Edge10 issue 230, February 21, 2018

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

CHANGE OF VENUE 3 bus terminals proposed in place of DCOTT ONE MORE RISING. An ironworker stands atop a metal structure for the foundation of a condominium building which is being constructed along C.M. Recto Avenue in Davao City on Tuesday. Lean Daval Jr

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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member of the Davao City Council proposed the transfer of Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) outside the city proper to ease the traffic flow.

Councilor Conrado Baluran, chair of the committee on transportation, said it’s about time to transfer the city’s public transport terminal because of the volume of vehicles coming in and out of

the city.

In his privilege speech, Baluran said he is moving to amend the section 4 of the City Ordinance No. 0192 series of 1986 which states that all public buses should

unload and load passengers at DCOTT. “It is timely to decongest our DCOTT by establishing satellite terminals outside the city’s central District,” he said.

Baluran suggested that its place, three terminals should be built in Barangay Dumoy for the buses coming from the south, in Catalunan Pequeño for the buses from

Cagayan de Oro City and Bukidnon, and in Buhangin area for the buses from north.

“With this setup, it would not only ease our thoroughfares but make access in our community more convenient especially to those people who are living in the places being mentioned,” he said.

He said based on record there are around 700 Public

CHANGE,P10

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Eagle love

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

HOUSING MODEL. President Rodrigo Duterte applauds after the presentation of the miniature-housing model of the ‘Bahay Pag-Asa Phase II Project’ in Marawi City during the 10th Biennial National Convention and 20th Founding Anniversary Celebration of the Chinese Filipino Business Club, Inc. (CFBCI) at the Manila

Hotel on Monday evening. Also in the photo are Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Philippine Army Commander Lieutenant General Rolando Bautista, project coordinator Dr. Isabel Cojuangco-Suntay, project donor and Special Envoy to China Carlos Chan and CFBCI President William Yap. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Davao artist puts up visual arts show

By JUDIE VEGA

D

avao City’s multi-awarded artist, Elenita “Boots” C. Dumlao, will stage a four weeks visual arts exhibition at the Museo Dabawenyo starting February 19.

The City Information Of�ice reported that the exhibit dubbed as “Colors and Textures,” will run from until March 17, in time for the 81st Arawng Dabaw Celebration.

The exhibit will open at 3:30 p.m. on February 19 at the Bahaghari Space or the changing exhibitions gallery of the museum.

This will be Dumlao’s

sixth solo exhibit at the Museo Dabawenyo. In 2017, her “Complexed Simplicities” exhibit was also staged at the museum, a year after her “Sentient Textures.”

Dumlao is a Davao-based visual artist and a theater, music and dance production director. She is known for her contemporary acrylic paintings involving expressionism.

In 2013, she was presented an award for Exemplary Contribution on the Field of Visual Arts by then Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and Vice Mayor Inday Sara Duterte.

She also had honors abroad, including an award for bagging the �irst place for the Digital New Media Art competition at the X Interna-

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PCOO unveils DU30 APP

By ANGIE SAVERON

T

he Presidential Communications Operations Of�ice has of�icially launched its Du30 App during the 2nd day of the National Information Convention on February 20 at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City.

This application is PCOO’s of�icial mobile app and its main online link to

Filipino communities worldwide.

The app was developed by the company called iBayad Online Ventures to help in nation building. This will allow the public to have an access to direct and of�icial social media feeds, message from the President, Caption This feature, survey, comment and share and quick call.

According to Paolo Saycon CEO of iBayad Online Ventures the government did not spend anything for this application.

“The application was built and developed and given to the government at no cost. My company made it for the government and we basically did for �lag and country.

So it’s our contribution to

nation building,” Saycon said during an interview.

He said his company sought to help President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in sharing the true and correct information to the public.

“IBayad in cooperation with PCOO and its agencies will help spread the communication to the public through

PCOO,P10

Gov’t projects must be visible online: infra exec

“Build, Build, Build” Committee chairperson Ana Mae Lamentillo has reiterated the need for government projects to be visible online, as more Filipinos are expected to be online and surf the worldwide web this year.

“We predict that in 2018, 70 million Filipinos will actually be online. Government projects have to be online, too,” Lamentillo said in a speech during the National Information Convention in Davao on Monday.

Lamentillo cited the

country currently has 69 million internet users, who are also active in using social media accounts, while emphasizing half of searches for government projects occur online.

She said the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which leads the “Build, Build, Build” committee, has partnered with private �irms to launch billboards in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao to showcase the projects of the Duterte ad-

alacañang on Tuesday maintained that it still considers as fake news Rappler’s report on the alleged intervention of Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher “Bong” Go in the PHP18-billion Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP) of the Philippine Navy.

“We still maintain it is fake news because witnesses already clari�ied under oath that Bong Go did not intervene,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a Palace brie�ing.

In a Senate inquiry on

Monday, Go lamented the “irresponsible reporting” of Rappler, an online news site, noting that he became a “victim of fake news”.

Go denied that he meddled with the warship deal and favored Hanwha of South Korea over Tacticos Thales of the Netherlands, saying that it was a done deal during the end of the Aquino administration.

Former Philippine Navy �lag-of�icer-in-command (FOIC), Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado, has also con�irmed that Go never in-

GOV’T,P10

Palace insists Rappler peddling‘fake news’ M PALACE,P10

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

Mayor Inday bats for responsible journalism

By JUDIE VEGA

M

ACCUSATION AND DENIAL. Davao City Vice Mayor Bernard Al-ag names 3rd District Councilor Rene Lopez as the member of the City Council who allegedly asked for money from a businessman in ex-

change for favors. Councilor Lopez denied the accusation during Tuesday’s Pulong Pulong ni Pulong. Lean Daval Jr

ayor Inday Sara Duterte has expressed hopes that information of�icers in the country would enhance their practice towards responsible communication and by doing away with all forms of misinformation in the country.

The city mayor underscored this in a speech read for by City Councilor Mabel Sunga-Acosta to welcome participants to the the National Information Convention (NIC), which opened on Monday at the SMX Convention Center in Lanang.

Mayor Inday also encouraged communicators to engage in a communications policy plan, which she said would eliminate redundancy, and to concentrate information dissemination.

She said she was optimistic about the proposed Comprehensive Communications Committee that would battle misinformation, especially the prevalence of ‘fake news’.

“This would analyze public opinion on various issues...that I also hope, would once and for all defeat all forms of misinformation in our country,” Mayor Inday said.

NIC was the �irst convention for communicators initiated by the Presidential Communications Operations Of�ice (PCOO) of the Of�ice of the President.

The mayor thanked the Presidential Communications Operations Of�ice (PCOO) for selecting Davao City as venue of NIC 2018.

he United States-Philippines Society (USPS) said it supports the return of Balangiga bells to the Philippines.

In a press conference Tuesday, USPS president John Maisto said that part of the group’s resolution on Monday’s Board Meeting is to support the return of Balangiga bells to the country.

“The Society has passed a resolution yesterday (Monday) that we are in support of the return of Balangiga bells to their rightful owners, which is the parish of Balangiga [in] Samar,” said Maisto.

“We are working on that, and we hope to see a very strong working group of the Society,” he added.

In his visit to Cebu City

last week, President Rodrigo Duterte insisted that the US should return the church bells to the country.

Meanwhile, the President will be meeting the USPS executives Tuesday, where the organization will highlight the strong relationship between the Philippines and the US. The society is a private sector initiative organized to broaden and expand interaction and understanding through basic research and/ or applied research in the areas of security, trade, investments, tourism, the environment, history, education and culture between the United States and the Philippines which would bene�it the American public and the people of the Philippines. (PNA)

US-PH Society supports return of Balangiga bells

PDEA to set up T provincial offices

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

T

he Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency is set to establish provincial offices to intensify its campaign against illegal drugs.

This was bared by PDEA Director General Aaron Aquino in a media brie�ing on Tuesday.

Aquino said the establishment of provincial of�ice

means deployment of more personnel who will lead the �ight against illegal drugs especially in drug-affected provinces.

“Magdadagdag siguro

he Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Of�ice is set to earn revenue of up to PHP1-billion from various lottery games due to the 20-percent tax on lottery winnings set by the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law.

This was bared by PCSO General Manager Alexander Balutan.

While the agency is still awaiting the betting public’s reaction to the new tax law, Balutan explained the important thing is that the taxes will automatically go to the charity fund, which will be given out to the needy.

The winnings on the lottery games such as Lotto, Ken, Small Town Lottery, and Sweepstakes are affected by the 20-percent tax law.

“Sa buwan-buwan na ipinapatong sa [PCSO] na tax, nang kinompyut namin dati-rati ang ibinibigay namin na tax mula sa lahat ng atinglottery games ay PHP500 million. Ngayon, aabot na ng PHP1 billion (On a monthly basis, we have computed that in the past, taxes coming from the lottery games reach around PHP500 million. Now it can reach to P1 billion),” Balutan said in ambush interview on Monday.

The TRAIN law imposes 20-percent tax on all prizes from the PCSO’s lottery games worth PHP10,000 and above.

Last Friday, two lucky bettors won and shared the whopping PHP331,971,464

PCSO to profit P1B monthly from TRAIN T

ako ng isang para-enhance ang aming (I will add one team to enhance our) capabilities in terms of operations,” he said.

He said that there are less anti-illegal drugs operations in the provinces because they lack personnel for their operation.

Aquino cited the situa-

tion of Compostela Valley Provincial Drug Enforcement Of�ice (CVPDEO) which has only �ive personnel but the ‘drug affectation is very high’ in the whole region.

“If you will see the list drug affected barangay, Compostela Valley province ranks the highest yet we have only

PDEA,P10

WINGED ATTRACTION. A foreign tourist takes some photos of pigeons with his mobile phone at Rizal Park in Davao City on Tuesday. Rizal

PCSO,P10 Park’s resident pigeons are gaining popularity among locals and foreign tourists especially to those who love to take selfies. Lean Daval Jr

EDGEDAVAO

4 ECONOMY

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

Davao gears up for its summer festival

T THE HIGHER THEY COME. Aeon Luxe vice president for sales Andrew Bautista (right), together with president Ian Cruz, provides updates on the 32-storey high-rise condominium Aeon Towers and the company’s next big project, the Aeon Bleu, which will be located in Bacaca

Road. Cruz and Bautista interacted with the media in a news conference held at the Aeon Towers showroom along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City on Monday evening. Lean Daval Jr

ourism industry players in Davao Region is getting ready for a widest and longest festival for Davao tourists this summer.

Anchored on the theme, “Longest and Widest”, the tourism summer campaign was presented by Benjie Lizada, the president of the Visit Davao Summer Festival (VDSF) 2018, to the Department of Tourism (DoT).

This campaign will run for 10 weeks from April 15 to June 30 in 10 events classi�ied into sports and adventures with 12 activities; cultural and arts with 12 activities; and party, fun, and leisure with seven activities.

The VDFS is a region-wide activity of the private sector in coordination with different local government units. VDFS

is now on its �ifth year.

“The festival is bringing summer experience to a whole new level not only in Davao City but to the other parts of Davao Region, as well” he said.

Lizada said tourists would experience enticing discounts in beaches and islands, hotels and restaurants, shopping malls, and spa wellness centers.

Among the sports events are the National Skim Boarding Competition and the National Frisbee Invitational Tournament in Mati City while the swim and trek race will take place at the region’s newest destination, the Kopiat Island, Pindasan, Mabini, Compostela Valley Province.

The Regional Visit Davao

n economist of ING Bank Manila said strong capital out�lows are needed to address the continued weakness of the Philippine peso.

On Monday, the local currency �inished at 52.34, down from its 52.00 �inish at the end of last week and was the weakest compared to its 52.74 close on July 19, 2006.

In a research note, ING Bank Manila senior economist Joey Cuyegkeng does not expect Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to address the peso’s weakness.

“But in the absence of a hawkish BSP and a foreign exchange policy that shows more tolerance for a weaker PHP signi�icant capital in�lows are needed,” he said.

The economist said these in�lows might partly come

from the expected USD500600 million through the stock rights offerings (SRO) of two major domestic banks and the seasonally huge in�lows from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who are expected to send in more funds ahead of the end of the school year or by March and before the start of the next school year

by May. “The possibility of some relief is there,” Cuyegkeng said.

The economist, however, pointed out that these in�lows are not expected to provide long-term solution to the peso’s slide against the greenback.

This as market participants expect the US Federal Reserve to deliver around three rate hikes this year, the

Reforms on tax and transportation in the country opened more opportunities for electric vehicle players, Electric Vehicle Association of the the Philippines (EVAP) President Rommel Juan said.

Juan said the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law promotes the use of e-vehicles in the country with the exemption of e-vehicles from excise tax while imposing higher excise tax on motor vehicles.

He noted that with the exemption of e-vehicles in the new tax law, industry players can consider lowering the price of e-vehicles.

The EVAP chief added that the administration’s Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Mod-

ernization Program also offers opportunities to e-vehicle manufacturers as the government pushes for eco-friendly transportation.

Juan said that with the modernization of PUVs, e-vehicle assemblers could take a share in replacing some 200,000 outdated jeepneys in the country.

“And of course, the PUV Modernization Program aimed at replacing some 200,000 jeepneys is also a big potential for the electric jeepneys,” Juan said.

He also noted developments in the local sector including private sector’s investments to set up e-vehicle charging stations in strategic

ADB requested A to reinvent itself In pursuit of Asia-Pacific inclusive growth agenda

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Strong capital flow seen to address peso weakness

F

inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has underscored the need for the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to “reinvent” itself by pursuing new development programs to spell wider economic inclusion across the Asia-Pacific after helping transform the region into the “center of gravity” of the global economy.

Dominguez, who chairs the ADB Board of Governors this year, said that between now and its 51st Annual Meeting in May, the ADB will be holding a series of forums and conferences meant to

examine the changing global and regional realities and challenges and, more importantly, determine how the bank can play an “even more effective role” in helping attain inclusive growth for the

poorest communities in its member-economies.

He said these upcoming discussions on inclusive growth are in sync with the Duterte administration’s strategy on how to hurdle this kind of challenge, which is through (1) massive investments in infrastructure projects that will link communities to the mainstream of wealth creation, and (2) higher spending on social services such as healthcare and education to liberate millions from poverty at the soonest possible time.

“Over the past �ive decades, the ADB poured over 250 billion US dollars into the Asia-Paci�ic region. The programs of the Bank no doubt helped transform this region into one of the most progressive and dynamic regions of the world. Notwithstanding, the Asia-Paci�ic continues to be home to some of the poorest communities. There is a challenge for inclusiveness here,” Dominguez said at the press conference on Tuesday launching the Philippines’ hosting of the 2018 ADB An-

ADB,P12

BIR steps up tax drive in Region 12

T

he Bureau of Internal Revenue in Region 12 has stepped up its tax campaign as it moves to meet its revenue target of around P11.88 billion this year.

Esmeralda Tabule, BIR Revenue Region (RR)-18 regional director, said Monday their collection target increased by around P2 billion based on their revenue goal and actual collection in 2017 that reached P9.69 billion.

She said their total collection last year was up by 15.32 percent or nearly P1.3 billion when compared to the P8.4 billion generated in 2016.

The BIR revenue district

of�ice here posted the highest collection in 2017 with P2.7 billion, followed by Koronadal City with P2.3 billion.

“We have set a series of awareness and enforcement campaigns throughout the region to enhance our collection efforts and eventually achieve or even surpass our revenue goal for 2018,” Tabule said.

She said these includes the prompt and proper payment of income and related taxes, issuance of receipts by all registered businesses and tax compliance veri�ication.

The of�icial said they will also intensify the crackdown against tax evaders and the

enforcement of the “Oplan Kandado” or closure of erring businesses.

On Monday, BIR-RR18 launched its 2018 tax campaign by thanking local taxpayers for their sacri�ices and contributions to the government’s coffers.

Dubbed “Salamat Sa ’Yo,” the campaign mainly recognizes the challenges faced by taxpayers, especially the small business owners and compensation earners, in ful�illing their obligations to the government.

In line with this, the agency also launched the “Oplan AIR” or “Ako Issue Resibo”

drive to ensure that businesses would properly declare and settle their tax dues.

Tabule said all businesses are mandated to issue receipts for every sales transaction “no matter how small or big the amount is.”

“They (businesses) are obliged to issue a receipt even if their customers have not asked for them,” she stressed.

Tabule expressed con�idence of meeting their revenue goal this year despite the implementation of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion or Train law.

The law provides for the

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STRONG,P12

Reforms open up RP for e-vehicles prospects

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

ECONOMY 5

EDGEDAVAO

Gov’t mulls use of nuclear energy

T

he Department of Energy is crafting a “national position” on the use of nuclear energy in the country that will be submitted to President Rodrigo R. Duterte within the �irst quarter of 2018.

In an interview during the National Information Convention 2018 at the SMX Convention Center Davao on Monday, Energy Undersecretary Felix Wil-

DECONGEST BID. Councilor Conde Baluran reiterates the need to set up satellite bus terminals in different locations around the city as the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) needs to be decon-

liam Fuentebella cited the need to tap other sources of power to diversify the country’s power mix and attain energy resiliency.

He said the DOE is conducting a study on nuclear technology, along with the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology, and International Atomic Energy Agen-

GOV’T,P14

gested. Baluran made the remarks in his privilege speech during Tuesday’s regular session of the City Council at Sangguniang Panlungsod.

Lean Dacal Jr

Manila Water eyes Firm sees demand for Thailand expansion office spaces to grow An aerial view of a hydropower plant along Agus River, near scenic Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City in this photo taken on March 4, 2014. MindaNews file photo

A

yala-led Manila Water Company Inc. is venturing into the water industry of Thailand as part of its ongoing expansion in Southeast Asia.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Manila Water said it signed Monday a share purchase agreement with Electricity Generating Public Company Limited (EGCO) to acquire its 18.72-percent equity in Thailand-based Eastern Water Resources Development and Management Public Company Limited.

The company intends to �inance the transaction through internally generated funds and bank debt.

It said the closing of the acquisition is still subject to the “ful�illment of certain conditions precedent.”

“We recognize the opportunities this new market presents for us, and we are eager to share the technical expertise and service quality which Manila Water has developed over the last 20 years.

From the conglomerate perspective, Ayala sees this development as a strategic entry point into Thailand. With Manila Water leading the way,

we hope to leverage our various capabilities to enlarge our footprint in the country,” said Ayala President and Chief Operating Of�icer and Manila Water Board Chairman Fernando Zobel de Ayala.

East Water’s operations are strategically located along the Eastern Economic Corridor which is targeted to be a leading economic zone in the Southeast Asian region.

East Water, a publicly listed company whose shares are traded in the Stock Exchange of Thailand, is engaged in the provision of raw and tap water supply services in the eastern region of Thailand and home to a number of heavy

industries, including automotive, electronics and petrochemicals.

“Our entry into the Thailand water space aligns squarely with our internationalization strategy, with focus in Southeast Asia. East Water presents great potential, as its future growth will mainly come from the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), the Thai government’s initiative to further develop the country’s eastern seaboard into a leading economic zone in ASEAN,” said Manila Water President and Chief Executive Of�icer Ferdz dela Cruz.

Manila Water’s entry into

MANILA,P14

R

eal estate services �irm Leechiu Property Consultants (LCP) expects demand for of�ice space in Metro Manila growing by about 21 percent this year mainly due to the sustained demand from business process management (BPM) and online gaming segments.It projected total demand rising to 937,000 square meters (sqm) by end of the year, 20.9 percent higher than last year’s record high of 775,000 sqm.

“The security and the renewed con�idence in the

T

wise in adjacent areas along the national highway leading to Santa Teresita, Gonzaga and Santa Ana towns.

Third District Rep. Randolf S. Ting, guest of honor and speaker during the inauguration, said he welcomed the development as he expressed his belief that the project was a manifestation of good local governance.

He likewise challenged the banking community, particularly Land Bank of

the Philippines (LBP) to establish a branch within the market complex to cater to farmers and the rural daily wage-earners.

“You don’t have to go to Tuguegarao anymore for such services as you already have your own. Your area has all the potentials of making it big because of your proximity to growth areas like Aparri and Sta. Ana and you will play a role in the local economy when the Cagayan

airport in Lal-lo will open,” Ting said.

The market has 11 CCTV cameras installed in strategic areas as well as a convenient front parking space.

It also houses a “pasalubong center” to showcase Buguey products made by students, rural women workers and other private sector members.

Eva Antiporda, president of the Cagayan Provincial

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Stall rentals, residential sales boost SM earnings

Exec: New CDO public P market to spur economy

he PHP24-million Buguey Public Market II in Pattao, Buguey, Cagayan formally opened over the weekend as another venue for economic growth of the municipality.

Mayor Lloyd Antiporda said Barangay Pattao has been a traditional trading post in the area and the establishment of the new market is expected to boost development not only within the municipality but like-

Philippine government play a big part. And then companies globally will continue to move to drive down cost so by driving cost down, they will continue to bring jobs to the Philippines,” LPC Chief Executive Of�icer David Leechiu said in an interview Monday.

He said more and more multinational companies are expected to locate in the Philippines, thus driving the rise in demand for of�ice spaces.

Leechiu said that of this year’s 937,000 sqm projected

roperty conglomerate SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) on Monday said its pro�it grew 16 percent last year on the strong performance of its malls and residential businesses.

SM Prime told the local bourse its net income reached PHP27.6 billion in 2017 from PHP23.8 billion the previous year.

Consolidated revenues rose 14 percent year-onyear to PHP90.9 billion from PHP79.8 billion.

“SM Prime continues to bene�it from the sustained overall economic progress of the Philippines that resulted to higher spending power for most Filipino families.

This translated to consistent growth of our key businesses

that include higher rental revenues of our malls, increased residential units sales and growing contribution of our other business segments,” said SM Prime President Jeffrey Lim. SM Prime’s mall revenues, which contributed 58 percent to total revenues, increased by 9 percent to PHP53.2 billion in 2017 from PHP48.6 billion the previous year.

Rent income reached PHP45.2 billion last year, up 11 percent from PHP41 billion in 2016.

The conglomerate attributed higher revenue to rising contribution of rentals from new and expanded malls that were launched during the last two years.

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6 SUBURBIA RISING EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

Troops allow return of displaced lumads G ENERAL SANTOS CITY -- An Army of�icial �inally cleared some 22 tribal families from a remote village in Lake Sebu town in South Cotabato to return to their homes, nearly three months after being displaced due to �ighting between government troops and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

Lt. Col. James Otida, commanding of�icer of the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion (IB), said Tuesday it is now safe for the evacuees from Sitio Datal Bonlangon in Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu to return to their village and resume normal lives.

He said they have cleared the area of potential

HARVESTING ONIONS. Green onions, as “sibuyas” are known in English, are young shoots of bulb onions. They are milder tasting than large bulb onions. They have a small, not fully developed white bulb

end with long green stalks. Both parts are edible. Green onions are some of the crops planted by farmers in Balutakay, Bansalan, Davao del Sur. Photo by Henrylito D. Tacio

GenSan all set for 2018 Kalilangan fest

G

ENERAL SANTOS CITY -- It’s “all systems go” for the city’s week-long grand festivities in line with the 2018 Kalilangan Festival and 79th foundation anniversary celebration that will formally open on Thursday, Feb. 22.

City Councilor Shandee Llido-Pestano, Kalilangan festival director, said Tuesday, they are ready with the lined up activities for this year’s celebration, which mainly highlights the city’s rich history and cultural

heritage.

This year’s festival, which will run until Feb. 27, focuses on the theme: “Cultivating Culture, Inspiring New Ways.”

It was co-organized by the city government, Mind-

anao State University-General Santos and the Department of Tourism in Region 12.

“We have added various innovations and more attractions to make the celebration grander and more festive,” Pestano said.

She said these include historical and cultural activities that depict the city’s development in nearly eight decades from a coastal settlement to a booming commercial and industrial center.

As in the past celebrations, most of the lined up activities will be held anew at the city’s oval plaza grounds, where a carnival, �lea market and food strip initially opened last week.

Daily cultural and entertainment shows featuring “world-class” artists were in the entire duration of the festivities.

These include the usual crowd-drawing events such as the Doble Kara Singing Contest, Parada ng Lahi, Kad-

News Agency that those who attended the �irst public consultation were from the employer and labor sectors and other stakeholders.

Ijirani said they discussed the socio-economic indicators such as the in�lation rate and consumer price index during the consultation.

He said all the data taken during the consultations would be collated to be used as basis in the decision-making by the wage board.

He said they are taking actions motu propio despite there was no petition for wage hike from the workers sector.

The last time the RTWPB issued a wage order in the region was on October 1, 2016.

The existing wages of workers based on Wage Order No. 19 are as follows: PHP277, plantation workers; PHP267, non-plantation workers; PHP283, retail service establishments; PHP267, cottage handicraft enterprises; and, PHP296,

non-agricultural including private hospitals, educational institutions, security agencies, janitorial and retail/service establishments.

The wage board consisted of two representatives each from the employers and workers sectors, and one each from the National Economic Development Authority and Department of Trade and Industry.

Ofelia Domingo, as Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional director, sits as the Board chair. (PNA)

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Wage board holds public consultation in Zamboanga

Z

AMBOANGA CITY -The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) started on Tuesday the conduct of public consultations to determine whether there is a need for a wage hike in Region 9.

The �irst consultation was held in this city. It will be followed on March 7 in Isabela City; March 13, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay; March 14, Pagadian City; and, March 15, Dipolog City.

Joel Ijirani, RTWPB secretary, told the Philippine

security threats, especially the presence of NPA rebels.

Residents of sitio Bonlangon, who were all members of the Taboli-Manobo tribe, were forced to evacuate to nearby Sitio Tulali on Dec. 3 last year following a clash between suspected NPA rebels and troops from the Army’s 33rd and 27IB. Two Army troopers and nine suspected NPA members, including tribal leader Victor Danyan, were killed in the reported encounter.

“Rest assured that we will continue to secure the area against any possible threats,” Otida said.

He speci�ically cited concerns earlier raised by resi-

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4 cops dismissed, 7 face termination in Region 12

G

ENERAL SANTOS CITY -- Four police personnel in Region 12 have been ordered dismissed from service while seven more are facing termination proceedings due to various administrative charges.

Chief Insp. Aldrin Gonzales, public information of�icer of the Police Regional Of�ice (PRO)-12, said Tuesday these cases were among the 25 administrative complaints that were resolved by the regional police as of December 2017.

He said these were �iled by civilians and the PRO-12 to the Regional Internal Affairs Service (RIAS) and the

Regional Investigation and Detection Management Division (RIDMD).

“These have been forwarded to the Of�ice of Discipline and Law and Order Section for �inal resolution,” he said.

Of the 25 resolved cases, Gonzales said seven policemen were recommended for termination, seven were suspended, four were exonerated, one had his case dismissed and two were reprimanded.

He said nine of these involved grave offenses, seven for summary termination proceeding, �ive for simple

4,P14

Bronze Cross medal awarded to Fleet-Marine team

Z

AMBOANGA CITY -The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) awarded on Monday the Bronze Cross Medal to the gallant sailors who foiled a hijack attempt of a cargo vessel by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)-linked pirates off Basilan province.

The awardees were the personnel assigned with the three patrol crafts--PC381, PC386 and BA485--and Naval Special Operations Unit6 (NAVSOU6) of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (Navforwem).

Lt. Commander Ferraren and Lieutenant Jeffrey Mendoza, skippers of PC386 and BA485, respectively, received the awards on behalf of the gallant sailors.

The others who received the award were GM1 Heremias Quijada, Petty Of�icein-Charge (POIC) Gunnery, PC386) and S1UO Jay Ancheta of the NAVSOU6.

Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief, and Read Adm. Rene Medina,

Navforwem commander, led the awarding ceremony, which was held during Monday’s �lag raising ceremony at Camp Basilio Navarro.

Camp Navarro houses the Westmincom headquarters in this city.

“I am happy for the ability displayed by Rear Adm. Medina as the leader of the Anti-kidnapping Joint Task Force. The quick and immediate response only proves the readiness and effectiveness of our Fleet-Marine Team,” Galvez said.

He said the award accorded to the gallant sailors “merits their sel�less devotion to duty at all times to protect our waters against any threat and terror acts.”

“I hope these soldiers will serve as an example to all who are ready to serve anytime and as the need arises,” he said.

The timely response of the sailors coupled with evasive maneuver have prevented the ASG-linked pirates

BRONZE,P14

7 MOTORING

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

Rossi, Vinales take PH by storm

V

alentino Rossi and Maverick Vinales return to Manila and this time they took the time to see a bit of Manila by riding the LRT. But this wasn’t your ordinary commute around the city.

This was something historic in every way.

Yamaha Motor Philippines Inc. (YMPH) partnered with the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRT) to create the Yamaha Monumento Station.

It was a �irst for the brand who also had its own signature train that bared the

designs of its latest campaign “We Are MIO”. By having their own station, Yamaha can share their riding culture with every Filipino who will see campaigns and products daily.

The MotoGP riders started their journey with a short ride from the Roosevelt station. When the train doors opened for them in the Ya-

maha Monument Station they saw the transformation of the facility which was now �illed with Yamaha’s designs. Part of the launch ceremony was the unveiling of their very own Yamaha Star and they signed standees that bared their likeness.

Throughout their short but eventful train ride they were joined by members of the media who captured and experienced the moment alongside the racing

stars.

After, they set their sights on the Motorcycle Capital of the Philippines. The 10th Avenue in Caloocan is a hotbed for all things motorcycles.

A haven that housed everything for riders in the country.

The entire avenue which stretched out for 3 city blocks had its own pop-up festival to celebrate the arrival of the riders.

Hundreds upon hundreds of fans formed a sea of enthusiasts

all eager to see their idols.

Then, it was time to rev. Valentino Rossi and Maverick Vinales slowly ascended from under the stage to the roar of the crowd. An explosion of confetti, �lashing lights, and cheers engulfed the entire avenue. The public appearance of the two riders wasn’t only massive and it was also the most intimate as well. This year, they had more opportunities to personally meet some of the Filipino fans.

They answered questions from Yamaha Club members which as mixture of fun and excitement. To continue their support for the cultivation of racing in the Philippines, they awarded medals to the 12 qualifying riders for the Yamaha Grand Prix. An art contest was the opportunity for the fans to show their love for the riders on Valentines they and the top 3 designs were recognized on stage with the artists smiling alongside their heroes. They also gave away signed shirts to lucky online contes-

tants and stayed for a while to sign helmets and other items from those in the crowd.

After a whirlwind of a time in 10th Avenue, they joined the Yamaha Dealers for the ‘Be Unstoppable’ 2018 Dealers Convention in Seda Hotel. As icons for Global Racing Excellence and the faces of the ‘Blu is Fast’ Campaign, they were living testaments for the performance that Yamaha motorcycles provide.

To cap it all off, they made sure to spend personal time with the media. They expressed how much they enjoy going to the Philippines even if it was always a short stay. And they raved about the warmth they received from Filipinos who always supported the brand and their efforts in racing across the globe.

What’s next for Valentino Rossi and Maverick Vinales? To focus on the MotoGP season and they bring with them the motivation that was inspired by the joy and passion of their Filipino Fans.

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

I

What lastico means

t was no surprise seeing Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go in the quagmire of controversy. Reason is, he is the closest person to the President.

The pun is that he is “the only way” to the President.

So when Sec. Go’s name was dragged into the delayed Frigate deal of the Philippine Navy, many people--including perhaps Sec. Go--saw it coming. On Monday, he went to the Senate Hearing upon the invitation of Senator Gregorio Honasan, chair of the Senate Defense Committee, to answer a query into the controversy and easily came out unscathed. Unruf�led even. His dapper barong not even creased and his gelled hair untouched after the seven-hour grilling. Even the President’s number one critic Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV could hardly rattle Sec. Go. In fact, after the hearing, he was taken to Sec. Go’s favorite pastime--sel�ie.

Poor Sen. Trillanes had to oblige albeit he obviously looked uncooperative, unhappy that his mission failed again.

Yes, as the only person beside the President for years,

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

Sec. Go’s decisions and actions are always interpreted to have PRRD’s blessings. That routing slip which was interpreted as an instruction over the Frigate deal from Malacañang to Defense Secretary Del�in Lorenza was warped into a controversy.

Sec. Go, inadvertently wearing rubber bands on his right arm that day, showed plenty of class and dismissed the allegations by simply saying all of the persons who can point to his in�luence peddling are in the same room and anyone who can attest to the truth of the allegations may speak up.

Nobody did and nobody can.

Those rubber bands speak of the man. He is a �lexible aide who has a can-do attitude that is why he clicked with the President. He makes things happen and he does his job. But people who knew him personally knows he never abuses that trust and con�idence.

He simply does his job and makes life easier for his boss and the people. Like a rubber band.

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 Correspondents Lifestyle LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. ARLENE D. PASAJE 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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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

N

owadays, numbers matter more than they did a few years back.

Gross Domestic Product numbers, stock exchange indices and the dollar exchange and in�lation rates seem to interest more people than it did, as they tend to re�lect the health of our econony.

Perhaps it is because this new government was elected with high expectations that these numbers seem to be a running scorecard on whether or not it delivers.

On thing for sure is that the omnipresence of social media allows more people to read and react to news at an unprecedented rate.

Our smartfones become our window to the world,

D

avao City is the venue of this year’s Davao Regional Athletic Association (DAVRAA) and even it started some 33 athletes from Mati City were taken to the hospital. The cause: food poisoning.

According to Atty. Lawrence Bantiding, assistant city administrator for operations and overall in-charge for DAVRAA 2018 preparations on the side of the local government unit, those affected delegates, including three coaches and a kitchen staff, had eaten meals that were “procured, prepared and served by the Mati contingent managers.”

“Food poisoning may be the result of eating food or drinking water that’s been contaminated with infectious bacteria,” explains “The Doctors Book of Home Remedies.” “Some bacteria work by secreting toxins that affect the whole body, including the digestive tract. Others work by directly attacking the lining of the intestines.”

Typically, a person experiences abdominal cramps, diarrhea or vomiting within 24 to 48 hours after dining. He or she may also experience

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

VANTAGE POINTS

9

We now watch the numbers more closely (part 1) feeding us with megabits of information which we sometimes, through our own lack of background knowledge, tend to misinterpret.

Luckily, we can also verify a lot of information, dig deep for ourselves to determine dsct from �luff.

With these eyes and knowing these truths we now read the surveys of the Social Weather Stations (SWS). Apart from pre election surveys and exit polls, it has, sInce 1989, been asking respondents of each quarterly survey whether any household member became a victim of street robbery, home break-in, or violence in the past 6 months.

In 1992, SWS added mo-

MY TWO CENTS’ John Carlo B. Tria tor vehicle theft to its list of crimes speci�ically monitored.

In a good number of these surveys, the SWS in its re-

lease claims that “ victimization by common crimes reported in SWS surveys is much higher than the number of crimes actually reported to the police.”

That said, the SWS surveys serve as third party mirrors held up against of�icial ststistics. We take note of variances between these sources to help form our perspective on whether crime volumes have gone up or down in the country for the preceding period. The release reads thus: “The Fourth Quarter 2017 Social Weather Survey, done on December 8-16, 2017, found 7.1% (est. 1.6 million) of families losing property to street robbery (pickpocket

or robbery of personal property), burglars (break-ins), or carnappers within the past six months.

[Chart 1, Table 1] This is 1.3 points above the 5.8% (est. 1.3 million) in September 2017, and the highest property crime rate since the 10.9% in June 2016.

However, due to the record-low property crime rate of 3.1% in June 2017, the resulting annual average for 2017 was a record-low 5.6%.

This is 2 points below the 7.6% annual average in 2016, and 0.6 point below the previous record-low annual average of 6.2% in 2015. (to be continued) For reactions: facebook. com/johntriapage

the restaurant for your tummy trouble. The truth is, says Dr. Daniel Rodrigue, medical epidemiologist for Enteric Disease Branch of the Center for Infectious Diseases, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “many cases of food poisoning probably come from carelessness in your own home.”

Dr. Kenneth Hartigan-Go, a medical toxicologist, suggests that you buy only from reputable food sources. Aside from checking the physical condition of the product (dented, bulging, or deformed canned foods must be avoided), you must also check the open date marking (expiry date/consume before date or best before date) for perishable items.

For fruits and vegetables, Dr. Hartigan-Go advised to buy only those which are fresh. “Wash them thoroughly with running water before cooking or eating,” he urged.

Those who may be tempted to buy street foods while shopping, Dr. Hartigan-Go advised that consumers must �irst “investigate if (the food) was prepared, cooked, and handled in hygienic manner.”

Dr. Hartigan-Go also

shared some tips on how to prepare foods properly. “Wash your hands thoroughly before, during, and after food preparation, after using the toilet, and as often as necessary,” he said, adding that foods must be prepared “only in clean work area using clean containers, utensils, cutting boards and sponges, among others.”

The foods must be cooked in proper temperature, he said. “Keep food out of the danger zone temperature range – 5⁰C to 60⁰C – for more than two hours,” he suggested. “Remember the food golden rule: Keep hot food hot and cold food cold.”

When placed in the table and will not be eaten yet, Dr. Hartigan-Go advised that the foods be covered “to prevent insects from coming in, which could result to microbiological contamination.”

Should there be some leftovers, these should be refrigerated or stored properly and promptly. “Immediately discard spoiled and suspected to be spoiled food,” Dr. Hartigan-Go suggested.

“Re-heating or re-cooking them will not help.”

Food poisoning

sweating, itching or even a slight fever. Generally, these symptoms usually end after a day or two.

Food poisoning can strike anyone. “How you feel can range widely, depending on the type of bacteria you are infected with and your own state of health,” points out Dr. William B. Ruderman, chairman of Gastroenterology at the Cleveland Clinic-Florida in Fort Lauderdale. “It usually hits hardest when your immune system is already weak from previous illness or immunity-weakening drugs.”

According to Dr. Ruderman, when you �ind yourself infected with bacteria or a virus that causes food poisoning, you may simply have to be miserable for a short time, until your immune system responds and �ights off the infection.

But there are people that need special attention. “For the very young, the elderly, or someone suffering a chronic condition or immune disorder, food poisoning can be very serious,” warns Dr. Lynne Mofenson, associate branch chief for clinical research at the US National Institutes of Health. “These

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

people should contact a doctor at the �irst signs of food poisoning.”

Even if it is just a common case of food poisoning but if you experience most of these additional symptoms, you must immediately see a doctor: dif�iculty swallowing, speaking, or breathing; fever above 100 degrees Fahrenheit; severe vomiting (meaning you can’t even hold down any liquid); severe diarrhea for more than a day or two; persistent, localized abdominal pain; dehydration (extreme thirst, a dry mouth, or decreased urination); and bloody diarrhea.

You can’t always blame

10NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

where the photo was actually taken and the time stamp therefore the user cannot send fake photo.

And upon sending the information to the right government agency they will attach the personal details of the one who submitted it so that the authorities will know who to contact regarding the sent

report.

“This app is basically empowering the people and the government. We are actually turning the people into mobile CCTV units for the governments, since we know that the Philippines that developed yet in terms of this type of infrastructure,” he said.

ministration.

“Build Build Build” is the Duterte administration’s biggest infrastructure push in Philippine history to propel economic growth in the next five-and-a-half years.

Lamentillo said the DPWH has been “all out” in utilizing drone monitoring and satellite technology in monitoring the government’s infrastructure projects, to avoid ghost projects.

In November 2017, the DPWH has launched a geographic information system employing geo-tagging technology, which would detect ghost projects real time.

The DPWH’s Infra-Track App plots photos submitted for monitoring in the exact geographic coordinates where it was taken.

System automatically alerts us when a project is misreported from a different location.

In her talk, Lamentillo urged government communicators to be “accountable to the public as we share solutions to the daily challenges of Filipinos”.

“It is important that they understand our key messages and how this will pave the way for a more comfortable life for all,” she said.

“Government communication has to change. Undoubtedly there has been noise about the Duterte administration. But what is clear is that this government has the will to get things done now, and fast,” said Lamentillo.

Around 1,800 information officers and other people are attending the event, which runs from Feb. 19 to 21.

The “Build, Build, Build” program includes projects, such as the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway Project, Mega Manila Subway, Mindanao Railway and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority Smart City Solutions. It targets to address challenges in employment, traffic, and inflation.

The projects, estimated to cost PHP8.4 trillion, are targeted to be completed from 2017-2022. (PNA)

terfered in the warships deal.

Mercado was referring to allegations that Go tried to meddle in the acquisition of the Combat Management System (CMS) for the two missile-capable frigates.

Rappler, in a statement on its site, insisted that they had “authenticated documents” to prove that Go was indeed involved in the warship deal.

However, Roque said the documents Rappler used merely con�irmed that the government was acting on a complaint.

“There is no involvement there. What the documents prove was that there was a complaint, it was referred for attention and that’s the full extent of

what you claim to be intervention,” Roque said.

“Your intervention contemplates favoring one company over another but it was very clear that there was a complaint, it was referred to the line agency because that is what we do. That is not intervention to favor a company,” he added.

Roque slammed Rappler for “editorializing” stories, saying that the document did not even emanate from Go. “Your story failed when the most interested party in this controversy when (former FOIC Vice Admiral) Mercado belied claim of intervention. That’s why Malacañang said fake news,” he added. (PNA)

five PDEA operatives in the area,” he said.

He also bared that the PDEA will purchase around 120 Narcotics Detection Dog that will be used in their operations.

“We will enhance our K9 units and we will provide maybe five or 10 narcotics dog here in region 11,” he said.

Aquino said this is part of their drug-free Philippines campaign before the term of President Rodrigo R. Duterte ends in 2022.

Also, he also said the PDEA vowed to clear all barangays in the country that are affected with ille-

gal drugs.

Aquino said that on the national level, we still have about 24,000 barangays to be cleared out of the 29,000 barangays affected.

“We need to clear that within four year so that before the president will step down in 2022 we can create a drug-free Philippines,” he said.

Aquino said that so far, their agency has declared more than 5,000 drug-free barangays for the past two years.

This is now a big challenge for us because we have clear about 5,000 to 6,000 barangays,” he said.

jackpot in the PCSO’s Ultra Lotto 6/58 draw. The winners are now subject to the new tax law.

“Wala na tayong magawa, batas na ‘yan. Ang problema lang, ma-dissuade ang betting public na hindi na tu-

maya. Pero ang katwiran ng ating mga mambabatas, windfall ‘yan. Kung nanalo ka ng PHP100 million ibigay mo na sa gobyerno ‘yung PHP20 million, masaya ka pa rin(We cannot do anything about it because it is now a law. (PNA)

GOV’T... FROM 2

UPDATE. Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Director General Aaron Aquino talks to Davao reporters during his conference at PDEA Regional Office 11. ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

CHANGE... FROM 1

Utility Buses (PUB) that come and go in the city during ordinary days and 1,200 PUB on special seasons such as Christmas and Holy Week.

“With the surmounted statistics, it is undeniable that public buses have become one of the prevailing reasons for traffic congestion,” he said.

He said the concentration of vehicle influx presses pressure on the terminal site to provide counter measures to accommodate the increase not only the commuters but also with the number of buses serving them.

“For 2017 alone, DCOTT

reached to almost P50 million and I am definite that there will an increase in revenues since there are more buses that will be coming in and out in the city due to more accessible roads,” he said.

He said DCOTT has become the official transport since 1986 and 32 years have passed the city has changed from a barren city to a vigorous and vibrant economic hub.

“That at a time goes by, adaptation to change is a must that must be dealt with urgency to cater present demands of its constituents,” he said.

OBSERVE... FROM 16

Atillo said the directive also includes the inspection of the billeting quarters which will be headed by the food in-charge from their office to check their mess halls and kitchens to ensure if they observed proper sanitation in cooking their food.

“This is to remind them of their critical responsibility because these are food,” he said.

More than 90 members of the Tagum City contingent experienced stomach pains and vomitting on Monday. Reports said 32 were rushed to Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC ).

It came two days after 38 members of the Mati City contingent were sent to hospital due to food poisoning caused by intake of leftover food.

“We based our records on the admiited list at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) and it was stated there that only 32 were brought there,” he said.

Atillo said if the report if really true that there over 90 members from their delegation really experience those illness, he believes that they were already treated inside their billeting quarters since there is a standby medical team from Central 911.

He said 31 of these athletes immediately discharged after they were treated in the hospital.

“Maliban sa Tagum (City),

naa pud tay reported nga cases from Davao del Norte nga adunay unom kabuok, Mati City usa, Comval (Compostela Valley) usa, Davao Oriental walo og dunay usa Ka coach nga wala pa nato makompirma kung asa nga delegation siya (Aside from Tagum City, we have reported same cases in Davao del Norte which has six, Mati City has one, Compostela Valley has one, Davao Oriental has eight and a coach who is not yet identified from which member of delegation he comes from), “ he said.

Atillo could not confirm if these people were brought to the hospital for immediate treatment.

He said these people might be treated in their billeting quarters and no need for serious medical assistance.

He said the DepEd 11 could not confirm as of the moment if the reason of their stomach pains and vomitting is still food poisoning.

“Our City Health Office (CHO) headed by Dr. Josephine Villfuerte is the only one who has the authority to conduct investigation on that matter,” he said.

Meanwhile, the CHO bared that the cause of the severe diarrhea experienced by the 38 member of the delegation of Mati City is the intake of left over foods.

Villfuerte said that based on their investigation, these people kept their food in the quarters

because they did not consume it because of the free dinner in their welcome party on February 14.

“They cook plenty of rice pero wala man nakaon, so giluto nila pagabuntag, gi-fried rice, gikaon sa uban (They cook plenty of rice on that evening but they did not consume it, so they re-cooked it, they fried it and some ate it),” he said.

Villfuerte said according to the people who were admitted that after they consumed the rice, they just discharged their waste and thought it was only normal.

“Nagkaroon din sila ng corned beef din na binaon din ng mga naglaro. So, siyempre mula anong oras siya niluto tapos nagkain sila

ano ng oras tapos mahabang panahon na naka-packed ang pagkain tapos mainit ang panahon (They also cooked corned beef and the players brought it to the playing areas and they ate it after they played. Of course they cooked it early and they consumed it late and it was packed for the long time and the weather was hot ),” he said.

Villafuerte said as of Sunday, 33 of them were already discharged while five of them were placed under observation.

However, she assured the public that these people are still able to play as soon they will be discharged.

tional Exhibition of Women Painters held in Majdanpek, Serbia.

She was the only Asian

among more than 250 women painters who joined the Serbia tilt.

modern technology,” he said.

He said that the actual technical development only took six months but this was only 30 percent of the work because they needed to connect to different government agencies, government channels to be able to have those agencies pump information to the app.

“Most of the time was spent in integrating third parties so that they will be able to connect to the government platform but creating the platform itself, for us was quite easy,” Saycon said.

He said that their group is currently working on the version two update of the application which will allow the users to take a photo. The photo can be used to commend people who are doing good deeds, it could be used to report a crime and it can also be used to report about unfinished projects or problems that are needed to be addressed.

ment to prepare for this because they don’t want to have a situation where in somebody reported something and there is no action taken.

“Let’s give the government a little bit more time to be able to build the support infrastructure that is needed to actually support this program because he is sure that majority of the people will download this app,” he said.

“This is secure because when you open the public eye functionality of the app we force open the camera and the Global Positioning System (GPS) functionality of the phone so when you take this photo we actually attach Geo-tag where the photo was actually taken and the time stamp therefore you cannot send fake Photo,” Saycon added.

He said that the receiver will know where and when the picture was taken because when the user open the public eye functionality the application, it will force open the camera and the Global Positioning System (GPS) functionality of the phone so when the user take a picture they will attach Geo-tag

DAVAO... FROM 2 PCOO... FROM 2

Saycon said that they will continue to provide innovated features that will improve the application. The update will be available within the year and they wanted the govern-

PALACE... FROM 2

PDEA... FROM 3

PCSO... FROM 3

INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

PEOPLE

EDGEDAVAO

Eagle love VALENTINES DAY HAS COME AND GONE. For some it was a day of romance and spending time with your loved one, for singletons like me however, it was just another ordinary day. Some may think its funny that it is difficult to find a match but when it comes to the critically endangered Philippine Eagle, finding the “right one” is truly extra challenging.

I learned this during my visit to the center on the 5th hatch day of Mabuhay, the only offspring of Philippine Eagle Pagasa, last February 9. Although many eagles in the center pair naturally with their kind, some eagles cannot be paired to a wild bird. Therefore to ensure that these eagles will be able to multiply, the center pair them with a human mate.

One keeper whom I was able to meet and talk to on that day was Bong Tadena who was giving a talk to the students of the Newfields STEM School of Davao, Malagos Elementary School, Ateneo de davao University-Grade School, Lighthouse Homeschool Network, Eden Project Hope Day Care who also attended the event.

A second-generation eagle keeper and to whom Mabuhay hand bonded with, his love for the eagles started at an early age as he was influenced by his Father, Mr. Domingo Tadena, the former Director for Conservation Breeding of the Philippine Eagle Foundation.

Bong is also the human mate of Mabuhay and serendipitously, it was his father Domingo who was paired to Diola, Pag-asa’s Mother.

I asked Bong how a day is like being a human partner to Mahubay. “I start my day early in the morning at six to check on the birds under my charge, not just Mabuhay. To see how they are and if they are healthy.

After the rounds, I bring food

Bong Tadena and his mate, Mabuhay.

Bong educating children and their parents on the importance of the Philippine Eagle.

Two generations of eagle keepers, Bong and his father Domingo Tadena. to the birds. For Mabuhay, I enter the cage with food for her and usually stay around her for ten to fifteen minutes to assure her of my presence and bond” Bong shared. “After feeding and spending time with Mabuhay, I leave and spend time with another imprinted Philip-

pine Eagle Imbodo.”

Bong revealed that on ordinary days, he would return to Mabuhay’s enclosure two to three more times. Each visit lasting around ten to fifteen minutes.

He says his visits become more frequent during the eagle’s

breeding season from around July to August. “That is when I would bring nesting material to the enclosure to stimulate the birds into copulation, although for Mabuhay, she is just nearing sexual maturity so we are still waiting for her to show signs that she is ready.”

Love comes in many forms and though humans and eagles may be different species, the love we share with these lords of the skies is something that should be passed down through

the generations and should not be lost.

“To ensure the future of our national bird, I believe that it is essential that we teach young minds to love and respect nature and wildlife. I hope to see these future leaders of society to someday become stewards and champions of our forests and of the Philippine Eagles as we continue to tirelessly work for the mission today.”, said Dennis Salvador, Executive Director of the PEF.

EDGEDAVAO

A2INdulge!

FOOD

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

Fresh from the sea to the table WITH THE WORLD SWOONING over the many healthy benefits from Poseidon’s lair, it’s only proper that we give something back to the King of the Sea. Of course, the ultimate question is how? Easiest would be to create delectable dishes from his bounty offering. And this is how Blue Post Boiling Crabs and Shrimps gives back to Poseidon.

This 2018, expect some new additions onto their growing menu.

Fresh from the Sea is a collection of fried favorites cooked with a true blooded Filipino palate in mind. Perfect as appetizers, Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimps encourages to pair these with a glass of cold beer.. or any drink of preference, if you may. One good pair is their lime mixed drink that enhances the flavours rather than overpower them.

The new additions will surely have you in an ultimate seafood craving. Salmon, being a most sought after amongst everyone, can be enjoyed either grilled or fried. Of the two, the salmon remained juicy and surprisingly no trace of the sea. Want an added depth on your salmon? Ask for a

Crispy Fried Crablets

Baked Oyesters

Grilled Salmon

wedge of lemon, squeeze over the fish and enjoy with some crispy garlic bites. And yeah, you are welcome.

Whole crab too much work for your delicate hands and growling tummy? Their bucket of crispy crablets is just the one you need. Best way to enjoy these babies (literally!) is to dump the whole bucket onto your table and eat. Just don’t forget the vinegar on the side.

Crablets not your cup of tea? Then their bucket of crispy fried baby octopus is a perfect conversation piece for a night of relaxation.

Notwithstanding their cuteness, these baby octopus are as much fun in the palate as they are on the table. Though fried, they are still soft to the core. Not even rubbery — as expected.

Any seafood feast won’t be complete without the presence of oysters.

Hail to these better-eatenwhen-f resh bounty but is still as-deliciouswhen-grilled-andtopped-with-cheese.

Amazingly big, each piece contains some of the biggest you’d see in any restaurant in the city. Not to mention the freshness that is a topmost quality that Blue Post Boiling Crabs and Shrimps guarantees to a T! Now we know why Ariel, Sebastian and Flounder loves the sea. Not only do they have a vast place to roam and play around with, the sea has more surprises than anyonecanthinkof.Andwith

Grilled Hokkaido Scallops

Fresh Oysters

Garlic Fried Baby Octopus

that, Blue Post Boiling Crabs and Shrimps pulls the biggest hare on the hat trick with their Hokkaido Clams.

Grilled to perfection, each piece is expected to make you fall in love with them every single time. The clams are magnificently juicy and reminiscent of a sea adventure minus the inevitable characteristics of the sea. Best way to enjoy them? Savour each bite and let the taste linger on your palate. The

more you imbibe the taste, the more you’d be surprised of the many texture it has. Now that’s how you get messy!

These new sea to table items are available at all of Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimps restaurants. Note however that Fresh and Grilled Oysters are only available at their Bajada store.

Next time you’d want to get messy and curb a craving and louder than life growling tummy, Blue Post Boiling Crabs and Shrimps will be waiting. Go ahead and get messy. It truly is fun to be messy!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

SKY PPV premiers ‘Love You to the Stars and Back’ this February

STAR CINEMA ON SKY PAY-PER-VIEW is not holding back on the love as they air JoshLia’s “Love You To The Stars And Back” and “Fallback” starring Zanjoe Marudo and Rhian Ramos from February 10 to March 2, 2018.

“Love You To The Stars And Back” is the second offering from the love team of Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto. After leading the successful “Vince & Kath & James” the two are back in a quirky romantic comedy that highlights the strength of love in the face of adversity.

Mika (Barretto) is an unusual girl with strange interests. After hearing news that upsets her, she goes off into the night to fulfill her late mother’s wish, get in touch with aliens. She meets Caloy (Garcia) along the way and gives him a lift after he gets injured. They

bond on their shared road trip and she eventually finds out that he has cancer. The two learn to face hardships and move on with the help of love.

The other half of the Valentine double feature of Star Cinema on SKY PPV is “Fallback” featuring Zanjoe Marudo and Rhian Ramos. The two

play former lovers, Alvin and Michelle. Worried her new boyfriend, Chris (Daniel Matsunaga) will leave her, Michelle resorts to a plan B or a ‘fallback.’

In a strange twist, her fallback is her ex. Will their current situation help bring back the flame between the two? Get the bundle offering now to

watch and find out.

These movies are available from February 10 to March 2 in high-definition and for unlimited viewing. The offer is available to all One SKY, SKYcable, SKYdirect subscribers for P199. Call 305-5456 or visit www. mysky.com.ph/starcinemappv to subscribe.

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

Advertise with

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Tel No. 082.221.3601/224.1413 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com marketing@edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

11 COMPETITIVE EDGE

AEON LUXE. FTC Group of Companies President and CEO Ian Y Cruz (third from left), VP for Marketing Maria Theresa Camarines (extreme left), and VP for Sales Andrew Bautista (extreme right) pose with members of Davao media during the Meet and Greet with the Press on Monday at the Aeon Luxe Showroom. Jomar Ebus

Aeon Towers to turn Bacaca land into premium development site

A

eon Towers top executives have announced they will be developing Aeon Bleu, its second project, a premium development at midcost price in a 1.6-hectare property in the Bacaca area, fronting Rolling Hills Subdivision.

The project will feature �ive buildings for residential and condominiums with buildings that will be developed in cascading style with the tallest building with 26 �loors. All in all the �ive buildings will be composed of 1.600 residential and condo units.

The project will be under FTC Company as the holding company with realty corporation Aeon Luxe Development Corp. that will soon be comprised of premium developments at the same time mid-cost developments like Aeon Bleu.

“Aeon Bleu is going to be the

�irst inland residential condotel resort in the city, a combination of a mixed-use development in Bacaca near Rolling Hills. There will be �ive buildings for the residential and condominium with a clubhouse within the property,” said Andrew P. Bautista, VP for sales of Aeon Luxe Properties Inc. The company is targeting to launch the project early of second quarter of this year, Bautista said.

“We are prepared to launch it anytime as soon as we get our permits that are expected in less than a month now. We are

now in the process of doing it at HLURB and the council,” he said.

Ian Y. Cruz, president of Aeon Luxe Properties Inc., said the �irm started studies on the project last year, with reviews, considerations, and projections, including the geostudy and how much soil would be �illed so that the water would not reach to the property since the development is going towards the river of the area.

They are also expected to turn over the condominium components of their high-rise 33- �loor Aeon Towers sometime

AEON,P14

Primer Group partners South Star now accepts with AUB for WeChat Pay GCash in Metro Manila

A

sia United Bank (AUB), one of the fastest growing universal banks in the Philippines, recently added the Primer Group of Companies, an ever expanding retail and distribution company of the world’s top and premium consumer brands and industrial products, to its roster of accredited merchants for mobile payment facility WeChat Pay. WeChat Pay is the mobile wallet inside Chinese social messaging app WeChat, which allows Chinese tourists in the Philippines to conveniently and seamlessly make cross-border payments. Launched in the Philippines for the �irst time by AUB last November 2017, WeChat Pay is a fast, secure, and conve-

nient way to pay for shopping, dining, hotel and airline bookings, and other tourism-related activities of the Chinese, now the second largest inbound tourists in the country.

Founded in 1985, the Primer Group has diversi�ied and expanded its portfolio from premium branded consumer goods to airconditioning, textile printing and manufacturing, digital printing, eco tourism, hospitality management, and “green” (environmental) consultancy. With presence in 13 countries in Asia, Australia, Europe, Middle East and Africa, the Primer Group has over 150 premium brands and around 500 free-standing stores in the world.

PRIMER,P14

S

outh Star Drug, one of the biggest drugstore chains in the Philippines, becomes the �irst drugstore in Metro Manila that allows customers to purchase medicines and other items using GCash scan to pay mode of payment.

The medicine retailer has over 450 stores nationwide and still growing. The use of GCash in South Star Drug’s Metro Manila outlets is being piloted in six branches – two in Pasig (C. Raymundo cor. F. Legaspi, Dr. Sixto Ave.), two in Makati (Herrera, Guadalupe Unimec), one in Pasay (Balabag Merville), and one in Las Pinas (Philamlife). By end of the year, all South Star Drug outlets are expected to accept

GCash scan to pay.

GCash is being operated by Mynt which is owned by Globe Telecom, Ant Financial and Ayala Corp. “Mynt’s partnership with South Star Drug is part of our company’s efforts to make payments more convenient, safer and easier. This brings us another step closer to our goal of making the Philippines a cashless country,” says Anthony Thomas, Chief Executive Of�icer of Mynt.

Christine Tueres, General Manager of South Star Drug said: “South Star is always working to improve customer experience and �ind ways of doing things better - that includes giving our

SOUTH,P14

Water service interruptions

In some Catalunan Grande, Riverside Calinan, and Communal areas February 22-24, 2018

D

avao City Water District informs the public of three separate sets of water service interruption.

First and second sets will be on February 22, 2018 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM to give way to improvement works that will allow for accommodation of additional service connections once completed.

The �irst set will affect some Catalunan Grande areas, speci�ically, the entire South Point Homes and portion of Sitio San Pedro (from San Pedro Chapel to South Point Homes). DCWD’s Engineering and Construction Department (ECD) crew will tap the water supply system supplying blocks 1 and 4 to 9 and portion of blocks 2 and 10 in Apo Highlands Subd., thus the water service interruption.

Affected in the second set are some Riverside Calinan areas, particularly, the road from junction of DavaoBukidnon Highway to Upper Riverside, Upper Riverside, Purok 6, Babad Compound, and Sitio Balentong. This water service interruption is needed to allow DCWD’s ECD crew to tap the newly installed pipeline to DCWD’s existing pipeline for the mainline extension at Sitio Balentong in Upper Riverside Calinan.

Third set is from 9:00 AM of February 23, 2018 un-

til 10:00 AM of February 24, 2018 due to the scheduled preventive maintenance servicing of Panacan Production Well No. 1. Affected are these Brgy. Communal areas: D’Leonor Inland Resort, Green Valley, Ilumina Estates, Aspen Heights, Doña Trinidad Village, Blue Diamond Village, Catitipan Homeowners Assn., Communal Barangay Hall, Communal Elementary School, Puroks 2, 3, 5 and 6, portion of Puroks 1 and 4, Communal Road, and portion of Country Homes Road.

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

The general public may visit DCWD website and of�icial Facebook page or call the Central Information Unit / Call Center through the 24-hour hotline 297-DCWD (3293) and press “1” on their phone dial for the latest daily water updates. Contact 09277988966, 0925-5113293, and 0908-4410653 for other updates, complaints, queries, and matters pertaining to DCWD services. (Shaira Angelica S. Magno)

12NEWS DAVAO... FROM 4

Climb Caravan will be held in ComVal Province thru the Bubayi Climb, an all-women climb to Mt. Amakan featuring a Duyan Fest at Lake Leonard, Small Leyte in Maco.

The Mars Attack National Climb Congress featuring Mt. Candalaga will the culminating event of the caravan. The Kopiat Island will be among the highlighted scuba diving destination for the Region-wide Dive Fest.

The VDFS will also partner with Mati City in an upcoming Dragon Boat Competition during the Pujada Bay Festival in June 2018.

The Island Garden City of Samal will co-host the Visit Davao Samal Marathon, the Air Asia Durian Man Cross Channel Triathlon, the annual Sand Sculpting Competition, Bigiw Regatta-Sail and Speed Competition and Madayaw Hugyaw Sayaw.

The municipal government of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur will organize two international sports

events - the Mt. Apo Sky and Vertical Race and the Mt. Apo Boulder Face Challenge.

Davao del Norte will feature the Kadagayaan Festival roster of events showcasing the province’s pitch as the country’s top agri-tourism site.

The Kabilin Festival of Davao Oriental is also part of the festivities that will highlight the region’s best summer spots - the Mt. Hamiguitan, Pusan Point, Cape San Agustin, and the Aliwagwag Falls.

Davao City will continue to offer the most-sought-after Day Tours of Malagos Chocolate Tour, the Davao City Du30 Tour, the Philippine Eagle Wildlife Tour.

There will also be Battle of the Strongest, the National Cross�it Competition as it will gather athletes from all over the Philippines, he said.

Lizada said the VDFS is a one of a kind collaboration between the private stakeholders and government or public sector service of�ices. (PNA)

earliest of which is projected to be announced in March as in�lation continues to improve.

Last January, rate of price increases in the US remained

steady at 2.1 percent, faster than expectations of 1.9 percent, and in line with the Fed’s long-term target of two percent. (PNA)

locations.

Meanwhile, the EVAP chief was one of the panelists in Nissan Futures in Singapore last week, wherein a study of Frost & Sullivan showed that the Philippines is at the top of ASEAN’s list in terms of willingness to consider an e-vehicle on their next pur-

chase.

“Frost and Sullivan’s study just proves that our association is on the right track, that we are doing something right in our efforts to promote e-vehicles and e-vehicle technology nationwide.

Our efforts are now bearing fruit,” Juan said. (PNA)

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

ADB... FROM 4 nual Meeting.

Dominguez said at the press conference, which was held at the Ayuntamiento building of the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) in Intramuros, Manila, that the Philippines’ hosting of the ADB annual event is “fortuitous” for the country as it will provide the government the opportunity to set the spotlight on the domestic economy’s strong growth and its reform agenda to sustain and make it inclusive by improving living standards and dramatically bringing down the poverty rate by 2022.

“With solid fiscal management, a slew of reforms affecting the ease of doing business and administrative innovation to make government truly work for the people, we are proud to showcase the gains we have achieved,” Dominguez said.

He said the Philippines itself has benefited immensely from its strong partnership with ADB, which has been one of the country’s biggest sources of official development assistance (ODA) over the past five decades.

“The regional bank financed some of our most important infrastructure projects and given us grants to study many facets of our development,” Dominguez said.

According to Dominguez, as this year’s host, the Philippines will lead the discussions around the 2018 theme “Linking People and Economies for Inclusive Development,” and will invite “some of the world’s best and most influential minds to enrich our deliberations.”

Dominguez expressed confidence that these preliminary discussions to be held before the annual meeting of the ADB Board of Governors on May 3-6 will help

enlighten the agenda of this year’s conference.

“After five decades, this is a good time to explore possibilities for reinventing the Bank and inaugurating new programs to enable the Bank to play an even more effective role in Asia’s unfolding,” he said.

Dominguez said the Board is intent on crafting more inclusive modes of development in the course of its deliberations in response to several global trends, among them (1) the Asia-Pacific’s rise as the “center of gravity of the global economy and its most important growth driver,” (2) the increasing hostility to free trade in some of the countries in the West, and (3) the emergence of new multilateral institutions such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

“We look forward to working closely with all the delegations from the member-countries and observers from all over the world to ensure the successful conduct of the 51st Annual Meeting,” Dominguez said. “We warmly welcome all the delegates to the country and offer the best we have to ensure this meeting will be both productive and enjoyable.”

Besides this year’s event, 15 previous Annual Meetings were also held in Manila, with the most recent one in 2012 and an earlier small-scale meeting in 2003.

The event will be attended by the finance and development ministers and central bank governors of the Bank’s 67 members, of which 48 are from the Asia-Pacific region.

Representatives from the Bank’s development partners, private sector and civil society orga-

nizations, media, and the academe will also troop to Manila to take part in the four-day event.

The series of ADB events, which will be preceded by several preliminary ones beginning with today’s press launch, include the opening session and the business sessions, which will be attended by the ADB governors to discuss governance concerns and the Bank’s operational directions.

Several host-country events have also been organized to discuss the Philippines’ economic directions and promote its business, trade, and investment prospects.

This year’s host, the Philippines, is one of Asia’s fastest growing economies and has been named as a “rising star” in foreign direct investments by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific.

The Philippines has earned this distinction, given its strong macroeconomic fundamentals, investment-grade credit ratings, within-target inflation, healthy fiscal balance and manageable debt, stable financial system and a young, vibrant, highly skilled workforce.

With President Duterte’s

strong political will to implement game-changing reforms, the Philippines is poised to sustain its robust economic growth anchored on a five-year, P8.4 trillion (over $168 billion) “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure modernization program and higher spending on human capital development and social protection.

Among such reforms is the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN), which reduces personal income taxes to make these on the par with Southeast Asian rates, while providing for revenue-enhancing measures to help support its “Build Build Build” program.

The Duterte administration is also set to push within the year the swift approval by the Congress of its remaining tax reform packages that cover corporate taxation and the modernization of fiscal incentives, property and capital income The ADB has said further progress in the “Build Build Build” Program and advancing comprehensive tax reforms will be vital to sustaining the Philippines’ strong growth. (DOF)

exemption from taxes of workers earning P250,000 in annual income.

“We already anticipated a signi�icant drop in our collections for withholding tax but these will be compensated by the new excise taxes,” she said, referring to the excise tax on fuel as well as drinks with caloric and non-caloric sweeteners.

She said they were also encouraged by their collection record for January that reached

around P880 million or P115.2 more than their revenue goal for the month.

The Koronadal City revenue district of�ice topped the collections for the month with P281 million, followed by this city with P223 million.

Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and North Cotabato, and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. (MindaNews)

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

NEWS 13

EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

is in need of

Account Executives (3) Qualifications: • BS Marketing Graduate • Male/Female • With pleasing personality • With salary + commision

Send your 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

14 NEWS

MILKING GOATS. Goat’s milk -- which is easily digestible -- is both nutritious and appetizing food. Like any food, getting it should be done under clean conditions. To keep the goat quiet during milking, its neck should be held between two upright poles, just like what this

GOV’T... FROM 5

cy (IAEA) IAEA is a169-country international organization that promotes “the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and to inhibit its use for any military purpose, including weapons.”

Countries such as Russia, China, and US have expressed interest in nuclear power and are assisting the DOE in the study, Fuentebella said.

He said they need to conduct a study to come up with a comprehensive and science-based de-

cision on the nuclear issue and to consider public acceptance of this technology.

He said the country needs to include nuclear power to its energy mix because “nagkakaroon tayo ng problema sa natural gas, nagkakaroon tayo ng problema sa planta” (we have problem in natural gas, we have problem in our plants).

“Meron ba tayong nuclear option (Do we have a nuclear option)?” he asked. (MindaNews)

wins, but they’re still just third in the conference and couldn’t gain any ground on the Raptors, who have won seven straight to pass the Celtics. Toronto is an NBA-best 24-4 at home and could make the Cavs’ NBA Finals plans difficult if they have to go through Canada. ‘’We would hope so, but we’ve got to get there,’’ Raptors All-Star

guard Kyle Lowry said. ‘’We’ve got to finish the season strong.’’

Much of the work is already done, since the NBA’s earlier start to this season means teams are well beyond the midway point of their schedules. They will have about 25 games remaining, with so much to sort out in both conferences.

Thailand comes after its foray into bulk water and concession projects in Vietnam.

It has also completed pilot

projects in Bandung, Indonesia for a non-revenue water reduction program; and in Yangon, Myanmar for leakage reduction. (PNA)

demand for of�ice space in Metro Manila, already 415,000 sqm were pre-committed as early as January this year, the largest pre-commitment activity in history.

He expects the BPM industry demand, which posted a 26-percent drop in take-up from 2016 to 2017, to bounce back to 485,000

sqm from 2017 to 2020.

“BPM players already invested in the Philippines will continue to dominate the Metro Manila of�ice sector,” added Leechiu.

“In the meantime, they are also expanding to provincial locations such as Clark in Pampanga, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna and notably, Cebu City.” (PNA)

SM Prime has 67 malls in the Philippines offering 8 million square meters (sqm) of gross �loor area (GFA), and seven malls in China with 1.3 sqm of GFA at the end of 2017.

SM Prime’s residential group, led by SM Development Corp., posted a revenue growth of 18 percent to PHP30 billion in 2017 from PHP25.4 billion in 2016.

(PNA)

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

American volunteer is doing at the goat farm of Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center in Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur. Photo by Henrylito D. Tacio

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Tourism Council, said being a project of the Municipal Local Tourism Council, the center will be managed by barangay officials of Pattao.

Mayor Antiporda said that the

people of Buguey should now take advantage of what the said market offers as he likewise called on interested investors to pour their money into the business area. (PNA)

sagayan Streetdancing Competition, Kapehan sa Kalilangan and the Agri-Fair.

Special activities were set for the opening of the festival on Feb. 22 and the culmination on Feb. 27, which was the city’s 79th foundation day.

It was in honor of the historic landing in the shores of

Sarangani of the city’s 62 pioneer settlers coming from Luzon and Visayas led by Gen. Paulino Santos on Feb. 27, 1939.

The Kalilangan Festival, which is now on its 29th year, was derived from the Maguindanaon word kalilang, which means celebration.(PNA)

dents of another clash between government troops and NPA rebels.

The evacuees also noted the possible “continued harassments” by private security personnel of a nearby Consunji-owned coffee plantation.

Sitio leaders of Bonlangon and nearby Tuburan,and Tawan Dagat decried the con-

stant threats they receive from the armed group that patrols 21-hectare plantation that they claim as part of their ancestral domain.

The South Cotabato Provincial Police Of�ice had encouraged the sitio leaders to �ile complaints against the said group and assured them of police assistance in the process. (FKA/PNA)

offenses, three for less grave offense and one for “conduct unbecoming of a police of�icer.”

The police of�icial said the RIAS handled the complaints �iled by civilians while the RIDMD catered to cases endorsed

by PRO-12.

He said three of the resolved cases involved police commissioned of�icers or those with the ranks of Police Inspec-

tor and above.

Most of the administrative cases that were �iled involved non-commissioned personnel with the rank of Police Of�icer 1.

Gonzales said Chief Supt.

Marcelo Morales, Region police director, has ordered the speedy resolution of pending administrative cases involving erring police personnel. (PNA)

in December, this year. Aeon Tower houses 666 units, with a total project cost of P4.5 billion including the hotel, furniture fit-out, and other feature.

Altus Capital Corporation, its partner, invested on 224 total units wherein 144 units are as-

signed as service apartments and hotel rooms, while the remaining 80 units are kept as condominium that Altus will be renting out or selling out later.

For the operation side, Cruz said, all in all the hotel (Vivid Hotels) and service apartment will

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have 288 units. Four basements of Aeon Towers will be assigned as parking area with close to 400 units of carparks (100 units per floor). Vivid Hotel’s soft opening is set in September this year.

Aeon Towers ( including the hotel component) will be operated by Vanguard Corporation, an American professional operator that operates hotels even in Asia.

“Aeon is just a developer and part owner of the hotel and Aeon Towers will be operated by a third party Vanguard. We launched Aeon Towers in 2011 and now we are running 2018 the reason for the delay is we have to ensure the safety of our property. We dug about 60 meters above ground for the foundation and basement is 60 meters.

That is how tedious for us to make our four storeys,” Bautista said.

We are done with the structure and are doing finalization of fit out works, interior and design, he said.

“One of the causes of the delay is we have to change so many designs from the original one. Because we have to adapt the trend now. We are very young developer but in terms of project we promise

value for money, quality, and beauty of the project,” he said.

Premium development Tagged a state-of-the-art architectural masterpiece, the building is cast in glass and is now in continuous installation. Aeon Towers has amenities such as swimming pools for kids and adults, a fitness gym, a library, restaurant and a skydeck that gives full view of the city and the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS). While hotel accommodations will offer hospitality services such as house cleaning or any other room services. In condominiums, do it yourself is highly recommended for those weeklong stays.

Because of these features, Aeon Towers is being positioned as premium development.

“When we talk of Aeon Towers, considered premium development, we talk mostly of glass towers not a typical pigeonhole buildings that you see around. That is one pride of the company, one pride of the owner, one dream of the developer that it has tobe different among others especiall that one of the advocacy is our building to become a pride of Davaoenos,” Mr. Bautista said.

to hijack a cargo vessel, M/V Kudos 1, in the evening of February 18 near Sibago Island, Mohammad Ajul, Basilan.

The M/V Kudos 1 was on

its maiden voyage from Davao to Manila when around 12 pirates aboard on three motorboats pursued and tried to board the ship.

(PNA)

On the retail front, the Primer Group carries established brands such as Columbia, Delsey, Dr. Martens, FitFlop, Fox Racing Herschel Supply Co., Jansport, Quiksilver, Roxy, The North Face, TUMI, and Victorinox,as well as the concept stores Bratpack, Flight 001, GRIND, Ladybag, Recreational Outdoor eXchange (R.O.X.), Res|Toe|Run, Sneakpeek, and The Travel Club.

“In the dynamic and fiercely competitive retail sector, it’s a must to cast a wider net and allow shoppers to purchase at their utmost

convenience or at a mere click of a button,” said Mags Surtida, Head of AUB Credit Cards Business.

“WeChat Pay is all about that: catering to a steadily thriving tourist base with an innovative, flexible way to pay.”

The Chinese tourism market in the Philippines has enjoyed a tremendous growth of more than 30 percent in recent years, trailing Koreans in the number of visits to the country. In 2017, Chinese tourist arrivals reached almost the 1 million mark .

customers more payment options.

With GCash QR code feature, even without cash or credit card, our customers can make a purchase in any of our stores with just a few taps on their smart phones”.

Using GCash is easy. A customer with an iPhone or an Android smartphone only needs to download or update to the latest

version of the GCash App, register for an account, and fund their GCash wallet at any of over 12,000 GCash Partner Outlets nationwide.

This includes Robinsons Business Centers. Once done, the customer just has to tap on Scan QR, point a phone’s camera at the partner’s QR code, and key in the amount to be paid.

that will select the most outstanding eight boys and eight girls as Jr. NBA All-Stars from the Regional Selection Camps.

The Jr. NBA Philippines 2018 All-Stars will embark on a unique, overseas NBA experience together with fellow Jr. NBA All-Stars from Southeast Asia later this year.

Two more Jr. NBA Regional

Selection Camps will be staged in Baguio and Manila on March 17-18 and April 7-8 respectively.

Qualified boys and girls can still register at www.jrnba.asia where the program terms and conditions can be found. Fans can also follow Jr. NBA on Facebook, the NBA at www.nba.com and on Facebook and Twitter.

as well as making frequent appearances during practice following the prior announcement, Reyes opted to add the Alaska winger to the “Final 14”.

“Troy [was] not given medical clearance yet, while Mac [is] still not 100 percent,” Reyes said.

On the other hand, Tratter is the lone member of the Gilas Cadets who will be going to Melbourne.

The Marinerong Pilipino big man only joined the training by the second session but has been attending the practices frequently ever since. (PNA)

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

TEAM DAVAO GOLF. Davao City Golf Club’s campaign in the 2018 PAL Men’s Interclub will be led by youngsters Juan Carlos Angeles (left) and Reinz Yamyamin (right). The tournament kicks off in Bacolod City on March 7-11. Boy Lim

Gilas ready for Aussies C oach Chot Reyes named the 14 players that he will bring to Melbourne for Gilas Pilipinas’ FIBA World Cup Qualifiers match against Australia on Thursday.

“Finally got [a] go-signal to announce GILAS entourage leaving [today]: Jason, Kief, Kev, Jio, RR, Matt,

Allein, Gabe, Cal, CBC, Jap, Abu, JMF, Dray,” the multi-titled coach said on Sunday night via Twitter, pertaining

Cavs, Warriors get ready for sprint to the finish

L

eBron James had a trophy in his hands and a smile on his face.

That was Sunday at the All-Star Game, when James again rose above the NBA’s best in winning a game and MVP honors.

What he really wants is to be celebrating in the postseason, not midseason.

The NBA’s sprint to the �inish begins Thursday with James riding high but starting again from back in the pack as Cleveland tries to catch Toronto and Boston in the Eastern Conference. ‘’We just added four new guys before the break, and we have a lot of work to do,’’ James said. ‘’So I really don’t like to think that too far ahead. But obviously winning championships is what it’s all about. That’s what this league is all about and

hopefully at the end of the road then I have the Cavs there to actually compete for one, to be in a �inals representing the East.’’

The Golden State Warriors are also in the unusual position of pursuers, after red-hot Houston passed them for the league’s best record with 10 straight wins leading into the All-Star break. But nobody would count out the Warriors, not with their star-studded group that has won two of the last three titles.

Cleveland is the unknown, even with James.

The Cavaliers added new pieces around him earlier this month, and there’s not a lot of time left to build championship chemistry.

The Cavs went into the break with four straight

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to Jayson Castro, Kiefer Ravena, Kevin Alas, Jio Jalalon, RR Pogoy, Matt Wright, Allein Maliksi, Gabe Norwood, Calvin Abueva, Carl Cruz, Japeth Aguilar, Abu Tratter, Junemar Fajardo, and Andray Blatche.

Abueva and Tratter are the interesting selections

of Reyes for various reasons. Abueva was initially cut from the Gilas pool for the second window of the said tournament series after missing the �irst three practice sessions of Gilas.

But with the injuries to Troy Rosario and Mac Belo

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Jr. NBA goes to Agusan

J

r. NBA Philippines 2018 presented by Alaska continues its search for skillful ballers aged 10-14 as it visits Agusan for the second Regional Selection Camp in 2018.

Young cagers in Mindanao and surrounding localities as well as interest participants outside of Mindanao are invited to attend the camp on Feb. 24 at Father Saturnino Urios University starting 9 a.m.

Boys and girls born 2004-2008 are encouraged to take advantage of the league’s global youth basketball participation program to not only learn the fundamental basketball skills set but also the Jr. NBA S.T.A.R values of Sportsmanship, Teamwork, a positive Attitude and Respect.

The Agusan Camp will be

run by Jr. NBA Coaches Carlos Barroca along with other Jr. NBA coaches from presenting partner Alaska.

Registration and participation are free. On the �irst day, participants will be measured in a series of vitals tests and skills challenges, with their scores determining their return the following day to undergo more basketball drills and team exercises. On the second day, the remaining participants will immerse in team drills and showcase team and individual skills in the scrimmages.

The camp’s top performers will be selected to represent Mindanao in the National Training Camp in Manila on May 18-20.

The Jr. NBA National Training Camp is the third phase of the Jr. NBA program

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SPIKE. Bhodana Anisova of Sta. Lucia Realty hits a power spike against the defense of Rhea Meneses and Angeli Araneta of Generika-Ayala in the ongoing PSL Grand Prix. PR

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 230 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

PAL INTERCLUB. Veteran campaigner Denden De Castro will once again spearhead the campaign of Raancho Palos Verdes in the forthcoming 2018 PAL Men’s Interclub in Bacolod City on March 7 to 11. Boy Lim

Observe proper food handling: Deped 11

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. The Department of Education (DepEd) Region 11 has issued directives to all delegations of the Davao Regional Athletic Associa-

tion (DAVRAA) meet in Davao City to observe proper food handling following newly reported incidents of food poisoning.

DepEd 11 spokesperson Jenielito Atillo said Deped 11 regional director lawyer Alberto Escobarte issued the order because

to compel food severs of each delegation to observe proper sanitation in preparing the food for the athletes.

“All the food in-charge should really be circumspect in handling food,” he said.

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