Edge10 issue98, August 17,2017

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

Serving a seamless society

OPENING UP More and more farmers going into biotech farming PHOTO EXHIBIT. Members of the Davao City Police Auxiliary check out the photographs on display at the photo exhibit of veteran photo journalist Rene Lumawag "Rody Duterte Ato ni Bay!” at the ground floor of Abreeza Mall on Wednesday. At the background is a photograph of then Mayor Duterte dancing with wife Elizabeth during the 18th birthday of daughter, Sara, on May 31, 1996. Lean Daval Jr.

EDGEDAVAO Sports WORLD’S BEST

Davao lady cops are world beach volley champs

SPORTS P16

By PAULA KIM FELICIANO

M

indanao is seen to have a huge potential in biotech farming considering its wide areas for the production of BT corn.

Department of Agriculture Biotech and Climate change consultant Dr. Saturnina Halos said at the Biotechnology 101 and Joint Department Circular public briefing on Wednesday, that more and

more farmers are beginning to open up to biotech farming, most especially that this method produces less carbon emission while allowing more produce to harvest.

Halos explained that the fungus found in the holes on corns can possibly produce carcenogenic agents.

“This is why most feed millers prefer BT corn

kasi wal itong butas [from worms].” she added.

In his years as a farmer, Edwin Y. Paraluman from General Santos City has found his miracle in engaging in BT Farming.

“It’s impossible for a farmer to see a whole hectare of corn na walang uod.. with BT Farming, nakakatulog ako ng maayos, knowing that my crops are free from pest and may

ma-harvest ako” He reveals that with BT Farming he harvests upto 7 tons of corn produce compared to his previous harvest under conventional farming that only amounts to 4.5 tons. “..Though in the Philipines, BT Corn is commercially sold for animal feeds, these farmers also eat them.” Dr. Halos said,

OPENING,10

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

TRYING THEM OUT. President Duterte, Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana try out the new binoculars donated to the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Malacañan Palace on Tuesday night.

ROBINSON NIÑAL JR./PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

RTC orders SunVar to leave govt property

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he Makati City Regional Trial Court on Tuesday ordered the Sunvar Realty Development Corporation, a real estate firm owned by the Rufino and Prieto families to vacate the 2.9-hectare Mile Long property in Makati City, Solicitor General Jose C. Calida said on Tuesday Calida said the Court of Appeals Resolution dated Aug. 14, 2017 remanded the case back to Makati RTC Branch 141 and directed the sheriff to execute the June 10, 2015 decision of Makati MeTC Branch 61, which ordered Sunvar to vacate the Mile Long property.

Earlier on Tuesday, Makati RTC Branch 141 of Judge Maryann Corpus-Manalac issued a Notice to Vacate, implementing the CA Resolution dated August 14, 2017, ordering to surrender possession of the property within three days from receipt.

The notice covered not only Sunvar Realty but also other tenants in the property.

“You are hereby given a period of three days from receipt thereof to surrender the possession of the above-described property with all the improvements existing thereonRTC,10

Duterte witnesses donation of new binoculars to AFP

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resident Rodrigo Roa Duterte witnessed the turnover of binoculars and the signing of a deed of donation on Tuesday, August 15, at Malacañan Palace.

The Commander-in-Chief witnessed the turnover of binoculars to Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, facilitated by Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III. The binoculars were given by an anonymous donor.

President Duterte also witnessed the signing of the deed of donation from the Golden Rooster Foundation,

represented by Monica Louise Prieto-Teodoro to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año.

After each of the turnovers, Duterte had a short meeting with Senate President Pimentel and Mrs. Prieto-Teodoro.

The Chief Executive also met with Lanao del Sur Rep. Ansaruddin Adiong, Lanao del Sur Vice Governor Mamintal Adiong, Jr., and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Assemblyman Zia Alonto Adiong.

Also present in the said m e e t -DUTERTE,10

Modified rice grains to cut malnutrition

By PAULA KIM FELICIANO

G

enetically Modified rice grains dubbed as “Golden Rice” is set to lessen cases of Vitamin A deficiency and malnutrition in a few years time.

Department of Agriculture Biotechnology Advisory Team Chairman and consultant Saturnina Halos said that with rice produce already containing vitamin A, cases of fatality due to micronutrient deficiencies will be prevented as this will boost the resistance,

most especially of the children.

“The most damaging micronutrient deficiencies in the world are the consequence of low dietary intake of iron, vitamin A, iodine and zinc. Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is prevalent among the poor whose diets are based mainly on rice or other carbohydrate-rich, micronutrient-poor calory sources..” According to the goldenrice.org.

It stated that Rice does

not contain any β-carotene (pro-vitamin A), which our bodies could then convert into vitamin , unlike the genetically modified golden rice.

Moreover, to increase and improve our rice production in the country, Halos announced that the agency will soon be launching the “Bhungroo” project.

This project will collect the flood water from the basin-like pilot area in Mindanao and inject this into the

rice field’s aquifer that will fill up over 3 million liters of water per 30 hectares.

This aims to store enough water supply for the rice fields in times of severe drought or El niño.

Bhungroo project is set to have its pilot field testing in pigcawayan, north cotabato within this year.

“There are many ways to attain food security.. however, we should also focus in creating more scientist positions” Halos concluded.

namang ginawa para ang mga hindi kayang bayaran ang tuition ay ngayon makakapagtapos na ng kolehiyo o tech-voc para sabay-sabay ang pag-angat ng mga kabataan,” Nograles said.

“I am not pitting the poor against the poor. I am maximizing the use of funds to benefit as many Filipinos as we can. Ang Free tuition fee po ay para po sa lahat at ito ay pro-poor, pro-farmer.

In fact, kung susuriin n’yo po, ito rin ay pro-construction worker, pro-tricycle driver, pro-vendor at iba pa,”

Nograles added.

Nograles said that instead of throwing tantrums over the possibility that DAR would suffer budget cuts because of its low absorptive capacity, Mariano should “walk the talk” and help the government in ensuring the success of the free college education program.

Nograles also advised Mariano to work harder to ensure all the funds allocated to his department are put to good use.

According to the National Expenditure Program sub-

mitted by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to Congress, the unused appropriations of DAR in 2016 were P6.3B and P3.5 billion in 2017.

As chair of the appropriations panel, Nograles said it is his duty to make sure that all government funds are allocated where they count most.

If there are unused funds or underperforming agencies, the appropriations panel is mandated to look into this, so that funds will be used where itNOGRALES,10

Nograles asks DAR to pitch in for free college education

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ouse Appropriations committee chairman Karlo Nograles has vehemently denied claims made by Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael Mariano that he is anti-poor for insisting on re-channeling unused public funds to finance the implementation of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. “Actually, nagpapasalamat po ako kay DAR Secretary Mariano na ni-recognize ang Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act as pro-poor na talaga

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

Chicken shipment from Luzon seized in CDO Quarantine officials on Tuesday intercepted at the port here a 21-ton shipment of dressed chicken from Luzon amid a ban issued by the Department of Agriculture because of the discovery of avian flu in Pampanga.

Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol made this announcement in Manila as he ordered a full investigation of the origin of the shipment.

“We are looking on why the shipment was able to sail despite our quarantine order,” Piñol said.

On Aug. 15, the DA banned chickens, birds, fowl or any of their byproducts from Luzon to be transported to Visayas and Mindanao following the outbreak of avian flu in Pampanga.

Local agriculture officials who spoke on condition of

anonymity because of the sensitiveness of the issue said the shipper presented a DA shipment order dated Aug. 14, a day before the quarantine order took effect.

Specimen from the shipment is currently being tested in the laboratory of the Bureau of Animal Industry at the port here in Barangay Macabalan.

The shipment caught agriculture officials by surprise, leaving many to wonder whether Luzon traders are shipping their animal stocks to cut their losses from the avian flu.

“This should not have happened because a quarantine order is in effect,” said Hector San Juan, chief of the city’s agriculture office.

San Juan said they will have to recheck the supplies

CHICKEN,10

BEST CULTURAL PERFORMANCE. Jenfin Puroc Aguan (3rd from right) from the Bagobo- Tabagawa tribe wins the Best Cultural Performance at the Hiyas ng Kadayawan Talent Competition on Tuesday night. She was joined by Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) president and Kadayawan Execom co-chair Captain Ronald Go (2nd from left), president of,

1st runner-up Sittie Haya Lanto Cairoden (3rd from left) from the Maranao tribe, 2nd runner-up Ainadhel Awang Blas (2nd from right) from the Tausug Tribe, Jonathan Francisco (leftmost) of Gaisano Mall Davao and Sycip Gorres Velayo and company Davao head Alvin Pinpin. Angie Saveron

DA braces for migratory birds influx from abroad

Bagobo tribe wins award T For best cultural staging

By ANGIE SAVERON

T

he equally-gorgeous women from the 11 tribes of Davao showcased their culture through their talents but it was Jenfin Puroc Aguan from the Bagobo- Tagabawa tribe who emerged ‘Best in Cultural Presentation’ in the competition for the Hiyas ng Kadayawan 2017 at Gaisano Mall Davao on Tuesday.

The 1st runner-up award went to Sittie Haya Lanto Cairoden from the Maranao tribe while Ainadhel Awang Blas of the Tausug Tribe plucked the 2nd runner-up award. “ Very happy po ako ngayon, daku kaayo ko’g

pasalamat sa mga tao na nag suporta sa akoa ug gani man wala jud ko nag expect na ako ang mudaog tungod daghan ug props nga kulang ,dako pud kaayo ko ug pagpasamat sa Ginoo,” said Aguan.

She said that the victory was not just for her but for her tribe as well.

The panel of judges for the event included Cristito D. Ingay, Davao City Provincial Officer National Commission on Indigenous Peoples; Norhaida M. Lumaan Acting Regional Director National Commission on Muslim Filipino; Leonardo Cariño, artistic Director, Teatro Ambaha-

non, Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges, General Santos City; Dr. Corazon Agustin Board of Director, Philippine Folk Dance Society and Orly Escarilla, Museum Director Museo Dabawenyo.

The criteria for judging included 30 percent for representing the values, aspirations and history of her community, 30 percent for artistic appeal and showmanship that includes the voice quality, pitch, use of instrumental instruments or props, precision and technique, choreography, rhythm and coordination; 20 per cent for variety and style or

uniqueness and 10 percent for props and costume.

The SyCip Gorres Velayo & Co, a member firm of the Ernst & Young Global Limited Headed by Alvin M. Pinpin, acted as the official tabulator.

“We are very thankful that the Kadayawan 2017 has gone off to a very exciting start and we look forward to see you to the future events”, said Capt. Ronald Go, The President of Davao City Chamber of Commerce and the Co-chairman of the Kadayawan Executive Committee. He also thanked his co-Executive Committee mem e b e r sBAGOBO,10

he Department of Agriculture in Region 11 said it has prepared for the possible entry of migratory birds from avian flu-stricken countries that will seek refuge in five areas in the Davao Region during winter, starting next month until April next year.

The DA has already activated the Avian Influenza Protection Program Task Force Probinsya, an interagency group concerned on the surveillance and monitoring of the birds and poultry farms in the region, according to Dr. Dannie Apelo, the spokesperson. The group is composed of representatives from the DA, Department of Health, Philippine National Police, and local government units.

He said the surveillance group will collect blood samples and pharyngeal swabs

Davao public hearing nix barangay elections

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CURIOUS. Mall-goers are glued to a Duterte family portrait on display at the photo exhibit of veteran photo journalist Rene Lumawag “Rody Duterte Ato ni Bay!” at the ground floor of Abreeza Mall on Wednesday. The photo exhibit runs from August 16 to 31. Lean Daval Jr.

when these birds would start flocking in five identified areas across three out of five provinces and one city in the region – Banay-Banay and Lupon in Davao Oriental, Malalag in Davao del Sur, and Carmen and Braulio E. Dujali in Davao del Norte.

Apelo said they would collect a total of 900 samples from five barangays of each five municipalities as the birds fly in and another samples as they fly out of these areas in April next year.

The samples will be immediately taken for testing to the Davao Regional Animal Diagnostic Laboratory. Sampling will start on September 25, 2017.

If results would turn out positive, he said all chickens within one-kilometer radius will be exterminated.

Apelo said the migratory birds DA,10

he Commission on Elections conducted a public hearing in Davao City on Tuesday to know the opinion of the people if they want the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan polls in Mindanao, to push through or not.

During the public consultation, Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez said eight organizations supported the postponement of elections in the region while three groups want the polls to be held this year.

He added that some 600 individuals attended the public hearing, which lasted for half an hour.

With this, Comelec Chairman Juan Andres Bautista said they are giving stake-

holders five days to submit their position papers after which they will come up with a decision.

“The commission will be reading these papers in coming up with a decision on the matter,” he told the attendees of the public consultation held at Marco Polo Hotel.

“We are looking at the possibility of the Comelec postponing the elections in just a specific area,” Bautista said.

Early this month, Comelec has ordered the holding of a public hearing on the possibility of postponing the village and youth polls in Mindanao, which is under Martial Law until December 31, 2017. (Ferdinand G. Patinio/PNA)

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

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TESDA exec urges public to take free skills training

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echnical Education and Skills Development Authority Director General Guiling Mamondiong is urging the public to avail of the free skills training from the agency.

He said this as he attended the “Serbisyo Caravan” last August 12 in Commonwealth Elementary School, Quezon City.

Participated by various government agencies, “Serbisyo Caravan” was a government initiative to inform the public of the different services they can avail of.

It aimed to ensure that these services will be accessible to conmunities and even in far-flung areas.

Mamondiong said students can avail of the TESDA scholarship program via the Online Scholarship Application, Walk-In Scholarship Application and through the Barangay Skills Need Survey.

“We offer Skills Training Program, Scholarship Program and Competency Assessment and Certification,” he added.

Interested applicants may visit TESDA’s website at www.tesda.gov.ph to apply online.

Those who opt to avail of the Walk-in Scholarship Application, may drop by any TESDA branch nationwide.

The public can secure the Barangay Skills Need Survey forms in their barangays, according to TESDA. Mamondiong explained that TESDA’s contribution to achieve social equity is by making technical vocational education and training accessible to more people, especially those who are often neglected.

He emphasized that TESDA has opened its doors to more beneficiaries such as drug surrenderers, former drug dependents and their families, out-of-school youth, unemployed, returning overseas Filipino workers and their dependents, the marginalized sector, family members of AFP and PNP personnel killed or wounded, inmates, detainees and their families.(PNA)

LOCAL FLAVOR. Mindanao Trade Expo (MTE) Foundation executive director Marian Comila says the ongoing MTE is highlighting communities and their creativity and the talents and skills of Mindanao-based designers. Comila graced Wednesday @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Lean Daval Jr.

Tax payment to help meet Foreign investors told to invest in‘rapidly growing’PH economy abrupt costs of calamities F

inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has pitched the Philippines’ “rapidly growing” economy to foreign investors, saying in a regional business forum here that the country is itself building its own “Silk Road” by modernizing its infrastructure, harmonizing business policies with its neighbors in the region and streamlining the flow of intraregional investments.

Dominguez also told hundreds of business leaders and key government officials from Asia gathered at this year’s Singapore Regional Business Forum (SRBF) that the Philippines looks forward to strengthening and forging more business partnerships with other countries in the region as it grows its economy within the framework of the ASEAN Economic Community.

“The Philippines is more than ready to be a partner in the robust growth of this region,” Dominguez said in this week’s event.

He said the Philippines’ ambitious infrastructure buildup, which will be supported partly by the proposed tax reform program, would not disrupt the fiscal discipline that has led to the economy’s sustained high growth.

“The tax reform package and infrastructure program combined will spur economic activity without causing an inflationary spike,” with the rate expected to be within the range of 3 to 4 percent over the medium term even without changes in monetary policy, Dominguez said.

According to Dominguez, this infra build-up consists of

big-ticket projects of which over one-fourth are in the five regions of the country with the highest poverty rates.

Dominguez said the government is undertaking this unprecedented infra program to sustain the Philippine economy’s rapid pace, attract more long-term investments, create jobs and truly make the benefits of growth inclusive.

“Let me urge you to explore the rising opportunities for business collaboration in our new setting. We have been building our own ‘Silk Road’ in the region as we modernize our infrastructure, bring our information channels to speed and harmonize our policies with those of our neighbors,” Dominguez said at the regional forum.

“I should likewise invite you to explore investment opportunities in the rapidly growing Philippine economy.

We are making it easier for intraregional investment flows to happen. The spending program to increase our pace of economic growth opens many opportunities for your enterprises,” he said.

The SRBF was launched in 2015 to serve as a high-profile platform for leaders of business, academe and government in the region to discuss current global economic issues with China’s proposed 21st Maritime Silk Road project as theme. The «Belt and Road» initiative is China›s development strategy on connectivity and cooperation with countries on the original Silk Road or its ancient trade route through Asia, the Middle East and Europe. (PNA)

Seen to up collections by P1B a month F

inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said the settlement of the tax obligations of one cigarette manufacturer that will amount to about P30 billion will significantly boost the national coffers at a time when the government is meeting the unexpected costs of several calamities.

Dominguez said settling Mighty Corporation’s tax deficiency will also keep the company out of the cigarette business, which will be taken over by the Japan Tobacco International (JTI), a development that is expected to increase sin tax collections by P1 billion a month that can be used to improve health care facilities and enable the Department of Health (DOH) to procure addi-

tional medicines and provide services that will help prevent and control the deadly diseases caused by tobacco use.

In his second State-ofthe-Nation Address (SONA) last month, President Duterte ordered the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to accept Mighty’s settlement offer of P25 billion, which Dominguez said will go up to P30 billion because of another P5 billion from the Value Added Tax (VAT) charges arising from the sale of the company to JTI. “This will be the largest sum of taxes collected ever from a single taxpayer in Philippine history. It brings windfall revenues for government during a time when calamities

inflicted unexpected spending burdens for the government,” said Dominguez at this morning’s briefing by the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) for the Senate committee on finance.

“Mighty will be out of the cigarette manufacturing business. Our future sin tax collections are expected to rise by at least P1 Billion a month.

This can be used to pay for additional medicines, commodities and services that will prevent and control the deadly diseases caused by tobacco use, and improve our health care facilities,” Dominguez said.

In his second SONA, the President said this windfall will aid the government in its rehabilitation efforts for the

conflict-hit city of Marawi and the quake-devastated Ormoc City.

Last July 20, the BIR collected from this cigarette company the amount of P3.4 billion as the first tranche of the settlement of its tax liabilities.

Dominguez said the date of the full collection of the remaining P21.5 billion and the other P5 billion for the VAT will depend on how swift the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) can approve the sale of Mighty to JTI, of which a third is controlled by the Japanese government.

He recalled that in 2011, sin taxes from tobacco and alcohol products brought in revenues equivalent only to 0.5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). (PNA)

the first half.

The crops subsector, with a share of 50.75 percent of the total agricultural production, posted output increase of 11.72 percent.

Palay and corn posted output increments of 11.72 percent and 45.97 percent, respectively.

Improvements in production were recorded among the other crops except for coffee, mango, tobacco and abaca.

The PSA said poultry sub-sector, accounting for 16.02 percent of the total ag-

ricultural output, posted an increase of 8.36 percent. Chicken contributed to the subsector’s performance with its 9.32-percent increment in production.

On the other hand, production of livestock and fisheries subsectors went down by 1.38 percent and 2.93 percent, respectively.

The livestock subsector, contributing 16.38 percent to total agricultural output, contracted by 1.38 percent. Except for dairy, all components of the subsector recorded output losses.

Production in the fisheries subsector declined by 2.93 percent, as output gains among milkfish, tilapia, skipjack and seaweed did not offset the losses incurred by the other species.

The PSA said farmgate prices also went up on the average by 4.93 percent during the reference quarter.

Price increments were recorded in all subsectors: crops at 1.59 percent, livestock at 14.06 percent, poultry at 1.58 percent and fisheries at 7.55 percent. (PNA)

PH farm sector grows in Q2 T

he agriculture sector grew by 6.18 percent in the second quarter of 2017, bolstered by increased output of crops and poultry.

Data provided by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), an attached agency of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), showed that agriculture at current prices grossed PHP422.36 billion, up by 11.41 percent from the previous year’s record.

Gross output in agriculture expanded by 5.71 percent in

EDGEDAVAO

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ECONOMY 5

Government losing revenue due to corruption at BOC

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senator on Tuesday slammed the Bureau of Customs anew for being home to several corrupt officials and blamed them for being responsible for the government’s losing “much-needed” revenue.

“Not only are we bringing in drugs, we’re also losing money on smuggled goods because of corruption in the BOC,” Aquino said during the Senate probe into the PHP6.4 billion worth of shabu from China that slipped past the bureau’s watch.

“Habang pinoproblema ang tax reform at pagpondo sa libreng edukasyon sa mga state universities and colleges (SUCs), hinahayaan lang na mawala ang kita ng gobyerno sa imports dahil sa korupsyon sa Customs (While he worries

about the tax reform and funding for free education in state universities and colleges, the bureau is allowing the loss of revenue from imports because of corruption in Customs),” he added.

Aquino said that instead of bringing in new personnel, he urged the government to implement new systems to rid the bureau of corrupt officials.

“Kahit araw-araw tayong magpalit ng tauhan sa BOC, wala ring mangyayari kung mananatili ang mga lumang sisttrema na pinag-uugatan ng katiwalian sa ahensiya (Even if we replace employees at the BOC, nothing will happen if we keep the same, old system run by a corrupt agency),” Aquino said. (PNA)

Remittances breach $15B mark for H1 B Ongoing MTE highlights

ECO BOARDS. Global Mazzini Furniture managing director Martin Angelo Hao gives the overview of his company which introduces eco boards for modular kitchen during Wednesday @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Lean Daval Jr.

angko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Nestor A. Espenilla, Jr. on Tuesday said that personal remittances of Overseas Filipinos (OFs) rose by 6.8 percent year-on-year to USD2.8 billion in June 2017.

This brought personal remittances for the first semester of 2017 to USD15.4 billion, higher by 5.5 percent than the level posted in the same period a year ago.

The growth was boosted largely by the 5.5 percent increase in personal remittances from land-based workers with long-term contracts, whose remittances comprised 77.3 percent of total personal remittances.

It was also supported by the 1.7 percent rise in remittances from sea-based and land-based workers with short-term contracts.

Similarly, cash remittanc-

es from OFs coursed through banks, amounting to USD2.5 billion in June 2017, went up by 5.7 percent year-on-year.

Cash remittances from land-based workers (at USD1.9 billion) and from sea-based workers (at USD500 million), posted a 3.8 percent and 13.3 percent growth, respectively, compared to the level reported in the same month a year ago.

The United States (US), United Arab Emirates (UAE), Hong Kong and Singapore were the major contributors to the growth in cash remittances during the month.

Cash transfers from the US and UAE each contributed 1.9 percentage points to the 5.7 overall growth in cash remittances while those from Hong Kong and Singapore contributed a combined 1.1 percentage points.(PNA)

FPI bats for inclusion of palm oil in biodiesel mix

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he Federation of Philippine Industries pushes for the inclusion of palm oil in the biodiesel additive provided for by the Biofuels Act. FPI Chairman Jesus Arranza said in an interview Wednesday that the guidelines of the Biofuels Act prescribed a specific chemical formula that only coconut oil should serve as biodiesel mix.

Arranza said the business group had talks with the Technical Committee on Petroleum and Petroleum Additives under the Department of Energy to review the specification and add palm oil as biodiesel mix.

“Palm oil is cheaper [than coconut oil]. So we can use palm oil [as biodiesel mix].

There is a need to modify the specification and include palm oil, so that [oil companies] have choices either they want a high

cost or a cheaper additive,” the FPI chair said in Filipino.

He said that coconut oil in the world market cost around USD1,500 per metric ton while palm oil prices at around USD725.

He added that coconut can only produce 450 kilograms of oil per hectare while palm oil can generate five tons , or about 4,536 kilograms of oil per hectare.

“We can use of palm oil in the formulation of biodiesel so it will bring down prices of diesel to the consumer, and at the same time allow the exportation of coconut for higher value products to foreign countries,” Arranza noted.

Arranza said the use of palm oil as biodiesel additive can also soften the impact of potential excise tax on oil under the comprehensive tax reform package. (PNA)

Mindanawons’ creativity T

he ongoing Mindanao Trade Expo (MTE) 2017 is showcasing Mindanao’s small and medium scale enterprises and highlighting their creativity.

The annual exhibition of the Mindanawon’s craftsmanship and ingenuity is currently held on August 11-20 at Abreeza Mall, Davao City, timed with the celebration of the Kadayawan Festival.

For 22 years now, the MTE Foundation, Inc. has been at the forefront of promoting the products and services of the Mindanawon entrepreneurs. It has been the organization’s commitment to continuously develop new markets for the local, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

It is worth noting that for this year, the Kadayawan edition of MTE is already the second run. The first one was staged in March, also in the same venue, during the Araw ng Davao celebration.

MTEFI president Dr. Rosevic Lucilla del Rosario- Cembrano said the adoption of theme “Empowering community through creative product designs” for

P25 M Targeted total value of MTE sales this year

the MTE 2017 is anchored on the goal of making the indigenous products of a locality shine. She, however, emphasized that some upgrading has been done to make such products more competitive.

“We want the modern version of our homegrown products take the center stage. These are from the communities that have opted to strengthen their sustainability, productivity and competitiveness,” she said.

Cembrano, who is a medical practitioner and an entrepreneur at the same time, added that the MTE 2017 visitors can expect handcrafted collections that promote the culture and tradition of the Mindanao’s Indigenous people. To provide design assistance to local entre-

preneurs, MTEFI has a group of professional designers tagged as “MTE Design Team” namely; Chris Gomez and Nicole Cabanlet from Cagayan De Oro City and Emi Englis, Carmaela Alcantara, Mai Ongkiko and Ian Manglicmot are Davao based designers.

“They will surely feats on the remarkable talents and skills of our locales and Mindanao-based designers.

The potentials of local products and artisans will likewise be highlighted,” she said.

To further showcase the local; creativity and ingenuity, a product and brand logo launching of the indigenous community of Marilog District, Davao City. The concepts and designs were greaty inspired by the rich culture of the Matigsalug tribe.

The MTE 2017 is expected to gather 150 MSSMEs from all over Mindanao and generate a total of sales value of P25 miliion. Its co-operators are the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PhilExport), Abreeza Ayala Mall, and Aboitiz Power

Recovering drug dependents undergo livelihood training

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ome 15 recovering drug dependents in Agusan del Norte will undergo livelihood training to help them cope with their new lives and become productive members of the community.

Initiated by the Philippine National Police (PNP), the program aims to train recovering drug addicts from the municipalities of Carmen and Nasipit in food and milkfish (bangus) processing, said PNP-Caraga director Rolando B. Felix at the project launch Monday.

Under the program, Fe-

lix said the participants will be trained at the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries based in Buenavista town, where they will be taught by experts from the Technical Education and Skills Development Administration (TESDA).

Felix said the project is part of the government’s community-based rehabilitation program, in which some recovering addicts will no longer be placed inside rehabilitation centers.

Depending on the severity of the addiction, recovering drug dependents will

instead participate in government-led intervention programs in their own communities.

Authorities said the approach will help decongest rehabilitation centers, which could no longer accommodate the growing number of drug dependents.

In Caraga Region alone, the police said the number of recovering drug addicts has grown to 25,000 regionwide—and counting.

Caraga’s only drug treatment and rehabilitation center—located in Surigao City—can only accommo-

date 80 in-patients, the Department of Health (DOH) earlier said.

DOH-Caraga said it has trained local officials to be able to offer treatment and other interventions at community-based rehabilitation centers in their own municipalities.

“The Caraga police fully supports these previous drug dependents who are willing to submit themselves for total recovery from drug addiction, and once again become productive members of our society,” Felix said. (PNA/Noel B. Najarro)

6 COMPETITIVEEDGE DAVAO EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

Samal’s‘vanishingisland’eyed as P50-M marine tourism park

Educator Frank dela Pena want to develop 5-ha sandbar A

PROMINENT educator of Davao del Norte wants to develop the Island Garden City of Samal’s (IGaCoS) five-hectare sandbar called “the vanishing island” into a worldclass floating aqua marine tourism park.

Dr. Francisco Dela Peña Jr., owner of the ACES Colleges and a recognized aquamarine expert, has formally asked government leaders of IGaCoS to give him authority to develop around five-hectare in the known Samal Sandbar, also

dubbed as the “vanishing island”, into an exotic worldclass, exotic, floating aqua marine tourism park.

Dr. dela Pena claimed he is capable of making the sandbar into something Dabawenyos and Filipinos can be very proud of.

He said he is willing to spend millions for the project, adding that “if you find it not good, you can kick me out.”

Dela Peña appeared before members of the island’s City Council Tuesday to brief them on his

or the convenience of its customers, Davao City Water District’s collection centers will be open on August 18, 21, and 28, 2017 from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM despite that these dates are declared holidays in observance of the Kadayawan Festival, Ninoy Aquino Day, and National Heroes’ Day, respectively.

DCWD’s collection centers in Felcris Centrale and SM Lanang Premier accept water bill payments while its collection center in Victoria Plaza caters to water bill payments and other customer service requests.

However, its Bajada, Matina, and Toril offices will be closed on these dates.

Due dates for water bill payments falling on August 18 and 21 will be moved to August 22 while payments

due on August 28 remain as scheduled.

DCWD general manager Engr. Edwin V. Regalado assures that even when DCWD offices are closed during these holidays, its technical and Central Information Unit (CIU) / Call Center operations will not be disrupted to ensure continuous water service and offsite customer assistance.

DCWD customers may visit DCWD website (www. davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www. facebook.com/davaowater) or contact DCWD’s call center through the 24hour hotlines 297-DCWD (3293) and 0927-7988966, 0925-5113293, and 09084410653 for other updates, complaints, queries, and concerns related to water service. (Winston C. Ajero)

DCWD office sched on August holidays

F

Kapuso stars at SM City Davao’s Kadayawan weekend

S

M City Davao brings GMA Kapuso celebrities on August 18 and 20 at the Annex event Center to join the Kadayawan festivities.

On Friday, 4PM, a fun afternoon awaits mall shoppers with All Star Videoke hosts Solenn Heussaff and Betong Sumayao. The musical gameshow which is expected to air this month will surely tickle the audience as the unconventional pair brings the Filipino’s favorite past time to a new level. On the same afternoon, actors from the anticipated My Korean Jagiya will also joing the mall show. Meet and greet Heart Evangelista, Alexander Lee, Edgar Allan Guzman and Myke Salomon at the Annex.

Leading the Kapuso Fi-

esta on August 20 is Alyas Robinhood himself Dingdong Dantes. His co-stars Andrea Torres, Lindsay De Vera and Dave Bornea are also set to entertain their fans on Sunday. Alyas Robinhood is a drama-action-comedy series which premiered in September 2016. The 23-week season 1 ended early this year.

Season 2 is set to premiere on August 14.

Catch your favorite Kapuso stars at SM City Davao this Kadayawan. Also, get awesome deals and discounts of up to 70% off at the Festival Sale starting August 14 until August 21. Mall hours are extended until 10PM on August 17 & 20 (Thursday & Sunday), and until 11PM on August 18 & 19(Friday & Saturday).

plan to invest P50 million to fund for a world-class “environment-friendly facility “ located at Barangay Tambo.

Dela Peña is the owner of a chain of voc-tech schools known as ACES Polytechnic College that first flourished in Davao del Norte.

The educator presented his plan to develop the sandbar with all-floating cottages made of bamboo and indigenous materials with complete waste segregation, “no foul smell” and recycling technology, un-

derwater park with exotic fishes, clams, corals, good, which are ideal for snorkeling.

He added it would be seen as one good floating resort that could also be a training center, source of employment of Samal residents, “one that that protects the natural habitat of marine life”, an attraction for local and foreign tourists, “which will truly make IGACOS a global destination with purely locally inspired attraction.”

Dela Peña promised he

can guarantee for the placement of a waste management and waste recycling technology developed by him in his school to protect the sandbar area.

A monthly rental scheme could be derived by the city from the operator of the resort at a term of 25 years.

Councilor Charles Ligan said the project that Dela Peña offered is “feasible” but he said there are “claimants” in the sandbar area, among them Davao City businessman Joe Te-

sado.

The councilor however moved that the Dela Peña’s plan be referred to the environment and tourism committees while the city environment office would inquire on the latest information pertaining the island’s sandbar.

Vice Mayor Orly Amit recalled that in the past there was someone interested to put up a high-end hotel at the sandbar area but the plan fizzled out later. - Cha Monforte, Correspondent

Davao’s Matigsalug tribe ready for export market

P

ublic- private partnership is an idea that is alive in this part of the country in a unique and highly beneficial form. This is the involvement of various private organizations and government agencies in working together to make a Matigsalug community ready to become exporters one day.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Aboitiz Power, Therma South Incorporated (TSI), and Mindanao Trade Expo Foundation Inc. (MTEFI) have been pouring in their resources to equip the Matigsalug Council of Elders of Marilog District, Davao City, Inc. (MACOEMADDACI).

Through the Matigsalug Indigenous Crafts Projects, these organizations have committed to bring about change in the

community and improve the lives of the Matigsalugs, while continuously preserving their culture. The beneficiaries graduated in June from thee training and seminars on the development of Beads and Agsam, Pompom (Sangkad), wearable, and Basketry provided by the project implementers. These products are indigenous to the locality.

Raw materials are also sourced just from within the community.

To make the project take off and reap success, DTI-Davao Region provided the group 12 sewing machines through its Shared Service Facility (SSF) project, TSI donated 200,00 worth of sewing tools and raw materials and MTEFI Dedicated the upcoming Mindanao Trade Expo (MTE) 2017 on August 11 to 20 at Abreeza mall as the venue

to showcase and sell the Matigsalug’s outputs. DTI- Davao Region’s Designers Pool, Ms Juvenal Fernandez of TADECO, Ms. Lenny Castillo of Great Gifts International and MTE Design Team, Emi Englis and Ms. Yvette Bags and Beads Collection was in-charge in the conduct of skills upgrading interventions.

“We have decided to adopt this community because we know the potential of the products which they have been making all these years. This has been a part of their culture and technology was transferred to them by their ancestors,” said MTEFI president Dr. Rosevic Lucilla Del Rosario- Cembrano said.

The physician -entrepreneur pointed out, though, that enhancements have been made for the Matigsalugs products to

become more competitive and eventually reach out the international market.

“The MTE 2017 is just a first step of this goal to invade the global trading arena. We know that is still a long way to go for them. But, with support from the DTI, Aboitiz Power and TSI, we know that this dream is not from happening,” she said.

Initially, the indigenous group’s produce will be carried by existing exporters, however, once they are already prepared, they will be assisted to become direct exporters.

Cembrano explained that the MTE 2017’s theme “Empowering community through creative designs” is just appropriate to showcase the Matigsalug’s creativity and willingness to grow. MTEFI

7 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

DRAGONBOAT FESTIVAL. Paddlers give out their best during the Dragonboat Festival race in front of the Sta. Ana Wharf in Davao City on Saturday, August 12. The event is among the preliminaryl activities of the Kadayawan Festival in Davao City. MINDANEWS PHOTO

Kidapawan activates T Army-PNP task group

SoCot to reactivate avian influenza task force

T

o strengthen its security component and deter any terroristic plot, the city government here on Monday officially activated “Task Group Kidapawan” in simple rites held at the city gymnasium.

Mayor Joseph Evangelista led the ceremony together with Col. Roberto Ancan, commander of the Army’s 1002nd Brigade; Lt Col. Harold Argamosa, 39th Infantry Battalion commander; Senior Supt. Leonardo Suan, PRO-12 deputy director for operations; and Senior Supt.

Emmanuel Peralta, North Cotabato police director.

According to Evangelista, the Task Group will augment the current security set-up and would beef up the PNP personnel who are securing the city’s 150,000 residents.

Task Group Kidapawan is comprised of personnel from the 39th IB and 72nd IB and would team up with the Local PNP, Traffic Management Unit (TMU), Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT), and 911 Response Unit to address potential threats and swiftly

attend to emergencies.

“We envision Kidapawan as a place to live, to invest, to study, and to retire. And to those who want to destroy and disturb us make sure you can sustain because I will give you one big shot,” Evangelista said.

During the ceremony, the mayor turned over a mobile patrol car, and eight tri-cabs and communication equipment to equip the task group.

In his message, Ancan expressed gratitude to the LGU for the support in im-

plementing security efforts.

He also emphasized few points for members of the new unit to always uphold human rights, secure the people, work as a team and always seek guidance from the Almighty.

After the ceremony, the team was immediately deployed to perform their duties, coinciding with the on-going celebration of “Kasadya sa Timpupo,” a fruit festival celebrating the city’s foundation anniversary. (John Andrew G. Tabugoc/PNA)

“The reward money will be given to any police authority or private person who can lead us to discover who really did the assassination,” she said.

Bermil and his cousin were on their way to the city proper aboard a barangay service vehicle when they were waylaid by two motorcycle-riding suspects at a portion of Purok Garcia in Barangay Rotonda at around 10 a.m. on Wednesday last week.

The victim, who was driving the service vehicle, died on-the-spot due to three gunshot wounds. His cousin, Nida Parcon, sustained two gunshot wounds but sur-

vived the attack.

Fuentes said she will gather officials and personnel of concerned law enforcement agencies in an executive forum at the PPOC meeting “so we will know and understand what is happening in our province right now.”

She said the provincial government and local authorities need “to be tough” on such kind of incidents.

“We need to get into the bottom of this. We’ve known chairman Bermil as a good person and had not been involved in any illegal activity,” she said.

Two weeks before the incident, Bermil figured in a

controversy after one of his nephews was arrested in a major drug raid in his village that resulted to the recovery of around PHP2.36 million worth of metamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu.

The joint operatives nabbed eight other persons and seized several firearms and a rifle grenade.

Koronadal City Mayor Peter Miguel earlier disclosed that three barangay chairs in the city and several other village councilors are being monitored by authorities due to their alleged involvement in illegal drug-related activities. (PNA)

Guv pushes P200k bounty for killers of village chair

S

outh Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuents is pushing for a P200,000 reward for the arrest of suspects behind the murder of a barangay chair in Koronadal City last week.

Fuentes said Wednesday she will pursue the setting of the reward money for the killers of Barangay Topland, Koronadal City chairman Baltazar Bermil in a scheduled meeting this week of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC).

She said the move is mainly aimed to fast track the ongoing investigation and ensure the resolution of the case.

he provincial government of South Cotabato is working on the reactivation of its special task force against avian influenza or bird flu to coordinate efforts in preventing the entry of the disease in any part of the province.

Dr. Flora Bigot, acting head of the Provincial Veterinary Office, said Tuesday they are set to convene the members of the task force to facilitate the implementation of necessary measures in the wake of the declared bird flu outbreak in Pampanga.

She said they will initially review and update the protocols as well as mechanisms of the special body, which is dubbed Provincial Avian Influenza Task force.

The task force was created by the provincial government 10 years ago in response to the national government’s calls for proactive actions on thet problem.

Its composite team is spearheaded by personnel from the Provincial Veterinary Office and involve representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Philippine National Police, Department of Agriculture (DA), and the area’s city and municipal governments.

Bigot said they have intensified their monitoring activities to ensure the proper implementation of the ban on the entry of live fowl, egg and meat

products within the province’s 10 towns and lone city.

“There is an order on the restriction of accepting poultry products from Luzon as of this moment until the outbreak is contained,” she said.

She said they have alerted their inspection posts in the province’s entry and exit points.

Last week, she said boxes of chicken meat and eggs from Luzon were confiscated in Cagayan De Oro City following the DA’s confirmation of the bird flu outbreak in San Luis, Pampanga.

With the reactivation of the task force in the next few days, Bigot said they will strengthen their collaboration with other stakeholders and disease surveillance activities.

“We will implement mechanisms that will facilitate appropriate ways of taking actions on the matter,” she said.

She said they will visit the municipalities of Norala, Tantangan and Banga this week to meet with local officials and enlist their active cooperation.

The towns of Norala and Tantangan border Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat, where a sanctuary of migratory birds is located.

Banga hosts a number of large poultry farms and produces the most number of chickens in South Cotabato.(Anna liza Cabrido /PNA)

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

EDITORIAL

Another disappointment

O

ops, the Commission on Appointments (CA) did it again.

First Gina Lopez, now Judy Taguiwalo.

Taguiwalo, erstwhile Social Welfare Secretary, became the third casualty among the cabinet appointees of President Rodrigo Duterte. She and former Environment Secretary Gina Lopez are the biggest losses by far.

It can’t get more disappointing than this. After the powerful body rejected Lopez who cracked down on illegal and undesirable mining practices in 10 months in office, the CA bagged another good one in Taguiwalo.

Even the Palace felt saddened by the rejection who described Taguiwalo as someone who “had served the Duterte administration with passion, profession and integrity.”

The Palace considered Taguiwalo’s shortlived tenure as having made an impact in the lives of many Filipinos. She had proven in the short span of time that she served as social

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welfare chief that in a position where political interplay is inevitable, one can still be incorruptible and firm.

However, the political body, in yet another disappointing decision, majority of its members rejected Taguiwalo in an executive session right after the two-hour hearing.

It can be recalled that immediately after winning the elections, President Duterte had said he will allocate cabinet seats for the Left and Taguiwalo was one of those who was appointed from the militant side. A former political detainee, she was endorsed to the Cabinet by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). President Duterte’s intention is to keep his cabinet balanced and well-represented.

Taguiwalo and another leftist in the cabinet Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael Mariano, were bypassed in March but were reappointed to their positions the following month.

After Taguiwalo, will it be Mariano next?

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE

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

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

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

EDGEDAVAO

A

s kadayawan season is upon us, snd tourism efforts will be boosted with greater stakeholder participation, attention is brought to our airport.

We note the cleaning of the roof and the additional airconditiong, renovation of restrooms and additional passenger lounges.

These are all good to serve additional passenger volumes coming with additional flights to and.from cities like Tacloban, Dumaguete, Tagbilaran and Kuala Lumpur. Kota Kinabalu will not be far behind.

To be.fair, there are still a few more things thst need improvement. A few friends I spoke with over thae ladtst

W

hile reading the executive summary of the Global Status of Commercialized Biotech/GM Crops: 2016, one sentence that caught my attention was this: ‘Biotech crops have now had an unblemished record of safe use and consumption for over 20 years.”

It was in 1996 when the commercialization of biotech crops started. Since then, many farmers are now planting genetically-modified (GM) crops. The 2017 report stated: “Global hectarage of biotech crops has increased almost 110-fold from 1.7 million hectares in 1996 to 185.1 million hectares in 2016 – this makes biotech crops the fastest adopted crop technology in recent times.

“An accumulated 2.1 billion hectares was achieved in 21 years (1996-2016) of biotech crop commercialization,” pointed out the report, which was published by the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Application (ISAAA).

In the Philippines, Filipinos may be eating transgenic foods, such as potato chips, corn cereals, or soya milk.

“Love it or loath it, transgenic food is set to become a bigger part of what we eat,” someone noted.

The big question is: are they safe to eat?

“Foods produced using genetic modification is as safe as foods produced using conventional breeding techniques,” assures the US

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98• THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Davao airport: suggestions for a greater gateway several months offer these additional suggestions: 1.add more baggage carts at the arrival area to assist arriving passengers. It is often observed that when a number of planes arrive, carts run out, to the chagrin of passengers.

We should have adequate carts to assist passengers.

2. Widen the departure vehicle lane. This allows people to go in and out of the terminal ramp quickly. Of course, we know that new infrastructure funds are coming to upgrade the airports amenities and facilities. We hope these are included.

3. Post clear signs to warn arriving passengers against boarding taxis at the arrival or

MY TWO CENT’S John Tria

departure ramp.

If there is a policy against this then it should be clearly promoted to make sure. people, especially visitors follow the right rules. It also

makes enforcement easier for airport authorities.

This causes congestion on the tight lanes and is unfair to taxis that fall in line to get passengers on the taxi line.

4. Post the porter’s fees at the departure and arrival areas so that people know how much these cost.

This will also encourage passengers to utilize their services rather than avoid or ignore them as they fear overcharging.

5. Establish a regular airport express link bus to the gmall, abreeza and ecoland bus terminals. This will allow passengers meaning to go in and out of davao the chance to do so while lessening traffic

congestion in the downtown wrought by using additional taxis.

6. Establish an airport bus stop for buses meaning to pick up passengers en route to panabo and davao. This allows easy access to direct mass transport to these major cities.

As passenger volumes increase there will be a need to provide higher volume transport in and.out of the city for those who do not live here. This decongests the city streets and makes travel for others more convenient.

In the end, a regional gateway airport like Davao facilitates more seamless and effective travel for all. We hope these suggestions can help.

species.”

As such, GM scheme is much better. “GM technology enables plant breeders to bring together in one plant useful genes from a wide range of living sources, not just from within the crop species or from closely related plants,” a briefing paper from ISAAA explained.

“This powerful took allows plant breeders to do faster what they have been doing for years – generate superior plant varieties – although it expands the possibilities beyond the limits imposed by conventional plant breeding.”

GM crops have been a source of contention in various parts of the world as some believe these crops pose potential risks to human health and the environment.

The Greenpeace, an anti-GM crop organization, continues to take a preventive stance. It cautioned that consumers can never be absolutely sure of the safety of biotech crops since this is only determined by decades of data and study.

One of the public’s biggest concerns related to GM foods is that an allergen (a protein that causes an allergic reaction) could be accidentally introduced into a food products. “Allergenicity screening is a very important part of safety testing before a crop can enter into the food market,” ISAAA explained. “A variety of tests and questions must be considered to determine whether the food poses any increased risk of

allergenicity.”

Antibiotic resistance is another concern.

“The likelihood of antibiotic resistance genes moving from GM crops to any other organisms is extremely remote,” ISAAA assured.

“Even in the unlikely event that an antibiotic resistance gene is transferred to another organism, the impact of this transfer would be negligible, as the markers used in GM crops have limited clinical or veterinary use.”

Other potential risks include: the likelihood of transgenes escaping from cultivated crops into wild relatives; the potential for pests to evolve resistance to the toxins produced by GM crops; and the risk of these toxins affecting non-target organisms.

A consumer advocacy group in United Kingdom said that genetically modified soya can be found in bread, biscuits, baby milk, baby foods, breakfast cereals, margarine, soups, pasta, pizza instant meals, meat products, flours, sweets, ice creams, crisps, chocolate, soy sauce, veggieburgers, tofu, soya milk, and pet foods.

“Today, the approval of genetically modified organism technology has become political,” deplored Dr. William Dar, former director general of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics. “They have politicized the whole process.

They are not letting science do its own due diligence.”

Bioengineered crops are safe to eat

Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “Genetically modified foods are as safe as other foods available on the market.”

The Geneva-based World Health Organization (WHO) declared that different GM foods go through the global food safety process called Codex Alimentarius Risk Analysis of Foods Derived from Modern Biotechnology under which these foods are not found to be risky to human health.

“GM foods currently available on the international market have passed risk assessments and are not likely to present risks for human health,” said the United Nations health agency in a statement.

“No effects on human health have been shown as a result of the consumption of such foods by the general population in the countries where they have been approved. Continuous use of risk assessments based on the Codex principles and, where appropriate, including post market monitoring, should form the basis for evaluating the safety of GM foods,” it added.

GM crops are products of modern biotechnology.

Biotechnology is defined as “any technique that makes use of organisms (or parts thereof) to make or modify products, to improve plants or animals, or to develop microorganisms for specific purposes.”

The technology has existed since ancient times. Spirulina, one of the oldest forms of life on earth, is believed to be what

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

the ancient Israelites of the Old Testament called “manna from heaven.”

According to ISAAA, all crops have been “genetically modified” from their original wild state by domestication, selection, and controlled breeding over long periods of time. Modern biotechnology just makes it faster.

Traditionally, a plant breeder tries to exchange genes between two plants to produce offspring that have desired traits. This is done by transferring the male (pollen) of one plant to the female organ of another.

The disadvantage of cross breeding, as the process is called: limited only “to exchanges between the same or very closely related species.”

Another disadvantage: “takes a long time to achieve desired results and frequently, characteristics of interest do not exist in any related

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

OPENING... FROM 1 in clarifying that all Genetically Modified crops underwent health safety monitoring and are closely studied for further improvements.

However, with the BT corn exports set to take

flight this year, Halos said that there is still a need for the governemnt to market the farmer’s products and connect them to potential partners to augment their income.

or vacate the premises within such given time, after which the undersigned will place the petitioner in actual and physical possession thereof to duly satisfy the Writ of Execution,” read the order.

Calida, along with the Branch Sheriff Robert Bautista, went Tuesday to the Mile Long property serving the notice to Sunvar Realty and all other tenants.

Mile Long property was leased by government

to Sunvar on Feb. 28, 1982.

The agreement expired on Dec. 31, 2002, but Sunvar continued to occupy the property despite the expiration of the lease.

Calida said that since 2003, or for the last 14 years and seven months, Sunvar has been squatting, illegally using and occupying the Mile Long property and despite notices, continued to remain in possession and collect millions of rentals from tenants.(PNA)

ing were Lorenzana, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, Department of Education

(DepEd) Secretary Leonor Briones, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar. (PND/PNA)

can maximize impact on our people.

“Anong gagawin ko?

May nakita akong ganyang perang hindi ginagamit.

Tapos meron tayong kailangang pondohan na libreng tuition. Hindi ba dapat imbes na masayang lang ang perang hindi naman ginagamit pakinabangan na lang ito ng ating mga kabataan?”

Nograles said.

In 2016, a total of P2.8 billion in funds from DAR were reverted to the National Treasury as this represented funds which were unobligated and unused from their 2015 budget allotment.

“Trabaho ko po sa Appropriations na intindihin kung effective ba ang pagtakal natin ng pondo sa kada pangangailangan. Nakita po natin na may sumobra sa isa na hindi nila nagagamit.

Masama po ba na ilagay ko ang labis nila sa isang bagay na kinakapos naman?” he added.

Nograles noted that

with only Php16 Billion raised so far to finance the free college education law, the entire government bureaucracy needs to pitch in to ensure its full implementation next year.

By DBM›s estimate, the government would need at least P50 Billion per year to bankroll the free college education program in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) and Technical Vocational Institutes (TVIs).

«The Free Higher Education Law is an investment for our future so I would like to encourage all Heads of Government from secretaries down to the whole bureaucracy, if you have funds that cannot and will not be utilized, please let the Committee on Appropriations know. The success of this law depends on how the whole government and the whole nation can work together. Magbayanihan po tayo,” Nograles said.(PNA)

of chicken currently being sold in the local markets.

Misamis Oriental Gov. Yevgeny Emano also ordered quarantine checkpoints near

the Laguindingan airport to strictly monitor incoming shipments. (Froilan Gallardo /

Gatchi Gatchalian, Festival director and Regina Rosa Tecson, City Tourism Officer, the sponsors for the support for the festival and the people for witnessing the event. “We also like to invite everyone for the Coronation Ceremony which will be on August 18, held at USEP Gymnasium

6 o’clock in the evening;” Go added.

He said that he has his own bets but all of them are equally beautiful and talented. “ It’s nice to see the beauty of the Dabawenyo from the different tribes and their talents as wel,l and I think we have so much to look forward

RTC... FROM 2

MODIFIED... FROM 2

NOGRALES... FROM 2

CHICKEN... FROM 3 BAGOBO... FROM 3

ORGANIC PRODUCTS. Essensa Naturale proprietor Engr. Oscar Tabije, whose company caters to both local and overseas markets, advocates all organic, natural, non-toxic products. Tabije introduced some his products during Wednesday @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Lean Daval Jr.

to the coronation night,” Go said. Based on the number of people and the overwhelming support of the different tribes on their representative he can conclude that the Talent completion for the Hiyas ng Kadayawan is a success. He also mention that there will be10 Russian tour guides that will join the Kadayawan. “They want to attend the festivity and hopefully they will stay until Sunday for them to witness all the events that we have,” Go said.

He said that they wanted to highlight the 11 tribes of Davao as well as their cultural diversities. “It is also important especially for the young ones to really see what Davao is about and the

Lumads and Muslims tribes we have come together, we have come together and we have unified,” said Go. He said that it is symbolic to what we really need to have in Davao is unity and the Love for Davao.

He also confirmed that this year’s Kadayawan Festival is his first Kadayawan experience and he is caught up with the excitement . “ I like it, I honestly wished that I had attended ( the Kadayawan Festival) in the previous years there is so much hype and there is so much excitement and so many activities and it is so colorful.” said Go. He said that getting first-hand information about the history of the tribes is really interesting.

would normally seek refuge in a tropical country like the Philippines during winter months from their countries of origin like China and other regions in the world hit by avian flu.

He said they need to do the sampling to immediately prevent the spread of the infection to the domestic birds such as chicken, fighting cock, quails, and ducks should tests on fly-in birds turn out positive.

The DA imposed a temporary ban on the movement of live domestic and wild birds and their products, including poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, semen, manure from Luzon to Visayas and Mindanao.

In a memorandum circular dated August 14, the DA said it was aimed to prevent further spread of the disease in other parts of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

The memo said since Visayas and Mindanao remain free from avian influenza, the movement of live poultry, poultry meat, day old chicks, eggs, semen and other products from Visayas and Mindanao to Luzon will be allowed.

For areas within Luzon,

transport may be allowed but it shall be accompanied by a shipping permit and a veterinary health certificate issued by a government sector veterinarian certifying that these products were sourced from farms with no incidence of avian influenza for the past 21 days prior to shipment.

For poultry meat, it said the temporary ban will be lifted when there are no new cases reported 90 days after stamping out activity, including disinfection of all affected areas and surveillance.

Apelo called on the public and the poultry farms to immediately report birds showing symptoms of infection from the H5 strain of avian influenza.

Symptoms include severe depression and inappetence, drastic decline in egg production, swollen and bluish combs and wattles, dehydration, severe congestion of musculature, severe congestion of conjunctiva, excessive mucous exudate in tracheal lumen, severe hemorrhagic tracheitis, severe kidney congestion, urate deposits in renal tubules, hemorrhage and degeneration of the ovary, and hemorrhage and erosion of the gizzard lining.(MIN-

DA... FROM 3

DND mulls purchase of new medium tanks

I

nstead of heavily-armored and gunned main battle tanks, the Department of National Defense is looking at the possibility of acquiring some medium tanks for its armored units.

This was emphasized

by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana when asked by the PNA Wednesday on whether the ongoing conflict in densely-packed Marawi City, where Maute Group terrorists converted concrete houses and buildings into fortified fighting positions, necessitates the acquisition of a main battle tank fleet.

“Not really. We do not expect a lot Marawi-type conflict in the future. Therefore a couple of medium tanks would do: for contin-

gency in urban warfare and for training,” he added.

Lorenzana also defines main battle tanks as vehicles weighing 40 tons or more and carrying a large-caliber gun while medium tanks are those weighing 20 tons or less and equipped with a medium-caliber but powerful cannon but capable of breaching reinforced concrete walls.

As this develops, Mechanized Infantry Division spokesperson Capt. Emman Adriano said they are now using with great effect the newly-acquired armored vehicles in their ongoing operations in Marawi City.

“Our current capability can surely sustain the operations in Marawi City,” he added. (PNA)

Chicken shipment from Luzon seized in CDO

Q

uarantine officials on Tuesday intercepted at the port here a 21-ton shipment of dressed chicken from Luzon amid a ban issued by the Department of Agriculture because of the discovery of avian flu in Pampanga.

Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol made this announcement in Manila as he ordered a full investigation of the origin of the shipment.

“We are looking on why the shipment was able to sail despite our quarantine order,” Piñol said.

On Aug. 15, the DA banned chickens, birds, fowl or any of their byproducts from Luzon to be transported to Visayas and Mindanao following the outbreak of avian flu in Pampanga.

Local agriculture offi-

cials who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitiveness of the issue said the shipper presented a DA shipment order dated Aug. 14, a day before the quarantine order took effect.

Specimen from the shipment is currently being tested in the laboratory of the Bureau of Animal Industry at the port here in Barangay Macabalan.

The shipment caught agriculture officials by surprise, leaving many to wonder whether Luzon traders are shipping their animal stocks to cut their losses from the avian flu.

“This should not have happened because a quarantine order is in effect,” said Hector San Juan, chief of the city’s agriculture office.

(Froilan Gallardo )

INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98• THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

EVENT

EDGEDAVAO

FIRST OF MANY

President Duterte leads blessing of Matina Enclaves Residences 1

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO THE FIRST IS ALWAYS THE SWEETEST AS THEY SAY. For Matina Enclaves, this is the first one and many yet to come.

With no less than the President of the land leading the inauguration rites, The Matina Enclaves formally opened doors to its very first condominium building—The Residences 1 on August 10.

The building is full of

firsts. It is the first tower of several condominium buildings already on the line under The Enclaves Residences sector of the sprawling mixed use development of Escandor Development Corporation. Four other buildings are already fully sold out

and the second is already under construction.

It is also first in being a truly Davao product.

“We are proud to say that this is truly a Dabawenyo product, made by a local developer, local designer and local contractor,” said Esdevco president and CEO Glenn Y. Escandor who painstakingly oversaw the project with his personal touch on it.

It is likely the first condo project in the country where the President did the honors of the first shovel and graced the inauguration.

President Duterte, who has made the Matina Enclaves Clubhouse as his “unofficial” office in Davao City since winning the elections last May 2016, was also present during the groundbreaking rites in 2015 where he led the ceremonial shoveling when he was yet Mayor of the city.

President Duterte congratulated the Escandor family for the successful inauguration of their first venture into real estate development.

Secretary Bong Go, the President’s assistant, led the other government officials present in the event. From the Escandor

family, matriarch Violeta Escandor, Esdevco Vice President Gerome Escandor were also present along with Glenn’s wife Michelle and children Inna, Irra, and Rina. Esdevco project head Gerald Kent Garces and his sales team and staff came

in full force and left no stone unturned in ensuring the success of the event.

The blessing, which was graced by some 100 guests mostly proud owners of the condo units, included the swimming pool area of the emerging

community.

Fr. Bong Gonzaga and Monsignor Paul Quizon presided over the blessing.

“The completion of the first building is a testimony of Esdevco’s capability to develop huge projects,” Garces said.

EDGEDAVAO

A2INdulge!

FOOD

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98• THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

Supporting

LOKAL LOKALISTA is one of Davao’s many hidden secret. Not just a store, it houses some of the best products from all over Mindanao. From food finds we seldom see at malls to native products we’ve once bought out of curiosity, the store aims to bring us closer to Mindanao. How is this so? Products, of course.

With everything connected and interconnected with just a click, it’s no wonder that we, at times, forget to look back and appreciate our roots.

International brands has tremendously influenced us to live in an internationally motivated standard. In short, we live in accordance to how social media dictates us to be. A good thing, yes, nonetheless, let us not forget to pay homage to the many resources that shaped us to be the very individual that we are.

At LOKALISTA, you see an array of products that are not easy to find unless you go on a road trip. Products that we crave for and reminds us of certain memories. It’s not saying that we sway away from mainstream brands and the likes -it’s understanding and appreciating the many products produced through the many resources that we have. Products that helped define the vast archipelago that we are in.

Products displayed are either produced by SMEs or livelihood programs.

Did you know that Davao - and Mindanao per se - is home to a number of products made from banana? JEF’s Flavoured Banana Chips has been sold mostly in exhibits and trade bazaars. Stumbling upon a pack at a recent bazaar in the city, it was like finding a diamond in a sea of rubies

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

fighting for attention. More so, chunks of purple camote chips re-introduced our palates to the beauty of crunchy camote produced to help sustain a livelihood.

A bottle of Yvonne’s Gourmet Daing has been making a number of close-knit friends smile on a daily basis. Exploring the depths of a simple tuyo and elevating the same, a bottle truly goes a long way. Spiced native vinegar, anyone? YES, please. At LOKALISTA, you’d find locally produced Yvonne’s Native Vinegar bottled and aged to perfection. More so is Seloy’s native vinegar that has been a staple in some homes.

Embracing local (or lokal) is like going on a multicultural journey. Bottled Gourmet Pangus (fish that lives in a lake in Buluan) is a Muslim delicacy that’s slowly made its way into the hearts of the populace. Another lokal fave is honey. On the shelves are locally produced bottles of honey that highlight their place of origin -- Renaissance Raw Honey and Honey Ko Raw Honey.

Also available are Davao’s pride Larry’s Bacon, tubs of Rafa’s homemade Tapa perfectly for an anyday munching, homemade embutido, pork chorizo, bottles of locally concocted Stay Fresh vinaigrettes and salad dressing, packs of creamy alavar sauce, bago on (fermented shrimp) and others.

The store boasts of products that you’d find interestingly delish and beautiful.

Bring home Mindanao and start a trend.

Visit LOKALISTA and make a difference. LOKALISTA is located at Subli st., Lanzona subd., Matina, Davao City.

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

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98• THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

UP AND ABOUT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

A KADAYAWAN WEEKEND STAYCATION

By BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO

FOR THIS YEAR’S KADAYAWAN FESTIVAL, Davaoeños are bracing for a long weekend. With the onset of a very busy month for Davao, taking a few days off without missing out on the attractions and happenings in the city is the best way to celebrate the long weekend. And Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao has the best deals on accommodation and dining that’ll make any staycation memorable and worth the value.

The premier hotel offers its Deluxe Premium rooms for as low as Php 3,400 nett inclusive of an International Breakfast Buffet at Café Uno for two. This room particularly extends to a veranda with a view of the property’s expansive gardens and pool facility that’s a stone’s throw away from the beach line. What’s more, staying guests will get a complimentary Waterfront shirt as a souvenir.

Pizzaiolo, the hotel’s ala carte restaurant, features specialty recipes on two of the city’s signature local products: Marang and Durian. Marang and Durian fruits have become commonly associated with Davao because of its abundance

in the city and scarcity in other parts of the country.

For the whole month of August, the hotel’s menu of food and beverage items promotes a special Durian Pie and Marang Mousse as well as choices of Lambanog Mojito, Karambola and Kagatan beverages to compliment them.

For Café Uno, their quarter-round lunch buffet promotions will highlight local cuisine items on the side.

Rounding up this stay package is an authentic indigenous performance from a family of Lumads of the Matigsalug tribe.

After all, it isn’t Kadayawan without a hint of culture and heritage.

The Matigaslugs or ‘People of the Salug River’ is one of eleven tribes for which the Kadayawan festival is celebrated. Your weekend stay will be made livelier with cultural entertainment this Kadayawan weekend - Friday, Saturday and Sunday - from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Kadayawan is an annual festival celebrated every third week of August in Davao City as a thanksgiving for the bounties of harvest, the beauty of life and harmonious living of people. The festival showcases an abundant display of fruits and a series of events and activities throughout the whole city.

A4INdulge!

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 98• THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

11 OUR NEIGHBORS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

Tremendous benefits Pinoys get from ASEAN

by ALEX ROLDAN REGIONAL DIRECTOR, DAVAO REGION DEPT. OF INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT y deep appreciation to hon- tunities. A freer connection between orable Mayor Tina Yu for the Philippines and other nations in agreeing to the Department the ASEAN would provide wider opof Foreign Affairs’ proposal to host portunities who want to dream it big the ASEAN landmark lighting here in other countries. at Davao Oriental’s pride- the Mount We know that many Filipinos in Hamiguitan world heritage park (Mt. different fields around the globe exHamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctu- cel in their professional fields..that ary). ASEAN leadership has adopted even Filipino nannies are clearly inthe landmark lighting theme: “Under fluencing the young generation of the one light, we are one ASEAN”. world-about the Filipino culture and San Isidro, Davao Oriental is one of even our cuisine. the 73 LGUs participating in the ASEThese are the few possibilities that AN landmark lighting project which is the ASEAN integration can make a reone of the highlights in the Philippines’ ality. The Philippines is pouring P15 chairmanship of the ASEAN 2017 co- billion into playing host to ASEAN inciding with the golden anniversa- summits and conferences this year, ry of ASEAN. Davao City through the yet few understand why they should presidential daughter, Mayor Inday care about these meetings and why Sara Duterte will also lead the simul- ASEAN’s goal to be more integrated taneous lantern lighting ceremony at should matter to them. the Osmeña Park at exactly 7:00 PM Many are wary about the possiin region XI, we have 2 LGUs partici- ble ramifications about integration pating in this historic event as part of of countries, but I am convinced that the country’s hosting of asean’s 50th a successful and more united ASEAN anniversary celebration-from the his- has concrete effects on us and our toric site in Laoag city, Ilocos Norte to lives. We have understand that Ten the Cordilleras; from Metro Manila to Southeast Asian countries- the Philbattle of Legaspi Monument in Albay ippines, Singapore, Myanmar, CamboProvince; from Plaza Independen- dia, laos, Thailand, and Vietnam- want cia-Fort San Pedro, Cebu City; to Bal- to improve the lives of their citizens. angiga in Eastern Samar.

The best way to achieve these goals Sadly, not many of the Filipinos quickly is through integration. as studies have shown, may have Studies have shown that integraheard about ASEAN but are not aware tion among countries would result what’s in it for us. Actually, our mem- in lower cost of living. Taxes would bership with ASEAN (Association of be more uniformed and low, thus reSoutheast Asian Nations) would open ducing production costs of goods and the gate for more opportunities to all services.

Filipinos. Being an ASEAN member Ronald Mendoza, the dean of Atewould not only allow the different neo School of Government, shares peoples of the ASEAN region to in- this position and that he further teract through a relaxed travel regu- stressed “if we open up our boarders lations within the member countries, to trade, this is a possibility for us to but most importantly the exchange of lower some of the costs thatw e are knowledge, education and job oppor- faced with, and in a way, what we’re

M

doing here is increasing the purchasing power of the population.

This flow of goods and services means your salary will get you much farther as product becomes cheaper.

You will be able to afford more food or goods.

ASEAN will also allow you to access products or food or goods not previously available in the country. “we can bring in products that don’t even grow in the country, which again will elevate the standard of living in the Philippines” he said. “food our population wasn’t able to eat before, or was only able to consume at a very high price, now we are able to bring in and it is something that is underestimated, in as far as lifting the standard of living of our countrymen”.

Additionally, ASEAN is working on allowing service providers across the region- like air transport and healthcare- to establish companies across borders. For citizens, this means, easier access to travel or medical care which would increase the standard of living.

Another goal of ASEAN is to increase foreign investments by removing restrictions and adopting international best practices. This means enhanced job opportunities for ASEAN citizens as well, and a better quality of life. “We will have more options, we have more choices”.

For those who dream of finding better job opportunities, the free flow of skilled labor, which would allow nationals from ASEAN countries to work abroad. The aim of ASEAN is to facilitate the visas and employment passes for professionals and skilled labor.

The opportunities to live overseas are not just limited for workers. Even students may have chance to study

abroad. ASEAN universities are enhancing their cooperation which will allow increased mobility for students in the region.

I am emphasizing here the exposure of our young generation to cultures, traditions and even study the member countries of ASEAN…exposing our youth to many nationalities, many other religions would ease tensions among countries as they tend to be open-minded and stronger if they have wider knowledge and experiences. Maybe, our next generation is more stable and would live in peace and harmony.

Finally, the free flow of goods, services and investment, added with the skilled labor we have in the country, this could only mean two things- a better Philippines and a more stable and peacefull asean region.

We have to accept the reality that we can no longer lean on our fears that we are not ready for the integration. The world is becoming a one large village. We cannot forever wait to prepare what we call safety nets and afraid that we would lose so much if we open our borders to integration.

Of course there are drawbacks about that. Apan unsay kahadlokan nato nga maalkanse ta, nga alkanes na man ta daan. I am not saying that we have to bite the bullet, but the opportunities in this endeavor is fa more profound and far-reaching that the risks.

Building ASEAN in truth cannot be established by our leaders. It is the people in these nations who would make the final decision. It is the people of these nations who believe that we can all develop as one, we can live in peace and harmony could make the concept of integration become a reality.

EDGEDAVAO

12 AGRITRENDS

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

Pine tree pollen can turn female tilapias into males

TEXT AND PHOTOS By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

A

lthough it is not an endemic fish in the country, the Philippines is now one the world’s largest producers of tilapia, according to a fishery expert who used to be the executive director of the Philippine Council for Marine and Aquatic Research and Development.

“The Philippines is now the fourth largest producer of tilapia in the world,” said Dr. Rafael D. Guerrero III, an Academician of the National Academy of Science and Technology, adding that the country is just behind China, Egypt and Indonesia.

“Tilapias are early-maturing and prolific breeders,” he said. “The fishes become sexually mature at two to three months and females are capable of spawning a hundred to a few hundred eggs, depending on size.”

Sexes are differentiated externally by examining the structure behind the anus. The male has only one opening in the structure while the female has two openings. Male tilapias grow faster than females.

Tilapia’s high production rate oftentimes results in overcrowded ponds and stunted fish. In the past, hand sexing -separating males from females -- was the solution being used.

But doing so takes times. That’s why Dr. Guerrero developed the sex reversal technology.

According to him, artificial sex reversal is considered the most effective, efficient and economical method for solving the major drawback of growing ti-

lapias to market-size caused by unwanted reproduction.

“With mix-sex (male and female) stocks, the fish matures early and breeds frequently resulting in stunted growth due to overpopulation in ponds,” he explained. “By growing allmale tilapia produced through hand-sexing (manual separation of sexes), hybridization (crossbreeding of two appropriate species) or sex reversal, the yield of large-sized tilapias is significantly increased by 30% to 50% because of the faster-growing males compared to females and the control of reproduction.”

In his study, he used a tilapia sex reversal feed – called SR Premix – which he himself formulated. For his discovery, he received several citations from different award giving bodies.

In 2004, he was conferred the Mgr. Jan D.F. Heine Memorial Award by the International Tilapia Foundati on.

The synthetic sex hormone used in sex reversal technology is called methyltestosterone, a man-made form of testosterone. A naturally occurring sex hormone, testosterone is produced in a man’s testicles.

Small amounts of testosterone are also produced in a woman’s ovaries and adrenal system.

“Methyltestosterone is used in men and boys to treat conditions caused by a lack of this hormone, such as delayed puberty or other hormonal imbalances,” the www.drug.com informed. “Methyltestosterone is also used in women to treat

breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.”

But instead of using a commercial sex hormone, pollen from pine trees may do the same trick, according to a study of the Central Luzon State University (CLSU).

“The use of pine pollen in its unprocessed condition enables the change of sex of young fishes used for breeding, turning in 84.59-90.46% males,” said Dr. Ravelina R. Velasca, of CLSU’s Freshwater Aquaculture Center, who headed the study.

Unprocessed condition means the pollen still has a protective cover.

“The use of pine pollen technology in tilapia sex change eliminates health hazards associated with all-male tilapia production,” she added. “It is an environment-friendly approach and could be an alternative to the use of high-priced standard hormone in sex change.”

Should the synthetic sex hormone be banned, the pine pollen – particularly from Benguet pine (Pinuskesiya) could be used in reversing the hormone of tilapia.

But the good thing about pine pollen technology is that it does not cause deposit of harmful chemicals onto the soil of the pond, which is common in using the standard hormone.

“Using the natural product contributes to improving management and standard practices of tilapia culture,” Dr. Velasca wrote in a report published by Bridge, a compilation of success stories collected by the Depart-

ment of Science and Technology (DOST).

Pine pollen are the male part of the pine tree. A raw pine pollen, it has been discovered, contains the richest seedbed of male hormone, the testosterone derived from plants. “The male and the female reproductive organs are found in the same tree,” Dr. Velasca said.

Pine pollen is easily absorbed by tilapia when taken in powder or in liquid form dissolved in alcohol.

In the CLSU study, the young tilapia fingerlings with no identified sex is fed with different concentrations of pine pollen dissolved in alcohol for 28 days.

“For example, 40 milligrams of pine pollen are added and soaked with 62.5 millimeters of alcohol. After seven days of soaking, the filtered liquid is added to 125 grams of commercial feed, fry mash,” Dr. Velasca said.

The feed with the pine pollen solution is air dried and fed to the young fish for 28 days. The feed with pine pollen solution is give 6-8 times per day. After the 28th day, the fish fed with pine pollen solution is transferred to a bigger area and allowed to grow bigger.

“We check the number of males by visually looking at the hole in the belly,” Dr. Velasca said.

“In cases it is hard to identify the sex by just looking at the belly, we cut the belly and check the reproductive organ under the microscope.”

But are these tilapia given pine pollen solution safe to eat?

Dr. Guerrero said the oral

treatment with methyltestosterone in tilapia is only for 3-4 weeks during the sexless stage of the fry or what he calls as “the stage of sexual differentiation.”

“After withdrawal of the treatment,” he assured, “there are no residuals left in the system of the fish after 92 hours.

Since the fry are grown for at least 3-4 months for market and human consumption, it is very safe. There can, therefore, be no side effects if there is no synthetic hormone left in the systems of

the fish.”

The use of methyltestosterone for tilapia sex reversal is generally accepted throughout the world except in Europe which has a strict organic (no synthetics) policy. “So far, since its application more than 30 years ago, there is no negative or harmful effect on humans reported,” Dr. Guerrero said.

If synthetic sex hormone is safe to eat after 3-4 months, how much more for the natural pine tree pollen?

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

LGUs to ensure smoking ban compliance-DILG

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ocal government units should ensure the support and compliance of company and school heads to the nationwide smoking ban or they would be held liable and face corresponding sanctions.

In a directive, the Department of the Interior and Local Government said local chief executives should inform “personsin-charge” of their role in the implementation of Executive Order No. 26.

EO 26, which took effect last month, mandates the establishment of smoke-free environments in public and enclosed places.

A “person-in-charge”, as defined under EO 26, may be a “company, corporation, partnership or association’s president/manager; owner/ proprietor/operator of a single proprietorship; or the administrator of a government or private property, facility, office or building; and the city/municipal schools superintendent, school president,

dean or principal in case of a school.”

The EO has outlined the duties of the “personin-charge” which include the following: Prominently post and display the “No Smoking” signage in locations most visible to the public in the areas where smoking is prohibited as well as in the most conspicuous location within a public conveyance; Prominently display the “Designated Smoking Area” (DSA) or “Smoking Area” signage with a graphic-based health warning on the effects of tobacco usage in areas where smoking is allowed; Report to the nearest Smoke-Free Task Force of the concerned city or municipality any tobacco product selling, advertising and/or promotion within 100 meters from the perimeter of schools, public playgrounds, youth hostels and recreational facilities for minors; Post the “Sale/Distribution of Tobacco Products to Minors is Unlawful”

along with a graphic-based health warning at point-ofsale establishments; Remove from the places where smoking is prohibited all ashtrays and other receptacles for disposing of cigarette refuse; and Establish internal procedure and measures within the area he/she is in-charge including compliance with the smoking, sales, distribution, advertising and promotions restrictions, and ensure that all employees in the establishment are aware of said measures.

Under EO 26, establishments that “knowingly allows, abets, authorizes or tolerates prohibited acts under the order or fails to fulfill his duties and obligations may be subjected to corresponding sanctions.”

The EO provides that smoking may be allowed only in a DSA or an area of a building which can be an open space, or separate area with proper ventilation, subject to specific standards.(PNA)

NEWS 13

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is in need of

LAYOUT ARTIST 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

EDGEDAVAO

14 BUSINESS FEATURE

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

Cafe 52 - Your new café hideout

BY JENNIFER DUMDUM here’s something very special when you enjoy a good cup of coffee, especially when you enjoy it in a public space. A coffee shop can be so many wonderful things: a quick pit stop in the morning, a respite from the office at 3:00PM on a weekday, a recovery place for when you want to spend a low key weekend afternoon, a place to collect yourself whether with a book, a laptop, or simply just to zone out. These days, new cafes and specialty coffee joints are sprouting up around Davao City.

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Increasingly dotted with different kinds coffee shops around the city, don’t we just love that there are more options for our café-hopping adventures.

A café conveniently hidden within the bustling city - Café 52, aims to deliver a good café experience, affordable comfort food and a convenient setting to Davaneos.

Known for it’s Korean inspired theme, Café 52 customized their menu selection to fit the Filipino taste. They offer a good choice of pizza, pasta, classic Filipino dishes and an awesome variety of Kore-

an dessert – Pat bing su (Korean halo-halo), that will not burn a hole in your pocket. Of-course the essence of a good coffee shop lies in the taste of their coffee, there is nothing more comforting than enjoying freshly brewed coffee, that strong kick, the aroma of fresh Arabica beans and for those tea lovers an interesting variety of specialty teas are also available.

The best coffee shops are feelgood places, with fun details that features all sorts of interesting interior designs meant to make your experience special and unique.

Most mainstream coffee shops are too crowded and loud. Offering a calmer setting, Café 52’s design is all about comfort and good vibes.

It’s spacious interiors has a good mix of comfortable furniture from cool comfy chairs for those who want to do their brainstorming or meetings, and cozy couches for those who just wants to lounge around. Definitely, a kind of café that will boost your creativity and make you want to spend long afternoon hours.

It is the combination of various factors: good coffee, nice

music, clean comfortable setting, good food, and friendly staff that makes up a great café environment and of course, who can resist a good wifi connection and wide parking space. All the ingredients for a special café experience have come together at Café 52. Discover the uniqueness of Café 52, it’s homey feel will make a perfect spot for your next café haven.

Cafe 52 is open from Mondays to Sundays 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM, located at Plaza de bole, Torres Street Davao City.

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

28th Durian Tee underway

DURIAN TEE. University of Mindanao Broadcasting Network (UMBN) vice president Jeffry Tan, Petron Philippines executive Glenn Edward Dael and Apo Golf and Country Club (AGCC) president Atty. Manny Nitorreda led the hitting of ceremonial balls opening the 2017 Durian Tee. Boy Lim

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

D

avao City’s longest-running club tournament is on.

Action in the 28th edition of the annual Durian Tee Invitational Golf Tournament got off the fairways of the Apo Golf and Country Club on Wednesday and will end on Saturday.

AGCC president Atty. Manny Nitorreda led the ceremonial drives at

Apo’s hole. No 1 along with University of Mindannao Broadcasting Network (UMBN) vice president Jeffry Tan and Petron Philippines’ Glenn Edward Dael.

The two-division tournament will have Team competition for a tandem composed of one member and one guest and Individual for mem-

bers.

Scoring will be Stableford for Gross scores and Modified Stableford for Net scores. Shotgun start will be applied.

AGCC’s club tournament will be staged this year with partners Petron Philippines, University of Mindanao Broadcasting Network (UMBN) and

Ford.

The par 72 course, popular for its challenging long and winding layout, is expected to be spruced up and in tip top form come tournament time.

Registration Fee is pegged at P5,000 inclusive of mulligan, free practice round and P5,000 worth of Mizuno gift certificate.

SENDOFF. Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez led the sendoff rites of the Philippine delegation on Wednesday to the 29th Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The sendoff was also attended by POC president Peping Cojuangco and head of delegation Cynthia Carreon.

PH netters target 2 golds

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he Philippine tennis delegation hopes to win at least two gold medals in the 29th Southeast Asian Games which will be held from August 19 to 31 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Two years ago in Singapore, Filipino-Americans Treat Huey and Denise Dy ruled the mixed doubles event -- the country’s only gold in tennis.

This year, Huey begged off to don the national colors in Malaysia. Dy will try to defend the title with US-based Filipino Ruben Gonzales.

“We’re looking at two golds in the SEA Games,” said Cris Cuarto, head coach of

the men’s team, in an interview on Wednesday.

Cuarto, who has been a member of the coaching staff since the 2009 Laos SEA Games, said the gold medals may come from the women’s singles, women’s doubles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles events.

“It is unfortunate that Treat cannot play. But we have Ruben, who is also a very talented player,” said Cuarto, a former member of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) tennis champion San Beda College.

Joining Gonzales in the men’s team are Francis Casey Alcantara, Jeson Patrombon

and Alberto Lim Jr. Dy will rejoin Filipino-German Katharina Lehnert and homegrown talents Khim Iglupas and Anna Clarice Patrimonio in the women’s team. Head coach is former player Czarina Mae Arevalo.

Aside from the gold in mixed doubles, the Philippines also won three silvers and four bronzes in 2015.

The silver medals came from the men’s doubles (Gonzales and Patrombon), women’s doubles (Dy and Lehnert) and the women’s team of Dy, Iglupas, Lehnert and Patrimonio.

The bronze winners were

Gonzales, Patrombon, Alcantara and Huey (men’s team); Alcantara and Huey (men’s doubles; Lehnart (women’s singles) and Patrombon (men’s singles).

Alcantara has improved his world’s doubles rankings to No. 369 after winning four doubles titles this year. He played 10 weeks in a row to prepare for the the SEA Games.

“We expect a strong challenge from Thailand and Indonesia,” said Alcantara of Cagayan de Oro City.

Dy and Huey won their first mixed doubles gold during the 2011 Myanmar SEA Games. (PNA)

A brand new Ford Ecosport Titanium, Ford’s top of the line model, is up for grabs for the lucky shotmaker of a hole-in-one on a designated par 3 hole. Other hole-in-one prizes are P500,000 cash, Suzuki Address motorcycle, Samsung LED TV sets, Mizuno iron sets, and Koppel Air conditioner.

Lebron blasts Trump S

ANDUSKY, Ohio (AP) -LeBron James went after President Donald Trump in an emotional speech on Tuesday night, calling him the ‘’socalled president’’ while calling for unity in light of the Charlottesville tragedy.

Standing on stage before students, parents and families connected to his foundation at the end of a daylong event at Cedar Point Amusement Park, James said he wanted to spend a moment addressing the weekend’s violent protests, where a woman was killed amid ugly clashes between far-right extremists and protesters out to stop them.

While holding his baby daughter, James turned his thoughts to the violence. ‘’I know there’s a lot of tragic things happening in Charlottesville (Virginia),’’ James said. ‘’I just want to speak on it right now. I have this platform and I’m somebody that has a voice of command and the only way for us to get better as a society and for us to get better as people is love. And that’s the only way we’re going to be able to conquer something as one.

It’s not about the guy that’s the so-called president of the United States, or whatever the case.’’

Earlier in the day, the NBA superstar blasted Trump on Twitter after the president appeared to equate the actions of white supremacists and those protesting them.

James has been outspoken

on his political beliefs in the past he endorsed Hillary Clinton in last year’s election, introducing her at a rally in Cleveland just two days before she lost to Trump - and took advantage of his first public appearance since the NBA Finals to call out Trump’s actions. ‘’It’s not about a teacher that you don’t feel like cares about what’s going on with you every day,’’ James continued. ‘’It’s not about people that you just don’t feel like want to give the best energy and effort to you. It’s about us. It’s about us looking in the mirror. Kids all the way up to the adults. All of us looking in the mirror and saying, ‘What can we do better to help change?’ And if we can all do that and give 110 percent, then that’s all you can ask for. ‘’So, shout out to the innocent people in Charlottesville (Virginia) and shout out to everybody across the world that just want to be great and just want to love.

Thank you, and I love you all.’’

James was joined on stage by his three children, singers Usher and Jordin Sparks, who performed during the event, and Cavaliers teammate J.R. Smith.

The three-time champion flew to New York earlier Tuesday to play in pickup games with Warriors star Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks.

This isn’t the first time James has used his status to take on social issues - or take a swipe at Trump.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 98 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

WORLD’S BEST

Davao lady cops are world beach volley champs

WORD CHAMPS. Gold medalists PO1 Lourdilyn Catubag and PO1 Karen Quilario at the podium.

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

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wo Davao lady cops scored a giant upset of top favorite Brazil in the finals to win the gold medal in women’s beach volleyball in the 2017 World Police and Fire Games on Tuesday (Wednesday Manila Time) at Hermosa, Beach in Los Angeles, California.

Philippine National Police (PNP)-A composed of PO1 Karen Quilario and PO1 Lourdilyn Catubag of Police Regional Office 11 defied the tall Brazil Police Force-A 21-10 to rule the event which attracted a tough field of 20 teams from different countries.

Catubag is assigned at Talaingod Police Station while Quilaro is assigned at Panabo Police Station, both under the Davao del Norte Police Provincial Office of the Police Regional Office 11.

PNP-A, coached by SPO3 Marilyn V. Mateo, actually swept the event with seven wins in as many outings. In the last outing in the semis, the Philippines had to battle tooth and nail against another giant squad Russia and narrowly escaped with a 23-21 win.

Another Philippine squad composed of PO1 Jessan Tano and PO1 Cassandra Ledda and coached by SPO3 Rosenda C. Quiao bowed out in the quarterfinals to the Russian Dynamo Police 16-21.

Tano is stationed at Tugbok Police Station and a member of the Davao SWAT of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) while Ledda is from Police Station 11,

NCRPO of the Manila Police District.

The Catubig-Quilario duo began their campaign with a 21-5 rout of Hongkong Police Force-A, followed by a 21-10 win over their compatriots PNP-B, 21-7, took out a tough Brasilia Fermino squad 21-7, blasted HKPF-B 21-10 before completing their eliminations assignment with that nail-biting 23-21 win over Russia.

In the semis, the Lady Patrollers turned back Brazil Police Force-B 21-7 to arrange a finals duel against Brazil’s top squad Brazil Police Force-A. The PNP 11 delegation was headed by overall Regional Director PCSupt Manuel R. Gaerlan with team coordinator PCInsp Maria Angela Mirabel-Salaya.

PNP Team B defeated Brasilia Fermino 21-19 and HKPF-A 21-7 before losing to Russian Dynamo Police 16-21 in the quarters.

Canada took the bronze medal.

The PNP delegation is backed up by San Miguel Corporation (SMC). The Lady Patrollers thanked supporters SMC chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang, Nap Magno of San Miguel Foundation Inc., PNP chief PDG Ronald Dela Rosa, PDDG Ramon Aplinario, PDDG Fernando Mendez Jr., PDir Ramon Puruganan, PCSupt Noel Baraceros, PCSupt Manuel Gaerlan, PSSupt Michael John Dubria, PSSupt Rommel Estomo and PSupt Mayette Garrido.

PNP LADY PATROLLERS. (From left to right) SPO3 Rosenda C. Quiao, PO1 Cassandra E. Ledda, PO1 Lourdilyn D. Catubag, PO1 Karen Kay L. Quilario, PO1 Jessan E. Tano, SPO3 Marilyn V. Mateo.

PODIUM FINISH. The Philippines’ PNP-A Lady Patrollers at the podium besting Brazil-A and Canada.