Edge Davao 10 Issue 33

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

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EDGEDAVAO

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Serving a seamless society

PRIMING UP. A worker of a rice dealership establishment fixes his display of different varieties of commercial rice at Agdao Public Market in Davao City on Wednesday. Prices of commercial rice went up in the city’s public markets as an effect of the National Food Authority’s announcement that their buffer stock has reached a critical low. Lean Daval Jr.

RAPIST NABBED

EASY FIGHT Would-be foe Khan says Horn fight a walkover for Manny

SPORTS P16

Man admits to rape-slay of 6-year old niece

By JECIA ANNE OPIANA

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OLICE have arrested the uncle of a six-year old girl whose body was found naked from the waist up along a grassy area Tuesday afternoon in Barangay Angliongto after he readily admitted to raping and

killing his niece.

The suspect, Edgar Joseph Lucero, 21, a first cousin of the victim’s mother told police investigators he was under the influence of alcohol when he assaulted the girl.

Police sources said Luce-

ro, jobless, was notorious in the neighborhood as a petty thief.

Police have earlier arrested one Ariosto Ablay Lumayas, 34 years old, who was drinking with Lucero the night the girl was missing.

According to PSI Ma. Teresita Gaspan, Davao City Police spokesperson, the first suspect was arrested on Tuesday night after being personally identified by the child’s 10-year-old cousin

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Northern exposure:

The beauty of Kapampangan cuisine

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

MORE VISIBILITY. Troops belonging to Task Force Davao patrol the main thoroughfares of Davao City as heightened alert is still being imposed in the city. Four hundred soldiers had been pulled out of Sulu and reassigned in Davao City to beef up the security amid recent attacks conducted by terrorists. Lean Daval Jr.

China to host bilateral meet on South China sea dispute

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HINA will host the first bilateral consultation mechanism meeting with the Philippines on the South China Sea issue in Guiyang, Guizhou province on Friday, according to Chinese Foreign Ministry Affairs.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying announced that representatives from both countries will tackle issues reached between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on South China Sea or West Philippine Sea. “The two leaders once again reached important consensus on properly resolving the South China Sea issue through dialogue and consultation, which serves the fun-

damental interests of China, the Philippines and people in the region as well as peace and stability of the South China Sea and beyond,” Hua said.

Aside from working on the implementation of relevant consensus reached between Presidents Xi and Duterte, Hua said China is committed to maintain the long-term development of bilateral relations as well as peace and stability in the South China Sea. “It is also in line with the responsibilities that must be shouldered by China and the Philippines as regional countries. The two sides will have friendly dialogues and consultations on the South China Sea-related issues,” she said.

The bilateral meeting will

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Military units killed 49 ASGs in 4 months M

ILITARY units, tasked to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu, have accounted for 49 killed bandits and 42 others wounded since Feb. 21 to May 17 this year.

This was revealed by Joint Task Force Sulu head Brig.

Gen. Cirilito Sobejana in an interview Wednesday.

Numbers of surrendered ASG during January up to May has been placed at 14, he added.

This brings to the number

of surrendered bandits to the ZAMBASULTA (Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi) to 49 while arrested lawless elements were placed at 22 as of this posting.

“We will sustain this effort and by June 30, if they are not totally eliminated, at least the threat (they can project) will be reduced to an insignificant level,” Sobejana disclosed.

Also recovered during this period were 94 firearms which included one .50 caliber machinegun and a 60mm

mortar.

During Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año’s assumption-of-command ceremonies last December, he pledged to eradicate the ASG threat by June this year.

He also placed the remaining number of ASG bandits in his area of operation to around 80 to 120.

As this develops, Sobejana said his troops have killed two more ASG bandits during an encounter in Patikul Hill,

Patikul town, Wednesday 7 a.m.

He added that troops encountered an estimated 15 of the bandits, triggering a five-minute gunfight which resulted in the death of two ASGs, bringing the number of slain lawless elements to 49, and immediate retreat of their companions.

Sobejana said they have recovered the bodies of the slain bandits and are in the process of identifying them as of this time. (PNA)

was held last May 12 at the office of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII), which was attended by various members of the business sector.

The next public hearings will be on May 24 at the Sangguniang Panlungsod Conference Room for 1st District stakeholders; May 25 at the Buhangin Gym for 2nd District stakeholders; and May 26 in Calinan for 3rd District stakeholders.

For the past 12 years the

local government has been using the 2005 Revenue Code as the basis for collecting local taxes.

The proposal to amend or revise the city’s tax code came in the wake of the city government’s increasing need for more funds for the delivery of public services, and the development and construction of various infrastructure projects.

“There is a need for the city government to maximize revenues (collections). We

need more funds to address the increasing demands of public service. We will get them from the taxes, fees and charges,” Erwin Alparaque, head of the Technical Research and Action Team, which was tasked to study and draft the proposed 2017 Revenue Code of the City of Davao, said.

“For the last 12 years, the city government of Davao was not able to come out with the adjustment of the rates. There

Bermejo is new LRA chief More public hearings set to tackle tax code changes

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FORMER judge of Malita Municipal Circuit Trial Court of Davao Occidental is the new administrator of the Land Registration Authority, an attached agency of the Department of Justice.

In an appointment paper signed last May 10, President Rodrigo Duterte appointed Renato Bermejo, a former Davao City prosecutor. He will replace Eulalio Diaz III. The LRA is an agency responsible for issuing de-

crees of registration and certificates of title and register documents, patents and other land transaction for the benefit of landowners, agrarian reform-beneficiaries and the registering public in general; providing a secure, stable and trustworthy record of land ownership and recorded interests therein so as to promote social and economic well-being and contribute to the national development.

(PNA)

A

SERIES of public hearings will be conducted by the city government to discuss proposed amendments to the Revenue Code of Davao City.

During these public hearings, the proposed increases in local taxes, fees and charges will be discussed with various stakeholders. The basis for the adjustment will also be presented and the public will also be given the chance to ask questions and clarifications.

The first public hearing

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

PH has good jungle warfare school: US military official

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HE Philippines has a very good jungle warfare school in Ternate, Cavite, a ranking American military official involved in the anti-terrorism phase of this year’s “Balikatan” exercises, has said.

In an interview Tuesday, US Joint Task Force commander Brig. Gen. John Jansen said he has observed American and Filipino troops perform counter-terrorism drills in Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija and Ternate, Cavite a few days ago.

“They train to a very high level that brings in the kind of capabilities that you need to be able to locate, identify, track, close with and do the things that need to be done

relative to terrorists,” Jansen said.

Drills include clearing a town infested with terrorists and disarming improvised bombs and explosives left by lawless elements.

“You’ve got a very good jungle warfare training school down there. In fact, we think we have a very good jungle warfare training school in Okinawa, Japan. It’s very tough, they put you out there with a bottle of water and a Kaybar knife. They put you out there and pick you up in seven days kind of thing. Our Marines say that yours is tougher here, down there in Ternate,” he added.

This year’s “Balikatan” exercises began last May 8 and winds up on May 19. (PNA)

ROUTINE. Davao City Police Office spokesperson Senior Inspector Ma.Teresita Gaspan provides updates including the immediate arrest of the suspect in the killing of a six-year-old girl who was found in a grassy area in front

of Toyota Davao, Damosa, Davao City on Tuesday. Gaspan interacted with reporters during the AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at Camp Domingo Leonor in Davao City on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr.

NPAs in Panabo raid T accused of robbery

Japan’s 4th nuclear reactor in Takahama to start anew

By JECIA ANNE OPIANA

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AVAO del Norte police have filed robbery charges against perpetrators of Macondry Plastic Plant burning in Barangay Tagpore, Panabo City on April 29.

“On May 4, they have filed robbery cases against Elizalde Cañete alias “Ka Jinggoy”, Gualberto Aligato alias “Digoy” and other John Does which are responsible for the incident,” S/Supt. Marcial

Magistrado, Davao del Norte Provincial Director revealed According to Magistrado, the basis of the robbery case was after the suspects seized one shotgun and four handguns from security guards of the plastic plant.

S/Supt. Magistrado also said that the Bureau of Fire and Protection will also file arson charges against the said people considering that the cost of damage in the

plant reached at about one billion.

“Hinihintay na lang natin ang result of the arson investigation of the BFP. And considering na umabot na sa one billion, more or less, the investigation was conducted by national level of the BFP.” The burning incident started at 5:00 in the morning of April 29 and was perpetrated by more or less 100 members of lawless armed

group, allegedly members of the Pulang Bagani Command I led by Ka Jinggoy resulting to the total destruction of 11 buildings.

The group then left the area using an L300 van owned by the plant and was discovered burnt at Barangay Malativas, Panabo City.

The burning incident also took place along with the burning of factories in Mandug and Calinan on April 29.

HE fourth nuclear reactor at the Takahama Nuclear Power Plant in Central Japan’s Fukui prefecture is scheduled to resume operation on Wednesday for the first time since the plant shutdown following the Fukushima disaster, the NPP’s operator said in the statement.

The Takahama NPP was shut down soon after the Fukushima NPP nuclear disaster in March 2011. Three of Takahama’s nuclear reactors have been restarted so far.

“We hereby announce that Takahama Unit No.4…, which has been under the 20th periodic outage inspection since July 21, 2011, is expected to start up on May 17 and reach the criticality on May 18, 2017,” the Kansai Electric Power Company said in a statement Tuesday.

The operator added that the unit was previously restarted in February 2016 and then automatically shut down three days later due to a glitch.

The reactor will undergo several tests and inspections after May 22 and is scheduled to enter into commercial operation in the middle of June, according to the statement.

In March, Japan’s Osaka High Court revoked a lower court’s order to temporarily shut down two reactors at the Takahama NPP after the KEPCO appealed the decision.

The lawsuit was filed by the local residents, who claimed that the third and fourth of Takahamas’ reactors had been unsafe and that the security measures taken by the KEPCO were insufficient.

Concerns about the safety of nuclear facilities were

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Cayetano confirmed by CA as new DFA chief

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ADVANTAGES. Davao Wellness Association president Cherry Faye Al-ag (left) talks about the programs and benefits of being member of their organization.

She, together with founding DavWell president Dr. Jeilyn Savellano of Zhiya

SPA, also bared during this week’s edition of Wednesdays @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall that only 33 of the 300 wellness and spa establishments are members of the association. Lean Daval Jr.

N what was described

by Sen. Panfilo Lacson as “the shortest confirmation hearing of a Cabinet Secretary”, the Commission on Appointments on Wednesday confirmed the ad interim appointment of Alan Peter Cayetano as Foreign Affairs Secretary.

Lacson, chair of the CA Committee on Foreign Affairs, announced the motion to recommend to plenary the confirmation of the nomination of Cayetano and there was no member who objected.

He earlier said that Cayetano can be easily confirmed by “acclamation” as he is a

seating Senator and member of the CA. “There is a motion to recommend to plenary confirmation of nomination of Alan Peter S. Cayetano as Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs. Is there any objection? Hearing none, congratulations Secretary Cayetano,” Lacson said.

The confirmation hearing started at 9 a.m. and after no questions were asked to Cayetano, the motion to recommend his confirmation to plenary was made at around 9:03 am.

In his opening statement, Cayetano quoted a

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

China approves clinical trial of albumin from rice

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COLLECTION ISSUES. Social Security Service regional communications officer Dr. Mario Daray, accompanied by account management section team head Eilleen de la Cruz, says the agency’s Davao City office has collected at

least P2 billion from the 20,000 delinquent accounts. Daray also said during Wednesdays @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall that there are at least 1,000 delinquent companies in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

HINA’S food and drug authority has approved a clinical trial of human blood protein yielded from transgenic rice seeds, which could lead to large-scale production of much-needed plasma.

Human serum albumin is widely used in surgery. A Chinese research team led by Yang Daichang, an expert on China’s national “Thousand Talent” program, has researched using rice seeds to produce human serum albumin for 12 years.

Wuhan Healthgen Biotechnology Corp. for Human Health, a private Chinese firm that specializes in developing and marketing innovative animal-free products for pharmaceutical use, has invested 200 million yuan (USD 29 million) to support the research.

The company, based in the Wuhan National Bio-Industrial Base in Wuhan, capital of central China’s Hubei Province, is eyeing large-scale production of human serum albumin from rice.

With the drug trial approval, the albumin will be put into clinical use in August, and it can be expected to hit the market in four to five years.

There is a huge shortage of human serum albumin in China, estimated at 100 tonnes a year, and 60 percent of the country’s yearly demand of 420 tonnes relies on imports.

Safety is also a concern with plasma from human donors as blood diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis still pose a threat.

Yang’s team transplanted human serum albumin into rice seeds. As the seeds grow, they continue to generate the protein, which has been tested to have purity of 99.9999 percent and a productivity rate of 10 grams per kilogram of rice grain.

The Center for Drug Evaluation under China Food and Drug Administration said that rice-extracted human blood protein is “safe and effective,” and its quality can be easily controlled.

NFA council drops G2G, will pursue G2P instead Qatarinvestmentdelegation

GNP seen far more transparent, competitive to visit Manila in September

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NTER-AGENCY National Food Authority Council has approved the importation by the NFA via government to private (G2P) scheme to augment the agency’s depleting buffer stock for the coming lean months of July to September.

The Council, however, is still waiting for the National Food Security Committee’s recommendation as to the volume of rice importation that will be activated from its remaining 250,000 metric tons stand by authority.

The NFSC is scheduled to

meet on Thursday (May 18, 2017).

The NFA was also ordered by the Council to shift from government to government (G2G) importation to government to private importation (G2P), the latter being far more transparent and competitive.

“We have to make drastic changes in order to ensure a corrupt free and competitive bidding process at the NFA. Hence instead of doing a G2G, the Council will push for a G2P to increase accountability and transparency. While the G2G

is exempt from the Government Procurement Reform Act, G2P is not,” said NFAC Chairman Leoncio B. Evasco.

Evasco explained that the G2P allows private suppliers from participating countries to take part in the bidding and is covered by the Government Procurement Reform Act. “As opposed to G2G, where bidders are limited to government counterparts and exempt from the said law,” said Evasco.

The Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) requires the NFA

to maintain a rice buffer stock to last for 15 days at any given time and for 30 days at the onset of the lean season.

At present, the country’s daily consumption rate requirement stands at 32,720 metric tons or 654,600 bags.

The lean months is a period of low or zero harvest, thus buffer stock requirement is doubled to ensure that the government has enough for any contingency such as typhoons and other calamities in the country.

NFA rice stocks are prepo-

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A

DELEGATION from the Qatar Investment Authority is set to visit Manila possibly in September to scout for possible business deals here following the successful visit of President Duterte to the Gulf state last month.

Qatar Ambassador to Manila Ali Ibrahim A. I. Al-Malki informed Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III of the planned trip and extended his country’s thanks to the Philippine government for the “very successful” visit of President Duterte to the Middle East last April.

An investment protection and promotion agreement between the two countries, which took 10 years to finalize was signed during President Duterte’s visit, opening some $1 billion in possible investments from Qatar through the QIA. Dominguez informed the Ambassador that the QIA can explore investments in such fields as tourism and logistics.

“There are many areas where we need tourism facilities. We will welcome investments from your fund in that

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Davao banks, developers asked to use HGC guaranty programs Housing for tourism workers eyed

By ANTONIO M. AJERO

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ANKS and real estate developers in the Davao Region were invited to avail themselves of the loan guaranty programs of the Home Guaranty Corporation (HGC) to be able to assist in addressing the housing backlog in the Philippines.

The invitation was extended by Frank Lloyd C. Gonzaga, manager III of the Business Development and Accounts Evaluation Department of the HGC, a six-decade old government –owned and –controlled corporation (GOCC) designed “to mobilize resources for housing through a system of credit

guaranties and incentives.”

Gonzaga led a team of national HGC officials to hold a housing finance briefing attended by more than 60 bankers and real estate developers at the Royal Mandaya Hotel last Tuesday, May 16.

In an exclusive interview with Edge Davao, Gonzaga said that pursuant to the HGC Act of 2000 or RA 8763, the government home guaranty corporation has been granted another 50 years of corporate life and its authorized capital increased from P2.5 billion to P50 billion, “making it possible for the national government to

guarantee the payment of the corporation’s obligations.”

Gonzaga bared that RA 8763 also authorizes the HGC to promote the secondary mortage market, and prioritize socialized and lowcost housing projects.

During the briefing, he explained to participating bankers and property developers HGC’s three leading programs, namely development loan guaranty, retail loan guaranty and guaranty for securitized schemes. Development loan guaranty covers loans extended to developers for the devel-

F DAVAO, 11

BANKERS, DEVELOPERS BRIEFED. Frank Lloyd C. Gonzaga, manager III of business development and accounts evaluation department of the Home Guaranty Corporation, answered questions from some 60 executives of banks and real estate developers in the Davao Region on the various loan guaranty programs of

the six-decade old government –owned and –operated corporation (GOCC) during a financing workshop at the Royal Mandaya Hotel last Tuesday. HGC’s corporate life has been extended by another 50 years and its capitalization increased to P50 billion under the HGC Act of 2000. ANTONIO M. AJERO

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

ECONOMY 5

DOE rolls out hybrid ‘energy efficient’cars

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N the spirit of change, the Department of Energy is introducing the replacement of service vehicles of national government offices with hybrid cars as part of its campaign to promote energy efficiency and clean air across the country.

Thus, the days of fuel-guzzling government vehicles are numbered.

The DOE is set to donate 24 Japan-made, 2017 model, Toyota Prius on Friday, May 19 at the DOE Sunken Garden to the Office of the President , Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Finance, Department of Foreign Affairs , Department of Budget and Management, Department of Transportation, Department of Tourism, Department of Trade and Industries, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, National Economic Development Authority, Department of Science and Technology, and the Philippine National Police.

Eight hybrid cars will also be given to government offices in Region 8 including DENR, DTI, DOST, Bureau of Fire Pro-

tection (BFP), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in support of the economic and social recovery of communities devastated by Super Typhoon Yolanda.

“This Japan government-aided grant will jumpstart our drive towards our call to action to our fellow public servants to increase their use or patronize energy efficient technologies, including their official vehicles. We have to be the role model in this cause, so our people can look up to us and follow our lead,” said DOE Secretary Alfonso Cusi.

Officials of the DOE’s Energy Utilization Management Bureau (EUMB) and Japan’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Kazuhide Ishikawa, will turn over the hybrid Toyota cars to the said beneficiaries.

Japan’s Non-Project Grant Aid (NPGA) funded the acquisition of the Toyota Prius, which emits lower carbon emission. The hybrid car has an optimized fuel engine and electric motor to attain highest energy efficiency. (ABS/PNA)

COPING WITH THE BUDGET. A resident checks out the onions and garlic on display at a makeshift stall at the vegetable ‘bagsakan area’ in Bankerohan, Davao City on Tuesday night. Buyers flock the ‘bagsakan’ market every night

Smooth sailing assure for China infra projects in PH P

RESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte said the implementation of Chinese-invested projects in the country will be accelerated, but he warned to disobey the

RRD administration to ensure fiscal prudence in infrastructure buildup

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INANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has assured the public that the Duterte administration will exercise fiscal prudence and responsibility to ensure that its unmatched public investments in infrastructure would create a lot more jobs and business opportunities, which, in turn, would sustain the country’s growth momentum and accelerate poverty reduction.

Dominguez said the government will only resort to financing its ambitious infra-

structure buildup through borrowings --and mostly from local sources--if the “economy can grow to finance its debts.”

“This administration is responsible enough to put money where it is required so there can be more businesses in the areas where the infrastructure will be built,” Dominguez said.

Dominguez said the Duterte administration is bent on having its Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP) approved in the Congress so that it could help raise enough revenues to bankroll the gov-

ernment’s ambitious plan to modernize the country’s infrastructure backbone so the Philippines could catch up with its more vibrant Southeast Asian neighbors.

The first package of the CTRP, Dominguez said, would serve as the “cornerstone” of the funding for the government’s «build, build, build» program.

He likewise pointed out that the government will take advantage of the excess liquidity in the domestic market by

ed in China.

Duterte held a separate meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang before he returned home Monday which marked the end of his three-day working visit in China where the leaders “renewed our resolve to strengthen our friendship and mutually beneficial partnerships on broad range of areas.”

“We reaffirmed commitment to build on our gains of my state visit last year and decided to accelerate the implementation of infrastructure projects previously agreed…

We resolved to fully use the

mechanisms we have established to dialogue openly, monitor progress, and ensure implementation of projects,” he said.

Duterte said China earlier lifted the restrictions on Philippine bananas.

“My country is back on exporting bananas, and anything we can sell to them. In the past, we are being supplicated.

There was a question about ideology,” he said.

Duterte said they signed key agreement on “economic and technical cooperation, human resource development, energy,” and they continue to

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Duterte: China to accept more Filipino workers

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RESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte announced China is willing to accept more technical and highly-skilled workers from the Philippines.

In a press conference early Tuesday at the F. Bangoy International Airport, Duterte said China has expressed its intention to hire more English teachers, craftsmen, and engineers to address their need for more workers there.

“If you try your luck there, I am sure we will make it,” he said.

The President, however, did not mention how many workers can be accommodat-

as the prices of vegetables in the area are cheaper compared to those stalls inside the Bankerohan Public Market. Lean Daval Jr.

F DUTERTE, 11

courts issuing temporary restraining orders intended to deliberately delay projects in favor of other bidders.

In his arrival message at the F. Bangoy International

Airport) early Tuesday, Duterte said he and China’s two highest leaders – President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang – agreed to reaffirm commitments in a meeting

before he left China Monday evening which marked the end of his three-day working visit in China.

“We reaffirmed commit-

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6 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

ARMM to bring anti-terror summit at municipal level

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RIVER PROTECTION. Engr. Valentin S. Saludes III (2nd from right), vice president and plant manager of Therma South Incorporated led the signing of a memorandum of agreement on Tuesday, May 16, with the representatives of

barangays Inawayan in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, Binugao in Toril Davao City and the Environmental Management Bureau of DENR-11 for the implementation of “Adopt an Estero/Waterbody Program”. (Alexander Lopez)

Power firm wants river systems, creeks in communities protected W ITH the aim of protecting the river systems and creeks that run through its host communities, the Therma South Incorporated of Aboitiz Power Corporation on Tuesday, May 16, signed a memorandum of agreement with its host communities and the Environmental Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Davao region to implement its “Adopt an Estero/Waterbody Program”.

Involved in the signing of the MOA were the host communities Inawayan in Sta. Cruz town, Davao del Sur and Binugao in Toril, Davao City.

River systems that will be covered by the “Adopt and Estero/Waterbody Program” include the Inawayan River and the Macaraing Creek in Binugao.

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Engr. Valentin S. Saludes III, vice president and plant manager of TSI led the signing of the MOA together with the representatives of the local government units of barangays Binugao and Inawayan and the EMB-DENR-11.

“The program will not only focus on the protection of the river systems and creeks in our host communities. This is also a manifestation of our continued support to our partner communities,” said Jason Magnaye, manager of the Reputation and Stakeholder Management (RSM) of TSI during the opening of the signing ceremony.

TSI sits in a 75-hectare land, a portion of which is situated in Binugao, which is part of Davao City, and the other in Inawayan in Sta. Cruz.

TSI plant manager Saludes expressed gratitude

to the host communities for helping the company in its environmental programs.

“We want to ensure that our river systems and creeks are clean because water is life. This is for our children and the future generation,” he said.

Saludes also emphasized that TSI’s programs for the environment are not only for the purpose of compliance with government regulations but a responsibility of the company to ensure that the surrounding waters in the area are potable for everyone.

TSI will be tasked to take the lead in clean-up drives in the adopted river and creek and to pursue information education campaigns on the importance of riverbank stabilization and river protection.

The MOA also stated that TSI will provide assistance

in funding for the protection efforts of the river and creek in the community and supply the necessary equipment to ensure that geo-tagging is undertaken in every activity of the parties.

Meanwhile, host communities will also take the lead in the mobilization of residents in every clean-up and river enhancement activities.

The MOA said local officials will be tasked to coordinate with the landowners near the river and creek covered especially in the taking care of planted trees.

The MOA also emphasized that local governments of Inawayan and Binugao must ensure of the enactment of an ordinance that will strengthen solid waste management policies within their areas of jurisdiction. ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

Wednesday turned over the award to city administrator Atty. Zuleika Lopez.

She said Davao does not only have many tourist attractions, but is also “widely recognized for its effective law enforcement programs that keep locals and visitors feel safe.”

“The award would not have been possible without the effective leadership in the city,” she said.

Lopez commended the various departments in the city for its role in the preparation of documentation and other requirements necessary for the award, including the City Information Office and

the City Planning and Development Office.

Several cities received awards during the said event, including Bacolod City, which was named the Top Model City. The other winners are Sta. Rosa City for Safe Haven Award for peace and order, Batangas City for Environment Friendly Award, San Fernando City, Pampanga for Business Friendly Award, Tagaytay City for Retirement Haven Award and Paranaque City for Education Hub Award.

Quezon City was recognized for its Programs for Youth Development and Empowerment, while Zambo-

anga City was recognized for its Programs for Health and Elderly. These cities also received awards: Naga City for Livelihood and Employment Haven Award, General Santos City for Road Home Award and Laoag City for Emergency and Disaster Management Award Dante Francis Ang, The Manila Times president and chief executive officer, said the awards “aim to recognize effective and innovative local governance that improves the quality of life, make local business environments friendlier, and overall makes this country a great place to live.”

Davao City grabs‘Tourism Hub’plum

AVAO City added another feather on its cap after bagging the “Tourism Hub Award.”

“The Tourism Hub Award” is given to a city with programs that does not only attract tourists but also make them feel safe,” Marco Polo Davao general manager Dottie Wurgler-Cronin said.

The award was given during the Manila Times Philippine Model Cities Forum and Awards at the new World Manila Bay Hotel in Manila last week.

Wurgler-Cronin, who received the award in Manila on behalf of Davao City, on

HE Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s Interior Secretary Noor Hafizullah ‘Kirby’ Abdullah has urged local government units to protect the Islamic scholars, or the ulama, and the region’s constituents against threats from radical terrorist groups.

Secretary Abdullah said that the 116 municipalities and two cities in the region will soon conduct a summit against terrorism and illegal drugs to prevent and combat the rising threat of terrorism as well as to strengthen the role of the LGUs in promoting peace and security.

The summit would synchronize measures on how to restrain criminality, terrorism and illegal drugs, which affect the peace and order situation in the region. The LGUs, Secretary Abdullah said, must be at the forefront of this battle and must have a major role in combating terrorism.

“The summit will help confront terrorism and extremism at the municipal level,” Sec. Abdullah said.

The decision to bring down the issue at LGU level came after the Dawla Islamiya, which has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, issued a statement threatening the ulamas who attended a three-day summit against terrorism in Cotabato City last weekend.

“To those who have Ulama relatives, warn your parents, brothers, and children not to

attend the said summit because if something happens to them along the way or in the end, don’t tell us you were not warned,” the Dawla Islamiya statement said.

The three-day ‘Ulama Summit Against Terrorism’ is an initial step of the ARMM government to enlist the support of Islamic scholars to combat terrorism.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said Muslim scholars can contribute to the advocacy against terrorism by educating people about the true teachings of Islam most especially on the principles of justice, compassion, peace, and harmony. The national government considers terrorism as an urgent and critical national security threat.

“The LGUs play a vital role in the fight against terrorism and illegal drugs because local chief executives and officials could help prevent violence in their respective areas,” Sec. Abdullah said. He reiterated that close coordination, mutual support, and cooperation at all times can help put an end to terrorism.

“I can see that the LGUs in the region are very active in this fight in order to have peaceful and progressive communities,” he said. “Liliit ang mundo ng mga teroristang grupo kapag nakita nila na lahat nagtutulungan to fight terror acts,” he added. (Bureau of Public Information)

Maguindanao town mayor suspended for neglect of duty

O

MBUDSMAN Conchita Carpio Morales has ordered a one month suspension of Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao Mayor Datu Umbra Bayam Dilangalen for simple neglect of duty.

The Office of the Ombudsman found inconsistencies in Dilangalen’s Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth for the years 2009 to 2010.

Probe found that the respondent failed to declare the following in his 2009 SALN: -- a house in Cotabato City acquired in 2000; -- a house in Kabuntalan; -- a parcel of land in Cotabato City; -- two cars acquired in 2004 valued at PHP1 million; -- liabilities representing loans obtained from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), Land Bank of the

Philippines (Landbank); and -- car loans.

Likewise, Dilangalen failed to declare his house in Cotobato City and an agricultural land in Kapimpilan/Kabuntalan in his 2010 SALN. The Ombudsman ruling said that “these omissions became palpable when respondent declared the existence of the very same properties and liabilities in his SALN for the immediately following year.”

“The respondent’s failure to pay attention to the details of his SALN had resulted in the inaccuracy of crucial information therein, making him liable for Simple Neglect of Duty,” the ruling added.

In case of separation from the service, the penalty is convertible to a fine equivalent to the respondent’s one month salary.

(PNA)

7 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

Executives from different Aboitiz business units headed by AEV President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Erramon I. Aboitiz (4th from left), answer questions from the audience during the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on May 15, 2017 at Fairmont Makati.

Aboitiz’s growth anchored on business, communities B

Construction growth in PH among world’s fastest: BMI

A

BOITIZ Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV) is determined to remain growth-driven for the remainder of the year—in pace with the Philippines’ positive growth trajectory—as the company’s business units (BUs) pursue various expansion plans that equally prioritize growing the business while developing communities.

The Aboitiz Group launched its Group Purpose “To Drive Change for A Better World” and refreshed brand positioning “Advancing Business and Communities” at the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting on May 15, 2017 at Fairmont Makati.

“Aligned with the country’s continued economic

growth, the Aboitiz Group’s own growth journey remains promising and purpose-driven. We are going to drive change for a better world by advancing business and communities through the various products and services that our business units provide,” Erramon I. Aboitiz, AEV President and Chief Executive Officer said.

“We advance business and communities by powering progress, providing smart banking solutions, creating partners for growth, building infrastructure, and empowering communities. Through our core businesses, we contribute to nation building, helping uplift the lives of millions of Filipinos,” Aboitiz added.

AboitizPower is committed to expanding its power generation capacity to 4,000 MW by 2020 to help the nation address its power requirements. On top of new acquisitions, the company will continue to execute its Gentailer (generator-retailer) Strategy through Open Access, and continue to look for opportunities to enhance and balance its energy portfolio.

UnionBank will pursue collaborations and partnerships with financial technology firms, put in place IT, risk management, and compliance systems, while continuing the execution of its digital transformation strategy.

Pilmico will continue to expand its customer reach in the ASEAN region; expand its

these five popular industries.

Mamondiong also said that TESDA will soon open the Training for Work Scholarship for those who want to become caregivers and housekeepers in hotels.

Other TESDA projects include reinforcing the scholarship program and eventually find jobs for the graduates and come up with emergency skills training for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and other sectors.

Mamondiong said that he is seeking an additional budget for the modernization of regional training centers nationwide.

TESDA officials said that the agency’s budget for 2017 is only P6.9 billion which is lower as compared to the Department of Education (P567 billion) and Commission on Higher Education (P8.3 billion).

ERALCO in partnership with Repower Energy Development Corporation (REDC), a subsidiary of Pure Energy Holdings Corporation, through its joint venture, Pure Meridian Hydropower Corporation (PMHC), held a groundbreaking ceremony in Lalawinan, Quezon province for a 3.0 MW run-ofriver mini hydropower plant (MHP).

PMHC chairman Alfredo Panlilio said this is the second project under the partnership. Last December, the Pulanai MHP in Bukidnon had its groundbreaking with no less than president Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Energy secretary Alfonso Cusi gracing the event.

“We reiterate our earlier pronouncement that our investments in the various run-of-river mini hydro projects are a manifestation of our unwavering commitment to support the development of the renewable energy sector. It

feed mill capacities in Iligan and Tarlac; export animal feeds to Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Pacific; and target 20,000 sow level for hog farms and one million birds for layer farms.

Aboitiz InfraCapital will continue to participate in public infrastructure projects while APO Agua is expected to break ground on its new water treatment plant.

AboitizLand will fully transition to becoming a national player with the completion of its headquarters transfer from Cebu to Manila.

With remaining 500 hectares landbank available for development, the company is constantly on the lookout for new land to acquire while keeping

F ABOITIZ, 11

MI Research has seen the Philippines, along with Myanmar, Ethiopia, Qatar and Pakistan, to have the fastest growth in construction sector from 2017 to 2021.

The research arm of Fitch Group said the growth in construction in these countries are driven by demands for better logistics profile and infrastructure, except for Qatar, which infrastructure investments are in preparation for its hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022.

In its infrastructure outlook report released Wednesday, average annual growth for the Philippines’ construction sector over the five-year period is seen at 11.2 percent.

BMI Research’s projection for Myanmar was the highest at 13.5 percent, followed by Ethiopia at 13.2 percent, Qatar at 12.1 percent, and Pakistan at 11.8 percent.

BMI Research said the

government’s commitment to roll out public infrastructure projects in the pipeline is supporting the growth of the construction sector.

“The Philippines’ construction market is set to benefit from President Rodrigo Duterte’s heavy prioritization of infrastructure development, as well as funding support from China and Japan,” the report read.

“Since taking office, Duterte has committed over US144 billion to the sector over the next six years and deepened diplomatic ties with China in order to draw in much-needed investment into driving momentum into the Philippines’ infrastructure plans,” it added.

During his first state visit to Beijing in October 2016, President Duterte bagged some US24 billion worth of infrastructure and financing deals.

ment. A Seize the Flow campaign was recently launched by the parties, whereby it will also promote awareness and preservation of the watersheds.

“We are committed to help save our last remaining Sierra Madre rainforest and wildlife habitat here in Quezon, which is our humble way of participating in the war on climate change,” added Tiu. The Lalawinan MHP will connect to the transmission infrastructure of REDC’s Upper Labayat 3.0 MW mini-hydro power project via a 10.5 km 69kV line.

The project will have two generating units with terminal voltage of 4.16kV and with total output of 3.0 MW—utilizing a 5MVA 4.16/69kV step-up transformer. The total annual power generation will be over 16 gigawatt hours from this renewable energy source.

The project will cost P700 million and will generate over

200 jobs during construction, mostly hired from the local community. The project will avail of the run-of-river hydropower FiT rate of 5.90/kwh.

ROR hydropower is the cheapest renewable energy resource being charged under FiT. This is MERALCO’s first foray in run-of-river hydropower in the island of Luzon.

For Pure Energy’s hydropower arm, REDC, this is its third hydropower groundbreaking this 2017. The company presently has several operational hydropower plants in Laguna. Aside from Lalawinan, the company is targeting to ground break another two more hydropower projects this year, and another 15 hydropower projects in the next 3 years. After cementing a foothold in the baseload hydropower and geothermal sphere, Pure Energy plans to venture into the intermittent solar energy for a balance portfolio of renewable energy projects.

TESDA wants P24-B budget for MERALCO, Pure Energy break ground 3MW mhp in Quezon skills training program in 2018

T

HE Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has said that it would be needing P24 billion budget to fund the skills training of 1.5 million Filipinos in 2018.

TESDA Director General, Secretary Guiling “Gene” Mamondiong said that TESDA is expecting a surge in the number of Filipinos who want to avail of the agency’s skills training program as the government prioritizes job opportunities in the country.

Mamondiong said that the industries he foresees to be a hit among Filipinos next year are health care and wellness, business processing outsourcing, tourism, construction and agriculture.

The TESDA chief said that he anticipates a big number of Filipinos who want to enrol in skills training in line with

M

is our hope that these various initiatives will contribute in providing a stable, clean and reliable energy source,” added Panlilio.

Further, PMHC and Pure Energy’s CEO Dexter Y. Tiu remains focused on putting forward knowledge on run-ofriver (ROR) technology.

“Another groundbreaking, another testament to our commitment to promote awareness, understanding and utilization of run-of-river (ROR) hydropower as the best renewable energy resource due to its near baseload nature.

Our goal is to provide sustainable alternatives to balance the country’s over dependence on fossil fuels, while preserving our natural watersheds,” said Dexter Y. Tiu, PMHC and Pure Energy’s CEO. World Wide Fund (WWF) recently signed a partnership with Pure Energy to identify key areas for potential run of river hydropower develop-

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

I

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

First step

T was Chinese pholosopher Lao Tzu who immortalized the saying: “the journey of a thousand miles begins with a step.”

After President Rodrigo Duterte’s visit to Beijing, the conflict on South China Sea will finally be put to the table and discussed bilaterally.

Setting aside the favorable arbitral decision the Philippines got from the International Arbitral Tribunal on the territorial dispute, President Duterte took a rather unpopular but more pragmatic position on the conflict with China. It was a position that was to be a step backward, but two steps forward.

On Friday, the two countries will finally get to talk one on one and head on with the issue.

China will host the first bilateral consultation mechanism meeting with the Philippines on the South China Sea issue in Guiyang, Guizhou, province according to China’s Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Representatives from both countries will tackle issues reached between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Philippine President Duterte on South China Sea or West Philippine Sea. The two leaders believe this is also in line with the responsibilities that must be shouldered by China and the Philippines as regional countries that the two sides will have friendly dialogues and consultations on the South China Sea-re-

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lated issues.

China’s foreign affairs office said the two leaders reached important consensus on properly resolving the South China Sea issue through dialogue and consultation, which serves the fundamental interests of China, the Philippines and people in the region as well as peace and stability of the South China Sea and beyond.

Aside from working on the implementation of relevant consensus reached between Presidents Xi and Duterte, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said China is committed to maintain the long-term development of bilateral relations as well as peace and stability in the South China Sea. The bilateral meeting will be co-chaired by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin and Philippine Ambassador to China Jose Santiago Sta. Romana.

The Philippines-China relations has been rejuvenated following President Duterte’s four-day state visit in Beijing in October last year upon invitation of President Xi. The talks will put forward the mutual agreement between the main contenders of the disputed territory and should put a peaceful settlement instead of one that will continue to hound the Philippines and China.

There goes the step we needed to do.

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A

BIG part of every livable cities features is the availability of affordable, potable water to drink. If the city is in a coastal area, an essential feature should always be the presence of a variety of seafood coming from clean seas surrounding the city.

Indeed, our city boasts of having one of the best inland water sources in the world.

No less than employees of local soft drink bottlers say so- they claim to taste the superior quality in their drinks, served along side fresh seafood ceviche or ” kinilaw” to our many guests and tourists. Both dish and drink reflect the status of our waters, and will determine how clean these will stay in the coming years.

Reasonably prices fish and drinks mean abundance of these items, with clean waters from here we get them.

Food and drink references considered, water is a resource we cannot live, and cannot grow

“T

HE protection of biodiversity has to be considered a basic requirement of sustainability – passing on to future generations a world of undiminished options – and a fundamental moral responsibility as travelers on the only planet known to support life.” – John C. Ryan *** “We are losing biological diversity at an unprecedented rate,” decried the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) during the World Food Day celebration twenty-four years ago.

Biological diversity (or biodiversity for short) is made up of all species of plants and animals, their genetic material and the ecosystems of which they are a part. Species diversity refers to the variety of species within a given area. Genetic diversity, on the other hand, refers to the variation of genes and genotypes between and within species.

In recent years, the international community is increasingly recognizing the contribution of biodiversity in securing public health and community well-being.

For thousands of years, humans rely on nature, particularly plants, for medicine.

Due to the high visibility of innovative compounds and novel drugs developed based on plants and other natural resources, the relevance of biodiversity to modern health cannot be understated.

“Nearly 90% of human dis-

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

VANTAGE POINTS

9

The Davao Kinilaw challenge and prosper without. Economic growth and increased GDP mean little if the cost of food and water also rises.

If anything, these costs should go down due to better efficiencies obtained in managing these important resources. Moreover, these good economic numbers ought to rise further when water costs go down. That means more abundant kinilaw and more readily available drinks in the future.

The economics of water, its availability, volume and quality have become interesting of late.

As cities expand, however, water resources unfortunately are both neglected and polluted, threatening to drive up the cost of our locally made softdrinks and kinilaw.

Neglected because many of our local governments fail to plan for water availability. As populations increase, demand will always go up among households and businesses. As climate change challenges our capabil-

MY TWO CENTS’ John Tria ities to produce our food, the capacity to store water for lean months becomes a vital undertaking that cannot be set aside, lest food prices spike.

We have recently seen how low water availability has led to higher chicken and pork prices, since droughts hamper the production of corn used to feed chick-

ens and pigs production. How many droughts will destroy us before we realize the importance of responsible water management?

Polluted, because human activity produces effluents that make their way into our rivers and streams untreated. How many rivers and streams within Mindanao remain within attainment levels as prescribed by the Clean Water act? Often, there are pollutants we cannot see, or ignore. Recent studies have shown that 3 out of 4 kilos of pollutants into our water bodies come from human, not industrial activity.

What has been startling is the admission of some local officials warning us about fecal coliform levels at our Times Beach area exceeding 1,000. We all know that this coliform comes from human waste. We also know that all of our household wastewater enters our water bodies untreated.

What we must know is that we can no longer swim at times beach

if we have open wounds lest these are infected by the unseen dirt that has mixed at that once idyllic shore. What we dread knowing is how much longer we can enjoy eating Kinilaw from fish freshly caught near Times beach.

What many of us do not know is that the Clean Water Act requires our water service providers to start developing sewerage systems that can channel our household wastewater into proper treatment before being discharged into our rivers and shores. May we ask how far has the Davao City Water District gone in complying with this?

Neglect and pollution are not a law of nature. They are the consequences of a lack of collective human appreciation and responsibility. Let us stop neglect before it pollutes more of our waters. Let us end the neglect so that we can continue to eat good kinilaw.

For reactions; facebook.com/ johntriapage

or even just cough drops, among many other products.”

Not too many know that the contraceptive pill was originally manufactured from a wild yam growing in Mexico’s forests.

Among the latest pills comes courtesy of a forest plant of West Africa. There is also some hope that a therapy to counter Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) lies with a plant in Queensland’s forests.

In the Philippines, some scientists believe that the country’s biodiversity offers potential leads for the development of pharmaceutical medicines.

“There are endemic plants, insects, marine organisms, minerals (in the country) that could be a source of pharmacologic interventions in diseases,” says Dr. Joven Apostol, who was named recently by the National Research Council of the Philippines as an Outstanding Filipino Researcher.

Apostol, a pharmacy professor at the University of Sto. Tomas, admitted that while the presence of foreign pharmaceutical manufacturers has dipped over the years as most have shifted operations to the other countries, such drawback was in a way a blessing.

“It has awakened the Filipino spirit to become more entrepreneurial and there has been a growth spike in drug research and development in academic and research institutes and local manufacturers focusing on

endemic biomaterials,” he said.

“This is also partly due to the encouragement and support of the science and technology agencies of the government and other funding agencies.”

The UST professor also pointed out that basic research is crucial in drug development.

“A pharmaceutical product is only good as it is safe and effective,” he said. “A drug molecule will not advance to formulation and manufacturing without the preliminary data on its safety, effect, mechanism of action, toxicity and others – basic information on drug source, synthesis, kinetics and interactions which can only be provided by basic research.”

A press statement from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said that research in basic pharmacology includes screening of these biomaterials for their effects on the physical and chemical processes of the living organism and on the nature and courses on diseases.

Various methods of testing are employed, such as in vitro, in vivo and in silico. The results of these basic researches serve as the basis to support further studies leading to formulation and clinical use of the drug product.

Gains in the growth of the pharmaceutical sector can be sustained by continuous support to both basic and applied research.

“This way we can reduce our reliance to foreign manufactured drugs,” the press statement said.

Medicines from biodiversity

eases known to medical science can be treated with prescription drugs derived from nature,” notes Dr. Paul Torrence, an Emeritus Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Northern Arizona University. “The benefits to humanity of nature-derived medicines are incalculable in terms of longevity, relief of suffering and increase in the quality of life.”

According to the Environmental Magazine, some 120 prescription drugs sold worldwide today are derived directly from rainforest plants. The U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI) reported that more than two-thirds of all medicines found to have cancer-fighting properties come from rainforest plants.

Examples abound.

“One of the biggest breakthroughs against cancer in recent decades has stemmed from the Madagascar periwinkle (scientific name: Catharanthus roseus), the source of two potent drugs used against leukemia and Hodgkin’s disease,” says Prof. Norman Myers, a British environmentalist specializing in biodiversity who has been a consultant to several United Nation agencies, the World Bank, and other organizations.

It has been reported that the ingredients obtained and synthesized from a now-extinct periwinkle plant have increased the chances of survival for children with leukemia from 20% to 80%.

The NCI believes tropical rainforests may well contain “at least ten

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

further plants with similar potential against cancer.”

“We cannot imagine a world without antibiotics such as penicillins, cephalosporins, doxycycline, or erythromycin, without pain relievers, without muscle relaxants, without oral contraceptives, without cancer drugs like Taxol, without blood pressure lowering drugs like lisonopril, without digoxin for heart failure, without local anesthetics, and without anticoagulants like coumarins for thrombosis,” Dr. Torrence points out.

People should be thankful for the wealth of tropical forests next time they visit a pharmacy. “There is one-in-four chance that our purchase will derive from tropical forest plants,” Prof. Myers says. “It may be an antibiotic, an analgesic, a diuretic, a laxative, a tranquilizer

10 NEWS RAPIST... FROM 1 who last saw Lumayas with the girl.

Lumayas denied the accusation.

When found the body of the girl was naked from the waist up and police investigators did not rule out the possibility that she was raped before she was killed.

“Friend siya ng tito ng bata. While having a drinking spree sa bahay ng lolo ng bata, inutusan niya ang bata nga bumili ng kape tapos hindi na nakabalik,” said Gaspan.

Based on the spot report of Sasa Police Station, at about 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon

of Sunday, May 14, the victim, who was a resident of Del Pilar, R. Castillo, Agdao, Davao City, was reported missing.

Her body was found at 3:00 o’clock, Tuesday afternoon.

“We are encouraging the family to have the body of the child to be autopsied so we can determine the cause of death and if may nangyari pang physical abuse sa bata before siya pinatay,” Gaspan said on Wednesday.

The police are preparing to file murder and other possible charges against the suspect, pending the result of the ongoing investigation.

be co-chaired by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin and Philippine Ambassador to China Jose Santiago Sta. Romana.

The Philippines-China relations has been rejuvenated following President Duterte’s four-day state visit in Beijing in October last year upon invitation of President Xi. Last weekend, President Duterte returned to China for the first Belt and Road Forum on International Cooperation.

On the sidelines, he and the

Chinese leader held bilateral meeting.

The Philippines-China relations hit snag after the Philippines filed an arbitration case at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague in Jan. 22, 2013 to contest China’s ‘nine-dash line’ claim on South China Sea. A month after President Duterte took his oath as President in June last year, the UN-backed arbitration court released its judgment in favor of the Philippines. (PNA)

were no increases in tax rates including the rates for fees and charges. Under the local government code (RA 7160), an LGU, through the Sangguniang Panlungsod can adjust the rates of taxes once every

five years, which shall not exceed 10 percent of the existing rates of the taxes,” he added.

If passed into law this year, the revised local revenue code will be implemented by January 2018. CIO

raised after a 9.0-magnitude offshore earthquake triggered a huge tsunami wave in 2011.

The wave crashed into Japan’s Fukushima nuclear power plant, causing a meltdown.

After the accident, all of Japan’s nuclear reactors were idled, despite the fact that nu-

clear power provided for up to 40 percent of Japan’s energy needs at the time.

Since August 2015, Japan’s authorities have made decisions to restart several plants, given the new security standards approved after the Fukushima disaster. (PNA)

Bible verse, Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and future.”

Cayetano expressed gratitude for his speedy confirmation and vowed not to disappoint the CA and President Rodrigo Duterte, who appointed him.

“Thank you for giving me the honor of breezing through the Commission on Appointments. I will do my best para ‘di po kayo mapahiya (not to embarrass you),” Cayetano said.

In an interview with reporters, he said that he was hoping for a quick confirmation but said that he was ready to answer questions noting that “you don’t know

what to expect.”

“I am humbled, I thank God for this opportunity and I thank the Commission.

Gagamitin ko ‘tong mabilis at painless na confirmation bilang paalala that I have to do my best (I will use this quick and painless confirmation as a reminder that I have to do my best),” he said.

Cayetano said that he was welcome to suggestions and complaints, especially from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). He will soon be visiting passport processing areas to identify problems and how they can be corrected.

He also said that he looks forward to meeting with the DFA top brass to get input and align it with President Duterte’s order to be “friends to all, enemies to none.” (PNA)

China... FROM 2

More... FROM 2

Japan... FROM 3

Cayetano... FROM 3

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD EXPO UP. Agri-business and Marketing Assistance DivisionDepartment of Agriculture 11 supervising agriculturist Jane O. Abadilla bares that 15 exhibitors from Region 11 will be participating and showcase exportable products from the region such as cacao, banana, coffee, coconut

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

and vegetables in the upcoming International Food Expo (IFEX) slated at the World Trade Center on May 19 to 21. Abadilla graced Wednesdays @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Lean Daval Jr.

House leader confident of tax reform passage by next week H

OUSE ways and means committee chairman Dakila Cua has expressed confidence that the House of Representatives will pass the comprehensive tax reform package of the Department of Finance.

Cua made the statement after emerging from an all-par-

ty caucus on Wednesday afternoon.

“We are confident in the leadership of our Speaker and our Majority Leader that with their spearheading the supermajority, almost 100 percent sure na yan na papasa ng Kamara,” Cua told reporters.

House Bill 5636, also

ment to build on our gains of my state visit last year and decided to accelerate the implementation of infrastructure projects previously agreed.

We renewed our resolve to strengthen our friendship and mutually beneficial partnerships on broad range of areas,” the President said.

He said they resolved to fully use the mechanisms that are already in place to dialogue openly, monitor progress, and ensure implementation of projects.

But Duterte said the courts in the country must not get in the way and be the reason for the delay of any of these projects.

“I am now adresssing myslef to the judiciary. Do not, for Christ’s sake, do not play with TROs [temporary restraining orders]. Kasi pagka ganon TRO ka ng TRO tapos na dedelay, I’ve been telling you do not force me to disobey you,” he warned.

Duterte said some business firms who lose in the bidding go the courts to obtain a TRO, stalling the project. He accused some judges get money out of these TROs. “Hindi ako papayag ng ganun

because I know that’s plain corruption,” he stressed.

He appealed to the Supreme Court “to do something about it” and warned he “would have to traverse the lines of separation of powers.”

Duterte told the courts that the development projects are not for them to decide.

“We decide what is good for this country sa projects,” he added.

“You are there to interpret the law. Do not decide for us, kasi kami yung naghanap ng pera kami rin yung magpapatakbo ng proyekto. Kayo dyan mag-TRO TRO, knowing fully well that’s a corrupt practice,” he said.

If the issuance of TRO is really necessary, Duterte appealed to judges to decide on it immediately.

“Do not delay it, (you) paralyze the government. Magmukha akong tanga sa tao.

Matatapos na lang ako, maTRO pa. What’s keeping you guys, umabot ng anim na buwan, decide immediately because the project has to start immediately. Wag nyo gawain yan, I know how the game is played,” he said. (Antonio L. Colina IV)

Smooth... FROM 5

known as the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN), which seeks to lower personal income tax (PIT) rates while raising excise taxes on certain commodities.

In the same press conference, Majority Floor Leader Rodolfo Fariñas said the bill will reach the plenary on Monday and will most likely be approved on second reading by Wednesday next week.

Fariñas added the tax reform bill will be approved on third and final reading before the sine die adjournment on May 31 so that it can be transmitted to the Senate.

HB 5636 aims to enhance the progressivity of the tax

structure through rationalization of the internal revenue system.

Under the bill, workers earning no more than PHP250,000 annually will be exempted from paying personal income taxes.

To compensate for the revenue losses from the lowering of the PIT rates, some of the offsetting measures include increasing excise tax rates on all petroleum products and automobiles; expanding the value added tax (VAT) base by limiting exemptions to raw food and other necessities; introducing excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages; and improve tax administration measures. (PNA)

area,” Dominguez said. “We are an archipelagic nation, so Qatar can also look into investing in logistics--shipping-here.”

Dominguez also said Qatar can invest in the pharmaceuticals industry and the housing sector.

The QIA, which serves as the sovereign wealth fund of Qatar, manages and invests the state’s revenue surplus in various multi-billion dollar investment deals across the globe.

Qatar is the world’s biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas. According to the Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute, Qatar’s wealth fund is the 14th largest in the world.

Dominguez said he will help arrange meetings between the QIA delegation and the Philippine Chamber of

Commerce and Industry and other business groups once this planned Manila visit pushes through.

The Ambassador also said he is planning on organizing a tourism expo in Qatar showcasing the Philippines, as Qataris do not know much about our country as a tourist destination as they do the other Southeast Asian countries.

In the meeting, Dominguez also discussed with the Ambassador the Philippine government’s preference for a hybrid Public-Private Partnership formula.

Under this hybrid PPP mode, the government selects, finances and builds big-ticket projects through competitive public bidding and, upon completion, auctions off their operation and maintenance (O&M) to the private sector. (PNA)

Qatar... FROM 4

INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

NORTHERN EXPOSURE:

The beauty of Kapampangan cuisine Bobotung Asan.

Quilayin.

WITH ITS RICH CULINARY HERITAGE spanning centuries and bridging Mexican, Spanish, Chinese and Malay cuisines, Pampanga is truly a culinary hot spot for anyone who wants to have a taste of traditional Filipino food that tastes like no-other.

Although there are many regional cuisines that could lay claim as the best Filipino cuisine, my experience dining in a simple house opened my eyes to the beauty and complexity of Pampanga’s food. This was also because the house was the home of none other than respected Kapampangan food historian, Atching Lilian Borromeo.

A part of my recent tour of Pampanga together with AirAsia, this was one of the events that I really looked forward experience to as I really wanted to learn what makes food in Pampanga different and if it really was hype or not.

Located at Barangay Parian, Mexico, Pampanga and surrounded by lush greens, Atching Lilian Borromeo’s wooden ancestral home is where she entertains guests with her traditional Kapampangan dishes. Atching, a Kapampangan term for elder sister, welcomed our group with a warm smile as we approached her home. We were quickly ushered into the dining room which is surrounded by old photographs of her and her family, as well as traditional kitchen utensils and antique cooking vessels, evoking a museum feel to the space.

Although not a trained

Bringhe is often served during festive occassions.

The group pose with Atching Lilian Borromeao after a fun Sanikulas cookie making session.

Plantanilla, a desset consisting of carabao milk pastillas wrapped with a light egg yolk crepe. the different ingredients to be used for an original dish.

Another entree that tickled my palette was her Quilayin, a dish that is similar to dinuguan which uses pork offals but instead of mixing the Atching Lilian shows off one of the wooden molds she uses to make pork blood directly into Sanikulas cookies. the dish, the blood is first chef, Atching Lilian is an nating dishes she served made into cakes and then institution when it comes was the Bobotung Asan, added later during cookto Kapampangan cuisine. which is by tradition, ing.

She took us from one dish served only during the Traditional Kapamto another, explaining the election season. She says pangan favourites such history behind each dish the dish traces its roots as Bringhe (Pampanga’s and the different tradi- to the time when women version of Paella cooked tional techniques used to were not allowed to vote. using sticky rice, coconut make it.

In protest, they decided to milk, turmeric, chicken, One of the most fasci- create a dish by voting for chorizo and bell peppers),

Puchero, Pork Sisig, and the ever infamous Buru ( Fermented rice and fish, served with sides of boiled mustard leaves, eggplant, and bitter gourd).

After the delicious and hearty meal, we finally got to the highlight of the dinner, tasting and making Sanikulas. Also called San Nicolas cookies, these traditional hand-made cookies can trace their origin back to the Spanish period when egg whites were used to bind the limestone masonry of the buildings and churches of the period. Not wanting to waste anything, excess

Sanikulas. egg yolks were used to made pastries.

Traditionally served during the feast day of Saint Nicholas, Sanikulas cookies are unique in that these cookies used traditional wooden molds that are passed down from generation to generation.

Baking the cookies in a time when timepieces were a luxury, Atching Lilian shared that the cooks would recite songs and prayers to get the proper cooking time of the cookies.

Dinner with Atching Lilian was indeed an experience I can never forget. Her generosity and passion for keeping traditional Kapampangan cuisine can be seen and felt through the food she serves and this is clearly worth a taste.

To experience dining at Atching Lillian’s, it is advised to make your reservations weeks or even months ahead as many tourists and locals are lined-up to pay her a visit.

They accept breakfast, lunch, or dinner buffets to groups with a minimum of ten persons. For more information contact them at (045) 966-0211 or 0915773-0788.

AirAsia flies direct from Davao to Clark and back four times a week connecting Durianburg to Pampanga and the rest of Central and Northern Luzon.

Check out www.airasia. com for cheap flights and deals.

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

Get on the road to Cannes with Cinemaworld

EN ROUTE TO CATCHING THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 70TH CANNES FILM FESTIVAL THIS MAY, film buffs can tune in to CinemaWorld on SKY weekdays from May 15 to 26 at 9 PM as the channel presents ten movies that delighted the festival’s audiences in years past.

Film buffs can start the walk down Cannes’ memory lane with the Turkish language film “Three Monkeys” today, May 15. It is about how far a father will go to ensure the future of his family. It won Best Director for Nuri Bilge Ceylan and was a Palme d’Or nominee. The Palme d’Or is the highest award given away at the Cannes Film Festival.

Revisit Bosnia’s historic struggles with “Children of

Sarajevo” (May19) and Italy’s experience with refugees with “Once You’re Born” (May 22). “Children of Sarajevo” is Aida Begic’s sophomore offering which depicts the lives of two siblings trying to get by in post war Bosnia. The theme of Marco Tullio Giordana’s Palme d’Or-nominated “Once You’re Born” remains relevant 10 years after it was first screened.

A rich young boy learns about

the harsh realities of the world, especially for immigrants, after an accident lands him in a boat full of refugees.

Then catch the French-Arabic film “A Screaming Man” from Mahamat Saleh Haroun (May 26), another film that tackles the effects of war on people. It tells the story of a father exposing his son to the ravages of war.

Other films to look forward to are “Balzac and the Little

Chinese Seamstress” (Dai Sijie, 2002) on May 16, Jane Birkin’s “Boxes” (2007) on May 17, and “In Your Wake” (2007) by David Oelhoffen on May 18. Also lookout for Naomi Kawase’s 2003 Palmee d’Or nominated film “Shara” on May 23, Mutum (Sandra Kogut, 2007) on May 24, and “Apaches” (2013)

by Thierry de Peretti on May 25.

The Cannes Film Festival is the most prestigious award giving body in the realm of cinema. It is held every year in the summer at the Mediterranean city of Cannes in France.

Get entertainment beyond Hollywood on the route to Cannes with CinemaWorld.

Watch it on on SKYcable HD in Cebu and Davao. Subscribers can choose to add Cinemaworld on top of their basic plan via SKY Select, for only P150 per month.

Mikael Daez remains a Kapuso ONE OF GMA NETWORK’S TOP LEADING MEN MIKAEL DAEZ remains a loyal Kapuso as he renewed his contract with GMA Network yesterday, May 11.

Mikael said he is very excited about this new milestone in his career as a Kapuso, “I love it here. I think a big factor for that is I’ve grown here. Dito na ako lumaki. Going on my seventh year in showbiz in GMA, ang dami ko ng friends. It feels good kasi when you mix your work and personal life, it feels fun. Your work is your life already. Nage-enjoy talaga ako.”

Present in the contract signing were GMA Entertainment TV’s Senior Vice President Lilybeth G. Rasonable; Senior Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara and GMA Artist Center Assistant Vice President and Head for Talent Imaging and Marketing Unit Simoun Ferrer.

Also in attendance was Mikael’s co-manager, Betchay Vidanes. Mikael is co-managed by GMA

Artist Center.

Presently, Mikael is one of the lead stars of the Afternoon Prime series - Legally Blind. He said that he really enjoys working with everyone on set and he feels challenged with his

character’s transformation as the story progresses. From being Grace’s (Janine Gutierrez) knight-in-shining armour, Edward became drug-dependent because of his brother William’s (Marc Abaya) manipulative ways.

“Actually, hindi ko alam na mangyayari ito sa character ni Edward.

I am super thankful because they gave me an opportunity to do something challenging. I am

even more thankful dahil Direk Ricky (Davao) and the whole cast, they’ve been supporting me, at ang laking bagay nun. So I think we’ve enjoyed and we’ve done our best to portray our characters in their truest sense, so we are very happy.”

Meanwhile, Rasonable has nothing but praises for Mikael and she believes that he is one of the Network’s hardworking actors.

“He started out talagang very new. We noticed him in a commercial and we asked him to come in because we saw a lot of potential in him. So we invested in him, in time, in giving him projects that would build him up. Siya naman for his part, he really greatly improved as an actor and host, at kumbaga, it was a mutual decision to partner together. So, we are very glad that he’s happy with GMA. Sabi nga niya kanina sa akin, he’s not going anywhere, and we’re very gratified with that. At the same time, tayo rin naman, we will always be here to support him.”

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

FOOD

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

A SARANGANI FOODIE GETAWAY

MINDANAO IS NOT JUST ABOUT ONE CITY; Mindanao is about the merging of cultures, traditions and heritage from between and amongst cities. Of which, at times, we fail to go beyond the usual and explore. We forget to break barriers and see what lies beyond mainstream places. So, what’s the best thing to do? Explore. And don’t forget to eat while you are at it.

Capping my pre-Sarbay must visit beaches and must eat dishes is a beach paradise favoured by many from all over the country. With the likes of Drew Arellano of Byahe ni Drew to Jessica Soho for her Sarangani feature to Kim Atienza and Jim Paredes… Belmar Eco Park & Beach Resort is a

definite beach paradise when in Sarangani.

Belmar Eco Park and Beach Resort has been one of the most frequented beach paradise in Glan, Sarangani. The first cliffside resort in the area, it features the breath taking view deck of Sarangani. With a roster of friendly and well trained

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employees (personally trained by the owners), Belmar staff never fails to ‘serve with a smile’ – despite being busy.

After a year of operations, Belmar now has a busy function hall for parties and events, a couple number of verandas for that much needed fresh air, 11 fully equipped rooms (7 airconditioned and 4 nonair-conditioned) perfect for lounging and some open cottages if you want to be closer to the sea, sun and sand. As for amenities, they now offer jet ski rentals for the aqua adventurer in you. Also, Belmar has a wildlife section that features some of the most interestingly fascinating animals we have. A definite close encounter that you must not fail to see.

Belmar Eco Park is not just about the sights; Belmar Eco Park also has a delicious menu to keep you satisfied all throughout your stay. When asked on their best sellers, they were quick to enumerate “Native na manok with sabaw, Pancit Guisado and Buko Halo-halo”. Another best seller is their bowl of piping hot Sinigang na Hipon that’s fresh and very Pinoy. With or without

rice, you’d surely love munching on these Pinoy faves made extra special

by Belmar Eco Park.

On any given day (and time), you’d find yourself craving for their halo-halo. Nothing special – just the fact that it’s served inside a buko with fresh buko meat for you to scrape and munch

on. That alone is perfect given that you’d be under the sun basking all of its glory. Plus, a coconut a day (when at the beach) will help you keep dehydrated all day.

Belmar’s menu also includes savoury bowl of lomi, plates of sotanghon guisado, beef stufado, fish finger, calamares, shrimp

adobo, fish tinola and fish escabeche. For a complete Belmar Eco Park experience, do not forget to order their house specialty – Manok Tinibuok (whole chicken soup-based dish cooked with lemongrass and pepper).

Along the road, Belmar aims to add more to their paradise resort -- a Divine Mercy shrine, swimming pool for those are not too keen of the sea, additional 40 to 60 hotel rooms for guests coming in from other places, additional 4 large rooms for families, bigger function hall that can accommodate up to 200 people, a Bone Collection museum that’ll feature the likes of dugong, carabao, horse, cow, goat and even small wildlife animals and a possible Floating restaurant for all to enjoy.

For Belmar owners, “Among paningkamutan na mahatagan ug serbisyo nga mayo and mga guests. Belmar is a tourist destination with efficient customer service sa mga customers, wildlife and a food selection unlike any other. Soon, we will open a bone collection museum for all to enjoy.

That 5 years from now, Belmar Eco Park & Beach Resort will be a Tourism Centre!”

Photos taken with Fujifilm X-A3.

Belmar Eco Park & Beach Resort is located at Sitio Kabog, Brgy. Kapatan, Glan, Sarangani.

Want to know my latest food finds? Follow me on Instagram @iamleebai and my blog theroyalchefeats.wordpress.com.

Happy munching, #royalistas!

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

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

COMPETITIVE EDGE 11

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

NFA council orders private sector to import cheap rice T HE National Food Authority Council has approved the importation of 805,000 metric tons Minimum Access Volume of rice this year, according to Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco, chair of the NFA council.

MAV refers to the volume of commodities that is allowed to be imported by a member country, as a commitment to the World Trade Organization.

Evasco said the 2017 MAV is the last of its kind before the lifting of the quantitative

sitioned from surplus to deficit and calamity prone areas within two months prior to the onset of the lean period.

Meanwhile, the NFAC also approved the importation of 805,000 metric tons under the Minimum Access Volume scheme this year.

MAV refers to the volume of commodities that is allowed to be imported by a member country, as a commitment to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Relatedly, the NFA Council has directed the NFA Management to amend the MAV Guide-

lines to require participating traders to import 25 percent brokens rice from their 25-30 percent quota. Such move will insure adequacy of supply and stability of consumer prices at levels within the reach of low-income families.

“We are looking at requiring the private sector to use 25-30% of their import quota to buy 25% brokens. This way, we are assured that cheap rice will be made available in the local market. This policy shift is more consistent with the President’s pro poor policy” Evasco said.

opment of subdivision, townhouses, dormitories, apartments, and other residential dwellings. Retail loan guaranty covers loans and credit facilities extended for the purchase or acquisition of single-family residences. On the other hand, the guaranty for securitized schemes provides guaranty covers on securities or the fi-

nancial instruments issued to raise funds for housing. It can also guaranty the mortgage receivables backing up the said securities.

Gonzaga said HGC is currently mulling over guaranty for development of subdivision for workers of the country’s fast-growing tourism industry. AMA

borrowing 80 percent from banks and other financial institutions here, while tapping only 20 percent of its loans from overseas lenders.

“We will invest wisely and gain from the investments we have made to pay for the country’s debts,” Dominguez said in response to concerns that the government might fall into a “debt trap” in implementing its infra program.

The Duterte administration is planning to spend P 8.4 trillion over the next five years to close the country’s infrastructure gap that has for de-

cades blunted its global competitiveness as an investment destination.

Dominguez said this economic strategy will not only strengthen the country’s poor infrastructure backbone, but would also create more jobs, “which means more people paying taxes.”

“With good infra, real estate values will go up, so more property taxes can also be collected. More opportunities for businesses also means more revenues for the government,” Dominguez said. “That’s Economics 102.”

look for ways to deepen collaboration.

Last March 17, in Davao City, a six-year development program for trade and economic cooperation was signed between Philippines and China.

“The SYDP aims to steer and promote stable and orderly development of economic cooperation, enlarge the scope and enhance the level of cooperation, and drive sustainable and inclusive socio-economic development in both countries,” a press statement from Department of Finance (DOF) said.

The two countries also ex-

changed letters related to the first two feasibility studies of the nine projects getting support from the Chinese, covering projects such as Panay-Guimaras-Negros Bridges Project and Davao City Expressway Project.

Officials also discussed the economic developments in the country, the recently approved Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017 to 2022, and updates on bilateral cooperation in areas of infrastructure, trade, investments, agriculture, fishery, tourism, and financing cooperation between Philippines and China. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

NFA... FROM 4

Davao... FROM 4

RRD... FROM 5

Duterte... FROM 5

restriction on rice by June 30, 2017.

In connection with this, the NFA Council has also directed the NFA management to amend the MAV Guidelines to require participating traders to import 25% brokens rice from their

25-30% quota.

This will insure adequacy of supply and stability of consumer prices at levels within the reach of low-income families.

“Private importers in practice usually import 5-15% brokens rice or so called premium

rice which goes to commercial stocks,” he said. “However, this time, the council will require private importers to allocate around 25-30% of their quota to import 25% brokens of rice.”

“This move is to guarantee availability of affordable rice

in the local market. This policy shift is also more consistent with Duterte’s pro poor policy,”Evasco said.

He said the council is convinced that the importation of rice is best left with the private sector than with the NFA.

to the SSS property, and proposed reclamation of the surrounding areas.

“More than anything else, the welfare of our members and pensioners are our primary concern. We want what is best for them and we will ensure that their rights are protected,” said Valdez.

The SSS earlier filed a petition through the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC) questioning the propriety of the complaint for expropriation by NGCP against the property of SSS located in Diokno Ave in Pasay City.

The OGCC, which is the principal and statu-

tory law office of government-owned-and-controlled corporations, filed a petition to maintain the status quo and at the same time, stop the execution of the order of the lower court directing the SSS to vacate the property.

According to OGCC Head Atty. Rodulf Philip B. Jurado, SSS has a strong case against NGCP since their act of expropriating the property of SSS is in excess of the delegated authority granted to them to exercise the power of eminent domain.

The petition questions the authority of the NGCP to expropriate government properties already devoted for public

use since their power of eminent domain is only limited to private properties.

The disputed SSS property is located at the Financial Center Area along Diokno Ave. in Pasay City and is earmarked for the construction of the SSS Corporate Center of the South, adjacent to the office of the Government Services Insurance System (GSIS), which houses the Senate of the Philippines.

“To be able to take government properties already devoted for public use, it requires a specific grant by the national legislature and such authority was not given to NGCP,” Valdez said.

NGCP backtracks move in SSS property in Pasay

T

HE Social Security System (SSS) and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) met on Tuesday to discuss alternatives in place of the move of the latter to expropriate the 6.5-ha property of the staterun pension fund in Pasay City.

Social Security Commission (SSC) Chairman Amado D. Valdez said he was grateful to the officials of NGCP who agreed to look into other properties for the construction of their Pasay 230kV Substation Project in the area.

Among alternative sites suggested were the Film Center Site, part of the SM investment properties adjacent

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AirAsia promo seats are available for booking now until 21 May 2017 for travel between 5 September 2017 and 8 February 2018 on airasia.com or AirAsia mobile app to enjoy these low fares.* Also up for grabs are AirAsia flights to exciting destinations such as from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi, Singapore, Pattaya, Boracay, Hanoi, Shantou, Jakarta, Shenzhen, Macao, Luang Prabang and Bhubaneswar or travel to even further destinations such as Kuala Lumpur to Sydney, Melbourne, Shanghai, Beijing,

Maldives, and many more.

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Premium Flatbed, which comes with complimentary 40kg baggage allowance and many more benefits. Additionally, Premium Flatbed guests flying from Kuala Lumpur and get to access AirAsia Premium Red Lounge for free!

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on track developments on its residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

“Beyond business, we have invested substantially in ventures of social significance, believing that our businesses must touch the lives of people in a meaningful way, creating a better world that will be enjoyed by current and future

generations,” Aboitiz added.

AEV, along with its business units, aims to spend P76.7 billion in capital expenditures this year, or up 83% versus P42 billion spent last year, on the back of sustained optimism over the country’s economic growth prospects, particularly in the power and infrastructure sectors.

About Aboitiz Equity Ventures Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV) is the public holding company of the Aboitiz Group with major investments in power, banking and financial services, food, infrastructure, and land. Today, AEV is recognized as one of the best-managed companies

in the Philippines and in the region, consistently cited for its commitment to good corporate governance and corporate social responsibility. With five generations of Aboitiz Group business success behind it, AEV continues to drive change for a better world by advancing business and communities.

Aboitiz... FROM 7

12 SCIENCE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

Iron-fortified rice can help lessen malnutrition Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

E

VERY night, an average Filipino joins at least 3.7 billion other people who go to sleep still hungry. Their hunger, however, is not the growling, aching kind that most people experience when they have not eaten a meal. Rather, the hunger is somewhat silent and insidiously stunting their bodies and brains, weakening their immune systems, and sapping their energy. The prospects for living productive lives is questionable.

This hidden hunger – as most nutritionists called it – is called malnutrition and it contributes to killing an estimated 40,000 people every day!

“We’re still losing one generation after another to malnutrition and this just shouldn’t be happening anymore,” deplored Dr. Howard Bouis, a senior research fellow at the Washington-based International Food Policy Research Institute.

In the thickly-populated Asia, where nearly all the world’s rice is grown and eaten, food means rice. In the Philippines, for instance, rice is the staple food of Filipinos. A study research conducted by Southeast Asian Regional Center (SEARCA) commissioned by the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PRRI) said that Filipinos eat an average of 119 kilograms of rice annually.

The study was conducted in 2009 to 2010.

Another research found that Filipinos consume about 4-5 cups of cooked rice per day. “If we did not have rice, our deepest comfort food, we would probably feel less Filipino,” said the late food epicure Doreen Fernandez.

Although rice is basically a complex carbohydrate, its protein contains all eight of the essential amino acids found in many other foods. Low in sodium and fat, with no cholesterol or gluten, it is a boon to weight worriers and those allergic in oth-

er grains. It is also low in fiber and easily digested. Eating one-half cup of cooked rice can furnish 82 calories of energy -enough to give person energy to walk 26 minutes.

Since rice is consumed in great amounts, the cereal is a good vehicle for solving the malnutrition problem. And this can be done by food fortification.

According to the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), food fortification is “the addition of one or more essential nutrients to a food, whether or not it is normally contained in the food, for the purpose of preventing or correcting a demonstrated deficiency in one or more nutrients in the population of specific population groups in which a risk of nutrient deficiency has been identified.”

One of the nutrients identified as lacking in Filipino diet is iron. “Iron is one of the most important minerals in the body,” a press release issued by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) explained.

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the significant function of iron is to carry oxygen in the hemoglobin or red blood cells throughout the body so cells can produce energy.

Thus, it enhances body strength, activates brain performance, and boosts body resistance against sickness. Iron also helps eliminate carbon dioxide from the body.

However, the recommended level of iron in the body is classified by gender and age. Males aging from 14 to 18 are recommended with 11 milligrams, and aged 19 and above must have 8 milligrams daily intake.

The daily intakes for females aged 14 to 18, 19 to 50, and 51 and above must have 15 milligrams, 18 milligrams, and 8 milligrams, respectively. This indicates that females need more iron than males.

A person who does not get enough iron from

One of the nutrients identified as lacking in Filipino diet is iron. “Iron is one of the most important minerals in the body,” a press release issued by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) explained. his diet will have a lower hemoglobin level. “If this condition is prolonged, one will be suffering from iron deficiency anemia or IDA,” warns FNRI, a line agency of DOST. IDA develops when body stores of iron drop too low to support normal red blood cell production.

“In the Philippines, IDA is very serious across population groups,” FNRI says, adding it is most common among newly-born babies

(from 6-11 months old) and pregnant women.

Among children, the consequences of IDA include poor scholastic performance due to poor cognition, low attention span, and frequent attacks of illness due to lowered immune response.

Low and poor productivity due to easy fatigability are what adults experience when they have IDA. Pregnant women with IDA, on the other hand, may suffer from stillbirths, miscarriages and hemorrhage, or worst, death of the baby.

In a recent National Nutrition Survey, it was found that the Philippines has national iron-deficiency prevalence rate of 11%. Another nutritional survey suggested that about 50% of the iron intake, even among high-income households, comes from the cereals, particularly rice and corn.

Balancing cereal-based diets with vegetables and animal products is one approach used in some developing countries to address malnutrition problems. But results were frustrating.

Vegetables and animal products are expensive, and seasonal, subject to spoilage because of limited storage and transport facilities.

In 2000, the government signed the Food Fortification Law or Republic Act No. 8976. It stipulates mandatory fortification of staples like rice with iron and voluntary fortification of processed foods with iron, vitamin A and/ or iodine.

In 2004, the National Food Authority (NFA) fortified rice with iron. “NFA led the implementation of the law and has imported iron premix rice (IPR) fortified with ferrous sulfate using coating technology from the United States as no locally produced IPR was available at that time,” said a briefing paper on iron-fortified rice (IFR).

The IFR was distributed to already “identified nutritionally-at-risk areas” through Food for Schools Program. Unfortunately, the NFA fortified rice was less accepted by consumers due to the dark yellow-colored iron premix in rice and the darkening color of cooked rice.

In 2010, NFA stopped the importation of IPR and is now committed to utilizing locally-produced IPR. For its part, FNRI developed IPR made from rice flour blended with iron – with micronized dispersible ferric pyrophosphate as fortificant – using extrusion technol-

ogy, which proved to be stable for one-year storage with iron content still retained.

The National Center for Biotechnology Information said ferric pyrophosphate is “a water-insoluble iron compound used to fortify infant cereals and chocolate drink powders.”

In a study conducted among school children in a public school in Pasig, it was found that there was “a very significant decline in anemia prevalence from 100% to 33%.” The IFR was rated as “liked moderately” to “liked very much.”

The ancient Indian name for rice, dhanya, meaning “sustainer of the human race,” indicates its age-old importance. In Java, where it is the gift of the goddess Dewi Siri, people believe that rice has a soul and may be spoken to as a relative.

An old Chinese relief for aching bones, stomach upsets and colds was toasted brown rice and minced ginger root simmered in wine, tied in cloth and rubbed on the joints, stomach or chest.

“Grain upon grain, fresh and delightful as frost, a dazzling jewel, to what can I compare this treasure,” wrote Chinese poet Yang Ji.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 13

Farmers to press claim EDGEDAVAO on 145-ha land in Tagum Serving a seamless society

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ANKING on President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of support, farmers belonging to the Madaum Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association Inc. (MARBAI) will again attempt to reclaim possession of a disputed 145-hectare property in Tagum City from Lapanday Foods Corp. (LFC) on Thursday.

In a phone interview Wednesday, MARBAI member Linda Dayahan said that Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael Mariano, along with officials from the Department of Interior and Local Government in Davao Region, will serve the writ of installation on Thursday morning.

“We are thankful to Duterte that he hears our plight to reclaim the land because we have long been neglected in the past. It was not an easy fight for us but we tried our best to keep going. After all, this is not just about us, MARBAI farmers, but also other farmers who experience this kind of problem,” she said.

On April 17, Sec. Mariano was supposed to serve the order but police authorities refused to give assistance citing some technicalities in DAR’s order, including the lack of operation plan. It was then rescheduled to April 21 but still

it was not served as nobody would receive the order.

Some 200 MARBAI members held a 13-day picket in Manila, from April 29 to May 12. Duterte met with them on May 9 on Chino Roces Avenue (formerly Mendiola). On May 13, they returned home aboard a Cebu Pacific flight shouldered by Duterte.

Dayahan appealed to LFC to honor the order, noting that it has been seven years since they were deprived of a livelihood.

“We are not notorious. It’s been seven years of suffering.

We want to get our lands back so that we can live like a decent human,” she said.

The contested property was part of the 1,323.9272 hectares previously owned

by Hijo Plantation Inc. and awarded to the Hijo Employees Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative-1 (HEARBCO-1), before members of MARBAI broke away in 2010.

In a statement on May 10, LFC said they opposed DAR’s order as the disputed property was awarded to HEARBCO-1 members.

It added it cannot “be dispossessed of the land and its existing management contract over the area” because the Davao City Regional Trial Court Branch 14 approved the

Compromise Agreement between LFC and HEARBCO-1.

“As a good corporate citizen, Lapanday has always stood by what is just and fair.

The company is steadfast in exercising only what is legal and lawful, which President Duterte said is part of his legacy, to uphold ‘justice for all’,” it said.

The firm said the President, who is a lawyer, “understands that a final and executory judgment on a case is the ultimate proof that justice and fairness prevailed.”

But Mariano, in a press release issued on May 16, maintained the lower court has no jurisdiction over the matter because it is DAR who has quasi-judicial powers over agrarian reform cases.

Citing Section 50 of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law or Republic Act 6657, Mariano said “DAR clearly has quasi-judicial power and exclusive jurisdiction in all issues involving the implementation of the agrarian reform program. Only the Supreme Court may issue a temporary restraining order to stop the implementation of DAR’s decision.”

He reminded the Davao del Norte Police Office to assist in the installation of MARBAI members. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)

14 MOTORING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

Driving tips: Merging, I turning and passing M

ERGING, turning, and passing require you to be extremely alert and aware of the other drivers around you. Many accidents happen because of drivers being oblivious and inconsiderate when doing one of these three things.

Here are some tips.

Avoid making left-hand turns across busy intersections that don’t have turn signals. It takes awhile to learn how to gauge the oncoming traffic. It’s better to go down a block or two until you come to a light, or plan a route that doesn’t need this turn.

When there’s an obstruction in your lane, wait for oncoming traffic to clear before you pull around. Just because someone’s blocking your lane doesn’t mean you have the right of way in the next or oncoming lane.

Use turn signals to indicate your intention to turn or to change lanes. Make sure to give the cars behind you enough time to react before

C

How to keep your car cool this summer

mum speed limit.

• When there is another car passing you.

• When passing one car doesn’t make a difference.

• Over a solid yellow line on your side (you need a dotted line to pass).

• In dangerous weather conditions.

• When there’s a blind spot in front of you, like a hill or a curve.

• When there is oncoming traffic in the other lane.

• If there is road work or construction going on.

• Through tunnels, on narrow roads, or on bridges.

• On two lane roads, never pass trucks or other vehicles you can’t see around.

you take the action. Then make sure to turn your signal off.

Here are some of the driving tips when you should not make a pass (overtaking): • If you don’t know if

there’s enough space or time.

• Because you’re playing “passing games” with a friend.

• If the car you’re trying to pass is going the maxi-

How to Pass with Caution Pass at least ten miles per hour faster than the car you’re going around, but do not exceed the speed limit.

Be sure you’ve completely cleared the passed car with enough space before pulling back into your lane.

Chevrolet rolls out 2017 TB LTX variant

HEVROLET gives its confident and capable midsize SUV an upgrade with the launch of the new mid-grade Trailblazer 4x2 LTX variant. The new Chevrolet Trailblazer 4x2 LTX AT boasts of exterior and interior refinements and added safety features to provide Filipinos a premium and excellent driving experience.

At the heart of the Chevrolet Trailblazer 4x2 LTX is the same Euro 4-compliant 2.8L Duramax four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine found in other Trailblazer variants. Producing 200 horsepower and 500 Nm, it makes the most power and torque in its segment. The Trailblazer’s signature engine, with its Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT), offers excellent performance, improved fuel economy, and lower emissions.

The Chevrolet Trailblazer has 3.5-ton towing capacity, class-leading 1-ton hauling capacity, and best-in-class 800mm water wading capability, making it the perfect ride for off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Complementing the angular lines and strong proportions of the Chevrolet Trailblazer are exterior enhancements that give the new LTX variant a higher level of toughness on the road.

The Chevrolet Trailblazer LTX features a front two-tone bumper overrider that accentuates the vehicle’s sporty look while providing an extra margin of protection when driving and parking. It is also equipped

with the rear lift gate spoiler for tidier airflow behind the vehicle and a rear bumper scuff plate to protect the bumper sill from scratches. Roof rails have been added to the Chevrolet Trailblazer LTX to provide additional cargo capability for equipment like roof racks and storage boxes. And finally, black “B” pillars complete the overall sporty sophisticated look of the new LTX variant.

The new Chevrolet Trailblazer LTX provides a modern and premium cabin feel with its enhanced trims and finish.

The 7-seater midsize SUV comes with jet-black leather seats with perforated seat cushions and backrests for increased driving comfort. Enhanced with accent light gray stitching, its jetblack leather-wrapped steering wheel and door panel inserts underscore the upmarket feel of the vehicle. The Trailblazer LTX also features cubic laminated gear knob and center console that complement the overall look. Adding to its ample storage spaces are discreet pockets at the edge of the driver’s and passenger’s seats, perfect for keeping small loose items away from prying eyes.

The new Trailblazer LTX variant comes with additional technological and safety features to give its driver and passengers peace of mind while on the road.

The rear view mirror incorporates an HD in-dash camera for recording looping video in a 32 GB memory card, a first-in-its-

T’S the height of summer and with that, the heat can get really intense. As temperatures soar, imagine how a car feels like, especially when it’s sealed up under sun. Prevent your car from being a rolling oven with these 6 tips to keep your car cooler.

#1. Park in a shaded area Avoid parking directly under the sun without any shade.

The temperature inside your car will rise quickly and the heat can damage the interior of your car as well. If parking under a shade isn’t possible, try turning your car around or park in a position where most of the sunlight will go into the back of your car. This is to prevent you from touching a hot steering wheel or seat when you get into your car. #2. Invest in good car tint Tinting your windows can keep your car cooler and also protect the interior from sun damage. Make sure to invest in a good quality tint so that it actually cuts down not just visible light, but the more harmful UV rays (UVA and UVB). Oh, and good quality tints also prevent distortions. #3. Get rid of the hot air Closed windows trap hot air.

If your car or vehicle is equipped with window visors (the plastic piece that runs along the length of your side glass), you can leave a small crack open to let the air circulate. Be careful though, make sure that the opening is not large enough for someone to reach through.

Also, take note of the weather: if it rains, the water might get into the interior. #4. Cool the floor first Most people immediately switch on the upper vents to get the air flowing. Hot air rises so it’s better to switch the bottom vents on maximum setting to push the air out. Once the car begins cooling, you can open the upper vents. #5. Drive for a minute or two with the windows down This will force out the heated interior air and allow cooler outside air to flow in. #6. Use the fresh air setting on the your A/C The Fresh air setting on your car air conditioner allows you to push the hot interior air out. If you use the Recirculation setting immediately, it just means that the hot trapped air inside is just being moved around.

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11th Judicial region BRANCH 14 Davao City

R-DVO-17-00907-SP IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR: I. THE CANCELLATION OF THE SECOND-DOUBLE REGISTRATION OF BIRTH OF EDRIAN JAY BAGUHIN SERAPIO (A.K.A. EDRIAN JAY DELIGERO BAGUHIN) UNDER CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH BEARING LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY NO. 2002-11864; II. THE CORRECTION OF THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF EDRIAN JAY BAGUHIN SERAPIO (A.K.A. EDRIAN JAY DELIGERO BAGUHIN) UNDER REGISTRY NO. 96-1, 293 BY: CHANGING HIS NAME FROM: “EDRIAN JAY DELIGERO BAGUHIN” TO “EDRIAN JAY BAGUHIN SERAPIO” EDRIAN JAY BAGUHIN SERAPIO, Petitioner, - versus EDGARDO T. SERAPIO AND THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTAR OF DAVAO CITY,

Respondents, X--------------------------------------------------------xx ORDER OF HEARING

class standard feature in the midsize SUV segment.

The LTX is also fitted with a reversing camera and rear park assist top view that provide visual and audible warnings when reversing in tight spaces. The indash camera, reversing camera and rear park assist top view are displayed on a 4.3-inch LCD monitor placed in the rear view mirror for convenient viewing when driving and parking.

The new Chevrolet Trailblazer 4x2 LTX is backed by the Chevrolet Complete Care Program to give customers a worry-free drive. The Trailblazer LTX comes with a special 5-year warranty coverage:

3-year bumper to bumper warranty plus a 2-year warranty on the Power Train or 100,000 kilometer, whichever comes first.

Chevrolet owners are automatically enrolled in the 24/7 Chevrolet Emergency Roadside Support for 3 years, with an option to renew on the 4th year of ownership. They are also given access to 24/7 Customer Care Hotline and are guaranteed onehour express service for select services and non-stop service in select service centers.

The new Chevrolet Trailblazer LTX is now available in all authorized Chevrolet dealerships nationwide with an SRP of P 1,618,888.

A VERIFIED PETITION dated March 2, 2017 has been filed by petitioner Edrian Jay Baguhin Serapio through counsel, praying that after due notice and hearing, an Order be issued: (a) Cancelling the second Certificate of Live Birth of the petitioner under Registry No. 2002-11864; (b) Adjudging that the first and original Certificate of Live Birth of the petitioner with Registry No. 96-1,293 be retained as the official and only record of his birth; (c) Adjudging further that the name of the petitioner in the Certificate of Live Birth with Registry No. 96-1, 293 be changed from “EDRIAN JAY DELIGERO BAGUHIN” to “EDRIAN JAY BAGUHIN SERAPIO”; and (d) Directing the Local Civil Registar of Davao City to cause the aforementioned changes in the Certificate of Live Birth with Registry No. 96-1, 293.

Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, this Court hereby sets the same for hearing on June 21, 2017 at 8:30 in the morning. Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioner in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Davao, once a week for THREE (3) consecutive weeks.

All interested persons may appear before this Court on or before the aforesaid date of hearing to show cause if any, why the said petition should not be granted.

Furnish a copy of this Order to the following: the City Prosecution Office, Davao City; the Office of the Solicitor General, Makati City (together with a copy of the Petition); the Office of the Clerk of Court, Cebu City; Philippine Statistics Authority (National Statistics Office); counsel for the petitioner, as well as petitioner herself.

The petitioner through counsel is hereby directed to furnish the Office of the Solicitor General a copy of this Petition.

SO ORDERED Given this 20th day of MARCH, 2017 at Davao City, Philippines.

JILL ROSE S. JAUGAN-LO Presiding Judge

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

ON THE MARK. Gilas Pilipinas forward Allein Maliksi shoots over Patiphan Khalan of Thailand during their SEABA GANGED UP. Junmar Fajardo of Gilas Pilipinas is guarded tightly by Kannut Samerjai of Thailand during the PhilippinesCup match on Tuesday night.

Thailand match in the ongoing SEABA Cup.

Basang elected Minproba prexy B

OXING promoter-manager Jilson Basang of MB Boxing Promotion from Carmen, Davao del Norte is now the new president of the Mindanao Professional Boxing Association (Minproba).

Basang succeeded lady boxing promoter-manager Yolanda Alfante of Shock Punch Promotions, who is now based in Bacoor, Cavite.

Basang, who is also a civil engineer, was unopposed during an election held last May 13 during the closing of the 3rd Philippine Boxing Convention at the Marco Polo Hotel in Davao City.

“I am humbled by the

trust and confidence of our Philippine Games and Amusement Board Chairman Khalil Mitra and my fellow boxing promoters and managers, ring officials and boxers,” said Basang.

Basang and the other new officers were immediately inducted by Games and Amusements Board (GAB) Chairman Abraham Kahlil “Baham” Mitra. It was witnessed by GAB Commissioners Fritz Gaston and Eduard Trinidad.

Veteran boxing promoter-manager Leonil Lazarito of Leolet Boxing Stable from Valencia City, Bukidnon is the elected Vice President while Lito delos Reyes of ForePlay

Promotions is the secretary.

Rafael Jimenez of RCJ Boxing Stable from Iligan City is the treasurer while Joseph Delopere of Ivan Josh Boxing Foundation from Agusan del Sur is the auditor.

Wowie Lalanto of WLS Boxing Stable also from Valencia City is the public relations officer.

The Directors are Iligan’s Arnold Palafox (Region 10), Davao’s Raides Neri of MP Davao Stable (Region 11), General Santos City’s Jim Claude Manangquil of Sanman Promotions (Region 12) and Surigao’s Jo-Ay Lopez (CARAGA Region).

Basang said that he will

immediately “start to amend the reforms right away for the welfare of the Filipino Boxers.”

“I am so overwhelmed and amazed by the trust and support given to me,” he said.

Basang wants to adopt the change of Chairman Mitra wants them to do based on the vision and mandate of President Rody Duterte.

“I will start to amend right away for reforms in boxing Industry especially in Mindanao,” said Basang “I want the welfare of our boxers first! This is my priority as also a boxing promoter and manager that’s my vision and that’s what in my heart” said Basang.

NEW OFFICERS. The new set of MINPROBA officers take their oath of office.

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Sharapova denied French Open wildcard

WO-TIME French Open champion Maria Sharapova has been denied the Roland Garros wildcard and will miss out on the competition for a second straight year because of her past doping ban.

The president of the French Tennis Federation, Bernard Giudicelli, phoned Sharapova on Tuesday to tell her she would not be participating in the open, which begins on May 28.

“I decided not to give Maria Sharapova a wildcard,” Giudicelli said, announcing the decision via a Facebook Live broadcast.

He said that although he

felt pressured, given fans’ expectations, the need to “protect the game” made him decide not to do any favors because of someone’s popularity.

“While there can be a wildcard for return from injury, there can’t be a wildcard for return from doping,” he said.

Since Sharapova returned to tennis last month after a 15-month suspension for testing positive for a banned substance, she has been given wildcards by three other tournaments, including the Italian Open. That tournament’s organizers were sharply criticized for not granting one to former French Open champion Francesca Schiavone, an Italian.

At her first few games since the hiatus, Sharapova was cheered on by devoted fans but she eventually lost to Kiki Mladenovic in the semifinal of the Stuttgart Open, and didn’t achieve a high enough ranking to secure a spot in qualifying round for Roland Garros without a wild card.

The 30-year old Russian initially was given a two-year suspension for testing positive for the banned hormone and metabolic modulator meldonium at last year’s Australian Open. The supplement had previously been allowed for years, and Sharapova said she overlooked announcements by WADA that it had been added

to the ban list on January 1, 2016.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport reduced the suspension on appeal, ruling she bore “less than significant fault” in the case and could not “be considered to be an intentional doper.”

Sharapova, who has held titles from all four majors, won at Roland Garros in 2012 and 2014.

Asked Monday whether she would be disappointed not to receive a wildcard to the second grand slam of the year, she told reporters, “Nothing is a disappointment after being away from the game for 15 months.”

Warriors take 2-0 lead

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TEVE Kerr provided a strong message, just not from his usual spot on the bench: Play with urgency from the opening tip this time.

The Golden State Warriors did just that for their ailing coach watching from the locker room, and left Gregg Popovich questioning and criticizing his Spurs players for a lack of belief and feeling sorry for themselves without injured superstar Kawhi Leonard.

Stephen Curry had 29 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in three quarters and the Warriors trounced on the short-handed Spurs, running away from San Antonio for a 136100 rout Tuesday night and a 2-0 lead in the Western Conference finals.

Kevin Durant added 16 points and Draymond Green provided another impressive all-around performance with 13 points, nine rebounds, six assists, two steals and two blocks. Rookie Patrick McCaw had 18 points and five assists off the bench shooting 6 for 8 as Golden State earned its second-most lopsided postseason victory ever to go to 10-0. ‘’That’s just been the message all year, just play with urgency and start the game off with some energy and throw the first punch,’’ Durant said. ‘’Unlike Game 1 we did that tonight. We know they’re a little undermanned but they still play extremely hard, so we knew we couldn’t come out here and relax and think they were just going to give us the game. We had to go take it.’’

The 36-point Warriors’ win is second to a 39-point victory for Philadelphia at St. Louis on April 6, 1948.

Jonathon Simmons scored 17 of his 22 points in the first half as the lone bright spot for the Spurs. ‘’It looked pretty collective to me. I don’t think it was one guy who didn’t believe and he infected everybody else or anything like that. As a group they just let themselves down,’’ Popovich said. ‘’The truth always quoteun-quote sets you free. You can’t sugarcoat it or say ‘if we had just made a couple shots we’d have been right there. That’s pretty lame. So, call it like it is. We didn’t come to play. We felt sorry for ourselves. We need to get slapped and come back and play Game 3 and see who we are.’’

Leonard re-injured his left ankle in Sunday’s 113-111 Game

1 loss after coming down on Zaza Pachulia’s foot. Popovich on Monday called out the Warriors starting center for the ‘’dangerous’’ and ‘’unsportsmanlike’’ closeout - which had Pachulia insisting he is not a dirty player, was only playing hard, and felt badly that the All-Star forward was injured.

Game 3 in the best-of-seven series is Saturday in San Antonio.

Pachulia left the game injured for a Warriors team already without key reserve forward Andre Iguodala, held out because of soreness in his left knee that limited him to 10 minutes in Game 1.

An X-ray on Pachulia’s bruised right heel was clear but he was scheduled for an MRI on Wednesday.

Golden State quickly established its pass-happy, up-tempo style to take the Spurs out from the opening tip. It was a drastic difference from a game of catchup two days earlier when the Warriors rallied from 25 down and a 20-point halftime deficit.

The bench contributed a season-best 63 points. ‘’They came out with a sense of urgency from the beginning and they played that way for 48 minutes,’’ acting Warriors coach Mike Brown said.

Klay Thompson, still struggling to find his steady shooting touch, had 11 points, six rebounds and four assists. The Warriors had 39 assists - the most by any team this postseason - including 30 on their initial 38 baskets.

Shaun Livingston scored in double figures for the first time this postseason with 10 points for Golden State.

Simmons started in Leonard’s place and made 6 of 9 shots to begin the game while the rest of the Spurs were 3 for 22.

LEONARD’S STATUS Popovich wasn’t about to guess whether Leonard would return in time for Saturday’s game, saying it could be Friday or even game day before that would be determined. ‘’I have no idea. Just depends on how the ankle heals,’’ Popovich said. ‘’I’d probably list him as questionable. But the thing that worries me is that he did it again, the exact same thing. So one would logically think maybe it will take longer, but I’m hoping that’s not true and we’ll have him for Game 3. But I don’t know. I don’t think we’re going to know until Friday and Saturday, probably.’’

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 33 • THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017

EASY FIGHT

Would-be foe Khan says Horn fight a walkover for Manny

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ORLD welterweight champ Manny Pacquiao is looking dynamite in his gym workouts ahead of his Battle of Brisbane against Jeff Horn and British fighter Amir Khan says Australians can forget about celebrating at Suncorp Stadium on July 2.

Khan, whose negotiations with Pacquiao for a fight in Dubai earlier this yearthreatened to derail the

BELITTLING HORN. Amir Khan says Manny Pacquiao (shown here in training) will walk through Jeff Horn.

Horn bout, says he is back in talks with Pacquiao for a fight at the end of the year.

He says Pacquiao was “looking for a way out’’ of their fight the first time and wanted an easier opponent.

“We have known each other since 2008,’’ Khan told boxingscene.com.

“We used to spar together all the time. But since then, I’ve changed my fight style. He knows it is going to be a very hard fight for him, that’s why he’s probably

thought I’ll fight somebody easy “That’s why he’s fighting Jeff Horn, who is an unknown fighter really.

But I still think our fight will happen, because it makes good

money. It’s a big financial fight.”

Pacquiao has shown this week in his gym workouts with co-trainer Buboy Fernandez that he still has plenty of speed and power.

Pacquiao hard at work in preparation for the Battle of Brisbane.

His promoter, 85-year-old Bob Arum, who has staged fights for the likes of Muhammad Ali, Floyd Mayweather, Sugar Ray Leonard and Marvin Hagler, says he has never seen a fight generate so much interest in a country as Pacquiao-Horn has done in Australia.

Arum expects ticket

sales to exceed 40,000 by next week and that Suncorp will host its biggest ever crowd of 55,000 by fight time.

“Tremendous, absolutely tremendous, never seen anything like it, really,’’ Arum said.

“The whole country is engaged in it. The ticket sales have been absolutely enormous. It’s trending towards a sell-out.

“Horn has resonated with the public in Australia. I think Pacquiao is an icon. The reception that they gave Pacquiao was unbelievable and Pacquiao appeals to the Australians because of his humble nature and they fell in love with him.’’

HORN IN TRAINING. Horn trains with his strength and conditioning coach Dundee Kim. Peter Walli