Edge Davao 5 Issue 130

Pagbantay mga buyers!

EDGEDAVAO P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

www.edgedavao.net

Serving a seamless society

Indulge

Science/ Environment

Page A1

Page 4

HLURB 11 stops Samal developer

BACK TO NORMAL. Residents living near Sta. Ana Wharf, one of the coastal areas of Davao City, are back to their normal daily tasks after a tsunami scare hit the city and other parts of the country caused by a magnitude 7.9 earthquake that struck 106 kilometers east of Samar Island Friday night.

Motoring

Page 7

By Carlo P. Mallo

Sports

Page 16

T

HE regional office of the Housing and Land Use Regularity Board has stopped a controversial group from developing and selling an area in the Island Garden City of Samal for operating without a permit from the government Agency.

HLURB Regional Director Miguel Palma Gil identified the group as First Davao Millennium Property Ventures Services, Inc. also known as Millennium Property, said to be developing and selling lot located in barangay Limao,

Government to force developer to return buyers’ money Group has no permit nor an application for one

IGaCoS. Lawyer Palma Gil said Millennium Property does not even have a pending application before the housing agency , but it gone ahead with selling lots.

“Even with an application, it would still be illegal for them to sell. An application is just an application, it is not an assurance that it will be approved,” Palma Gil saying

In Davao Oriental

the government agency has been monitoring the LIMAO-3 expansion property of the real estate developer.

The project, which is located in Limao, Penaplata, has no development permit or registration from the city government of IGaCoS. He said the company has been selling portions of the property without (a) a development permit,

(b) a certificate of registration, and (c) a license to sell.

“This is not the first time they have been violating our laws,” Palma Gil said, adding that they will be force the developer to return the money that it has already collected from buyers.

Much earlier, officials of the city government under then Mayor Rogelio P. Antalan also exposed the questionable projects of Millennium. City Administrator Cleto B.

FHLURB, 11

Landslide spawns conflicting reports

By Anthony S. Allada

Follow Us On

A

UTHORITIES have been giving conflicting reports on the landslide triggered by heavy rains that hit a small-scale gold rush area last Thursday night pn the boundary of Mati City and Tarragona in Davao Oriental.

Mati City Mayor Michelle Rabat said Baudillo Miones, barangay captain of Don Salvador Lopez, confirmed to her the recovery of the bodies of seven miners who were trapped inside a tunnel and that retrieval operation was con-

tinuing as it was feared that many more were buried alive.

“He called to inform me that as of 3 p.m., seven bodies had been recovered,” Rabat was quoted as saying.

But Tarragona Mayor Samuel

Uy refused to confirm this, adding there were no casualties in the landslide.

The military, quoting a report from Uy, said that “as of 1:30 p.m., three days of heavy rains in Ba-

FLANDSLIDE, 11

2

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

1 dead, 1 injured in Friday quake

A

44-year old woman in Cagayan de Oro City died while her grandson, 5, was injured when a 7.7 magnitude earthquake rocked Mindanao Friday night. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported on Saturday that the tremor’s source was traced off Eastern Samar.

NDRRMC Executive Director Benito Ramos said the fatality, Elenita Ubalde, 44, was killed by a landslide when the quake triggered a landslide where a heavy rain had loosened the soil and buried her house. Her grandson, Adrian Rosales survived the landslide in Brgy. Lapasan and is recuperating from his injuries in the Capitol University Hospital I Cagayan de Oro City.

Ramos said no other casualties had been reported.

Five other houses were damaged following a flashflood in Barangay Tablon, also in the same city. Affected families were evacuated.

In Bunawan town, Agusan del Sur, a house caught

fire after a gas lamp fell at the height of the quake, but no casualties were initially reported.

In Eastern Samar, Buyayawan Bridge in Mercedes town, and Barangay Casuroy bridge in San Julian town suffered damage.

In Davao City, the Abreeza Mall had minor cracks on the floor.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has cancelled the tsunami warning alert in coastal areas of the Visayas and Mindanao affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that hit Friday night.

Tsunami alert level 3 was lifted at 12:10 a.m. Saturday.

Residents living in coastal areas of northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte in the Visayas, and Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur were earlier advised to evacuate their homes due to the tsunami alert, but Phivolcs Director Renato Solidum said residents can now return to their homes. [PNA]

AFP raps NPA for enlisting kids

T

HE military has condemned the New People’s Army for its continued recruitment of minors to its ranks, following the death of a 17-year-old rebel member in an encounter last Sunday in Paquibato district, Davao City.Major Jacob Obligado, commander of the CMO Battalion of the 10th Infantry Division, said Sammer Dayag, a resident of Lampianao, Calinan district, was among the five rebels who were killed when they attacked a detachment of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) under the 69th Infantry Battalion (IB) in sitio Mangani, Barangay Tapak, Paquibato.

“We call on the different human rights advocates to give emphasis in advocating

RA 7610 to (protect) the parents and children from the NPA’s deception and exploitation,” Obligado said.

He said Dayag was recruited by the NPA in 2009 when he was still 14 years old. He noted that the exploitation of minors is a violation of Republic Act (RA) 7610, a law protecting children against abuse.

Authorities recovered only two bodies at the encounter site. Also killed in the encounter was an NPA rebel identified as Tuligkay Panangsang, a resident of Sitio Indalugong, Tapak, Paquibato.

Panangsang was identified by residents to be among the NPAs who ambushed a tribal chieftain in 2010 in Paquibato. [ASA]

TRIBAL DANCE. Grade 5 students of Fil-Asian Mission Academy in Garcia Heights, Davao City perform “Sugod Uno”, a Bagobo tribal dance, while dressed in colorful Bagobo costume during the school’s “Buwan ng Wika” celebration on Friday. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

Tribute run for slain lady gym instructor

By Anthony S. Allada

T

EAM Davao Runners (TDR) is organizing a fun run dubbed “Run for Cherryl” as a tribute to Cherryl Gay Grafilo who was robbed and stabbed dead four suspects while she was on her way to work at the Holiday Gym and Spa at dawn last Tuesday.

In its facebook page, TDR set the run for 5 a.m. next Tuesday in categories 3k, 5k, and 10k from HGS. No registration fees will be collected but runners are encouraged

to bring their own hydration.

“This is a moment of unity as we show support and dedicate prayers for her eternal repose. This day will also be the day she is buried in her hometown of Midsayap (North Cotabato),” the TDR said.

As a show of support, runners are also encouraged to wear white.

“Donations and gifts to her family are welcome.

Mass will be held at HGS after the run. Feel free to bring

food and drinks,” the TDR said.

Grafilo, 31, of Midsayap in North Cotabato, was on her way to work at HGS when she was accosted and stabbed dead by the so-called “Vulcaseal Boys” around 5:30 a.m. last Tuesday.

In a follow-up operation, elements of the San Pedro Police Station shot dead 24-year-old Charemae Fuertes when he allegedly attempted to shoot it out with

them as he was about to be arrested Thursday morning on Panganiban Street, Barangay 10-A. Two others, Edre Galladora, 22, and Renante Sereno, 32, were later arrested.

Another member, Romar Salinas, 25, was stabbed dead at 11:50 p.m. last Thursday on Jacinto Extension.

A note was found at the crime scene that read “Cherryl Gay Grafilo, pasaylo-a ko sa akong nabuhat nga pag hold-up ug pagpatay sa imo.”

A

tified the victim as SPO1 Achiles C. Anover, assigned with the Tagum City Police Office.

Magistrado said Anover was standing outside his store at around 5 p.m. on Friday when an unidentified person approached

and shot him several times.

The policeman, who sustained was hit in the head and body was rushed to the Reagan Hospital in Tagum City but was declared dead on arrival by attending physicians.

Recovered from the

crime scene were the victim’s two cellphones and his issued .9MM caliber pistol.

Investigators from the Mawab police station have yet to determine the identify of the suspect and the motive for the killing. [ASA]

achieve an ASEAN economic community in 2015.

He said that on its way to an ASEAN Economic Community in 2015, the bloc is still facing a number of challenges or local sensitivity that needs to be addressed.

“But we believe that with sound political input, some more political wills to be expressed by the leaders, those hesitations would be erased and would be less and less challenges for us to achieve the goal,” said the minister, also the chair of 2012 ASEAN.

Surin Pitsuwan, ASEAN secretary-general, said that ASEAN has done well in terms of soft infrastructure such as agreements, protocols, and various elements of cooperation and coordination among member states.

“So far, ASEAN has ratified about 72 to 73 percent of all the major instruments of cooperation among ASEAN,” he told the press briefing. “Our remaining challenges are how to implement every of those instruments, and how to translate the regional ASEAN commitments

into the national agenda implementation, rules, laws and regulations.”

He expressed his confidence that ASEAN will be able to achieve an ASEAN Economic Community on schedule thanks to ASEAN’s joint commitment and help from dialogue partners.

Indonesia’s Trade Minister Gita Wijrawan said on the sidelines of the meeting on Tuesday that a joint commitment will make ASEAN be able to overcome those challenges.

Cop shot dead in ComVal

policeman was shot dead Friday afternoon outside his sari-sari store in Purok 4, Poblacion, Mawab, Compostela Valley.

Supt. Marcial Magistrado, spokesperson of the regional police office, iden-

Deles hopeful of peace prospects in Mindanao ASEAN Economic Community to become a reality by 2015 Cambodian exec says

S

ECRETARY Teresita Deles of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) sees bright prospects for peace in Mindanao as negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) are making headway.

Deles, in a statement issued to media, said that both the government and the MILF continue to create ‘progress’ towards forging an agreement, which will pave way for a just and lasting peace in

Mindanao.

“Peace is definitely at work here. But it cannot be left to the government alone. For a peace agreement to be lasting and durable, there has to be ownership. There has to be broad ownership; it cannot be owned only by those who sit on the negotiating table,” said Deles during the start of the month-long observation of the 9th National Peace Consciousness Month.

This year’s peace

FDELES, 11

A

SEAN economic ministers agreed on Friday to deepen the bloc’s integration efforts towards realizing an ASEAN Economic Community by 2015, officials said.

Speaking in a press briefing on Friday evening after the week- long 44th ASEAN Economic Ministers Meeting and related meetings, Cambodian Minister of Commerce Cham Prasidh said the meetings were wrapped up successfully and the ministers agreed to “deepen ASEAN integration” in order to

FASEAN, 11

THE BIG NEWS

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

3

MRDP helps former ‘reds’ build green community S

ALAY, Misamis Oriental, known in the past as the stronghold of insurgent groups, has offered rebel returnees greener pasture with cattle and vegetables.

“We plant organic vegetables, we care for our cattle and we earn a decent living,” said Ruwena S. Daling bookkeeper of United Urban Poor Vegetable Farmers Association Incorporated.

But Daling, 50, a mother of four said it was a different story years ago.

“We had nothing. Most of our members were rebel returnees. We have no land to till; we had no viable source of income,” she said.

Their organization of 18 members was organized way back in 2008 through a government project but never really prospered.

“We have already started our gardening projects way back then but it was very small we cannot even sell them. We also long to have cattle because it will expectedly give us bigger income,”

Daling said.

Luckily, in early 2009 their barangay captain and now vice mayor Angelo Capistrano, Jr. lobbied for their endorsement in the Department of Agriculture’s Mindanao Rural Development Program (DA-MRDP) for which they were awarded P250,000.00 for their proposed organic vegetable production and cattle dispersal projects.

Moreover, the government-owned lot measuring about 1.25 hectares in barangay Poblacion, Hanil Purok 7 was also lent to them to be cultivated.

MRDP is DA’s unique antipoverty program for Mindanao funded by World Bank and the counterpart of the national and local government units (LGUs).

Under the program’s Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD), the livelihood component, the PO beneficiary with the assistance of the LGU, manages their own project and

funds from the project identification, procurement and all other aspects of project implementation including its sustainability measures.

“It all came together, the program made us capable.

We really felt the government’s assistance and support to our needs both at the local and national level for which we are very thankful,” Daling said.

“We used the money to buy nine heads of cattle, vegetable seeds, organic fertilizer, and other farm inputs amounting to a total of P223,000.00 while the rest of the money was deposited in the bank as part of our mobilization and administrative funds,” she added.

The cattle were distributed through drawing of lots.

Once the cattle produces offspring, the mother cow will be given to the next-in-line beneficiary.

“As of now, at least five cows have borne offspring,” Daling said.

While waiting for the in-

DISPERSAL. A member of the United Urban Poor Vegetable Farmers Association Inc. tends to the cattle he benefited from the cattle dispersal project along with organic vegetable production. come from the cattle dispersal, Daling said their organic vegetable gardens have helped them raise incomes, support their family’s basic needs and keep a healthy body.

“We plant organic vegetables from pinakbettype, chopsuey-type to the indigenous vegetables which we either just consume or sell in the neighborhood and to local traders,” Daling said.

Their garden teems with amplaya, bottle gourd,

eggplant, squash, tomatoes, cauliflower and broccoli and some green leafy vegetables, way far from their olden garden crops of kangkong, alugbati, and other indigenous crops.

Each member rents each plot at P10.00 per month planted to crops of their preference. However, regulation and crop rotation is also observed in order not to over supply one type of vegetable and prevent jealousy

SQUASH. Ruwina Daling, a member of the United Urban Poor Vegetable Farmers Association Inc., shows off a hanging squash, one of the few she planted to her garden of 12 plots which she harvests twice a week.

FMRDP, 11

FPHILIPS, 11

4 SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

7.7-magnitude earthquake, a call for greater vigilance

I

N the aftermath of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that shook Guiuan, Eastern Samar and prompted tsunami alerts for six provinces in the Philippines and at least four other countries, Senator Loren Legarda yesterday renewed her call for greater vigilance through stronger earthquake preparedness efforts.

The Senator said that after the provinces in Visayas and Mindanao experienced the strong earthquake, residents of Luzon, particularly in Metro Manila, should prepare for such strong temblor too, noting the findings in the 2004 Metro Manila Earthquake Impact Reduction Study (MMEIRS).

“The MMEIRS revealed high casualties and massive destruction should a 7.2-magnitude earthquake hit Metro Manila. The study also contains priority actions that should have been undertaken 3-6 years after the study was publicized to reduce the impacts of such a strong tremor,” she pointed out.

Based on the MMEIRS, a 7.2-magnitude earthquake in Metro Manila would cause the destruction of 40% of the residential buildings, damage

35% of all public buildings, kill 34,000 people, injure 114,000 individuals, and the ensuing fires will also result in 18,000 additional fatalities.

Legarda explained that among the priority steps that must be undertaken include the promotion of disaster-resilient urban development; ensuring the structural integrity of buildings and critical infrastructure; formulating emergency supply system of water, food and other necessities; and determining open spaces for safe refuge when tremors occur.

“We must also ensure that there are back-up systems of vital utilities such as electricity and telecommunications equipment, which are necessary for post-disaster efforts,” she said.

She also stated that local authorities and community leaders must enable citizens to respond quickly to earthquakes by giving them knowledge of what to do before, during, and after such disasters, and that every barangay must craft an evacuation plan and conduct regular evacuation drills that would help citizens find out the fastest and safest way to reach open spaces and other safe areas.

Government steps up campaign vs mercury

G

OVERNMENT is boosting its bid to stamp out illegal trade of mercury, the toxic substance researchers discovered at above-threshold levels in Manila’s Smokey Mountain dump and several smallscale mining communities around the country.

Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Director Juan Miguel Cuna assured this agency’s coordination with the Bureau of Customs on the matter to help protect people and the environment from mercury’s impacts.

“We must strictly regulate the mercury trade,” he said Friday in Metro Manila during a multi-stakeholders’ consultation on managing mercury nationwide.

Experts continue warning about mercury, saying exposure to this chemical element can impair health and even cause death.

Mercury also contaminates the environment, they added.

They noted that thermometers, trash, coal-fired power plants and gold production are among the sources of mercury.

In 1997, EMB’s mother agency, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, came up with a chemical control order covering the substance.

Cuna cited the artisanal

and small-scale gold mining sector as the Philippines’ largest mercury emitter.

He reported that such sector’s mercury emissions is as much as 70 tons per year.

Ban Toxics non-profit organization Executive Director Richard Gutierrez said the United States Environmental Protection Agency set at 10,000 nanograms per cubic meter (ng/m3) the mercury emission threshold requiring immediate evacuation of people in contaminated areas.

He reported that Ban Toxics’ equipment registered mercury emission levels of 30,000 ng/m3 in several areas where small-scale miners use the substance.

Those hotspots include areas in Camarines Norte, Benguet, Romblon and Nueva Vizcaya provinces, he said.

For Pier 18 in Tondo’s Smokey Mountain, he said Ban Toxics’ monitoring at around noon of Jan. 4 last year also show a maximum mercury level of nearly 23,000 ng/m3.

“We have mercury that’s naturally occurring and the challenge is to keep it low -- the reality is we’re not succeeding in doing so,” he said during the consultation.

The country must also address the challenge of where and how to store its excess mercury, he noted.

EDGEDAVAO

FOGGY. An unusual foggy morning welcomes motorists cruising the highway from Panabo City to Tagum City on Thursday. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

EcoWaste hails cosmetics giant’s phase out plan for toxic chemicals A

toxics watchdog campaigning for consumer access to information on chemicals in products and for safer consumer goods has lauded a historic move by a transnational company to remove certain chemicals of concern in their product line.

The EcoWaste Coalition welcomed the announcement made by Johnson & Johnson, a global market leader, to reformulate its cosmetics and personal care products for babies and adults by the end of 2015 that will eventually replace certain ingredients considered as carcinogens and endocrine disruptors with safer alternatives.

“Johnson & Johnson’s phase out plan for sinister chemicals will be beneficial for human and environmental health that should be emulated by both local and foreign cosmetics companies, perhaps at an even faster pace,” said Aileen Lucero of the EcoWaste Coalition’s Project Protect.

“We hope that our policy makers will see Johnson & Johnson’s action as an opportunity to establish stringent regulations that will phase out dangerous chemicals in cosmetics, oblige the use of non-toxic substances, and require the full disclosure of ingredients,” she said.

The EcoWaste Coalition further urged manufacturers, as part of their corporate social responsibility, to find ways to minimize the environmental

impact of their packaging, including a retrieval or take back program for spent packets and sachets that often become residual garbage, filling up dumpsites, blocking waterways, causing flash floods and polluting the marine ecosystems such as the Manila Bay. Johnson & Johnson is best known for a number of cosmetics and personal hygiene products, including Aveeno, Clean and Clear, Neutrogena, and a wide range of Johnson’s products such as baby shampoo, bubble bath, bar soap, head to toe wash, lotion, oil, powder and wipes, to name a few.

Johnson & Johnson’s shift to safer chemical ingredients was prompted by the sustained advocacy by the US Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and its allies,“citing the health of consumers, including children, as well as the health of the employees who make the products were at risk from exposure to the known toxins.”

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics brings together over 175 non-profit groups in US to protect the health of consumers and workers by securing the corporate, regulatory and legislative reforms necessary to eliminate dangerous chemicals from cosmetics and personal care products.

As culled by the EcoWaste Coalition from the Johnson & Johnson’s ingredient policies as stated in its website, the company will:

1. Reduce traces of 14 dioxane to 1 to 4 parts per million (ppm) in baby products and to below 10 ppm in adult products; 2. Phase out formaldehyde-releasers from baby and adult products; 3. Phase out the use of all parabens from baby care products, and limit parabens in adult products to methyl-, ethyl- and propyl-; 4. Phase out triclosan in adult products (infant or baby products no longer contain triclosan); 5. Phase out Diethyl Phthalate (DEP) from all adult products (baby products are now phthalate-free); and 6. Phase out animal derived ingredients, nitromusks and polycyclic musks, tagetes, rose crystal and diacetyl from fragrances, with priority given to baby products.

According to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, both formaldehyde and 14-dioxane cause cancer in animals, and formaldehyde was recently classified as a known human carcinogen by the U.S. National Toxicology Program.

Phthalates, parabens, triclosan and polycyclic musks are all considered to be likely hormone disruptors and have been linked to a variety of health problems ranging from birth defects to diabetes, obesity and breast cancer, the group further said.

“This is a major victory for public health,” said Lisa Archer, director

of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics at the Breast Cancer Fund, a co-founder of the campaign. “We applaud Johnson & Johnson for its leadership in committing to remove cancer-causing chemicals from its products. We will be vigilant in making sure it meets its commitments and will continue to encourage it to remove other ingredients of concern.”

In addition to the product changes, Johnson & Johnson has launched the website www.safetyandcarecommitment.com to bring more transparency about its products to its retail and wholesale customers. The site covers the origin of the ingredients, as well as the environmental and human safety risks for each of the company’s products.

“Consumers today expect more information and greater transparency than ever before and we’re always listening to the people who use our products,” said Susan Nettesheim, Vice President of Product Stewardship & Toxicology for Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc. in a companyissued press release.

“On this site, we’ll do our best to explain how we make the choices we make, and to show how our plans incorporate consumers’ feedback. We want all consumers to see for themselves how and why every one of our products can be used with peace of mind,” she said.

[PNA]

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

5

6 THE ECONOMY Stat Watch

1. Gross National Income Growth Rate (At Constant 2000 Prices)

5.8% 1st Qtr 2012

2. Gross Domestic Product Growth Rate (At Constant 2000 Prices)

6.4 % 1st Qtr 2012

3. Exports 1/ 4. Imports 1/ 5. Trade Balance 6. Balance of Payments 2/ 7. Broad Money Liabilities

USD 4,931 million May 2012 USD 4,770 million Apr 2012 USD -135 million Apr 2012 USD -209 million Mar 2012 P 4,580,674 million Apr 2012

8. Interest Rates 4/

4.1 % May 2012 P131,403 million May 2012 P 5,075 billion Apr 2012

9. National Government Revenues 10. National government outstanding debt 11. Peso per US $ 5/

P 42.78 Jun 2012

12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

5,091.2 May 2012

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

130.1 Jun 2012

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

2.8 Jun 2012

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.7 Jun 2012

16. Visitor Arrivals

349,779 Apr 2012

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

18.8 % Jan 2012

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

7.2 % Jan 2012

MONTHLY AVERAGE EXCHANGE RATE (January 2009 - December 2011) Month Average December November October September August July June May April March February January

2012

2011

2010

42.85 42.70 42.86 42.66 43.62

43.31 43.64 43.27 43.45 43.02 42.42 42.81 43.37 43.13 43.24 43.52 43.70 44.17

45.11 43.95 43.49 43.44 44.31 45.18 46.32 46.30 45.60 44.63 45.74 46.31 46.03

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

SSS nets P18.7-B revenues T

HE Social Security System net revenues reached P18.69 billion in the first six months this year, up 42 percent from P13.14 billion in the same period last year.

SSS attributed the higher earnings from contributions and investments that complemented its measures to ensure efficient spending.

SSS president and chief executive Emilio de Quiroz, Jr. said that collected contribution, which accounted for 72 percent of the P65.01 billion total revenues for the period, grew to P46.68 billion or by nine percent.

The surplus of contribution collections over benefit payments, an important indicator of SSS’ financial health, stood at P3.93 billion for January to June 2012. In comparison, the gap between contributions and benefits from January to December last year amounted to P3.21 billion.

In his opening statement during a press conference and video conference with Cebu and Baguio southern and northern regional offices in celebration of SSS’ 55th anniversary on Friday, De Quiroz cited the agency’s financial performance and updates on its programs.

De Quiroz proudly cited that the security agency has collected P40.66 billion premiums from employees and household helpers during the first half of 2012, up by nine percent from the P37.23 billion collection in the same period last year.

Still on contributions, he said remittances by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) rose 14 percent for a six-month total of P1.25 billion.

Contributions from self-employed members, such as entrepreneurs, professionals, informal sector workers, farmers and fisherfolk, likewise increased by six percent to P2.5 billion, while premiums from voluntary members jumped by 11 percent to nearly P2.3 billion.

The SSS chief said that SSS investments, the other source of the fund’s revenues, brought in a halfyear income of P18.33 billion, up by 21 percent from P15.2 billion for the same period in 2011.

About 58 percent of SSS investment income was from the equities market, making the SSS one of the major players in the Philippine Stock Exchange, which attained record-breaking levels in the past several months.

He also said that other SSS investment earnings included P4.64 billion from government securities, P2.09 billion from salary loans and P440 million from corporate notes and bonds. SSS assets rose to P357.96 billion as of June 30, 2012, primarily due to the 12 percent growth in its investment portfolio. ”We took advantage of stock market opportunities that helped boost our equity earnings by 48 percent to a six-month total of P10.54 billion. This includes P7.82 billion realized gains from active trading, which was 85 percent higher than P4.23 billion in the first half of last year.

The returns on SSS equity investments reached a remarkable 24.18 percent as of June 2012, which outperformed even the PSE (Philippine Stock Exchange) index at 15.8 percent, or ten-year bond at 5.6 percent,” De Quiroz said.

He also noted that steps to maximize SSS branch resources and improve system efficiency helped slow down operating expenses to P3.57 billion, which was five percent lesser than the P3.75 billion spent within the first half of 2011. ”Our online and electronic inquiry facilities have helped free

our branch personnel from attending to numerous over-the-counter queries, and instead focus more on attending to members’ claims. The enhanced SSS website, Text-SSS and the SSS Facebook page have allowed members to transact and inquire virtually, rather than coming to the branches personally for simple queries,” the security system head said.

The recent SSS reorganization also paved the way for branches to pursue more efficient coverage and collection activities, especially for priority and hard-to-reach sectors such as self-employed individual and informal sector workers, de Quiroz said.

He, also discussed in his opening statement several of the significant programs of the agency, such as, the “ALKANSSSYA, a micro-savings program that offers convenient remittance of contributions and ensures their access to affordable social protection; the Unified Multi-purpose Identification System (UMID); the Loan Penalty Condonation Program; the Educational Loans; the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners Program; the Calamity Relief Package and the SSS Relief Operations and Medical Missions.[PNA]

P

such as Petron) LPG distributors.

Liquigaz likewise increased on Tuesday its LPG prices by a similar P6 per kilo or by P66 per 11-kg cylinder.

Various reports earlier said that the Department of Energy (DoE) had in fact anticipated a new price increase for LPG products, noting the continued tension in the oil-rich

Middle East.

Before the latest hike announcement, LPG cylinders from major retail stations retailed between P680 and P700. LPG prices typically adjust once a month.

Incidentally, prices of other petroleum products have also been on an upward movement the past few weeks, constituting a “double-

whammy” for consumers.

Since July 17, price of premium gasoline have gone up by P8.35 per liter, regular gasoline by P 8.15 per liter, kerosene by P7.25 per liter and diesel by P7.40 per liter.

What’s worse is that petroleum demand has yet to reach its peak, something that will occur during the Christmas season. [PNA]

Petron hikes LPG by P6 per kilo

ETRON Corporation has jacked up the price of its liquified petroleum gas (LPG) Saturday morning due to increasing international market prices.

Petron Corp., the carrier of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) brand “Gasul”, increased its LPG price by a hefty P6 per kilo at around 6 a.m.

Saturday, September 1. The price adjustment does not reflect the value-added tax on petroleum pruducts.

“This is to reflect the contract prices of LPG for the month of September,” according to an advisory issued by Petron.

The hike effectively translates to at least a P66 mark-up for every regular household cylinder of Gasul, which weighs 11 kilos.

On top of the cooking gas price increase, Petron said it also raised autoLPG prices, this time by a VATinclusive P3.76 per liter.

Other major oil firms have yet to announce an adjustment as of press time.

It can be recalled that major LPG players hiked their cooking gas products by a whopping P7 per kilo to begin the month of August.

Last Tuesday, some members of the LPG Marketers Association Inc. jacked up prices by P4.50 per kilo, and implied that a second price hike of P1.50 per kilo would be implemented within the week. The association is composed of independent (not allied with a major oil company

REPORT. Maria Lourdes G. Monteverde, M.D., president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII), reports the developments, new advocacies and the upcoming events to members

during the DCCCI and Mindanao Business Council, (MBC) general membership meeting at Marco Polo Hotel on Friday. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

as of august 2010

Cebu Pacific Daily Zest Air Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Philippine Airlines Daily Philippine Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri/Sun Philippine Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Silk Air Mon/Wed/Sat Cebu Pacific Thu Cebu Pacific Tue/Wed//Sat

5J961 / 5J962 Z2390 / Z2390 5J593 / 5J348 PR809 / PR810 PR819 / PR820 5J394 / 5J393 5J599 / 5J594 5J347 / 5J596 5J963 / 5J964 PR811 / PR812 5J595 / 5J966 MI588 / MI588 5J965 / 5J968 5J965 / 5J968

5:45 5:45 6:00 6:10 7:50 7:50 8:00 9:10 9:40 11:30 12:00 18:55 12:55 13:35

Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Cebu-Davao-Iloilo Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Zamboanga-Davao-Zamboanga Cebu-Davao-Cebu Iloilo-Davao-Cebu Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Cebu-Davao-Manila Davao-Cebu-Singapore Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila

6:15 6:25 6:30 7:00 8:50 8:10 8:30 9:40 10:10 12:20 12:30 13:35 13:25 14:05

Silk Air Thu/Sun Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri Philippine Airlines August Zest Air Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Philippines Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Thu/Sat Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Tue/Sat/Sun Cebu Pacific Daily Airphil Express Daily Philippine Airlines Daily except Sunday Philippine Airlines Sunday

MI566 / MI566 5J507 / 5J598 15:55 Z2524 / Z2525 5J967 / 5J600 PR813 / PR814 5J215 / 5J216 5971 / 5J970 5J973 / 5J974 5J969 / 5J972 2P987 / 2P988 PR821 / PR822 PR821 / PR822

18:55 15:00 Mani2Mani 16:05 16:35 16:55 18:00 18:40 20:00 20:30 20:30 21:20 22:20

Davao-Singapore Cebu-Davao-Cebu 16:50 Cebu-Davao-Cebu Manila-Davao-Cebu Manila-Davao-Manila Cagayan de Oro-Davao-Cagayan de Oro Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila

15:20 15:30 16:45 17:05 17:45 18:20 19:10 20:30 21:00 21:00 21:50 22:50

MOTORING 7 What to do when your motorcycle is submerged in flood EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012 IT is the rainy season once again and typhoons and flooding will soon be epidemic in some parts of the country. In the past years, many of our customers - and their motorcycles included have fallen victims to these natural disasters causing extensive damage to both men and their bikes. Thus, Honda Philippines shares these tips on how to care for our beloved motorcycles should they be submerged in floodwater.

Restoration of motorcycles damaged by flood should be done immediately because permanent damaged may occur as time passes by.

1. Wash the motorcycle immediately to remove mud using pressurized water and mild soap or dishwashing agent.

2. Do not try to start the engine when there is a sign of water enterinAg the engine.

3. Cranking or starting the engine should be done last as much as possible.

Recommended Equipments: a. Pressurized water hose used for car or motorcycle wash

b.Pail or bucket c. (Plastic) Paint brush d. Waste can e. Fuel Container f. Used oil container g. Drain pan h. Air compressor i. Sand paper j. Cleaning solution (contact cleaner: available at electronic shop stores) k. Lubricant / Corrosion inhibitor (available at automotive parts stores) l. Wire Brush m. Kerosene n. Gasoline o. Honda engine oil (SAE 40, API SJ/ SAE 10W-40, API SJ) p. Multi-purpose grease Quarter Submerged unit: Water from Ground to Front and Rear Axle (Half of the Tire Submerged in Water) 1. Remove and clean the pads of brake systems.

2. Apply grease on the brake cam.

(Note: Do not apply grease on brake lining) 3. Clean the drive chain with kerosene and wire brush 4. Lubricate drive chain with gear oil (SAE 80-90) and

adjust the chain to the specified slack.

5. Check the tire pressure and add air, if necessary, according to specification.

If the tire will not inflate, check for leaks.

6. Remove the speedometer gearbox, clean and apply grease.

Half-Submerged unit: Water from Ground to Entire Engine and Muffler

But below Air Cleaner Box. 1. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO START THE ENGINE. 2. Remove the exhaust muffler and wash it with kerosene, and let it dry before installing 3. Remove the spark plug then tilt the unit to remove the water / mud.

4. Drain the engine oil 5. Put approximately 30mL or 3 tablespoons-full (10mL

= 10cc = 1 tablespoon) of gasoline into the combustion chamber through the spark plug hole. Apply compressed air and tilt the MC to remove the water. Perform this step 2-3 times.

(Caution: Drain the air compressor tank first before doing this procedure in order to remove the water or moisture, which may also

damage the engine.)

6. Check the fuel line.

Clean or replace the fuel strainer and overhaul the carburetor, then remove all foreign materials inside it.

7. Clean and check the spark plug gap, then conduct spark test 8. Install the muffler, spark plug, and carburetor 9. Fill the crankcase with

ments, including an evolved version of the five-point grille.

In particular, the headlamps feature a boomerang design more typical of a passenger car.

From the side, the new BT-50 represents a revolution in pickup architecture.

The class-top length is used to full effect in creating a wedgeshaped profile. The front Dynamic Prominent Fenders are an evolution of the design frequently found on Mazda passenger cars; they continue in pronounced body-side feature lines flowing to the rear, creating a strong-looking contoured form.

The rear is also characterized by a strong horizontal contour line, echoed in the unique horizontally-aligned rear combination lamps.

These sophisticated lamps give a sense of motion and speed thanks to a sporty design like the rear lamps on Mazda passenger cars.

It starts with an all-new

engine lineup consisting of 2.2L and 3.2L diesel engines mated to a 6-speed manual transmissions and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 4WD model features shifton-the-fly switching between 2WD and 4WD, and the available electric locking rear differential promotes off-road drivability.

The in-line 4/16-valve MZ-CD 2.2L common-rail direct-injection powerplant is the mainstay of the engine lineup. It delivers 150 PS at 3,700rpm and maximum torque of 375 Nm at 1,5002,500rpm.

The MZ-CD 3.2L engine is Mazda’s first 5-cylinder engine offering large displacement in a compact, highlyefficient unit that achieves class-leading power (200 PS at 3,000 rpm/470Nm at 1,750-2,500rpm) together with superior fuel efficiency, while suppressing NVH for a quiet and comfortable ride.

Both 2.2L and 3.2L pow-

erplants feature a cast-iron cylinder block with ladder

liante Mendoza, produce their own short film to be shown on the big screen, and win cash prizes.

Deadline of submission of entries is extended until August 31, 2012 at 5:00 PM. Contestants should register by downloading a registration form at www.hyundaisandseasky.com and submitting their screeners in 2 DVD copies together with the printed copy of their accomplished registration forms. Materials should be

submitted to the Hyundai headquarters at 11th floor, KPMG Center, 6787 Ayala Avenue, Makati City or to each school’s official partner organization.

Hyundai Short F.I.L.M. is a contest that challenges young and aspiring filmmakers to create innovative films that speak of their lives. Aiming to be an avenue to express ideas and recognize talent, the contest gives every outspoken youth an opportunity to shine in the

field of filmmaking.

It also highlights Hyundai’s new global market branding—Live Brilliant. In Live Brilliant, each Hyundai becomes the life space where brilliant moments and memories are crafted.

This competition will enable participants to imagine and actually experience how a Hyundai vehicle becomes an important space where some of life’s most memorable and poignant moments happen.

frame construction for greater rigidity, an aluminum cylinder head, maintenance-free chain-driven camshafts, and maintenance-free hydraulic lash adjusters. An advanced ultra-high pressure (1,800 bar) common-rail injector system with precision multi-stage piezo injectors is fitted to all diesel engine variants, with a variable-nozzle turbocharger on the 3.2L and 2.2L units.

The new 6-speed manual transmission optimally positions the short-stroke shift lever for fast, precise gear shifting. Rigid laser-welded synchronizers handle the high torque while ensuring light, positive shift action. In addition, the link-type shifter with decoupling device between

the main and selector rails enables a shorter shift lever and shift stroke for a sportier, more passenger-car-like feel. An upshift indicator mounted in the tachometer promotes fuel economy by helping the driver to avoid using unnecessarily high engine speeds.

The 6-speed automatic transmission features closelyspaced gear ratios with a wide spread for excellent torque from low engine speeds, along with low emissions and superior fuel efficiency. The transmission has a dedicated control unit for high-speed shift control while communicating with the engine module to enable smooth, precise shifting and excellent response to the driver’s demands.

Mazda BT-50 now in PHL

M

AZDA recently introduced the all-new Mazda BT-50 compact pick-up truck in the Philippines, providing customers total truck utility combined with the style and comfort of a premium passenger car.

The all-new Mazda BT-50 is available in three variants: the 2.2L Mazda BT-50 4x2 with manual transmission priced at PhP 1,300,000 while the automatic transmission is at PhP 1,350,000; the 3.2L Mazda BT-50 4x4 with automatic transmission is priced at PhP 1,490,000.

The all-new Mazda BT-50 breaks fresh ground for the pickup truck and that demanded a new approach to the styling. A key symbolic phrase for the design team was sophisticated beast, brought to life in the bold, wedge-shaped profile that suggests the coiled power of a lion about to pounce.

The strong, confident face is a clever reworking of several Mazda-family design ele-

Shoot your Hyundai film and win

H

YUNDAI Sand.Sea. Sky. is calling all young, outspoken, and aspiring non-professional filmmakers to join the Hyundai Short F.I.L.M. (Film, Innovation, Life and Motion) filmmaking competition by submitting their 15-second video entries with the theme: “What Makes You Brilliant?”. Participants can get a chance to interact with internationally renowned and multiawarded filmmaker Bril-

FWHAT, 11

8 VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

Imagined community

N

EDITORIALS

A

Landslide in mining sites

LANDSLIDE occurred last Thursday night in a well-publicized small-scale mining area on the boundary of two barangays in Mati City and its adjacent town of Tarragona, Davao Oriental.

The many government agencies tasked to monitor natural disasters such as this agree that indeed there was a landslide, but they have conflicting reports on the number of people either buried alive or just injured.

One source, the barangay captain of Don Salvador, Mati City, said seven bodies have already been recovered. A tribal chieftain was reported to have said the number of victims could go as high 50. Military sources, which should be the fastest agency in gathering data, said no one was hurt in the disaster. Some military detractors have even unfairly speculated that maybe a number of men in uniform are also victims.

EDGEDAVAO Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

ALBERTO DALILAN Managing

Door 14 ALCREJ Building, Quirino Avenue, 8000, Davao City, Philippines Tel: (082) 301-6235 Telefax: (082) 221-3601 www.edgedavao.net editorial@edgedavao.net marketing@edgedavao.net

NEILWIN L. BRAVO Sports and Motoring

Printed by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc.

OLIVIA D. VELASCO General Manager

JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales RICHARD C. EBONA Advertising Specialists

ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

The discrepancy in the number of deaths is of no moment. What’s sure is that some people have been adversely affected by the landslide. It is likewise a clear indication that authorities have failed to implement a lawful order to move the miners and their families out of harm’s way by forcibly evacuating from the area.

Experience in many other parts of the region where gold-rush situations obtain tells us that miners and their loved ones would do everything to stay put in these hazard-prone areas, willing to gamble their lives in search of that all-precious gold.

And yet, it is also the bounden duty of government to do everything to protect the lives and limbs of its constituents. What would prevail in Davao Oriental and other landslideprone mining areas is really up to the government’s decisiveness and creativity.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant

GREGORIO G. DELIGERO Associate

CARLO P. MALLO Features and Lifestyle

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR., • JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA Photography Creative Solutions JADE C. ZALDIVAR • MOSES C. BILLACURA Staff Writers

Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. BORBON • MARY ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN • NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

EDGEDAVAO

CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE

LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Cagayan de Oro City Tel: (088) 852-4894

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

ANGELICA R. GARCIA | Marketing Manager Blk. 1, Lot 10, La Mar Townhomes, Apitong St., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 942-1503

ATION is a cultural concept. State is legal and political.

With rapid migration, only handful countries qualify as nation-states, a much higher category where people identify themselves with a single culture. Germany, South Korea and France are best candidates. Philippines is not a nation-state. There is a dominant Filipino culture, which is essentially Christian, and at least one sub-culture in the South. Other examples of a state with multiple nations within their boundaries are the United Kingdom (the Scots, remember), United States (practically a land of migrants plus the native Indians), Spain (Basque struggle), Singapore (Indians, Chinese and native Malays), etc. Fortunately, cultural homogeneity has no bearing on economic prowess.

Peace becomes elusive when sub-cultures are not assimilated into the mainstream culture and have their own imagined community.

Conflicts may arise when the various cultures refuse to recognize each other. If you add religion and sectarianism in the equation, conflicts become sovereignty-based, such as those in Northern Ireland and here in Mindanao. In addition to the socio-economic component of the never-ending search for elusive peace in Mindanao, armed fighters are likely to identify themselves primarily as Muslims and secondarily as Filipinos.

“Imagined community” pertains to the general consciousness of the people in a particular geographic unit that they belong to a distinct politico-legal entity, such as state. In many cases, language is an effective determinant. This explains why Germany, South Korea and France qualify as nation-states. In ancient Greece, the boundary of the imagined community was defined by how fast news traveled from sunrise to sunset. One historian puts it to more or less fifty miles. Well, Greece eventually emerged as a powerful city-state and we owe to the ancient Greeks our democratic ideals. Of course, in today’s standards, Periclean democracy is hardly democratic. It was a democracy of male Greek citizens. Women, paupers and foreigners (called barbarians) were excluded from any political process.

Various empires attempted to expand the boundaries of their imagined communities.

The ancient Persians, Romans and Egyptians built massive road and bridge networks. The recent bullying behavior of China over Scarborough Shoal could partly be explained by Red Chinese attempt at expanding their concept of imagined community, in addition to the current leadership struggle and malevolent psyche over the “Chinese melon” at the turn of the 20th century.

The advent of the Information Age decades ago and the exponentially high reliance on the internet of practically all sorts of transactions have the potential to both expand the imagined community and liquidate less dominant cultures in the process. Further weakening of these inferior cultures will lead to their own demise, unless they continue to assert their identity and uniqueness. David Hess calls this as “culturecide.” Lest we forget, the much touted “global village”, as with any other village, has its own center and periphery. Today’s global village is largely Western, considering the bulk of information available on the web and the super state of ICT infrastructure. Look at the fanatical admiration and fickle fancy of Filipinos of shallow and artless American TV shows, such as the American Idol. Mon Dieu! Local TV stations now have their own shabby imitations, mostly bereft of gorgeous splendor.

Western ideas and technology may become tools for a new breed of neocolonialism.

Left unchecked, they will eventually destroy indigenous cultures, particularly those in less developed countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Former Vietnamese Prime Minister Vo Van Kiet, an ardent nationalist, called this as “peaceful evolution.”

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

Romney: Next American Caesar?

F

ORMER Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney spiced up his acceptance speech Thursday night (Friday morning in the Philippines) as the Republican Party’s nominee for the US presidential elections in November with scathing remarks on President Barack Obama’s performance which he said has disappointed even those who voted for him.

Speaking at the GOP’s national convention in Tampa, Florida like the campaign has officially started, Romney focused on the issue closest to the hearts of American voters – the economy. He also implied that the president has caused the weakening of US global military presence thus endangering its national security (read ability to control or influence events abroad).

Romney tried to win over the middle class which he said is the class hardest hit by the sluggish economy. Flaunting himself as a skilled businessman against Obama “who took office without the basic qualification that most Americans have and one that was essential to his task,” Romney promised to create 12 million jobs.

Romney capped the tirade against Obama’s economic performance with a dig on his goal to “slow the rise of the oceans and to heal the planet” followed with an emphatic “my promise is to help you and your family.”

The Republican challenger further twitted the incumbent for being soft on Iran and for his remark that he would

S

EVEN feuding clans, hundreds of lives lost in hostilities and blood sheds for many decades, all in one island in Sulu that smelled of dead people for sometime, according to some people who survived a “chaotic world”.

A resolution, known as the Pacific Settlement of Conflict, ended it all. It finally restored peace between the feuding clans – the Bahara, Jul, Allani, Ismula, Ismael, Alih and Adjail – and in Pata Island.

As they alighted the navy vessel, BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS38), where they ended their disputes last Tuesday, they came out with renewed perspective in life. The success in the reconciliation efforts are being attributed to the Asia Foundation, BAPESDA, Tulung Lupah Suh, SMFI-Sulu and the Naval Forces Western Mindanao.

The Asia Foundation’s commitment is to achieve reforms and improve community relations in war-torn areas and to support the call for peace and vision of transformation.

To make the foundation’s goal possible in Pata Island, they tapped the military to facilitate and witness the signing of a peace covenant and, thus, avoided obstructions for the realization of the peace settlement.

The Philippine Navy is one of the sup-

give Russia and its president, Vladimir Putin, “more flexibility” if reelected.

Warning of dire implications of reduced US military presence abroad, Romney declared he would see to it that “under my administration, our friends will see more loyalty and Mr. Putin will see a

‘Romney continued: “The America we all know has been a story of many becoming one. United to preserve liberty, uniting to build the greatest the economy in the world, uniting to save the world from unspeakable darkness.’

little less flexibility and more backbone.”

Romney chided Obama for saying that America had dictated to other nations when all it did was “free other nations from dictators.”

Waxing nostalgic, Romney said he wanted a return to the foreign policy

Pact ends it all SPECIAL FEATURE

BY MA. TERESA YOSORES

porters which opened its doors to the invitation of the foundation and the local populace.

Pata Island is one of the Areas of Responsibility (AOR) of Naval Forces Western Mindanao.

The leaders of each clan, the peace negotiators, and the naval military officers signed on the covenant as a symbol of the end of decades-long bloody conflicts.

The Naval Forces was pleased with the settlement of the families’ disputes. A beginning of a peaceful transformation in Sulu has been finally realized which was what the whole Filipino nation had been longing to see.

Rear Admiral Armando Guzman, the commander of Naval Forces Western Mindanao, encouraged the reconciled families to be sincere in their commitment to finally end their conflicts. He even addressed the participants as “peace lovers”.

Guzman also recalled his memories when he personally witnessed clan conflicts in Sulu, particularly in Pata Island, as a young naval officer aboard ship. As he is about to close his military career next year, he ex-

advanced under the Truman and Reagan administrations. “We will honor America’s Democratic ideals because a free world is a more peaceful world. This is the bipartisan foreign legacy of Truman and Reagan, and under my presidency we will return to it once again.”

Romney continued: “The America we all know has been a story of many becoming one. United to preserve liberty, uniting to build the greatest the economy in the world, uniting to save the world from unspeakable darkness.

And, as if to warn those who may want to challenge US power, the Republican candidate vowed that a “united America will preserve a military that’s so strong no nation will ever dare to test it.”

The message was clear: A Romney presidency will witness a stronger assertion of American economic and military power.

Romney’s first task however is to convince the American voters that Obama really needed to go. Perhaps he has influenced the mindset of those who have been displaced by the economic crunch, but his hawkish foreign policy agenda may have gone against the prevailing antiwar sentiment. Like Vietnam, the costly campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan have made the American public tired of war.

Romney, the next American Caesar in the making, has less than two months left to turn public opinion around.

[MindaNews/H. Marcos C. Mordeno can be reached at hmcmordeno@gmail.com]

pressed relief and gratitude that the conflicts had already come to positive developments.

The Philippine Navy received accolades from the reconciled parties and negotiators for its support in such a historic event. [PNA]

‘As they alighted the

navy vessel, BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS38), where they ended their disputes last Tuesday, they came out with renewed perspective in life. The success in the reconciliation efforts are being attributed to the Asia Foundation, BAPESDA, Tulung Lupah Suh, SMFISulu and the Naval Forces Western Mindanao.’

VANTAGE POINTS

L

9

Random thoughts

AST Tuesday, Rep. Manny Pacquiao did what his predecessors are said to have failed before: give an address to the people on the State of Sarangani District.

In an elaborate and pompous ceremony complete with red carpet reception, Pacquiao reported to the Sarangans what he has accomplished in a little over two years after he was elected as representative of the lone district of Sarangani.

It was an impressive report spiked by applauses for the many projects, mostly infrastructure, Pacquiao has delivered for the province. It is something his predecessors have failed to communicate, to say the least, or delivered, at worst.

By the report, it is easy to conclude that Pacquiao delivered more for his constituents in less than three years what former Rep. Erwin Chiongbian perhaps failed to do so in his last six years as congressman of the province.

The ailing Chiongbian was seldom seen in Sarangani especially during the last of his three 3-year terms. Chiongbian’s failure to regularly meet and address his constituents took its toll on brother Roy who lost to Pacquiao in the 2010 congressional race.

The Chiongbians, represented by Vice Gov. Steve Solon whose mother is a sister of Erwin and Roy, have been forced to strike an alliance withPacquiao for their own political survival. Taking the opportunity of being the logical candidate to vie for the gubernatorial post that will soon be vacated by outgoing Gov. Miguel Rene Dominguez, Solon is forging personal friendship with Pacquiao to become the latter’s anointed one.

Pacquiao’s political dominance in the province is now virtually complete with Dominguez said to be contemplating on taking a break from local politics although the latter has repeatedly said in private that he is keeping his options open.

Pacquiao’s political fortunes have dramatically changed over the last three years.

Far from the bitter loser he was in the 2007 congressional race in nearby General Santos City, Pacquiao is now a master of local politics, able to impose his will over allies who are all beholden to him for their sweeping victories in the 2010 elections - thanks to Pacquiao’s almost bottomless war chest and ever growing celebrity status then.

He is now plotting a political career that could one day end up in Malacañang.

But first he has to move to have himself elected to the Philippine Senate in 2016 and perhaps vice president in 2022.

Nobody has ever thought Pacquiao’s political career can be charted the way the Filipino boxing icon is now plotting his.

For now, Pacquiao believes he has all his allies in check.

But he better keep his ears on the ground within his own backyard.

A lot of longtime allies have reportedly resented the way he is handling his line-up for next year’s election.

On Wednesday, he openly and virtually endorsed Provincial Board Member Eugene Alzate as a strong candidate for vice governor – perhaps even a personal choice.

Alzate was recently convicted by the Sandiganbayan for allegedly embezzling P300,000 from the pork barrel of former Rep. Erwin Chiongbian. He was sentenced to 10-11 years of prison but is filing a motion for reconsideration.

Alzate was among the scores who faced graft charges following the 2003 fund scam expose in Sarangani. Former Gov. Miguel Escobar was also convicted of graft in a separate case and was sentenced to 10-18 years in prison.

Pacquiao’s personal choice of Alzate to become Solon’s running mate is anathema to his avowed goal of good governance.

Even if Alzate’s conviction is not yet final and executory, the fact that it reached conviction should already serve as a red flag for Pacquiao, who characteristically is known to stick by close friends no matter what.

If Pacquiao pushes with Alzate’s nomination, he is sending signals he can tolerate such kind of company.

Heaven forbid. [EDWIN G. ESPEJO/MINDANEWS CONTRIBUTOR]

10 SUBURBIA

HIGH SPIRITS. Davao del Norte Gov. Rodolfo P. del Rosario, right, is in high spirits, while Office of the Civil Defense Regional Director Liza Mazo chats with Provincial Board Members Daniel Lu and Raymond

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

Joey Millan at the launch of the new Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operation Center.

PENSIVE. Davao del Norte Gov. Rodolfo P. del Rosario, right, is in pensive mood while a priest blesses the new Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operation Center, together with its two rubber boats, background. [NOEL BAGUIO/DAVNOR PIO]

New office buildings to boost Davao del Norte’s performance T

Flooded villagers in Sta. Cruz town say water rose too fast

By Noel Baguio

T

HE Provincial Government inaugurated three office buildings that intend to further bolster its performance in terms of disaster preparedness, delivery of basic health services and environmental protection.

Governor Rodolfo P. del Rosario led the inauguration of the new Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (PDRRM) Operation Center, Provincial Health Office (PHO)- Public Health

I

Laboratory, as well as, the newly-renovated Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) on August 31, 2012.

The groundbreaking for the new Provincial Blood Bank was also held besides the PHO Building.

The governor said the projects, which amount to a total of P18.5 million, shall not only improve the over-all performance of the Provincial Government.

“It will also expand

the benefits that the Dabaonon people shall receive,” he pointed out.

The projects, according to him shall beef up the disaster risk reduction and management capability of the province, intensify environmental protection and conservation program, as well as, step up the delivery of public health services.

The two rubber boats of the PDRRM Operations Center were also consecrated, while two emergency unit vehicles are on

the way.

At the same time, the new PHO Building, which was funded by the DOHHealth Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP), would soon provide laboratory services such as bacteriological examinations, water analysis and drug tests at a very minimal cost.

“With this laboratory facility, we are giving our people the winning option to avail the services at a more affordable cost,” del Rosario said.

social workers coming from schools of nursing the medical and dental practitioners in conducting the clinic. The constituents who have availed themselves of the medical and dental services are not only from Brgy. Villarica, but also the residents from adjacent barangays.

Floirendo’s chief of staff Giovanni Israel said the FABC’s medical and dental outreach is in response to the shortage of medical services in many of the province’s communities. Also offered during the mission aside from providing free medical and dental services were free haircut and distribution of school supplies. Brgy.

Villarica chairman Manuel Ruiz Jr. was also on hand to supervise the offering of Floirendo’s unique “birthday gift” to his constituents of his barangay

and nearby areas.

A similar health clinic was also undertaken in the districts of Penaplata and Kaputian also in the Island Garden City of Samal. Israel said that Floirendo’s other

concern is the dispensing of public-oriented projects and other welfare-related programs geared towards improving the lives of the people in the rural communities. [LAN DAVAL]

Medical clinic held during Vince Floirendo’s birthday

NSTEAD of a lavish bash, Davao del Norte Federation of Association of Barangay Captains (FABC) president and Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Vicente “Vince” Floirendo held a more meaningful birthday celebration by sponsoring medical and dental clinics in the rural communities on Saturday, September 1. It was the 44th natal day observance of Vince.

The medical and dental clinic conducted at Brgy. Villarica in Babak district, IGaCoS was part of the young Floirendo’s “Programang Pangkalusugan sa Barangay”project, which embodies his concept of community health service.

The city government likewise provided support to improve health education among the people.

Volunteer nurses and

EDGEDAVAO

MEDICAL CLINIC. Medical staff examine patients during a medical and dental clinic at Brgy. Villarica in Babak district, Igacos sponsored by Davao del Norte FABC (Federation of Association of Barangay Captains) president Vince Floirendo, coinciding with his 44th birthday. [LAN DAVAL]

WELVE families have been evacuated to safer grounds following a flashflood on Thursday evening in Barangay Astorga, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, the Office of Civil Defense-11 reported Friday.

Although residents estimated that at least a hundred families were actually affected by the flashflood, with the water level rising fast and the first time this deep in the village, the OCD11 stressed that the local government reported only 12 displaced families who are living near the river.

Liza Mazo, OCD-11 chief, said that four houses were totally damaged while two others were partially destroyed.

On Friday morning, most residents of sitios Baybay, Mangga and Astorga were seen bringing out their belongings, including appliances, for drying, as the floodwater the night before rose up to five feet in less than 15 minutes.

Salome Evangelio, who lives just 50 meters

away from the national highway, told Mindanews that the water rose so fast that they were not able to save their appliances and some game fowls.

In her 60s, Evangelio added they secured first the children into the rooftop using a bamboo ladder, because they fear that the water level might rise higher.

“We were afraid when the water was waist high, so we brought first our grandchildren to the rooftop. We have a ladder linked to a tall tree in case the water will rise further, the sari-sari store owner recalled.

Evangelio said her husband only saved 10 of their 18 game fowls as the floods swept them away.

Jonathan Caasi, in his 40s, also said in an interview that he first secured his three children into their neighbor’s two-storey house.

Like Evangelio, Caasi also recounted that the water level rose too fast, and was made worse by the high tide.

11

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

Landslide...

HLURB...

FFROM 1

FFROM 1

Gales Jr. exposed the activities of the property development in Samal, which included offering buying land and then reselling these lands in small lots without following the law on subdivision development.

He said other real estate developers claim that the notoriety of Millennium Property is hurting the image of the real estate industry in the region.

Deles...

“We follow all the rules and acquire all the necessary permits for our projects, but there are companies like Millennium Property that do not even bother to apply for licenses. Government should be very strict about this,” one developer, who requested anonymity, said.

Palma Gil, meanwhile, is reminding developers to fully comply with the requi-

sites needed for real estate development.

“It is our duty to protect the welfare of the consumers, and we are doing our job,” Palma Gil said. “Buyers should also check that developers they buy their properties from have the license to sell. If the company cannot show you one, you can check with the HLURB if they are indeed licensed.”

Asean...

Kids at the arena will start on Sunday, Deles said.

On September 14, they will launch in Manila the “I am for Peace” campaign.

On September 21, they will celebrate the International Day of Peace during the ka-Peace-tahan, a festive gathering to be held at the SM North Edsa.

The “Teem Up for Peace,” a benefit golf competition, is slated on Sept. 28.

To cap the Peace Month celebration, an

“I Want Peace” concert would be held in key cities – in Manila, Baguio, Iloilo and Davao – on Sept.

28.

“Peace is not only an aspiration; largely, it is a consciousness and a resolve. It is never enough that we want it; we have to seek it, understand its process, and take part in realizing it,” she said as she challenged every Filipino “to continue planting the seeds of peace and looking forward to a bountiful harvest.” [Malu Cadeliña Manar / MindaNews]

“The scorecard has revealed a good percentage of the items ASEAN has fulfilled and completed towards the community building, but there is still a lot of work to be done,” he said, adding that ASEAN needs to basically engage with private sectors and put more focus on connectivity.

After the week-long meetings, the economic ministers expressed their satisfaction with ASEAN’s economic growth of 4.7 percent last year despite the heightened uncertainties in the global economy, according to a joint media statement on Friday.

They said that the positive but moderate economic growth was underpinned by resilient domestic demand, strong macroeconomic fundamentals, sound balance sheets of banks and the corporate sector, and on-going structural reforms since 1997.

“We are confident that our economic expansion would remain healthy this year, with projected GDP

What...

FFROM 7

Elmer H. San Pascual, head of Promotions Group of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), presents the opportunities for investors in Philippine Economic Zone during Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry,

Inc. (DCCCII) and Mindanao Business Council, Inc. (MBC) 8th General Membership meeting at Marco Polo Hotel on Friday. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

MRDP...

FFROM 3

among members.

A minimum of two plots will be assigned to a member. Others acquire eight or more depending on how much one can cultivate.

The members earn in two-ways: one is by selling their harvest to local traders twice a week and by vending their crop around the town by themselves.

“Local vegetable traders come to our farms and buy our harvest twice a week. Sometimes, other members opt to harvest their crops, and buy from our other members and sell the vegetables around town which adds to our regular weekly income,” Daling said.

They allow such set-up especially to those members who have immediate financial needs to cover mostly school payments, but they

day), a certain Ramon was reported hit by a falling tree resulting in minor injuries.

It is believed that reports of massive casualties is an attempt to distort information and create issues that only confuse people. All inquiries should be channeled to LGU Taragona to ensure their veracity,” the military report quoted Mayor Uy as saying.

The casualty, identified

as Ramon Abad Renomeron, a resident Don Salvador Lopez brangay, Mati City, who is reportedly in stable condition at the Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital in Mati City.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction Center and Management Council (NDRRCMC), in its updates, has identical reports as the military.

growth of between 5.2 percent and 5.9 percent,” the ministers said in the statement.

The ministers were also pleased to note that ASEAN’s merchandise trade grew at 16.8 percent from 2.05 trillion U.S. dollars in 2010 to 2.39 trillion U.S. dollars in 2011 despite the slowdown global trade, with intra-ASEAN trade remained strong at 598 billion U.S. dollars.

They said Japan was the top export destination, followed by China, the European Union, and the United States.

At the same time, export and import in services grew by about 10 percent in 2011.

Travel, transportation, other business services, and financial services continue to be the top services export sectors.

They were also pleased that ASEAN maintained its position as one of the most attractive destinations for foreign direct investment (FDI), which reached 89.2 billion U.S. dollars in 2011.

The European Union

remained the top source of FDI to ASEAN, accounting for approximately 25 percent of total inward FDI to ASEAN. Japan and the United States were the second and third largest source of FDI, altogether accounting for 22.5 percent in total.

Intra-ASEAN investment grew at 23 percent in 2011, reaching 17. 5 billion U.S. dollars which accounted for 19.7 percent of total inward FDI into ASEAN. In addition, they agreed to remain vigilant against downside risks such as further contraction of external demand caused by the sovereign debt crisis in the Eurozone, fiscal problems in some developed economies, tighter global financing conditions, higher oil prices, and volatile global capital flows.

Founded in 1967, ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

[PNA/Xinhua]

with the specified engine oil according to the recommended volume. Be sure to check the oil level.

13. Check the front suspension, look for leaks caused by debris of flood 14. Check the rear suspension, look for leaks caused by debris of flood fully submerged motorcycle: Water from Ground to Brake Master Cylinder 1. The first step is to perform all the procedures for the half-submerged unit, and then perform the additional items stated below.

2. Drain fuel tank, check for corrosion on filler neck and lid. Clean with gasoline and apply compressed air.

3. Drain the water at utility box 4. Remove the battery and clean the terminals, then recharged it.

5. Wash the entire motorcycle with soap or dishwashing agent 6. Check and clean the couplers of CDI, starter relay, and winker 7. Spray contact cleaner on all electrical couplers

8. Remove air cleaner box and replace air cleaner element 9. Check the condition of speedometer panels, clean and lubricate 10. Check all the sockets of light bulbs 11. Check and clean all the switches and apply contact cleaner.

12. Clean all the cables with pressurized water, then apply corrosion inhibitor 13. Clean and apply grease on all pivot joints of brake and clutch 14. Clean and lubricate steering ball bearings 15. Install all electrical couplers 16. Start the engine and check operations These are the tips on how to care for our bikes should they be submerged in floodwater. So this rainy season, take extra precaution when riding your motorcycles. Always bring your rain gears, avoid taking flood-prone routes when rain starts to pour and always wear your safety gears. (Honda Philip-

FFROM 2

FFROM 2

theme is, “Ako. Ikaw. Tayo.

Magkakaiba, Nagkakaisa sa Kapayapaan.”

The theme, explained Deles, serves as a reminder that “in the face of differences, we have to take bold steps forward to defy the odds and rise above the challenges in piecing together the peace process.”

The peace month celebrations will kick off on Sunday with “One Goal for Peace”, a football event with the Azkals at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City in Metro Manila.

Also, a Peace Fair for

rangay Tubaon, Tarragona in Davao Oriental caused a landslide in the area that reportedly occurred at 10 p.m. last Thursday evening and and 5 a.m. Friday.”

Uy reportedly sent personnel to the area to check on any damage near the Bangol mining area where three tunnels were said to have collapsed.

“Late yesterday (Fri-

also remind each member to maintain the volume of their harvest to keep their supply to the local market.

“We have at least 23 regular costumers who buys in volume whom we give a gate price of cauliflower at P40 a kilo; petchay P20 per kilo, squash P15, eggplant P20.00 and other leafy vegetables range from P12-P15 a kilo,” Daling said, adding: “We earn at least P200.00 a day from vending around town, aside from our weekly income from the regular costumers plus we have already secured our own daily supply of vegetables.

This is much better than our lives before,” she said.

Since the group is using organic fertilizer, they have also availed themselves of the vermiculture project from the provincial govern-

ment for the production of vermicast and vermin tea.

“The local DA office which constantly monitors our project here has also aided us in the proper animal management of our cattle dispersal and even supply the necessary biologics,”Daling said.

In 2011, their organization bagged first prize of the local G4 (Go, Grow, Glow Garden) competition of the National Anti-Poverty Commission and received the cash prize of P50,000.00 “Our dream is to buy our own garden lot and have a stall in the public market where we can directly sell our harvest,” Daling enthused.

Coming back to the bosom of the government, they have become the “ green armies” in their community. [SHERWIN B. MANUAL]

the recommended mixture of engine oil and kerosene 9.1 Kerosene (50%) AND Engine oil (50%) 9.1.1 Cub model: 700 ml (350 ml kerosene, 350 ml engine oil) 9.1.2 Business model: 900 ml (450 ml kerosene, 450 ml engine oil) 9.1.3 Sports model: 1 liter (500 ml kerosene, 500 ml engine oil) 9.2 Start the engine and let it idle for 5 -10 mins.

10. Stop the engine and drain the mixture of kerosene and engine oil then properly dispose the mixture.

11. Re-fill the engine pure engine oil according to the recommended volume.

Start the engine, let it idle for 5-10 mins, and drain the oil. Repeat this process 2-3 times or more, until the whitish color of oil is eliminated, an indication that the water has been totally flushed out.

(Note: Use Honda Oil-SAE 40, API SJ/ SAE 10w-30, API S) 12. For the final engine oil replacement, fill the engine

12 CLASSIFIEDS ADS

There’s a better way to get attention.

Advertise with EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

Realty

EDGEDAVAO

Health and Wellness

FOR SALE: 1) 1-hectare commercial lot at P10,000/sq m, along National Highway, facing east, beside NCCC Panacan, Davao City. 2) 17,940sq m commercial lot at P2,500/sq m, along Matina Diversion Road. 3) 3,831 sq m lot along Matina Diversion Road. 4) 41,408 sq m commercial/industrial lot at P800/sq m along the National Highway, Bunawan. 5) 7,056 sq m at P1,200/sq m commercial/ residential lot along Indangan Road, Buhangin District. 6) 27,411 sq m commercial/industrial lot along the National Highway in Bincungan, Tagum City. 7) 116.15 to 245.92 sq meters , at P5.5M to P12.3M commercial/office condo units in Bajada, Davao City. 8) 699 to 1,117 sq m at P4,100/sq m commercial lots at Josefina Town Center, along the National Highway, Dumoy, Toril. 9) Ready-for-Occupancy Residential Properties: 4BR/3T&B in a 240 sq m lot with 177.31sqm floor area (2-storey) at P4.8M in an exclusive beachfront community in Dumoy, Toril.; 3BR 2-storey in a 71.25 sq m 2-storey in a 143sq m lot in an exclusive flower village in Maa, Davao City; 180 sq m lots with 71.25sqm to 126.42 sq m floor areas, priced at P3.751M to P5.773M in an exclusive mountain resort community along Matina, Diversion Road. 10) 1BR/2BR residential condo units located in Bolton, Maa, Obrero, Davao City. 11) FOR ASSUME (RUSH): 1BR res’l condo unit in Palmetto, Maa. P600K negotiable. Note: Items 1-9 can be paid in cash, in-house or bank financing. If interested, please call Jay (PRC REB Lic. 8237) at 0922-851-5337 (Sun), 0908883-8832 (Smart) or send email to propertiesindavao@yahoo.com.

Best for kids ages 1 to 12 years old High in CGF, Taurine, L-Lysine Contains Fortified with DHA Available at all Drugstore near you

Take 2mg Ener-plus Capsule one hour before your intimate encounter

Review Center

• Improve Blood Circulation • Provide Extra Strength & Sexual Stamina • Increase Libido & Sexdrive

Available at all Drugstore near you

CLASSIFIEDS

RATES FOR BOX ADS BLACK AND WHITE SIZE Full Page Half Page 1/4 Page 1/8 Page 1/16 Page per col. cm.

RATES FOR

Multivitamins for Teens & young adults ages 13 to22 years old Available at all Drugstore near you

LINE ADS

Classified Page 10,000.00 5,000.00 2,500.00 1,250.00 650.00 55.00

P150.00 per column inch; P55.00 first three lines; P10.00 on succeeding lines

FULL COLOR ADS + 35% color surcharge

3 + 2 bonus Deadline for submission of materials is 12:00 NN. Deadline for Friday and Saturday issues is 5:00 PM. Deadline for Sunday and Monday issues is Saturday 12:00 NN. For more information, please call our Advertising Office 221-3601; 301-6235 and ask for Jane or Chay.

PROPERTY FOR SALE IDEAL FOR INDUSTRIAL / MANUFACTURING PLANT, 3 hectares, Santa Cruz along the National Highway, Direct Buyers only Contact: 0927-706-2510

LOT FOR SALE

PRIME PROPERTY FOR SALE ROBINSONS HIGH LANDS, 173 sq. meters, 1.5 M, Direct Buyers only Contact: 0926-305-1555 0942-966-2444

APARTMENT FOR SALE 3 Door Apartment, lot 320 sq. m.

Located at Bo. Obrero near Victoria Plaza 10 M, Direct Buyers only Contact: 0932-532-7304

NOTICE OF LOSS Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No(s) under LOYOLA PLAN issued to the following planholders, to wit; PH NAME CFP NO. 1. ESTELITA I. TABLANTE 37685 2. VIRGILIO O. LIBRADO 1002362

CONTRACT NO. 421467-2 710725471

180 sq. meter, Farland Subd., Dumoy, Toril, P 350,000 only

were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

Contact: 0927-706-2510

(8/27, 9/3,10)

EDGEDavao

EDGEDavao Gensan Partners

Serving a seamless society

Reporters (4)

- Male / Female, not more than 30 years old - Preferably a graduate of BS Mass Communication or related courses - Experience not necessary - Can work under pressure and within deadlines - Good command of the English language - A team player

Tel No. (083)- 553-2211

1. DOCTOR’S CLINIC 2. MOBILE ON-SITE SERVICES 3. DENTAL SERVICES 4. VACCINATION 5. LABORATORY SERVICES 6. IMAGING SERVICES

(Ultrasound, 2D-Echo,ECG, X-RAY)

We offer Pasta, Pizza and all Filipino foods CLINIC HOURS: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM

For interested applicants, you may send your resume to: HR Department EDGEDavao Doors 13 & 14 Alcrej B;dg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel. No. (082) 221-3601 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com

DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES

7. HEALTH PACKAGES 8. DRUG TESTING

Account Executives (2)

- Male / Female, not more than 30 years old - Candidate must posses a Bachelor/College Degree in any Business field.

- Willing to work under pressure, flexible, persuasive, can speak fluently and computer literate - A team player - With Basic Salary, Transportation, Communication, allowance + Commission

Clinic

South Osmeña, General Santos City Cell No. 09999923588 Tel. No. (083) 552-3297

Address: Door 3 & 4 Ground floor CVA & Sons Bldg. along Quirino & JP Laurel Ave., Davao City Telephone No.: (082) 284-1978, 295-6894 Email Add: med_laboratory@yahoo.com Website: www.meddiagnosticslab.com

13

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012 CLASSIFIEDS ADS Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11th Judicial Region BRANCH 12 Davao City

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

PETITION FOR THE JUDICIAL RECOGNITION OF CERTIFICATE OF DIVORCE OF THE MARRIAGE OF JEMILY SAPA-HARA WITH SEIICHI HARA JEMILY SAPA-HARA, Petitioner x--------------------------x

SP. PROC. NO.: 12, 140-12

ANITA L. ROMERO, Case No.2012-XI-00523 Petitioner-Vendor (2003-XI-01192) RIZA R. UNGAB, Petitioner-Vendee x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x

ORDER

NOTICE OF HEARING

This is verified petition for Judicial Recognition of Certificate of Divorce of the marriage of Jemily Sapa-Hara with Seiichi Hara, filed

by Jemily Sapa-Hara, through counsel, praying that upon due notice and hearing, judgment be rendered recognizing the Certificate of Divorce of petitioner’s marriage to Seiichi Hara on May 11, 2007 at the House of the Minister at 233-A JP Rizal Street, Project 4, Quezon City.

Finding the verified petition to be sufficient in form and substance, set the hearing of this petition on OCTOBER 01, 2012 at 8:30 a.m.

WHEREFORE, Petitioner is hereby directed to cause the publication of this Order at her expense, in a newspaper of general circulation in the City and three (3) provinces of Davao, once a week for (30) consecutive weeks.

Petitioner is further directed to furnish the Office of the Solicitor General a copy of this petition.

Likewise, let a copy of this Order be furnished the Local Civil Registrar, Davao City.

Any person interested or who seeks to oppose the instant petition may appear to state why the petition should not be granted.

SO ORDER.

Davao City, Philippines, July 30, 2012

8/20/27,9/03

Petition for Approval of Sale and Transfer With Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service

PELAGIO S. PAGUICAN Judge

Petitioners request authority for the Approval of Sale and Transfer executed by ANITA L. ROMERO in favor of RIZA R. UNGAB of a Certificate of Public Convenience with Equipment issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: TORIL ROUTE and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on June 23, 2013. In the same petition file on June 18, 2012,petitioners likewise request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on September 12, 2012 at 09:30 a. m. at this office at the above address.

At least, FIVE (5) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence.

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, This 22nd day of June 2012 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Chief Transport Development Officer

Shop at

DAVAO LILA DEPT. STORE SHOPPING PARADISE OF THE BUDGET-WISE AT ITS NEW LOCATION NEAR MANILA BULLETIN CAYETANO BANGOY ST. (FORMERLY PONCIANO REYES ST.) CORNER RIZAL STREET, DAVAO CITY CONTACT: TEL. #: 225-5258; 227-3959 CEL.#: 0932-2246429; 0915-4102303

LOTS FOR SALE ROYAL PINES SUBDIVISION MATINA DAVAO CITY SEMI VIEW LOTS BLOCK 3, LOT 5 – 404 SQUARE METERS BLOCK 3, LOT 7 – 349 SQUARE METERS VILLA JOSEFINA RESORT VILLAGE, DUMOY – PHASE 1 BLOCK 6, LOT 13- 240 SQUARE METERS BLOCK 17, LOT 6- 240 SQUARE METERS BLOCK 19, LOT 4- 240 SQUARE METERS (082) 225-5258, 0915-511-1985,

KRISTINE

14 EVENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

You can now buy your favorite Business Paper from any of these establishments still at Php 15.

Koronadal

Gen. Santos Drive, Koronadal City Telefax No.: (083) 520-0816 Mobile No.: 0922-843-9427 email: manggorio09@yahoo.com

PIADI OFFICERS. PIADI Directors Romy Chan and Armand Lim, Vice Chair Nenita Milana, Secretary Dominique Carpio, Chairman Lads Aviola, Treasure Jon-

PIADI invests in GenSan W

General Santos

jon Ramirez, Directors Marissa Atega, Olivia Velasco and Lucas Murico hold a general assembly of the printing cooperative in General Santos City.

ITH General Santos City’s burgeoning economy, the general assembly of the PIADI Multi Purpose Cooperative has approved the plan to purchase a lot in the city where the PIADI GenSan’s office and warehouse will be constructed.

A highly urbanized first-class city, GenSan is the center of commerce, trade, and logistics in this growth area that includes South Cotabato, Cotabato City, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani Province.

PIADI’s special assembly in GenSan was held last August 10, the day SM City General Santos City also opened its doors to the public. During the assembly, the members of new committees—credit, ethics and mediation and

conciliation committees—took their oath of office.

The assembly culmi-

nated with the traditional raffle of prizes among PIADI officers and members.

Mrs. Pacita Aviola, wife of PIADI chair Lads Aviola of King Printers

Members of different committees take their oath of office before Rev. Fr. Jeniño D. Agudulo

General Assembly PIADI Coop Davao manager Anita Dayanghirang with GSC staff

Rev. Fr. Jeniño D. Agudulo takes his oath of office before chair Lads Aviola HAVEN BODY WORKS SPA & SALON Door 5 Kaykay Baloons Bldg., Laurel North Cor. Bayabas St. General Santos City Tel # (083) 301- 1991

HELPING YOU MAKE INFORMED BUSINESS DECISIONS.

Raffle winner Willie Sabado of Wilmond Printing Press of GSC

INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

ARTS AND CULTURE

Serving

a

Seamless

society

You can now buy your favorite Business Paper from any of these establishments still at Php 15.

Davao

Tulip Drive, Ecoland, Davao City

F. Torres St., Davao City Tel No. 227-3773 - (72) Fax: 295-3485

HELPING YOU MAKE INFORMED BUSINESS DECISIONS.

THE candy colored hair, his sweet nonchalance to easy to sell art, and the comfy printed loose shirt are probably what set Aidx Paredes apart from his class. He is definitely no ordinary student. A peak in his bag will somehow tell you the busy life this lad has. Between scribbles and doodles in his trusty planner and note pad are a few anecdotes from his own light bulb moments.

Legally 18, Adriane Augustine “Aidx” Paredes is an established photographer and graphic artist. A young blood with a photographer’s eye, the colourful imagination of a painter, and the creativity of a writer and stylist… In fashion, he’s probably what you’d call the jack of all trades.

Aidx began his love affair with photography at the age of 12. He took portraits of classmates and friends.

Using a 4-megapixel camera, he found his visual style by experimenting on different angles, framing, and exposures. Eventually he became hooked to this hobby, used it as a form of expression, and moved on to taking pictures of different subjects. Books and articles posted online were his friendly tools in learning more about the craft.

“I compared my photos with those that were done by professionals, and I tried to figure out what’s wrong in my photos or how I could improve it. Practice makes perfect. It took a lot of trials and errors, but that’s part of learning. You learn by mistake. The video portals on the internet gave me an opportunity to see how professionals achieve a certain effect. While it served me well in honing

my skills, at the end of the day, I knew no one can ever mimic the style of others.

Just like beauty, I’d like to think photography is in the eyes of the beholder. You should let your visual style shine through your art.”

At 15, he started blogging and used it as his form of photo diary. “I am a frustrated writer. So I post my little poems and ideas there, and complemented them with my photos. I try to blog as much as I can, as there is so much I want to share with everyone. As long as I have eyes to see, I don’t think I will ever stop taking pictures. I find metaphors in everything I see and feel.”

A self-effacing achiever, Aidx moved on to fashion photography and made his debut as a professional FVISUAL, A4

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

EVENTS

Drinking beer, planting trees

By Carlo P. Mallo

IF I were asked how I can minimize my carbon footprint during my drunken state, I would have quipped I’ll drink beer instead of water to save the depleting volume of fresh water that we have left on this planet. But top beer manufacturer, San Miguel Brewery Inc., doesn’t do it that way.

Instead, they plant trees in every available space to give back to the planet that has given them so much.

But no, it’s not as simple as digging holes in the ground and planting seedlings there. They carefully select areas where they plant trees, and for this case, they chose the future site of the new public market of Santa Cruz town. The trees were planted in the periphery of the proposed market, which will also serve as a park.

Together with the townspeople of Santa Cruz, San Miguel employees planted over 500 trees that day.

Since it was a San Miguel activity, I was hoping that they would serve ice-cold beer to quench the thirst of those who participated in the activity. Of course, I was wrong. Instead, they served other San Miguel products under the Magnolia brand.

According to San Miguel’s communication officer, Meg Macion-Santos, it was the third year of nationwide tree planting project of the company with the com-

FOOD

mitment of increased number of seedlings for planting and participation of employee volunteers.

The project, dubbed as SMB Trees Brew Life-Year III, a component of the company’s major environmental advocacy program called “Buhayin ang Kalikasan” formally commenced last August 4 at Baranggay Nabuklod in Floridablanca, Pampanga, a tourist destination now being developed by the provincial government.

This year, in all Saturdays of August, SMB planted more than 12,500 seedlings with participation of close to 1,400 personnel from its head office, domestic breweries and sales offices nationwide. The figures represent an enormous increase from the 450 seedlings and 300 employee volunteers when the project was launched in 2010.

“Paano tayo nagtagumpay?

Nadagdagan ang bilang ng aming employee volunteers ngayong taon dahil nakiisa na sa puwersa

ang aming mga kaibigan sa business sector at media mula sa iba’t ibang dako ng Pilipinas. Dumami rin ang ating itatanim dahil sa kagandahang-loob ng ating program partners mula sa government, NGOs, private sector at partner communities,” San Miguel’s Roberto N. Huang said in the opening ceremonies.

Last August 4, Huang together with members of the SMB Operations Committee, were joined by around 500 employees from San Miguel San Fernando Brewery and sales personnel in the Central and North Luzon Area.

Approximately 1,500 casuy and coconut seedlings were planted on that day to help augment the livelihood of more than 300 Aetas residing in the picturesque Baranggay Nabuklod.

Huang thanked their partners from various sectors for the success of its flagship environmental project, attributing their partnership to San Miguel Beer’s tagline

“samahan walang katulad.”

“Samahang walang katulad. Kapag naririning natin ang katagang ito, ang unang pumapasok sa ating isipan ay San Miguel Beer. Alam ko na marami sa atin ang patuloy na pinapasaya ng aming world-class beers at dahil dito, kami ay lubos pusong nagpapasalamat sa inyong patuloy na pagtangkilik. Truly we are proud to be with SMB because you give us the privilage of delighting you in so many ways through our products and services!”

He added: “Ngayong taon, ipinapakita natin na buhay na buhay ang ating samahan pagdating sa pangangalaga sa ating kalikasan sa pamamagitan ng ating ikatlong taon ng pagsasagawa ng ating Trees Brew Life treeplanting project.”

Last August 11, SMB simultaneously planted trees in another tourist destination, at Tayak Hill in Rizal, Laguna and at Baranggay Sta. Cruz in Davao del Sur.

This was followed on August 18 at Mandaue City. Last August 25, SMB concluded its tree planting for this year at Baranggay Granada in Bacolod and also in the province of Rizal.

Apart from the weekly planting in the month of August, SMB also did satellite tree planting and environmental regeneration activities in Cagayan Valley, Nueva Ecija, Pangasinan, Camarines Sur, Rizal Province, Davao del Sur, Tacloban, and Iloilo for the rest of the year.

The SMB Buhayin ang Kalikasan program came into fruition after the company was bestowed the Best Managed Subsidiary Award three years ago by it strategic partner Kirin Japan.

The company utilized the cash reward to launch its flagship corporate social responsibility program for the environment which is composed of projects on tree planting, coastal clean-up, and recycling, among others

Not-so-fast food party

IT is no secret: we Davaoenos love eating out. We love fast food, we love quick service, and we love grease. However, not many food chains are actually conducive for little get-togethers with friends because they usually give off a sterile vibe. So what can you do to marry your love for food- tastes) chain food and drinks Note: I can’t really say with your love for the names of the restos hanging out at home? we’ve copied these recipes I suggest you take on from so just guess from the recipes I have be- the clues on the recipes. low and prepare your favorite food-chain Recipe Number One fare for your next Krave-worthy Fried house party. (Dis- Chicken: Craving for some claimer: I’m not say- chicken from Kentucky? ing these recipes taste Try this recipe to make real EXACTLY like your good not-so-original recipe food-chain faves, but chicken. they definitely come a.) Grab a pressure cooker close enough to re- and heat five to six cups mind you of those of Crisco Shortening over

medium heat. b.) In a bowl, combine a well beaten egg and two cups of fresh or evaporated milk. c.) Add eight chicken pieces into the egg and milk mix and let it sit in the fridge. d.) In another bowl combine two cups all purpose flour, two teaspoons of ground black pepper, three tablespoons of salt, a teaspoon of MSG, an eight of a teaspoon of garlic powder, and a dash of paprika. e.) Grab your chicken pieces that have been sitting in the egg and milk mix then dredge them in the flour mixure. f.) In groups of four, drop the chicken pieces in the hot shortening and lock the pressure cooker lid. g.) Cook for ten minutes once the pressure builds up.

(Usually this is signified by a hissing sound. Once you hear that sound, time for

ten minutes) h.) Open the pressure cooker and drain the chicken pieces over some paper towels. i.) Serve with Gravy

Recipe Number Two Krave-worthy Fried Chicken’s Gravy: Come on! You didn’t think I’d give you a fried chicken recipe without the accompanying gravy recipe, now did you?

This isn’t exactly spot-on but according to panlasangpinoy.com this is as close as you can get without breaking the bank or going through too much trouble. a.) Dilute one chicken bouillon cube and one beef bouillon cube in two and one-fourth cups of water. b.) On low heat, melt three tablespoons of butter. c.) Add two tablespoons of all purpose flour to your butter and stir until you get a light brown color. Make

sure not to burn the flour by keeping an eye on it, stirring it continually, and keeping the heat low. d.) Add three more tablespoons of flour and stir. e.) Gradually add the instant-chicken-and-beef sock while stirring to prevent lumps. f.) Once all the stock is mixed, turn up the heat and bring to a boil for about five minutes. g.) Serve with your chicken or mashed potato.

Recipe Number Three Chicken from a Guy Named Max: This chicken brand is one of the most successful home-grown food chains in the country as it manages to give us high quality family-style dining that actually reminds us of home cooking. Their chicken is considered among the best in the country, thus I am giving you the recipe

courtesy of Pinoy Food Blog. Here goes: a.) In a steamer, boil four cups of water with six bay leaves and one-fourth cups of cilantro. b.) Steam a whole Spring Chicken for 45 minutes. c.) Remove the chicken from the steamer and drain the excess liquid. You may also pat it dry. d.) Combine two tablespoons salt and a teaspoon of black pepper. e.) Rub the seasoning all over the chicken. f.) Deep fry for about twelve minutes. g.) Drain and serve.

Watch out for the next instalment of this article where we’ll be giving you recipes for a cheeseburger from the Red, Yellow, and White clown, some milk tea from a happy citrus, and some blended coffee from the world’s most popular coffee brand.

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

ENTERTAINMENT

Remembering

Diana, 15 years later FIFTEEN YEARS ago today, Princess Diana was tragically killed in a car accident.

Since then, her sons Prince William and Prince Harry (only 15

and 12 years old at the time of her death) have grown into handsome, successful men. William, now 30, married the love of his life, Kate Middleton, last year.

In an ABC interview that aired prior to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, William told Katie Couric it was “very difficult” that his mom wasn’t able to be present for his wedding.

“I think she...she would have loved the day and I think, hopefully, she’d be very proud,” he said. “I’m just very sad that she’s never going to get a chance to meet Kate.”

“I think she had the best seat in the house, probably,” Harry added. “But yeah, she would have loved to have been there.”

She was surely there in spirit, and looks down on her boys proudly every day. Our thoughts and prayers are with Will and Harry on this somber anniversary.

INdulge! A3

Chris Hemsworth stuns in Red Dawn

IT’S BEEN almost four years since Chris Hemsworth and Josh Hutcherson shot the Red Dawn remake.

You know, before Hemsworth hit it big with Thor, and Hutcherson did the same with The Hunger Games.

But because of some problems at MGM, the action flick’s release was put on hold…until now.

Red Dawn hits theaters on Nov. 21.

“And now they’ve obviously turned into these franchise players with Thor and Hunger Games,” costar Jeffrey Dean Morgan tells us. “It’s a great movie, but if we have two big movie stars in it, that’s done nothing but help us.”

And only we have exclusive new photos from the movie that shows all of them in action, including Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman’s son, Connor, in his first major film role.

Josh Hutcherson dishes on Catching Fire director Francis Lawrence “They were awesome,”

Morgan says of the young cast. “All the kids in the movie were awesome. No one ever complained on the movie.”

Even if they had to shoot in the middle of winter in Michigan. As we first told you earlier this week, first-time director, stunt veteran Dan Bradley, encouraged everyone to do their own stunts.

“When you have a bunch of young actors out there jumping from rooftop to rooftop, they’re fired up as all hell,”Morgan said. “It wasn’t a bad thing.

It’s what actors love to do.”

The original 1984 movie, starring Patrick Swayze, Charlie Sheen, Jennifer Grey and C. Thomas Howell, takes places during World War III when a group of high schoolers come together to defend their town against the Soviet Union.

Morgan says not much has changed in the remake. “It’s pretty close with the exception of not being Russia doing the invasion,” he said. “Now, it’s North Korea.”

A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

ARTS AND CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT

Visual...

FFROM A1

photographer at the age of 17. He began a beautiful friendship with the creative team of SOUL Lifestyle, a home-grown clothing brand, and his career took off with the launch of the brand’s billboard. “Then, I just saw it. Photographed

by Aidx Paredes. Hehe, “ he quips. From then on, he has been collaborating with SOUL for their billboards and ad boards.

To supplement his budding career, he embarked on a one man exhibit in January 2012, amply entitled “The Edge of Seventeen.” He showcased his collection of fashion photos from the past 2 years.

It was attended by fellow photographers, who had, early on, taken notice of this young blood’s potentials and unique style. Aidx earned accolades even from entrepreneurs and professional artists.

Aidx got another big break with his recent appointment as the new layout / graphic artist for Zee Magazine, a society magazine based in Cebu and distributed nationwide.

“Photography, art, fashion… This is my niche.

And I am comfortable with who I am and the kind of work that I’m doing. I get to enjoy being young and professional at the same time. It’s like having the best of both worlds.”

When asked on what it takes to be a successful photographer, Aidx has only this to say: “Do not be afraid to experiment. Take risks.

Break the rules. You can master all the techniques, but it is your personal style that will make you shine. Be confident. Don’t be afraid of criticisms… These are only words of advice given in a little rude way. You’ll eventually learn to swallow them all and learn from them.”

Check out http://aidxparedes.com/ for more about Aidx Paredes and his photos.

SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

15

Love and goodbyes Andy Roddick bids tennis goodbye

I

NSTEAD of continuing a slow fade from the peak of men’s tennis to the outskirts of the top 20, Andy Roddick has decided to step away from the sport.

Roddick, 30, announced at a press conference Thursday he will retire after the U.S. Open, meaning a man who has been the face of U.S. men’s tennis since Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi retired could be passing the torch as soon as this week.

The first chance for Roddick to extend his farewell tour will come Friday when he meets talented 19-year-old Australian Bernard Tomic in the second round of the U.S. Open.

Roddick has been the best American men’s player for much of the past decade, reaching No. 1 in the world for the first time in Nov. 2003

Andy Roddick returns a shot to Rhyne Williams in the first round of play at the 2012 US Open tennis tournament in New York. AP

Maria to Vujacic: Bye, bye love N

EW YORK (AP) -- Forget about Maria Sharapova’s tennis, which is going quite well at the moment. She dropped a bit of off-court news at the U.S. Open on Friday, saying she’s no longer engaged to professional basketball player Sasha Vujacic.

At her postmatch news conference following a 6-1, 6-1

victory over NCAA runner-up Mallory Burdette to reach the fourth round, four-time Grand Slam champion Sharapova said her relationship with Vujacic has been over ‘’since the end of spring, actually.’’ ‘’I was waiting for someone to actually ask me that question, but nobody did, directly,’’ Maria Sharapova stirs news on and off the court at the US Open.

Sharapova said.

Teen sensation stirs US Open

N TEEN SENSATION. 18-year old teen sensation Laura Robson of Great Britain.

and amassing 32 ATP World Tour titles and 33 Davis Cup victories. His lone grand slam title came at the 2003 U.S. Open, but he reached the finals of Wimbledon three times, falling to Roger Federer each time including a 16-14 fifth-set heart breaker in 2009.

The departure of Roddick will again shine a light on the dearth of young American tennis talent capable of filling the void.

Hard-serving 27-yearold John Isner cracked the top 10 for the first time this year, but his 2011 quarterfinals appearance at the U.S. Open is the only time he has made it to the final eight of a grand slam. Veteran Mardy Fish, 30, reached No. 7 in the world last August, but injuries and signs of age have sent him tumbling to No. 25 a year later. And promising 24-year-old Sam Querrey has bounced back from an injuryplagued 2011 season to reenter the top 30, but he still has yet to prove he can consistently reach the second week of a grand slam.

What Roddick’s legacy in the sport will be depends whether his career is viewed in comparison to some of the other greats of his era or on its own merit.

On the one hand, he used his powerful serve and potent forehand to remain a decadelong fixture in the top 10 and keep the U.S. relevant in men’s tennis. On the other hand, he never could unequivocally say he was the best in his sport, always overshadowed by Roger Federer in his prime and eclipsed by the likes of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray in recent years.

Injuries and age have caught up with Roddick this year more than any other, sapping the power in his trademark serve and forcing him to rely on gradually declining groundstrokes. He lost in the third round or sooner of all three prior grand slams and has slid to No. 22 in the ATP rankings.

EW YORK (AP) -- Laura Robson dissolved into giggles at a reference to British boy band One Direction.

Yes, she’s definitely 18. She also has beaten two former Grand Slam champions at the U.S. Open, and will face another in her next match.

The British teen beat 2011 French Open winner Li Na in the third round Friday, two days after

she ended the career of four-time major champ Kim Clijsters. Next up: Sam Stosur, who happens to be the defending champion. ‘’I have had a fairly tough draw, haven’t I?’’ Robson said with the smile of a player racking up confidence.

Ranked 89th, Robson had never been past the second round of a major tournament or knocked off a top 10 opponent before this year’s Open. Now she’s done both, after

eliminating the ninth-seeded Li 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-2.

With a break point on Li’s serve at 2-2 in the final set, Robson’s return clipped the baseline and Li hit the ball wide. But the line judge called Robson’s shot out and, after a review overturned it, Robson lost the replayed point. Li won the next point as well to earn game point. But with the Louis Armstrong Stadium crowd roaring its support, Robson rallied back to get the break.

16 SPORTS The Business PAPER

You can now buy your weekly paper fill of in-depth business news and features from any of these establishments still at Php 15.

Jose Abad Santos St., Corner Arellano St., Tagum City 8100 Philippines Tel. No.: (084) 216-3003 Cell No,: 0939-243-8539

VOL.5 ISSUE 130 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - 3, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Azkals cleared of sex raps T

HE Philippines Azkals’ Angel Guirado and Lexton Moy were cleared of the sexual harassment charges but will serve out suspensions along with Azkals manager Dan Palami, coach Michael Weiss and another player Dennis Wolf.

Guirado and Moy will sit out one match while Palami and Weiss will serve out a couple including one international match against Cambodia on September 5.

The sexual harassment suit was filed against the two Azkals

by AFC Challenge Cup match commissioner Cristy Ramos for their alleged misconduct before an Azkals’ friendly against Malaysia at the Rizal Stadium.

In a decision released on Friday, the Philippine Football Federation disciplinary committee chaired by lawyer Enrico Ingles ruled that Ramos’ complaint against the two Azkals did not have sufficient basis to be classified under Republic Act 7877 or the Anti-Sexual Harass-

ment Act. The complaint of Cristy, daughter of former President Ramos, six months ago came after she felt disrespected by the behaviors of Moy and Guirado during the pre-game inspection of the friendly.

Moy allegedly asked for Ramos’ bra size, while Guirado was censured for being in his underwear when the commissioner did her inspection at the Azkals’ locker room.

“We do not find any grounds upon which to favor her claims as the elements under RA 7877 are absent,” read the decision.

“I’ve always been confident that there is no basis for the sexual harassment case. I’m happy with the decision regarding that matter,” Azkals team manager Dan Palami said on Friday afternoon.

“Napakita na wala naman talagang sexual harassers sa mga Azkals, maybe there was some breakdown in discipline,” Palami added.

Angel Guirado of the Azkals is off the hook but will serve a one-game suspension.