Edge Davao 6 Issue 179

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

A CARING TOUCH. Typhoon Yolanda survivors, including this mother and her baby, receive medicines and free medical check up from the different agencies of the government through the Davao City help desk at the lobby of Sangguniang Panlungsod yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

NAME THE CULPRITS Dads laud SC decision declaring PDAF unconstitutional

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

L

OCAL lawmakers lauded the Supreme Court decision declaring the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) unconstitutional.

Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte told reporters yesterday in a press briefing that he was happy with the SC’s declaration, adding that the names of the legislators who misused the PDAF should be revealed to the public.

“Dapat igawas na ang tanang pangalan. Unsa may taguon ninyo? Gi elect mo sa tao para… gipasalig sa tao ang kwarta diri sa Pilipinas unya karon inyong gibinuangan,” Duterte said.

He added that the people seeks for government reform so it should start by revealing the names of lawmakers involved.

Meanwhile, first district councilor Bonifacio Militar supported the higher court’s decision, saying that it is a welcome development for Filipinos.

“The Supreme Court is I think watching out, siguro nakita nila ang rason,” Militar told reporters.

Militar hopes that the Supreme Court will also declare the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) as unconstitutional because it gives discre-

FNAME , 10

PONDERING PULONG. Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte ponders on a point stressed during a break in the Sangguniang Panlungsod session by councilor Tomasing Monteverde while councilor Edgar Ibuyan listens intently. Lean Daval Jr.

DCL Final 6 cast is complete INSIDE: 4th year: Families Proposed incentives for ex-brgy officiais BRAWL

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EDGEDAVAO

THE BIG NEWS

Davao tourism officers hold concert-for-a-cause

A

concert-for-a-cause featuring singing stars and music artists with Davao roots is being organized by the association of different Davao tourism officers for the ongoing relief efforts in the Visayas.

The concert dubbed as “One Voice, One Christmas, One Davao.” will be held this coming December 7 at the SMX Lanang in Davao City, the concert will feature music artists such as Wency Cornejo, Yano, Popong Lendero, Maan Chua, Rochelle Venutti and Larvae.

Local musicians and performers from the different provinces of the Davao region will also be performing for the concert.

Wency Cornejo erstwhile vocalist of rock band Afterimage is now based in Davao City, while the band Yano who gained popularity in the 1990s is head-

lined by co-founder Eric Gancio, a Dabawenyo, Larvae an acrobatic/contortionist group semi-finalists in season 2 of Pilipinas Got Talent are from Digos City.

Popong Landero, Maan Chua and Rochelle Venutti have gained acclaim as Davao City-based musical artists.

Noel Daquioag, provincial tourism officer of Davao del Norte and president of the One Davao Tourism Officers Association (1DTOA) organizers of the concert said that event was originally planned to raise funds for the budding stone and wood craft industries established for victims of Typhoon Pablo in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental.

“Then Yolanda came, we shifted the plan and agreed to do the concert to raise funds and collect relief goods for the victims

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

4th year: Families, colleagues to visit Ampatuan massacre site F

AMILIES and colleagues of the 32 media workers who were slain in the infamous Ampatuan massacre will visit anew the site of the grisly killings on Thursday as part of the commemoration of its fourth year anniversary on November 23.

Rowena Paraan, chairperson of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), said they will visit the site in Sitio Masalay, Barangay Salman in Ampatuan town in Maguindanao to retrace the events that took place during the massacre.

Fifty-eight people, including 32 media work-

ers, were killed in the massacre, which had been dubbed as the single deadliest event for journalists in history.

“Four years has already passed and justice has yet to be served to the victims. Our visit to the massacre site is a way of renewing our commitment and making the people aware of our continuing quest for justice, not only for the victims of the Ampatuan massacre but for all cases of media killings in the country,” Paraan said.

The scheduled visit to the massacre site on Thursday will be led by the NUJP and the Justice Now

Movement, which is composed of the relatives of the massacre victims.

The activity will be joined by media workers from Metro Manila and the cities of Kidapawan, Davao, Cotabato and Koronadal.

A convoy of vehicles will leave this city at around 7 a.m. and they will be joined by another group in nearby Koronadal City.

The other media delegations, especially those coming from the cities of Cotabato, Kidapawan and Davao, will converge in Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat and later join the main convoy in proceeding to the massacre site.

A team from the Philippine Army-led Joint Task Force GenSan and the 1002nd Brigade will join the convoy to Masalay to provide security.

At the massacre site, Paraan said the group will offer flowers and light candles in remembrance of the 58 victims.

Prayers will be offered to the victims by a Catholic priest and an imam, she said.

NUJP and other media groups launched last November 1 the “23-day action against impunity,” marking the countdown to the fourth anniversary of

F4TH YEAR, 10

FDAVAO, 10

Two men nabbed selling stolen items

By EMILORD P. CASTROMAYOR epc@edgedavao.net

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OLICE arrested robbery suspects Tuesday afternoon when they tried to sell the looted items to a sari-sari store in Brgy. San Antonio, Agdao.

They were identified as Jeric Fernandez, 19, and his cousin Jerrymiah Fernandez, 19, both residents of the place. The two will be facing charges of robbery should the complainants pursue the case before the City Prosecution Office.

P/Supt. Cezar Cabuhat, commander of the Sta. Ana police station said that the suspects were positively

identified by the victim, Merlyn Castillo, 23, a resident of Holy Cross Barangay San Antonio, Agdao.

Castillo told police that at around 1:00 p.m Tuesday she discovered the window of her room already destroyed, and that her amplifier with sound box, two pairs of shoes and two mobile phones were missing. She immediately reported the incident to the police.

A follow-up operation by the police was conducted after an informant reported that the looted items were being sold to the store.

Pulong drops case vs Aussie

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

I

N the spirit of Christmas, Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte has decided to withdraw the direct assault charges filed against an Australian treasure hunter after a road rage incident along McArthur Highway last August.

Vice Mayor Duterte told reporters yesterday that he already instructed his legal counsel Atty.

Alexis Lumbatan to communicate with the court and the lawyer of respondent Michael Hatcher.

“Para sa pasko pasayluon nako, ako ng ipaw-

tihdraw,” he said adding that he already forgiven Hatcher with whom he had a heated encounter leading to the filing of charges.

The withdrawal, however, involves only that of the charges filed by the vice mayor. The Australian was also slapped with frustrated murder by police escort SPO3 Roey A. Ociones.

Vice Mayor Duterte said that he does not know the decision of Ociones who also sued

FPULONG, 10 DAMOSA’S TREE. A worker assembles the bamboo-inspired Christmas tree of Anflocor at Damosa Gateway in Lanang, Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

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BIR shuts down establishment

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HE Bureau of Internal Revenue in Davao Region ordered the temporary closure of a garments wholesale-retail establishment in Magsaysay Avenue yesterday for non declaration of sales.

BIR 11 regional director lawyer Glen Geraldino and revenue district officer (RDO) Danilo Mendoza of 113 West Davao led the “padlocking” of the said establishment for violation of Section 17 of the Tax Code of the Philippines.

Win Style & Design, owned by one Marilou Coleta, failed to declare more than 30 percent of its sales amounting P15 million last year.

The closure order

against the establishment was issued last November 13 this year, after serving required notices where the BIR informed Coleta of the undeclared sales but failed to settle her tax obligations.

“On that particular closure, she have to pay taxes within five days at kung mabayaran niya,we will reopen this,” Mendoza said adding that three more establishments in west Davao will be “padlocked” before the year ends.

Businesses that usually violate the tax code are those engaged in “buy and sell” business.

“We give them ample time to amend their tax re-

FBIR SHUTS, 10

END IMPUNITY. Jessie Casalda, National Union of Journalist of the Phils. (NUJP)Davao Chapter chairman, revitalizes the outcry to fight impunity against media practitioners in time for the 4th Maguindanao massacre commemoration during Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo Davao yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Three men rob family in Mintal Proposed incentives

By EMILORD P. CASTROMAYOR

T

epc@edgedavao.net

HREE men armed with a .38 caliber revolver and a bladed weapon held up a 77-year old man, his wife, and daughter in Purok 8, New Moon, Mintal on Tuesday evening and carted away cash and valuables worth ten thousand pesos.

The robbers hogtied the old man. Mamerto Guden Sr., his wife Concepcion, 64, but not May Merquita, 24, and proceeded to ransack the house, ate the family’s food before leaving.

PO3 Narciso Putot, investigator of the Tugbok police station reported that Mamerto had gone to the highway to wait for daughter May and while

on their way back to their house the three robbers approached them and declared a hold-up.

The robbers directed them to switch off the light and started looting the house, ate supper before escaping.

Spo1 Roque Osico, another investigator, said that robbers took some P10,000 worth of belongings like cellphone, grocery items and cash.

Police theorized that two of the robbers could be neighbors of the victims since both covered their faces. The other suspect was described as five feet, eight inches tall and with short hair.

The police are still trying to identify the group.

BONI’S OBSESSION

for ex-brgy officiais

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

T

HE Davao City council passed a proposed ordinance on second reading, giving elected barangay officials incentives or benefits after they their tenure ends.

The proposal, entitled “An Ordinance Granting Barangay Length Of Service Benefits/Incentives To All Barangay Elected Officials After Their Tenure Of Office And Providing Funds” was approved in yesterday’s regular session.

Councilor Bonifacio Militar, the proponent, told reporters that the ordinance will give an incentive

of P00 000 to a barangay capatain who completes three consecutive terms and P60,000 to barangay kagawads who complete three consecutive terms.

Militar said that a barangay captain who does not serve three consecutive terms will only be entitled to receive P10,000 for every year of service and P5,000 for the barangay kagawad.

He said that the fund for this incentive program will come from the city government and based on their computation it would only cost about P4 million.

HUDDLE. Sangguniang Panlungsod presiding officer Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte talks to SP members during a break in session yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

“Kay dili man tanan (barangay officials) dungan mag-retire,” Militar said, adding that a barangay official who finishes his term and runs again for another position will receive a high incentive when he retires.

He said that reason why he came up with the proposal was that he noticed that there were barangay officials who already served 25 years but received no incentives.

“It’s a continuing obligation of the city,” he said during the deliberation of the proposal.

Should the proposal become an ordinance, it would be another landmark legislation of the city and in the country.

Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte lauded the proposed ordinance.

“Sa tinuod lang… labi natong mga barangay official sa kabukiran, dako na nila ng kalipay inig retire nila,” Duterte said.

He said that if becomes an ordinance it will start next year and the giving of benefits will start in 2016. “kay naa namay kapitan karon na naa na sa ilang last term,” he explained.

INDANAO Business Council president Vic Lao has expressed support in the reformation of the public transportation in the city, specifically in the use of high priority buses as mode of transportation through Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

Lao signified that since it is practical and attainable, “the private sector can go in and invest because this is very viable undertaking.”

“This will not be a very big investment because number one, there is not much infrastructure you

need to put in place because the roads are already there. Maybe the government will just have to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Public Works and Highways that two of the lanes will be dedicated as fast lanes,” he said adding that bus companies will invest on the high priority bus.

According to Lao, considering the totality of the infrastructure, the financial viability and the current situation on the ground, proposal on the use high priority buses as modality

Business group backs transport reforms M

FBUSINESS, 10

4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

COMPOSTELA VALLEY

Health program for IPs piloted

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HE Compostela Valley Province is one of the pilot provinces on Indigenous Peoples Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Health and Nutrition in Mindanao or IP MNCHN Project- Mindanao together with the other pilot provinces which are Zamboanga del Sur, North Cotabato, Agusan del Sur, and Bukidnon.

The program focuses on health care for the indigenous people particularly children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers to improve their health and nutrition status.

Implemented by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), European Union, and the Department of Health (DOH) as partners, strategies are designed to make everything easy for the IPs, especially those from the far flung communities, to avail the health services

SOUTH COTABATO

offered in the health centers and government hospitals particularly birthing facilities.

During the employees convocation on November 18, Executive Assistant IV Isabelo L. Melendres shared that in its November 16, 2013 issue, Manila Bulletin congratulated Governor Arturo T. Uy (ComVal),Governor Antonio H. Cerilles (Zamboanga del Sur), Governor Emmylou T. Mendoza (North Cotabato), Governor Adolph Edward G. Plaza (Agusan del Sur), and Governor Jose Maria R. Zubiri, Jr. (Bukidnon) and other Officials for the efforts of reaching out and uplifting the living conditions of the Filipinos in marginalized and indigenous cultural communities.

Packaged in the program is the building of birthing clinics and Barangay health centers with complete facilities in identified municipality-recipients of the five

DEPLOYMENT. The AFP’s Eastern Mindanao Command deploys at least 400 troops to super typhoon Yolanda-devastated areas in Leyte to augment relief, recovery and rehabilitation efforts there. [MindaNews photo by Keith Bacongco] pilot Mindanao provinces.

The IPs will receive

health care services through the “Universal Health Care/ Kalusugan

Pangkalahatan for Indigenous Peoples” of DOH. In ComVal, Montevis-

KORONADAL CITY

ta is the pilot municipality of the program. [Grace Almedilla, IDS-Comval]

Army patrol base to deter illegal mining activities Sisterhood relations with

A

Philippine Army-led patrol base will soon be set up in a hinterland village of Tampakan town in South Cotabato in a bid to secure the area from the destructive “banlas” or hydraulic mining activities.

South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes said Wednesday the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion (IB) has agreed to establish the patrol base in Sitio Campo Kilot in Barangay Pulabato of Tampakan in response to an earlier request from the provincial government.

She said they made the request after a significant

DIGOS CITY

portion of the mountains in the area was recently found to have been damaged severely due to the rampant illegal mining activities.

“We’re optimistic that these illegal activities will eventually be stopped with the presence of our troops there,” the governor said.

Fuentes said the patrol base will be mainly manned by Army-supervised Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit or Cafgu regulars.

She said the provincial government will shoulder the cost of the establishment of the patrol base,

specifically the required structures.

“We really pushed for this since we need to find a solution against the banlas problem, which already affect our low-lying farming communities in Tampakan and Koronadal City,” Fuentes said.

Banlas mining, which is considered a highly-destructive mining method, involves the pouring of large amounts of water using high-pressure water jets on a mountain’s surface to extract the rocks containing the gold ore, and then pan them with mercury.

The use of the illegal

mining method, which was first uncovered in a mining village in T’boli town, has increased in the last several years in several small-scale mining areas in Tampakan.

The illegal mining activities have caused the accumulation of loads of silt along the river-tributaries of the critical Topland and Marbel Rivers.

The two rivers, which traces their headwaters to the uplands of Tampakan, traverses Barangays Pula Bato, Liberty and Buto in Tampakan as well as Magsaysay, Concepcion, Bo. 4 and Namnama in Koronadal City. [PNA]

AVAO del Sur Governor Claude P. Bautista is bent on bringing out the agriculture at its best in Davao del Sur through innovative approaches.

The Governor laid down his plans for the farmers in the province in a meeting on November 12 with the agricultural technicians at the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist.

For one, Bautista urged the agricultural technicians to get the profile of farmers and to dig deeper of their status whether they have been real

recipients and owners of their farm lots.

He said this would take efforts on surveys, identification and ensuring at the same time that the farm lots they toil are their own.

When this is done, the provincial government would know how and what to support to the agricultural areas planted with various crops.

This is to further ensure that every agricultural component is appropriately addressed even in far flung villages.

The Governor appealed to the agricultural technicians for their commitment to this thrust.

He further urged them to forget politics, and instead work hand in hand to uplift the economic condition of the farmers knowing that several agricultural programs have been introduced and implemented in the past and yet there are still marginal farmers in the countryside.

Bautista raised the importance of post-harvest

facilities to ensure quality agricultural outputs and marketing assistance.

He also emphasized the significance of linkages through public-private partnership by way of sending delegates for trainings for agriculture people to be technically equipped.

Upon return, these agricultural coordinators will be the ones to handle trainings in their respective local government units.

[LGU-Davao del Sur/Nilda S. Aniñon]

Innovative approaches to improve agriculture D

typhoon-hit town eyed

T

HE Koronadal City local government is considering forging sisterhood relations with the municipality of Santa Fe in Leyte province as it moves to help the area recover from the devastation wrought by super typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan).

Cyrus Urbano, action officer of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DCRRMC), said in an advisory that City Mayor Peter Miguel has proposed for the sisterhood tie-up to further accelerate the city government’s ongoing relief and recovery efforts in Santa Fe. Miguel, a doctor, is currently leading a relief and medical mission in the town, which was among the areas hardest hit by the onslaught of typhoon Yolanda last November 8.

Santa Fe, which is located in the western part of Leyte province and south of Tacloban City, is a fifth class municipality and has 20 barangays. It has a total population of 17,427 based on the 2010 census.

A 28-person team led

by Mayor Miguel left for Leyte province last Sunday to augment the ongoing relief efforts in the area.

Urbano said the team, which is composed of med-

ical and social workers, has set up an operations center infront of the municipal hall of Santa Fe on Monday.

“It is almost likened to a medical clinic doing medical consultations/ treatment, stress debriefings and dispensing of medicines,” he said.

On Tuesday, Urbano said the group treated a total of 775 patients who suffered some injuries, specifically wounds, at the height of the typhoon.

“Residents are thankful of our medical team’s presence and (today) they will do home visits for medical consultations and stress debriefing sessions,” he noted.

The policemen and security volunteers who accompanied the team assisted in the clearing operations in the area, he said.

Urbano said the city government will be sending an additional relief donations to the typhoon-affected areas on Wednesday through a Philippine Navy vessel that is currently loading relief goods at the Makar wharf in General Santos City.

The relief goods comprise 194 sacks of assorted clothing and food packs, 55 boxes of mineral water, and 10 boxes of multivitamins and antibiotic medicine, he said. [MindaNews]

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

5

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 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

Huge opportunities await PHL’s hotel sector, says JLL’s Leechiu T

OURISM remains to be the next big thing in the country’s real estate market, says David Leechiu, Country Head of Jones Lang LaSalle Philippines, pointing to the huge tourism market waiting to be tapped by the hotel sector.

Leechiu, speaking in a briefing on the outlook of the country’s real estate market, noted that of the total international tourism receipts of USD1.075 trillion in 2012, the Philippines’ share was a mere $3.82 billion. Similarly, the country’s total tourist arrivals in 2012 was only 4.2 million, less than 1 percent of the total tourist arrivals of 1.035 billion worldwide.

The briefing, organized by BPItrade.com, was held Tuesday night at the Bank of the Philippine Islands head office in Makati City.

Leechiu, talking to clients of BPItrade.com, said, “The hotel sector is undergoing rapid evolution, very rapid. There are about 15,000 hotel rooms today, we are going to double that in the next three years.”

About 12,400 rooms are currently in the pipeline, from 2013-2017, about half of which will come from the Entertainment City complex in Paranaque City. The rest will come from properties located in Makati City, Ortigas Center in Pasig, Bonifacio Global City in

CONCERT FOR A CAUSE. One Davao Tourism Officers Association (ODTOA) president Noel Daquioag (front) and secretary Christine Dompor promote “One Voice, One Christmas, One Davao” concert slated on December 7 at SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center during yesterday’s Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo Davao. The proceeds of the said event will be donated to the victims of typhoon Yolanda. Lean Daval Jr. Taguig, and Newport City in Pasay, among others.

The JLL head particularly stressed the need for two- and three-star hotels in the growth corridor spanning Quezon City (where there is a dearth of business hotels) in Metro Manila all the way to Laoag, Ilocos Norte in northern Luzon.

Three segments in the stretch to northern Luzon-from Ortigas Center in Pasig to Clark, Pampanga; from Clark to Baguio City; and from Baguio to Laoag-are particularly in

need of such hotels, he said.

Aside from the hotel sector, Leechiu took note of the growth expected in the office market, with 8.5 million sq m in supply from now till 2016 across the various business districts in Metro Manila. In terms of future supply, Bonifacio Global City has the biggest area, at 900,000 sq m.

“Assuming that the Philippines posts a stable fiscal position and good credit standing by

2013/2014, we may expect other demand drivers (e.g. financial services, insurance companies, etc.) to create an additional demand of anywhere from 20,000 sq m to as much as 100,000 sq m of office space from non-BPO (business process outsourcing)/ traditional offices,” he said.

Tuesday’s briefing is only one of several special events organized by BPItrade.com to “pro-

vide an additional service to clients so that they broaden their outlook on investments,” says Ricky Liboro, Director of BPItrade.com.

“There is more about the stock market than conglomerates and consumer stocks. There are other sectors, too. We want to see if there are opportunities in these other sectors.”

BPItrade.com is the online stock brokerage subsidiary of the Bank of the Philippine Islands.

“The factors behind such growth are the active construction industry and the business process outsourcing sector, as well as the high rate of overseas Filipino workers’ remittances. Credit rating achievements have increased investment interests in the Philippines and a stable political climate under the Aquino administration has also contributed to growth,” McCullough said.

He further pointed out that key interest rates are low, offering good debt

financing opportunities for real estate. Moreover, increased commercial and residential real estate-related loans signal an active property sector.

“We’ve seen continuously low vacancy rates, as there is strong take up within Central Business Districts. Makati continues to attract more institutional investors due to relatively high yields at 8-10%, and there has been an additional supply of 340,000 square meters of space introduced this year, mainly in Bonifacio Global City,”

McCullough explained.

Increased purchasing power of the middle class has sustained the demand for subdivisions, townhouses, and condominiums. The strong consumer spending has benefited the retail sector, translating to an increase in gross floor area of retail space in Central Business Districts by 337,000 square meters this year.

“Manila remains the best value city to do business, largely because of the relatively low real estate costs, and Makati remains

to be the location of choice for luxurious residential spaces,” McCullough added, pointing out that favorable economic conditions and a highly skilled labor pool have attracted more international KPO/BPO firms to come to the Philippines ( figure 1 ).

“The increase in foreign entry seen through the expanding BPO sector also drives the residential market, especially for high-end apartments near the Central Business Districts,” McCullough noted.

[PR Newswire]

Prospects on PHL’s real estate market still bullish T

HE sustained economic growth of the Philippines is expected to further buoy positive investor sentiment toward the real estate sector, according to full-service real estate firm KMC MAG Group .

In a media briefing, KMC MAG Group Managing Director Michael McCullough pointed out that 2013 has been a year of opportunities for the real estate sector, owing to the consistently strong GDP growth in the first half of the year.

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 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

DENR, FEU and WWF celebrate recovery of Tamaraw population “B

Y saving the tamaraw, we shall save ourselves,” explained WWF-Philippines Conservation Programmes Vice-president Joel Palma at the Tamaraw Month Celebration, held last 20 November at FEU’s Morayta campus.

Representatives from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Far Eastern University (FEU), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Tamaraw Conservation Programme (TCP) and the indigenous Tau Buid tribe celebrated the latest victories in conserving the world’s most endangered buffalo species.

During the Pleistocene Epoch 12,000 years ago, tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis) herds ranged across much of Mindoro.

Extirpated by migrants, an estimated 10,000 heads remained in the early 1900s. This last population has taken severe blows – ranging from a crippling outbreak of cattle-killing Rinderpest in the 1930s to incessant land clearing and poaching.

It is thought that only a few hundred hold out atop the grassy slopes and forest patches of Mts. Iglit, Baco,

Aruyan, Bongabong, Calavite and Halcon in Mindoro.

Today the tamaraw is classified by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as critically endangered – the highest risk rating for any animal species.

Four national laws protect it from poaching – Commonwealth Act 73 plus Republic Acts 1086, 7586 and 9147.

Since 1979, the DENR has been working tirelessly through the TCP to conserve the tamaraw. With its gold and green tamaraw icon, FEU has provided support for a tamaraw management and research-oriented program by participating in annual tamaraw counts since 2005.

To support existing DENR and FEU initiatives, WWF, local government of Occidental Mindoro and indigenous Tau Buid Mangyan inhabitants of Mts. Iglit-Baco joined hands to protect the verdant mountain habitats inhabited by the tamaraw. Said Tau Buid Mangyan tribal leader Fausto Novelozo, “Kung walang tamaraw, wala rin po kami. Ang kabuhayan ay nakasaad sa yamang buhay. (Without the tamaraw, there will be no Tau Buid.

Tau Buid tribesfolk in Mindoro. The Tau Buid is one of eight tribes collectively termed Mangyans by lowlanders. The Tau Buid people are allies of WWF, FEU, DENR and TCP for the ‘Tams-2’ project. (Ross Joseph Copiaco / FEU) Lives and livelihoods are inextricably tied with biodiversity.”

Dubbed ‘Tams-2’ or Tamaraw Times Two by 2020, the campaign synthesizes camera trapping and other science-based research initiatives with improved park management practices to double the number of wild

tamaraw from 300 to 600 by 2020. Says TCP Head and Mts. Iglit-Baco Park Superintendent Rodel Boyles, “I believe we can double the number of wild tamaraw way before 2020. We already counted 345 heads this April – the highest posted since we began our annual surveys in 2001.”

The partnership aims to revitalize much of Mindoro’s deforested mountain habitats.

Healthy peaks and forests translate to a better-managed source of water so essential for the vast rice-lands of Mindoro’s western floodplains, while healthy reefs generate food for millions.

“Our goal is twofold – to conserve one of the Philippines’ living treasures, while delivering conservation results to the people that need the most help.

That we are seeing more and more tamaraw is a testament to the effectiveness of our alliance,” concluded FEU President Dr. Michael Alba.

HE Philippine government is banking on the high-resolution powers of a super computer called Blue Gene/P to be able to come up with a seven-day advanced weather prediction system for the country.

“We are focusing on climate change adaptation technologies to make sure that we reduce the risks of typhoons and other effects of climate change to the country,” Smarter Philippines Program Leader Dr. Alejandro O. Melchor III said.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) earlier launched the country’s flagship program on disaster prevention and mitigation known as Project NOAH, or the Nationwide Operational Assessments of Hazards.

Melchor said to make the country’s fight against climate change more effective, the NOAH-WISE project or Weather Information-integration for System Enhancement will soon be launched.

The NOAH-WISE Team has been assembled and are working on programs that will make weather forecasting more relevant to disaster-prone communities.

“With the use of the super computer, the DOST will now be able to predict the weather seven days in advance compared to the present practice where we only have a six-hour lead,” he said.

The weather prediction under this project is also location-specific so it will really guide communities who are at-risk of flooding and other disasters, he added.

The NOAH-WISE Project Team is now working with IBM Philippines to run the weather model using the super computer.

Melchor said DOST is also hastening the completion of the storm surge mapping and will be able to deliver it to the local government units so they will be forewarned if their areas are in the storm surge map. [PNA]

Mindanao Science Centrum seeks more gov’t financing T O

FFICIALS of the still-unfinished Mindanao Science and Technology Centrum (MSTC) in Bago Oshiro, Tugbok district, Davao City has asked the government and other sectors to help finance the construction of the facility so that after 14 years, it will finally have a roof.

The MSTC was designed as a two-storey structure with a dome roof but up to now, only the first floor has been completed.

“The Centrum remains unfinished even after 14 years but we continue to provide science exhibits that will make Mindanao’s young people more aware of science and technology,” said Dr.

Ma. Delia Moran-Morados, former Department of Science and Technology (DoST) 11 regional director.

The MSTC broke ground in 1999 through a P10-million grant from former Speaker Jose de Venecia’s Community Development Fund. Other funds were given for the Centrum but not enough to complete its construction.

The MSTC was supposed to be Mindanao’s first science-oriented government facility and yet, the structure has languished for 14 years literally without a roof on its head.

De Venecia’s contribution was used for the land development and construction of the 5,000-square meter

building which used to be estimated at P52 million 14 years ago.

The-five hectare lot on which the MSTC now sits was donated by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industries.

Today, Mila C. Francisco, MSTC consultant for Science Education said they now need P195 million to complete the Centrum since the price of construction materials and labor costs has increased through the years.

Despite its situation, the MSTC has managed to survive and is now hosting a one-month Energy Exhibit which will be open up to December 5, for public school students and other science enthusi-

asts in Mindanao.

The Energy Exhibit consists of 35 energy exhibits that depict the many forms of energy including light, mechanical, sound, water and electricity. While the MSTC has permanent exhibits at the Centrum geared for science students, the traveling energy exhibits are something new and should not be missed by students.

Morados said that through the exhibit, the young will have a better understanding of the need to develop and to conserve sources of energy and to come up with scientific basis for new technologies that will derive new sources of energy.

[PNA]

Super computer to make PHL predict weather 7 days ahead

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

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VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

Pulong’s soft side

ICE Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte has chosen the way of forgiveness rather than harbor ill feelings in his heart.

Yesterday, the vice mayor ordered his lawyer to drop the charges against Michael Hatcher whom he had slapped with direct assault after the respondent went on a road rage last August 27.

Forgive and forget. Bygones be bygones.

It was a move that showed vice mayor Pulong’s soft side. He had been known to be a toughie in the mold of his father Mayor Rody.

But like most of us, we often commit the mistake of typecasting a person and prejudging him based on previous encounters and experience. Sometimes, based merely on what others tell us.

For Hatcher, it must have been the answer to his prayers. He emerged from the road incident like a house on fire. Later, he softened and

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asked for forgiveness but VM Pulong shrugged off his shoulders saying the case has already been filed in court. Hatcher must have realized the gravity of his actions so tried to reach out to people who can talk to the vice mayor.

Well, lucky Hatcher became the happiest man yesterday after the vice mayor announced he has forgiven him.

Now, it’s all up to Hatcher to settle with another complainant—a police escort whom Hatcher almost got killed in that incident.

The incident does not only serve a lesson of forgiveness but more importantly for foreigners like Hatcher to realize this is not their country and they just cannot berate anyone with such arrogance and disregard for authority.

The Filipinos are innately friendly, but never make the mistake of trampling on their rights and honor. That’s already crossing the line.

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N

EEDED IS PAIR OF HELPING HANDS, NOT LOUD DROOLING MOUTHS – In a curious way, this has proved to be the enigma that continuously hounded us. To drive my point, clearly enough there is a disturbing aspect in the Filipino character. It comes as no surprise that with the kind of temperament that we have perhaps we will be rated very poorly by virtuous societies. We are turning out to be increasingly inclined in raising grievances and criticism including those that don’t even merit the attention of government.

Perhaps tellingly, we have the tendency to find fault in every twist and turn and the easy prey upon whom to pin the blame because of our misgivings in life.

Probably the most stinging charge at all times is that government is remiss in its obligations to the people notably the minority sector. A greater number of us are harsh on whoever steered the levers of power – their programs, diplomacies and policies. Sad to lament, though, but this is all we can say: we have the habit of relying on our own biased opinions and a self-confidence bordering on arrogance and pretention. We never do things by ourselves without seeking support and help from others particularly the government. The toughest problem relates to the very nature of the Filipino character – hard to please but hasty in making speculations, opinions, analysis, passing blame and judgment.

One glaring indication is the deplorable situation of the victims in many areas in the Visayas devastated by super typhoon Yolanda. A deep sense of inconvenience has replaced the expected quick disaster assistance response and efficient delivery of relief goods and other vital necessities. Tired, thirsty, hungry and infuriated, typhoon survivors are blaming the whole mess on what they see as a failure of the national government to handle an orderly process.

Of course, both the national leadership and local government units (LGUs) committed

N

OBODY can be so coldblooded as not to feel the anguish of the people of Leyte and other provinces hit by super typhoon Yolanda. If our senses aren’t deceiving us, Leyte at least has virtually become a wasteland. The images of human suffering in those places evoke a sense of despair, shock and above all, sincere grief for the survivors who may even envy the dead considering what they must go through.

Yet while the images and stories of misery have galvanized a sense of national solidarity, repeated exposure to them could result in the psychological equivalent of overdose. Such overdose could lead the mind to a state where it tends to eventually regard even the most depressing images as simply more of the same stuff. Watching the victims endure hunger becomes as mechanical as scooping food from our filled plates as we watch the evening news. The level of sympathy dissipates over time; it’s as if we’re just watching a horror movie again and again that the gore no longer frightens us.

Perhaps this is why after 9/11 some experts in the US advised TV networks to minimize showing the footage of that terror attack. I can’t exactly recall how it was worded, but the argument was that

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

A case of falsity initial lapses in responding i m m e d i a te ly to the distress call, there’s no question about it and that’s certain.

But what added to the confusion is on how people reacted to the depressing situation. Many, probably thousands of them are quick enough in making unwanted analysis, speculations and unsolicited opinions. They tend to be experts but were actually know-it-all pretenders and self-professed concern groups. It is rather regrettable that their comments mostly aimed at humiliating the government only further aggravate the intense situation in the disaster areas and ignite more anger and frustration among the typhoon survivors. In some ways, so many ways for that matter, these inconsiderate people should also carry the burden of guilt because what is needed badly at this stage is pair of helping hands, not big and loud drooling mouths. They looked terribly silly trying to portray government and it’s functionaries as the main culprit of all the tribulations in the country. Certainly these people perhaps spent much of their life thinking that whatever they do is always right – a case of falseness.

Considerately the real experts blamed the people’s grievances not on too little democracy, but too much of it which many of us tend to agree. Democracy in this country has been exploited and disregarded. They claim that in the Filipino paradigm values such as obedience, honesty, respect, equality and neutrality are nowhere to be found.

Added to that, they say that in order to push progress and development, law-abiding and peace-loving citizens are needed to

Picture imperfect

SOMEONE ELSE’S WINDOWS

BY H. MARCOS C. MORDENO repeatedly seeing such scene tends to desensitize the mind to violence in general.

It can be said that this is not the case for those in the field, for example, reporters and relief workers, because they come in direct contact with the survivors.

Proximity breeds genuine empathy. But there’s danger in it too, as human reaction to tragedies comes in various packages.

Who can forget Kevin Carter, the South African photojournalist who committed suicide in 1994, months after taking pictures of a wasted African child who had to crawl his way to a UN relief mission in Sudan while being tailed by a vulture? Accounts said Carter killed himself because that image and the other memories of war and violence kept haunting him.

However, the sense of guilt and depression that Carter felt and his subsequent suicide was just one end of the pole. At the other end is the tendency to fully dissociate one’s self from a disaster and similar situations.

“protect, support, cooperate, organize and guide” the country’s socio-political and economic activities. Unfortunately, many of our people had been shown to be thriving more on criticism, hatred, cynicism, antagonism and lack of accountability.

For years, the conceited and insensitive lot continued vilifying and pestering the government – its leaders and programs and policies, yet they don’t want to be told to pay their taxes and other financial obligations due to the government. They decried the government’s lackluster effort to act with dispatch in time of calamities and solve the worsening flood problem, yet they are the major contributors to the dreadful situation. They wantonly disposed their garbage and other refuse wherever they want and as they please – streets, canals and any pool of water there is. They would violate even the simplest traffic rules and regulations – motorists jump on red light or over-speed while pedestrians are habitual jaywalkers. That’s just a few of the Filipino’s undesirable character.

If character change is to begin among Filipinos, the starting point must be to stop passing judgment and refrain from looking for the right tool upon whom to fix the blame on what had happened to the masses of our people – their predicaments and adversities in life. Instead of trying to impress the world that they’re terribly bothered about the state of the poor people’s lives especially the victims of disasters, they must help, share and cooperate, and engage government and its representative system in honest and serious talks to restrain the increasingly desperate and frustrated countrymen. Their specific contribution will define their instrumentalities to the country and people. And for those who have nothing to share except to find fault, they better shut up because I am saying it again for the nth time that you cheaply looked like loose cannons with runaway mouths. Too bad, indeed!

A corpse lies buried beneath the debris. Click the shutter and leave and forget the whole thing. A hungry child clutches his mother’s arms, begging for food. Roll the camera and leave and forget the whole thing. It’s just a job. Journalists in particular have mastered the art of rationalizing that detachment is the rule of thumb when it comes to tragedies.

A photographer told me years ago his camera serves as a buffer between him and the emotions of his subjects.

The lens captures human drama and stores it in a chip measuring less than a square inch, enough space to contain grief and suffering and prevent it from contaminating the heart and mind the way it did to Carter. Emotions frozen as digital files.

But that – digitizing our capacity for emotions – is precisely another tragedy, maybe worse than committing suicide, although I don’t subscribe to that either. After all, the best photos in the world don’t mirror the technical potential of the cameras but the feelings of the photographers, their vast capacity for compassion and sense of humanity. (MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. H. Marcos C. Mordeno can be reached at hmcmordeno@gmail.com)

VANTAGE POINTS

9

‘The Riddles of my Homecoming’ A RINGSIDE VIEW

BY KARL M. GASPAR CSSR

T

(Conclusion)

HIS was the perfect location site for Mardoquio’s latest film as it needed this kind of setting; Andap serendipitously provided him with what he needed. Through the permission granted by the Local Government Unit, Mardoquio’s team was allowed to shoot the film here. The sacredness of the place, its haunting images heightened by the memories of the tragedy and how this space has taken on deep symbolic meanings are what drew Mardoquio to this setting. All the members of the film crew made sure to acknowledge the location’s sacredness and meaning.

Throughout the time I spent with them, I could observe that they made sure to tread gently across this landscape.

I admired the courage of the film actors and crew. On the night of 28 July, the sky threatened to give way to torrential rains. Some of the people of the village warned them that a flood could take place in the dead of night. Despite the risks, the shooting continued till almost the wee hours of the morning. Fortunately, there were no heavy downpours during the filming.

As with other indie film crews, Mardoquio’s is lean and efficient. Ditsi Carolino – the award-winning documentary filmmaker (Minsan Lang Sila Bata, Riles, Bunso) who visited the set – was struck at how hard-working everyone was. “I thought I and my small crew are the hardest working filmmakers; it turns out we cannot hold a candle to Mardoquio’s crew! Their call is early in the morning and they wrap up late at night, with very little time to take a break!”

Mardoquio’s team is composed of Yam Palma, assistant Director; Arnel Barbarona (Director of Photography), Macario Robert and Bordie Carillo (also doing Photography), Jerome Dulin and Lou Avila (sound), Jazmin Aller (continuity), Jeffrey delos Santos (Production Manager), Buggy Amplayo (Art Director), Rallon Monsanto, Rene Paradiro and Alvin Aliong (various tasks). The members of the cast are Perry Dizon, Fe Gingging Hyde, Madeleine Garcia, Jeff Sabayle, Cristy Lim and Jillian Barbarona.

As in theatre, a few of them play more than one role. There are no divas among the actors; all take on other tasks when they are not acting in front of the camera.

With Mardoquio asserting a strong leadership in the making of this film as well having earned his members’ trust and confidence, all constantly manifest a deep subservience to “Direk.” They follow all his orders although at times they also make suggestions; even when Derek shows impatience and muted anger when some things are not done well, no one walks out, no one complains. There is a very strong sense of collaboration and mutual support. A hierarchical structure hardly exists. While eventually Mardoquio will be recognized as this film’s maker, the fact is that an indie film is made not just by one filmmaker but everyone who contributes to its completion.

[This piece was first published in the September 16, 2013 issue of OUR Mindanao, the weekly newsmagazine of MindaNews. Bro. Karl Gaspar. CSsR, is the head of the Redemptorist Center for Social and Ecological Concerns and the Alfonsian Lay Formation Institute. He teaches at the St. Alphonsus Theological and Mission Institute (SATMI) and the Ateneo de Davao University’s Institute of Anthropology. He writes a column – A Sojourners’ View – for MindaViews, the opinion section of MindaNews].

10 NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS DAY. Davao Cancer Society president Dr. Alex Tan urges Dabawenyas to join the 4th Atty. Eugenia Marfori Celi Breast Cancer Awareness Day and World Menopause Day on November 23 at the activity center of NCCC Mall during this week’s edition of Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo Davao yesterday. Free services such as breast examination, breast ultrasound, lecture about the myths and facts of menopause will be given to the attendees. Lean Daval Jr.

CLEAN WATER FOR YOLANDA SURVIVORS. Habitat for Humanity Phils. Resource Development manager Dolly Santos-Serranillo (right) and Biosand Filters Phils. director Darell Nelson discusses during Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo Davao yesterday their plan to collaborate with various groups to provide clean water for the survivors of typhoon Yolanda. Lean Daval Jr.

Three dead, 24 injured as jeepney rams railing jeepney driver is in hot water after his vehicle rammed against a road railing in Sitio Lower Lanitium, barangay Siawan, Marilog district, Davao City, killing three students and injuring 24 other passengers Mon-

A

day night.

Jaime Velasquez, the driver and resident of Purok 2 barangay Marilog will be facing charges for reckless imprudence resulting to death with multiple injuries and damage to property.

Police also identified the dead victims as Carlo Avila, Jesmar Luchavez, both 3rd year high school students and Mariel Villegas, 14, grade 7 student of Calinan National Highschool and resident of Dal-ag Lumot, Marilog district.

Marilog police chief Roberto Espina said the injured victims are still in the hospital for treatment.

Velasquez surrendered to the police after the incident and awaits his fate and detained in jail.

tion to a public official on how to spend the people’s money.

On the other hand, Third district councilor Bernard Al-ag said he is glad the SC has sided with the people’s clamor.

Al-ag said that the government will find another

way how to give government money for projects that benefit the people.

“Kay sauna through PDAF ginaagi sa politiko.

So ang pangutana karon unsa na ang himuon sa goberno na maabot ang budget diha sa proyekto sa tao?,” he said

He added that the government should puty up a clear system that shows where the money goes so that the people will know.

“Basin diay giilisdan na pud og pangalan sa ilaha lang gihapon na,” he joked.

On November 19,

2013, the Supreme Court declared the PDAF unconstitutional with a 140 vote. Associate Justice Presbitero Velasco inhibited himself from the deliberation as his son is one of the members of the House of Representatives.

the massacre.

On Friday, Metro Manila-based media workers will lead a “human chain for justice” along the Roxas Boulevard.

On Saturday, the families and colleagues will separately visit the grave sites of the massacre victims, 13 of whom were from this city and 12 others from Koronadal City and parts of South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat provinces.

Members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines South Cotabato-General Santos chapter will stage the “Speedy Justice Run” in remembrance of its two members who were killed in the massacre.

On Nov. 23, 2009, the victims were on their way to Shariff Aguak in Maguindanao to file the certificate of candidacy of then Buluan vice mayor Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu for

governor when their convoy was waylaid in Ampatuan town.

Around 100 gunmen allegedly headed by former Datu Unsay, Maguindanao Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. herded them off to a hilly portion of Masalay where they were brutally killed.

Mangudadatu was spared from the massacre after he sent his wife Genalyn and several female family members to file his can-

didacy. The media workers were part of the convoy to cover the filing.

The Ampatuan Massacre has since placed the Philippines in the list of the most dangerous countries for journalists.

The massacre prompted groups around the world advocating freedom of expression to declare Nov. 23 as the International Day to End Impunity in 2011. [MindaNews]

Hatcher over the same incident.

Atty. Lumbatan told reporters in a separate interview yesterday that he already communicated with Hatcher’s counsel expressing the complainant’s willingness to settle the case. Hatcher, who is married to a Fili-

pina, is still in Manila and has a pending hold departure order.

“But I think at the end of the day, kaning kasuha ma settle man o dili will rest upon the court,” he explained.

Atty. Lumbatan added that the withdrawal of the Vice Mayor will eventually

result to the dismissal of the case but there are still some legal procedures to be complied with.

“I will also inform the court of the unwillingness of the private complainant Paolo Duterte to withdraw the case,” he said.

On the other hand, Atty.

Lumbatan, who is also the

counsel of Ociones, told the reporters that he has yet to sit down with his other client.

“Iyaha man pud ng katungod to pursue the case or not. But, I think the fact nga mo withdraw si Vice Mayor – nakapasaylo man gani ang Vice Mayor siya pa kaha?” he explained.

Name... FFROM 1

4th year...FFROM 2

Pulong...FFROM 2

EDGEDAVAO

Davao...FFROM 2 of Yolanda which is a more pressing need.” Daquioag said.

Last year’s Typhoon Pablo one of the strongest typhoons to strike the otherwise typhoon-free Davao region devastated properties and livelihood particularly in the provinces of Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley, while Yolanda, one of the most powerful typhoons ever recorded struck Visayas last November 8 leaving a trail of death and unimaginable destruction.

Daquioag said the beneficiaries would those living in the areas between Baybay, Leyte and Basey in Samar; towns heavily affected by the typhoon’s onslaught.

“We want to show to the rest of the world that

Davao Region is one big family that never leaves a sister or a brother behind.

This is the same compassion that guides us to help our neighbors.” Daquioag said.

Tickets of the concert are available at all provincial tourism offices of Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur and the tourism investment office of Davao City. The December 7 show starts at 3 p.m. (first show) and 7 p.m. (second show). VIP tickets are sold at P500 and General Admission tickets at P300.

Concert-goers are also encouraged to bring relief items as boxes are stationed in the visible areas of the concert venue to receive the relief items.

[PIA/RG Alama]

turn then after namin matapos ang aming mission which is to do surveillance they will be given 15 days to settle the VAT deficiency and then after that kung hindi masettle we will push for the Oplan Kanda-

do,” Mendoza explained.

Earlier this year, BIR pushed the five-day temporary closure of BlueJazz and Waterpark at Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos) due to alleged failure to pay tax obligations.

of public transportation in the city is workable.

Compared to other proposals such as the as construction of LRT(Land Trail Transit) which would be impractical because the city does not have the necessary traffic count of 18,000 to 20,000 passengers per hour. Davao City has only 5,000 to 7,000 passengers per hour based on current transportation modes.

“But we cannot afford not to do anything between now until that time, we have to do something so, because of that I feel that the option on prioritized bus lines is the most practical,” he said.

As a business leader, he said that he can rally the private sector to invest on the proposal because it is

reliable, economical, clean and safe citing the transport system in Singapore in past wherein buses ply a very specific route.

“People want to bring their own car because not reliable eh [referring to the current transport system]…Pagdating mo baka puno na ang mga sasakyan, hindi ka na makasakay at hindi ka na maka catch-up sa appointment mo,” Lao said.

Lao said that the system should be “station to station”. This way, he said, the travel time can be monitored closely. But tricycles, public utility jeepneys, taxis and conventional buses will still be used as mode of transport inside streets and subdivisions. He imagined stations as feeders.

[CRC]

BIR shuts...FFROM 3

Business...FFROM 3

EDGEDAVAO

NATION

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11

MANILA

CBCP to distribute 1,000 bibles to areas affected by ‘Yolanda’ A

FTER sending 3,000 rosaries, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) through the Episcopal Commission for the Biblical Apostolate (ECBA) will be sending 1,000 copies of Tagalog Bibles to the survivors of typhoon “Yolanda” that ravaged the Central Philippines.

Dr. Natividad Pagadut, ECBA executive secretary, said they hope to help those affected in the different dioceses in the Visayas to standup again and strengthen their faith by giving them the Bibles.

“The distribution of the Bible will hopefully help them to stand up again, to strengthen their faith, and to improve as persons. So it is best to couple it with formation, counseling and to guide them on what to read in the Bible during this time. With this, they will be consoled, challenged, they will gain hope to move on,

RIGHTS OF THE CHILD. Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Loretta Ann Rosales explains the rules of procedure under the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child during the round table discussion at Balay Kalinaw in UP Campus, Diliman, Quezon City on Wednesday (November 20, 2013). [PNA photo by Johnny D. Guevarra] and get up from this terrible experience,” she said in an article posted on the CBCP news website.

Pagadut believed that the giving out of the Bibles

should be combined with formation of the people in order for them to know how to use and what to read in the Holy Book in times of calamities.

Republic of the Philippines Office of the President Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council HOUSING &LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD Southern Mindanao Region

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that DMC URBAN PROPERTY DEVELOPERS, INC. has filed with the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board a sworn registration statement for the sale of condominium units at VERDON PARC BUILDING 1 located at Ecoland Drive corner Peacock Street, Davao City specifically identified / described as Lot 1, Blk. 23, Pcs-11-000106; Lot 2, Blk. 23, Pcs-000106; Lot 3, Blk. 23, Pcs-000106; Lot4, Blk. 23, Pcs-000106; Lot 5, Blk. 23, Pcs-000106; Lot 6-A & B, Psd-11-008767; that the registration statement and all papers attached thereto are available for inspection during business hours by any person having legal interest thereon and upon proper application; and that copies thereof shall be furnished to such persons upon payment of the proper fee.

Any person with valid objection to the registration of the project may file his objection in writing with the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board, 2nd Floor, G.B.CAM Bldg., corner Alvarez and Monteverde Streets, Davao City with telephone number 222-2895 not later than five(5) days from the date of last publication.

Davao City, Philippines, 7th day of November, 2013.

(SGD)ATTY. R.M. MIGUEL T. PALMA GIL Regional Director

She also suggested to the people to read the Psalms especially the Lamentation Psalms where it expressed the sadness and disappointments of the people to God.

MANILA

“It is not wrong to express sadness, disappointments, etc. to God. We should not forget our faith and still cling to Him. And take note that there is hope,”

the ECBA official added.

Likewise, the group gave 100 copies of children’s Bible to help them get up from the devastating experience.

[PNA]

10 ‘essentials’needed to turn Filipinos disaster-resilient S

HARING the view that we have not yet seen the worst in super typhoon Yolanda, an administration lawmaker today raised the need for a complete paradigm shift to disaster preparedness and the approach must start from the grassroots where every household-- including the elderly, women and children—must know their respective roles before and after a disaster.

Samar Congressman Mel Senen Sarmiento said that the chaos that quickly followed after Yolanda swept through Eastern and Western Visayas was largely caused by the absence of a practical emergency preparedness protocol for Filipino families and their communities.

“We have not seen the worst. Our country sits in a typhoon belt and in a major faultline. If there’s one nation that needs to be prepared for the worst of Mother Earth, that should be the Philippines,” Sarmiento said.

He noted for example that despite the advance warnings made by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) about the massive size and strength of Yolanda, much of the residents along its projected path still opted to stay in their homes.

Sarmiento said that since last year, he has been raising the need to adopt a comprehensive policy on disaster preparedness and risk reduction, including his call to prioritize the acquisition of a hospital ship which can be dispatched in calamity areas. Also, he had been advocating the implementation of the Mainstreaming Adaptation and Disaster Reduction into Development (MADRiD) which is being promoted by the United Nations Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR).

Sarmiento, who is a member of the advisory group of parliamentarians to the UNISDR, said that based on the lessons from global experiences, the uncoordinated and unorchestrated response of the government, particularly the local government units, is the result of the inexistence of a cohesive institutional and administrative structure which can really call the shot during disaster situations.

Sarmiento said there is a need to set in place the following “10 essentials” to make the country disaster-resilient as recommended by the UNISDR. 1. Put in place organization and coordination to understand and reduce disaster risk, based on participation

of citizen groups and civil society. Build local alliances.

Ensure that all departments understand their role to disaster risk reduction and preparedness.

2. Assign a budget for disaster risk reduction and provide incentives for homeowners, low-income families, communities, businesses and public sector to invest in reducing the risks they face.

3. Maintain up-to-date data on hazards and vulnerabilities, prepare risk assessments and use these as the basis for urban development plans and decisions. Ensure that this information and the plans for your city’s resilience are readily available to the public and fully discussed with them.

4. Invest in and maintain critical infrastructure that reduces risk, such as flood drainage, adjusted where needed to cope with climate change.

5. Assess the safety of all schools and health facilities and upgrade these as necessary.

6. Apply and enforce realistic, risk-compliant building regulations and land use planning principles. Identify safe land for low-income citizens and develop upgrading of informal settlements, wherever feasible.

12 CLASSIFIEDS

There’s a better way to get attention.

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

EDGEDavao Gensan Partners

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13 COMMUNITY SENSE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

RDL donates goods to Bohol quake victims

T

HE Bohol region experience the most powerful and deadliest earthquake last October 15, 2013 with a magnitude force of 7.2 that estimated to be equivalent to 32 Hiroshima Bombs released on World War II. The earthquake’s epicenter was located 6 kilometers of South-Western part of Sagbayan town, Bohol. The Magnitude 7.2 earthquake devastates most of the Bohol

region both government and private owned infrastructure, living the Province of Bohol crumbled and heavily damaged, with casualties up to 209 people dead and an estimated 90% of the island’s population were affected.

With the need of foods and other supplies for the people, RDL Pharmaceutical Laboratory, Incorporated extends help to the earthquake victims of Bohol last

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!

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BUS DRIVER

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Qualifications: Qualifications:

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

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

2. 2 x 2 I.D. (2 pcs.)or clearance from 3. Certificate of picture Employment 3. Certificate of Employment or clearance from previous employment

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

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

October 23, 2013. The company donates two hundred sacks of rice, one hundred boxes of canned goods, fifty cases of odong, fifty cases of noodles and fifty sacks of papaya soap to the Province of Bohol which is compose of 25 Municipalities. The company immediately respond and act for the people of Bohol in assisting their needs and recover from the tragedy that struck the region.

The donated goods was received by Fr. Bong Gonzaga of Diocese of Davao and forwarded to Rev. Fr. Leonardo “Bong” Abiera Dublan, Jr. of The Ascension of Lord Parish located at GSIS Heights, Matina, Davao City. The goods were distributed by The Ascension of Lord Parish to the affected families of Bohol, especially those in the town of Loon.

The donation is a little and humble way of the company to help the said region. The company is also praying that those were affected with earthquake could gradually recover and return to their normal life.

Archdiocese of Davao’s relief operation starts T HE Archdiocese of Davao thanked the faithful in the dioceses of Davao, Digos,Tagum and Mati for the overwhelming response to the relief operation for the victims of typhoon Yolanda in Eastern Viasayas.

Father Leonardo Dublan, Jr., parish priest of the Ascension of the Lord Parish at the GSIS-Matina said a total of six container vans full of relief goods are already on the way to Tacloban City via Cebu.

He said more goods need to be repacked by volunteers at the GSIS gym beside the parish church, from the schools, parishes and organizations which responded for the needy in the typhoon ravaged areas

in Eastern Visayas.

“We thank the women, students, policemen and soldiers who participate in the relief efforts, particularly the repacking of goods ,” Dublan said.

He announced that the Oplan Tabang Bagyo has discouraged now the donation of used clothings.

Dublan said the displaced individuals and families need more rice, biscuits for the children, coffee, milk, chocolate beverages and sugar.

He explained that the Social Action Center of the Archdiocese of Cebu will facilitate the delivery of relief goods to the affected families in Tacloban City.

Dublan said the initial shipment of relief goods is intended for the resi-

dents of Palo, Leyte while the second shipment is intended for the survivors in Borongan, Eastern Samar.

“The massive destruction and difficulties among the people in Leyte and Samar areas prompt us to deliver more goods there than in Aklan and Capiz,” he said.

Dublan said there are also no ships traversing from Cebu to other typhoon ravaged places in Western Visayas.

He said Aklan and Capiz are more accessible to the relief operations from Manila.

“We hope that the faithful from Luzon will also look up for the welfare of people affected by typhoon Yolanda in Western Visayas,” Dublan said.

[PIA 11/Joey Sem G. Dalumpines]

14 SPORTS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

AtModds over Ariza ACAU – For months, Manny Pacquiao and Brandon Rios have acted more like close friends enjoying a vacation together than opponents in a boxing match.

They posed for photos together on the Great Wall of China.

They visited Tiananmen Square. They smiled easily when together, complimented each other lavishly and seemed nothing like men who wish to inflict serious harm upon the other.

But as their payper-view bout nears on Saturday (Sunday Macau time) in CotaiArena, the intensity has ratcheted up several notches.

Alex Ariza had been Pacquiao’s strength and conditioning coach since 2008 and had been given much credit as Pacquiao jumped weight classes and defeated the likes of David Diaz, Ricky Hatton, Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito.

Somewhere along the way, though, the relationship soured and Pacq u i a o trainer Freddie Roach fired Ariza in August.

Not long after the dismissal, Ariza

SERIOUS. Manny Pacquiao wants redemption against Brandon Rios in Macau this Sunday.

was hired by Rios to train him for the fight against Pacquiao.

That twist has added a sharp edge to what had been a friendly rivalry.

Now, they’re exchanging sharp words, making accusations against the other and generally increasing the tension between not only the camps but the fighters themselves.

“Ariza is just an [expletive],” Roach said. “He never did a thing for Manny. Manny always worked on his own.

Alex just stretched him, and that was the extent of his job.

I told Manny, ‘You’re paying this guy a lot of money just to stretch you.’ What fighter in the world, what professional athlete, can’t stretch himself?’ And Manny agreed and said, ‘I’m going to go back to the old way.’

“Alex is just a pain in the ass. My cornermen, Buboy [Fernandez], he used to cut off and go up in the ring.

He cut Buboy off and would start yelling instructions over me. My cutman, Miguel Diaz, refused to work the corner if Alex was in the corner because he wanted to be the cutman also. If he would have just done his job, he would have been OK, but he wanted to do everyone else’s job.”

Ariza won’t be in Rios’ corner, but he will be seated near it. His presence there won’t be missed by Pacquiao.

Ariza said he wasn’t sure if Pacquiao will be impacted by his presence, but said he believes Pacquiao knows that Rios will be prepared for a grueling fight.

“I think [Pacquiao] got away from that type of training the last four fights,” Ariza said. “I think there was a fear factor in the beginning when he was moving up in weight, even when he fought Diaz [at lightweight]. He was nervous going to 135 and then going to 147 and fighting Hatton, De La Hoya, Cotto.

There was a fear factor and

Manny was willing to try different things to build his body and to compete with these bigger, stronger guys.

“But when he got to the [Shane] Mosley fight, Shane was 40 years old and I don’t know if the fear factor was there. Then we go to the third [Juan Manuel] Marquez fight and I think in his head he said, ‘I’ve fought Hatton. I’ve fought De La Hoya,’ and for whatever reason, he didn’t respect Marquez as much. When he fought [Timothy] Bradley, he wasn’t as consistent and wasn’t fighting three minutes of every round. He fought in bursts and then got completely away from everything. Our advantages when we were dominating is that we were using a comprehensive, scientific strength and conditioning program. He gave it up for the old way and the old ways are proven not to work.”

Ariza praised the way Rios has approached his training. Rios has had trouble making the weight in the past, but Ariza said that he gave him Tuesday off (Monday in the U.S.) because Rios was at 153 pounds and he didn’t want him getting much lower than that until the weigh-in.

He said Rios has been totally dedicated and even went for swims in cold water in an outdoor pool in Oxnard, Calif., where he trains.

“He’s given me everything he has and has totally bought into the program,” Ariza said. “As a coach, that’s all you can ask.”

But Roach said he has someone in his camp who has been observing Rios and disputed Ariza’s contention that Rios is on target to make weight.

Roach said his source saw Rios running Tuesday in a rubber suit. Rios had earlier mentioned that he hadn’t used the rubber suit once.

“He’s been in plastics every day, trying to make weight,” Roach said. “He was

in plastics [Tuesday]. I saw him. I have people [who saw Rios] and he ran, and he ran with that suit. He ran today in plastics. It’s not amazing.

He’s a lazy, non-disciplined person.”

Roach said he’s still bitter at Rios and trainer Robert Garcia for a video they posted mocking the tremors he has as a result of having Parkinson’s Disease. Rios apologized not long after the incident and had the video pulled down, but that didn’t salve Roach’s wounds.

Thus, Roach has been willing to fire at Rios more than he has at previous Pacquiao opponents. But Rios said Roach isn’t telling the truth.

“Freddie Roach can say whatever he wants to say, but I had trouble when I was trying to make 135, man,” Rios said. “Am I [having trouble making 147?] Does he know? Has he weighed me?

Has he seen me train? Has he been to my gym? No. He’s just speaking out of his ass.

“He’s trying to hype [expletive] up, but I let him talk all he wants. He’s trying to play mind games with a guy who loves to play mind games. He’s picked the wrong guy to play mind games with, because I don’t fall for that. I’m glad he thinks I’m having trouble making weight.”

Pacquiao tried his best to stay out of it all. Roach said the many members of Team Pacquiao celebrated when Ariza was fired, and said, “Every single person, every one, including Manny, is a hell of a lot happier now that Alex is gone.”

When Pacquiao was told Ariza’s words, he grinned broadly and winked at Roach.

“I don’t have any comment about that,” he said, laughing again.

The gamesmanship has begun in earnest, though.

And that only means one thing.

Fight time is almost upon us.

Run Aid set Dec. 8 Latinos in the snake pit S

ILENT, calculating, and unceremonious, a snake will suddenly deal his fatal strike for a quiet but vicious victory.

Styled with the nickname “Ahas” (meaning “snake” in Filipino), the cautious but lethal warrior Donnie Nietes could not have a more fitting alias. Prophetically, Nietes derived his apt title from his humble beginnings as utility boy for ALA Gym, whose responsibilities included cleaning the snake pit. He was the only employee with the bravery enough to carry out the

task.

That courage and perseverance has followed him into the ring. Ever since seizing WBO Minimumweight title in 2007, Nietes has never ceased to hold a World Title, moving up once in weight class to capture the WBO Light-flyweight title as well. If he manages to defend his title for just one more year, he will surpass the late Gabriel “Flash” Elorde’s record for the longest-reigning champion in the history of this bloodthirsty sport.

Standing at 31W-1L-

4D with 17 wins by knockout, Nietes has meticulously out-boxed each world title hopeful, including the able-bodied Mexican contenders Manuel Vargas (33W-11L1D), Mario Rodriguez (16W-8L-4D), Felipe Salguero (18W-5L-1D). Most recently, his high-pressure battle with another of Mexico’s finest Moises Fuentes (18W-1L-1D) ended in an unsatisfying majority draw.

But Nietes’ isn’t done playing with Mexican fire yet. In his upcoming bout, Nietes will defend

his world crown for the third time against veteran pugilist Sammy Gutiérrez (33W-9L-2D, 23 KO) in the highly-anticipated event, PINOY PRIDE XXIII: “Filipinos Kontra Latinos”.

The fight card also features the WBO Minimumweight unification match between MerlitoSabillo (23W-0) and Nicaraguan Carlos Buitrago (27W-0L) and the WBO International Flyweight Championship between Milan Melino (29W-1L) and Mexican Jose Alfredo Rodriguez (29W-2L).

D

AVAO’S running community will converge on December 8 at the Rizal Park this time to race for charity in the run-for-acause event dubbed as Run Aid Davao “Dagan Na, Manabang Ta.” The footrace aims to raise funds for the typhoons victims in Tacloban City and neighboring Leyte and Palawan areas.

“Run Aid Davao “Dagan na, Manabang ta” is a call for all Davao runners to run and make a difference in the lives of Typhoon Yolanda victims,” said race organiz-

er Kenneth Sai of Vantage Sports..

Registration for the charity run is pegged at P150.00 inclusive of a personalized race bib only. Categories are 5K and 10K in an out and back course at Rizal Park.

Registration is on Dec 2-7, 1-7pm at adidas Gaisano Mall outlet.

Run Aid hopes to gather a huge field as it joins several other sports events around the country mounted to raise the needed assistance for one of the biggest calamities that hit the nation in history. (NJB)

INdulge!

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

A luxurious vegan meal FULL COURSE MEAL – no shock there, right? What if I tell you of a full course VEGAN meal, will you still be interested?

Bruschetta, Rice Balls with Spinach and Potato Croquette.

Velutata Di Lenticchie.

Recently, I have been treated to one of the best meals of my life. Subjectively speaking, it is nothing like I have ever tasted. I admit, I crave for anything palatable but I too want to explore my gastronomical yearnings. Hence, I was too happy to turn down an opportunity as grand as this.

Chaines de Rotisseurs is an international society composed of professionals (chefs, restaurant and hotel owners) and non-professionals who share, appreciate and enjoy wine and fine dining. Touted as “Lovers of Fine Dining”, the organization offers new members to meet people who share a common interest in fine dining and good fellowship.

In the Philippines, there are nearly 130 members in two Bailliages in Manila and Cebu. Headed by none other than Michel J. Lhuillier (Bailliage Nacional des Philippines), the society is as alta as one could ever think of. Now, Davao is part of this fast growing society! Congratulations to the newly inducted members.

To be in the presence of some of the most significant players in the culinary world, it was an experience that I will forever treasure. Imagine talking and exchanging food insights with M.Lhuillier himself and Federico Borromeo (Bailliage de Manille). For someone who believes in

Members of the Prestigious Chaines de Rossiteurs.

the existence of love in the food and the table, that was more than enough to prelude my next life chapter.

Now, let’s talk F-O-O-D! The lunch was superb. Hats down (or is it up?) to Hola Espana’s GM Massimo for an excellent and delectable meal. It was an explosion of food from one flavor to another. Not to mention, the wine pairings made all the difference. The dessert champagne was exquisitely crisp as a glass of Moët on a fine edm night at Mansion 360!

Appetizer: Bruschetta, Rice Balls with Spinach and Potato Croquette The perfect way to start a meal. It was light and bursting with flavors. The bruschetta, tomato, olive oil and capers was a symphony in every bite. The

Pappardelle Fresche Al Ragu’ Di Ceci.

Cestini di Frutata and Zabaione Al Marsala.

Taboule’ In Ripieno and Parmigiani Di Melezane E Patate.

Insalata Greca.

Rice Balls with saffron was like no other. The potato was right to the core. All in all, something to forward to – again!

Soup: Velutata Di Lenticchie Lentil is a delicate piece of ingredient to deal with.

Nonetheless, this soup is thick, rich and creamy with every spoonful. With a chewy wheat bread on the side, you need not be shy to dunk, slurp and chew all the way! Cheers for lentils!

Salad: Insalata Greta The refreshing fresh vegetables, cheese pieces and oil based dressing makes you crave for more. It was like pairing and finding the best flavor with every bite.

Nonetheless, you still won’t be able to settle with one!

Kudos to vegetables.

Pasta: Pappaedelle Fresche Al Ragu’ Di Ceci This was exceptionally light and easy on the taste buds. Pasta with nothing but tomato, capers and garbanzos is a definite heaven on earth.

Main Dish: Taboule’ In Ripieno and Parmigiani Di Melezane E Patate Cold buttery couscous enclosed in pepper is the

best way to satisfy one’s hunger. The exceptional medley of flavors made this all the more tasty and the best. On the other hand, the cheese, potato and eggplant muzakah was so good, you won’t stop eating. Believe me, I was still gushing about it days after!

Highly recommended!

Dessert: Cestini D Frutata and Zabaine Al Marsala If you have a sweet tooth, this is for you. The fruit tarts were soothing and light. The marsala was just right. Overall, this was the perfect ending to a fairytale vegetable wonderland of flavors!

Happy Birthday to my all time favorite superhero, my father, Samel Guiamalon Ambolodto. I will forever be indebted to the love, care, guidance and LIFE you have bestowed upon me. We love you to heaven and back, Daddy.

Be a part of Davao’s Thursday habit! Email me at bffsa457@gmail.com or visit www.chefroyale.com for more recipes. Follow @ chefroyaleofficial and me @herroyalheiress on instagram! Lovelots!

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

Empowering the Customer WHEN you go to a restaurant expecting good food and then end up being disappointed, it’s usually difficult to forget. In the same sense, when you shop at a relatively inexpensive store and unexpectedly receive VIP treatment from the eager staff, the experience is exciting enough to tell all your friends about it.

We have all these ideas and opinions about what to expect and how we deserve to be treated in establishments. Why not put these comments to proper use?

There is potential especially in those who are passionate about customer service, to make a difference in the way our favorite brands do business. This is the advocacy of SatisFIND. SatisFIND acts as a bridge between customers and businesses in order to meet expectations and improve customer service. By becoming a SatisFIND Customer Experience Advocate (CEA), all your observations, good and bad, will reach those who have the authority to change customer service for the better.

This works through SatisFIND’s Customer Experience Measurement (CEM), which CEAs help conduct.

Going undercover to report on experiences they get from interacting with brands, CEAs are assigned to establishments of which they themselves are real customers.

For instance, a CEA fond of weekend beach getaways would be assigned to hotels and resorts. Likewise, if a CEA is actually looking to buy an air conditioner, they could be tapped to report about the customer service at appliance stores. After assignments, CEAs receive token fees for their participation or may be reimbursed for any expense incurred, and SatisFIND’s CEAs have enjoyed rewards ranging from free cosmetics and clothes to free airline tickets.

The perks however are never the main draw for SatisFIND’s CEAs. It is a calling that requires keen observation, integrity and real passion for customer service.

When carrying out assignments, CEAs are in for plenty of brain exercise, since the details of every experience are mentally noted. It is these little details, after all, that come together to hopefully create a remarkable customer experience.

Essentially, the real reward of a CEA is having had your say, getting your favorite brand to know about it and most importantly, act on it.

SatisFIND offers Customer Experience Measurement studies across Asia and the Middle East, and is made up of a community of enthusiastic CEAs numbering in the thousands. Learn more about how SatisFIND makes things better for both business and customer and how to register as a Customer Experience Advocate by visiting www.satisfind.com.

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

EVENT

Sony launches Vaio Fit convertible ultrabook THE Sony Center at Abreeza was a hive of activity last November 18 when Sony Philippines unveiled the latest Sony Viao ultrabook, the Sony VAIO Fit to the Davao market.

Featuring Windows 8, an Intel i7 processor, a high-definition Bravia touch screen display, high quality speakers and a unique convertible design, the Sony VAIO Fit aims to be a game changer when it comes to the high-end PC market with a beautiful brushed metal finish as well an an innovative design that leaves the competition in the dust.

A tablet, a laptop, a media player in one The Sony VAIO Fit boasts of a convertible design which allows it to transform from a regular laptop into a high definition media centre and ultimately into a portable tablet. Kenji Hayashi, VAIO marketing lead for Sony Philippines, was present during the event to showcase the flexibility and power of the new VAIO Fit. “The display and sound of the VAIO Fit uses Sony’s newest technologies, giving clear high-fidelity sounds and even clearer images on the 13 and 15 inch touch screens” says Kenji. “The touch screen allows users to maximise the Windows 8 experience as well.”

Custom made for the creative mind Also highlighted during the event are Sony VIAO’s built-in software that was developed by Sony to showcase the power and ease of use of the new VAIO ultrabooks.

SHARE THE FUN THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH FRIDAY’S NEWEST SHAREABLE PLATTER PROMO. Choose from three different platters that are goof for up to four hungry diners.

Head on out to TGI Friday’s at Abreeza today.

“With the built in stylus VAIO users will be able to edit photos as well as sketch up ideas using the virtual paper software that is provided with every Sony VAIO.” adds Kenji.

“We also added an OCR trace function so that scanned or photographed documents can be easily converted into editable text.”

The newest Sony Vaio lines are available for advanced reservation today at the Sony Center Abreeza and Sony Center Gaisano Mall.

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

ENTERTAINMENT

Xian Lim visits orphanage with kids of ‘Goin’ Bulilit’ THIS Sunday (November 24), the Kapamilya network’s kiddie and teen shows give their own take on staying positive with lighthearted takes on ways to help out in two different situations, with the “LUV U” cast helping out a friend in need and with Xian Lim taking the “Goin’ Bulilit” gang to an orphanage.

“LUV U” this weekend zooms in on the life of Drake (Jairus Aquino) who, from the start of the series, has been struggling with his family’s financial situation.

Still ashamed to admit that things are tough, he finds himself trying to cover up how things really are. However, having real friends like Shirley (Sharlene San Pedro) and Archie (Kobi Vidanes), he gets a glimpse into how people are willing to stay on his side, if he only admits to

how things really are.

Meanwhile, in “Goin’ Bulilit,” favorite actor Xian Lim takes the kids through an episode themed around how things are in an orphanage. Together, they shed light on adoption, while Xian also guest stars on the show’s favorite seg-

ments, like “Mutyaya ng Masa” and “How? How? I know how with Islaw”.

Don’t miss out on “LUV U” and “Goin’ Bulilit” this Sunday (November 24). “LUV U” airs after “ASAP 18,” while “Goin’ Bulilit” airs after “TV Patrol Weekend” on ABSCBN.

GMA artists and news and public affairs unite for the victims of typhoon Yolanda THERE is nothing more unique than the heart of a Filipino—soft enough to care for the weak, strong enough to rise up to the challenge. GMA Network knocks on this very heart as the country faces another great challenge—the nation’s survival and recovery from typhoon Yolanda.

With the joint efforts of GMA Kapuso Foundation and YES Pinoy Foundation, last Sunday (November 17) the Kapuso Network invited everyone to take part in a one time television special aptly entitled, “TIBAY NG PUSONG PILIPINO, A GMA Telethon for the benefit of the victims of typhoon Yolanda.”

This special featured a powerhouse cast of respectable names in the mu-

sic and showbiz industry, headlined by the biggest and brightest Kapuso stars, with the special participation of News and Public Affairs personalities.

Viewers got to see various Kapuso artists in heartwarming production numbers, live updates in the affected areas, and special activities (such as live telethon, and repacking of goods) all for the survival

and recovery of the victims of typhoon Yolanda.

As of November 18, 5PM, GMA Kapuso Foundation has received a total of Php131,584,180.26 in cash and Php7,087,370.14 of in-kind donations. Total amount of donations is Php138,671,550.40.

Rocco Nacino feels blessed this 2013 GMA Artist Center Rocco Nacino is considered one of the busiest actors today as he juggles several television programs and movies to be released this year.

Rocco is currently portraying the role of Jerry in Akin Pa Rin ang Bukas which topbills Kapuso Premiere Drama Actress Lovi Poe. Aside from the primetime series, Rocco ventures into hosting as he joins GMA News reporter and anchor Mariz Umali in Out of Control which will air this November on GMA. The Kapuso heartthrob will also be visible on the sil-

ver screen as he stars in the 2013 Metro Manila Film Festival entry Pedro Calungsod: Batang Martir.

In a recent interview with the versatile actor, he admits that 2013 has been a good year for him. “Kahit nakakapagod at nakakadrain, I feel motivated. I’m excited and blessed to have several projects. I get good and significant roles so hindi ko dapat pabayaan ang mga opportunities na ito.

Kaya I’m thankful ngayong 2013 for all the blessings that I’ve been receiving,” Rocco shares.

Recently, Rocco’s groundbreaking program Bayan Ko was awarded at the Philippine Quill Awards for Excellence and 2013 Catholic Mass Media Awards.

THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE 2D Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson

PG 13

11:20 | 2:00 | 4:40 | 7:20 | 10:00 LFS

THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE 2D Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson

PG 13

1:00 | 3:40 | 6:20 | 9:00 LFS

THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE 2D Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson

PG 13

12:10 | 2:50 | 5:30 | 8:10 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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

FOOD

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

The goodness of homestyle cuisine at Manang’s ONE can never go wrong when it comes to fried chicken and from its humble beginnings in the weekend food markets in Makati, Manang’s Chicken has indeed come a long way. Named after the household cook, Manang’s Chiken recipe was the creation of Manang’s Chicken president and CEO Jill Gerodias Borja’s mom.

Eveything on Manang’s Chicken’s menu was homey and immediately familiar to the Pinoy palate given our fondness to friend chicken and everything that goes with it. The chicken at Manang’s is crispy yet flavourful thanks to a rich marinade as well as a sauce that goes with the chicken with varying levels of heat based on your preference.

Of course there is more to just fried chicken at

Crispy and saucy Manang’s fried chicken served with their spagetti with cheese sauce.

Manang’s.

“We have a menu that is homey and comforting to Pinoys and that is why we also include fried pancit, a sesame beef stew as well as a fired fish fillet meal.” says Jill. “One of our best sellers is also the garlic pork meal which is crispy and filling.”

My personal favourite though would be Manang’s Potato Chips. Crispy fried potato chips that reman crispy even when cool already (say good-bye to soggy mojos).

Add to the chips Manang’s Garlic Mayo dip and one can

Manang’s Crispy Garlic Pork.

Service with a smile at Manang’s.

Manang’s super crispy potato chips.

Fried chicken sandwich.

Korean-style Beef Stew.

easily consume a bucketful.

Manang’s Chicken is located at the 4th level of the Gaisano Mall of Davao.

Follow me on Instagram or

on Twitter @kennethkingong for more travel and foodie finds as well as happenings in, around and beyond Durianburg.

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 15

VOL. 6 ISSUE 179 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013

Heat win 4th straight M

IAMI (AP) -- For the Miami Heat, the third quarter was pretty much the whole story. Chris Bosh tumbled over some courtside seats on one end, and LeBron James apologized to a few fans during one particularly frustrating moment on the other.

In between, Mario Chalmers gave the Heat all the boost they needed.

Chalmers went on a personal 9-0 run in a 39-second span of the period, Bosh led all scorers with 19 points on 8-for9 shooting, and the Heat went on to beat the Atlanta Hawks 104-88 on Tuesday night for their fourth straight victory. ‘’We just try to get out in transition, let our defense be our offense most of the time and keep working from there,’’ Chalmers said.

Ray Allen scored 17 in his first game back from a bout with the flu. Chalmers had 12 of his 14 in the third quarter for the Heat, who were without Dwyane Wade for the second time this season.

James finished with a season-low 13 points, six rebounds and five assists for the Heat (8-3), and no starter played in the final 12 minutes while backups put away the game. ‘’We’re very confident in our lineup we got, man,’’ James said. ‘’Those guys continue to play well. They continue to work together and it’s great to have a Hall of Famer in that lineup with Ray coming back.’’

Mike Scott scored 15 points and grabbed 10 re-

bounds for Atlanta, which got 12 points apiece from Al Horford and Pero Antic.

Kyle Korver made three 3-pointers for the Hawks, extending his streak to 84 consecutive games with at least one make from beyond the arc, five shy of matching Dana Barros’ NBA record. ‘’It’s a constant battle,’’ Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer said of playing the Heat. ‘’They take away something. Hopefully you can find something else. At times we did and at times we didn’t.’’

Miami’s lead was 5654 in the third quarter when Chalmers got hot - in a hurry. James Jones, who started in place of Wade, actually started what became a 15-2 run with a 3-pointer, and then Chalmers got going.

He cut across the lane for a reverse layup while getting fouled, then made a 3-pointer from the left wing after an Atlanta turnover. Jeff Teague missed a layup on the next Atlanta possession, James wound up throwing a chest pass from about 50 feet to Chalmers, who pulled up on the catch and connected on another 3-pointer from the same spot.

Just like that, 5654 became 68-54. And Bosh provided one of the night’s highlights by giving the crowd a rather comical thumbs-up after his dive into the expensive seats, plus was thrilled to learn afterward that the photo quickly made its rounds on social media. ‘’You don’t get to go in the stands much,’’ Bosh said.

Chess for charity set T

HE 2nd Davao Executive and Employee Rapid Chess tournament will be staged for the benefit of survivors of super typhoon Yolanda.

The event billed as “Tabang Ta, Dula Ta, Apil Na!” (Let’s Help, Let’s Play, Join Now) is set on December 1 at the Centerpoint Plaza in Mac Arthur Highway, Matina Crossing.

The tournament is organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) Region XI headed by IA James Infiesto in coordination with Davao City Consumers Sports Cooperative (DCCSC).

Registration fee is P500 inclusive of free lunch and snacks. The registration and briefing of rules is set at 10 a.m.

The champion of the 5-round Swiss System event will earn P2,500 plus a customized trophy. The second and third placers will pocket P1,500 and P750, respectively with customized medals.

The fourth and fifth placers will each earn P500 with medals.

Medals will also be given to the special awards (who are not in the top five winners) for the top executive, top employee, top unrated (no NCFP and FIDE rating) and top senior (60 yrs. old and above).

“All participants are required to bring any form of donation for typhoon Yolanda survivors.

Or you may buy ready to eat food and water at the venue as donation,” Infiesto said. (PNA)

FOURTH STRAIGHT. Lebron James takes a jumper in Miami’s win over the Atlanta Hawks.

Kobe practices for second day

E

L SEGUNDO, Calif.

(AP) -- Kobe Bryant is back in practice with the Los Angeles Lakers, and even the five-time NBA champion gets a charge out of getting back to work.

How Does Kobe Bryant Fit Into These Los Angeles Lakers? Yahoo Contributor Network Bryant participated in his second full workout with the Lakers at their training complex on Tuesday. He still isn’t sure when he’ll be back in uniform, but he’s grateful to take the next step in his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon. ‘’It’s always a much greater appreciation for it,’’ Bryant said, his forehead beaded with post-practice sweat. ‘’You understand the mortality that comes with being on that doorstep.

There’s always a sense of enjoyment when you come back. ... Put the jersey on, you walk out in practice, and felt like it was ‘97 again and I was getting my first start as a pro.’’

Bryant isn’t setting a

return date, but acknowledged he could see himself returning to the Lakers later this month. Coach Mike D’Antoni said Bryant will return whenever he says he’s ready, although the Lakers’ next game against Golden State on Friday is very unlikely.

The fourth-leading scorer in NBA history hasn’t played since tearing his Achilles tendon in a game against Golden State in April. He did several weeks of conditioning work before returning to practice last Saturday for a brief workout.

Bryant did drills and 5-on-5 play with the Lakers on Tuesday. He says he’s ‘’pleasantly surprised’’ by how good he felt afterward. ‘’I just went out there and just played,’’ Bryant said. ‘’Just tried to do what I normally do and figure some things out about my game, what can I do and what can’t I do at this stage. Just try to figure out the route.’’

KOBE BRYANT. Slowly but surely.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. VOL. 6 ISSUE 6 ISSUE 179179 • THURSDAY, • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 21,21, 2013 2013

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

BRAWL

HORSING AROUND. Manny Pacquiao displays his game face ahead of his Sunday fight with Brandon Rios as trainer Freddie Roach sits beside him.

Pacquiao, Rios camps in heated altercation

M

ACAU – An ugly scene erupted between the teams of boxers Manny Pacquiao and Brandon Rios on Wednesday as the camps exchanged homophobic and racial slurs during a physical altercation over a dispute regarding access to a gym.

Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach asked Rios trainer Robert Garcia to end Rios’ workout at 11 a.m. Macau time. Rios was scheduled to work out from 9-11 a.m., but got started late because he had done interviews before. Garcia asked for a few minutes.

Pacquiao was slated for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Roach called Garcia “a piece of [expletive],” which prompted the escalation of the incident. Rios conditioning coach Alex Ariza, who was fired by Roach as Pacquiao’s strength and

conditioning coach, told Roach to “get the [expletive] out of the gym.” Roach responded by saying, “Make me get out.”

Ariza mocked Roach’s Parkinson’s Disease several times. At one point, Ariza took a step forward and kicked Roach in the chest.

As chaos broke out, Ariza said to Roach, “You’re a [expletive] joke,” and then used a gay slur.

Roach referred to Rios camp assistant Donald Leary as a “Mexican [expletive],” which prompted Leary to swing at Roach.

A Venetian security guard struggled but managed to control Leary.

Afterward, the sides had vastly different interpretations of the incident.

Garcia was sitting on the ring steps doing an interview when Roach entered the gym and shouted, “Get the [expletive] out of

here.”

Garcia said he was trying to finish the workout that began late because of an interview.

“The first thing he said was, ‘Get out of here you piece of [expletive],” Garcia said. “That was the first thing he told me. I was like, ‘What?’ He was like, ‘Get the [expletive] out of here.’

He called me a piece of [expletive]. Then he called my friend ‘a [expletive] Mexican,’ and he called [reporter] Elie [Seckbach], ‘a [expletive] jew.’ What the [expletive] is that?”

Seckbach is close with Rios’ camp and operated the video camera in 2010 when Rios and Garcia mocked Roach’s tremors from his Parkinson’s disease. There has been tension between them ever since.

“I don’t like them,” Roach said of Garcia, Rios

and Seckbach. “They’re not good people.”

Ariza said he got involved because Roach was getting aggressive.

“He got physical,” Ariza said. “He was going to hit Robert [Garcia]. I told him, ‘This isn’t Wild Card.’

You’re not in charge here.

He looked at me, cocked his fist back and I kicked him in the chest. ... When you raise your fist at somebody, the other person has the right to defend themselves.”

Roach denied making any racist comments and said he simply asked Garcia to leave. He said Garcia said they’d leave in 30 minutes, but that was not audible on a tape of the incident.

Roach said Ariza made fun of his Parkinson’s, which was obvious on the tape, and then kicked him in the chest. Roach then said that Leary screamed at him to leave.

LUCKY DAVAO BOY. Davao’s Mahloney Tarranza (front, third from right) holds up the giant replica check received by Jr. NBA members of the Philippines from Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant. The check worth $150,000 is meant for relief efforts for “Yolanda” victims in the Philippines.