Edge Davao 6 Issue 152

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

FISH CONSERVATION. Leo, a catfish wholesaler and retailer from Los Amigos in Tugbok district, holds a quarter kilo catfish in front of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) 11 on R. Magsaysay Avenue. BFAR celebrates the 50th Fish Conservation Week on October 13-19 with activities such as trade fair, fish processing technology lecture, mangrove planting and catfish dispersal. Lean Daval Jr.

PDEA probes reports versus barangay officials

BRGY. EXECS IN DRUGS?

By Emilord P. Castromayor

A

N ANTIDRUG agency is conducting an investigation after receiving reports on barangay officials who are allegedly involved in illegal drug activities in the region.

Director Emerson Rosales of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 11 said they will establish first the evidence before undertaking any operation against the more or less 10 elected officials.

“There are many reports but we will eliminate the malicious ones,” Rosales said.

Some of the officials allegedly involved are residents of Davao City while the rest are from other places of the Davao region.

Rosales explained that they would first verify the reports since the barangay elections are fast approaching. Perhaps these are just a prank to destroy

FBRGY., 10

SIMPLY HEALTHY. Philips’ Mia Nuñez (rightmost), Can Serve Foundation’s Kara Alikpala (3rd from right), Lanie Eusebio (3rd from left) and Davao City Health Office’s Dr. Josephine Villafuerte (2nd from right), Dr. Margie Culos (2nd from left) and Dr. Isagani Braganza hold hands to show their unity during the launching of Philips Simply Healthy at Ronaldo’s restaurant on F. Torres St. Simply Healthy is a joint project of Philips, City Government of Davao, I Can Serve Foundation and World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Phils. which aims to empower 25 poor families identified by the City Health Office by teaching them the negative impact of malnultrition and the importance of saving the environment. Lean Daval Jr.

DCL Final 6 cast is complete INSIDE: ‘Shabu’ worth P10.8-M confiscated Jan. to June LGU scholars conduct environmental activity

PBA BOUND?

2 4 16

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

TAKING ADVANTAGE. An enterprising lady takes advantage of the election season to earn extra cash by selling documentary stamps and Certificate of Candidacy (COC) forms to barangay election candidates in front of the Com-

mission on Elections (Comelec) 11 office at Magsaysay Park in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

11 cops in Region 12 dismissed for drugs E

LEvEN policemen in Region 12 have been dismissed from active service in the last nine months for using illegal drugs and involvement in various illegal drug-related activities in the area.

Chief Supt. Charles Calima Jr., Region 12 police director, said Monday the dismissed policemen had all tested positive of using illegal drugs, specifically of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu, in mandatory tests facilitated by the regional police office.

“This is part of our continuing efforts to cleanse our ranks of lawless elements who

have been disguising as police officers,” he said in a radio interview.

In dismissing the 11 policemen, the police official said they no longer filed criminal charges against them but took a faster route based on the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) regulations.

The PNP’s policy guidelines regarding use of prohibited drugs has set the outright dismissal from service of any police personnel who will be tested positive of drug use, he said.

“If a policeman turns out positive of using illegal drugs, he or she already failed to meet the

targets (drug personalities) while the police are responsible for street level activities since they are the primary agency in the campaign against illegal drugs as part of the peace and order process which police help to deter the number of suppliers, pushers and also sources of illegal drugs.

High value targets involve operators of

‘shabu’ laboratories, drug dens, marijuana plantations, and neutralization of drug groups, including foreigners.

Rosales said, the major entry points for illegal drugs here are along the coastline like Quezon boulevard and Toril where drug activities are rampant while the source of drugs is Cotabato

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Cops gun down ‘Shabu’ worth P10.8-M prison escapee confiscated Jan. to June A

prison escapee died on the spot when policemen shot him after allegedly threatened to stab his girlfriend late Saturday afternoon on St Michael St., Ma-a, this city.

P/Supt. Julius Silagan, commander of the Talomo police station, said that Edwin Miras, 37, of barangay Masara, Maco, Compostela valley province sustained three gunshots in the body that resulted to his instantaneous death.

Miras was a detainee in a Tagum City jail who managed to escape on october 9.

This prompted the jail Chief Inspector Peter bongat , team leader of bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Region 11 to conduct a recovery operation against Miras.

Members of the Talomo police station spotted Miras together with his girlfriend in front of a convenience store.

When he noticed the presence of the police he threatened to stab his girlfriend which prompted the police to shoot Miras.

Recovered from him was a six-inch knife. EPC

By Emilord P. Castromayor

S

oME P10.8 million worth of shabu (1,440. 98 grams) was confiscated by the authorities from January to June, this year, officials said.

Director Emerson Rosales of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 11 said they confiscated P8.8 million worth (1,213.7 grams) while police reported P2.048

million (227.58 grams) and marijuana worth P287,705.5206 (8,219.87313 grams).

The PDEA report showed the value of the illegal drugs confiscated for the half year surpassed the record of the previous years from 2011-2012 with the total amount of P3.8 million.

Rosales said this year, they are focusing their operations on high value

FSHABU, 10

DOLE reminds employers on Oct holidays’pay rules

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AboR Secretary Rosalinda baldoz Monday issued labor advisories regarding the proper pay rules for the holidays this month of october. baldoz issued Labor Advisories No. 7 and 8, Series of 2013, which shall apply on oct 15 for the celebration of the Muslim holiday Eidul Adha and on oct 28 for the holding of the barangay elections.

According to the labor chief, for the Eidul Adha, which is a regular holiday, the following holiday pay rules shall apply: (1) If the employee did not work; he or she shall be paid 100 percent of his or her salary for that day [(Daily Rate + Cost

of Living Allowance) x 100%]; (2) For work done during the regular holiday, the employees shall be paid 200 percent of his/her regular salary for that day for the first eight hours [(Daily Rate + CoLA) x 200%]; (3) For work done in excess of eight hours (overtime work), he/she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his/her hourly rate on said day [(Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 200% x 130% x number of hours worked]; (4) For work done during a regular holiday that also falls on his or her rest day, he/she shall

FDOLE, 10

VASECTOMY. Dr. Samuel Cruz (left), assistant City Health officer for Administration of the Davao City Health Office, talks about the No Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV) and its advantages while Moises Villacorta, information officer of Population Commission (POPCOM), listens during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

THE BIG NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

Sta. Cruz aspires cityhood after turning 129 years old A

S the town of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur turned 129 years old last october 5, local government leaders and populace have yearned for a new aspiration for the town to become a city.

“As the oldest town in the province of Davao del Sur, we really wanted it to become a city soon,” said Sta. Cruz Mayor Joel Ray Lopez.

Lopez said that with the constant push of the municipality towards investment generation and tourism development, there can be no other way for this town to go but cityhood.

The town has just celebrated its founding anniversary with funfilled activities on october 3-5, bannering the theme “bag-ong Tinguha, bag-ong Hagit, Dugang Kalampusan (New Aspiration, New Challenge, More Success)”.

More than a centuryold municipality, Sta. Cruz was legally created on

october 5, 1884 and it is the oldest town in Davao Region, and the third oldest town in Mindanao.

“We are glad that as we are now 129 years old, we saw several signs of success as manifested with our strong support from the private sector, national government agencies, provincial government, NGos and the general public,” Lopez stated. “our aspiration to become a city is a new challenge for us Sta. Cruzians to overcome.

It will only be just a matter of time, all we need is to believe in each other’s competence, open communication, trust, respect and cooperation among all of us residents of Sta. Cruz, and for sure our vision will be realized,” he added.

This year’s celebration was unique as all activities were fused in three days instead of the usual five days.

“We really wanted to

Army exam set for aspiring candidate soldiers, officers

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HE Philippine Army will conduct an examination for would-be officers and soldiers this week starting october 16 at five exam centers in the region.

The Philippine Army Aptitude Test battery (PAATb) is the first stage in the selection process for enlistment in the Army as soldiers and appointment as officers in the Regular Force.

This year, the Army Recruitment Center (ARC) will be accepting interested applicants with a minimum height of 5’0 inches, both for male and female. The lowering of the height requirement from 5’4 for male and 5’2 for female, is expected to bring about an increase in the number of applicants.

The changes in the minimum height

FARMY, 10

make the celebration as festive as possible that’s why we fused all the activities in three days instead of the usual five days. In a way, we can also minimize expenses while making the best out of the celebration,” said Councilor Mila Lim, the overall event coordinator of the 129th Araw ng Sta. Cruz. on october 3, the celebration started with a fun run and mangrove growing activity in the morning and was followed by the opening of Sta. Cruz Tourism and Agri-Industrial Trade Exhibit (STATE).

STATE was a showcase of tourism destinations in Sta. Cruz while also promoting products locally made by Sta. Cruz producers. It also served as a venue where agriindustrial companies in the municipality presented their product portfolios to the general public.

3

COMMEMORATION. Collector Rene Adapon imparts a bit of history of Andres Bonifacio’s heroism and the stories

FSTA. CRUZ, 10 behind the banknotes, coins and stamps where his images can be found during the first day of Kanhi exhibit as part of Bonifacio’s 150th birthday commemoration, at the Annex of SM City Davao yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

CHO probes ‘poisoning’ of 13 Holcim workers

By Emilord P. Castromayor

T

HE City Health office (CHo)is investigating the alleged poisoning of 13 laborers of a cement factory in Ilang, Davao

City Saturday morning.

“It’s up to us to determine where we can intervene as to either it was food or water contamination

so that we can avoid the problem,” Sanitary Inspector Curtis Lazarraga said.

Po2 Roldan Aquino, investigator of the

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Execs plan night, weekend markets to ease city streets

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LAST WARNING. Yusop Jimlani (right), head of the City Mayor’s Office-Drainage Management Unit (DMU) and City Demolition team, issues an ultimatum during this week’s edition of Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao yesterday, to street vendors to strictly follow the city’s sidewalk policy or their makeshift stalls and merchandise will be confiscated. To his right is Traffic Management Center (TMC) chief Dionisio Abude. Lean Daval Jr.

bunawan Police station, identified the victims as Romeo Trinidad, 43; Sherwin Palad, 24; Samuel Zeta, 20;

AvAo City local officials recommended the holding of night and weekend markets in order to accommodate street vendors to sell their merchandise to the residents, consequently clearing the streets and sidewalks of the city during the day.

Dionesio Abude, chief of the Traffic Management Center said five areas are chosen as sites for the night market namely, Ilustre Street Extension from the underpass of the bangkerohan bridge to the corner of Ilustre and Pichon Streets, Duterte to General Luna Streets, both sides of the Roxas Avenue particularly

beside the drainage canal from the Corner of Father Faura and Pag-asa Streets, bangoy to Alvarez Streets in Magsaysay Avenue and bangoy Streets towards the fly-over bridge in Agdao.

He said the night market will start at 5:00 pm onwards.

Abude said a weekend market will also be set-up along San Pedro Street from the corner of the city hall drive towards the corner of Anda Street and from bangoy Street to Alvarez Street at Magsaysay Avenue.

He said the weekend market will start at 2:00 pm onwards.

Yusop Jimlani, chief

FEXECS, 10

4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

TAGUm CITY

LGU scholars conduct environmental activity S

CHoLARS of the City vocational Technical Education Scholarship Program (CIvoTESPRo) had their way of giving back to the community by engaging in an environmental activity last october 13, 2013 at the Tagum botanical Park in San Agustin, the foremost icon of the city’s environmental conservation efforts.

At least 113 CIvoTESPRo Scholars flocked to the developing park in Tagum’s northern part to participate in round-weeding and fertilization of trees that are recently planted in the 36-hectare park.

Public Employment Services office Chief Rogeneth Llanos, whose office supervises the city’s scholars in behalf of the local government, said that this will not be the first time that the schol-

ars will participate in community service as part of their contribution to community-building.

This, she said, will serve as a means of maximizing the scholars’ participation in the LGUled activities, especially in environmental activities.

Prior to the activity, City Environment and Natural Resources officer Engr. Elias Ragos briefed the scholars on the importance of environmental conservation and the local government’s initiatives in preserving the environment.

Aside from CIvoTESPRo, other scholars are also set to join in future community outreach programs like the cleanup in Tagum Public Cemetery in La Filipina, in preparation for the upcoming All Souls Day in November. [Louie Lapat/ CIO Tagum]

ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVITY. Scholars of the City Vocational Technical Education Scholarship Program (CIVOTESPRO) conduct an environmental activity last October 13, 2013 at Tagum Botanical Park, as a way of maximizing their participation in environmental activities of the City Government of Tagum. [Louie Lapat/CIO Tagum]

GENERAL SANTOS CITY

STO. TOMAS, DAVAO DEL NORTE

Comelec to fast-track massive registration of PWDs Knights of Columbus call for promotion of IP rights T HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) will work on the massive registration of physically challenged voters or persons with disabilities (PWDs) within the next two years in preparation for the planned nationwide rollout of “accessible polling places” (APP) for the sector in the 2016 national and local elections.

Comelec Commissioner Grace Padaca said they are targeting to sign up all PWDs in every locality in the country who are already of voting age to facilitate the proper establishment of the APPs and the provision of other necessary services for them during the polls.

She cited that out of the estimated 5 million PWDs in the country who are already of voting age, the Comelec has identified or registered around 362,000 of them so far.

In the last May 13 elections, Comelec

records showed that a total of 362,113 of the 52,014,648 voters were PWDs. The figures increased by around 62,000 based on the nearly 300,000 PWDs registered in the 2010 polls.

“The challenge for us now is to register all our PWDs before the 2016 elections,” Padaca told reporters following the launching of the pilot APP for the oct. 28 barangay polls at the SM City General Santos on Saturday.

The Comelec earlier picked barangay Lagao as one of the four pilot testing areas in the country for the implementation of Republic Act (RA) 10366, which authorized the poll body “to establish precincts assigned to accessible polling places exclusively for persons with disabilities and senior citizens.”

The official said barangay Lagao will mainly serve as the project’s main testing site for

Mindanao in the upcoming barangay elections.

The other pilot sites are barangays Sabang in Lipa City for Luzon, 679 in Manila for the National Capital Region and Mabolo in Cebu City.

Padaca, who heads the Comelec’s committee on PWDs and senior citizens, acknowledged that the poll body had been facing difficulty in terms of the registration of the PWDs due to the lack of appropriate forms.

Unlike the senior citizens, who are automatically enlisted through the determination of their ages, she said PWDs are usually not registered until they make an appearance at local election offices.

To address the problem, she said the Comelec will come up with a special form that will be released to election offices in the country for the PWD registration.

“As of now, we don’t have the forms yet that will validate our PWDs but we’re already work-

ing on them,” Padaca said.

The official said they will also conduct a massive information and education campaign to encourage more PWDs to register with the Comelec.

“This is to make sure that they will be properly considered by the time we establish the APPs in their localities,” she added.

Meantime, lawyer Michael Abas, Comelec Region 12 director, said they have yet to organize their records regarding the PWD voters within the region.

“We have some PWDs who registered with our election offices but the total number is not that significant,” he said.

Abas said he has instructed local election officers to encourage PWD voters in their areas to properly register and conduct information and education activities regarding their rights and privileges during the elections. [MindaNews]

M

EMbERS of the Knights of Columbus Council 8926 in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte called for the equal treatment and promotion of the rights for the indigenous peoples as the Catholic Church commemorates the 35th Indigenous Peoples Sunday, last october 13, 2013. he group believed that “setting a vital churchbased initiative for the equal treatment and promotion of IP rights will undoubtedly be a significant tool towards eliminating human rights violations, discrimination and marginalization locally.”

In an interview, Rene bongabong, Council 8926 former Grand Knight, said that these issues have to be urgently addressed by the government, adding that “we stand firm in solidarity and will collaborate on the efforts with respect to advancing the development of all

indigenous people. It is high time that we should address the special concerns of our indigenous peoples.”

During the IP Sunday celebration, at least 150 indigenous peoples of Ata-Manobo tribe from Sitio Talos here have assembled inside the San Miguel Parish Hall. They were given a lecture of their rights and were lectured of the basic doctrines of the Church as to how they will likely to participate on the evangelization effort.

This year’s theme for the 35th Indigenous Peoples Sunday was “Evangelization and Inculturation”.

Evangelization which means the absorption of Gospel values while inculturation is to express these values in terms that are understandable by the indigenous peoples and respectful of their cultural practices. [AUREL LARABASTER]

5 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

Camella anniversary treat extended W

ITH a successful run of their anniversary promo for their 18 successful years in the region, Camella is extending its treat to accommodate those wanting to get their dream home among Camella’s communities.

“We’re very happy with the warm response to our anniversary promo and have decided to come up with more special packages for our homebuyers,” said Anna Mae dela Pena of Camella Davao’s Marketing Unit.

Dela Pena said the Liverpool 2-bedroom unit promo that came with a discount of as high as P750,000 was such a big hit among their homebuyers, they are now offering another promo with P250,000 discount to selected 2-bedroom A units in Liverpool, Northpoint’s fourth tower.

“This promo will result to a low monthly payment of only P12,000 for homebuyers, and will be available only this october,” said dela Pena,

adding that home appliance showcase are also given for the rest of Liverpool units except for 2-bedroom A and 2-bedroom C units.

Camella is also giving away freebies for units in Northpoint’s third tower, Nottingham, such as free interior design for studio units and discounts of as much as P400,000 for 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom units.

M e a n w h i l e , ready-for-occupancy units are available in Northpoint’s first two buildings, Manchester and birmingham. These also come with huge discounts that can reach as high as P350,000, with more home appliances and other freebies available for buyers.

To further spice up their extended anniversary promo and in observance of Halloween, Camella is giving its buyers a chance to win a “Trick or Treat” overnight stay at a prestigious resort in Samal Island. To qualify for this, homebuyers need to make their reservations this october.

Northpoint is a brit-

MODERN MUSIC HUB. Ricardo Floirendo (left), Anflo Group of Companies senior vice president, and Rovic Cuasito lead the cutting of the ribbon to formally ish colonial condo community located at the junction of buhangin Road and JP Laurel Avenue, bajada, Davao City.

It is a landmark development of vista Residences, Camella’s holding company and the ver-

tical marketing arm of vista Land & Lifescapes, the largest homebuilder in the country. “our extended promos cover not only our vertical developments but also our subdivisions. Lot purchases are

given outright discounts that can go as high as P700,000, with very low monthly down payment,” dela Pena added.

House and lot purchases are also given outright discounts of as much as P150,000, with

additional discounts waiting for homebuyers upon release of their loan. Camella can be reached at Delgar building (fronting Northpoint), JP Laurel Avenue, bajada, telephone 2953973.

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THE ECONOMY

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

AirAsia Zest chooses Cebu, not Clark, as its second hub T

HE newly rebranded budget carrier AirAsia Zest has chosen Cebu as its 2nd major hub on top of its main operations at the Terminal 4 of the congested Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

The choice of the Cebu gateway comes after the local unit of Malaysian giant AirAsia suspended its operations in Clark International Airport, which is about 100 kilometers from NAIA, following its strategic partnership with Zest Air. Zest Air’s slots in NAIA-4 in the congested Manila airport was a main consideration for the deal, a hint that traffic in Clark was not enough to keep AirAsia Philippines’s operations viable.

AirAsia Philippines

launched its maiden domestic and international operations in Clark in March 2012 while its parent has long hailed Clark, previously positioned as the main airport for budget airlines, since it started flying in and out of the former US airbase in 2005.

In a press briefing on october 11, AirAsia Zest executive vice president and chief operating officer Joy Caneba revealed the decision to invest in Cebu airport, currently the 2nd busiest airport in the country and the main gateway to the visayas region. The government is set to bid out a P17.5-billion modernization project to expand Cebu airport’s capacity.

Previously, AirAsia Zest chairman Michael Romero

said Clark is still in the radar of the regional low cost carrier, AirAsia Malaysia berhad. on october 9, he had told reporters Clark International Airport is being considered as the local hub for AirAsia X, the parent company’s long-haul brand.

Free tickets In a statement on october 13, AirAsia Zest announced that it is offering “free” tickets for its Cebu flights. The promo is part of efforts to “expand operations in Cebu.”

It said travelers have to pay only P353 to cover payment for tax and fees. (The promo is available via online booking at www.airasia.com from october 14 to 27 for travel from November 15, 2013 to April 14, 2014 for domestic and from December 1, 2013 to April 14,

In Partnership With PPC Asia Corporation KORONADAL RIm AND TIRE CENTER UNVEILS NEW PIRELLI, FEDERAL & 3K BATTERY STORE

“The airline would fly from Cebu to Davao and Cagayan de oro daily, and four times a week to Puerto Princesa. Likewise, it intends to fly directly from Cebu to Kuala Lumpur where passengers could take connecting flights to 85 international destinations,” it said.

Malaysia is the main hub of parent AirAsia. [Rappler.com]

HE latest concept store, is designed to deliver the ultimate shopping experience and it features a wide variety of quality and premium brand of tires and batteries and other automo-

tive products in partnership with PPC Asia Corporation under the latter’s Dealer Conversion Program.

KRTC’s latest store is situated in a 250-square meter-property

where the famous ‘Mang Gorio Restaurant’ was previously located. It

houses, among others, some of the world’s leading high-end and performance tire and battery brands, namely, PIRELLI and FEDERAL TYRES, and 3K battery, respectively.

“the state-of-the-art store and workshop facilities will provide speedy and efficient service to our valued customers”

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Available Pirelli Series at KRTC’s store are: P-ZERo, P1, P6, P7-CINTURATo, P1-CINTURATo, SCoRPIoN ATR, SCoRPIoN STR, and SCoRPIoN vERDE. on the other hand, available Federal Tire Series are Ultra High Performance (SS-595, RSR-595, FoRMoZA, Evo-595), PCR, RvR, XUv and SUv (CoURAGIA). 3K- Sealed Maintenance Free (SMF) and Low Maintenance (LM) types of batteries from Thailand are also on shelves. KRTC also offers the Mega Super and Roadshine brands for Light Truck and Truck / bus Tires, another quality brands of PPC Asia Corp.

HE opening ceremony was graced and attended by Mr. Ronnie o.

Co, President & CEo of PPC Asia Corporation, Mr. Ronnie L. Juane, National Sales Manager, battery Division, and Mr. Eric P. Cadorna, Sales Supervisor, and the owner of KRTC, Engr. Leo Santos, along with other officials & guests.

“We have been in the tire trade for the past 11 years and we feel that we could not have found a better partner in the tire retail business in the City than KRTC to support our ambitions.”

Speaking at the inauguration, Engr. Leo Santos said, “PPC’s products is an important market-segment for us and the opening of our latest store proves our eagerness to strengthen our presence not only in this City but throughout the region in order to meet the growing demand of various types of tyres, batteries and allied products in the Region. The state-of-the-art store and workshop facilities will provide speedy and efficient service to our valued customers.”

“We are delighted to join hands with PPC Asia Corporation and this partnership reflects PPC’s efforts to connect with its consumers. We have been in this business for over 15 years and through the new store, we look forward to providing an unmatched experience to our revered customers enabling mutual growth.”

L-R: Ronnie Co, President & CEO of PPC Asia Corp., Engr. Leo Santos, Owner & Gen. Mgr. of KRTC, Eric Cadorna, PPC-Sales Supervisor, Ronnie Juane, PPC-NSM Tire Division, Roserller

Davao entrepreneur wins prestigious Agora Award

2014 for international.)

AirAsia Zest started selling tickets for additional domestic routes and an international destination via the Mactan Cebu international airport on october 13. It added 4 new direct flights from Cebu International Airport to Kuala Lumpur and to top tourist destinations of Puerto Princesa (Palawan), Davao and Cagayan de oro.

With its corporate vision of providing consumer quality products and services and continuously reinventing competition, KoRoNADAL RIM AND TIRE CENTER (KRTC) recently opened the doors of its second store in the heart of the business district of Koronadal City showcasing a state-of-the-art retail experience for the people of Koronadal City and neighboring cities and municipalities.

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EDGEDAVAO

K

oRoNADAL City is our turf. based on LTo’s 2012 Annual Report, the market is very promising as there are close to 280,000 registered motor vehicles in the Region, and through our newest store, we want to give them the best retail experience when it comes to tyres and the related services.” He added.

In response, Mr. Ronnie o. Co said, “I am excited to be here in Koronadal, a growing and exciting city and to be able to offer its citizens, in further strengthening our partnership with KRTC, PPC products’ latest merchandising concept which features new signages, multi-purpose rackings, wider and fully air-conditioned customer lounge, wide variety of automotive products to choose from and state-of-the-art service area format.” We have been in the tire trade for the past 11 years and we feel that we could not have found a better partner in the tire retail business in the City than KRTC to support our ambitions. Through this new store concept, we aim to provide world class services and products to the consumers in the City.”He continued.

KRTC, is located at Gensan Drive corner odi Street, Koronadal City, and consists of a very wide area for four (4) service bays, parking area, cozy customer lounge with free Wi-Fi access, business center, refreshment nook, and with clean restrooms. With a team of nine (9) skilled and friendly and customer oriented manpower compliment, competently trained in providing the car services related work, and all kinds of tire services.

KRTC, is an automotive service provider of high quality products and preventive maintenance services for cars at affordable prices. For the last four (4) years, it has been one of the trade conduits in the Region of PPC Asia Corporation, a Manila-based distributor and the biggest discounter and assortment of tires, batteries, and lubes in the Philippines. Under the one-stop-shop concept, KRTC offers a variety of quick automotive services helping customers to minimize the time and money involved in maintaining their vehicles. Engr. Leo Santos is also the owner of Le’Tires Sales and Services (Koronadal City and General Santos City), Koronadal Rim and Tire Center (Tacurong City, Surallah, and Isulan).

AGORA AWARDEE. Phoenix Petroleum President and CEO Dennis Uy is honored for Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship-Large Scale in the prestigious 34th Agora Awards. The awarding was held on October 9, 2013 at the Peninsula Manila, Makati City.

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AvAo entrepreneur Dennis Uy, President and CEo of Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc., received the prestigious Agora Award for outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship – Large Scale that honors business and marketing excellence.

Uy was recognized for “growing a provincial-based business into a nationally successful brand, for embodying the Filipino’s enterprising spirit, for persevering despite the odds, and for being an indispensable partner of the Filipino.”

Uy and other Filipino companies and marketing professionals were awarded in the 34th Agora Awards on october 9, 2013 at the Manila Peninsula, Makati City. Winners in this year’s various categories include GMA Kapuso Foundation, Posh Nails, and Alaska Milk Corporation.

Since its inception in 1979, the prestigious Agora Awards has honored many distinguished individuals and companies who have made significant achievements in the marketing profession.

The Agora Awards is the beacon of Filipino marketing excellence that spotlights admirable qualities of

versatility, innovativeness and ingenuity.

Through the Agora, the Filipino is hailed as a world-class marketer endowed with a proven flair of out-of-thebox thinking and trailblazing achievements. because of the Agora, marketing excellence shines through with a distinctively Filipino touch.

Uy was recognized for growing Phoenix Petroleum from a small, provincial-based business into the leading independent oil company in the country – from Top 570th to Top 53rd Corporation in five years, from 5 stations to 350 nationwide in less than eight years.

From the start, Uy used creative branding and marketing strategy to grow his business.

“When I started Phoenix, I never thought we would accomplish what we have over the years. but I guess if you work hard, remain committed, and have faith in your convictions – anything is possible,” Uy said after receiving the award.

Last March, Uy was also awarded by the City of Davao the prestigious Datu bago award for his achievements in entrepreneurship and service to the community.

7 ENVIRONMENT

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

PHL gaining headway in saving biodiversity T

HE government further gained headway in saving Philippine biodiversity, boosted by its law enforcement-boosting convergence strategy that mobilizes public and private partners for the undertaking.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Sec. Ramon Paje said the convergence resulted in nationwide confiscation of illegally harvested forest products and nearly 25 million board feet of contraband timber as of June 2013 as well as 8,842 exotic and endemic birds, insects, reptiles and mammals from January 2010 toAugust 2012. ”biodiversity is the vital resource upon which every generation depends on,” he said, explaining need for such action.

Paje noted that the convergence-led confiscations are in line with Executive order 23 series 2011, which bans logging in natural and residual forests nationwide, and Republic Act 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001).

Eo 23 and RA 9147 are also two of government’s instruments for enhancing management of the Philippines’ 240 protected areas (PAs) under RA 7586 (National Integrated Protected Areas System Act of 1992).

PAs are areas which receive protection because

of recognized natural, ecological and/or cultural values there.

This month, Philippine PA Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve formally assumed status as the country’s fifth and Southeast Asia’s 33rd ASEAN Heritage Park (AHP).

AHPs serve as models for PA management as well as strategic protection and conservation areas in Southeast Asia.

Environment chiefs of ASEAN declare PAs as AHPs since theorganization believes uniqueness, diversity and notable values there deserve the highest recognition so importance of these sites as conservation areas can be appreciated internationally to further promote protection there. ”Deterioration of the environment persisted long before ill effects of global warming took center stage in development discourses,” Paje noted, recalling why ASEAN decided to establish AHPs. In 2011, government established its National Greening Program (NGP) through Eo 26 to fast-track reforestation nationwide as experts warned forest loss is among threats to biodiversity.

Citing latest available data, Paje earlier said actual nationwide reforestation under NGP already exceeded the 300,000 hectares collective planting target for 2011 and 2012.

ENDANGERED MARINE PRODUCTS. Assistant Postmaster General for Marketing and Management Support Services Luis D. Carlos (left) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Director Asis G.Perez together unveiled the commemorative stamps featuring endangered and threatened marine ”The program accomplished 350,311 has. of forestland then,” he said.

Eo 26 and Eo 23 are among pillars of government’s forest protection bid.

Through Eo 23, DENR and its partners the interior and defense departments, Philippine National Police and the armed forces continue pursuing efforts on collectively protecting the country’s remaining forest cover.

DENR already filed 1,026 cases against suspected illegal logging

perpetrators, Paje said. ”Such action resulted in conviction of 144 persons so far,” he said.

Earlier, Convention on biological Diversity (CbD) reported the Philippines is among the world’s 18 mega-diverse countries, hosting two-thirds of Earth’s biodiversity and between 70 percent and 80 percent of plant and animal species on the planet.

CbD noted the Philippines is also among the world’s biodiversity hotspots with at least 700 threatened species.

Paje said DENR and

its partners will further pursue implementation of RA 9147, providing daily 24-hour wildlife traffic monitoring of the country’s international air and sea ports. ”Government so far deputized 1,266 enforcement officers nationwide,” he said.

Paje said the enforcers include LGU personnel, community volunteers, the police and military as well as National bureau of Investigation operatives.

The group arrests violators and confiscates illegally collected, possessed and traded

wildlife, he noted.

Paje said DENR’s Protected Areas and Wildlife bureau as well as field offices conducted 104 separate operations leading to confiscation of various wildlife species during the January 2010-August 2012 period.

Authorities concerned also seized thousands of shells and sea fans aside from over a million kilos of sea whips, corals, clams, shells, pangolin meat and scales, turtle shells, scutes, snake meat and skin, lip oysters, bird’s nest and hammer heads, he added.

[PNA]

ITH only four days left until c a m p a i g n period, an environmental group on Monday urged aspiring barangay candidates to promote waste reduction and make sure elections are kept ‘clean’.

The EcoWaste Coalition noted that potential officials should be environmentally responsible and commit themselves to ‘zero waste’ election campaigning.

Aileen Lucero, the group’s national coordinator, meanwhile, said they should

also consider active elimination of garbage and pollution during campaign sorties and public assemblies.

“Please make it your winning plan to include the effective and comprehensive implementation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 or R.A. 9003 in your platform of barangay government,” Lucero said.

The group issued this statement since it was noticed how littering and burning of wastes in public places was common during and after elections. [PNA]

Environment group cautions public vs buying toxic Halloween products W E

N v I R o M E N TA L Group, the EcoWaste Coalition, on Sunday cautioned the public against buying Halloween products in various retail outlets in Metro Manila, including leading department stores and bargain shopping malls.

EcoWaste Coalition said, “Halloween costumes, decors, masks, props, candy containers and body and face paint are nothing to be afraid of, but once you find out they’re toxic— that’s where the real scare

is.”

According to EcoWaste, they discovered that out of the 90 Halloween products they purchased, 20 (22 pct) were found to contain at least one toxic metal above regulatory limits.

The group warned the public as these products, worth P20 to P200 each can easily be bought in various retail outlets in Manila and Quezon Cities, including leading department stores and bargain shopping malls.

“Instead of adding

excitement and fun to the celebration, these products may in fact endanger children’s health,” Coordinator of the EcoWaste Coalition’s Project Protect, Thony Dizon said in a statement. one of the most common toxins, lead, was detected in 18 samples above the allowable limit of 90 parts per million (ppm).

The 10 Halloween products with the highest levels of lead include (1) a “horror spider” with 3,987

ppm of lead, (2) a green pumpkin pail with 2,730 ppm of lead, 1,425 ppm of chromium and 440 ppm of arsenic, (3) another “horror spider” with 2,040 ppm of lead.

Also on the list was (4) a “spiders and web” with 1,658 ppm of lead, (5) a key chain with Halloween witch on a broom stick design with 1,291 ppm of lead, 820 ppm of chromium and 172 ppm of arsenic, (6) a Halloween rainbow wand with 1,119 ppm of lead. [PNA]

Brgy. candidates urged to promote waste reduction, ‘clean’elections

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

D

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

Fair warning

oN’T spoil your Halloween celebration. beware of products containing toxic chemicals like lead. These products are flooding the market weeks before the November 1 and 2 All Saints Day-All Souls Day. before you become a “soul” yourself prematurely due to toxic contamination, let’s heed the fair warning from EcoWaste. The toxic watchdog warned that the group’s investigation has found that Halloween items are damaging to the health of buyers, especially children.

Among the products analyzed and found to be toxic were Halloween costumes, decor, masks, scary props, candy containers and body and face paints.

According to EcoWaste, out of 90 samples, 20, or 22 percent, were found to contain at least one toxic metal above regulatory limits.

It said that the 10 Halloween products with the highest levels of lead include a “horror spider” costing P65, containing 3.987 ppm of lead; green

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pumpkin pail costing P80 with 2,7730 ppm, etc., etc.

You see, EcoWaste is no neighborhood prankster who creates doomsday scenarios for fun. It is very serious in issuing warnings, something it does every so often, with an impressive track record in telling the truth.

A pattern has been established: Every time Filipinos are busy preparing for a celebration, unscrupulous and criminally irresponsible businessmen come out with their deadly bag of tricks in the form of unsafe products. Yes, they always do this when nobody is looking.

This behavior of businessmen –domestic or local – is totally deplorable. This criminal act is repeated in almost all celebrations year in and year out, because in this country very few, if at all, are jailed for selling poison-laden goods. For instance, we hear or read of many people being hospitalized for food poisoning, but we have yet to hear of anybody going to jail for it.

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

Intensifying uncertainty

o

IL PRICE vARIAbILITY – one of the disappointing things that came about as a result of the fluctuation of the prices of oil in the world market was that local prices likewise followed the drift. A new round of increase this week propels a P.50 centavo price adjustment a liter for gasoline and a bit higher for diesel fuel. True, leaders of different transport organizations have shown themselves to be very watchful.

Immediately right after news spread around about an impending oil price hike, they took a wait-and-see attitude with a petition for fare rate increase in mind.

Raising the possibility of an unexpected minimum fare increase after another round of oil price adjustment, leaders of different transport groups have requested the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory board (LTFRb) that the minimum fare should be adjusted for two reasons: first, they explained there’s a possibility that prices of gasoline, diesel fuel and other refined petroleum products would increase unpredictably to undetermined levels, and second, prices of spare parts and lubricants continue to increase despite the assurance of manufacturers and suppliers not to raise prices of their products. but earlier reports already swirl around about the potential increase of the minimum fare once the prices of diesel fuel goes up to P43-44 per liter from the previous P41 and gasoline at P 5455 level from the previous P51-52 or according to variants. Leaders of different groups declared they may not support the idea of maintaining the minimum fare’s status quo while the prices of fuel products remained in a volatile situa-

tion. However, leaders of various consumers and commuters groups say they noticed the cockiness of some transport leaders: “now they’re panicking by trying to find ways and the right patsies to file a petition seeking a minimum fare adjustment.” They’re now singing a different tune contrary to their earlier statements that P.50 centavo should be temporarily added to the minimum fare when the prices of gasoline and crude oil remained unstable. They’re now forcibly urging the LTFRb to grant their petition for a P10 minimum fare rate hike.

There was even a time that a consumers’ advocate group filed a petition before the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory board (LTFRb) seeking to maintain the status quo of the minimum fare as a result of the series of oil price roll back. Prices of diesel fuel then is peg at P40 per liter while gasoline at P50 level. Nonetheless, it is widely believed that over-bearing leaders of the different transport groups are protecting their respective turfs and jockeying for a minimum fare rate adjustment.

If nothing else, the oil price issue has focused the minds of transports leaders on their own economic problems while disregarding the rights of the workers, consumers and the commuting public in particular. Such sentiment reverberates loudly considering that the commuting

public has been too concerned to add what it’s going to cost them more in their daily necessities – notably increased in transport fare. In fact, it was the perception of the commuters and consumers that some of the enterprising transport leaders’ moves are politically-motivated and their assurance to reduce the minimum fare when there’s a price rollback is nothing but mere lip service.

Until recently there are no changes in their position sparking a certain amount of confusion and public resentment has been building against them. The big question is: how fast will the government move and take necessary actions on the plight of the exploited commuters and how long will it take to produce results? Moreover, the oil price shock concern intensifies uncertainty surrounding the price increase scheme and the conforming minimum fare adjustment. but one thing is certain though that none of the previous assurances of transport leaders had helped their status in public in maintaining their reputation and credibility.

In the weeks ahead, if prices of fuel products continue to escalate and transport leaders remain determined to file a petition seeking a minimum fare adjustment according to their desired level, chances are, a groundswell of petitioners for a fare status quo could also make themselves heard. Nevertheless, if there are oil price movements that would indicate it’s going up, the transport sector, as their wont, is again in a position to exploit it to their advantage. Unfortunately, the same is true with the commuting public – in reverse. The poor commuters surely will be dismayed by another turn of disadvantageous event.

Why bad governance persists below and all over

W

Ho else but the educated classes can make the point that governance is just another term for management, that voting is another term for selecting or hiring a public servant, and that choosing a candidate is, in a real sense, hiring him for a government post.

The masses cannot readily discern the connection between competence and good governance. To leave them alone, to rely on their vote or judgment, is as disastrous as letting an ignoramus screen, interview, or recruit the executives of one’s enterprise.

Educated Filipinos already know this, but there is a wide gap between knowledge and its application. Like nominal Christians or Muslims, their beliefs and behavioral patterns do not necessarily coincide. being also nominal democrats, while they know that vote buying is wrong, they buy votes anyway.

They may feel deeply about their nation-

WORM’S EYEVIEW

By Manny ValdehueSa

(Conclusion) ality, proud of their sovereign status, maybe even quick to take offense at an imagined slur on the nation’s honor. but they won’t hesitate to betray the principles that underpin this honor. Split-level values, says Fr. Rodolfo bulatao, S.J. These values are enshrined in the Constitution and affirmed by rules and regulations. but only a very few bother to read or know the Constitution except to pick out a provision or two to fire up their rhetoric and demagoguery. The principles are there, all right, but that’s about all. The action part, the acting out in accordance with principles, is missing. It bespeaks—sadly for our collective ego—a basic lack of integrity.

Perhaps those judgmental foreign journalists are right about ours being a “damaged culture,” after all. Certainly, we have a lot of growing up to do; a long journey to political maturity.

Until the educated and the well-off (and church devotees) learn to tend to the governance of our primary level, our society’s destiny will always determined by people whose concerns rarely go beyond their basic needs. Without solidarity with the masses in the community, we might as well be resigned to the idea that our leaders will always come from the party with the most number of swashbucklers, coup plotters, entertainers, plunderers, and other sordid characters. [MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. Manny Valdehuesa writes from Cagayan de Oro and is the president and national convenor of Gising Barangay Movement Inc. He can be reached at valdehuesa@gmail.com.]

VANTAGE POINTS

9

A German editor who loves planting trees

N

o oNE c a n probably match the passion of one German national for trying single-handedly to keep planting Philippine mahogany trees, first in Samal island, Davao del Norte and next in Surigao province.

Ullrich “Ulli” Kronberg, a German editor of a couple of sailing magazines in Hamburg, doesn’t even mind if his tree-planting efforts is actually boosting the government’s National Greening Program set into motion some years back by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

I was impressed when I saw some of the mahogany trees that were planted by school children of a Samal elementary school, a tree-planting project Ulli helped organized a few years back. All the trees had grown so tall, they towered above the rooftops of the school building, their thick dark green foliage providing cool shades around the school grounds.

Seeing how the beachlines of Samal island were being eaten up by the strong current of Davao Gulf some years ago, he mounted an island-wide mangrove reforestation project together with the DENR, backed by the Hamburg-based Mama Earth, a German environment organization whose members are totally devoted to world-wide projects that can improve the earth’s environment.

“You have such a beautiful island in this wonderful country, the only way we can keep it that way is to keep planting trees, “ says Ulli, who runs a beachside resort and restaurant named after his Filipina wife Preciosa at Miranda village, babak district in Samal.

Although he works as chief editor of two Hamburg-based sailing magazines, Ulli edits all articles from staff writers and freelance contributors right from his “editorial office” at his home near Davao beach Club at Lanang, Davao City--- that is, after he brings his three children to school and gives final instructions to his kitchen crew and restaurant staff in Samal.

If you have the chance to meet this German magazine editor, you’d probably mistake him for one of those motorbike racers in Germany with long disheveled hair, a big rugged figure in loose trader’s shorts, prancing about in beach slippers, but ready to disarm you when he breaks into an easy smile. but of course, he’ll talk to you about planting trees. “It’s a good investment for your future if you plant trees.

You like to join our tree planting project?”

Unlike most Germans, Ulli can talk English with anyone easily, of course, with the same heavy German accent, but his English is much better than some Germans that I know.

His passion for sailing had never left him since he’s still so active in his late 50’s. If he doesn’t jump on his big black motorbike to go to his Samal restaurant-resort, you’ll probably find him sailing across the narrow channel of the Gulf on his small, white sailing boat, powered only by the wind that blows against the white sail with Ulli controlling the ropes and rudder.

In some ways, I envied his lifestyle, sailing around the Gulf here, feeling the winds of Davao on your face, getting wet from the foamy waves splashing on the boat and watching fishermen in their small bancas waiting for some fish below to swallow their baits until the yellow sun sets below the distant mountain ranges of Mount Apo It could be a very nice way to retire in Davao, just sailing around, doing some fishing of your own, with absolutely nothing to worry about…

[Comments ? Email > tradingpost_ davao@yahoo.com]

10 NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

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certain candidates running for barangay posts.

“We will know who they are after we have arrested them,” he said.

Last September, an elected official of braulio Dujali town in Davao del Norte was arrested for

allegedly selling illegal drugs during a buy-bust operation.

Romulo Esmino Jr., a municipal councilor was arrested after authorities recovered in a sachet of ‘shabu’ worth P2,000 inside his store in Purok 6,

barangay Poblacion.

Rosales, regional director of PDEA-Region 11, said they waited until the election period was over to avoid suspicion that politics was involved in the councilor’s apprehension.

Esmino denied selling drugs, but admitted that he was a user before.

Esmino is facing charges of violation of Section 5 of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

continuing requirement of being a member of the PNP – that is to remain as drug-free. This also means we can immediately issue separation orders against them,” the official explained.

In February, two policemen assigned in this city were subjected to dismissal proceedings after figuring in separate drug buy-bust operations conducted by the regional police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) – Region 12.

Six more police personnel were endorsed for dismissal by the regional police in July after turning positive of using illegal drugs during a random drug test.

The erring policemen were among the initial

batch of 80 police personnel in Region 12 who were subjected to drug testing as mandated by the PNP central office.

Two of the policemen were previously assigned at the Police Regional office 12’s Regional Special Training Unit and the Regional Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit while the four others were from the Koronadal City police station, Isulan municipal police station in Sultan Kudarat and police precinct numbers 03 and 08 in this city.

The six policemen hold the ranks of Police officer (Po) 1 to Senior Police officer 2 and already spent 7 to 26 years in active service.

Two of these policemen – who were identified as

Kadil omar Masahod Jr., 34, and Fernando Alim, 59, both previously assigned at the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Police office – were arrested in a buybust operation conducted by the PDEA here last month.

Another police officer assigned in this city identified as Po2 Arnold Sua was dismissed after turning positive of illegal drug use following his involvement in a controversial police operation last July.

Sua was earlier charged with murder by the National bureau of Investigation in connection with the killing of a criminology student who was mistaken by policemen as a motorcycle theft suspect.

Calima said he is hoping that the dismissal of the 11 policemen will encourage their personnel, especially the newly-hired, to take on their mandates seriously and lead clean lifestyles.

“It is not right that those who are supposed to implement the law are the ones involved in illegal activities,” he said.

The official said he has ordered the conduct of more random drug tests to cleanse their ranks of illegal drug users and personnel who are possibly involved in related activities.

He said they have also tightened the recruitment process for police applicants through stringent evaluation and tests. [MindaNews]

City and carriers are not residents of the city.

“It’s difficult to monitor drug personalities and ‘dayos’ (outsiders),”Rosales said.

He said the police can conduct immediate action if they receive reports unlike PDEA which needs to verify and investigate first before conducting any operation.

Police and the PDEA arrested649 persons selling and/or using drugs.

P/Supt.

Alfredo

baluran, head of operations and plan branch of the Davao City Police office (oPb-DCPo) said they filed 284 cases in court on 194 operations conducted from police stations, including the Investigation and Detection Management branch (IDMb) and Intelligence branch.

“We are active and serious in implementing R.A 9165 because if it is not controlled or is neglected many individuals will be into

illegal drugs,” baluran said. based on the records of offices ,the IDMb ranks number 1 in terms of value confiscated with P964,701.90, next is San Pedro police station with P385,540.30 and the Sta. Ana police station with P256,455.

The station with the best performance will be recognized and awarded for a job well done by the head of the Philippine National Police.

Rosales said

confiscated drugs will be will be destroyed upon orders of the court.

The PDEA is the only authority allowed to destroy illegal drugs by means of burning.

“It destroys an average of P5-million worth of drugs per year,” Rosales said.

The vigilance of the public by giving information to the authorities is the major reason for this accomplishment, authorities said.

Joel Senn, 33; Daniel Sarmiento, 20; Ambert Paulino, 29; Michael Caacbay , 29; Florante barrientos, 31; Mark Anthony Ubalde Corren, 21; Denver Damaso, 30; Frederick Alferez,36; Melvin Felin, 26, and Pepe valena, 21.

They are workers of HoLCIM Philippines and residing in baywave,

Ilang.

They were taken to the Southern Philippines Medical Center by city medics and mobile patrol members after receiving reports.

Aquino reported that the victims suspected the food they ate and the water they drank the evening before.

Lazarraga informed

Lou Jayson Deligencia, environment officer of HoLCIM regarding the matter. He received a report from their City Epidemiology Surveillance Unit officer informing him that a hospital doctor said the laborers were under observation for vomiting and stomach ache.

“We are trying to

determine the origin to be able to know where to go,” he said.

To his knowledge, the victims allegedly drank from a well not potable for drinking after they ran out of mineral water.

Lazarraga added that it was not HoLCIM’s fault since the incident did not happen in their vicinity.

requirement came about when it was observed during the conduct of the Limited Physical Examination (LPE) in different exam centers, that many are denied the chance to go through the first phase of the selection process, solely for the reason of not meeting the height requirement.

With the previous

height requirement, many Filipino youth, who have good educational background and are physically fit, are disenfranchised from the opportunity of being able to take the exam. With the adjustment made in the height requirement, the ARC will be increasing the pool where the best candidate for soldiers and

officers will be selected. other qualifications for taking the PAATb for the Candidate Soldier Course (CSC) are the following: Must be 18 to 26 years old; Must have at least 72 units in college; If High School graduate only, one must possess a certified skill needed in the military service; Must be single; andMust be physically and

mentally fit.

For aspiring officers, there are two courses offered by the Philippine Army. The first is the officer Candidate Course (oCC) with the following qualifications: Must be 21 to 24 years old; baccalaureate degree holder; Single; and Physically and mentally fit.

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EDGEDAVAO

The first day also showed the colorful Float Parade and Allu Tangogoan, a street dancing competition participated by some barangay contingents in Sta. Cruz displaying the unique cultural heritage of the town as manifested through dancing. barangay Coronon won the first prize followed by barangay Zone 3.

Defending champion barangay Tagabuli settled for third place this time.

In the evening of october 3 was the Search for Mutya ng Sta. Cruz where a lady from barangay Astorga Miss Leah Mae optina was adjudged as the new Mutya ng Sta. Cruz. Rounding off the top five finalists were from barangay Zone 3, barangay Inawayan, barangay Tuban and barangay Tagabuli. on october 4, different local service providers from the LGU connived to

deliver basic services to all sectors of the society.

The Municipal Health office conducted the Preventive Health Services program and it was highlighted with the blessing of new birthing facility located within the municipal hall compound.

The Municipal Social Welfare and Development office, on the other hand, had facilitated the Elderly and Children’s Day in consonance to the celebration of Elderly Filipino Week and Children’s Month. The activity was in fact the venue for the Release of Social Pension to Elderly.

In a separate venue was the free rabbies vaccination program conducted by the Municipal Agriculture office (MAGRo). Actual fisher folk registration was also conducted by MAGRo along with some other sub-activities relative to agriculture and fishery program.

of the City Demolition Team said vendors will be charged P150-tax payment for every night display.

He expressed hope that street vendors will follow suit and eventually help clear the areas where they currently conduct their trade.

Jimlani observed several ambulant vendors are already occupying the space between the San Pedro Cathedral and the Sangguniang Panlungsod

building permanently.

“They have to leave eventually since we agreed in the first place that their stay is only temporary, only during the holding of the Kadayawan Festival,” he said.

Jimlani stressed that even with the absence of a relocation site, vendors must be removed from the area to give access to the masses that use the road and sidewalk. [PIA 11/ Joey Sem G. Dalumpines]

be paid an additional 30 percent of his her daily rate of 200 percent [(Daily Rate + CoLA) x 200%] + [30% (Daily Rate x 200%)]; and, (5) For overtime work during a holiday that also falls on his or her rest day, he/she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his/her hourly rate on said day (Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 200% x 130% x 130% x number of hours worked).

For the barangay elections on october 28, which is a special (non-working) holiday, these are the guidelines for correct payment of wages: (1) If the employee did not work, the “no work, no pay” principle shall apply, unless there is a favorable company policy, practice or collective bargaining agreement (CbA) granting payment on this special non-working day; (2) For work done during this special nonworking day, he/she shall be paid an additional 30

percent of his or her daily rate on the first eight hours of work [(Daily Rate x 130%)+ CoLA]; (3) For work done in excess of eight hours (overtime work), he/she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his/her hourly rate on said day (Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 130% x 130% x number of hours worked); (4) For work done during the special day that also falls on his or her rest day, he/she shall be paid an additional 50 percent of his/her daily rate on the first eight hours of work [(Daily Rate x 150%) + CoLA]; and, (5) For work done in excess of eight hours (overtime work) during a special day that also falls on his or her rest day, he/she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his or her hourly rate on said day (hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 150% x 130% x number of hours worked). [PNA]

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NATION Number of dissatisfied Pinoys increased VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

mANILA

M

ALACANANG sees the increase in number of dissatisfied Filipinos in the performance of President benigno Aquino III as a reflection of the “depth of anger” of the public on the misuse of public funds.

“While an overwhelming majority of Filipinos remain supportive of the President and his agenda, we recognize that the increase in those dissatisfied reflects the depth of anger and disappointment of the people at the way public funds have been stolen,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail valte said in a statement on Monday.

“We share this anger and disappointment. No amount of clutter should confuse the true issue at hand: Public funds were stolen by elected officials and their cohorts in the bureaucracy and the private sector,” she added.

MANILA

The Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey for third quarter showed 68 percent were satisfied with Aquino’s performance, with 19 percent dissatisfied.

The SWS said this was the fourth time Aquino’s score dipped since assuming his post in 2010. valte said the public’s support for Aquino has stemmed from “his sincerity in addressing the ills of the system.”

“These remain our bedrock principles as the Aquino administration takes on its most significant fight yet, against those who have joined ranks to derail us from the straight path. Despite their efforts, we shall triumph, because we know —and the numbers show— that our bosses, the people, remain on our side,” she said. valte warned that those who have misused public funds would be held accountable.

RELIEF GOODS. Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo ready releif goods for distribution during INC’s Evangelical and Medical Missions at Liwasang Bonifacio, Manila on Monday, October 14, 2013. [PNA Photo by Avito C. Dalan] “Rest assured that our pursuit of justice will continue and will in fact intensify as more evidence is

gathered. Those who have wronged us will be held accountable. Those who wish to bring us back to the old

ways will not succeed,” she said.

The survey was conducted from September 20

to 23, at a time when the Zamboanga siege occurred and the public outrage over the pork barrel scam. [PNA]

Creation of magna carta for journalists pushed J

oURNALISM and mass communication graduates or anyone who want to join the media industry can do so if they will pass the examination to be given under the proposed “Magna Carta for Journalists.”

Under the proposed magna carta authored by Reps. Rufus Rodriguez (2nd District, Cagayan de oro City) and Maximo Rodriguez, Jr. (Party-list, Abante Mindanao), journalists will be classified as accredited and non-accredited.

Rodriguez, author of House bill 2550, said aspiring journalists or

MANILA

media practitioners will have to take and pass the examination before they can be considered as “accredited journalist.”

The bill will create the Professional Journalist Examination and the Philippine Council for Journalists, which will handle the examination for radio, television, print and photography.

Those who will not pass the examination will get the tag of “non-accredited journalists” but can still join any media outfits. “They will still be allowed to exercise their duties and rights as journalists and enjoy only

those benefits and privileges accorded to them by their employers,” Rodriguez said.

Exempted from the examination are journalists who have been in the practice for 10 years already.

Rodriguez said the objective of the bill is to ensure a living wage, an atmosphere conducive to productive journalism work, reiterate the value of ethics, provide for development programs that will deepen the practice of their profession, and promote the defense and protection of freedom and human rights of jour-

Pres. Aquino to leave for SoKor on October 17

P

RESIDENT benigno Aquino III will go on a two-day state visit to South Korea on oct 17-18.

It will be his first meeting with SoKor’s female leader, President Park Geun-hye whose term began last February, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Asst. Sec. Raul Hernandez told a media briefing.

Hernandez said Aquino and Park will sign a memorandum of

understanding on defense, specifically on possible exchange visits of military personnel.

“There is an existing talks about Korea helping us with some military materials like for example ships, helicopters and some rubber boats. We are trying to improve and acquire more military equipment not only from Korea but also from other allies...We believe that Korea could help us in

the upgrading of our armed forces,” he said. on the second day of the visit, Hernandez said Aquino will meet with the Filipino community and confer the order of Lakandula on Jasmine Lee, a Fil-Korean elected as assembly member.

He said Foreign Affairs Sec. Albert del Rosario and Trade and Industry Sec. Gregory Domingo will join Aquino in the delegation. [PNA]

nalists and their organizations.

“Journalists, as purveyors of truth, risk their life and limb in order to make people aware of the local, national and international events. They provide the essential vehicle for the exchange of ideas between cultures and nations. Hence, the approval of this measure is earnestly sought,” Rodriguez said.

Rep. Sol Aragones (3rd District, Laguna) also filed House bill 2568 which seeks to promote freedom of information by ensuring that all requests made by media outfits and jour-

MANILA

nalists are acted upon promptly, within a period of five business days.

Aragones’ bill also demands a written explanation from the concerned government office to clarify why the request is unfavorably acted upon.

“The assumption is that all records in the custody or possession of a public body should be open to public scrutiny. Any public body that asserts that a record is exempt from disclosure has the burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that it is exempt,” Aragones said.

The measure to be known as the “Magna Car-

ta for Journalists Act of 2013,” likewise proposes the creation of a ‘Journalist Welfare Fund’ that aids journalists in distress.

The financial assistance ranges from P10,000 but not more than P 200,000 for the temporary or permanent incapacity, or death of a journalist by reason of his profession; and for journalists in distress, for any condition brought about by his job.

Moreover, the bill adopts and incorporates the Journalist’s Code of Ethics formulated by the Philippine Press Institute and the National Press Club.[PNA]

PHL, UAE to sign pact granting stronger protection for HSW K

EEPING its promise of a decent and productive work for Filipino household service workers round the world, the Dept. of Labor and Employment is pursuing an agreement with the United Arab Emirates for a unified contract for HSWs, patterned after the same agreement with Saudi Arabia.

“The Philippines will be waiting for a note verbale from the UAE gov-

ernment when it is ready anytime in November to sit down and draft a unified HSW contract. If it pushes through as agreed by both parties, it will become the second such accord in the Philippines”, Labor Secretary Rosalinda baldoz said in a press release.

The announcement was made after the labor chief met with UAE Labor Minister Saqr Saeed Ghobash and with officials of

the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abu Dhabi last Sept 29-30, the DoLE said in in a statement. [PNA] The unified contract will afford protection for the HSWs in terms of working conditions, working hours and days, rest and recreation, salaries, and proper treatment, among others. Most importantly, the unified contract will put a stop to contract switching and alteration.[PNA]

12 CLASSIFIEDS There’s a better way to get attention.

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

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EDGEDAVAO

13 COMMUNITY SENSE

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

Children’s Hour participates in collaborative relief efforts for Zamboanga children, families R

ECoGNIZING the need to extend immediate assistance to the displaced children and families in Zamboanga, Children’s Hour, through its Davao Steering Committee, signed last September 30, 2013 a Memorandum of Understanding with the Philippine Women’s College (PWC) of Davao for the shipment of relief goods to the conflict-stricken area.

Established in 1999 by founding Chairman Mr. Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Children’s Hour Philippines, Inc. is a fund raising, fund giving, and friends raising organization that invites employees, corporations, and individuals to donate one hour’s worth of their annual salary or earnings to projects for children in the areas of education, health & nutrition, and child protection. Children’s Hour‘s projects aim to benefit the poorest,

most vulnerable, and excluded groups in societyby inviting donors and friends to give to the cause not only through sharing their treasures, but also their time and talents.

PWC recently launched a campaign to collect donations from students, personnel, parents, alumni and friends of the school in order to inculcate the values of caring for others and sharing of blessings.

Children’s Hour, on the other hand, has commissioned the help of the Civil Relations Service Group of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to ship the donations from Davao City to selected partner organizations in Zamboanga within the month. Another PWC partner, brahma Kumaris World Spirituality Universtiy Phils.

Foundation, will monitor the distribution of the relief goods to the intended beneficiaries.

Photo shows (left to right, seated): Ms. Arlene A. Lozano, Director of the Brahma Kumaris Board of Trustees, Dr. Amelou Benitez Reyes, President and CEO of PWC – Davao, and Ms. Erlinda B. Basa, Chair of the Children’s Hour Davao Steering Committee.Witnesses to teh signing of the MOU are (left to right, standing) Ms. Amelia Bonifacio, PWC Vice President for Institutional Affairs, Lt. Col. Ruben Aquino, Group Commander of the CRS-AFP, Ms. Llewelyn Muriel Del Rosario, Vice Chair of Children’s Hour Davao, Ms. Salvacion Echavez, PWC Basic Education Principal,and Ms. Flormila Sonico, PWC Head of the Office of Student Affairs.

14 SPORTS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Pacquiao may fight Bradley next I

T looks like American boxer Timothy bradley may get a rematch with Filipino superstar after his victory over Mexican legend Juan Manuel Marquez in Las vegas last Saturday (Sunday in Manila).

Even before Saturday’s fight at the Thomas and Mack Center, where bradley battled to a split-decision win over Marquez to retain his World boxing organization welterweight title, the American already called out Pacquiao for a rematch.

According to a report

by The Guardian, Top Rank chief executive bob Arum, bradley may get the rematch with Pacquiao – if the Filipino wins over brandon Rios in their upcoming November 23 bout.

“As for who the victor could face next, his promoter, Top Rank CEo bob Arum, pointed to the winner of the 23 November tilt between Pacquiao and brandon Ríos,” The Guardian reported. “of the two, a bradley-Ríos fight would be easier to make considering that both men share the same manager, Cameron Dunkin,” it added.

In an interview before the Marquez fight, bradley had said he is ready for a rematch with Pacquiao in 2014.

“That is definitely a chapter in my life that I definitely have to visit and

Manny Pacquiao, left, lands a punch against Timothy Bradley during their WBO welterweight title fight on June 9, 2013, in Las Vegas. revisit. I think the fans, everybody around the whole world wants to see that fight and they want to see who the true champion is,” he said. but according to the Philippine Star in a report published on Monday, Pac-

quiao is no longer interested in fighting bradley again, after his controversial loss to the brash American in June 2012.

Quoting Pacquiao’s adviser, Mike Koncz, the Philippine Star report said Pacquiao is not interested in

either bradley or Marquez.

“And we are not interested in fighting either of them as they declined our offers prior to (us) agreeing to fight Rios,” Koncz was quoted as saying.

Koncz also said Pacquiao didn’t bother to

the lone goal of the match in the seventh minute, and Pakistan survived several last ditch efforts from Chinese Taipei late in the second half.

Thanks to Pakistan’s victory, the Philippine Azkals still have a chance of

retaining the Peace Cup crown if they beat Pakistan by two goals in their match on Tuesday.

“Massive result in our favor. Now I will say the last game to win is all in our hands,” Azkals first choice goal-keeper Neil Etheridge

tweeted after the game.

Chinese-Taipei had beaten the Azkals in their opening game, 2-1, last Friday.

The Azkals made history last year when they won the Peace Cup, their first crown in 99 years.

Pakistan’s win boosts Phils. Azkals hopes P

AKISTAN defeated Chinese Taipei, 1-0, in their 2013 Peace Cup match Sunday at the Panaad Stadium in bacolod to boost the Philippine Azkals’ hopes of retaining their title.

Zesh Rehman scored

Globe Arakan XC2 top finisher Jean Patrick Sereno (center) raises his hand during the awarding ceremony held at the Philippine Eagle Research and Nature Center in Davao City Sunday afternoon. Also in the photo are runner-ups Arnold Regodon (3rd from left), Melvin Oculam (2nd from right), Globe Telecom Inc. officer-in-charge on corporate social responsibility Fernando Esguerra (2nd from left), Lead Pack Event Management president Jason Yap (leftmost) and Philippine Eagle Foundation executive director Dennis Salvador. Lean Daval Jr.

watch Sunday’s match as he was in a church service at the time of the telecast.

“It was a boring fight just as I predicted when the fight was announced,” Koncz said. but a report by another source indicated oth-

erwise, saying Pacquiao would agree to a rematch with bradley.

“That’s really the plan (to pit Pacquiao against the winner of bradley-Marquez),” an unnamed Team Pacquiao insider quote saying.

JMM may retire after loss to Bradley

M

EXICAN boxing legend Juan Manuel Marquez is considering retirement after his loss to Timothy bradley in Las vegas last Saturday (Sunday in Manila).

Marquez was hoping to become the first Mexican boxer to win world titles in five different weight classes when he agreed to the bout that featured the last two fighters to beat Filipino ring hero Manny Pacquiao. but to the jeers of a pro-Marquez crowd at the Thomas and Mack Center, two judges awarded the bout to bradley, 116-112

and 115-113, while the third judge saw it 115-113 for Marquez.

Marquez insists that he thought he’d done enough to earn the victory.

“I know I did my job and I’m happy with what I’ve done,” said Marquez, who fell to 55-7 with one drawn and 40 knockouts.

“I landed the best shots . . . to win a fight it’s not always necessary to win by Ko.” Marquez is no stranger to disappointing decisions.

He endured two narrow defeats and a draw against Pacquiao before stunning “Pac-Man” with a sixthround knockout in their fourth fight in December.

INdulge!

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

Wheels over Eden’s treetops

Looking down, you can see the treetops under your feet.

Nothing but cables and the cool mountain breeze.

Road cyclINg is a new hot trend here in durianburg with many would-be cycling enthusiasts hitting the many challenging and scenic highways and trails of the city but head over to Eden Nature Park and one can have a different cycling experience that is literally heads and shoulders above a regular biking experience.

What I am talking about is Eden Nature Park’s newest adventure attraction, the Skycycle, and I was fortunate enough to be invited for a test drive. I would admit that I am a pretty adventurous person when it comes to travelling, I eat almost anything, and I try almost anything

at least once and zip lines are just a snitch. I can also ride the bicycle but the Skycyle experience was a different monster altogether.

I admit I was a bit nervous while I was climbing up the massive tower where the Skycycles will be launched. The cold wind

Together with media friends before setting off on the Skycycles.

Me on my Skycycle run.

plus the spectacular view of davao city and the surrounding area made the 60-foot climb look higher than usual. after getting strapped onto the bike and a quick safety check, I was finally set-off into empty space with nothing but a guide cable supporting the bike.

The first few seconds of the Skycycle experience was surreal as well as it seems like I was riding on

Skycyclers and ziplines.

treetops with nothing but sky all around me. one can argue that it is a similar experience as when riding on a zipline but the feeling is totally different. on a zipline, I feel the wind and the world passing me by in a blur with the ride done in just a couple of seconds. on the Skycycle however,

I got to travel only as fast as I pedal which gives me time to enjoy the stunning view as well as many more seconds of adrenaline.

Eden’s Skycycle is a unique experience and paired with the many other adventures the resort has to give, a trip to Eden Nature Park is a definite

must for everyone to try and enjoy.

A big thank you to ABSCBN’s Susan Regidor for my Skycycle photo.

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

A2 INdulge!

Up AND ABoUT

Win a scooter or an internet TV at SM City Davao 3 Day Sale!

ShoppERS get a chance to win one of the two Suzuki Nex115 Scooters at the mall raffle and an Internet TV with Tattoo Superstick from the SM Store when they shop at SM City Davao’s 3 Day Sale on october 18, 19 & 20.

This season’s most anticipated sale event offers up to 70% off on great selections mall-wide with extended mall hours to 12 MN on Friday and Saturday. on october 18, SM Advantage, prestige/BDo Rewards card holders may also avail of ad- ditional discounts when using their cards at the SM Store, ACE hardware, Surplus, SM Appliance and Levi’s during the SMAC Sale Special happening between 9AM12NN. Mall opens at 9 AM on Friday. plus, SM City Davao treats its valued shoppers with top calibre performances from the Voice of the philippine’s Final 4 and the soothing music from the country’s prince of pop Erik Santos on Friday and Saturday. on Sunday, teen loveteam paul Salas and Ella Cruz are set to melt their fans’ hearts away at the Annex Event Center.

Great discounts, exciting raffle prizes and exceptional performances await SM Davao’s valued clients on its 3 Day Sale.

For inquiries, call 297-6998 local 126. Like SM City Davao on Facebook or follow @smcitydavao on Twitter for event and promo updates.

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

ENTERTAINMENT

‘lIoilo’ is coming to the Philippines!

Cannes-winning Singaporean film slated for advanced screenings nationwide Be a Hi-Flyer with AirAsia

AIRASIA continues to position itself as an innovator in the industry with the introduction of ‘hi-Flyer’, a brand new flexifare service which offers guests greater convenience, flexibility and added benefits while traveling with both AirAsia & AirAsia X. The ‘hi-Flyer’ flexi-fare is already available for booking at www.airasia. com and AirAsia’s mobile sites on Android, iphone and Blackberry 10. Guests who opt for ‘hi-Flyer’ will be able to enjoy these value-added services like complimentary 20kg check-in baggage allocation and complimentary ‘pick-A-Seat’ for both Standard & hot Seats (hot Seats are subject to availability). Guests also get priority boarding, up to 2x flight change - for flights up to 2 hours before the scheduled time of departure without any change fee. (Fare difference will apply.) and earn 2x BIG points as a hi-Flyer Siegtraund Teh, Group Chief Commercial officer of AirAsia said, “Many different groups of people fly with AirAsia, and we would like to ensure that our guests are offered the best options that cater to their needs. hi-Flyer is specifically tailored to the business traveller group, who are constantly on the go and benefits such as complimentary 20kg checkin baggage, complimentary seat selection, priority boarding and flexibility to change flights up to 2 hours before their scheduled departure will be a great convenience factor. Business travellers make up a significant portion of our guests’ profile and this new product offering will further add value to their travel experience with AirAsia.” ‘hi-Flyer’ is available throughout all flights for AirAsia Malaysia (flight code AK), Thai AirAsia (flight code FD), AirAsia Indonesia (flight code QZ), AirAsia Zest (Flight Code Z2 & pQ) and AirAsia X (flight code D7).

Guests who have booked regular promo fares can easily upgrade to ‘hi-Flyer’ fares by logging onto www.airasia.com and modify their flights through the ‘Manage My Booking’ option, and guests will only need to pay the fare difference after selecting the ‘hi-Flyer’ flexi-fare.

Apart from the value-added services, AirAsia guests who are also members of the AirAsia BIG Global Loyalty programme are able to earn 2x BIG points when they book the ‘hi-Flyer’ flexi-fare. To find out more details about BIG and learn how to sign up, please visit www.AirAsiaBIG.com.

For more information and updates on AirAsia’s products and services, follow them on social media via Twitter (twitter.com/ AirAsia) and Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsia).

It’S coNfIRmEd! The cannes film festival-winner “Iloilo” will open in local cinemas on december 4. origin8 media - makers of “Zombadings” and distributor of the blockbuster comedy “Kimmy dora: Kambal sa Kiyeme” and noted films “give Up tomorrow” and “Boses” - was chosen by writer/director anthony chen and international distributor memento films to market and distribute “Iloilo” in the Philippines. origin8 was picked over bigger and more established local film distributors because of its expertise in handling non-mainstream pictures.

chen said, “I have been asked so many times by so many people, ‘When is ‘Iloilo’ coming to the Philippines?’ I’m so heartened that we have an answer for them now. and what better than a distributor like origin8 who will give the same care and attention that our production gave over the three years of making the film.”

Nicolas Kaiser of memento films said “We’re thrilled to partner with origin8 media. Their dedication and ‘out-of-the-box’ strategies will surely give our film the necessary exposure.”

Special advanced screenings are slated for davao on

November 14, cagayan de oro on November 15, cebu on November 21, Bacolod on November 22 and dumaguete on November 23. “Iloilo” will have a premiere in Iloilo on december 2 with director anthony chen, filipino actress angeli Bayani and Singaporean child actor Koh Jia ler set to attend.

“Iloilo” is the first fulllength feature of chen who was born and grew up in Singapre. The story is inspired by his recollection of his filipina nanny teresita Sajonia who took care of him and his brothers Justin and christopher from 1988 to 1997. The title refers to the home province of teresita. The chen brothers and teresita had not seen each other since 1997 until PR consultant charles

lim of Selrahco management helped find teresita and broker a reunion for the former nanny and her wards.

Raymond lee, one of the partners of origin8, said that their company is elated to be chosen as the distributor of “Iloilo.” lee declared, “The trust given by anthony and memento films reinforces the capability of our artist-run moviemaking and distribution company. We pledge to give ‘Iloilo’ a most fitting campaign and maximum exposure.”

“Iloilo” was unveiled last may at the 66th cannes International film festival where it won the camera d’or for best debut feature. angeli Bayani, who plays auntie terry in the film, was in cannes for the

world premiere of “Iloilo” and in Paris where the film was shown at the festival Paris cinema. last august, the actress was in Singapore for its bug premiere at the posh marina Bay Sands that had no less than Singapore President tony tan Keng yam as guest of honour. She is happy her film will be shown in the Philippines soon. She said, “The movie’s themes about family and relationships are very universal. Maraming Pilipinong makaka-relate sa pelikulang ito na tribute sa pagsisikap at kabutihan ng mga Pilipino.”

The Singapore film commission advisory committee announced that it had picked “Iloilo” as their country’s entry to the foreign language film category of the oscars.

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

GMA Artist Center congratulates Derrick Monasterio, Charee Pineda and Kristoffer Martin

GMA Artist Center congratulates Derrick Monasterio, Charee pineda and Kristoffer Martin for being cited as young Filipino achievers at the recently concluded Golden Globe Annual Awards for Business Excellence 2013 held at the Manila hotel last September 28.

Monasterio, pineda and Martin were honoured for their outstanding and significant achievements in the field of Arts and Entertainment.

Derrick Monasterio, who is also a National Youth Commission (NYC) Ambassador, feels very happy to be recognized. he also advised the youth to continue in striving hard and enrich their talents that God gave them and be a role model to others. “I feel so honoured and blessed because it’s not everyday that one receives an award. I can inspire them by simply doing my best at every opportunity to showcase my talent.

In that way, the youth will be inspired and eventually would want to be like you”, he adds.

Kahit Nasaan Ka Man leading man Kristoffer Martin shares that receiving such recognition made him strive to do more good and serve as an inspiration to the people who look up to him. “I’m thankful! Syempre una kay Lord at thank you sa Golden Globe for acknowledging us sa field namin which is Arts and Entertainment. It will serve as an inspiration to me to do more and to push myself

even harder.”

Akin Pa Rin ang Bukas star and public servant Charee pineda is thankful for the award she received. “The award came just in time. My political career is in peak, then ito naman sa akin showbiz career, another highlight. Magandang welcome sa muling pagbabalik ko bilang Kapuso.”

With all the recognitions, it only shows that GMA Artist Center stars are honed to do their best not only in their chosen field but also to be an inspiration to the Filipino youth.

‘King of the Gil’ concert at the Big Dome on November 29

Enrique will teach how to dougie and more!

phILIppINE showbiz’s ‘Dougie King’ Enrique Gil is ready to conquer the Smart-Araneta Coliseum this November as he brings his own swag and delight his supporters at his first ever concert titled “King of the Gil.” “I will do everything that will make them stand up, dance and enjoy the night.

I will definitely teach you how to dougie and much much more!” promised Enrique about his upcoming show staged by Star Events and ABS-CBN. “King of the Gil” concert will be made brighter and more special as Enrique will be joined by his friends in showbiz namely Vice Ganda, Angel Locsin, Toni Gonzaga, Kim Chiu, Vhong Navarro, Jhong hilario and

GRAVITY 2D Sandra Bullock, George Clooney PG 13

12:25 | 2:20 | 4:15 | 6:10 | 8:05 | 10:00 LFS

CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS 2 2D Bill Hader, Anna Faris, James Caan GP

Young JV. he will also share the dance floor with his “Muling Buksan Ang puso” leading lady Julia Montes.

Dance groups Streetboys and G-Force will further fire up the night with their killer choreography.

Don’t miss the “King of the Gil” concert at SmartAraneta Coliseum on November 29 (Friday). Tickets are now available at Ticketnet outlets and Ticketnet. com.ph. For more updates about “King of the Gil,” visit Star Records’ Fa c e b o o k fanpage at w w w.face book.com/ starrecordsphil or follow @starrecordsph on Twitter

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

CAPTAIN PHILLIPS 2D Tom Hanks PG 13

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12:30 | 2:30 | 5:00 | 7:30 | 10:00 LFS

ESCAPE PLAN 2D Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger R 13

12:40 | 3:00 | 5:20 | 7:40 | 10:00 LFS

A4 INdulge!

EVENT

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

SM City Davao holds Green Retail Agenda anew laSt SEPtEmBER 16, Sm city davao once again mounted its green Retail agenda dubbed as “adapting Business for climate change” at the annex Event center of the mall.

The Sm green Retail agenda was first rolled out in SmX convention center in September 2008 and during the first quarter of 2009 in all Sm Supermalls. This year is Sm city davao’s 3rd conduct of the event which gathered almost 300 tenant employees, store owners and mall-goers.

“In addition to adaptation efforts on government and international levels, individual businesses will be making their own moves. This year’s conference focuses more on the need to adapt to some magnitude of climate change. our roster of speakers will focus on disaster risk resilience, logistics programs and sustainable best practices to strengthen the environment and empower the retail business,” Sm city davao mall manager ly-

WWF CEO Lory Tan. nette lopez said.

The forum was initially aimed at increasing awareness of climate change. The green Retail agenda 2013 is focused on the relationship of climate change to sustainable business and development helping Sm’s business partners prepare for the inevitable calamities brought about by the phenomenon.

In his keynote speech, city council committee chair for Environment and Natural Resources councilor danny dayanghirang shared the city’s efforts and programs

which are geared towards environmental protection and climate change mitigation. WWf cEo lory tan discussed the effects of climate change in business and how businesses can adapt to it. mr Pepito S. capili, administration officer of the davao city disaster Risk Reduction and management office talked about the logistics involved in disaster response while doSt XI Science Research Specialist Eric colmenares demonstrated how people can utilize the Noah app and Noah website to monitor weather conditions. as a closing remark, the davao city chamber of commerce and Industry, Inc. president arch. daniel lim lauded Sm for its efforts in reaching out

to its business partners to promote resilience amid climate change. as businesses look for profitable and efficient ways to ‘turn green’, Sm leads the way with the annual ‘green Retail agenda’.

Part of the Sm cares program, the green Retail agenda helps Sm tenants and retailers simultaneously establish more environment-friendly and profitable businesses. Sm has always made it a point to encourage mall tenants and concessionaires to create a greener future with the use of environment friendly materials and other ‘green strategies’.

Sm lanang Premier also mounted the green Retail agenda in the first week of September.

Hon Danny Dayanghirang, Council Committee Chair on Environment and Natural Resources DCCCII President Arch. Daniel Lim.

Mr Pepito S. Capili, Administration Officer of the Davao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

Green Retail Agenda at SM City Davao.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

SPORTS 15

Cardona to Air 21 in 3-team, 8-player deal M

AC Cardona will reunite with college coach Franz Pumaren with the Air 21 Express in a three-team deal involving Meralco and Talk ‘N Text.

The Express received Cardona from Meralco and Pamboy Raymundo and bam Gamalinda from Talk ‘N Text.

The Tropang Texters got Noy baclao from Meralco, and Rob Reyes, Eric Salamat, and a 2015 second round pick from Air 21.

The bolts received Rabeh Al-Hussaini from Talk ‘N Text and Nelbert omolon from Air 21.

Cardona won’t be the only one reunited with his old coach in college. baclao and Salamat were

stars at Ateneo under Talk ‘N Text coach Norman black. Rob Reyes is also making a Tropang Texters homecoming after being drafted by the squad in 2008.

The deal eases the logjam at the wing position for Meralco, who acquired Gary David in another trade last week. The bolts also feature John Wilson, Jared Dillinger, and Rey Guevarra in their rotation.

In a span of a few days, the bolts traded away the last two original members of their PbA team from 2010 — Cardona and point guard Chris Ross. but in this deal, they got back another Meralco original, Nelbert omolon, who was traded to the Express last year.

Walker gets trip to Masters

S

AN MARTIN, Calif.

(AP) -- Jimmy Walker’s first PGA Tour trophy came with a special gift tucked inside.

A yellow ‘’Masters 2014’’ flag.

It was a not-so-subtle reminder that the Frys. com open is no longer a Fall Series event for players to chase their tour cards at the end of the year, but the start of the PGA Tour’s new 2013-14 season that comes with all the perks.

And it was a reminder to Walker that he gets to go places where he always felt he belonged.

In his eighth season and his 188th tournament - and with a little help from 23-year-old brooks Koepka - Walker won a backnine duel Sunday by making a 6-foot birdie putt on the 15th hole and closing with three pars for a 5-under 66. That was more than enough for the 34-year-old Texan to win by two shots. ‘’This was the final stepping stone,’’ said Walk-

Jimmy Walker tees off on the 8th hole during the final round of the Frys.com Open golf tournament, Sunday, Oct. 13, 2013, in San Martin, Calif. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)

er, who has played on more tours than he can remember to get to the big leagues.

It turned out to be a learning experience for Koepka, who had a fourshot lead with 11 holes remaining until he began missing short putts, all of them to the left. It started with a 3-foot par putt that he missed on the ninth hole. The most significant was a 6-foot birdie attempt on the 15th hole that would have matched birdies with Walker in the group ahead and regained a share of the lead.

Koepka bogeyed the next two holes and closed with a 72 to tie for third. ‘’Things just weren’t going my way,’’ Koepka said. ‘’I just didn’t make the shots I needed to win. Congrats to Jimmy on that. He played very well. but just try to learn from the whole experience. Any time you can put yourself in that kind of pressure, it’s always good.

It you take something from it, that’s even better.’’

Boston Red Sox players run aftar Jarrod Saltalamacchia after Saltalamacchia hits the game winning single during Game 2 of the American League baseball championship series against the Detroit Tigers Sunday, Oct. 13, 2013, in Boston. The Red Sox won 6-5. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Red Sox shock Tigers b

oSToN (AP) -- David ortiz’s line drive sailed just beyond Torii Hunter’s reach and into the boston bullpen, sending the Tigers right fielder flopping headfirst over the wall after it.

With one swing, the Red Sox slugger turned everything upside-down. ortiz’s grand slam erased an eighth-inning deficit and ended Detroit’s unprecedented run of pitching dominance, and Jonny Gomes scampered around the bases with the game-winning run in the ninth Sunday night to give boston a 6-5 victory over Detroit and knot the AL championship series at one game apiece. ‘’That’s what he does.

He’s an amazing hitter,’’ said Max Scherzer, who took a no-hitter and a 5-0 lead into the sixth inning but could only watch as the Detroit relievers blew it. ‘’He’s an

amazing postseason hitter.

He’s clutch. Any given moment, a swing of the bat he can always take you deep.’’ one night after Anibal Sanchez and four relievers came within two outs of the first combined postseason no-hitter in baseball history, Scherzer struck out 13 and held boston hitless for 5 2-3 innings. but the Red Sox loaded the bases against three relievers in the eighth and then closer Joaquin benoit came in to face ortiz.

The Red Sox designated hitter lined the first pitch into the glove of the Red Sox bullpen catcher.

Hunter went down hard and came out only after his teammates had waved for the Detroit medical staff to come out and help him. ‘’I jumped up. I thought I had a beat on it,’’ said Hunter, who came up in the Minnesota Twins organization with ortiz and re-

mains friends with the Red Sox slugger. ‘’Next thing, I know I’m falling over the fence.’’

The fans waited until the trainers verified that Hunter was oK to start chanting, ‘’Papi!’’ and call ortiz out of the dugout for a curtain call. It was the first career postseason grand slam for a star of the 2004 playoff run that ended in boston’s first World Series title in 86 years. ‘’The guy’s an actor at work,’’ Red Sox outfielder Shane victorino said. ‘’It’s fun to watch. It’s great to see. He’s always upbeat and always positive. He always likes to go up and swing the bat. That’s what he always wants to do.’’

Koji Uehara pitched a perfect ninth for the win.

Rick Porcello gave up a leadoff infield single that left Gomes at second when shortstop Jose Iglesias threw the ball into

the boston dugout. Jarrod Saltalamacchia hit a foul popup that glanced off first baseman Prince Fielder’s glove when he got tangled up with a fan.

Gomes moved to third on a wild pitch, and then Saltalamacchia hit one through the drawnin infield to drive in the game-winner. ‘’It’s playoff baseball,’’ Tigers manager Jim Leyland said. ‘’Looked like we had one in hand and we let one get away, there’s no question about that. but there have been two great games.’’ boston’s comeback came a few hours after Tom brady threw a touchdown pass with 5 seconds left to complete the New England Patriots’ comeback over the New orleans Saints. The score was greeted with cheers by Red Sox fans waiting for the baseball game to start.

the first set with a double break, dictating the play and not allowing the sixth seed to produce the thundering groundstrokes that dispatched Nadal, who reclaimed the top ranking this week from Djokovic.

The giant Del Potro avoided an embarrassing “bagel” to loud cheers but could not prevent Djokovic, playing with controlled aggression, from sealing the set. but the Argentine, who won last week’s Japan open, got his act together at the start of the second set, breaking at his first opportunity in a bizarre game in which his Serb opponent

appeared to have trouble keeping his balance.

Djokovic engineered a golden opportunity to break back, earning three break points in the seventh game but former US open champion Del Potro upped his game to win five consecutive points for a hold and levelled the match by taking the second set 6-3. both players had chances to break in the third set and Del Potro saved two match points in the 10th game.

Djokovic, who was holding serve more easily than his opponent as the set wore on, held his nerve to win the tie-break with

his third match point.

The Argentine, who stands 6-foot-6, came into the match trailing 9-3 in head-to-heads, with their last meeting coming at this year’s Wimbledon, where Djokovic prevailed in a five-set semi-final.

Del Potro, 25, has qualified for the elite season-ending World Tour Finals in London, featuring the season’s top eight players. other confirmed qualifiers are Nadal, Djokovic and Spain’s David Ferrer. victory for Djokovic, who won last week’s China open in beijing, gives him a 20th consecutive win in China.

Djokovic wins Shanghai Masters thriller S

HANGHAI (AFP) --Novak Djokovic overcame a fierce challenge from Juan Martin del Potro Sunday to defend his Shanghai Masters title with a 6-1, 3-6, 7-6 (7/3) victory, bringing the Argentine down to earth after his heroics against Rafael Nadal.

Del Potro came into the final against the top seed brimming with confidence after his semi-final demolition of the Spanish world No. 1 but was immediately on the back foot in breezy conditions at the Qizhong Tennis Center.

The 26-year-old Serb established an iron grip on

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 6 ISSUE 152 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

De La Salle University’s (DLSU) Jeron Teng (21) is tightly guarded by his brother Jeric Teng (16) of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) during their UAAP Season 76 men’s basketball finals at the MOA Arena. Photo

by Mark Cristino

PBA BOUND? UST’s Teng counts blessings as college career ends

U

NIvERSITY of Santo Tomas (UST) guard Jeric Teng was unable to lead the Growling Tigers to the promised land in the UAAP, but the graduating guard remains thankful after a fruitful five-year career in the league.

Teng and the Growling Tigers made the Finals in his last two seasons, but bowed to the Ateneo blue Eagles in Season 75. In Season 76, as the first fourth-seed to make the Finals, they went toe-to-toe with the De La Salle Green Archers before falling short, losing Game 3 69-71 in overtime.

After scoring 24 points in Game 3, Teng was admittedly disappointed to once again lose in the Finals, especially after coming so close.

“Everyone’s frustrated, everyone’s sad

dahil ‘yun nga, we knew that we were so close na talaga. Nahawakan na namin ‘yung trophy, dumulas pa.

Ganoon siya kalapit eh,” he said. but Teng, a former Rookie of the Year, said he still feels blessed to have played for UST for five years.

“It’s very tough, because when I went to UST noong rookie year ko, sabi ko talaga na I wanted to graduate sana with a championship,” he said. “Siguro, it’s not for me lang talaga.”

“And siguro, sobra-sobra na rin ang nabigay ni God sa akin.

When I got injured, hindi ko talaga alam na makakalaro pa ako eh,” he added.

Teng missed five games early in the season after sustaining a shoulder injury in their first-round game against National Uni-

versity. His return stabilized the Growling Tigers, and he eventually led the team to the Finals.

“I’m blessed na nakakapaglaro na ulit ako,” he said. “bumalik ‘yung kumpyansa ko, ‘yung mga games na nilalaro ko.”

“Yung paglalaro ko pa lang, blessing na siya eh,” he said. “Every game, sinasabi ko lang na sa ma-extend ng ma-extend ako. Ayun nga ang ginawa ni God, in-extend ng in-extend ako. Siguro, sobra-sobra na kung ibibigay pa sa amin ‘yung championship.”

“We started from No. 6 ata, dahan-dahan kami umakyat, so I think we’re blessed to be in this kind of situation,” he added.

Teng is trying his best to look at the bright side, and has repeatedly said that he is happy to see his

younger brother, Jeron, win the title for the Green Archers. but he admits that at the end of the day, the disappointment will likely stick with him.

“At the end of the day, siguro when I look back, siguro talagang manghihinayang ako, because we were very close to getting the championship,” he said. “but we made some crucial mistakes, and La Salle won.”

As for what’s next in his career, Teng said he will discuss it first with his family and his manager, although the PBA is definitely in the cards.

“I will have to talk with my family and my manager. We’ll see,” he said, then added, “Pag-uusapan namin kung mage-enter ako ng draft or hindi. Eligible na ako, kasi naglaro na ako sa D-League ng ilang beses na.”

AIPEI (AFP) -Asian-American NbA star Jeremy Lin and teammate James Harden joined hands Sunday to help the Houston Rockets beat the Indiana Pacers 107-98 in an NbA preseason game held in Taipei, Lin’s ancestral home.

As a point guard, Lin scored 17 points in his 34-minute play while Harden contributed 21 points in a game that drew a sell-out crowd of more

than 13,000 fans at the Taipei Arena stadium.

When Lin had to quit just a few minutes before the close of the game, local fans gave him a thundering applause.

“I’m happy with the result. After all, we won.

Playing (basketball) here is crazy. Fans are noisy and passionate,” Lin said in Mandarin Chinese at a press conference.

Houston coach Kevin McHale added: “The atmosphere was unbeliev-

able. Yes, it was definitely Jeremy Lin’s home court.

He played very well.”

“The last week to 10 days he’s been very, very good in our games and our practices. I think he’s really comfortable with who he is. He’s in a good state of mind”, McHale said.

The 25-year-old, whose parents are Taiwanese, has become a sporting hero on the island since he shot to stardom in the NbA with the New York Knicks early last

year, sparking a global following known as “Linsanity.”

Lin, who was later traded to Houston, had a mixed performance in his first full NBA season that saw the Rockets eliminated in the first round of the playoffs.

McHale said he could understand the tremendous pressure on Lin after he swiftly rose to his fame and emerged as the basketball icon in Asia and elsewhere in the world.

Lin charms Taiwan fans T