Edge10 issue 209 January 23, 2018

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 •TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2018

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

ROYALTY LEGACY. Senior technical staff Monina Macarongon of the provincial government of Maguindanao (left) and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Tourism secretary Bai Ayesha Mangudadatu- Dilangalen show colorful Inaul, Maguindanao province’s famous handwoven fabric which is

traditionally used as a ‘malong’ and now being used in other byproducts, during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao on Monday where they promoted the upcoming 2nd Inaul Festival set on February 7 to 14 in Buluan, Maguindanao. Lean Daval Jr

EVER VIBRANT

Says PHILPOST exec of mailing industry

By JUDIE VEGA

C

ontrary to popular belief, the mailing industry remains integral in moving goods and continues to hold its own as a trillion peso industry.

“We are still earning, of course, even if we have emails now, the mailing industry is still relevant,”Philippine Postal Corporation market specialist Rey Basilan told Monday’s Kapehan Sa Dabaw at the SM City-Annex.

Basilan, said that 80% of the trillion peso collection comes from the traditional mail operations, belying belief

that it has long been dead because of digital communication (text messaging services, email, and social media).

He recalled that before the advent of e-mail, individual-to-individual mailing transactions comprised the bulk of their business.

“But now, company-to-individual delivery of commercial documents and

international express mails transactions increased and it is now comprising most of our business,” Basilan said pointing out that there is no other way to move and to deliver products/ documents but by mail.

Basilan said that Philpost, is a government-owned and controlled corporation responsible for providing postal services in the Philippines.

He added that Express mail is a service for domestic and international mail and is in most countries governed

by a country’s own postal administration.

“Express Mail is sending hardcopies of important and legal documents and merchandise that would be the biggest advantage we have to the growth of the post’s operations of e-commerce,” He said.

Data revealed by Philipost that 40% mails are posted from express mails and 60% of it is distributed to ordinary mails registered in 2017.

Basilan said that the In-

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Go on a romantic getaway

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

SOUNDING OFF. President Rodrigo Duterte engages in a discussion with some members of his cabinet after two rebel returnees from the New People’s Army were presented to the President at the Matina Enclaves in Davao City over the weekend. Also in the photo are Interior and Local Government Undersecretary

Eduardo Año, Education Secretary Leonor Briones, Agrarian Reform Acting Secretary John Castriciones and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Tight security vowed T for DAVRAA meet

PN seeks proven weapon system to equip warships

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

T

he Davao City Police Office will implement tight security measures next during the duration of the Davao Regional Athletic Association (DavRAA) meet which the city is hosting.

DCPO director Sr.Supt. Alexander Tagum said the measures will ensure security not only for the athletes but also to their parents and spectators.

“We will provide max-

imum deployment for this DavRAA,” he said.

Tagum said there will be police of�icers that will be detailed in every school that will serve as billeting quarters of the athletes as well as the

Hamas-linked Iraqi arrested

P

hilippine National Police Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa on Monday announced the arrest of an overstaying Iraqi national with alleged links to terror group Hamas.

Taha Mohamed Al-Jabouri, 64, was nabbed during operations in Pampanga. He arrived in Manila from Istanbul, Turkey on Aug. 27, 2017.

The suspect’s presence in the country was reported to Philippine authorities by the Iraqi Embassy in Manila.

“The Iraqi Embassy described Al-Jabouri as a

chemist with knowledge on explosives and is known to have close ties with militant extremist movements like Hamas in the Middle East,” he added.

“On Saturday night, January 20, an information was received thru our Barangay Information Network (BIN) of the presence of a suspicious-looking person with Middle Eastern features, �itting the description and photographs provided by the Iraqi Embassy, in Baran-

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playing venues.

He said some participants are expected to be accompanied by their families.

He said there will be random checkpoints in some areas to make sure that there will be no intruders who will make trouble during the hosting of DaVRAA. Tagum said there will be covert and overt operations to be conducted in the places of convergence especially to

the sports venues to prevent people who have criminal intent.

Although, the DCPO director could not disclose the number of security forces to be deployed due to con�identiality, but he assured the public that there will be enough operatives that will surely discouarge people to do criminal acts in the city.

He said aside from the

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o ensure that warships can �ight any threats if needed, the Navy must acquire warships with proven and tested weapon systems.

This was emphasized by former Philippine Navy (PN) �lag-of�icer-in-command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado in a chance interview in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Monday.

“Obviously (you should) go to systems that are proven, If you want our country to be defended well, sa mga tao at least they have that assurance na yung barko natin kayang lumaban,” he added.

Mercado was earlier relieved from his post as PN chief last December 19 by

Defense Secretary Del�in Lorenzana citing lost of trust and con�idence on the integrity and leadership of the naval of�icer.

This was brought about the alleged �ixation of the former on one company to supply the combat management system of the Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP), a contract won by South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries.

At the moment, Mercado is now assigned to the Of�ice of the-Chief-of-Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines on Special Duties.

He also clari�ied that when going about the FAP’s

tional has ranked the Philippines as the third happiest country in the world and �ifth highest country in terms of economic optimism index.

Meanwhile, Social Weather Stations (SWS)’s separate survey found 96% of Filipinos have entered 2018 with hope while fewer Filipinos considered themselves poor.

“People’s high levels of hope and optimism have been complemented by high satisfaction, approval, trust ratings,” Roque said.

President Duterte is the most approved (at 80%) and the

most trusted (at 82%) among the top national of�icials of this country, according to the last quarter 2017 Pulse Asia survey.

According to the last quarter 2017 SWS survey, more than eight out of ten Filipinos trust the President while the net satisfaction rating of his cabinet remains the highest since 1990 at +32.

A SWS survey also shows that satisfaction with the Duterte administration is excellent (at +70) – the highest recorded for any administration in the last 28 years. (PNA)

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Palace finds VP’s remark‘out of touch’

M

alacanang has found Vice President Leni Robredo’s claim that darkness is enveloping the country as “completely out of touch.”

“With all due respect to the Vice President, we �ind Ms. Robredo’s remarks during the anniversary of the Liberal Party completely out of touch with the existing realities on the ground,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a press statement on Sunday.

Robredo said in her speech during the 72nd anniversary of the Liberal Party last Friday that

“darkness envelops” the Philippines, urging her partymates not to lose hope.

Contrary to the Vice President’s claim, Roque said the Filipino people are beginning to feel genuine and meaningful change under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.

“The darkness that Vice President Robredo may be referring to perhaps pertains to the future of those discredited politicians who wish to return to power,” Roque said.

Roque said Gallup Interna-

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

NEWS 3

City Hall to demolish all illegal structures

By JUDIE VEGA

T

he demolition of illegal structures in danger zones will continue as this is for the good and safety of residents, Mayor Inday Sara said.

A statement attributed to Sara Duterte by the City Information Of�ice revealed that the city has targeted for demolition certain areas Barangay 40-D Bolton Extension.

Earlier, the city government gave the barangays residents time to voluntarily demolish their houses and other structures.

“We gave them until the �irst week of January for voluntary demolition. After this, the City Engineer’s Of�ice will decide on the (actual) date of the demolition,” she said.

Mayor Inday said those

who will not voluntarily demolish their structures will not expect any assistance from the city government.

“Only those who voluntarily demolished their structures will receive �inancial assistance from the city government,” she said.

Each of those who tore down their structures on their own will receive P20, 000 in �inancial assistance, which they can use to resettle in their areas of choice.

Mayor Inday said those who will not qualify under the city’s housing program could also avail themselves of the mortgage program that City Hall had been offering.

Under the mortgage program, prospective bene�icia-

HANGING TOUGH. Philippine Postal Corporation (Philpost) market specialist Rey Basilan says the agency is still earning despite the presence of emails and other digital communication. Basilan also said

during this week’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the annex of SM City Davao that the mailing industry remains integral in moving goods and continues to hold its own as a trillion peso industry. Lean Daval Jr.

Rappler CEO Ressa Free college education appears before NBI to save students’ lives

M

ANILA -- Rappler chief executive of�icer (CEO) and executive editor Maria Ressa on Monday appeared before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in compliance with the subpoena it has issued against her and two others in connection with the complaint �iled by businessman Wilferdo Keng regarding an article published by the news website in 2012.

Accompanied by her lawyers led by UP Law professor Jose Jesus Disini Jr., Ressa told reporters that she has no copy of the complaint but they will cooperate with any proceedings.

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“We have nothing to hide.

As you all can see I’m right here. We don’t have a copy of the complaint, so I don’t know what kind of questions they will ask of me but we are not afraid,” Ressa told reporters before she proceeded to the of�ice of the NBI Cyber Crime Division.

Aside from Ressa, also summoned were former Rappler reporter Reynaldo Santos Jr. and businessman Benjamin Bitanga to shed light on the complaint �iled by Keng for violation of Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act in connection with the article “CJ using SUVs

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Enables poor youths to acquire education--Karlo

H

ouse Appropriations Committee Chairman Davao City Rep. Karlo Nograles believes the free college education law that will be implemented beginning this year will prevent the alltoo familiar tragedies that confront local students, particularly the less-fortunate ones.

“The heartbreaking case of Rodolfo Urmanita was exactly the kind of occurrence that we wanted to avoid with the institutionalization of government’s

free college tuition program.

That said, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Rodolfo’s relatives and loved ones in their time of loss,” Nograles

said.

It was earlier reported that Urmanita, an education student of Cagayan State University took his own life last January 16 because of depression.

The cause of his depression was supposedly his inability to pay all necessary school fees for the �irst semester of the current school year, which prevented him from enrolling in the second semester.

Already in his third year, Urmanita was said to be reviewing for the Licensure Exam

that just typical? You wait and wait and wait for something, and then when it happens, you feel sad.” Photo by Henrylito D. Tacio

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LTFRB: Regulate TNVS units to limit ridesharing industry

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WAITING GAME. Life is a waiting game. Just like this little boy waiting for the driver.Or as Sharon Creech wrote: “Then I thought, boy, isn’t

for Teachers (LET) before deciding to end it all.

“Even more tragic, and frustrating to me as a legislator, was the fact that Rodolfo was the second student from the University to commit suicide in the last three years. According to the National Union of Students of the Philippines (NUSP), CSU student Rosanna Sanfuego took her life in February 2015 also because of unpaid school fees,” Nograles said.

he Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board said its decision to set a common supply base for transportation network vehicle services (TNVS) units is aimed at creating a distinct denomination for the transport service that will facilitate regulation of the ridesharing industry.

The initiative was derived out of the current practice of TNVS drivers who are accredited by more than one transportation network company (TNC).

“The policy on a common supply base for TNVS was envisioned to create a distinct denomination for this type of public transport service and not de�ined by the individual business models of the TNCs, thus giving the Board a more focused regulatory function on such service,” LTFRB

Chairman Martin Delgra III said in a statement over the weekend.

“As it is now, the current TNCs and several other TNCs who have expressed interest to the Board to provide this type of service are now free to get the supply from the common supply base for their respective network unbridled by any preference over any TNC,” he added.

The LTFRB, in a memorandum issued late last week, imposed a common base of 45,700 TNVS units nationwide which were broken down as follows: Metro Manila - 45,000 TNVS units Metro Cebu - 500 TNVS units Pampanga - 200 TNVS units The cap on TNVS units

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

PH, Netherlands sign Manila bay devt MOU

T

he Philippines and the Netherlands signed on Monday a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that cements the cooperation of the two countries on the sustainable development and management of the Manila Bay area.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia and Netherlands Ambassador to the Philippines Marion Derckx signed the MOU in a ceremony held at the National Economic and Development Authority in Ortigas, Pasig City.

Under the MOU, the two governments will work together towards the formulation of the Manila Bay Sustainable Development Master Plan (MBSDMP), which aims to provide a comprehensive framework for the sustainable development and management of the entire Manila Bay area.

The Master Plan is envisioned to guide future decisions on programs and projects to be undertaken within the Bay area.

“We are fortunate to

have the Dutch with us in this endeavor. Their extensive knowledge and experience in implementing programs and projects that protect vulnerable coastal zones are unparalleled,” Pernia said in his keynote speech.

Living at or below sea level, the Dutch are known for their integrated and innovative solutions in coastal management that mimic natural systems instead of working against them.

The preliminary activities for the master planning exercise began in 2015 when the Philippine government requested the Netherlands government to dispatch a group of Dutch Disaster Risk Reduction experts to Manila to conduct a scoping mission aimed at identifying and assessing the current situation in the Manila Bay area and afterwards recommend measures for its sustainable development.

After the mission, the Dutch experts con�irmed the urgent need for a framework

UPCOMING EVENT. Davao Chistian High School ParentspTeachers Fellowship president Mila Aceron (right) and vice president Marie Lo promote the upcoming Christian High Musical featuring Annie and

The Sound of Music slated on February 17 at the Davao Christian High School Auditorium in V. Mapa Campus during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

6-M plus earners Reforms sought to end to enjoy zero tax fiscal ‘policy overload’

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he Department of Finance has underscored the need to institute reforms that would correct the “policy overload” in the country’s �iscal incentives system as a result of the proliferation of laws offering tax and duty exemption privileges to businesses in economic zones and in sectors listed in the government’s investment priorities list, which has led investors to double dip and avail themselves of perks in more than one law.

With 14 investment

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promotion agencies (IPAs) granting business incentives that do not complement each other, the system has turned into a complex set of rules in which investors resort to “forum-shopping” by comparing various laws governing these IPAs and choosing the best package for them, according to Finance Undersecretary Karl Kendrick Chua.

Chua said incentives complicate tax administration and encourage businesses to employ transfer pricing

S

As provided for in tax reform law

tarting this month’s pay day, over six million or 86 percent of compensation earners with taxable income of P685 per day or P20,833 per month and below will be exempted from paying the personal income tax (PIT) as provided under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN) that was recently signed into law by President Duterte.

The TRAIN, the �irst pack-

istration’s

Comprehensive

REFORMS,P11 age under the Duterte admin- Tax Reform Program (CTRP),

exempts compensation earners and self-employed individuals with annual taxable income of P250,000 and below from paying the PIT. The 13th month pay and other bonuses not exceeding a total of P90,000 are also non-taxable under the TRAIN. Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said these TRAIN provisions will bene�it clerks, call center agents earn-

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PH exports to EU soar 31%--NEDA

M NEW TACK. Krispy Kreme Philippines marketing officer Princess Payag introduces chocolate glazed donuts as the popular chain rolls out chocolate-flavored doughnuts for the month of February. Lean Daval Jr.

ing P21,000 and below, and public school teachers with the rank of Teacher I with a basic salary of P20,179 and up to Teacher III with basic pay of P22,149 starting this year.

For those employed in the government sector, a Laboratory Technician II with a monthly pay of P16,282, a Midwife I getting P17,473

ANILA - The Department of Trade and Industry welcomed another milestone for Philippines and European Union (EU) trade relations as export products hit a 31% growth wherein EUR 2 billion-worth of PH products were exported through EU’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+).

“We are pleased to hear of the signi�icant increase of our exports entering the EU market through the GSP+. This trade preference has bene�itted several communities in the Philippines and opened opportunities for our Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME). In the same manner, it has allowed our MSMEs

to be more competitive in the local and foreign market,” said Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez.

The 31% of total PH merchandise exports to the EU amounted to USD 8.4 billion in 2017. This made the EU the third largest export partner of PH. In the EU Trade Preferences Monitoring Report released on 19 January 2018, the robust trade relations between the two parties was highlighted with EUR 2 billion-worth of PH exports in 2017 bene�itting from the GSP+ compared to the EUR 1.66 billion in 2016.

A major increase was in food and agriculture exports

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

ECONOMY 5

MATINA ENCLAVES. Construction continues to go full throttle with Building C of the Matina Enclaves high-rise condominium units. The property developed by Escandor Developmment Corporation is located along Quimmpo Boulevard in Ecoland, Davao City.

BDO pays ATM skimming victims

A

ranking Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas of�icial dubbed as positive the decision of Sy-led Banco De Oro Unibank Inc. to pay its account holders who have reported to have been victimized by ATM skimming even as investigations are on-going.

This after BDO President and CEO Nestor Tan told reporters during the annual Bankers’ Night held Friday, January 19, that the universal bank paid its clients victimized by skimming.

Skimming is an illegal way of obtaining information of an account holder using a machine that resembles an ATM card slot. Once a client inserted the card in the “fake ATM card slot”, embedded personal details were captured.

The hackers then use a

fake ATM card to withdraw funds from the victim’s account.

BDO earlier called on its account holders to report to the bank any unauthorized transaction.

It also assured its clients that measures are being undertaken to ensure the safety of its account holders’ funds.

BSP Deputy Governor Chuchi Fonacier said BDO’s decision was part of the liability shift rules implemented by the central bank since January 1, 2017.

This rule was put in place as a safeguard to any fraudulent activity as banks transition to the use of Europay, Mastercard and Visa (EMV) technology, in compliance with BSP requirements.

However, banks have yet

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Philpost regaining public’s trust - exec

By ANGIE SAVERON

T

he Philippine Postal Corporation has bounced back from a ‘bad image’ and has steadily been regaining the public’s trust in the delivery of services. “ There were a lot of things that happened which gave Philpost a bad image,” said Rey Basilan, acting marketing specialist of Philpost at the sides of the Kapehan sa Davao press conference at SM Annex Davao on January 22, Monday.

He said Philpost’s services were once referred to as snail’s mail.

Now revenues have been increasing. In 2016, it collected P145 million that rose to P 217 million 2017 in Region 11 alone.

This year, Philpost is tar-

geting P240M revenues.

Balutan said Philpost has vastly improved its services on logistics and parcels which yielded increase in revenue..

Philpost has four different product services to offer to the public these are mail services, which includes ordinary services that offers three to �ive days unregistered delivery in the of�ice locally. Registered services, also offers three to �ive days delivery locally. Air Parcel services which offers registered delivery services, the number

BOSS extended in Zamboanga Decline of land crabs noted in surfing turf

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he city government has extended for 11 days the operation of the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) to accommodate more business registrations and renewals of licenses.

Cesar Raz, assistant city administrator for operations, on Saturday said the BOSS, which was supposed to end its operation Saturday, January 20, would remain operational until the end of this month.

The extension of BOSS

operation is backed by a resolution approved on Tuesday by the City Council during its maiden session for this year.

The BOSS is located at the Centro Latino Hall of the Paseo del Mar. It houses all the of�ices and agencies involve in the processing and issuance of business license.

But the BOSS will only be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday unlike its previous schedule of 8 a.m.

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A

mid a fast changing landscape, the continued in�lux of tourists in this country’s sur�ing has taken its toll on the land crab population here.

Bernardo Alciso, 54, a local land crab hunter, said the decline poses a serious threat not just on him whose livelihood depends on it but the island’s delicate ecosystem.

Alciso lives in the world renowned village of Catangnan, where Cloud Nine, the sur�ing capital of the country

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is located.

Also known as “Dayong,” Alciso is one of several known hunters of land crabs, locally known as“kayabang.”

Alciso, 54, has been hunting these edible land crabs in Catangnan as a livelihood since he was nine years old.

“When I was teenager, one tambak trap can get as many as 50 land crabs or more,” Alciso said in Siargaonon, but now it’s hard to get that number as the landscape of the town has tremendously

HANGING TOUGH. Philippine Postal Corporation (Philpost) market specialist Rey Basilan says the agency is still earning despite the presence of emails and other digital communication. Basilan also said during this week’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the annex of SM City Davao that the mailing industry remains integral in moving goods and continues to hold its own as a trillion peso industry. Lean Daval Jr.

changed due to the in�lux of tourists.

“It’s obvious that the town has changed so fast, from the town center to Catangnan there’s a lot of houses and resorts being built unlike before when that’s virtually full of trees and vegetation,” he lamented.

On a Sunday morning, this writer joined Alciso and his son, Velman and his 9-yearold nephew, Gerard, to set up traps in the dense trees, more than a kilometer away from

his house.

With a machete and an empty plastic bucket, Alciso began seizing land crabs in the trap with his bare hands.

“It’s inevitable that you get bitten by its claws but I am used to it,” he said with a smile.

“One of the techniques is getting them with your bare hands as fast as you can because if you slowly catch them, you’ll get hurt,” he said.

He earns at least 350 to

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6 SUBURBIA RISING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

Phivolcs maps out fault lines in Davao Oriental M

ati City DAVAO ORIENTAL – A team of geologists from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) have mapped out fault lines in earthquake hotspots here during a three-day activity dubbed as “Walk the Fault”.

Walking along the fault lines and planting markers above them, the activity aims to save lives by making residents and local of�icials inculcate a culture of safety, telling them to be aware on the location and trace of the fault lines especially those underneath settlements that might drastically be affected by massive earthquakes.

The team, who were joined by personnel from the Provincial Government’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Of�ice with and other partner agencies that include the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Education, and the Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology, among others, explored the areas and learned some

interesting �indings.

During the activity’s exit conference on Friday, January 19, the team headed by Geologist Jeffrey Perez revealed that based on their previous studies there are some portions in the City of Mati and Lupon town which turned out to be sitting on top of the Philippine Faultline. These areas transected by fault lines include some mountainous portions of the villages of Marayag, Calapagan, and Don Mariano Marcos in Lupon town; and some portions in the villages of Taguibo, Sainz, and Central in the City of Mati.

With the fault line markers planted, sitio and barangay of�icials who joined the team noted the faults’ location in order to warn resi-

Portions beneath the picturesque mountains of Barangay Marayag in Lupon town are identified to be sitting on top of fault lines.

Holding each other’s hands, the team on top of a fault line that transects portion of Barangay Calapagan in Lupon town.

WALK THE FAULT- A team of geologists from Phivolcs accompanied by the Provincial DRRM and other agencies map out fault lines in earthquake hotspots in Davao Oriental. dents living above or near the faults to make necessary precautions and make pro-active preparations within their homes and communities.

While there are no fault lines found in densely populated and bustling business centers in the City of Mati, nevertheless, everyone is being cautioned as the areas where there are no fault lines are far from being safe from the hazards of earthquakes. Among these hazards include groundshaking which commonly results in the destruction of buildings, posing a great threat for injury and fatalities. Another common earthquake hazard is liquefaction which causes foundations and supports of infrastructures to sink.

Earthquakes also trigger other hazards such as landslides and tsunamis.

The fault here in Davao Oriental which is approximately 30 kilometers long is connected to the Philip-

pine Fault line – the longest fault in the Philippines that stretches up to 1,200 kilometers from Luzon down to Mindanao, 320 kilometers of which are located in Eastern Mindanao stretching from Surigao area to the City of Mati, he explains.

While larger magnitude earthquakes are observed when longer faults move, he says that the fault line in eastern Mindanao is divided into segments, which means they do not move at the same time.

Citing one scenario, Perez said that “the movement of the 60-kilometer fault from Compostela Valley going to the City of Mati can result in a 7.1 magnitude quake”. However, most earthquakes in the City of Mati occur offshore.

PREPARATION Amid the threat of earthquakes, authorities stressed that disasters can be mitigated with proper preparation and by taking necessary precautions. While earthquakes

and order,” he said.

The Tavor X95 ri�le was designed and produced by the Israel Weapon Industries and curently the standard issued weapon of the Israeli infantry.

Chief Insp. Geovanni Ladeo, chief of the city police’s public safety company, said the new ri�les were a huge upgrade to their unit’s capability, especially in terms of urban operations.

The SWAT unit, along with the explosives ordnance disposal or EOD team, is under the supervision of the city police’s public safety company.

The police of�icial said

the SWAT is the primary unit tasked to respond to critical incidents like hostage-taking and those involving active shooters.

Rivera challenged the unit to properly use the �irearms “to effectively and ef�iciently reduce crimes, disorder and fear among the populace.”

The mayor acknowledged that the public expects so much from the police personnel and that the city is exerting more efforts to help the city police achieve them.

“We need to help each other to protect our city,” he added.(PNA)

cannot be predicted, experts urge people to raise their awareness.

Perez emphasized laying a strong foundation for all kinds of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings. He says buildings can withstand an 8.0 magnitude quake as long as they are built according to the standard, have good structural integrity, and are constructed away from the fault lines.

Fault lines which are considered as danger zones are classi�ied as no-build zone areas. He underscored the signi�icance of the enforcement of strong policies such as establishing buffers of at least 5 meters on each side of the fault before constructing any structure.

Strict observance of building code and responsible issuance of building permits are also strongly recommended.

He further advised the inventory of the buildings and the conduct simulations to

determine the possible damage.

Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang, who requested the activity to be conducted here, emphasizes mitigation and preparedness as key factors to help save lives and prevent the crippling effects of devastation brought by natural disasters.

The Walk the Fault activity which prioritizes looking at fault lines in settlements and critical structures such as schools, barangay halls, churches, and roads, has been considered a significant step in disaster preparedness as it serves as an important tool in urban planning and development.

He underlined the activity as something that does not intend to cause alarm, but rather aim to promote awareness and safety to lessen damages and casualty when disaster strikes. Text and Photo by Karen Lou Deloso

GenSan police’s SWAT unit gets new assault rifles Teachers’recruitment in

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ENERAL SANTOS CITY -- In a bid to boost its operations, the city government has donated 15 brand new Israeli-made assault ri�les to the city police’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit.

Mayor Ronnel Rivera said Monday they acquired the ri�les to assist the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) efforts to improve the logistical capability and operations of local police units.

He said the local government spent around P3 million for the purchase of the Sar�l X95 Tavor 5.56 ri�les, which are considered as among the

top-of-the-line assault �irearms.

It included three magazines or ammunition storage and feeding device for each ri�le unit, he said.

The mayor said they mainly want to show to the public that the city police, especially its SWAT unit, is well-capable in terms of addressing various security challenges.

He said they don’t want residents to see that local police units and personnel are short of equipment when they do their work.

“We want to show that they are always on top of the situation in matters of peace

ARMM under strict vetting

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OTABATO CITY - The newly-designated secretary of the Department of Education in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DepEd-ARMM) said recruitment of teachers follow high standards and only those who are quali�ied would get the appointment.

DepEd-ARMM Secretary Rasol Mitmug Jr, said Sunday his of�ice �illed out all vacant teaching positions of the ARMM provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan in time

for the school opening in June.

“Only licensed applicants willing to work in far-�lung areas shall be considered for employment,” Mitmug said in a statement.

Mitmug, a lawyer, was appointed by ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman last week after his predecessor’s resignation last December. He was Hataman’s chief of staff prior to his DepEd assignment.

Hataman has been addressing underdevelopment in impoverished areas

TEACHERS,P11

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

EDGEDAVAO

S/V KATERINA. The wreckage of S/V Katerina, the 18-meter long Camper & Nicholson abandoned by its Australian passengers at the height of Tropical Storm “Urduja” last December, is now in Sitio Banahaw in Surigao City, photographed last Sunday (21 January 2018). It was found beached in Loreto, Dinagat Island

SUBURBIA RISING7

after its passengers, all accomplished sailors, were rescued by fishermen in the waters off Siargao Island.

S/V Katerina was registered in Sydney and was on its way to its new owner in Subic, Zambales. One of its passengers – 73-year-old Anthony “Johnny” Mahoney – perished. MindaNews photo by ROEL N. CATOTO

3 NPAs, CAFGU die S in NorthCot firefight

NPA member surrenders to Army in Surigao Norte URIGAO CITY – A member of New People’s Army (NPA) operating in the town of Alegria in Surigao del Norte has returned to the fold of the law.

Armed with an AK-47 ri�le, magazine and several ammunition, “Ka Jun,” a resident of Barangay Budlingin of the said town, went to the authorities last Sunday morning.

U

PDATE: MAKILALA, North Cotabato – Three suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and a member of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) were killed while five others were wounded in an intense battle that involved helicopters dropping bombs from midnight till daybreak Monday (22 January 2018) in a village here.

Lt. Col. Rhojun Rosales, newly installed commander of the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion, said a still undetermined num-

ber of NPA guerillas attacked a CAFGU detachment at Sitio Garing, Barangay Luayon in Makilala,

Three NPA rebels and a CAFGU member killed during the Makilala clash are brought to a funeral house inside body bags. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH CABRERA

BULUAN, Maguindanao – Maguindanao is in the thick of preparation for its 2nd Inaul Festival in celebration of the province’s foundation anniversary with members of President Rodrigo Duterte’s family expected to grace the event.

Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu said Presidential daughter and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carprio has con�irmed attendance to lead the inauguration of the newly-completed Negosyo Center building in Buluan, Maguindanao

on Feb. 8.

The week-long fete will highlight inaul, a Maguindanao hand woven fabric now famous not only in the province but in the country as well, according to 2018 Inaul Festival Director Nulfarid Ampatuan.

Ampatuan said the Davao City mayor will also lead a ceremonial turnover to poor street vendors of custom-built food carts.

Mayor Sara’s younger brother, Presidential son Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, will join on Feb. 12 as principal

guest in the coronation night for the winners of “Palamata Nu Maguindanao” beauty pageant.

Fifteen women, representing various towns of Maguindanao, will compete in the beauty and brain contest.

Mangudadatu said he is hoping his invitation for President Duterte to come over on February 13 will have positive response from Malacanang.

Mangudadatu is expecting the President to lead the ceremonial ground breaking of the proposed PhP100-mil-

lion Maguindanao sports center in Buluan.

Mangudadatu will seek for the hosting of the 2020 Palarong Pambansa or the annual Brunei-Indonesia-MalaysiaPhilippines (BIMP) sports events.

“There’s no harm in dreaming,” Mangudadatu told reporters.

Provincial Engineer Abdulrahman Asim said security preparations are underway as everything and everybody is gearing toward the biggest event this year in Maguindanao. (PNA)

NPA,P11

Another drug test for GSC workers

Dutertes to grace Maguindanao’s Inaul Festival 2018 G 3,P11

“He is an active NPA supporter before and because of his enthusiasm, the NPAs issued him an AK-47 ri�le and was tasked to spy on our government forces to conduct sniping, harassment and other tactical offensives in the said barangay,” said 2Lt Jonel Castillo, spokesperson of the 30th Infantry Battalion.

Castillo also said that

ENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The city government is set to conduct another round of surprise drug tests for all city employees.

Mayor Ronnel Rivera said Monday the move is part of the local government’s continuing efforts to cleanse its ranks of illegal drug users or dependents and those involved in drug-related activities.

He said the drug testing was among the priority initiatives set this year under its �lagship “Purok Laban sa Krimen” program.

The anti-drug program, which started two years ago, mainly seeks to cleanse local communities of illegal drug users and pushers through

various joint activities that includes awareness or education, rehabilitation of users and enforcement.

The mayor said the program has shifted its focus to the household level and set family-based targets, among them the certi�ication by family heads that there are no drug users among their members.

“As for the local government, I should be able to certify also that there are no employees and of�icials who are involved in illegal drugs,” Rivera said.

He noted that it is a continuing quali�ication for all city government personnel to

ANOTHER,P11

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

O

Sports, the great unifier

nce more, sports is teaching us that it is the greatest uni�ier. Even if, yes, it likewise causes a great divide sometimes.

More than anything, sports is unifying two nations that are in many ways related. We are talking here of the two Koreas-North and South. In this year’s Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, the two nations will march under one �lag--the �irst time since 2006. North Korea will send 22 athletes to next month’s quadrennial games where they will join South Korean teammates as they march together at the opening ceremony. This uni�ied team was con�irmed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach. This after North Korea con�irmed that they will send competitors in �ive sports including a uni�ied

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

Printed by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Building, Quirino Avenue, 8000, Davao City, Philippines Tel: (082) 224-1413 301-6235 Telefax: (082) 221-3601 www.edgedavao.net editorial@edgedavao.net marketing@edgedavao.net edgedavao@gmail.com

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

women’s hockey team. They will also compete in alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, �igure skating and short track speed skating. Twenty-four North Korean coaches and of�icials will also join the athletes for the winter games, which take’s place between 9 and 25 February.

It was North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un who initiated the uni�ier after he gave the green light that athletes representing the rogue nation could take part in the events. With this, North and South Korea would now form their �irst joint Olympic team.

It will be heartwarming to see one uni�ied Korean team march on during the Olympics next month. Indeed, sport’s knows no barriers.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

JIMMY K. LAKING Associate Editor PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG ANGELIE SAVERON BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO JUDELYN VEGA MEGHANN STA. INES Reporters ARMANDO B. FENENQUITO JR. NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA Lifestyle CHA MONFORTE LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. ARLENE D. PASAJE Correspondents Cartoons Photography Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. Columnists: D. TACIO G.•DELIGERO • JOHN CARLO TRIA • VIDAGOTIANSE-TAN MIA S. VALVERDE•• NICASIO FRED C. LUMBA • ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA BORBONHENRYLITO • MARY ANN “ADI”• GREGORIO C. QUISIDO LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NIKKI ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ

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OLIVIA D. VELASCO D.D. MARATAS RICHARD C. EBONA OLIVIA D. VELASCO JOCELYN S. PANES SOLANI SOLANI MARATAS General Manager Finance Advertising Specialist General Manager Director of Sales Finance

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE MANILA MARKETING OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE Richard C. Ebona | Product Development officer LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager EDMUND D. RENDON Unit 6, SouthbankMarketing Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts.Address: 04 Orilla St. Purok 4B Lower Bicutan, Taguig City Specialist Cellphone number: 09472652969 General Santos City Cagayan de Oro City Email Address: edgedavao@gmail.com Mobile: (Smart) 09101864939 Tel: (088) 852-4894

EDGEDAVAO

I

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2018

VANTAGE POINTS

9

With due respect, CJ Davide

watched the proceedings at the Senate hearing on constitutional amendments.

All the resource persons came armed to the teeth. They were dogmatic even.

All had valid comments. Except for former Chief Justice Hilario Davide who exclaimed that the 1987 “was the best constitution in the world.”

I take exception to this claim by Davide who was one of the framers of the 1987 Charter during the Cory administration.

How can the respected jurist declare this when the 1987 Constitution failed to address the gnawing poverty that is now stalking the country’s 107 million inhabitants?

The 1987 Constitution also failed miserably to promptly address the land reform program that has bewitched and befuddled every Malacanang tenant who inherited the problem since then.

How can CJ Davide be bold to exclaim such when the 1987 Constitution failed to give Cory enough au-

thority to curb the rising poverty in the land? Twenty two percent today of Filipinos today (roughly 24 million) are living under the poverty line, barely have three square meals a day, do not have a roof over their heads and do not have decent and stable sources of livelihood?

Did these basic realities escape the good CJ’s mental frame? Was he overcome by his emotional attachment to the legal document he helped frame that he now hollers to all and sundry that it is “the best in the world”?

Did the ex- Highest Magistrate forget that the late Pres. Cory Aquino herself failed to properly implement the constitution forged and crafted

by Davide and his fellow Con-Com members to prevent the rise of political dynasties?

Does not the good CJ realize now that the three-year term of elected of�icials stipulated by the 1987 Constitution grievously needs amendment?

Has he forgotten that the frequency of elections has resulted in igniting more political hatred and enmity in-

“Children with autism are not insane people, they are just children with a disorder and need special attention.”

That was what Uswaldo Parrenas, the president of the Davao chapter of the Autism Society, said during the Connect press forum in observance of the forthcoming National Autism Consciousness Week.

According to Parrenas, the number of people of autism in the Philippines is increasing. From 500,000 in 2008, the �igure goes up to one million today.

Autistic children are not abnormal nor they are violent. “A person with autism is often bullied,” Parrenas explained. “This is because the people around him don’t understand much about what he’s going through.”

I came to know about autism while watching the Oscar-winning movie, “Rainman.” In one of the scenes, Dustin Hoffman (in a role that earned him his second Oscar trophy) and heartthrob Tom Cruise were sitting side-by-side at a Las Vegas blackjack table. By memorizing the order of six decks of cards, Raymond (Hoffman’s character) wins big money for his brother, Charlie (Cruise’s role).

Raymond is a genius trapped inside his autism. Far from “normal,” he lives in a mental hospital, religiously following his routine of television shows and meal schedules, with seemingly little to offer his brother or the world. By the movie’s end, however, Charlie learns to “connect” with Raymond, and the relationship between the brothers is sealed.

Some years later, the Philippine cinema followed suit with “Ipagpatawad Mo.” The marriage of the lead actors – portrayed by the durable team of Christopher de Leon and Vilma Santos – almost crumbled due to their son’s autism.

“Several important mental health disorders, such as depression, often develop in childhood,” notes The Merck Manual of Medical Information. “Some disorders, such as autism, develop only in childhood.”

Autism comes from the Greek word for auto which means “self.” It was �irst described in 1943 by psychiatrist Leo Kanner. He wrote of several children who displayed similar symptoms: Totally self-absorbed and alienated as if they were “having a world of their own.”

The Merck manual de�ines autism as “a disorder in which a young child cannot develop normal social relationships, uses languages abnormally or not at all, behaves in compulsive and ritualistic ways, and may fail to develop normal intelligence.”

“A spectrum disorder” is how the US National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) calls it. “Some people with autism are relatively high-functioning, with speech and intelligent intact. Others are mentally retarded, mute, or have serious language delays. For some, autism makes them seed closed off and shut down; others seem locked into repetitive behaviors and rigid patterns of thinking,” it explains.

“Children with autism generally look normal,” says Elizabeth Barratt, a British special educational needs teacher in Singapore. “Often, however, they have severe behavior prob-

SPECKS OF LIFE Fred C. Lumba stead of giving them adequate time to focus on their respective platforms and programs?

Does not the good CJ realize that the restrictive economic provisions of the 1987 fundamental law have prevented and discouraged the in�low of foreign investments into the country thus resulting in the increasing number of unemployed Filipinos?

Does the good CJ not realize that the country has so much potentials for growth and development but that the ultra-conservative outlook prevents us from joining the ranks of industrialized nations?

Does the good CJ not realize that the peaceful and prosperous tiny citystate of Singapore overcame divisive ethno-cultural in-�ighting because they have a unicameral parliament that passed and enacted appropriate legislation without too much debate and needless argumentation?

Does not the good CJ realize that the present unitary presidential system of government has, for many decades, been the major reason that has stymied national progress; that the highly centralized system of governance has left the regions and the provinces poor and behind the times; and that even the legislation of the Local Government Code has not helped in devolving national functions imbedded in the law itself?

Does the good CJ realize that among the Southeast Asian nations, our beloved Philippines has been

overtaken in economic progress by a country that was formerly wracked by a violent civil war for many years?

With due respect, CJ Davide, the 1987 Constitution is so �lawed that even a non-law graduate or an ordinary citizen is provoked to suggest reforms and amendments to make it relevant to the changing times.

Not only is it irresponsive to the emerging global developments, it was also originally intended to protect and preserve the so-called “gains of the Cory administration.”

A constitution – to be considered and declared the best in the world must live and exist for ALL SEASONS. With due respect, CJ Davide, your claim cannot stand scrutiny.

The 1987 Constitution stands on thin ice. Let me quote Gautama Buddha who said: “Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.” (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) Prov. 14:24; “The wealth of the wise is their crown, but the folly of fools yields folly.” GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

a bewildering array of problems – sensory disturbances, food allergies, gastrointestinal problems, depression, obsessive compulsiveness, attention-de�icit hyperactivity disorder,” wrote J. Madeleine Nash in an article published by “Time.”

According to the Merck manual, about 70% of children with autism have some degree of mental retardation (an IQ less than 70). Their performance is uneven; they usually do better on tests of motor and spatial skills than on verbal tests.

Unknowingly, 10% of autistics have special abilities in some areas like music, art and mathematical calculations. Dr. Bernard Rimland, known as the father of modern autism, used the term “autistic savants” to describe this type of autistics.

Raymond, the character played by Hoffman, is one of them. Experts pinpoint, nonetheless, that this type is the exception, rather than the norm.

Theories abound, but no one knows what really causes autism.

Current researches link autism to biological or neurological differences in the brain. The severely incapacitating symptoms that manifest among autistic individuals are reportedly caused by physical disorders of the brain.

In some families, it may be inherited. “Often, autistic children have brothers or sisters with autism or other learning dif�iculties,” says Barratt, who believes autism to be genetic, although other factors may also be involved.

One recent study says the condition could be a developmental problem traceable to infancy. Newsweek once reported a research which

showed that autistic infants initially have smaller than average brains, but then, for some undetermined reason, grow explosively so that their brains become abnormally large for age. By the time they are age four or �ive, autistic children already have adult-sized brains.

According to the “Time” feature, there is no cure for autism, but “there are many treatments that can make a difference.”

Speech therapy is one; it can help overcome communication and language barriers. Another is occupational therapy, which helps with sensory integration and motor skills.

Behavioral therapy improves cognitive skills and reduces inappropriate behavior while medication can reduce some symptoms. Special diets, on the other hand, eliminate certain food groups, such as dairy, that help some autistic children.

When using educational therapy, a high structured approach works best.

Autism was once thought to be caused by faulty parenting; however, this has been proven to be absolute false. “Autism is not caused by faulty parenting, abuse, neglect, or other childhood trauma,” assures the US Center for the Study of Autism. “Parents should not feel guilty that there is something that they have done or not done for their child. It is not their fault,” Singapore’s ARC points out.

In the �inal analysis, no one speci�ic cause of autism is known. “Generally, no one can tell you speci�ically why your child is autistic or why you have an autistic child and your neighbor does not,” ASP said in a statement.

A world of their own

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

lems and are socially inappropriate and unaware. Because of this, people tend to look at them and just think they are naughty children or even look at parents and blame them for not being able to control their child.”

The Singapore-based Autism Resource Center (ARC) claims that autism is not a mental disease but rather a developmental disability. It is four times more common among boys than in girls. Symptoms may be present from birth, although they may not be noticed until a child is two or three years old, when he is expected to speak.

“Autism is different from mental retardation, although many children with autism have both,” notes the Merck manual, adding that autistic children develop symptoms in at least three of the following areas: social relationships, language, behavior and sometimes intelligence.

“Autistic people often suffer from

10 EVER... FROM 1

EDGEDAVAO

ternational Express Mail Service (IEMS) is the fastest means of sending time-sensitive items to addresses abroad and currently, the Philippines has a bilateral agreement with 45 countries for the reciprocal exchange of EMS item “Any articles such as documents, samples of merchandise and goods, not speci�ically prohibited by regulations, can be sent via IEMS,” he said.

Basilan said that Do-

mestic Express Mail Service (DEMS) is the fastest means of sending urgent messages, business documents or goods to addresses within the Philippines and currently, the service is available in all major cities and towns nationwide.

“Generally, DEMS items are delivered the next day after the date of mailing provided that they are posted on or before the prescribed cut-off time,” he said.

DCPO which has about 1,900 police personnel, there will be also deployement coming from the Task Force Davao, Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) 11 and other groups who will be their force multipliers.

Around 8000 young athletes around the region will converge in the city for the annual sporting event which is their road to Palarong Pam-

bansa This is the �irst for the city to host the regional meet after its rename from Southern Mindanao Regional Athletic Association (SMRAA) on 2003.

The event will be on February 17 to 23 but the opening of rites will be on February 18 at the University of Mindanao Sports complex in Matina.

speci�ication, the Navy gave more emphasis on performance.

“Yes, performance base, so that pag dineliver, we will judge it on the performance, patatakbuhin namin yan,” Mercado added.

The FAP contract, which is worth PHP18 billion, including the weapon systems and munitions, was won by South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries. It will be armed with a variety of missiles and guns capable

of defeating the above-mentioned threats.

In regards to claims that he is pushing for a particular brand of combat management system (CMS) for the frigates, Mercado said that he was only standing for the original position of the PN regarding the equipment it wants for its ships.

He added that the system the Navy wanted is more proven and in use in many naval forces in the world. (PNA)

gay Malabanias, Angeles City, Pampanga,” the PNP chief stressed.

A few hours later, operatives of the PNP Intelligence Group (IG) under Chief Supt.

Norberto D. Solomon conducted follow-up operations at 3 a.m. to verify the BIN report and spotted Al -Jabouri toting a large black luggage.

“When asked of his personal circumstances, he readily presented his Iraqi passport No. A6120599 identifying himself as Taha Mohamed Al-Jabouri,” Dela Rosa said.

Based on investigations, it was found out that Al-Jabouri’s 90-day visa, valid from Aug. 10 to Nov. 9, 2017, was

already expired.

“A closer inspection of his luggage yielded assorted personal effects and different denominations of foreign currency,” the PNP chief added.

During questioning, Al-Jabouri revealed that he served as a consultant for Hamas in Damascus, Syria and moved to Istanbul, Turkey sometime in 2012.

He added that he traveled to Manila to meet a Chinese business group that hired him as a consultant.

“The PNP-IG is coordinating closely with the Bureau of Immigration and the Iraqi Embassy for further disposition of Mr. Al-Jabouri. (PNA)

ries had to look for areas they can relocate and apply for the loan.

The city government will

pay for the lot and construction of their houses. They would be repaying the loan “slowly.”

of ‘controversial’ businessmen” which Santos wrote and Rappler published on May 29, 2012.

Ressa and her lawyers had a closed-door meeting with the counsel for complainant Keng and of�icials of

the NBI Cybercrime Division led by its chief, Manuel Eduarte.

Ressa described the meeting as “friendly” even as she insisted that the complaint was part of the “continuing pattern to harass and

TIGHT... FROM 2

PN... FROM 2

HAMAS... FROM 2

CITY... FROM 3

RAPPLER... FROM 3

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

ADDRESSING BIOS. CRIB Indigenous Technology founder Fred Fangonon explains the dynamics of his technology which recycles biode-

gradables wastes into high grade compost during this week’s edition of Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

shut down Rappler and concerted effort that will have an impact on press freedom in the country.”

“That doesn’t mean that the proceedings were not friendly on a case to case basis we will continue to address it but when you look at the full pack it is really clear,” she added.

Keng’s camp furnished copies of the complaint to Ressa, Santos and Bitanga.

Eduarte said they gave Ressa, Santos and Bitanga, owner of Dolphin Fire, a company that has shares in Rappler Holdings, Inc. 10 days to

submit its comment on the complaint after which the NBI will evaluate whether to pursue charges before the Department of Justice.

Last week, the Securities and Exchange Commission revoked the operating license of the digital media company, questioning its corporate deal with foreign investor Omidyar Network.

Following this, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II directed the NBI to investigate the media out�it over possible violation of the Constitution and other laws. (PNA)

and will be televised on ESPN USA. It will be the second outing for Perez (21W-9L-0D, 6 KOs) since he arrived in the US to join the RED Boxing International of new manager Rey “Cacoi” Rodis II. Perez, however, dropped a unanimous decision against unbeaten Lamont Roach at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill last Nov. 30.

“But Perez fought in the 130 lbs. Masyado siyang napiga noon (He was so pressured then). Now, he will be �ighting in the 135 lbs., which he is more comfortable with,” said Rodis.

The 27-year-old Perez has been training at the Casillas Boxing Gym for the past two weeks with trainer Salvador Casillas and Filipino assistant Jules Tagalog.

Perez sees a big chance of winning the bout because of his ideal weight.

Perez, a native of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte, has already sparred with three undefeated �ighters - NABF Junior super featherweight champion Ryan “Kingry” Garcia (13W-0L0D), lightweight Saul “Kid Dinai-

ta” Rodriguez (21W-0L-1D, 15 KOs) and welterweight Arnold Barbosa Jr. (17W-0L, 6 KOs) at the Maywood Gym. “Mas focus ngayon ang trainer sa kanya (The trainer is more focused on him now),” added Rodis.

Perez, a former WBC Youth Silver super bantamweight champion, won the title by stopping Japanese Tatsuya Takahashi via a 10th-round technical knockout in 2012.

He fought for the vacant WBC International Silver super bantamweight title against Hugo Fidel Cazares in 2013 but lost.

Perez also bowed to Andres Gutierrez by a unanimous decision when he challenged the Mexican for his WBC Silver super bantamweight crown that same year.

Gonzales (18W-1L-0D, 15 KOs), on the other hand, won his last two �ights since his only defeat via a second-round knockout to another Filipino, Romero “Ruthless” Duno, for the vacant WBC Youth Intercontinental lightweight title at the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles on March 10 last year.(PNA)

ister under ridesharing companies that are accredited by the Board. All valid and existing certi�icates of public convenience (CPCs) to operate TNVS and those with pending applications are included in the common supply base.

The validity of existing CPCs to operate TNVS shall remain effective subject to the new terms and conditions as may be prescribed by the Board.

Accredited TNCs should accept and process for accreditation only valid CPC holders.

For its part, Grab said LTFRB’s move would adversely affect the number of TNVS units that they are operating amid increasing demand from their passengers.

The ridesharing �irm

needs around 70,00080,000 units in order to replenish their supply of transport services to the commuters.

“What this supply cap does is take away the power of the part-timer who adds supply during critical supply.

45k DAILY ACTIVE DRIVERS in Manila make sense, but we need around 70k-80k total franchise holders since not all of them will be driving every day, despite any minimum active hours required,” Grab Philippines Country Head Brian Cu said in a social media post.

The new guidelines will take effect on Feb. 3, 2018.

There are around 125,000 TNVS units in Metro Manila, according to the LTFRB. (PNA)

to fully comply with this program, thus, monetary of�icials have given them until June 30, 2018 to comply or pay the corresponding penalties.

Fonacier said most of the automated teller machines (ATMs) in the country are now EMV-compliant and the issue was on the ATM cards due to the volume issued.

In the case of BDO, the central bank of�icial declined to give �igures on how many cases have been reported or the amount

compromised, saying there are several reports that she already lost track of these.

She said banks were required to pay the supposed victims within 10 days after receiving the report but this did not happen because of the investigation.

She said that based on the BDO reports to the BSP, some of these skimming cases happened overseas, probably in areas where EMV was not being used.

(PNA)

was determined from relevant data given by the leading TNCs, taking into consideration churning rate, percentage of full-time and part-time TNVS, peak and off-peak hours and average daily book-

ings, among others.

The Board will review the policy three months after it becomes effective as demand varies from time to time.

The common base will enable TNVS drivers to reg-

to 8 p.m. Monday to Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays.

He said, since it opened last January 3, BOSS had processed 4,800 business licenses.

He admitted that the processing and renewal of business license this year takes time due to the strict imple-

mentation of requirements by the regulatory board.

The board is consist of the agencies involved in the issuance of documentary requirements such as the land use and �ire inspection certi�icate.

Last year, the one-stopshop has processed some 10,000 renewals of business permits. (PNA)

for the development and management of the Bay area.

These �indings prompted the Philippine government to

appropriate PhP250 million under the FY2017 NEDA budget for the formulation of the Master Plan. (NEDA)

PINOY... FROM 16

LTFRB... FROM 3

BDO... FROM 5

BOSS... FROM 5

PH... FROM 4

INdulge!

THE LOVE MONTH is approaching fast and those couples who are crazy in love are definitely looking for a place to getaway from the crowd. And since Valentines Day is still three weeks away, here are some of my travel suggestions to get that unique romantic getaway experience.

Two Lovers’ Point If you have a US visa, then maybe you should consider a romantic getaway at where the sun shines first in the US, that is the island territory of Guam. A tropical paradise with white sand beaches, aqua sports, and spectacular dive spots, Guam is also known for its duty-free shopping.

There are also many wedding chapels on the island so couples better not

TRAVEL

EDGEDAVAO

A shinto wedding procession at the Meiji Shrine.

Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour.

Victoria Harbour Just a short plane ride away, Hong Kong is an easy pick for a romantic getaway. The territory’s shopping and dining choices are exemplary and is relatively affordable. For that special Valentine moment, I would suggest a night ride across Hong Kong’s famous Victoria Harbour which holds a light show every night at eight in the evening.

Another option to enjoy the Harbour lights would be a short walk along the Avenue of the Stars or to go to the top level carpark of the Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel. Both areas give a spectacular view of the harbour lights and are free. If you do have the budget, then why not choose to stay at one of the Harbour View rooms of the Marco Polo Hong Kong instead so you can enjoy the spectacular waterfront from morning to evening.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2018

get too carried away.

My choice for a romantic getaway is a visit to Two Lovers’ Point.

According to the legend, the daughter of a wealthy high-ranking family falls deeply in love with a lowly Chamorro warrior.

To avoid her arranged marriage and a pursuing army, the maiden and her lover throw themselves over the cliffs of Tumon Bay. Today, Two Lovers’ Point is visited for its spectacular view over Tumon Bay, Guam’s busiest district. There are also spots where couples can literally lock their promise to love one another at the park’s fence.

Meiji Shrine The Japanese capital of Tokyo may be a huge mass of buildings and busy people but it is not without its romantic spots. One of the most iconic romantic spots is Tokyo Tower which was inspired by Paris’ Eiffel Tower. There are also a multitude of public parks where you can take a stroll and spend some quality

Go on a

ROMANTIC GETAWAY

Wishes are written on enma boards .

Love locks at Two Lovers’ Point.

A spectacular view of Tumon Bay from Two Lovers’ Point. time enjoying the views.

Culture fanatics will also love the many art museums and galleries dotted around the metropolis.

My choice of a roman-

tic getaway though would be a visit to the Meiji Shrine on a Saturday.

Why Saturday you ask?

It is because the shrine hosts many Japanese

weddings on that day of the week. Japanese shinto weddings are a sight to behold with the wedding party solemnly marching behind the bride and

groom as they made their way to get blessed by the shinto priest.

Another thing one

URBANISSIMO A3

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TRAVEL

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2018

IF I WAS TRUE TO MYSELF, Baguio would be the least of the places this mermaid would visit. It’s up in the Cordilleras, it’s cold, there about the slightest chance that there are coconut trees there and there is no sight of sea.

Almost 70 kilometers away from surf town San Juan in La Union, Baguio is really near.

Minus the traffic, it can take you a little over an hour to two hours travel time, depending on your mode of transportation.

The road isn’t for the easily nauseous so pop a pill if you think you’ll need extra help. Other than this, the road trip up north to this mountain city is quite pleasing.

With mountain views starting to take over previous sea and sand, the weather starting to dip, jackets and pants are making their warm welcome. I never planned to go anywhere “untropical” to begin with. I actually had no idea Baguio City was just a ‘climb’ away from La Union and when you’re with people can’t stand doing nothing, anything can happen!

It was a lay day during the final leg of the Philippine Surfing Championship Tour. The waves were too crazy wild and the wind too strong, so it was decided to continue the competition the following day.

With nothing else to do, we grabbed lunch at our favorite stops along the highway. I can’t remember what I had that day, I think had a burger at the sidewalk resto of a local surfer lady who was really kind (it’s sad I can’t remember her name) but she has a shop up in Baguio as well.

I recall she was wrapped in layers when she arrived. I asked if it was cold up in Baguio and she replied it was. It was four years ago that I first experienced Baguio. Short but sweet. It was a business trip where I accompanied Cebu and Davao media to travel to my former company’s newly inaugurated hydroelectric power plant somewhere near Sagada.

The road from Manila to Sagada, I will never forget. With nowhere to buy a pill, lack of sleep and our van running at 80kph-100kph, I was praying for my life and for my insides to remain inside me. We stopped at Baguio for dinner before we headed back to Manila and that dinner in O’ Mai Khan was forever etched in taste buds’ history.

Glorious food aside, that trip was the opposite of where

Cafe by the Ruins scones are my favorite breakfast item with coffee. These are so delicate and crunchy outside but soft inside.

Chillin’ in

BAGUIO! Best place to get your dose of caffeine would be this latte from Cafe by the Ruins Dua.

Luzon surfers meet Mindanao surfers all on the way to Baguio after a quick snack on the first pit stop at the Benguet boundary.

I would have wanted to be yet delicious memories of Baguio kept haunting me till this very day. I knew I had to go back to Baguio again, even if it was just for the food!

My reminiscing was cut short when we had to go back the hostel in La Union. I tried working in the common area but was too distracted. I needed coffee.

Dragging my friend, Dom, who had forgotten his slippers the day before in El Union’s beachfront, he wanted to go see if he could get them back.

We weren’t a few minutes away when an SUV swerves

right along our side of the road and the people inside were yelling at us to hop in. A packed vehicle, loud blaring music, a hungry bunch of surfers eager to escape the heat of the La Union and a clueless mermaid were heading their way to Baguio.

Literally kidnapped for ‘late lunch’! It wasn’t until we reached the border of La Union and Benguet that I realized we were indeed headed for Baguio City… in our shorts and thin tees while Dom was barefoot.

He didn’t find his slippers anymore.

Strawberries are always synonymous with Baguio.

Don’t leave without eating one.

We did the typical tourist trip of passing through Session Road, a photo in front of the Mansion, enjoyed the food at the scenery at Mines View Park and for the finale, an evening stroll through Burnham Park. I would have wanted to go thrift shopping at the ukay stalls around but it was too cold.

Baguio certainly has a lot of secret food hangs that only frequent travelers would know.

The Jollibee branch near Burnham Park has a nearby street food vendor that sells the most delicious peanuts and chicken skin I’ve ever tried. I wish I can

find her when I visit again.

Oh, I waited for four years before I could try the famed Cafe by the Ruins. I ordered scones which turned out to be my favorite biscuit ever! Pair these with cheese or even butter or with jam and you’ll never want to try anything else again.

Of course, this goes well with a cup of hot Siphon coffee or a cold glass of latte with Malagos chocolate. Such a delightful meal that will always bring me fuzzy, sweet and warm memories all at once.

Stay tuned next week for more on Baguio City’s eats!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2018

TRAVEL URBANISSIMO A1 should at the Meiji Shrine is to make a wish for love, prosperity, and happiness. There are also enma or wooden wishing boards one can purchase.

Dedications and wishes can then be written on the boards and hung on the spirit trees flanking the shrine.

Pre Rup Sunset Temple If you are a couple looking for an adventure, then Siem Reap, Cambodia is definitely a place to go. With hundreds of temples to explore and

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many more cultural experiences to enjoy, Siem Reap scores high in unique experiences from tuktuk rides across the city to exploring the city’s many markets on a bike.

Although some may rank sunrise over Angkor Wat as the most romantic experience, I would rather recommend enjoying sunset at Pre Rup Temple.

Far from the maddening crowds, the thousandyear old Pre Rup rises over a hundred feet above the plains of Siem Reap and give a spectacular sunset view of the area.

I remember the moEnjoying the sunset at Pre Rup Temple at Siem Reap. ment when the sun finally touched the horizon and when the entire area was bathed in a goldenreddish glow, the crowd cheering and clapping just when the sun twinkled and disappeared over the horizon.

Gardens by the Bay Just a short three-hour direct flight from Durianburg, Singapore is one of the easiest destinations to visit from Davao thanks to daily direct air connections. With its outstanding shopping, excellent food choices, easy navigation, outstanding museums and exciting theme

A floral escape at Gardens by the Bay.

parks, Singapore is an ideal for couples to escape to.

And as the romantic saying “Say it with flowers” goes, a visit to the Gardens by the Bay on February is definitely a spectacle as the park’s temperate zone dome hosts its annual rose exhibit featuring hundreds of varieties of roses for park guests to enjoy.

Aside from the roses, there are also many other zones within the temperate and mountain domes to walk around, explore and enjoy comfortably thanks to the cool climate within the biomes.

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2018

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

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REFORMS... FROM 4

and pro�it-shifting schemes in which related companies subject to different tax regimes transfer pro�its to another entity enjoying tax holidays and shift expenses to an entity subject to tax so that they get to reduce their tax payments.

Chua said that besides the Board of Investments (BOI) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), 12 other ecozones are authorized to grant incentives, with no clear coordination among them and the tax administration authority.

Other countries mostly have only one or two IPAs, he noted.

“Our system has created a very unfair system wherein those paying the regular rate pays 30 percent of their net taxable income. But, those receiving the holidays and the special rates only pay onethird of that at around 6 to 13 percent of their effective tax rates,” Chua said.

Companies paying the regular 30 percent rate, Chua noted, are mostly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), while those enjoying �iscal incentives are big corporations.

“The present �iscal incentives system (in the country) has been suffering from policy overload such that there is now a proliferation of incentives laws granting tax and duty exemption privileges.

This results in forum-shopping where investors compare various laws and choose the better package, or double-dipping where investors avail themselves of tax incentives in more than one law,” he said.

He likewise noted that the BOI formulates the Annual Investment Priorities Plan (IPP) and at the same time acts as an incentive granting body.

Chua said that among the 14 IPAs, the PEZA accounted for the bulk at more than P66 billion worth of income and

customs duty tax perks given in 2015, followed by the BOI with P29 billion, and the 12 other ecozones accounting for P9.4 billion worth of incentives for a total of P104.40 billion for that year.

In terms of sector, the bulk of the incentives goes to electronic manufacturing, followed by BPO services, and logistics, Chua said.

He underscored the need to streamline the current institutional framework for granting tax incentives so that all IPAs follow a single menu of incentives rather than come out with their respective set of rules that do not complement each other.

The government, according to Chua, collects income taxes from large corporations and other private �irms representing only 3.7 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), or a collection rate of a low 12 percent because of 315 laws or provisions that grant businesses tax breaks and other perks.

Chua said that compared to other economies in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Philippines imposes the highest corporate income tax (CIT) rate but is among those at the bottom in terms of collection ef�iciency.

The Philippines, he said, currently imposes a CIT rate of 30 percent but with a tax collection ef�iciency rate of only 12.3 percent, while Thailand’s CIT rate is only 20 percent but it collects almost triple--a 30.5 percent ef�iciency rate--that represents 6.1 percent of its GDP. Vietnam’s CIT rate is 25 percent but it collects even more with a 29.2 percent tax ef�iciency rate representing 7.3 percent of GDP. Malaysia’s 24 percent CIT generates a 27.1 percent ef�iciency rate in terms of collecting taxes, which is 6.5 percent of GDP. (DOF)

a month, and a Volunteer Service worker I receiving P18,718 per month under the third tranche this year of the Salary Standardization Law will be exempted from paying the PIT. In the private sector, a concierge in a hotel earning P18,000 a month and a food server paid P15,000 monthly are among the millions of employees who will bene�it from the TRAIN’s zero PIT provision.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issued last Dec. 28, 2017 an updated withholding tax table re�lecting the new PIT provisions under TRAIN. BIR Commissioner Caesar Dulay directed all internal revenue of�icers to ensure

that come Monday, Jan. 1, “everyone making compensation payments to their respective employees shall deduct and withhold from such compensation a tax determined in accordance with the revised withholding tax table.”

Under the TRAIN, which aims to make the tax system fairer, simpler and more ef�icient, a clerk in a government of�ice or an entry-level worker in the private sector with a monthly pay of about P15,000 a month will be exempted from the PIT. This means that the worker now gets to take home the PIT of P18,457 that he or she used to pay annually under the old tax law, which, in effect, translates into a pay raise of P1,538 per month. (DOF)

such as animal products, �ish and related products, prepared food, and edible fruits.

Likewise, automotive parts, leather, textile, and footwear showed signi�icant growth.

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PH... FROM 4

NEWS 11

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

Japan’s KCCP offers scholarships to Pinoys T

he Knowledge Co-Creation Program (KCCP) of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is now offering Master’s and Doctorate degree scholarships in seven universities in Japan.

The quali�ied applicants are entitled to free tuition once admitted in proposed universities such as the National Graduate Institute for Policy (GRIPS), Waseda University, Sophia University, International University of Japan, Kyoto University, Hitotsubashi University, and University of Tsukaba, said

Since the beginning of the preferential treatment in 2014, both PH and EU have enjoyed the mutual bene�its of GSP+ by letting Filipino MSMEs participate in a bigger value chain and giving the EU market more options for their consumers.

Local communities can take advantage of the export opportunities under the GSP+, like �ishermen in General Santos and coconut farmers in Lanao del Norte, as their products can join those by other MSMEs in contributing to EU’s dynamic

Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran during a recent Department of Finance Executive Committee (Execom) meeting.

Beltran told Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III that other bene�its will also be provided such as expenses for custom-made program, and other support programs market.

“We acknowledge that the GSP+ has been an important tool in making the country’s economic growth more inclusive. It also encourages investors to come in and provide job opportunities to many Filipinos,” Sec. Lopez said.

Meanwhile, dialogue on the expansion of the trade preference is ongoing between PH and EU, with both parties continuing to engage through relevant government agencies and other existing mechanisms.(DTI)

TEACHERS... FROM 6

through extensive educational interventions. Mitmug said teaching applicants must pass rigid examinations required to test their competencies and mental abilities.

“Teachers play a key role in community-building, in nation-building, so we have to make sure that the teachers we are to hire are quali�ied and committed to helping address illiteracy in remote areas in the autonomous region,” Mitmug said.

Last January 4, Hataman

appointed 192 teachers for Sulu and 75 more for Maguindanao in an effort to address the problem of lack of teachers while the number of enrollees continues to rise.

Hataman also ordered an investigation on reports that some teacher-applicants in Sulu have previously received their deployment orders. He asked how can an applicant be deployed to public schools when he or she had no appointment yet.

(PNA)

members of the Militia ng Bayan (MB) are armed NPA supporters living in the community utilized by the NPA as informants and assist in the conduct of their activities against government forces.

Lt. Col. Allen Tomas, 30IB commander, said that Barangay Budlingin had become an NPA stronghold, although lately the people have realized how the rebels destroy their lives. “It is through our convergence efforts in establishing peace with the community that supporters �ind

their way back to our government. This is a clear manifestation that Surigaonons want nothing but peace,” he added.

“We call on our NPA brothers to give up your armed struggle. Come down, bring your �irearms and embrace a peaceful life with your families and with the government,” he added.

The militiaman is now in the custody of the 30IB for proper disposition and turnover to the local government unit. (Roel N. Catoto / MindaNews)

be free from illegal drugs.

In the past years, a number of employees of the city government were dismissed from service after yielding

positive of illegal drug use.

Several employees were also arrested for alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade and related activities.

NPA... FROM 7

ANOTHER... FROM 7

during the study in Japan; round-trip airfare; books, and interior researches; allowances for living expenses; out�it allowance, and moving allowance.

Quali�ied applicants must either be a “young or middle government of�icial, or personnel from private institutions who are expected to engage in policy formulation; prospective academicians; preferably less than 40 years old, and those who are over 40 years old are subject for discussion; Bachelor’s or Master’s (if to pursue Doctorate) The city government had assured that it is ready to fund the conduct of the drug tests, which costs around P300 per kit.

It will cover regular, co-terminus and contractual or job order personnel of city government of�ices and units.

Last week, the City Council or Sangguniang Panlungsod passed a resolution for

MAGIC... FROM 15

degree holder; has competent English language skills both in written and oral communication to complete the Master’s and Doctorate degree courses such as TOEFL Paper-based test (PBT) of 550 or higher; TOEFL iBT of 79 or higher; or IELTS (Academic Modules) of 6.0 or higher,” Beltran added.

The deadline for the submission of applications is on January 26, 2018.

As of mid-January, the DOF has already received �ifteen (15) applications for the scholarship program, Beltran said.(DOF) the conduct of mandatory drug tests for all its members.

Such move came amid speculations that four city councilors were allegedly included in the government’s drug watch list.

Of�icials of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Region 12, which was named as the supposed source, have denied such report.(PNA)

sparked a fourth-quarter run by scoring seven of his nine points to draw the Celtics to 93-84, but both teams traded points and Orlando maintained control the rest of the way.

SURE SHOTS Orlando shot 61 percent on combined 27 of 44 in the second and third

quarter. The Magic came into the game 14th in the NBA in �ield goal percentage.

BENCH STRENGTH Shelvin Mack and D.J. Augustin combined for 20 points as the Magic bench outscored the Celtics 38-8.

Boston reserves shot 4 for 19 from the �ield.

and used the villagers as shields while government troops pursued them.

The Army said names of the slain and wounded CAFGU members would soon be available to the public once their families have been informed of the incident.

A CAFGU member who

asked not to be identi�ied said the battle was fought up close. He said he did not expect to survive as they were already surrounded by rebels and �ive of his comrades were already wounded.

He said artillery support helped them survive.(Ferdinandh Cabrera & Malu Cadelina Manar / MindaNews)

3... FROM 7

EXTRA JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE OF THE LATE ALEXANDER G.GRAVADOR WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ALEXANDER G.GRAVADOR who died on November 21,2017 at Davao City, Philippines has been the subject of an EXTRA JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS executed among his heirs, per Doc. No.195; PageNo.39; Book No.21; Series of 2017, of the NOTARY PUBLIC ATTY. JANIS LOUIS H. ESPARCIA. 01/9,16,23

12 ENVIRONMENT EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

Philippine forests: Going, going, gone?

(Second of Three Parts) TEXT AND PHOTOS By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

“To be poor and be without trees is to be the most starved human being in the world. To be poor and have trees is to be completely rich in ways that money can never buy.” -- Clarissa Pinkola Estés, author of The Faithful Gardener: A Wise Tale About That Which Can Never Die

T

he year was 1960.

Primitivo Besenan, from Cebu, had decided to migrate to Kialeg, then a far-�lung barangay of Bansalan, Davao del Sur. At the time of his arrival, food was not a problem; rice was in abundant supply, vegetables and fruits were aplenty and the environment was most ideal. Rainfall was constant and the town had a thick forest cover.

Raising livestock, like pigs, was a pro�itable venture.

People never spent more than a few hundred pesos because “feeds” could be had for the taking in the nearby verdant forest cover. “When I started my own livestock project,” Besenan recalled, “I had no problem whatsoever.

I simply went into the forest and harvested what I needed from it.”

Dionisio Geronda, also a farmer like Besenan, agreed.

Born just �ive kilometers away from the town proper, he admitted: “We didn’t have any problem as to what we would eat in those times.”

In his own farm, Geronda never used pesticide to get rid of insects and pests attacking his crops. “We didn’t use pesticides then but our harvests produced plenty,” he said. In fact, he also had no need for fertilizers. He used livestock manure to give the much-needed nutrients to his still fertile lot.

A decade later, the scenario has completely changed.

Fewer animals were raised.

More farmers had to rely on pesticides and commercial

fertilizers. Because of this, income went down compared with that of the 1960s.

This is now a common reality in Magsaysay, as it has now become a town and separated from Bansalan. A lot of farmers are now living in harsher conditions as drought becomes a way of life during the summer months.

The usual culprit: deforestation. The wanton felling of forest cover has resulted in making what used to be forest land into barren, rock-covered and unproductive farmlots.

Based on the municipalities records, only 1,913 hectares (11.43% of the town’s total land area) are now classi�ied as forest lands. The denudation of its forests is among the reasons for �lash�loods and drought occurring every now and then.

There is also an alarming rate of siltation in the town’s major river resulting from soil erosion on denuded forest land. Crop infestation is also becoming a way of life in the lowlands. In the uplands, corn production has declined considerably.

Despite laws banning cutting of trees, deforestation happens not only in Magsaysay but almost in all parts of the country. “Our forests are being denuded at the rate of 25 hectares per hour,” deplored Mark Villar when he was still a congressman of the lone district of Las Piñas City.

The �irst nationwide forest inventory was completed in 1969 and only 10.4 million hectares of forest were left

out of the 17 million hectares that used to occupy the country’s land area of 30 million hectares.

By 1980, only about 7.5 million hectares of forest were left. At the end of 1990, only 6.64 million remained.

Most of those considered “old growth forest” were con�ined to steep and very steep areas and were not often accessible.

In 1995, the country barely had 5.6 million hectares (less than 19% of the land area) of forest cover.

“For at least 20 years now, we have this forest crisis which has been getting worse every year,” Dr. J.A.V. Revilla, then a visiting professor at the Forestry Development Center of the University of the Philippines at Los Baños (UPLB), told a conference organized by the National Academy of Science and Technology.

“At the rate we are re-establishing forest cover during the last 20 years, it would take us 250 years to reforest (the country),” Dr. Revilla deplored. “That is assuming that forest cover loss stops immediately and that we �inally become effective in our reforestation efforts.”

If you think deforestation happens only in the uplands, you’re wrong. Even in the lowlands, cutting of trees is also rampant. Most of these trees are found in the coastal zone and they’re called mangroves.

Mangrove forests are composed of 97 species of trees. Manila was originally named “Maynila” (meaning

“there is nilad”) after a mangrove species known locally as nilad and found extensively in the Pasig River delta.

Mangrove forests used to cover about 450,000 hectares; now, it has shrunk to 150,000 hectares and most of them can only be found in Palawan and some areas of southern Mindanao.

“The rate of loss has slowed, but mangrove forests are under continued threat from the expansion of areas used for �ishponds, housing and industry, and harvesting of wood for charcoal,” said the Coastal Resource Management Project of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

More often than not, loggers – both legal and illegal – in cohorts with politicians were blamed for the rapid disappearance of the coun-

try’s forest cover, particularly those located in the uplands.

In 2002, a report which appeared in The Manila Times said that 354,00 board feet of giant trees – many already sawn to sizes – were discovered in Don Salvador Benedicto, a mountain town in northern Negros.

“Government of�icials, environmentalists and the public were reportedly shocked by the magnitude of forest destruction in the town, part of the 35,000-hectare wide Northern Negros Forest Reserve,” the news report said.

Loggers are not the sole culprit. Even farmers themselves are partly to be blamed. In a news report published by the Manila Bulletin, this information was taken: “Vast tracts of forest lands which were once lush now stand barren, unproductive due to widespread

and continuous practice of kaingin (slash-and-burn farming). As a result, severe denudation and soil erosion have made it almost impossible for these lands to recover, if at all.”

Other causes of deforestation include mining, overgrazing and road construction.

Meanwhile, the country’s surging population – currently totaled more than 100 million – has also contributed to the problem. At least a fourth of the total population live in the upland areas, where most trees are located.

Dr. Ernesto Guiang, who was once with the Development Alternatives, Inc., echoes the same concern: “We are now at the eleventh hour. We have to pay attention to the handwriting on the wall with respect to our forests.” (To be concluded)

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

FREE... FROM 3

“Clearly, Rodolfo’s case wasn’t isolated. Republic Act (RA) 10931 also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act will give hope to young Filipinos like him who, despite �inancial dif�iculties, dream of �inishing college,” the Davao lawmaker noted.

Signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in August 2017, RA 10931 provides for the free college tuition program, which is scheduled to be rolled out in school year 2018-19.

The Appropriations panel led by Nograles set aside P40 billion in the P3.767-trillion national budget to cover for students’ tuition and other school fees, including miscellaneous fees, that will be shouldered by the government under the celebrated law this year.

Students from the country’s 114 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), 16 Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs)

accredited by CHED and 122 Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVIs) under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will bene�it from RA 10931.

“This law will save the lives of hundreds of other Rodolfos and Rosannas by simply giving them a �ighting chance in getting that college degree,” Nograles stressed.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is expected to release the implementing Rules and regulations of RA 10931 later this month.

Nograles earlier said that the leadership change over at CHED--sparked by the resignation of erstwhile chairperson Patricia Licuanan amid several controversies--would allow for the smoother and faster implementation of President Duterte’s programs, especially the free college education law.

(House of Representatives)

of days vary depending on the destination of the parcel and its origin. Express mail service (EMS) which offers a 24 hours delivery service and Logistics which caters to local and international clients.

Retail services, which offers the postal ID services and other collections such as the Philhealth collection services from companies Basilan said that they can now deliver parcels within 24

hour on their (EMS). EMS has a different delivery. From the airport these items of mail in the EMS are delivered immediately while the air parcels are delivered to the post of�ice which is different from EMS hub.

“The time range I have mentioned are services from registered and air parcel delivery. It takes time when it is in the conveyance but rest assured that once it arrives at

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NEWS13

EDGEDAVAO the delivery post of�ice we deliver it immediately,” he said.

He said that 30 percent of their revenue comes from the government of�ices. Most of their mails are of�icial papers which composes 40 percent of their mail and 60 percent is composed of packages both from local and international clients.

By mandate they cannot remove the ordinary and registered these services takes time compares to the EMA services offered by Philpost and private couriers which only offers one services that is the express services.

“When we compare the services offered by the private couriers and our EMS, we can provide the same service

however we have ordinary and registered service this services quite drags us down.

We can’t remove it as well because it is one of our mandates,” he said.

So far pilferage is no longer an issue in the central of�ice of Philppost and regional of�ices because of the CCTV cameras installed, most especially in the examiners area. “ Our central exchange of�ice in Manila is secured

by CCTV cameras, therefore all activities of the customs and Philpost is monitored throught the CCTV,” he said.

He said that Philpost has control measures to ensure that there will be no pilferage activities that will happen in their regional and area of�ices.

400 pesos for a half bucket yield.

He said locals here like to eat kayabang because it comes from the wild and it is cheaper.

Alciso sells three pieces of kayabang for 20 pesos.

In a span of a week, Alciso goes to his “tambak” traps three times.

He said there are four ways to get the kayabang: �irst through the use of a bamboo tube trap which is inserted into the mouths of occupied burrows where crabs are caught alive and unharmed as they emerge for nocturnal foraging. Second, catch them by hand when they forage at night, a few days before and

after the full moon. Third, dig them at the occupied burrows. Lastly, use the “tambak” trap.

“You dig a hole in the land about knee-deep and approximately 3 to 5 meters circumferential. Then you put stones then break a coconut and place on top of the dump the stones which serve as bait.

Cover with coconut fronds and that’s a tambak trap,” he said.

Alciso prepares the tambak trap because it’s a time-saving and ef�icient way of hunting the crab. With an hour spent in the forest, he goes home with his harvest.

(MINDANEWS)

DECLINE... FROM 5

P3.9-B cash grant released to CCT beneficiaries in R-12, Marawi

G

ENERAL SANTOS CITY -The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) released some P3.9 billion in cash grant last year to bene�iciaries of the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program in Region 12 and parts of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Juliet Clavel, DSWD-12’s CCT regional project coordinator, said Monday the cash grant bene�itted a total of 231,150 “poorest of the poor” households in the area covered by the initiative, which is also known as Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps. She said the grant was directly received by the bene�iciaries on monthly basis through the issued cash cards.

Part of the funds went to the P600 monthly rice subsidy for each household-bene�iciary, she said.

“Our clients were also provided skills training, psychological counselling and livelihoods assistance,” Clavel said.

She assured that the grants were only released to eligible bene�iciaries as set in the programs guidelines.

In 2017, DSWD-12 delisted around 2,200 households from the CCT due to eligibility problems.

Most of those delisted were families that no longer have members who are quali�ied to avail of the assistance program.

The agency also found some names who had double entries in

their database and were immediately removed.

CCT is a poverty reduction and social development strategy of the national government that provides conditional cash grants to “poorest of the poor” households to improve their health, nutrition and education.

It provides bene�iciaries cash grants of P500 a month for health and nutrition expenses and P300 a month per child for educational expenses, as well as P600 in monthly rice subsidy.

The program is being implemented by DSWD-12 in 1,287 barangays in Region 12’s four provinces and �ive cities, and in Marawi City in the ARMM. Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and North Cotabato as well as the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Cotabato, Kidapawan and Tacurong.

Clavel said based on their assessment, most of the household-bene�iciaries were able to comply with the program’s requirements.

She cited the provision for children aged 3 to 18 have to stay in school and maintain class attendance of at least 85 percent each month.

Pregnant women are also required to avail pre- and post-natal care, and delivery must be assisted by skilled health personnel, while parents are mandatory to take “family development sessions” to enable them to become better parents, she added. (PNA)

14 MOTORING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

TOPSELLER. The Isuzu Mu-X.

IPC sets new marks in 2017 I

suzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), has ended the year 2017 on a very high note as the companyachieved its highest annual record sales to date.

Based on the sales report from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc.(CAMPI) and Truck Manufacturers Association, Inc. (TMA), IPC recorded an impressive 30,086 units ofsales in the full year of 2017, which re�lected a 10-percent increase compared to the previous year’s27,361 units.

On a separate report, IPC achieved its highest monthly sales record when December sales reached 3,809units—stamping a 7.4-percent difference over its November 2017 sales record.

The strong sales �igures were spearheaded by the stellar sales numbers brought in by their well-lovedmodels, the Isuzu mu-X, D-MAX and the outgoing vehicle, Crosswind.For the whole year, a total of 13,157 Isuzu mu-X SUVs were sold, increasing the vehicle’s sales by 4percent versus the 12,657 units that rolled out in 2016.

In December alone,

some 1,997 mu-X units weredelivered a staggering 27 percent rise from November 2017’s 1,572 sales tally.Meanwhile, the D-MAX pickup truck sold some 4,675 units from January to December 2017, showing awhopping 17.9 percent jump over the previous year when IPC recorded 3,966 D-MAX unit sales.

December sales for the IPC’s pick-up truck went up a notch, selling 599 units, which showed a growth of26.3 percent against 471 sold the month before. Further, the ever-reliable AUV, Crosswind showed a slight 2.1 hike on sales �igures, garnering a total of4,755 units for the whole year, as opposed to 4,651 units for the same duration the previous year.

The IPC’s truck sales record also skyrocketed, with the N-Series providing much of the �irepower.

2017sales went up by 23 percent; from 3,734 in 2016 to an awesome 4,599 units sold last year.

The strength in sales especially during the latter part of 2017 was at-

tributed to the strong economicperformance of the country, introduction of Blue Power Technology across all models, as well as theconsumers’ anticipation for the implementation of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion(TRAIN) law.

IPC president Hajime Koso expressed his utmost gratitude over the outstanding sales performance, sayingthat they will continue to strive hard to provide the best to the Philippine market that IPC can offer.

“While we have reached greater heights this year, we will continue to provide and look for more ways tocater to everyone. Thanks for the unwavering support, trust and loyalty to our brand,” Koso said.

In September last year, IPC introduced their latest tech offering for all their available units locally duringthe celebration of their 20th anniversary in the local automotive industry. Isuzu’s Blue Power Technology is an eco-friendly diesel engine designed to provide maximum engineoutput, cleaner emissions, superb fuel economy, as well as engine durability.

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

is in need of

3 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Qualifications: • BS Marketing Graduate • Male/Female • With Pleasing Personality

DRIVER Qualifications: • at least 21 years old, male • with Driver’s License • physically and mentally fit Submit application letter and resume to: ELLA P. TINGZON HR/Admin Supervisor Edge Davao Review Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., E. Quirino Avenue, Davao City Or email at edgedavao@gmail.com or ella_tingzon@yahoo.com

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS15

JUNIOR STANDOUT. Anci Galicia chipa from the fringe on her way to a second runner-up finish in the girls division of the Apo Golf and Country Club juniors tournament over the weekend. Boy Lim

Ancajas needs to train Magic stop Celtics B under cold conditions

J

erwin Ancajas’ coach has taken extra measures to make sure the world junior bantamweight champion will be 100% healthy during his US debut against Israel Gonzalez next month.

In his �ight in Belfast, Northern Ireland, last November, the Filipino champion battled through cough and cold before he stopped Jamie Conlan in 6 rounds.

Coach Joven Jimenez said the chilly Belfast weather affected Ancajas’ health.

“Tinitipid namin ang suntok nu’n sa Belfast kasi nagkasakit siya before the �ight. Inubo siya, sipon.

Pinainom namin ng gamot kaya medyo iba pakiramdam niya,” Jimenez said.

Ancajas added: “Pagdating namin sa London nanibago po talaga ako. Sobrang lamig po, nakapunta na’ko sa malalamig na lugar tulad ng China, Macau, pero iba ‘yung lamig ng

London lalo na sa Belfast.

“Buti na lang may gamot kaming dala, pero mahirap pala ‘pag nagda-diet ka for the weigh-in tapos umiinom ka ng gamot. Suwerte naman at maganda pa rin ang resulta ng laban.”

They don’t want a repeat of that when Ancajas �ights in his most important bout to date on February 3 in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Texas’ temperature in February (which hovers in the high-teens Celsius) is not as cold as Belfast when Ancajas was there in November (which could have gone as low as single digits). Corpus Christi’s temperature might be closer to Baguio.

Jimenez said his group is making sure that Ancajas will be acclimated properly to the cold.

“Ngayon ang magagawa namin binababad namin sa aircon para makasananyan niya ‘yung lamig,” he said.

TRAINING. Dabawenyos world champion Jerwin Ancajas has to be ready to fight under chilling conditions.

OSTON (AP) -- After a near-miss in their last game, the Orlando Magic were rewarded for another solid effort.

Elfrid Payton had 22 points and the Magic won for just the third time in their last 20 games, overcoming Kyrie Irving’s 40 points to beat the Boston Celtics 10395 on Sunday. ‘’It feels good to get a win, especially after playing well,’’ Payton said. ‘’We felt we played well against the Cavs and didn’t come out with the victory. So to get the win today feels good.’’

Orlando snapped a 14-game losing streak at Boston. The Magic had lost 10 in a row on the road overall since early December including a one-point loss to Cleveland in its previous game.

Irving sat out Boston’s previous game to rest a sore left shoulder.

Despite his efforts, the Celtics dropped their season-worst third straight overall and at

home. ‘’We haven’t played well consistently on both ends for a while now,’’ Celtics coach Brad Stevens said. ‘’I felt like they were shooting layups for the most part tonight.’’

Evan Fournier added 19 and Aaron Gordon had a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds for the Magic. ‘’Was a really good win for us and we are playing really hard right now,’’ Fournier said. ‘’We almost let it slip, but made a few plays to close the deal and it feels really good.’’

Trailing 59-58 at halftime, Orlando outscored the Celtics 32-12 in the third quarter while shooting 60 percent. The Magic held Boston to four �ield goals, three by Irving, and led 90-71 after three. ‘’I thought Payton was the leader of the pack,’’ Magic coach Frank Vogel said. ‘’The Elfrid in the third quarter was the guy driving the engine.’’

Jayson Tatum

MAGIC,P11

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 209 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 , 2018

NEW CHAMP

Mama wins WBO Orient Youth flyweight belt

J

ayson Mama hurt Michael Camelion with a right hook to the body before decking him with head shots in the ninth round to win the World Boxing Organization Oriental Youth �lyweight title over the weekend.

The win was Mama’s ninth straight without a loss and the knockdown was his �ifth. After going down at 1:43 of the ninth, Camelion got up but signaled to Referee Atty Danrex Tapdasan that he had enough.

Camelion dropped to 107-1 with 8 KOs. This �ight served as the main event of Sanman Promotions’ Brawl at the Mall: 10th edition held in Gen. Santos City.

More knockouts came in the undercard as Jake Bornea knocked out Jestoni Makiputin in the second round, Jerven Mama TKOd Romulo Ramayan in the sixth, Ben Mananquil scored a second round knocout of Alvin Bais, Joey Canoy decked Rodel Tejares in the fourth, Dave Apolinario put away Frankie Batuon in the second, Jhun Rick Carcedo took only one round of Holly Quinones and Daniel Placeres worked for two rounds to dispose off JP Macadumpis.

Muhammad Shehran scored a unanious decision win over Richard Betos while Judy Flores outpointed Ramil Antaran in four.

Pinoy fighter in Golden Boy card R ey “Technician” Perez of the Philippines will �ight Mexican-American Christian “Chimpa” Gonzales at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio,

California, USA on February 22.

The eight-round non-title bout is promoted by Oscar de La Hoya of Golden Boy Promotions

PINOY,P10

YOUTH CHAMP. Jayson Mama’s ram raised victorious by referee Atty. Danrex Tapdasan.