Edge Davao 6 Issue 221

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

Serving a seamless society

ALTERNATIVE VENUE. The Davao City’s “Tiangge sa Katawhan” (People’s Night Market) officially opens at Roxas Avenue Wednesday night. The alternative trading venue was created to primarily solve the perennial illegal street vending problem of Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

RODY TO DELIMA: RESIGN Mayor hits back, wants DOJ secretary to step down for ‘delicadeza’sake

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

D

abf@edgedavao.net

“Ito si De Lima ni minAVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte san hindi ito kinonfirm charged back at Sec- – always bypassed, which retary Leila De Lima of the means to say that there is a Department of Justice (DOJ) rejection,” he said.

Duterte said that when saying she should step his son was involved in a down for ‘delicadeza’ sake, “Kung ako may rejec- scandal he submitted his tion, that for delicadeza resignation as first district bumaba ka na,” Duterte told representative of Davao reporters in an interview City out of ‘delicadeza.’ last Monday during his However, his resignation visit to Compostela Valley was not accepted by the forProvince to hand over relief mer house speaker Manuel assistance to the provincial Villar.

“Kasi nga may binugbog government.

Duterte said that among sila ng kabarkada niya so the appointees, Secretary tinanong ng media mag-deDe Lima is the only one manda ka ba tapos ang sagwho was not confirmed ot ng tao (victim), hindi kasi by the Commission of Ap- congressman yung tatay,” pointments. “For the lon- he said.

“A matter of ‘delicagest time simula ng kinuha siya she has never been deza’ mag resign na ako. confirmed.”

FRODY, 10 IMPORTED. National Food Authority (NFA) 11 director Edgar Bentulan checks the quality of rice imported from Vietnam at the Tefasco wharf in Ilang, Tibungco, Davao City yesterday. The 262,000 sacks of imported rice that arrived recently in Davao City are aimed at readying the agency for emergencies or calamities that may arise. Lean Daval Jr.

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

CHO sets focus on birth-spacing

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

T FOR FREE. Assistant City Health Officer Samuel G. Cruz (left) shows a sample of an Implanon, a single-rod subdermal contraceptive implant, in yesterday’s I-Speak media forum at the City Hall. Dr. Cruz urged beneficiaries of the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to avail themselves of birth-spacing etonogestrel given for free by their office. Also in the photo is officer in charge of City Health Office’s population division Jeff Fuentes. Lean Daval Jr.

2nd assessment of poverty in Region 11 slated this year Davao del Sur poverty pulling down Davao City

By ANTONIO M. AJERO

H

ajero_antonio@yahoo.com

AS the government been effective in reducing poverty in the country, particularly in Region 11?

This will be known when a second assessment of poverty incidence will be conducted in the Davao Region this year.

This was bared by Merlinda A. Paragamac, regional convergence coordinator of the Department

ment of Tourism (DOT) and Department Trade and Industry (DTI) are some of those also involved in the poverty reduction program.

The good news is that none of the Davao provinces (Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur and Compostela Valley) are included in the so-called “Club 20,” referring to the 20 poorest provinces in the

country, Paragamac said.

However, she bared that four of the 10 poorest municipalities in the region are in Davao del Sur, namely Jose Abad Santos, number 1 with 72.3 percent of poverty incidence; Sarangani, No. 2 with 72.1 percent; Don Marcelino, No. 3 with 66.5 percent; and Malita, No. 4 with 63.8 percent. Kiblawan, another

coordinator Reynan Librado said that this includes 115 stalls in the Bankerohan public market, 39 stalls in Calinan, and 40 stalls in Agdao selling meat, vegetables, rice and grain, live chickens, and others are groceries and eateries.

“If they don’t pay,” he said, adding that the errant vendors haven’t complied with their obligations since 2009.

Librado said the vendors have the whole month of January to settle their obligations to the government

amounting to P4.3million.

Stall renters who won’t pay their dues will be endorsed to the market committee in their second meeting in February.

He added that the committee will declare the stalls

ished on March 7.

Raf Vlummens, entrepreneurial consultant said this part of the chamber’s education and business consulting platform that focuses on hands-on training and coaching.

He said that the platform includes workshops and seminars for

aspiring entrepreneurs (StartSMART), one-on-one coaching in business plan development (TakeOFF), and specializes in seminars, workshops and networking events (FastTRACK).

StartSMART, according to the chamber’s record, is a basic program that introduces business planning

and business set-ups to prospective entrepreneurs.

It includes entrepreneurial leadership and skills training, creativity, innovation and business idea development, market segmentation,vpositioning and targeting, products and the completion, pricing and

of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Paragamac, spoke on the convergence strategy employed by six national government agencies in combating poverty. Aside from the DSWD, she said, the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Depart-

DUE TO DELINQUENCY

F2ND, 10

City orders 124 market stalls closed

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

T

crc@edgedavao.net

HE City Economic Enterprises office for the first time ordered the closure of 124 stalls in Davao City public markets because of their failure to pay rent for the past several years.

CEE market operation

FDUE, 10

DCCCII to assist young entrepreneurs T

HE DAVAO CITY Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., (DCCCII) will offer trainings and coaching to aspiring entrepreneurs, start-ups and growth-seeking small, medium enterprises (SMEs) when the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is fin-

FDCCCII, 10

abf@edgedavao.net

HE city health office (CHO) of Davao is urging beneficiaries of Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) who want-birth spacing to avail of the free etonogestrel given by the office.

Dr. Samuel Cruz, CHO assistant head, told reporters in yesterday’s ‘I-Speak media forum’ that etonogestrel, a contraceptive, will be given free to CCT beneficiaries and those in the list of National Housing Targeting System in the city.

“We hope to focus on who decide to limit the number of their children,” Cruz said, adding that this costs around P4,000.

He said that etonogestrel will be injected to the beneficiary to prevent pregnancy up to three years. He said that every beneficiary

will be given a card indicating the expiration date.

“Mga one week siya kailangan naay back-up – mag gamit siyag condom… other contraceptives for the period of one week (lang).

After one week okay na siya,” said Cruz referring to the pregnancy prevention effect of the contraceptive.

He said that this contraceptive has a high efficiency rate in terms of pregnancy prevention.

“So far this is the highest 99.5 %,” said Cruz.

The contraceptive is in addition to the existing family planning program which is also part of the Millennium Development Goal reducing the fertility rate.

Meanwhile, the CHO will intensify their education campaign drive jn public high schools as the percentage of teen age pregnancy has increased.

FCHO, 10

NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

3

CIDG 11 scores twice in one day

By EMILORD P. CASTROMAYOR

T

epc@edgedavao.net

HE Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Region 11 arrested a “most wanted” person, and an illegal drugs trader in separate operations last Wednesday.

P/Sr. Supt. Joel Pernito, chief of the CIDG, said that Gil Gundaya, 33, who resides in Purok 8, barangay Tiburcia, Kapalong, Davao del Norte a top 10 most wanted person in their list has a pending warrant of arrest for attempted murder.

The warrant of arrest was issued by Tagum city

CEMETERIES

Judge Susana Baua who recommended a P120,000 bail for his temporary liberty.

Meanwhile, police nabbed Jason Alfonso, alleged leader of a criminal gang engaged in the illegal drugs trade, during a buybust operation in Phase 1, SIR, New Matina.

Police confiscated from him P350,000 worth of shabu and cash.

Alfonso will be charged with violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 before the city prosecution office.

UNLOADING. Sacks of rice imported from Vietnam are unloaded from MV My Vuong to be stored in five National Food Authority (NFA) warehouses in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

City to rehabilitate 3.5-ha. Maa facility NO FIXERS, ONLY FACILITATORS

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

T

crc@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City government aims to rehabilitate the 3.5-hectare Maa public cemetery to address the need for more burial space.

City Economic Enterprise officer in charge of the operation of public cemeteries Gerardo Antonio Castillo said that the cemetery is large enough to accommodate more dead.

The rehabilitation plan will address the flooding issue in the area which is the catch basin the land development close to the facility.

“It is ideal to rehabilitate because it has a bigger area compared to the Wireless public cemetery,” he said at the I-Speak media forum at the city hall conference room yesterday.

Earlier, the city council

approved an ordinance for the extension of the public cemetery in Maa for use by the Muslim community. An additional half hectare will be added to the existing half hectare for the Muslim.

The budget is P4 million for fencing.

Some 23 families living in the vicinity of the cemetery will be affected once the project starts, but said they will voluntarily leave the place once the fencing starts. Most are relatives of the cemetery caretakers.

After this project, the next public cemetery to be tackled is the one in Panacan.

The second phase in the rehabilitation of the Wireless cemetery amounting to P5 million is finished first

FCITY, 10

Reyes says 72-hour policy makes fixers ‘obsolete’

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

T

abf@edgedavao.net

HERE are no fixers, only facilitators, inside the City Engineers Office (CEO).

This was the statement of Engr. Roland C. Reyes, CEO officer-in-charge, in yesterday’s ‘I-Speak’ media forum in the conference room of Davao City Hall.

Reyes said that upon his assumption as the acting head of the office he did not notice any fixers since they already implemented the

72-hour policy mandate of Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte.

“Di na na kinahanglan na mag hire og ‘fixers’ kay paspas naman ang proseso ,” said Reyes.

He said that the 72hour mandatory policy to facilitate government transactions is an effective deterrent to eradicate fixing activities as their office provide and immediate action to the applicants who apply for building and other per-

SEDA ABREEZA HOTEL WELCOMES US AMBASSADOR. His Excellency Philip Goldberg, Ambassador of the United States of America is warmly welcomed by Seda Abreeza Hotel Manager Ken V. Kapulong upon his arrival at the hotel’s main lobby yesterday. [Contributed photo by Roland Jumawan]

mits under their office.

Reyes said that they will immediately impose ban to any person involved in fixing activities inside their office.

However, Reyes said that they allow facilitators to assist the applicants to process their permits as long as they were allowed by the client.

“Gina honor nato na sila kanang represtative sa clients,” he said.

Reyes said that no employees has conniving with illegal activity of Harold Bulawin who is a former contractual employee of CEO arrested last year for issuing fake receipts to a business establishment that sells tires.

He said that Bulawin used to be a facilitator inside their office since his contract was already terminated but still pretended as an employee of the office.

AJ. General Ariel Bernardo, commanding officer of the 10TH Infantry Division, wants all his troops to undergo drug testing this year following reports of some soldiers using illegal drugs.

“Random drug testing is not the key, this is my idea if we want to eliminate the practice, everyone must be tested to be fair,” Bernardo said in yesterday’s press conference at Press Information Agency (PIA) in Davao City.

He said random drug testing is merely selective to discourage troops or units

from using illegal drugs, but it is important to determine and eliminate the source of peddled illegal drugs inside military units.

“We should protect our men dahil biktima din sila eh, ma eliminate dapat yang source,” Bernardino said.

Last year random drug testing on all Armed Forces units showed 113 soldiers positive of drug use, 70 in the Army, 18 in the Navy, 13 with the general headquarters, and 12 in the Air Force.

All who tested for drug use are under investigation and subject to possible dis-

General says random drug tests not enough M

FGENERAL, 10

4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

GENERAL SANTOS CITY

DepEd to build 630 more classrooms T

HE Department of Education (DepEd) in Region 12 is pushing for the construction of around 630 additional classrooms this year through a public-private partnership (PPP) scheme.

Dr. Allan Farnazo, DepEd Region 12 director, said the additional classrooms were part of the region’s initial allocation under the second phase of the agency’s PPP for School Infrastructure Project (PSIP II) that is scheduled to commence this year.

He said the DepEd central office has included the region as among its expansion areas for the PSIP, which was launched by the national government two years ago to address the country’s classroom shortage.

“The negotiations and the bidding process are currently ongoing for the projects lined up under the second phase,” he said.

Farnazo said several major construction companies have joined the bidding for the PSIP II, among them the Megawide Construction Corp., Inc., Consortium of BSP & Co. Inc. and the Davao City-based Vicente T. Lao

SOUTH COTABATO

Construction.

The government’s PPP website listed the PSIP II’s project cost at P8.80 billion or US$215 million. The project will be implemented through build-operate-transfer scheme.

Under the program, a private contractor designs, finances and constructs the buildings and the government pays the proponent upon turnover of the completed school facilities.

“This arrangement is considered ideal for DepEd as the payments to the contractor will be spread over 10 years,” the official said.

In Region 12, the DepEd central office has allocated a total of 637 classroom buildings under the PSIP II. “This is on top of the 1,802 classrooms that is due for implementation this year by the DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways),” Farnazo said.

The agency has identified 300 public elementary and secondary schools in the region as beneficiaries of the program.

A project briefer said the government launched the PSIP II to supplement the current initiatives of

PRECIOUS TABLE. A resident swims back to his house and risked his life to save a dining table in Barangay Buhangin during the height of the flood in Butuan City Tuesday afternoon. [MindaNews photo by Erwin Mascarinas] DepEd on classroom construction classroom nationwide.

It was aimed “to expand the supply of classrooms in all public school system as fast as it could reasonably be done and cut the country’s shortage of classrooms that reached 66,800 in 2010.”

DepEd adopted the

PPP framework based on Republic Act 6957 or the Build-Operate-Transfer law as a strategy to supplement the provision of educational facilities in the public school system in order to achieve President Benigno S. Aquino III’s 10-point agenda for basic education.

DepEd had projected

that the country’s classroom shortage will increase by 150,000 units by the year 2016, with the full implementation of the government’s K to 12 education program.

The K to 12 program, which was first implemented by DepEd in 2012, provided an additional two years to the

country’s basic education program.

It covers Kindergarten and 12 years of basic education, comprising six years of primary education, four years of junior high school and two years of senior high school.

[MindaNews]

GENERAL SANTOS CITY

LGU intensifies drive vs rabies

Police uproots marijuana plantations H

P

OLICE personnel in T’boli town in South Cotabato destroyed an additional 10,000 hills of marijuana that were uprooted in a series of operations in the last several weeks in upland plantations in the area, an official said on Thursday.

Supt. Jemuel Siason, T’boli police station chief, said they burned the recovered marijuana in a simple ceremony on Wednesday held in front of the T’boli municipal hall.

“These were part of our second phase of recoveries that were valued at around P15 million,” he said in a radio interview.

On Wednesday, joint elements from the T’boli police station, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Region 12, Police Regional Office 12’s Regional Public

Safety Battalion and the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion launched another raid on a marijuana plantation in Sitio Mala in Barangay Datal Dlanag.

The operatives only found a newly-harvested marijuana plantation but Siason said they have identified the personalities who were allegedly behind the illegal activity.

The official said the operation was the first of a series that they have scheduled this year for their continuing marijuana eradication drive in the area.

He said that their operations last year yielded around P30 million worth of marijuana, some of which were considered as of high quality and reportedly exported by illegal drug traders to Malaysia.

Most of the recov-

ered marijuana were found in upland plantations in Barangays Tudok and Salacafe, which were part of the 102,350-hectare Allah Valley Protected Landscape.

Barangay Salacafe is the closest village to Mt. Melebengoy (formerly Parker) and critical crater-lake Holon (formerly Maughan).

“We continue to receive some tips regarding the existence of marijuana plantations in these areas and were currently verifying them,” Siason said.

The official said they will not slow down with their marijuana eradication drive until they eventually clear the area.

The local governments of T’boli and South Cotabato have been backing the operations in the area by pro-

viding incentive to operatives and informants.

T’boli Mayor Dibu Tuan launched last year a livelihood program for upland residents to veer them away from planting marijuana.

Under the program, the municipal government initially distributed farm animals and other agricultural inputs to former marijuana planters in the area.

In support of the initiative, the provincial government is currently developing rubber plantations covering 111 hectares in Barangay Salacafe and the neighboring areas.

Land Bank of the Philippines earlier approved a P10-million financing grant for the initiative, which will mainly involve marginalized farmers within the project area. [MindaNews]

EALTH personnel here have stepped up their awareness campaign on the deadly rabies infection in the wake of the rising cases of animal bites in the area.

Dr. Mely Lastimoso, disease surveillance officer of the City Health Office, said Thursday they have set a series of information and education activities on rabies in a bid to prevent possible infections and eventually eliminate the disease in the area.

Last year, she said their office has recorded a total of 3,344 animal bite cases within the city’s 26 barangays.

Lastimoso said about 88 percent of the cases or a total of 2,956 involved dogs while the rest were caused by cats and other animals.

She said one of the dog bite victims last year from Barangay San Jose died due to confirmed infection of the rabies virus.

The Department of Health (DOH) considers a single case of confirmed

rabies infection as an outbreak of the disease.

“The fact that we had a death case last year because of rabies, we consider our situation as quite alarming,” Lastimoso said in an interview over TV Patrol Socsksargen.

The city has not recorded a single case of rabies infection in 2012 based on records released

by DOH-Region 12’s epidemiology and surveillance unit.

The agency recorded 12 deaths due to confirmed rabies infection in 2012 and 15 as of the third quarter of 2013.

Owing to this, the official urged local residents to ensure that their pet animals, specifically the dogs, are properly vaccinated against rabies.

She said they may avail of the free services being offered by the city government through its veterinary office or submit their pet animals to private veterinary clinics that offer them for a minimal fee. [MindaNews]

5 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

DOLE, DOST sign agreement for technology-driven livelihood

G

OVERNMENT agencies eyed technology-driven and resource based livelihood to combat economic shocks of man-made and natural calamities.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) recently entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to ensure attainment of inclusive growth despite economic shocks due to calamities.

The partnership was forged yesterday at the Occupational Safety and Health Center during the launching of the convergence program on Technology Driven, Resource-Based and Sustainable Livelihoods dubbed as Reconstruction Assistance for Yolanda (RAY).

RAY forges the mutual commitment of promoting livelihood and employment opportunities to those affected by calamities across the country, particularly those affected by typhoon

Yolanda. The Departments of Agriculture (DA) and Trade and Industry (DTI) are also part of the convergence program.

DA will provide the roadmap of agribusiness and raw materials and DTI for the market data respectively.

“As a result of this convergence, our respective regional offices will conduct workshops that would produce regional action plans which will identify more technology driven and sustainable livelihood projects benefiting more poor, marginalized, vulnerable, and displaced workers from the calamity stricken and calamity-prone areas,” DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz said.

Science and technology secretary Mario G. Montejo on the other hand said that his department has already developed technologies and innovations that could add value to the local available resources in many rural areas. [Sherwin B. Manual/ DOLE 11]

MOA SIGNING. Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin A. Luistro and SM Foundation Inc. Executive Director Deborah Sy signed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Wednesday (January 22) at the Bulwagang Karunungan, DepEd Complex, Pasig City, in support to the Department’s School Rebuilding Program in Typhoon “Yolanda” affected areas. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)

6 THE ECONOMY Stat Watch Indicator

Latest

1. Gross National Income 1. GrossRate National Income Growth Growth Rate2000 Prices) (At Constant

7.1 1st Qtr 2013 6.8

2.2.Gross GrossDomestic DomesticProduct Growth Rate Product (AtGrowth Constant 2000 Prices) Rate

7.8 1st Qtr 2013 7.5

(At Constant 2000 Prices)

(At Constant 2000 Prices)

3. Exports 1/ 3. Exports

4. Imports 1/ 4. Imports

5. Trade Balance Trade Balance 6.5.Balance of Payments 2/

7.6.Broad Money Liabilities Balance of Payments

2nd Qtr 2013

2nd Qtr 2013

USD 3,741 million 5,045 FebUSD 2013 million USD 4,708 Sep 2013 million FebUSD 2013 5,711 USD -967 million million Sep 2013 Feb 2013 USD -665 USD -640 million million Sep 2013 Dec 2012 P 4,964,560 USD 692 million million Feb Jun2013 2013 P2.45,980,938 % million Mar 2013 Aug 2013

8. Interest Rates 4/

7. Broad Money Liabilities

P113,609 2.0 % million Sep2013 2013 Mar P P5,281 127,336 billion million Mar Sep2013 2013

9. National Government 8. Revenues Interest Rate 9. National Government

10.Revenues National government outstanding debt outstanding debt

P 5,609 P 41.14 Aprbillion 2013

11.Stocks Peso per US $ 12.

Composite

Index 6/

6,847.5 P 43.83 Mar Sep2013 2013

12. Stocks Composite

6,191.8 132.8 Sep2013 2013 Apr

13. Consumer Price Index

135.2 Oct2.62013

10.Peso National government 11. per US $ 5/

Sep 2013

13. Consumer Index Price Index 2006=100

2006=100 14.

Headline Inflation Rate 14. 2006=100 Headline Inflation

Apr 2013

2.9 Oct3.12013

Rate 15.

Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

Apr 2013

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100 16.

Visitor Arrivals

2.5 418,108 Oct 2013

2006=100

Feb 2013

382,022 Aug 2013 20.9%

16. Visitor Arrivals

17. Underemployment 7/ 17. Rate Underemploymen

Jan 2013 19.2%

18.

18.Unemployment UnemploymentRate Rate7/

7.1% Jan 2013 7.3%

Rate

Jul 2013 Jul 2013

MONTHLY AVERAGE EXCHANGE RATE (January 2011-September 2013) Month Average December November October September August July June May April March February January

2013

2012

2011

43.83 43.86 43.35 42.91 41.30 41.14 40.71 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 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

LGU asked to support startup companies A

MEMBER of the city’s community of startup companies said the city could benefit from supporting startup companies, especially since some of them are doing this for social entrepreneurship.

Dulce Lada, coordinator of the city’s startup community, suggested that the city encourage the creation of startups by relaxing tax laws, especially for companies still looking for funding agencies for their projects.

“The practice in Davao City is for the city to immediately tax starting companies even when they are just beginning,” Lada said.

She said companies in other countries such as Singapore relax their tax laws for starting companies to enable them to find funding and encourage collaboration.

“Some companies are given up to six months in other countries so that they can get on their feet and have some traction,” Lada said.

She added that the city’s permit application process, while relatively faster than other cities, could still learn from Singapore’s hours-long application.

Lada said that the city’s startup community comprises around 50.

Last week, the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII) announced the creation of “The Cube,” a space where startups and individuals who are employed in online jobs can work and collaborate for a minimal fee.

Chamber president Antonio dela Cruz said the facility targets those who are tired of working in coffee shops just to get

decent internet connections.

The companies are given unlimited internet access for the day for a minimal fee, with the facility located within the DCCCII building in JP Laurel.

Asked whether this was a trend, Lada said the city is actually lagging behind since the idea of startups was created in Silicon Valley in California, where companies like Facebook, Yahoo and Google first emerged.

“The Philippines is emerging as one of the key players of the startup scene,” Lada said.

Lada cited the success of startup projects Pagesnapp and iCalamity, which recently made tech headlines for besting other developers from around the Philippines.

“Startups are not just about profit, some of it is

for social entrepreneurship and for developers to give solutions to regular problems,” she said.

The two application developers bested other web developers from other countries by writing code for an easy and user-friendly Facebook application development app and a calamity family locator app, respectively.

As part of their prize, the two teams will be flown to Silicon Valley to see for themselves what it is like to be in a “startup ecosystem” where ideas are freely shared.

The city government has recently said it wishes to interconnect all business transactions to stop corruption, through the city’s information technology center (CITC).

However, funding for the idea did not seem realistic, according to CITC data.

The city’s budget for the CITC, as of 2013, was P5 million, which includes an internet connection expense for the city government buildings totaling at least P1.8 million.

Capital outlay was P158,000, according to CITC officer-in-charge Ricarte Franco Jr. Franco added that the appropriation for a point of payment software alone that would help with the interconnection was around P2.3 million.

Just this week, the city also revealed the names of five employees from the City Treasurer’s Office that Mayor Rodrigo Duterte dismissed from government service after finding the employees allegedly mishandled up to P14 million in government funds. [MindaNews]

Globe myBusiness mobile store reaches out to MSMEs

T

RUE to its mandate of helping grow micro-enterprises and small-medium businesses, as well as assist them in reviving their trade in the light of recent calamities, Globe myBusiness took to the countryside and reached out to communities with its Store-on-the-Go, a mobile caravan which serves as a venue to dialog with business owners and also quickly processes business-based line subscriptions.

First stop was in the City of Danao in Cebu, where Globe myBusiness set-up its mobile store facilities to talk to owners of fledgling enterprises, especially those who were directly affected by last year’s natural disasters. Microbusinesses and small-to medium enterprise owners (MSMEs) present networked with their peers, dialogued with trade representatives from the telco and registered to Globe myBusiness wireless postpaid plans and bundles that can help their businesses gain momentum.

According to Globe Senior Vice President for Small

and Medium Business Group Martha Sazon, many MSMEs have the impression that telecom plans and bundles are beyond the reach of their budgets. “Actually, they are minor investments which can help them run their businesses more efficiently and productively without necessarily breaking the bank, so to speak.”

“On the other hand, some interested MSMEs may have no chance to make inquiries if a Globe Store is too far away. Since our mission is to support them as much as we can, we are taking our plans and bundles to them with our Store-on-theGo. It is also our platform to enlighten them with sound business advice so they can prosper for a long period of time,” she explained.

“That is why we are proactively reaching out to them through our Store-on-theGo caravans. It is our way of sharing the advantages and benefits of reliable and cost-effective telecommunications offerings to the level of MSMEs, especially those in far-flung areas where there are no physical Globe

Cebuano small and medium business owners check out the Globe myBusiness Store-on-the-Go which made its first stop in Danao City.

Stores. We also went to where they are, recognizing the fact that some of them have been disenfranchised by the earthquake and Supertyphoon Yolanda,” Sazon pointed out.

Nation’s growth drivers Sazon also noted the socio-economic value of helping MSMEs grow their business: “MSMEs provide jobs to the most number of Filipinos in the country. Helping them grow and expand not only produces a social good but also boosts economic activity. This is a big part of what inspires the Globe myBusiness to continue providing relevant products and

services for their sector.”

Danao was chosen as the springboard for the Globe Store-on-the-Go in the region as there are more than 1,000 SMEs in the area, including sari-sari stores, fish and meat retailers, general merchandise stores, pawnshops, beauty salons, pharmacies, restaurants and cafeterias, service and repair shops, tailors and dress shops, lumber and hardware stores, bakeries, photography shops, and gasoline stations, among many other small establishments, according to the province’s Department of Trade and Industry. The

third-class city in Cebu is becoming increasingly relevant as a center and catalyst for economic growth in the mid-northern part of Cebu province.

Sazon stated that, similar to Danao City, Globe myBusiness anticipates many growth opportunities for MSMEs in country, and declared that “will be holding similar caravans in other provinces too. We pull out all the stops, literally, to be a reliable partner for them and help them expand their businesses, no matter what their size is. For us, their business is likewise our business.”

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 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

2013 another unusually warm year across globe – NASA L

AST year was among a handful of the warmest on record since 1880, according to US government figures out Tuesday, January 21, that provide more evidence that the planet is heating up.

Human-caused pollution and the burning of fossil fuels such as oil and coal have driven up greenhouse gas levels, leading to this long-term rise in temperatures, said the US space agency NASA. Carbon dioxide is at its highest level in the atmosphere in 800,000 years, having risen from 285 parts per million in 1880 to 400 parts per million last year, NASA said.

Unless current trends change, scientists said the world should expect each of the coming decades to be warmer than the last, said NASA climatologist Gavin Schmidt.

He described the warming of the past few decades as “unusual,” and urged people not to judge whether climate change is happening or not based on random weather events like cold snaps.”

“The long-term trends in climate are extremely robust,” he told reporters.

“People have a very short memory when it comes to their own expe-

rience of weather and climate, and the only way that we can have a long-term assessment of what is going on is by looking at the data.”

NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) both released their annual global figures on climate, which were independently produced but found similar increases in temperature across the planet.

According to NOAA, the average of combined land and ocean surface temperatures in 2013 was 1.12 degrees Fahrenheit (0.62 Celsius) above the 20th century average of 57 degrees Fahrenheit (13.9 Celsius).

NOAA found that 2013 tied with 2003 as the fourth warmest year since records began in 1880, while NASA said last year ranked seventh.

However, experts said the actual temperature differences between years are very small, and that the overall trend toward a warming planet is clear.

Last year also marked the 37th year in a row with higher than average global temperatures.

All 13 years of the 21st century have been among the warmest on record, NOAA said, with

the hottest being 2010, 2005, and 1998.

A key difference between last year and other top years of the past decade is that 2013 had no El Nino effect to warm the equatorial region, a weather phenomenon that would have been expected to cause an uptick in global temperatures.

economic development in lagging sub-economies of the member countries by boosting trade, tourism, and investments.

“The study will look into proper and holistic ways to manage and dispose e-wastes in the sub-region, and the results of the study will be subsequently used as supporting data for the setting up of an e-waste material recovery and treatment facility in every BIMP-EAGA member country,” said Luwalhati Antonino, chair of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and Philippine Signing Minister for BIMP-EAGA. E-wastes can include household appliances, Information Technology (IT) and telecommunications equipment, lighting equipment, medical devices, and electronic tools. The proposed facility will include necessary machineries and technical expertise for

equipment repairs, metal recovery system, and electronic recycling.

“E-wastes are not only dangerous for the environment, but also contain toxic materials that can be hazardous to human health.

A good system for recovery and recycling of these wastes is one of the best solutions to reduce these hazards,” said Antonino.

She added that funding requirements for the two components of the e-waste project are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

The project will be jointly undertaken by the environment and ICT cluster, with Malaysia taking the lead in the project conceptualization and implementation. For the Philippines, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources shall spearhead the implementation of the project being the lead agency for the environment cluster.

HOT IN HERE. A thermometer shows the temperature rising up to 30 degrees Celsius on a warm sunny day on July 19, 2013 in Lille, northern France. [AFP]

BIMP-EAGA study to pursue greener tech through e-waste management

A

STUDY that will facilitate the formulation of policies for the integrated management of electric and electronic wastes (e-wastes) will be conducted by the environment cluster of the BIMP-EAGA, in line with efforts to prioritize the establishment of the sub-region’s e-waste management plan and material recovery facility.

At the 17th BIMP-EAGA ministerial meeting held in Manado, Indonesia recently, the conduct of the study was identified by the sub-region’s environment cluster as one of its priority projects, following a series of field visits to e-waste facilities in Beijing and Guandong in May and June last year.

BIMP-EAGA stands for Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia the Philippines East ASEAN growth area, a sub-regional economic cooperation designed to spur

Forecasters say El Niño could return in 2014, with the potential to make this coming year even hotter than last.

Another concerning effect of global warming is the melting of sea ice in the Arctic, which is expected to cause sea level rises over time that will endanger coastal

communities around the world.

“Arctic sea ice is down considerably, especially over the past 10 to 11 years,” said Tom Karl, director of NOAA’s Climatic Data Center.

Last year marked the sixth smallest sea ice extent in the Arctic on record, while the Antarctic

saw the opposite trend, and sea ice was above average.

While most of the world experienced above-average annual temperatures, a few small regions in the central United States, eastern Pacific and South America were cooler than average, according to NOAA.

Up to nine tropical cyclones expected until June 2014

G

OVERNMENT’S weather agency expects up to nine tropical cyclones in the country during the January-June 2014 period.

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said it expects between zero to one tropical cyclone in the country for each of January, February, March and April this year.

However, PAGASA noted the number of expected tropical cyclones will likely increase beginning May when wind direction in the country changes as the northeast monsoon or ‘amihan’ prevailing at present transitions to the rain-driving southwest monsoon or ‘habagat.’ ”We expect between one or two tropical cyclones this May and two or three of these in June,” PAGASA weather specialist Anthony Lucero

said Wednesday (Jan. 22) during a climate forum in Metro Manila.

PAGASA expects the northeast monsoon’s peak during theJanuary-March period when tropical cyclone activity is at its minimum.

The northeast monsoon’s gradual weakening may begin in early March, Lucero noted.

For the January-March 2014 period, PAGASA forecast near- to above-normal rainfall in most parts of the country.

Most areas nationwide will likely experience this April generally way below- to below-normal rainfall except in some parts of Western Mindanao and portions of Caraga Region where near-toabove-normal rainfall is expected, PAGASA also said.

PAGASA said the country may experience nearto above-normal rainfall

in May and June this year.

Lucero noted in areas with Type I climate, rainfall conditions may favor the rainy season’s normal onset between late May to early June.

Type I climate is characterized by two pronounced seasons – dry from November to April and wet during the rest of the year with maximum rains from June to September, PAGASA said.

Luzon’s western seaboard and the Visayas’ Antique province have Type I climate.

Aside from occurrence of tropical cyclones, Lucero said weather systems expected to affect the country during the January-June 2014 period are the northeast monsoon, ridge of a high-pressure area, tail end of a cold front, trough of a low-pressure area, the easterly winds and inter-tropical convergence zone. [PNA]

8

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

EDITORIAL

z

B

RING it on! This was the bold one-liner President Noynoy Aquino blurted out through Palace spokesman Sonny Coloma over reports that an impeachment move is being hatched by his opponents. The threat came in the wake of the privilege speech of Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. virtually accusing the President of meddling in the 2012 trial of ousted Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona. The charge is that Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas took Revilla along with him in a car to Bahay Pangarap, the President’s official residence inside the Malacanang grounds, to meet with the President at the height of the Corona trial to persuade him to vote for the CJ’s conviction.

Secretary Coloma said the President is ready to face an impeachment complaint if one is filed in Congress.

This impeachment brouhaha gives Filipinos a feeling of déjà vu, since this was what happened sometime during the Corona trial. Some quarters

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

the national association of newspapers

Printed by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Building, Quirino Avenue, 8000, Davao City, Philippines Tel: (082) 301-6235 Telefax: (082) 221-3601 www.edgedavao.net editorial@edgedavao.net marketing@edgedavao.net

were then floating the wild idea that Malacanang was bribing as much as P100 million each senator-judge to convict Corona. Subsequently, the President called the impeachment bluff, and nothing happened. Given this historical vignette, nobody’s giving impeachment a chinaman’s chance to progress.

As for Senator Revilla’s speech, he appeared to be the proverbial too late the hero in exposing President Aquino’s “impeachable offense.” He must first be able to convincingly explain to the people why it took him one year to talk about it. It was like exploding a firecracker long after New Year’s Eve has passed--full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. His decision to talk belatedly is not doing any good to his sagging credibility. He and his speech writers should regroup to fabricate a better speech, one that is believable. For one, it should not sound like a movie script (pun intended).

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG Creative Solutions

ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant

GREGORIO G. DELIGERO Associate Editor

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

ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. EMILORD P. CASTROMAYOR / CHENEEN R. CAPON Reporters

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

GENERAL OFFICE SANTOS CITY CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OLIVIA D. VELASCO OLIVIA D. VELASCO RICHARDRICHARD C. EBONAC. EBONA SOLANI D. MARATAS SOLANI D. MARATAS MARKETING OFFICE | Marketing Manager General Manager General ManagerMarketingAdvertising Supervisor SpecialistFinance FinanceLEIZEL A. DELOSOLEIZEL A. DELOSO | MarketingFLORENCE ManagerS. VILLARIN

JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

AQUILES Z. ZONIO Correspondent

KRISTINE D. BORJA AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Marketing Specialist Circulation

Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Marketing Specialist Cagayan de Oro City c/o PZ Villarin Marketing Cagayan de Oro City Tel: (088) 852-4894

Tel: (088) 852-4894

Salvani St., Oringo Brgy. City Heights Tel: (083) 303-2215

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

ANGELICA R. GARCIA | Marketing Manager Blk. 1, Lot 10, La Mar Townhomes, Apitong St., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 942-1503

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014 EDGEDAVAO Over a cup of coffee with Pioquinto

M

Y FRIEND, Pioquinto, isn’t really a devoutedly religious man, but he called me over for coffee to talk about a Bible verse at Star Bucks last Saturday while I was strolling aimlessly around at Abreeza mall.

Instead of applauding what Pnoy did this week to get the whole nation together for a “Day of Prayer” at five in the afternoon, he was bothered and a little worried seeing the President leading the entire country, thanking God for surviving three big calamities last year.

These three big calamities, as we all know by now, were the Zamboanga war, the Bohol-Cebu earthquake and the Yolanda super typhoon, leaving behind thousands of dead and injured.

Over a cup of hot brewed coffee and wincing as he sipped in the bitter sweet liquid, Pioquinto admitted that he’s getting confused as ever after watching TV footages of the “Black Nazarene” procession in Manila, the “Sinulog Festival” for Sto Nino in Cebu and the “Dinagyang Festival” also for Sto Nino in Iloilo where millions of devotees, some half-naked, danced like pagans in the streets.

At the end of the festival, Pioquinto told me, the people «dived on long tables of food, food, food, and drink, drink, drink until they all get drunk, watching sexy, half-naked girls» dancing the «Gimme, gimme, gimmeee» in all abandon, the cities where they›re all taking place begin to look like Sodom and Gomorra.

All these three festivals celebrated the arrivals, four centuries ago, of handcarved images of a black Jesus Christ, the Son of God, after being nailed to a black cross and the over-dressed and bejeweled Sto Nino--- who is supposedly the image of the Christ child. They

T

HE battle line has been drawn: Pres. Benigno Aquino III a.k.a P-Noy (Mr. Bachelor) on one side against Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr. a.k.a Panday (Mr. Pogi), on the other.

It’s an epic battle that could spell political doom for both protagonists – one could end up facing the Senate in an impeachment trial for interfering in judicial process; the other for plunder charges and a lifetime confinement in a prison cell.

Revilla delivered the opening salvo during his privileged speech on the Senate floor last week where he accused P-Noy of pressuring him into voting for the conviction of Chief Justice Renato Corona.

The presidential pressure was expressed in this statement: “Pare, ibalato mo na sa akin ‘to.” Of course, P-Noy denied making such a statement.

Now who is telling the truth?

do this every year.

Pioquinto kept repeating to me that these are “carved images” and they were carved by bare hands of talented sculptors right here in this devoutedly Roman Catholic country.

“They’re carved by hand, pare, all these images they’re worshipping were all carved by hand,” he stressed, spilling some coffee over his white t-shirt showing a colorful design of the “Sinulog” festival.

So I said, “So what? Those are thanksgiving festivals, people are thanking the Heavens for all the miracles and blessings they received from the Black Nazarene and the Sto Nino.”

But Pioquinto, who always bring along a Holy Bible, cited to me a verse from the book of Exodus, chapter 20 verse 3 : “You shall have no other gods before me.”

“See that, pare ko? God forbade us not to have no other gods!”

“Aren’t they suppose to be images of Christ himself?” I asked.

But Pioquinto ignored me and continued reading the next verse of Exodus chapter 20, verse 4 “ “You shall not make for yourself a carved image --- any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth,” he said, while pointing out to me the verses.

“Pare ko, likeness ni Jesus mga yun, di ba?”

He cut in, “Shhh! Listen to this --You shall not bow down to them nor serve them. This is verse 5 na, don’t you

get it?”

“Okay, okay, go on, I’m listening”, I said, glancing at my watch, my hands were getting fidgety. “ Listen to this--- For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate me --- but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love me and keep my commandments”, he kept reading, while occasionally taking sips from his cup of Star Bucks.

“I still can’t get it” I said, watching his squinting eyes that were beginning to look like the eyes of Moses.

“The point here is, to say it bluntly, God is a jealous God and won’t stand people worshiping even the carved likeness of Jesus or anything that is in heaven above,” Pioquinto pointed out to me the verse again.

“Y-you mean God is angry with people who worship carved images of anyone in heaven?” I asked, sounding like an idiot.

“God is really a jealous God and he’ll do anything to remind people that He’s the only true God ----and nobody else!”

“But how do you tell that to all those fanatic Catholic devotees and church organizers of Black Nazarene and the Sto Nino”s Sinulog festival?”

“Many Catholic priests are aware of this, but they just can’t stop Filipino traditions,” he lamented.

“Even after the three deadly calamities last year ?”

“You can’t beat Pinoy tradition, they’ll die for it!” he said, frustration all over his face.

“Will God keep reminding us again this year ?”

“You mean, like another earthquake, super typhoon and war?”

“Simbako, pare ko!”

(Comments? Email > tradingpost_ davao@yahoo.com)

N o t P-Noy. He doesn’t have the reputation for being a truth-sayer. He is well-adept at wearing a story by way of anecdote to cover a lie, to wit: The Janet Napoles arrest which was done under very mysterious circumstances.

The Sabah standoff where he sided with the Malaysian government instead of the Sultanate of Sulu.

The Trillanes secret kaper during the RP-China territorial dispute over the Spratly Islands; Now Panday may be intellectually and educationally ill-equipped to be a

senator of the Republic, but he knows when to reveal the truth and hide a lie.

It is a pity that the more P-Noy defends himself from accusations/ insinuations of flexing presidential muscle to force senator-judges to convict Corona, the more he reveals the wrong side of his brain.

However, it is to his credit that P-Noy has this amazing talent of fashioning out truth out of obvious lies.

It’s absolutely incredible. And dangerous.

“If you shut up truth and bury it under the ground, it will but grow, and gather to itself such explosive power that the day it bursts through it will blow up everything in its way.”

– Emile Zola.

------OoO-----“My way of joking is to tell the truth. It’s the funniest joke in the world.” – Bernard Shaw.

P-Noy vs Panday

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Lacks ardent concern

S

MALL DETAILS OF PROCEDURES – With the accelerating economic growth of Davao City, squatter colonies, crowded neighborhoods and plain slum dwellers particularly have found themselves co-existing with adjacent factories and cottage industries.

Pollution experts and health officials noted that many establishments throughout the city hide their operations behind high and thick walls, and spew a wide range of toxic waste that abusive operators indiscriminately throw into rivers and waterways if not dispose in open dumpsites.

The consequences of this reckless disposal of poisonous substances are disastrous, especially in areas where the population density is high. Eventually this unchecked practice exposes the residents to poisoning. Republic Act 6969, the law governing toxic wastes is generally considered more progressive than other environmental regulations. Yet, it is seldom enforced at all.

Lamentably, city officials seem lacking in passion to check violations, including noxious vehicle emissions and fumes from factories. Officials and concerned agencies probably presume that they are faced with a choice between cleaning the environment and pursuing economic growth. The fact is that, it is possible to do both. It’s only the application of common sense in the small details of government procedures.

BULLISH ON INVESTMENTS – There are a lot of opportunities for other industries in Davao City that prospective investors should be excited about. The city’s investment climate are luring both domestic and foreign investors to consider making the city their base of business operation.

Among those showing interest in exploring the city’s investment opportunities are companies either based in Manila or abroad wanting to diversify into the local market. Potential investors can actually choose from a wide range of businesses opportunities.

For determined investors, trade is very encouraging and the city is good value. They have shown a lot of interest in tourism, food industry, furniture making aside from processing of homegrown fruit produce.

Likewise they are interested in fast-growing sectors. Business process outsourcing (BPO) and information technology (IT) are two sectors that investment managers fully understand.

We will see more domestic and foreign investors coming to the city this year and beyond. The pace of establishing new businesses improved rapidly during the second and third quarter of the previous year and the long-term business outlook for the city and region is superb for 2014.

On the other hand, the city’s far larger domestic sectors – construction, retailing, agriculture, among others have likewise thrived. With the completion of additional modern shopping malls, commercial buildings and high-end condominium units, analysts predict occupancy rates of 75 to 80% - higher than in previous years. But other market forecasters are pessimistic still, for one; they note that there has been over-investment in the property market.

Despite spikes of negative observation, determined investors will not change course. Trade opportunities can be attractive for any industrialist where growth and profits exist and the city’s competitive positioning is improving at accelerating pace.

If there is business here, if there are more contracts to be done and trade opportunities to get excited about, investors will keep on coming. City officials still expect big domestic and foreign companies with new investment portfolio to rush to the city to get a piece of the action. The latecomers will need to double time in order to catch up with the prompt stakeholders.

Indeed, the influx of investors to the city s in the days ahead would accelerate growth and drive an economic boom.

10

NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

Rody...FFROM 1 Tanungin ko si De Lima, marunong siya niyan?” asked Duterte.

Duterte said that the Justice Secretary kept on insisting that Davidson Bangayan alias Davidson Tan is from Davao City although he was identified as one from Tuguegarao City in his answer during the Senate inquiry last Wednesday.

“Alam ko yung mga tao

dito,” he said.

Duterte also added that he is the one who made an effort to find a picture of Davidson Bangayan using the intelligence fund of the city.

“Baka sabihin niya na effort niya yan? Try to correct her at sabihn niyo na galing kay Duterte yan and it was produced by the intelligence community,” said Duterte.

UNAWARE. City Engineering Office (CEO) head Roland C. Reyes says during yesterday’s I-Speak media forum at the City Hall that upon his assumption as the acting head of CEO, he didn’t notice any fixer after the implementation of the 72-hour policy decreed by Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte. Lean Daval Jr.

Jeff Fuentes, CHO’s population division head, said they are coordinating with the Department of Education to allow them strengthen the RH (Reproductive Health) program.

“You will talk about fertility awareness and they

will know that even in a single sexual activity they will get pregnant,” said Fuentes.

Fuentes added that in 2013 there was a five percent increase in teenage pregnancy, which’ is alarming.’

T

costing, financial planning and funding of the business, legal documents required to start a business.

Moreover, to support the start-up entrepreneur during the planning and development of busness venture, the chamber offers a one-on-one program called TakeOFF. It consists of ten individual coaching sessions of two hours each and covers all issues of the startup of a business, including the business concept development, SWOT analysis, environmental analysis, marketing plan, human re-

source management, financial plan, and funding.

The SBDC will also organize specialized workshops and seminars to equip growth seeking SMEs and entrepreneurs with business related skills and knowledge. It will offer workshops offering business concept development, marketing plan, operations, human resource, financial plan, financial literacy for entrepreneurs, budgeting, working capital management, understanding financial statements and export audit. [CRC]

vacant and up for raffling to other applicants. Vendors who appealed were asked to write letter addressed to the market committee for reopening of their respective businesses.

Meanwhile, collections of the CEE in public markets exceeded the target by 13 percent last year. Librado said they were able to collect a total of P79.3 million, surpassing the P70 million in 2013.

The Bankerohan public market recorded the highest collection with a total of P28.9 million. Next was the Agdao public market with P23.6 million in revenue and Toril public market

with P15.2 million.

Other public markets in the city are in Mintal, Calinan, Tibungco, Bunawan, and Lasang.

Librado said that collections increased during the last quarter of 2013 because of the stricter collection effort on vendors.

It is the 63 percent of the P123.4 million revenue collection of the CEE from seven units namely the Davao City Overland Transport, Sta. Ana Port, cemeteries, Magsaysay Park and slaughter houses.

Meanwhile, the CEE is still assessing their overall target collection for 2014.

week of January and will be opened to public use once Alji Construction, the contractor turned it over to the city government and inspected by the City Engineers Office. Additional

compartments were added to the facility.

The first phase in the rehabilitation amounting P17 million started in December, 2011 and ended in March of 2012.

missal from the service.

Bernardo said that the military will continue coordinating with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency to conduct operations against suppliers.

Meanwhile the military will also continue with its random drug tests for erring soldiers to set an example to our citizens against the use of illegal drugs.

[EPC]

CHO...FFROM 2

Anti-smoking task force starts advocacy among pre-school kids HE Anti-Smoking Task Force (ASTF) of Davao City has stepped into the preschool children in their advocacy campaign of letting them understand the ill effects of smoking.

Task Force anti-smoking co-chairperson Dr. Dormilyn Villareiz, in an interview, said more young kids nowadays are into smoking and “I think it is important to teach them at a very young age”.

She even said that kids who go out for “gimmick” (nightlife) also smoke and these are kids as young as 11 years old.

Day-care teachers are taught how to handle this

and they are trained aside from following a module, she said.

She also said that printed materials like posters and others are provided so that kids are exposed and warned early.

Meanwhile, Villareiz reported that the ASTF had apprehended a total of 3,690 violators from January to November 2013. A total of 2,364 were issued with violation citation tickets after the implementation of New Comprehensive Anti-Smoing Ordinance (Ordinance 0367-12 Series of 2012), June 2013 while 1,326 were apprehended prior to the implementation of

the ordinance.

Villareiz also said that a total of P955,500 in fines were collected from 1,911 violators. The law provides that persons issued with citation ticktets has the option to either contest the violation in court or voluntarily pay the penalty of P500 imposed upon him or her to avoid being criminally prosecuted within three days from apprehension.

Villareiz warned violators that cases may be filed against them if they do not return their citation tickets to the task force.

She said many violators do not return the tickets to the police station

and even if they have paid the P500, cases will still be filed against them and they will undergo counseling. Tickets must be returned within three to five days, she said.

On the other hand, Villareiz said they had conducted lectures in four schools, 15 in national government offices and 68 in communities.

She said a total of 4,233 students were oriented and 43 individuals became newly registered advocates. About 100 smoker’s body posters were distributed and placed 200 “I Support” stickers in vehicles.

[PNA]

E H A B I L I TAT I O N and recovery Secretary Panfilo Lacson on Thursday said that persons who will be proven as demanding kickbacks from private contractors in the efforts to rebuild areas devastated by typhoon “Yolanda” will be held criminally liable.

At the sidelines of the

Experts Forum on Rebuilding Communities and Ecosystems after “Yolanda” at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) in Makati City, Lacson said he has already tapped the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) and the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of

the Philippines (ISAFP) to investigate allegations that a number of people, including politicians, have been demanding kickbacks.

When asked to identify these alleged politicians, Lacson said: “Alam naman nila kung sino sila. It’s out in the open na iyong mga bunkhouses may problema talaga.

May mga sub-standard na materyales na parang pinalitan yung nire-require ng DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways).”

The rehabilitation czar said the CIDG and ISAFP are just wrapping up their investigation and it won’t be long that the charges will be filed against those involved. [PNA]

municipality in Davao del Sur, is No. 9 with 57.4 percent poverty incidence.

The other poor municipalities are Talaingod (Davao del Norte), No. 6 with 62. 6 percent; Tarragona (Davao Oriental) No. 7 with 62.3 percent; Manay (Davao Oriental) No. 8, with 58.7 percent; Caraga, No. 8 with 58.0 percent and Governor Generoso, No. 10 with 55.7 percent poverty incidence.

The poverty incidence in many towns of Davao del Sur is pulling down the rating of Davao City, which is lumped together with Davao del Sur, in computing the statistic data gathered during the National Household Targeting System (NHTS) survey designed to identify the poorest of the poor in the country.

Using the proxy variable system, a total of

547,775 households in Region 11 were surveyed. Of this number, 272, 933, or 50 percent were found to be poor.

Representatives of government agencies and the private sector participating in the sustainable livelihood program designed to lend capital to poor families met yesterday at the Apo View Hotel during a Social Innovation Forum, with the DSWD led by Re-

gional Director Priscilla N. Razon as convenor.

Representing the private sector officers of the Babas Foundation, Bansalan Cooperative Society, Card Bank, United Sugarcane Planters of Davao, Unlad Kabayan, Endonela Institute of Technology, MINTECH, SMIT, Aces Polytechnic College and Elegant Technology, some of which were microfinance institutions.

‘Yolanda’rehab extortionists to be criminally liable: Lacson

R

2nd...FFROM 2

DCCCII...FFROM 2

Due...FFROM 2

City... FFROM 3

General...FFROM 3

11 COMPETITIVE EDGE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

Villa-Abrille, others to be inducted as YMCA officers O

FFICERS of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA)-Davao headed by lawyer Leoncio “Nonoy” P. Villa-Abrille will be sworn into office during the 43rd installation ceremonies at the Grand Ballroom of Marco Polo Davao in the evening of Sunday, January 26.

Dr. Raymundo P. Arcega, multi-awarded educator, who is now vice president for administration and finance of the University of Makati, will preside over the induction ceremony done in the unique YMCA tradition, wherein a total of five inducting officers will swear in the officers.

Aside from being the chief inducting officer, Dr. Arcega is also the guest of honor and speaker of the event. Joining Dr. Arcega are past presidents Alvin M. Garduque, Efren J. Veneracion Sr., Jose C. Sevilla and Antonio B. Partoza Jr., as first, second, third and

Dr. Raymundo P. Arcega Atty. Leoncio P. Villa-Abrille fourth inducting officers. auditor; Antonio M. Ajero, Castro.

To take their oath of of- public relations officer; and A special part of the fice aside from Villa-Abrille Mariano R. Alquiza, Hen- event is the launching of the are Jose B. Custodio, 1st ry B. Braceros, Vicente R. YMCA-Davao car raffle by vice president; Fernando Banes Jr., Antonio B. Partoza past president Joe Custodio, S. Ongkingco Jr., 2nd vice Jr., and Reynaldo B. Sazon, the project chairman. president; Villa-Abrille’s team directors; and Robert John Julito N. Pepito, corpo- U. Ajing, youth director. starts the year with a high rate secretary; Era Devi G. To be inducted, too, are note, considering its nuLagaret, assistant corporate new members Dennis Z. merous achievements in secretary; Paciencio M. Ro- Banayat, Isagani G. Javier, 2013 and plan of action in salem Jr., treasurer; Jose N. Emma B. Gonzales, Julius 2014.

Valenzuela, assistant trea- dela Victoria, Richard T. When Villa-Abrille, who surer; Ricardo V. Villegas, Tandoc and Norman P. de is a philanthropist and vet-

eran civic leader in the Rotary, Jaycees and Ambassador movements, assumed the presidency, he introduced several projects and changes.

A director said that among these reforms and new projects are the introduction of a “culture of philanthropy” among officers who now pay for expenses in board meetings and other costs, help put up a scholarship program, and other changes that drastically reduced the club’s financial deficit.

Under the watch of Villa-Abrille, the club also increased life corporate membership, organized several youth clubs in high schools and colleges, aside from conducting the Search for the Most Outstanding Younger Leader of Davao City.

After a hiatus of 14 years, Villa-Abrille revived the Operation Tuli of the club in partnership with the

San Pedro College-Community Extension Services and the government of Barangay 11-B. The club also acquired a one-hectare property in Tuban, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur to house the first YMCA Training center and Campsite, though a donation from the Heirs of Don Cesareo Villa-Abrille.

The club donated roofing materials worth P40,000 for a tribal school in Asuncion, Davao del Norte in a joint rehab project with YMCA Asuncion headed no less than by Mayor Joseph Nilo Parrenas, the money was raised from among the YMCA Davao officers.

To be effective leaders of YMCA, the club also conducted a strategic planning for 2013-2016, including extensive orientation on resource mobilization and annual fund campaigns both for officers and youth leaders.

derstanding and use of language, and his adaptation to his environment.

Autism Society Philippines of the Philippines (ASP) has been in the forefront of providing services to families affected with

autism and spearheads the annual celebration of National Autism Consciousness Week every 3rd week of January. For more information, visit autismsocietyphilippines. blogspot.com.

DSWD turns 63, honors ASP organizes special screening of‘The Nut Job’at SM Mall partners, employees A “A S we celebrate our founding anniversary this Friday, we also give tribute to our partners in development and to our co- workers who have essentially contributed in the pursuit of our programs and projects. We have invited as well the rest of our partners who have been supporting us throughout the years as we continue serving the poor, vulnerable and disadvantaged sectors.”

This was emphasized

by Director Priscilla N. Razon of DSWD at the Regional Management Committee Meeting on Monday. She also instructed her staff to invite all media partners. “Our media practitioners have significantly helped us in providing the right information at the right time to the public especially in times of disasters.”

As Secretary Corazon Juliano Soliman empahsized in her message during the awarding rites at the Central Office on January 16, “The past year really tested the mettle of the men and women of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) who were out there in the field assisting the survivors of various disasters which struck our country in succession. We hurdled the herculean task through the solid and gen-

erous support of all of you – our dear partners and colleagues, so you rightly deserve this recognition.”

Director Razon said DSWD Assistant Secretary Camilo G. Gudmalin will be the keynote speaker during Friday’s Anniversary Program.

DSWD Awardees for 2013 are Golden Shrine SEA-K, Marphil Children’s Village Foundation, LGU Talaingod, LGU Padada, People Power Volunteers for Reform, LGU Sta. Maria, Nabunturan Federation of Senior Citizens Association, and Pag-asa Youth Association of LGU Gov. Generoso.

Other Awardees are Mayor Allan L. Rellon, Armed Forces of the Philippines, LGU Davao City, Gov. Arturo T. Uy, Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon, Mayor Lorenzo L. Balbin Jr., Mayor Lema P. Bolo, Mayor Eutropio S. Jayectin, Mayor Romeo C. Clarin, Mayor Reynaldo B. Navarro, Mayor Rebecco S. Rosit Sr., Mayor Camilo T. Nuñez, Mayor Arturo C. Monday, SUMIFRU Phils., Eduardo A. Borje, Jocelyn A. Romero, Philippine Ports Authority, Port of Davao-Bureau of Customs, Department of Public Works and Highways, Davao Integrated Port Stevedoring Services Corp., 10th Infantry Division-Philippine Army and Eastern Mindanao Command.

UTISM Society of the Philippines (ASP) - Davao Chapter in partnership with SM Supermalls will be mounting a special screening of The Nut Job, an animated comedy film about a mischievous squirrel who must break into his town’s biggest nut shop in order to help his pals gather food to survive the winter. This happens on January 25 (Saturday), 10:00AM at Cinema 4 of SM City Davao. Persons with autism (PWAs) can watch the movie free of charge, while their companions and chaperones can avail of tickets for only P100.

Organized in line with National Autism Consciousness Week, which aims to continually promote awareness, equal rights and opportunity for all persons with autism, this special screening promises to be “sensory-friendly” to give the special audience a more accepting and comfortable setting.

Most children love watching movies on the

big screen, but while going to the movies is a pleasant experience for most families, it can be difficult for those with children with autism. The bright screen in a very dark room and the loud sounds from the speakers often over-stimulate and frighten children with autism. Other children also find it difficult to sit still or stay quiet for the entire film, which can disrupt other families.

To address these, SM Cinema will keep theater lights up, the sound will be turned down, and movie previews and advertisements will be eliminated.

Children will be allowed to bring their own snacks, considering some might have special dietary requirements. They will also be allowed to talk, walk around, dance, sing, or shout, as they please.

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how an individual interprets what he sees, hears, and touches, thereby impairing his un-

Bosch opens up new market segments for connected living

A

CCORDING to preliminary figures, the Bosch Group increased its sales by 2.7 percent in 2013, to 46.4 billion euros, and this despite the difficult economic

environment (adjusted previous-year figure: 45.2 billion euros).

In the form of negative exchange-rate effects to the tune of some 1.5 billion euros, the

strong euro places a considerable burden on the sales revenue disclosed by the supplier of technology and services.

Earnings have developed fundamentally better, but are once

again affected by the situation of the Solar Energy division, which remained difficult in 2013.

In early 2013, the company announced its decision to exit its activities

in crystalline photovoltaics.

The Bosch Group EBIT margin comes to some 6 percent.

This is roughly one percentage point more than in the previous year.

12 CLASSIFIEDS

Advertise EDGE with

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

EDGEDavao Gensan Partners

DAVAO

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

HEALTH

Tel No. (083) 553-2211 / (083) 877-0019 / (083) 878-0308

Best for kids ages 1 to 12 years old High in CGF, Taurine, L-Lysine Contains Fortified with DHA Available at all Drugstore near you

Multivitamins for Teens & young adults ages 13 to22 years old Available at all Drugstore near you

Take 2mg Ener-plus Capsule one hour before your intimate encounter • Improve Blood Circulation • Provide Extra Strength & Sexual Stamina • Increase Libido & Sexdrive

Available at all Drugstore near you

Realty FOR SALE:

NOW HIRING

ONE (1) - HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANIC

Qualifications: 1. With at least 5 years experience.

2. Highly skilled in repair of bulldozer, backhoe, compactor of different models like Caterpillar, Komatsu, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, etc.

3. Honest and Hardworking.

Interested applicant may send their application, Bio-data and Resume to:

PRIMELAND PROPERTIES, INC.

3RD Floor PPI Bldg., Ponciano Reyes St., (Crooked Road), Davao City.

1) 1-hectare commercial lot at P10,000/sq m, along National Highway, facing east, beside NCCC Panacan, Davao City. 2) 17,940sq m commercial lot at P2,500/sq m, along Matina Diversion Road. 3) 3,831 sq m lot along Matina Diversion Road. 4) 41,408 sq m commercial/ industrial lot at P800/sq m along the National Highway, Bunawan. 5) 7,056 sq m at P1,200/sq m commercial/residential lot along Indangan Road, Buhangin District. 6) 27,411 sq m commercial/ industrial lot along the National Highway in Bincungan, Tagum City. 7) 116.15 to 245.92 sq meters , at P5.5M to P12.3M commercial/ office condo units in Bajada, Davao City. 8) 699 to 1,117 sq m at P4,100/sq m commercial lots at Josefina Town Center, along the National Highway, Dumoy, Toril. 9) Ready-for-Occupancy Residential Properties: 4BR/3T&B in a 240 sq m lot with 177.31sqm floor area (2-storey) at P4.8M in an exclusive beachfront community in Dumoy, Toril.; 3BR 2-storey in a 71.25 sq m 2-storey in a 143sq m lot in an exclusive flower village in Maa, Davao City; 180 sq m lots with 71.25sqm to 126.42 sq m floor areas, priced at P3.751M to P5.773M in an exclusive mountain resort community along Matina, Diversion Road. 10) 1BR/2BR residential condo units located in Bolton, Maa, Obrero, Davao City. 11) FOR ASSUME (RUSH): 1BR res’l condo unit in Palmetto, Maa. P600K negotiable. Note: Items 1-9 can be paid in cash, in-house or bank financing. If interested, please call Jay (PRC REB Lic. 8237) at 0922-851-5337 (Sun), 0908-883-8832 (Smart) or send email to propertiesindavao@yahoo.com.

General Santos Drive, Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506

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

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

WANTED FOR IMMEDIATE HIRING!

WANTED FOR IMMEDIATE HIRING!

BUS DRIVER

BUS DRIVER

Qualifications: Qualifications:

1.

2.

3.

Male, 28 – 40 years old 1. least Male, high 28 – school 40 years old At graduate 2. At least high school graduate 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

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

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

CLASSIFIEDS 13

EDGEDAVAO WANTS YOU! Serving a seamless society

-

Account Executives (3)

Male / Female, not more than 30 years old Candidate must posses a Bachelor/ College Degree in any Business field.

Willing to work under pressure, flexible, persuasive, can speak fluently and computer literate A team player With Basic Salary, Transportation, Communication, allowance + Commission

For interested applicants, you may send your resume to: HR Department EDGEDavao

Doors 13 & 14 Alcrej B;dg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel. No. (082) 221-3601 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com

14 SPORTS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

DON’T PULL MY SHIRT. Gabby Espinas of Alaska holds on to the jersey of Ginebra center Greg Slaughter (left photo) in a highly physical quarter finals match in the PBA Philippine Cup. Right photo, Calvin Abueva of Alaska tries to outrun Japeth Aguilar of Ginebra. Nuki Sabio

DO OR DIE J

Rebounding is the key: Slaughter

UST how important is the rebounding battle in the playoffs?

Its value certainly isn’t lost on Barangay Ginebra center Greg Slaughter, the tallest player in the PBA and one-half of the Kings’ daunting twin tower combination.

“Rebounding is always important,” Slaughter told InterAksyon.com after Ginebra dropped the first game in its quarterfinals series against Alaska.

“Whoever controls the rebound wins the game.”

Rebounding has been a major issue for Ginebra in the past few games. Despite having Slaughter and Japeth Aguilar to banner the tallest frontline in the league, the Gin Kings have found themselves outre-

bounded by smaller opponents of late.

They were destroyed off the boards by a smaller San Mig Coffee squad, 6039, and were outrebounded, 49-42, in a recent blowout loss to Talk ‘N Text.

They fared slightly better than that in this one, though they still fell on the wrong side of the rebounding battle.

Alaska edged Ginebra, 48-46, but only just barely.

“I guess tonight’s battle of the boards is pretty even,” Slaughter said.

The seven-foot-tall rookie believes there were other factors that led to his team’s setback in this particular game.

“I think we got outhustled. We didn’t shoot well on treys, they shot pretty

well on treys. They played really well. Good game,” he said.

“They played like they really wanted it more, having to play with their backs against the wall and they were really coming strong.”

Despite playing in their third straight knockout game, the Alaska Aces still found enough energy as they outdueled top seed Barangay Ginebra San Miguel to live and fight for at least another game.

The Aces forged a winner-take-all showdown for a semifinals berth by outplaying the Kings, 104-97, in the quarterfinals of the PLDT Home DSL PBA Philippine Cup on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Calvin Abueva played with his usual energy and a

renewed focus, posting 16 points, 11 rebounds and three steals in the game.

He managed to do much of the dirty work for his team while staying away from foul trouble in the contest.

The rest of his Alaska teammates chipped in with a little bit of everything.

Seven Aces scored in double figures, led by veterans Dondon Hontiveros and Cyrus Baguio, who finished with 18 points apiece.

JVee Casio posted 16 points, Sonny Thoss added 13 markers while Gabby Espinas and RJ Jazul scored 12 and 10, respectively, in a display of balanced firepower by the Aces.

The Aces shot the ball well from the three-point region, sinking 12-of-20 shots for a 60 percent clip.

DREAM MATCH

ROGER FEDERER. Poise and experience.

M

POSTERIZED. Chris Ellis goes up for a slam. Nuki Sabio

Federer sends off Murray, sets up semis clash with Nadal

ELBOURNE, Australia (AP) -- For a full two sets and nine games, Roger Federer was the pic-

ture of poise, picking up half-volleys with vintage panache and placing winners past Andy Murray.

Then, in the bounce of a ball - or two bounces of the

ball, depending on opinion - the 17-time major winner was transformed back into the vulnerable, 2013-edition Federer.

After breaking Murray to get a chance to serve for the match on Wednesday and a spot in the Australian Open semifinals for an 11th consecutive year, Federer dropped serve.

He recovered and jumped to a 5-2 lead in the tiebreaker, but then Murray rallied and won six of the last seven points to prolong the quarterfinal.

After wasting a hand-

ful of break-point chances in Murray’s next service game, which lasted almost 19 minutes, Federer finally wore down the Wimbledon champion 6-3, 6-4, 6-7 (6), 6-3 to set up a semifinal showdown with topranked Rafael Nadal. ‘’For me it was just a matter of staying calm and forgetting about it a little bit because, you know, the match was great until that point,’’ Federer said.

Murray made his resurgence after disputing a point in the ninth game of the third

s e t ,

when he thought the ball had bounced twice before Federer hit it. Replays shown in Rod Laver Arena were inconclusive. Federer thought was good, and left the call to the umpire. ‘ ’ I ’ m proud

of t h e way I fought,’’ Murray said. ‘’I’ve come a long way in four months.’’

RAFAEL NADAL. Intensity and power.

INdulge!

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

EVENT

MX3 brings excitement to Cebuanos at Sinulog Festival

CEBU CITY dubbed as the “Queen City of the South” and considered as one of three “Cities of Culture” by the Asean Ministries of Culture celebrated the Sinulog Festival, an annual event held every third Sunday of this month.

The Sinulog Festival is one of the biggest and most attended festival in the country gathering thousand spectators from different cities and even tourists to witness the festivity. The MX3 and GMA join the celebration in providing entertainment through games and gift-givings for the participating residents of Cebu.

A Kapuso Mall Show star-casted by the with GMA Hottest stars: TJ Trinidad, Camille Prats,

Pauleen Luna, Rafael Rosell, Kim Rodriguez and Kristopher Martin.

The star event was held at Gaisano Grand Fiesta Mall Tabunok. This event was one of the highlights of the festivity. The stars serenaded and played with the audience while MX3 gave away product samples.

Spreading the cheers of the crowd was MX3 Hooray where participants brought home gift packs of MX3 products and items like MX3 eco-bags, MX3 school bags, MX3 ballpoint pens, MX3 tshirts and additional cash prize for the winner.

Despite unfavorable conditions brought about recent calamities, the Cebuanos were awed with hope as they wore their colorful-artistic costumes that brought smiles, appreciation and excitement from everyone around. It was a day of joyful celebration.

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

Celebrate love at the We Got the Love....The Greatest Hits Reunion concert RELIVE THE MUSIC of the 70’s as Viva Live, Inc. and Grosswood Enterprises proudly bring you the much awaited concert “We Got the Love....The Greatest Hits Reunion” featuring icons of OPM, The New Minstrels and Circus Band at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang Premier, Davao City on February 15, 2013.

Bring back memories and groove to their music of generations in this one night musical event showcasing the talents of The New Minstrels - Joey Albert, Eugene Villaluz,Chad Borja, Louie Reyes, Ding Mercado, Ray An Fuentes and The Circus Band - Basil Valdez, Hajji Alejandro, Jacqui Magno, Pat Castillo and Tillie Moreno.

This event is for the benefit of HABITAT FOR HUMANITY PHILIPPINES, to rehabilitate and rebuild homes devastated

by Yolanda in the Visayas Region.

Platinum and Gold tickets are now available for reservations for reserved seating. Silver and Bronze free seating will be available soon thru SM Ticket World and Ticketnet Online.

For reservations, you may text or call Emy Gross at 09228403702 and 09173031101, Marie Braganza at 09334403511, or Ada Angala at 09234406374 You may also reserve your tickets at Grosswood Furnitures located at Genesis 88 Bldg., Quimpo Boulevard, Matina, Davao City. Please look for Lyndy.

Rave it up at SM Lanang Premier’s ‘Elements’ Party GEAR UP this February as SM Lanang Premier stages the newest wave of party series to hit Davao City – the ‘Elements: The Sonic Escalation Party’ at The Fountain Court grounds.

Happening on February 1, Saturday, at 8 pm, the party is presented by the metro’s premier lifestyle and entertainment destination in collaboration with the creator of the 3D electric musical event, Carte Blanche.

As a treat for all Davaoeños during The Great 3-Day Sale weekend, access to the party is free.

‘Elements: The Sonic Escalation Party’ features the country’s hottest and number one DJ, DJ Ace Ramos, who was voted 2010 Club DJ of the Year by Wave 89.1 in the Urban Music Awards. DJ Torch and Wacky Masbad will also be spinning beats and mixes at the party.

Grab the chance to win VIP passes to the party and the opportunity to meet DJ Ace. Get one VIP pass for a minimum of P500 purchase receipt from any of The Fountain Court restaurants of SM Lanang Premier from January 27 to February 1. You could also visit SM Lanang Premier’s Facebook page and share the ‘Elements: Sonic Escalation Party’ photo to win VIP passes.

Twenty (20) lucky winners will be selected from the electronic raffle and will be announced on January 27.

The event is co-organized by Manic Nightnings Production and supported by Park Inn by Radisson Davao.

Be at the biggest musical party event at The Fountain Court this February. For queries, contact 285-0943 or visit SM Lanang Premier on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and check out #Elements and #premierevents for promos and event updates.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

ENTERTAINMENT

Kim Rodriguez and Kristoffer Martin reignite onscreen tandem BEGINNING January 27, GMA Network unveils the latest addition to its slate of innovative programs for the first quarter of 2014 with the much awaited debut of PARAISO KO’Y IKAW. It will replace Prinsesa ng Buhay Ko before 24 Oras.

Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw is a beautiful love story which reaffirms that real joy is to share the fulfilment of each and every dream with our one true love.

To portray the lead roles in the drama series are sought-after Kapuso teen stars Kim Rodriguez as Josephine and Kristoffer Martin as Tupe. Kim and Kristoffer are very excited to reignite their loveteam in Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw after the success of their first team-up via the Afternoon prime soap, Kakambal Ni Eliana. Armed with their excellent onscreen chemistry and natural acting skills, both artists will make us believe once more that no obstacles can keep us apart from the ones we love.

Adding spice to Kim and Kristoffer’s love story are two of the network’s freshfaced and fast-rising stars Joyce Ching as Cheska, the half sister of Josephine who will fight for her place as the one and true daughter of Edward (Gabby Eigenmann) and introducing Phytos Ramirez as Brix, the adventurous adopted son of Regina (G. Toengi) who will fall in love with Josephine.

Completing the cast are Janno Gibbs as Badong, the fisherman who will rescue

Tupe after being separated from Josephine when they escape the island, Gabby Eigenmann as Edward, the real father of Josephine, G. Toengi as Regina, the real mother of Tupe, Jessa Zaragoza as Yvette, the scheming friend of Teresa and Regina, Neil Ryan Sese as Berto, Yvette’s cousin and bodyguard, Maricel Morales as Celia, the wife of Badong, Irene Celebre as Herminia, the matriarch of the Rodrigo family, Ida Yaneza as Salve, Yvett’s mother.

Making Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw even grander is the special participation of veteran actor Joey Marquez as Artemio, the mysterious hermit in Isla de Amor who will be

the guardian of Josephine and Tupe.

Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw tells the story of Tupe and Josephine who will grow up in a remote island known as Isla de Amor. In this island, they will discover everything about life and love without the interference of the rest of the world at a very young age.

Over the years, their mutual affection for each other develops into a beautiful, innocent young love since they have known nobody else but themselves in the island.

By some twist of fate, Josephine and Tupe will be separated when they decided to leave Isla de Amor.

An accident occurs and Josephine will return in the island by herself while Tupe will be rescued by Badong.

Josephine is devastated and thinks that Tupe did not survive and he is already dead.

Will Josephine and Tupe’s paths cross again? Will the young lovers fulfill their destiny to once and for all be together? Or will Josephine be ready to embrace a new love with Brix?

Under the direction of award-winning director Bb. Joyce Bernal, Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw will take viewers through a journey of smiles and tears, where true love always triumphs in the end.

Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw is another original creation of the GMA Drama group under the supervision of Senior Vice President for Entertainment TV Lilybeth G. Rasonable; Vice President for Drama Redgie A. Magno; Assistant Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy; Program Manager Ali Marie Dedicatoria, and Executive Producer Marjorie P. Garcia.

The creative team is composed of Creative Director for Drama, Jun Lana; Creative Head, Jake Tordesillas; Creative Consultant, Aloy Adlawan; and Marlon Miguel as Headwriter.

Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw premieres on January 27 on GMA. Get the latest updates about Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw from its official facebook page www.facebook.com/ParaisoKoyIkaw , twitter account @GMAParaiso and the GMA Network website www.GMANetwork.com

Vilma, hailed best actress in int’l film fest ABS-CBN takes pride in the achievement of Star For All Seasons Vilma Santos, who was named Best Actress at the 13th Dhaka International Film Festival held in Bangladesh for her performance in her first-ever indie film “Ekstra,” which was released by Star Cinema together with Quantum Films.

Vilma bested 21 other lead actresses of film entries from Asia Pacific, including Australia.

She was first honored as Best Actress for “Ekstra” at the 2013 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival 2013 and the Gawad Tanglaw Awards 2014.

“Ekstra” is a touching drama-comedy film that revolves around the lives of bit players in the movie and TV industry like Loida Malabanan (played

by Vilma).

In 2013, “Ekstra” gained international premiere as part of the Contemporary World Cinema program of the prestigious 38th Toronto International Film Festival.

The Jeffrey Jeturian-directed film earned unanimous grade of “A” from the Cinema Evalution Board (CEB).

Part of Star Cinema’s 20th anniversary in the movie industry, “Ekstra” also features Ruby, Ta r t

Carlos of “Be Careful With My Heart,” Cherie Gil, Pilar Pilapil, Nico Antonio, Tom Rodriguez, Direk Marlon Rivera, Vince de Jesus and many more.

Also part of Vilma’s milestone movie is the special participation of Richard Yap, Marian Rivera, and Piolo Pascual.

For latest updates on “Ekstra” and other 20th anniversary offerings of Star Cinema, visit www.

StarCinema.com. ph, http://facebook.com/ StarCinema and http:// twitter.com/ StarCinema.

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

Robi steps up game as challenge master in ‘Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition Doubles’ ROBI DOMINGO is one of the most visible hosts on TV after being involved in various ABS-CBN reality shows.

But this time, Robi takes on a unique and hefty task as one of the challenge masters in “The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition Doubles.”

“It’s a tall order to be part of the show because we have Matteo (Guidicelli), who has joined a lot of triathlon competitions, Iza (Calzado) is always into fitness, and coaches Jim and Toni Saret are like a demi-god couple.

Knowing my colleagues, my challenge is to step up from my usual training,” said Robi.

As preparation, Robi also read a book on the psychology of obesity. “I have to know what runs through the mind of obese people, so I know how to deal with their emotions,” he revealed.

Robi, together with Matteo, will give out challenges to the 14 pairs of overweight contestants who will compete in the reality show to have a health and a better life.

“My role in the show is to guide the participants in their journey from being that big person with lots of baggage to that person with a big heart,” said Robi.

“We won’t just help them lose weight, but we will also help them heal their emotional scars.

We’re there to make them realize that this is what happened to them, but they can do something about it. No more excuses,” he

explained.

Returning as fitness coach in “Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition Doubles” is Jim Saret.

But this time, he will be joined by his wife Toni Saret to prescribe exercise programs to the contestants.

“It’s always an honor to be part of the show because I get to touch a lot of lives, inspire a lot of people, and Biggest Loser’s reach is unmatched, worldwide. I’m doubly honored because I’m teaming up with my wife,” shared coach Jim. Despite this, he admitted to the pressure to make the contestants lose weight and see only the best results, as his and Toni’s names are at stake.

“But we’re so excited, because Toni and I know each other so well and she

knows my standards when it comes to fitness. We will give our 200 percent to contribute to the show’s success,” he said.

Coach Toni, meanwhile, said many Filipinos will be encouraged by “Biggest Loser Doubles” to get fit.

“Our workout routines are everything you would be surprised your body would do. It is something that’s never been done before, even by any foreign versions of the Biggest Loser franchise. That’s what the viewers should watch out for. We’re going to bring fitness to everyone,” coach Toni declared.

On February 3, host Iza Calzado will introduce the 14 pairs of overweight Filipinos who will face difficult challenges and live in a camp where they will undergo rigorous training.

Each pair is expected to do everything it takes to stay in the competition and encourage each other to lose weight —a twist that will also test their relationship as relatives, work colleagues, or friends and will show that in having a partner, the journey to a better life will be lighter.

For updateson the program, follow @ B L P i noyEdition on Twitter and @ biggestloserdoubles on Instagram or like www.facebook. com/abscbn.biggestloserpinoyedition.

THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY 2D

A story of second chances in ‘Wagas’

Ben Stiller GP

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

BRIDE FOR RENT 2D

THIS SATURDAY, GMA News TV’s romantic weekend program Wagas brings to light an inspiring true-tolife love story about second chances.

Commercial model January Isaac became popular as Lumen, a smart, wellloved wife and mother in a detergent soap commercial. But unlike her character in the commercial, January was a victim of marital abuse. Her suffering led her to veer away from love for a time. But fate directed her to a new path.

Trying to heal her heart and start over, January joined an online dating

Kim Chiu, Xian Lim PG 13

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

POLICE STORY 2D Jackie Chan R 13

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

R-16 I, FRANKENSTEIN 2D Aaron Eckhart, Bill Nighy PG 13

website for singles. Little did she know that in this dating site, she will meet the man who will make her fall in love again – Wade Bodovic, an American who was also a victim of domes-

tic abuse just like her.

Portrayed by Venus Raj and Will Devaughn, catch this inspiring love story of January and Wade this Saturday in Wagas, 7pm, on GMA News TV.

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

A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

EVENT

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

Pambato Cargo stages 34th annual management conference PAMBATO CARGO the most trusted and reliable cargo forwarder in the Philippines had their 34th annual management conference last January 13-19, 2014. The conference was held at their head office in Sampaloc, Manila with an awards night at the EDSA-Shangrila Plaza Hotel and an additional the three days of team building was in Puerto Princesa, Palawan with the theme “Together Towards a Better Tomorrow.”

The awards night was attended by the different branch operation managers nationwide with top awards given to Cebu branch as the most outstanding branch, the Butuan branch as the cost effective branch, P a l a w a n branch as the most improved branch and the best operation manager to Davao’s branch manager. Cebu’s and Ozamis’ branch managers were also awarded first runner up and second runner up respectively. The Pambato Hall of Fame awards were given to Business Development Officer, Ms. Rea Agaton and to employees who have rendered more than 20 years of service were also acknowledged.

Recognising the value of their human resource PAMBATO Cargo Forwarder, Inc. will continue to offer a real value to our customers in terms of consistent premium quality service.

For air, land and sea services please contact Davao Branch at 2214114 or visit them at Alejandra Bldg., Villamor St., bo. Obrero, Davao City.

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 15

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014

Celtics snaps road losing streak

W

ASHINGTON (AP) -- Gerald Wallace made a driving layup with 2.5 seconds remaining in overtime and the undermanned Boston Celtics broke a 10-game road losing streak Wednesday night with a 113-111 win over the Washington Wizards, who wilted yet again in their long and laborious quest to get above .500.

Jeff Green scored a season-high 39 points, including career-highs in 3-pointers attempted (8) and made (16), and rookie Phil Pressey added a career-high 20 points for Boston. The Celtics played without Rajon Rando, Avery

Bradley and Jerryd Bayless and blew a 19-point first-half lead before winning for only the second time in 14 games.

John Wall had 28 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists for his second career triple-double for the Wizards, who haven’t won a game to move above .500 since Halloween 2009. They have failed to win this season at 0-0, 9-9, 14-14, 19-19 and 20-20, and the milestone has become such a psychological hurdle that coach Randy Wittman this week had to caution against thoughts that ‘’all of a sudden fairy dust is going to fall on us if we get over .500.’’

Gaisano Grand Cup Parents, sponsors back bares weekend sked KARATE CHAMPS. Jam Ramirez, John Paul Poce, coach Rommel Tan, Gabriel Quinones and Carmela Marie Estarija talk about their exploits in the recent 2nd Adidas International Karate Championships held over the weekend at the Makati Coliseum in Makati City. Lean Daval Jr.

up karatedo champs I

T’S not easy breeding champions.

Davao City’s top performing sports associations have learned to find ways to support training and competition expenses with no clear support in sight from the high-funded city sports office.

One such example are the karatedo bets from the Association for the Advancement of Karatedo (AAK) which recently pocketed three gold medals in an international competition.

AAK Davao manager Rommel Tan expressed thanks to

parents and private sponsors for pooling their resources to send six karatedo bets to the 2nd Adidas International Karate Championships held over the weekend at the Makati Coliseum in Makati City.

Gabriel Quinones, Carmela Marie Estarija and Josh Andrew Worseley won gold medals in the Adidas-sponsored multi-nation event. John Paul Ponce (2) and Jam Ramirez also won silver medals while Jamaica Quiben bagged a bronze.

“We never really relied on the city sports office. We

END OF THE ROAD FOR TEENER BOUCHARD

worked on our own and thankfully, the parents are very supportive. With or without support, we will fight for the city and the country,” said Tan in yesterday’s Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum at Calle Cinco.

“I am proud of the kids.

They fought really hard in a competition that was really tough,” Tan said.

Quinones, a standout from Brokenshire College, won a gold in kumite and a bronze in kata in the cadets 57-kg division. “Mahirap ang laro.

Tinamaan ako ng Indonesian

Li Na enters Aussie finals M

ELBOURNE, Australia (AP) -- Li Na has advanced to her third Australian Open final and will have to beat Dominika Cibulkova to win her first title at Melbourne Park.

No. 4-seeded Li had a 6-2, 6-4 win over 19-year-old Canadian Eugenie Bouchard in the first semifinal Thursday

before No. 20-seeded Cibulkova trounced 2012 Wimbledon finalist Agnieszka Radwanska 6-1, 6-2.

Li, the 2011 French Open champion, was the only major winner and the highest-ranked player in the semifinals after the fourth-round upsets of Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova and de-

fending champion Victoria Azarenka’s quarterfinal loss to Radwanska.

Cibulkova has been the biggest surprise of the tournament, reaching her first Grand Slam final.

The diminutive Slovakian has won all but one of her matches in straight sets - her upset fourth-round win over Maria Sharapova went to three.

game falling one by one - top-seeded Serena Williams, followed by Maria Sharapova and two-time Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka - the door has opened for a first-time winner at Melbourne Park.

Only fourth-seeded Li Na has won a Grand Slam before - the 2011 French

Open.

Fifth-seeded Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland was the 2012 Wimbledon finalist, but had never been beyond the quarters in Melbourne until she chipped, lobbed and sliced Azarenka off the court in a remarkable display of shot-making on Wednesday.

sa finals, nasaktan ako kaya mas naging matapang ako at agresibo,” Quinones said.

Estarija also went up against taller foes including a Fil-Japanese in the finals.

“Lumaban lang kami, malalaki sila pero di kami umatras,” said Estarija.

Ponce, a rookie, said he is proud to represent the country for the first time. “I’m proud of what I have achieved.”

Tan said he hopes the team will get support in their future stints. “We will take it if they support us. It will be a big help,” Tan added.

T

HE 10th Gaisano Grand Cup basketball championships resumes its calendar with a heavy 10-game bill this weekend at the Gaisano South Mall’s Sky Gym. According to tournament director Rico Biliran, the games on Saturday will pit Daniel Aguinaldo National High School against St. Peter College-Toril at 9:30 a.m. followed by Philippine Women’s College against SPPCI at 11:00 a.m. for the Juniors division.

University of the Immaculate Conception takes on DRANHS at 12:30 p.m. while PWC battles Precious International School-Davao at 2:00 p.m. for the Cadets division.

Capping the day’s schedule is the 3:30 p.m. main match between Davao Wisdom Academy and TNHS in the Juniors division.

On Sunday, Thompson Christian School faces Davao Jones Academy at 9:30 a.m. followed by UIC against Brokenshire College at 11:00 a.m. for the Juniors division. Thompson Christian School takes on Holy Cross of Davao College at 12:30 p.m. for the lone Cadets match while Precious International School-Davao battles HCDC at 2:00 p.m. before Davao Christian College winds up the day’s schedule against St. Therese at 3:30 in the Juniors play. [NJB]

With women’s Big 3 out, it’s time for a new champ M

ELBOURNE, Australia (AP) -- Even in a Grand Slam as unpredictable as this year’s Australian Open, the names in the women’s semifinals may still prompt head-scratching among casual followers of tennis.

With the three biggest stars of the women’s

NO ENTRY. TY Tang of Rain Or Shine stops Terrence Romeo of Global Port in their PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals game at the MOA Arena. Nuki Sabio

16 EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 221 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 24-25, 2014