Edge10 issue91 August 8, 2017

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

INGENUITY. A vendor arranges President Duterte-inspired stickers he is selling at his makeshift stall near the residence of President Duterte in Doña Luisa Subd., Davao City on Monday. The president still enjoys high rating a year after being elected. Lean Daval Jr.

Bishop lauds Duterte’s free education in SUCs

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ishop Ruperto Santos of the Diocese of Balanga on Sunday had good words for President Rodrigo Duterte for signing into law free tertiary education in state universities and colleges.

“The President did his best, what he signed is a blessing, very beneficial to all, especially to the poor and the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs),” the Bataan prelate said.

He said that OFWs endure separation from their families, hardships, unfair treatment just for the betterment of their loved ones.

“They go abroad with the intentions, first to send their children to schools, sustenance in their studies and build houses. This free

tertiary education in state colleges and universities is great help to them,” the bishop said.

“We at the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines – Episcopal Commission on Migrants and itinerant People appreciates and thankful for this kind gesture of our President,” Santos said.

The Bataan bishop, who is chair of CBCP – ECMI, also thanked President Duterte for increasing the validity of Philippines passports to 10 years.

“It is very useful and beneficial for all, especially for those working abroad, as it will save them much time and money,” he added. (Ernie B. Esconde/PNA)

NBI ordered to look into Bautista’s ‘hidden wealth’

For failure to declare P1-B assets J

ustice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II on Monday order the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Andres Bautista’s alleged failure to declare PP1 billion of his wealth.

Aguirre directed NBI Director Dante Gierran to conduct a probe and case buildup based on the allegations of Bautista’s wife Patricia Paz. “The NBI, through its Director, is hereby directed and granted authority to conduct investigation and case build-up over the al-

leged failure to disclose pertinent information required in the statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN) of Chairperson Andres D. Bautista contained in the affidavit of Mrs. Patricia Paz Bautista including possible determination of violation of Anti-Money Laundering Law and other related laws,” read the order signed by Aguirre.

Bautista can be charged with criminal cases only after removal from office through impeachment.

“The NBI may conduct any investigation of any government official, regard-

less of whether they are impeachable or not. Being charged is different from being investigated. You could use the investigation to support the impeachment charges,” Aguirre explained further.

Aguirre required the NBI to submit a monthly report on any updates of its investigation.

The allegation against Bautista came after his wife met with President Duterte and executed an affidavit, which was then forwarded to the NBI. In her affidavit, Patricia, said she has discovered a

number of assets that were not listed in his SALN. She said she was disclosing “certain information and documents that would show that Andy (Bautista’s nickname) might have had, or currently has, misdealing and corrupt practices while in government service.”

The Comelec chief already denied the allegation, stressing it could be a part of extortion by his estranged wife, who he revealed has asked for a PHP620-million settlement.

Bautista declared a net worth of PHP176.3 million in his SALN. (PNA)

the government in fighting all forms of illegal gambling as this becomes the breeding ground of corruption.

Last week, the Congress expressed their support to the PCSO’s effort in increasing revenues for the government by expanding the STL nationwide as long as the government is getting its rightful share.

“Once again, I urge the mayors and governors and

the local police nationwide to unite in the fight against jueteng and other forms of illegal gambling, and identify those gambling lords, their coddlers and file appropriate charges against them,” Balutan said in a statement.

He said though STL is winning the ground against illegal gambling, they still need all the help they can get to increase revenues for this government. “Jueteng is still

rampant and we must eradicate it the soonest possible,” he added.

Balutan believes that the efforts of the government will not go to waste as long as local government units (LGUs) and the police will work together in fighting illegal gambling which continues to hinder STL operations.

According to Balutan, in the first semester of 2017,

No reason seen for hospitals to question anti- deposit law PCSO seeks LGU support in curbing illegal gambling

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enator Risa Hontiveros on Monday said she sees no reason for hospitals to question the legality of the recently signed strengthened anti-deposit law since it would benefit the poor and save lives.

“Why do they need to question it before the Supreme Court if they follow the law?” Hontiveros said in a press conference following reports that hospital groups plan to question the legality

of the newly-signed law.

She said she found it unreasonable for hospital groups to argue about it when a patient’s life is at stake especially since doctors have pledged to “do no harm.”

The neophyte senator, meanwhile, expressed confidence that if the legality of the law is questioned, she is confident that the Supreme Court will be on her side.

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he Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office on Monday urged local government units anew to give their all-out support to state-sanctioned Small Town Lottery and help the government in its fights against illegal gambling.

PCSO General Manager Alexander Balutan said such support from mayors and governors are very crucial so as not to waste the efforts of

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NEWS 3

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Davao eyes automating collection to curb corruption DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/05 November) – Computerizing records at the city’s revenue-generating agencies may be one way to prevent corruption in these offices, an official said.

In an interview, City Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang, chair of the committee on finance said the City Information and Technology Center (CITC) has suggested allotting part of the 2014 budget to the centralization of collection data.

“We need to make sure that the elbow room for corruption will be minimized. I think we should go into computerization,” Dayanghirang said.

The councilor said that

the city assessor’s office and accounting office are already implementing a centralization of their data.

Last year, the city building office targeted to fully automate its operations by the fourth quarter of 2013, including the purchase of a large format scanner for the input of plans of incoming investors.

The scanner reportedly costs around P1.3 million or over 50 percent of the P2.3-million budget for the agency’s computerization.

However, the office of the city treasurer and other revenue-generating offices such as the public markets and terminals are yet to be com-

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Sotto seeks probe on Comelec head’s ‘ill-gotten wealth’

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enate Majority Leader Vicente Sotto III on Monday filed a resolution seeking a probe into the reported “ill-gotten wealth” of Commission on Elections (Comelec) chair Andres Bautista as alleged by his estranged wife, Patricia Paz Bautista.

Under Sotto’s resolution 456, he directed the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to conduct an inquiry into Bautista’s alleged ill-gotten wealth amounting to hundreds of millions of pesos, bank accounts, and other properties which he failed to declare in his 2016 statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN).

Sotto said that under the Constitution, “public officials and employees have an obligation to accomplish and submit declarations under oath of, and the public has the right to know, their assets, liabilities, net worth and financial and business interests.”

“Comelec must not only be compliant with the laws ensuring honesty and integrity in the performance of government service but also be above suspicion of any irregularity being the guardian of the Philippine electoral systems,” Sotto said in his resolution.

The Senator further said there is a need to determine if the present law is adequate enough to ensure compliance by all public officials with the provisions on the required submission of SALN. “This goes beyond a domestic dispute. It is an allegation of corruption of epic proportions that definitely concerns public interest given the sensitive position in our democratic setup Chairman Bautista occupies.,” Sotto added.

Senator Grace Poe, for her part, said that these “shocking revelations” called for a lifestyle check

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STRONG PUSH. SM Supermalls assistant vice president for marketing Russel Alaba (leftmost), City Tourism Office (CTO) head Generose Tecson (2nd from left), Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) president and Kadayawan Execom co-chair Captain Ronald Go (2nd from right) and SM Supermalls group brand manager Aron Dalaza pose for a photo at the

Kadayawan sa Davao 2017 centerpiece display at the Annex of SM City Davao on Monday after promoting the upcoming festivity and SM Supermalls in Mindanao’s festive Mindanao campaign set on August 10 to September 10.

Lean Daval Jr.

ASEAN eyes security, traffic challenges

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ppropriate security and traffic measures are now in place to ensure the smooth and peaceful conclusion of the ongoing 50th ASEAN Ministers’ Meeting and 50th ASEAN Anniversary ceremonies.

ASEAN-related activities started on Aug. 2 at the Philippine International Convention Center and will end on the 9th.

Association of Southeast Asian Nations -- Security Task Force Police Director Napoleon Taas said the traffic plan laid out by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the

local governments of Manila, Pasay and Makati is meant to ensure the “smooth conduct of the activities with least inconvenience to the general public.”

“Public support and understanding is necessary to ensure the success of the events lined up during those dates,” he said.

Taas said the Grand Commemorative Celebration of ASEAN’s 50th Anniversary on August 8 will be highlighted by a parade and simultaneous lighting of ASEAN Landmark at PICC and Bonifacio Global Center.

Around 1,700 ASEAN foreign

ministers and their spouses, senior officials and delegates are expected to arrive and participate.

Taas added advisories will be posted in strategic areas as well as in various media platforms to guide the general public and commuters on the traffic management plan so they can plan ahead or decide to defer going to areas surrounding the venues of the events.

Based on the traffic plan, affected areas that will be temporarily closed on Aug. 8 from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. include the CCP Complex

Bohol security tightened as ACD conference starts

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TIRED TO LISTEN. An attendee falls asleep while listening to speeches during the city government of Davao’s thanksgiving party for Muslim residents of the city held at Grand Menseng Hotel in Davao City on Sunday. Lean Daval Jr.

being declared as the ASEAN Delegates Zone and the stretch along Roxas Boulevard southbound from P. Burgos St. to Buendia to pave way for the movement and surge of participants joining the Parade and Landmark Lighting.

A stop-and-go scheme will be activated during the passage of VIPs along designated delegates’ route while normal traffic flow resumes immediately after the passage of the last convoy element.

Passing thru Diokno Boulevard going to Atang Dela Rama St. is strictly for PICC and Sofitel delegates only from Aug. 2 to 8. (PNA)

ecurity was tightened in Bohol as delegates from 34 nations around Asia converged in Panglao Island Monday for the Asian Cooperation Dialogue Conference.

Bohol hosts the threeday conference, which seeks to address the various issues on energy security, sustainability and resiliency in the Asian region.

Checkpoints have been set up in key areas since Thursday when delegates started arriving for the forum.

The increasing energy demand in Asia has been an issue, and the forum seeks to gather solutions and ideas for sustainable and reliable energy.

The reduction in the use of fossil fuels will also be tackled as the participating

Asian nations are likewise focusing on the use of renewable energy.

Energy Secretary Al Cusi extended his gratitude to the Bohol Provincial Government for its support and cooperation in the country’s hosting of the forum.

Cusi said the forum will help the Philippine government find answers to problems on energy security, sustainability and resiliency in the face of climate change as there would be information exchange and sharing of best practices among member countries.

“We also need to find ways that would make electricity affordable to the rural poor,” said Cusi.

The forum also comes at a time when Bohol is strug-

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4 ECONOMY RDP sustains aid to Davao farmers EDGEDAVAO

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he Philippine Rural Development Program has continued to provide aid to farmers cooperative in Mindanao for the enhancement of their facilities and improve production.

Sherwin Manual, the head of the PRDP Information Unit revealed that one of the cooperatives recent grantee is the Subasta Integrated Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Barangay Subasta, Calinan this city.

The cooperative was granted PHP9.5 million fund for the development of its P34-million Marketing of Dry Fermented Cacao Beans.

The rest of the fund requirement was covered by the cooperative for the land, facility and other structures. Manual said the fund will be used to enhance their production capacity since they need to purchase trucks and consolidator facility for the hauling of the products of nine cluster member cooperatives of Calinan, Mala-

gos, Marilog and Paquibato.

PRDP also granted fund assistance to the Farmers Cooperative Marketing Association of Zamboanga del Norte for Cacao Production and Marketing which has a project cost of PHP13.4 million. Manual said the Lanao del Norte Integrated Coconut Base Enterprise got an assistance of PHP8.8 million for its project with a cost of PHP13.4 million.

The local government unit of Lanao also gave its counterpart funds to help the farmers. On the other hand, Manual said there is still PHP212 million which can be accessed up to 2018 under the PRDP’s Enterprise Program. He said the objectives of this program is to increase smallholder groups operating viable enterprises; to enhance producer productivity through formalized arrangements for marketing and technical services; and to increase smallholder and fishery resilience to climate change and adverse weather condition. (Digna D. Banzon, PNA)

he implementing rules and regulations (IRR) on the law granting free tuition in state universities and colleges will be released in 15 days, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said Monday.

“We intend to issue the IRR in 15 days, the law says 60 days,” Diokno told reporters after the first Senate hearing on the proposed 2018 national budget of PHP3.767 trillion.The proposed 2018 national budget is 12.4 percent higher than the PHP3.35 trillion budget for 2017 and represents 21.6 percent of the gross domestic product.

The proposed 2018 national budget is 12.4 percent higher than the PHP3.35 trillion budget for 2017 and represents 21.6 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP).

On August 4, President Rodrigo Duterte signed into a law the measure seeking to provide free tuition in SUCs, state-run technical vocation institutions, and local universities and colleges.

The President’s move is against Diokno’s advice to veto the law as the government may not afford to grant free tuition in SUCs, which could run to about PHP100 billion annually if

the bill becomes a law. “…That’s our initial estimate based on 1.7 million students,” Diokno said. However, he noted the agency will determine the correct number by Wednesday.

Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon earlier said that Diokno, instead, recommended the full implementation of the UniFAST law which mandates the government to put up a system and create a body that would oversee and harmonize all student financial assistance programs for a more sustained granting of scholarship programs.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, for his part, said the Senate will be proposing a phased process of two to three years to fund the free tuition in SUCs law.

“This means we’ll fund the most important which is tuition fee, then maybe on the second year we can fund the miscellaneous fees and the third year maybe we can fund the subsidies,” Gatchalian told reporters in an interview.

He said that because it was not stated in the law how much the funds will be, they will give the Executive Department the flexibility which to fund first. PNA

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

HIGHER DEMAND. Lawyer Lalaine Dela Victoria (center) of Davao Agri Trade Expo (DATE) 2017, together with Happy Togonon (right) and Fred Porio of Davao Poultry and Egg Producers, Inc., says the poultry industry in Davao City

is experiencing production deficit which may reach up to 20 million by 2020.

They made the disclosure during Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao on Monday to promote the upcoming DATE 2017. Lean Daval Jr.

‘Tulay ng Pangulo’project under Duterte underway

A IRR on free tuition seen out in 15 days T

multi-billion peso foreign -assisted project involving the construction of some 262 bridges in rural areas in the country which had been on hold for more than six years, may now be underway.

In a paper and statement obtained by PNA Monday, Aug.7, Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael Mariano revealed he has already inaugurated Buted Bridge, one of the initial 10 bridges lined up for construction last year, and has transferred to Laoag City government its management and maintenance.

“More bridges are up for construction. Hopefully, all 262 that were approved for construction by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will be completed within the term of the Duterte administration,” Mariano said.

The DAR chief has given the go- signal for the resumption of the PHP18.5 billion project dubbed as “Tulay ng Pangulo para sa Kaunlarang Agraryo”, following reports that the imported prefabricated materials that were stored in

various warehouses of the DPWH were getting rusty.

“Imagine the Philippine government is already paying the loan and the corresponding interests and yet the project had been put on hold for quite some time.

It’s about time that the implementation of the project be resumed right away,” Mariano said.

Launched in 2008, Mariano said the project, jointly undertaken by the Philippine and the French Export Credit Facility (FCEF), initially involved the provision and construc-

tion of 418 modular prefabricated steel bridges with a total of 10,436.4 linear meters, using the French “unibridge technology.” It was supposed to be implemented over a period of six years.

The construction , however, was suspended indefinitely, following a Senate inquiry five years ago about alleged construction in the past of “bridges to nowhere” in areas where there are no rivers or roads that cost the government some PHP111 billion, according to then Senator Sergio Osmena.

(PNA)

years after the request was granted for cacao to be planted in the country and the first cacao was planted in San Jose, Batangas,” Pantino explained.

In making cacao de bola, only cacao that is 50-70 percent ripe is used since a fully-ripened cacao fruit germinates and affects the taste of the chocolate, Pantino said.

“This is a very labor intensive process since every step from selecting, sleeving, pruning, shelling, winnowing and pounding are all done by hand especially the shaping of the cacao ball are all done by hand,” Pantino explains.

Pantino added: “Cacao de bola making is very woman friendly. It is not complicated but it benefits literally from a woman’s touch throughout the entire process. What we’re telling you is that you don’t have to invest in sophisticated machines to come up with the cacao de bola, a creation which showcases the

savory side of chocolate.”

The process begins in the selection of cacao nibs which are whole beans after which the nibs are placed in a mortar and pounded by hand using a pestle. Pantino says the cacao they use is propagated because of its high-fat content which is more than 58 percent from the average cacao fruit.

As the nibs are crushed, the pounding produces heat and cocoa butter is released or volatilized, making them pasty and a chocolate aroma starts fill the air.

Pantino says that cocoa butter is where the money is and that is what big companies extract to make the best lotions because cocoa butter melts at mere 34-37 degrees Celsius or human body temperature.

Once the cacao nibs turn into a pasty dough, it is then rolled into a ball solely by hand after which it is cured at

a cooler temperature for it to solidify and become the cacao de bola which can be grated over anything including rice, pasta, coffee or it can be taken as is.

Aside from the cacao de bola, the chocolate painting was also introduced. Pantino’s son, JP demonstrated how chocolate paste can be used for monochromatic paintings.

Pantino emphasized that chocolate is a difficult medium because temperature affects its viscosity and will solidify easily when used in cold climates or air-conditioned rooms.

“JP is being trained to perfect the art of chocolate painting. When he masters it, we will also teach others about this wonderful art form,” Pantino said.

Choa and Pantino will also be at the First Philippine National Congress for Cacao to be held in Cebu on August 8-9. (PNA)

Beyond chocolate: PH ‘cacao de bola’ A

t the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Ministerial Meeting, guests and delegates were treated to a live demonstration of making “cacao de bola” which is chocolate in its purest form by tablea maker Racquel Choa otherwise known as the “Queen of Chocolate”.

According to Edu Pantino, chairperson of the Philippine Cacao Industry Council, if Europe has “queso de bola” the Philippines proudly introduces the “cacao de bola” to ASEAN nations and to the world as this is the first of its kind.

“Cacao is a very interesting crop. It’s not endemic to the Philippines but it was introduced by the Spaniards courtesy of the Mexicans. Was it brought in 1521? Part of our brand is actually Cacao Filipinas 1521. It’s a significant year in Philippine-Spanish history but the cacao was only brought around 1617. Five

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ECONOMY 5

UCPB lists 12% hike in H1 ’17 net income S trong loans growth fueled the 12 percent growth of UCPB’s net income in the first half of 2017 to PHP2.01 billion.

In a statement, the bank said loans rose by 15 percent to PHP153.37 billion from year-ago’s PHP133.38 billion on back of the rise in consumer loans, particularly auto loans.

This lifted the net interest income by 16 percent to PHP5.47 billion over year-ago’s PHP4.72 billion.

During the same period, deposits went up 23 percent to PHP284.33 billion from the end-June 2016’s PHP231.48 billion.

UCPB president and chief executive officer (CEO) Higinio Macadaeg Jr. noted the big contribution of the core business to the bank’s revenues in the first six months of the

year.

“The strong demand for financing coupled with our other initiatives such as our strengthened relationships with partner dealers and agents boosted the rise in consumer loan availments,” he said.

“Our consumer loan portfolio was funded by low-cost deposits that we continued to build this year. This resulted to better margins,” he added.

However, non-interest income during the same period declined by 15 percent to PHP1.18 billion over year-ago’s PHP1.39 billion due to volatilities that made most investors riskaversed.

UCPB said income from Treasury also took a hit after it fell 27 percent year-on-year to PHP427.04 million.(PNA)

ighteen foreign ministers met in Manila Monday for the 7th East Asia Summit (EAS) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

Chaired by Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, the EAS discusses the future direction of East Asian cooperation.

In his opening statement, Cayetano said the 7th EAS aimed to move forward cooperation in various areas that would result to a positive change for the region.

“The East Asia Summit, in the evolving ASEAN-led regional architecture, provides us with a platform for dialogue on broad, strategic issues of common interest and concern with the aim of

promoting peace, stability, and economic prosperity in East Asia,” he noted.

“We shall exchange views on the future direction of the EAS cooperation on regional and international issues of common concern that have profound impact on peace and security of our region and discuss preparations for the 12th East Asia Summit scheduled in November 2017,” Cayetano added.

The EAS is composed of the 10 member states of ASEAN and its eight dialogue partners including China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, and United States. (Kris Crismundo/ PNA)

SUSTAINING SUPPLY. A worker loads fresh coconut onto a basket which will be delivered to retailers at Agdao Public Market in Davao City on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

ARMM economic chief urges East Asia FMs meet in Manila Australians to invest in region E

FM says China-ASEAN links on‘positive course’

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ingaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said the relationship between China and the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is moving on “a positive trajectory.”

«ASEAN-China relations are in a positive direction, a positive trajectory,» Balakrishnan said in a speech during the ASEAN-China ministerial meeting on Sunday. His statement was released to the media on Monday.

Team-up between ASEAN and China hinged on «strong trade and economic ties,» Balakrishnan said, citing that the relationship was “substantive, multifaceted and mutually-beneficial.”

«And this year, the relationship is growing from strength to strength with

each passing year,» he said.

He said China is ASEAN›s largest trading partner in the last seven years and the two have committed themselves to the twin goals of hitting USD1-trillion trade and USD150-billion investment by 2020.

«ASEAN and China continue to embrace a multilateral and free trade global economic system. And given the state of the world today, I think the fact that ASEAN and China still remain totally committed to free trade and closer economic integration is noteworthy,» he said.

Moreover, he said that both sides were looking for new areas of cooperation, such as greater synergy between ASEAN›s master plan for ASEAN connectivity and the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative. (Xinhua)

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he head of the Regional Board of Investment of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is on a week-long trade mission in Australia to urge business executives there to invest in the region to help address the root causes of the chronic security problem in the region.

RBOI chief Ishak Mastura, along with other economic and trade officials of the country, flew to Australia on Sunday, August 6, to participate in the week-long trade and investment mission that is being organized by the Board of Investments (BOI) – Manila under the Philippine Investment Promotion Plan (PIPP) program.

Mastura said the trade mission came at a critical time when Mindanao, particularly Marawi City, is facing a crisis.

“The Australian newspapers are full of stories and opinion columns that are referring to the Marawi Crisis as the Islamic State (IS) presence at their doorstep due to the prox-

imity of Mindanao, particularly. to Darwin in Northern Australia,” he said, as the Marawi Crisis entered Day 76 on Sunday.

Government forces have been fighting the ISIS-inspired Maute Group and its allies in Marawi City since May 23.

“At the same time, there is increasing public call for Australia to be more involved in Mindanao in all spheres of activity from security to the economy. So we want to take advantage of such high public awareness in Australia regarding Marawi and the ARMM,” Mastura added.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said they are encouraging Australia to invest in agriculture, particularly in the cattle industry, since Australia has a well-developed Halal industry revolving around the supply of Halal meat to the Middle East.

“We can raise cattle cheaply in the ARMM or we can import them from Australia and process them into Halal meat

products to be re-distributed around the region since ARMM and Mindanao are geographically at the heart of Muslim Southeast Asian countries, who all belong to the BIMP-EAGA or the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippine East ASEAN Growth Area,” he said.

Mastura said the delegation will present the Philippine economy and investment opportunities to the businessmen in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

He said Australian investors’ interest is high in the Philippines “because of the shared security environment that necessitates increased partnership and collaborations between the two countries.”

“Foremost in mind is the Marawi crisis in the ARMM, wherein IS affiliated armed groups occupied Marawi City with still no end in sight,” he said.

“Instead of turning off investors from investing in the country and the ARMM in par-

ticular, strategic investors have come forward to offer their help to rebuild Marawi City and provide much needed jobs in the ARMM,” Mastura said.

To date, the Australian government is active in providing aid in the conflict-affected areas in Mindanao. Australian security is also assisting government troopers in the ongoing effort to flush-out militants in Marawi through by sending its AP-3C Orion aircraft to provide surveillance support.

The Australian government also gave $920,000 (P34.5 million) worth of food and other supplies to help address the situation of the displaced residents of Marawi.

Mastura said neighboring countries are concerned that the Marawi crisis could galvanize IS members from the region, who are returning home from the battlefields of Syria and Iraq, to seek sanctuary in Marawi City and its environs. (Darwin Wally T. Wee / MindaNews)

cumbent for us to send the message to ASEAN to promote free and open economic order and free trade regimes,” Ando said.

ASEAN and Japan has free trade agreement, boosting its two-way trade in 2016 to reach USD221.7 billion.

Moreover, Japan also urged the ASEAN for the early conclusion of negotiations of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

RCEP is envisioned to be a free trade deal among ASEAN and other countries which it has FTA. These FTA partners of

ASEAN include Australia, New Zealand, China, India, Japan, and South Korea.

The Philippines, as the host of this year’s ASEAN summit, targets to conclude the negotiations of RCEP during its chairmanship.

“To enhance this momentum, Japan and ASEAN should seek for the early conclusion of negotiations of RCEP led by ASEAN to reach a comprehensive, well-balanced, and high quality agreement,” Ando said.

To further strengthen dialogue partnership with ASEAN, Japanese Foreign

Minister Kono announced during the ASEAN-Japan Ministerial Meeting that negotiations on ASEAN-Japan Technical Cooperation Agreement will be launched.

“I firmly believe that this agreement will contribute to expand Japan-ASEAN relationship as agreement will enable JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) to provide assistance for projects that ASEAN community seeks to advance in addition to existing Japan’s bilateral assistance to respective ASEAN member state,” Kono said. (PNA)

Japan calls on ASEAN to promote free trade

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apan has called on the ASEAN member states to counter protectionism policies in some parts of the world by promoting free trade in the region.

In a press briefing of Japanese Foreign Ministry Deputy Press Secretary Toshihide Ando here Sunday evening, Foreign Minister Taro Kono urged ASEAN foreign ministers to continue its direction of liberalizing trade not only in the Southeast Asian region but also in other parts of Asia.

“While protectionist sentiment is spreading around the world, it is in-

6 COMPETITIVE EDGE TRAIN to exempt first P250K income of earners

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he first P250,000 in taxable income of compensation earners will be exempted from the personal income tax (PIT) under the proposed Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN), with families receiving a combined monthly income of betweenP13,000 and P40,000 increasing their take-home pay between P1,100 and 3,500 per month --or P14,000 to P42,000 per year--according to the Department of Finance.

DOF computations show that even with the slightly higher expenses that taxpayers would incur under the TRAIN’s revenue-enhancing provisions, the increases in their take home pay would more than offset these additional costs.

These revenue-enhancing provisions include expanding the value-added tax (VAT) base, and adjusting the tax for fuel and automobiles and imposing a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, among other measures.

“The income tax exemption for the first P250,000 that every compensation earner makes annually is the gift of President Duterte to the Filipino people,” Finance Secretary Carlos Domin-

guez III said. “This means that those earning around P20,000 and below per month will pay zero.”

Dominguez said that under the new Personal Income Tax (PIT) rates as proposed in the TRAIN bill, those earning P250,000 and below will pay zero tax while the next tax brackets were adjusted to make the system more progressive. Only the ultra-rich or those earning P5 million and above pays the marginal tax rate of 35 percent.

As an example, two call center agents earning a monthly income of P21,000 each with four kids or dependents will get a PIT savings of P3,984 a month.

Such tax savings would more than offset their additional expenses totaling P982 a month under TRAIN. Based on data from the 2015 Family Income and Expenditures Survey (FIES), the DOF computed the additional monthly costs for them under TRAIN as follows: P288 for the value-added tax, P201for the fuel excise tax adjustment, an inflationary effect of P113, the impact of the SSB tax at P190 and an added P190 if they are paying monthly amortization for an entry-level mass market sedan. (PNA)

Water service interruptions in Davao City August 9-10

D

avao City Water District advises of two separate sets of water service interruption.

First set will be on August 9, 2017 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM affecting some areas in Mintal, particularly, NPC Village, Palm Street, Yellow Bell Street, Doña Aurora Street, Camella Cerritos Expansion, and SAMULCO Village and Sitio Cawa-Cawa in Catalunan Pequeño. DCWD’s Engineering and Construction Department (ECD) crew will tap the water distribution system to the existing pipeline at Villa Constancia Subd. in Sitio Cawa-Cawa, Catalunan Pequeño.

Second set will be on August 10, 2017 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Affected are some areas in Calinan, particularly, Upper and Lower Lacson and Abandon Road. This water service interruption is needed for the tapping of pipelines at Purok 2 in Brgy. Lacson, Calinan by the ECD crew.

Once completed, the first and second projects will allow for accommodation of additional service connections at

Block 4 and portions of Blocks 1, 2, 3, and 5 in Villa Constancia Subd. and Purok 2 in Brgy.

Lacson, Calinan, respectively.

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

The general public may visit DCWD website (www. davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www. facebook.com/davaowater) or call the Central Information Unit / Call Center through the 24-hour hotline 297-DCWD (3293) and press “1” on their phone dial for the latest daily water updates.

Contact 0927-7988966, 0925-5113293, and 09084410653 for other updates, complaints, queries, and matters pertaining to DCWD services. (Winston C. Ajero)

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

Figure 1: Davao City Real Estate Wheel Figure (as of June 30, 2017)

Source: PRIME Philippines Research Group 2: Metro Manila Real Estate Wheel (as of Mar 31, 2017)

Source: PRIME Philippines Research Group

No property bubble in Davao in 5 years

By PRIME PHILLIPPINES RESEARCH GROUP

D

avao City property values are going up One of the indicators of a property bubble is the overpricing of land, making it difficult for investors to acquire properties. With the decrease in potential buyers, property values eventually drop given an oversupply.

Davao City continues to experience land value growth, despite already experiencing considerable increase in value in the past.

In 2017 alone, land values from 1Q to 2Q have risen by as much as 42%. The current investors in Davao are still amazed at how prices have increased rapidly in the past few years. The tendency of unmotivated sellers is to test the market by posting prices that are irrationally high, while the truly motivated sellers post reasonable price ranges to get serious buyers.

These high prices may be the main cause for speculation of a looming property bubble. A research by PRIME Philippines has noted that Davao City has experienced noticeable growth in certain sectors of real estate, especially in land values.

Davao City real estate is still on the early stages

Looking at all the property sectors of Davao, most prices are still on the early stages of a rise. While commercial land and residential condominium unit values have started to boom, there is still a lot of room for growth until it reaches its peak. This is in consideration that the promised infrastructure projects will not be significantly delayed or terminated.

Figure 1: Davao City Real Estate Wheel Figure 2: Metro Manila Real Estate Wheel (as of June 30, 2017) (as of Mar 31, 2017) Source: PRIME Philippines Research Group Source: PRIME Philippines Research Group Observing the Real Estate Wheels of Davao City (Figure 1) and Metro Manila (Figure 2), Davao City is still approaching the boom stage, while Metro Manila is already in the midst of it and has yet to experience a property bubble. The figure illustrates that there will be no property bubble within the next 5 years since Davao City’s real estate sector is still on the rise.

Davao as one of the fastest growing and most pro-

gressive cities in Mindanao.

Being at the forefront of economic growth in Mindanao makes Davao an even sweeter choice for foreign investors especially from countries located to the south and west. The Davao Region contributes approximately 30% of Mindanao GDP and is the 5th highest ranking city in the Philippines and the highest ranking city in Mindanao according to the Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index.

Countries such as Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore—those nearest to Mindanao—will find Davao as an optimal investment hub in terms of location, development plans, and opportunities.

The identification of Davao City as an emerging city should push the local market to prepare for the influx of foreign investment. PRIME’s indicators for emerging cities are as follows: (1) Infrastructure development, (2) Presence of key developers, and (3) Synergy between the public and private sector.

With the current infrastructure plans, the property market is set to grow further.

With the inflow of investors and developers, and the synergy between the local government unit and the private sector, developing Davao City as the next Central Business District (CBD) is within reach. If plans go along as intended and the collaboration of the public and the private sector is preserved, Davao City is truly set for greatness.

PRIME Philippines is the leading professional real estate consultancy firm in the country, offering specialized services in property acquisition, commercial & industrial leasing, property management, and research & advisory.

PRIME Philippines has served more than 2,700 local and international clients.

With a portfolio of Php15 Billion worth of real estate transactions, the company has served clients from over 10 countries, handling more than 80 projects across the Philippines.

Headquartered in Metro Manila, PRIME Philippines has now expanded to Mindanao, establishing its office in Davao City.

To know more about PRIME and its services, visit www.primephilippines.com.

7 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

“Philippine Seven Corporation celebrates 7 Eleven Day in partnership with DSWD XI by turning over the donated relief goods from 7-Eleven employees and customers for the Marawi evacuees .”

AboitizPower awards 12 scholarships anew T

welve engineering students of the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP) received full scholarships for the school year 2017-2018 from AboitizPower subsidiary Therma South, Inc. (TSI) and Aboitiz Foundation.

The scholars, along with their parents, signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with TSI and USEP last 24 July 2017.

“The partnership of USEP and TSI complement each other. TSI supports the students that the university

produces and helps us mold them into capable and competitive engineers. To the scholars, my warmest congratulations for being chosen.

I want you to live up to the expectations of your sponsor TSI by doing good academically and morally,” said Engr.

Angel de Vera, USEP Dean of the College of Engineering.

TSI has been giving scholarships with monthly allowance to deserving engineering students of USEP for three years now.

“The TSI scholarship program is purposive, meaning

A BETTER FUTURE. TSI’s 12 college scholars together with (seated from left): Rhowena Panizales, TSI Human Resource and Quality Manager; Jason Magnaye, TSI Manager for Reputation and Stakeholder Management; Engr.

Valentin Saludes III, TSI Vice President and Plant Manager; Engr. Angel de

that when you graduate and become successful engineers one day, you will all be prioritized for employment across the business units of AboitizPower,” said Jason Magnaye, TSI Manager for Reputation and Stakeholder Management.

“The TSI scholarship has really been a big help to us.

Despite the pressures and challenges of student life, we are motivated to endure, because we have a picture of where we are going. Thank you for your patience and for believing in us,” said scholar

Joshua Enrique Ching.

For her part, Tamsi Jasmin Gervacio, USEP Director for the Office of Student Services, thanked TSI for the support that it has extended to the scholars over the years.

“I would like to say thank you to TSI for providing holistic financial assistance to the students. Most students from the university are coming from indigent families, so your assistance truly helps them. Not only in their academic struggles, but also their families as well,” said Gervacio.

Vera, USEP Dean for the College of Engineering; Engr. Renato Arancon, USEP EE Department Chair; Tamsi Jasmin Gervacio, USEP Director for the Office of Student Services.

Farmer-led coffee enterprise in SoCot assisted by DA-PRDP Tupi, South Cotabato – Engines will soon start grinding for Tupi’s coffee enterprise after the Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) turned over the first tranche of the project’s cost that will jumpstart the enterprise activities.

DA-PRDP turned over recently checks worth P2.6-Million to the Tupi Coffee Growers’ Association, Inc. (TUCOGAI), the lead proponent of the coffee enterprise subproject of PRDP in South Cotabato.

Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol led the distribution of checks with South Cotabato Governor Daisy Avance-Fuentes at the DA 12’s Tupi Research and Experiment Station.

The handing over of checks from PRDP was part of the mass distribution of DA of farm machines and other agricultural projects to local government units and farmer groups in Region 12.

“We are thankful for the assistance we received from the government. We are confident that this will not be wasted since we have shown good production ever since,” TUCOGAI President Marcos Gabat said.

“Hopefully the government will continue to give grants to more economic enterprise projects especially to the coffee growers.

Coffee is considered as basic commodity nowadays so the government must put

more allocation to its production,” the farmer leader added.

The subproject entitled ‘Enhancement of Production and Marketing of Dried Green Coffee Beans’ is worth P17.9 million, wherein the first checks are intended for the procurement of equipment and facilities and other production support.

Engr. Milagros Casis, DA 12 regional executive director, revealed that these funds are intended to purchase two units electric operated coffee dehuller, six units weighing scale, two units moisture meter, two units motorized trailer, and two units washing tub.

After the turnover ceremony, farmer-recipients and the LGU South Cotabato will facilitate the construction of vermi-composting facility and the clonal garden.

This subproject is expected to uplift the lives of some 1,697 coffee growers in the province and could eventually expand the area devoted to coffee production in the province to 1,915 hectares.

For the implementation of the said project, TUCOGAI has partnered with coffee grower associations across the province, namely: Tampakan Coffee and Cacao Growers, Kinilis Farmers Cooperative (Polomolok); Sawmill Coconut Farmers Association (Surallah); Lambangan People’s Organization (T’Boli); and NED Landcare Association (Lake Sebu). (Carl Ulysses Aguillon/DA-RPCO 12)

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

F

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

Morale boost

or an athlete, it makes a lot of difference when you are competing before a hometown crowd.

But when you are not, the hostility you face before a crowd that is not your own would, in a way, weigh in on how you perform.

So the next best thing to boost your morale iss being sent off by the highest official of the land you represent. That should mean a lot as you take the blessing with you to the arena of battle. It’s like being all fired up for the competition.

This sendoff tradition dated back to the era of President Manuel Quezon way back during the Commonwealth era and observed by all Presidents who followed him except, according to sports chroniclers, President Benigno Aquino III under whose helm the country incidentally plummeted to its worst athletic performance in the Southeast Asian Games with a seventh place finish in 2011, and sixth in both 2013 and 2015.

No presidential sendoffs or arrival honors were

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made with the contingents to the Asian Games of 2010 and 2014, the SEA Games of 2011, 2013 and 2015 and the Olympic Games of 2012. It was also during this period that tthe country lost its best hope in sports-Chess Grandmaster Wesley So--to the United States.

So has now risen to the world no. 2 spot playing for his new country.

With President Rodrigo Duterte making sure that the tradition will be preserved, the athletes’ sendoff will happen anew for the national contingent to the Southeast Asian Games before it leaves for the 29th edition of the Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur. Philippine Sports Commission chairman Butch Ramirez said President Duterte will be sending off the 498-athlete strong national contingent in Malacanang.

The athletes will be fighting for the flag and it will mean a lot for the President to motivate them with his personal blessing and inspiring words. Little gesture, but yes, it matters.

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE

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

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

Richard C. Ebona | Product Development officer Cellphone number: 09169558559 / 09085486859 Email Address: edgedavao@gmail.com

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 91• TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

PRRD: Stay alive, go to HK

f the soldiers fighting the ISIS-inspired Maute and Abu Sayaf groups in Marawi have something to look forward to, it is President Digong’s cajoling them to “stay alive and go to HK when the job is done.”

That statement was not a joke.

The Marawi conflict has become a protracted battle which tilts in the favor of our AFP personnel because the rebel terrorists are either going to die fighting or die of hunger and thirst, whichever comes first.

This is not to say that the soldiers can relax their guard.

Digong is merely advising them not to rush and risk in venting their anger on these marauders in their desire to end the battle ASAP. The lairs of the enemy are like a maze, difficult to penetrate because they use their hostages to shield them.

“We are winning the battle. As a prize for your valor, I might treat you to a trip to HK,” the President said in a pep talk with the front-liners over a weekend ago.

I am certain the President will keep his promise. A trip to HK is a small price to pay for the heroic deeds (and the lives they paid dearly for) the AFP men and women are doing in Marawi.

This morale-boosting statement testifies to the down-toearth simplicity and sincerity PRRD is showing not only to the soldiers but to all the citizens.

You don’t need to be a seer to recognize that the war in Marawi is a prelude to a much bigger challenge which Digong is preparing for. His presidential foresight is best exemplified with his message to Congress of the need to recruit 20,000 enlisted men to strengthen the country’s armed forces.

As the ISIS is slowly being repelled in Syria, (based on international dispatches), there is this gnawing apprehension that Southeast Asia could be a better geographical strategy to establish their caliphate.

With ASF’s Isnilon Hapilon already chosen as its emir

t’s not a question of whether it will happen or not but how can we save ourselves from its wrath.

I am referring to the consequences that climate change brings. Whether we like it or not, it has already happened. And the future looks very bleak.

Andrew Griffin, in an article which appeared in Independent, wrote: “There is a 90% chance that the world’s temperature will rise 2°C to 4.9°C above pre-industrial levels by the end of the century, despite measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

Already, there are talks that the Paris agreement is bound to fail.

In December 2015, 195 countries from around the world adopted the first-ever universal, legally binding global climate deal. It sets out “a global action plan to put the world on track to avoid dangerous climate change by limiting global warming to well below 2°C.” There is a 99% chance that the climate change will break through the 1.5°C target. “Countries argued for the 1.5°C target because of the severe impacts on their livelihoods that would result from exceeding the threshold,” said Dr. Dargan Frierson, from the University of Washington. “Indeed, damages from heat extremes, drought, extreme weather and sea level rise will much more sever if 2°C or higher temperature rise is allowed.”

There is no turning back when

it comes to climate change. It is for real and it is happening right now.

In 2008, during the 11th International Coral Reef Symposium (ICRS) held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Dr. Simon Donner of the University of British Columbia embarked on a metaphor for climate change.

“The climate is like this big ship.

We are all on this big ship and the problem is once you hit the brakes it takes a long time for the ship to actually slow down and stop,” Dr. Donner told the participants.

“In our case the ship is the Titanic and we are going to hit the iceberg. It is going to be almost impossible for us not to hit the iceberg at this point. What we need to do is everything we can to put the brakes on, to slow the ship down and move the iceberg a little bit. The time for emission reductions isn’t so much now as it was 20 years ago.”

Climate change is bad news for Filipinos. The executive report from World Bank entitled, “Getting a Grip on Climate Change in the Philippines,” gives us an austere scenario about the future of the Philippines.

“The Philippines is the third most vulnerable country to weather-related extreme events, earthquakes, and sea level rise,” the foreword reads. “The country’s exposure to extreme weather conditions adversely affects people’s lives, especially those in high-risk urban and coastal areas.

“Food security is threatened as

I

VANTAGE POINTS

SPECKS OF LIFE Fred C. Lumba in the area, there is no doubt in the minds of our authorities that Marawi is indeed the launching pad of the ISIS ambition to establish its caliphate in the region.

All of us realize that these threats are for real.

These rebel terrorists are jihadists and are ready to die for their beliefs regardless of the consequences.

Congress should act with dispatch. Being an archipel-

ago, our country’s corridors are susceptible. Drugs, arms and all kinds of smuggling have remained unabated until today which goes to show that entry to our shores is easy.

Our enforcement agencies should not be caught with their pants down.

The request of the President for additional 20,000 troops is meant to address continuing security threats, from the tip of Luzon down to the loosely-sewn southernmost parts of the Philippines.

Digong visualizes a very strong, adequately prepared AFP in the next two years.

Upgrading the equipment and military hardware the soldiers are currently equipped with is a well thought out strategy. “I have lost a considerable number of fighting men in Marawi.

I need more to be trained in the SAF (Special Action Forces).”

A l l of Mindanao should stay alert.

The prompt action of Congress to extend martial law (despite the frantic protestations of the

Liberals and the opposition) in the island of Mindanao preempted these rebel terrorists from gathering a larger mass base.

Our country, like most elsewhere in the world, is being besieged from all sides. The anti-Duterte groups, mainly the Liberal Party stalwarts, are aiming to topple him. The communist insurgents, the BIFF, ASF and smaller groups of Maute supporters and the drug lords are converging.

The resoluteness of PRRD to put his foot down on illegal drugs and criminality, corruption and other issues affecting national governance is the sterling quality the country needs from our national leaders.

I wish our soldiers “Bon Voyage!” when they board their plane to HK for a well-deserved R & R. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo. com.) Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

14% of the total population and 42% of the coastal population.

•Informal settlements, which account for 45% of the Philippines’ urban population, are particularly vulnerable to floods due to less secure infrastructure, reduced access to clean water, and lack of health insurance.

•Climate-related impacts are expected to reduce agricultural productivity in the Philippines. In 2010, the annual damage to agriculture from typhoons, droughts and floods has already reached P12 billion, equivalent to 3% of total agricultural production.

• Warming oceans and ocean acidification affect coral reefs, which serve as important feeding and spawning grounds for many fish species that support the livelihoods of fisher folk. Even minor changes in ocean dynamics can cause severe impacts.

“The Philippines is already experiencing temperature increases: sea level rise; stronger storms, floods and droughts; and ocean acidification, all of which will intensify and affect subsistence livelihoods as well as urban and coastal areas,” the World Bank report said.

Absent of land barriers, the Philippines is exposed directly to multiple climate-related hazards such as typhoons (in the northern and eastern parts), floods (in central Luzon and southern Mindanao), landslides (based in terrain),

and droughts, making the Philippines more vulnerable to climate risks than other countries in Southeast Asia.

A previous study has identified 16 provinces in the country as among the 50 most vulnerable regions in Southeast Asia. The southern part are projected to experience the strongest increase in frequency and intensity of extreme, with all summer months experiencing unprecedented heat extremes.

“By the end of this century, tropical cyclones are expected to intensify, with a projected increase in average in the average instantaneous maximum wind velocity at the Philippine coast,” the report said.

Climate change impacts are aggravated by rapid environmental deterioration and unsustainable development practices, the report noted.

It cited the case of the widespread mining and deforestation in Mindanao, which “were blamed for the flash floods, including those produced by Tropical Storm Sendong in 2011, which cost the lives of about 1,000 people.”

The foreword also said: “For the Philippines to reduce poverty, accelerate economic growth, and create jobs, it is therefore necessary to address the country’s vulnerabilities to climate change. This can be accomplished by reducing the exposure and improving the adaptive capacity of communities at risk.”

Climate change is real

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

land and nursery areas for plants, trees, and fisheries are affected by climate change,” the foreword continues. “The livelihoods of poor communities that rely on natural resources are hampered and their lives and properties are further put at risk.”

Although climate change affects all of us, it is the “poor who are usually more severely affected,” the report claimed.

Here are some of those things that we, Filipinos, should be aware of: •Climate change is expected to lead to more intense typhoons, whose storm surges will be superimposed on higher sea levels. Storm surges are projected to affect about

9

10 NEWS NO... FROM 2

“I am confident that the Supreme Court will be on our side. Several sectors have also expressed support for this law,” she added.

On August 4, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act No. 10932 or the Strengthened Anti-Hospital Deposit Law which raises penalties for hospitals and health professionals who refuse to treat patients in emergency situations.

The law, authored by Hontiveros, now includes imprisonment of up to four to six years for hospitals who demand any deposit or other forms of advance payment as

a pre-requisite for admission or medical treatment of an emergency patient.

Fines have also been increased to reflect the strengthening of the regulation. Hospitals that refuse to provide emergency patients with basic care face penalties ranging from PHP500,000 to PHP1,000,000.

The Department of Health (DoH) has also been authorized to revoke the license of a health facility after three repeated violations pursuant to an established policy of the hospital or clinic or upon the instruction of its management. (PNA)

cities and municipalities, congressional districts, and provincial governments all over the country received more than P271 million from STL operations.

“As STL revenue increases, your share also increases.

So, can you help us promote STL against jueteng in your area? It is going to be beneficial to your constituents because you will surely receive funds for your health services and programs,” he said.(PNA)

gling with its power supply, which remains less than desirable in the aftermath of the Leyte earthquake last July.

Participants in the meetings, including experts and officials from the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, are from Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Brunei

Darussalam, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Kuwait, Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Oman, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vietnam and the Philippines. (Dave Albarado/PNA)

among high Comelec officials.

Poe also said that the Congress should allow the proper and duly mandated offices to look deeper into the criminal aspect of the case without pre-empting any possible complaint for impeachment.

“…These investigations should not deter the Senate from looking into the veracity of the other aspects of the allegations that appear to be supported by documentary evidence for purposes of coming up with appropriate remedial legislation,” Poe said.(PNA)

puterized.

“We are aiming for the central control and management of records,” Dayanghirang said, adding they are identifying cities and municipalities that are already implementing computerization.

The official said automation raises the possibility of taxpayers only having to go online for their transactions.

“We’re also looking forward to applying a business model that is used by utilities,” he said.

The Davao Light and Power Corporation and the Davao City Water District have a system where clients can pay by going to designated paying areas in malls.

Dayanghirang said the system could also lead to an increased centralization of other government functions, such as safety and flood monitoring.

He said that if the measure is approved it would be

up to Mayor Rodrigo Duterte to decide if the city would need a contractor, aside from its existing implementing agencies.

During the committee hearing Monday, Dayanghirang told the CITC to give him what the agency has accomplished and what it needs for the upcoming year.

Ricarte Franco Jr., CITC officer-in-charge told the committee the previous cost for the internet connection for City Hall and its departments amounted to P1.8 million.

The cost for the firewall for the website was P150,000 which came from a P5 million budget for the CITC this year, Franco said.

He said the appropriation for a point of payment software that would help in the interconnection was around P2.3 million. However, this software is yet to be materialized. (MindaNews)

PSCO... FROM 2

BOHOL... FROM 3

SOTTO... FROM 3

DAVAO... FROM 3

EDGEDAVAO

CAMPUS ISSUES. University of the Philippines Mindanao university student council vice chair Prince Harvey Arellano (left), who is joined by National Union of Students of the Philippines coordinator for Southern Mindanao Region Rowen Wabina (center) and Jeo Olar of SOS University of the Philippines

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

Mindanao, expresses the group’s grievances and concerns against the Duterte administration during Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

IBP calls for speedy justice on killing of Butuan judge T

he Integrated Bar of the Philippines called on law enforcement agencies to expedite investigation and arrest of the culprits to bring justice to the family of the killing of judge in Butuan City.

Judge Godofredo Abul Jr., 68, of the Butuan City Regional Trial Court Branch 4 was fatally hit on his head while his wife Bernadeth, 65, was wounded in the attack.

“The IBP sees the killing of Judge Abul as a stain against the Rule of Law. We view

all judges as members of our profession-one that is sworn to protect everyone’s right to life, liberty and property. Any life – be it innocent or guilty – does not deserve to be taken away so lightly by unaccountable assassins,” read the IBP statement signed by its new national president Abdiel Dan Elijah Fajardo.

“Summary and violent death sentences administered by unknown individuals is no substitute for a working judicial system,” it added.

The IBP also called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) to resolve the case immediately amid the mounting unresolved deaths in the country.

“We are committed to upholding the judicial process and work against those who applaud its erosion.

We call on our law enforcement authorities to take all necessary steps to ensure that the killers and their principals are found so that they may be brought to justice,” it added.

The mandatory organization of lawyers

in the country also supported the call of the Supreme Court for law enforcement agencies to expedite the probe and bring the culprits to the hands of justice.

The couple were about to leave their house at Alviola Village in Barangay Tiniwisan before 10 a.m. on Saturday when the gunman entered through the open gate of their garage and opened fire.

Witnesses said the gunman fled on a motorcycle driven by his cohort.

iz City Police officer-in-charge Chief Insp. Jovie Espenido) to walk around town without any weapons,” he added in Filipino, as he said Espenido and members of the PNP were not afraid and would do their duty regardless of the risk.

Dela Rosa made the comment after receiving reports that two boats, allegedly coming from Lanao Del Norte

and carrying heavily-armed men, were spotted somewhere in Ozamiz City recently.

The alleged hitmen were reportedly members of the “Kuratong Baleleng” group and very loyal to the Parojinogs, the purported founder of the group.

Parojinog was earlier pinpointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as one of the country’s drug-lords and nar-

co-politicians.

A PNP paraffin test earlier showed that the slain politician was found positive for gunpowder nitrates along with seven others.

As this develop, Espenido will receive a special award from the PNP on Wednesday, the organization’s 116th founding anniversary, for his accomplishments against the illegal drug menace. (PNA)

Parojinog’s men dared to do their utmost worst

P

hilippine National Police head Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa dared members of the “Kuratong Baleleng” group to make good their threat of getting even against the police raiding team responsible for killing suspected narco-politician Ozamiz City Mayor Reynaldo Parojinog and 14 others last July 30.

“I even told (Ozam-

INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

TRAVEL

EDGEDAVAO

Chasing wild dolphins in

MAY BAY

IT SEEMED LIKE ANOTHER HOUR THAT PASSED and still no dolphins in sight. A lot of flying fish that flew so close to our boat made their good morning greeting, it was still fun spotting these unusual fish. Sometime passed and we saw the lookout boat passing by a fisherman who just finished his day’s catch.

Like you would casually ask a tricycle driver or jeepney driver about a location you’re unfamiliar with, the spotter on the other boat asked if the fisherman had seen some dolphins this morning.

The nice fisherman pointed his arm to the direction going westward - further up Bobon and our favorite reef breaks.

It was as if we were going to Pujada Bay and see the Sleeping Dinosaur from the ocean

though, we were still in Mayo Bay. Again, I was too excited to just still so I kept pacing from my seat and transferring to the bow of the boat where I could get my feet wet. This was the furthest I’ve ever gone and there was surprisingly such strong signal that the internet was 4G. I couldn’t believe it! Now I know if I needed a place to work, I could go to the middle of Mayo Bay. I would just need to figure out how to get a pow-

er supply running in case my laptop battery dies. I started imagining how it would be like befriending a fisherman just to be able to go on his boat to work and then if the waves at the reef looked good, surf a little before going back to work.

My daydreaming was cut a bit short because we reached this small cove where there was no sandy beach in sight. It was all jagged boulders and cliffs that the waves were crashing into. The lookout boat was already signaling that there were dolphins nearby.

The air around us seemed tense. Would we finally see dolphins in the wild? I wondered how many would we see. Would it be similar to my previous experiences of riding the Roro from Surigao to Leyte were only a handful of dolphins would swim by the vessel?

I looked around the boat and everybody was wide awake. Wanting to have the best experience ever, I moved to the front part of the boat.

As we were entering the cove, our boat captain, one of the local surfers, Peter, turned off the engine. He then went on to explain what’s happening and what the rules were.

Peter said that this place is a feeding ground for spinner dolphins. Occasionally, pilot whales could also be seen in this area and down south. He added that the group will take turns having the best seats on the boat and it’s okay to get excited but we’re not allowed to jump out of the boat. The waters there aren’t identified to be safe for swimming with dolphins because of the current and its depth.

We’ve known each other for quite some time since we surf together in Dahican, I looked

at him and asked again if I could try just diving in really quick just to see the dolphins from below. Iyay, also one of the local surfers, who was with us, laughingly said they’d tie me to the back if I had plans of jumping off anyway. Though, in reassurance said that maybe the next time when we have a more experienced team with diving and swimming in deep waters and equipment, we’ll do that.

Focusing back on our boat slowly entering the cove, my eyes stuck like glue on the ocean’s surface. Skimming every inch of whatever I could see for signs of dolphins. I was too excited, I had my GoPro and my phone ready to take photos from above and underwater.

Story to be continued next week! Meanwhile, check www. millennialmermaid.com for more stories!

TOP: A lone fisherman reeling in the day’s catch off the coast of Bobon in Mayo Bay. LEFT: Surprised to find out that my local surfer friends, Iyay Magbago and Peter Ocdenaria were also the ones who were manning our boat for the dolphin watching!

BOTTOM: Getting my feet wet. Dahican’s waters are relatively cleaner than most coastal waters near bigger cities.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

EVENT

KADAYAWAN at the MARCO POLO DAVAO THE KADAYAWAN FESTIVAL is just around the corner with many of Durianburg’s denizens preparing to welcome visitors who will be arriving to experience the celebration. As the only five-star hotel in Davao, the Marco Polo Davao pulled out all the stops as it launched its Kadayawan livery and line-up of activities last August 1.

The hotel’s foyer and lobby was adorned with splashes of Mindanao chic with furniture and accessories by T’nlak Home, paintings by Davao artist Victor Agustus Dumaguing, as well as the personal collection of rare Mindanao antiquities

by Arch. Jose Racho Jr. The clash of patterns, colors, and textures was truly a sight to

MVT Bridges Philippines, Purok Malakas, General Santos City for more Information Please contact Cellphone Number 09460154748. Look for Shane S. Liquit Marketing Consultant

see and enjoy.

For foodies, an area where members of the Cacao Industry Development Association of Mindanao, Inc (CIDAMi) and Malagos Chocolate exhibited their products can be found.

There, one can sample all the different chocolate products to their hearts desire.

For the event, a chocolate drinking station was set up and manned by no less than Marco Polo Davao’s executive chef Alex Destriza.

The main event of the evening however was when the associates of the Marco Polo Davao came out oneby-one holding Philippine Eagle stuffed toys that were dressed up as inspired by Durianburg’s 11 tribes with Marco Polo Davao general manager Dottie WürglerCronin and her two dressedup eagles as the finale.

“The costumes of the Philippine eagle stuffed toys you see here are a product of the design skills of our associates in the different departments,” shared Dottie, “Each eagle pair will be put on a silent auction and the proceeds of the auction will go to support the Philippine Eagle Foundation.” After the event, the dressed-up Philippine eagle stuffed toys will also be exhibited at the hotel’s lobby while gathering bids from guests.

They say Kadayawan originated as a festival cel-

ebrating all things beautiful and bountiful and I could personally say that the Marco Polo Davao is clearly taking that concept to heart, sharing everything beautiful about Durianburg, from its people, its food, its culture and its joie de vie.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91• TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91• TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

UP AND ABOUT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

AirAsia’s CreateCamp opens search for Online Storytellers AIRASIA is looking for young aspiring individuals with creative talents and skills in videography and photography to be part of the airline’s first-ever social media reality search called #AirAsiaCreateCamp.

AirAsia Philippines CEO Captain Dexter Comendador said, “I believe we are the first in the Philippines to launch a social media reality contest where participants will undergo rigid bootcamps across four destinations in the country to learn about travel, photography, and videography.”

“CreateCamp aims to develop and empower young Filipino talents by providing mentorship programs, technical know-how, and support.”

The CreateCamp search is open to any individual of Filipino nationality, 18 to 25 years old, and residing in the Philippines. Participants are required to submit a 60-seconder video as official entry. For more information please visit, www.airasiacreatecamp.com.

Deadline for submission is on August 17.

Participants will be narrowed down to five finalists after the initial judging period based on creativity, originality, and quality of storytelling.

The five finalists will travel to Bohol, Palawan, Tacloban, and the

Cordillera region and shall undergo series of workshops over a month long period as part of the second phase of the competition.

Their final entries will be up for public voting.

The grand winner will receive over 1million pesos worth of prizes composed of AirAsia Philippines flights, Apple Macbook Pro 13, Sonny camera, fully spon-

sored three days two-night stay at Amorita Resorts in Bohol, and will become an official member of the AirAsia Storytellers community.

Keep updated with AirAsia’s CreateCamp search via #AirAsiaCreateCamp and #CreateCamp or get the latest updates through this link: https://www. facebook .com/a irasiaph/v ideos/1550347058358499/. PR

EDGEDAVAO

A4INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91• TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

11 SCIENCE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

Traveling by air: How safe?

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

“Adventure is a path. Real adventure – self-determined, self-motivated, often risky – forces you to have firsthand encounters with the world. The world the way it is, not the way you imagine it. Your body will collide with the earth and you will bear witness. In this way you will be compelled to grapple with the limitless kindness and bottomless cruelty of humankind – and perhaps realize that you yourself are capable of both. This will change you. Nothing will ever again be black-and-white.”– Mark Jenkins

A

lthough air travel is statistically the safest way to go, fears and controversy remain. “There’s still this mystique about flying,” said Ron Nielsen, a retired US Airways pilot who’s found a second career counseling people who are afraid to fly, told The Seattle Times.

“There’s a fear of being closed in, and there’s a fear of dying.”

The website of crashstuff. com shares this statistics: “Your chances of being involved in an aircraft accident are about 1 in 11 million. On the other hand, your chances of being killed in an automobile accident are 1 in 5000.

Statistically, you are at far greater risk driving to the airport than getting on an airplane. However, the perception is that you have more control over your fate when you are in your car than as a passenger traveling on an airplane. Experience shows otherwise, considering that over 50,000 people are killed on the highways every year.”

The Convention on International Civil Aviation Annex 13 defines an aviation accident as “an occurrence associated with the operation of an aircraft, which takes place between the time any person boards the aircraft with the intention of flight until such time as all such persons have disembarked, where a person is fatally or seriously injured,

the aircraft sustains damage or structural failure or the aircraft is missing or is completely inaccessible.”

Historical records show that the first fatal aviation accident occurred in a Wright Model A aircraft at Fort Myer, Virginia, in the United States on September 17, 1908, resulting in injury to the pilot, Orville Wright and death of the passenger, Signal Corps Lieutenant Thomas Selfridge.

In over one hundred years of implementation, aviation safety has improved considerably. But despite this, there are airplane crashes that could not be forgotten.

On March 27, 1977, 583 people died when a KLM Boeing 747 attempted to take-off without clearance, and collided with a taxiing Pan Am 747 at Los Rodeos Airport on the island of Tenerife, Spain. Both aircraft were completely destroyed.

On August 12, 1985, the single-aircraft disaster with the highest number of fatalities: 520 died on board a Boeing 747. The Japan Airlines Flight 123 suffered an explosive decompression from an incorrectly repaired aft pressure bulkhead, which failed in mid-flight, destroying most of its vertical stabilizer, severing all of the hydraulic lines, making the 747 virtually uncontrollable. Pilots were able to keep the plane flying for half

an hour before crashing into a mountain.

Perhaps, the world’s deadliest mid-air collision happened on November 12, 1996 over Haryana, India, involving Saudia Flight 763 and Air Kazakhstan Flight 1907.

The crash was mainly the result of the Kazakh pilot flying lower than the assigned clearance altitude. All 349 passengers and crew on board the two aircraft died.

On May 25, 1979, American Airlines Flight 191, following improper maintenance and the loss of an engine, a McDonnell Douglas DC-10-10, lost control and crashed near O’Hare International Airport in Des Plaines, Illinois. The crash killed all 271 passengers and crew on board, as well as two people on the ground.

On November 12, 2001, American Airlines Flight 587, an Airbus A300, crashed in the Belle Harbor neighborhood of Queens, New York, just after departing John F. Kennedy International Airport bound for Las Américas International Airport, Santo Domingo. The first officer’s overuse of the rudder in response to wake turbulence from a Japan Airlines 747 was cited as cause.

The crash killed all 260 people on board, as well as five people on the ground.

On April 2000, the worst air disaster in the Philippines happened. The Air Philippines Boeing 737-200 was preparing to land at Davao airport when it crashed and burst into flames on the Island Garden City of Samal, killing all 131 passengers and crew on board.

A year earlier, on February 2, 1998, Cebu Pacific Flight 387 from Manila crashed near the top of a fog-shrouded Mount Sumagaya in Claveria, Misamis Oriental, killing all

104 people on board.

Not all those who figured in plane crashes die. Between 1983 and 2000, over 95% of people in plane crashes in the United States survived.

According to FFA, only 6% of commercial airliner accidents occur during the cruise phase of the flight. Accidents during landing and approaches account for 65% of the crashes.

An article, which appeared in Popular Mechanics, quoted a 2007 study that found passengers sitting at the back of a plane are 40% more likely to survive a crash than those sitting in the front.

However, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and a website on aircraft safety, all claim there is no “safest” seat.

The article, which was based on a study of 20 crashes, did not take into account the developments in safety after those accidents. But on second thought, a flight data recorder is usually mounted in the aircraft’s empennage (tail section), where it is more likely to survive a severe crash.

There are some reports that a lightning striking a plane is fatal, but safety experts said planes are built to withstand such strikes. “The metal in the fuselage and the wings conduct electricity and keep the lightning from damaging the plane,” explained Vladimir Rakov, professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Florida and an expert on lightning.

Turbulence is an unpleasant but familiar experience for those who travel by air.

According to the FAA, turbulence is the number one cause of injuries to passengers and flight attendants in nonfatal accidents. Two-thirds of

those injuries happen above 30,000 feet – just when you’re told you can get up and move about the cabin.

The fear of flying may never leave some travelers, but as the industry continues to tweak its safety net. A report from Associated Press cited few examples of how airplane accidents kick-started safety upgrades: Cockpit alerts: The FAA ordered Boeing 737s to be upgraded so they could alert the cockpit crew of failures in the rudder control system following an investigation into a United Airlines crash in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 1991 that killed 25 people.

Electrical: After a Swissair MD-11 crashed in the North Atlantic in 1998, killing 229 people, the FAA ordered the inspection, repair, and replacement of wiring, insulation and circuit breakers in the cockpits and cabins for every carrier that flew the same model.

Reducing wear: Regulations for lubricating critical aircraft systems were tight-

ened after an Alaska Airlines MD-83 flight crashed into the Pacific in 2000, killing all 88 on board. Investigators discovered that the plane had excessive wear on parts of its horizontal stabilizer trim system.

“Accidents in the air have become so rare that investigators no longer find common reasons why commercial airplanes crash,” wrote Associated Press’ Chris Kahn.

“If you try to say, what’s the next common cause (of airline accidents) that we can address, the answer is there isn’t one,” Les Dorr, FAA spokesman, was quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, the Philippine government will review the existing security measures in the country following the mysterious disappearance of the Malaysian airplane. “Right now, I think our security measures are very strict,” presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said during a press briefing, “but certainly it gives us pause to look into again our security measures.”

EDGEDAVAO

12 HEALTH

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

(Photos taken from the net)

Are you taking care of your eyes?

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

T

he vision of his right was perfect: 20/20. But he has problem with his left eye; his best visual acuity was still 20/60 – even with an aid of eyeglasses. He consulted an ophthalmologist who told him that even if he would undergo a laser surgery, the problem of his left eye won’t be fixed.

“The truth is, you have never own glasses,” the eye doctor explained to the patient. “The problem of your left eye should have been picked up when you were seven years old. After seven years old, the connection between nerve cells of the eyes is already established and we could do nothing about it anymore.”

As the 30-year-old man was listening to the doctor’s explanation, he started to cry. “I am applying for a job in Singapore,” he said, “and I failed the medical examination because I could not read the chart with my left eye. I have three children and want to get this job to earn more but I will not be accepted if my left eye cannot see 20/20.”

In an interview, the eye doctor told this author: “If only his eye problem was picked up when he was younger than seven years old, given proper glasses and aided by patching his left eye, he would have gotten the job.”

The man is not alone.

In fact, most Filipinos are not paying attention in taking care of their eyes. “The critical time periods for an eye examination is during the start of schooling (around 4-5 years old), at adulthood (18-20 years of age), and at 40 years and thereafter,” says Dr. Maria Imelda YapVeloso, an ophthalmologist at the Asian Eye Institute in Makati.

In fact, eye examinations should start when a child is born. “Ideally, a child should be assessed at birth, age six months old, agree three years old, then 4-5 years old, and then annually thereafter, if each exam turns out okay,” says Dr. Alvina Pauline Santiago, a consultant in pediatric ophthalmology at the Philippine General Hospital.

Adults should have their eyes examined at least once every year. “It is important to have regular examinations so you will know the status of your eyes,” Dr. Yap-Veloso points out. “You will know whether you are at risk for certain eye problems. You will also be advised by your doctor what you should avoid and how often you should come for check-ups based on your eye findings.”

But can eye problems be reversed once they are discovered? “It depends on the eye problem,”

replies Dr. Barbara L. Roque, a consultant ophthalmologist at the Eye Republic Ophthalmology Clinic. “If the problem involves vital eye parts like the optic nerve, the retina, or the lens, something can almost be done to address the problem but the return of visual function to normal depends on the severity of the condition and the length of time that has lapsed since the onset of symptoms, among others.”

More often than not, Filipinos don’t see an eye doctor until they experience a change in their vision or only when having eye discomfort. “I believe there are many reasons for this. One is that they may not be aware that certain serious eye diseases may not have any symptoms until one has already reached the later stages of the disease. Two, they may think an eye examination is painful and complicated process.

I have some patients who say, ‘You mean, that’s an eye examination? I was expecting a more horrifying experience than that!’ The third is probably the usual reason why don’t see doctors often – we don’t want to hear bad news.”

The bad news is that an estimated 45 million people are blind and 135 million are visually impaired. In the Philippines, glaucoma is the second leading cause

of blindness – after cataract. Other forms of eyesight conditions are amblyopia (one eye cannot see well), presbyopia (the eye’s lens loses its elasticity, making nearby objects appear fuzzy), myopia (objects in the distance are blurry), strabismus (when eye don’t align), binocular problems (when eyes don’t work together) and age-related macular degeneration (breakdown of the macula, which controls central vision).

These eyesight conditions can be detected only with a comprehensive examination by an optometrist (an eyecare expert) or an ophthalmologist (a doctor specializing in eye health, who can also do surgery).

Most Filipino ophthalmologists charge similar rates (ranging from P500 to P800 per consultation) for children and adults. However, if extra tests/measurements or adjunctive diagnostic procedures are needed, there may be additional charges.

The good news is: doctors can now use different treatments to solve all types of eyesight problems while limiting the side effects. “Thanks to modern science, we now have the solution to most eyesight problems,” points out Dr. Gerard Chuah, consultant

ophthalmologist at the Mount Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore. “Name it and we may have the technology for it.”

In an article which appeared in Reader’s Digest, Jen Matlack offers a host of newttreatments for those people whose life is getting blurry. “Now is the most exciting time in the field of vision care,” Dr. Alan Carlson, director of the Refractive Surgery Service at the Duke University Eye Center, was quoted as saying.

Even for people who wear reading glasses, there’s a new treatment for them. For instance, people having presbyopia can use the so-called switchable bifocals. These glasses, being developed at the University of Arizona, can be switched from near- to farsighted vision at the touch of a button.

Myopic people can avail the phakic implantable contact lens. It’s a pliable lens that’s injected by an ophthalmologist into the eye, where it “unfolds” to correct nearsightedness. Ask your doctor if you are 21 to 45 years old, suffer moderate to severe nearsightedness and aren’t a candidate for or don’t want laser surgery.

For those suffering from cataracts, they can ask for either Tecnic ZM900 or Alcon ReSTOR. These multi-

focal intraocular lenses are artificial implants that mimic the natural lens, giving patients spectaclefree distance and near vision.

Anecortave acetate is good for those with glaucoma. It’s a drug that’s injected around the wall of the eye. It appears to decrease production of myocilin, a protein that clogs the pore system inside the eye where fluid drains.

There are three antiVEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) agents that are available against age-related macular degeneration: Lucentis , Macugen, and Avastin. Any of these are injected into the back of the eye under local anesthesia to stop central vision loss.

“The eye governs a very significant sense -the sense of sight – our windows to the world and our windows to life,” Dr. Yap-Veloso reminds.

“Taking care of this special sense should take a more active participation on our part.”

A regular eye examination is a part of that eye management. “Early diagnosis leads to early treatment and prevention of eye complications which may be permanent,” concludes the clinical associate professor at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 13

Maute-linked cop AWOL since 2014

T

he still unnamed police officer from Rizal, who allegedly joined the ranks of Maute Group remnants now being neutralized in Marawi City by government forces, has been AWOL (absent without leave) from the PNP since 2014 and already dropped from the rolls.

This was clarified by PNP head Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa in a press briefing Monday in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

The ex-cop’s identity is still being verified after government forces recovered an ID card in one of the Maute Group strongholds earlier in the fighting.

“We would like to make that clear, Number 1, he is no longer a policeman. (As early as) 2014, he went AWOL and his name was dropped from the rolls, and we have no idea on his whereabouts. (And regarding the recovered ID card), it could have been given or taken by someone else. At any rate, our investigation is still ongoing to validate this,” Dela Rosa said in Filipino.

He added that the PNP cannot ascertain on whether the former police officer is indeed in Marawi City fighting for the Maute Group terrorists unless the latter is captured or killed in the battlefield. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

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4 REPORTERS

Trekkers enjoy the view from a mountain in Barangay Luinab, Iligan City early morning Saturday (5 August 2017). MindaNews photo by BOBBY TIMONERA

Submit application letter and resume to: Mr. Antonio M. Ajero, Editor-in-Chief or Mr. Jimmy K. Laking, Associate Editor Edge Davao Review Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., E. Quirino Avenue, Davao City Or email at edgedavao@gmail.com

14 MOTORING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

Isuzu PH holds biggest meet

I

suzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), recently celebrated two decades of success following the gathering of its biggest event for their recognized Isuzu clubs; Team Isuzu Pilipinas, Team Isuzu Car Enthusiast and mu-X Owners Philippines.

Dubbed as “Isuzu Big Meet,” the event, which was held at Megatent in Libis, Quezon City, was made to promote camaraderie between Isuzu vehicle owners, as well recording the biggest gathering of Isuzu club members in one place.

More than 300 Isuzu owners with their vehicles joined the grand meet, which displayed Isuzu’s current light commercial vehicle line-up, namely the Crosswind AUV, D-MAX pick-up and mu-X SUV, alongside its iconic models like the Hi-Lander, Fuego pick-up, and Alterra.

To make event more exciting, IPC held its first car show for stock and modified Isuzu vehicles. Open for all clubs are categories such as Best AUV, Best Pick-up, and Best SUV. Meanwhile for the

modified categories, Isuzu clubs competed on Best Engine Set-up, Best Sound/Entertainment System Set-up, and Best 4x4 Vehicle Set-up.

Judged by IPC executives and members of the motoring media, champions emerged from each club; Victor Candelaria (Best AUV), Dr. Roman Remo (Best Pick-up), JT Lerma (Best SUV), Ivan De Castro (Best Engine Set-up), Deni Von Amatorio (Best Sound/ Entertainment) and Vic Makimkim (Best 4x4 Set-up). Each of them received cash prize, trophy, and premium Isuzu merchandise; as well as cash prizes and premium merchandise to the first and second runner-up winners.

Moreover, the owners of the Oldest Isuzu Model and the Highest KM Mileage in attendance, were also given recognition and prizes, Oldest Model awards was given to Alex Cabungal for his 1976 Gemini. Chito Villanueva from Team Isuzu Pilipinas took the highest mileage award for recording 998,628 kilometers on his

Isuzu Hi-Lander.

Part of the giving thanks to its loyal customers, IPC provided an exclusive 20-percent discount to all event participants applicable to all Isuzu merchandise, parts and accessories displayed during the event.

IPC President Hajime Koso expressed his elation over the success of the program, saying that the event is a true testament on the reliability and trustworthiness of the brand with Filipinos motorists.

“We are thankful for the trust that you have continually showed us over the course of the years. We value this partnership and rest assured that we will continue to provide utmost quality and topnotch service every time you would seek our service,” Koso said. “Just like car clubs, we want everyone to join hands and be united not just on meets, but also on the road,” he added.

New engine for Ford Ecosport?

I s Ford going to debut an all-new engine for the Asian version of the EcoSport?

If the report from Autocar India is true, then the answer is yes. Seems Ford is keen on replacing the EcoSport’s current 1.5-liter Sigma with something a little more potent.

Enter the “Dragon” series engine.

Despite the macho name, this new Ford engine won’t be delivering world-dominating power. Instead, it’s all designed to meet future emissions regulations globally. Said to come in two displacements, 1.2 and 1.5 liters, both engines will rock a 3-cylinder layout.

Aside from the odd number of cylinders, it’s expected to get an integrated exhaust

manifold, a rocker shaft with hydrodynamic bearings, a variable oil pump, and dual-valve independent valve control. The all-aluminum engine will also have individual ignition coils for each cylinder and spark plugs centralized in the combustion chamber. It’s said to be around 10 percent lighter than the current 1.5-liter Ti-VCT and will top out at 120 horses for the 1.5-liter version.

The report also says that the Dragon engine will be made exclusively at Ford’s new engine plant in Sanand, India to serve the global market (presumably including Thailand, where the Philippine-spec EcoSport comes from).

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

Sanman’s Duno to fight in LA

US FIGHT. Romero “Ruthless” Duno will fight in the US on September 23 according to his handlers.

T

he hard-punching Romero “Ruthless” Duno will be showcasing his immense talent in foreign soil once more as he will see action at the The Fabulous Forum in Los Angeles, California, USA on September 23 against a yet to be announced opponent.

The card that will be put up by The Golden Boy Promotions of boxing great Oscar deal Hoya will be headlined by Jorge Linares, who will be defend his WBA/WBC/RING World lightweight titles against Luke Campbell.

It will be the second time that Duno (14W-1L-0D-13KOs) will be fighting in the US following his sensational second-round knockout win over Christian Gonzalez last March 10 at the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles.

“This is a massive opportunity for Romero Duno to showcase his talents and show to everybody that his win over Chimpa Gonzalez was no fluke. We thank Robert Diaz and Golden Boy Promotions

for the opportunity,” said Jim Claude “JC” Manangquil of Sanman Promotions.

Duno is thankful for the opportunity and vowed to make the most out of it.

“I am blessed to be fighting in a huge card in the US. I thank the Golden Boy Promotions and Sanman boxing for the opportunity. I will continue to work hard and bring glory to the Philippines,” said Duno.

Dexter Tan, chief finance officer of Sanman Promotions, expressed confidence that Duno will be well-prepared for the task at hand.

“Duno has been in the US since the second week of June. He will be 100 percent ready on September 23,” Tan said.

Duno last saw action in June 10 in the main event of Brawl at the Mall: The Homecoming that saw him knocking out Jason Tinampay in the second round at the Robinsons Mall.

Chan traded to Phoenix Gilas plays China in A opener tomorrow fter eight years with Rain or Shine, sniper Jeff Chan is headed to another team.

The Elasto Painters have traded their seasoned gunner to the Phoenix Fuel Masters in exchange for Mark Borboran and a 2020 second round pick.

Atty. Mamerto Mondragon, team manager of the Elaston Painters, confirmed the news to InterAksyon. The trade is expected to be announced by the PBA on Monday.

“It was already agreed as early as Saturday, but it was only approved now,” Mondragon said.

Rain or Shine t e a m owner R a y mond Yu ex-

TRADED. Rain Or Shine has traded gunner Jeff Chan to Phoenix for Mark Borboran and a future draft pick.

plained why the team decided to acquire Borboran, a 6’4″ swingman, and let go of Chan who, at 33, is still one of the league’s best shooters.

“We still need long players as we have two of our best players loaned to the national team,” said Yu, referring to Gabe Norwood and Raymond Almazan who are part of Gilas Pilipinas’ campaign in the FIBA Asia Cup. “With Borboran, we think he still have a lot to contribute plus he will give us additional size.”

Yu added that Chan’s departure would mean more playing time for former twotime Most Valuable Player James Yap, who play the same position as Chan.

T

ment. The team only had two weeks of preparation time for the tournament, while some of its rivals have trained for months.

The team is also handicapped in the middle as it will play without top naturalized player Andray Blatche and injured center June Mar Fajardo who still joined the team in Lebanon despite being unlikely to suit up due to a calf injury.

Still, the Gilas Pilipinas squad composed of Jayson Castro, Calvin Abueva, Terrence Romeo, Japeth Aguilar, Christian Standhardinger, Jio Jalalon, Matthew Wright, Carl Bryan Cruz, Raymond Almazan and Gabe Norwood vowed to give their all and show their big fighting heart against the best teams from Asia.

After their much-anticipated match against China, the Filipinos will also take on Iraq on Friday and Qatar on Sunday in Group B. The FIBA Asia Cup is billed as the continent’s premier basketball tournament. Unlike in the past, it will no longer serve as a qualifier for the FIBA World Cup or the Olympics.

This year marks the debut of Oceania giants Australia and New Zealand which Gilas Pilipinas might face TOUCHDOWN. The Gilas Pilipinas squad arrives in Beirut for the FIBA Asia Cup which opens tomorrow. in the later rounds. he Philippine national men’s basketball team arrived in Lebanon on Sunday just a few days before the 2017 FIBA Asia Cup slated this week in Beirut.

Gilas Pilipinas will play its first game on Wednesday against defending champions China in the finals rematch of the tournament’s last edition in 2015.

While much is expected from Gilas Pilipinas, the squad endured many obstacles ahead of the tourna-

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 91 • TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2017

SENDOFF

Pres. Duterte to send off SEA Games athletes MORALE BOOST. President Rodrigo Duterte (right) with Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William “Butch” Ramirez (left) will be sending off the Philippine athletes to the 2017 Southeast Asian Games in Malacanang.

P

resident Rodrigo Duterte has assured the national contingent to the Southeast Asian Games this coming August 19-30 of a presidential blessing before it leaves for Kuala Lumpur, site of the 29th edition of the biennial conclave.

For six years during former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III’s watch, no national sports delegation earned the honor of being sent off nor welcomed by the Chief Executive.

Philippine Sports Commission chair Butch Ramirez assured this last Saturday saying President Duterte is set to receive the 498-athlete strong national contingent either Monday orTuesday in Malacanan.

“The Presidential Management Staff, I was told, has approved the request made by delegation chef de mission, Madam Cynthia Carrion asking an audience with the President when the athletes and officials pay a courtesy call on him before the nationals fly to KL sometime next week,” Ramirez told The Spin.ph in a telephone interview.

“Depende kasi sa schedule ng Pangulo.

But I believe it could be Monday or Tuesday because I was told members of our delegation will be leaving Wednesday or Thursday,” Ramirez said.

“But what I can assure of is the President is definitely meeting with our athletes, coaches and officials to give them inspiration and motivation in their quest for glory and honors for themselves and country,” the PSC head asserted.

If and when PRRD, indeed, meet the athletes, it will be the first time in more than six years that a Chief Executive will perform such tradition that started by President Quezon way back during the Commonwealth era and observed by all Chiefs of State who followed him except President Benigno Aquino III. In all of his six years in office, the son of late lady President Cory Aquino, P-Noy never sent off or welcome national contingents or individual athletes who represented the country in all the international competitions held under his watch.

These included the Asian Games of 2010 and 2014, the SEA Games of 2011, 2013 and 2015 and the Olympic Games of 2012 and 2016. This is apart from at least three Wold University Games and several individual competitions in the Asian, Continental and world levels.

It was under P-Noy’s term that he Philippines fashioned out its worst seventh overall finish in the 2011 SEA Games and sixth in 2013 an 2015.