets and spend money effectively, according to an economist.

Such measure was pushed

by Philippine Institute of Development Studies (PIDS) President Dr. Gilberto Llanto on the sidelines of presentation of United Nation’s 2017 Economic and Social Survey for Asia-Pacific (ESCAP) showing that improved fiscal management and effective governance are essential to sustaining robust economic growth and improving its quality.

Llanto said there were two critical policy initiatives, which are the tax reform package and efforts toward more efficient public spending.

“One weakness in our spending system is the lack of well designed, well prepared

project proposals… Additionally, the implementing agencies should also try to improve the way they conduct business,” he said in an interview with the Philippines News Agency.

Llanto, who also served as deputy director general of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), said government departments should identify top priorities with respect to programs and projects.

“So you have to translate the monies allocated to you

by Congress into projects and programs that will really address the needs of your constituents,” he stressed.

The economist cited as an example the Department of Agriculture with a big portion of its budget going to irrigation and the post-harvest facilities, mostly designed in favour of rice production.

Llanto noted that many

F PDIS, 13

6 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

SoCot completes P75-million infrastructure projects in Q1

T

HE provincial government of South Cotabato has completed around PHP75 million worth of infrastructure projects during the first quarter of the year.

Engr. Vicente Ayongao, construction and maintenance division chief of the Provincial Engineer’s Office , said Tuesday the finished projects comprised 16 vertical and horizontal structures that they implemented from January to March.

He said these include road upgrading and rehabilitation; construction of barangay halls, mini-gymnasiums, senior citizens buildings, and water systems; and the improvement of facilities owned by the provincial government.

“These were among the identified priority projects based on our 2017 infrastructure program,” he said.

A report released by PEO identified the accomplished “major road projects” as the concreting of the national highway junction-Acmonan Road in Tupi town and parts of the Norala-Banga Road.

The completed “barangay infrastructure development projects” are the Glamang Barangay Hall in Polomolok; Tinongcop Barangay Hall in Tantangan; Matapol Barangay Hall in Norala; Malugong gymnasium in T’boli; Senior

Citizen Building of Barangay Lambayong in Tampakan; Senior Citizen Building of Barangay Cabuling in Tantangan; and, the Day Care Center of Barangay Canahay in Surallah.

The provincial government shouldered the labor component for the construction of two communal septic tanks in Lake Sebu; rehabilitated and expanded the Danlag Water System in Tampakan; and, augmented the tiling of classrooms at Panay National High School in Sto. Nino.

Also completed were the upgrading and improvement of the Polomolok Municipal Hospital building; construction of the new office of the Provincial Population Office; fabrication and installation of window protection grills for the Provincial Assessor’s Office building; construction of the Archival Building and other facilities of the Koronadal City Hall of Justice.

Ayongao said their office remains on track with the ongoing implementation of some PHP227 million worth of projects within the province’s 10 towns and lone.

Among those due for completion within the next two months are flood control projects, classrooms and other barangay structures, he said.

(PNA)

Suspect in killing of Bukidnon town mayor killed in firefight

O

NE of the suspects in the killing of a town mayor in Bukidnon province two years ago was killed in a clash with soldiers in the outskirts of Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, a belated Army report reaching here Tuesday said.

Lt. Erwin Bugarin, spokesperson of the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion based in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, identified the suspect as Jimmy Sante Ama, a member of the communist New People’s Army (NPA).

He said that Ama was one of the NPA rebels killed in an encounter with government troops in the hinterland village of Kibalabag in Malaybalay

Davao City LGU extends help to displaced Calinan villagers

A

ROUND 86 families fled outskirt areas of Barangay Dominga in Calinan district when government forces clashed with New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Saturday.

Barangay Captain Ivy Marie Lumandas immediately sought assistance from City Mayor Sara Duterte for the basic needs of the evacuees.

The City Social Services and Development (CSSDO),

said relief goods were immediately sent to the villagers who are temporarily sheltered at the Dominga Barangay Hall.

Maria Luisa Bermudo, chief of CSSDO, said social

workers were also sent to the village on Tuesday to evaluate the needs of the families for individual release of food packs -- expecting that the evacuees will stay out of their homes for several days. CIO

City last Friday.

Bugarin said that Ama was identified by relatives who claimed the suspect’s body in a funeral home in Malaybalay City on Sunday. The other victim remained unidentified, he said.

Bugarin said that a regional trial court in Bukidnon has issued a warrant of arrest against Ama and several others for the killing of Impasug-ong town Mayor Mario Okinlay in Bukidnon on July 2, 2015.

Okinlay and his convoy were on their way home after a medical and dental mission in the hinterland village of Bontongon, Impasug-ong when ambushed by suspected NPA members. (Cris Diaz/PNA)

SANGGUNIANG Panlalawigan (provincial board) member here has asked the provincial government to form a body that will look into the problems besetting the national government’s anti-poverty program.

Board member Socrates Piñol urged North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Mendoza to form a body that will review

the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and what can be done to make the beneficiaries really productive.

Piñol said he received reports about the declining number of farm workers “because many of them had been depending on the monthly stipend courtesy of the 4Ps program.”

In filing Provincial Resolution No. 292, Piñol also stated that other land owners blamed the 4Ps program for the “reluctance of farmers to work as laborers in other farms.”

Piñol stressed that instead of helping the underprivileged, the 4Ps program “has become counter-productive because the recipients have turned mendicants.”

Piñol, a first-term provincial lawmaker, said that “no national law gives flesh to the 4Ps program first started during the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Piñol’s Resolution 292 was approved Monday by the provincial board and will be forwarded to the office of Governor Mendoza for action. (PNA)

nator Dr. Maria Teresa Ungson, who turned over the check to Mayor Arthur Davin on Monday, said the bulk of the allocation will be given to members of households who have pregnant women and mothers of children aging from 0-23 months old for their home food production. p>The municipality has already created a committee to oversee the implementation of the nutrition program in efforts to address the malnutrition problem in the locality.

HE Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Pamilya ng Pantawid (SNPP) held a Unity Walk at 11:30 am today from People’s Park to the House of Representatives to call for the institutionalization of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, or more popularly known as 4Ps. The Unity Walk is a call to President Rodrigo Duterte to fulfill his promise during the campaign period to expand the coverage of 4PS, as well as to ensure that the rice subsidies will be given to all mem-

bers of the program. This has since been directly contradicted by the 4Ps program management office, led by Director Leonardo Reynoso, who said that only a select number of beneficiaries will be given rice subsidy.

According to the group, they are alarmed by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Judy Taguiwalo’s statement that the health grants, one of the components of 4Ps, will be taken away from some families in favor of rice subsidies.

In a dialogue initiated by SNPP with the secretary last March, she said that the health grants will only be given for the next six months only.

Anna, one of the SNPP members, said, “Tinatayang 1.3 milyon kaming mga pamilya ang mababawasan ng kakayahan para tugunan ang pangangailangan ng aming mga anak (There are 1.3 million families, including mine, whose capacity to take care of our children will be reduced).”

“Nangako si Pangulong Duterte noong SONA niya na

lahat ng mahihirap na pamilya ay bibigyan ng bigas (President Duterte promised to expand the program during his campaign, and he repeated this during his SONA),” she also said, referring to the first State of the Nation Address (SONA) given by the head of state.

The group hopes to get the statements of some legislators regarding the future of the program.

For more information, contact SNPP on Facebook at Facebook.com/NagkakaisangPamilyangPantawid

Cotabato lawmaker seeks review of 4Ps program

A

DOH allocates P1.4M for 4Ps parents hold unity walk for program institutionalization DavSur nutrition program T

T

HE Department of Health XI, through the National Nutrition Council, has allocated P1.4 million to boost the Early Childhood Care and Development program of Magsaysay,Davao del Sur. Magsaysay was chosen as one of the three local government units in the province to be the pilot areas of the ECCD/ First 1000 Days project. The two other areas are Digos City and Hagonoy.

Nutrition program coordi-

7 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

KonsultaMD collabs with new partners

K

ONSULTAMD, a 24/7 health hotline service that provides access to licensed and professional doctors to provide immediate medical attention to Filipinos, recently partnered with MedGrocer, FamilyDOC, Healthway Medical, and Lifeline with these benefits: By calling 79880 (mobile) or (02) 798 8000 (landline), callers can speak to a licensed Filipino doctor regarding their health concerns. Inquiries about health-related issues include, but is not limited to, maternity, pediatrics and primary conditions like fever, rashes, and allergies, to name a

few. Callers may also inquire about matters pertaining to health coaching, nutrition counselling, permissible medication, and even laboratory results.

To be able to connect with the hotline service, customers need to apply for a subscription, which can be done by visiting any Globe store nationwide, calling the KonsultaMD hotline at 79880 (mobile) or (02) 798 8000, or by signing up at their website, https://www.konsulta. md/. Currently, only Globe customers can subscribe to KonsultaMD but this service will be opened to other operators soon.

Top geologist urges gov’t to focus on‘rare’elements

O

NE of the country’s top geologists and a mining expert has urged the government to focus on “rare” elements that can possibly be found in the country’s ores in order to give additional value to mineral exports.

According to Dr. Carlo Arcilla, a professor at the University of the Philippines’ National Institute of Geological Sciences, such rare elements like “scandium” can be used in manufacturing advanced batteries and as an alloy to aluminum in order to enable the latter to be welded with other metals and be utilized in producing plane parts.

“The price of scandium can reach USD170 per gram. China is the biggest producer of scandium and we should know how many percent of that we are bringing in to them without our knowledge. If you mix scandium with aluminium, it will become heat resistant yet still lightweight,” said Arcilla in an interview over the weekend.

It can be noted that majority of the country’s nickel shipments is brought to China and scandium can be found in nickel ores.

“If you wash the ores using acid, nickel will be melted but scandium will be dissolved. So, what we

will do is to discover how we can separate scandium from nickel since the rare earth element is not pannable,” he said.

For this year, Arcilla said he would partner with a Japanese scientist and will explore nickel mining areas in the country to collect samples and quantify the level of scandium concentrates as well as to discover other potential elements, an effort wherein the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has allotted a Php 10 million funding.

He, however, said that they still had not identified yet the locations for the exploration but will initially collect samples in Palawan, Surigao and Zambales, and later on finding a way to effectively extract scandium from nickel ores.

The geologist also claimed that there were already talks between DOST and the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) on researches where they could jointly fund to further improve the country’s mining industry.

“We have a very good chance of becoming big (supplier) on scandium. We also really need to develop nickel for us to have local steel as all of its raw materials are being imported,” he said. (PNA)

Abreeza Mall lines up Mother’s day treats

A

MOTHER’S love is the gift that keeps on giving.

To honor Davao’s amazing moms this Mother’s Day, Abreeza Mall launches a lineup of activities with the goal of giving back to moms this time around.

Abreeza Mall brings back the Mompreneur Fair, its annual Mother’s Day expo showcasing products and services by Davao’s enterprising moms. From May 11 to 14 at the Ground Floor Supermarket Hallway, shoppers will be treated to an impressive gathering of the many fruits of hardworking moms’ labor, including crafts, foodstuffs, beauty picks, accessories, and home and garden products.

Nothing says “I love you” quite like a public message, so from May 11 to 14, Abreeza

Mall invites shoppers to write down why their moms are the best at the Mom Mural in front of Fully Booked at the Ground Floor.

Netizens get another chance to proclaim their love for mom online through the Mom and Me Time Instagram promo. From May 8 to 12, followers of Abreeza Mall on Instagram are encouraged to post a photo with mom, explain what makes her special in the caption, and tag @iloveabreezamall for a chance to win a dinner date with her at an Abreeza Mall restaurant.

Ayala Malls also partners with Jewelmer Joaillerie to make mom feel even more like a queen this month. Customers get the chance to win a pair of Gold South Sea pearl stud earrings for every P1,000 single or

accumulated receipts presented at the Main Concierge from May 1-31—a perfect treat for moms to lavish themselves with, as well as for husbands and children who want to surprise mom with an elegant present. Customers who make their purchase using their BPI Amore Visa Credit or Prepaid Card get to triple their chances of winning.

Besides all these, Mother’s Day weekend at Abreeza Mall is replete with other exciting events to engage shoppers.

On May 12, 7 to 10pm at the Ground Floor Fashion Hallway, Abreeza Mall holds the live streaming of the YouTube FanFest 2017 right as it happens at the World Trade Center, Pasay City. Here, Davao’s YouTube enthusiasts will witness both local and global YouTube stars

as they share the stage in a spectacular variety show. Registration is free, with interested participants invited to sign up at the Main Concierge.

Another must-visit event on Mother’s Day weekend is Franchising Negosyo Para Sa Davao, which runs from May 12 to 14 at the Activity Center.

Aspiring franchisers and franchisees will get to take part in business matching, expos, and seminars hosted by the Philippine Franchise Association.

For inquiries and updates on Abreeza Mall news and events, please visit the Main Concierge at the ground floor or call (082) 321-9332. Stay updated by liking www.facebook.com/AbreezaMall and following @abreezatweets on Twitter and @iloveabreezamall on Instagram.

Pastor Quiboloy’s academic scholars pass the 2016 Bar exams

T

WO of Children’s Joy Foundation, Inc. Founding President, Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy’s academic scholars made it in the 2016 Bar examinations.

Siblings Lady Jade Canada and Pearl Angeli Canada, who are months apart by age, both from Davao City, are included in the 3,747 out of the 6,344 examinees who passed the test. The sisters are also the first two law graduates among the pastor’s academic scholars.

Being the founder of the Children’s Joy Foundation, Inc., Pastor Quiboloy has been sponsoring the education of indigent children since the early ‘90s. The Canada sisters belong to the first batch of students Pastor Quiboloy sent to school for free until they graduated from college and pursued their legal education.

As one who believes in providing more options and opportunities for as-

Lady Jade Canada

Pearl Angeli Canada

piring law students in Region XI, Pastor Quiboloy supported the launching of the Jose Maria College of Law in 2016. The pastor revealed that if God did not call him to be a preacher, he could have been a pilot or a lawyer, which was his lifelong dream.

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

I

Alan as diplomat

T has been a year since the elections that brought President Duterte. It was a sweet victory but one that’s not complete. His runningmate Senator Alan Peter Cayetano did not make it.

That’s the not so good thing about Philippine electoral system. Unlike in the United States where the winning President tags along his runningmate to office, ours is a separate plurality count by itself. That is why we more likely end up with no. 1 and no. 2 not working as one.

Perfect example is the lack of harmony between President Duterte and his defiant Vice President Leni Robredo.

It was widely believed that Senator Cayetano would be appointed to the cabinet once the one-year ban on appointments lapses for losing national candidates. The scuttlebutt is that the foreign affairs portfolio is reserved for him.

Now that the one-year ban has lapsed, we will know if that will materialize.

Even without such appointment, President Duterte has relied on Senator Cayetano to “defend and promote the country” in the international community, brought him along in his foreign visits, and recently, gave him the task of reporting the “real” human rights situation in the country before the United Nations.

Senator Alan did quite a good job in his presentation in Geneva. He led the 16-member Philippine delegation attending the UN’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) and enumerated five “true facts” to dispel “alternative facts” re-

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

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

ported by local and foreign media. The proceeding was streamed live on his personal Facebook account.

The first fact Cayetano presented was that “killings in the Philippines in the previous administrations varied from a low of 11,000 to a high of 16,000 per year” and that there was “no apples to apples comparison between the figures of the past and present administration.” The second fact was that 1.266 million illegal drug pushers and users have surrendered was barely included in reports. The third fact was how the drug operations conducted during the previous administration’s six year period compared to the current administration’s 10-month period. And for the fourth and fifth facts, he stressed how 64,917 drug personalities have been arrested and not killed and how out of 9,432 total homicide cases, only 2,692 deaths resulted from presumed legitimate law enforcement operations.

Capping his presentation, he urged for “understanding where the Philippines is coming from” noting that it is essential to our discussions in improving the human rights situation in the country.

Summing it up, Senator Cayetano brought to the UN table the real, factual, and unpoliticized assessment of the human rights situation in the country.

Whether or not the UN takes this version or not is beyond us now. Senator Cayetano has brought out the real score and that was a job that should earn for him a more active diplomat role.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

JIMMY K. LAKING Associate Editor PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

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

the national association of newspapers

OLIVIA D. VELASCO D.D. MARATAS RICHARD C. EBONA OLIVIA D. VELASCO JOCELYN S. PANES SOLANI SOLANI MARATAS General Manager Finance Advertising Specialist General Manager Director of Sales Finance RICHARD C. EBONA Marketing Supervisor

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE

LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager EDMUND D. RENDON Unit 6, SouthbankMarketing Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Specialist General Santos City Cagayan de Oro City Mobile: (Smart) 0948-823-3685 Tel: (088) 852-4894

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

ANGELICA R. GARCIA | Marketing Manager 97-1 Bayanbayanan Ave., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 654-3509

EDGEDAVAO

I

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

9

A reservation area, not an alienable land (Part 2)

N the decades to come, the original joint venture agreement (JVA) would undergo several amendments. On July 10, 1973, two new significant provisions were introduced, namely: (i) the appointment of a representative from the prisons bureau to be part of the Tadeco management team and (ii) the use of colony inmates or prisoners, including those who have completed their sentences, as workers in line with BuCor’s mandate to rehabilitate prisoners. Under this new implementing agreement, the BuCor gave Tadeco another 1,000 hectares for cultivation under the 1969 JVA. Between 1975 and 1979, three more adjustments were made in the JVA. On March 21, 1975, a supplemental contract was signed, which allowed Tadeco to cultivate an additional 500 hectares for rice, corn, and sorghum farms. Three years later, on July 17, 1978, an addendum was signed adding 100 hectares from the Kapalong sub-colony for banana farming, and another 95 hectares from the Panabo sub-colony for planting of rice, corn, sorghum, and other grains.

Moreover, on February 8, 1979, another supplement was signed, this time giving Tadeco additional 750 to 800 hectares for cultivation as a banana farm subject the conditions already stipulated in the original JVA

T

VANTAGE POINTS

HREE years ago, during the observance of World Environment Day, Senator Loren Legarda issued this statement: “The Philippines is a mega diverse country, but it is also one of the world’s top biodiversity hotspots, with a large number of species either endangered or threatened of extinction. There needs to be stronger convergence among government agencies and local government units and collaboration with the private sector, civil society and citizens to protect our wildlife species.”

The lady senator expressed alarm over reports that some areas in southern part of the country were still being used as entry or transshipment points for illegal trade of wildlife species such as exotic birds, cats, seahorses, tortoises and marine turtles.

What caught my attention was the marine creature called seahorses. Although they are not considered endangered yet, seahorses are dwindling in our seawaters. The coastal community of Handumon in Getafe, Bohol, was once upon a time a haven for seahorses. In fact, there used to be seahorse-watching activities.

But when fishermen learned there was a ready market for the strange-looking fish, they harvested them as if there was no tomorrow.

“I’ve been fishing seahorses for 18 years,” a local fisherman told People and the Planet. “They are very import-

signed. That same year, the 1969 agreement was extended by another twenty-five (25) years.

A decade later, on the recommendation of then justice, now labor, Secretary Silvestre Bello III, BuCor and Tadeco signed a consolidated joint venture agreement (CJVA) on July 11, 1989, covering 5,212.46 hectares.

Six years later, both parties agreed to an addendum expanding he area of coverage under the merged JVA to 5,284.98. Under the renewed JVA signed on May 21, 2003, the hectarage under the CJVA was expanded to 5,308.36, the present coverage.

Since the 1973 Implementing Agreement was introduced in the 1969 BuCor-Tadeco joint venture agreement (JVA), the issue of rehabilitating prisoners while serving sentence inside the Davao Prison and Penal Farm (Dapecol) was already a key proviso in the partnership. In which case, the parties involved agreed to adopt two new elements in the contract.

First, the BuCor was imbued with the task to prevent the illegal entry or trespass of squatters, or unauthorized settlers, and with the “full cooperation” of Tadeco to take legal actions, either by ejectment or prosecution, against the violators. This provision, in part, takes into account the role the private company plays in ensuring the

FAST BACKWARD Antonio V. Figueroa territorial integrity of the penal colony is not undermined by unwarranted incursions.

And, second, the BuCor, to safeguard it from any form of monetary risks or fiscal disincentives, has no obligation when it comes to contributing funds for the development of the farms but only allow the cultivation of its land assets in return for emolument, services, and any assistance that redound to the uplift of the colony and the rehabilitation of its inmates.

An overlooked aspect of the JVA is that it’s not just a simple government contract; in fact, it is an accord that, in recent decades, has been contemplat-

ed for replication in other penal colonies throughout the archipelago. But the absence of a cooperative partner and the huge investment involved in achieving what the BuCor-Tadeco deal has achieved, have virtually made the planned duplication a must-do aspiration for the government.

There were, in the past, efforts to denigrate or put down the JVA. In 1970, the transaction was scrutinized by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee following issues of legal technicality.

But the chair of the committee, in answering the question if the contract “really partake of a joint venture relationship”, was clear in saying “we would not have approved the Bureau of Prisons-Tadeco contract if it did not clearly create a joint venture relationship between the parties.”

In support of the agreement and in answer to the question on the authority of national officials to make contract, then justice secretary Ponce-Enrile, on September 11, 1970, cited a Supreme Court decision which said “the acts of the secretaries of such (executive) departments, performed and promulgated in the regular course of business, are, unless disapproved or reprobated by the Chief Executive, presumptively the acts of the Chief Executive.”

Prior to the ascendancy of President Rodrigo Duterte, the JVA had

already benefitted 4,945 inmates, including seasonal hires, who were assigned to work in the desilting of the plantation drainage, trained to handle the packing of premium and export-grade bananas, and taught the skills to earn a livelihood as part of their future reintegration in society.

The rehabilitation by employment administered under the contract has also contributed to the minimization of unrest inside the penal colony, has contributed to the strengthening of personal relationships between inmates and their families, has promoted values formation as preparatory steps towards life after sentence, and has validated the philosophy that rehabilitation as part of “restorative justice” is better than the concept of “retributive justice.”

As of 2016, the JVA had contributed to the National Treasury PhP295 million in fees and taxes, paid a total of PhP142.7 million for the inmates’ farm training support, stipend, and training subsidy, and generated over 30,000 job placements in direct, indirect, and ancillary engagements, which mean livelihood, food on the table, and secure future for close to 200 individuals. From 2004 to 2016, the total amount the JVA had paid for inmates’ rehabilitation, guaranteed production share, and profit share has already reached PhP1.62 billion!

tilized as they enter the pouch, hatching after approximately 10 days.

“Like chameleons, seahorses can change color to match their surroundings, going from drab to psychedelic in a matter of moments, and they can even grow skin filaments to better mimic algae or coral,” Natalie Angier wrote in New York Times.

Seahorses have been swimming the seas for an estimated 40 million years.

They are pictured on Greek vases, for they were thought to be the offspring of the stallions that carried the god Poseidon’s chariot across the waves.

The Roman naturalist Pliny wrote that ashes of seahorse could cure baldness, impotence, and rashes.

It wasn’t in the 18th century that scientists realized seahorses are actually fish, though highly modified ones.

Unlike most fish, they wear their bones on the outside, as an exoskeletal armor that offers considerable protection against predation.

As fish, seahorses are very romantic. Once they have chosen a partner, they have eyes for no other. “In a world where infidelity is almost universal, seahorses pair up and seem to be unerringly faithful to their mates, reaffirming their bond each day through elaborate courtship rituals,” Angier wrote.

Seahorses have no problem breeding, but only one in a thousand will reach maturity. Of those, tens of millions are captured and processed annu-

ally for medicines or as aphrodisiac.

Aside from China, other countries that trade seahorses include Australia, Belize, Brazil, Ecuador, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United States and Vietnam.

In its website, the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI) reported: “Since the mid-1990s, the number of seahorses in trade (domestic and international) has substantially increased, with estimates ranging from 24.5 million to more than 150 million now consumed annually by some 80 countries.”

Trade is not the only threat to seahorses, as their ocean habitat – primarily mangrove, sea grass, and coral ecosystems – are some of the most endangered in the world.

“Worldwide, over the past few decades an estimated half of all mangrove habitats have been destroyed; nearly 60 percent of coral reef habitat has disappeared, become degraded and/or fallen under imminent threat; and some 1,400 square miles of sea grass habitat has been lost,” AWI reported.

“Such degradation – caused by coastal development, pollution, dredging, climate change, and destructive fishing practices that include the use of trawls, dynamite and poisons – are just some of the threats to the places seahorses call home,” AWI added.

They harvest seahorses, don’t they?

ant for my family because I use (the money I get for my catch) to buy food and medicine.”

It was in this area where Canadian marine biologist, Dr. Amanda Vincent, established a community-based resource management project in 1995.

It later became a full-fledged non-government organization named Project Seahorse Foundation (PSF).

“I hate the way the fishermen just hang the seahorses out to dry, stringing them up and leaving them to flop in the sun,” Dr. Vincent, one of the world’s leading experts on seahorses, was quoted as saying.

Today, the seahorse-rich waters of Handumon are devoid of the marine creatures that used to abound. According to PSF’s Angie Nellas, they could still easily spot a seahorse within a few-meter radius of the marine protected area.

This was between the late ‘90s and in the early 2000. Today, it takes about an hour or so to find just even one seahorse.

“Sa una daghan seahorses makuha all over Bohol but opportunistic man ang mga tawo when they discovered the market,” Nellas told Freeman’s Liv G. Campo. Buyers pay from P50 to P70 per seahorse or a whooping P14,000 per kilo.

Seahorses have been used in Chinese medicine for at least 400 years.

They are used to treat asthma, arteriosclerosis, incontinence, impotence,

kidney disorders, skin ailments, and

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

thyroid disorders.

The seahorse, whose genus Hippocampus (hippo means “horse” and campus “worm”) is placed in the family Syngnathidae. It swims weakly, propelled largely by the rapid motion of its dorsal fin. Its food primarily of minute planktonic crustaceans, which are ingested into a small mouth at the end of a long tube-like snout by rapid intake of water.

The seahorse characteristic that many find fascinating is the reversed sex roles. The male has a kangaroo-like pouch on its ventral side in which the eggs are deposited by the female and held until they hatch. The eggs are fer-

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

Chinese... FROM 1

INSTANT HELP. Bystanders assist a group of visually-challenged persons as they walk on uneven pathway at Magsaysay Park in Davao City on Tuesday. Lean Daval Jr.

RELENTLESS... FROM 1 Voltaire Engracia, VRU chief, said the over 4000 arrests were mostly made by police ahead of the full operations of the deputized enforcers and inspectors hired by the unit to help implement the ordinance.

Engracia noted that his unit will be authorized to inspect business establishments to ensure compliance with the ordinance.

Establishments will also be strictly required to display signages to remind the public of the ordinance. Failure to follow this may constitute a violation of the smoking ban.

The VRU is set to strictly enforce the No Smoking Policy in public conveyances, accommodation, and entertainment establishments, enclosed and

partially enclosed public places, public buildings, public outdoor spaces, and workplaces.

To also ensure public awareness and compliance, the unit is set out to distribute stickers and posters to establishments, public places, and public utility vehicles.

Personnel from the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) will be helping in making sure that PUVs’ comply with the provisions of the ordinance.

The VRU was created and organized by Mayor Inday Sara Duterte through Executive Order No 10 early April to lead the effective and efficient enforcement of the city’s Anti-Smoking and the Liquor Ban. CIO

anti-narcotics operatives and police in the town.

Kabacan serves as the “bagsakan” (trading place) of shabu from northern Mindanao, Central Mindanao and autonomous Muslim region before these are distributed to other areas, including the cities of Davao, Digos and General Santos.

Guzman vowed that his administration will continue to collaborate with the police and Army to cleanse the town of illegal drugs.

While he vowed to enforce the law at all cost, Guzman appealed to drug personalities to peacefully surrender and be rehabilitated to become productive citizens.

Guzman attributed the success of the anti-drug drive to the cooperation of residents, who provided tips to law enforcers involving drug personalities.

“Continue helping authorities, we are doing it for the sake of our children, your children,” he urged residents.

Dominguez said.

“The first element is indispensable. For decades, the country lagged behind its neighbors in economic investments as we grappled with a debt overhang. We have to close the infra gap to achieve investment-led growth and evolve a truly inclusive economy,” Dominguez said.

He said the second element, which is the tax reform program, “is unavoidable.”

“To meet the challenge of a larger and younger labor force, we need to fund social spending in education and public health. We need to bring down our income tax rate close to the regional average to make our economy more attractive to investments,” he noted.

Dominguez said that as with other emerging archipelagic economies, the Philippines needs to address the “unevenness” in the economic development of its regions.

A case in point, he said, is that Metro Manila’s gross regional domestic production grew 12 times the rate of the country’s poorest region—the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Dominguez said the ADB will continue to play a key role in helping the Philippines correct such inequalities and in “building an economy that is much kinder to its people” as it thanked the Bank for the support that it has extended to our country over the years.

(PNA)

Anti-drug... FROM 2

Inclusive... FROM 4

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

UN... FROM 2

Mayor Sara Duterte said that the city government will also give allowances to help the students in their study in China.

On Sunday, the Mayor of Naning, China, Zhou Hongbo, visited Davao City to discuss the scholarship grants to 15 students and also the businesses that the two cities can venture.

Mayor Duterte said that she welcomes the development as a result of the sisterhood agreement of the two cities.

“It is a welcome project between Davao City and Naning City in China, hopefully we can finish the Memorandum of Agreement by August so we can present it to them by September so by next school year we can send the scholars there,” Mayor Duterte said.

Mayor Duterte said that the scholars will undergo training in writing and speaking

Mandarin since it is the native tongue of the people living in Naning.

Mayor Duterte said that the City is also looking that in the near future, the city can also sponsor a scholarship for the students of Naning.

“As of now we don’t have a specific project for scholarship grant (for Naning students), but their offer of scholarship grant is the start. This is the start of education cooperation,” she said.

On June, Naning will also have a Naning day here in the city that will showcase their culture as part of the cultural cooperation of the two cities.

Meanwhile, Naning invited Davao City to witness the 12th China International Expo on December 2018. Naning will name one of the gardens as ‘Davao City Philippines’ to showcase the tourism industry of the city.

a big possibility they (terrorist groups) can recruit more,” he said.

Currently, the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte is pushing for an inclusive BBL that will reflect the interests of the Bangsamoro people, lumads (indigenous people) and settlers in Mindanao.

The President earlier created a new composition of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), represented by different sectors in Mindanao, to redraft the BBL and submit it to Congress by June.

The BBL is eyed to be approved within the year to give a legal foundation for the creation of a new Bangsamoro region that will replace the

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The new law will be based on the previous peace agreements namely the 1996 Final Peace Agreement between the government and the MNLF, and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) between the government and the MILF. Originally, the BBL was introduced during the Aquino administration but Congress failed to approve it. p>Amid the campaign against terrorism, Galvez noted that it is part of their mandate to ensure that all troops are well aware of the peace agenda of the administration.

(TPGJR/Darwin Wally T. Wee/PNA)

The councilor said that the livelihood project which will be initiated by the city social services will be of help especially for the victims who have been incapacitated to work because of the unfortunate incident.

As for the survivors who are in need of medical assistance, 11 of them are still undergoing therapy and one victim is up for operation.

On September 2, 2016, 14 people were killed when a bomb exploded at Roxas Night Market and injured 67 others. JECIA ANNE OPIANA

aged 14 and below, or 31% of our population, Cayetano said, citing Philippine Statistics Authority data.

The senator reiterated that the people’s campaign against illegal drugs is pursued to preserve the lives of the Filipino people and pre-

vent the country from turning into a Narco-State.

He assured the Body of the Duterte government’s dedication to effect bold reforms in ending the country’s drug problem, particularly the prevalence of shabu within Filipino communities.

execom will be Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, city mayor’s office chief of staff Raul Nadela, Assistant City Administrator for Administration Tristan Dwight Domingo, City Tourism Officer Regina Rosa Tecson, City Accountant’s Office Vingelin Bajan, City Budget Officer, Ermilinda Gallego, and Private sector representative Gene Bangayan.

The execom will be in charge of planning and ensuring the smooth coordination of programs, events and activities in connection with the

Festival.

The operating expenses, including the incidental expenses relative to the services rendered by the members of the committees and other personnel in addition to their duties and responsibilities and for the work beyond office hours, shall be chargeable against the funds of the city government of Davao, budgetary allocation of the City Tourism Operations Office, and private sector sponsorships, subject to the usual accounting and auditing rules and regulations.

paying heed to the levels of development and sensitivities of each negotiating country,” explained Sec. Lopez, adding that despite the more uncertain geopolitical and economic climate, ASEAN remains resilient and progressive, inclusive and forward-looking, as evidenced by “the continued increase in trade and investments towards achieving shared economic prosperity.”

The trade chief encouraged RCEP lead negotiators

to expedite negotiations without sacrificing quality and long-term economic gains to achieve a substantial conclusion of a high quality and credible RCEP by year-end.

The 18th RCEP TNC Meeting and Related Meetings ends 12 May. “I look forward to hearing good outcomes when I meet fellow ministers at the 3rd Inter-sessional RCEP Ministerial Meeting in Hanoi a few days from now,” he concluded.

(P3,000,000.00) for the medical assistance to the victims of the September 2, 2016 Roxas Night Market blast needing continuous and long term medical care.”

A total of P8.9 million pesos worth of donation coming from the private sectors was received by the city government in the aftermath of the Roxas Night Market bombing incident.

The proponent of the said ordinance was committee on finance ways and means head Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang.

ment activities will be intensified in the fight against the proliferation of non-conforming products in the market, ensuring that the BPS’ mandatory products are safe for

all consumers,” DTI-Davao Regional Director Maria Belenda Q. Ambi pointed out.

A copy of the Memorandum Circular can be accessed from the BPS portal at www.

bps.dti.gov.ph. For more info on the said circular and other consumer-related concerns, anyone may visit DTI-Davao Regional Office at 4F Mintrade Realty Building, corner

Monteverde and Sales Streets, Davao City. They may also call landline number (082) 2240511, local 417 and 420 (Consumer Protection Services Division). DTI11/WDG/jmm

subject of the concerted action of MARBAI and its supporters.”

Lapanday stressed that the final and executory judgment on its compromise agreement with the Hijo Employees Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries

Cooperative-1 (HEARBCO-1) has been upheld by the Davao City Regional Trial Court Branch 14. This ruling was reiterated when the same court released its 18 April Order.

Furthermore, the court

ruled that the DAR has no jurisdiction on the case because it is not an agrarian dispute.

The company shall nevertheless take the path that will lead towards the peaceful and fair resolution of these issues.

LFC invites all stakeholders to negotiate a final and lasting agreement in good faith that will be acceptable to all for the benefit of Mindanao in particular and the country in general. (PR/PNA)

Kadayawan... FROM 3

Political... FROM 4

DTI... FROM 4

Lapanday... FROM 5

Bangsamoro... FROM 2

Davao... FROM 3

INdulge!

Motherhood & mindfulness

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

WOMEN

EDGEDAVAO

IT WAS IN 2002 when Yoga instructor Joanna Christina LizaresCo, 46, married Dabawenyo businessman Zosimo Co. She moved to Davao City in the same year and since then, Joanna has considered the city as her second home. The couple is blessed with two beautiful girls – Gianna Simone, 12, and Simmina Christina, 9. Aside from fulfilling her role as mom and wife, she is also busy with her career and goal of promoting inner wellness and a balanced lifestyle. She takes these with all her heart, without complaining, even as she needs to haggle from Davao to Cebu City from where she originally comes from.

But a loving daughter that she is, she has remained in close touch with her family in Cebu, which also means regular visits to her father and siblings. On the average, she and her family travel to her hometown three times a year to bond with her brother and sister and friends. Her father passed away last December.

“I moved to Davao in 2002 and when I went home to Cebu, my time centered on my dad.

Whenever my dad asked me to come home, I was

“Sunday is my day to relax and it’s always spent with family.” M&S Collection cotton/linen Bardot top & relaxed straight bottoms, Point court heels & cat eye sunglasses.

Fashion: Marks & Spencer 2017 Spring/Summer Collection available at Abreeza Mall & SM Lanang Premier Photography: Wizbren Ang Make-up & Styling: Otoy Mercado Shot on location at Waterfront Insular Hotel, Davao.

“I am enjoying what Davao has to offer.” Joanna wearing Classic top & jeggings, M&S Collection twill, cat eye sunglasses & two-band mule.

there right away. Unfortunately, he passed away in December 2017,” she said in an online interview.

“But I promised my brother and sister we’d continue to visit.”

Even it would mean being away from her Cebu family, her decision to join her loving and a very supportive husband in Davao City was just right and she never regretted it. Although she admitted that her new base is somewhat “laid back” as compared to Cebu, this is what she likes most about living in Davao.

“It wasn’t so bad. I’m a homebody and my husband Sim made it quite easier. He had a lovely home and saw to it we would enjoy what Davao had to offer,” she said, adding that “Davao is where I have my two girls. I feel a sense of grounding here.

Cebu may have been home to ne, but this is where I want to stay for now.”

“My happy place is with my two girls and my husband,” she said.

HANDS ON MOM As a Yoga instructor, Joanna has a tight schedule holding three to four classes a day. But this never affected her responsibility as a mother and a wife.

She knows how to deal with this.

“I’m up at 5 a.m. Monday to Saturdays since my first yoga class is at 7 a.m.

Some time after, I check if my girls are up for school.

I teach 3-4 yoga classes spread out in the day so I get to go home in between classes or do my chores,” she said.

While at home, Joanna makes it a point to work

METRO MOM A4

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

EVENT

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

Bonding over bento I had always been fascinated by bento boxes. The little packs of artistically arranged and prepared food are truly a far cry from the packed lunches I normally had when I was in grade school.

Bento box making is truly an art in itself and I was fortunate enough to join the Summer Bento Workshop held by Philippine bento box artist and mom Kat Maderazo held last Saturday at the Atrium of SM Lanang Premier.

“I started making bento boxes when Zen, my daughter, went to grade school which means classes last for a full day already,” revealed Kat, “I wanted to pack lunches that are healthy but at the same time cheer her up.”

The Bento workshop, had two flights and I joined the first flight and was tasked to create two packed meals, a rice meal, and a sandwich meal. I was thoroughly amazed

at how normal ingredients were slowly transformed into edible cute creations.

It was also nice that families came together to participate with dads and moms helping the kids finish their masterpieces.

In fact, I believe the adults were the ones having fun learning something new.

After getting a few tips and tricks from Kat as well as add a few personal creative touches, I finally finished my bento creations which were not bad for a beginner if I do say so myself. I do have to admit, coming up with my own character design for a totally original bento box would be a different thing all together which

is why I find Kat, who designs bento boxes daily, such as amazing inspiration.

A big thank you to Carmina del Rosario for

insisting that I attend the workshop. You may follow Kat Maderazo on Instagram at @bentobykat to be inspired with her daily bento box creations.

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

Metro celebrates 28th anniv with new style stars NOW SHOWING

May 10 – 16, 2017

GIFTED/ *A SILENT VOICE Chris Evans, Mckenna Grace/ *Miyu Irino, Saori Hayami Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG/*PG

12:35 | 2:35 LFS / *4:35 | 7:10 | 9:45 LFS

ALIEN: COVENANT Michael Fassbender, Katherine Waterston Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

R13

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

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG

1:00 | 4:00 | 7:00 | 10:00 LFS

FAST & FURIOUS 8 Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG

12:45 | 3:45 | 6:45 | 9:45 LFS

IN CELEBRATION OF METRO’S 28 YEARS OF STYLE, BEAUTY, AND CULTURE, and Star Magic’s 25th anniversary, the stars have aligned to once again bring together the newest roster of style stars set to take the country by storm in the MetroXStarMagic25 collaboration.

The brightest of their generation converge in a once-in-a-lifetime shoot with their peers: Julia Barretto, Liza Soberano, Kathryn Bernardo, Janella Salvador, Maris Racal, Loisa Andalio, Sofia Andres, Sue Ramirez, Alexa Ilacad, Kira Balinger, Ylona Garcia, and Andrea Brillantes.

Metro also pays tribute to the 25 years of Star Magic through this homage to the August 2010 iconic cover photographed by BJ Pascual.

Premiering an exclusive collection from Martin Bautista as worn by the Star Magic girls, this ultra-collectible issue also features eight Filipinas who are shaping

feminism today, including Metro’s Editor-atlarge Sarah Meier, actress Jasmine Curtis-Smith, director Sam Lee, and many more.

The magazine also gives u a look into the stylish life of Maricar Reyes Poon, how to wear statement stripes, ‘70s florals, metallics, and polka dots for spring; a sartorial twist on Gucci S/S ’17, and your go-to Mother’s Day gift guide.

Check out all these and more in Metro’s May 2017 issue, now out in major bookstores and newsstands for P150.

Like Metro on Facebook (w w w.facebook .com / Metro.Magazine) and follow Metro on Twitter and Instagram (@MetroMagPH).

Grab your last minute summer essentials at the SM Accessories’ Amazing Accessories’ Sale! Happening on May 12 to 15 and enjoy up to 60% off with your SM Advantage, SM Prestige, BDO Rewards, PRiMO and Mom Card when you buy 2 selected items from Ladies’ Accessories, Men’s Accessories’, Children’s Accessories and Character Shop departments. Available in all The SM Stores nationwide.

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

WOMEN

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

en out there who want to feel they have a complete wardrobe in their closet, Joanna has this to say: It should contain white cotton button-down shirt, a little black dress, dark denim jeans, white shorts, knit tops, black pants, printed day dress, plain sheath dress, blazer, black pumps, neutral ballet flats, metallic evening shoes, scarves, black tote.

METRO MOM A1

on her other interests, spending an hour doing calligraphy, another hour practicing with watercolor or craftwork, another hour to write on her diary, journal, update her schedule.

“Dinnertime is with my husband and kids, where we talk about anything. I cap off the day reading. At around 10 p.m. I’m asleep. Weekends are with my girls and they have all my attention. We play board games, do arts and crafts, go to the mall, watch movies, and eat,” she said.

They also travel once a year, a kind of family bonding that revolves around her two girls. “We get to be more adventurous only when Sim and I travel on our own,” she said.

It’s full of laughter the way she describes her relationship with her family.

A CAREER WOMAN It was in 2011 when Joanna started to practice yoga, which she describes as ”a holistic approach to health, wellness, and mindfulness.”

She never expected to become a yoga teacher and just wanted to be good in it, basically the reason she took the Hatha Yoga teacher training program that was offered in Davao City in 2014.

“This really just happened to fall on my lap…I simply wanted to do better in my yoga practice.

But what do you know? I immediately got an offer to teach

“Yoga introduced me to a holistic approach to health, wellness, and mindfulness.”

On Joanna: M&S Collection stipe Bardot top & cotton stretch 7/8 trousers. at Holiday Gym Davao so I took the opportunity. It has been three wonderful years being a yoga teacher,” she confidently said.

Joanna is grateful she was introduced to such practice, which she said help her improve her well-being, her outlook in life, promoting healthy living which has become her advocacy.

“Yoga introduced me to mindfulness. Just when I thought I perfected multitasking, I get shifted back to doing things one at a time. This mental practice of awareness and staying in the present moment has allowed me

“The mental practice of awareness and staying in the present moment has allowed me to even to manage my time better.” Joanna wearing M&S Collection knot front top with treggings, cat eye sunglasses & navy bow pump. to even to manage my time better. There is a time for study, for hobbies, for work, for play, etc.,” she said.

“In my personal experience, its getting people to understand that there are no quick fixes. We must allow the process to work and take place. If it is slow, it’s more lasting,” she stressed.

HER FASHION SENSE Joanna isn’t the shopaholic type, but for arts and crafts, she is one, making it a weekly chore.

“For clothes? Only when I need to and when the occasion calls for it,” she said.

She admitted to be a classic dresser and does not sacrifice function for form or style this why she loves shopping at Marks & Spencer because the selections fit her fashion style.

“You won’t find me jumping on the latest fashion just because it’s the trend. I have to like it a lot and be comfortable in it for me to wear,” she said.

What occupies her closet aside from, of course, yoga pieces? ”It’s shoes and bags! Stretch pants, white shirts, cardigans, day dresses, sleeveless tops, scarves and shawls,” she said.

And a piece of advise to wom-

LIFE, LIVING IT WELL The way things are going for Joanna only prove the possibility of just she living life to the fullest with focus on improving it as a career woman, a loving sister and a responsible wife and a mother. And this makes her a happy person.

“It is a happy, healthy life purposefully lived. At the end of my life, I would want to be able to say that with all the talents God has given me, I have multiplied it, and spent it well for the purpose given me. We only have one life, I do not wish otherwise but to live it full with my family,” she said “I try to take care of my body, eat well, stay fit, and take time to meditate. I believe that if I take good care of myself (mind and body), I can take care of my family and others better, and be more effective in the things I do.

I am not known to do things half-baked. I get into something because I am passionate about it.

And when I am passionate in the things I do, I do well,” she concluded.

11 AGRITRENDS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

Soil doctors help combat land degradation

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

T

HEY are called soil doctors and one of their main tasks is to disseminate information about soil conservation methods. Actually, they are appointed by the Land Development Department (LDD), the only agency in Thailand whose mandate is directly involved with land degradation.

The LDD initiated the program in 1995. Soil doctors are selected from a group of farmers who “are in good health, at least 20 years of age, keen on land development activities, residing in the concerned areas, and willing to work with the LDD.” Oftentimes, soil doctors have been selected from community leaders or farmers who have successfully adopted some sustainable land management (SLM) practices, according to Rawadee Jarungrattanapong and Orapan Nabangchang.

Jarungrattanapong and Nabangchang are both with the School of Economics at the Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University. They co-authored a new report, “Socio-Economic Dimension of Adoption of Sustainable Land Management.”

“Since there is one soil doctor for each village, the LDD staff has a channel to communicate information about soil conservation at the

distribute to farmers in their village,” they wrote.

According to the two authors, the program work so well because of the dedication of most of the soil doctors. “In fact, it works so well that many soil doctors are overloaded with multiple tasks of coordination with the LDD and sharing and disseminating information to fellow farmers,” the two noted.

It is their role of being a link between farmers and the LDD personnel that makes soil doctors very important as “a change agent.” The two authors explained: “Since soil doctors are themselves farmers and also living in the village, their fellow farmers can have full access to information about SLMs as well as the material support they may need to adopt SLM practices.”

The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) has identified SLM as one way to mitigate environmental damage caused by land degradation. SLM practices “help close yield gaps and enhance resilience of land resources and communities that directly depend on them while avoiding further degradation.”

The soil doctors have been cited as one of the reasons why most farmers in Chiang Rai province, located in the north of Thailand, adopted SLM in-

very grassroot level,” the two authors wrote.

Although soil doctors work under the supervision of LDD, they do not receive a salary from the government.

They are treated as volunteer workers.

However, “each soil doctor is provided with a soil testing kit and undergo training on how to use it. They also receive materials such as bioactivators and seeds of green manure plants, which they can

novations.

“Of the total 580 parcels surveyed, 177 parcels have switched to mixed cropping,” the two authors reported. Other common practices include hillside ditches, terracing and contour hedgerows. Some farmers even adopt a combination of various SLMs. “Any of these common SLMs can be adopted together with other practices such as intercropping, application of green manure, composting,

Since soil doctors are themselves farmers and also living in the village, their fellow farmers can have full access to information about sustainable land managements (SLM)s as well as the material support they may need to adopt SLM practices

rotating crop production and little or no tillage,” the two authors said.

Aside from Chiang Rai, surveys were also conducted in two other provinces: Khon Kean (in the northeast region) and Suphanburi (central region). All in all, over 600 households were selected for the study, which part of a collaborative effort of the ELD (Economics of Land Degradation) Initiative and Economy and Environment Program for

Southeast Asia (EEPSEA).

In Thailand, land degradation comes in the form of erosion, salinity and acidity of the soil. Land degradation, the LLD said, “is the reduction of the soil productivity formed by natural processes and human activities which degrade soil properties in both quality and quantity.”

In Khon Kean, farmers included in the survey were those who adopted at least one practices to mitigate saline soil problem like green manuring and crop rotation. In the case of Suphanburi, which is known for rice production, selected farmers were those who adopted either organic farming or good agricultural practices.

“There is a need to increase economic incentives for farmers to adopt SLM techniques,” the study suggested.

It added that LDD should provide farmers with information on the costs and benefits of

SLM adoption in addition to information on SLM techniques.

Another recommendation: soil doctors must be provided with adequate incentives aside from reassessing their workload. “During our brief interactions with soil doctors, we found out that not all soil doctors are hard-working and there are those who feel overburdened and undercompensated,” the authors pointed out.

The two authors also suggested that the principle of cost-sharing be applied to all types of SLMs and to all provinces. “Being used to receiving free assistance, farmers will not welcome this change,” they noted. “How receptive they are will depend on how well-informed they are of the costs and benefits of SLM adoption.”

If financial support is to be provided at all, it should be address the shortages of materials needed for SLM adoption, the two authors contend.

“Farmers in all three study sites mentioned that they face shortage of materials,” they wrote, referring to acacia seeds, seeds of green manure crops, organic waste for making compost, and cow manure, among others.

Finally, the two authors also suggested that ongoing policies that contradict the goal of organic promotion be reviewed. For instance, while LDD is promoting organic farming, other government agencies are distributing chemical inputs at subsidized prices.

“It is no wonder that chemical inputs are still being used among SLM adopters in the three study sites,” the two authors concluded.

“This is a clear indication that the concerned government agencies need to synchronize their goals and approaches.”

(Photos courtesy of Kanya Suthat)

12 PROPERTY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

Damosa Land wins top property award D

AMOSA Land Inc. (DLI) has added yet another accolade to its belt as the Davao-based developer won awards at the recently concluded 5th Annual PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards 2017.

DLI earned the top spot for Best Residential Development in Davao for Damosa Fairlane, its first venture into residential development. Damosa Fairlane was likewise highly commended for Best Residential Landscape Architectural Design.

Seawind, DLI’s 6-tower condominium venture, also took home a Highly Commended Award under the Best Residential Development in Davao category.

The internationally acclaimed event was organized by the PropertyGuru Group, Asia’s leading online property group. It is now on its fifth year in its quest for the finest property developments

Ricardo “Cary” Lagdameo (center) leads the Damosa Land team during the gala night of one of the most highly esteemed real estate event in the country.

and developers in the country. The Fairmont Makati was flocked

by the leading Philippine developers from all over Manila, Cebu,

and Davao last May 4, 2017. Awards were given to prestigious

real estate companies including Megaworld, Robinson’s Land,

Highlands Prime, and Ortigas & Company, to name a few.

5-year driver’s license validity‘a done deal’

T

HE proposed measure to extend the driver’s license validity from three to five years will soon be advancing to the Senate plenary where its approval is “a done deal”, Sen. Grace Poe assured Tuesday.

Poe, chair of the Senate Committee on Public Services, made this remark during the Senate hearing on Senate bills seeking to extending driver’s license validity to five years namely SBN 271, 941 and 1224.

These measures were filed by Senate Pres. Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto, Senators Richard Gordon and Joseph Victor Ejercito, respectively. “…Referring it to the plenary is a foregone conclu-

sion. And its approval, I can say with certainty, is a done deal,” Poe said during the hearing.

At the end of the hearing, Poe’s committee approved in principle the measures seeking to extend driver’s license validity to five years since there were no opposition proposals.

“Our committee shall now be working on a final and consolidated version of the bill and present it to the plenary soon,” she said.

In an interview with reporters after the hearing, Poe said her committee is set to prepare a report on the measure and targets its passage before the Senate adjourns.

(PNA)

NEWS 13

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

Water service interruptions in some city parts May 11-12 D

AVAO City Water District advises of four separate sets of water service interruptions.

First set will be on May 11, 2017 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM affecting Puroks 1, 4, and 11 in Brgy. Lacson, Calinan. This water service interruption is needed for the mainline improvement work at Purok 1 in Brgy. Lacson, Calinan District. Once completed, the project will allow for

An established Building Construction company (50 years in the business) is in need of BSCE and Architecture graduates.

1. Engineer/ Architect Trainee a. male, single, class 2012 up, preferably class 2015 - 2017 b. with interest in preparation of plans & cost estimates. c. undergraduates are welcome and may apply.

2. Resident Engineer/ Architect and Project Engineer/ Architect a. male, class 2007 up – 2012 b. with experience in field supervision or preparation of plant and cost estimates. c. underboard are welcome and may apply.

Interested, call 297-2141 and 298-0135 Ask for Labyrinth Veronilla You may also email your application & resume to rgsalanatin@yahoo.com.ph

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

is in need of Lay-out Artist Qualifications: • Male / Female • Knowledgeable in Adobe Photoshop and Indesign application • Willing to work under pressure

Accounting Clerks (2) Qualifications: • BS Accountancy Graduate • Female • Can work with minimum supervision • Experience of at least one year

Account Executive Qualifications: • BS Marketing Graduate • Male/Female • With pleasing personality Send your 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

accommodation of additional water service connections.

Second set will be from 8:00 PM of May 11, 2017 until 6:00 AM of May 12, 2017 affecting all areas served by the Panacan Water Supply System, specifically Vicente Pichon Subd., Mahayahay Settlers, Airview Heights, Suha Vill., Mercedes Vill., San Lorenzo Ruiz Vill., BAT Compound, Cabayugan, Nelia Ville Subd., Landmark Vill. II, Dona Socorro Vill., Bayview Vill., Dona Caridad Subd., De Guzman Vill., Delbros Vill., PMPC Vill., San Miguel Vill., EMMA Vill., Sunrise Vill., Celedonia Vill., Don Ramon Vill., Benjamin Hills, Veterans Vill., St. Michael Vill., Pizarro Vil., Dona Mercedes Vill., Malupiha Homeowners Association, Dona Consuelo Vill., Luzville Subd., Sarmiento Subd., Bugac-Ilang, Amparo Vill., Upper Manggahan, Manggahan Vill., Cal Vill., Pena Vill., Vicente Gloria Compound, SAPAHA, Emiville Homes Subd., Panacan Relocation, Brgy. Panacan, Ilang, Bunawan, Mahayag, Tibungco and Lasang, Tibungco Public Market,

Tambongon, Sto. Nino Awad, Sto. Nino Hudson, Sagrada, St. John, San Jose Village, San Juan, San Antonio Village, RUC XI Panacan, Camp Panacan, Purok Bangoy, Inabangga, Muslim Vill., Central Ilang, Panacan Valley, and Budbud Bunawan.

Third set is from 8:00 PM of May 11, 2017 until 3:00 AM of May 12, 2017 affecting Purok 6 and D’Leonor Inland Resort in Brgy. Communal.

This schedule is separate from the existing rotational water supply schedule in Cabantian.

Both second and third sets of water service interruptions are needed for the installation of valve at Panacan Production Well (PW) No. 1 and for the mainline improvement work from Panacan PW No. 1 to Purok 6 in Brgy. Communal.

Once completed, the project will increase water pressure in Purok 6 in Brgy. Communal.

Fourth set will be on May 12, 2017 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM affecting Matina Pangi (from Matina Crossing to junction of Sitio Toril road), Samantha Homes Subd., Or-

AFFIDAVIT OF CLAIM WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ENCARNACION CAALAMAN BRAGANZA has been the subject of an Extra Judicial Settlement with affidavit of claim with waiver of rights executed among her heirs, per Doc. No.244; Page No.49; Book No. 132; Series of 2017, of the NOTARY PUBLIC FATIMA IRENE T. ADIN 5/3,10,17

EXTRA JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ALBERT FLORES ASUNCION died on March 9,2013 at Davao City has been the subject of an EXTRA JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE executed among his heirs, per Doc. No.315; Page No.63; Book No. 11; Series of 2017, of the NOTARY PUBLIC JANIS LOUIS H. ESPARCIA. 5/10, 17,24

ange Grove Subd., Puroks 4A and 4B of Matina Pangi, Grace Park Subd., Asico Vill., Nuestra Señora Dela Salvacion Vill.

(NSDS Vill.), San Isidro Vill., Tinago Drive, Km. 5, Mahayahay, and Guadalupe Vill. This water service interruption is needed for the mainline improvement work at Iñigo Subd. in Matina Pangi. Once completed, the project will allow for accommodation of additional water service connections.

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

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

PDIS... FROM 5

analysts and researchers have been recommending for the DA to strongly support high-value crops thus, there is a need to provide bigger budget and necessary technical assistance to such crops.

He identified carrageenan where the Philippines has huge comparative advantage and potential for the export market.

“Let’s just re-order things, re-prioritize things and say this is where farmers need more money,” he added.

On the other hand, Llanto said effective governance involves the “bureaucracy doing its job.” (PNA)

Dutertenomics ... FROM 5

At the sidelines of the Dutertenomics Forum on May 15, the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and the China International Publishing Group (CIPG) will sign a memorandum of agreement on media exchange and cooperation.

The move is seen as a big boost to the operations and capability-building of stateowned media outfits under PCOO such as the Philippine News Agency, People’s Television, Philippine Information Agency and Radyo Pilipinas.

(PNA)

14

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

Advertise with

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

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

N

Blatche impressed with new teammates

ATURALIZED national cager Andray Blatche met his new teammates for the first time and by far, liked what he saw.

With the three-year Gilas veteran finally on board, the first thing in order for him is to get to know his new teammates with just a few days before the SEABA Championship which tips off on Friday.

Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes noted how vital it is for Blatche to be familiarized with the players whom he hasn’t played with.

“More importantly to know his teammates. He knows less than 50-percent of the other guys on the team,” Reyes said.

Although he still doesn’t know their names yet, Blatche said he was impressed by what he saw from Gilas newbies Allein Maliksi, Matthew

Wright, RR Pogoy and Raymond Almazan on their first practice together.

“As for the new faces, I’ve seen some great shooters – No. 4 (Maliksi) and another young guy, No. 12 (Wright) and No. 9 (Pogoy). There’s this tall guy (Almazan), I could tell he brings a lot of energy and outside shooting, too, also,” Blatche said.

Wright said he’s thrilled knowing that he’ll play alongside a former NBA veteran.

“It’s exciting. For someone with that much NBA experience, a player who has accomplished a lot in his career, a high-caliber p l a y e r.

Anytime

Aussies loom as Gilas’foes in new FIBA Asia WC format

A

MATCHUP with powerhouse Australia awaits the Philippine national men’s basketball team in the first round of the home-and-away qualifiers for the 2019 FIBA World Cup. The qualifiers draw conducted in China on Sunday saw Australia, Chinese Taipei and Japan joining Gilas Pilipinas in Group B of the 16-team competition.

The Filipinos haven’t formally qualified yet for the qualifiers, as they first need to win the SEABA Championship that will tip off this week to clinch the lone berth reserved for Southeast Asia. But in the meantime, FIBA put the Philippines in the draw by virtue of being the No.1ranked team in Southeast Asia.

Australia is making its debut in the Asia zone this year after FIBA’s overhaul of its competition system. The Boomers boast a number of NBA players including

Andrew Bogut, Matthew Dellavedova, Patty Mills, Dante Exum, Joe Ingles and Ben Simmons, among others.

But with the schedule of the qualifiers in conflict with the NBA regular season, Australia isn’t expected to feature all of its best players in the games.

Still, Australia, which finished fourth place in the 2016 Rio Olympics, remains to be the top threat in the group.

The home-and-away games, where the squads will play each other twice, are scheduled in November this year, February and June of 2018.

Two games are scheduled for each of the three windows. The top three teams from each bracket will enter the next round.

Here are the other draw results: Group A: China, New Zealand, South Korea, Hong Kong Group C: Syria, Lebanon, India, Jordan Group D: Iraq, Qatar, Kazakhstan, Iran

BATTLE ROYALE. Gilas guard Jayson Castro could be up against another Australian NBA veteran in Patty Mills of San Antonio.

SPORTS15

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. VOL.10 10ISSUE ISSUE27 27••WEDNESDAY, WEDNESDAY,MAY MAY10, 10,2017 2017

you can play with a player like that, you will take advantage of it and learn from him, pick his brain about playing in the NBA, the guys he played against. I’m very excited,” Wright said.

Maliksi shared the

same sentiments.

“Si Andray NBA player, hopefully mayroon kang

matututunan sa kanya na puwede kong ma-improve sa skills ko sa mga future games ko,” Maliksi said.

Almazan, for his part, liked Blatche’s work ethic.

“Ang pakilala sa akin ni Calvin (Abueva) kay Blatche, this guy is crazy. So pinangatawanan ko na. Ako na yung nag-approach talaga sa kanya,” said Almazan.

“Gusto ko yung energy niya and yung leadership niya. Parang gusto niyang makuha agad yung mga plays namin. Ayaw niyang

HE’S BACK. Andray Blatche in practice.

magpa-sub kanina kahit gusto ko siya i-sub. Malaking tulong sa akin yung ganun.”

While the tournament is less than a week away, Pogoy said there’s still time for the newcomers to form chemistry with Blatche.

“Kinakapa pa namin,” Pogoy said. “There’s a time pa naman, five days before the SEABA. Pero alam naman natin matalino si Andray.

Agresibo siya sa first ensayo niya. Madali siyang makaka-pick up dahil alam naman niya yung dribble-drive.”

Curry fires 30 as Warriors sweep Jazz S TEPHEN Curry scored 30 points and the Golden State Warriors completed a second-round sweep of the Utah Jazz with a 121-95 victory Monday night.

The defending Western Conference champions have won both their series in four games and now await the winner of the Rockets-Spurs series that is tied at 2-2.

The Warriors kept pace with defending champion Cleveland in what has appeared like an inevitable third straight NBA Finals matchup.

Both teams are 8-0 thus far.

Interim head coach Mike Brown said before the game he hoped his team would get out to a fast start and the Warriors did exactly that.

Golden State led 39-17 at the end of the first quarter after an onslaught from Klay Thompson and Curry. They combined to shoot 6 for 8 in the opening period.

Thompson finished with 21, Kevin Durant scored 18

T

and Draymond Green posted his third career postseason triple-double with 17 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists.

Gordon Hayward led the Jazz with 25 points and Shelvin Mack chipped in 18.

Curry entered the game averaging 26.7 points in the playoffs, but Thompson had struggled against the Jazz.

That ended Monday.

Thompson rebounded from a six-point effort in Game 3 with back-to-back jumpers out the gate. Curry then drained consecutive 3s and the rout was on.

The Jazz started 3 for 16 from the field as Golden State hit from all areas and finished shooting 57.1 percent in the first quarter.

Curry picked up right where he left off after an 11-point fourth quarter in Game 3 with a 14-point first quarter. He, Thompson and Green combined for 29 points in that first 12 minutes.

SWEEP. Steph Curry hit 30 points to lead the Warriors in the series clincher.

Rockets’Nene out for the season

HE Houston Rockets said Nene was out for the rest of the season Monday, one day after the veteran backup center tore a muscle in his left thigh. ‘’I hate it for Nene,’’ coach Mike D’Antoni said. ‘’He’s been so valuable all year, such a good guy.’’

Nene was injured in the first quarter of Houston’s 125104 win over the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference semifinals on Sunday night and didn’t return. The team said it was reviewing

treatment options for the torn adductor muscle.

Nene, a 15-year veteran in his first season with the Rockets, averaged 10 points and 4.7 rebounds in nine postseason games this year. The 6-foot-11 player was the star of Game 4 of Houston’s first-round series against Oklahoma City when he tied an NBA record by making all 12 of his shots and scoring career playoff-high 28 points in a 113-109 win.

Game 5 is Tuesday night in San Antonio with the series tied 2-2.

The injury leaves Houston short on big men to contend with San Antonio’s combination of 6-11 LaMarcus Aldridge and 7-footer Pau Gasol. Clint Capela will remain the starter, but the Rockets will have to shuffle their rotation to make up for the loss of Nene.

Power forward Ryan Anderson, who is 6-10 but mostly an outside shooter, could be pressed into service at center to give Capela a break. Or Houston could use 6-8 athletic power forward Montrezl Harrell, who has played only

sparingly in the postseason, to fill in. ‘’We’re still working on that. But some other guys are going to have to step up,’’ D’Antoni said. ‘’Some guys are going to have to play a little more minutes. We’ll figure it out.’’

Anderson started 72 games in the regular season and has started all nine games this postseason. But he could be asked to come off the bench to play center with the second team on Tuesday night like he did on Sunday after Nene was injured.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 27 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

GOING FOR THREE Karatedo wonder Tan eyes three-peat in KL tourney

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

D

CHILD PRODIGY. Atsuko Kaiyel Tan will gun for her third gold medal in three years.

njb@edgedavao.net

AVAO City’s karatedo phenom Atsuko Kaiyel Tan goes for her third straight gold medal in the 18th Milo International Open Karate Championships at the Cheras Indoor Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on May 12-14.

The 7-year old Tan, daughter of Association for the Advancement of Karatedo (AAK) Davao chapter manager and head coach Rommel Tan, will lead a lean 8-person delegation representing the Philippines in the annual multi-nation karatedo tournament.

Tan, who won a gold and bronze medal performance in her last international stint in the 3rd Kuala Lumpur Open last December, bagged the kata gold medal in the 6 years old category in 2015 and 2016.

She will be competing in the higher age group this time.

“It will be very tough this time but she had prepared hard. I hope she will get the gold again,” said the elder Tan who will be heading the Davao kara-

tekas.

JP Ponce and Jam Ramirez, who like Tan have won the prestigious So Kim Cheng Athlete of the Year award, will also be gunning fr the gold medal in their respective classes.

Ponce won a bronze in the the Kota Kinabalu Open last March.

AAK DAVAO. The AAK Davao squad with head coach Rommel Tan (extreme right, second row).

Also in the squad are Khyzzia Navarro, Seth Navarro, Janna Ramirez, and rookies Marcus Arellano, and John Philip Cagandahan.

The Navarro siblings also won silver medals in the kata competition in the Kota Kinabalu tournament.

“The kids are working

out very hard, I can’t wait to see them perform,” Tan told Edge Davao. The team leaves today, Wednesday May 10, for Kuala Lumpur.

The team is backed up

by Beefit Gym, Engr. Celso Manaois, Jay Ramirez, Miguel Ramirez, Randy Magallanes and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).