Edge Davao 5 Issue 146

EDGEDAVAO P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

Hala, hala!!

www.edgedavao.net

Serving a seamless society

Indulge

Science/ Environment

Page A1

Page 4

Miners, soldiers abet prostitution Feminists say

By Carlo P. Mallo

Property

Sports

Page 7

D

ON’T LOOK NOW, but mining, militarization and tourism are partly to blame for the rise of prostitution in Davao and neighboring regions.

This was learned from spokespersons of three women’s groups who appeared in yesterday’s Kape-

Tourists too Youngest is 9, oldest 60

han sa Dabaw media forum at SM City Davao Annex Atrium in relation to their activities in the forthcoming International Day of No Prostitution.

FMINERS, 11

Page 16

HALL OF FAME. Davao City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Helen D. Paguican (second from left) poses with City Planning Officer Roberto Alabado (holding 3rd National Literacy Award bagged by Davao City under the highly urbanized city category last Wednesday in

By yearend

Follow Us On

Jeanette L. Ampog, executive director of Talikala, said experience shows that in places where there is a boom in mining and tourism and where military camps are set up,

the number of sex care providers (SCPs), the new politically correct term for commercial sex workers (CSWs) also increase.

To demonstrate the alarming trend, Ampog bared that the youngest sex provider in Agdao is

Baguio City). Alabado accepted the award in behalf of the city government along with councilors Jimmy Dureza, Emmanuel Galicia and Louie John Bonguyan. [City Information Office]

Davao BPO workers to exceed 16T W

ORKERS in Davao’s burgeoning business process outsourcing (BPO) industry will surpass the 16,000-mark by the end of this year as targeted by the industry.

This is the positive view expressed by the pillars of the information communication technology (ICT)-Davao Inc. (IDI) who are likewise optimistic

Oct. 1-2 jobs fair targets 3,500 agents

the industry will attain the BPO target of 30,000 workers in 2016.

IDI president Wit Holganza said that last year the BPO industry registered a 26-percent increase in ICT workers in the city. With the current

trend she said they are expecting a 30-percent rise in BPO workers in 2012.

Holganza, IDI executive vice president Eriberto “Bert” Barriga Jr. and Nanette del Monte of Cyber City Teleser-

vices, Philippines, Inc. told newsmen attending the weekly Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Annex Atrium that the group is holding a Jobs Fair exclusively to recruit 3,500 call center agents at the Holy Cross of Davao College, October 1 and 2.

The activity is jointly conducted by ICTDavao, the BPO Association Davao, Inc.

FBPO, 11

2 THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

If, and when…

EDGEDAVAO

Customs’ gain, Davao’s loss

By Anthony S. Allada

B

UREAU of Customs-Davao district collector lawyer Martiniano Bangcoy says it will be the Customs’ gain if Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte accepts the President’s offer to become the next Customs Commissioner.

“But it would also be Davao’s loss because Duterte’s leadership and political will made the city a peaceful and progressive one,” Bangcoy quickly added.

Duterte confirmed that he was recently offered by President Benigno Aquino to head the Customs Bureau whose current commissioner will reportedly join the senatorial line-up of the ruling Liberal Party (LP).

However, Duterte is said to have asked Aquino to give him a few days to think it over.

This is not the first time

Duterte had been offered a cabinet position; in the past he turned down other offers.

Former President Joseph Estrada had wanted him to be secretary of the Department of National Defense (DND). Three presidents had offered him to head the Interior and Local Government department---Fidel V. Ramos, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, and Aquino---but he turned them as well, “This is the truth. I thought of those offers for quite some time, but I said I am not interested,” he was quoted as saying. “I am not fit for them. I never aspired for any national position, although I am a supporter of the President. I love serving the people, but I have never looked beyond the boundaries of Davao City,” he said.

[ASA]

OPENING. Davao Vice Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte delivers a message during the grand opening of Jollibee Abreeza Mall Saturday night. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

Businessman plans to erect Rep. Casiño raps 16-storey cross on island Cybercrime Law

P

ARTy list Representative Teddy Casiño (Bayan Muna) yesterday reiterated his opposition to the recently enacted Cybercrime Law, saying it is like imposing libel on ordinary conversations.

According to the progressive solon “Imposing libel on the internet, particularly social media like Twitter and Facebook, is like imposing libel on ordinary conversations.

Libel, if it is to be applied to social media at all, should have different parameters. Problem is, dahil isiningit lang ang probisyon, hindi ito masusing napag-usapan.”

Cadiño said millions of people now use social media to express their personal views on a whole range of issues and topics. “Unlike the tradi-

tional mass media, which undergoes strict editorial regulation, social media is unregulated precisely to allow ordinary people to participate in the discourse. People even ‘chat’ on the internet now. Applying the old standards of libel will not do and will only serve to stifle freedom in cyberspace,” he stressed.

“We should immediately amend this law because it will create a chilling effect not just on journalists but on ordinary people who use the internet to express their views and opinions. It opens up to infringement of the constitutional right to freedom of expression and free speech,” he added.

“I am calling on Malacanang to suspend the im-

FREP, 11

Three waterless days in parts of city slated

S

OME parts of Davao City will be waterless for the next three days with the Davao City Water District set to tap pipelines from its mainline on September 25, 28 and 29.

DCWD spokesperson Imelda Magsuci said that on Tuesday, Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (eight hours), Dona Luisa Teachers Village and its immediate environs will be waterless for the tapping of the newly installed 4-inch diameter Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pipeline to the existing

6-inch diameter mainline.

On the same day from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (four hours) water service interruptions will be implemented in four housing villages in the southern part of the city for the tapping of pipelines to the mainline.

The third schedule will be on Sept. 28 and Sept.

29 from 9 a.m. Friday to 2 a.m. Saturday, or a total of five hours at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) and its neigh-

FTHREE, 11

By Antonio M. Ajero

A

N 81-year-old man whose checkered reputation as an intrepid investor, veteran Davao hotelier, pioneer in mining and reclamation projects, fierce consumer rightist, outstanding Rotarian for nearly half a century, Catholic faithful and inveterate dreamer has yet to be fully told, wants to leave a lasting legacy before he faces his Creator.

Antonio “Ding” G. Diaz, owner of Davao Imperial Hotel on C.M. Recto Ave. (formerly Gov. Claveria St.), wants to erect a 16-level tall cross on his tiny Odet Island. Odet is located just beside the elegant Malipano Island which is part

of the world-class Pearl Farm Beach Resort complex in the Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos).

The project is initially estimated to cost at least P50 million.

“Odet” was the name given to the island by its original owners, the late Eduardo Bangoy and spouse Evangeline. It was transferred to Diaz through a lease contract with option to buy in 1974, together with another lot, a parcel of Malipano Island only several feet away.

“Odet” is about 9 kilometers from Davao City on the mainland and can be seen from the bell tower of the St. Peter’s

Cathedral on a clear day.

If the project pushes through, Diaz said he would like to rename the 3,771-square meter island “No Man Is an Island Foundation Philippines 2012, Inc.” after the foundation which would be tasked to manage the affairs and finances of the structure in the future.

WITH the planned content and design of the 16 floors, the structure can evolve into a shrine and a major one-of-akind tourist destination in this part of the country.

The plan calls for an elevator from Basement 1 to the 16th floor and the giant cross could be seen from a great distance

by incoming ships going to the Davao port and by aircraft about to land at the Davao International Airport.

The idea behind the multi-storey cross/cum huge lighthouse was approved by no less than the late Davao Archbishop Antonio Ll. Mabutas who celebrated mass on the island on February 11, 1992.

However, the project faces a major challenge that threatens its eventual realization -Diaz still has to get a title to his tiny island.

Though Diaz had paid oodles of money in real estate taxes on the island since the seventies when he took over

HE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) opened its mall-based consular office in General Santos City on Friday led by DFA Undersecretary Rafael Seguis.

Seguis told reporters that the opening of DFA

T

consular office right inside the Robinsons mall is part of the Public-Private Partnership initiative of the Aquino administration.

Seguis bared that the DFA-Gensan consular office is the second mallbased regional consular

office in Mindanao and the seventh in the entire country.

“This will make processing of passports more accessible and relaxing because it’s inside the mall,” Seguis said.

Compared to its previ-

ous location, DFA’s consular office inside the Robinsons mall is much bigger and can accommodate more people.

With its opening, passport applicants will no longer have to queue in the heat of the sun while waiting for their turn.

HE 5th Kialegnon Festival in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur kicked off early Monday morning with a fun run with over 700 runners led

by Mayor Jess Lumanog, Vice Mayor Marty Basunillo and municipal councilors.

The weeklong festival ends September 28 with a grand parade.

Rainshowers did not prevent the footrace to start at 5:30 a.m. from

the public market square where it all ended.

The festival is named after Datu Kialeg, a legendary B’laan leader who fought against bandits in his time to protect his community, thus Kialegnon, a town resident emulating the examples of the great leader.

Lumanog, who initiated the holding of the festival, said it is but fitting

to honor the indigenous people’s very rich culture and tradition.

One feature of the fiesta is the “Search for Byaning ng Kialegnon 2012”, which recognizes the beauty of lumad women in Magsaysay.

“We also mark the bountiful harvest in our town. That’s why, we really intend it to happen in September because this month is our harvest time,” the mayor said.

Magsaysay is considered the rice granary of Davao del Sur, being the number one rice producer in the province. Other crops the town is known for are corn, durian, rambutan, coconut, rubber and vegetables.

Other activities include Lumba sa Karabao, Karabao Make-over, Lumba sa Kabayo, Pig Catching, Bamboo Pole Climbing, and Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan. [ASA]

FBUSINESSMAN, 11

DFA consular office opens in GenSan

By Aquiles Zonio

DavSur town festival kicks off T

SUBURBIA 3

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 146 •TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

DOST weather trackers installed in Region 12

T

GOOD PERFORMANCE. City of Tagum Mayor Rey T. Uy stands beside the with the 15-kilo official marker of the “Seal of Good Housekeeping” carried by the two city employees, the award conferred upon the Local Government of Tagum City by the Department of the Interior and Local Government. The Seal

of Good Housekeeping is awarded to local government units in the country with good performance in internal housekeeping focusing in four areas: Good Planning, Sound Fiscal Management, Transparency and Accountability and Valuing of Performance Information. [Leo Timogan/CIO Tagum]

Tagum wins DILG’s Seal of Good Housekeeping

T

HE sound fiscal management of Tagum City local government and its full compliance of the national government’s full disclosure policy fueled its image of being a champion of “excellent local governance” thus being conferred the prestigious Seal of Good Housekeeping by the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Speaking before employees of the city government during their regular flag-raising ceremony last September 24, 2012, Mayor Rey T. Uy expressed that this award is not possible without the support of everybody who became the front-liners of giving genuine public service.

“Dili ni mahitabo kung wala ta tanan naningkamot,”said Mayor Uy.

City Department Interior and Local Government Director Eliza P. Mendoza officially handed out the said accolade in behalf of her department.

The said recognition came with a three million pesos cash prize, aside from the 15-kilo official glass marker bearing the signature of the late Sec. Jesse M. Robredo who pioneered the program in line with the national government’s commitment to aggressively scale up interventions to elevate the practice of governance that values transparency, accountability, participation and performance into an institutionalized status.

As a brainchild program of Secretary Robredo, the Seal of Good Housekeeping is awarded

to local government units in the country with good performance in internal housekeeping focusing in four areas: Good Planning, Sound Fiscal Management, Transparency and Accountability and Valuing of Performance Information.

Director Mendoza cited that all financial transactions of the LGU are posted in public places such as the city hall, SP session hall lobby and in the public market so that the public may know.

These essential financial documents can also be seen online through the city’s official website: www.tagumcity.gov. ph.

Aside from these financial transactions, the local government’s fiscal budget, bidding documents and bidding results

are also made public.

Mendoza’s office is religiously monitoring and coordinating with all agencies concerned as to the posting of documents which should be updated monthly and must be in order.

This is the second major award garnered by LGU Tagum from DILG, following its historic win of the 2011 Gawad Pamana ng Lahi for Region XI, beating other local government units in the region including the highly-urbanized City of Davao.

Tagum grabbed the said award for its commendable performance in administrative governance, social governance, economic governance and environmental governance. [LouiE LApAt/Cio

roots group called the Dacudao Eco-tourism Livelihood Association (DELA) have just finished a Cocoa and Durian

Processing Training held under the province’s unique initiative: the Ugmad Komunidad program.

The two-day seminar, conducted in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the office of 1st District of Congressman Anthony del Rosario, was the 10th batch since Ugmad Komunidad kicked off in June this year.

The graduates successfully made “crunchy, sweet, and savoury” durian pastillas, yema, tarts and chocolate candy bars.

Governor Rodolfo P. del Rosario launched the Ugmad program to help poor Da-

baonons learn skills which they can use to earn gainful income, as well as to promote locally-made products to tourists.

The training aims to assist the participants to maximize the use of locally-available raw materials in developing livelihood ventures that can improve the quality of their lives.

Present during the culmination program were Asst. Provincial Administrator Romulo Tagalo, Dacudao Brgy. Captain Victoria Gader, OIC-Livelihood Manpower Dev’t. Division Head Gloria Pamugas and DELA President Cornelio Mercado.

tAgum]

DavNor trainings benefit upland residents

S

AN Isidro, Davao del Norte, September 19, 2012 - Twenty-nine participants from a grass-

GRADUATED. Facilitators, participants and guests pose for a souvenir photo with the 29 newly graduated trainees of the Ugmad livelihood training.

[Ladenice Tolibas]

HE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has installed eight weather tracking devices in Southwestern Mindanao (Region 12) as part of its efforts to improve the area’s weather monitoring systems.

Dr. Zenaida Hadji Raof Laidan, DOST-12 regional director, said the installation of the weather devices is in support of the national government’s initiative to help improve the capability of local governments in the region in addressing weather-related concerns.

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

She said the weather devices, which were installed starting early last year in strategic areas of the region, comprised four automated weather stations (AWS) and four automated rain gauges (ARG).

“These are modern devices that provide real-time weather data,” Laidan said. She said three AWS units were installed last year at the city airport complex here, People’s Palace (City Hall)

compound in Cotabato City and in Barangay Badyangon, Palimbang town in Sultan Kudarat province.

Last April, the fourth AWS system was installed at the North Cotabato provincial capitol compound in Barangay Amas, Kidapawan City, she said.

Laidan said ARGs were installed earlier this year in Isulan town, Sultan Kudarat, Carmen in North Cotabato and Kiamba in Sarangani.

She said another ARG was set up late last month at the city hall complex of Koronadal City in South Cotabato.

A DOST-12 statement described the AWS as a “modern weather tracking device that can do remote meteorological measurements and send data on real-time basis.”

It said each AWS is equipped with sensors capable of measuring weather parameters, wind speed and directions, air temperature, air humidity, air pressure as well as rain volume, duration and intensity.

The agency said the ARGs were developed to gather and record the amount of rainfall over a set period of time.

“Weather and rainfall data are sent wirelessly

FDOST, 11

ComVal fishermen gain more skills from training

S

ERIES of skills training on fish production have been conducted by the Compostela Valley provincial government through the Provincial Agriculturist’s Office (PAGRO) in partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of Trade & Industry (DTI), and the local government units.

Aiming to help provide income and livelihood to the Comvalenyos, aquaculture is another industry being focused.

On September 19-21, 2012, residents of ‘Ang Bagong Malambuong Mabini USWAG Gawad Kalinga Village’ enjoyed the training on Aquasilvi Mud Crabs Production at Sitio Subok, San Antonio, Mabini.

According to research, Aquasilvi is an environment-friendly mangrove aquaculture system that promotes harmonious co-existence between fishery species and mangrove trees. Semi-enclosed with mudcrub culture, this system aside for alternative livelihood provision, instills the value of coastal protection and maintenance of the ecosystem.

Another recent skills training conducted was the 3-day ‘Garungan’ Production Training in Pantukan in the

month of August. Garungan refers to the 3-inches milkfish or ‘bangus’. With the country as one of the top milkfish producers, bangus farming has been regarded by most fishery experts.

Participated not only by the fisherfolks but stakeholders, school institutions, Cooperatives, and private sectors, other fish production trainings conducted earlier this year include Pangasius Target Market Taste Test Training in Monkayo, Seminar on Feed Formulation and Feeding Management in Mawab’ and Seminar on Pangasius Business Opportunity in Compostela.

Provincial Fishery Coordinator Ronald Sibayan shared that the government has an existing fish hatchery located at Sta. Ana, Libasan, Nabunturan. The project is a continuing program in order to produce quality fingerlings for dispersal to fish farmers and interested stakeholders, he added.

Different agri-fishery projects especially those funded by the Department of Agriculture (DA) are also monitored by the Provincial Agriculture & Fishery Council (PAFC) with the respective MAFCs of the province’s 11 municipalities as their partners. [GRACE ALMEDILLA, IDS-COMVAL]

4 SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

GROWING PRESSURES. River basins, lakes and aquifers are experiencing growing pressures due to urbanization, rising water scarcity and poor water quality. [UN Photo/Tanawat Pontchour]

Experts warn of water bankruptcy

A

study of almost 200 major international water-related projects over the past 20 years has identified a suite of existing and emerging challenges and how science can offer remedies.

The Global Environment Facility (GEF), the largest public funder of projects to improve the global environment and promote sustainable development, partnered with the United Nations University and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to extract lessons from a portfolio of major transboundary water projects involving investments of more than US$7 billion.

Insufficient and disjointed management of human demands on water and aquatic systems has led to situations where both social and ecological systems are in jeopardy and have even collapsed, says the report.

River basins in particular are set to experience growing pressures due to urbanization, rising water scarcity and poor water quality.

Investing in science, in order to identify emerging issues and track trends relating to the use of water resources, can help to reduce such risks, according to the study.

Links between science and policymaking also need to be strengthened.

Several success stories of research investments that paid rich dividends are also highlighted in the report.

These include efforts to rid Lake Victoria of alien water hyacinths, where an unsuccessful project using harvesting and chopping machines was replaced with biological control of the hyacinths using a weevil. The GEF-backed approach yielded immediate positive results for biodiversi-

Study highlights emerging issues for world’s freshwater and marine systems ty and local communities.

The new report, Science-Policy Bridges over Troubled Waters, synthesizes findings of over 90 scientists worldwide assigned to five GEF International Water Science (IW:Science) working groups focusing on groundwater, lakes, rivers, land-based pollution sources, and large marine ecosystems and the open ocean.

The report was launched on the opening day of the GEF International Waters Science Conference held in Bangkok, Thailand. The conference aims to set priorities for international waters science over the next decade and to enhance the use of science in GEF projects and beyond.

Other key findings include: • Levels of dissolved oxygen levels in marine areas (a critical ecological indicator) have dropped significantly over a relatively short time. In 2008, over 400 marine dead zones were known to span a total area of more than 245,000 square kilometers.

• The report also highlights a major increase of stored heat in oceans.

Such changes could have negative impacts on ecosystems, sea levels and human livelihoods.

• The management of groundwater remains isolated from other ecosystems, and the limitations in recharge capacity of aquifers are not well understood by decision makers.

Zafar Adeel, director of the United Nations University International Network on Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH), and a report co-author, said: “This study underscores how often early ‘alarm bells’

with respect to emerging issues can be heard and must be heeded. The report offers helpful recommendations to the GEF to foster this process.”

Ivan Zavadsky, GEF’s International Waters Focal Area Coordinator, notes that over 20 years GEF had catalyzed the largest investment of its kind in human history.

GEF’s $1.3 billion catalyzed a total of $7 billion of investment in managing shared waters - fresh and marine - in almost every part of the planet, above and below its surface.

“One of the principal lessons from this review is that science must play a more central role in determining the nature and priority of these investments,” he said. “This examination of work in the recent past contributes significant insights into the challenges ahead.”

“World leaders agreed at the Rio+20 summit in June to strengthen the science-policy interface and to foster international research collaboration on sustainable development.

This is especially important in respect to water resources at a point in time of unprecedented pressures from climate change and urbanization to pollu-

tion and over extraction,” said UN Under-Secretary-General and UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner.

“Some positive steps are being made, however.

UNEP’s recent Global Environment Outlook-5 report analyzed progress on 90 key environmental goals.

It found that significant progress is being made in

improving research to reduce pollution of the marine environment. These achievements need to be registered across the water management challenge including lakes, rivers and aquifers in order to bring water into the centre of development plans en route to an inclusive Green Economy”, added Mr Steiner. [uNEp]

THE ECONOMY 5

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 146 •TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

P16-M rubber plant to rise in Compostela

F

NEW INVESTMENTS. Bert Barriga, executive vice president for the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Davao proudly announces that new Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies plan to invest in Davao while existing BPO companies’ want to expand during Kapehan sa Dabaw

at the Annex of SM City Mall Davao yesterday. At right is Nanette del Monte of the business Process Outsourcing Association of Davao, Inc. who heads the invitations committee of the Oct. 1-2 job fair to recruit 3,500 call center agents at the Holy Cross of Davao College. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

DA urges backyard swine raisers to venture into meat processing

T

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) in Region 12 has urged backyard swine raisers in the region to integrate meat processing in their operations so they can earn more.

Dr. John Pascual, regional coordinator of DA12’s Agri-Pinoy Livestock

Program, said backyard swine raisers may net significant savings and eventually earn more if they process their own produce into commercial products.

He cited the experiences of some local swine raisers who were able to maximize their earn-

ings by venturing into processed meat such as ham, skinless longganisa, tocino, embutido, pork nuggets, siomai and barbecue.

“Swine producers easily earn more in home meat processing because they would be the ones who would do all the pro-

cessing works and eventually deliver the products to the markets,” he said.

Pascual said backyard swine raising is presently considered more advantageous compared to the commercial operation due to the rising cost of

FDA, 11

ARMERS in Laak, Compostela Valley are hopeful for a boost of income with the planned construction of a rubber processing facility in the rubber-producing town, officials said.

The P16-million processing plant, set to be built late next year, would help some 3,000 rubber cultivators by ensuring a supply of commercial-grade rubber latex directly to end-buyers, according to Laak Mayor Reynaldo Navarro.

With P11 million as seed money from the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the rest to be evenly chipped in by the municipal and provincial governments, the plant would process “highly purified rubber latex” which could mean doubling of income for the town’s rubber farmers, Navarro said.

“This facility would be a first for rubber farmer cooperatives in the country,” said Navarro, adding members of the Laak Rubber Farmers’ Coop who own a total of 7, 000 hectares of rubber plantations out of the 96, 000-hectare town, would also receive a patronage refund from the plant’s revenues.

The processing plant, to be constructed in Poblacion village, is set to process ten

to 20 tons of latex per week.

Navarro said annual rubber production in Laak stands at 1.4 million kilos or 1, 400 tons.

“I was informed by DA the funds and materials were already downloaded.

The construction (of the processing plant) could start five months after next year’s elections,” he said.

Navarro said with the high demand for rubber, Laak could become a center for its production in Mindanao. The mayor said he hopes to see at least 20,000 hectares of Laak soil planted to rubber in the next 20 years. “(The boost in) rubber cultivation has many repercussions,” said Navarro, who admitted he is also into rubber farming.

“Not just additional employment, not just additional income for the local government. Rubber farming also fosters bonding among family members engaged in it. young children can even help, such as gathering latex sap, alongside their parents,” he said.

The official said that with the construction of the processing plant, rubber farmers in Laak could now directly negotiate higher prices for their latex produce even without the “compradors” or middlemen.[pNA]

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

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

DA to fund onion production to stop smuggling activities T

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) has set aside P5 million for Davao Region to finance the cultivation of onions to counter the smuggling of the same commodity in Mindanao.

Melanie Provido, DA regional high-value commercial crops coordinator, the P5 million was part of the national government budget of P97 million for the Quick Response Fund (QRF).

She said 117 hectares of farm were eyed for onion production in the region, of which 53 hectares will be planted with red onions, 20 hectares with yellow variety and 23 hectares with shallots.

Another 21 hectares will be

planted with assorted vegetables, she added.

DA-Davao is eyeing a total of 530 metric tons (MT) in production yield for red onions, 300 MT for yellow onions, and 210 MT for shallots.

“Shallot onions will start planting in October while planting of red and yellow onions will begin in January of 2013,” she explained.

“We will try to harvest the shallots by December this year,” she said, adding that harvesting period will take place just in time for next year to lessen the importation of onions.

“We wanted to help the onion industry here because there’s so

much importation of onions already. The smuggling is also too much,” she said.

In early February this year, the Bureau of Cutoms (BOC) in Davao Region seized 23 container vans of potatoes and onions from Hong Kong and China worth P18 million.The smuggled products were declared as margarine, lanolin, savory products, shortening and yeast.

Provido said the local demand for onions is enough to keep the industry alive, adding that some of the produce will be shipped out to Luzon and Visayas markets.

She added that this is the first time that DA-Davao will be plant-

ing onions in the region. And to support the project, we will also provide organic fertilizers and at least one multi-cultivator for every 20 hectare-cluster of farms as a technical assistance to farmers.

Provido said QRF is used to rehabilitate farmlands in various regions nationwide hardly hit by calamities like floods.

A program briefer said the DA through the High Value Crops Development Program (DA-HVCDP) came up with an assistance program for affected farmers with the use of QRF, through provision of seeds and planting materials and other inputs to rehabilitate production areas. [pNA]

noting the Philippines can compete with its ASEAN neighbors in terms of cost and quality of corn.

The Philippine Maize Federation, Inc. (PhilMaize) earlier said that it is negotiating with Malaysia, Taiwan and Korea for the commercial export of yellow corn, saying that they have already sent a group to the Southeast Asian countries to discuss the shipment.

Roger Navarro, PhilMaize president, said they expect no shortage of supply as a result of the corn exportation, noting that 1.4 million MT of feedwheat, which was imported earlier by feed millers, will cov-

er the requirement for this year.

De Luna said that corn exports may start before the end of 2012, citing strong production in sector.

He also said that the Philippine Coconut Authority has allowed the intercropping of corn in some 150,000 hectares of coconut plantations to further boost corn production.

The Philippines expects corn production to reach a record-high of 7.819 million MT in 2012, and about 8.450 million MT by 2013.

The DA official earlier said that farmers and traders may start exporting corn and corn grits as they wait for the ap-

proval from the NFA Council of the total volume to be ship to the world market.

Under an existing resolution, the NFA administrator is authorized to issue transport permits for locally produced corn for the purpose of research, market testing and experimentation.

“Based on the resolution, individual farmers, traders, and cooperatives are allowed to export as much as 100 MT of corn at any given time,” de Luna said.

“This will be a good way to test our exports capability as we inch closer to self-sufficiency by next year,” he added.

[PNA]

PHL may export corn starting Q4 of 2012

T

HE Philippines is looking at exporting some 200,000 to 400,000 metric tons of corn amid high grain prices in the world market and projected surplus by next year, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said over the weekend.

Edilberto de Luna, DA assistant secretary and National Corn Program director, said there is a possibility that local corn growers will be allowed to commercially export yellow corn starting in the fourth quarter of 2012.

“We have already conducted a study on the competitiveness of local corn. The results were encouraging,” de Luna said,

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

FILLING-UP. A gasoline station pump attendant converses with a customer while waiting for the gasoline drums to be filled up at the junction of R. Magsaysay Ave. and C.M. Recto Ave.

Saturday night. [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

PROPERTY 7

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 146 •TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

Felcris launches new commercial district

T

HE yap owned and controlled Felcris group launched last week what it promises to be the newest hub for shopping, dining, and even office location in the city in its 5.9 hectare property along Quimpo Boulevard.

Dubbed as Felcris Centrale, the property is located along Quimpo Boulevard, Barangay Bucana, will include a shopping mall, office buildings, residential towers and hotels. The first phase of the project will be the completion of the mall and BPO building at the cost of at least P1 billion.

According to Colliers International, Davao City is the next wave city in the Philippines most suitable for call centers and BPO businesses.

Covering more than 54,000 square meters of floor area, Felcris Centrale will feature a 12-storey commercial complex with a 10-floor office space and a two-level retail and entertainment center complete with supermarket, boutiques, restaurants, and specialty shops. It will feature a new mall which offers an exciting and eccentric mix of shops and restaurants that is complemented by a fully-landscaped activity and entertainment area. The interior walkways will show-

case Davao as the “Fruit and Flower Basket of the Philippines” consisting of flower stalls, fruit stalls, local delicacies and handicrafts.

Felcris Centrale is ideally located and is easily accessible from neighboring business establishments, government offices, and residential communities. With its proximity to the Davao International Airport, Davao City Hall, and the old Davao Central Business District, this development provides its occupants easier access to the major transportation and business areas.

Felcris Centrale will be Davao’s newest focal point where business and entertainment converge.

The yap family commits to investing at least P5 billion for the whole project.

The Felcris name is what defines the yap family. Today marks the 43rd anniversary of the Felcris name.

Established by two brothers Felipe “Fel” and Cresencio “Cris” yap on Sept 19, 1969, Felcris began as a small retail store selling textiles in Anda Street, Davao City. The company prospered and the family saw the need to expand. In November 1976, Felcris Supermarket, Inc. was incorporated and Felcris Supermarket (Ramon Magsaysay) became the first

established supermarket in Davao City.

Seeing the growth of warehouse club businesses around the world, the yap family formed the Davao Central Warehouse Club, Inc. on July 14, 1991. Davao Central Warehouse Club (Agdao) became the first warehouse club to service the wholesale consumers at the lowest price.

The yap family is also the pioneer in the convenience store industry in Davao when it founded the Davao Central Convenience Store, Inc. on March 12, 1997. Davao Central Convenience Store opened five (5) branches in its first year of incorporation.

Now it has expanded all over Mindanao from Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur in the north all the way to Malita, Davao del Sur in the south.

“In this new endeavour, we intend to take the next step in our family’s vision.

This has been a life-long dream of the yap family”, says Ms. Cassandra yap, Executive Vice President of Felcris Centrale.

“The Felcris name is truly native Davaoeno. The yap family has always considered Davao as our home. Although we were all educated in Canada, we have always known that Davao is where we belong”, says Ms. yap.

Groundbreaking. The Felcris Group breaks ground at the future site of Felcris Centrale with Clark Yap, Felipe Yap, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, Cassandra Yap, Bryan Yap, and Cris Yap

8 VANTAGE POINTS

EDGEDAVAO Business people as negotiators over Scarborough

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

I

EDITORIAL

E

Globe’s welcome move

NVIRONMENTALISTS in Davao and other parts of the world are heartened by the news that telecommunications giant Globe Telecom has joined the heroic efforts to save the Philippine Eagle from extinction.

Globe, through its corporate social responsibility arm Globe Bridging Communities, has reportedly partnered with the Davao City-based Philippine Eagle Foundation on PEF’s forest corridor development program in Arakan Valley to restore wildlife habitats. Arakan Valley is situated at the northeastern tip of North Cotabato and bounded in the east

by Davao City.

Globe CSR head Rob I. Nazal’s statement that Globe is committed to the protection, preservation, and conservation of our environment is not an empty boast considering the telecom firm’s track record in other CSR projects of this nature.

The firm conducts the annual Globe Cordillera Challenge to help preserve the Cordillera mountain ecosystem, as well as the Globe Adventure Taal for Clean

EDGEDAVAO Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

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

OLIVIA D. VELASCO General Manager

RICHARD C. EBONA Advertising Specialist

JOCELyN S. PANES Director of Sales

JANE E. CARO Marketing Assistant

ALBERTO DALILAN Managing NEILWIN L. BRAVO Sports and Motoring ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

Water, a drive to save Taal Lake from water pollution, Nazal said.

Of course, Globe is not the first big company that supports the campaign to save the endangered Philippine Eagle .

Oil companies Caltex and Shell have been among the corporate sponsors of PEF programs for more than three decades now. In addition, the oil firms’ top executives even serve as officers of the PEF board which continues to raise funds for its various activities.

The best hope still is for Globe’s timely entry in the campaign to become an inspiration for other companies to join and be “committed to promote the survival of the Philippine Eagle, the biodiversity it represents, and the sustainable use of our forest resources for future generations to enjoy,” as PEF Dennis Salvador stated.

Truth to tell, PEF needs all the help it can get in this never-ending task not only of saving an endangered species but more importantly of pursuing the great advocacy of restoring its habitat.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

RAMON M. MAXEy Consultant kENNETH IRVING k. ONG Creative Solutions

GREGORIO G. DELIGERO Associate

CARLO P. MALLO Features and Lifestyle

LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. • JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA Photography

JADE C. ZALDIVAR • VICky BERDINA M. DE GuZMAN ANTHONy S. ALLADA • AQuILES Z. ZONIO 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 • JONALLIER M. PEREZ

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance AGuSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

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

N history not so ancient, it was Garibaldi who gave flesh and blood to the concept of nationalism.

From whatever remained of the dead Roman Empire and the Papal Estates, he rallied his own people and united them to form what is now the Italian republic.

The recent row between the Philippines and China brings to the fore how nationalism strikes hard the most sensitive chords of a people’s psyche. For a single square inch, nations went to war in the past. For a handful of contested soil, generals and admirals may send battalions and naval fleets against those of the other country.

For many decades now, the problem over the Spratlys remains unresolved. Our own government just renamed the South China Sea as the West Philippine Sea. I do not see any pragmatic use for this, except to further increase the tension of nationalist fervor among the two peoples. Very recently, China engaged Japan in a manner short of a naval maneuver over Diaoyu islands---a group of small, stony and uninhabited islets that have no proven practical economic potential. China and Japan happen to be the second and third largest economies in the world.

So, what went wrong at the onset?

Well, this is not an extensive treatise on the failure of diplomacy in the region. I hope, however, that this short column may help lead to a rethinking of our approach and policy in resolving the territorial spat among giants and Lilliputians as well. Instead of sending firebrand nationalists as negotiators, governments involved should have sent business people and investors to the negotiating table. This is not to say that each polity abandons its legal right to claim few pieces of stony islets and dead corals as its own. For several decades, ASEAN, with its ineffective ASEAN Way, failed to significantly contain aggressive behavior of its members and that of China. Naval installations were installed. A skirmish between China and Vietnam briefly scared the region. We thought they were on the brink of a full-scale naval battle.

ASEAN has so far managed to establish the much touted code of conduct that remains as an ineffectual piece of paper.

Instead of crafting legal documents governing maneuvers and installations in the contested region, ASEAN and other claimants should have drafted understandings on joint exploration and developments. A supra-national corporate entity may manage and divide income among the claimants. MOUs and MOAs, not pseudo-military accords, should have been the order of the day. Despite aggrieve behavior of China towards Japan, the former cannot afford to lose a two way-trade worth US$342.9 billion a year for an extra heap of soil. Roughly a billion middle class Chinese who suddenly found the power to purchase is still Japan’s biggest market.

Just last week, the Philippines was called as one of the “darlings” of global investors, according to Religare Capital Market Ltd., a foreign investment firm. After almost three years of dismantling the vestiges of a corrupt administration, the country is beginning to earn the gains under the Aquino administration. The current fight against massive corruption is starting to be applauded by the international business community and investors are beginning to feel confident in investing here. A country with stable and predictable corporate governance policy framework is likely to attract investments. Saber rattling over some dead corals drives those investments away.

The word war between Senators Enrile and Trillanes is most unfortunate. I admit I find the two funny---and their exchanges disgusting. In the end, they are simply pulling us all down in the global arena vis-à-vis Scarborough Shoal. Last week’s meeting by the newly named special envoy, DILG Secretary Mar Roxas, with China’s incoming leader, Vice President Xi Jinping, substantially eased the tension. Candid talks and honest intentions are what we need now.

We have no need for a former architect of Martial Law who faked an ambush on his car and a pardoned putschist. What the country needs is someone who talks business and talks well.

EDGEDAVAO

S

O General Santos City Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio will face her strongest challenge yet in next year’s election in the person of top City Councilor Ronnel Rivera.

Unless there is a sudden and dramatic shift next week when candidates begin to file their certificates of candidacies, Custodio and Rivera are slated to slug it out for the city’s mayoral post.

For the first time, elections in the city will be contested between two candidates who are barely in their 40s. Both are also scions of rich parents although the Antoninos made their fortune a long time ago when logging was “the” industry in Mindanao.

The Riveras, of course, are the biggest tuna producers in General Santos City with diversified interests in scores of businesses.

That both will marshal their vast resources in next year’s elections is already a given.

So what do we want to hear from both Custodio and Rivera when they present themselves to the local electorate next year?

Re-districting the city I already had the opportunity of presenting this idea to the two protagonists who gave two contrasting answers.

Custodio said redefining the first district of South Cotabato, where General Santos City is a component, will require amendment to the 1987 Constitution as the matter of apportioning the congressional seats was included in the transitory provision.

But this may not be the case as Iligan City was carved out as a separate congressional district from the erstwhile second district of Lanao del Norte under Republic Act 9724. Last week, MindaNews reported that the Philippine Senate already approved the bill creating a fourth district for Bukidnon.

Rivera, on the other hand, was non-committal at the time I brought out the issue with him saying he was still feeling his way

I

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

N November 2010, we were happily trekking the trails of Barangay Pag-asa, Alabel, Sarangani on our way to conduct a youth mentoring activity among the first-year students of the newly established integrated school in New Canaan.

After an hour of walking, heavy rains fell. We immediately untied the large cellophane we used to cover our bags and wore it as raincoats. Truly, Filipinos are resourceful. Unmindful of the dangers of the river, we continued our journey. At the start, we were merrily counting the times we crossed the river but after a while we shifted focus. Our primary attention was drawn to holding tightly each other’s arms because the current had become stronger.

While braving the current, I sadly imagined those little indigenous children crossing rivers every day in order to be in school. How could they attend school during rainy days? No wonder, there is high absenteeism rate among them which often leads to dropping out from school.

After five hours of walking, we reached New Canaan Integrated School. The female teachers immediately gave us towels and served us coffee while the male teachers prepared dinner. The inspiring stories of the dedicated teachers—the heroes of the school—made the dinner both mouth-watering and eye-watering. It was good that only the oil lamp glowed on the table or else the tears falling on our plates would have been obvious.

As soon as dusk had settled, I noticed the community members arriving. Some had native chicken, some brought bananas, and others offered sweet potatoes and vegetables. The warm welcome from the community members replaced our exhaustion with delight. The next day, my colleagues Jove and Blessy conducted youth mentoring among the first batch of first-year students in the newly-established integrated school. The students

How I wish

around as a newly-elected councilor.

General Santos has been part of the First District of South Cotabato since 1987. Included in the South Cotabato First District are the towns of Tupi, Polomolok and Tampakan of South Cotabato. At the time the Constitution was crafted, the population of the city was mere 180,000 or so. A congressional district must have a population of at least 250,000 to qualify for a seat or unless a new province is created which automatically will be apportioned at least one congressional seat.

In 2010, General Santos already had a population of at least 580,000 making it eligible to have two congressional seats.

Custodio, and before her former Mayor Pedro ‘Jun’ Acharon, now a member of the House of Representative, refused to entertain the proposal. Acharon, however, had already filed a bill creating the city as a separate district.

The city could also increase the number of councilors to at least 16 from the 12 presently elected at large by redrawing the map of the city into two political districts with Silway River as their natural boundaries.

Each political district will then elect eight councilors saving candidates time and resources aside from ensuring balanced representation for the city’s growing population.

Relocating the public market The city’s aging public market is located at a prime location right at the heart of the city and just a couple of hundred meters away from the city’s central business district. It has however caused traffic jams during rush hours. If the city cannot solve the problem of mass transport system by doing away with the ubiquitous but ineffi-

cient tricycles, the least it could do is relocate the public market away from the city center and sell or lease the existing one for better use. If the city’s abattoir and fish landing were relocated (they used to stand side by side near the rotunda at the public market), there is no reason why the public market cannot find a new home.

In the meantime, Mayor Darlene should immediately order the city engineering office to provide pedestrian access across the main entrance of the public market along Santiago Boulevard. The railings are not only pedestrian unfriendly. They smack of political vendetta.

As it is, the only (imaginable) reason why that portion of Santiago Blvd (from the rotunda to Magsaysay St) was completely fenced off to pedestrian was to deny access to two commercial establishments that are owned by the family of a prominent opposition and a known supporter of a former city mayor here.

UST When will the occupants of city hall ever realize that having an agricultural college, and perhaps later a prestigious medical school, will be a boon rather than a bane to our food security?

The application of the University of Santo Tomas to open an agricultural school in Barangay Ligaya is at least already a decade old.

Unfortunately for UST, it has become a victim of politics of retribution. But is it UST’s fault if the brokers of the land it acquired were identified with the arch political enemies of the present tenants of city hall?

This has been an issue during the last three elections. But nobody now seems to care. Perhaps it is time to bury the political hatchet and lay down the welcome carpet to the centuries-old España resident.

Of course there will be other and lesser issues during the elections but these do not mean they are lesser important.

In public office, there are no small and big issues and concerns. [Edwin G. Espejo writes for www.asiancorrespondent.com]

BATANG MINDANAW

The first floor serves as a classroom while the second floor is a dormitory.

Twelve months later, another “classdorm” was built in Sofan Elementary School, also in the interiors of Alabel. To date, eight additional “class-dorms” have been constructed in remote and strategic upland communities. I suppose the impetus for all this came from the lessons inculcated to us by Sarangani Gov. Migs Dominguez, who has constantly pushed us to have an abundant mindset.

This mindset has been our key to resource mobilization which has led to the opening of more schools, hiring of more teachers, building more classrooms and other education interventions. Truly, there is no better way for my fellow Lumad to get out from extreme poverty, except by having real access to basic education.

As a member of the indigenous community, I am offended at seeing my fellow Lumad being made to assist during elections, even if they get paid. They are exploited simply because they do not know how to read and write. I am dismayed by the fact that we are constantly discriminated upon and considered as low-class citizens. This is enough motivation for me to never tire of helping my tribe. I know that I still have many mountains to climb, many rivers to cross, and many trails to trek. But if all this will serve as a beacon of hope to the indigenous nation, then this is my lifetime trek.

[Batang Mindanaw is the youth section of MindaNews. you may send your article, essay, feature, poem, photograph to editor@mindanews.com or mindanewseditor@gmail.com. Annalie Edday, 24, manages the QUEST program at Sarangani Province. She has travelled extensively, and was awarded one of the Top young Filipino Leaders in 2011 by Asia Society.]

My lifetime trek

By AnnAlie T. eddAy

were very dear in our hearts because they had personally vowed to finish college education and to bring honor to their tribe despite all odds. In 2009, they were given a three-day exposure tour in General Santos City and Sarangani Capitol.

The educational tour, tagged “Making Little Dreams Possible,” was a life-changing experience for them. It was their first time to descend from the mountains, see the city with their own eyes, ride a bus, enter a mall, a fishport, an airport, some universities, a power plant, a radio station. It was also a first for them to watch a movie and interact with non-ethnic groups. Thanks to Ms. Cecile Dominguez, who was then the prime mover of QUEST (Quality Education for Sarangani Today), for sponsoring the tour.

While youth mentoring was conducted in a room, I met the parents in another room. I couldn’t hold my tears. I couldn’t stop my voice from breaking. As a member of the indigenous people—I am a pure B’laan—my heart bled in realizing how marginalized we are. While other tribes may be enjoying basic social services, it is still a daydream for many of our indigenous communities. This heartbreaking reality constantly fuels me, makes me stronger despite all the challenges faced today by those who want education reforms.

I still don’t know where I got the confidence that day to have said to the parents, “I do not know where we’ll get the funds yet. But I promise that on my next visit, a ‘class-dorm’ will be constructed for your children.” I am so glad that after 10 months, a beautiful two-story building was built inside the school premises.

G

9

Exacerbating public anxiety

OVERNMENT NOT SURE OF ITSELF – The Palace it seems is working hard trying to justify the participation of over-assuming senator Antonio Trillanes as ‘backdoor negotiator’ of the Scarborough Shoal border conflict in the West Philippine Sea between the Philippines and China. President Benigno Aquino III and Palace senior aides spent last week dousing cold water on the reports when Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile disclosed and questioned before the senate floor about Trillanes’ role in the negotiations.

The brewing controversy ignited a squabble between senators Enrile and Trillanes resulting to the exchange of bitter side comments and even personal insults. Unable to withstand the heated arguments, Trillanes haughtily staged a walkout to the surprise of fellow lawmakers. Meanwhile, President PNoy admitted that the Palace pushed the go signal and has given Trillanes the green light to join the negotiating panel headed by Foreign Affairs Secretary Del Rosario. And PNoy, as his wont, insisted that although in a voluntary capacity, Trillanes is of great help in easing out the tension between the two countries. Is that so? Oh, c’mon Mr. President, whose legs are you pulling down this time?

The involvement of composed but pretentious senator Trillanes came as a surprise since the DFA, the lead government agency task to hold talks with the Chinese negotiating team is teeming with more reliable people capable of undertaking the delicate job. This is perhaps the reason why some concerned parties leaked a report emphasizing there’s a silent brewing rift between Secretary Del Rosario and Trillanes. It is therefore presumed that the ‘special envoy” is dipping his fingers deep into the negotiating pie. Looking at a different standpoint, this is one glaring indication that the inclusion of Trillanes in the negotiating panel does more harm than good.

But then that is just the point. Not everyone is smiling though when Trillanes boastfully claim that he help eased out the tension in the West Philippine Sea after several meetings with the Chinese representatives. Goodness gracious! But why Trillanes of all people, critics of the administration asked? Is the guy really an expert specifically in the field of diplomatic relations? Administration hard-liners and drumbeaters rushed to the defense of PNoy’s decision and tried hard to play up that Trillanes’ role earned tangible results. So the Aquino leadership it seems is using self-interest as an argument with the function of Trillanes as backdoor negotiator.

The diplomatic standoff between the country and China is a very sensitive issue that needs proficient and persistent people with iron nerves to handle it. On this aspect, many political analysts say the government does not appear to be sure of itself, and that spooks the people. For as long as the border conflict continues everybody gets dragged down. With world-power China now arrogantly flexing its military muscle, no one in the country is going to feel relieve. There’s still a sense of crisis and brings with it the real threat of security risk. The diplomatic drawback has exacerbated the people’s anxiety and spread throughout the region.

PNoy and Palace senior aides expect that their “fair-haired” boy Trillanes is fully prepared to fend off all attempts to see any side of him and parry all the blows emanating from all directions – side, back and front. So one thing political experts can tell you are that a ‘successful backdoor mediator’ is one who is close enough with the powers-that-be – in all senses.

Many senior officials and lawmakers likewise understand how distressed Senate President Enrile is to see what is happening to the Palace occupant when rendering decisions especially on crucial matters affecting the security of the state. When he speaks out against it, it should be supposedly treated with sympathetic understanding rather than over-reaction.

Nevertheless, there is always a list of those who seems to be in favor of PNoy’s decision – rightly or wrongly. And that worries people across the country. Well, there’s nothing wrong about designating officials, lawmakers for that matter as special envoy of the government to perform outside of his elected function, but many believe that the Aquino leadership must at least become more open, more transparent and more responsive. But that seems as unlikely as ever. Maybe the Palace occupant and his self-aggrandizing aides will continue to rally behind the over-reacting Trillanes despite all the criticism hurled against him as Palace-designate backdoor diplomat. If all this seems speculative, it is. So it goes in the Philippines and a leadership where little is divulged and much is presumed.

10 NATION/WORLD NATION BRIEFS Shut up

S

ENATOR Miriam Defensor Santiago wants the Senate president to shut up. This comes after Enrile made a new allegation that Trillanes’ contacts included a Chinese military intelligence officer from Chinese embassy. “(It is) always the best procedure when there is a perceived confusion such as this is for everybody to zip up your mouth.

Nobody should talk,” the feisty Senator says of Enrile, who still freely talks about the alleged “real story” behind Senator Antonio Trillanes’ back-channel negotiations with China.

In danger

W

HILE former first lady Imelda Marcos’ infamous jewelry collection is being eyed for exhibit, her equally notorious shoe collection is said to be falling into neglect.

A team of curators at the National Museum are trying to rescue some of the apparel the Marcoses left in the Malacañan Palace after the room where the items have been stored was swamped due to a leaking ceiling, an Associated Press report on Sunday said.

Roadmap

M

USLIM rebels waging a decades-long insurgency in the southern Philippines in which more than 150,000 people have died are aiming to sign a roadmap for peace this year, their chief negotiator said.

The planned accord would outline steps to be taken to achieve a final peace pact between the the 12,000-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the government before President Benigno Aquino steps down in 2016.

M

Returned

ILING Philippine Ambassador to China Sonia Brady has returned home, a month after suffering a stroke in Beijing, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Saturday.

Brady, 71, was flown home on Friday night. DFA spokesperson Raul Hernandez had little to say about her return to Manila.

“Ambassador Sonia Brady arrived in Manila from Beijing last night. She needs privacy and a lot of rest. Let’s pray for her speedy and full recovery,” Hernandez said in an announcement posted on Twitter.

EDGEDAVAO

Gov’t to air Marcos G martial law speech

T

HE Philippine government for the first time in 40 years will air Sunday the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos’ full television broadcast declaring martial law that led to two decades of brutal rule.

Showing the speech in full will ensure the public will “never forget” the atrocities during Marcos’s rule, which was marked by widespread human rights abuses that saw hundreds of activities killed, jailed or abducted by the dictator’s forces, the office of President Benigno Aquino said.

The speech is to be aired on government’s official interactive portal (www.gov.ph) as well as the website of ABS-CBN television, the country’s leading private broadcaster once padlocked by the Marcos regime.

“It’s a very nice resource for you to understand and to be aware of what happened in those times,” presidential spokeswoman Abigail Valte said.

“So we encourage everybody to go visit the website.”

The video was from the archives of ABS-CBN and will be made available to the public beginning Sunday evening “exactly 40 years to the date and time of the original broadcast in 1972”, the government said.

The government has also posted online contents of Marcos’s personal

WORLD TODAy

diary, giving a rare glimpse into the mind of the dictator as martial unfolded.

Marcos signed the martial law order on September 21, 1972, but officially announced it to a shocked Filipino public two days later.

Newspapers and television stations critical of Marcos were shut down

or taken over, while critics and political opponents were killed.

In his diary, Marcos wrote how his forces immediately arrested 52 personalities out of 200 targets, which included opposition figure senator Benigno Aquino -- father of the current president.

[AFP]

President Ferdinand Marcos holds a press conference in 1986 in Manila at Malacanang Presidential Palace. The Philippines for the first time in 40 years will air Sunday the late dictator Marcos’ full television broadcast declaring martial law that led to two decades of brutal rule. [AFp]

China takes delivery of first aircraft carrier

Battle

USLIMS in the southern Philippine province Lanao del Sur are taking their battle against the “anti-Islamic” video “Innocence of Muslims” to the Supreme Court.

Several Maranao leaders yesterday will petition the high court to order several government agencies to “ban public viewing” of the controversial film that has angered Muslims worldwide because of its “insulting depiction” of the Prophet Mohammad.

A

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

HANDED OVER. China’s first aircraft carrier is berthed at Dalian port on September 5. China’s first aircraft carrier has been handed over to the navy of the People’s Liberation Army, state press said. [AFp]

C

HINA’S first aircraft carrier was handed over Sunday to the navy of the People’s Liberation Army, state press said, amid rising tensions over disputed waters in the East and South China Seas.

The handover ceremony of the 300-metre (990foot) ship, a former Soviet carrier called the Varyag, took place in northeast China’s port of Dalian after a lengthy refitting by a Chinese shipbuilder, the Global Times reported.

During the handover ceremony the aircraft carrier raised the Chinese

national flag on its mast, the PLA flag on its bow and the navy’s colours on its stern, the short online report said.

A ceremony to place the ship into active service would be held sometime in the future, the paper said without elaboration.

China’s defence ministry was unavailable to comment on the ceremony.

The announcement comes at a time of heightened tensions over maritime disputes in the Asia-Pacific region, where China’s growing asser-

tiveness has put it on a collision course with Japan, Vietnam and the Philippines.

China also Sunday postponed a ceremony marking the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties with Japan, due to a noisy territorial dispute with Tokyo over the Diaoyu Islands, known in Japanese as Senkaku.

Tensions have also risen this year with Vietnam and the Philippines over disputed islands in the South China Sea. Beijing confirmed last year it was revamping the

old Soviet ship, and has repeatedly insisted the carrier poses no threat to its neighbours and will be used mainly for training and research purposes.

But numerous sea trials of the aircraft carrier -- currently only known as “Number 16” -- since August 2011 were met with concern from regional powers including Japan and the United States, which called on Beijing to explain why it needed an aircraft carrier.

Construction of the Varyag originally ended with the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union.

China reportedly bought the carrier’s immense armoured hull -- with no engine, electrics or propeller -- from Ukraine in 1998 and began to refit the vessel in Dalian in 2002.

The PLA -- the world’s largest active military -- is extremely secretive about its defence programmes, which benefit from a huge and expanding military budget boosted by the nation’s runaway economic growth.

China’s military budget officially reached $106 billion in 2012, an 11.2 percent increase.[AFp]

Elaborate

LITTERING jewels and the echoes of a 17-gun salute marked the climax of wedding celebrations for the daughter of one of the world’s wealthiest men, the Sultan of Brunei.

Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah, 32, and Pengiran Haji Muhammad Ruzaini, 29, were presented to the royal court in a lavish traditional ceremony at the sultan’s 1,700-room palace on Sunday.

I

Trigger

RAN could launch a pre-emptive strike if Israel prepares to attack it, a senior Revolutionary Guards commander told broadcaster Al-Alam on Sunday, a day after his boss warned that conflict was inevitable.

Should Israel and Iran engage militarily, “nothing is predictable... and it will turn into World War III,” Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh told Iran’s Arabic-language television network.

S

Children

yRIAN warplanes targeted several residential districts of the northern city of Aleppo on Monday, killing at least five people including three children from one family, a rights watchdog said.

The five were killed and others were wounded in the central district of Maadi in the country’s second city and commercial hub, a focal point for the fighting since mid-July, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

T

Child abuse

HE Catholic Church in one Australian state has revealed that at least 620 children have been abused by its clergy since the 1930s, sparking a fresh call Saturday for an independent inquiry into sex abuse.

The Catholic Church in Victoria revealed the number in a submission to a state parliamentary hearing on Friday but said the instances of abuse reported had fallen dramatically from the “appalling” numbers of the 1960s and 1970s.

B

Sanctions

RITAIN, France and Germany have officially called for new European Union sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program, diplomats said.

The foreign ministers of the three countries wrote to EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton last week calling for tougher measures as the showdown with Tehran becomes more tense, a European diplomat told AFP Sunday on condition of anonymity.

11

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 146 •TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

Miners...

BPO...

FFROM 1

a 9-year-old girl who engages in the activity in exchange for a measly amount of from P30 to P50. On the other hand, she said the oldest sex provider somewhere in Barangay Leon Garcia Sr. is a 60-year old woman.

Talikala is an organization run by women for women, which offers support, advice, training, and counseling to women and girls who have been forced into the sex trade in Davao City. The organization was established in 1986, and has worked with dancers, women in prostitution, and their families for over 20 years.

Mary Ann Sapar, secretary general of Gabriela, and Lory Pabunag, Lawig Bubai secretary general, also bared the activities of their groups in connection with prostitution and other problems facing women.

While the groups have reported a 35-percent reduction in the number of prostituted women in the city, Ampog said this is even a greater reason for concern.

“A lot of the women are recruited to work outside Davao City,” Ampog said, adding that new destinations for prostitution include the municipality of

REP...

San Francisco in Agusan del Sur, where an economic boom is taking place due to mining activities in the area.

She acknowledged that human trafficking is very much linked to sexual exploitation since trafficking almost always ends up in exploitation of women for commercial sex.

From 6,000 in 2011, Talikala has reported about 4,000 prostituted women for this year.

“They move to where there is more money. If they think they are already known in an area, they move to other places where they can do their trade,” Ampog said.

Also, the mode of payment varies per transaction.

“There are places where the payment made is in the form drugs instead of money, like in San Francisco (Agusan del Sur),” Ampog added.

Another cause for concern is the age of women who engage in prostitution, which, according to Ampog, is getting younger each year.

“The youngest that we have monitored is a 9 year old girl who allows herself to be touched in exchange for P30 to P50. There are also a number of girls who are still

in school who engage in the activity,” Ampog said.

Ampog identified mining areas in Compostela Valley and Agusan which are attracting sex care providers.

She said the Island Garden City of Samal is another place because of the booming tourism industry in the island.

Pabunag said Lawig Bubai will continue to offer alternative livelihood and a better life to sex workers.

Sapar said Gabriela is hoping that finally a new national law on prostitution will be passed by Congress to address some of the thorny issues.

The primary reason young women engage in prostitution remains to be poverty.

“Some students do it so to earn allowance, or use the money for their school projects,” Ampog said.

While Ampog and her organization have been educating young women and their families on the adverse effects of prostitution, a lot of young women are still enticed into it. “Money still lures them into exploitation,” Ampog said.

It gives power to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to restrict or block access to a website without court order,” the lawmaker said.

“Everybody should be

vigilant about this law because this feels somewhat like the prohibitions during Martial rule, only more high tech,” said Casiño.

ply may be restored earlier if work goes on smoothly or later if unforeseen problems arise.

She said downtown

residential areas may experience low pressure and appealed for understanding and store water in clean containers. [ASA]

processing operation to ensure more quality meat products are available in the local markets.

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

He said the initiative is part of the value-added seminars on pig butchering and meat processing earlier launched by DA-12 in various parts of the region in support of the national government’s Food Staples Self-Sufficiency Program.

“This is also an effort of the department to teach domestic animal raisers to be self-reliant through the value-adding strategy,” he said.

Last month, the DA trained 27 backyard swine raisers from Malungon town on pig butchering, meat cutting and various pork meat processes.

“We’re currently conducting monthly trainings in different areas in the region to help encourage more backyard swine raisers to go into the integrated meat processing venture,” Pascual added.

[Allen V. Estabillo/MindaNews]

FFROM 2

plementation of the Cybercrime Law until this is carefully scrutinized and amended. As it is, another provision (Section 19 of the Act) moves for the taking down of websites.

Three...

FFROM 2

boring areas for the tapping of the newly installed 4-inch diameter PVC pipeline to the existing 6-inch mainline.

Magsuci said water sup-

DA...

FFROM 5

swine feeds.

He said local studies showed that the quality of swine meat produced in a backyard setting using home-mixed feeds are quite better than those produced by commercial swine farms that utilize Commercial feeds.

These findings were based on a research made

by Dr. Neil Doton, Veterinarian II of DA’s Central Mindanao Integrated Agricultural Research Center in Amas, Kidapawan City.

Pascual said they are currently promoting the massive adoption of the integrated backyard swine raising and meat

FFROM 1

I(BPOADI), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and other collaborators.

Del Monte, who chairs the invitation committee of the jobs fair, said not all the targeted 3,500 agents may be recruited during the jobs fair, but the remainder may apply with call centers which are recruiting regularly.

Holganza said that if the current trend continues, they

can hit 30,000 workers by 2016.

She said that an entry-level BPO worker receives P8,500 to P9,000 per month, a supervisory BPO employee gets an average of P15,000 to P20,000 a month while a managerial position gets a salary average of P20,000 or more.

Barriga said that an applicant may also apply for nonvoice agent and positions like human resources personnel, caterers, cafeteria workers and drivers.

Aside from an increase in the IT sector’s labor force,

Davao City is also eyeing new spaces for IT companies relocating to the city.

Following last year’s inventory of 52,000 square meters of office space available for IT/ BPO companies, it is expected to surge to 100,000 square meters with new IT parks and buildings being built.

These IT spaces include the Matina IT Park, the Enterprise IT Center, Felcris and the Lanang IT Park. “It is enough for present needs,” Barriga said. [With a report from Philippine News Agency]

Businessman...

FFROM 2

from the Bangoys, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is not about to expedite his application for a title for Odet Island.

Land Management Services (LMS)-DENR in Region 11 says the titling of Odet Island “is not legally feasible.”

Point, rock or forest?

Claiming that Odet does not appear or “cannot be viewed” from LC Map No. 796, certified in December 26, 1928 and not having been classified, a report by the Panabo Community Environment and Naturakl Resources Office (CENRO) indicated that “the alleged islet shall remain a forestland.”

Earlier, another government report identified Odet as a “mere point.” It is “composed of a big rock and therefore cannot be classified as an islet.”

Mr. Diaz does not agree with the findings of the government agency, saying that his application derives inspira-

DOST...

Diaz

tion from the recent titling of a neighboring sandbar which was reclaimed and converted into a helipad.

In a memorandum to the DENR 11 legal division, lawyer Felix S. Alicer, head of the LMSDENR 11, acknowledged the island’s “scenic value appropriate for tourism purposes,” although he holds the view that the area cannot be disposed of (titled) in accordance with the Public Land Law. The LMS-DENR regional technical director, however, suggested that Diaz may avail himself of other ways for the

utilization and preservation of Odet Island.

If warranted under existing laws, rules and regulations, Diaz “may avail of the other tenure instruments granted by the government, such as Special Land Use Permit (SLUP), Foreshore Lease Agreement (FLA), Forest Land Use Agreement for Tourism Purposes (FLAgT) or Special Agreement within Protected Areas (SAPA), which ever is suited for the island,” Alicer said.

The process usually takes a long time. Not getting any younger, Diaz now plans to appeal to the DENR to give his case special treatment on account of his unique project. In this connection, he has instructed his lawyer to prepare the needed documents.

The grizzled businessman is also considering to scale down his project by altering some portions for practical reasons.

FFROM 3

through a cellular network as a short message system (SMS) or text message. Each station is equipped with the data-logger platform (GSM) Data Acquisition Terminal (GDAT), which serves as a mini-computer or brain that intelligently controls all the functions and data communications of the station,” it said.

The GDAT technology was developed by the DOST’s Advanced Science and Technology Institute

(ASTI).

“The deployment of these modern weather tracking equipment would eliminate subjective weather forecasting. It would facilitate real-time monitoring of weather disturbances and eventually help keep our communities alert to possible calamities brought about by heavy rains and typhoons,” Laidan said.

The installation of the weather devices is being done by DOST as part of an ongoing nationwide

project that provides for the “development of hybrid weather monitoring system and production of weather and rain automated stations.”

It is implemented in coordination with ASTI, which helped develop the needed instruments to assist the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration in its weather monitoring and forecasting functions.

(Allen V. Estabillo/MindaNews)

Edge Davao hiring editor, 3 reporters

EDGE DAVAO is in need for an editor and three staffwriters/reporters for its expansion program.

The three reporters will be assigned to the business, science/environment and political beats.

On the other hand, the editor will supervise the reporters and do gate-keeping tasks.

An applicant must be a graduate of a four- year college course. For reporters, experience is not needed although preferable. The editor should have at least one-year experience in editing.

Interested parties are requested to send their applicant letter to Mr. Antonio M. Ajero, Edge Davao editor thru email address ajero_antonio@yahoo. com. For inquiries, please call Mr. Ajero thru mobile phone 09052422686 or landline 221-3601.

12 CLASSIFIEDS ADS

There’s a better way to get attention.

Advertise with EDGEDAVAO 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 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

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

Realty

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), 0908-883-8832 (Smart) or send email to propertiesindavao@yahoo.com.

Serving a seamless society

Reporters (4)

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

Available at all drugstore near you

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

PROPERTY 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

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

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 2213601; 301-6235 and ask for Jane or Chay.

EDGEDavao

HealthandWellness

APARTMENT 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

EDGEDAVAO

LOT FOR SALE 180 sq. meter, Farland Subd., Dumoy, Toril, P 350,000 only Contact: 0927-706-2510

EDGEDavao Gensan Partners

Tel No. (083)- 553-2211

Clinic We offer Pasta, Pizza and all Filipino foods

- 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

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

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

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

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 146 •TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

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

CLASSIFIEDS ADS13

14 SPORTS

DRAMATIC WIN R

ED Bull’s Sebastian Vettel pounced on the retirement of race leader Lewis Hamilton Sunday as he reignited his world title defence with victory in a thrilling Singapore Grand Prix.

Formula One’s youngest double champion claimed only his second win of the year on an evening of drama and intrigue at the tropical street circuit, and even survived a stewards’ inquiry into a near-miss with runner-up Jenson Button.

Ferrari’s championship leader Fernando Alonso finished third as Vettel, who also won in Singapore last year and is chasing a world title hat-trick, moved up to second in the overall standings, 29 points adrift.

Force India’s Paul di Resta took an impressive fourth and Mercedes’ Nico Rosberg was fifth, ahead of Lotus’s former world champion Kimi Raikkonen, after the gripping night race on Singapore’s tough, skyscraper-skirting layout.

Romain Grosjean, Felipe Massa, Daniel Ricciardo and Sergio Perez -- promoted one place after a time penalty for Mark Webber -- rounded out the top 10.

But there was agony for Hamilton, who retired with gearbox problems while leading on lap 23, in a major dent to his title hopes. The Briton is now 52 points back in the standings with six races left.

German veteran Michael Schumacher was clobbered with a 10-place grid penalty at the next race in Japan for ploughing into the back of Jean-Eric Vergne, in a spectacular collision that left him partially

airborne.

Stewards handed Red Bull’s Webber his 20-second penalty for running off the track as he overtook Kamui Kobayashi, a punishment that pushed him down from 10th to 11th place and out of the points.

Vettel, his helmet decorated with flashing LED lights, punched the air and gave his trademark crooked finger salute after the hard-earned win, which dragged him back into this year’s unpredictable championship race.

“This has been one of the toughest races of the year, to be honest,” said the German. “There are so many bumps, there’s no room for mistakes and it just seems to go on forever... I’m just incredibly happy.”

A rueful Hamilton, who outpaced the field by a distance in qualifying, called his car’s failure “heartbreaking”. He said he would now need to win all six races left this year, starting with next month’s Japanese Grand Prix.

“There are six more races, and I need to go and win all six. I’ll fight until the end,” he said.

Hamilton made a smooth start from pole accompanied by Williams driver Pastor Maldonado, but a misjudgment on the first corner cost the Venezuelan two places as Vettel and Button sailed through.

Ferrari’s Massa was the big loser in the early jostling as he dropped to the back after pitting with a puncture. At the front Hamilton and Vettel, swapping fastest laps, were peeling away from Button.

Webber came in for soft tyres on lap nine, setting a trend that was followed by the leading

drivers. His Red Bull team-mate Vettel overcame a scare at turn 10, the notorious “Singapore Sling”.

Sauber’s Perez also had a problem at the tough corner and Maldonado would have had his heart in his mouth as he pounded the brakes and narrowly averted a slide heading wide into a lefthander at the end of a long straight.

Hamilton pitted from the lead on lap 12 but was soon back in front, ahead of Vettel. But disaster struck when the gearbox failure put him out of the race, prompting gasps from the sellout crowd.

Vettel was now in the lead for one of the rare occasions this season, but HRT’s Indian driver Narain Karthikeyan added a fresh twist when he ploughed into a barrier and stopped on the track, prompting the safety car.

Button nearly collided with Vettel before the safety car left the track, but stewards meeting after the race found no evidence of erratic driving by the race leader.

But straight after the resumption Schumacher ran straight into the back of Toro Rosso’s Vergne, smashing up his front wheels and earning the hefty 10-place grid penalty for the next race.

After the safety car withdrew for a second time, Massa made contact with Bruno Senna as he barged past, and only just retained control of his car in a wild manoeuvre that took him up to ninth.

Vettel, closely followed by Button, set consecutive fastest laps as he homed in on victory. His task was eased when the race was cut by two laps to 59 after it hit its two-hour time-limit.

draw.

The incident happened on Wednesday during a quarterfinal match between Iran’s Foolad Sepahan and Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli. No one was hurt.

It happened at Iran’s Foolad Shahr Stadium in the 64th minute, forcing the match to be stopped for five minutes.

AFC said some objects were thrown by spectators of host club Foolad Sepahan towards the assistant referee

near the corner area, including a firecracker.

“One of the objects was a firecracker which exploded,” AFC said.

A video of the incident showed the home team’s player Adel Kolahkaj, picking up the object in a relax manner and tossing it outside the pitch near an advertising hoarding.

It immediately exploded upon impact with the ground, sending the players and officials running for cover.

AFC probes explosive thrown onto field in Iran

A

SIA’S football governing body Monday said it is looking into possible disciplinary action over an incident in which an explosive was tossed on the field during an AFC Champions League match in Iran.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said the match commissioner’s report had been forwarded to AFC’s legal department for disciplinary investigation.

The match ended in a

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

(L-R) Jenson Button of Great Britain and McLaren and Sebastian Vettel of Germany and Red Bull Racing come out of the stewards office following the Singapore For-

mula One Grand Prix at the Marina Bay Street Circuit on September 23, 2012 in Singapore, Singapore. [Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images]

Sebastian Vettel of Germany and Red Bull Racing celebrates on the podium after winning the Singapore Formula One Grand Prix at the Marina Bay Street Circuit on

September 23, 2012 in Singapore, Singapore. [Photo by Paul Gilham/Getty Images]

Terry fights for reputation At FA hearing

C

ONTROVERSIAL former England captain John Terry faced a Football Association disciplinary hearing over racism charges on Monday, despite being cleared in a criminal case.

The start of the hearing into whether he racially abused Queens Park Rangers’ Anton Ferdinand in October, came a day after Terry dramatically quit international football by announcing his retirement in protest at his treatment by the FA. Chelsea skipper Terry, who is to continue playing for the European champions, said Sunday that the FA had made his position “untenable” after he had already been cleared of criminal charges emanating from the controversy.

“I feel the FA, in pursuing charges against me where I have already been cleared in a court of law, have made my position with the national team untenable,” he said in a statement.

“I now look forward to playing for Chelsea FC and challenging for domestic and European honours and I want to thank the fans and

the club for their continued support.”

But FA general secretary Alex Horne, in the governing body’s first response to Terry’s England retirement, told Sky Sports on Monday: “It’s a personal decision. I don’t see how we’ve made it untenable, they’re two very separate processes.

“That’s a very different process from our England procedures, they sit in different compartments and I could separate the two in my mind, but it doesn’t look like he could.”

Central defender Terry has always denied using a racist slur against Ferdinand during a Premier League match last October and was cleared of criminal charges relating to the incident by a London court in July.

The criminal action had to prove Terry’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt but the judge ruled the prosecution had not proved their case to that standard.

Terry, 31, had hoped his courtroom acquittal would be the end of the matter but instead found himself on the end of an internal hearing by the sport’s governing body in England.

He, his legal team, the independent FA panel and Ferdinand were all seen arriving at the FA’s Wembley Stadium headquarters in north London on Monday morning.

Terry’s supporters say the FA’s own regulations should preclude the governing body from taking further action.

Its own rule 6.8 states: “Where the subject matter of a complaint or matter before the Regulatory Commission has been the subject of previous civil criminal or civil proceedings, the result of such proceedings and the facts and matters upon which such a result is based shall be presumed to be correct and the facts presumed to be true unless it is shown by clear and convincing evidence, that this is not the case.”

However, the FA are likely to insist their charge is distinct from the racially-aggravated public order offence of which Terry was cleared in July.

Terry admitted in court that used the racial slur against Ferdinand but only in a denial after he believed Ferdinand had accused him of using those words.

INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

Trying to pick a book from the massive art installation.

Life at the mall

With many things to buy and places to eat, all in a comfy environment, it was like experiencing living in a different world. But what i most love about malls is the myriad of art and cultural activities that it hosts and the malls in hong Kong could be some of the most creative when it comes to these activities.

Given that hong Kong is a city that is set up like one massive mall, in-mall exhibits in the former British territory had to

compete with one other to draw in the crowds. Some, like the popular times Square mall at Causeway Bay, hold massive exhibits that fill up the space in its huge atrium.

The iFC mall in down-

town Central, on the other hand, goes for more subtle exhibits and interactive jazz shows to entice the crowds. too bad though, that i missed the Baby mammoth of the ice age exhibit by a few weeks.

The malls on Kowloon also have their own exhibits and crowd drawers, like harbour City and their massively interactive sculptures that feature local hK artists. many hK visitors really can’t help but have a go interacting and making a fool of themselves just for a funny shot (i myself included). heritage 1887, on the other hand, went all out with a ship in the middle of its outdoor courtyard that doubles as a stage for nightly musical shows all summer long.

The nearby mirramall went more personal, with an exhibit showcasing the shoppers who were given

TheshipatHeritage1887’scourtyarddoublesasastageformusicalperformances.

The massive outdoor courtyard of Heritage 1887.

JazzingitupatIFCMall

a chance to take their own photos using the mall’s Polaroid cameras and to post it onto a wall of greetings.

Davao’s malls may be a way to go before matching the out-of-this-world crazy and interactive concepts of hong Kong’s malls but with the opening of Sm Lanang Premier this Friday, i believe Davao’s mall culture and lifestyle is about to change yet again.

Follow or message me on Twitter @kennethkingong for more happenings and foodie finds around Durianburg.

Fished out of Victotria Harbour at Harbour City.

A shark made of books.

Photos of shoppers fill the exhibit at Miramall.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

TRAVEL

Finding home at Home Crest

auGuSt 28 could be an ordinary day for most of us but this day marked the second anniversary of home Crest Residences, a boutique hotel located in front of Sm City Davao entrance gate. The special event started quietly at 3 o’clock in the afternoon when arriving guests were shown the newlyrenovated rooms with upgraded amenities. This was followed

by a Eucharistic celebration, a suitable way to thank the almighty for the blessings bestowed upon the business, its incorporators, management and staff, and all stakeholders of the hotel. The mass was officiated by Bishop George B. Rimando of the San Pablo Parish. The homily of Bishop Rimando centered on the principle of being “a Servant First,” if someone wants to be, or already is, a leader. he emphasized on extending excellent service as this is one of the secrets to business success. Even though the hotel is a business first and foremost, the thought of profits must be set aside and must give way to prioritize the giving of world-class service standards. This is aligned with the vision of home Crest to become the best chain of residences offering worldclass services and the ambiance and comforts of home. This is exactly the same value that the hotel aims to create in the minds of its guests. We strive to maintain the home Crest experience of service from the heart, which as the good bishop reiterated is much more important and more effective than the most expensive advertising campaign. he further add-

ed, “be a servant first, and the rest will follow.” This coincides with the positive reviews that the hotel is getting from satisfied customers who rave about their memorable stay at home Crest and are eager to come back and recommend the hotel to friends and colleagues. inspired by the message, general manager ms. Elizabeth teves has affirmed that the management and staff of home Crest are now and as always have been excited to offer its brand of service to clients who want to personally feel the ultimate home Crest experience. So what can guests look forward to in home Crest? The Zen-inspired lobby and rooms exude a serene and relaxing mood, depicting a homey ambiance. a hearty complimentary breakfast, served at D’ Blue hub Café & Bar, where guests can choose from a select fare of Filipino, american, or Continental breakfast and top it all up with a cup of smooth, great coffee and an assorted array of drinks as a nightcap. The personal safety of home Crest’s guests is assured with 24/7 security personnel assignment, an automatic fire alarm system, CCtV cameras in common areas (the first hotel in Davao using Pure iP cameras and PoE switches), an electronic door lock in every room, a stand-by generator, and a passenger elevator for convenience. Entertainment and communication with loved ones is ensured because every room has a digital tV with a wide selection of cable programs from SkyCable, a multifunction VOiP telephone system and Free surfing on the world-wide web since all rooms are equipped

with Wi-Fi connection and have internet-ready data ports, all compliments from the hotel. The hotel also uses solar-powered heaters to provide hot water for a refreshing and a soothing bath. This is part of home Crest’s green program, its corporate social responsibility initiative to maximize renew-

able sources of energy. all these conveniences we can offer to guests “because we care enough to make you feel at home”, says ms teves.

Visit home Crest now and be ready to explore the ultimate home Crest experience. Call us for reservations and inquiries at our trunkline num-

bers +6382 297 7777 and +6382 299 2777,or thru our mobile line number +63922- 9988-268, or better yet email us at inquiry@homecrestresidences.

com. you will know more about us by visiting our website www.homecrestresidences.com or like home Crest on Facebook, and twitter.

Cebu Pacific connects people

CEbu PACifiC had their inaugural flight KaliboDavao-Kalibo during its launching last August 2, at the Kalibo international Airport, Kalibo, Aklan.

What is amazing during the trip was the plea of the father, Tatay Rene ude, when he heard over RGMA DRYu (local radio network in Kalibo, Aklan) that some of the members of the Aklan Tri-media were awarded a free trip to Davao for its inaugural flight KaliboDavao-Kalibo. Just for luck, Tatay went over to see Kaibahang Lynette, the radio program director of RGMA-DYRu to beg for help for her daughter – Hannah Luisa ude (15 yo) to come home for good.

Hannah Luisa left Aklan when she was almost 10 years old, with her Aunt who promised to send her to school. She finished high school and yet, for so long a time, she was longing for her real family.

With their constant communication, Tatay thought that it’s high time her eldest daughter should come home and be reunited with her other siblings.

“My daughter Hannah Luisa has only P1,000 in her pocket and it’s not enough for her to buy a ticket, at the same, she is not allowed to travel alone as she is still minor, if only there is a way for her to come home”, Tatay Rene pleaded.

Tatay Rene was separated for many years now and he is a single father, bringing up the other three children by himself, with a meager income, sometimes with a job on and off, at times, none. However,

TOP:HannahLuisa(4thfromleft)isreunitedwithherfather, TatayReneUde(3rdfromleft)lastAugust2,2012duringthe inauguralflightofCebuPacificDavao-Kalibo.Theyareflanked inthepictureswithsomemembersoftheAklanTri-Mediaand DOTRegionVI–OICDirectorAtty.HelenCatalbas(rightmost).

LEFT: (l to r) RGMA DYRU Program Director Ms. Lynette Mendoza, Ms. Hannah Luisa Ude and Aklan Press Club, Inc. President Ms. Megs Lunn at the inaugural flight Davao-Kalibo last August, 2.

this does not hinder the good father of wishing that someday, Hannah will come home to them. indeed, the privilege given by Cebu Pacific to the Aklan Tri-Media, was instrumental to finally bring Hanna home, for good. it was through the effort of Ms. Arlene C. Tena, Director international Sales that Hannah Luisa was able to come home and fly with us Davao-Kalibo.

The good thing about it, Hannah was a first time flyer and it was Cebu Pacific who made everything possible happen for her. During her

inaugural remarks for Davao-Kalibo flight, Ms. Candice iyog, VP for Marketing and Distribution has this to say, “by providing connectivity and access through air travel and offering low-fares, we will be able to help connect travelers with their needs.”

Hannah Luisa is 15 years old now, while her other siblings, Hannah Lea is 12, Harhenz is 11 and Herchell is 6. Hanny Luisa, wishes to finish college and if given the chance, she wanted to take up HRM, Computer or Nursing, after which, to get a good job and help her family.

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAiNMENT

10 amazing actors that the Emmy’s snubbed

TV SHoWS come and go, but that prestigious Emmy trophy in your hands…that sort of thing is forever. Which makes this list we’re about to talk about extremely sad.

When it comes to snubs, these 10 amazing actor and actresses not getting an Emmy (or even a nod in some really depressing cases) is truly an upsetting error in the television world. True, some of these people are probably going to win one for their role eventually (looking at you, Jon Hamm), but for the most part, these characters will never get the appreciation they deserve. Shock and awe is the word combo we’d used to describe this list of thesps that have never won an Emmy: 1. Hugh Laurie: Dr. Gregory House surely doesn’t care about awards; he only cares about solving the puzzle. but riddle us this: How can portraying one of the most interesting TV characters in the past decade, while spouting off medical jargon in a different accent no less, not nab you an Emmy over the course of eight seasons?!

And do not get us started on the fact that he wasn’t even nominated for the final season of House. Seriously, we’ll get violent.

2. Steve Carell: Michael Scott, we hate so much about the things the Emmys choose to be. We think office star Rainn Wilson said it best on the night Carell lost his last chance to win an Emmy: “The world of TV should be ashamed of itself that Steve Carell never won an Emmy for Michael Gary Scott.” Dwight K. Schrute, sticking up for his boss until the very bitter end.

3. Connie Britton: Kyle Chandler finally won his long overdue Emmy last year for his role as Coach Taylor on friday Night Lights, but Mrs. Coach didn’t get to join him onstage, losing out to The Good Wife’s Julianna Margulies. in the pilot, she just wanted his and hers closets, and after one of or alltime favorite shows went off the air, we just wanted his and hers fNL Emmys.

THE MISTRESS John Lloyd Cruz, Bea Alonzo R-13

12:35 | 2:55 | 5:15 | 7:40 |10:00 LFS

RESIDENT EVIL 5- 2D 4. Jerry Seinfeld: How does Seinfeld himself not win for a show called Seinfeld? one of the great mysteries of the entertainment world, considering a lot of people will argue that Seinfeld is one of the top 10 shows in the history of television. Get the complete list of Emmy nominees 5. Courteney Cox: Could this snub be anymore annoying? if the lady is good enough to nab Chandler bing, then Monica Gellar should definitely be enough for the Academy.

And when you figure in that both Lisa Kudrow and Jennifer Aniston won Emmys for that little show called friends, you have to start wondering if Hollywood has something against honoring a fantastic comedic actress like Cox. There’s still hope for her role on Cougar Town, but we all know that voters have a history of ignoring that show. Le’ sigh…

6. Jon Hamm: Homeboy has been nominated seven times, both for Mad Men and 30 Rock. So not only has he not won for his drama skills, but his comedic chops have been snubbed as well. A man this handsome and this talented cannot walk away empty handed this year. it really seems physically impossible that he’ll leave that theater without an Emmy statue. but then again, the Emmys always manage to piss us off surprise us.

7. Angela Lansbury: 18 nominations and not a single win. Not even Jessica fletcher could solve that crime. More like Snubbed, She Wrote…

right? Right?! oK, that pun was terrible and we’re sorry. We’re making it worse.

New Girl’s Max Greenfield has Emmy plans with...

Gwyneth Paltrow?

8. Michael C. Hall: Another person you don’t want to piss off? Someone who portrays a serial killer to chilling perfection. of course in reality, Hall is quite the nice guy, a little too nice considering he’s been nominated several times for both Dexter and Six feet under. And since 2008, he’s been nominated every year for an Emmy for playing Dexter Morgan. is this the year for him? Screw the voting, let’s have him and Jon Hamm Jell-o wrestle for the trophy!

9. Jennifer Garner: You’d think that back then, the Academy would’ve been so scared of Jennifer Garner’s ass-kicking skills that eventually they’d just give her the trophy. but alas, Sydney bristow got four nominations for Alias, but never tasted sweet Emmy victory. However, she did win a Golden Globe and a Screen Actor’s Guild for that role, and, the most exciting award of all: a Teen Choice Award. Who needs an Emmy when you have a giant surfboard?

10. Kim Cattrall: Samantha Jones had it all on Sex and the City, but Kim Cattrall never had that Emmy.

Two of her costars (Sarah Jessica Parker and Cynthia Nixon) nabbed Emmys for the Hbo series, so like Cox’s situation, it was a bit baffling to see her character never get the spotlight on Emmy night. How can you hate someone like Samantha?

Milla Jovovich , Michelle Rodriguez R-13

12:50 | 2:40 | | 4:30 | 6:20 | 8:10 | 10:00 LFS

DREDD Karl Urban , Olivia Thirlby R-16

12:00 | 2:00 | 4:00 | 6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS

PRIDYIDER Andi Eigenmann , Janice de Belen PG-13

12:30 | 2:30 I 4:30 | 6:30| 8:30 |10:30 LFS

SM GENSAN CINEMA

A4 INdulge! uP AND AbouT ENTERTAiNMENT

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

SM PRIME wins ICSC community support, digital marketing awards SM Prime Holdings won two major awards during the recent international Council of Shopping CentersAsia Pacific Shopping Center Awards ceremonies in Shanghai, China. it received the prestigious Asia-Pacific Community Support Award for operation Sendong: People Helping People to Rebuild a City and the Digital Media Marketing Gold Award for its ibutterfly Huntcampaign, as well as numerous citations for its campaigns in the Cause Related, business to business, Public Relations, and Sales Promotions categories.

With its vision to create an inspired global shopping center industry responsive to the needs of its communities, the iCSC Community Support Awards recognizes corporate social responsibility and community outreach efforts around the world. The award comes with a uS$5,000.00 donation to the winner’s charity.

SM Prime’s operation Sendong: People Helping People to Rebuild a City highlights the company’s response to the devastation brought about by typhoon Sendong in December 2011 in Northern Mindanao. one of the hardest hit by the storm was Cagayan de oro, a city which had not experienced a typhoon for the past thirty years, and in which SM has a mall. being part of the community, SM Prime together with SM foundation and SM Supermarket was one of the first to take part in relief efforts, distributing relief packs to 19,500 families, assisting the city government in relief efforts, and creating programs that will lift the community’s spirit. it continues to offer long -term solutions by building 200 homes through its partnership with Gawad Kalinga.

The ibutterfly Hunt digital marketing campaign, on the other hand, which was held from May 5 to June 30, 2012, had 64 exciting offers to shoppers in 8 SM malls.

This successful campaign had 39,545 total downloads, 17,401 butterflies caught, and an average redemption rate of 13%.

Through its Global Awards Program, the iCSC has recognized and honored the shopping center industry’s most cutting edge properties, innovative solutions, and creative marketing trends, as well outstanding examples of design and development throughout the world.

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 146 •TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

SPORTS 15

Japeth’s US trainer is a Pinoy from Davao A

former Ateneo de Davao varsity player who is an assistant coach in a US NCAA Division III school is overseeing Japeth Aguilar’s skills training as the former PBA no. 1 draft pick continues his quest to break into American professional hoops.

Leo Balayon, who was recently hired as an assistant coach for the California Institute of Technology, or Caltech, a Division III school in Pasadena known for its excellent science and engineering courses, has been working out with Aguilar and preparing him to break into the National Basketball Developmental League (NBDL), or the D-League.

“It’s a tough road,” said Balayon in an e-mail to yahoo! PH Sports. “My focus is to get him signed in the D-League. I’m not even thinking beyond that because the D-League will have a big role in his NBA development. My goal is really foundational and our target role for him is like a Steve Novak or at the most, Rashard Lewis. As he is now, (he is) not even at his peak. Me and Japeth are very realistic with our goals so we have no superstar illusions for him.”

Balayon had never met Aguilar before they started working together, but the 33-year-old from Davao City had been following his client’s career ever since Japeth made it to Western Kentucky University in 2006.

“Even then I had hoped that he would be the first Philippine-born player in the NBA. But we only met recently because his Filipino agent here reached out to me for skills training.

The agent met me at a FilAm and Import showcase I organized for some pro coaches in the ABL.” Skills training Balayon’s expertise has always been player and skills development, which is his main role in Caltech.

When Aguilar’s Filipino agent found this out, he immediately hooked both parties up.

“Flying in from Chicago to LA,” Balayon recalls, “Japeth and his other American agent drove straight to my gym from LAX. So we worked out right away.

The Aguilars and the agent liked what they saw so I’ve been his trainer since then. They brought him to other more experienced coaches that were really well-respected but when they saw that I taught the same things, they stayed with me.”

The two have been working together diligently for the past few weeks.

Balayon says he is training Aguilar to be a shooting forward, and as such all the drills he lines up for his client are designed to meet this goal.

“Our training is really specific to the shooting forward position,” Balayon explained. “Like I mentioned earlier, me and Jap have no illusions of him

becoming a star player. We just want to get in. So I’m training him to be the best role player he can be in the short amount of time we have. So we do a lot of shooting drills, and driving on a straight line, stepback jumpers. I also help him with moving without the ball for cuts and catch and shoots. He has a good jump shot. My job was to adjust micro aspects of his mechanics to make him a more efficient shooter. So basically, I’m really teaching him the basics from a ‘micro level’, The basics of the basics. Like I said, I’m preparing him to be a role player.

“That’s the mistake of many good players: they try out to be the next Jordan when it’s clear that the team already has a superstar. We’d be happy if Jap can get in as a (Thabo) Sefolosha or a Steve Novak. He can really shoot now with good mechanics. Guys like him who can hit the corner 3 are in demand in the NBA because they spread the floor for the one-on-one guys.

Aguilar recently attended an open tryout of the D-League team Bakersfield Jam, where he made it to the last 20 aspirants. Balayon revealed that the Jam wanted Aguilar to move to Bakersfield and train with them, but since they couldn’t give a guaranteed contract yet, the former Talk ‘N Text forward decided to stay put in LA, where another opportunity awaits.

The city’s own D-League team, the LA D-Fenders, will be opening their training camp on September 29, and Aguilar is one of the few aspirants who were invited to attend. This is where the two will part ways, and where Balayon will know whether all that training he gave will pay off.

“I’m really hoping that come the 29th, I will have taught him enough to get him signed by the D-Fenders. At that point he will be training with them from then on. But he can always come back to me from time to time for refresher workouts. They really want to see him because of the feedback they got about Jap. Believe it or not, he’s a really good jump shooter. We’re working on making Jap a stretch guy with his jump shot.

Signing with the D-Fenders would be mutually beneficial, Balayon says. “It would be great for the Filipino community here (in Los Angeles). And also the D-Fenders had the most call-ups to the NBA last year. So they’re really good at developing athletes. Aside from those teams, there are a couple more D-League teams that have expressed interest but as a trainer, I’m focused on getting him ready for the camp on the 29th.”

Balayon was also on hand to help Aguilar during his workout for a couple of NBA teams a

Caltech assistant coach Leo Balayon (front) is helping Japeth Aguilar (behind Balayon) in his training. couple of weeks ago. He is not allowed to identify the teams, and the only clue he would offer was “they are two of the better Western Conference teams.”

Over the weekend, Aguilar was evaluated by another NBA scout, and Balayon had a rather positive report in another e-mail to yahoo! PH Sports.

“The workout with the NBA scout today (Saturday) went really well,” Balayon wrote. “The guy is a scout for Memphis and New Orleans. Everything the scout had Japeth do, we luckily have already covered in our training.

The coach had him play point guard. Luckily, we practiced that this week. I told him kasi na if he plays the small forward, there will be times when the guard is pressured so he will need to bring down the ball. He looked really good.”

Getting started in coaching Balayon’s first coaching stint was one of those “right place at the right time” things. He had just finished his degree in communication arts in Ateneo de Davao when then UP coach Allan Gregorio recommended him to be an assistant coach to then UP Integrated School coach Lito Vergara. A few Japeth Aguilar months later, the Junior at Pacifica that Balay- being a point A to point B Maroons went on to win on truly got immersed point guard so his skills their first UAAP juniors in doing skills training. from high school were kind basketball crown. To this He started helping out of dormant,” Balayon said. day, Balayon counts that Fil-Americans such as Leo “When he played for me I championship as one of his Devera, who is now with gave him the opportunity best basketball moments, San Sebastian’s Team B, to be an offensive threat. and credits Vergara for in- and Jerry Santos, who He didn’t disappoint me at fluencing his approach to eventually signed up with all. I recommended that he skills development. the PBA D-League team play for Smart Gilas to reThe following year, Ba- Boracay Rhum. main on the radar of NBA layon packed his bags and Other trainees scouts. Being a 6’6” point took on a teaching assignBalayon also had a guard, it’s possible that ment in China, where he hand in discovering and he can sneak into the NBA stayed for three years and training Fil-Am Matt Ross- someday. was eventually recruited er Ganuelas, who is the “I’m real proud of all to play semi-pro ball. In only non-PBA player on the guys I’ve worked with.

2006 he flew to the United the Smart Gilas roster in I’m proud of Japeth’s deStates for grad school, and the FIBA Asia Cup, and velopment because he in 2009 was hired as an whom Balayon said has moves so differently from assistant coach by Pacifica the potential to be a rare when he was in the PBA. College. tall point guard.

Right now, other people on It was during his stint “Matt spent four years the NBDL level have been

training or have asked to train with me.”

All this should augur well for Balayon, since he shares the same dream as his most famous student.

“My goal is really to be the best assistant coach I can be. Like a skill coach for the NBDL, or God-willing, the NBA.” What about following the footsteps of Erik Spoelstra and becoming a head coach?

“I don’t have the personality to be a head coach,” he said, although he isn’t completely shutting the door.

“Maybe later I’ll change my mind.” [Sid Ventura/ Sportsaholic]

16 SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 146 • TUESDAY , SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

Pagunsan places 4th

M

ANILA - Juvic Pagunsan rebounded from a poor start with an explosive backside charge and salvaged an even par 71 for a share of fourth in the Asia Pacific Panasonic Open ruled by Masanori Kobayashi in a stirring come-from-behind fashion in Hyogo, Japan yesterday.

Pagunsan, just one shot off the pace at the

start of the final round, faded with back-to-back bogey start and reeled farther back with a triple-bogey on No. 6 and another bogey on the next. But the Asian Tour No. 1 hit six birdies in the last 11 holes to save a 3536 card and a place in the top five.

His 271 aggregate tied him with Shiv Kapur (67) and Tomohiro Kondo (70) for fourth with

each pocketing $80,645 (P3.3 million).

Kobayashi matched the second best ninehole score of seven-under 28 on the Asian Tour and shot a sizzling 62 to snatch the crown at 267 worth $381,000.

He won by one over Koumei Oda, who fired 67 for a 268 while Masamichi Uehira finished solo third at 270 after a 71.

EDGEDAVAO