Edge Davao 5 Issue 163

EDGEDAVAO P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

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Buak kotse busted

Sara lauds cops

By Greg G. Deligero

Science/ Environment

Sports

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D

avao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio lauded the Davao City Police office for the arrest of four “buak kotse” gang members allegedly responsible for breaking into privately-owned cars in Davao City.

“We congratulate our police for exerting more effort to solve the buak kotse incidents. Let’s not lower our guard, let’s keep working,” Duterte said.

Davao City Police office (DCPo) chief Senior Superintendent Ronald de la Rosa advised the public not to leave valuable

DCPO chief to public—‘be vigilant!’

items inside their vehicles which are visible to passersby.

“You may leave valuable things inside your car, but see to it that these are properly covered or put in a place not visible to the syndicate,” he said.

Last Monday, police operatives from Davao City led by Talomo Police Station commander PSupt.

Dionesio C. abude, arrested four members of the notorious buak kotse Gang in an entrapment operation conducted in a hotel in General Santos City.

Page 14

GRAND LAUNCHING. Campaigns and Grey’s Yoly Ong, group chair (3rd from left); Zen Pastoriza, managing director-Cebu (2nd from left); and Marga Rey, account director (4th from left); lead the company’s Davao City grand launching at Wood Lane Cabana in Ma-a Tuesday night. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

Gov’t. starts rehab of Davao airport T

HE GovERNMENT, through the Civil aviation authority of the Philippines (CaaP), has started improving the deteriorating condition of the Francisco Bangoy International airport in Davao City.

Rep. Mylene Garcia told Edge Davao, for starters, CaaP had reassigned one fire-truck to add to the FBIa’s existing one.

This was made possible after the CaaP, headed by retired general William Hotchkiss III, repositioned an airport fire truck from Tacloban to Davao airport last September 23.

CAAP assigns one fire-truck Earlier, the safety rating of the Davao international airport was downgraded by international aviation authorities after finding out that it had only one serviceable unit when aviation inspectors looked into the facilities of the FBIa. Under international safety standards, an international airport like Davao City should have at least three fire trucks, according to the second district lawmaker.

City investments and tourism offi-

FGOV’T., 11

The gang’s moniker stems from the manner they steal valuable items by breaking the glass portions of parked vehicles. Dela Rosa said the DCPo has so far recorded 32 bukas kotse cases in Davao City, 15 of which occurred in Talomo district.

The suspects were formally charged yesterday with theft and robbery before the city prosecutor’s office.

Duterte also acknowledged the participation of concerned citizens in Davao City and General

Santos City that led to the arrest of the suspects.

The suspects’ entrapment and arrest started when a camera enthusiast based in General Santos called up a friend in Davao City to inquire about the advantages and other features of the Nikon D700 DSLR, a high-end digital camera.

The friend in Davao City happens to be a colleague in the Camera Club of Davao of Erwin Wong Te, who lost an identical high-end camera and other valuable items last october 14 in Shrine Hills,

FSARA, 11

2 THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

City gets P1.6-B infra budget share for 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Biggest to Ungab’s 3 district rd

By ANTONIO M. AJERO

Mylene’s 2nd gets P527.7M; Karlo’s 1st P336.6M

D

Alquiza

No case yet filed in court On missionary’s murder

E

xaCTLY a year after the murder of Italian missionary Fausto “Pops” Tentorio, no case has been filed in court and the parishioners and indigenous peoples in arakan, North Cotabato, where he served as parish priest, as well as the Diocese of Kidapawan and his congregation, the Pontifical Institute of Foreign Missionaries (PIME), are still waiting.

Fr. Peter Geremia, also of the PIME and presently the assistant parish priest in arakan, told MindaNews that one year later, justice has remained elusive. as of october 17, the first death anniversary

of Tentorio, Geremia said they have yet to hear from the Department of Justice (DoJ) on the status of the case.

He recalled that the last time Justice Undersecretary Francisco Baraan replied to his follow-up query was on September 13. During that time, he said, Baraan asked him if he received a letter from them (DoJ).

He replied he didn’t.

He quoted Baraan as saying, “Sorry, Father, to tell you that the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) doubts your witnesses.”

“I replied I also doubt their (NBI) witnesses,” Geremia said. [MindaNews]

avao CITY’s three congressional districts will get a total of P1.6 billion in various infrastructure projects in the national budget for 2013, thanks to the joint efforts of the city’s three House representatives and officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways who helped identify and collaborate on the projects.

This was reported by DPWH 11 Regional Director Mariano “Marnie” alquiza in a talk with Rotary Club of East Davao which has a mixed membership of Dabawenyos and expatriates when he guested Monday at the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao annex.

Ungab gets bulk alquiza said the 3rd district of Rep. Isidro T. Ungab, chairman of the House committee on ways and means and former vice chairman of the appropriations committee. alquiza said that while all Davao City residents should be elated by the city’s total P1.6-billion share of the budget, Ungab’s constituents should be happier because they will get the bulk-- P742.7 million or 46.21 percent of the share.

Ungab This is followed by the 2nd district of Rep. Mylene Garcia-albano, House deputy majority leader, with P527.7 million, or 32.83 percent, followed by the 1st district under Rep. Karlo Nograles, with P336.6 million, or 20.94 percent. alquiza said the infra budget for the 3rd district for next year includes the preventive maintenance and rehabilitation of the Davao-Cotabato Road, the maintenance of the Calinan-Baguio-Cadalian Road, widening of the Davao-Cotabato old road Lubogan section, Lizada section, and Binugao section. also to be widened are the Lumondao, Calinan and Tugbok-Mintal sections.

The budget likewise includes payment for the road right-of-way and construction of the Calinan-Toril Road, particularly the Subasta, Tagak-

Mylene

Nograles

pan and Mulig sections.

Declared tourist sites Road sections in various areas declared tourism sites by the administration of Mayor Sara D. Carpio have also been budgeted for construction and improvement.

The upgrading will affect the following road sections: Lacson-Lamanan-Inayangan-Megkawayan-Mintal-Bago oshiro, Bago Gallera and Bayabas-Toril. as a result of the strong representation of Ungab, alquiza said the Lipadas Bridge II is slated for completion next year.

Details of the projects in the 2nd and 1st districts are available at the DPWH regional and district offices, alquiza said.

Meanwhile, Rep. Mylene bared that projects covered by the 2013 DPWH budget in the 2nd district include the preventive maintenance

and rehabitation of sections of the Rafael Castillo avenue, Davao City Div. Road, Catitipan-airport Road and the upgrading of the Mabuhay-Panalum-Paquibato, Fatima-Malabog roads.

These projects and others being planned are results of the joint work of officials and staff personnel of the city government, the DPWH engineering staf and consultations made by the 2nd Congressional district with the people and leaders of the barangays, Rep. Mylene told Edge Davao.

Regional director alquiza said that all projects included in the 2013 General appropriations act should be bidded out

by December this year so that implementation will commence during the first quarter of next year.

“This is the new policy issued by DPWH secretary Rogelio Singson,” alquiza said.

InfoCom Brunei, ICT Davao to sign MOU

By Vicky Berdina M. de Guzman

T

HE InfoCom Federation Brunei and the Information Communication Technology of Davao City will sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on November 9, 2012 at the atrium of the abreeza Mall.

The MoU will highlight special collaboration with the ICT industry in Davao City.

Lizable Holganza, president of ICT Davao, said, “We already have collaboration with them through the BIMP-Ea-

Ga group, but we will formalize the tieup with them because medyo matagal nang iniimbitahan tayo ng Brunei na makipag-collaborate sa kanila for women empowerment and for Rural Health outreach project ng BIMP-EaGa.” InfoCom Brunei is made of private businesses that deal with telecom and IT. “This is a good news for us because Brunei wants to seek opportunities here,” Holganza said.

POPULAR. Decorations representing gigantic spiders can be seen hanging at the atrium of a mall along J.P. Laurel Ave. two weeks before the Halloween, an

FINFOCOM, 11 event popular to children. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

SUBURBIA

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 163 •THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

Permit granted to carnivals in time for parochial fiesta L

3

LTO consults riding public on plate standardization

T

HE carnival comes to town! Mary Rose Carnival is back in town as Mayor Rey T. Uy approved its permit to operate along Tagum’s National Highway (Daang Maharlika) in front of the Gaisano Mall of Tagum.

The carnival also operated in the city last November 2010. Currently, they are offering 13 entertainment rides: Sea Dragon, Cable Car, Bumper Car, Scramble, Swing Carousel, Wall of Death, Telecombat, Cup and Saucer, Ferris Wheel and Fire Brigade.

Last october 12, Chief Inspector Engr. Cleo L. ShiongShu, oIC Building and Safety Division of City Engineer’s office, together with some personnel from the City Environment and Natural Resources office, City Business Permit and Licensing Division, City Fire Marshall Bureau and City Electrical Division inspected the rides to ensure its safety and to provide better service for the customers not

WALL OF DEATH. A motocross rider showing his exhibition to the inspecting personnel of Tagum City at Maryrose Carnival along Tagum’s National Highway (Daang Maharlika) in front of the Gaisano Mall of Tagum last October 16. [LOuiE JAY LOsARiA/CiO TAGuM] just from Tagum City but also to the neighboring

areas.

The carnival will

have its month-long stay until December 5, over-

lapping the Tagum City’s Fiesta on November 18.

Congress Tuesday that his administration has lowered the passing rate for admission of scholars from indigenous peo-

ples, from 85 to 75 percent.

He said the usual scholarships require high school students to

have 85 percent average grade to be admitted to the provincial government’s scholarship programs.

The governor said it is to address the skewed concentration of education resources and exposure to media in favor of those in the urban centers.

“Those in rural areas, where the IP students live, they are not so exposed. They are disadvantaged,” he added.

Datu Macabadbad Russel aquino, officer in charge of the Provincial Indigenous Communities affairs Division, cited that Calingasan’s scholarship is aside from the educational assistance they give to IP students, where they have at least 240 recipients.

Calingasan cited that he has employed the scheme since 2010 to enable more IP students to participate.

The governor was not around when the threeday first ever IP congress opened Monday. about 700 participants have deliberated on the province-wide IP legislative agenda, the major document eyed to be an output for the congress.

It will be presented to provincial legislators and local executives Wednesday. (Walter I. Balane / MindaNews)

[LOuiE JAY LOsARiA/CiO TAGuM]

Passing rate for IP scholars lowered B UKIDNoN Gov. alex Calingasan announced on the second day of the Bukidnon Indigenous Peoples’

YES FOR PEACE. Pinanda Pandian, a Bangsamoro woman and resident of Madaum, Tagum City, joins the ceremonial signing of the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement during the DAVAO, DUYOG SA KALINAW!, a Citizen’s Signing of the Framework Agreement activity held at the Freedom Park in

Davao City last October 15. Organized by the Mindanao Peaceweavers, the activity was participated by Moros, indigenous peoples and Christian settlers from the Davao Region. [PHOTO BY YAM PALMA]

aND transportation officials from Soccsksargen (Region 12) on Wednesday conducted in Kidapawan City a stakeholders’ consultation on the proposed standardization of plates of motor vehicles, a measure that was supposed to be implemented two years ago.

LTo 12 regional director, atty. Potiwas Malambot, said the consultation was aimed at getting the pulses of their stakeholders, primarily the riding public and owners of motor vehicles.

“This primarily depends on the stakeholders.

If this is acceptable to them, then, the order would be implemented early January, next year, along with the enforcement of the use of quality crash helmets,” said Malambot.

Malambot explained that under the proposal, the LTo would only issue one common and “standardized plate” to all motor vehicles.

“There will be no more commemorate plates,” he said. at this time, he added, the LTo issues nine plates of different designs.

“If this order would be enforced early next year, we will be following international traffic standards,” he said.

The new plate, he explained, has enhanced security features.

“It has a bar code, which contains the chassis and engine number of the vehicle; and the number of the third sticker issued by the LTo” he said. also, the bottom portion of the standardized plates will also contain the region where the vehicle was initially registered for private vehicles, the name of agency for government vehicles, the franchised route for public utility vehicles, and the port of origin for other exempt vehicles.

This, he stressed, would help facilitate vehicle identification, prevents theft of license plates, averts illegal and indiscriminate transfer of plates, and avoids the proliferation of fake plates.

Malambot said that all motor vehicles shall be required to change their license plates with the new plate design upon the renewal of its registration and every five years, thereafter, under the standardization program.

The license plate standardization program is designed to improve the motor vehicle registration database system and enhance law enforcement.

He also stressed that only authorized LTo personnel are allowed to attach the replacement plates to the motor vehicles. [PNA]

4 SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

NGP opens doors to more greening partnerships

T

HE Forest Management Bureau has identified opportunities for more partnership and collaboration between government and the private sector on meeting requirements of the National Greening Program. aside from producing, planting, caring and protecting seedlings, which government’s partners are helping undertake, FMB said the opportunities include capacity and skills development, technology transfer, plantation development, market tieups as well as provision of farm tools, implements, post-harvest facilities and processing technology.

The opportunities vary as FMB Dir. Ricardo Calderon noted NGP is government’s largest reforestation bid so far and seeks helping address poverty, environmental stability, food security and climate change concerns.

“NGP is beyond reforestation,” he said.

For the years 2013 to 2016, government set an annual reforestation target of 300,000 hectares nationwide.

The annual targets involve planting 150 million to 300 million seedlings of exotic and indigenous tree

species per year.

Such targets are higher than the 200,000 hectares and 100,000 hectares government set for NGP greening in 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Calderon is bullish partnerships and collaboration on technology transfer will help government meet NGP’s greening targets.

“I’m very confident we’ll hit those as technology is on our side,” he said.

The Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources earlier assured using science to help realize NGP’s goal of reforesting by 2016 some 1.5 million hectares of open, denuded and degraded forest land nationwide. among scientific applications for NGP is use of micro-organisms that help boost seedling growth.

DENR is also cloning NGP seedlings from parts of good-quality parent stocks to ensure availability of the best plant materials possible for the program.

The agency is eyeing further partnerships with State universities and colleges on producing cloned NGP seedlings after sealing deals on the matter with various public higher learning institutions.

PHL to scale up sustainable consumption, production bid

L

IKE its Southeast asian neighbors, the Philippines plans to scale up its capabilities for better mainstreaming sustainable consumption and production nationwide. aside from training on design and implementation of SCP-supportive policies, such preparations include policymakers’ learning from the best local and international sustainable practices so government can better develop initiatives for rational use of goods and services while minimizing natural resource utilization, toxic materials and pollutants to avoid jeopardizing future generations’ needs.

“We must shift from non-sustainable to sustainable consumption and production practices,” said Ellen Basug, Environmental Management Bureau information and education chief.

She noted such action is essential in achieving the country’s goal of having a green economy.

SCP is the focus of discussions EMB and its partners commenced spearheading in Metro Manila for policymakers from the Philippines and other association of Southeast asian Nations.

“The discussions aim

helping participants identify initiatives they can pursue to promote SCP,” said Basug.

She said such initiatives can include those on cleaner and safer production, public procurement, building, energy efficiency,and lifestyle, she noted.

United Nations University earlier identified several case studies on the best SCP practices in different countries.

UNU visiting professor Mario Tabucanon said initiatives featured in the case studies can be either replicated where possible or modified when needed to help countries shift to SCP. Those can also serve as models for developing new SCP-promoting initiatives, he noted.

“There’s much to be learned from the case studies,” he said.

The 5th aSEaN plus Three Leadership Program is one venue where Southeast asian policymakers can learn about and discuss initiatives in the case studies.

Earlier, the policymakers participated in SWITCH asia training of trainers event to build their capability for designing andimplementing policies supporting SCP and the green economy.

Partners converge to enhance PHL fisheries’ climate resilience a

UTHoRITIES will integrate climate change adaptation (CCa) into the fisheries management plan for each of the eight Philippine marine key biodiversity areas (MKBas) where they will pilot the 2012-2017 Ecosystems Improved for Sustainable Fisheries (Ecofish) project.

They are optimistic that such move will help meet Ecofish’s target 10-percent increase in fish biomass and number of gainfully employed people there through sustainable management of coastal and marine resources as well as ecosystems associated with these.

“We’ll include CCa measures in the MKBas’ respective plans to help address climate change’s

impact on fisheries there,” said Geronimo Silvestre, head of consultants from Tetra Tech aRD, which United States agency for International Development (USaID) tapped to help Bureau of Fisheries and aquatic Resources (BFaR) implement the project.

BFaR identified the biodiversity-rich MKBa-Ecofish project sites’ locations as Lingayen Gulf, verde Island Passage, Calamianes Island Group, Lagonoy Gulf, Danajon Reef, South Negros Island, Surigao and Sulu archipelago.

The agency and its partners officially launched Ecofish in Metro Manila during the 2012 celebration of Fish Conservation Week this month.

Ecofish seeks to help

raise Philippine fisheries production by promoting sustainable management of coastal and marine resources and related ecosystems.

“It’s more wholistic than just addressing sustainability of target species,” Silvestre said.

He hopes that Ecofish’s ecosystems-based approach to fisheries management (EaFM) can be eventually replicated in other areas nationwide. agriculture chief Proceso alcala considers Ecofish timely, noting that Philippine fisheries production shrank over the years with the decline hitting some 3.3 percent during the first half of 2012.

“We must do what needs to be done -we have the means to address such problem,” he said.

BFaR director asis Perez agrees, believing that Ecofish will help boost Philippine fisheries.

“Ecofish will benefit our country,” he said.

Experts already identified coral bleaching as among climate change’s impacts on fisheries.

They noted coral bleaching results from sea temperature rise caused by climate change.

Bleaching occurs when heat-stressed coral polyps expel symbiotic algae from coral tissues.

Such algae provides most of the food and oxygen corals need to survive, they said.

Loss of the algae compromises corals’ survival and leaves these with a whitish color that gives a bleached appearance, they continued.

farms.

She said they are specifically considering tapping small island localities and coastal areas as potential sites for the project.

“The assessment of the sites is currently ongoing and we’re targeting to roll out this project by 2014 or 2015,” she said in a press conference here. a power generation reference site described micro-grids as localized grouping of electricity generation, energy storage and loads that normally operates without being connected to a traditional centralized grid.

It said they are meant to generate power locally

to reduce dependence on long distance transmission lines and cut transmission losses.

Generation and loads in a micro-grid, which ideally covers an area of around 30 to 50-kilometer radius, are usually interconnected at low voltage. Its generation resources, which may include fuel cells, wind and solar, are usually operated by small power stations with a capacity of 5 to 10 megawatts (MW).

Guevara said they earlier adopted the wind technology for the micro-grid project following a needs assessment conducted by the agency.

Under the project,

she said they would establish micro-grids and wind farms, which comprises a group of wind turbines that are used for production of electricity, in small island areas and other suitable localities.

The electricity generated by the micro-grid would directly be utilized to supply the needs of consumers within its area of operations, Guevara said.

“Households and other power users within the area covered by the micro-grid would get their supplies directly from the facility and no longer from the national grid,” Guevara said.

FPARTNERS, 11

DOST pushes for wind power systems

T

HE Department of Science and Technology (DoST) is pushing for the development of micro-grids using small wind power systems or wind farms to help address the worsening power shortage in Mindanao.

Dr. Rowena Cristina Guevara, executive director of the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) of the DoST, said they are presently evaluating several areas in Mindanao and other parts of the country that could host the micro-grids and the operations of small wind

THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 163 •THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

5

Consumer Fair on October 18-19 to highlight PS licensed products

a

T least 18 exhibitors of products that are licensed to Product Standards (PS) will be highlighted during the Regional Consumer Fair on october 18-19 at the activity Center of NCCC Mall, Davao City.

The PS stickers are stuck on locally produced-products with mandatory standards.

This signifies that they have passed the standards for quality and safety set for such products. among the products that will be showcased are ceramic tiles, polyvinyl chloride (PvC) pipes, various construction

DTI reiterates

materials and electrical products. aside from the local manufacturers, the Philippine Product Safety and Quality Foundation, Incorporated (PPSQF) will also showcase the PS certified products of their members who are based in Metro Manila.

For comparison, some uncertified products will also be shown.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Davao Regional Director Marizon S. Loreto said that by presenting the certified and uncertified ones, the public will have the opportunity to identify which should be bought. [DTi 11/JEN MENDOzA]

EXPO. Wit Holganza, president of Information and Communications Technology–Davao, Inc. (IDI) answer reporters’ questions while promoting the upcoming Innovation Expo slated on November 9-11 at Abreeza Mall

during the weekly Club 888 media forum at Marco Polo Hotel yesterday.

To her right is lawyer Sam Matunog, Davao Software Industry Inc. (DSII) president. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

5% discount for senior citizens T

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has reiterated anew the provision of five percent discount for senior citizens.

DTI-Davao City Field office senior trade and industry development specialist Paciente E. Cubillas, Jr. said the five percent discount is

a special privilege granted

by DTI and Department of agriculture (Da) and shall apply to basic necessities and prime commodities like canned fish, milk, coffee, bread, sugar, cooking oil, instant noodles, dried, processed and canned meat, and powdered, liquid, bar laundry and detergent soap.

Cubillas said Republic act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens act provides that also included in the discount are fresh fruits, onions, herbicide, poultry, swine and cattle feeds, veterinary products for poultry, swine and cattle, steel wires, plywood, and electrical bulbs.

Cubillas said the discount shall apply only to regular retail price of goods and not to be applied on top of the special or promotional discounted price of select commodities. “and we have to take note that those who can avail of this are 60-year-old Filipinos who reside in the

Philippines,” he said.

Cubillas added that a senior citizen can purchase up to a maximum of P1,300 worth of commodities/ products cited above.

In the event that a senior citizen can’t personally make purchases, a representative can do it for him provided that such person

will bring the following upon purchase: senior citizen’s identification card and purchase booklet from the office of Senior Citizens affairs (oSCa); authorization letter signed by the senior citizen whom he represents; and a valid government-issued ID card of the representative. [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

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

2012

2011

2010

42.85 42.70 42.86 42.66 43.62

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

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

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Bright prospects await PHL bamboo industry T

HE Philippine bamboo industry is seen as a new trade cluster with huge potential market worldwide as growing demand for bamboo as an ecologically friendly alternative material to wood products, sharply soars high, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reported Tuesday.

DTI undersecretary for Regional operations and Development Group Merly M. Cruz, in a speech in the recently-concluded Philippine Bamboo Congress (PBC), claimed that at present, there is a supply deficit is about two million bamboo poles for furniture and 340,000 bamboo poles for handicrafts, with an estimated demand of 3.5 million poles for furniture and 575,000 poles for handicrafts.

This supply deficit would require additional bamboo plantations of 150 thousand to 166 thousand hectares by 2015.

Cruz also said that the local bamboo demand stood at P450 million per annum. By

2015, the world demand for bamboo is expected to grow to US$ 15-billion to US$ 20-billion. The emerging products from bamboo will account 45 percent of the bamboo market.

Traditional products are also expected to grow but not as fast as the emerging products.

Cruz encouraged over a thousand participants of the congress to invest in the country’s bamboo industry, citing that aside from increasing demand for bamboo, that there is low capital investment for many of its products, availability of technologies and land for its production, and sound characteristics of bamboo like fast growing, renewable and environment- friendly.

With the theme “Bamboo for people and environment”, the PBC was expected to increase public awareness on the potentials of bamboo in boosting economic growth and job creation in the countryside, and in helping preserve the environment.

The congress gathered entrepreneurs, investors, processors, farmers, manufacturers, traders, buyers, exporters, the academe, and key officials from national government agencies, non-government organizations, industry associations, and local government units to update them on the current policies and program directions related to the bamboo industry.

The event also unveiled desk and school arm chair made from bamboo, and offered seminars, lectures and consultations on bamboo plant production, farm or plantation establishment and maintenance, award-winning innovations in bamboo production, primary bamboo processing, secondary bamboo processing and equipment technologies.

“From 2007 to 2010, the global traded bamboo products averaged USD 1.49billion, with China as the top exporter with a market share of 46 percent,” Cruz said. according to the Interna-

tional Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBaR) data from 2007 to 2010, the major markets for bamboo products are European Union, United States, Japan, Canada, China, Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, and australia. about 57 percent of imports are bamboo flooring and baskets. The USa is the largest Western consumer of bamboo, with annual imports of almost USD 300M of bamboo products. Some 95 percent of these products come from China.

Cruz also revealed that the Philippine bamboo export market are the European Union, USa, Japan, Canada, China, Singapore, australia, Republic of Korea, Switzerland, Russia, Hong Kong, South africa, Mexico, India, Norway and Turkey.

The country’s major export bamboo products are handicrafts and furniture.

The industry has an average global market growth rate at 7 percent or USD 8billion annually. [PNA]

EMITTaNCES picked up in august and these give the central bank room to keep rates to provide additional support to the economy, the HSBC said.

In a report penned by HSBC economist Trinh Nguyen, HSBC said the higher-than-expected 7.6 percent year-on-year growth of money sent home by overseas Filipinos last august would fur-

ther power domestic spending in this service-based economy.

“With global demand weak and inflation expected to be on target for the rest of 2012, the BSP has room to hold rates low at 3.75 percent to further spur spending at its next meeting,” it said.

To date, the overnight borrowing rate of the BSP is at record-low 3.75 percent while the

overnight lending rate is at 5.75 percent.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) policy-making Monetary Board (MB) will have its next policy rate setting meet on october 25, 2012.

Since the start of the year, the Board has cut the central bank’s policy rate by a total of 75 basis points, at 25 basis points each last January, March and July.

The report noted that private consumption continues to fuel the domestic economy with the first half expansion at 5.4 percent, higher than the 5.1 percent of remittances.

The economy, on the other hand, posted a higher growth of 6.1 percent in the first half of 2012.

The report said the continued high demand for Filipino workers and the resilient nature of overseas Filipino workers (oFWs) and their profession are the reasons behind the robust growth in remittances. on the other hand, the report

noted that risks to inflation now lean on the upside given the expected rise in the inflation rate due to base effect and expected recovery in the Chinese economy.

In the first nine months this year, rate of price increases averaged at 3.2 percent, at the lower-end of the government’s three to five-percent target Last September alone, inflation decelerated to 3.6 percent from month-ago’s 3.8 percent. “as such, we expect the BSP to continue to support domestic spending by keeping rates at a historic low while remaining vigilant on inflation,” the report said.

Relatively, HSBC projects a 5.7-percent output for the domestic economy this year, which it attributes to the strong consumer spending and higher public spending.

“Growth, therefore, is expected to reach the government’s five to six percent target,” it added. [PNA]

Higher remittance growth provides BSP room to maintain rates -HSBC R

PRESENTABLE. A rattan furniture maker applies paint to a newly-assembled bed to make it more presentable and attractive to the customers at Quezon Blvd. yesterday.

[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

AGRITRENDS 7

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 163 •THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

Commercial rice importation mulled

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HARVESTABLE. Corn farmer Joselyn Tuson of Don Carlos, Bukidnon checks on her soon to be harvested corn. Tuson along with other farmers in the areas is optimistic that given adequate support corn production can be a viable source of livelihood. [sHERWiN MANuAL]

Corn farmers ward off pests, debts

By Noel T. Provido

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HILE organized as vanguards against corn pests, these farmers are also gradually winning over another pest: their debts from non-formal lenders.

This is how 38-year-old Marina Gabe describes the San antonio West Bantay Dangan Farmers’ association (SaWBDFa) in Don Carlos, Bukidnon where she acts as the treasurer.

“Corn production is our main source of income but we often suffer from tremendous losses due to pests infestation,” she said.

“Good thing the Department of agriculture’s (Da) through its integrated pests management program has introduced the natural and economic way of controlling corn pests,” Gabe

said.

Thrichogramma, a biological control agent against corn borer and other insect pests. It is environment-friendly and more economical compared to chemical pesticides so farmers were able to cut production costs.

“The use of thrichogramma has significantly reduced pests infestation.

Since then, we organized ourselves to promote the technology to other farmers which paved the way for the birth of SaWBDFa,” Gabe recounted.

However, the battle for low productivity in corn farming does not end withtrichogramma. Corn production is capital intensive and lack of financing to start up farming remains

HE Department of agriculture (Da) envisions bigger rural development next year as it rolls out the Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP).

Da is presently conducting rounds of orientation for local chief executives in Mindanao, as they will be the forerunners of implementation of PRDP expected to begin early next year.

PRDP is a six-year national government platform for an inclusive

growth, value-chain oriented, and climate resilient agriculture and fisheries sector expected to pool a total funds of US$671.59 million or close to P28 billion from a loan portfolio of the World Bank (WB) and equity share of national and local government units (LGUs).

PRDP is the “up scale” version of the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) still currently implemented in 225 towns in across Mindanao.

a challenge. Leaving with no option, farmers resort to non-formal lenders despite their unfair financial arrangements.

“Most of these non-formal lenders are traders who require farmers to sell produce only to their stores.

This tied-up farmers with cheaper price and lesser profit which usually not enough to finance the next cropping,” Gabe said.

“Such situation results to vicious cycle of paying to and borrowing from traders whom we owe money to finance corn production,” said 29-year-old Jovelyn Tuson, the association’s secretary.

Tuson said the debt they regularly incurred had been bothering farmers and limits their capacity to

expand, as it would mean more debts with huge interest.

“Some would even limit their expenses on food just to save money to catch up with the high interest rates of the money they had borrow to finance their farming activities,” she said.

Their break came when they availed themselves of funds from the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP), a long-term poverty alleviation program under Da. Through the program’s Community Fund for agricultural Development (CFaD) the group accessed P250, 000 of which they use to provide assistance to start-up corn production of financially handicapped members.

Mindanao gears up for bigger rural development program T [sHERWiN B. MANuAL/DAMRDP]

ROUNDTABLE TALK. Arnel V. De Mesa (2nd from right) fields questions from local chief executives from Zamboanga Peninsula during the Mindanao leg orientation of the Philippine Rural Development Program. To his right is DA-RFU9 Regional Executive Director Eduardo B. Holoyohoy. [sHERWiN B. MANuAL]

HE Philippines would be importing commercial rice next year as part of its buffer stock, but it would also start exporting quality rice varieties to selected markets abroad. agriculture Secretary Proceso alcala said the projected rice importation would range from 100,000 to 150,000 metric tons next year on expectations of better palay production in the last quarter of 2012. at the same time, he said the Philippines would be exporting special rice varieties such as colored rice (black, red, pink, brown and purple), aromatic white rice, and long grain white rice.

“This is in line with our rice self-sufficiency roadmap. The National Food authority Council will still have to decide on the matter once the wet cropping production figures are on hand,” alcala said. over the last years, the country has reduced its rice imports in line with its goal of self-sufficiency in the staple after 2013.

Manila, the former world’s biggest rice importer, has allowed the importation of some 500,000 MT of rice for 2012. of which, some 120,000 MT was purchased by the National Food authority to serve as a buffer stock during the lean season.

In 2011, the country imported 860,000 MT of rice – with the private sector importing 600,000 MT while farmers’ groups imported 60,000 MT. on the other hand, NFa imported 200,000 metric tons of rice.

It will be recalled that in 2010, the Philippines bought some 2.4 million MT or 20 percent of domestic consumption in the world market as a reaction to rising market panic, pushing prices of the grains to their peak.

Meanwhile, the Da chief said that the NFa Council would carefully consider the country’s importation requirement as the government prepares its own rice export policy by 2013.

If the import plan pushes through, alcala said that they would time the arrival of the grains before the lean season in July.

The Da chief earlier said the Philippines may no longer import rice next year amid projected record-high rough palay production in 2012.

This year, the Da targets to produce 18.46 million metric tons of rice, and more than 20 MMT by 2013 to attain a 100 percent sufficiency. In 2011, the country managed to harvest 16.68 million metric tons (MMT) of rice despite strong typhoons, 5.8 percent more than the 15.77 MMT produced in 2010. [PNA]

PHL likely to meet farm output goal

B

aRRING major weather disturbances, the Philippines is likely to meet farm production target this year, the United Nations’ Food and agriculture organization (Fao) said on Tuesday.

Kazuyuki Tsurumi, Fao representative in the Philippines, said that the Department of agriculture was on track of its four to five percent growth target, noting massive financial and technical intervention to the farm sector.

“So far, the progress is good. The government is allocating money and putting mitigating measures. So long as the weather is good, it will be possible,” said Tsurumi.

Earlier, the Department of agriculture (Da) said it expected farm output to increase by 4 to 5 percent on the back of strong production from rice, corn and fisheries subsectors. agriculture Secretary Proceso alcala also expects palay and corn production to hit record-breaking figures in 2012, with the success of early planting and third

cropping scheme.

Palay and corn account for 15 percent and 5 percent, respectively, of the total crop production in the country.

In January to June 2012, the crops subsector – which makes up 52.04 percent of the total agriculture output – recorded a 1.50 percent output increment as palay and corn production increased by 4.15 percent and 4.81 percent, respectively. alcala attributed the strong performance of the crop sector from the front loaded investments in public goods, particularly in irrigation, farm to market roads (FMRs) and post-harvest facilities.

The Da has been allotted the highest budget in history with P61.7 billion for 2012, representing an increase of 61 percent over 2010. Some 62 percent of the 2012 budget is allocated for infrastructure. also, the Da has been developing different high yielding rice varieties and cost-reducing technologies so farmers can produce enough rice for all Filipinos. [PNA]

8 VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

What’s next for the Peace Process?

RIVERMAN’S VISTA

By Dean Tony La Viña

a

EDITORIAL

o

Delicadeza and elections

NE significant fact in the current election season is that a candidate is free to mount an electoral campaign starting from the time he filed his certificate of candidacy early this month up to Election Day, May 10, 2013 without being charged with premature campaigning. a Supreme Court ruling bars the Commission on Elections from running after candidates who conduct premature or indirect campaigning, that’s why.

Yes, siree, there is no law making premature campaigning an election offense. Seemingly justifying its helplessness, Comelec itself holds the view that promoting themselves forms part of the candidate’s freedom of expression. Neat. Now comes Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes saying he’s hoping delicadeza would

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prevent candidates from engaging in premature campaigning. If not pathetic, ridiculous is the word appropriate to describe this situation.

Delicadeza, which is the popular Hispanic equivalent of good manners, has long been erased from the vocabulary of most politicians, as can be gleaned from the epidemic called “dynastism” afflicting Philippine politics down to the barangay levels.

Without delicadeza, candidates will spend more in campaigning until E-day. The bigger their expenses, the more money they have to recover after elections. as to how, we can think of a thousand creative ways as we know them in the crocodileinfested jungle called politics. But one thing we can be sure of--- it is not along the aquino administration’s popular slogan “daang matuwid,” if we know what it means.

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( 1st of two parts )

FTER the signing of the Framework agreement, the Philippine government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will sit down again for more talks, this time to give flesh to the agreement. Remember, the Framework agreement is only the “mother of all agreements” which means that side agreements – referred to therein as annexes – have yet to be proposed, negotiated, and agreed upon by both parties.

These annexes taken together will provide a panoramic, if not a comprehensive view, on how to concretize the Framework agreement. The parties are given a threeyear window to fully implement the agreement, that is, before the term of the incumbent president ends in 2016. This is a bit tight since its full implementation will involve a long list of processes and procedures, involving a lot of people working on ways on how to address complex issues affecting millions of inhabitants in the war-torn island of Mindanao.

Nonetheless, the negotiating panels have committed to continue with the negotiations until all issues are resolved and all agreements implemented. one thing that future negotiations should keep in mind are the commitments made during previous agreements including those made in the Tripoli agreement between the GRP and the Moro National Liberation Front dated 23 December 1976 and the Final agreement on the Implementation of the 1976 Tripoli agreement signed on 2 September 1996 between the GRP and the MNLF. It would be ironic indeed if the operations of the Bangsamoro were to become untenable only because of the disruptive activities of other Muslim armed groups like the MNLF and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) who might feel left out and totally ignored from the whole process.

To be addressed is the question: Did the Framework agreement totally abrogate the 1996 peace agreement or does the new agreement merely serve to complement the previous one? or is the just concluded agreement a reboot of the 1996 peace agreement considering the pronouncement by the President that the aRMM was a failed experiment?

How may the MNLF and other armed Muslim factions with legitimate grievances take part in the peace process? other equally important considerations include the rights and obligations of the indigenous peoples and Christian communities in the Bangsamoro. or asking how will the Bangsamoro avoid a repeat of the failed aRMM in terms of accountability of its public officials and capacity to shake off its overdependence on the national government in fiscal matters? a holistic and comprehensive approach to the Moro problem is a must in order to achieve a settlement that is truly final and enduring; one that will bring a lasting peace in the South. a piecemeal solution will simply not do; it will only create a different crop of disgruntled groups that will sow more troubles in the future to negate whatever gains thus far achieved.

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

The undelivered dividends of peace ( Part 2 )

D

ISENCHaNTMENT – The observance of the GRP-MNLF peace pact anniversary in September 2006 held in Davao City became something of a reunion among either former protagonists or peace advocates in the Mindanao conflict. During the occasion MNLF chair Nur Misuari appealed to the government to “help resuscitate the ill-fated peace agreement by rescuing it from the grave, strengthen and reinvigorate it.” He said government should urgently implement its provisions especially the economic aspects, so that it can eventually attain its goal of ushering “lasting peace, justice and development in Muslim Mindanao.

But what Misuari envisioned then was impossible to happen. The road towards the consolidation of lasting peace is actually full of pitfalls as clearly shown by the proficiency of the peace process. as a brief recap, he finally joined the government and mainstream politics after waging a savage 24-year armed struggle against the administration and vowed loyalty to the Constitution and the mandated authority. after spending his adult life fighting for his cause, Misuari has become just another politician.

But the twist and turn of events had been ‘too unkind’ on him. after years of living under a fragile and volatile situation, he again violently opposed and repudiated the government. This caught the ire of top leaders and prodded to push Misuari hard against the wall before finally slapping him with rebellion charges in January 2002. He was found guilty and jailed for the offense and placed in solitary confinement.

Since then the peace accord seems to have been broken but government peace advisers and negotiators still have the audacity to say that the leadership continued to work ‘tirelessly and relentlessly’ to achieve lasting peace in Mindanao. over the years the much-awaited peace

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remains elusive.

Therefore there’s an urgency to get back to the negotiating table, sit down and talk and review thoroughly what went wrong with the 1996 GRP-MNLF peace agreement. In order to look and sound more credible, the Ramos dispensation even vowed to fully implement the 1996 peace pact includ-

‘The MNLF chieftain was granted

by the Ramos leadership an 18-hour ‘freedom’ from solitary confinement just to grace the observance of the decade-old peace agreement. During the open forum, he was still in his usual form – speaking the jargon of the little people so fluently. The flair for self-promotion was likewise glaring, refreshing old pledges and promises – transforming Mindanao into one of the most peaceful and prosperous place in this part of the world. He frequently called on the people to preserve the “gains” of the 1996 peace deal.’

ing the so-called “catch-up plan” for the economic aspect. The pronouncement was delivered during the 10th anniversary of the ‘landmark’ occasion to give more color and significance.

The MNLF chieftain was granted by the Ramos leadership an 18-hour ‘freedom’ from solitary confinement just to grace the observance of the decade-old peace agreement. During the open

forum, he was still in his usual form – speaking the jargon of the little people so fluently. The flair for self-promotion was likewise glaring, refreshing old pledges and promises – transforming Mindanao into one of the most peaceful and prosperous place in this part of the world. He frequently called on the people to preserve the “gains” of the 1996 peace deal. But the dominant question is: did Muslim Mindanao really gain something from the much-hyped peace agreement entered into between the GRP and MNLF? Mindanao, particularly the Muslim-dominated provinces have never been more peaceful, not even after the signing of the peace pact between the government and MNLF, and after Misuari joined mainstream politics. Moving the events backward one could still vividly remember that with more than a touch of hyperbole, he promised infrastructure and economic development – airports, seaports, refineries, schools, roads, bridges, medical centers, job generation, aside from making Mindanao into a regional economic hub that would rival booming Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia and other fast-developing countries in Southeast asia.

That’s precisely the reason why the Muslim population expects “substantial progress” from Misuari. It is rather unfortunate that the highly expected peace dividends never materialized.

Echoing widespread disenchantment and bewilderment, people in Muslim Mindanao noted that Misuari as regional governor has done nothing except act like a true-blooded politician parading around the autonomous region and traveling elsewhere in the country and abroad. There are mounting doubts even among his supporters and followers that he is not the right man for the gargantuan task.

Sheer coincidence or Divine intervention?

aS it sheer coincidence or Divine intervention?

This was the question posed by some Catholics who witnessed on live telecast the historic signing of the Framework agreement between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Malacanang which took place at exactly 3pm Monday, the time Jesus Christ died on the Cross in Mount Calvary more than 2,000 years ago.

It is also the time when devout Catholics pray the now famous “3 o’clock Prayer to the Divine Mercy” every 3pm promoted by St. Faustina after Christ appeared to her during several apparitions by writing the words dictated by the Lord to her and which was approved by the Catholic Church as authentic.

The 3 o’clock prayer is as follow: “You died, Jesus, but the source of life gushed forth for soulsand the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. “o Fountain of Life, unfathomable Divine Mercy,envelop the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us. “o Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a fountain of mercy for us, I trust in You. “Holy God, Holy Mighty one, Holy Im-

SpECIAl FEATuRE By ruBen B. caL mortal one,Have mercy on us and on the whole world. (3 times) “JESUS, King of mercy, I trust in You! “amen.”

It is a powerful prayer for peace and harmony at a time when the government and the MILF have signed the Framework agreement aimed at attaining a just and permanent peace in Mindanao.

It was 3 o’clock sharp Monday afternoon of oct. 15, 2012 when Marvic Leonen, chair of the government peace panel, signed his name on the document, followed by Mohaqher Iqbal, head of the MILF peace panel, during the formal signing ceremony of the Framework agreement in Malacanang.

The signing ceremony at Malacanang was to start at 1:30 pm but it was delayed for a few minutes.

Had it started on time, the signing would have taken place earlier, not 3 pm.

Many Catholics who followed the signing ceremony on television commented of some kind of Divine intervention at work. [PNa]

‘It was 3 o’clock sharp Monday afternoon of Oct. 15, 2012 when Marvic Leonen, chair of the government peace panel, signed his name on the document, followed

by Mohaqher Iqbal, head of the MILF peace panel, during the formal signing ceremony of the Framework Agreement in Malacanang.’

9

Why it’s all about Obama CoMMENTARy

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By BiLL SchneiDer

RESIDENT Barack obama may have lost the first debate the minute he appeared on stage in Denver. Just by showing up, he changed the terms of the campaign. viewers immediately saw the election as a referendum on the president. The decision became whether to fire him or rehire him.

This was bound to happen sooner or later. It always happens when an incumbent is running for reelection. Until the oct. 3 debate, Democrats had made a vigorous, and mostly successful, effort to turn the election into a choice rather than a referendum: Which guy do you like better — obama or Mitt Romney?

Democrats managed to demonize Romney as a rich guy totally out-of-touch with ordinary americans. Romney made it easier for them by constantly calling attention to his wealth. Democrats went after Romney’s business record, his flip-flops and his efforts to pander to the extreme right. It was working. Last month, Romney had the most negative public image of any presidential candidate in at least 25 years, according to the Pew Research Center.

Democrats have to rally the base in order to win. The Democratic base includes a lot of voters who don’t usually turn out in large numbers — minorities, young people, recent immigrants. Many feel disappointed and frustrated with obama. one way to rally the base is to drive up fear of the alternative: If Romney becomes president, he will shred the social safety net and kill Big Bird.

The Democratic strategy was working.

Until the first debate. once obama stepped onto that stage, the election was about him.

Two things happened in the debate to sharpen the focus on the president. First, Romney came across as a plausible alternative. His performance was smooth and professional. He sounded like a moderate. He controlled the terms of the debate, and that re-enforced his image as a leader. Second, Romney made obama’s record the central issue: “You’ve been president four years! You said you’d cut the deficit in half. We still have trillion-dollar deficits!” obama didn’t show any fight that night.

His defense of his record was half-hearted — at best. He failed to launch a full-throated assault on Romney’s ideas, many of which are either deceptive or delusional.

Far from rallying the Democratic base, obama demoralized it. a week later in the vice presidential debate, Joe Biden showed how these things are done. Biden dominated the debate against Rep. Paul Ryan and made the Romney-Ryan agenda the central issue.

Can obama meet the standard set by his own vice president?

Everyone expects to see a tougher, more aggressive obama in Tuesday’s debate. But there are two problems. one, obama’s temperament is not that of an attack dog. He’s more of an inspirational figure and a conciliator.

Second, this debate is a town hall. The questions will be asked by an audience of undecided voters. Undecided voters, by definition, are not partisans. They don’t like a lot of fighting.

The audience in the room may fit obama’s temperament. He can patiently explain to them how he goes about solving problems.

But it may not work with the far more partisan Tv audience that’s looking for a fighter.

If the vice presidential debate had been held in front of an audience of undecided voters, Biden might have gotten booed. If Romney is as aggressive Tuesday night as he was in the first debate, he’s the one who runs the risk of getting booed.

Republicans like to think 2012 is a repeat of 1980. In 1980, Jimmy Carter was running for reelection as an utterly discredited president. But many voters were frightened of Ronald Reagan. Reagan used the one debate with Carter, held a week before Election Day, to reassure voters that he wasn’t a monster and wouldn’t start a war or throw old people out in the snow.

Reagan instead turned the election into a referendum on the incumbent: “ask yourself this question: are you better off than you were four years ago?”

If 2012 is a referendum on the incumbent, does that mean obama is doomed? Not necessarily. obama is no Carter — despite the best efforts of Republicans to turn him into Carter. Economic confidence is rebounding. Republicans can’t turn the Libya issue into another Iranian hostage crisis. and even though many americans are disappointed in obama, they still like him. a referendum on obama will end up being close. But the president still has a fighting chance to win. The operative word is “fighting.” If obama wants to rouse his Democratic troops, he’s going to have to show more fight.

Just not so much that he gets booed.

10 NATION/WORLD NATION BRIEFS Thwarted

a

supposed plot to bomb vital installations and public places was thwarted when joint police and military intelligence forces captured an abu Sayyaf bomb expert and a police accomplice here last Friday, authorities said.

Captured were Rakib Janihul Jairi, alias abu Sulaiman, and his suspected accomplice, Po3 asbi Sahibol, detailed with the Hadji Motamad town police in Basilan.

Withdrawn

o

LIvER Lozano, a former lawyer of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, has withdrawn his candidacy for senator in the 2013 midterm elections out of respect to Marcos’ son.

In his letter to the Commission on Elections (Comelec), Lozano said he was backing out of the elections “in order not to stain the integrity of Senator [Ferdinand “Bongbong”] Marcos and, instead, preserve it above suspicion.”

a

Attention

MID a construction boom that has seen high-rise buildings sprout all over Metro Manila, a development in Makati has grabbed the attention of an international real estate award-giving body.

The newly constructed Zuellig Building has made it to the top three in the “Best office and Business Development” category of MIPIM asia awards.

T

First

HE Philippines may soon become the first country in asia to pass a law against enforced disappearances after Congress ratified measures seeking to punish such act. on Tuesday night, the Senate and the House of Representatives separately approved the bicameral conference committee report reconciling differences in House Bill 98 and Senate Bill 2817, or the measures defining and penalizing involuntary disappearances.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

Star elephant courts P controversy in zoo

WORLD TODAY Not poisoned

oPE John Paul I, who reigned for just 33 days in 1978 before dying of a heart attack, was definitely not poisoned, the prelate advocating a sainthood for the late pontiff said on Tuesday.

Monsignor Enrico dal Covolo said in an interview with the TGCoM blog that the documents and 167 testimonies he had collected for a report to be submitted to the vatican on Wednesday dismissed “any suspicion of a murder” of the pope.

a

N elderly elephant named Mali is the star at Manila’s zoo but also the focus of a campaign alleging animal cruelty that has united the country’s powerful bishops, global pop stars and a Nobel laureate.

Mali, who is 38, spends her days picking peanuts from children’s hands and being squirted with water in a concrete-floored enclosure that animal rights groups say is far too small for any elephant to enjoy living in.

They also say that, after being shipped from Sri Lanka when she was three years old, Mali is suffering profound loneliness after living her entire adult life without another elephant.

“She is definitely unwell. as much as her physical suffering... there is also psychological suffering,” Rochelle Rigodon, campaign manager for Manila-based People for the Ethical Treatment of animals, told aFP.

Playboy priest

The historic Manila Zoo, once a major attraction of the Philippines, now finds itself the target of criticism for the condition of its animals, particularly its “star”, a 38-year-old elephant named Mali. [AFP] PETa began campaigning for Mali to be removed from the zoo seven years ago, and its efforts to have the elephant spend the rest of her life at a sanctuary in Thailand have brought together a strikingly diverse group of peo-

ple.

British pop star Morrissey, 2003 Nobel laureate in literature J.M. Coetzee and famous animal welfare campaigner Jane Goodall have all written letters to the Philippine government asking for

Mali to be transferred.

“Mali is cruelly denied stimulation, room to explore... (and) is in danger of going insane,” Morrissey wrote in a letter to President Benigno aquino when he performed in Manila in May. [AFP]

mance was heavily criticized and gave Romney’s campaign a much-needed boost in the run-up to the November 6 election.

The president scolded Romney for accusing him of trying to take political advantage of the attack by Islamist militants in Libya last month that killed four americans, including the U.S. ambassador Chris Stevens.

“That’s not what we do. That’s not what I do as

president, that’s not what I do as commander in chief,” obama said during the debate at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York, calling the accusation “offensive.”

“I’m the president and I’m always responsible, and that’s why nobody’s more interested in finding out exactly what happened,” obama said.

Romney questioned obama’s claim that he called the Benghazi attack

“an act of terror” in the White House Rose Garden the day afterward, but moderator Candy Crowley of CNN corrected the Republican. Transcripts show obama did use the term that day.

The Republican accused obama of failing to follow through on the promises of his 2008 campaign.

In one of his stronger moments in the 90-minute debate, Romney took aim at obama’s economic record in office, saying it has led to 15 million more people on food stamps, slow growth and a lack of jobs.

“The middle class is getting crushed under the policies of a president who has not understood what it takes to get the economy working again. He keeps saying, ‘Look, I’ve created 5 million jobs.’ That’s after losing 5 million jobs. The entire record is such that the unemployment has not been reduced in this country,” the former Massachusetts governor said.

Polls showed voters judged obama the winner. a CNN survey gave him the edge by 46 percent to 39 percent, while CBS had obama the winner by 37 percent to 30 percent.

Obama takes offensive in feisty debate rematch

U

.S. President Barack obama launched aggressive attacks against Republican rival Mitt Romney on jobs, energy and Libya in their second debate on Tuesday as the Democrat tried to reclaim the momentum in a tight White House race. obama was much sharper and more energetic than in their opening debate two weeks ago, when his listless perfor-

Accepted

ENaToR Franklin Drilon is now the acting chairman of Senate Committee on Ways and Means. after a two-hour caucus, Senate Majority Leader vicente Sotto III announced senators’ decision to accept the resignation of Senator Ralph Recto with “much regret.”

“With much regret, we take note, we placed on record the resignation of Senator Recto as chairman of the committee on ways and means,” Sotto said during a plenary session.

EDGEDAVAO

Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney listens as U.S. President Barack Obama answers a question during the second U.S. presidential campaign debate in Hempstead, New York, October 16, 2012. [REuTERs/BRiAN sNYDER]

FOBAMA, 11

a

Croatian priest has run off with almost one million euros ($1.3 million) after illegally selling church property, officials said Tuesday, amid media reports the Catholic clergyman had fled with a married woman.

Franciscan priest Sime Nimac earlier this year signed a deal with a local firm to sell a plot of church land, the Split archdiocese said in statement.

a

Failed

German woman who feared the Earth would be sucked into oblivion in a black hole has failed in her court bid to stop the work of the world’s most powerful atom smasher.

The higher administrative court in Muenster, western Germany, rejected her claims, ruling there was no evidence the work of the European organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) posed a danger to public safety.

I

Warned

NTERNaTIoNaL mediator Lakhdar Brahimi said on Wednesday that Syria’s civil war risked spreading across borders into an “all-consuming” conflict unless it was eventually addressed.

Brahimi, speaking after talks in Beirut, said he hoped this month’s Islamic holiday of Eid al-adha offered a chance for both sides to cease fire and warned that the Middle East would suffer unless the violence was contained.

R

Prosecuted

USSIaN investigators opened criminal proceedings against a prominent leader of protests against President vladimir Putin on Wednesday, saying a documentary on a pro-Kremlin Tv channel showed evidence Sergei Udaltsov had plotted mass disorder.

Law enforcement officials raided Udaltsov’s Moscow apartment around daybreak and said they were also searching the homes of two associates facing the same charges, which carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years.

11

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 163 •THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

Gov’t...

Sara...

FFROM 1

FFROM 1

Matina. after establishing that the item being sold had the same serial number, the GenSan-based photo enthusiast was then advised to delay the business transaction with the dealer until police operatives from Davao arrived there.

Even after the arrest of the suspects, Dela Rosa

Obama...

warned the public against being complacent as there are still other members of the gang who are continuing to operate.

He said the gang operates nationwide using the network of roads connecting the cities of General Santos, Davao, Butuan and Surigao to the visayas, Metro Manila and vice versa.

along this route, Dela Rosa said there are also separate “parallel” groups who are doing the same modus operandi.

“There are smaller, separate groups operating in every specific area, though not as extensive as the buak kotse gang who operates nationwide,” he said.

from Long Island asked the questions. at times the two men circled each other warily at center stage like prize fighters, talking over each other and bickering frequently about the rules and who had exceeded their time.

Romney confronted obama face-to-face at one point to ask repeatedly if licenses and permits for energy drilling on federal land had been reduced during his administration.

Recent polls have put the race for the White House at a virtual dead heat just three weeks ahead of the election. obama seems to have stopped his slide after the

last debate. In a Reuters/ Ipsos daily tracking poll on Tuesday, he gained a bit more ground on Romney for the third straight day and led 46 percent to 43 percent.

But a Gallup/USa Today survey showed Romney ahead by 4 percentage points in the 12 most contested states. after being slammed for his passive performance in the first debate, obama attacked Romney repeatedly this time.

He resurrected his charge that the economic proposals put forward by the former private equity executive were designed to protect and bolster the wealthy at the expense of the middle class.[REuTERs]

FFROM 10

“I think obama won this one. I’ll say I’m a Romney supporter, but I don’t think he effectively got all his points,” said audience member James Digirolamo, from Long Island, New York.

“I was a little disappointed how the moderator handled the debate, in particular the issue with the ‘terror’ remark,” he said, referring to criticism by Republicans that moderator Crowley intervened in favor of obama during the exchange over Libya.

PRIZE FIGHTERS Both candidates roamed the stage to talk directly to participants in the town-hall format, where undecided voters

Partylists

Anakbayan fears Malacañang putting pressure on Comelec

Y

oUTH group anakbayan yesterday assailed Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda for defending akbayan and Black and White Movement and called on Malacanang to stop pressuring Comelec re partylist disqualifications. anakbayan national chair vencer Crisostomo said Lacierda’s defense of akbayan and Black and White Movement is proof of their close ties with the Palace.

“Lacierda’s argument is poor defense. They still continue to evade the question: whether or not we should allow Palace officials to run under party-list,” he said.

Crisostomo called on the Comelec not to give in to Palace pressures and disqualify akbayan, Black and White Movement, and several other party-lists with close ties with Malacanang and whose members hold appointive government positions.

“We hope the Comelec will not give aquino party-lists special treatment re their party-list purge.

The cleansing of the partylist system would be pointless if they will not include Palace-backed partylists,” said Crisostomo.

Comelec chairman Sixto Brilliantes has been quoted as saying that having members in government positions is not ground for disqualification, referring to akbayan.

Edge Davao Hiring

Accounting Clerk: Qualifications: • • • • • • •

Female, not more than 30 years old, A graduate of BS Accountancy, Knowledge of related computer applications, Familiar with basic bookkeeping procedures, Attentive to details and accurate, Well organized and Can work with minimum supervision

cer Jason Magnaye earlier told Davao reporters the CaaP head had promised to make immediate improvements to the FBIa after Magnaye, Garcia and Tourism 11 regional director arturo Boncato Jr. conferred with him and gave him a copy of the comprehensive report of technical working group commissioned by the Regional Development Council 11 headed by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio to look into the condition of

InfoCom...

the P5.7-billion international facility which was completed in December 2003 after almost a decade in the making, spanning three presidents.

The TWG discovered several defects and deteriorated facilities in the FBIa, some of which have been defective since Day 1 of its existence.

These included insufficient supply of potable water, leaking roofs, termite-infested buildings, unserviceable x-ray machines, non-use of air

bridges, and other problems.

CaaP chief Hotchkiss promised to take action on the minor defects while waiting for additional funding from the Department of Transportation and Communications.

It may be noted that while the DoTC has set aside billions of pesos for the rehabilitation and repair of three international airports, the FBIa in Davao City is not one of them. [AMA]

Software Industry Incorporated president Sam Matunog said, “it’s good because this is a regional initiative, government to government initiative to promote closer link in the area of ICT.” The MoU signing is part of the three-day culmination of research milestones and production breakthroughs in Mindanao, the Innovation Expo and ICT-BPo Roadshow on November

9 to 11, 2012 involving ICT exhibition showcasing ICT products and providers in Davao and Mindanao industry and career talks in the ICTBPo Roadshow for the Next Wave Cities and Healthcare (Research and Development) Expo showcasing healthcare organizations from ICT pharmaceutical and health management organizations.

still in excellent condition,” she said.

She noted that studies also show some 40 percent of the country’s 26,000 square kilometers of coral reefs are already “in poor condition.”

Silvestre said development of the MKBas’ respective fisheries management plans will commence next year.

“We’ll consult agencies and stakeholders concerned to come up with plans that are comprehensive and climate-resilient,” he said.

Silvestre said parties concerned are already coordinating to prepare for the planning task ahead. aside from CCa, he said each of the plans will define roles of every party involved in the Ecofish project.

The environment and interior departments are supporting Ecofish’s implementation.

Roles of both departments will be defined in the MKBas’ respective plans as well, Silvestre added. [PNa]

FFROM 2

They are also interested to look into prospective industries, tulad sa facilities natin and food processing potential, bukod sa ICT,” Holganza added.

ICT Davao arranges tours for InfoCom Brunei for them to see other areas that could propagate business to business matching.

“Hindi lang para sa ICT group para na rin sa food processing,” she added.

Meanwhile, Davao

Partners...

FFROM 4

Experts continue advocating protection of coral reefs, noting these serve as foraging ground for various fishery species.

Protected areas and Wildlife Bureau Director Theresa Mundita Lim earlier warned unless proper conservation and protection interventions are done, the Philippines could lose its coral reefs in 10 to 20 years.

“It can’t be business as usual as latest studies show less than one percent of our coral reefs is

Edge Davao hiring editor, 3 reporters EDGE Davao is in need of an editor and three staffwriters/reporters for its expansion program.

The 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. 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 may send their application 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.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

Realty

EDGEDAVAO

HealthandWellness

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.

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APARTMENT FOR SALE Tel No. (083)- 553-2211

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

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

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

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

We offer Pasta, Pizza and all Filipino foods and international cuisine

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

NOTICE OF LOSS Notice is hereby given by LoYoLa PLaNS CoNSoLIDaTED INC. that CERTIFICaTE oF FULL PaYMENT No(s) under LoYoLa PLaN issued to the following planholders, to wit;

PH NaME CFP No. CoNTRaCT No. 1. LUCENTE, LLEWELLYN S. 1330 MRo501052513 2. LUCENTE, LLEWELLYN S. 919 MRo501052521 3. MaURo, vIRGILIo P. 35967 928177-5

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

10/18, 25, 11/1

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

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 163 •THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

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14 SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

No break for theC Beast aLvIN abueva will have very little time to shake off the ugly taste of San Sebastian’s playoff loss to Letran as he is set to make his pro debut just four days after ending his college career on a disappointing note.

The NCaa star is set to sign a contract with alaska on Wednesday morning, go straight to the aces’ twohour practice at Hoops Gym in Mandaluyong City, then see action on Friday against Petron, according to alaska coach Luigi Trillo. abueva, the 6-foot-1 NCaa superstar, saw his championship dream and a glorious ending to his college career dashed when the Letran Knights overcame the twice-to-beat Stags in the Final Four.

Still, Trillo is convinced a high-energy and highly-motivated player like abueva can bounce back strong from the painful loss when the second pick overall in the last draft makes his debut against the Boosters.

“Expectations should be tempered right now,” said Trillo, when asked about the aces’ chances against a Petron squad that will be

missing the services of top rookie pick June Mar Fajardo.

“Honestly, I’m excited for Calvin abueva’s energy. He’s a game-changer,” Trillo told Spin.ph. “No doubt, Calvin can play multiple positions.

He’s got a big future with this team.”

Despite the loss to the Knights, abueva has established himself as one of the best college players in the country, becoming the only player in any of the country’s major leagues to lead a season in scoring, assists, and rebounding.

Naturally, Trillo can’t wait to unleash ‘The Beast.’

“If he plays well especially on the defensive end, I’ll let him stay in the game because we don’t really have that kind of a guy who just gets the rebound, a guy who can play and break down defenses as well,” said Trillo, whose team registered its first win of the season on Sunday via a 10286 rout of Barako Bull. abueva practiced with the aces only thrice during the offseason, but Trillo said he’ll break in his prized rookie slowly although it depends on how well he could easily adapt to the team’s system.

Perasol had signed the contract with the blessing of businessman Manny Pangilinan, who has since cut his ties with the school and withdrew his support for the basketball program.

The former Powerade coach later issued a statement on Tuesday, saying: “While I am truly grateful for the trust of ateneo in me, there was really no doubt in my mind as to who my Patron and Benefactor is — and that is MvP. “I believe that our mutual agreement to release each other from our contract is what’s

best for all concerned. I wish ateneo well.”

With Perasol out, ateneo assistant coach Sandy arespacochaga now looms as the top candidate for the position vacated by Norman Black after leading the Eagles to five straight UaaP titles.

Trillo,however, made it clear that nothing is final yet.

“Coach Sandy is one of the prime candidates for the position. I know nothing has been decided but definitely, he is one of the guys that we are looking at,” said Trillo.

Azkals bow to Kuwait 2-1 Ateneo releases Perasol

K

UWaIT continued its mastery over the Philippine national men’s football team after notching a 2-1 victory over the azkals in a friendly match Tuesday night (Wednesday morning Manila time) at the al Kuwait Sports Club Stadium in Kuwait City.

The azkals are no strangers to the Kuwaitis, who ended their campaign in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers last year on a 5-1 aggregate score.

The result is a positive for the azkals, a marked improvement from their performance in the same city last year, where they lost 3-0 in the first leg of the qualifiers.

Kuwait found a chance to score early, as the azkals gave up a penalty kick

at the 26th minute. But goalkeeper Neil Etheridge made a great save to avoid an early deficit.

Moments after, however, Kuwait hit the back of the net at the 35th minute to grab a 1-0 lead at the break.

Kuwait committed a handball violation inside the penalty box in the second half, granting the Filipinos a penalty kick.

Phil Younghusband, making his azkals return as a substitute late in the first half, slotted in a goal at the 60th minute to tie the match.

The azkals, however, allowed Kuwait to hit a penalty kick after an iffy foul call by the referees at the 70th minute.

Kuwait had a chance to score a dagger late

in the match but they missed a breakaway goal at the 83rd minute.

Demitrius omphroy had a great attempt to score the equalizer, but his shot at the 86th minute was saved by the goalkeeper.

The match against Kuwait is the last match of the azkals’ Middle East training tour. They drew Bahrain in a scoreless result in its capital Manama last week.

The azkals will next face Singapore in Cebu on November 15 as their last game before heading to the 2012 aSEaN Football Federation Suzuki Cup, where they look to surpass their historic semifinal run in the same tournament two years ago.

from Bangkok and is now staying at the Sofitel Hotel, according to aLa Boxing executive Dennis Canete.

Sor Singyu gets the chance to size up Banal during a press conference scheduled Thursday at the Midas Hotel with the other fighters seeing action in the Moa show in attendance.

Canete said Sor Singyu was oozing with confidence.

“He is coming to win,” said Canete.

The official weighin will be on Friday also at the Mall of asia.

Banal is slightly favored to beat the Thai and crown himself as the country’s newest world champion.

The reigning Filipino world champions are super-bantamweight Nonito Donaire, flyweight Brian viloria, and light-flys Donnie Nietes and Johnreil Casimero.

Banal trained exclusively in Cebu City and promises to join the elite list with a smashing win.

Thai pug vows to beat Banal

P

UNGLUaNG Sor Singyu is in town and eager to make heads turn.

Sor Singyu is set to challenge aJ Banal for the vacant World Boxing organization (WBo) bantamweight title this Saturday at the SM Mall of asia arena and the Thai expressed desire to bring the WBo 118-lb crown back to Bangkok.

Team Sor Singyu arrived at 2 p.m. Tuesday via Philippine airlines

B

o Perasol has put himself out of the race for the ateneo coaching job next season after being released from the three-year contract he had signed with the school.

The decision was made after Perasol met with ateneo president Jose Ramon villarin on Monday, according to ateneo team manager Paolo Trillo. The decision was mutual, he added.

“In the words of Fr. Jet (villarin), they have mutually agreed to release each other from the obligations of the contract,” Trillo told Spin.ph.

INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

Finding a quick bite at the Fort Funny how dining opportunities can oftentimes pop-up in the most inopportune of times.

This was the case during a quick trip to Manila when we were

rushing to have lunch and head to the airport to catch a flight (good thing it’s not my flight but we still needed to rush anyway.)

So there we were looking for a quick fix

at Fort Bonifacio. For lack of finding another place to eat and for having some Brother’s Burgers already the night prior, our group decided to descend on the Cheese Steak Shop located at The Fort Strip. The Cheese Steak Shop serves variants of Philadelphia cheese steak sandwiches and sidings of salads and fries.

Having already had a hearty breakfast, I decided on a seven-inch Classic Philly Cheese Steak with onions, peppers and pickles. I also had a side of steak cut fries and soda.

Photographer journalist, Mike had the same but with large curly fries and a bigger tub of cola. Primer Group’s Essa decided to go light and decided to forgo the sandwich and ordered fried cheese balls.

I would say off-the-bat that the prices were a bit on the high side with the classic seven incher costing P280 and the additional regular sized steak

fries and drink costing an additional P110.

The Classic Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich was meaty and juicy at the same time with lots of cheese at the bottom and a delicious bun. Personally though I would prefer a little bit more cheese and purists would argue that by not using Kraft’s Cheeze Whiz, the Philly was a “fake” as long as the sandwich was edible, it was not a huge omission.

I loved the chunky steak cut fries though, much more than the twister fries as steak cut

fries had a better texture and were like crispy chips filled with delicious mashed potato.

The fried cheese balls were a treat too, they were molten in the middle with a flavorful and crispy breadcrumb crust on the outside. This made me crave for Chelsea Market’s fried risotto balls with the fried olives on the sides.

On the whole, the Cheese Steak Shop is a nice quick sandwich shop that serves flavorful and filling sandwiches that are a good alternative to a typical burger joint.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge! up AND ABOuT

Munich band arrives for Apo View Oktoberfest ApO View Hotel presents its Oktoberfest celebration on Oct. 27 and 28 at its Grand Ballroom featuring live authentic beer festival music by the Bavarian Sound Express Band, flown in all the way from Munich, Germany.

This Oktoberfest is an all-you-can-drink celebration of beer and wine for guests who will also be served an endless buffet of German cuisine. Ice-cold beer, bratwursts, Crispy pork Knuckles and handmade Bavarian cheese are all part of the food and beverage spread that will be prepared at the event.

The Bavarian Sound Express Band will regale patrons with energetic singing and dancing, in the spirit of the true Oktoberfest in Germany. With beers in hand, guests will be treated to original Bavarian folk festival entertainment.

Tickets are available at the Apo View Hotel at tel. 2215321. The event starts on Oct. 27 at 6pm until 1am, and on Oct. 28 at 12 noon until 8pm. The first 700 guests get a traditional German beer mug to take home as a special souvenir.

BPI Installment Madness Exhibit at Abreeza Mall

TruE to its promise of lightening up cardholder’s early holiday shopping, BpI will launch its 2nd Installment Madness Exhibit at Abreeza Activity Center on October 18 to 28.

BpI will simultaneously launch the Installment Madness exhibit in 3 different Ayala Malls: Trinoma Activity Center (Oct 10-28), Abreeza Activity Center (Oct 18-28) and Glorietta Activity Center (Dec 1-19).

Aside from the ease and convenience of choosing a wide selection of appliance, computers, gadgets and travel packages under one venue, qualified BpI cardholders are assured of affordable deals through real 0% and 100% Bonus Limit Madness Limit. Cardholders can also avail of the Buy Now, pay Later facility.

The exhibit will showcase high quality products from its merchant partners such Abenson, Camerahaus, Columbia Computer Center, Globe , Ngenius IT Hub, Octagon Computer, pLDT, premier photo Inc., Wiltelcom, picture City and SilkAir. primer Group will also feature some of its brands including Travel Club, Columbia and Bratpak.

The Installment Madness is also available exclusively for all existing BpI cardholders in over 4,600 BpI accredited S.I.p stores until January 31, 2013.

For inquiries on BpI Express Credit cards, please call 082-2353566 or visit any of the 800 BpI or BpI Family Savings Bank branch nearest you.

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

FOOD

Unleash the food lover in you!

BEInG a Muslim, I have my reservations and limitations on the ingredients I use, the way I cook and especially the food that I eat. To some, that may post as a weakness, but believe me, I see it, as my strength. not to look at it in the negative side, I learned to tweak and experiment on my recipes and dishes alike. I play with the available ingredients and seek for its ultimate flavor the moment it hits my mind.

Yes, I think before I cook. I know it is weird as others would have their “test kitchen day” before they can write their recipes but I work the other way around. I play with my mind and my brain and imagine. I think of how the flavors would marry each other and imagine how my palate would react to it. And as far I can remember, I have been fortunate enough to come up with recipes that are pleasingly delightful and Cheesy Beef Caldereta Getting my inspiration from our family friend who would always cook this dish whenever we have a family gathering, I was inspired to imitate the way she cooked her caldereta and gave mine some new twist. My friends Jeff, Jacob, Alan and nate were all beaming with delight after I served them this.

Give this recipe a try and expect to hear nothing but the best adjectives you could ever think of.

Ingredients 1 kilo beef bones with meat, simmer in water for an hour or two (save the water) 6 pieces potato, peeled and quartered 2 pieces carrots, peeled and cut lengthwise 1 can green peas, drained ½ bar cheddar cheese, frozen and cubed

235 grams peanut butter 1 pack Caldereta Mix ½ cup pineapple juice 1 cup pineapple tidbits 1 piece beef bouillon cube 1 cup tepid water 2 cups beef water 2 pieces red bell pepper, seeded and quartered ½ butter stick, room temperature 4 cloves garlic, minced oil for sautéing Salt and pepper to taste Procedure In a large pan, heat oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant – do not burn them as they give off a different burnt taste. Season with salt and pepper.

Add beef pieces and sauté until meat turns brown.

Add water (both tepid and the beef water) and bouillon cube and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Stir in caldereta mix and simmer for another 10 minutes.

Add potato and carrots and simmer again until vegetables are tender.

Mix in pineapple juice, pineapple tidbits, cheese cubes and peanut butter.

Stir to avoid lumps. Simmer.

Lastly, add your drained green peas and red bell pepper.

Cuban Style Mussels in rum and spicy sauce Eaten as an appetizer to get the party started or a pica-pica for a fun filled night with the gang.

It could also be served and eaten as a main dish alongside a cup of hot rice.

Any way you serve it, this dish would surely create an explosion of flavors in your mouth.

The rum could be disregarded and be substituted with apple juice. More so, the mussels could also be substituted with prawns or calamari.

Ingredients 1 cup rum ¼ cup chili sauce (I used Tabasco) 3 tablespoon ground chili powder 1 lime, zested and juiced 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 cups sifted all purpose flour 2 tablespoons ground cumin 2 tablespoons saffron powder Salt and pepper 1 kilo mussels, poached and shelled

Melted unsalted butter Olive oil Procedure Mix rum, chili sauce, lime zest and juice and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Set aside.

In a bowl, mix flour, cumin, saffron, salt and pepper. Incorporate well.

Drench poached mussels in flour mixture.

In a pan, heat oil and butter over medium heat and fry coated mussels until golden brown. Set aside.

Meanwhile, in another pan, heat rum mixture and reduce by half. Throw in fried mussels and mix thoroughly. Serve hot.

Do you want to be a part of Davao’s Thursday habit? Send me your recipes, questions, suggestions and comments and be featured. If you are interested, then email me at iamtheroyalchef@gmail. com. Happy Cooking!

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

ENTErTAINMENT

Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson move past cheating scandal But not quite ready for public display TWI-HArDS, you can come out of mourning: The dark days are now behind you.

On-the-mend twosome robert pattinson and Kristen Stewart were spotted together in Los Angeles Monday, their third sighting in as many days as the duo continue to give their relationship a second shot in the wake of her cheating scandal.

The duo headed out to lunch with pals in Hollywood, and although there wasn’t any noticeable pDA, they did sport matching backward baseball caps.

Small steps! (Next time, she might want to wear his old shirt again to really drill in the mea culpa.)

The lunch date comes just a day after the two were spotted canoodling at Ye rustic Inn in Los Feliz Sunday night, and attending a friend’s birthday bash at the Chateau Marmont on Saturday, and just after word broke that Kristen has purchased a home in Los Feliz, the same Los Angeles neighborhood in which rob already lives.

The two seem happy to be in each other’s company after pattinson spent a week in New York.

It was less than two weeks ago that they were first spotted spotted together on a date in Los Angeles and a month after E! News exclusively reported that they had been meeting up in secret following her hookup with with Snow White and the

Huntsman director rupert Sanders.

For the time being, however, they remain content to keep their reconciliation on the down-low. While pattinson made a solo appearence at last night’s Elle Women in Hollywood event, an insider tells E! News that he and Stewart decided against attending together to avoid turning the event into a feeding frenzy and take away from those being honored (including pattinson pal uma Thurman, with whom he presented an award). pattinson and Stewart are still scheduled to make the media rounds together later this month in support of Breaking Dawn part 2, which opens Nov. 16.

So what prompted them to recouple after photographic evidence of her indiscretion was plastered over the Internet and magazine covers? A source tells E! News that a contrite Stewart has assured pattinson that her fling with Sanders was a momentary lapse that

won’t ever happen again.

“He decided to forgive her,” our source tells us.

“He is justifying it by believing her story that it was a one-off mistake and it will never happen again. people make mistakes, and he loves her, and he is willing to believe that she won’t stray again.”

The source also adds that K.Stew “seems truly sorry” for “a severe lack of judgment.”

That echoes Stewart’s initial statement following news of her liaison with Sanders. “I’m deeply sorry for the hurt and embarrassment I’ve caused to those close to me and everyone this has affected,” she said at the time. “This momentary indiscretion has jeopardized the most important thing in my life, the person I love and respect the most, rob. I love him, I love him, I’m so sorry.”

Hey, if there’s anything we’ve learned from the Twilight saga, it’s that anything—even flatlined love affairs—can come back from the dead. (E! Online)

news via his Twitter: “Alright guys, it’s official…

I’ll be hosting @TheXFactoruSA! Looking forward to working with @SimonCowell and the rest of the amazing team.”

Odom also took to her blog today to share the news: “I’m sure you’ve been hearing the rumors and I’m SO excited that I can finally confirm the news—I am joining The X Factor as co-host with Mario Lopez!!!!” the Keeping up With the Kardashian star writes. “I’m thrilled, overjoyed and of course

a little nervous about this new step in my career, and I can’t wait to get started.

Wish me luck!”

The duo will take the place of Steve Jones, who was the sole host during season one and was unceremoniously let go after the finale. Though The X Factor has been airing for weeks now, the episodes have been full of pretaped audition segments, and we won’t see Lopez and Odom’s debut until the live-performance show starts in a couple of weeks.

Mario Lopez officially joins Khloé Kardashian Odom as X Factor Host A.C. Slater has come a long way. (Sorry, we couldn’t resist a Saved by the Bell joke. Who can?)

Mario Lopez has signed on to cohost The X Factor alongside Khloé Kardashian Odom, Fox announced today. The Extra anchor had been the frontrunner for several weeks to take on the hosting gig, but was not officially on board until today.

Odom’s hosting role was confirmed by E! News yesterday.

Lopez trumpeted the

INdulge! A3

A4 INdulge!

TrAVEL ENTErTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

Resorts World Manila the first integrated lifestyle center in the Philippines

NEWpOrT CITY, pASAY The philippines is one of Asia’s most desirable destinations due to its wonderful tourist spots. However, the country’s most prized quality is the warmth of its people immediately extended to visitors upon arrival. Tourists and locals alike now have more to celebrate with the arrival of the first integrated lifestyle hub in the philippines, resorts World Manila (rWM). rWM is the latest addition to the resorts World franchise known for its premium entertainment and lifestyle offerings. Guests of rWM now have the opportunity to experience the best of what rWM has to offer combined with Filipinos’ signature hospitality. Whether a guest is a world-traveler, thrill-seeker, gourmet, shopaholic, or an art and music lover, rWM has something to offer those seeking worldclass leisure and entertainment.

Play the World-Traveler Come home to luxury at rWM’s Maxims Hotel.

This luxury hotel is the first in the country to offer allsuite accommodations, totaling 172 suites. Each suite is sumptuously furnished and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

Guests will experience the Filipino trademark hospitality in world-class standards with the hotel’s celebrated personal butler services.

Moreover, experience luxe accommodations at Marriott Hotel Manila.

Nestled in rWM, this fivestar lodging brand offers first-class amenities and services known all over the world. A new addition is the value hotel, remington Hotel, which offers quality services and accommodations within everyone’s reach.

Play the Gourmet Highlight the good life with good food in any of the wide array of dining establishments in rWM. Among these are passion which serves mouthwatering Cantonese and Southeast Asian cuisine;

Ginzadon with its sumptuous offerings of Japanese and Korean dishes; NoodleWorks which offers the best Asian noodles; and Mercado with its buffet of exquisite Filipino cuisine, to name a few. As rWM unveils more dining destinations, gourmets will have more to celebrate and explore.

Play the Shopaholic Find the best of luxury brands all in one place at rWM’s The Newport Mall.

The four-level mall offers premium entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. Its iconic design and indoor piazza with a glass skyline promote an open space concept for a relaxed atmosphere. The Newport Mall is the latest fashion hotspot for fashionistas and amusement destination for families Play the Art and Music Lover rWM has various options to entertain. In Bar 360, guests can enjoy aweinspiring acts and performances with their favorite

drink in hand. This innovative bar regularly features world-class performances and thematic events to party the night away.

Moreover, enjoy blockbuster flicks and wellloved classics at The Newport Mall’s premium cinemas with a total seating capacity of 1,200.

The mall is also home to the city’s newest stage, the Newport performing Arts Theatre (NpAT). This 1,500-seat theater has featured the grandest events, world-class productions, and more. Since NpAT first opened, it has staged the original rWM production Las Vegas-meets-Broadway spectacle Kaos, and is currently running the well-loved musical ‘The King and I’.

Play the Thrill-seeker Test your luck at rWM’s gaming facilities at par with gaming capitals all over the world. rWM’s casino is the largest in the country with 1,000 slot machines and 300 table games to date. rWM also serves as the home to the newest and most exclusive lifestyle scene, Genting Club.

Behind rWM are veterans from the fields of leisure and entertainment. rWM is the flagship integrated project of Travellers International Hotel Group, Inc. (TIHGI). The innovative group is a joint venture between two of Asia’s most dynamic companies, Alliance Global Group, Inc. (AGI), and Genting Hong Kong (GHK).

When it comes to leisure and entertainment, rWM makes sure that each guest’s expectation is met and exceeded.

For more information, please call rWM tourist hotline at +63 (2) 8366333 or log on to www. rwmanila.com .

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 163 •THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

1,500 runners now in Merco Fun Run

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HERE are now 1,500 runners listed in the 66th Merco anniversary Fun Run slated on october 21 in an out-andback course at the Rizal Park,this city. among the companies and runing clubs are the Cortess Printing Corp., astine Motor Parts, Unifruitti, Milbros, Davao Golden Hardware Inc. allied Banking Corp.,

People’s Park Runners, United Joggers, Merchandisers Run Club, DCental HS’89, Ricstarent, Enterprise Bank, Rodsy Marketing, Rasi Computer Inc., GDY airtech, Gerry’s Grill, Metro Lifestyle Gym and Morning Breakers.

This year’s race is sponsored by Selecta Ice Cream and orient Glass and is assisted by the vantage Sports Promotion un-

PBA great Guidaben suffers stroke

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Ba great abet Guidaben, who had survived a serious ailment called Myasthenia Gravis, is reportedly in dire situation once again, suffering a stroke in the United States. online reports said the two-time MvP awardee, who has just turned 60 last Sept.

14, is in intensive care unit (ICU).

Before falling ill, Guidaben was actively participating in benefit basketball events staged by the PBa Legends USa Foundation.

Guidaben was among the PBa’s 25 Greatest Players honored during the league’s silver anniversary in 2000.

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with free singlet on all categories. Registration is ongoing at Merco Bolton, Quirino and Cabaguio. Satellite registration centers are also available at the People’s Park and victoria Plaza parking area for the joggers.

For more details, contact Edward or Maricel at tel. no. 305-4009 or 221-7312. (LITO DELOS REYES)

Ali Bernan of Shakey’s Girls Volleyball League promotes the upcoming Mindanao leg of SGVL during the weekly Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) forum at Tower Inn. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

France’s Olivier Giroud, left, celebrates his goal with Blaise Matuidi during the World Cup Group I qualifying soccer match against Spain at the Vicente Calderon stadium in Madrid, Spain, Tuesday.

a few years later, he made the second batch of players enshrined into the PBa Hall of Fame.

The league MvP in 1983 and 1987, the Mambajao, Camiguin native is the PBa’s alltime leader in most games played with 1,081. He was among the Crispa Redmanizers’ stars who later took his act to Manila Beer, Tanduay, San Miguel Beer, Purefoods, alaska, Seven-Up and Shell in a glorious PBa career spanning 21 long seasons.

He is second behind arch rival Mon Fernandez in the all-time scoring ladder with 15,775 and all-time rebound list with 8,570.

Lin tells GQ he feels sting of racism

EW YoRK – Jeremy Lin, the NBa playmaker of Taiwan and Chinese heritage whose rise last season sparked “Lin-sanity” worldwide, told GQ Magazine in a cover story that he still feels the sting of racist attitudes.

“I’m going to have to play well for a longer period of time for certain people to believe it because I’m asian. and that’s just the reality of it,” Lin told GQ in a story from the November issue posted on the magazine website.

Lin is featured on the cover wearing a suit and basketball shoes and holding a basketball in his left hand with a headline: “Jeremy Lin will not be denied”.

“I dont always pass with my left, but when I do, its for GQ… thanks,” Lin posted Tuesday on his Twitter page.

Lin, a 24-year-old Harvard graduate, was pulled off the bench for the New York Knicks last season when the club had two starters felled by injury. He shocked everyone with a star turn that sparked a win streak and

der Kenneth Sai. The categories in the individual footrace are the 3K, 5K and 10K while also featured is the 3K Walk/ Jog with your Pet category.

There will also be lots of raffle prizes to be given away plus free snacks and drinks. The proceeds of the annual race will again go to the Maharlika Charity Foundation. Registration fee is only P200

SPORTS15

“Lin-sanity”.

The starters returned and so did reality but the Knicks reached the playoffs and Lin was expected to play a role for New York in the upcoming season.

But when the Houston Rockets made an offer of $25 million for three years and the Knicks refused to match it, Lin departed for the Texas club where retired Chinese star center Yao Ming played his entire NBa career.

“When we had Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady, those were our centerpieces,” Rockets general manager Daryl Morey told GQ.

Spain, Germany slip in World Cup qualifying

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PaIN’S 24-game winning streak in qualifiers ended Tuesday night when olivier Giroud scored in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time, giving France a 1-1 tie in qualifying for the 2014 World Cup. on a busy day of international soccer, Germany wasted a four-goal lead at home in a 4-4 tie against Sweden, and the United States advanced to next year’s regional finals by rallying for a 3-1 win over Guatemala as Clint Dempsey scored twice and Carlos Bocanegra got a goal.

Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Honduras and Jamaica joined the U.S. in next year’s finals of the North and Central american region, which will produce three qualifiers for the 2014 tournament in Brazil.

Jamaica advanced with a 4-1 victory over antigua and Barbuda as Dane Richards scored two late goals and the Reggae Boyz overtook Guatemala for second

place on goal difference.

Canada, which hasn’t qualified since 1986, was eliminated with an 8-1 rout at Honduras. Costa Rica advanced with a 7-0 win over Guyana. Mexico, which clinched last month, won 2-0 at home over El Salvador on goals by oribe Peralta in the 64th and Javier Hernandez in the 85th. australia revived its qualifying campaign with a 2-1 win at Iraq as Tim Cahill of the New York Red Bulls scored on a header, his first competitive international goal since January 2011. at Madrid, Sergio Ramos scored on a 25th-minute header for Spain, the defending World and European champion. Cesc Fabregas failed to convert a 43rd-minute penalty kick at Madrid, and Giroud scored off a cross from Franck Ribery after second-half substitute Juanfran Torres turned the ball over in midfield.

Spain is ahead of France on goal difference in Group I.

at Berlin, the hosts surged ahead as Miroslav Klose scored in the eighth and 15th minutes, and Per Mertesacker (39th) and Mesut oezil (55th) added goals.

Germany’s 13-game winning streak in qualifying ended as Sweden got goals from Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the 62nd minute, Mikael Lustig in the 64th, Johan Elmander in the 76th and Rasmus Elm in the third minute of stoppage time. ‘’I don’t know how to explain it,’’ Germany coach Joachim Loew said, whose team leads Sweden by three points in Group C. ‘’Normally, we would not waste a fourgoal lead. The problem seems to have been mental after 60 minutes. We became sloppy and lost our discipline.’’

Canada dropped out of the top two in its group in North and Central america and the Caribbean with its loss to Honduras in San Pedro Sula. Honduras. which led 4-0 after 25 minutes, got goals three goals each

from Jerry Bengston and Carlo Costly, and two from Mario Martinez.

Honduras advanced from Group C along with Panama, which tied 1-1 at Cuba.

It was also a frustrating night for Cristiano Ronaldo, whose 100th appearance for Portugal ended in a 1-1 tie at home against Northern Ireland.

England’s qualifier against Poland was postponed until Wednesday because of heavy rain in Warsaw.

Italy beat Denmark 3-1 despite playing a man short following Pablo osvaldo’s ejection 16 seconds into the second half for a reckless elbow into Nicolai Stokholm’s face.

Riccardo Montolivo put the azzurri ahead in the 33rd minute off a flick from Mario Balotelli, and Daniele De Rossi doubled the lead four minutes later with his third goal in four games. William Kvist scored for the visitors in first-half stoppage time, and Balotelli restored a two-goal lead in the 54th.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 163 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

Manny trains hard in Gensan, allays Arum’s fears

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oxING superstar Manny Pacquiao allayed Bob arum’s fears that he might be losing focus on training for his fourth bout against Juan Manuel Marquez.

Despite delaying his US training for one more week, the fighting congressman appears to be going all out in his preparations in General Santos City.

During his training session with assistant coach Buboy Fernandez, Pacquiao showed off his strength and speed while Fernandez simulated the fighting style of Marquez. “’Yong galaw ni Marquez gagayahin ko. Mahirap naman kung bitaw ng

bitaw lang ng suntok. ang pinag-aaralan naming talaga ‘yung paano kung tayo na ang susuntok, so kung saan iilag si Marquez, anong bibitiwang suntok,” said Fernandez.

The Pacman does 18 mitt sessions daily, which include studying the possible dirty tactics that may be employed by Marquez.

Top Rank’s arum earlier expressed concern that Team Pacquiao is still in General Santos.

The fighting congressman was supposed to arrive in the US over the weekend to kick off his training at the Wild Card Gym. However, Pacquiao

Boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao has chosen to prolong his stay in General Santos to take care of several matters. as a result, the boxer’s promotional activities in

the US for his upcoming fight have been stalled.

This prompted arum to ask Pacquiao to choose between boxing and politics.

EDGEDAVAO