Edge10 issue93 August 10,2017

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

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Serving a seamless society

EXTRA INCOME. To augment his daily income, taxi driver Henry Escobido is innovative with his ‘sideline’ -- selling beauty products to his passengers. Lean Daval Jr

FUNDING SEEN Nograles bares source of money for college education EDGEDAVAO Sports H

PSC SUPPORT Kadayawan sports events get PSC support

SPORTS P14

ouse Appropriations Chair and Davao City Congressman Karlo Nograles today said President Duterte no longer needs to worry about where to get the money that would be used to fund Republic Act 10931 also known as Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. “Makakatulog na ng mahimbing ang ating Pangulong Duterte. Together with the Department of Budget and Management and the Commission of Higher Education, we have achieved a breakthrough and managed to identify at least

Php16 Billion funds that would be readily available in time for the first semester enrollment next year,” Nograles said.

This breakthrough came Wednesday after Nograles met with DBM Secretary Benjamin Diokno, CHED Chair Patricia Licuanan and other CHED Commissioners and TESDA Secretary General Guiling Mamondiong and agreed that the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act is President Duterte’s greatest gift to the Filipino youth.

Nograles said that this Php16 Billion fund would

come from various scholarships in various departments that can be pooled together and consolidated for the full implementation of the law.

The various scholarships can be found in different State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), CHED, the Department of Health, Department of Agriculture, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

This does not even include

additional funds that may be carved out of underperforming and under-spending agencies, if needed.

“We will be consolidating all scholarship funds and spending them according to RA 10931 since this is the latest law that supersedes all other laws, and this law takes into consideration scholarships in SUCs, LUCs, TVIs and even private colleges and universities,” Nograles explained.

Nograles estimates that the Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) of the free college education law will be

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

ASEAN LEADERS. President Duterte poses for a souvenir photo with foreign ministers from participating countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers Meeting during the event’s closing ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Tuesday evening. RICHARD MADELO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Seoul monitors likely NKorea ‘provocation’strike on Guam

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outh Korea’s unification ministry said Wednesday that the country was closely monitoring “possible provocation” from North Korea after it warned of preemptive missile strikes against the US island of Guam in the Pacific.

Seoul’s unification ministry spokesman Baek Taehyun told a press briefing that the authorities of South Korea and the United States were closely watching relevant moves in preparation for North Korea’s “further provocation.”

Baek said the South Korean military authorities maintained a complete defense

readiness in preparation for several possible situations, noting that it would be important for North Korea “to stop provocation and change attitude.”

The remarks followed North Korea’s warning of preemptive missile strikes against the US military base of Guam in response to two US strategic bombers which were sent again Tuesday to South Korea.

Earlier in the day, the spokesman of the Strategic Force of the Korean People’s Army (KPA) of North Korea was quoted by the official Korean Central News Agency

SEOUL,10

Poll ballots for village SK ready in 35 days

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he Commission on Elections (Comelec) is looking to complete the printing of over 77 million official ballots for the October 23 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) polls, in a little over a month or 35 days.

Comelec Printing Committee head Genevieve Guevara said they want to complete the printing of 77,261,086 ballots at the soonest time possible.

“We are looking to finish ahead of our timeline and complete printing in 35 days,” she said at the press conference for the ballot printing kick-off event at the National Printing Office (NPO) in Quezon City on Wednesday.

Based on the projected

timeline, the Comelec will be printing 100,000 to 1.5 million ballots daily this month and by September 1, they are looking at reaching a two million daily output up until October 9.

They will be printing 56,468,566 ballots for the barangay polls and another 20,792,520 ballots for the youth elections.

Each ballot has a cost of PHP3 for a total budget of PHP231.6 million.

Initially, the ballots that were printed are for Batanes.

It will be followed by provinces in Eastern Visayas, Western Visayas, and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).

POLL,10

City Hall lights up lanternfor ASEAN

By ANGIE SAVERON

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avao’s City Hall took on added glow with the lighting of a lantern marking the commemoration of the 50th founding anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday In her speech, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio said that it was serendipitous or coincidental that the celebration of the ASEAN’s Anniversary and Kadayawan fallon the same month. She described

the ASEAN as a symbol of unity among ten equally diverse, colorful, multi- faceted, multi-cultural nations. “Just as our Kadayawan Festival is a symbol of the unity among all the people of Davao City,” she added.

In lighting the ASEAN lantern Mayor Sara said that this will reaffirm the city’s commitment to the association’s objectives and to the fundamental ASEAN principles of mutual respect for

independence, sovereignty, equality, territorial integrity and national Identity of all nations.

“Tonight let this beacon of harmony serve as a reminder of our continued partnership for change because under one light, we are one ASEAN,” Mayor Sara added.

“As mentioned ganiha sa message ni Mayor, the city government of Davao re-affirms the commitment of the country to the ASEAN

Nations that under one light, we are one ASEAN,” said Atty.

Zuleika Lopez, Davao City Administrator.

The people who attended the event witnessed the different tribal dances performed by the students from different school under Davao Colleges and Universities Network (DACUN); the Brokenshire Dance Troupe for the Kaagan Tribe, the DDC Dance Troupe for the Tausug

The other site is Davao City which is led by Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio at the Osmena Park.

Mt Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary has been inscribed as the Philippine’s sixth UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014 and declared as an ASEAN Heritage Park in 2016, Gov. Dayanghirang said that being chosen as one of the ASEAN historical sites is an opportunity to present Mt. Hamiguitan to a larger stage as a world heritage mountain range.

He said this should also

serve as a reminder to the local residents of the mountain’s universal value. He said it is fitting that Mt. Hamiguitan is the site of lighting event to mark the 50th founding of ASEAN. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR XI) Assistant Regional Director for Forestry Marcia Isip said Mt. Hamiguitan has brought so much pride to the country.

The lighting event, Isip said, brings Mt. Hamiguitan into the environmental arena and signals the unending goal to sustain and preserve

biodiversity.

During the program, Gov. Dayanghirang, San Isidro town Mayor Justina Yu, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Director Alex Roldan, and local officials led the raising of the flags of the ASEAN member nations and the ceremonial lighting of a six-foot lantern.

The event carries the ASEAN theme: “Under One Light, We Are One ASEAN”.

The local government units have been encouraged to take part in once-in-a-lifetime milestone as an opportunity

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ASEAN heritage landmark in Mt Hamiguitan lit up

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ore than a thousand city and municipal mayors, government officials, employees and the residents of Davao Oriental province joined the simultaneous historic lighting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) landmarks in celebration of its 50th anniversary.

The lighting led by Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang took place at Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary in San Isidro town. The province is among the 50 chosen ASEAN historical sites in the country.

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NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

PNP12 acquires 201 new firearms T

he Police Regional Office (PRO)-12 received 201 new firearms from the Philippine National Police central office.

Chief Supt. Cedrick Train, regional police director, said the new firearms were part of the PNP’s efforts to improve the capabilities and operations of police units within the region’s four provinces and five cites.

He said the firearms, which were composed of 200 units of NORINCO 6.56mm M16 rifles and a unit of DRAGUNOV 7.62 mm sniper rifle, arrived on Tuesday at the regional headquarters in Barangay Tambler here.

“We immediately distributed them to the recipient units based on instructions from our national headquarters,” he said in a PRO-12 statement released on Tues-

day afternoon.

The police official said the 200 M16 rifles were turned over to the area’s Provincial and City Public Safety Companies (P/CPSCs) and the lone sniper rifle to the Regional Public Safety Battalion-12.

The Sarangani PPSC and the General Santos CPSC received 40 units each, followed by South Cotabato PPSC with 29 units, Cotabato PPSC with 26 units, and Sultan Kudarat PPSC with 25 units.

Also distributed were three reloader machines for the Kidapawan City police station, Tacurong City police station and Koronadal City police station.

Train said the released firearms have complete accessories and supplied with

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UP BASIC NEED. Senator Cynthia Villar speaks on food security and the Duterte administration’s efforts to eradicate food shortage in the country before the participants of the National Nutrition Council’s 4th National

Conference of Barangay Nutrition Scholars held at SMX Convention Center in Lanang, Davao City on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr.

China to build first Mars simulation base

Alvarez, PIATCO linked C to city zoning violation T

he Davao City engineer’s office (CEO) has ordered a stop to the construction of a fence at Diversion Road (Carlos P. Garcia Highway) Shrine Hills, Matina, Davao City, on a property reported to be owned by House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez for lack of necessary permits.

The stoppage order was made just a week after the Department of Public Works and Highways had ordered the strengthening of the

slope in the same area due to pre-existing cracks which recently caused a landslide that caused traffic bottleneck at Diversion Road.

Earlier, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau visited the area and found it susceptible to landslide in case of earthquake, heavy downpour, and massive land development.

The CEO, according to a newspaper report, got the confirmation the development was first ordered

BUDAYAW FESTIVAL. Indonesian Consul General Berlian Napitupulu provides the details of the upcoming Budayaw Festival in General Santos City slated on September 20 to 24 during this week’s edition of Wednesdays @

stopped on May 9 after a first notice of violation and work stoppage order was issued in the name of Rep. Alvarez in the absence of a zoning clearance from the city.

CEO Chief Joseph Dominic Felizarta acknowledged that personnel of the city building official (CBO) inspected the area being developed and discovered the construction was not covered by a fencing permit, which is violative of Section 301 of the National Building Code.

Under the law, “no person, firm or corporation including any agency or instrumentality of the government shall erect, construct, alter, repair, move, convert, or demolish any building or structure or cause the same to be done without first obtaining a building permit.”

Three weeks later, the CBO issued a second and final notice, again addressed to the Speaker, to secure a building permit within five

ALVAREZ,10

Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Budayaw Festival will showcase the richness of Mindanao culture, heritage and artistry. Lean Daval Jr

hina will establish the country’s first Mars simulation base in northwest China’s Qinghai Province, the local government said Tuesday.

The base will be in the red cliff region in Da Qaidam (also known as Dachaidan) district in the Mongolian-Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Haixi.

Situated at the Qaidam basin in western Qinghai, Haixi was chosen for its Mars-like landform, landscape and climate, according to Wang Jingzhai, the prefec-

ture’s deputy Party chief.

The government of Haixi and the Chinese Academy of Sciences signed an agreement in November last year to build the base and have since begun discussing the project location.

The base, comprising a “Mars community” and a “Mars campsite,” will be turned into China’s first cultural and tourist experience base for space and astronomical education, Mars-themed tourism, scientific research and film shooting. (Xinhua)

BOC didn’t follow process in P6.4B shabu shipment

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hilippine Drug Enforcement Agency Director General Isidro Lapeña on Wednesday said Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service Director Neil Anthony Estrella did not follow procedures to coordinate with his agency upon receiving information on the P 6.4 billion worth of shabu shipment from China.

During the second Senate hearing on the illegal drugs shipment, Estrella admitted that he did not immediately coordinate with PDEA after he learned of the shipment because CIIS was still “validating the information.”

“We were notified about possible drug shipment but we were still validating the information so we did not immediately inform PDEA,” Estrella told Senator Richard Gordon, chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.

Estrella explained that on May 25, around 11 p.m., CIIS proceeded to the warehouse in Valenzuela City, Hong Fei Logistics, where the shipment -- five insulator machines -- were delivered to validate if it did contain illegal drugs.

Lapeña insisted that Estrella should have coordinated with PDEA and agreed with Gordon who described the CIIS Director as “incompetent.”

“All Customs officials violated entrapment protocols for illegal drugs in the warehouse raid,” Gordon said. “We are now a laughing stock over the Customs warehouse raid.”

Estrella said that he was informed of the illegal shipment

by Richard Chen (also known as Richard Tan), owner of the warehouse where the shipment was delivered.

Chen allowed the CIIS to open the crates, however, Gordon said that they had no authority to do so.

The warehouse owner said he received the drug shipment on May 24, around 7:30 a.m. He was later told by Xiamen Customs that the five insulator machines contained illegal drugs and that the shipper in China had already been arrested by authorities.

Also during the hearing, Gordon threatened to cite Chen in contempt for his conflicting statements in his affidavit.

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Saipan’s‘lucrative’casino lures PH gaming aficionados

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here has been a “gradual increase” in the number of Filipinos gaming aficionados traveling to Saipan for casino gambling, a tourism marketing group said Wednesday.

Aviareps, a leading tourism, hospitality, and aviation representation company, said Filipino high stake rollers visit Saipan because they want a break from the traditional destinations such as Macau and Las Vegas.

Saipan is home to what has been cited in reports as one of the most “lucrative” casinos in the world, the Best Sunshine Live Casino.

Recent data from Aviareps showed that there has been a 15 percent increase in the number of Filipino tourists visiting Taiwan this year. More than 1,000 Filipinos are traveling to Saipan monthly this year.

Aviareps Philippines Office Director Jean Lugan said that although Saipan has only one casino, it is strategically integrated to other places of activities within the island.

“It is increasingly becoming a buzzword for Filipino gaming aficionados,” Lugan said in a press statement.

Lugan further said

that Saipan is also becoming a very attractive destination for Filipinos with the existence of direct flights from the Philippines courtesy of flag-carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL).

She said that Saipan has an advantage because of its proximity and the large Filipino community in the island. Filipinos currently account for close to 40 percent of Saipan total population of 55,000.

Saipan quickly catapulted to the top in terms of its reputation in the gaming industry rivaling some of the world’s biggest gambling enterprises with its Best Sunshine Live Casino which only opened in 2015.

Last year, the casino reported revenues amounting to USD 32.40 billion from its VIP Tables, higher than gaming giant Venetian Macau which generated USD 28.90 billion.

In the same year, Best Sunshine Live also collected more than 50 percent in income compared to Macau’s Wynn Resorts Ltd. Best Sunshine Live is a temporary casino run

by Best Sunshine International which is a subsidiary of Hong Kong-listed Imperial Pacific International.(PNA)

IMF: PH economy seen to hit potential growth

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he International Monetary Fund remains optimistic on the Philippine economy’s output in the near term amid the recent cut of its 2017 growth forecast to 6.6 percent from 6.8 percent.

Luis E. Breuer attributed this to the slower domestic expansion in the first quarter of 2017 at 6.4 percent from quarter-ago’s 6.6 percent and year-ago’s 6.9 percent.

In a briefing Tuesday, the IMF Article IV Consultation on the Philippines Mission chief explained that the slower growth, as measured by gross domestic product (GPD), is understandable given the impact of election spending on the economy last year.

He pointed out that outlook for the domestic economy for the next three years remains strong at 6.8 percent. ”In general, we see the economy growing close to potential and that is very good,” he said.

GDP growth in the first quarter this year is below the government’s seven to

eight percent full year target but economic officials are optimistic on the fullyear results.

Breuer is all hopes for tahe approval of the Duterte administration’s tax reform proposals, now pending in Congress.

He said the tax reform will generate resources that will be used for the administration’s priority programs on infrastructure investments and social services, among others.

It will also serve as an insurance against volatilities in the financial market, especially since the government targets to finance the construction of its infrastructure projects, pegged to amount to about Php8-9 trillion until 2022, he said.

“It’s going to protect the confidence, the trust that the private sector, both domestic and international, have on the conduct of economic policies in the Philippines,” he said.

The IMF Mission chief said the reforms are important because it will also modernize the way funds are used.(PNA)

ENTERPRISING. A group of young boys pushes a ‘trisikad’ loaded with plastic bottles and recyclable scrap items they will sell at a junk shop in Times Beach, Davao City on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr

PRRD declares August as ‘ASEAN Bloc Month’

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n connection with the Philippine chairmanship of the 50th founding anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations , President Rodrigo Duterte has signed a proclamation declaring the month of August as “ASEAN Month” with the aim of further raising public awareness on the importance and value of the regional bloc.

Proclamation No. 282, which Duterte signed on July 31, amended Proclamation No. 1008, issued in 1997, that declared August 7-13 of every year as “ASEAN Week.”

In issuing the procla-

mation, Duterte said the Philippines, as one of the founding members of ASEAN, recognizes the need to further promote and heighten awareness of the ASEAN, and instill in the minds of the Filipino people the importance, value, and meaning of the ASEAN in achieving and maintaining regional peace and sustainable development.

In view of this, Proclamation 282 orders all government agencies, especially the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of the Interior and

Local Government (DILG), Department of Tourism (DoT), Department Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to initiate and implement programs and activities to help generate awareness and public support in promoting the observance of ASEAN Month throughout the country.

Earlier, the Civil Service Commission (CSC), through Memorandum Circular No. 07, called on public officials and employees to actively take part in raising the public’s awareness of the ASEAN. The Philippines, togeth-

er with Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand founded ASEAN on August 8, 1967, in Bangkok with the aim of promoting the economic, social and cultural development of the region through cooperative programs in order to safeguard the political and economic stability of the region.

ASEAN was also established to serve as a forum for the resolution of intra-regional differences.

Since then, ASEAN has accepted Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam as member states. (PNA)

products from the Philippines.

Lopez said the deal would promote Philippine agricultural products while increasing farmers income and create more jobs in the rural areas.

During the hearing, DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez stressed that the challenges posed by the human rights issue and the Marawi crisis did not diminish foreign business confidence as evidenced by the booming trade and economic development of the country.

“The efforts of Pres. Duterte, specially his trips abroad, opened the doors wider for foreign investors to invest in the country’s economy,” Lopez told the Appropriations panel hearing, presided over

by Nograles, on the proposed 2018 P3.767-trillion General Appropriations Act. Nograles started the ball

rolling by seeking clarification on the government’s programs, particularly on foreign trade and promoting the influx of foreign investments since the start of the Duterte presidency.

Sec. Lopez revealed that in the various trips abroad with the President, he had “never encountered any complaints” about the stability of the business climate in the Philippines. In fact, Lopez told the Nograles panel, the President’s declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao is being regarded by foreign business chambers as a necessary peacekeeping move by government, including the sustained war against illegal drugs.

Despite these challenges, Lopez said he believes that foreign investors are confident of the efforts of government to

maintain a conducive business climate in the country. Furthermore, the DTI official cited the independent foreign policy being pushed by the current leadership which allowed the country to be a ”friend to all and enemy to no one.”

Nograles, reacted by saying that the President’s sustained campaign and programs to attain peace, stability and national discipline will ensure the country’s march to meaningful inclusive socio-economic development.

“The president’s unrelenting war against illegal drugs and corruption in public service, among others, will surely help heighten people’s participation in a progressive and clean governance which are among the vital ingredients to achieve real and inclusive development, ” said Nograles. (PNA)

Business booming despite HR violation claims-Karlo

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usiness is booming in the country despite allegations of human rights violations and the ongoing Marawi crisis, House Appropriations Committee Chair and Davao City Congressman Karlo Nograles today said.

In Tuesday’s presentation of the Department of Trade Industry’s Php6.57 Billion proposed budget, Nograles noted that the Philippines has remained a major investment magnet and posted a 16.3 percent increase in international trade from January to May this year coming from a dismal -5 percent.

With China alone, the country’s bilateral trade grew by at least 62 percent.

On the other hand, the President’s trip to Russia yielded an outright Russian-purchase of about $2.5-million of agricultural

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ECONOMY 5

EDGEDAVAO

Mango industry roadmap forum sought for Palawan

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BUDAYAW FESTIVAL. Indonesian Consul General Berlian Napitupulu provides the details of the upcoming Budayaw Festival in General Santos City slated on September 20 to 24 during this week’s edition of Wednesdays @

Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Budayaw Festival will showcase the richness of Mindanao culture, heritage and artistry. Lean Daval Jr

Substantial progress attained on Sulong’s workshop output

Tax reform program law strongly pushed F

inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said Wednesday substantial progress has been achieved on the socioeconomic reform agenda crafted during the first Sulong Pilipinas workshop held before the Duterte administration took over last year, particularly on the primary goals of growing a robust middle class, putting more money in the pockets of wage earners and making the Philippines more attractive to investors.

Among the “actionable recommendations” that was later adopted as the zero-to-10-point socioeconomic reform agenda of the then incoming Duterte administration during the first Sulong workshop was the proposed Comprehensive Tax Re-

form Program (CTRP) that aims to support the government’s ambitious infrastructure program, which the country “direly needs” to strengthen the country’s poor logistics backbone and make the economy globally competitive, Dominguez said.

“The (tax) reform package seeks to bring down corporate and personal tax rates closer to the regional average. This will help us build a strong middle class, encourage investments into our economy and put more disposable income in the pockets of wage earners,” Dominguez said in his welcome remarks at the second Sulong Pilipinas national workshop held at the EDSA Shangrila Hotel in Mandaluyong City.

According to Dominguez, tax reform “will enable government to undertake a massive infra program amounting to 7.4 percent of gross domestic product [GDP] without breaking the limits of fiscal discipline.”

For the second Sulong workshop, Dominguez said he expects micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which comprise 99.6 percent of the country’s total business enterprises and employ 63.7 percent of the work force, to have “a stronger voice” in the forum.

“Government policies must be squarely behind your success,” Dominguez said.

He said that while the first Sulong forum held in Davao City has proven to be an effec-

tive mechanism in providing all sectors a voice in shaping state policy, those who were involved in helping draw up the socioeconomic reform agenda should likewise actively support this strategy to move it forward.

Dominguez referred specifically to the CTRP, which, he said, is necessary to achieve genuine economic inclusion, as it would, among others, help build 113,553 classrooms for public school children and hire 181,980 more teachers.

The CTRP is also crucial in improving the country’s national gravel roads, irrigating 1.3 million hectares of agricultural land and providing road access for 7,894 isolated barangays and 23,293 isolated sitios.(DOF)

positive direction the ministerial meeting has taken.

“We discussed developments in the South China Sea and noted that the situation in the area has become more stable than in the past years. We adopted the Framework of the Code of Conduct (CPC) and tasked senior officials of ASEAN and China to start consultations and negotiations on the COC at the earliest opportunity,” the current ASEAN Chairman’s opening statement reads, a copy of which was distributed to the local and international media.

Cayetano mentioned that the Joint Communique, which included discussion on the issue of

South China Sea, is a testament of ASEAN centrality where member-states decide on consensus.

In the same briefing, Secretary Cayetano stated that the Philippines is a friend to all and an enemy to none as he reiterated the country’s pursuit of independent foreign policy.

“We are not pro-China, pro-US, pro-Japan. We are pro-Philippines and we are pro-ASEAN,” Cayetano emphasized saying that “we are a sovereign nation and we will decide what is good for us and what strategy is good for us.”

Also Cayetano disclosed updates on Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono’s courtesy call

on PRRD at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).

The 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila is Minister Kono’s international debut.

“We know it is just his 5th day in his new capacity as Foreign Minister (August 8) but we are very thankful that he decided to attend the conference to participate very actively to articulate Japan’s positions in different issues,” he said.

Cayetano said that Minister Kono had a very good, frank meeting with the President, which exceeded the allotted time. Anti-terrorism and Japanese support top the agenda of the discussion.(PNA)

DFA: PH hosting of ASEAN ministers meeting a success

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oreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter S. Cayetano expressed gratitude for the country’s successful hosting of the week-long 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in a press briefing held on Tuesday in Manila.

“First of all, I think it was a very productive and constructive dialogue, conference, and meeting… I think we achieved everything we set up to achieve in this meeting given the expectations,” Cayetano said.

The PH top diplomat added that even claimant-states said peace and stability are paramount and that ASEAN member-states recognized the

Palawan solon has requested the Department of Agriculture to conduct a special mango industry roadmap forum to find a far-reaching solution to the decades-long mango pulp weevil problem besetting the local mango industry.

The request came in the form of a proposed resolution filed Tuesday by Board Member Roseller Pineda of the 1st Palawan District at the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

Pineda told the Philippine News Agency Tuesday afternoon that he was pushing for the meeting to be held in Palawan since DA Secretary Emmanuel Pinol is now conducting a series of mango industry roadmap forum in different regions in the country to address issues raised by mango farmers and growers.

“Through this forum, perhaps the DA can now help Palawan resolve its mango pulp weevil problem by presenting current available technologies to mango growers.

“The mango industry in the province has already lost millions if not billions of pesos because we are unable to market our produce,” Pineda said.

He said Pinol is “fully aware” of the infestation that has been perennially pestering Palawan mango farmers, and has in fact, said in February this year, that the DA will provide them an irradiation machine that can detect and get rid of the

weevils.

“It is with utmost urgency that the province of Palawan be included in the selected venues for the mango industry roadmap forum for our farmers and growers to finally have the chance to market their produce,” Pineda said.

The board member stated he is saddened by the fact that until now, nothing has happened to eradicate the mango pulp weevil problem, and that local mango produce are losing against those traded in from other provinces.

According to Justin McKinley, Adam Sparks, Valerien Pede, and Bart Duff in the “An Economic Assessment of the Impact of Mango Pulp Weevil on the Agricultural Sector of Palawan, Philippines” study, since 1987, the province has been prohibited by the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) to export its locally-produced mangoes.

This was done to prevent the spread of the pest through the declaration of BPI Administrative Order Number 20.

The study said the administrative order was the reason the growth of the Palawan mango industry was restricted to the province.

“Evidence of the MPW was first discovered in southern Palawan when a survey of 33 mango-producing Filipino provinces was administered. Palawan is the only province in the Philippines under mango quarantine,” the study claimed. (PNA)

ARMM is PH’s top fish producer:PSA T

he five-province, twwocity Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Armm) was the top fish-producing region in the country in 2016, the Philippine Statistics Authority Thursday said.

The PSA released the 2016 Fisheries Situationer showing Armm produced 824,314.52 metric tons of fishery products in 2016.

Last year’s production was 18.93 percent of the country’s total production of 4,354,472.61 metric tons.

Coming in second was Zamboanga Peninsula with 554,769.71 MT and Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan) with 482,790.71 MT. Armm was the top producer of roundscad (galunggong) with 24,264.33 MT, frigate tuna (tulingan) with 24,815.91 MT, Indian mackerel with 10,737.33 MT, eastern little tuna (bonito) with 12,994.80 MT, and seaweeds with 613,174.28 MT. Many factors contributed to the good performance of the region’s fishery sector, accord-

ing to Janice Desamito-Musali, director of Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFARArmm).

Tawi-Tawi is the region’s producer of seaweeds and it also produces the biggest seaweeds volume in the country, making 43.66 MT percent of the total production of 1,404,519 MT. “The coastlines of the islands in the region have wider stretch, which is very suitable for seaweeds farming,” Musali said.

“Good weather conditions, lesser occurrences of ‘ice-ice’ diseases, good quality planting materials and favorable water conditions enhance the growth of seaweeds in our region,” Musali added.

Data from BFAR-Armm also showed that the region has a total of 159,123 fishermen operating in the territorial water area under the region’s administrative jurisdiction.

The fishing grounds in the region include Illana Bay, Moro Gulf, Basilan Strait, Sulu Sea and Celebes Sea.. (EOF/PNA)

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Supporting high school students’hard works

I

WRITTEN ON THEIR FACES. the beneficiaries of Hedcor’s financial assistance really enjoy studying—the reason why they constantly excel in class.

nspired by their hard work, Hedcor continues to back 12 outstanding junior high school students of the beneficiary schools in Davao del Sur in their quest to reach their dream of reciprocating their parents.

These students from Kapatagan National High School and Federico Yap National High School continues to receive financial incentives from Hedcor for remaining on top in their classes.

Hedcor, who aspires for an inclusive growth between the company and its host communities, makes sure that these future builders are inspirited to build a better one.

“I thank Hedcor for their unending support and compassion to us who have little but also have big dreams. This financial assistance will really help me especially now that both of my parents do not have sustaining jobs,” said 9th Grader

Anjelina Canomay.

Indeed, these students are proving that they can help their parents even as students.

Ramil Alcantara, the president of Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) of KPNHS and the father of one of the recipients of the financial assistance, in tears, said: “Wow, you are an answered prayer. I was just praying to God to help us with our financial problems, and I was really wondering where to get enough money for my daughter’s allowance, and here you are. Thank you for being a blessing to others.”

In Davao City and Davao del Sur, Hedcor has given financial assistance to a total of 37 deserving high school students of host communities since 2008. This program aims to prepare public high school students for a college scholarship, in which 2 of the 27 Hedcor college scholars already graduated.

olice and military forces in the province of Maguindanao have been placed on heightened alert after outlawed Moro armed group harassed Army and PNP detachments in nearby Datu Unsay town.

“We need to be proactive as the armed men continue to create noise to make they are still a force to reckon with,” Senior Supt. Agustin Tello, Maguindanao police director, told reporters after a police officer and two soldiers were injured when the ISIS inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters simultaneously attacked the police station and two Army detachments.

Tello said PO1 Usman Datuan of Datu Unsay municipal police office, is now recuperating in a hospital from bullet injuries he sustained during the Saturday night harassment by the BIFF. Tello said members of the outlawed BIFF came close to the police station in Datu Unsay and opened fire, triggering a brief firefight at past 7 p.m.

Although outnumbered, the police officers returned fire on the BIFF who were forced to flee when soldiers of a nearby detachment

came responding.

Another group of ISIS inspired BIFF also attacked with rifle grenades an Army base located near the town hall.

Two soldiers belonging to the 21st Mechanized Company suffered shrapnel injuries after a rifle grenade landed in the detachment. A 20-minute firefight ensued until the militants fled.

Tello could not say if the BIFF suffered casualties following the artillery fire from government forces.

Police believed the attack was meant to avenge the death of six BIFF after it clashed with joint government forces and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in nearby Shariff Saydona town.

Tello said the Maguindanao police have augmented its forces in towns vulnerable to harassment by BIFF. These are the towns of Mamasapano, Shariff Aguak, Datu Salibo, Datu Unsay, Datu Saudi Ampatuan and Datu Piang.

The Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion also beefed up its forces to thwart attacks by BIFF forces which, an Army official said, want to make its presence felt anew in Maguindanao.

(EOF/PNA)

Mother, two kids P die in GenSan fire A

Army, PNP hunt down BIFF in Maguindanao

mother and her two children were killed in a fire that gutted down their home in a crowded community in General Santos City, early Wednesday August 9.

Fire Officer 3 Macacuna Tumambiling, investigator at the Bureau of Fire Protection station here, said the fire broke out past midnight in one of the housesat Purok 1, B’laan Community Village in Barangay Labangal.

Citing their investigation, he said it reportedly restarted at a por-

tion of the house of the Gamez family, who were then sleeping.

Three of the family members were not able to come out after being trapped inside the burning house, he said.

Tumambiling identified the fatalities as Jovelyn Gamez, 35, and her children Earl, 5, and Anthony, 3.

Witnesses said they initially noticed a fire inside the Gamez household and it spread rapidly and threatened other nearby structures.

Jovelyn was able to call for help but their

neighbors failed to rescue them as the fire was already huge and engulfed most of their house by then.

Tumambiling said fire trucks and personnel immediately responded to the scene after receiving the fire call at 12:45 a.m.

But upon arriving in the area, he said the fire was already huge and affected nearby houses and other structures.

After clearing the fire at past 1 a.m., he said they saw the remains of the two children still in their room and Jove-

lyn inside the comfort room.

“It appears that she was initially trapped (inside the comfort room) and eventually failed to get her children,” he said in a radio interview.

He added that their investigation is still ongoing as to the cause of the incident and the actual damages.

The barangay council of Labangal has sent its social welfare officer to the area to conduct an assessment and facilitate the release of assistance to the affected families.(PNA)

”We are digging deeper, we have some leads and we are following it without let up,” Supiter said. He refused to provide specific details on the investigation.

Diaz, 60, was driving his motorbike when shot at around 8:40 p.m. Monday in Barangay Kalanawi 2, President Quirino, this province.

Chief Inspector Joan Resurrecion, Pres. Quirino town police chief, said

Diaz, his son Cris Jay and a female relative were riding with him but they escaped unhurt.

Diaz, provincial writer of Manila Bulletin and Balita tabloid, died on the spot from multiple gunshot wounds.

Supiter said police are determining if the murder was work related or personal grudge.

Even the victim’s son could not say if it was work related, saying his

father has no known enemies.

However, Supiter said Diaz was a hard hitting newspaper columnist discussing illegal drugs and corruption in his daily column. He writes for Gen. Santos Citybased Sapol tabloid.

Supiter also appealed to anyone who has information about the Diaz murder to help the police locate the perpetrators. (EOF/PNA)

Police pursue vital lead in murder of journalist

P

olice in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat are following a lead that could identify the gunmen who ended the life of provincial radio-print journalist Leodoro Diaz August 8, Monday.

Senior Supt. Raul Supiter, Sultan Kudarat police provincial director, said investigattors are hunting down the perpetrators based on the statement issued by the victim’s son.

7 ICT HUB EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

SKILLS UPGRADE. Sen. Paolo Benigno Aquino IV has urged the BPO workers to get skills upgrade in artificial intelligence.

Skills upgrade urged for BPO workers A

mid reports that advancement in artificial intelligence (AI) could affect around 40,000 workers in the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry, a senator has advised companies to move their workers up the skills ladder.

“The best way to protect ourselves is to move our workers up the skill ladder. This is best done by having opportunities for education and by upgrading skills, retooling and retraining industry workers,” Senator Paolo Benigno Aquino IV said in a press statement.

Aquino made this call after the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), during a recent Senate hearing, disclosed that AI advancement has put a number of BPO-related jobs at risk.

The Union Network International-Philippine Liaison Council (UNI-PLC), for its part, said that around 60 percent of work, especially in the BPO industry, will be affected.

“We cannot wait for this downturn in jobs to happen before we

prepare. We should be prepared,” Aquino, chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, added.

Aquino urged the BPO industry to work hand-in-hand with concerned government agencies, such as the Department of Education (DepEd), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to ensure that the country is prepared for any eventuality if the implementation of AI goes into full swing.

He also called on schools to assess the current skills training programs needed by industry workers and upgrade their abilities to the next level.

This way, he said, institutions can “maximize opportunities” presented in AI. The senator said that around 250,000 to 300,000 fresh jobs will be created once contact center workers are given the capability to perform higher-level jobs, such as data analysis and data programming.

(PNA)

that will benefit not only residential subscribers but also help businesses and organizations in regional areas,” PLDT Head of International and Carrier Business and PLDT Global President Katrina Luna-Abelarde said in a statement Monday.

PLDT’s WiFi Access Point will enable PAPTELCO partners to offer WiFi access to businesses and offices and provide reliable connectivity to local government units, schools, hotels, resorts, transport terminals, etc. iflix will also be available to PAPTELCO subscribers which features over 20,000 hours of popular movies and TV series including local and Asian content that can be watched simultane-

ously in up to five devices such as desktops, laptops, smartphones and stream up to two users.

Furthermore, the PayMaya-PAPTELCO can be utilized as a debit card by the customers. This service will enable PAPTELCO to become the biller or reloader of the mobile wallet similar to Smart Money as well as a bills payment center.

PayMaya Philippines, the pioneer in mobile money and payments and the first prepaid online payment app that enables people without a credit card to pay online, is a subsidiary of Voyager Innovations, the digital innovations company of the PLDT Group.

PAPTELCO is a nationwide organization of pri-

vate telecom companies, classified under Public Telecommunications Carriers, operating local telephone services in the countryside.

These are interconnected to the PLDT network, providing domestic and international voice and data services to residents and businesses in various provinces all over the country.

PLDT has invested PHP 300 billion or USD 6 billion over the last 10 years to roll out the country’s most extensive fixed and wireless network that includes a transmission and distribution network infrastructure which now has 150,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables, transporting the growing data traffic of PLDT and SMART. (ABP/PNA)

PLDT boosts ties with PAPTELCO P

LDT and its mobile subsidiary Smart Communications have bolstered its partnership with local telco operators to further enhance delivery of digital services and content to homes and offices across the country.

PLDT and Smart, in collaboration with the Philippine Association of Private Telecommunications Companies Inc. (PAPTELCO), will offer new products and services such as Internet TV service iflix, WiFi access point, and PayMaya resellership in more areas to enable consumers to improve their digital experience.

“PLDT’s strong partnership with PAPTELCO has made it possible to offer these products and services

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

T

When there’s will

he question on whether or not there’s funding available for the breakthrough Republic Act 10931 also known as Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act is settled.

The answer to the question was supplied by House Appropriations Chair and Davao City Congressman Karlo Nograles happily announced the good news. The funds hunting which also involved the Department of Budget and Management, the Commission of Higher Education and the Technical Education Schools Development Authority unravelled at least P16 Billion funds which would be readily available in time for the first semester enrollment next year. The P16 Billion fund is sourced from various scholarships in various departments that can be pooled together and consolidated for the full implementation of the law. These scholarships are found in the funding allocations of different State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), CHED, the Department of Health,

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Department of Agriculture, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Pooled together, that should be enough to get the breakthrough legislation going and send more youths to tertiary institutions. Those benefitting from RA 10931 are students from 114 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), 16 Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) accredited by CHED and 122 Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVIs) under TESDA. With the funding finally identified, there should be no stopping what is to be one of the most laudable pro-poor legislations. The next step is for the Implementing Rules and Regulations to be passed within the reglamentary 15-day period.

Indeed, where there is political will, there is nothing impossible.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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EDGEDAVAO

I

t’s a little known fact that Davao’s abaca, also known as the Manila hemp, is the region’s key contribution to the global agriculture economy. In fact, the abaca shoots that helped transform the Central American countries of Panama and Ecuador into international hemp giants were originally from Southern Philippines, i.e. Davao City!

Scientifically known as Musa textilis, abaca is a species of banana native to the Philippines and was abundantly grown in Davao region for nearly six decades of the 20th century.

The project to bring abaca buds, suckers, and rhizomes to Panama started in 1923 with a small shipment sent to the Panama Canal Zone from Manila. A year later, at a time when the Philippines, then the world’s largest supplier of hemp, was producing annually close to 182 million kilos of fiber, 80 million kilos of which were consumed by the United States, another shipment was dispatched to Washington, D.C. “but none of these plants survived the climatic changes and other hardships incident to the long journey.”

In 1925, The American Chamber of Commerce Journal (October 1926) reported that a collection of roughly 1,400 selected plants from six leading abaca varieties were brought by H. T. Edwards of the Bureau of Plant Industry

H

eroes are more than just stories, they’re people. And people are complicated; people are strange.

Nobody is a hero through and through, there’s always something in them that’ll turn sour... you’ll learn it one day. There are no heroes, only villains who win.” ― Joel Cornah in The Sea-Stone Sword “I am not a hero,” Miep Gies was quoted as saying by “The New York Times.” “I just did what any decent person would have done.”

It was the beginning of World War II. Gies, who was a Christian, worked as a secretary in the food chemicals business owned by Otto Frank, who happened to be a Jew. To escape the Nazis, Frank, his family, and four other Jews moved into a secret apartment above the business.

Gies was one of five people aware of their hideout and took food to them daily.

“The New York Times” recounted: “After the Jews were discovered and taken away to concentration camps on August 4, 1944, Gies defied Nazi orders to stay out of the no-longer-secret apartment. There she found strewn across the floor the handwritten diary pages of Frank’s younger daughter, Anne. At great personal risk, she retrieved and kept them.

“After learning that Anne had died in Bergen-Belsen, Gies gave her diary to Otto Frank, the only member of the family who survived the camps. Otto arranged for its publication in 1947, and ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ became an

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93• THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Davao’s greatest export from the Province of Davao, to the Canal Zone and cultivated there. This was the first time the abaca from Davao was transplanted in the American tropics.

Arrangement for the direct transport of the cargo was started in the months of July and August 1925. This was loaded on the S. S. Ethan Allen at Malita, Davao Occidental, and arrived in Balboa, Panama on October 3. That same year the Dutch started cultivating abaca in Sumatra.

A 1926 article titled ‘How Edwards Got Manila Hemp to Panama’, reported: “This collection of plants was obtained from five different plantations and includes the leading varieties of abaca in Davao Province. In order to determine the relative value of different kinds of propagating material, and also to ascertain the best methods of packing, the shipment included seed, buds suckers, and rhizomes. The seed was shipped both in cold storage and packed in charcoal. Approximately 500 buds, suckers, and rhizomes were planted either in soil or sphagnum, about 100 suckers and rhizomes were packed in charcoal, and between 800 and 900 rhizomes were wrapped in paper and excelsior and shipped in crates.”

Accordingly, of the overall shipment of 1,438 plants or 1,052 plants, the equivalent of 73.2% of the collection,

extraordinarily poignant and important document of Nazi oppression.”

“What’s a hero?” asked flight attendant Uli Derickson in the March 1994 issue of ‘People’ magazine. “I didn’t even think about it.”

Working on TWA Flight 847 from Athens to Rome, which was hijacked for seventeen days by Lebanese terrorists in 1985, she persuaded the hijackers to spare the lives of all but one person on board and maintained calm throughout the ordeal. Rejecting the “hero” label, she insisted that she was only doing her job.

A decade ago, when I visited my sister in Livingston, Montana, there was one incident that I could not forget. It was winter time and the garage was very slippery. Daniel, my sister Elena’s husband, was in his office some 30 kilometers away. We decided to go to the Walmart to buy some groceries in the nearby city of Bozeman.

We were going out when Phil, the youngest son, skidded and almost fell into the ground. Erik, the eldest, saved his younger brother by holding him before the latter fell. Instantly, Phil hugged his brother and told him, “You are my hero.”

Whether you are a man, a woman, or a little kid, you can be a hero. Yes, anyone can be a hero. “A man can be a hero if he is a scientist, or a soldier, or a drug addict, or a disc jockey, or a crummy mediocre politician,” says American feminist critic Andrea

FAST BACKWARD Antonio V. Figueroa arrived in their destination alive, and 769 plants, 53.5% of the cargo, were in good condition. Part of the collection was planted provisionally at a quarantine station near the town of Bocas del Toro on Columbus Island, on the eastern coast of Panama, while the rest were placed in the Plant Introduction Gardens at Summit, Canal Zone.

The successful planting of Davao abaca in Central America meant two things: first, the collection became the first abaca plants to be cultivated in tropical America; and, second, according to the U. S. Department of Agriculture, the

Philippine farm monopoly of the Manila hemp ceased after abaca seedlings were almost introduced in Sumatra, Interestingly, as early as mid-1920’s, Yoshizo Furukawa, a Japanese plantation owner in Davao, started testing hemp seedlings in South America using strains coming from the Philippines. For his contribution, he is recognized as ‘the father of Ecuadorean abaca industry.’

Furukawa’s breakthrough contribution to Ecuadoran agriculture was confirmed by a 1953 U.S. research, which showed that the planting materials, mostly the Tangongon variety were first brought to Panama before these were exported to Ecuador, came from Davao. In fact, six rhizomes traced from a Philippine coconut variety were discovered in the seedlings.

Costa Rica later became a major player in the hemp export, with the Philippines, even until now, maintaining dominance in the global market supply of abaca fiber.

Commercial production of Ecuadorean hemp, though, did not start until 1965. In Furukawa’s plantations adjacent to Santo Domingo de los Colorados, a fourth of the 20,000 hectares set aside for abaca were owned by and planted with seedlings the Japanese investor provided. Compared to its Philippine counterpart, the Ecuadorean

hemp, except for the benign nematode, is not susceptible to abaca mosaic, and the location of the plantations is storm-free.

Furukawa also introduced a fivepoint scale that resulted in improving “the quality of cleaning location of the fiber in the plant, and its texture and color.” Another aspect that helped South American plantations progress was the absence of government intervention.

This means that fiber transactions there were conducted based on commitments, unlike in the Philippines where the control of hemp quality, pest control, and planting technology is exclusively handled by the state agency Fiber Industry Development Authority (FIDA).

Despite Furukawa’s early introduction of abaca in South America, the stability of the Ecuadorean hemp, like the Davao experience, has always been dependent on world market prices. After the war he shifted his investment focus in South America after his land concession were reverted to government ownership.

The more than 1,000 hectares of Furukawa hemp estate he left behind in Bago Oshiro have since been apportioned by informal settlers. Only 80 hectares are left in government hands and are now home to a state-run research laboratory established for detecting hemp diseases, and a nursery that cultivates different varieties of abaca.

“I think of a hero as someone who understands the degree of responsibility that comes with his freedom,” commented American singer Bob Dylan, who recently received the Nobel Prize for Literature.

“A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is braver five minutes longer,” noted Ralph Waldo Emerson.

But definitely, to quote the words of John Barth, “Everyone is necessarily the hero of his own life story.”

Indeed, it is very hard to define what a hero is. Suzy Kassem, in “Rise Up and Salute the Sun,” wrote: “This is where people misunderstand war.

When you attack another country for its resources, you are the pirate. But when you protect your country from the pirates, you are the hero.”

In movies, heroes abound. In fact, there are super heroes (Superman, Spiderman and Captain Barbel to name a few) and super heroines (like Darna and Wonder Woman). Again, how one can become a hero or heroine?

“It does not take a great supernatural heroine or magical hero to save the world. We all save it every day, and we all destroy it -- in our own small ways -- by every choice we make and every tiniest action resulting from that choice,” Vera Nazarian pointed out.

“The next time you feel useless and impotent, remember what you are in fact doing in this very moment.

And then observe your tiny, seemingly

meaningless acts and choices coalesce and cascade together into a powerful positive whole. The world -- if it could -- will thank you for it. And if it does not... well, a true heroine or hero does not require it,” she wrote.

There are no heroes, if there are no villains. Your boss, for instance, can either be a hero or a villain. It depends upon which perspective you see him.

If he develops you to be like him in the future, then he can be your hero but if he keeps belittling in front of visitors and subordinates, then the boss can be your villain.

How does a hero differ from a villain? When screenwriter Ben Hecht arrived in Hollywood for the first time, his fellow screenwriter Herbert Mankiewicz told this secret: “In a novel, a hero can lay ten girls and marry a virgin for a finish. In a movie, this is not allowed. The hero, as well as the heroine, has to be a virgin. The villain can lay anybody he wants, have as much fun as he wants cheating and stealing, getting rich and whipping the servants. But you have to shoot him in the end.”

That’s why everyone wants to be identified with the hero. “The thing about a hero,” said Joss Whedon, “is even when it doesn’t look like there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, he’s going to keep digging, he’s going to keep trying to do right and make up for what’s gone before, just because that’’ who he is.”

In search for hero

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

Dworkin. “A man can be a hero because he suffers and despairs; or because he thinks logically and analytically; or because he is ‘sensitive;’ or because he is cruel.

“Wealth establishes a man as a hero, and so does poverty,” Dworkin further said. “Virtually any circumstance in a man’s life will make him a hero to some group of people and has a mythic rendering in the culture—in literature, art, theater, or the daily newspapers.”

In “Grunt: The Curious Science of Humans at War,” Mary Roach wrote: “Heroism doesn’t always happen in a burst of glory. Sometimes small triumphs and large hearts change the course of history. Sometimes a chicken can save a man’s life.”

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

FUNDING... FROM 1 finished within 15 days.

Nograles said that it was agreed during the meeting that CHED and TESDA must come up with an accurate figure on the number of students who would benefit from the free higher education law so that his panel can figure out how much is really needed to ensure its full implementation.

“We still need to come up with the total number of students who will benefit from this law, taking into account that for college next school year, there will be many seniors and freshmen coming in but fewer sophomores and juniors because of the K-12 program. This final number will determine magkano ba talaga

kelangan. Is P16B enough or not?” Nograles said.

Nograles pointed out that the students who will benefit from the law will be coming from 114 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), 16 Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) accredited by CHED and 122 Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVIs) under TESDA. “What’s important right now is we know we have Php16 Billion and we have a source for this. If the required funding is over Php 16 Billion, that’s when we will consider sourcing from departments and agencies that are underspending or underperforming agencies,” Nograles said.

(PNA)

(KCNA) as saying the military was examining an operational plan for an enveloping missile strike at areas around Guam with its intermediate-range ballistic missiles, called Hwasong-12.

According to the KCNA report, the U.S. military flew two B-1B bombers, which are based on the U.S. Anderson Air Force Base in Guam, Tuesday over the Korean Peninsula. The bombers have

been “threatening and blackmailing” Pyongyang through their frequent visits to the sky above South Korea, the KCNA said.

Just hours before North Korea’s strike warning, US President Donald Trump warned Pyongyang that if it continues to threaten the U.S., it would face “fire and fury” the world has never seen.

(Xinhua)

“We will start with farflung areas first, except those in Mindanao given the scheduled public hearing for the postponement of the elections in Mindanao,” Guevara explained.

Other election forms to be printed at the NPO are Election Returns, Statement of Votes by Precinct, and Certificates of Canvass and Proclamation.

On the other hand, COMELEC Chairman Juan Andres Bautista they are prepared to work double time if ever they will be told that the village and youth polls will

push through but stressed that working overtime would entail additional costs.

“Once we get a word that the elections is already a go, we will really fast track the printing as well as the shipping of ballots,” he said.

With this, the poll body chief has again called on lawmakers to come out with a decision if they want the scheduled polls to push through or not.

“This is the reason why we really need the decision of our leaders already regarding the postponement,” Bautista added. (PNA)

Tribe, HCDC Dance Troupe for the Badjao Tribe, Saliyaw Dance Troupe of PWC for the Maguindanaoan Tribe, Kalinangang Banwa Dance Troupe of RMC for the Bagobo and Maguindanaoan Tribes. The following schools are also participating: the UM Makabayan Dance Troupe for the Manobo Tribe, Pangkat Silayan of USEP for the T’boli, Mansaka, V+Bagobo and Manobo Tribes, the Ignacian Cultural Dance Troupe of UIC for the Sama Laut Tribe, the Ignacian Musical Ensemble for the Hiagonon, T’boli, Arumanen Manobo and Bagobo Tribes. The University of Mindanao Choir sang the Asean Country song.

Genrose Tecson, City Tourism Officer expressed her gratitude to all the participants who per-

formed in the event. She also said that since this event was showed nationwide it would help boost the promotion of Kadayawan Festival.

The entire venue of the event was secured by the Davao City Police under the leadership of S/Supt.

Alexander Tagum. He said that they always deploy extra number of police officers to ensure the safety of every one. He also mentioned that on the celebration of Kadayawan they will double their efforts and the number of Police officers. “ We would like to assure the public particularly the residents and visitors going to Davao City that your local police will ensure your security and safety while celebrating the Kadayawan Festival,”he said.

SEOUL... FROM 2

POLL... FROM 2

CITY... FROM 2

UNSAFE. Construction laborers, without helmets or harness, go about their work on construction site. Vital safety requirements are not followed strictly by some construction contractors. Lean Daval Jr

ASEAN... FROM 2 to showcase what Filipinos can offer best, through unleashing bright spots in entertainment, tourism and economic industry, talent and culture.

The nationwide event is spearheaded by the De-

partment of Foreign Affairs (DFA) , the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the ASEAN 2017 National Organizing Council, and participating government agencies. (Lilian C. Mellejor/PNA)

standard ammunition.

They specifically included 72,000 rounds of M16 ammunition, 400 pieces M16 magazines, and 440 rounds of sniper rifle ammunition three pieces of bullet magazines, he said.

Train said PNP Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa ordered his office to distribute the firearms “without any delay.”

Such move is aimed to address the lack of basic police equipment that are needed to fight criminalities by some police units.

“He (Dela Rosa) instructed us to make sure that the firearms will reach the actual recipients,” he said.

The official said the release of the new firearms is a major boost to their security operations in the region.

Also known as Soccsksargen, Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and North Cotabato, and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.

(PNA)

calendar days from the receipt of the notification.

A month thereafter, the CBO made another inspection in the area but was surprised to be informed by the workers the property has a new owner, Jeffrey Cheng, according to Engr. Hilario Fernandez, acting head of CEO’s Inspection and Enforcement Division.

Jefferson Jeffrey Cheng, sources said, is the owner of the Davao Aguilas, a football team which recently hired the services of the Fil-Brit brother Phil and James Younghusband to beef up the local team, and

the principal investor of Philippine International Air Terminals Co. Inc. (PIATCo), and a very close friend of the House Speaker.

On July 14, the CBO, for the third time, issued first notice of violation and work stoppage order, this time in the name of Cheng.

All notices were not honoured and the construction of the perimeter fencing has been going on and is now nearing completion.

The city engineer said all developments at Shrine Hills are on hold in the absence of the Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) of the Urban

PNP... FROM 3

ALVAREZ... FROM 3

Ecological Enhancement Zone, adding the IRR of the zoning ordinance covering the development of the area need to be consolidated.

There was no confirmatory report yet issued as to who actually owns the property that was already covered by three stoppage orders from the city.

The last time Alvarez was involved with Cheng was over a decade ago when PIATCO was embroiled in an airport con-

tract controversy that linked the Speaker and his estranged wife Emelita Apostol.

In its final ruling last April 2016, the Supreme Court ruled that PIATCO was entitled to at least US$510 million as just compensation for the expropriation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3.

Three weeks ago, Alvarez, along with a convoy of flashy sports utility vehicles (SUVs), revisited the area and entered the premises.

Kins of 5 troops killed gets P1M each from philantropist

T

he families of five soldiers killed in the ongoing fighting in Marawi City against Maute Group remnants, have received PHP1 million each, from an anonymous philantropist, Wednesday.

The donation is part of the P98 million the latter earmarked for military troops killed in the fighting.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said the five families were formally handed the money by AFP chiefof-staff Gen. Eduardo Año during short ceremonies at the General Headquarters Conference Room in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Last Aug. 2, the AFP chief handed PHP1 million each to the families of three soldiers of the 4th Infantry Division, who were killed in action in Marawi City, during his visit to Camp Evangelista in Cagayan De Oro City.

Arevalo said the PHP90 million will be turned over to the Major Services for distribution to other beneficiaries.

“What is immensely admirable with this anon-

ymous donor, apart from his or her selflessness in giving away such an enormous sum of money, is the continuing commitment to provide PHP1 million each to the family of soldiers who may be KIA (killed-inaction), God forbid, in the continuing crisis in Marawi.

The number of soldiers KIA has now reached 122 from 98 at the time of the pledge,” he added.

The donation was deposited in the account name “AFP Marawi Casualty” in Land Bank of the Philippines. The account was opened in June for those who have expressed desire to help the families of soldiers who died in battle.

“On behalf of the AFP, our soldiers, and their families, I wish to commend the generosity of our benefactor who chose to remain anonymous despite the enormity of this gesture,” Año said.

“This, and the countless other gestures of goodwill, sympathy, and support that we have received in this time when our resolve is being challenged manifest the true spirit of Bayanihan that is kindled in each one of us,” the AFP chief said. (PNA)

INdulge!

FOOD

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

Bowls of

GOODNESS

SOMETIMES A PLATE IS NOT ENOUGH -- you need a big bowl to satisfy a gastronomic hunger. Says the hungry you. Relate, right?

A definite gastro feast is one that’s masarap, malaki ang serving and of course, magaan sa bulsa.

Something that is sensically easy to digest. More often, we get lured in on what’s new notwithstanding the taste. Other times, we get enticed with social media and overly hyped posts. Nonetheless, it’s still our palates that make the call.

In Davao, the presence of dining places are as present as the sun on a glorious, sunny day. With restaurants popping everywhere, one can never be hungry while scour-

ing the streets of the city.

In essence, one can verily add up on calories while scouring the streets of the city.

Cuenco’s Rice & Noodle Bar is one of those delicious places you’d love to end up at. A rice and

noodle bar, it speaks of delish Pan Asian dishes that’s always a welcome treat to our palates. A casual dining concept likened to a spacious sala, the interiors are very relaxing and open hence a bigger space to let your eyes roam.

The word CUENCOS is Spanish for earthenware bowls. The idea behind Cuencos is to bring a certain kind of comfort in every dish they serve.

The brilliant mind behind Cuenco’s is the chef Behind Tatler’s Best Restaurants Tiago Progressive Filipino Cuisine (2014) and Huckleberry Southern Kitchen and Bar (2015 & 2016), Chef Kenneth Villaluz who never fails to excite our palates.

Their selection includes well known traditional dishes cooked with fresh and local ingredients. The fusion of flavours plays an integral role in highlighting the ingredients used and the taste it aims to pose. Their menu is downright specific -- with the details of the dishes -and foretells of what you might expect on every bowl you order.

Begin your gastronomic journey with a bowl of cold Soba Kani salad in

Spicy miso dressing to awaken those palates. Let loose and make yourself at ease with a bowl of Salted Egg catfish, smoked fish rice and egg. Something to spice you up?

Try their Tapsilog, Kim-

chi Rice and egg. For the meaty lovers, their bowl of Lechon kawali, garlic rice and cucumber achara will have you smiling in an instant (as a friend said!). If you still want more meat, then their bowl of Bina-

goongang baboy sa gata, grilled eggplant and egg will keep you company during your stay.

Noodles, anyone? Let their long strands be your guide. Choose from their Classic Palabok , Palabok Negra and Batil Patung to name a few.

Sweet cravings to end a meal? Order their Tanglad and Pandan Iced tea for that refreshingly familiar flavours of home.

Also try their Fried Suman, Mango Slices and Latik and homemade Ice cream in Choknut, Mango and Corn. The choknut will have you reminiscing your childhood in a snap.

Follow me on Instagram @iamleebai and Facebook @RoyalChefEats for my latest food finds. Happy munching!

A2INdulge!

FOOD

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93• THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

Three times the fun

PARK INN’S BOODLE FIGHT AS PEOPLE ALWAYS SAY, good things come in threes and with that thought, Park Inn by Radisson Davao kicked off its Kadayawan festival offerings by introducing they new special Boodle Fight Meal. Offered again for the festival season, the popular feast designed to fill any hungry group of festival goers will officially be offered at the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant RBG for lunch or dinner starting Monday, August 14 until Thursday August 31.

“We are bringing back the popular boodle fight for the third time, this time with even more dishes to enjoy,” explains Hotel Manager, Ms. Emelyn Rosales.

“Our launch is basketball themed and we rode on the popular term 3-peat. It’s the 3rd time that we are having the boodle fight since 2015.

We’d also like to make this a big splash as a take-off for our Kadayawan Celebration.”

Each Kadayawan Supersize Boodle Fight comes with Linagpang na Bangus, Lato Salad with Salted Eggs, a slab of Crispy Pork Belly, one whole Hang Dried Chicken, a whole Fried Tilapia, Grilled Tuna Tail , links of Longganisa, a heaping of Pancit Canton, Grilled Corn, Grilled Vegetables Skewers, and of course, a mountain of rice. For des-

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

sert, Camote Float, crispy Ube Turon (which I love!), a

platter of Mixed Fruits, and a cold pitcher of Samalamig

Drink comes with the set.

“The tasty dishes created by our chefs are surely going to excite all Dabawenyos and visiting tourists alike.” adds Ms. Rosales.

The Boodle Fight 3-peat Meal is priced at Php2,999 net per set and is good for 8 to 10 persons although our group of ten barely got to finish everything. The set is available daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM although it is advised to make orders in advance by calling 2727600.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93• THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

UP AND ABOUT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

Huawei joins Kadayawan with photo workshop AFTER successfully holding mobile phone photography workshops for media and consumers in Manila and Cebu, Huawei will soon redefine modern portrait photography in Davao by introducing the new Huawei P10 and P10 Plus through Behind Portrait Photography Workshop to be held on August 19, 2017.

Renowned street and human photographer and Huawei ambassador Larry Monserate Piojo will facilitate the session and share his knowledge on the basics of photography, importance of tools used and the artistry of portraiture. The participants will also be given the chance to try out the new Huawei P10 and attest to its superior image quality courtesy of its Leica co-engineered dual camera. To top these off, one participant will go home with his own Huawei P10.

This workshop is open to all users of Huawei mobile devices. Interested participants must fill up an online form (http://bit.ly/HuaweiDavaoWorkshops) from August 3 to 11, 2017. The first 35 participants to successfully accomplish the online form will receive an RSVP email that will contain confirmation steps.

For queries, interested participants may send an e-mail to behind-

portraitphotography@gmail.com and check https://www.facebook.

com/HuaweimobilePH/ for more updates.

EDGEDAVAO

A4INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93• THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

11 MOTORING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

7-seater Honda CR-V now in PH S

even seats. Diesel engine.

These are the two key words that describe the perfect SUV for Filipino families; words that now amply describe the all-new 2018 Honda CR-V. As Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI)’s first ever diesel offering, the fifth-generation CR-V arrives to potentially steal the thunder (and sales) away from lumbering ladderon-frame SUVs with its exceptional driving performance, all-around riding comfort, bold and sophisticated styling, and premium and upscale interior.

All 7-seater variants of the 2018 CR-V are powered by a 1.6-liter DOHC i-DTEC turbo diesel engine developed under Earth Dreams technology. Using an aluminum block along with optimized pistons and connecting rods, this engine is light in weight, but heavy in performance. Producing 120 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm, this downsized turbo diesel engine is clean, quiet, and efficient. Mated to this engine is a new 9-speed automatic transmission with a push-button Electronic Gear Selector and Paddle Shifters. The wide gear ratios allow the CR-V to attain low noise levels and high fuel efficiency figures—up to 18.9 km/L based on Honda’s tests.

Meanwhile, Honda retains the services of its 2.0-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine exclusively for the sole 5-seater variant. This tried-and-tested motor continues to produce 154 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 189 Nm of torque at 4,300 rpm. New to this model though is a new Earth Dreams Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for improved fuel efficiency.

The 2018 CR-V rides on an all-new platform to provide a more agile and confident handling. Its wider front and rear track combined with front MacPherson Struts and rear

Multi-link suspension promotes a more responsive turnin and cornering. An enhanced Real Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system on the top-ofthe-line SX variant adds an extra layer of handling prowess by allowing power and torque to be distributed across all four wheels maximizing traction and stability on any road condition.

And to top these chassis improvements, the all-new CRV’s ground clearance has been raised up as well. The AWDequipped SX is up to 208 millimeters (making it the highest riding among Honda’s local lineup) while the 2WD models stand at 198 millimeters.

Outside, the all-new CR-V heads to a fresh new direction with a more aggressive design.

Revolving around the design concept of “Modern Functional Dynamic”, the CR-V features a sharp-lined grille that reflects an aggressive, yet sportier look.

Over to the side, the wide and muscular fenders are filled by standard 18-inch alloy wheels while at the back, is a tailgate spoiler. All variants have full LED headlights with GuideType LED daytime running lights (DRL) with the SX adding High Beam Support (it toggles between low and high beams automatically when driving in the dark). Additionally, the SX gets a panoramic sunroof, power tailgate, and rain-sensing wipers.

Honda’s penchant in creating a “Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum” interior continues with the all-new CR-V. The bold and sophisticated exterior is complemented by a cockpit that revolves around smart utility. It offers heightened levels of luxury and comfort while offering a true hightech experience. Filled with upscale features, it offers black leather seating and premium accents for all variants.

Upon entry, the driver is

welcomed by a highly informative full-color Thin Film Transistor (TFT) instrument cluster. The driver’s seat on the SX is fitted with an electronic 8-way power adjustment with 4-way lumbar support to offer impressive levels of comfort.

The two other rows are no less impressive with the second-row seats in the 7-seater variants offering 60/40 split sliding and reclining function for easy access into the third row. Meanwhile, the third row reclines in a 50/50 split. Additionally, independent A/C controls and vents are standard across all rows with the second row getting two USB charging ports located at the center console.

When not ferrying the family, the all-new CR-V also boasts of unparalleled cargo capacity. It can accommodate 472 liters of cargo (522 liters for the 5-seater variant) with the third-row seats tumbled and 967 liters with both the second and third rows tumbled down.

Completing the CR-V’s modern and high-tech interior is an impressive infotainment system headlined by a 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio system. Offering intuitive operation, it offers all sorts of multimedia and hands-free functionality along with a multiview reverse camera with dynamic guidelines. The S and SX variants add standard GPS navigation and additional controls for its dual-zone climate control system.

The 2018 CR-V’s class-leading performance and top-notch packaging is rounded off by unparalleled safety. Across the lineup, it’s equipped with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Brake Hold, Agile Handling Assist (AHA), Driver Attention Monitor, Dual SRS airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HAS), Anti-Lock Braking System

(ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), and a low tire pressure warning system. Additional safety features such as Honda LaneWatch camera, side airbags, curtain airbags, and a Walk Away Auto Lock features are standard on the S and SX variants.

Further cementing the CR-V’s leadership in safety, the SX variant comes standard with Honda SENSING technology. This suite of safety and driver assistive technologies aid the driver to prevent or effectively respond to dangerous driving situations. It includes: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Low Speed Follow (LSF), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW).

Starting August 9, 2017, all 36 Honda Car dealerships will start accepting reservations for the all-new 2018 CRV. The 5-seater gasoline variant is readily available now with deliveries for the 7-seater diesel variants starting by the end of September. The allnew CR-V will come in 6 colors: Passion Red Pearl (new color, SX Diesel 9AT AWD and S Diesel 9AT only); Lunar Silver Metallic (SX Diesel 9AT AWD and S Diesel 9AT only); Dark Olive Metallic (new color, all variants); White Orchid Pearl (plus P 20,000, all variants); Modern Steel Metallic (all variants); and Crystal Black Pearl (all variants).

The all-new Honda CR-V will carry the following suggested retail prices: 2.0S CVT 5-seater (P 1,539,000); V Diesel 9AT 7-seater (P 1,569,000); S Diesel 9AT 7-seater (P 1,759,000); and SX Diesel 9AT AWD 7-Seater (P 2,049,000).

EDGEDAVAO

12 HEALTH

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

HIV: From death sentence to lifetime treatment (Last of Three Parts)

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

“There’s no cure for HIV, but treatment options are much better than they were a few decades ago. Because of medical advancements, many people now live long, active lives with HIV.”– WebMd.com

T

he day I was diagnosed, I immediately wanted to eat a bullet,” Hollywood actor Charlie Sheen (who came to the Philippines when he starred in Oliver Stone’s “Platoon”) told ABC News’ Michael Strahan in an interview aired on “Good Morning, America.” “But mom was there, I wouldn’t do that in front of her, or let find me to clean up that mess.”

In the said interview, Sheen acknowledged the health care he has been receiving since being diagnosed of being infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in 2015. “I’m so grateful for what was available when it happened,” he said, “and even more grateful for what’s available right now…”

Sheen is not the first Hollywood actor to admit having been infected with the dreaded virus. The record went to Rock Hudson who announced on July 25, 1985 that he had the virus. But unlike Sheen, Hudson died on October 2 that same year; he was diagnosed however a year earlier.

British rock singer Freddie Mercury, who was diagnosed in 1987, died from an AIDS-related illness on No-

vember 24, 1991. American tennis player Arthur Ashe contracted the HIV from blood transfusions in the 1980s; he was diagnosed as HIV positive in 1988 and died of AIDS-related pneumonia in 1993.

They all died after being diagnosed of having been infected with HIV. But these days, those who are HIV positive can live longer. Magic Johnson, for instance, retired from his basketball career in 1991 after revealing that he was infected with HIV. Still living, he has shown that HIV is no longer a death sentence.

A person with HIV can do so only if he discovers first that he is carrying the virus.

Only a special blood test can detect whether a person is HIV-positive or not. “Unlike flu, which already gives you the symptoms the following day after acquiring it, HIV can show no symptoms for several years,” said Dr. Dominic Garcia, who used to be with AIDS Society of the Philippines.

The website, www.aidsmap.com, said: “Having an HIV test is the only way to know for sure whether you have HIV. If you have HIV, it’s very important that it’s

diagnosed. This will give you the best chance of getting the treatment and care you need to stay well.”

Perry Paul G. Lamanilao, a friend of mine, tried to undergo HIV testing at the Reproductive Health and Wellness Center in Davao City. In an article published by “Rappler,” he said there are four steps in the testing process: 1. Fill-up a form and provide your personal details.

2. Go for pre-counseling.

This is a requirement of Philippine Law (Republic Act No. 8504).

“The counselor asked me why I volunteered myself for testing. He also asked me for my sexual orientation and preferences, my activities for the past months and years, and how often I have sex,” he wrote. “He also discussed with me how one could acquire HIV and how AIDS develops in the body. Under the law, the privacy rights of those seeking to get tested need to be respected.”

3. Have your blood extracted and wait for the results.

“After 30 minutes, you get the results. Only the medical technologists and your counselor should know the results.

My counselor handed over to me the sealed test results. He let met open the folder and I voluntarily told him the result: nonreactive,” Lamanilao recalled.

4. Go for post-test counseling.

“The counselor told me not to engage in any activities for the next 3 months where I could possibly acquire the virus,” he wrote. “He asked me to be back on a certain date to make sure everything is alright.”

What if the person is HIV positive? The test result will not be given to the person; instead it will be sent to San

Lazaro Hospital for confirmation. Once it is confirmed, then the person has to undergo a “lifetime treatment.”

Just a thought from www. aidsmap.com before having the treatment: “While the medical case for starting treatment as soon as possible is clear cut, the decision to start treatment rests with the person living with HIV. Before starting treatment, it’s important that you understand how it works and what it involves. You may need a little time before you feel ready to start.”

“The medicines that treat HIV are called antiretroviral drugs,” www.WebMd.com says. “There are more than two dozen of them, and they fall into six main types. Each drug fights the virus in your body in a slightly different way.”

Research shows that a combination, or so-called “cocktail,” of drugs is the best way to control HIV and lower the chances that the virus becomes resistant to treatment.

A doctor can recommend a patient to take three different medicines from two of the groups.

“Which specific ones your doctor prescribes depends on what other medical conditions you have or are likely to get, how well your immune system is working, and even how many pills you want to take each day,” WebMd.com says.

Once an HIV-infected person start having treatment, he should not stop doing so. “Keep taking your HIV medications,” reiterates WebMd.com. “It’s dangerous to change how you’re taking them – or to stop altogether – if you’re unhappy with how you feel or how they affect you. That can make it easier for the HIV to become resistant to drugs and harder to

treat.

“Continuing treatment is the key to not only preventing the development of AIDS, but is key to maintaining a relatively normal lifestyle. It is possible, with the correct treatment, to obtain a normal life expectancy.”

The Geneva-based World Health Organization (WHO) reports: “Of the 36.7 million people living with HIV worldwide, 19.5 million people were accessing antiretroviral therapy in 2016. The majority of these people are doing well, with treatment proving highly effective in suppressing the HIV virus.”

The bad news: “a growing number are experiencing the consequences of drug resistance.” WHO gives this explanation: “HIV drug resistance develops when people do not

adhere to a prescribed treatment plan, often because they do not have consistent access to quality HIV treatment and care. HIV drug resistance will start to fail therapy and may also transmit drug-resistant viruses to others.”

Like most diseases, HIV can be prevented – as easy as ABC: abstain from sex, be faithful to your partner, use condoms, especially if you have multiple partners, don’t share needles, and be educated on HIV, a health expert reiterated.

“HIV is highly preventable,” said an official of the health department. “The government can only provide you information, diagnosis, and treatment.

But the most effective way of preventing HIV is still heavily depends on the practices of informed individuals.”

(Photos taken from the net)

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

NEWS 13

EDGEDAVAO

BOC exec linked to shabu shipment bribery quits post

B

ureau of Customs Imports Assessment Service Director Milo Maestrecampo resigned from his post on Tuesday after he was identified as one of the bureau’s officials who are allegedly involved in corruption during a recent House inquiry on the PHP6.4 billion shabu shipment from China which entered Philippine soil.

“In order to fight for my honor and integrity and in the name of delicadeza, I hereby tender my resignation and submit to investigations in order to clear my name,” Maestrecampo said in his resignation letter addressed to President Rodrigo Duterte.

He added that although his name was eventually cleared by Customs broker Mark Taguba, his name has already been dragged on the issue.

“It was too late because his earlier mention of my name was already captured by the media,” Maestrecampo said.

But, Taguba admitted that neither he knew Mastrecampo nor he gave him “payola”.

Lawmakers are conducting an inquiry on the questionable release of the illegal drugs which were seized in a private warehouse in Valenzuela last May. (PNA)

EDGE DAVAO Serving a seamless society

is in need of

LAYOUT ARTIST

Combined elements of the Davao City Police Special Weapons and Tactics and Task Force Davao participate in a simulation exercise on Tuesday ( 8 Augusto 2017) as part of the security preparation for the Kadayawan Festival next week. MindaNews Photo

Submit application letter and resume to: Ella Tingzon, HR Department Edge Davao Review Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., E. Quirino Avenue, Davao City Or email at edgedavao@gmail.com

14 EDGEDAVAO Sports

PSC SUPPORT

Gov’t sports agency throws support to Kadayawan sports events

P

reserving Philippine culture through sports, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has thrown its support to this year’s Kadayawan Festival set in Davao City, starting August 12.

The government support is in line with the President’s directive to give access to the peripheries - communities across the country.

PSC chair William “Butch” Ramirez and Commissioner Charles Maxey will lead government sports leaders who will grace the occasion next week.

Commissioner Maxey on Tuesday said the sports agency has allotted P900,000 for co-organizing two sports events – girls’ volleyball and tribal games.

Participants of the volleyball competi-

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

PSC SUPPORT. PSC chairman Butch Ramirez will be personally gracing the sports events of the 2017 Kadayawan Festival.

tion will be coming from the various public schools , representing the three districts of Davao.

Tribal games will also highlight the festival which will be participated in by the indigenous people of Davao-Lumads.

Four years ago, Ramirez, who was then the city’s sports development officer, and Commissioner Maxey, himself a sportswriter, organized the tribal games.

This support of the PSC is to sustain its grassroots sports development. Early this year, the sports body has organized childrens/ Indigenous games in Mindanao especially in the beleaguered Marawi City and in Ifugao (Cordilleras), site of the world’s scenic Rice Terraces (Banaue). (PNA)

INDIGENOUS GAMES. The highlight of the Kadayawan Festival is the annual Tribal Games which will feature indigenous events participated in by the different Dabawenyo tribes. Photos by Tommy Inigo

Duterte-CMO beats IBP anew T

eam Duterte-CMO continued its mastery over IBP with a 83-74 win in Game 13 of their basketball friendly series on Friday at the Genesis 88 Gym. Team Duterte-CMO’s back up role players shone bright good enough to provide the needed boost to Secretary Christopher “Bong” Go’s fiery performance and help the team stay undefeated in their one-on-one encoun-

ter with the Legal Eagles.

The victory widened Team Duterte-CMO’s lead to 11-0. Two games ended in a draw, Game 7 and 10.

Go, the special assistant to President Rodrigo Duterte who average more than 40 points per game, finished the game with 30 baskets accounting six three pointers.

His quarter-backing plays and acting as decoy enaled the role players

to attack the basket that yielded for Team Duterte.

IBP fell short once again on its quest to end the losing streak.

The winless IBP suffered through the absence some of its key players.

Ongkiko, Carpio and Baguio stepped up for IBP with 14 and 12 points each in that order.

Team Duterte-CMO cruised to its threebgame winning streak after the thrilling Game 10 draw.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

Gilas beats giant China T

ERRENCE Romeo dazzled in the endgame as Gilas Pilipinas averted a worrying late meltdown to pull off a vengeful 9687 win over China at the start of the 2017 Fiba Asia Cup on Wednesday night.

Romeo topscored for Gilas with 26 points, including a string of eight points that steadied the Gilas ship after China overhauled a 17-point deficit to seize an 87-84 lead with five minutes left.

Baskets by Christian Standhardinger and Matthew Wright capped a 12-point burst that enabled the Filipinos to avenge a loss to China in the 2015 Fiba Asia final in

its hometown of Changsha.

More importantly, the win put an undermanned Gilas side on course to topping the tough Pool B in the eliminations. Iraq and Qatar are the other members of the bracket.

A sweep of the group will enable the Philippines to potentially sidestep an early clash with powerhouse Australia in the first stage of the playoff phase.

Fil-German Standhardinger, who took the place of Andray Blatche as Gilas naturalized player, added 15 points as the Philippines scored its first win against China since the 2014 Fiba Asia Cup bronze-medal game.

BIG GAME. Terrence Romeo stepped up in the endgame for the Philippines. FIBA Asia photo

Marquez retires, ASEAN sports strengthened digs on Pacquiao C E

ven on the day he announced his retirement, Juan Manuel Marquez still had a parting shot for bitter rival Manny Pacquiao.

The four-time world champion from Mexico was presented with a ring-shaped cake in a ceremony marking his retirement from boxing, and showing a figure of him proudly standing over a fallen Pacquiao.

The setting was obviously a take from Marquez’s brutal sixth round knockout of his long-time Filipino nemesis in 2012 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas that turned out to be the fourth and final installment of their rivalry.

The image of an unconscious Pacquiao lying faced first on the canvas while Marquez stood triumphant, served as one of the most vicious knockouts ever in boxing history.

It was the only win by the Mexican in four meetings with his Filipino counterpart, but obviously the most fulfilling.

Naturally, Marquez, 43, considered it the high-

light of his career.

“I think that’s the unforgettable moment in my career, not just for me, but for the fans, how the fights were fought,” said Marquez, who retired with a record of 56-7-1, with 40 KOs. Pacquiao wanted a fifth fight with Marquez, but the Mexican had been adamant he had long put an end to the rivalry after administering the worst career loss of the Filipino ring legend.

Marquez admitted planning to fight one more time before finally hanging his gloves, but the wear and tear from countless wars in the ring, had finally caught up with him.

“The injuries pushed me to make this decision,” he said during the TV show Golpe a Golpe over ESPN Deportes. “It hurts, but I believe the right moment to put an end to my career has arrived.”

“I would have loved to do a final fight to say goodbye inside the ring, but I have to listen to my body, and it was telling me that the right moment to stop boxing is now.”

ulture and sports are among the biggest unifying factors in the family of Southeast Asian nations and also among other regions around the world.

August 8 is also ASEAN Sports Day, coinciding the golden (50 years) jubilee anniversary celebration of ASEAN. With this year’s theme “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World,” it hopes that ASEAN sustains its co-operation and actualizes the ASEAN Work Plan on Sports 2016-2020 which was endorsed during the Sixth ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Sports (SOMS-6) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The ASEAN Work Plan on Sports

includes promoting ASEAN awareness through sporting activities, fostering ASEAN Community through mutually beneficial sports exchanges, strengthening a sense of resilience with healthy lifestyles, and increasing sports dynamism and competitiveness through capacity building and skills training.

In recognition of the ASEAN athletes and the accomplishments of the ASEAN Member States in the Olympics and Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro last year, the senior officials agreed to give the ASEAN athletes formal tribute and offer them ASEAN medals. They also encouraged ASEAN athletes to be speakers and source of inspiration at ASEAN events, especially those activities involving young people.

Through the

ASEAN Work Plan on Sports 2016-2020, a proposal was welcomed of the Right To Play to collaborate with ASEAN on sports and development in the region, aimed at enhancing development of children and youth.

The ASEAN Work Plan also put emphasis on anti-doping efforts for athletes, coordination with international sports federations, referee trainings in specific sports and sports-cultural events in ASEAN. Highlight the occasion, thousands of ASEAN athletes will assemble in Kuala Lumpur,starting August 18 for the 29th staging of Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) and for just a week, the 9th Para Games.

It started with the historic Rising Together Baton Run- to foster friendship

through sports. The baton run spanned across the length and breath of key cities in the region.

SEA Games was formerly known as the SEAP (South East Asian Peninsular) Games, the inaugural event was first held in 1959. The countries which took part were Thailand, Burma, Malaysia, Singapore, South Vietnam and Laos with just 12 sports being competed.

In 1977, the Philippines joined the biennial meet.

Also, In preparation for the Olympics 2020, Japan has offered to work with ASEAN through the Sport for Tomorrow Program to provide specialists for capacity building for ASEAN Member States.

(PNA)

BEST MEMORY. Juan Manuel Marquez considers his sixth round vicious knockout of bitter rival Manny Pacquiao in 2012 as the highlight of his career.

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 93 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2017