Edge Davao 6 Issue 172

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

DANGER ZONES. Coastal communities made of houses on stilts like this one at the back of Magsaysay Park are among the most vulnerable areas if ever a Leyte-like storm surge would hit Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

COMINGCity allotsTOP8MTHE RESCUE for Leyte, Tacloban ‘Yolanda’victims

By Ceneen R. Capon and antonio M. ajeRo

T

HE Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City yesterday approved a budget of P8 million for financial assistance to victims of super typhoon Yolanda in the city of Tacloban and the provinces of Leyte and Southern Leyte.

This was announced

by Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang, who as SP finance committee chairman, sponsored the financial measureupon the urgent request of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte.

Of the P8-million assistance fund, P2 million will go to Tacloban and P3 million each for Leyte

and Southern Leyte.

The SP headed by Vice Mayor Paulo Z. Duterte convened the special session Monday morning to treat Mayor Rody’s request and not wait for its regular session today.

To see to it that the SP will be able to immediately approve the financial assistance on time, the vice mayor was the SP as early as 9 a.m. checking on the required documents to support the measure, Dayanghirang said.

He also lauded members of the SP staff for rendering overtime on Saturday and Sunday to prepare the documents.

According to Dayanghirang, the financial assistance will be given to the three places on condition that they are officially declared by the President or the local government units to be under a state of calamity.

Another condition is that the funds will be disbursed according to established government guidelines, he said.

The SP finance chairman said that the P8-million assistance fund was taken from the city’s 5-percent disaster risk reduction management budget, also known as calamity fund.

TACLOBAN-BOUND. Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte says that the best option of President Aquino right now is to declare national emergency during yesterday’s interview while waiting for his flight to Cebu at the Davao City International Airport. Duterte was bound for Leyte yesterday to lead the medical team of Central 911 and visit affected areas hit by typhoon Yolanda. Lean Daval Jr.

2

EDGEDAVAO

THE BIG NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

Chief Danao vows to hunt down Yu By eMiloRd p. CastRoMayoR

“I SMOKING BEFORE THE STORM. Not even a storm warning or the anti-smoking ordinance can stop these men from braving the rain just to smoke at a roofless designated smoking area of SM City Davao. The city experienced heavy downpour yesterday after tropical depression “Zoraida” entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility. Lean Daval Jr.

Villareiz warns smoking violators

By Cheneen R. Capon

D

crc@edgedavao.net

ESPITE the increasing number of issued citation tickets to violators of the Ordinance No. 0367-12 or The New Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance, the Anti-Smoking Task Force of Davao City said that only a few tickets were returned to police where they [violators] were apprehended.

“Probably because they [violators] are taking it for granted”,” ASTF head Domilyn Villareiz told media in yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Annex.

“Minsan kasi natatakot sila na makasuhan agad pag naissuehan ng violation citation tickets, but if it is the second time they violated the ordinance, then the case will be filed in court already,” Villareiz said.

She stressed the importance of returning the cita-

P

dered police operatives to start tracking down Baktin’s whereabouts, adding that Yu may still be in the country.

“Kung ako sayo Mr. Baktin, sumurender ka na lang uli, huwag ka ng magjump bail, but if you choose to fight it out with the Davao City Police Office, you know what will happen to you,” Danao said.

Yu failed to comply with his written undertaking submitted to the RTC Branch 27 under Judge Edwin Malazartel on September 11.

He told Malazartel that he would present himself in court whenever required. He will be present in court during the promulgation of judgment.

ECURITY GUARDS of private security agencies are on the radar of the Anti-Smoking Task Force (ASTF) as deputies in the enforcement of the ordinance.

ASTF head Dr. Domilyn Villareiz bared the ASTF is eyeing to deputize security guards of market, malls and other establishments to enforce Ordinance No. 0367-12 or The New Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance by next year.

“We will start with security guards of markets and malls, kasi sila ang nagrequest as of now, they will train security nila,” Villareiz said during the

Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM Annex yesterday “We will have the first batch of trainees by next year ngayon police muna.

Kung may mahuli sila they can issue citation ticket and endorsed it to the police, just in case hindi ibalik, and police and magkakaso,” the head added.

Aside from security guards, barangay captains by congressional districts will undergo orientation regarding the ordinance early next year.

“We do this every now and then,” Villareiz added.

“We need to do it on the barangay level also not just for smoking but also

FPOLICE, 10

ASTF wants guards deputized as enforcers S

tion ticket five days after its issuance but some law enforcers extended it to one week. Charges for violation of the ordinance will cause the filing of cases in court upon default.

According to the ordinance, violators are mandated to pay a penalty of P500 to the City Treasurer’s Office and attend cessation counseling conducted by the City Health’s Office and other hospitals assigned by the city government of Davao.

Villareiz said that from January to October this year, a total of 3,301 violators have been apprehended while 1,975 were issued violation citation tickets from June to October this year.

The Mobile Police Group under Major William Corpuz recorded the high-

est number of violators apprehended or citation ticket issued with 1,473. Talomo Police Station came up with 564; Sta. Ana Police Station with 234; Sasa Police Station with 182; and the Public Safe Group with 337 apprehensions.

The apprehended violators also included 10 foreigners, mostly Koreans and Chinese who were smoking in public places such as restaurants. She said that resident foreigners in the city were already informed of the new ordinance but apparently ignored the warning. Visiting foreigners and local tourists are also reminded on commercial aircrafts upon arrival in Davao City.

Curiously, there were no police personnel and military who were apprehended. There was also no

Davao region is the first in the country to launch MBP through the initiative of Regional Police Strategy Management Unit of PRO 11.

The RPSMU’s MBP stemmed on the study mounted by Social Weather Survey presented by the Police Strategy Management Unit last October 2, 2013. RPSMU said that the study focused on the reasons why people are not reporting crimes.

The study showed that 31 percent said that incidents are too small

ANOTHER REMINDER. Anti-Smoking Task Force of head Dr. Domilyn C. Villareiz says that at least 2,790 violators were already apprehended or issued citation tickets after the New Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance of Davao City was implemented on May 31, 2013 during Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Police launches Mobile blotter OLICE Stations are now staged inside every mobile patrol vehicle as Police Regional Office 11(PRO) launched yesterday the Mobile Blotter Project(MBP) during the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony at Camp Quintin M Merecido, Davao City.

Police Chief Superintendent Wency T Pascual, PRO 11 Regional Director said in his message that the main goal of the project is to have an easy and quick update on what is really happening on the ground.

don’t care who you are, I will hunt you down! Hindi lahat ng pulis mababayaran mo, wala akong pakialam kung sino ka man (Not all police officers can be bribed by you. I don’t care who you are)!”

Such were the strong words of Davao City Police Director Sr. Supt.

Vicente Danao Jr. after suspected carnap gang leader Ryan Yap Yu, alias “Baktin,” failed to show up for his arraignment at the Regional Trial Court Branch 16 here last November 7.

The court issued a second warrant of arrest for the fugitive who jumped bail and forfeited his P1.44 million bond.

Danao said he has or-

FPRO XI, 10

recorded case of citizen arrest.

Aside from the issues faced by the ASTF, Villareiz stressed those Public Utility Vehicle (PUVs) drivers should put anti-smoking signs at their units otherwise personnel of the Traffic Management Center (TMC) will issue citation ticket and will also pay the penalty.

She also added that the use of electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes in public places under the ordinance is not allowed.

Sellers and distributors of e-cigarettes, like any retailers, are required to acquire permit to sell.

Villareiz, meanwhile, said that a said that they will have the complete data by the end of the year.

FASTF, 10

NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

3

Davao City’s 182 elected barangay captains bared (Conclusion)

By eMiloRd p. CastRoMayoR For third district Alexander S. REZANE (Alambre), Rogelio T. ICO (Angalan), Julico A. BATAWAN (Atan-awe), Alexander S. ANGIT (Baganihan), Christopher C. LAPAYAG (Bago Oshiro), Rey S. ESPANUEVA (Baguio), Daniel Sr. M. ORONG (BALENGAENG), Wilberto E. AL-AG (Bangkas Heights), Dionisio B. SAYAD (Bantol), Danilo A. DARVIN (Baracatan), Alfredo D. CABREROS (Bato), Porferio D. PARAC (Bayabas) , Romeo F. LAO (Biao Escuela), Lolita A. TECSON (Biao Guianga), Pedrito P. CAÑEDO (Biao Joaquin), Antonio S. SANIEL (Binugao), Rolando L. POLICIOS (Buda), Aristides P. CAJES (Cadalian), Pedrito C. ANGCO (Calinan), Milo B. PECHANGCO (Camansi), Alfredo Sr. B. AUSTRAL (Carmen), Jesus A. MANSILAGAN (Catigan) , Cornelia P.BELARMINO (Cawayan), Terso ABRANTES (Crossing Bayabas), Cesario P. DARUNGAY (Dacudao), Oscar B. LABAWAN (Dalag), Rogelio O. DELA CRUZ (Dalagdag), Rodolfo B. TE ( Daliao), Generoso S. BACALSO (Daliaon Plantation), Merilyn L. UAYAN (Datu Salumay), Ivy Marie L. LUMANDAS (Dominga), Lucita A. APOLUNA (Eden), Francis M. BALUCOS (Gumalang), Fernando O.BANAYAO (Gumitan), Lilia D. RUTA (Inayangan), Lorenzo Jr. D. BALAGAT (Kilate), Nilo

H. FORRO (Lacson), Antonio Jr. C. ALBARAN (Lamanan) , Nestor D. MUTIA (Lampianao), Remgio C. LICERA (Lizada), Angelico Jr. T. SANTANDER ( Los Amigos), Maria Jane L. DUYAN (Magsaysay), Lydia A. LIONG (Malagos),Alan Sr. M. ASTILLA ( Malamba), Cris A. PECASION (Manambulan), Ruel L. AYOG (Manuel Guianga), Emilio D. PIZARRO (Marapangi), Purificacion A. SUYKO (Marilog), Hilario D. MALAKI (Matina Biao), Joseph P. ESCOVILLA (Megkawayan), Ramon II M. BARGAMENTO (Mintal), Carmelo J. CLARION (Mulig), Jerry T. CEBALLOS (New Carmen), Rey D. FERNANDEZ (New Valencia), Antonio P. GUATNO (Pangyan), Eduardo Sr. T. BOCBOC (Riverside), Roberto Sr. A ITDANG (Salaysay), Garry C. GENCIANOS (Saloy), Carlos T. DEL ROSARIO (Santo NiÑo) , Rosita P. ABALAYAN (Sibulan), Madjid C. LUMAPAC (Sirawan), Nestor O. OGUIO (Sirib) , Loreto E. AMOY (Suawan), Vicente C. ENOC (Subasta), Arnold L. ASOBE (Tacunan), Eusebio A. BANGCAS (Tagakpan), Renato A. HERNANDO (Tagluno), Danilo A. CAMARILLO (Tagurano), Reynaldo T. DUMAGAN (Talandang), Corsino B. ANAVISO (Talomo River), Gregorio C. CANADA (Tamayong), Felicidad M. HELOCAME (Tambobong), Diomedes

FDAVAO, 10

ADDED ATTRACTION. Mall goers take their pictures at SM City Davao’s forest-themed Christmas display dubbed as Enchanted Christmas Forest while a security guard watches at the Annex yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

SM eyes P100-M aid for calamity victims By neilWin joseph l. BRaVo njb@edgedavao.net

T

HE SM Group of Companies yesterday announced plans to allocate P100 million calamity fund for areas devastated by the earthquake and the typhoon, particularly in Tacloban, Ormoc, Samar, Cebu, Iloilo, Capiz, and Bicol.

The P100-M calamity fund project of the Sy-owned conglomerate comes in the wake of damages brought about by the

recent 7.2 earthquake and the super-typhoon Yolanda.

In a statement, SM said “the fund will focus on five different types of assistance: rebuilding homes, community centers, schools, and churches, and providing immediate relief through food and supplies.”

More than 10,000 people were reported dead in the aftermath of the dreaded super typhoon “Yolan-

da” that hit hardest in Tacloban and Palo, Leyte while 213 deaths were reported in the 7.2 earthquake in Cebu and Bohol.

SM Foundation is taking the lead in the relief efforts with the nationwide reach of SM Cares of the mall group, SM Savemore, and BDO Foundation. Each group has a different expertise in the community support program, and will be working with community groups to expand

Skin art & Needles

the efforts and widen the reach of the relief operations.

In addition to these efforts, “Operation Tulong Express” will be open for the donation of relief goods in SM malls, and an account in both BDO and Chinabank will be open to accept cash donations.

“With the P100M calamity fund, SM seeks to extend an extra hand to these affected communities,” the statement said.

The 2nd Annual Bata’k Skinfest

B CHILD ACHIEVER. Artero N. Escropolo (extreme left), a 13-year old student from Montevista in Compostela Valley Province, is all smiles after winning the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)’s Regional Search for Exemplary Children of Pantawid Pamilya during the awarding rites held at the Apo View Hotel Friday afternoon. Lean Daval Jr.

ATA’K- B’laan word which means, ink on the skin. It is seen as a status symbol of one’s rank and accomplishments in the tribe.

As a kid, I used to use sharpies to draw hearts and stars on my skin.

That’s why my parents were not shocked when I showed them my first tattoo.

Tattooing is the art of marking a part of the body by inserting pigment into punctures in the skin. It has been a part of Filipino life since pre-Hispanic colonization. Among tribes, it was considered as a symbol of rank and accomplishment. As early as 16th century, it had been doc-

umented by European explorers that tattooing was a tradition among the Philippine islands. The Spanish colonizers, however, considered this a pagan tradition and prohibited it amongst the populace. Later, popular media also linked tattooing with prison culture, thus putting the art’s reputation in a bad light.

Nowadays, there has been a resurgence of interest in tattooing. More and more people are now getting “inked.” Famous personalities – actors, singers, athletes, and even models are now proudly brandishing their tattoos and as its popularity increase, the accompa-

FSKIN ART, 10

4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

TAGUM CITY

DepEd, LGU partner in building modern tech-voc laboratory

A

s t a te - o f - t h e - a r t technology building will soon cater students of Tagum National Trade School, as the Department of Education and the City Government of Tagum prepares for a revitalized technical-vocational education under senior high school.

Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon led local leaders during the ground-breaking ceremony of the said building last November 7, 2013. He was joined by DepEd personalities led Dr. Milagros Valles of the Tech-voc arm of the Department of Education’s Bureau of Secondary Education based in Manila.

The first phase of the building construction worth 4, 544, 771.51 pe-

SOUTH COTABATO

sos is financed by DepEd Central Office while the second phase is shouldered by the local government which is tagged at 4 million pesos.

Another 2.5 million pesos will be allocated

by DepEd for the procurement of equipment that will be used for the said facility that will be fully operational before the opening of another school year.

Mayor Rellon extolled this partnership as it will better prepare the senior students and equip them with necessary skills that will be needed in the Tagum’s labor market, especially that more investments are pouring in the city now and the years to come. Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum

GROUNDBREAKING. Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon leads local leaders and officials of the Department of Education during the groundbreaking ceremony of the 8 million pesos-worth state-of-the-art Technology Laboratory Building in Tagum National Trade School. He extolled this partnership as it will better prepare the senior students and equip them with necessary skills that will be needed in the Tagum’s labor market, especially that more investments are pouring in the city now and the years to come. [Leo Timogan of CIO Tagum]

GENERAL SANTOS CITY

P251-M investments more eyed DSWD expands 4Ps T

HE Provincial Development Council (PDC) of South Cotabato has proposed some P251 million worth of additional development investments in various parts of the province for next year.

South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes said in a statement that the proposed investments were part of the priority development initiatives that were approved by the council under the

DAVAO DEL NORTE

province’s 2014 Annual Investment Program (AIP).

She said the PDC, which is the province’s highest development policy-making body, recently submitted the AIP to the provincial board for evaluation and final approval.

The PDC, which is headed by the governor, is composed of officials of the province’s 10 towns and lone city as well as leaders of peoples’ organizations and non-gov-

ernment organizations that are recognized or accredited by the local government.

“These are investments that complement with the basic services that we provide to our communities and we deem them as vital in terms of the development our marginalized areas,” Fuentes said.

The AIP, as defined in the guidelines on provincial/local planning and expenditure management

and the budget operations manual for local government units (LGUs), is the annual slice of the local investment development program of the LGUs. It constitutes the total resource requirements of the LGU consisting of the annual capital expenditures as well as the regular operating expenditures that will serve as basis for the preparation of the annual budget and supplemental appropriations.

Davao provinces suspend classes due to ‘Zoraida’

G

OVERNORS Rodolfo del Rosario of Davao del Norte and Corazon Malanyaon of Davao Oriental both ordered the suspension of classes in all levels following the inclusion of the two provinces under storm warning Signal Number 1 due to Tropical Depression Zoraida which is expected to landfall Tuesday morning in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. At the same time, Del Rosario and Malanyaon also activated their Incident Command System

(ICS) and started mobilizing all action centers to prepare for possible evacuation of residents living along shorelines, riverbanks and landslide-prone areas.

In Boston, Davao Oriental, one of the severely-hit areas by typhoon Pablo on December 4, 2012, the local government spearheaded a “recoreda” or public information round-up to warn residents in coastal barangays, along the rivers and other danger areas.

The Provincial Disaster-Risk Reducation Management Council of Davao del Norte also deployed a monitoring team to size up water levels of major river tributaries in the province particularly Saug River in Asuncion town, Liboganon in Kapalong, Magwawa in Sto. Tomas and Tuganay in Carmen town.

As of 11:00 a.m. Monday, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration (PAGASA) reported that Zoraida has

maintained its strength as it moves westward.

The center of typhoon is estimated at 830km southeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur with maximum winds of 55kph and speed of 30kph.

Other provinces also placed under storm Signal Number 1 are Dinagat Islands, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Camiguin Island, Siquijor, Southern Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental and southern part of Negros Occidental. [PNA]

T

HE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Region 12 is preparing for the expansion by next year of the coverage of the national government’s flagship conditional cash transfer program in the area.

Zorahayda Taha, DSWD12 regional director, said efforts are underway for the inclusion of more poor residents and the expansion of the coverage to ages 15 to 18 years-old of anti-poverty initiative Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps. “We are currently covering children under 14 yearsold below but the government is planning to expand that up to 18 years-old,” she said in a statement.

Taha said the agency presently serves a total of 213,023 “poorest of the poor” households in Region 12 or the Soccsksargen Region.

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

Around P3 billion in cash grants had been released to the program’s beneficiaries in the region in the last five years, she said.

4Ps is a poverty reduc-

tion and social development strategy of the national government that provides conditional cash grants to “poorest of the poor” households to improve their health, nutrition and education particularly of children aged 0-14 years.

The program provides beneficiaries cash grants of P500 a month for health and nutrition expenses and P300 a month per child for educational expenses.

A household with three qualified children could get P1,400 monthly.

Rodora Babaran, 4Ps national program manager, said last week that they working for the expansion of the program’s coverage to keep up with its mission “to keep the children in school and make them healthy.”

Part of the proposal is to increase the educational grant to the beneficiaries from P300 to P500 to cover for the higher transportation costs of children at the high school level.

The expansion of the coverage to 18 years-old complements with the implementation of the Department of Education’s K-12 program, which added another two years of studies for students in high school. [PNA]

5 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

CARD MRI insurance now beyond Philippine shores A

tripartite memorandum of understanding among CARD Mutual Benefit Association, Inc. (CARD MBA, Inc.), CARD MRI Insurance Agency, Inc. (CaMIA) and Union Life Insurance Public Company Limited (U Life), recently took place in Thailand to formalize a non-exclusive framework partnership and to facilitate collaboration between CARD and U Life.

With the MOU, the three Parties will explore areas of collaboration in terms of technical assistance, development and distribution of products and services and investment and ownership agreements.

As indicated in the 2012 survey of the AIA

Group, Philippines and Thailand has low insurance penetration rates which are at 1.1% and 4.3% respectively. With the said MOU, Parties expect that insurance provision in the Philippines, Thailand and other countries where they wish to operate will expand to reach more families.

The three Parties have their own respective expertise in the insurance business: CARD MBA, Inc. is one of the leading microinsurance providers in the Philippines, CaMIA is an insurance agency engaged in selling both life and non-life insurance, and U LIFE is a life insurance company for cooperative members and for the general public in Thailand.

(From left to right) Mr. Thapakorn Poowamas - Deputy Managing Director of U Life, Ms. Elenita V. San Roque - ACCU Manager of Member Services, Ms. Virginia D. Baldo - CARD MBA, Inc. President, Mr. Sahaphon Sangmek - Executive Secretary and Managing Director of U Life, Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip - CARD MRI Managing Director, Ms. May S. Dawat - CaMIA Chairman of the Board and Mr. Picha Siriyodin - Deputy Managing Director of Union Life

6 THE ECONOMY Stat Watch 1. Gross National Income Growth Rate (At Constant 2000 Prices)

7.1 1st Qtr 2013

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

7.8 1st Qtr 2013

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

USD 3,741 million Feb 2013 USD 4,708 million Feb 2013 USD -967 million Feb 2013 USD -640 million Dec 2012 P 4,964,560 million Feb 2013

8. Interest Rates 4/

2.4 % Mar 2013 P113,609 million Mar 2013 P 5,281 billion Mar 2013

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

P 41.14 Apr 2013

12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

6,847.5 Mar 2013

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

132.8 Apr 2013

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

2.6 Apr 2013

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.1 Apr 2013

16. Visitor Arrivals

418,108 Feb 2013

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

20.9% Jan 2013

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

7.1% Jan 2013

MONTHLY AVERAGE EXCHANGE RATE (January 2012-April 2013) Month Average December November October September August July June May April March February January

2013

2012

2011

40.67 40.73

42.23 41.01 41.12 41.45 41.75 42.04 41.91 42.78 42.85 42.70 42.86 42.66 43.62

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

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

NCCC Davao spearheads financial literacy program A

Davao City-based mall has initiated the conduct of financial literacy sessions for interested Dabawenyos as part of its advocacy program.

According to NCCC Group of Companies communications manager Aileen Gajo, this activity falls under their NCCC Cares program to educate the public on basic financial management.

The activity was held Sunday with participants coming from the academe, banana companies, entrepreneurs and some walk-in registrants held at the Food Cove of NCCC Mall in Matina district here.

Gajo said that as we are now heading towards December, it is appropriate that people get insights on how to prioritize spending during the holidays.

The NCCC, she said, partners with the Personal Finance Advisers of the Philippines headed by Efren Cruz.

Cruz said the participants after the lecture session will undertake a 30-Day Financial Milestone Journal.

This way they would be taught to come up with their personal financial guide.

A street hawker demonstrates to motorists how the toy he is selling works yesterday along E. Quirino Avenue, Davao City. Lean Daval Jr. Following a guide Cruz said will allow participants to establish their current financial situation, articulate their goal, and make a plan transforming the goals to action.

Cruz also said that by writing down their actions the records will help them track the sources and uses of their cash and let them know quickly how, where and how fast they are spend-

ing their money.

He also said that a budget stays relevant and achievable if there is accuracy in record keeping, consistency of effort and discipline in controlling spending.

Cruz advised the participants to pay down debts fast so that one can start saving right away.

It is important that one must check one’s progress by reviewing

investment records, budget and net worth periodically.

The participants will receive via SMS 30 days of financial tips as they go through completing the journal.

Cruz said tht based on their series of advocacy sessions throughout the country, the younger generation in the Philippines are showing interest on becoming financially

literate particularly among the age bracket 25 to 45 years old.

Cruz said companies nowadays are investing into this because they want their employees to plan for their future.

He said it is not enough that people work and get paid. It is also important where to put their money and let their money earn as well. [PNA]

I’m crossing my fingers.

For the whole year, we can hit 7% or even better,” Balisacan said.

He added that no significant factors were noted to dampen the country’s economic rise as reflected in the first semester of 2013.

The Philippine economy grew by 7.6% in the first half of the year, as the country posted a 7.7% growth in gross domestic product (GDP)

in the first quarter, and 7.5% in the second quarter.

With the expected high increase in the third quarter, the country is likely to hit or even surpass the 6-7% growth target for the year, Balisacan added.

Leading economic indicators In a separate interview, NEDA deputy director general Emmanuel Esguerra said the

composite leading economic indicator (LEI) also points to a robust growth for the remainder of 2013.

The LEI continued its upward trend for the fourth quarter, according to data published by the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) in October. This signifies the economy is poised to sustain the hike of its annual growth until the last

quarter of the year.

The LEI predicts the direction of the economy’s movements in the short term.

“This acceleration indicates the continued satisfactory performance of the country’s economy until the end of the year,” the NSCB said.

The country’s third quarter GDP will be announced on November 28. [Rappler.com]

PHL growth may surpass 7% target --- NEDA T

HE country is likely to sustain growth in the third quarter, according to the Secretary Arsenio Balisacan of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA).

The socio-economic planning chief also said this forecast raises the chances of the Philippines breaching the 7% fullyear economic growth target.

“For the third quarter,

as of May 2013 Cebu Pacific Daily Zest Air Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Philippine Airlines Daily Philippine Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri/Sun Philippine Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Thu

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

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

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

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

Cebu Pacific Tue/Wed//Sat 5J965 / 5J968 13:35 Silk Air Mon/Sat MI588 / MI588 13:35 Silk Air Wed/Sun MI566 / MI566 15:20 Silk Air Thurs MI551 / MI551 12:05 Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri 5J507 / 5J598 15:00 Philippine Airlines August 15:55 Mani2Mani 16:50 Zest Air Daily Z2524 / Z2525 16:05

Manila-Davao-Manila Davao-Singapore Davao-Singapore Davao-Singapore Cebu-Davao-Cebu

14:05 18:55 18:55 15:45 15:30

Cebu-Davao-Cebu

16:45

7 ENVIRONMENT

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

Carlson Rezidor Hotel celebrates 75 years with programs for environment protection C

ARLSON Rezidor Hotel Group, one of the world’s largest and most dynamic hotel groups, celebrates its 75th anniversary with a global commitment to plant 22,500 trees worldwide by 2014. The planting will be carried out through a global partnership with Plant It 2020 -- the non-profit organization that helps reforest the world’s cities and forests. The partnership is a symbol of Carlson Rezidor’s continued commitment to being a responsible business in the communities in which it operates across Asia Pacific, the Americas and Europe, Middle East and Africa.

“We are marking Carlson’s 75 years of success with the planting of 7,500 trees in Asia Pacific. These trees are symbols of strength, longevity and continuity and they represent our long term commitment to the communities that we are part of. As we strive towards our am-

bition to be a leading hotel management company in this region with 130 operating hotels by 2015, we will also take the lead in being a responsible business taking care of the safety and well-being of employees, guests and customers, engaging in community work and reducing our negative impact on the earth,” said Simon C. Barlow, president, Asia Pacific, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.

The planting of 7,500 trees in the Philippines and in India is to be completed by the end of October 2013. In the Philippines, 3,750 trees will be planted in the Zambales province, one of the regions largely affected by the Mount Pinatobu eruption in 1991, which is currently facing extensive deforestation issues. In India, Ratnagiri -- the south western part of Maharashtra has been selected for the planting of 3,750 trees, as it is one of the world’s top ten biodiversity hotspots and

IT’S A BIRD! A man shows a banded rail locally known as “tikling” (Rallus philippensis) he caught in Barangay Rizal, Surigao City as waters overflowed along Surigao River on Friday, November 8, 2013. Typhoon Yolanda hit Surigao City but no casualties have been reported. [MindaNews photo by Roel N. Catoto] is in need of preservation due to uncontrolled mining, logging and other environmental issues. The

species selected for this project are indigenous to their locations to ensure they provide both cul-

tural and economic value over time. They will also be planted in non-harvest protected locations,

to ensure they reach maturity and benefit local communities in the longterm.

ENATOR Loren Legarda has filed a measure that will intensify the government’s drive in preserving the Verde Island Passage, which is a source of livelihood to millions of Filipinos, a vital passageway, and a national heritage that is teeming with unique marine species.

Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, is proposing the declaration of Verde Island Passage, as a Marine Protected Area and Ecological Tourism Zone.

“We must ensure the sustainable use of the resources of the Verde Island Passage and considering its economic potential, there is an urgent need for the government and other stakeholders to coordinate their efforts towards the conservation of this national heritage,” she said.

The Verde Island Passage Marine Corridor is a 1.14 million hectare stretch of water along portions of the provinces of Batangas, Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque and Romblon. It is located right in the middle of the Coral

Triangle and with the highest concentration of marine species in any region of the world.

Legarda noted that a 2005 joint study by marine biologists from the World Conservation Union and the Smithsonian Institute of the United States revealed that the Verde Island Passage is believed to be the “center of the center of marine shore fish biodiversity in the world”.

The same study also revealed that, despite existing laws, illegal fishing and unregulated shipping lanes still persist in the area, and that the continued degradation of its marine habitat could possibly lead to the extinction of species.

“The Verde Island Passage Marine Corridor is an important source of livelihood for over 7 million people who engage in fishing, aquaculture and tourism, among others. It likewise provides important passageway for both commercial and industrial ships travelling from Manila or Batangas going to the southern parts of the country and vice versa. It is a vital resource for the country but we must not abuse it,” Legarda explained.

wants Verde Island Terrible destruction complicating Loren declared as protected area relief efforts after typhoon Yolanda S

I

N a matter of hours on 8 November, Typhoon Haiyan – one of the strongest storms ever recorded – completely devastated parts of eastern Visayas in the central Philippines. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is closely coordinating its relief efforts with the Philippine Red Cross, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and a number of National Societies of other countries.

The ICRC has an office and staff on the ground in Tacloban city and will be focusing its emergency response in Samar province, where it has been op-

erational for many years in the context of the armed conflict in the southern Philippines.

“This area has been totally ravaged”, said Sebastien Sujobert, head of the ICRC office in Tacloban. “Many lives were lost, a huge number of people are missing, and basic services such as drinking water and electricity have been cut off.”

There was also, he said, extensive damage to other infrastructure, and communication was difficult for those working to aid the stricken population.

Both the Philippine Red Cross and the ICRC offices in Tacloban had been damaged, forcing staff to relocate temporari-

ly. “To make matters worse, the security situation is tense. People here need every type of aid.”

On 6 November, with the storm already bearing down on the area, ICRC Manila dispatched 11 trucks to Tacloban loaded with food and other essential relief supplies such as hygiene kits, kitchen utensils, jerrycans, tarpaulins, water bladders and water-treatment units, emergency latrines and medical supplies.

However, the trucks were held up for a few days in Surigao city as all sea traffic came to a halt. These supplies have yet to reach Tacloban.

“There’s an urgent need to

speed up the humanitarian response,” said Graziella Leite Piccolo, deputy head of the ICRC delegation in Manila. The organization was therefore sending additional staff by air from Manila and Davao to support personnel already on the scene. The priority, she said, was to survey the needs, and this would be done together with the Philippine Red Cross.

The trucks are expected in Tacloban tomorrow, Monday.

That will enable the distribution of emergency relief to start. The ICRC is determined to reach the affected population as soon as possible.

submitted a resolution entitled “Protecting Children and Sensitive Populations from Dental Amalgam Exposure” to the House of Delegates, the law making body of the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) on November 11th.

Dental amalgam or “silver filling” is an alloy of mercury (50%), silver (2232%), tin (14%), copper (8%) and other trace materials (BAN Toxics, 2012).

Due to its mercury component, pediatricians and toxicologists acknowledge that

it is a potent toxic substance that causes adverse effects on neurologic, gastrointestinal, and renal organ systems of patients. Dr. Ebuen explained that “Mercury in all its forms is toxic to children especially because this stage is critical for their brain development and maturation.

Moreover, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the World Health Organization (WHO) recently confirmed that mercury is a known human carcinogen.”

Aside from the protec-

tion of children’s health, the proposed resolution aims to align the PDA with Administrative Order No. 21 of the Department of Health (DOH) directing the gradual phase-out of mercury in Philippine health care facilities and institutions. BAN Toxics Executive Director Atty. Richard Gutierrez remarked, “Aside from the positive health effects to be gained, a total ban on the use of dental amalgam on children will help slow down rampant mercury trade and use.”

Groups call for ban on dental amalgam T

HE International Association of Oral Medicine and Toxicology - Philippines (IAOMT-Phils.) in collaboration with BAN Toxics, a non-profit environmental organization, jointly called on the Philippine Dental Association House of Delegates to pass a critical resolution calling for a cessation on the use of dental amalgam on children.

“Let us stop mercury from damaging children’s health and welfare,” said Dr. Lillian Lasaten Ebuen, President of IAOMT-Phils as she

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

T

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

Emergency needs

HE latest count of fatalities in the aftermath of super typhoon Yolanda was “more than 10,000 people,” an indication of how horrible the catastrophe was. It was a fortuitous event that ironically many well-meaning and proud Filipinos had hoped could showcase the country’s much ballyhooed preparedness against natural disasters.

It may be too early for government to quantify the total damage inflicted by the howler, but the pictures we are seeing in television are so heart-rending. Sans the voices, the muted images alone were enough to make us get the urgent message that what is needed by the hapless victims is emergency assistance. Yes, help from all comers lucky enough not to become victims themselves as they were not along the path of the cyclone when it struck. The call is for all -- government, private business establishments, non-government organizations and private individuals -to come to the aid of the millions of victims. They need food, water, electricity, medicines, shelter, clothing, cellular phone connectivity and other means of communications, even cadaver bags for their dead relatives. And the time is now.

Police officers, soldiers and other peace-keepers in large

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numbers have been dispatched to check the incidents of looting and other forms of anarchy.

Scores of people, national agencies, local government units and other do-gooders have already started pouring all forms of assistance. Always quick to react to this kind of situation, the government of Davao City has already allotted P8 million to help Tacloban and the provinces of Leyte and Southern Leyte during a special session of the sanggunian hours after Yolanda had exited from the Philippines’ area of responsibility. No less than Mayor Rody Duterte has personally led a contingent of the city’s famous Central 911 in going to Tacloban and Leyte provinces. The management of retail giant SM was reported to be donating whopping P100. President Aquino has mobilized the entire government machinery to help the victims. The national government has taken over the Tacloban City government while it is still not capable of restoring normalcy to the lives of Taclobanons.

Only God knows who else are doing their share in alleviating the dire situation of the millions of victims of Yolanda. However, those TV images tell us that the victims’ need at the moment is limitless. The appropriate response to this, as all do-gooders know, is give until it hurts.

ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant

GREGORIO G. DELIGERO Associate Editor

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

EJ DOMINIC C. FERNANDEZ / EMILORD P. CASTROMAYOR Reporters

Columnists: CARLOS MUNDA • MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEñA • MARY ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NICASIO AGUSTIN • VIDA A. MIA VALVERDE • Economic ENRICO“ADDIE” “GICO” G. Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER ANGELO C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO PEñA • ZHAUN ORTEGA Analysts: • BERNADETTE B. DAYANGIRANG M.QUISIDO PEREZ • Lifestyle Columnists: BAISR., FAUZIAH SINSUAT •AMBOLODTO • MEGHANN STA. INES BORBON • MARY• JONALLIER ANN “ADI” C. • LEANDRO B. DAVAL • NIKKIFATIMA GOTIANSE-TAN NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY •ZEN NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ

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E

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

The view from my window

VERY morning over a cup of hot Robusta coffee, I have this habit of sitting by the window, sometimes with my laptop in front of me, sipping from the cup and watching the view from the window--- thru dusty screens and glass louvers.

This view from my window, you see, is so rural, you’d think you’re somewhere in the mountains and plains of Bansalan, even if it’s only a nook and corner of Palosapis street at Nova Tierra Village.

Two small banana trees, three coconut trees, one avocado tree, one macopa tree and one mango tree, all fruit bearing, all green, tall and leafy, are enough to make one think this is one corner of a countryside, but it isn’t---it’s still Nova Tierra.

Behind this bushy clump of trees, one could see a long row of coconut trees protruding from the deep green foliage of other fruit trees planted by residents of this subdivision. Houses can’t be seen from this hedge row and clumps of trees, so it gives you a sense you’re somewhere in the countryside.

What I enjoyed watching at sunrise are the chickens, roosters, turkeys and even grey plover birds walking among the tall palegreen grass below from the second floor of my apartment, looking for things to eat, often scratching the grass and picking off some stale rice morsels and other left-over food, that is, if they can’t find an earthworm slithering around.

The chickens, roosters and turkeys,

S

ETTING ASIDE SELF-RIGHTEOUS PRIDE – As millions of Filipinos mourned the death of thousands of their hapless countrymen particularly in Tacloban City and the rest of Leyte province and other provinces in the Visayas such as Samar, Aklan and Iloilo triggered by the onslaught of Super Typhoon Yolanda, top officials, President Benigno Aquino III above all, struggled to analyze the implications of the catastrophe to the country’s economy and social being. None of the occurrences actually are comforting.

What shock the entire nation a day after the devastating storm left the country is a trail of massive destruction. The number of casualties continued to rise now reaching to roughly more than a thousand based on reports provided by the National Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) and personnel of concerned government agencies and volunteer groups who were immediately dispatched to the badly affected areas.

Tacloban City joins the list of most devastated areas – including several towns and provinces in the Visayas – whose commercial districts and residential areas have been turned into scenes of destruction of massive scale. Tons of debris and fallen trees piled up the streets and electric posts and cables toppled by strong winds were scattered all throughout obstructing the flow of traffic.

For our top officials, there will many sleepless nights ahead trying to figure out how the government can possibly cope up with the miserable situation. Aside from loss of lives the extent of the burgeoning damage to business, properties, infrastructures, agricultural crops, and farm animals among others could be enormous. The country’s leaders at least acted posthaste in responding to the emergency situation.

In time of distress, political leaders regardless of preference should set aside self-righteous pride and work hand in hand to help those in need. This is not the time

often coming around in flocks of three or four, are allowed to roam freely in the village by their different owners, except for the birds--sometimes p l o v e r s , sometimes mayas--which usually fly around the village and making it their home.

This quiet morning is always the best time to go over the pages of that small book called “Our Daily Bread” , reading the texts made for that day and watching the chickens, turkeys and birds picking up the tiny morsels of food, feeling the presence of the Creator who made all these things and savoring this rare moment of peace and quiet.

At this exact moment, the fury of Yolanda, the world’s most powerful typhoon was striking Tacloban---- its horrific, thunderous winds blowing off the roofs and beams of houses and uprooting trees in Leyte, Cebu, Iloilo and elsewhere in the Visayas, killing thousands of people.

From that window, I was thinking that as long as we leave all this greenery around us untouched--- all the grass and all the trees---

our global climate would probably remain the same and there won’t be any abrupt changes in the world’s weather patterns that cause powerful typhoons.

But suddenly last Sunday, a big ugly yellow-painted bulldozer arrived at this vacant lot at the village and without any advance warning, roared thru this grassy spot near the clump of trees, its huge claws tearing thru the grass, and bulldozing away the earth, frightening the chickens, turkey and birds as the iron monster destroyed whatever was left of that quiet, grassy spot that I cherished so much every quiet morning.

That vacant lot is now a very ugly spot today, as I sat there looking out from my apartment window, feeling lost and a bit confused. I missed the sight of the chicken, turkeys and birds that made that spot their special home every morning.

The scent reaching my nose every morning is no longer the scent of grass and leaves, but the foul smell of the earth, making one feel disoriented, especially when the rains come and turn that raw earth into thick mud.

But then, I let out a sigh of relief to see the chickens, turkeys and birds coming back to that same spot, walking thru the mud--this time chasing after some big earthworms that looked lost and dumbfounded as they wandered about in the mud of that tiny devastated landscape….

(Comment? Email me at > tradingpost_ davao@yahoo.com)

for political sideshows where all their energies supposedly go.

They should acknowledge there are more pressing concerns that need outmost attention – that the deprivation of hundreds of thousands of typhoon victims is not a ceaseless, unalterable fact but something that should be the priority of government and its leaders.

But despite the catastrophe there are underlying hopes that the crisis can be resolved with more collective efforts in extending rescue and relief operations and rehabilitation endeavors afterward. There is a growing sense of expediency about asking assistance from different civic foundations and foreign governments which responded positively, and officials have concluded that more support would ensure the survival of morally and economically-depressed areas – those that might collapse with a delayed action, thereby providing a more permanent and sustaining solution is a priority.

Sadly of course, critics and political detractors, it would seem believe the government is ill-prepared in time of disasters – natural or man-made. They say rescue and relief operations were so slow that prompted massive looting especially in the most affected areas. Playing a blame game at this stage is too unfair. The most horrible scenario speaks for itself. Giant trees plunged into electric posts and cable wires cutting off the communication systems and debris blocked the main roads resulting in the delay of the delivery of relief assistance and rescue operations. Those rabble-rousers and blabber-mouthed critics find the situation as

the best way to condemn the government. If these bunch of salivating fools have nothing to offer except to find fault, they should better shut their big loud mouths.

To be fair government wasn’t remiss in doing its job. Few days earlier, the weather bureau already warned the public that a super typhoon will soon hit several provinces in the Visayas including parts of Luzon. All LGUs likewise heeded the advisory and immediately ordered force evacuations especially for people living in the coastal areas. When Super Typhoon Yolanda struck, most people were already in the different evacuation centers, but unfortunately, even some concrete structures including evacuation shelters are no match to the devastating fury of nature.

The only way to prevent further destruction, according to experts is to have a safe storm shelters and sturdy bunkers to house evacuees which are capable to withstand tremendous rains and strong, gusty winds exceeding 250 kph like what storm Yolanda had brought. But whatever preventive measures have been undertaken by the government, calamities still posed problems of different order. Not even the most developed and advanced countries with their modern and sophisticated equipment could prevent nature from wrecking havocs.

How much more for a country like the Philippines?

The effect of the most devastating disaster and more damaging compared to the previous typhoons combined altogether is an awakening call. It opens yet another lesson for the government to embark on a continuous public alertness and consciousness, safety preparedness and equipment-ready programs to avoid a similar horrifying situation created by Super Typhoon Yolanda. The acceptable truth is that nobody knows when a disaster exactly strikes, and what government lacks most are not only equipment but better preparation and preventive procedures.

Awakening call

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Chinese reform is coming, but not the political kind OPINION

By Ian Bremmer

S

(Conclusion)

TUDIES now show that Chinese coal pollution is cutting life expectancy by up to five years. I wouldn’t be surprised if Xi delivers a more pointed declaration that China needs to wean itself off of coal in exchange for environmentally cleaner alternatives. We may get a step in this direction with the announcement of an intended coal tax.

With all that said, it should be stressed that there’s one thing that is incredibly unlikely to be proposed at the Politburo meeting: political reform. If anything, we’ve seen China further crack down on political dissidents and outspoken media outlets (the Bo Xilai saga is just one example).

Chinese leaders have appeared to take a cautionary lesson from Gorbachev: when engaging in radical economic reform, don’t try and do political reform at the same time. The Chinese are going to balance their newfound economic flexibility by staying rigid on dissent. Xi’s recent decision to reinstate “self-criticism sessions,” a practice with Maoist associations, has made it clear that, politically, Xi Jinping is no Western liberalizer, even as he liberalizes his economy. This is reform within the parameters of the existing Communist Party.

And it’s reform that’s badly needed, as China’s political elite are entangled with an overwhelming share of the economy.

On the 2012 Fortune Global 500 list, of the 70 Chinese companies that made the cut, 65 of them are state-owned. The people who run the companies are some of the most influential political leaders in China, and so the government can’t just privatize the businesses — because the businesses are the government.

But somehow they’ll have to get more efficient, and less corrupt, for China to stay competitive internationally.

Economic reform is challenging, and it will lead to demand for more of the political change that Xi is limiting right now. That’s the risk. But the reward is tangible: a more efficient, dynamic economy that can be sustainable even without the government fueling it. Xi has already done more for that cause than Hu and Wen Jiabao could, and in far less time. But he faces a Goldilocks challenge, where moving too slowly could produce an angry clamoring for more progress, but changes that come too rapidly could destabilize the economy altogether. The upcoming plenary will give us a hint as to where Xi wants to set the speed limit.

10 NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Police... FFROM 2 to bother, 15 percent claimed that the latter are incovenient to pursue, ten percent are saying that there is a lack of police action while other seven percent is claiming that there is no police station nearby.

“From this also reflects our relationship with the community, their confidence and their trust in us. It also shows on how we can respond and address the problem in our respective area of responsibility (AOR)” PCSUPT Pascual said adding that Patrol Officers plays a vital role in this project in rendering immediate assistance while performing duties as Police Community Relation Officer in their aoR. RPSMU said that MBP is required to all police stations in the region where patrol vehicles have attached tarpaulin to inform the community of the project. RPSMU added that patrol personnel will bring a blotter book as recorded complaints will be transferred to the blotter book of the police station.

The RPSMU said in their formulated guide-

lines that this initiative is like brining the police station to the public which will also help uplift the image of the Philippine National Police (PNP) that the organization is indeed sincere in rendering service to the community.

Meanwhile, RPSMU said that this will address the low-blotterturn-out in all police stations in the region despite the implementation of e projects nationwide.

MBP is eyed to boost the PNP’s concept of electronic blotter in creating a small world for criminals.

Electronic blotter was launched by the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management last year. The system would make the transmission of crime reports from police stations to headquarters faster, easier and paperless where it is accessible nationwide The technology would make it easier for police to know if the suspects had previous cases in other stations in the country and accost them based on previous warrant of arrests. [PR]

Danao said that the state witness, Jerry Paulino, 30, a resident of Tibungco, had alleged that his family was threatened

by Baktin should he, Paulino, disclose any information against Baktin.

Paulino, who is detained at the DCPO jail, said that he became a purchaser for the auto shop owned by Baktin located on Venson St. “Wala ko nasayod nga

katong ginauban ko niya na magkuha ug sakyanan mao na diay tong kinawat,” he said.

Yu is a respondent in eight separate cases of carnapping filed by police officers Filmore Escobal, Carlos Asturias, Joselito Marces, Napoleon Saliog Jr., Eliazar Macabinlar and Ibrahim Buog and two private complainants, Delilah Galgala and Aldrich Palados.

for selling sa minors at schools,” she continued Barangay officials will be helping the Task Force orient their respective communities and barangay kagawads.

Currently, barangay captains are not included as law enforcers of the city ordinance but

Villareiz stressed that if it is needed they can issue citation ticket upon receiving trainings administered by the task force.

According to the ordinance, only the police officers can issue the citation ticket and can file cases in court. [CRC]

E. DELA CRUZ (Tamugan), Danilo L. GUMAPAC (Tawan-tawan), Analiza G. REMPERAS (Tibuloy), Lilibeth L. AL-AG (Toril Pob), Wilfredo C. ANFONE (Tugbok), Hipolito L. CASTAÑARES (Tungakalan) , Esteban H, TOGONON (Ula), Danilo

M. ABABON (Wangan), and Margie B. BINOBO (Wines).

The elected barangay officers are expected to officially assume first week of December, it was learned. (List of elected barangay kagawads will be published within the week ).

Chief Danao...FFROM 2

ASTF...FFROM 2

Davao... FFROM 3

FLIGHT OF THE EAGLES. Mary Ann Fuentes of Padyak Lunhaw Dabaw promotes the 11th Flight of the Eagles fun ride set on November 17 from Magsaysay Park to Malagos Garden Resort during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

Laborer nabbed In selling shabu P

said that one Mark Hizon Cuevas, 39, married, a resident of Purok 28, Brgy. Maa will be facing charges for selling illegal drugs.

Bangcas said that the suspect brought the poseur buyer to Room 16 of the Teres Inn and there sold him P1,000 worth of shabu. After the poseur handed the marked money to Cuevas, police

immediately arrested him. They also confiscated three tea bags of shabu from Cuevas.

They began conducting surveillance after receiving reports that Cuevas was engaged in supplying drugs in the Maa and Bonguyan areas. The surveillance lasted about a month.

He said drug dealers get their supply from Co-

tabato City. Bangcas explained that drug dealers can transport shabu without any problem since police are not allowed to conduct a body search at checkpoints, except if there is a search warrant from the court.

Bangcas said that drug dealers can easily transport 10 tea bags of shabu inside their pockets.

[EPC]

ELIEF and rescue teams from several local government units in Mindanao are now in Leyte to help in the rescue and relief operatons in the area believed to be hardest hit by super typhoon Yolanda.

The teams were dispatched from the Lipata Port here as early as 2 a.m. Saturday.

Yolanda, considered the world’ strongest typhoon this year, made landfall in the Visayas five times on Friday, the sixth one in Busuanga, Palawan, leaving behind a

trail of destruction along its path.

Shipping lines plying the Surigao to Southern Leyte route – through the ports of Liloan and San Ricardo in Leyte -- continue to give priority to rescue and relief teams.

San Ricardo port is two hours away from Lipata while Liloan is three hours away from here.

Ruel Cayetona, operations officer of the Montenegro Shipping Lines said they have been ferrying rescue units from the cities of Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, this city

and San Francisco town in Agusan del Sur. “Most of them were medical and rescue teams with ambulances,” he said.

Wilma Maroto, an employee of the Millennium Shipping Lines said they carried firetrucks from Caraga Regional Office and heavy equipment loaded with relief goods.

Danilo Sebial of the Maharlika Shipping Lines said they are set to carry fire trucks from Bureau of Fire in Surigao, and personnel from police and military.

Manubac Macaumbos, duty guard of Lipata Port said the Bukidnon Electric Cooperative (FIBECO) sent a team with their equipment to help assist power restoration in the area.

He said several telephone companies transported their equipment via Lipata Port to help restore vital communication facilities in the area.

He said two ships left early Sunday morning loaded with relief goods and rescue teams. [Roel Catoto / MindaNews]

nying socio-cultural and health-related issues also rise.

Thus, the Bata’k Skinfest was born. An independent, nonpolitical and nonprofit group based in GenSan, which aims to promote awareness among the general public that tattooing does exist as part of today’s culture, and also to promote unity among peers who share the same interest in tattoos. The Bata’k Skinfest Organization staged its first Skinfest at Tropic’s Grill, Quirino Ave., G.S.C, on October 27, 2012.

The members of this organization are made up of

young professionals, who are at the same time tattoo artists, tattoo enthusiasts, musicians and extreme sports advocates who share one common belief, that is “INKED AND PROUD.” The organization chose this title mainly because of its social relevance and to pay homage to the indigenous people of South Cotabato, Gen. Santos City, and Sarangani Province, which created a distinct identity for the organization.

Last October 26, 2013, the organization along with Robinson’s Place GenSan hosted the 2nd BATA’K SKINFEST CONVENTION.

This is a national event, open to all tattoo artists, enthusiasts, photographers, and merchandisers of products related tattoo culture.

One of the aims of this convention is to promote awareness of the social, cultural, and artistic relevance of tattooing, where activities such as a seminar by the Department of Health (DOH) on cross-contamination and sanitary issues in tattooing. Red Cross seminar on blood donation guidelines. Tattoo demonstration by highly-acclaimed international tattoo artists, Mr. Julio Acosta, Mr. Pents Clemente and

Mr. Mike Mendoza, mainstays of Dutdutan Tattoo Convention (Manila) and Party in Paradise (Cebu).

On-the-spot tattoo competition. Booths from merchandisers and sponsors, Musical performances by local bands.

For more info on the event like Bata’k Skinfest on Facebook https://www. facebook.com/batakskinfest Follow me on Twitter or Instagram, @kyriekoutre for more adventures in my wonderland that is Gensan, Tuna Capital of the Philippines. (30) [Kyrie Eleison Baños]

OLICE arrested a laborer, allegedly a dealer of illegal drugs, in a buy-bust operation on Sunday afternoon and confiscated P105, 000 worth of shabu at Bonguyan Beach, Matina Aplaya.

SPO3 Jeffrey Bangcas of the Davao City Police Office – Investigation Detection Management Branch (DCPO-IDMP),

Relief goods, rescue teams from Mindanao now in Leyte

R

Skin art...FFROM 3

EDGEDAVAO

NATION

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

11

MANILA

CAAP lifts flight suspensions T

HE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on Monday lifted the Notice to Airmen on all domestic airports affected by super typhoon Yolanda except the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban City which is only partially limited to turbo prop flights.

CAAP Director General William Hotchkiss III said that the agency personnel are working double time to speed up the normalization of operations at Tacloban Airport, and that the airport was partially opened to give way to turbo prop planes doing humanitarian missions.

Hotchkiss said that it will take days or weeks for Tacloban airport to accept bigger commercial aircraft like Airbus 320 or Boeing B737 type because of limitations of service for passengers at

MANILA

the terminal which was totally damaged by the typhoon including communication, tower and radar equipment.

“We would like to inform the riding public that in as much as we wanted to bring back normal operations, the airport terminal itself was totally damaged and we are now building a temporary terminal to service the needs of the passengers,” Hotchkiss said.

As of 7 a.m. Monday, Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines and PALex announced that they are operating commercial flights to Tacloban via Cebu starting Monday, Nov. 11, to help passengers whose flights were cancelled as a result of super typhoon Yolanda.

CAAP isued the NOTAM at the height of super typhoon Yolanda over the weekend.[PNA]

VOLUNTEERS. “Tarabangan Albay para sa Tacloban at Leyte.” Volunteers repacking relief goods at Albay Astrodome on Monday (November 11, 2013) for the victims of super typhoon Yolanda. [PNA photo Legazpi Bureau]

MANILA

OPAPP welcomes additional EU funds for Minda peace process T

CA upholds suspension against PCGG chair, 4 commissioners

P

RESIDENTIAL Adviser on the Peace Process secretary Teresita Deles on Monday welcomed the allotment of additional 8 million Euros by the European Union (UN) for the Mindanao Trust Fund-Reconstruction and Development Programme (MTF-RDP) in support to the peace process.

Deles and EU Commissioner for Development

Andris Piebalgs led the ceremonial signing of the contribution agreement held at the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) at Ortigas Center in Pasig City.

Also present during the signing were Dr. Saffrulah Dipatuan, Chairman of the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), EU Ambassador Guy Ledoux and Motoo Konishi, Country Direc-

tor of the World Bank. ”Our event this morning shows another area where the European Union continues to partner with the Philippine government and provide development assistance in the Mindanao peace process,” said Deles. ”The agreement...formalizes the expansion of EU’s contribution to the MTF-RDP. As I understand, the additional

funds will be used to support the Sajahatra Bangsamoro, the joint development program of the government of the Philippines and the MLIF as well as the Bangsamoro Development Planning,” said Deles. ”The additional contribution will make EU the biggest contributor of MTF todate. As co-chair of the MTF, OPAPP extends again our thanks,” she added.

For his part, Piebalgs vowed EU’s continuous support to the Philippines, particularly in the peace process. ”These additional funds are the tangible manifestation of the EU’s long-term commitment for the Mindanao peace process both at the political level and with the people living in this area,” said Piebalgs.

The new funds will be channelled through the Mindanao Trust Fund-Reconstruction and Development Program (MTF-RDP) and will be programmed for projects in support of promoting confidence-building, peace and demand-driven governance. [PNA]

HE Court of Appeals has affirmed the suspension imposed by the Office of the Ombudsman on Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) Chairman Camilo Sabio and four others in connection with the alleged anomalous lease of vehicles worth P5.39 million in 2007.

In a 19-page ruling written by Associate Justice Ramon Cruz and concurred in by Associate Justices Noel Tijam and Romeo Barza, the CA’s 17th Division denied the petition for review filed

by Sabio questioning a decision of the Ombudsman finding him and PCGG officials Ricardo Abcede, Tereso Javier, Narciso Nario and Nicasio Conti guilty of dishonesty, misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

They were meted with the penalty of suspension for six months and one day pursuant to Section 52 (B) (2) and (A) (20), Rule IV of the Uniform Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service.

Sabio and the four others were also ordered to pay a fine equivalent to their salary for six months to be deducted from their retirement benefits.

Records show that on

April 18, 2007, Sabio, et al. entered into a lease agreement with the UCPB Leasing and Finance Corporation for five vehicles worth P5,393,000.

However, the Commission on Audit (COA) found out that the lease of the motor vehicles was not included in the PCGG’s procurement plan for the said year and “was contrary to the existing law requiring that all procurement should be within the approved budget of agency.”

Sabio later resigned prior to the issuance of the Ombudsman order dismissing them from the service which was based on the complaint filed by the Ombudsman’s Field Investigation Office (FIO).

However, the CA said that “[petitioner Sabio’s] resignation does not per se justify the dismissal of the administrative complaint filed against him nor does not render it moot and academic.”

According to the CA, the complaint was filed on June 28, 2010.

“Therefore, even if [Sabio] has resigned and [was] no longer the PCGG chairman, this does not preclude [the appeals tribunal] from determining his administrative liability for the acts charged against him.” [PNA]

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

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

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EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

DCWD implements lifeline water rate

D

AVAO City Water District will implement the Lifeline Water Rate beginning this November reflecting October billing consumption. In this scheme, residential customers installed with one-half inch (½”) meter service connections can enjoy a Php5.80 savings in their water bill if they consume 0 to 10 cubic meters (cu.m.) in a month.

General Santos Drive, Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506

Tel. No. 083-228-2511 ; Fax No. 083-228-2654

General Santos Drive, Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506 Tel. No. 083-228-2511 ; Fax No. 083-228-2654

WANTED FOR IMMEDIATE HIRING!

WANTED FOR IMMEDIATE HIRING!

Qualifications:

CLASSIFIEDS 13

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BUS DRIVER

Qualifications:

1. Male, 28 – 40 years old 1. least Male, high 28 – school 40 yearsgraduate old 2. At 2. At 5least high school experience graduate (bus, trucks) 3. With years driving 3. With 5 years driving experience (bus, trucks)

Requirements: Requirements: 1. Driver’s License with Official Receipt 2. 21.x Driver’s 2 I.D. picture pcs.)

License (2 with Official Receipt 3. Certificate of Employment 2. 2 x 2 I.D. picture (2 pcs.)or clearance from 3. Certificate of Employment or clearance from May previous apply in employment person at Human Resource

Department, YBLI Office, General Santos Drive, May apply in person at Human Resource Koronadal City.

Department, YBLI Office, General Santos Drive, Koronadal City.

DCWD acting general manager Edwin V. Regalado explained that instead of paying the Php125.80 commodity charge for 0 to 10 cu. m. water consumption, customers who qualify for the Lifeline Water Rate scheme will only have to pay Php100.00. “This is DCWD’s way of helping our customers considering the cost of basic commodities nowadays,” he said.

However, Regalado also noted that the new scheme is only applicable for residential connections and does not cover those classified as commercial which include rented houses and apartments.

Further, he also emphasized that the rate will depend on the monthly billing consumption of the customers. “If, for example, they have exceeded be-

yond the 10 cu.m. limit, the water bill computation will be based on the Php125.80 rate. However, if in the next billing period their consumption is less than 10 cu. m., then they can avail of the Lifeline Water Rate, ” Regalado added.

He also hoped that the new scheme will help encourage the public to conserve water.

“Aside from saving money, the public will also

be able to help DCWD in its campaign for water resource sustainability.

We, in DCWD, are hopeful that the new scheme will motivate them to be more prudent in using water,” Regalado explained.

Said lifeline water rate is made possible through resolution no.

13-383 issued by the DCWD Board of Directors last October 11, 2013. [Jamae R. Garcia]

14 SPORTS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

DFC holds Football Aid T HE Davao Football Community, a group of football players in Davao City, staged the fourth DFA Football Aid for victims of typhoon Yolanda over the weekend at the Davao Crocodile Park football field.

DFC president Buboy Arrieta said the Football Aid is the group’s way of sharing their blessings and extending help each time there are disasters and calamities. It can be recalled that the DFA began the charity work in 2012 during the Davao City flashfloods followed by the Sendong disaster in Cagayan de Oro and the Pablo calamity last year

in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley.

Football players belonging to the different ballclubs in Davao City converged last Sunday and brought with them clothing, bottled water and canned goods. The relief assistance was coursed through ABSCBN Davao and was received by DXAB news manager Andy Rara.

“We are happy to share what we have with the victims of Yolanda. No matter how small, we make it sure we come up with something. We thank the football community for responding to our call once more,” Arrieta said. [NJB]

FOOTBALL AID. DFC president Buboy Arrieta hands over the relief goods generated by the Football Aid of the Davao Football Community over the weekend. ABS CBN Davao news manager Andy Rara received the donations. Joey Fernandez

Douthit, college stars to defend SEAG title

I

NSTEAD of pro league stars, the country’s top collegiate and amateur cagers will surround naturalized center Marcus Douthit when the Philippines defends its men’s basketball title in next month’s Southeast Asian Games slated in Yangon, Myanmar.

No less than national men’s head coach Chot Reyes bared Friday morning the 14-strong lineup--12 main players and two alternates--submitted by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas to the Philippine Olympic Committee.

After teaming up with

SEA GAMES STINT. Ray Parks Jr. (left) and Marcus Douthit (right) will lead the Pilipinas Gilas squad in the Southeast Asian Games next month.

established cagers like Jayson Castro, Jimmy Alapag and Marc Pingris in the country’s runner-up finish in the 27th FIBA-Asia men’s cage joust last August that enabled the Nationals to clinch a coveted spot in next year’s FIBA Basketball World Cup in Spain, Douthit will remain the team’s focal point on both ends in the Dec. 8-16 tourney slated at the Zayar Thiri Indoor Stadium.

Comprising the team are Kiefer Ravena (Ateneo), Ray Parks (National U), Kevin Alas (Letran), Jake Pascual and Garvo Lanete

(San Beda), Kevin Ferrer (University of Santo Tomas), Ronald Pascual (San Sebastian), Jericho Cruz (Adamson), Mac Belo (Far Eastern U), Prince Caperal (Arellano U) and Fil-Am Matthew Ganuelas Rosser.

University of the East star Roi Sumang and La Salle center Arnold Van Opstal will serve as alternates. Van Opstal has yet to get the go-signal from DLSU officials as the SEA GAmes joust will coincide with the schedule of final exams while SUmang is reportedly still recovering from an injury.

INdulge!

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

The pool at the Novotel Phuket Vintage Park is the main feature of the resort and can be seen from every room.

Finding sanctuary in Phuket

Travelling is about experiencing the different sights, sounds and smells a destination has to offer and Phuket has plenty of it from morning to early morning the following day, and that is why a proper hotel with relaxing amenities is the way to go. located at downtown Patong, the novotel Phuket vintage Park is just a three-minute walk from Patong Beach which is known for its white sand as well as vibrant nightlife.

The 305-room property welcomes guests with its grand lobby which is filled with various Thai art and a massive chandelier.

Where most resort

properties usually have their pool on the side, the novotel Phuket vintage Park’s massive 2,000 sqm swimming pool is located smack in the middle of the property, allowing guests to have beautiful waterfront vista’s in whatever room they stay in.

The rooms at the novotel Phuket vintage Park are spacious and mod-

ern with touches of Thai art. each room also has a balcony which allows one to step out and enjoy the relaxing views from the pool. The rooms on the lower floor of the resort meanwhile, have direct access to the main pool as well as a more private jacuzzi area for chilling out. exploring the vast resort

Vis-Min lifestyle writers on the Phuket trip.

Novotel Phuket Vintage Park’s luxurious room.

A massive golden chandelier at the lobby.

grounds, i find the resort’s well-equipped gym as well as the novotel’s Kids Club which hosts programs for the kids of traveling families. The restaurant is also a family friendly space, serving various local, international as well as child-friendly cuisine.

Weary souls may want to visit the resort’s inBalance Spa for a relaxing massage.

Clearly, the novotel Phuket vintage Park gives the busy traveler, be it individuals or families, a nice balance of activities and relaxation. a sanctuary of the senses in bustling Phuket.

You can learn more about Novotel Phuket Vintage Park at www.novotel. com/8099.

The Philippines’ leading low-cost carrier, Cebu Pacific (CEB) flies direct from Manila to Phuket every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, for as low as P999.

It operates the most extensive network in the Philippines for convenient and easy flight connections in Manila. For flight schedules and bookings, visit www. cebupacificair.com or call (02)7020-888 or (032)2308888. The latest seat sales can also be found on Cebu Pacific Air’s official Facebook Fan Page or @cebupacificair on Twitter.

When planning itineraries to Phuket, visit the Tourism Authority of Thailand website at http://www. tourismthailand.org/.

The facade of the Novotel Phuket Vintage Park.

The lobby of the hotel features a gigantic mural.

Rooms on the lower floor of the resort have direct access to the resort’s massive pool.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

UP AND AboUT

Globe Telecom launches first-ever iPhone postpaid plans GLobE TELEcom, the leader in postpaid and first in iPhone, officially launches the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c under its suite of first-ever fully-customizable postpaid plans, including an exclusive gadget upgrade program that allows subscribers to get a new iPhone every year.

Globe iPhone Forever is an iPhone upgrade program open to new and existing postpaid subscribers that enables them to swap their current devices with the latest iPhone models for free or with a one-time cashout, depending on the device being traded in.

To avail of the iPhone Forever program, subscribers must choose which postpaid plan best fits their lifestyle and budget. For as low as 1599, subscribers can avail of an iPhone 5c 16Gb for free with a 24-month contract period. The plan bundle comes with 1 gigabyte (Gb) of consumable Long Term Evolution (LTE) data plan monthly that allows mobile internet surfing of up to 42 mbps and a monthly consumable amount for call and text combo services. on the other hand, subscribers can get the iPhone 5s 16Gb for free with the iPhone Forever Plan 1999 at a contract period of 24 months, also bundled with 1 Gb of monthly consumable LTE data plan and a consumable amount for calls and texts.

Higher value iPhone postpaid plans include iPhone Forever Plan 2999 which comes with a free iPhone 5s 16Gb, unlimited LTE surfing, unlimited calls and texts to Globe/Tm, and monthly consumable amount for calls and texts; iPhone Forever Plan 5599 which offers a free iPhone 5s 32Gb or iPhone 5c 32Gb, unlimited LTE surfing, unlimited calls and texts to all networks, and automatic Platinum blue membership; and iPhone Forever Plan 6999 which comes with a free iPhone 5s 64Gb, unlimited LTE surfing, unlimited calls and texts to all networks, P1,000 monthly consumable amount for landline calls, international services, roaming, and automatic Platinum blue membership.

A Platinum blue membership entitles postpaid subscribers exclusive access to a dedicated Platinum hotline, priority handling in Globe Stores, discounts and privileges in handpicked partner establishments and nationwide concierge assistance.

After availment of an iPhone Forever Plan, subscribers can trade-in an existing gadget and get the iPhone 5s or iPhone 5c for free or with a one-time cashout*. Subscribers using an iPhone 5 or iPhone 4s can upgrade to an iPhone 5s or iPhone 5c for free, while other gadgets have a corresponding one-time trade-in cashout.

Subscribers can also opt to get the iPhone 5s or iPhone 5c at regular postpaid plans under Globe’s best-Ever mySUPERLAN. The iPhone 5c is available for as low as P1,799 monthly at Plan 999 with a monthly cashout of P800*, while the iPhone 5s is available for only P2,199 monthly at Plan 1799 with a monthly cashout of P400.* both postpaid plan offers have unlimited LTE surfing and corresponding consumable peso-value amounts which can be used to avail of calls and texts.

“Finally, the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c have arrived in the Philippines and Globe is proud to launch these much-awaited devices.

With our long-standing partnership with Apple in bringing the iPhone to Filipinos nationwide, Globe is poised to offer the best deals to the market, led by our iPhone Forever program which will allow subscribers to upgrade to a new iPhone every year with a hassle-free trade-in process for free or at a minimal one-time cashout. This year, we are upping the ante with our best-in-class iPhone offer yet, because no one knows the iPhone like we do,” said Peter bithos, Senior Advisor for consumer business at Globe Telecom. on top of the innovative and value for money offers, Globe subscribers also get one-month free subscription to Globe Gadget care, the complete mobile phone protection program against theft and accidental damage available in the market today, and free access to Facebook along with customer experience innovations until January 2014. Subscribers who will avail of the newest iPhone devices on launch day on November 15, 2013 are also eligible to avail of a free 1-year subscription to GcASH Virtual Pay and get up to 50% off on iPhone accessories.

Subscribers can also take advantage of the telco’s expanded LTE network nationwide, which is now present in select areas in makati city, Pasig city, Quezon city, Taguig city, manila, muntinlupa, mandaluyong, San Juan, and Las Piñas, as well as in metro cebu and metro Davao as well as in the provinces of bohol, batangas, Negros occidental, La Union, Rizal, Aklan, Laguna, bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, cavite, cagayan, Pangasinan, Isabela, Ilocos, Quirino, Tarlac and in boracay, Aklan.

Globe holds a strong partnership with Apple after it exclusively carried the iPhone 3G in 2008 all the way to the iPhone 4 in 2010, making the telco an expert in launching the iPhone 5s, the most forward-thinking smartphone in the world, and the iPhone 5c, the most colorful iPhone yet.

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

FooD

RBG’s latest menu highlights Davao’s fresh produce

“i’d like to think that every Chef takes inspiration from the simple things around him,” says Jayme natividad, the new executive Chef of Park inn by radisson davao. Before taking his new post in davao, Chef Jayme worked in notable restaurants in the Philippines, as well as in new York, California, San Francisco, and new Jersey. “From someone like me who grew up in Manila and worked abroad, i find davao the most dynamic in terms of local produce. This region has so much to offer --- from fresh ocean bounty, fruits, and vegetables.

So, when i was given this task to modify the menu of rBg, i never thought twice about creating more dishes that are infused with local flavors.”

rBg (restaurant, Bar & grill) is the signature all-day dining outlet of Park inn by radisson davao, an international hotel located next to SM lanang Premier and SMX Convention center. This bold bar and grill concept delivers buzz and ambience, great food and friendly service in a modern setting.

“The restaurant itself is designed for today’s generation of fun-loving urbanites. This is the perfect place where they can enjoy comfort food and socialize in between and after work. We offer comfort food cooked to perfection with rich flavors --- all at reasonable prices.” adding up to the good lineup of best sellers which include the rBg classic burger, steaks, and premium seafood, Chef Jayme now introduces a new selection of locally-inspired dishes such as the unique Sinigang sa Mangosteen, lechon Pasta, Malagos ricotta Meatballs, Tuna Ceviche, lechon Pasta, and many more.

“We also have some

Seafood Sinigang sa Mangosteen.

Fish and Chips.

Tuna Ceviche.

Durian Cheesecake.

Fish Taco. food selections which you can share with friends.

Food is best enjoyed with good company, so i decided to create some specials for sharing,” adds Chef Jayme. “aside from this menu which we’re launching starting today, we are also

Salpicao. gearing up for the holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and new Year. We’ll also have a life size gingerbread House at the lobby where guests can buy gift baskets, gift certificates, and wines.

For the entire month of december, we’ll have daily

holiday buffets, plus other specials for Christmas and new Year. We’ll even serve early breakfast for those who will be attending the Simbang gabi at the Carmelite.”

For reservations and inquiries, please call +63 82 272 7608.

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

ENTERTAINmENT

Glaiza de Castro and Louise delos Reyes renew exclusive contracts with GMA Network VERSATILE actress Glaiza de castro and sought-after artist Louise delos Reyes renewed their ties with GmA Network. The two beautiful ladies were welcomed by GmA officers as they inked a three-year exclusive network contract yesterday at the GmA Network center.

Present in the contract signing were GmA chairman and chief Executive officer Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, GmA Films President Atty.

Annette Gozon-Abrogar, GmA Entertainment TV’s officer-in-charge Lilybeth G. Rasonable, GmA Vice President for Drama Productions Redgie Acuña-magno, GmA Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara, GmA Artist center Assistant Vice President and Head for Talent Imaging and marketing Unit Simoun Ferrer, and Program manager for ETV charles Koo. Also in attendance were Glaiza’s manager manny Vallester and Louise’s manager Elvira Perido. both Glaiza and Louise are comanaged by the GmA Artist center.

During the contract signing, Glaiza reveals that she considers her renewal of contract with the Kapuso

Network a blessing, “masaya kasi lahat ng mga bagay na iniintay natin kapag binigay na, ang sarap ng pakiramdam. Rewarding siya. Isa siyang blessing talaga. At isa sa mga prayers na natupad.”

Louise, on the other hand, says that she is very thankful to GmA for continuously providing her good projects all these years, “Talagang Kapuso ako noon pa man.

Sinabi ko sa sarili ko na GmA ang nagbigay sa akin ng malaking break kaya tatanawin ko itong malaking utang na loob sa kanila.

Sobra nila akong pinagkakatiwalaan sa mga magagandang projects. Para sa akin it’s a dream come true and masaya ako na nangyari ito sa career ko.”

Atty. Gozon believes that Glaiza and Louise are among the most talented and hardworking artists in GmA, “Itong pinirmahan natin ngayong hapon ay renewal.

At iyan ang nagpapatunay na sa ating pananaw ay talagang magagaling ang mga artistang nirerenew natin at dapat lang bigyan ng magagandang projects sa darating na araw.”

Rasonable shares that she is very pleased that the two prime celebrities continue to remain loyal to the Kapuso Network, “This is a special and happy day for GmA Network kasi meron na naman tayong officially ay sinign-up to long-term contracts, Glaiza and Louise, both of whom are very talented actors whom we see so much more potential to grow as artists so nararapat lang na nandito sila sa GmA kung saan pwede naming palawigin pa ang kanilang mga careers.”

Glaiza is currently part of GmA News TV’s Katipunan and Sunday All Stars while Louise is part of Sunday All Stars’ Team Tweethearts.

Ariella Arida finishes 3rd runner up in Miss Universe pageant PHILIPPINES’ bet Ariella Arida finished 3rd runner up at the recently concluded “miss Universe 2013” pageant held in crocus city Hall in moscow, Russia that aired live on Velvet and early this morning on AbS-cbN with miss Venezuela Gabriela Isler taking home the coveted diamond nexus crown.

The 24-year-old beauty from Laguna bested 80 other candidates from across the world and made it to the top five alongside Spain’s Patricia Rodríguez who finished 1st runner up; Ecuador’s constanza báez as 2nd runner up; and brazil’s Jakelyne oliveira as 4th runner up.

Tension definitely rose among viewers when Ariella, who graduated with honors from the University of the Philippines-Los banos with a degree in chemistry, was called last in the top 16 after winning the official online polls.

She then strutted on stage wearing a red bikini and stole the show with her signature turn before advancing to the top ten.

In the evening gown com-

petition, Ariella elegantly paraded a yellow dress that finally earned her a spot in the top five.

For the final question and answer, miss Philippines was asked by judge Tara Lipinski with the question, “What can

be done about the lack of jobs for young people starting their careers around the world?”

Ariella, the only candidate who did not use an interpreter, confidently answered, “For the people who have lack of jobs, I do believe that we people should invest in education and that is my primary advocacy, because we all know that if everyone of us is educated and well aware of what we are doing, we could land into jobs and we could land a good career in the future. Education is the primary source and ticket to a better future.”

Ariella continues the winning streak of Filipina beauties who made it to the top five of the prestigious pageant ever since miss Universe 4th runner up Venus Raj started the trend in 2010. She followed the footsteps of Shamcey Supsup who also finished 3rd runner up in 2011. Janine Tugonon remains to be the Philippine representative who came closest to the crown when she won 1st runner up last year alongside miriam Quimbao who almost clinched the title in 1999.

STATUS: IT'S COMPLICATED 2D Maja Salvador, Jake Cuenca, Eugene Domingo

R 16

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

ROMEO & JULIET 2D Hailee Steinfeld, Douglas Booth PG 13

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

SAPI 2D Dennis Trillo, Meryl Soriano, Baron Geisler R 13

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

R-16 THOR: THE DARK WORLD 2D Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman PG 13

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

A4 INdulge!

EVENT

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Skin art and needles The 2nd Annual Bata’k Skinfest

aS a kid, i used to use sharpies to draw hearts and stars on my skin. That’s why my parents were not shocked when i showed them my first tattoo.

Tattooing is the art of marking a part of the body by inserting pigment into punctures in the skin. it has been a part of Filipino life since pre-Hispanic colonization. among tribes, it was considered as a symbol of rank and accomplishment. as early as 16th century, it had been documented by european explorers that tattooing was a tradition among the Philippine islands. The Spanish colonizers, however, considered this a pagan tradition and prohibited it amongst the populace. later, popular media also linked tattooing with prison culture, thus putting the art’s reputation in a bad light. nowadays, there has

The exciting on the spot tattoo competition.

EDGEDavao Davao Partners The Bata’k organisers. been a resurgence of interest in tattooing. More and more people are now getting “inked.” Famous personalities – actors, singers, athletes, and even models are now proudly brandishing their tattoos and as its popularity increase, the accompanying socio-cultural and health-related issues also rise.

Thus, the Bata’k Skinfest was born. an independent, nonpolitical and nonprofit group based in genSan, which aims to promote awareness among the general public that tattooing does exist as part of today’s culture, and also to promote unity among peers who share the same interest in tattoos. The Bata’k Skinfest Organization staged its first Skinfest at Tropic’s grill, Quirino ave., g.S.C, on October 27, 2012.

The members of this organization are made up of young professionals, who are at the same time tattoo artists, tattoo enthusiasts, musicians and extreme sports advocates who share one common belief, that is “inKed and PrOUd.” The organization chose this title mainly because of its social relevance and to pay homage to the indigenous people of South Cotabato, gen. Santos City, and Sarangani Province, which created a distinct identity for the or-

ganization. last October 26, 2013, the organization along with robinson’s Place genSan hosted the 2nd BaTa’K SKinFeST COnvenTiOn. This is a national event, open to all tattoo artists, enthusiasts, photographers, and merchandisers of products related tattoo culture.

One of the aims of this convention is to promote awareness of the social, cultural, and artistic relevance of tattooing, where activities such as a seminar by the department of Health (dOH) on cross-contamination and sanitary issues in tattooing. red Cross seminar on blood donation guidelines. Tattoo demonstration by highlyacclaimed international tattoo artists, Mr. Julio acosta, Mr. Pents Clemente and Mr. Mike Mendoza, mainstays of dutdutan Tattoo Convention (Manila) and Party in Paradise (Cebu). On-the-spot tattoo competition. Booths from merchandisers and sponsors, Musical performances by local bands.

For more info on the event like Bata’k Skinfest on Facebook https://www.facebook. com/batakskinfest Follow me on Twitter or Instagram, @kyriekoutre for more adventures in my wonderland that is Gensan, Tuna Capital of the Philippines.

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 15

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

Wolves finally beat Lakers

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OS ANGELES (AP) -- Nobody in the Minnesota locker room had to say much before the game about the Timberwolves’ 22-game losing streak to the Lakers.

The Wolves mostly knew about their dismal history in this matchup, and they came out apparently determined to rewrite it in the first quarter alone.

Kevin Martin scored 27 points, Kevin Love had 18 of his 25 during Minnesota’s 47-point opening quarter in a skid-snapping 113-90 victory Sunday night.

Ricky Rubio had 12 points, 14 assists and 10 rebounds for the Timberwolves, who hadn’t beaten the Lakers since March 6, 2007. Minnesota took a 28-point lead with a 27-2 run, reducing the Staples Center crowd to scattered boos during the highest-scoring quarter in the Timberwolves’ franchise history.

The Wolves maintained a healthy advantage all night in their first win over the Lakers at Staples Center since Dec. 2, 2005, ending the longest active streak between two NBA opponents. ‘’We had lost so many straight to the Lakers that we thought we were due for one,’’ said Love, who also had 13 rebounds while hitting four 3-pointers. ‘’We knew, the guys that had played here. We had talked about it, that we hadn’t had much success, but we weren’t thinking about anything numbers-wise. We just wanted to come out and think about this year.’’

Minnesota won with ease - something that’s almost never happened in this matchup. Corey Brewer scored 17 points and Nikola Pekovic had 14 points and 10 rebounds as the Wolves punctuated their 5-2 start to the season by routing sending the Lakers’ crowd home early.

Spurs beat Grizzlies 101-94

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EW YORK (AP) -Even with his team leading the Western Conference, Gregg Popovich said Sunday morning his San Antonio Spurs were playing C+ or B- basketball, adding there was ‘’not much’’ he liked about their start.

The Spurs, he said, were winning because of ‘’good fortune,’’ ‘’corporate knowledge,’’ and because ‘’they’re older than dirt.’’

Apparently Pop is as tough on his pupils as he is on those sideline reporters, though a 120-89 rout of the New York Knicks bumped up their grades. ‘’I thought tonight we played a good, solid B+, A- game,’’ Popovich said. ‘’There were some good things out there.’’

Just not from the team

in orange. Coach Mike Woodson said the Knicks played with no pride, even with one of the NBA’s marquee franchises making its lone visit to Madison Square Garden.

Danny Green had 24 points and a career-high 10 rebounds in the Spurs’ fourth straight victory.

Kawhi Leonard scored 18 points and Tony Parker had 17 in a game that was close for about 3 minutes. San Antonio scored the first 10 points, led by as many as 37, and was in complete control in between. ‘’It was embarrassing for us to come here on our home court and lose a game like this,’’ Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony said. ‘’It wasn’t about losing the game, it was just how we lost the game. We

UP AND UNDER. Minnesota Timberwolves guard Jose Barea (left) goes underneath the arms of Los Angeles Lakers center Jordan Hill.

Pacers remain undefeated B

ROOKLYN, N.Y. — For the first 22 minutes of Saturday’s game against the Nets, the Pacers were missing small forward Paul George. The NBA’s fourth-leading scorer had just five points and Indiana was struggling to pull away from Brooklyn.

George found a way to elevate his game, scoring 16 of his 24 points in the second half as the Pacers (7-0) remained unbeaten with a 96-91 win over the Nets.

“I just have to be comfortable and play within myself,” George said. “I just have to be confident.

I had to do a better job creating space and looking for my shot and I did.”

The 7-0 start is the team’s best in franchise history.

“I don’t really get too caught up in the historical value,” Pacers head coach Frank Vogel said.

“We’re ahead of the race, trying to get the one seed and put ourselves in a position come playoff time to get the best chance to come out of the East.”

In what lived up to be a physical encounter between two gritty sides, the Nets (2-4) continue to struggle to click into gear and meet expectations as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference while the Pacers showed how to play hard-nosed basketball with a disciplined mindset.

Despite controlling the majority of the game, the Pacers almost had a lapse in its sterling record and had to squeak by in the final minute to get the

win.

Up 94-91, George turned the ball over when his pass was picked off by power forward Kevin Garnett with 16.5 seconds left. On the ensuing inbound, guard Joe Johnson missed what would be the tying 3-pointer and the Pacers survived.

With the likes of George, center Roy Hibbert and guard Lance Stephenson, it’s easy to forget about forward David West. The Nets were leaving him open and the forward was taking advantage, scoring a season-high 18 points.

“We scouted their defense pretty well,” West said. “We knew they were going to be overly-aggressive on the ball and we had to make sure we were precise with our move-

Alaska inks Buenafe I

HELTER SKELTER. Mac Montilla of Cafe France (light) chases the loose leather against Chris Banchero of Boracay Rum (dark) in their PBA D-League encounter.

ments. I thought we got the shots that we were looking for.”

The Pacers led by as much as eight in the fourth quarter after trailing 46-44 at halftime. Indiana, regarded as one of the smartest teams in the NBA were taking advantage of Nets turnovers, but Brooklyn continued to find a way to stay in it until the final buzzer.

Center Brook Lopez, who scored 10 of his 16 in the fourth quarter, pulled the Nets within three with 2:51 left in the game.

“We don’t worry about the other team,” Hibbert said. “We just have to play defense and they’ll have to shoot it over us. I’m happy we stayed strong and got the win.”

N college, talented forward Ryan Buenafe battled weight issues that prevented him from reaching his full potential.

Aware of the issue, the Alaska Aces signed the eighth overall pick to a two-year deal that includes clauses that he maintain a certain weight limit.

Alaska coach Luigi Trillo said Buenafe, who looked visibly slimmed down during the draft last Sunday, has been hard at work at Aces practice trying lose even more weight.

Buenafe as measured to have 27 percent body fat, and Alaska wants him to go down to 18 percent by his second season.

“He’s been putting in a lot of work. In a few more months and if given the minutes, I expect him to make an impact with us,”

Trillo said.

Trillo has been impressed by Buenafe’s basketball IQ, comparing the player to former Alaska forward Bong Hawkins, who became one of the franchise’s best players despite limited athleticism.

“He reminds me of a young Bong Hawkins.

His instincts are impressive. He’s two, three steps ahead in making decisions and he’s fearless when making shots,” said Trillo.

Despite the weight issue, Trillo believes that Buenafe is an underrated defender.

“A lot of people say that since because he’s a little bit on the heavy side, he might be slow on defense, but he’s a smart player. He’s an underrated defender,” said Trillo.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 6 ISSUE 172 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

FLUSH IN THE FACE. Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire launches a right to the face of Vic Darchinyan in the ninth round that sent the Armenian fighter down.

Donaire won via a 9th round TKO.

BACK IN THE GROOVE After TKO win, Nonito offers prayers for countrymen E

VEN after scoring a sensational technical knockout victory over Vic Darchinyan, Nonito Donaire’s thoughts were on his countrymen affected by super typhoon “Yolanda” this past week.

“First and foremost, prayers to people in the Philippines who were hit by the typhoon,” he said.

“Please have your prayers for people in the Philip-

pines.”

A regional police chief on Sunday said the super typhoon is believed to have killed 10,000 people in Leyte, but official death toll by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has been placed at 151.

If the 10,000 death toll is proven true, the devastation from Yolanda

would be the country’s deadliest recorded natural disaster.

“We had a meeting last night with the governor and, based on the government’s estimates, initially there are 10,000 casualties (dead). About 70 to 80 percent of the houses and structures along the typhoon’s path were destroyed,” Soria said.

Donaire stopped

the Australian-based Armenian southpaw in the ninth round of a 10-round non-title bout Saturday to boost his bid to return to boxing’s elite.

Donaire was trailing on two of three judges’ scorecards when he snatched the victory in a rematch of former world champions trying to revive their careers.

UNICEF’s emergency relief efforts for more than 10 years.”

The NBA Family is also assisting UNICEF in raising awareness of the urgent support needed for children and families in the Philippines. Miami HEAT Coach Erik Spoelstra will appear in a U.S. Fund for UNICEF Public Service Announcement to

help raise funds for relief efforts.

In July, 2009, Spoelstra embarked on what would be the first of four trips back to his native Philippines. In each of these trips, he has hosted basketball and coaches clinics, promoted the importance of education, healthy living and wellness, while being able

to reach close to 10,000 underprivileged youth through these efforts. In 2011, the nine-day program in Manila was the largest NBA FIT event ever hosted in Southeast Asia under the NBA Cares umbrella.

During the summer of 2012, Spoelstra expanded this program to include the country of Singapore.

NBA, players donate P10.7M to typhoon victims

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HE National Basketball Association (NBA) and National Basketball Player’s Association (NBPA) today have teamed up to donate $250,000 (P10.7 million) to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF in support of UNICEF’s emergency relief efforts in areas of the Philippines ravaged by Super Typhoon Haiyan.

The latest estimates indicate that as many as four million children could now be affected by the disaster, and the donation will aid UNICEF in providing children and families with immediate necessities including food, water, and medicine.

“We are incredibly grateful to the NBA and NBPA for their generosity and commitment to helping UNICEF save children’s lives,” said Caryl Stern, President and CEO of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. “When a natural disaster strikes, the need to rush supplies to those affected is critical, and both the NBA and NBPA have consistently sprung to action to support

FOR THE LOVE OF HIS KABABAYANS. Filipino-American coach Erik Spoelstra of two-time NBA champion Miami Heat released a statement on Sunday condoling with victims of super typhoon “Yolanda”, which ravaged the Philippines last week.