Edge 10 Issue 41, May 30, 2017

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

DOING FINE EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Dabawenyos told: Prudently plan activities

LIGHT MOOD. Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio gestures as she shares a light moment with reporters while in the middle of a news conference at the City Hall on Monday. The mayor tackled current issues such as the martial law and the proposed additional budget for Task Force Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

By REBECCA ESPERA

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AVAO City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio on Monday said the city has been doing fine since the declaration of Martial Law on May 23, especially with the military and police safeguarding it from violence.

But Mayor Sara urged residents not to be complacent by adhering to the general guidelines she issued under a ‘secure and hold’ status.

“Davaoeños must continue to be prudent in planning their activities and avoid the public places considering that the situation Mindanao-wide is very volatile,” she said.

The cooperative response of local residents notwithstanding, tourism has taken a beating with the cancellation of some incoming flights.

One airline company has offered to reimburse passengers who failed to make it to Davao due to cancelled flights.

The mayor said she had discussed the problem with the city and regional tourism office to address the situation.

It was learned that a Japanese consul official has raised concerns on the putting up of investments by Japanese investors given the declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao.

“Aduna nay pag duha-duha ang mga Japanese investors nga nag sulti sa iyaha (Japanese Consul) na interested sila sa Davao City” said the Mayor.

Davaoeños must continue to be prudent in planning their activities and avoid the public places considering that the situation Mindanaowide is very volatile

The City Officials then advised the Japanese Consul to “wait for the condition [to subside] since it is still too early [to judge the situation] while everybody is still making adjustments, and that the situation remains new for everyone yet.”

Mayor Sara said it was still premature to expect immediate normalcy basing on the initial condition of the City especially that the City is facing a real threat of violence.

The mayor said one cause of celebration has been the crime in the City that significantly lowered “because of [the] cooperation sa mga tao and because of the heightened security of the City.”

DAVAO EDGE Sports Joint AFP-Moro war vs. Maute welcomed T NEWS

By JECIA ANNE OPIANA HE Eastern Mindanao Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the Moro-Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front in the cam-

paign to flush out terrorist groups in Mindanao.

“We would certainly welcome any support and assistance these Moro fronts can provide us,” said EastMin Command chief Lt. Gen. Reynaldo Guerrero during

the Kapehan sa Dabaw on Monday.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s had earlier revealed that he accepted the officer of MNLF chairman Nur Misuari to enlist some of his fighters in the fight

against the terrorist group Maute in Marawi City.

Duterte revealed Misuari’s offer in a speech in Jolo, Sulu on May 27.

Gen. Guerrero said it would not be the first time

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Arum mulls Pacquiao-McGregor P16

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

IN THE INTERIM. Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella and Armed Forces of the Philippines Spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla engage in a conversation on the sidelines of the ‘Mindanao Hour’ at the New Executive Building, Malacañang Complex, Manila on Monday. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

DC to send relief goods for Marawi evacuees

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IX days after the declaration of Martial Law

by President Rodrigo Roa-Duterte, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio said the city of Davao has yet to receive an evacuee seeking relief from the conflict in Marawi City.

The mayor revealed this on Monday, adding there is also no evacuee center prepared in Davao City for the possible influx of evacuees.

Instead, she said the local city government is “planning to send relief goods to Iligan City” once the safety of the volunteers and the relief goods

has been assured.

“Anytime pwede ta magpalakaw ug relief goods ug mga tao, ang atoa lang is ang safety, [which] to be discussed with the Armed Forces of the Philippines” said Mayor Sara.

She said that much as they do not want to cause nuisance to the operation of the AFP, there is still need to deliver the relief goods with the assistance of the armed forces.

So far, Mayor Sara said that there is no evacuee camp in the City. She added that, probably, those who have come to Davao

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Eastern Mindanao Command issues martial law brochures

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HE Eastern Mindanao Command has started distributing two brochures, “Declaration of Martial Law” and “Martial Law and Violent Extremism” which will be initially available in all military and police checkpoints.

Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) spokesperson Maj. Ezra Balagtey said they were printing 10,000 copies of the two brochures for distribution. It is part of Eastmincom’s advocacy to explain martial law and violent extremism.

The first brochure “Declaration of Martial Law” explains invasion and rebellion as ground for the declaration.

The brochure defines “invasion and rebellion” as acts of rising publicly and taking

arms against the government for the purpose of removing allegiance to the government and its laws as what is taking in Marawi City.

The first brochure also quotes Article 134 of the Revised Penal Code, the Article VII of Section 18 of the 1987 Constitution which provides the need for the president to report to Congress within 48 hours, for Congress to act on the martial law proclamation and the need to be reviewed by the Supreme Court.

It also points out that martial law does not suspend the operation of the Constitution while the Judicial and Legislative branches would continue to function headed by civilians.

Under the rights of civil-

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Mayor opens door to local peace talks

By REBECCA ESPERA

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AVAO City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio said that she is open to the idea of localized peace talks with rebel groups, notably the communist New Peoples’ Army.

During the 5th round of the peace negotiations at Netherlands with the CPP/ NPA/NDF (CNN), the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) panel

raised the possibility of localizing peace talks. Mayor Sara said he has reservation on the matter although but is not closing the door to the idea.

She said she had her doubts the Red will ‘take the peace negotiations as a serious agenda but added one should be rational and open to the possibility.’

She said that as the May-

or of Davao City, “everything na sa tan-aw nako na makatabang [ang localized peace talk] buhaton nako na para sa siyudad nato, open ko pirmi.”

Her condition: the rebel groups should show sincerity in coming to the negotiating table to discuss peace.

“Lisod mag storya [about attaining peace] then after naay mamatay due to IED (Improvised Explosive De-

vice)” said the Mayor.

It can be recalled that the Mayor has expressed her sentiments on the matter after a fish vendor named ‘Larry Buenafe’ died due to the attack of the New People’s Army against Lapanday Foods Corp last April 29.

Mayor Sara she was uncertain on localized peace talks if similar incidents continue to happen.

of these brave men.

In the same vein, the military official also urged the public to refrain from posting in the social media suspicious information or possible terrorist propaganda as this could help spread disinformation in the ongoing government campaign against the lawless group.

“We fervently urge our people to refrain from posting in social media information that would tend to exacerbate the situation. Especially photos

and videos on the movement of our troops and on terrorists propaganda circulating through social media,” Arevalo stressed.

He also assured the public that the government remains atop and in control of the situation.

“We will continue to provide updates as often as possible with due regard to the security of our operating forces and the conduct of the operations itself,” he added.

As this develops, AFP

spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla on Monday said that military forces have full control of Marawi City.

“We are in full control, meaning to say we can control who comes in and who comes out, who moves around and who doesn’t. And we’re trying to isolate all these pockets of resistance that have remained,” he said.

As of this posting, Maute Group members killed in the ongoing operation are placed

AFP appeals: Don’t spread info that could worsen Marawi City incident T

HE adage “loose lips, sink ships” is still true even in this time of the Internet.

This was stressed by Armed Forces of the Philippines public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo as he appealed to the public not to post sensitive and unverified information that might imperil military units currently engaged in clearing operations against Maute Group members in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur as this could imperil the lives

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Children’s Games ends on high note T

PRECAUTION. A member of the Davao City Police Auxiliary removes the checkpoint signage after police officers conducted a two-hour random inspection on motorists along Ecoland Drive, Matina, Davao City on Monday morning. Lean Daval Jr.

Standard IDs seen to preempt fakes

By REBECCA ESPERA

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HE City Peace and Order Council has recommended a standard identification system to the Office of the President, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Department of National Defense, Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio on Monday, The CPOC came up with the suggestion to render use-

less the proliferation of fake ID cars that has evolved as a ‘backyard industry.’

Mayor Sara said a standardized ID card has become necessary given high technology of today “pwede na mocome up with an ID na dili jud ma-fake.”

The National Bureau of Investigation is doing some

preemptive actions with regards to the proliferation of fake IDs. Mayor Sara said that some of those who do not have an area for the business of making fake IDs are doing it at home, which she termed as ‘backyard’.

However, “ang mga known na naga buhat ug fake

IDS under surveillance sa atong law enforcement authorities” she added.

The City Mayor has then urged the NBI to be more proactive in addressing the issue of the proliferation of fake IDs, particularly to its manufacturers, given that the current condition of the City is under martial law.

panic amid ongoing clash in Marawi City.

Supt. Diomarie Albarico, ZCPO officer-in-charge, issued the warning as he appealed to the public to refrain from post-

ing unverified information in social media sites and spreading the same through text message.

Albarico said the circulation of false information was

in violation of Presidential Decree 1727 declaring “as unlawful the malicious dissemination of false information of the willful making of any threat

HE 2017 Mindanao Children’s Games held in Davao City from May 23 to 27, came to a successful close Saturday. It was three days of light play and fun for children 12 years old and under who participated in this event under the Sports for Peace program of the Philippine Sport Commission.

In his speech, PSC Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez recognized the roles of education and sports in the development of a responsible citizen.

He enjoined the children to “study hard so that you reach your dreams, you see new places and learn different languages. Involve yourself in sports to learn discipline and fortify your mind and bodies.” Ramirez also said allowing children to play together, regardless of religious, political and other inclinations will teach and show them Filipinos are one with one blood and one nation.

“There may be war in other countries and disorder in our own backyard, but though this we show everyone that peace reigns in Davao, in Mindanao.”

Barangay 76-A swept all sets to take the championship in girls’ volleyball. Barangay Tumugan was runner-up. Volleyball tournament manager Abet Bernan said that there were a lot of potential players

on the floor but “more than the skills it is developing interest in sports that was more important.” A total of 10 barangays participated in the girls’ volleyball event.

In boys’ 3-on-3 basketball, Baranggay Buhangin copped the title beating early finalist, Barangay Hizon, 18-5. Baranggays Bantol, Baguio Proper and Indangan also won in the Larong Pinoy events.

The closing program was a simple affair at the Almendras Recreational Center in Davao City. Folk dances from the Agro Industrial Foundation College of the Philippines provided entertainment for the short ceremonies. Winners of the games took home cash prizes and gift bags containing snack food and school supplies. All participants received their own loot bags.

During the conduct of the games, the Davao Sports for Peace Corps Volunteers Association (DSPCVA) was also formed, giving the PSC access to talents and skills of sports practitioners, enthusiasts, coaches and athletes living within and near Davao City.

Ramirez hopes to replicate this in the next editions of the Children’s Games which is expected to be held in other areas of Mindanao, VIsayas and Luzon.

PSC

Police eye charges against pranksters in Zamboanga

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HE Zamboanga City Police Office on Monday warned that charges would be filed against people circulating false information that could trigger fear and

DSWD to send more resources for families affected by armed conflict in Marawi City

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O ensure the smooth flow of relief operations for the families affected by the current armed conflict in Marawi City, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Central Office through the Disaster Response Assistance and Management Bureau (DReAMB) prepared requests for sub-allotment and transfer of funds for Field Offices VIII and XII. DSWD CO will download P19,080,000.00 intended for the purchase of 40,000 family food packs (FFPs) and handling and hauling for the delivery of relief goods for the victims of armed conflict .

Meanwhile, the amount of P 8,200,000.00 will be downloaded to FO XII for the purchase of relief goods for the victims of armed conflict in Marawi City.

Around 10,000 Family Food Packs (FFPs) will come from the Visayas Disaster Re-

sponse Center (VDRC) and for delivery to Iligan City today.

As of May 27, 8am, 9,236 families or 43,912 persons have been affected in 20 barangays in Regions X and ARMM. Evacuation centers have been set-up to accommodate the displaced families and individuals and Food and Non-Food Items are on course for delivery.

The Central Office, Field Offices in Mindanao, National Resource Operations Center (NROC), and Visayas Disaster Response Center (VDRC) in Region VII have a total stockpile and standby funds amounting to ₱1,354,750,413.82 with standby funds amounting to ₱1,024,030,820,26 at the CO and FOs. Of the said amount, ₱1,007,432,193.67 is the available Quick Response Fund at the CO. The Department also has a total of 174,673 Family

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ADVISORY COUNCIL EYED. Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) commander Lieutenant General Rey Leonardo Guerrero (right) discusses matters pertaining to martial law and bares the plan to create a martial law advisory council which will be composed of multi-sectoral groups. Guerrero,

PSC Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez

together with Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) head Benito De Leon, graced the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao on Monday.

Lean Daval Jr.

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

AirAsia warns of free ticket scam via online

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IRASIA Bhd has issued a public warning with regards to a social media post, claiming to offer free flight tickets through an online survey.

The scam requires participants to answer several questions to redeem vouchers, the low-cost carrier said in a statement today.

“There is also another scam circulating on Facebook, offering 268 free tickets in con-

junction with AirAsia’s 28th anniversary.

“Both scams used the AirAsia brand without authorisation and aim to lure the public to participate in it,” it added.

The airline said it would not be held liable for any claims pertaining to the false scheme and not hesitate to take legal action against individuals or groups which organise illegal schemes using the AirAsia brand. (BERNAMA)

Give COC process in WPS chance to progress: DFA

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N official of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has underscored the need to give the code of conduct (COC) process a chance to progress and enable it to manage tensions in the disputed West Philippine Sea/ South China Sea (WPS/SCS).

DFA Assistant Secretary for ASEAN Affairs Ma. Hellen Barber-De La Vega recognized sentiments it took time for Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members and China to proceed from the Declaration on the Conduct (DOC) of Parties in the WPS/ SCS to the current agreement on framework for COC. “I think we should give it a chance. I think there is a consensus among all of us in the region that these are uncertain times. What is important is to be able to provide stability, continuity and predictability in managing the tension in the region,” she said in an interview.

Barber-De La Vega noted the COC has to be anchored on the rule of law and on the shared value for peace and stability.

ASEAN members and

China completed the framework on the code of conduct for managing the dispute in the WPS/SCS on May 19 in Guiyang, Guizhou Province in Southwest China.

The DFA official said the COC is “going to build upon the existing DOC”.

Parties signed the DOC in the SCS in 2002 to resolve territorial dispute peacefully.

“Just to emphasize, this is just a framework. It is the beginning towards the conclusion of the COC,” noted Barber-De La Vega.

She said they expect to submit the completed COC framework to the Foreign Ministers of ASEAN and China during their meeting in Manila in August for their consideration.

“If it gets approved, immediately in earnest, we will begin working on, fleshing out the details of the COC,” she added.

Countries that have also made competing claims over parts or all of the WPS/SCS are the Philippines, China, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan.

(PNA)

INGAPORE plans to build a comprehensive cycling network with bicycle paths connecting housing estates in the north, south, east and west to the city center.

It is one of the plans that were announced by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Urban Redevelopment Authority on Sunday for a car-lite city center, the Straits Times reported.

The LTA will be calling a tender in the coming months for companies to design and construct the proposed central area cycling network. But no fixed date for the project completion is unveiled.

Gopinath Menon, a senior transport research consultant at Nanyang Tech-

nological University, was quoted as saying that having more cycling paths will encourage people to cycle longer distances, which they are currently wary of trying because “they don’t feel safe on the roads.”

Safety is also an issue that hampers the development of bike-sharing business in Singapore, as some people criticize users for reckless riding. At present, two Chinese bike-sharing platforms, Ofo and Mobike, and their local rival oBike are running businesses here.

The LTA also announced that Singapore will allow commuters continue carrying foldable bikes and personal mobility devices on board public transport from June 1 following the end of a six-month trial. (Xinhua)

Singapore to build its bicycle network S

BUSINESS AS USUAL. The different industries in the business sector in Davao City say there is a continued upswing in the city’s economy despite the declaration of martial law last week which was met with much criticism mostly non-Mindanaoans. Lean Daval Jr.

Duterte certifies passage of tax reform bill urgent Seen crucial to financial sustainability of govt.

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OLLOWING a request from the Department of Finance, President Duterte certified on Monday as an urgent measure for congressional approval the eight-month-old Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN).

The bill is seen as crucial to the financial sustainability of the government’s ambitious agenda to sustain the country’s growth momentum and accelerate poverty reduction via a massive spending on infrastructure, human capital and social protection for the poor and vulnerable sectors.

“We are transmitting this letter of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte certifying to the necessity of the immediate enactment of House Bill No 5636 (the proposed Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act…” Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea said in his letter to Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez dated May 29.

“The benefits to be derived from this tax reform measure will sustainably finance the Government’s envisioned massive investments in infrastructure thereby encourag-

ing economic activity and job creation, as well as fund the desired increase in the public budget for health, education and social programs to alleviate poverty,” President Duterte said in a separate letter sent to Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III. Presidential Legislative Liaison Office head Adelino Sitoy was also furnished copies of the letter.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III made this appeal in a memorandum to the Chief Executive, in the hope that the House of Representatives, from where all tax and budget laws originate, could pass the TRAIN, which is the first package of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP), before Congress goes on its sine die adjournment on June 2.

Both the House and the Senate will reopen for the Second Regular Session of the 17th Congress on July 24, when President Duterte is to deliver his second State of the Nation Address (SONA).

“We believe that the President’s certification of the tax reform bill as an urgent legislative measure can help en-

sure timely and full passage of the tax reform package before the close of the session on June 2, 2017, so that the benefits of the reform can be felt sooner,” said Dominguez in his memo to the President.

TRAIN aims to make the country’s antiquated tax system simpler, fairer and more efficient, especially for the poor and low-income families, by making sizable cuts in personal income tax (PIT) rates—and to make up for the projected revenue loss, and at the same time raise funds for the Duterte administration’s massive expenditure program, by expanding the Value Added Tax (VAT) base and adjusting excise taxes on oil, automobiles and other products.

Dominguez pointed out in his memo the “dire consequences” of the Congress’ failure to pass soon enough this TRAIN bill, given its design to help guarantee a steady revenue flow for the Duterte administration’s unmatched public investments over the next half-decade to support its envisioned “Golden Age of Infrastructure,” attract investments and create jobs, cut the poverty rate from 21.6 per-

cent to 14 percent, and transform the Philippines into an upper middle-income economy by the time the President leaves office in 2022.

The finance secretary said that without the TRAIN bill, the government’s strategy to embark on an aggressive expenditure program by raising deficit spending to three percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) would lead to an “unsustainable fiscal position,” which, in turn, could trigger a credit rating downgrade possibly costing the government an extra P30 billion in annual debt servicing and P100 billion more in higher borrowing costs for the public.

Such a scenario, he said, could leave the government “more vulnerable to fiscal risk” because it would adversely affect the funding source for increasing state liabilities such as the pension of uniformed personnel and indigent senior citizens. With many countries including China already being downgraded, t h is tax reform bill serves as our country’s immunization from such threat. (DOF)

T

The project involves the construction of its two newest stations: Emerald Station in Cainta, Rizal and the Masinag Station at the Masinag Junction in Antipolo City.

In a statement, the DOTr said its completion will reduce travel time from Recto Avenue in Manila to Masinag by

40 minutes compared to the usual travel of 3 hours by bus or jeep.

The LRT-2 East extension also covers the construction of a 3.8 kilometer elevated guideway from Santolan to Masinag by project contractor DM Consunji Incorporated (DMCI).

The PHP1.17 billion proj-

ect is designed to accommodate 80,000 daily passengers and is expected to be completed in August 2018.

The LRT Line 2 system currently consists of 11 stations spanning 13 kilometers from Recto to Santolan with daily ridership of more than 200,000 passengers. (PNA)

DOTr breaks ground for LRT-2 Masinag project HE Department of Transportation and the Light Rail Transit Authority will break ground Tuesday the LRT Line 2 East (Masinag) Extension Project which will extend the current railway line from Santolan in Pasig City to Masinag in Antipolo City.

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Fuel marking to stop oil smuggling: DOF T

LISTING UP. A parent scans a paper printed with students’ names posted outside a classroom during the first day of enrollment at Magallanes Elementary School along Magallanes Street in Davao City on Monday. Prices of school supplies, bags, uniforms and other school necessities are expected to increase ahead of the opening of classes next week. Lean Daval Jr.

HE mandatory fuel marking system under the proposed tax reform measure is expected to curb the about P26.9 billion to P43.8 billion loss in government revenues due to oil smuggling.

The Bureau of Customs plans to conduct the competitive bidding for the procurement of the fuel marking system in the near term for approval in the third quarter of 2017 and implementation

by January 1, 2018, Finance Undersecretary Karl Kendrick Chua said in a statement.

Fuel marking is part of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN), which is now being deliberated in the House of Representative and which Finance officials hope to be approved

before the sessions adjourn on June 2.

Chua said cost of the fiveyear fuel marking program is estimated to be recovered in it’s first year of implementation.

He noted that Asian Development Bank has estimated revenue lost from oil smuggling to be around P37.5 billion while oil industry estimates pegs it around P43.8 billion.

Also, the Institute for Development and Econometric Analysis estimates that smuggled gasoline accounts for around 23 percent of gasoline consumption from 2000-06 while smuggled diesel account for 6 percent on the average, he added.

Latest revenues from petroleum products totaled to PHP52.56 billion. (PNA)

destinations before splashing into Saipan’s lagoon for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, the Sea Touch attraction in Saipan will allow tourists to interact and be up close with different marine species including sharks and stingrays in its sea aquarium.

Sea Touch, located at the Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan, is a government-backed project that aims to capitalize on the island’s rich marine life.

Aviareps Philippines Office Director Jean Lugan said that they have reported a steady growth in the number of Filipinos visiting Saipan.

Lugan credits the increase in Filipinos traveling to Saipan to Philippine Airlines (PAL) providing direct weekly flights and the large Filipino community in the island.

“More than the beaches and it being an adventure

transport to 2.9 percent from 3.2 percent to 2.9, and communication to 0.2 percent from 0.3 percent.

Prices of housing, utilities and fuels, however, are expected to slightly rise from 3.6 percent in April to 3.7 percent in May, but the sub-segment electricity, gas and other fuels may drop to 8.2 percent from the previous month’s 8.5 percent.

Education would remain at its same level of 1.8 percent from the previous month.

In the first four weeks of May, Manila Electric Co.’s (Meralco) rate per kilowatt hour (kWh) for an average of 200 kilowatts-per-month consumption dipped to P9.6 from P9.9 in April, but higher than P8.4 a year ago.

Meralco’s generation rate per kWh also fell to P4.9 during the month from P5.1 in April, but rose from P3.9 in the previous year.

PHL stand to gain from T Russia trip: DTI’s Lopez

Saipan has 2 new sites to lure Filipino tourists

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EPARTMENT of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez said the Philippines has gained from the official visit of President Rodrigo Duterte in Russia.

Despite President Duterte cutting short his official trip from four days to one day, Lopez said the bilateral meetings between the two countries, especially the meeting of President Duerte and Russian President Vladimir Putin, were productive and successful.

For the part of DTI, it has completed the Philippines-Russia Business Forum in Moscow attended by 450 businessmen, and in St. Petersburg which was attended

by 200 businessmen. Around 70 percent of the participants were Russian and the rest are Filipinos.

Most of the businessmen who attended were from the sectors of pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, construction materials, iron and steel, property development, and energy, among others.

“I can consider those forums successful not only because of attendance but the good networking and business leads created from both sides,” the trade chief noted.

Some USD 875 million or around PHP44 billion worth of business-to-business deals were signed during the visit.

Two agreements were

also signed between the DTI and Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development, along with eight other deals for cooperation in sectors of culture and the arts, tourism, agriculture, science and technology, transportation, defense, foreign affairs, and exchange of intelligence information.

Moreover, Lopez had meeting with St. Petersburg’s Chairman of Committee on External Affairs Evgeny Grigoriev, where both parties identified areas of cooperation such as pharmaceuticals industry and healthcare solutions; marine and naval engineering by offering training and apprenticeship to Filipinos; and education schol-

arships in life science and research institutions.

“Overall assessment, they value the new friendship with the Philippines especially the close relationship, like brothers in arms, between President Duterte and President Putin. Thus, they are all-out in supporting the Philippines in any field we would like,” Lopez mentioned.

“This is just the beginning of our deep and strong partnership with Russia — Moscow and St Petersburg. They await with excitement the return of the President to Russia and they will certainly extend more fields of cooperation, building on what we have started,” he added. (PNA)

HE Saipan tourism industry is trying to attract more Filipino tourists by providing them with two new island attractions.

Lead airline and tourism management company Avaiareps Philippines on Monday said the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) is offering the “Duck Tour” and “Sea Touch”.

The Duck Tour is an “amphibious-like” tour of the island using a vehicle that dates back to World War II. Here, tourists get to ride a dual-purpose vehicle which can stride in land and water.

The vehicle was formerly a military equipment called the DUKW (pronounced as duck) that was used in rescuing injured soldiers during the invasion of Normandy.

The tour starts at the Grapan Public Market and passes through the American Memorial Park and other historical

final videos for submission.

The top three videos will win cash prizes.

Eligible contestants must be 18-30 years of age on 1 July 2017 and ASEAN citizens residing in their home country.

Videos should be submitted to www.ASEANYouthVideoContest2017.com before 1 July 2017.

Detailed information and the application package is available here: h t t p : / / a s e a n . o rg / s to r age/2017/05/3rd-ASEAN-Youth-Video-Contest.zip This contest is supported by the U.S. Government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the U.S Mission to ASEAN and the ASEAN Foundation. (PNA)

HE increase in consumer prices would likely move at a much slower pace this month as food costs, particularly of vegetables tapered off, the Department of Finance said.

Based on the latest Economic Bulletin submitted to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, inflation would slightly slow to a 3.2 percent annual rate in May from 3.4 percent in the previous month.

“This deceleration may be traced to the easing in food prices, primarily of vegetables, which are forecast to drop from 8.1 percent to 4.7 percent. This will cut down food inflation from 4.2 percent to 3.8 percent,” Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran said in his report to Dominguez.

On a year-on-year basis, the May inflation forecast accelerated from 1.6 percent previously, but a respite from the

upward trend in the first three months that brought rate to a 28-month high of 3.4 percent in March.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) earlier said that inflation would range between 2.9 percent and 3.7 percent this month owing to a series of rollbacks in fuel pump prices as well as the downward adjustment in power rates.

“Inflation for clothing and footwear, electricity, gas and other fuels, and transport will drop by 0.3 to 0.4 percentage point,” said Beltran, who is the DOF’s chief economist.

“Inflation decline will give policymakers adequate room for maneuver to sustain rapid economic growth in the face of another possible adjustment in the Fed rate in June,” he said.

The Duterte administration’s economic team has set an inflation target of 2.0 percent and 4.0 percent this year

and next year, while the BSP is forecasting a rate of 3.4 percent for 2017 and 3.0 percent in 2018.

The country’s economy, as measured by its gross domestic product (GDP), grew by 6.4 percent in the first quarter of the year, the highest economic expansion in the region.

In May, index heavyweights non-alcoholic beverages and food may drop to 3.8 percent from 4.2 percent last month, along with prices of alcoholic beverages and tobacco to 6.2 percent from 6.3 percent.

Likewise, prices of clothing and footwear may decrease from 2.7 percent in April to 2.3 percent in May; furnishings, household equipment from 2.4 percent to 2.3 percent; and recreation and culture from 1.5 percent to 1.4 percent.

Health could also slow to 2.4 percent from 2.5 percent;

F SAIPAN, 10

Young filmmakers asked May inflation to slow lowering of food prices: DOF to commemorate ASEAN T

T

HE ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Youth (SOMY) has announced the 3rd Annual ASEAN Youth Video contest focused on the theme of “What does 50 Years of ASEAN Mean to Youth?”

“As ASEAN is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, we invite youth citizens of ASEAN to submit a 60-second video on why they think ASEAN is important and what their aspirations and hopes are for the next fifty years of ASEA,” the ASEAN Secretariat said in a statement, here, Sunday.

One member from each selected 10 finalist videos will have an opportunity to travel to Singapore to attend a fourday workshop to learn about video production techniques and refine and produce their

7 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

DTI CHIEF LOPEZ PUSHES FOR MSME AGENDA IN THE APEC TRADE MINISTERS MEET. Top trade officials from the member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) refined themes and priorities to be discussed at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in November 2017. Representing the Philippines at the 23rd APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting (MRT 23) in Hanoi on 20-21 May 2017, Philippine Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez (5th from L; back) presented the importance of APEC’s sustainable and inclusive growth strategy, citing the Philippine government’s thrust to include the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the value chain of

bigger companies. APEC complements the trade agenda not only of the Philippines, but also of ASEAN. As a driving force of regional economic growth, APEC, together with its top trade leaders aimed at realizing a sustainable, inclusive and transparent trading system in the region. Major discussions of MRT 23 touched on the development of cross-border e-commerce or digital trade, the strengthening of industry initiatives, innovation and the review of action plans on economic and financial matters, as well as human resources development and social equity/inclusion.

DCWD begins reefs project in Bago Aplaya D

AVAO City Water District launched its Artificial Reefs project in Brgy. Bago Aplaya in celebration of May as the Philippine Ocean Month through an orientation on Artificial Reefs Making on May 19, 2017. This was attended by barangay officials headed by Brgy. Capt.

Cristito B. Lazaro, purok leaders, and residents.

Topics discussed were “Overview of Marine Protected Area” and “What is an Artificial Reef?” by resource persons Aylwin N. Ventura of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and Aimee C. Evora of the City Agriculturist Office (CAO). After the

orientation, the participants agreed to conduct the project as contest among the puroks in Brgy. Bago Aplaya to involve and develop the community’s sense of ownership. They also brought discarded plastic bottles for DCWD’s year-round 2Big Campaign of recycling plastic wastes into school chairs to be donated to public elementary schools.

As of the deadline of submission of entry forms set on May 26, 2017, six puroks confirmed their participation to the contest. Generally, each participant will make one artificial reef based on the guidelines set by DCWD together with BFAR, CAO,

and Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which are member agencies of Davao City Coastal Resource Management-Technical Working Group. DCWD is working closely with these agencies from the identification and assessment of the most feasible project site until the monitoring and evaluation phase.

One month is allotted for the making of entries while the rest of the project activities are slated in July and October this year.

The 2017 Ocean Month is themed Tayo at Ang Karagatan complementing DCWD’s 2Big Campaign. (Jamae G. Dela Cruz)

Davao City Water District orients brgy. officials, purok leaders, and residents for its Artificial Reefs project in Brgy. Bago Aplaya. Aimee C. Evora of the City Agriculturist Office gives an overview of Marine Protected Area.

Economic Partnership SSS reminds LRP applicants to pay obligations until May 27 with China firms up T

1

6 DELEGATES from ASEAN China Center (ACC) arrived for a two-day briefing on trade and investment expected to bolster cooperation between the two countries.

Led by the Department of Trade and Industry, officials from the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), Board of Investments (BOI), and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) organized a Business Matching and Networking Dinner at the South Ballroom, Diamond Hotel to enable an

environment where Philippine and Chinese companies can do business together.

As DTI Assistant Secretary for Trade and Investments Promotion Group Rosvi C. Gaetos stated in her welcome remarks, “As we host the ASEAN Summit on its 50th founding anniversary with the theme “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World”, we continue to reaffirm our readiness for deeper economic partnerships within the ASEAN region and with our extended neighbors such as China”.

HE Social Security System (SSS) on Friday reminded its members who availed of the Loan Restructuring Program (LRP) and opted for full payment of their loan obligations to settle their dues on or before May 27 at any Bayad Center branch.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel F. Dooc said those who have opted to pay their restructured loan under the full payment scheme should immediately return to the SSS branch where they have submitted their LRP application.

“As you may recall, we have accepted LRP applications last April 28 and May 2 due to some holiday announcements before the actual deadline of

our condonation program.

Applicants during the period were advised to submit their LRP applications with their contact numbers to allow SSS employees to inform them if their application was approved or not,” Dooc said.

“For our members who have not received any advisory, we are requesting you to immediately return to the branch where you submitted your LRP application to know its status to give you ample time to pay your dues,” he added.

The LRP was offered

by SSS on April 28, 2016 that ran until April 27 this year to assist member-borrowers clean up their overdue calamity and other past due shortterm SSS loans.

SSS said all LRP applications encoded from April 27 onwards have an effectivity date of April 27. Thus, those who chose the full payment term have until May 27 to pay their one-time obligation while those who availed of the installment term have until June 10 to make their first payment for the May 2017 amortization.

“Since May 27 falls on a Saturday, our members may pay at our partner collecting-agency such as Bayad Center branches. They accept SSS loan repayments even on Saturdays, Sundays and even Holidays,” Dooc said.

Dooc added that payments on the next banking day, May 29, will be considered as past due and failure to pay

within the prescribed period will forfeit the condonation of their loan penalties.

While the restructured loan is existing or outstanding, the member-borrower cannot avail of other SSS short-term loan programs such as the salary loan and the calamity loan assistance, including Educational Assistance Loan Program. The member-borrower may only avail of the SSS short-term loan program after six months from the date of full payment of the restructured loan.

Latest available data showed that as of April this year, a total of 824,155 members have benefited from LRP which has an equivalent collection of P3.3 billion.

phasized that “martial law must be temporary”.

“We have many fears. But at present, we simply do not have solid and sufficient facts to absolutely reject the declaration of martial law as morally reprehensible. But we are certainly agreed that martial law must be temporary,” Quevedo said.

Mindanao has at least 21 bishops in five archdioceses,

14 dioceses, vicariate and a prelature spread in 27 provinces and 33 cities.

Quevedo said martial law “is a means of last resort”.

Among the questions raised by the people of Mindanao, he said, are the following: “Are moral principles fulfilled? Were other means to resolve the deep and wide serious problems of Mindanao impractical and ineffec-

tive? Will the positive effects of martial law outweigh the negative effects? Will there be probability of success? Will it bring about a culture of accountability and end a culture of impunity? Will martial law increase human rights violations? Will martial law be abused for evil purposes?”

The country’s second cardinal said the bishops “shall

Bishops agree with martial law; but stress it must be temporary

DTI Trade and Investments Promotion Group Assistant Secretary Rosvi C. Gaetos welcomed the delegates from ASEAN China Center on 23 May at the Diamond Hotel in Manila.

C

ATHOLIC bishops in Mindanao have expressed no opposition to the martial law declared

by President Rodrigo Duterte but urged the public to be vigilant.

In a statement issued Friday by His Eminence Orlando Cardinal Quevedo, OMI, DD, archbishop of Cotabato “with the approval of bishops of Mindanao”, the bishops em-

F BISHOPS, 12

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

P

One against Maute

RESIDENT Duterte has come up with an offer to Muslim separatists and Maoist-led rebels to beef up the military and topple the Islamic State-linked Maute Group in Mindanao.

The unprecedented move came amid growing fears that Islamic State is seeking a presence in the country. The President even offered to pay and even provide accomodation to fighters from groups like the MNLF, MILF and the NPA who all have been adverse to the government if they would work to defeat a common enemy this time.

With the familiarity of the MILF, MNLF and NPA over the war terrain in Mindanao, without underestimating the acapability of the military forces, a unified anti-terror army could be a more potent force against the Maute Group.

Is President Duterte saying the military cannot take down the “small” but dangerous Maute? Some may interpret it that way but the idea actually came from the MNLF side after its leader Nur Misuari offered to help. The President’s offer is to treat communist

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and separatist guerrillas the same as government troops if they join the fight against Maute.

The President promised to hire the fighters as soldiers with same pay and same privileges as the military. He will also build houses for them in some areas.

Will the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) take the offer? Will the New People’s Army (NPA) abandon its protracted guerrilla war and work with the government?

On the other hand, how will the military react to this? Would they accept sharing the same privileges with their “new comrades?”

There are no takers yet as of the moment but the President wanted the separatists and the Muslim guerillas to join the Republic now.

Unprecedented, risky, but who knows this could be a start of working together?

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

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EDGEDAVAO

E

VEN as this corner happily congratulates the men and women of EDGEDAVAO for copping three of five major awards (including Best Edited Community Newspaper) during the very recent Philippine Press Institute (PPI) Annual Conference in Manila, the more pressing issue that hugs the headlines todays is the ASG/Maute-ISIS brutal raid of Marawi.

Considered to be the national center of Islamic faith, Marawi a city that awes me, surprisingly was not spared of violence authored by its’ very own brothers in religion. Why Marawi?

This question persists and has not been satisfactorily unanswered as of this writing.

Many dead bodies of civilians have been found to have been executed.

Now, there are voices who are shouting themselves hoarse in protest of the martial law declaration by PRRD. Mind you, these are coming from Luzon (specifically from sectors identified with the political opposition based in Metro Manila), from people who are not residents of Mindanao and from sectors (trolls

W

E normally associate the word, orphan, with a poor child who lost both parents in dire circumstances. So, it is almost incongruous to identify me and my brother as orphans when we are both adults who have our families and accomplishments to speak of. Still, it cannot be denied that the loss of both our parents has left such a void. I can practically rationalize everything away but it does not change the sense of sheer loss.

While we were watching over my dying mother, my brother broke down and asked me if I ever wondered why this was happening to us again barely two years after our father’s passing. I only replied, “No, because I know the answer.” I do not even know why I blurted my answer out like that. I just knew I could

VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Marawi conflict has international flavor and lackeys) who are totally ignorant of the prevailing conditions and circumstances thereat.

Yung iba naman, sumasabit at sumasakay lang.

It is no longer odd to know that foreign militants based in Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore identified with terrorist cells in the Middle East have been “visiting” the country off and on from way, way back.

AFP authorities report that, aside from the native Maute clan members, they have spotted armed aliens among the ranks of the terrorist raiders.

This unsettling report prods us to think that the Marawi bloodshed is no longer just a simple domestic concern.

There is, in my mind, now an international flavor blended into the terrorism recipe that necessitated the declaration of martial law in Mindanao by PRRD. The Marawi conflict is no longer a simple terroristic act but a rebellion cum invasion.

How naïve can we get?

With the Abu Sayaf Group of Isnilon Hapilon merging with Maute and holding up the ISIS banner to inflict indiscriminate terror on this part

SPECKS OF LIFE Fred C. Lumba of the archipelago, it is not farfetch to assume that these marauders will move elsewhere as a tactical ploy against the government.

But, lest you think the rebels are having their way, PRRD is on top of the situation and the government remains in control. Though a surrender and dialogue have yet to be achieved, the objective to isolate and contain Marawi has been made possible by presidential proclamation 216.

I think the rape and plunder of Marawi was made as a test of their (Maute/ASG) capability to pursue the jihadist

objectives of their Middle Eastbased leaders before they get their ISIS certificate of membership and chapter-hood in this part of the world.

The government media entities – PTV4 and Radyo ng Bayan - should flex their media muscle in as much as the flow of accurate official information is concerned.

There are unofficial information and black props undermining the government and military capability emanating from sectors opposed to the Duterte government.

They are having a grand time in the broadcast and print media sympathetic to the yellow cult and a freewheeling space in the social platforms.

This is the major reason Filipinos get caught in confusion, what to believe and who to believe.

They are easily swayed to join the bandwagon mentality because they follow the flawed logic that where the more people go, that is where they should go too.

Government media officials should learn to pattern their strategies during the Marcos years when then Information Minister Francisco Ta-

tad ruled both the airlanes and print media space, echoing every now and then the salient points of Proclamation 1081.

In time, the citizens, without even trying, became able to memorize lines like “Sa ikauunlad ng bayan, disiplina ang kailangan.”

This is not to encourage media censorship, though.

Instead, we suggest a radical re-programming and manpower and technical strengthening of PTV 4 and Radyo ng Bayan as well as re-organizing its present crop of personnel to include the recruitment and contracting of new progressive, credible talents (disregard the civil service law that limits the capability to hire talents outside of the standard compensation allowed by law).

Excellently thought of and organized media strategy and sustained support are very necessary to enable PRRD to bring the government closer the Filipinos for a united stand against religious extremism, violent terroristic activities and insurgency. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

world, to look put together, to be put together. No matter what.

In the course of Mama’s illness, I was pained by the absence of family members because of one reason or another. Work, travel, finances, or not being in their comfort zones seemed such practical and understandable reasons.

It was so easy and reasonable to lash out. But one thing Mama always lived was that we protect, stand by, forgive, and love our family. No matter what.

I was by Mama’s bedside in the hospital when she told me to pray for God’s will, for her peaceful passing. She equated God’s will with her passing and I did not want to accept that. I was still desperately hoping for a miracle. We were about to get into an argument.

When I told her, “Ma, whatev-

er happens, it will always be a good,” she conceded and went back to sleep. I was struck at the simplicity of her faith and the deep consolation she found in it.

The night before she passed away, Mama whispered, “Vids, I love you.” I was taken aback that I could not respond. It was the first time in my adult life that I heard her express those words directly to me. I only held her hand and stayed beside her. Words could not possibly grasp the depth and magnitude of the moment.

My mother, Ma. Corazon “Cherie” Santos Valverde, lived a life of beauty, service, faith, and simplicity. She lived her life for her family and her God. I will always feel orphaned. I am orphaned. But she prepared me well to live in a world without her.

Musings of an orphan

not handle my brother’s heartache because I was barely keeping myself together.

When people tell me that my brother and I are well-settled anyway, I almost want to scream. Losing my parents is a loss is a loss is a loss. I love them deeply and it will take close to eternity to just be okay with their very palpable absence. Well, at least my brother already joked that we look for an orphanage with a swimming pool.

I learned from Mama that one should always wear earrings no matter what. One could do away with all the other baubles but never the earrings. The earrings keep one presentable to the world regardless of circumstances.

That’s why even when I go swimming I still wear earrings, albeit the inexpensive kind. When we were prepar-

CATNIP

Vida Mia Valverde ing Mama’s body for viewing at the funeral parlor, I insisted on putting earrings on her.

The mortician was telling me that the earrings won’t be seen anyway so there’s no need. But of course there was a need. There will always be a need to be presentable to the

10 NEWS Joint... FROM 1

that the armed forces would be teaming up with the Moro groups.

Guerrero also said that in the past, there have been joint operations conducted in collaboration with the Moro groups.

“In the past, the AFP have conducted operations with the MNLF and nakita naman natin na may mechanisms naman tayo dito to ensure na ‘yong joint operations na iyon fol-

lows strict procedures.”

On Saturday, during his visit in Jolo, Sulu, the President revealed the MNLF Chair’s offer to help the government fight local criminals and terrorist groups.

The president also called other Muslim groups to join him in fighting against terrorism and even offered to grant them the same pay and privileges as the soldiers, including providing them housing.

at 61 with 42 being confirmed through body count and another 19 by eye witness reports.

Government losses as of Sunday night are placed at 15 troopers killed along with three Philippine National Police (PNP) operatives.

Reported wounded as of this posting are 61 soldiers along with three policemen.

Fighting started when government security forces tried to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, a known ally of the group and ISIS leader, last May 23.

Number of civilians executed by the Maute Group are placed at 19, while those rescued are placed at 390, said Padilla. (PNA)

AFP... FROM 2

EDGEDAVAO

ENAMORED. A mall-goer takes some photos of the art works featured in the ongoing Cordillera-Mindanao (CorMin) Art Exchange, one of the highlights of Department of Tourism (DOT) 11’s Visit Davao Fun Sale campaign, at the Annex of SM City Davao on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

DENR begins retrieval of felled trees from Palawan mining site A

LL entry and exit points within the 2,835-hectare Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) area of Ipilan Nickel Corp. in Palawan province have been placed under close monitoring.

This as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources started retrieving thousands of mix of old-growth and secondary trees indiscriminately felled by the mining firm.

DENR-Mimaropa Regional Director Natividad Bernardino

said a total of 34 forestry officers and workers, 18 from the DENR regional office and 16 from Palawan provincial government, have been deployed to the INC’s mining area in Brooke’s Point town to do an inventory and retrieve the felled trees, which are considered government property.

Bernardino said her office has been coordinating with concerned local government executives, particularly Palawan Governor Jose Alvarez and Brooke’s

City from places of Marawi and/or Iligan were welcomed by their relatives who are living in the City.

“Tanan ta diri sa Davao

City, dili lang ang local government, aduna tay moral obligation na modawat ug bakwit” as Mayor Sara said. REBECCA ESPERA

ians in checkpoints, the public must see to it that checkpoints are well-lit, properly identified, and manned by uniform personnel. Upon approach, drivers must slow down, dim headlights and turn on cabin lights.

The public are advised not to step out of the vehicle and to lock all doors. Likewise, only visual search is allowed and no need to submit for a physical or body search.

People are not obliged to open the glove compartment, trunk or bags but ordinary or routine questions may be asked.

The public is also advised to be courteous but firm with answers and to keep driver’s license and registration handy and within reach.

The second brochure are FAQs on the Marawi incident: What is Maute Group; what is ISIS; how crucial is Marawi City, what does suspension of writ of habeas corpus in Mindanao mean; what does martial law means for the residents of Mindanao; what are acts being committed by extremists that constitute rebellion; why martial law is necessary; and what are the safeguards during martial law. (PNA)

Food Packs (FFPs) amounting to ₱65,452,613.97 and available Food and Non-Food Items (FNFIs) amounting to ₱265,266,979.59.

Sec. Judy M. Taguiwalo assured that the entire Department is ready and willing to help “Buong DSWD ang

handang tumulong sa ating mga kababayan sa Marawi.

Magpapadala ng 10,000 family food packs ang Region 7 sa Marawi. (The entire DSWD is ready to help our countrymen in Marawi. Region VII will send 10,000 family food packs to Marawi.)

DC... FROM 2

Eastern... FROM 2

DSWD... FROM 4

VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

Point Mayor Mary Jean Feliciano, in transferring the felled trees to a secured location which both the DENR and the local government unit have identified to prevent them from getting poached.

She said they plan to complete the retrieval operations within one and a half months.

“Transferring these trees to a secured place would become

doubly difficult once the rainy season kicks in,” Bernardino pointed out.

Based on initial reports, the INC cut down some 7,000 trees within 30 hectares of land within the MPSA programmed for mining operations for years 1 and 2, and for development of road network covering an area of 52.15 hectares. (PNA)

concerning bombs, explosives or any similar device or means of destruction and imposing penalties therefor.”

Albarico has tasked Supt.

Mark Azur, ZCPO’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Management Unit (CIDMU) chief to monitor and investigate individuals spreading false information.

The team of Azur is currently tracking down and investigating the profiles of seven people from this city found to be involved in spreading false information through the social media site, he said.

Most of the information they posted and are still posting on social media site is about threats on bombing, he added.

Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar has called on the public to verify all text messages they received and “do not spread them unless validated”.

She said they could report presence of people acting suspiciously to the hotline number of the city government.

The numbers are: 0917-711-

35-36; 0917-794-55-90; 0918935-78-58; and, 926-92-74.

Section 1 of P.D. 1727 states that “any person who, by word of mouth or through the use of the mail, telephone, telegraph, printed materials and other instrument or means of communication, willfully makes any threat or maliciously conveys, communicates, transmits, imparts, passes on, or otherwise disseminates false information, knowing the same to be false, concerning an attempt or alleged attempt being made to kill, injure, or intimidate any individual or unlawfully to damage or destroy any building, vehicle, or other real or personal property, by means of explosives, incendiary devices, and other destructive forces of similar nature or characteristics, shall upon conviction be punished with imprisonment of not more than five (5) years, or a fine or not more than forty thousand pesos (P40,000.00) or both at the discretion of the court having jurisdiction over the offense herein defined and penalized.” (PNA)

destination, Saipan is a home away from home as 36 percent of its population are Filipinos,” Lugan said.

“Working with MVA, we will make sure that there will always be new things for them

to discover during their trips,” the Aviareps director added.

Aviareps Philippines, in promoting Saipan, is being supported by 16 of the biggest travel agencies in the country.

(Azer N. Parrocha/PNA)

Police... FROM 4

Saipan... FROM 6

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Extension of Validity of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service

Case No. R11-EV-PJ-2017-C-047 (96-XI-00047-DP)

DAVAO TRANSPORT SERVICE COOPERATIVE (DATRASCO), Petitioner x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ Dual Ordinary Regular service on the route: TAGUM CITY – LUPON (DAVAO ORIENTAL) AND VICE VERSA and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of TWO (2) units, which Certificate has expired last May 24, 2016.

Petitioner filed a Motion seeking the acceptance of the Late filing of the Petition for extensionof validity which was duly granted by this Board taking into account the issuance of MC 2012-004.

In the petition filed on March 30, 2017, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said Certificate to operate along the same route with the use of One (1) unit out of the Two (2) units previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MAY 24, 2017 at 9:10 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentaryand/or oral evidence.

WITNESS the Atty. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ, Regional Director, this 19th day of May 2017 at Davao City.

Atty. CATTLEYA B. ACAYLAR Attorney IV

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Extension of Validity of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI Service

Case No. R11-EV-TX2017-E-710 (2012-XI-00710)

ARLYN L. GATCHALIAN, Petitioner

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI service on the route: WITHIN DAVAO CITY to any point in Region XI with the use of TWO (2) units, which Certificate will expire on December 31, 2017.

In the petition filed on May 11, 2017, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said Certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JUNE 28, 2017 at 09:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence.

WITNESS the Atty. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ, Regional Director, this 11th day of May 2017 at Davao City.

Atty. CATTLEYA B. ACAYLAR Attorney IV

INdulge!

EDGE DAVAO:

VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

EVENT

EDGEDAVAO

WINNINGEST COMMUNITY DAILY IN PH

By GREG G. DELIGERO

EDGE DAVAO reclaimed its spot as the country’s winningest daily, garnering three of five awards categories, in the 2016 Civic Journalism Press awards held last May 25 at the marine-themed H2O Hotel along the picturesque Manila Bay. This is the second time in the paper’s nine-year history to gather the most number of awards during the covered period of stringent annual review and selection process administered by the Philippine Press Institute (PPI) among the country’s community newspapers.

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Of the five awards categories, Edge Davao bagged the most coveted “Best Edited Community Newspaper” for excellence in coverage, content, writing and editing.

Under this category, the newspaper “must demonstrate a high level of

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During the past nine years of Edge Davao’s circulation, it already gathered 11 awards in the PPI-managed annual press awards program

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TRAVEL

VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

Chasing words Part 2 YOU WRITE EVERYDAY JUST BECAUSE. Writers write. Whether we’re aware of that or not but writers do write and find time to. Most especially if your livelihood depends on your writing, I’ve learned that life does get busy (a lot) and sometimes it’s so important to schedule a writing period in my day. If I don’t, I most often don’t get much done.

You can’t say you love something if you don’t have time for it. It’s like saying that you love to be in shape but you don’t work out at all. Try googling tips on writing and I haven’t found one that says not to write everyday.

I used to skip my daily writing goals just because I didn’t feel like writing at all. I tolerated this mindset until I came across Stephen King’s book “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft” and he said to “Write with the door closed and rewrite with the door open”.

Some of us (I’m guilty of this too) wait for that magical wave of inspiration that would get us hammering off the keyboard with all the right words. Most often, this magical wave never comes. Let’s not use this as a reason not to write.

Sometimes, the best stories come out when we least expect it.

You’re afraid but you write anyway.

Fear is good but don’t let it stop you. I find myself weird. I have this fear of running out of words to say. That if I write too much, I’ll run out of words and creativity and I’ll never be able to finish the story I started.

There’s also this fear of not being good enough.

I bet we never really get to the point of being perfectly good enough. If you read enough biographies of great novelists, they always say that they themselves would admit to still not being good enough for them.

You are ready to fail.

This is the most important question I was ever asked before I left the corporate world behind.

Are you ready to fail? If you do fail, what are you going to do? If you can live with your answers to those questions then

I think that you’re on the right track. It’s the what ifs in our lives that cause us the most regret.

I couldn’t live with myself if I gave up the chance to make my dream a reality.

You don’t mind starting again.

If you’ve established that you write because you want to and because you need to, you would not mind starting again if the initial journey seems bumpy.

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines.

Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.

Cliché but I always go back to this when I find myself in a rut along the

Trying different things open new perspectives which can be fuel for writing stories. This photo for example, horseback riding with a surfboard ties that I would never be good enough. I probably am still not good enough but looking back at my 16 year-old scribbles, I would have loved to force myself to keep on finish.

How I’d give anything to know how my stories would have ended.

Dream. Never stop dreaming.

Personally, dreams give me hope.

Hope to keep pursuing even when nothing seems to go as planned. As long as I still have stories to tell and the capacity to write, I will continue writing.

If writing is something school. you’ll never get tired of, Sadly, I never fin- no matter what the outished any because before come of the journey is I could, I would always then keep on writing. stop because I’d give in to Discover. Throughout self-doubt and insecuri- the process of explor-

Draw from experiences. Most of the time these are what fuels my stories.

journey. Finally, these three words to remind myself if the going gets tough: Explore and take the risks. Don’t be afraid to

try different genres and writing processes. I started writing short poems and fictional short stories about my favorite online games when I was in high

ing and dreaming, I’m certain that discoveries will emerge. We have to be patient, nothing great happens overnight.

As Ranier Marie Rilke (again) greatly puts into words: “Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.”

VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

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consistency in its quality of writing and reporting that empowers community members to think, observe or act on issues and concerns affecting their community.”

It was also adjudged as “Best in Environmental Reporting” for excellence in news and features about the environment. Under this category, the newspaper “must demonstrate regularity and effectiveness in the reporting of news, issues, and concerns on the environment.” It also “gives priority to current and emerging environmental issues, creating a venue for the promotion of environmental literacy and culture and encouraging its public to develop a global mind-set.”

Edge Davao was also declared as “Best in Photojournalism” for “excellence in news coverage of community life through photos, thus capturing realities in the community which may need to be addressed or simply appreciated as part of its dynamic transformation actively participated in by the reading public.”

Under this category, the newspaper “must demonstrate creative ability to depict human interest subjects in pictures to enhance the marketability of the newspaper without resorting to portrayal of sex and violence.”

The paper was also a finalist in the “Best Editorial Page” category which recognizes distinguished editorial writing including “clearness of style, moral purpose, sound reasoning, and power to influence public opinion in what the writer conceives to be the right direction.”

During the past nine years of Edge Davao’s circulation, it already gathered 11 awards in the PPImanaged annual press awards program which honors community newspapers that have demonstrated journalistic excellence in various fields of reportage.

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ENTERTAINMENT

AlDub, ‘Meant To Be’ take Butuan by storm

IN TWO SEPARATE REGIONAL EVENTS OVER THE WEEKEND, the lead stars of GMA Telebabad shows Destined To Be Yours and Meant To Be brought the house down as they celebrated the Balangay and Magayon Festivals in Agusan del Norte and Bicol, respectively.

The phenomenal love team of Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza flew to Butuan last May 19 and led the Kapuso Fiesta as part of the annual Balangay Festival. The two, who play Benjie and Sinag in the hit series Destined To Be Yours, did not disappoint thousands of fans who flocked to the Libertad Sports Complex in Butuan City.

The audience bore witness to the romantic banter between Alden and Maine just like what they see on the Telebabad program.

This was the first time Alden and Maine went to Butuan and fans were ecstatic to welcome their idols. Some even came from Cagayan de Oro, Davao, and other nearby areas to see AlDub that day. Joining Alden and Maine were Eat Bulaga’s That’s My Bae Joel Palencia, Jon Timmons, Tommy Peñaflor, and Miggy Tolentino.

In Legazpi, Albay last May 20, the Penaranda Park was jampacked with fans who were eager to see the men of Meant To Be—Ken Chan, Addy Raj, Ivan Dorschner, and Jak Roberto— together with their co-star Mika dela Cruz.

Throngs of Kapusong Bicolanos waited patiently as Ken, Addy, Ivan, Jak, and Mika took the stage for their respective song and dance numbers.

Shouts and shrieks from excited fans greeted the Kapuso stars during the Kapuso Fiesta. The MTB cast, in turn, made sure the audience had a memorable night as a way of thanking them for their continued support to Meant To Be. “We are elated to get this very warm welcome from our Kapu-

song Butuanon and Kapusong Bicolano,” says Oliver Amoroso, Officer-in-Charge of GMA’s Regional TV Department. “We cannot express how grateful we are to our loyal Kapuso for keeping GMA Network number one nationwide. This is why we continue to bring our programs on regional tours. We owe our success to our boss—the viewers— and it’s only right that we bring them closer to their favorite stars such as AlDub and the MTB cast,” he adds.

To know more about the Network’s regional events, follow GMA on Facebook at www. facebook.com/gmanetwork and GMA Regional TV at www. facebook.com/GMARegionalTV and on Twitter and Instagram via @GMARegionalTV.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

11 AGRITRENDS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

Solving the forthcoming food crisis Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

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T’S only five in the morning and yet Josephine is already awake. She doesn’t mind the cold weather of December. She has to clean her vegetable garden since a lot of weeds have been growing near the crops. She needs to plant some eggplants and tomatoes, too, since what she planted previously are already dying.

“I have to wake up early since my children have to go to school before seven in the morning,” the 30-year-old mother of three and lives in Baguio District in Calinan, Davao City. “I have to cook their meals before they wake up.”

Some 500 meters away from the garden is her husband Allan, who is tilling the rice fields. It’s only two hectares but it is the source of income for the family. He is almost done with his work and soon he will be planting rice.

“My rice production has gone low,” Allan says. “I really don’t know why. I have been planting rice since I was a teenager and had been following the usual technique in raising the crop. There are instances that I have to plant a little bit late since rain has become scarce. There are also months when it keeps raining.”

Allan may not know it but he is describing is climate change. “Climate change is an environmental threat unlike any the world has faced,” writes Christopher Flavin in his book, Slowing Global Warming: A Worldwide Strategy.

Climate change Climate change is caused by an increase in the amount of greenhouse gases spewed into the atmosphere through human activities. Greenhouse gases refer to carbon dioxide and other industrial gases.

Noel Grove, author of “Air: An Atmosphere of Uncertainty,” which appeared in National Geographic, explained for the role of carbon dioxide in heating the world: “Like panels of glass in a greenhouse, carbon dioxide allows most solar radiation to penetrate the atmosphere but prevents part of the heat radiated by land and bodies of water from escaping into space. As carbon dioxide accumulates, enough heat may be trapped to gradually warm the atmosphere.”

The World Bank lists the Philippines as one of the top 12 countries “at highest risk to climate change.” Droughts,

floods, storms, rising sea levels, and greater uncertainty in agriculture were the reasons cited why the country was among included in the top list.

Of the five main threats, “the Philippines leads the list of nations that is most in danger of facing frequent and more intense storms,” says Rita T. dela Cruz, of the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR).

“Despite the technological advances in the second half of the 20th century, agriculture remains to be one of the most vulnerable sectors to climate change,” notes Apple Jean C. Martin in a policy advocacy.

Extremely vulnerable “Agriculture is extremely vulnerable to climate change,” declares the Washington-based International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI). “Higher temperatures eventually reduce yields of desirable crops while encouraging weed and pest proliferation. Changes in precipitation patterns increase the likelihood of short-run crop failures and long-run production declines.”

“Climate change is more disastrous to the agricultural industry of the Philippines and its neighboring countries than in other parts of the world,” warned Dr. David

Street of the US Argonne National Laboratory.

The Laguna-based International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) reported that climate change could reduce rice yields. Although its study showed that rice could benefit from higher levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, an increase in temperature would “nullify any yield increase.”

According to the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD), about 5-7 percent decline in yield of major crops in the Philippines is attributed to climate change. “The yield reduction is caused by heat stress, decrease in sink formation (number of spikelet per unit ground area), shortening of growing period, and increased maintenance for respiration,” said the line agency of the Department of Science and Technology.

Since 1980, the Philippines has been experiencing an increase in annual mean rainfall, and since 1990, an increase in the number of rainy days. There was also an increase in inter-annual variability of onset of rainfall in the past decades. “This erratic rainfall pattern has greatly affected the planting schedule and other activities of the farmers,” the PCARRD said.

In a new report, the In-

ternational Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA) says biotechnology can help lessen the impacts of climate change by reducing carbon emissions.

Reduction of carbon emissions For the last 21 years of commercialization, biotech crops have been contributing to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. In 2015, genetically-modified (GM) crops helped reduce 26.7 billion kilograms to carbon dioxide to be released into the atmosphere. “That’s equivalent to taking 11.9 million cars off the road for one year,” said Prof. Paul S. Teng, ISAAA Chair of the Board, during the launching of the latest report, Global Status of Commercialized Biotech/GM Crops: 2016.

According to ISAAA, current agricultural approaches need to be modified and innovative adaption strategies need to be in place to efficiently produce more food in stressed conditions and with net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Biotechnology – the technique that makes use of organisms (or parts thereof) to make or modify products, to improve plants and animals, or to develop microorganisms for specific purposes – may do the trick.

In a briefing paper, entitled “Biotechnology and

Climate Change,” ISAAA said that that biotech crops (soybean, corn, cotton, and canola) have allowed farmers “to use less and environmentally friendly energy and fertilizer, and practice soil carbon sequestration.”

“Crops can be modified faster through biotechnology than conventional crops, thus hastening implementation of strategies to meet rapid and severe climatic changes,” the ISAAA briefing paper explained.

According to the briefing paper, pest and disease resistant biotech crops have been continuously developed as new pests and diseases emerge with changes in climate. “Resistant varieties will also reduce pesticide application and hence carbon dioxide emission,” it added. “Crop tolerant to various abiotech stresses have been developed in response to climate changes.”

“We have the technology to meet the need of the future. What we don’t have yet is the will power,” commented Dr. Wayne Parrott of the University of Georgia-Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics who came to the Philippines in the aftermath of the uprooting of golden rice plants under field trial in Camarines Sur.

Higher prices Unknowingly, banning biotech crops – as suggested by those who oppose the

technology – would not only mean higher temperature but higher prices as well. “Global ban on genetically modified crops would raise food prices and add the equivalent of nearly a billion tons of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere,” said a news release based from a new study conducted by American researchers from the Purdue University.

The researchers used a model to assess the economic and environmental value of biotech crops. They found that replacing biotech corns, soybeans and cotton with conventionally-bred varieties would “cause a 0.27 to 2.2 percent increase in food costs, depending on the region.”

The study surmised that poorer countries will be hit the hardest “as they spend about 70% of their income on food.” In comparison, industrialized countries like the United States, spend only about 10%.

According to the study, published in the Journal of Environmental Protection, the ban on biotech crops would also trigger the conversion of pastures and forests to cropland to compensate for lower productivity of conventional crops, “which would release substantial amounts of stored carbon to the atmosphere.”

“If countries planting biotech crops matched the rate of biotech crop plantings in the United States, global greenhouse gas emissions would fall by an equivalent of 0.2 billion tons of carbon dioxide, and would allow 0.8 million hectares of cropland to return to forests and pastures,” the press release said.

“Some of the same groups that want to reduce greenhouse gas emissions also want to ban biotech crops,” pointed out Dr. Wallace T. Tyner, a professor of agricultural economics of the said university. “But you can’t have it both ways.

Planting biotech crops is an effective way for agriculture to lower its carbon footprint.”

Earliest studies have also shown that planting biotech crops with herbicide tolerance encourages the

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

US Pinoys support Duterte’s ML imposition in Mindanao

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Delegations from both the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front (NDF), trying to break the impasse of the 5th round of peace negotiations and in a historic first, together attended a mass here at the ballroom of Radisson Blue Palace Hotel in Noordwijk, The Netherlands.

Earlier feared that the 5th round will not push through due to what Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process says “serious challenge,” the rare event gave more than a glimmer of hopes to the peace negotiations. OPAPP/ EDWIN ESPEJO Photo.

Davao Light repaints, repairs schools in Brigada Eskwela ‘17 D

AVAO Light and Power Co., Inc. joins the week-long nationwide Brigada Eskwela activity last May 20, 2017 at A. Bonifacio Elementary School in Talomo, Davao City and New Visayas Elementary School in Panabo City. Out of the total of 460 volunteers from Davao and

Panabo groups, 275 were Davao Light employees who took their part in repainting the classrooms for the said schools in preparation for the coming academic year.

Bringing with them their painting tools, the employees, faculty, parents and students offered their time and efforts

to show the spirit of volunteerism and service. Motivated by the strong support of the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts, the employees’ very own cooperative, INCOME Davao, has also assisted in the donation of paint and repair materials for the classrooms.

SERVING BY EXAMPLE. Davao Light and Power Co., Inc was given a certificate of recognition by the Department of Education XI. In photo are: Head of the Committee on Education, Councilor Pilar Braga, A. Bonifacio Elemenetary School Principal, Ronald Mangmang, Chief of Schools Governance & Operations Division, DepEd Davao, Teresita F. Del Valle, Adopt-A-School Coordinator, Jonas Piore. Davao Light’s EVP and COO, Engr. Rodger Velasco, Community Relations Manager, Fermin Edillon and INCOME’s Chairman of the Board, Jasper Gelacio.

“Our participation to the Brigada Eskwela is actually a group wide Aboitiz-initiated activity where all Aboitiz Group of companies nationwide simultaneously work to prepare our respective beneficiary schools. It is always our pleasure to take part in preparing the schools for our City’s or even the country’s future leaders so that they will be comfortable learning their way to success. The next generation is the hope of a brighter future for our nation.” said Engr. Rodger Velasco, EVP and COO of Davao Light during his speech.

The employees all gathered and lined up under the summer heat to repaint the armchairs, tables and bookshelves. Some employees even brought with them their own children: “Gipa-join nako ang akong anak [I let my son join] so that he will also experience Brigada Eskwela.” said Streetlight Department Supervisor Severino Ando, elaborating that it’s a good experience to his kids to give something back to our school and community.

“In behalf of the teaching

PAINTING CHAIRS AND CLASSROOMS. Davao Light and Power Co., Inc., employees repaint chairs and classrooms in preparation for the coming academic year. The Bayanihan spirit is visible in every helping hand among employees, teachers, parents and students while also making their summer worthwhile.

US-BASED Filipino group is fully supporting President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s action declaring martial law in the whole Mindanao region in the wake of the wave of terror perpetrated by Islamist Maute terrorists.

“We salute and express our full support for our troops in their heroic role to fight and eradicate terrorism in Mindanao and elsewhere,” said Arnedo S. Valera, chairperson of the US Pinoys For Real Change in the Philippines (USPRCP), in a statement e-mailed to this reporter.

The USPRCP has its office in Washington, D.C. Duterte imposed martial law in the entire Mindanao for 60 days on May 23 following the attacks by Maute group in Marawi City.

“President Duterte’s bold and decisive action is imperative in quelling the rebellion in the region, halting the escalating inhumane atrocities by the extremists, as well as insuring our national security and the safety of Filipinos, and demonstrating the government’s resolve in combating international terrorism,” Valera said.

USPRCP, is a nonpartisan organization composed of dual citizens, whose advocacy is for a better life for Filipinos everywhere, Valera said: “We support President Rodrigo Duterte’s May 23 declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao for 60 days to quell the existing rebellion, insure the national security of our nation and the safety of our people, especially the civilian population, as well as combating international terrorism.

“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the heinous terrorist acts and unconscionable atrocities perpetrated by the extremist Maute terrorist groups and their cohorts,

which resulted in the willful killing of three government troops, one from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and two from the Army. In wanton disregard of human lives, these extremists also attacked civilian facilities, including St. Mary’s Church, Dansalan College and Ninoy Aquino School.

“We call on all Filipinos and the international community to support the Philippine Government’s war against terrorism and extremist groups which target even non-combatants, the civilian population and cultural property, including places of worship in direct violation of the International Humanitarian Laws on armed conflicts.

“We urge the Mindanaoans to be vigilant and to extend their assistance to the Philippine troops through relaying vital information, taking into consideration their safety and that of their families as first priority in abiding by their patriotic duty. The civilian population is an important part of the government’s fight against terrorism.

“We pray for the families and children of our troops killed in defense and security of our country. Further, that they may find divine strength and spiritual blessings in these trying times. We call on the government and our community to extend all kinds of support to the families of our heroes, especially their children. And “We salute and express our full support for our troops in their heroic role to fight and eradicate terrorism in Mindanao and elsewhere. This is the time to support our troops and our government to secure the national and territorial integrity of our nation and the safety and security of all Filipinos, as well as to demonstrate our resolve that international terrorism does not flourish.” (PNA)

condemn any abuse of martial law and as in the past, will condemn it outright if it goes in the way of evil”, urging the public to remain vigilant.

“We exhort everyone to be calm in the face of martial law, to be obedient to the just commands of lawful authority, and not to provoke violent reaction. We urge the government to remove the causes of terrorism, such as poverty and injustice, through just and accountable governance

focused solely on the common good,” he said.

Quevedo and the Mindanao bishops further “condemn the terrorist acts that have caused the loss of many innocent lives, the burning of homes, public buildings, including a Protestant school dormitory and a Catholic Cathedral”.

“We condemn the unconscionable kidnapping of teachers and church personnel,” he added.

Bishops... FROM 7

force, parents and pupils of A. Bonifacio Elementary School, I would like to express our warmest gratitude for all the favors extended to us especially in the conduct of this Brigada Eskwela. This will enhance our school learning facilities which will positively cater to the children’s needs.

It brings an impact in relation to the teaching-learning environment and it really meant a lot to us.” said the School Head, Ronald Mangmang.

A forum on energy conservation and other services provided by Davao Light was also conducted later that day to educate the teachers, parents and students.

Davao Light, an AboitizPower subsidiary, partners with the Aboitiz Foundation in continuing its efforts to help the education sector provide students a comfortable place for them to learn and grow for the brighter future that awaits them.

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adoption of no-till farming, an important part of soil conservation. More importantly, transgenic crops can significantly improve crop yields, so that more food can be grown on less land area.

According to various studies, growing biotech crops reduces the use of 475 million gallons of fuel by farm equipment -- not mentioning the additional “soil carbon sequestration” due to reduced plowing or improved conservation tillage.

Precautions

But despite this, there are those who raise some precautions. Dr. Rebecca Goldburg, a researcher on the staff of the New York-based Environmental Defense Fund.Dr. Goldburg said the most significant risk of releases of transgenic crop plants is that they may transfer vial pollination their acquired genes to related wild plants.

“Since genes commonly will be transferred to close relatives of crop plants, gene transfer will disproportionately affect the gene pool of wild plants potentially valu-

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late MIGUEL R. ABELLANA has been the subject of an Extra Judicial Settlement with affidavit of claim with waiver of rights executed among his heirs, per Doc. No.261; Page No.53; Book No. XXX; Series of 2017, of the NOTARY PUBLIC ATTY. RICHARD D. TUMANDA.

able for crop breeding, rather than other plants,” she noted.

Dr. Parrot, however, believes that a misperception.

“Gene flow is the most misunderstood of all,” he explained.

“People ask, will the genetically engineered plant cross with other plants? The question to ask is, ‘Will there be negative consequence?’ It doesn’t mean just because there’s gene flow, there’s negative consequence.”

Dr. Parrot cites the corn production of different varieties near San Andres, Xeoul in Guatemala. “They have been

crossing for centuries, but there’s no damage,” he said.

“Crossing is not automatically destructive.”

Think globally, act locally, environmentalists urge. “Human survival and environmental preservation must always be in the forefront of our concerns,” Martin writes. “Beyond statistics, predictions, and abundant yet unconsolidated researches, climate change efforts must translate into something that would directly help the people cope with the impacts of climate change.”

JASKIN PAWNSHOP Notice of Auction Sale All Jewelry and other items

pawned at Jaskin Pawnshop San

Perdo Street, Davao City during the months of September to

December 2016 if not redeemed or renewed will be sold to the public on June 16, 2017 at our pawnshop premises.

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 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

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EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 15

CDO netter Alcantara wins Singapore doubles title T

HE third-seeded pair of Filipino Francis Casey Alcantara and Dutch Sem Verbeek were crowned doubles champions on Monday in the USD15,000 Singapore Open ITF Futures Week 1 at the Kallang Tennis Centre.

Alcantara and Verbeek

won the title over Japanese tandem Hiroyasu Ehara and Sho Katayama, 6-3, 6-2.

The Filipino-Dutch pair marched into the championship round after posting a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Japanese duo Issei Okamura and Arata Onozawa in the semifinals.

In the quarterfinals, Alcantara and Verbeek rallied past Japanese tandem Ken Onoda and Masato Shiga, 6-3, 5-6 [10-3].

Ehara and Katayama, on the other hand, eliminated second seeds compatriots Katsuki Nagao and Hiromasa

Oku, 7-6, (5), 6-2, in the other semifinals match.

Ehara and Sho Katayama also scored a 6-2, 6-3 upset victory over fourth seeds Japanese Yuichi Ito and Thai Wishaya Trongcharoenchaikul, 6-2, 6-3.

Alcantara and Verbeek

will be competing in the second leg starting Tuesday in the same venue.

Meanwhile, Ehara won the singles title over top seed Australian Dayne Kelly, 6-3, 6-3.

Ehara advanced to the finals when Trongcharoenchai-

kul retired in the second set with Ehara leading 6-2, 2-1.

Kelly, on the other hand, booked a seat in the finals after scoring a 6-3, 6-3 victory over sixth-ranked Vietnamese Nam Hoang Ly in the semifinals. (Jean T. Malanum/PNA)

Lebron undaunted by beastly Warriors

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HERE’S a four-headed, shot-making, scoreboard-breaking monster out West awaiting LeBron James and the Cavaliers.

The Warriors are stomach-churning scary.

James, though, can’t run or hide. With eight NBA Finals appearances under his belt, he is ready to face a team he’s called ‘’a beast.’’

After all, he has slayed behemoths before.

Pushing off any talk about the Warriors until after Sunday’s practice, James was asked

to assess the task at hand: beating Golden State’s AllStar-studded lineup of Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green.

Is this the biggest challenge of his career? ‘’It’s probably up there,’’ he said. ‘’I mean, it’s up there.’’

And then, almost as if he was trying to remind himself that he’s got three championship rings and is frightful in his own right, James

recalled other fearsome postseason opponents - San Antonio and Boston. ‘’I’ve played against four Hall of Famers as well, too, with Manu (Ginobili), Kawhi (Leonard), Tony (Parker) and Timmy D (Tim Duncan) on the same team,’’ said James, occasionally sniffling as he continues to fight a cold. ‘’And if you add Pop (coach Gregg Popovich) in there, that’s five Hall of Famers. So, it’s going to be very challenging. Those guys are going to challenge me, they’re going to challenge

our ballclub. ‘’This is a high-powered team.’’

James also took on a Celtics team loaded with bigname talents. ‘’I’ve played against Ray (Allen), KG (Kevin Garnett), Paul (Pierce), (Rajon) Rondo and Doc (Rivers). So, it’s going to be very challenging not only on me mentally, but on our ballclub and on our franchise.’’

Cleveland-Golden State 3.0 is the matchup fans worldwide expected and wanted, and James believes

they’re in for quite a show.

Both the Cavaliers and Warriors have upgraded their rosters from a year ago, when they went seven games in an epic series that spawned the first comeback from a 3-1 deficit in Finals history and resulted in Cleveland winning its first pro sports championship since 1964.

That Warriors team James conquered in 2016 won 73 games during the regular season and was being mentioned as one of the best to ever take the floor.

Pinay belles gear up for Thais

U

FLYING HIGH. Lebron James hopes to fly high for the Cavs in the Finals.

ST-KAMENOGORSK, Kazakhstan — A newly recharged Rebisco PSL-Manila gears up for a tough game against Supreme of Thailand on Monday at the start of the classification phase of the Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championships here.

The game is being played as of presstime 2 p.m. (4 p.m. Manila time).

National team head coach Francis Vicente exhorted his wards to put the results of the group stage behind them and be motivated in putting up a gallant fight against the unbeaten Thai club.

“Let’s be motivated by those negative comments we get from people, let’s use it positively,” said Vicente in reference to the criticisms they got over the internet.

“We will fight. Be positive and optimistic.”

Led by superstar middle blocker Pleumjit Thinkaow, Thailand swept the Group A beating host Altay, Taiwan Power and Sarmayeh Bank of Iran.

The team had a bull session after its 25-8, 25-10, 25-9 beating from Tianjin Bohai Bank of China Saturday where players voiced out their thoughts and feelings.

Vicente said the 14 members of the Rebisco PSL Manila were low in spirits during the Tianjin match but lauded how the squad — made up of Philippine Superliga stars — banded together.

Sponsored by Asics, Grand Sport and Turkish Airlines, the Rebisco spikers held practice Sunday morning although it was rest day for this prestigious tourney among the eight top clubs in the region.

Team captain Rachel Anne Daquis, Aby Marano and Jovelyn Gonzaga also helped in giving pep talk to the members of the Rebisco club, most of them will form the national team to the the Southeast Asian Games and Asian Seniors.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

SWINGDERELLA STRIKES Ella Nagayo finishes strong second

TWO BAGS. Ella Nagayo goes to school bringing along two bags. One for her classes, one for golf.

in Victoria State Finals golf tourney

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

A

njb@edgedavao.net

USTRALIA -Dabawenya golf sensation Alessandra Kristine “Ella” Nagayo finished a strong second on Sunday in the Secondary Schools Victoria (SSV) Junior State Finals to highlight a stellar rookie season in Melbourne.

The 13-year old Nagayo, on a golf scholarship at Rowville Secondary, fired a near flawless 1 over par 73 to place second behind teammate Piper Stubbs to complete a 1-2 finish for Rowville.

The sweet-swinging “Swingderella”, who is probably in her best form after sheding off some weight, tamed the Gardiners Run Golf course with nines of 37-36 punctuated with twin birdies on the second and 16th holes.

She conquered her demons on par 5s with a birdie on no. 2, which at 418 meters is one of the two longest holes of the course.

She strung up regulation pars from the 9th to 15th before hitting a birdie 2 on the par 3 102-meter 16th.

She could have finished even par if not for a costly bogey on the final hole.

“Rowville parents and officials are so happy for

the 1-2 finish of Piper and Ella,” said Ella’s mother, former Davao councilor and lawyer Rachel Zozobrado-Nagayo, who has found a home in Melbourne with husband Danny and another child Daniel. Daniel also plays for his primary school squad.

The no. 1 Stubbs claimed the trophy with a three-under par 69.

On a breezeless afternoon the scene was set for some low scoring, and the players didn’t disappoint.

Stubbs, who placed second last year, took out the trophy in empathic fashion with a 3 under par 69. Tiana Wanigasekera of Parkdale SC and Jazy Roberts of Crusoe College both finished tied for 4th to 5th on 5 over 77, with Wanigesekera officially taking home the bronze medallion.

In the boys championship Levi Sclater of Sale College lit up the course with a 6 under 66 to take the title by a comfortable 4 shots.

Sclater has now successfully won two out of a possible three school titles, with his chance at all three having to wait till he reaches senior secondary. In second position was the young superstar James Walker of

Catholic College Wodonga with a 2 under 70, and Charles Kueh of Balwyn High finishing in third with an even par

72.

The Victorian Secondary Schools Golf event consists of two stages: division events and the state final, with the event also split into both junior (Grades 7-9) and senior (Grades 10-12) sections. At the division events students will play 9 holes of modified golf on a shortened course and do not require a golf handicap to compete. At the state final all qualified students will compete over 18 holes.

Nagayo and her RSA team and some others played at the Divisional Qualifying on May 1 at the La Trobe Golf Club. She placed third in the qualifiers and earned a slot in the State Finals.

STRONG FINISH. Ella Nagayo (right) during the awarding ceremonies with girls champion and Rowville teammate Piper Stubbs (center) and Tiana Wenegesekera third.

Arum mulls Pacquiao-McGregor

M

ANNY Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Arum has delivered another huge twist in the Floyd-Mayweather-Conor McGregor saga, offering his champion up as a potential replacement.

Arum has said publicly Pacquiao would be available to fight McGregor after his world title fight with Aussie Jeff Horn at Suncorp Stadium on July 2 — a fight some consider Australia’s biggest ever boxing match.

After that, Pacquiao’s schedule is free.

Arum told TMZ that McGregor should consider Pacquiao as an option if negotiations fall apart with Mayweather’s representatives.

“Pacquiao has a really tough fight against this guy in Australia, Jeff Horne,” Arum said.

“After that fight on July first here in the United States, after that fight, if McGregor is still looking for an opponent, Manny Pacquiao is there.”

The salacious offer is sure to create waves in the UFC and boxing after it was announced on May 18 that the UFC had come to terms with McGregor to allow the star to take part in a boxing match, as reported by FOXSports.com.

“The McGregor side is done, I’m starting to work on the Mayweather side now,” UFC boss Dana White revealed when speaking to TNT.

“I’m not saying the fight will happen, but I got one side done, now it’s time to work on the other.

“If we can come to a deal with [Al] Haymon and [Floyd] Mayweather, the fight’s going to happen.”

McGregor also confirmed he had signed a “record breaking deal” to allow him to make the move to boxing.

“It is an honour to sign this record breaking deal alongside my partners Zuffa LLC, The Ultimate Fighting Championship and Paradigm Sports Management,” McGregor said.

“The first, and most important part of this historic contract has now officially been signed off on. Congratu-

STEALING THE FIGHT. Bob Arum’s sly offer could steal the Connor McGregor fight away from Floyd Mayweather Jr. lations to all parties involved.

We now await Al Haymon and his boxer’s signature in the coming days.”

The current date for the proposed super fight is Sept.

16 with the bout taking place in Las Vegas, although White seemed hesitant to stick with that timeline considering the recently announced bout between Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin on the same day.

Still, it’s hard to believe if McGregor vs. Mayweather is completed in the near future that the fight pitting the UFC’s biggest star against arguably one of the greatest boxers of all time would trump any other event on that day — even Canelo vs. Golovkin.

Despite Arum and Pacquiao needing negotiations to stall between Mayweather and McGregor for them to jump-in, the veteran promot-

er was happy to offer some advice to White in his dealings with Mayweather.

Mayweather and Arum famously had a falling out in 2007, resulting in Mayweather starting up his own promotions company.

“Be patient,” Arum said.

“Don’t give in. Dana is a good negotiator and he’ll get the thing done, but he can’t get pushed around by Mayweather and his people.”