Edge Davao 5 Issue 236

EDGEDAVAO

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

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Serving a seamless society

Indulge

Page Page A1 A1

Pinoy street food redefined

PRC-Davao chapter

P1M needed for disaster response

By EJ Dominic Fernandez

SCIENCE/ ENVIRONMENT

Page164 Page

Oplan ANDAM launched

Sports

Page 16

PAL Interclub Preview

Increase na sad!

T

HE Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Davao chapter is P1 Million short from building a Mobile Disaster Kitchen (MDK).

The MDK is part of the chapter’s proposed for a system of quick disaster response among the private sector.

PRC Davao Chapter director Aileen Lizada said it has raised P440,000 for assembling an MDK, a rescue truck converted into a mobile kitchen to provide for the needs of victims and volunteers relief workers during calamities.

Once completed, the MDK will be the first ever locally-as-

Private sector warm to Red Cross proposal

sembled MDK in the First mobile disaster country kitchen being built and will be most useful in addressLizada also aping disaster response. pealed for unity of the With the Davao region private sector to creexperiencing disasters ate a quick response of late, the MDK could partnership during be what the doctor or- times of calamity. dered.

Initial support in Lizada said they the form of pledges for need P1 Million more the MDK have come to build the MDK from Alsons, Canadian which they have iden- Auto Supply, Evaristo tified as their priority Gana, Economic Asproject. sociation of the Phil“We are aiming for ippines, Mr. and Mrs. an estimated P1 mil- Eduardo Robillo, and lion as the equipment Friends of the Red alone for MDK already Cross. costs P668,000,” LizaCivic groups, such da said during during as Rotary clubs, Inthe board meeting tegrated Bar of the yesterday at the PRC Philippines, Davao Davao chapter office.

FPRC,11

Pork production up 8.6 %

Follow Us On

WAY UP. Gas price signage at a gas station along E. Quirino Avenue shows the new prices of gasoline and diesel products as major oil companies in the country raised the prices of its petroleum products yesterday morning. With the new round of increase, diesel increased by P0.35 per liter while gasoline was up by P0.95 per liter. Lean Daval Jr.

P

ORK production in Region 11 increased by 8.6 percent in 2012 over that of 2011 while pork importation decreased by 12.7 percent, according to the National Meat Inspection Service, Region 11.

As per the annual summary of slaughter report of NMIS 11, 23.1 million kilograms of pork were produced in

2012 compared to only 21.1 million kilograms in 2011, up by 8.6 percent.

On the other hand, the NMIS report shows that pork importation went down from 949 metric tons in 2011 to 828 metric tons in 2012, a difference of 12.7 percent.

Dr. Myrna I. Habacon, officer in charge of NMIS 11, reassured local pork

FPORK,11

2 THE BIG NEWS

Roof A Classroom Project supported

A

private sector initiative called “Roof a Classroom (RAC) Project” in typhoon Pablo-ravaged areas in the provinces of Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley got a big boost this week in the form of cash and material donations from national and world funders.

This was learned from former Secretary Jesus G. Dureza, who is coordinating RAC Project, started by a Davao City-based group composed of Msgr.

Fernando Capalla, former archbishop of Davao, and businessmen who have joined forces with GawadKalinga in an effort to provide roofing to 700 classrooms in Davao Oriental which have been blown down by Pablo in December.

Dureza, now publisher of the Mindanao Times, announced yesterday that in addition to what businessman Sammy Afdal has started in the typhoon-devastated areas, the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), Paterno JISLAN Corp., the FortunNarvasa& Salazar law firm and the United Nations Development Program have come in with their initial share in the project.

PBSP was able to secure 330 GI sheets from Union Galvasteel Corp., said Dureza, who added that the materials will be picked up from Galvasteel shortly.

Former Senator Vicente “Ting” Paterno also informed Dureza that PaternoJislan Corp. deposited P20,000 in the BPI account of GawadKalinga for RAC Project.

On the other hand, Dureza said that he had also been informed in an email by Atty. Dicky Salazar that the FortunNarvasa Salazar law firm in Makati deposited P60,000 in the BPI account of GawadKalinga.

The UNDP also informed Dureza that it is willing to partner with the Capalla group with its “cash for work” project that will pay locals who will volunteer to assist in the work to provide roofs for the classroom in the towns of Boston, Baganga and Cateel, Davao Oriental.

Others in Capallagroup are Manuel “Bobby” Orig of AboitizPower, Art Millan of Davao Light and Power Company, Inc., Anthony B. Sasin of the Anflo Group of Companies, Leonilo G. Claudio of thee International

FROOF, 11

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

MINDANAO FORUM. Reyzaldy Tan(right), Mindanao Development Authority (MinDa) Planning, Policy and Project Development Office director, and Rafael Evangelista, senior adviser of MinDa, explain the 1st Mindanao Development Forum slated on February 1, 2013 at the Marco Polo Davao in the weekly Club 888 at the Marco Polo

EDGEDAVAO

Davao yesterday. The forum is a high-level multilateral meeting designed to provide the platform for dialogue and public discourse on Mindanao’s development agenda.

Lean Daval Jr.

As of January 29

Tax collection up by 20.2%

By EJ Dominic Fernandez

C

Hinugyaw Festival culminates with Veterans Bank’s exhibit

APPING the last 13th Koronadal Hinugyaw Festival was the opening of the multi-awarded Philippine Veterans Bank World War II Traveling Exhibit put on display at the Koronadal City Hall Lobby. Entitled, “War of Our Fathers”, the traveling exhibit returns to Koronadal City to continue its mission of sharing to the public, especially to the youth, the legacy of our World War II Filipino veterans and the value of freedom which they fought for decades ago.

The exhibit, co-sponsored by the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) and with the coop-

eration of the City Government of Koronadal features numerous World War II photographs, maps, artifacts, and memorabilia that pay tribute to the bravery, patriotism, and determination of Filipinos – men and women – who fought and died for our country’s freedom during the war.

The exhibit has traveled extensively throughout the country since 2006 visiting over 40 cities and municipalities and displayed in schools, malls, museums, provincial and city halls. In 2009, the exhibit was invited to and displayed at the Nanjing War Memorial Museum in Nanjing, China. In addition,

the exhibit has received the recognition of several award-giving bodies including the Anvil Awards, Gold Quill Awards, and the PANATA Awards.

The exhibit was recently opened in simple ceremonies to be led by Koronadal City Mayor Peter Miguel & PVB Officials. The next stop of the Exhibit is in the Sarangani Provincial Capitol. Shown in the photo are from L-R: SoCot Board Members Ernesto Catedral and Agustin Dema-ala, VFP District Commnader Federico Cabang, Vice Mayor Eliodo U. Ogena, Mayor Peter B. Miguel, and PVB VP Mike Villa-Real, Corporate Communications Head.

T

HE CITY’s tax collection is up by 20 percent from last year setting an upswing trend over a period of three years, according to the City Treasurer’s Office.

As of January 29 this year, the city’s tax collection has reached

Upswing trend seen from 2011 to 2013 CTO cites city’s good business climate P 531.8 million, up by P89,405,393 from the P442,476,362 collection in 2012 effectively set-

ting an increasing trend from 2011 to 2013.

In 2011, the col-

will improve network interconnection as this is ultimately in the best interest of all mobile phone users,” said Globe head of corporate communications Yoly Crisanto.

Globe expressed concern that current media statements coming from its rival networks Smart and Sun on interconnection woes may mislead the public.

“Let us not muddle the issue and mislead the public. At the end of the day, our subscribers want seamless

interconnection. Globe has made a significant investment for its network modernization program to give its customers a world-class network. They would like a world class experience as well,” adds Crisanto.

Recently, the NTC said that it would look into reports of mobile phone users experiencing delays in receiving text messages, specifically between Sun Cellular and Globe networks.

In a related develop-

FTAX, 11

Globe welcomes NTC probe

G

LOBE Telecom welcomed news that the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) would look into reports of mobile phone users experiencing delays in receiving text messages, specifically between Sun Cellular and Globe networks.

“We are open to the NTC conducting such a probe in order to determine the real cause of failed connections between telco companies. We hope the NTC’s involvement in this issue

FGLOBE, 11

SUBURBIA

EDGEDAVAOVOL.5 ISSUE 236 •THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

3

Davao Norte steps up Agri damage reporting T

YPHOON-FREE no more, the province stepped up reporting of damages and losses in agriculture to get the right interventions in times of calamity.

Some 100 agriculturists and coordinators from the 11 local government units (LGU) in the province were gathered recently in Capitol, Tagum City for a workshop that shall arm them with a uniform template and standard computation in making estimates of damages and losses.

The Provincial Government, under the instructions of Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario, pursued the workshop in view of the difficulties encountered in the wake of typhoon Pablo, which left the province with a P3.5-billion damage in agriculture.

“LGUs came up with conflicting reports” because they “differed in estimating the damage,” said Dr. Anastacia Notarte, Asst. Provincial Agriculturist.

As what New Corella Municipal Agriculturist Floro Sumuan put it, they have “different standards of reporting.”

Notarte said it is crucial that the damage reports of LGUs are close to reality. “Uniformity in the template and computation” will avoid “bloated

COMPUTATION. Asst. Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Anastacia Notarte shows the computation which shall be uniform to all local government units during the agri-pinoy banner program and calamity planning work-

estimates or underestimations,” she said.

Notarte gave as an example the computation of damage in rice, which has four stages: newly planted, vegetative, reproductive and maturity.

If the damage in rice was incurred when it was just at the newly planted stage, the cost is P6,000; if

vegetative, P18,000; if reproductive, P52,000; and if maturity, the amount would depend on the prevailing market price. The cost will be multiplied according to the number of hectares affected. Data such as this will be placed in the uniform template.

“If our reporting is accurate,” said Notarte,

shop the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte held recently in Capitol, Tagum City. The same shall appear in the template which LGUs shall use in reporting damages and losses in agriculture. [Abril Handugan]

the LGUs will receive the right assistance.

“For us [in the provincial government], we will know which LGU to prioritize for rehabilitation,” Notarte said. “The data are vital not only in determining the amount of assistance to be extended but also for future planning,” she added.

Army seeks cooperation in gun ban implementation T HE Army’s 6th Infantry Division in Camp Siongco, Maguindanao has appealed to the public to help in the effective implementation of election gun ban.

“We need cooperation from the commuters and motorists during implementation of gun ban to avoid delays,” Colonel Dickson Hermoso said.

Hermoso, speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, said gun owners should make documents at hand so that

it can be checked by soldiers manning checkpoints without delay.

The 6th ID covers the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato. Hermoso assured the public that the rights of every individual in the implementation of election gun ban will always be protected and promoted.

Should there are violations the public is welcome to file complaint before the 6th ID. The 6th ID is based

in Barangay Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Hermoso made the appeal following complaints by motorists that soldiers are “very strict” in the gun ban implementation that causes heavy traffic flows along highways in Maguindanao.

More than a dozen election gun ban violators have been arrested and at least 20 assorted firearms were confiscated. According to Hermoso, there are local

officials who, sometimes, refused to be subjected to inspection, thereby causing delays and traffic jams.

In implementing election gun ban which began on Jan. 13, the military and the police are applying “plain view” principle.

Maguindanao is home to many loose firearms, including those in the hands of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and other armed groups. [PNA]

A

Continuous rains since Friday damaged about 700 hectares of rice fields, at least 70 percent of which had no chance to recover, the MAO added.

Among the worst hit were barangays Malanduague, Pedtad, Bangilan,

Katidtuan, Bannawag, Pisan, Kilagasan, Upper Paatan, Cuyapon and Salapungan.

These villages, mostly situated along the banks of the Paidu Pulangi and Liguasan marsh, were among those hit by typhoon

Pablo on December 4.

Latest data from the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office said some 2,000 families were displaced when the floodwaters reached waist-deep.

[Malu Cadelina Manar/ MindaNews]

Floods destroy P5M worth of crops in Kabacan town T least P5 million worth of crops were destroyed when flashfloods hit at least 10 villages in Kabacan town in North Cotabato last week, reports from the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) said.

Communicating what is really happening in the grassroots is an advantage, according to Sumuan.

With the uniform template and computation, “what will reach to the concerned agencies is the real picture,” Sumuan said. “Problems in the LGUs will be really

answered because we are giving real reports,” he added.

According to San Isidro Municipal Agriculturist Laureano Pintor, “aside from uniformity, another benefit is the easy consolidation of and simplified reports.” [Mera Grace E. Apuya/DavNor PIO]

New Bataan: To relocate or not?

T

HE Regional Development Council (RDC) 11 has discussed whether or not to relocate the entire municipality of New Bataan in Compostela Valley (ComVal) considering the devastation brought by typhoon Pablo.

In an interview, Ed Arreza, regional director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau 11, said there is no final decision yet on whether to relocate New Bataan to new areas or maintain its location but engineering interventions will be applied.

The interventions, he said, may include preventing the river to overflow and creating concrete canals to redirect the flow of water.

The Mayo River created a new course toward the center of Barangay Andap in New Bataan, wiping it out, including the barangay hall, and replacing it with rocks and boulders.

Arreza said it is possible to control the flow

of water, citing the case of Jakarta in Indonesia that used to be flooded about five years ago.

He said because of engineering interventions, Jakarta is no longer being flooded now.

It is possible to do it in New Bataan, he said, adding, “If we have the money to move 20 million cubic meters of rocks and debris.”

He noted that the economic aspect should be mostly considered, adding that the planning, design and cost of possible engineering interventions will follow after the body’s final decision.

Arreza admitted though that Pablo’s immensity was unprecedented.

He pointed out that flood has occurred since the time of Noah (Biblical story), citing that Davao del Norte and Monkayo in ComVal are already flood-prone areas even in the past. [Lorie Ann A. Cascaro / MindaNews]

4 SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Rocks in New Bataan used for flood control in Tagum

T MAKESHIFT RAFTS. Teens appear to enjoy the massive floods in Tagum City recently, where they earned some amount by ferrying stranded residents with their makeshift rafts made of banana trunks. [Noel Baguio]

DavNor to launch Oplan A.N.D.A.M. T

HE Davao del Norte province is taking its successful emergency planning to a higher level by launching this February the barangay disaster preparedness campaign to make every household ever ready to face natural calamities.

Dubbed as Oplan ANDAM (Advocacy on Natural Disasters Awareness and Management), the community-based disaster risk reduction campaign seeks to protect, especially the vulnerable families from the adverse impact of natural cataclysmic events, such as typhoons, floods, landslides, and the likes.

The battle plan was conceptualized by the Technical Working Group

(TWG) on disaster risk preparedness and response strategy for all barangays in Davao del Norte, which was created by Governor Rodolfo del Rosario by virtue of Executive Order No. 04 dated January 25, 2013.

The governor decided to intensify the disaster awareness campaign in the communities after Typhoon Pablo and the following low pressure areas, which brought successive flooding in the province.

The floods affected hundreds of thousands of people and damaged over P4-billion worth of crops and infrastructure.

Del Rosario trumpeted the well-coordinated emergency plan that was carried out by the

Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Offfice, along with the various DRRMOs of the LGUs, which resulted to only three casualties since “Pablo”.

As the province shifted to response and rehabilitation phases, the governor mandated deeper preparedness at the household level, particularly in disaster-prone areas, in order to attain zero casualty and cushion off the destructive impacts during natural catastrophes.

OIC-Provincial Information Officer Romulo Tagalo, who is a member of the TWG, revealed the province will roll out the Oplan ANDAM in identified barangays starting the first

week of February and onwards.

He said the awareness campaign will particularly tap the mothers, since they are “more concerned over the welfare of their families.”

The activity includes lectures on climate change, household preparation techniques, community-level early warning system and communication system.

The province will also provide emergency or grab kits to families, who will be selected at random during the orientation. Such grab kits will include flashlights, toiletries, transistor radios, and food in pouches, among others. [Noel Baguio]

AGUM City is making use of the rocks that now cover what used to be the center of Barangay Andap, New Bataan for its flood control works.

As of Monday, workers from the Tagum City Engineer’s Office (CEO) were still hauling the rocks, which they said would be used to cover the flooded portions of the Libuganon and Busaon roads leading to Barangay Mamacao.

Tagum is 100 kilometers away from Andap proper.

F l o o d w a t e r s from Mayo River that spilled into Andap carried along its path rocks and boulders that covered the village on December 4 last year, the day typhoon Pablo made a landfall in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental.

Ed Arreza, regional director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau 11, said the rocks in Andap are ideal materials for road repairs.

“These roads have been flooded due to continuous rain last week,” Engr. Rodolfo C. Lanciola, Jr., officer in charge of Tagum’s CEO construction and maintenance division said in a phone interview.

The dump trucks used in transporting the rocks were the same ones used in delivering donated books and armchairs for elementary schools in Compostela Valley, Lan-

ciola said.

“Our mayor does not want anything to go to waste,” he said, adding that they would rather fill the empty trucks with rocks instead of driving them back to Tagum empty.

Two dump trucks which delivered Tuesday donated books to Nabunturan Elementary School, went to Andap to haul more rocks before returning to Tagum, Lanciola said.

Another truck that delivered 492 new pieces of school furniture for the 530 students of Andap National High School also hauled rocks upon its return to Tagum, he said.

Tagum has so far donated a total of 22,688 chairs to Compostela Valley under the Care for School Chairs Program from August 2011 to December 2012, Edwin Lasquite, city information officer said.

Lanciola said the CEO had assisted in the clearing and retrieval of bodies, aside from having sent chainsaw operators and heavy equipment to New Bataan since December.

Pablo affected 11,327 families or 45,308 persons in 16 villages in New Bataan, according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

For the whole province, the figure is 130,038 families or 520,152 persons in 234 villages.

[Lorie Ann Cascaro/MindaNews]

S the lead agency for livestock biotechnology, the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) is taking innovative actions to deliberately address climate change.

Dr. Eric Palacpac, PCC National R&D coordinator, said that among the mitigating measures that they are implementing to help mitigate the climate change include the reduction of methane emission from livestock animals, particularly the carabao.

Palacpac has cited previous research studies which showed that the comparative

impact of methane on climate change is over 20 times greater than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period.

He said to help address the issue, the PCC is adhering to the application of improved management practices in buffalo production system.

He said the PCC is also utilizing the crop residues as feeds and implementing waste management through vermi-composting, and cryobanking livestock genetic resources that provide important medium for addressing changes in the environment.

[PNA]

Villar wants livelihood projects from wastes to go nationwide A

F

ORMER Las Pinas Rep. Cynthia Villar believes she can do more and push for her advocacies particularly her “livelihood projects out of wastes” on a national scope if she wins as senator in the coming May elections.

“I believe that in a national position, I can do more. I can be more influential in convincing people as senator rather than as a private individual,” said Villar whose livelihood projects from wastes have gained international recognition when she got a UN award for “Best Water Management Practice in the World” beating 38 countries.

Since her projects

from wastes have been very successful in Las Pinas and are being duplicated in other areas, Villar stressed that she wants to expand their reach and provide job opportunities especially to women.

She stressed that a job can solve many problems.

“If you have a job, you can buy food, medicines, send children to school and provide a house for your family,” Villar explained.

She said women should always help their husbands in providingfor their children.

“I am not convinced that women should just stay at home and take care of the house and their

children. They should help their husband earn a living to have a good life,” said Villar.

Through livelihood projects which she has been propagating around, Villar said women can earn extra income without having to leave their homes and children behind.

She belied allegations that “Misis Hanep Buhay” tagline was adopted to further her political bid.

She said it’s her work, and it represents what she did and what she’s doing.

The three-time congresswoman said the moment she sees a livelihood project, she knows whether it will be feasible or not.

She said her livelihood projects from wastes started with the river rehabilitation.

“When we began dredging the river, we saw all the dredged wastes. For the program to succeed, the wastes should be stopped from going to the river. So we looked for a technology to process the waste. We first have the water lilies made into products like bags and baskets, among others,” she said.

She also said the many coconut husks in their markets have been turned into coconets so they will not be thrown into the rivers.

Coconets are used as alternative to cement for rip rapping.

Carabao center highlights efforts in addressing climate change

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 236 •THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

5 MinDA to initiate study on extractive industries THE ECONOMY

W

ITH the help of international partner organizations, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) will initiate a study on extractive industries in Mindanao that will aid in making a strong position for or against any kind of development project here.

Reyzaldy B. Tan, director of the MinDA’s policy, planning and project development office, said at least two major extractive industries will be studied, namely, mining and mono-crop plantations such as banana and pineapple.

A scientific and indepth study, it will find out how extractive industries here impact the environment and natural resources of Mindanao, he said.

“We are expecting that with this study, we will know if we are into a particular kind of project (extractive industry) or if there is a need for a further review of such project,” he told reporters.

The study is expected to begin by the second semester of the year, Tan continued, while an expert forum will be con-

ducted in the same period under the Mindanao Nurturing Our Waters (MindaNOW) program.

In the experts’ forum, Mindanao scientists and experts will be engaged in the study on extractive studies, he said.

The MinDA is still developing proposals to be given to some international donors, of which the International Alert is one of the prospects, Tan said.

He pointed out that the International Alert, an international non-government organization, has an existing study on extractive industries, whose results may be used for comparison.

For local partner, he said the Mindanao Studies Consortium Foundation, Inc. can also help in the study.

Tan said the proposed study will be presented to the Mindanao Development Forum (MDF) come February 1 at The Marco Polo Davao.

The MDF is “a high-level multilateral meeting designed to provide the platform for dialogue and public discourse on Mindanao’s development

agenda.”

Tan said the MDF will discuss on the impact of climate change and the proposed long-term measures, strengthening the foundations of peace and development under the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro.

In addition, it will also take on the role of Mindanao as the country’s agri-business hub and the attainment of Millennium Development Goals targets.

The MDF will be two days before the annual Philippines Development Forum (Feb. 4-5), which will also be held in this city, co-chaired by the World Bank and the Department of Finance.

The PDF will be a venue to facilitate substantive policy dialogue among stakeholders on the country’s development agenda.

“It will also serve as a process for developing consensus and generating commitments among different stakeholders toward critical actionable items of the government’s reform agenda,” the MinDA said. [Lorie Ann A. Cascaro / MindaNews]

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

M

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

V

EDGEDAVAO

Metrobank eyes PHL Q4 ‘12 growth at 6.8%

ETROPOLITAN Banking Corp. (Metrobank) forecasts a 6.8 percent expansion of the Philippine economy for the fourth quarter of 2012 and 6.6 percent for the whole year.

The bank’s full-year projection is higher than the government’s five to six percent target growth, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP), for the year. The government will release Thursday the official report on the 2012 fourth quarter and full year expansion of the domestic economy.

At the end of the third quarter last year, the economy grew by 6.5 percent while the third quarter growth stood at 7.1 percent, highest in the ASEAN and second strongest in Asia after China.

In a research note, Metrobank cited domestic consumption as among the major growth drivers of the economy. “Domestic consumption is in turn largely underpinned by OFW remittances and the low inflation environment,” it said.

Growth of inflows from overseas Filipinos grew by six percent year-on-year in the first eleven months of 2012, higher than the five percent target of the central bank.

The research note said the rise in the remittances is expected to boost growth of consumption spending by about five to six percent. Another growth booster is government spending, which continue to

MONTHLY AVERAGE EXCHANGE RATE (January 2009 - December 2011) Month

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

DEVELOPMENT FORUM. Reyzaldy Tan, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDa)’s Planning, Policy and Project Development Office director (right), and Rafael Evangelista, senior adviser of MinDa, talk about the 1st Mindanao Development Forum slated on February 1, 2013 at the Marco Polo Davao

in the weekly Club 888 at the Marco Polo Davao yesterday. The forum is a high-level multilateral meeting designed to provide the platform for dialogue and public discourse on Mindanao’s development agenda. Lean Daval Jr.

rise and which the research note projects grew by at least 10 percent in the fourth quarter of last year.

The services sector, which continue to be among the strong growth driver of the economy, is expected to remain resilient. “Growth in the industry sector is seen to come from the sustained expansion in construction activities in the fourth quarter,” the report said.

The research note, on the other hand, said that this can

be offset by the “modest growth in the agriculture sector on the back of lower crop production and the continued decline in the fisheries sub-sector.”

Amid the generally positive outlook on the economy, the research note said that “while a report from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development said that foreign direct investment flows to the Philippines outpaced the growth in other ASEAN economies, the support from invest-

ment spending is seen to remain modest amid still uncertain global economic prospects and financial strains in the advanced economies.”

“Furthermore, the still vulnerable external trade remains to be a big drag to domestic economic growth,” it said. Relatively, Metrobank eyes the peso to trade between 40.50 to 41-level against the dollar this week “with the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) present to smoothen volatility.” [PNA]

cato, Jr., said in an earlier interview the training aims to improve the skills of local women in making handicrafts.

He noted that crafts tourism is already a practice among women in the communities.

He said they are making welcome leis and giveaways, and the DOT’s role will be to sell these to various parts of the country.

He said the products of Pablo victims will also be sold to the Nayong Pilipino and the Davao Eco-

craft, which sells products only made in the Davao Region.

Loreto meanwhile said there is a proposed training for members of the Mandaya tribe that can be made part of the rehabilitation plan for typhoon victims.

“Our first step is to do industry assessment on damage and corresponding needs,” Lucky Siegfred Balleque, program manager of the DTI Compostela Valley office Balleque said, adding the handicraft training will be done in the second or third quarter of the year.

He said they will invite participants from two or three municipalities in the province.

Pablo had damaged major crops in Compostela Valley such as banana, coconut, rubber, oil palm and cacao,hesaid,addingtheyhaveyetto determine the exact cost of damage.

Boncato said the project will see if there are available raw materials to be used for the handicrafts in the areas affected by the typhoon. (Lorie Ann Cascaro/MindaNews)

Training in crafts tourism planned for ‘Pablo’ victims

ICTIMS of typhoon Pablo from Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley will be trained in crafts tourism as part of the government’s rehabilitation plan for them.

The project is a joint undertaking of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Tourism (DOT) and Philippine Coconut Authority, DTI-11 regional director Marizon Loreto said Tuesday.

She, however, said it is subject to the approval of the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

DOT-11 Arturo Bon-

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/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 5J965 / 5J968 5J965 / 5J968

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6:15 6:25 6:30 7:00 8:50 8:10 8:30 9:40 10:10 12:20 12:30 09:05 13:25 14:05

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18:55 18:55 15:45 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 Davao-Singapore 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

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EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 236 •THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

7

Tagum’s yellow chairs spark hope in Andap S

CHOOL Principal Maria C. Diazon was holding back her tears when asked about how she feels with the new school furniture personally delivered by the Local Government of Tagum to her school on January 29, 2013 in Barangay Andap, New Bataan, Compostela Valley.

“It’s a big help especially that we are starting to rebuild our school and these chairs will truly give hope to our children,” she said.

Diazon’s school, Andap Elementary School, received Tagum-fabricated school furniture worth 250,607.62 pesos in line with the local government’s earnest desire to help in the rehabilitation efforts in the Province of Compostela Valley which was battered by Typhoon Pablo last year, killing thousands of people, including 49 school children from her school.

Her school, which was totally damaged by the typhoon and is now part of

the sea of boulders in the village, now shares space with Andap National High School, with parents helping to build makeshift classrooms through tents provided by UNICEF. The said donation, fabricated through the Care for School Chairs Program of Mayor Rey T. Uy, consists of 256 armchairs, 128 desks, 50 kiddie chairs, 14 teacher’s tables, 16 chairs, 16 teaching rostrums and 12 blackboards.

“Supposed to be para kini sa Davao City kadtong na-confiscate nila didto pero atong gihangyo si Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte na diri na lang usa nato ihatag,” said Mayor Uy who was joined by his wife and the president of the City of Tagum Tourism Council, Mrs. Alma Uy during the distribution.

The donation is still part of LGU Tagum’s commitment to extend a helping hand through the Tindog Comval Campaign of the provincial government of Compostela Val-

BRAND NEW CHAIRS. Mayor Rey T. Uy pose with school teachers and DepEd functionaries during the delivery of brand new chairs and other school furniture in Barangay Andap, New Bataan, Compostela Valley. Joining the local chief executive are DepEd OIC-Assistant Regional Director/Comval Schools Division Superintendent Nenita E. Lumaad, City of Tagum Tourism Council President Alma L. Uy and Comval

ley.

Mayor Uy also disclosed the local government will also donate chairs to the Municipality of Laak anytime soon.

Army repairs 82 houses, gov’t buildings in typhoon areas

A

total of 82 houses, nine government facilities and one chapel had been repaired by the Joint Task Force Tambayayong, an initiative of soldiers to help areas hardest hit by typhoon Pablo which struck the region last December 4, 2012.

Captain Severino David, spokesperson of the EastMinCom disclosed the information based on the report of Colonel Edgardo Clerigo, commander of the JTF Tambayayong.

The number of rehabilitated structures comprised of 60 houses repaired in Compostela Valley, 22 houses in Davao Oriental, six school buildings in Barangay Pasian, Monkayo,

Compostela Valley, a police installation in Montevista, one chapel in New Bataan and two day-care centers in Boston and Baganga, respectively, from January 14 to 26 this year.

David said the repair works willl continue in order to help survivors bring back their lives to normalcy.

Lt. General Jorge Segovia, commander of the EastMinCom said the effort to assist communities will go on as part of the recovery and rehabilitation effort by government on the disaster- affected areas.

He said it is the soldiers’ way of going beyond the call in giving service to the people which they are

sworn not only to protect but also to assist in times of great need.

Segovia also thanked the support of the local government units and non-government organizations for this pursuit.

He also urged other sectors to extend their support by providing donations by way of construction materials.

“This support will assist greatly in the mobilization to help the affected areas re-establish and to expedite their move towards recovery. More than ever, the Joint JTF Tamabayayong exhibits the inherent nature of Filipinos to uphold the spirit of Bayanihan,” Segovia pointed out. [PIA 11/Joey Sem Dalumpines]

JADE VALLEY FLOOD VICTIMS. 2nd district Congresswoman Mylene Garcia visited the evacuees of Jade Valley, Brgy. Tigatto at Buhangin Gym to personally deliver relief goods for the flood victims who were forced out of their homes as a result of the massive flooding that struck some parts of Davao City last week.

Comval Provincial Sports Coordinator Jayvee Tyrone Uy, who joined during the distribution, also announced that the provincial government is

Provincial Sports Coordinator Jayvee Tyrone Uy. The said donation, fabricated through the Care for School Chairs Program of Mayor Rey T. Uy, consists of 256 armchairs, 128 desks, 50 kiddie chairs, 14 teacher’s tables, 16 chairs, 16 teaching rostrums and 12 blackboards. [Leo Timogan/CIO Tagum]

now intensifying its assistance to schools which are damaged by Pablo.

Meanwhile, fastfood giant Jollibee also visited the school, bringing

along with them their well-loved mascots, which amazed the children through their dance production. [Louie Lapat/ CIO Tagum]

HE shelter cluster of the international assistance for typhoon Pablo victims is eyeing to build a total of 96,000 houses in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental in Region 11 and in some parts of the Caraga Region.

Tom Bamforth, shelter cluster coordinator, said in an interview that a total of 42,000 houses had been built for the victims.

The shelter cluster will build 54,000 more houses in six to eight months time with an additional fund of $15 million.

The amount will come from the $76 million requested by the United Nations Office for the Coor-

dination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN-OCHA) from foreign donors for its revised action plan.

The $76 million will fund 46 projects for families affected by Pablo, Luiza Carvalho, UN resident and humanitarian coordinator for the Philippines, said in a statement last January 25.

Carvalho said the need for emergency and durable shelter is critical, citing that about 216,000 homes were damaged by Pablo.

“The needs for shelter outweigh the resources provided,” Bamforth told reporters, noting that the earlier appeal for about US$10 million for shel-

ter assistance was only a rough estimate after the typhoon.

“After more assessment, we realized that there are more needs. We have collectively underestimated the impacts of Pablo,” he added.

The additional fund from foreign donors will be given to Pablo victims in the form of shelter kits for both temporary and permanent shelters.

A shelter kit will contain galvanized iron sheets, carpentry tools, cement, gravel and lumber among other materials to rebuild or repair houses, Bamforth cited.

[Lorie Ann Cascaro/MindaNews]

PEAKING during the plenary session of the House of Representatives last January 21, 2013, Rep. Maria Carmen Zamora recounted the misery Typhoon Pablo brought to her constituents and appealed for greater assistance and compassion for the victims.

The ComVal lawmaker emotionally articulated that, before Pablo, in all her years, Compostela Valley has not been visited by a strong typhoon, and that people knew nothing about the natural calamity.

“Pero noong ika-4 ng

Disyembre, nang humagupit si Pablo, sa lakas ng agos ng tubig at putik na dala niya, nahubaran po ang aking mga kababayan.

Naglaho ang mga ari-arian, tinangay ang aming mga tahanan, at natabunan ang aming mga kabuhayan.

Ang pinakamasakit, napakarami pong pamilya na namatay, at nawawala sa aming mga mahal sa buhay,” she achingly recalled.

Zamora reported that her office has since remained proactive in delivering effective and affirmative responses for the sake of her constituents.

She thanked the national government’s concerned agencies, the Office of the President, the leadership of the House of Representatives and the Senate, her legislator-colleagues, the national assembly’s employees, other countries and international organizations and their representatives, benevolent private individuals, government leaders, celebrities, groups, organizations, foundations, media outfits, and others who poured in help for her constituents. [RODIELYN MANUGAS, IDS-COMVAL]

96,000 houses for ‘Pablo’ victims from foreign donors

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Zamora pleads for more help for typhoon victims S

8 VANTAGE POINTS

EDGEDAVAO Has Obama administration gone wobbly on Syria?

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

COMMENTARY

BY BENNETT RAMBERG

S

EDITORIAL

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Look before you like

ON’T look now but if you are quick to like on Facebook posts or Twitter tweets, think again.

Not so fast, folks.

Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act can make that “like” into an unlikely crime.

According to Solicitor General Francis Jardeleza, the controversial Cybercrime Law can hold a person liable for online libel by merely “liking” a libelous post, or re-tweeting a malicious tweet.

Liking a post is similar to agreeing to an opinion and re-tweeting is tantamount to disseminating libelous statements.

It used to be an ordinary thing to like or retweet posts for Facebook or Twitter users just so an interesting post generates more reaction from other users. You call it viral. When a post becomes viral, it is equivalent to publication.

Online libel under RA 10175 defines another form of libel other than that already established under the Revised Penal Code. The advent of RA 10175 has caused confusion and terror among netizens. It appears that there

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are several areas of conflict left unclarified with certainty.

Because of this, there are fears that internet libel under RA 10175 may have a chilling effect among netizens who are in a quandary whether or not simply liking a negative post constitutes libel.

A post, whether negative or positive, is no alien to one’s expression of opinion. The internet is a communications highway where one can freely express his opinion on matters ranging from purely personal to one of social and political relevance. Posts on Facebook or Twitter are likewise a platform for personal expression. After all, the communication traffic on cyberspace is the result of an unrestricted and borderless interchange.

With the spectre of being charged with internet libel, RA 10175 has in effect either deleted the “like” icon on Facebook or placed a warning sign on that thumbs up icon.

It may not appear likeable, but for now, it is prudent for FB users to look before they “like.”

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YRIA, chemical weapons and the United States. If nothing else, President Barack Obama last month was emphatic. “I want to make it absolutely clear to Assad,” Obama declared at the National Defense University in early December, “….The world is watching. The use of chemical weapons is…totally unacceptable….[T]here will be consequences and you will be held accountable.”

But what a difference a New Year makes. At a January 10 news conference, the administration’s senior security officials, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta and Joint Chiefs of Staff head Martin E. Dempsey, recoiled: Consequences won’t involve the Pentagon. Better wait to secure the arsenal after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad falls, Panetta said. Dempsey stated: “Preventing the use of chemical weapons would be almost unachievable.” The result, as Panetta explained: “We’re not working on options that involve boots on the ground.”

Assad must have smiled. Washington had gone wobbly on chemical weapons.

With the deterrent value of the president’s remarks in question – and one unconfirmed report that Syria used a chemical agent in Homs on December 23 – the chemical specter remains. This raises the key question: Would Obama really stand by if the Syrian government gassed thousands of its citizens?

Before we answer, let’s hit the pause button for a reality check: Are chemical weapons really more heinous than the bombs that have already killed some 60,000 Syrians. This continuing mayhem has not justified military intervention so far. Why would chemical weapons be different?

Lift the pause button and one suspects it would be hard for the U.S. government to turn a blind eye to a Halabja on steroids – Halabja being the last case where an Arab regime (Iraq in 1988) killed thousands of its people in a chemical attack.

But the tug to save lives is countered by another specter: Quashing Assad’s chemical capacity could plunge the U.S. into a new military quagmire.

Obama clearly has the authority to act.

If he wishes to use force, under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, he can do so for at least 60 days without congressional approval.

But to avoid Congress now would be a mistake. The flummoxed administration needs another set of eyes to determine what is in the national interest. Congress can do this, assuming it can act with independence and reverse the legacy of deferring to the executive branch on matters of war and peace. Granting presidents, for example, broad authority to use military force without proper vetting – as the Gulf of Tonkin and Iraq war resolutions illustrated – ill-served the country.

To this end, Congress should reconvene the hearings begun last session. This time, however, it must press for details about the administration’s assumptions about intervening or not. In addition, all the hearings should be public – not secret, as the administration prefers. This will give the American people confidence in the decision-making.

Among the broad questions the hearings should explore: • Why should Syria’s use of chemical weapons be more concerning than the conventional arms that have killed many tens of thousands and wounded countless others?

• Have policymakers exaggerated chemical weapons’ effectiveness to kill, injure and terrorize?

• Given concerns that terrorists could get hold of these weapons, what challenges would they confront to transport and detonate the toxic material in and out of Syria?

• Why can’t Syria’s neighbors, Turkey, Jordan and Israel – all substantial military powers in the region – deal with this challenge?

EDGEDAVAO

O

How did Davos do on climate change?

NE sometimes hears that the World Economic Forum is all talk and no action. I don’t buy it — talk matters. Social currency is a powerful driver of change, even at the highest reaches of business and government. And last week climate change was on center stage at the famous Davos summit. So as I moved through the WEF Annual Meeting, the question on my mind was simple: How many of the conversations here will lead to real-world outcomes?

President Barack Obama had helped point the spotlight with his second inaugural address two days earlier, but the real reason for renewed focus, after several years of near silence, is the increasingly destructive and incredibly costly wave of unprecedented weather events that have occurred around the globe.

There were more than 30 official sessions on climate change, environmental resilience and food security this year at the Annual Meeting, and even more related side events.

At a dinner on climate change and extreme weather hosted by my organization the Environmental Defense Fund and The Weather Company, meteorologist Jim Cantore explained that the vanishing sea ice around the North Pole may be changing the whole jet stream. That could trigger a level of climate chaos that makes the disruptions we’ve seen so far look like child’s play.

Beneath all the talk was doubt about whether humanity could rise to the scale of this massive challenge. More than a few hands shot up in one session when the speaker asked if the time had come to deploy geoengineering – using technology on a massive scale in an attempt to reverse the problem by, for example, altering the chemistry of the ocean, or trying to block the sun’s rays from the atmosphere.

C

ANALYSIS

BY FRED KRUPP I didn’t raise my hand. I don’t see the logic of compounding the dangers of people playing god, with unknowable results. While these grand – and grandiose – ideas might appeal to a certain kind of techno-optimism, they also provide an easy distraction from the investments we know we need to make to protect against extreme weather that’s already here.

Technological fixes won’t change the fact that a certain amount of climate disruption is already guaranteed, thanks to past emissions. But we also need to make sure we don’t make the problem worse.

That means we have to manage the unavoidable, but also avoid the unmanageable. The trend line to hell stops only when we slash emissions.

On that score, the conference reverberated with talk about the U.S. windfall in natural gas from shale, made possible by new drilling techniques, and how it is generating an economic boom while reducing heat-trapping carbon dioxide pollution. Many of these enthusiasts didn’t mention the serious problem posed by methane – the main component of natural gas – leaking from wellheads, pipes, compressors and storage tanks.

Methane is 72 times more potent than CO2 in causing stronger storms, prolonged droughts and higher temperatures over the next two decades. That means these “fugitive” emissions could seriously undermine the climate advantage of natural gas.

I listened as many business people in Davos raised concerns about extreme weather and its effect on their enterprises. This made me hopeful that worried

talk will lead to climate action.

The WEF released its Global Risks 2013 report assessing the biggest and most likely risks that threaten the world over the next 10 years, citing rising greenhouse emissions as the third most likely hazard of the coming decade. Not coincidentally, water shortages came in at No. 4. Failure to adapt to changing climate was No. 7, and extreme weather No. 10 on this list of good reasons for sleepless nights.

Business seems to share this view.

Seventy percent of companies believe climate change has the potential to significantly affect revenue, according to a report released last week by the Carbon Disclosure Project and Accenture, based on a survey of over 2,400 companies.

Nearly a third say they are experiencing the impact already.

Here, I am cautiously positive. There’s no mystery about what we must do to avoid the worst impacts. We need to continue the urgent efforts to cut CO2 emissions. In his first term, President Obama cut carbon emissions from automobiles by acting to double fuel efficiency in cars and light trucks. Now he needs to direct the Environmental Protection Agency to finally cut emissions from power plants, proposed and existing The president has also begun to open up a second front in the war against climate pollution. The administration founded a 65-nation group with the unwieldy name The Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants to cut emissions of fast-acting potent gasses like methane, which are responsible for up to 40 percent of the incremental warming and radiative forcing we will see in the next 20 years. If we slow the increase in warming, we also reduce the threat of extreme weather impacts.

Subtle political development

OMPETITIVE ELECTORAL EXERCISE – Since President Benigno C. Aquino III assumed the presidency in 2010, reforms in the economic sector have been the most visible and far-reaching. It also comes as no surprise that social change has been right behind. But political reform, which would supposedly reinforce economic and social change, is lagging behind. Top political leaders, senior advisers and President PNoy’s references to political development, however, have led to speculations about moves in this domain. There have been many subtle developments in the past two years under the Aquino administration that may suggest in which direction reform is headed to.

Obligated by economic reform and the need to rebuild a bureaucracy shattered by political disorder during the previous moribund leadership, the sphere of political reform has been the focus of development efforts and training programs undertaken by the present dispensation. Officials now speak openly about the forthcoming May 2013 midterm elections as a competitive electoral exercise where both candidates and the electorate would state publicly that the socio-economic issue alone would determine the country’s progress and prosperity. The electorate is now becoming aware of the elections and their benefits. If a move toward socio-economic development is to begin, the starting point is for the electorate to vote for more responsive and talented leaders, many of them young entrepre-

neurs who may be candidates of the contending parties.

Meanwhile election officials at all levels, as mandated by law, have sought to make the May midterm polls and beyond more transparent and democratic. They have to develop training programs for national and local officials, teachers and poll volunteers, which would emphasize the importance of mandatory secret balloting through the use of PCOS machines, open vote tabulation and the immediate transfer of power.

On the other hand, education and news dissemination efforts must likewise be adopted to follow the election guidelines. “Is the May midterm elections a foundation for further democratization aimed at pushing political reform or a referendum for the 2016 presidential polls?” A very interesting question political wags used to bring up in many informal discussions. It is perhaps too soon to tell, but it is rather reasonable to say that fair and honest elections are being entrenched at all levels and that sincere efforts are being made to establish the necessary electoral institutions to support them.

While elections and other political proceedings are by no means a way to

ICT HUB

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

institute political reform, they do indicate a trend toward increased authority in the highest structure of power. But it is rather unfortunate that with political reform inevitable, the Aquino administration can hardly afford the socio-economic costs of the ongoing political rigmarole at the Senate. More is needed to compel members of Senate to stop their flair for self-promotion – more so now, when it is facing a credibility problem.

After much debate – at times contentious and annoying – such disgraceful display of callousness requires posthaste a dispute resolution.

Well, enough of the backstabbing and mudslinging and get back to work seriously, gentlemen and ladies. The economic boom currently enjoyed by the country has necessitated the development of viable legal infrastructure comprised of sound economic fundamentals – and professionals - responsive and talented members of Congress who are capable of understanding and promulgating of laws involving socio-economic development. Political reform, which would bolster economic and social change, is needed urgently. The effort is just the beginning and it promises to help spread the concept of rule of law and political maturity.

Attempts at political reform must be aimed at filling voids in the system created by economic and social reforms.

While political history reminds us that the course of change is never certain, it also teaches that unwillingness to reform is certainly damaging.

9

Indonesia strives for economic growth in equity ( 1st of two parts )

SPECIAL FEATURE

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BY FARDAH

O the surprise of many people, poverty problem is now found not only in least-developed countries, but also in middle-income economies, and even social inequality has started to haunt developed countries.

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono when speaking in a cabinet meeting on economic issues in Jakarta recently warned that in countries having a high economic growth, usually the gap between the haves and the have nots is widening.

Therefore, economic growth should have a proper plan of action to help address the social inequality, he said after attending a presentation by the National Economic Committee (KEN) which focused among other things on addressing poverty and the social inequality.

As the president of a growing economic nation and a co-chair of a High-Level Panel of Eminent Persons to develop a Post-2015 Development Agenda, President Yudhoyono has frequently promoted the need to achieve economic growth in equity.

“One thing is clear from our deliberations that our ultimate goal of the Post-2015 Development Agenda is to end world poverty, and to improve the well-being of our citizens,” the president said in New York, September 2012.

On the vision for the Post-2015 Development Agenda, Indonesia believed the agenda should promote equitable development, sustainable growth with equity, and strengthened global partnership, he said.

The agenda should promote an optimal balance between economic growth, social equality and environmental sustainability, the head of state stated.

According to Coordinating Economic Minister Hatta Rajasa in 2011, Indonesia is expected to be among the 10 largest economies by 2025, with a projected GDP of up to US$ 4.7 trillion.

Barclays Research has predicted that Indonesia`s economy, the biggest in Southeast Asia, will expand 6.3 percent in 2013, the same pace as the year 2012`s projected growth. In 2012, it grew 6.5 percent, the fastest pace since 1996.

Indonesia`s poverty rate was recorded at 11.6 percent until September 2012, higher than the government`s target at 10.5-11.5 percent.

National Development Planning Minister Armida Alisjahbana when speaking in a working meeting which discussed economic outlook 2013 recently said the reduction of poverty rate in the country has been slow since 2010 because the poverty elimination programs were not effective.

To address the problem, the government would improve the effectiveness of the country`s poverty elimination programs in 2013 by among others enhancing work opportunities and reduce the number of unemployment, she said.

The government will also increase the provision of small holder`s credit (KUR), provide guidance on entrepreneurship and give access to information.

10 NATION/WORLD NATION BRIEFS

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Disclaimed

t has nothing to do with us. This was the statement of Senator Bongbong Marcos Jr. on the ratification of the bill seeking to provide compensation to victims of human rights violations during the dictatorship of his late father, former President Ferdinand Marcos.

“Again it has nothing to do with us at this point anymore because the judgments have been made against us and our position has been very clear,” he said.

Lifted

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he National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) has lifted an earlier enforced “no fly, no sail, no fish” zone in the eastern seaboard Wednesday.

Earlier, NDRRMC executive director Benito Ramos said the ban was in anticipation of South Korea’s launch of a science and technology satellite at 3:55 p.m.(Philippine Standard Time) in Goheung, South Jeolla.

A

Four-star

rmed Forces chief General Emmanuel Bautista received his fourth star Wednesday, two weeks after he was installed to the highest military post. Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin pinned Bautista’s fourth star in a ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

“Ako’y natutuwang ipahayag sa inyo ‘yung nangyari kaninang umaga. Pin-in ko yung rangko ni Gen. Bautista, kung makikita nyo apat na yung estrelya nya, kahapon tatlo pa lang yan. That is effective January 20, so starting today four-star general na sya,” Gazmin said.

F

Not guilty

ormer First Gentleman Jose Miguel “Mike” Arroyo has pleaded “not guilty” on P99-million chopper scam before the Sandiganbayan. Assisted by defense counsel Edna Herrera-Batacan, Arroyo entered the plea after the anti-graft court read the charges against him Tuesday.

His plea comes after the Sandiganbayan’s Second Division ordered for his arraignment as a condition before allowing Arroyo to visit Japan and Hong Kong from Feb. 3 to 6.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

P100K gifts soon for 100-year-old Pinoys

INOYS will have more reasons to live beyond 100, as a new bill seeking to provide cash rewards for centenarians moves closer to approval.

At least 8,000 senior citizens aged 100 up are set to receive P100,000 from the government upon the enactment of the Centenarian Act. The measure, whose versions have both been approved in the Senate and House of Representatives, is now headed toward ratification, the penultimate step of legislation.

This, after Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman moved to expedite the bicameral conference committee’s approval of a reconciled version of the measure.

“Living to be a centenarian, or three decades past the life expectancy, is therefore an achievement and a distinction worthy of emulation and public recognition,” Lagman, the bill’s pricipal author, said.

Lagman said he agreed to Senate amendments on

ELDERLY SCHOLARS. Senior citizens in the Cordillera Region can choose to go to school as scholars, according to the Commission on Higher Education. Elderly scholars will be entitled

the bill, which will give 75 percent discount on goods and services that centenarians will avail. The bicameral conference also tasked a National Committee to validate the true birth year of a centenarian before releasing the centenarian gift of P100,000 to the applicant.

to a P5,000 per semester allowance to cover tuition and other school fees, and book allowance. [loQal ]

Aside from the cash gift, the bill also seeks to allow local government units to give additional rewards to centenarians in their area. Once enacted, the Centenarian Act will also extend the same rewards to Filipino centenarians living abroad.

Given the level of development in the coun-

try today, Lagman said the average Filipino can expect to live to an average of 71 years. He said the pursuit of living to be 100 demands immense self-discipline, citing studies which showed that while genetics play a role in longevity, the dominant factor in living long is lifestyle. [Yahoo!]

WORLD TODAY Unharmed

T

he vast majority of Timbuktu’s ancient manuscripts in state and private collections appear to be unharmed after the city’s 10-month occupation by Islamist rebel fighters, who did burn some of the scripts, experts said on Wednesday.

“I can say that the vast majority of the collections appear from our reports not to have been destroyed, damaged or harmed in any way,” Cape Town University’s Professor Shamil Jeppie, an expert on the Saharan city’s manuscripts, told Reuters.

F

D

in Syria, urges end to war

ENOUNCING “unrelenting horrors” in Syria’s war, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon appealed on Wednesday for an end to the violence and urged more aid to address a situation he said was catastrophic and worsening by the day.

“How many more people will be killed if the current situation continues?,” Ban said, speaking at a conference of donors in Kuwait called to drum up

more pledges of financing for U.N. humanitarian efforts.

“I appeal to all sides and particularly the Syrian government, to stop the killing ... in the name of humanity, stop the killing, stop the violence,” he said.

More than 60,000 people have been killed since the 22-month-old conflict began, the United Nations says.

The world body warned on Monday that without more money it

would not be able to help millions of Syrians and appealed for donations at the aid conference to meet its $1.5 billion target.

Some four million Syrians inside the country need food, shelter and other aid and more than 700,000 more have escaped to neighbouring countries since the conflict began, according to the United Nations. Half of the civilians affected by the crisis are children, it

PLEDGING. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon (L) prepares ahead of the opening ceremony of the International Humanitarian Pledging Conference for Syria at Bayan Palace on the outskirts of Kuwait City January 30, 2013. Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh

Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah (C) chairs the meeting and next to him is Kuwait’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Sabah AlKhaled Al-Sabah (R). [Reuters]

says.

SCALE OF CRISIS ESCALATES Wednesday’s conference will seek pledges of $1 billion of aid for Syria’s neighbours sheltering refugees and another $500 million to bankroll humanitarian work for 4 million Syrians inside the country.

The aid would fund operations for the first half of this year, but the United Nations has so far received pledges covering just 18 percent of the target, unveiled last month as the scale of Syria’s humanitarian crisis escalated sharply.

Even if pledges are made, aid groups have found in the past that converting promises into hard cash can take time.

Nevertheless, there was early positive news for the gathering when Kuwait’s emir pledged to give $300 million to the aid effort.

Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah told the meeting that “horrifying reports” of violence had raised questions over the future of Syria and aid efforts had to be redoubled.

But Ban said much more remained to be done. [Reuters]

Debates

rance’s prime minister has predicted that gay marriage will quickly be accepted by a country that has spent months embroiled in rancorous debate between supporters and opponents of the rights of same sex couples to wed and adopt children.

As legislation to that effect was presented to parliament, bridges throughout Paris were bedecked with banners proclaiming opposition to the Socialist government’s draft law.

H U.N.’s Ban decries ‘horrors’

Regrets

S House foreign affairs committee chairman Congressman Ed Royce has relayed his regrets to Philippine House of Representatives officials over the US minesweeper USS Guardian’s running aground at Tubbataha Reef last Jan. 17.

Royce, who is leading a US Congressional delegation visiting the Philippines this week, also committed to protect the environment and assured the Philippines of US cooperation, a ranking US Embassy official tweeted Wednesday.

EDGEDAVAO

Envisioned

ave more babies to build the ranks of Singaporeans and get set for a construction boom but accept heavier congestion and more foreign workers as the crowded Asian city-state grows into a global centre with 30 percent more people.

That is the vision for Singapore set out on Tuesday by the long-ruling government, just days after it lost a seat in parliament in a by-election defeat that reflected rising discontent over soaring costs and an influx of immigrants.

F

Control

rench troops have taken control of the airport in the northern Malian town of Kidal, the last rebel stronghold in the north, the French army and a local official told Reuters on Wednesday.

Kidal would be the last of northern Mali’s major towns to be retaken

by French forces, which retook Gao and Timbuktu earlier this week in a campaign to drive al Qaeda-linked Islamists from Mali’s north.

I

Released

srael said on Wednesday it had released $100 million of the tariffs and tax monies it collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority, which were frozen last year as punishment for the UN bid.

But an Israeli official said it was a one-off measure to ease the financial crisis faced by the Palestinians and was not a sign that the transfers would be renewed.

11

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 236 •THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

PRC...

FFROM 1

City Chinese Chambers of Commerce, Hijos de Davao, and other generous donors are also encouraged by PRC to help.

Lizada also appealed to private sector representatives who were present during the initial partnership meeting, saying, “You do not need to learn all the first aid procedures or do rappelling to volunteer for PRC during calamities, but you can simply be where you are and you can already be a partner of PRC.” For the quick response partnership, she said, “if you compare our partnership to an orchestra, each sector plays an important note, and if we play together, we must be able to produce one melody, which means we need to perform our roles properly and be harmonized during times of calamity.”

To create a quick response partnership in times of calamity, Lizada identified the responsibilities of each private sector involved. Bakeshops can simply donate biscocho, boaf Bread,

Pork...

and assorted bread; the universities and colleges can put up trainings and advocacies for disaster management orientations; schools with hotel and restaurant management and culinary courses can help by providing services for the MDK; rent-a-car companies can help transport respondents to the area of calamity; bottled water companies can provide water for the volunteers and to the MDK; 4 x 4 vehicle groups can transport rescue and disaster response teams to areas not accessible to trucks, ambulance and vehicles of PRC; shipping lines can help transport donations from abroad; trucking companies can help deploy goods to affected areas faster; photographers can help document affected areas; owners of water crafts must have a concerted effort in rescuing victims; hospitals can have a welfare desk to create a master list for PRC during mass-transport of victims so that relatives of victims will go straight to PRC to look for them; pharmaceutical companies can

also provide doxycycline, anti-tetanus toxoid, and first aid kit items; associations, religious groups, civic groups and youth groups can volunteer in repacking and distributing relief to victims of calamities.

Private sectors that will partner with PRC will only provide the needed assistance during calamities and each company, group or institution will only be bothered once by the PRC, as there will be a round-robin system of asking for assistance from the private sector.

After the meeting, those from the private sector that already committed and signed up for the partnership were Mamitas Bakery, Brokenshire College, Davao Eagle Volunteer Group, Davao Photographers for Peace, and the Davao City Chamber of Commerce.

More from the private sectors are expected by PRC-Davao to commit to the quick response partnership, as the rest of those who attended will still consult their members.

Zealand for processing in Kaputian, Samal into high end sausage cases for exportation to Japan and Europe.

Habacon said, “The implication is, it will generate more employment in the region as the process of creating high end sausage cases out of the green runners requires more workers.”

The annual summary of slaughter report of NMIS 11 also shows an increase in cattle production from 21,914 heads in 2011 to 24,887 in 2012, an increase in beef production from 2.6 mil-

lion kilograms in 2011 to 3 million kilograms in 2012. But chicken production decreased from 31.4 million kilograms in 2011 to 28.4 million in 2012.

According to the Consolidated Monthly slaughter reports for the entire year of 2012, Davao City leads in pork production with 14,386,556 kilograms of pork followed by Davao del Norte with 2,889,060, next is Davao del Sur with 2,441,377, Compostella Valley 2,142,063, and Davao Oriental 1,836,649.

FFROM 1

producers that they need not worry because overall meat import went up with the recent entry of imported beef, buffalo meat for burger patties, and “lamb green runners which are sheep guts.”

Meat import reports show there were 102 metric tons of imported beef, 253 metric tons of buffalo meat, and 34 metric tons of lamb green runners that came into the region during 2012.

The importation of lamb green runners is the first venture of the sheep gut industry to import sheep guts from New

Roof...

FFROM 2

Visitors Program (IVP), GK focal persons Rene Rieta and _____Mempin, Alex Buenaventura of One Network Bank, Al Barrieto of Kar-Asia, and Antonio M. Ajero of Edge Davao.

Aside from marshaling the forces of more than a dozen foundations, the effort will also employ the voluntary services of organized coconut farmers in Davao

Oriental, according to Monsgr. Capalla who worked with the sector for decades now.

The group intends to provide galvanized iron sheets, umbrella nails and other roofing materials worth P20,000 per classroom blown away by typhoon Pablo on December 4.

Donations in checks to the projects may be addressed to GawadKa-

linga/ Roof A Classroom Project.

The group will meet shortly to assess the progress of the project, They will listen to updates from the party composed of Afdal, Dureza and Rieta who earlier flew to Davao Oriental sometime last month to check the progress of the project and assess the actual needs on the ground that should be addressed.

Printing office confident to finish ballot printing in time for election

T

HE National Printing Office (NPO) is confident that the printing of the more than 52 million official ballots for the May 13 midterm elections will be completed two weeks ahead of schedule.

“We have prepared well and we will not fail you. The rolls of paper are here. The printing presses are calibrated. Our operators have undergone extensive training by German, Singaporean and local Canon engineers. The whole NPO staff eagerly awaits the go signal to print,” said NPO Director Emmanuel Andaya Andaya at the Opening Ceremony of the Official Ballot Printing at the NPO Office in Quezon City on Wednesday.

He believes that the high-end printer is fully capable of producing the ballots faster.

“The technology of the printing machines we chose for this project is

Tax...

the latest in the world and we are confident of finishing printing two weeks ahead of schedule,” the NPO official said.

The printing of the official ballots is set to start on Monday, February 4 and is expected to be completed on April 24.

Officials of the Comelec, headed by Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes, the NPO and executives of service providers Holy Family Printing Corporation and Canon Marketing Philippines attended unveiling of the three Canon Color Stream 3000 printers and the entire area, where the printing process will commence.

On the other hand, NPO Deputy Director Raul Nagrampa said the printers can produce one million ballots per day.

Also present were Commissioners Lucenito Tagle, Armando Velasco, Elias Yusoph, and Grace Padaca, as well as Parish

Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting Chairperson Henrietta de Villa, and Presidential Communication Operations Office Secretary Sonny Coloma. (PNA) MANILA, Jan. 30 (PNA) -- The National Printing Office (NPO) is confident that the printing of the more than 52 million official ballots for the May 13 midterm elections will be completed two weeks ahead of schedule.

“We have prepared well and we will not fail you. The rolls of paper are here. The printing presses are calibrated. Our operators have undergone extensive training by German, Singaporean and local Canon engineers. The whole NPO staff eagerly awaits the go signal to print,” said NPO Director Emmanuel Andaya Andaya at the Opening Ceremony of the Official Ballot Printing at the NPO Office in Quezon City on Wednesday. [PNA]

said the increase was “built up from the previous policies of the city and not done overnight.”

“Previous policies such as policies focusing on peace and order and creating more infrastructures, making Davao City more conducive for investments,” Jardin said.

Jardin also attributed the growing collection to Mayor Sarah Duterte’s active role in inviting investors to infuse their capital in Davao City. “Her active role has helped boost the tax collection,” he added.

Jardin cited the steady flow of conventions staged in the city which increased visitor traffic in the city.

He sampled the new-

ly-opened SMX Convention Center inside the Henry Sy-owned SM Lanang Premier which draws some 3,000 attendees to various conventions staged every month in that venue alone.

“There will be a total 36,000 people every year, these people will spend money. If these people spend P 10,000 each for hotels, food, and services, the city will have P 60 million in sales which will be converted to tax for the city,” he stressed.

Jardin further predicted more increase in local revenues when the coal-fired power plant of Aboitiz will be completed.

for activation.

Globe said that “such inaction and neglect of NTC rules by PLDT betray their apparent lack of serious regard for the mandatory character of interconnection” to the detriment of public service.

The NTC was reacting to news last week of interconnection problems experienced by subscribers. Sun Cellular’s Twitter account had messages from subscribers complaining about the diffi-

culty in texting to other networks. According to one Patrick Castro “Nahihirapan ako magtext sa other networks ngayon!! @ suncelltweets (Patrick Castro @patrickjcastro)” Smart Communications on the other hand, released an advisory also through its own Twitter account advising its postpaid and prepaid subscribers of a temporary disruption in sending of SMS to off-network numbers.

FFROM 2

lection was placed at P401,644,943 during the same period.

The figures were based on the Statistics on Business Permit Collection 2013 report of the City Treasurer’s Office.

The same report also bared an increase in the collection of business permit fees paid this year as compared to last year’s figures over the same period from 21,733 in 2012 to 24,502 in 2013.

City Treasurer Anastacio Jardin told EDGE Davao that the upswing trend is attributed to administrative policies anchored on peace and order to ensure favorable business climate. Jardin

Globe...

FFROM 2

ment, Globe filed a letter to the NTC last week requesting for the regulator’s urgent intervention and compel PLDT to fulfill its local interconnection commitments with Globe/Innove, especially in the provinces. Local interconnection with PLDT has been pending for years now despite orders from the NTC and public inconvenience. To date, only 11 out of the 32 candidate areas for local interconnection have been accommodated by PLDT

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EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 236 •THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

THREE IN A ROW

SPORTS 13

Are the LakersLfor real now?

Kobe Bryant ((left) is taking the role of a facilitator while Steve Nash (right) is assuming the second guard spot.

OS ANGELES (AP) -- Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers really think they’re on to something, even if it’s nothing revolutionary.

They’re gaining confidence in their newfound attitude and approach with each victory they’re producing.

Not even a fantastic fourth-quarter rally by the New Orleans Hornets could shake Kobe’s conviction that the Lakers have finally figured out a few things about their puzzling season.

Dwight Howard scored 24 points, Bryant had 14 points and 11 assists in another pass-first performance, and the Lakers hung on to beat New Orleans 111-106

Tuesday night for their first three-game winning streak in five weeks.

Earl Clark had 20 points and 12 rebounds for the Lakers (2025), who jumped to an 18-point lead midway through the fourth quarter with their third straight game of patient passing and hard-nosed defense quarterbacked

by Bryant. The fifth-leading scorer in NBA history has warmly embraced his new role as a playmaker no surprise for somebody whose first basketball muse was Magic Johnson. ‘’It’s working pretty well,’’ said Bryant, whose 39 assists in the Lakers’ last three games are the biggest three-game total of his 17-season career. ‘’It’s very easy for me to look over the defense and know where they’re coming from, just kind of line my guys up in the right way and just pick them apart.’’

With Bryant running the show, the Lakers even survived a frenetic finish.

Their lead dwindled to 102-101 with 2 minutes left shortly after an electric 16-2 run in a 2 1/2 minute stretch by the Hornets, but Clark hit a layup and Steve Nash calmly buried a 3-pointer with 1:21 left to clinch Los Angeles’ ninth straight win over New Orleans.

Nash had 12 points and five assists, while Antawn Jamison scored 16 points. Four-time AllStar Pau Gasol had seven points, seven rebounds and seven assists as a reserve in the Lakers’ final home game before a seven-game trip, their longest of the season, while the Grammy Awards take over Staples Center.

The trip should be

daunting for the Lakers, who have lost 15 of 20 on the road this season, including seven straight since Christmas. Instead, they’re optimistic about trying out their new approach in a hostile environment. ‘’We’re doing a good job of not being selfish, and of doing whatever we can to help our team win,’’ Howard said. ‘’Things are clicking for us. Our offense is a lot smoother, and on defense we’re really holding each other accountable.’’

Sounds simple - but the Lakers have rarely looked this good in their complex season.

Eric Gordon scored 18 of his 25 points in the first half for the Hornets, who got within one point on Greivis Vasquez’s running jumper.

Ryan Anderson scored 11 of his 16 points in the fourth quarter for the Hornets, who had won eight of 12, including an impressive victory in Memphis two nights earlier at the start of their five-game trip. Anderson, Vasquez and Robin Lopez led the impressive late rally that just fell short, with Lopez finishing with 16 points and nine rebounds. ‘’We’re a young team that’s still building chemistry, and to come back like that is a really good confidence boost for the guys,’’ said Gordon, a Staples Center favorite in his career with the Clippers. ‘’We had a chance to win.

We were getting a lot of stops and were scoring at will. It just boiled down to the final plays.’’

Rookie Anthony Davis had 18 points for the Hornets, who haven’t beaten the Lakers at Staples Center since January 2009.

Kobe Bryant is stopped on his tracks by New Orleans’ rookie Anthony Davis.

14

SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

PRISAA NATIONAL GAMES

EDGEDAVAO

DC athletes ready to see action

By Neil Bravo

D

A Holy Child player squeezes through between two Agro Industrial Foundation College defenders in this bit of action during their encounter in the NBTC Davao Regional Eliminations at the Ladislawa Gym. Agro won 86-85. (Boy Lim)

AVAO City will be joining some 6,000 athletes, coaches, and game officials from the 17 regions of the country that will see action in the 2013 National Games of the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) from February 11 to 16 at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center.

“We are completing all our documentary requirements now and consolidating our delegation,” Joaquin Sarabia, PRISAA XI Executive Director, told EDGE Davao yesterday.

Davao City will be spearheading the regional contingent after topping most of the 25 events completed to virtually retain the overall title earlier this month.

Sarabia said Davao City will be powered by University of Mindanao, Davao Merchant Marine Academyy, University of the Immaculate Conception, Jose Maria College, Mindanao Aeronautical Technical School and

and marketing manager Celina Matias, The Year of the Snake Run organizer Eric Lim and (Prisaa) 11 executive director Joaquin “Boy” Sarabia have been invited as today’s panelists.

Matias tackles the Jr. NBA Davao leg that will hold its clinic this weekend while Lim briefs DSA

members on the details of their Feb. 10 run organized in coordination with the Vantage Sports Promotions.

Sarabia, meanwhile, talks about the preparations and final roster of Prisaa 11 athletes seeing action in the national championship slated Feb. 11 to 16 in Pangasinan.

tially challenge the issuance by the Department of Labor and Employment of an employment permit to Toroman as head coach of a PBA team. According to DOLE’s Revised Rules for the Issuance of Employment Permits, the ” availability of a Filipino who is competent, able and willing to do the job intended for the foreign national” can be grounds for denial.

Narvasa said Toroman could still be part of the Barako Bull coaching staff as team consultant.

“We welcome everyone

who can [contribute to developing basketball in the Philippines], but not one individual can make a difference, both local and international,” said Narvasa.

Toroman earlier said that he didn’t have a problem with his job title, saying he could work at Barako Bull either as its coach or team consultant. He enjoyed a similar setup at the start of the Philippine Cup, sharing Petron coaching duties with Olsen Racela, before team management pulled the plug on the experiment after a poor start.

Games will be hosted by PRISAA Region 1 headed

by Dr. Gonzalo T. Duque, concurrently national PRISAA president; who is president of the Lyceum-Northwestern University in Dagupan and the Pangasinan provincial government headed by Governor Amado Espino Jr. The events on tap in the week-long national sports conclave for collegiate athletes are basketball, badminton, sepak takraw, beach volleyball, baseball, volleyball, football, boxing, chess, Karate-do, lawn tennis, table tennis, dance sport and swimming in the men’s and women’s division, judo for men and softball for women.

The PRISAA national games will be held in cooperation with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) – Region 1 and Department of Education through Schools Divisions of Pangasinan 1 and City of Dagupan. (with a report from PNA)

include a brand new Subaru Forester, Honda motorcycle, Samsung 26-inch LCD TV set, and two cash prizes at P5,000 each.

The tournament is held in celebration of the Apo ladies golf team’s successful campaign in 2012. The Apo ladies won the WGAP Pearl Division tournament in Cagayan de Oro in August and the PAL Ladies Interclub in Iloilo last October.

Proceeds of the tour-

nament will go to the Apo Ladies’ charitable projects particularly the victims of Pablo in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental and for the participation of Apo ladies in future competitions.

The tournament is an 18-hole event using the Stableford system of scoring.

Awarding ceremonies and raffles will follow at Jaime’s Restaurant in Lanang on March 3 at 6:30 p.m. (Neil Bravo)

Open Invitational golf set at Apo

Jr. NBA, PRISAA T at DSA Forum today I T WILL be Jr. NBA and the forthcoming Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) National Games as the main dishes today in the weekly Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum at 10 a.m. today at Dexter’s Pizza Stadium.

Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc. brand

Davao Doctors College.

Davao City ruled volleyball men (DMMA), volleyball women (UM), taekwondo women (UM), table tennis men (UM), softball women (UM), lawn tennis men (UM), lawn tennis women (UM), karatedo men (UM), karatedo women (UM), football (UM), dancesport Latin (DDC), dancesport Modern (UIC), chess men (JMC), chess women (UM), basketball men (UM), basketball women (UM), baseball (UM) and badminton men (MATS) in the PRISAA XI Regional Games held in Tagum City.

Davao del Norte will be sending their beach volleyball event after UM-Tagum won both the men’s and women’s titles as well as boxing (UM-Panabo) and sepak takraw (UM-Tagum).

Davao del Sur will represent the region in women’s badminton, women’s table tennis and men’s taekwondo through Cor Jesu College.

The PRISAA National

HE Apo’s select Ladies Golf Circe will be hosting The Open Invitation Golf Tournament on March 2 and 3 at the Apo Golf and Country Club.

The tournament is open to all men’s amateur players based on handicap classificiation (Class A, B, C and D) and Ladies.

Prizes are at stake in the Gross and Net categories in all classes.

Hole-in-one prizes at designated par 3 holes

Rajko can’t coach--BCAP

R

AJKO The Basketball Coaches Association of the Philippines is putting its foot down regarding Rajko Toroman’s potential appointment as head coach of Barako Bull in the PBA. BCAP president Chito Narvasa said that the team has approached him about its intention of appointing the Serbian coach to helm the squad.

“No, he cannot,” said Narvasa when asked about whether Toroman could become a PBA head coach The BCAP could poten-

Run for Rio 2013 marketing officer Bam Dumagpi, left, and project head Jaycelmae Polinar briefs media on the Run for Rio 2013, a fun run for a cause, set on April 7, 2013 during the weekly Club 888 media forum at the Marco Polo Davao yesterday. Run for Rio 2013 is a fund raising project of the

Philippine international volunteers for the World Youth Day. The proceeds of the fun run will be used to cover the travel expenses of the volunteers from the Philippines to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil where the World Youth Day 2013 will be held.

Lean Daval Jr.

INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

Inadobong Manok sa gata at sili.

Antonio’s redefines Pinoy streetfood Sisig pusit.

EVERYBODY loves street food and Antonio’s Bar and Grill takes Filipino street food and gives them a modern twist.

Last January 29, Antonio’s adds two new dishes and one new dessert to add to their long list of Pinoy favourites and I was lucky enough to be able to taste the new dishes as well as eleven other papular signature dishes.

New on the menu is Antonio’s Sisig Pusit, squid stuffed with pork sisig. The squid was tender and the sisig stuffing added much needed fat and flavour to the dish. You could say that it is Antonio’s version of a surf and turf all served on a sizzling hot plate.

Another new dish is their version of an Ilokano favourite, the Bagnet. Salty, fatty, and crispy pork belly

Frozen Buko Pandan

that is served with a papaya pickle and vinegar, the crispy texture of the skin and meat paired with the saltiness of the pork plus a little of the vinegar and tart pickle makes for sure hit which I expect to rival Antonio’s Crispy Pata. (I would give the bagnet an edge since it does not have

Fried Tuna Belly

any bones which makes for easier eating.)

Other dishes that I liked that were served that day were the Bulalo, bone marrow soup; the Crispy Tuna Belly; and their Binagoongang Gulay.

For dessert, we had a taste of Antonio’s version of Buko Pandan. What makes the dessert special is that it is served frozen when the traditional Buko Pandan is usually served just chilled.

I also loved their Fried Ube Turon served with cream, although I wish it was paired with vanilla ice creams instead to liven up the flavour some more.

Normally, I would wrap up my column here the loving continues at Antonio’s as they presented their February promo

called “The Antonio’s Love Story.”

Diners will be given a Love Story card which features the dishes I mentioned plus other signature dishes from Antonio’s.

For every order of a featured dish, a stamp will be awarded. Complete all 14 stamps and the diner gets a cute Antonio’s couple’s shirt, just in time for Valentines Day. The promo is available at Antonio’s Bar and Grill SM City Davao, SM CIty General Santos and Abreeza Mall, good luck and happy eating.

Follow me on Twitter and Instagram @kennethkingong for more foodie finds, travel tips and happenings in and around Durianburg.

Ube Turon

Serving the Pinaputok na manok.

Bagnet

EDGEDAVAO

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UP AND ABOUT

Welcome the Year of the Snake at the Waterfront JOIN US at the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao, as we welcome luck and prosperity on the Year of the Water Snake on February 10 with a LionDragon dance at the Lobby starting at 11:00AM followed by authentic flavourful Chinese cuisines in a Chinese New Year buffet lunch at the newly renovated Cafe Uno for only Php750.00 net per person.

For inquiries or reservations, call 233-2881 local 8203 or visit www. waterfronthotels. com.ph.

Georgina’s shot of gin

PARTY like there’s no tomorrow this weekend with one of the country’s sexiest celebrity, Georgina Wilson and her gin of choice, Ginebra San Miguel, as Ginuman Fest takes Davao City this February 1.

After its successful launch in Tarlac, Ginuman Fest will rock Davao City on February 1 at the Damosa Market Basket parking area with bands such as Itchyworms, Callalily, and Rocksteddy. While dance sensation Jhong Hilario will showcase the latest moves on the dance floor.

Georgina, Anne Curtis, Maja Salvador, Solenn Heusaff, Paulo Avelino and Dingdong Dantes are the GSMI brand ambassadors who will be gracing most of the “Ginuman Fest” legs nationwide.

Aside from great music, spectators also stand a chance to win raffle prizes totaling P100,000 for each event leg. At the recent Tarlac opening event, housewife Rodelia D. Rivera, won the P50,000 grand prize.

“Ginebra really helped me and my family tremendously. I am very grateful and thankful to Ginebra San Miguel,” said Rivera, who plans to use the money to put up a small business.

GSMI liquor products such as Gran Matador Brandy, Antonov Vodka and non-alcoholic beverages are also available at the venues.

The “Ginuman Fest” will be held at San Fernando, La Union on Feb. 16; San Pedro, Laguna on Feb. 23; Cebu (March 1); Antipolo (March 9); Pampanga (March 16); Santiago, Isabela (March 22); Kalibo, Aklan (April 12); Dasmariñas, Cavite (April 19); Lipa, Batangas (April 26); Solano, Nueva Vizcaya (May 17), Lucena, Quezon (May 24); Naga, Camarines Sur (May 31); and Metro Manila (June 8).

“Ginuman Fest” is GSMI’s way of thanking its millions of kalahi for making its flagship product, Ginebra San Miguel, the world’s largest-selling gin. Ginebra San Miguel was introduced in 1834 and will be celebrating its 180thanniversary in 2014.

Check out “Ginuman Fest” posters and print ads for more details.

SAVORY JAPANESE SIOMAI. Originally a Chinese dumpling made with pork, the siomai now comes in different versions. These large size Japanese siomai with real crab meat is one of the latest offerings you can try at the newly renovated Oases Seafood Restaurant inside the Garden Oases compound. A single serving consisting of 4 Japanes siomai costs only P60 but if you dine there this week until January 31, you can enjoy 30% off the regular price. Reserve a table now by calling 224-1403.

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

EVENTS

Pambato Cargo hold its 33rd annual manager’s conference

PAMBATO the leader in cargo forwarding in the Philippines had their 33rd Annual Manager’s Conference. This year’s theme was “Confronting Challenges to Achieve a Conforming Environment”.

It was a six day event held in their Head office in Sampaloc, Manila and the last day was all fun and laughter as they had their team building at Anvaya Cove Resort, Bataan. It was attended by the different managers nationwide. The awardees for this year were given to the most outstanding branch which was awarded to Butuan Branch, the cost effective branch goes to Palawan Branch. The Best Branch Operations Managers were awarded to Dumaguete Manager, 1st runner up to Cagayan de Oro Manager and 2nd runner up was given to Davao Manager.

From its humble beginning in 1979 servicing only the cities of Manila and Cagayan De Oro, Pambato has grown into a nationwide network throughout the provinces of the Visayas and Mindanao. The Luzon region is serviced with trucking. Whether it is a shipment from Manila to the provinces or vice versa, to an isolated region, or transshipment between branches, Pambato will get it door to door. Distribution, Trucking, Hauling, Warehousing and even Special Projects are the services Pambato catered.

Pambato is proud of it’s excellent safety record, one of the finest in the warehousing and transportation industry. Our operation personnel are very dedicated to deliver your cargoes on time, intact and in the safest manner possible.

We obey the rules and believe in Accountability. We recognize the awareness and attention to speed limits, traffic rule, road and weather conditions which

we strongly believe are the critical components of quality freight management. Whether operating forklifts or warehouse equipment, our warehouse and loading personnel adhere to strict Company guidelines regarding proper job procedures.

We believe our great safety record is due to the quality of the employees we hire, along with on-going or continuous training and fleet and resources maintenance. WE CARE ABOUT YOUR CARGO! Pambato Cargo Forwarder is committed to use a modern technology to improve our operational efficiencies. This is also to provide a value added services to our customer which is one of our strength. We focus on the use of data to analyze costs, employee performance, equipment maintenance and logistics.

For our Valued Customers, real time information about their shipments is available every day. We monitor the shipments and deliveries very closely to ensure on time and safe delivery. Our modern technology has given us

the tools to measure and improve-resulting in better service for our valued customers. All of our branches are owned and operated by Pambato. We do not believe in outsourcing. Monitoring and controlling our customer’s cargoes from the beginning to the whole nine yards is a must do!

We strongly believe that PAMBATO approach and processes allow us to manage your freight on a consistent, high-quality basis and “worry free”!

For your shipment needs you may contact Davao Branch at 221-4114 located at Villamor St., bo.

Obrero, Davao City.

KORONADAL CITY – Capping the last 13th Koronadal Hinugyaw Festival was the opening of the multi-awarded Philippine Veterans Bank World War II Traveling Exhibit put on display at the Koronadal City Hall Lobby. Entitled, “War of Our Fathers”, the traveling exhibit returns to Koronadal City to continue its mission of sharing to the public, especially to the youth, the legacy of our World War II Filipino veterans and the value of freedom which they fought for decades ago.

The exhibit, co-sponsored by the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) and with the cooperation of the City Government of Koronadal features numerous World War II photographs, maps, artifacts, and memorabilia that pay tribute to the bravery, patriotism, and determination of Filipinos – men and women – who fought and died for our country’s freedom during the war.

The exhibit has traveled

extensively throughout the country since 2006 visiting over 40 cities and municipalities and displayed in schools, malls, museums, provincial and city halls. In 2009, the exhibit was invited to and displayed at the Nanjing War Memorial Museum in Nanjing, China. In addition, the exhibit has received the recognition of several award-giving bodies including the Anvil Awards, Gold Quill Awards, and the PANATA Awards.

The exhibit was recently opened in simple ceremonies to be led by Koronadal City Mayor Peter Miguel & PVB Officials. The next stop of the Exhibit is in the Sarangani Provincial Capitol. Shown in the photo are from L-R: SoCot Board Members Ernesto Catedral and Agustin Dema-ala, VFP District Commnader Federico Cabang, Vice Mayor Eliodo U. Ogena, Mayor Peter B. Miguel, and PVB VP Mike Villa-Real, Corporate Communications Head.

Hinugyaw Festival culminates with Veterans Bank exhibit

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

ENTERTAINMENT

Ashley Judd and husband Dario Franchitti break up ASHLEY JUDD and Dario Franchitti have hit the brakes.

The actress and her IndyCar-racer husband announced Tuesday that they have separated after more than 11 years of marriage, E! News confirms.

“We have mutually decided to end our marriage,” they said in a statement to People. “We’ll always be family and continue to cherish our relationship based on the special love, integrity, and respect we have always enjoyed.”

No word yet on whether or not they have taken steps toward divorce or legal separation.

Judd married Franchitti in his native Scotland in December 2001 after a two-year engagement.

They do not have any children.

Approaching their eighth wedding anniversary, Judd told Red-

book back in 2009 that she and Franchitti gave each other “an appreciation” every day, even when they weren’t really in the mood.

“But that’s the point of the exercise,” she said.

“Even when one is cross, to get some gratitude on

board.”

Asked last year what it was like to be married to a Hollywood star, Franchitti, a three-time Indianapolis 500 champ himself, told iVillage, “The way I answer that is I’ve never been married to anybody else so I don’t really know.”

his upcoming album, The 20/20 Experience.

And judging by the video, which stars Timberlake sporting a fierce suit by the designer and flashing the Tom Ford label of his tasteful tie, we can expect some seriously dashing style from the pair.

This isn’t the first time the William Rast designer has teamed up with Ford; the duo worked together to create everything from Timberlake’s dapper tux to his grosgrain-trimmed patent loafers at his wedding.

But it appears Ford is

doing more than just design for The 20/20 Experience: The multitalented designer, who logged time as a film director for A Single Man, even created the “Suit & Tie” artwork, which features a close-up of (you guessed it!) a Tom Ford tux and bow-tie.

We’ll have to wait until the album’s March 19 release date to see what else Ford has up his stylish sleeves for Timberlake’s album, but we have no doubt this bromance will up the ante for men’s suits, ties and overall appearance.

Justin Timberlake to collaborate with Tom Ford

BY NOW, you’ve probably heard Justin Timberlake croon about his “Suit & Tie,” but did you know the stylish singer also had a hand in creating the bespoke attire he wears in his latest music video?

That’s right, J.T. has collaborated with none other than Tom Ford— you know, the designer responsible for suiting up Timberlake and Bradley Cooper at the recent SAG Awards—to create a snazzy selection of eveningwear, shirts, suits, ties and even shoes for

INdulge! A3

EDGEDAVAO

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FOOD

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

From the pantry to the plate PART 3

HERE COMES the last installment for my January series. I believe there are still more in your pantries and thus you could whip up more than I have listed. Let your imagination wander and your palate to guide you as you come up with dishes that speaks of your personality.

Most of my dishes are individually inspired. Yes, they speak of the people I am most with and those that make my life’s fire burning. 2013 is my way of thanking each and every one of those that made me who I am today. Salute to you and to those who would soon make an entrance in my life, welcome!

I am a self-confessed pancake lover (ask my friends and they’ll nod the second they hear the word pancake juxtaposed with my name) that’s why I have boxes of premixed pancake mixes in my pantry.

Whether morning, noon or nighttime, it is pancakes for me. I can eat them all day long, with sauce or not, as long as it’s hot.

Trio Sauce Pancake I got bored of the same old maple and butter combo so I opted to come up with different sauces for our favorite pancakes.

Give these new and captivatingly delicious sauces a chance and see how far your taste buds would go.

For the pancake: Ingredients: 1 200 grams Pancake Mix Oil for frying 1 egg white 2/3 cup water 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Method: In a bowl, whisk egg white until stiff but still fluffy.

In another bowl, mix pancake mix, water, dissolved guava jam and oil.

Mix thoroughly and make sure there are no lumps.

Slowly fold whisked egg white, incorporating air as you go into the mixture.

Pour ¼ cup batter onto a heated and oil pan.

Cook until edges look dry and bubbles begin to appear. Turn pancakes over to cook until golden brown. Set aside.

pletely incorporated. Chill before serving.

Sauces could be stored in airtight containers for a good week. Heat sauce 1 and 2 before serving.

Sauce #1 Guava Sauce: Ingredients: 3 tablespoons dissolved guava jam (simmer 2 tablespoons of guava jam in 3 tablespoons water) 3 tablespoon melted butter 5 tablespoon water In a pan over low heat, place guava jam and water.

Dissolve completely and simmer until it reduces in half. Add butter. Let simmer. Remove from heat.

Sauce #2: Cranberry and Mudlside Duet Ingredients: 3 tablespoon cranberry concentrate 3 tablespoon Mudslide In a pan, simmer all ingredients until it reduces in half. Serve while hot.

You can add fresh cranberry juice for added flavor.

Sauce #3: Honey, Maple and Butter Ingredients: 3 tablespoon melted butter 3 tablespoon Maple syrup 3 tablespoon Honey In a bowl, combine all ingredients until com-

Mini Pancakewiches Who said pancakes cannot be played with?

More than the different sauces that could accompany it, it could be made into cute bite size pieces that could lighten up anybody’s gloomy day. Try this one and be amazed on the versatility of pancakes.

For the pancakes: Ingredients: 1 200 grams Pancake Mix Oil for frying 1 egg white 2/3 cup water 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Method: In a bowl, whisk egg white until stiff but still fluffy.

In another bowl, mix pancake mix, water, cranberry juice and oil. Mix thoroughly and make sure there are no lumps. Slowly fold whisked egg white, incorporating air as you go into the mixture.

Pour ¼ cup batter onto a heated and oil pan.

Cook until edges look dry and bubbles begin to appear. Turn pancakes over to cook until golden brown.

Using a polvoron cutter, cut pancakes in circles and set aside.

Ingredients for the

jelly: 1 pack jelly powder, any flavor (I used Orange flavor) 1 cup fruit preserved syrup 3 cups water Cook jelly as per package instruction. Pour into mold once cooked. Chill.

Using a polvoron cutter, cut chilled jelly pieces and set aside.

Praline Nuts Ingredients: ½ cup spiced nuts 4 tablespoon raw sugar Heat pan over low heat, pour sugar and let caramelized. Add nuts and cook until well coated.

Pour hot mixture over parchment paper and let cool. Once cooled, break into pieces and store in airtight container.

Assembly: Spread a bit of maple syrup on one side of the pancake. Sandwich the jelly in between two pancakes. Top with nuts and a bit of butter. Chill before serving.

Happy birthday to my cousins Bai Faiqha S. Blo and Kuya Datu Third.

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 leebai@chefroyale.com or visit www. chefroyale.com for more recipes. Happy Cooking!

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 236 •THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

Why in a hurry, Manny?

APRIL FIGHT TURNED DOWN

A

Azkals welcome new recruit F

ILIPINO-SPANISH recruit Javier Patiño has arrived in the country as the newest member of the Azkals.

Philippine national men’s football coach Hans Michael Weiss welcomed the Azkals’ new striker saying he is thrilled to have

Patiño, despite his commitments with his club Cordoba CF in the Spanish second division league.

Patino made an effort to come to the country to arrange his Philippine passport, which will make him eligible to play for the Azkals.

“I find that more than exciting because a player, during the season, makes that long trip to the Philippines and is getting ready to obtain his passport is a very good sign for us,” Weiss said.

Patiño, who arrived Monday night, will not be

able to join the Azkals practices this week as he has to fly back immediately to Spain to return to his club.

Weiss has high hopes for the highly-touted Patiño, a striker who could ease the offensive burden off scorers Phil Younghusband and Angel Guirado.

Iverson turns down D-League

P

HILADELPHIA (AP) -- Allen Iverson is taking a pass on the D-League.

Iverson, the 2001 NBA MVP, has turned down an opportunity to return to basketball with the Dallas Mavericks’ Development League affiliate. He posted a series of tweets on Tuesday explaining his decision to decline an offer from Texas Legends’ co-owner Donnie Nelson to join the team. ‘’I thank Donnie and Dallas for the consideration,’’ Iverson wrote, ‘’And while I think the D-League is a great opportunity, it is not the route for me.’’

Gary Moore, Iverson’s manager, confirmed the decision with The Associated Press. Iverson was not available for an interview.

Moore was in Philadelphia visiting with Sixers owner Josh Harris and CEO Adam Aron about reconnecting Iverson with the 76ers. Iverson led the Sixers to the 2001 NBA finals and is firmly cemented as one

of the franchise’s alltime great players. He is the franchise leader in 40-point games (76), 3-pointers (885), and is second behind Hal Greer in points (19,931). He had two stints with the Sixers and last played for them in 2009-10.

Moore said there are no immediate plans for the 37-year-old Iverson to retire. ‘’Once he does do that, I want to ensure that Josh Harris and Adam Aron know how much Allen appreciates what Philadelphia has meant to him, what the NBA has meant to him,’’ Moore said, ‘’And to someday, come back and be a consultant to them, to help them do certain things.’’

Aron and the Texas Legends did not immediately return messages for comment.

Under Harris’ ownership, the Sixers have made increased efforts to bring back their past stars, like Hall of Fame standout Julius Erving.

Erving returned to the Sixers as a strategic ad-

viser in May and is available to the franchise on an as-needed basis.

Iverson earned a roaring standing ovation when he presented the game ball before Philadelphia’s Game 6 win over Boston in last season’s Eastern Conference semifinals.

He watched the game from a suite and his eyes watered up when he was shown later in the game on the big screen as the crowd, thousands wearing No. 3 jerseys, went wild and chanted, ‘’MVP!’’ Iverson later posted on Twitter, ‘’You can always come home again!!!’’

Iverson has not played in the NBA since abruptly leaving the Sixers in March 2010 to deal with a sick daughter. He had a brief stop with a professional team in Turkey and has played exhibition games in China.

Dallas forward Dirk Nowitzki recently passed Iverson for 18th on the NBA’s career scoring list.

planned ring return for eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao in April in Manila has apparently been scuttled, leaving the fabled Filipino fighter with no other choice but to wait for a fifth fight with Juan Manuel Marquez in September.

Sources reveal that Team Pacquiao’s asking price was too big, compelling telecom titan Manny V. Pangilinan to turn down a proposal to stage a fight in mid-April.

Besides, Pangilinan’s group is neck-deep in commitments this year, making it virtually impossible for the country’s premier sports patron to lend a hand to Team Pacquiao’s wish to fight on local soil.

Pacquiao had earlier

eyed Singapore, Macau and Dubai as likely venues but the lack of time to stage such a huge event was a big contributory factor for it to be set aside at least for the meantime.

Promoter Bob Arum is not hot on the idea of Pacquiao engaging in an interim fight before the fifth showdown with Marquez in September.

Even trainer Freddie Roach prefers Pacquiao to sit it out as it will only do him good since he is coming off a sixth-round beatdown at the hands of Marquez.

Still, all is not lost for members of Team Pacquiao since they are on the lookout for solid backers.

But if they could not come up with something by next month, everything will point to September.

16 SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 236 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013

PAL INTERCLUB PREVIEW

EDGEDAVAO

Meet the Palos Verdes swingers (First of 3 parts)

By Neil Bravo

A

team composed of promising young turks and grizzled veterans make up the Regular Men’s squad of the Rancho Palos Verdes golf team to the 66th Philippine Airlines Interclub set to tee off in Cebu City beginning on February 21.

The men’s squad will be banking on multi-titled Joel Yamyamin, Larry Miculob, Marc Lopez, Monchit Mackay, Kuresh Samanodi, Chris Tan, Vincent Gumapac, Paul Garcia, Jeff Ramirez and Ninot Galicia.

The team alternates are Jeffrey Ramirez and Vincent Arenas.

Cebu Country Club and Mactan Island Golf Club will host the regular Interclub set February 26 to March 2. More than half of the 78 squads in the regular Interclub are from overseas.

In the Senior’s Interclub, Rancho Palos Verdes will be fielding a team led

by Interclub veteran Jose Francisco Llamas, Faisal Samanodi, Eduardo Wee, Diemy Monedero, Louie Brodeth, Herminio Martin, Archimedes Moralizon, Victoriano Gonzales, Jose Albert Casenas, and Jeffreynante Abejay.

Canlubang will defend the seniors’ title it narrowly won last year in Davao in this year’s edition set February 2124 at the Alta Vista Golf and Country Club and Club Filipino de Cebu Golf Club. A record 100 teams, including 53 from abroad,

are entered in the Seniors event.

This year’s host unravels four golf courses for the event, hence the theme “4 at the Fore.”

P r e sented by PAL, the event is sponsored by Mareco Broadcasting Network (Crossover), Solar Entertainment, Plantation Bay and Media Five. It is also backed by major sponsors Manila Broadcasting Corp., Philippine Broadcasting Network, Stargate Media and Radio Mindanao Network.

Corporate sponsors include Shangri La Hotel Mactan, Boeing International Corp., Radisson Blu Hotel and Philippine Daily Inquirer. Minor sponsor is Ginebra San Miguel.

Meantime, Host Cebu Country Club will eye back-to-back titles in the regular division as four courses will be employed for the very first time in tournament history.

Cebu, which hosts the unofficial national golf team championship for the first time in 12 years, has the luxury of the hometown advantage as its confidence was boosted after winning last year’s title over Del Monte in Davao.

Jose Francisco Llamas (top photo) will be leading the Senior’s squad for Rancho Palos Verdes, while Joel Yamyamin (lower photo) will be the top gun for RPV’s Men’s squad.