Edge Davao 6 Issue 233

VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES WHO’S TO BLAME? Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte presides over yesterday’s City Council session. The vice mayor has blamed councilor Maria Belen S. Acosta for the controversy surrounding the amendment of the City Land Use Plan (CLUP) removing the additional 10 percent area in subdivision for green spaces. Lean Daval Jr.

PAOLO BLASTS MABEL ON GREEN SPACE ROW

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte yesterday blamed councilor Maria Belen S. Acosta for the controversy surrounding the amendment of the City Land Use Plan (CLUP) removing the additional 10 percent area in the subdivision for green space.

“Nahimo ning issue because of councilor Mabel Acosta. Mao na akong nakit-an na rason maong isyu na even atong second reading aning amendment… Naa sa minutes sa session, there was no request for a deferment during the second reading (This became

an issue because of councilor Mabel Acosta. This is what I have seen because during the second reading of the amendment… the minutes of the session show that there was no request for deferment),” Paolo said in an interview yesterday after a closed door meeting with the councilors.

The closed door meeting was done immediately after a privilege speech by Acosta, during which she had asked Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) president Fr. Joel Tabora, SJ to speak on the matter.

During the interview, Paolo said he had even asked

Acosta and councilors Antoinette Principe and Mary Joselle Villafuerte during the second reading to give their take on the amendment.

He said none of the three made any objection.

Paolo said it was only on the third and final reading that Acosta manifested her objection, saying she wanted the item deferred so she could invite civic groups that were not informed of the amendment.

“Nganong wala man niya na gibuhat atong second reading na gipangutana man nako siya (Why did she not do that during the second reading

when asked her about it)?,” he said.

Paolo said Tabora was also not informed that he had asked Acosta for her take on the amendment.

He said he explained to Tabora that under house rules, an amendment is considered final once it is on third reading.

“Dili na pwede i-debate, dili na pwede i-amend. Diretso na botohan immediately, mao na ang nakabutang sa house rules (There are no more debates, no more amendments.

The only thing left to do is vote on it immediately. That is what

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EDGEDAVAO Sports Go lifts DuCay quintet P14

Rody bares plans for PHL sports P15

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

PAUSE. Sangguniang Panlungsod employees and visitors wait while the regular session was halted as the city councilors are in a closed door meeting led by Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte to discuss the planned amendment to the city’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) that removes the 10-percent green space requirement in housing subdivisions. Lean Daval Jr.

Book on Davao’s untold martial law stories launched

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HEY were in their 20s and 30s then, these church and social development workers of the turbulent 1970s. And they worked in different offices in the wooden, two-storey Susana Building along J.P. Laurel Avenue here that was constantly under surveillance by the Marcos dictatorship. And raided.

Now in their 60s and 70s and still activists in their respective fields, they have finally put into writing that period in history in an anthology, “O Susana! The Untold Stories of Martial Law in Davao,” so that the present and future generations “have an idea how oppressive martial rule was, and to share our reflections on how those times have greatly influenced what we have become.”

“This has taken on a greater importance with the current attempt to deodorize the Marcos dictatorship, as you very well know,” Redemptorist Brother Karl Gaspar said in his invitation letter on the launching of the book. Gaspar was among thousands of political detainees under the Marcos dictatorship.

The book, which also features stories across Mindanao during that period, is edited by historian and Palanca awardee Mac Tiu (also a political detainee under martial law). It will be launched on Friday, February 19 at 3 to 5 p.m. at F213, Finster Building, Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU). The book’s publisher is ADDU’s University Publication Office where Tiu is

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City planning to use LED for street lights

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City government is planning to invite investors to help the city change the sodium lights in the light posts to LED lights.

This was bared by Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte yesterday.

“We will be inviting investors to talk to Davao Light [and Power Company] (DLPC) in changing our street lights

to LED,” Paolo said in an interview.

He said this proposal aims to reduce the monthly electric bill consumption of the city every month.

“Dako kaayog ginabayran ang city every month (The city pays a lot for its monthly electric bill for the posts),” he said.

Paolo said the city pays P2,000 every month for each light post.

“Dapat among mapanaugan kay para at least ang kwarta dili lang mahurot sa atong street lights (We should reduce it so that our money will not just go to paying our light bill),” he said.

Paolo said there is an ongoing negotiation between DLPC and a Brazilian company that will provide the lights.

He said the city will not

spend on the lights because DLPC and the private company will shoulder the expense.

He said once the street lights are changed to LED, the city’s electric bill will decrease in half in a span of eight years.

Paolo said DLPC also proposed to change the light posts into high-tech posts that have rainfall gauges and closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras.

Susan Roces denies sister Rosemarie is Grace’s mother Daily blackouts as TSI enters

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CTRESS Susan Roces finally broke her silence on the persistent rumors that her sister Rosemarie Sonora is the biological mother of the former’s adopted daughter Senator Grace Poe. In a campaign sortie in Poe’s birthplace in Iloilo on Tuesday, Roces denied that Poe is the love child of Rosemarie Sonora and the late former President Ferdinand Marcos.

“On the rumors that she is the daughter of my sister, why should I deny if it is true?” Roces told the media.

“I was with my sister day

and night during that time. I never saw her pregnant. That was 1968, the year I got married. Later she too got married,” Roces said.

“During that time, Rosemarie, my sister, was very busy doing television and she was very visible,” the veteran actress added.

Poe, now 47 years old, was found at the Jaro Church in Iloilo as an infant, but five years later, she was adopted

by Roces and her husband, the later famous movie actor Fernando Poe Jr. The issue of being a foundling has been used by

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10-day maintenance shutdown

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

AVAO Light and Power Company (DLPC) yesterday said it will implement another round of rotating blackouts lasting up to three hours daily due to the 10-day preventive maintenance shutdown of one of Therma South, Inc. (TSI)’s coal-fired power plants.

In a statement, DLPC said it had been able to avoid the implementation of rotating

power interruptions for the past weeks despite the continued Mindanao-wide grid deficiency due to the El Niño and the bombings of transmission lines.

DLPC, however, said TSI yesterday advised that the 150-megawatt (MW) Unit 2 of its coal-fired power plant, with which DLPC has a 50-MW contract, will undergo a 10-day preventive maintenance shut-

down from February 16 until February 26.

In a statement, TSI said the shutdown “was implemented to address problems in the power plant to prevent it from recurring in the future.”

The AboitizPower subsidiary did not give further details but said the second 150-MW unit will remain operational.

DLPC said with the situation, it will only have a total of

275 MW of available power to supply the customers’ average demand of 345 MW in a day.

“The deficiency will now translate to two to three hours duration of rotating power interruptions,” it said.

The company said the exact time when the power interruption will start in a given time frame still can not be determined as the power supply

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

Comelec, GMA 7 allow more local media to cover debate

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IELDING to pressure and criticism, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and GMA 7 network announced Tuesday they will start accrediting members of the local media who wish to cover the presidential debate at the Capitol University here on February 21.

Comelec Misamis Oriental Director Carlito Ravelo said journalists may now get their accreditation forms for the debate at their office on Luna Street, this city.

“Just fill up the form and provide the necessary supporting photos,” Ravelo said.

In an earlier message to the Philippine Press Institute (PPI), the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkasters ng Pilipinas (KBP) said only local journalists accredited by Comelec Manila will be allowed to cover the debate.

The Cagayan de Oro Press Club slammed this arrangement as “discriminatory” to the local media.

GMA 7 network, which organized the debate together with the Philippine Daily Inquirer, also changed its plan on how the local media will be accommodated at the debate venue.

In a letter sent to the Comelec, the network said 25 local journalists—not five— will be allowed to the debate venue as “audience and local press observers.”

But GMA 7 network cautioned local journalists that they will not be allowed to bring “covering equipment” — still and TV cameras, and recorders — inside the venue.

“No Comelec accreditation needed as they are part of the multi-sectoral audience we are fielding; they are local press observers,” the letter said.

As for the other local journalists, the network said they will be given access to the media center located across the venue of the debate.

EPARTING Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) no longer need to worry about bullet-planting schemes in Philippine airports as the government has assured their protection in the form of legal assistance.

This was after ranking government officials on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), which harmonizes the functions of agencies involved in airport security screening of passengers, baggage, and cargoes in the country’s airports.

“Looking back September last year, the transport sector was rocked by controversy,” Office for Transport Security (OTS) Administrator Roland Recomono said, in a press briefing, referring to the rise in the number of bullet-planting cases.

Recomono said that the extortion scams had affected passengers’ confidence in the country’s civil aviation, most

especially security to a certain extent.

“We have addressed this particular issue in order to restore back passengers’ confidence in air transport,” he added. “(From now on) nobody will be subjected to harassment by some security and law enforcement personnel in our airport.”

“The MOU was crafted to ensure that passengers will be safe and convenient in their travels without any compromise in our national security and in the enforcement of existence laws,” Transportation and Communications (DOTC) Secretary Joseph Abaya said.

“We have a few bad eggs (in the transport security)…but hopefully, our efforts pay off.

Hopefully, this MOU will facilitate things,” he added.

He also said that the DOTC was set to transfer airport x-ray screeners from the OTS to the MIAA to have a clearer chain of command and responsibility.

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

WATER HAZARD. Stagnant water near the Indonesian Consulate in Ecoland causes inconvenience to residents, passersby, and motorists passing by the area. Concerned agencies have been asked to look into the matter. Lean Daval Jr.

Duterte, Cayetano mull relocating OFWs assured of protection vs bullet-planting schemes DA, DENR main offices to Mindanao D M F COMELEC, 10

INDANAO, the country’s food basket, is being eyed as the new home of the Department of Agriculture (DA)’s central office.

Addressing a crowd of around 15,000 during a campaign rally here on February 13, PDP Laban vice presidential bet and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano said it is a “bold move” that Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte will do if elected as president.

Mindanao, Cayetano said, has been neglected over the years and should be given its due through Duterte’s plan to decentralize government operations throughout the country.

“This is in recognition of the island’s singular role as the nation’s food basket, and the decades’ worth of official neglect despite this undisputed distinction,” the senator said.

Aside from relocating the DA national office from Quezon City to Mindanao, the

Duterte-Cayetano tandem is also considering transferring the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Department of Energy (DoE) to Mindanao.

Government figures show that Mindanao accounts for at least 34 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product, and 44 percent of the national food trade.

Its coconut industry alone accounts for 64 percent of the country’s total production.

Based on government reports as of May 2013, Mindanao is also a key driver of the minerals industry, with 20 of the 38 operating metallic mines of the country representing 53 percent of the number of mineral projects nationwide.

The island also accounts for 80 percent of the national total deposits of copper, nickel, and gold.

Welcome development

Fermin Adriano, a Mindanao policy adviser of former President Fidel V. Ramos, said the move to transfer the DA central office to Mindanao will be a welcome development.

“The relocation of the DA is fine because Mindanao agriculture represents 38 percent of the Philippine agricultural output,” Adriano said.

He, however, the departments of energy and the environment and natural resources “are far (more) needed in Luzon because of growing environmental and energy problems.”

Mindanaoan energy exec He said it may be more prudent to “appoint a Secretary or an undersecretary from Mindanao for the energy and environment portfolios.”

Marriz Agbon, founding chair of the Mindanao Business Council, also expressed reservation about moving the DOE to Mindanao, saying, “the

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DA-12 to conduct more cloud seeding operations

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OPPOSITION. Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) president Fr. Jeol Tabora, SJ, takes to the floor of yesterday’s regular City Council session to air his opposition to the planned amendment to the city’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) which removes the 10-percent green space requirement in housing subdivisions. Lean Daval Jr.

reality is 70 percent of the Philippine power market is in Luzon.”

“We’re talking here of industries and other large power-consuming businesses,” said Agbon, who is formerly national focal person of the DA-DAR-DENR-DILG National Convergence Initiative for Sustainable Rural Development and a former member of the National Renewable Energy Board.

On a national level, Agbon believes eliminating the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) will have tremendous impact on the Philippine power industry.

The Creation of WESM was part of a reform package under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001.

“In the Mindanao case, it will do well for government to pursue a distributed energy policy environment wherein distribution utilities are en-

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) in Region 12 is planning to launch at least 30 more cloud seeding sorties in a bid to further ease the impact of the continuing dry spell in the region.

Zaldy Boloron, DA-12’s regional technical director for operations, said Tuesday they completed the initial phase of the cloud seeding operations last Saturday after conducting 33 sorties in nearly 50 flying hours.

He said the cloud seeding is temporarily on hold after the aircraft that they commissioned was sent back to Cebu City for mandatory maintenance servicing.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines requires all aircraft to be subjected to maintenance checks after logging 50 flying hours, he said.

“We will immediately resume after the maintenance servicing to complete the remaining flying hours and sorties,” he said in a radio interview.

Boloron said that based on their work and financial plan, a total of 75 flying hours or equivalent to about 60 sorties was set for the cloud seeding operations.

He said they earlier set an initial 45 flying hours for the activity but the regional office decided to augment it with an additional 30 flying hours.

DA-12 has allotted around PHP6 million for the cloud seeding, which costs PHP45,000 to PHP50,000 per sortie.

Cloud seeding is the process of manually spreading either dry ice or salt into the upper part of the clouds to help stimulate the precipitation process and form rain.

The DA central office identified cloud seeding as among the immediate counter measures to mitigate the impact of the worsening dry spell triggered by the prevailing El Niño, which was predicted to last until June.

Citing their monitoring,

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4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

New industrial estate breaks ground T

HE groundbreaking and time capsule placement ceremony was held at the site of ANFLO Industrial Estate (AIE) located in Barangay San Pedro and Barangay San Vicente situated next to the Davao International Container Terminal (DICT).

AIE is a 63-hectare designed to be a self sustaining eco-zone that will accommodate agro-industrial and light manufacturing companies.

The estate will offer land and ready built factory buildings/warehouses for sale and lease in various sizes to

suit locators’ needs. This is duly licensed by Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and proclaimed as a Special Economic Zone by the office of the President.

PEZA Director General Lilia de Lima emphasized the advantage of this estate to the city and its people,

particularly employment and industrial opportunities.

“This will become a privilege to D and E classes of this Society” she said.

She also congratulated the Floriendo’s, the owner of ANFLO Group, for initiating the project. AIE is also part of ANFLO Group.

its valued partners and volunteers in simple awarding ceremonies at Apo View Hotel in the afternoon of Tuesday.

“As early as now, let me express my warmest congratulations to our honorees who have been unselfishly helping us deliver best our mandate,” Jabagat said.

DSWD awardees during the celebration are Gov. Arturo T. Uy, Carmelito Q. Francisco, DXRD Sonshine Radio, Pedro B. San Jose, Kriztja Marae G. Labrador, Francis L. Bayer, Holcim Philippines, Pantawid Parent Leader Lolita A.

Tano, EMAR Human and Environmental College, Ateneo De Davao High School, Lao Integrated Farms, LGU Mati City, Silver SEA-K Association of Laak, LGU Monkayo and LGU Davao City.

A total of 29 local government units received the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance.

National awardees as Best Public Servant -DSWD Team Leader of Davao Oriental Gemma Dolor Dela Cruz, Best Functioning Municipal Action Team -Sta. Maria of Davao Occidental, and implementer of Best Convergence

Initiative -DSWD Davao City District 2 Action Team, will also be awarded during this regional celebration.

DSWD employees who have served the department from 10 up to 40 years were also recognized, including former Region XI Director Priscilla N. Razon and Assistant Director Ma. Vilia L. Vigil, who both have rendered public service in the last 40 years.

Keynote speaker at the anniversary program was Undersecretary of DSWD Vilma B. Cabrera. (DSWD/ Carmela C. Duron)

DSWD turns 65, honors partners “A

S we mark our 65th Founding Anniversary on February 16, we are happy to recognize our partners and volunteers who have immensely contributed in the implementation of our various programs and projects here in Region XI,” announced regional director of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Mercedita P. Jabagat.

With the national theme DSWD @65: Mga Kuwentong Tagumpay Tungo sa Masaganang Pagbabago, the regional office here honored

NO CLOSURE. A waste picker scours the sanitary landfill in sitio Zayas, Barangay Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City on Monday. The landfill is still operating despite an order from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) due to political bickering among local officials. MindaNews photo by Froilan Gallardo

In an interview, Panabo City Mayor James G. Gamao said the local government is eager to support the estate through infrastructure.

He said a concrete road project is being planned from Barangay San Vicente connecting to the Coastal Road.

When the estate becomes

operational, there will be more government projects which will provide benefits for Panaboans.

Gamao and Vice Mayor Janrey Gavina took part in the event together with the Floirendos and key executives of the ANFLO Group.

Renel Balsabas-CIO Panabo

17 South Cot schools get solar power kits

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EVENTEEN public elementary schools in South Cotabato have received solar power packages from a Germany-based engineering solutions and energy company.

The 34 units of solar power kits were formally turned over Monday to the recipient-schools by officials of NV Vogt Philippines Solar Energy One Inc., which operates a 5-megawatt (MW) solar in Surallah town in South Cotabato.

NV Vogt is being backed as venture partner by ib vogt GmbH, which is based in Berlin, Germany.

Reynaldo Casas, NV Vogt project president, said the provision of the solar power kits is part of the company’s corporate social responsibility program.

He said they decided to provide the kits to the 17 elementary schools based on a recommendation from the Department of Education (DepEd) in South Cotabato.

“The recipients are all schools that have no electricity,” he said during the turnover ceremony held at the provincial capitol in Koronadal City.

The recipient-schools received two units each of solar photovoltaic home lighting kits (PV/HLS), which is composed of 2 light-emitting diode or LED lamps, an HLS, a power adaptor, a mobile charging cord set, and a 10-watts PV panel with stand.

The packages were received by the principals and school heads of the recipient

public schools from the municipalities of Lake Sebu, Tboli and Surallah.

These are the Bulol Lahak Elementary School (ES) of Barangay Klubi, T’boyong ES of Lamfugon and Lembuto Primary School of Lamlahak in Lake Sebu; Lubol Integrated School and Kiantay ES of Upper Sepaka in Surallah.

In T’boli, the recipients are Basag ES of Salacafe; Demamis ES, Dangking ES and Salabanog ES of Laconon; Kebuling ES of Basag; Talambong ES and Motokling ES of Mongocayo; and, Balnabo ES, Datal Tablo ES, Datal Colon ES, and Bengue ES of Maan.

Mario Madrero, DepEdSouth Cotabato assistant superintendent, said there are at least 41 schools in the province, mostly in the primary and elementary levels, that do not have access to electricity.

With the provision of the 34 solar power kits, the official said the number has gone down to 24 so far.

“This is really a big help to our schools and we hope that this program will expand later on,” he said.

NV Vogt eight-hectare solar farm and power plant facilities in Barangay Centrala in Surallah started its operations early this year.

The facility is currently augmenting the power needs of the South Cotabato I Electric Cooperative, which serves parts of South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.

South Cotabato Governor Daisy Avance-Fuentes earlier endorsed a 10-year tax holiday for NV Vogt. (PNA)

5 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

Photo from www.gov.ph

Phl exports to EU increase by 27% T

RADE and Industry Secretary Adrian Cristobal Jr. lauded stakeholders on their efforts to fully utilize the European Union Generalized System of Preferences Plus (EU-GSP+), resulting in a 27 percent increase in exports to the EU. “The country’s beneficiary status under the EU-GSP+ is a result of what was a fruitful collaboration among government, the private and labor sectors, and industries. We urge local businesses to con-

tinue expanding their market presence and establish a stronger foothold in the EU market,” Cristobal said in a statement.

Under the EU-GSP+, the Philippines can now export 6,274 eligible products duty-free to the EU market. Prior to December 2014, the Philippines was covered by the regular EU-GSP, which provides zero duty to only 2,442 products. The Philippines was granted beneficiary country status under the EU-GSP+ in December 2014.

Monitoring report from the European Commission The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said during the first six months of 2015, total exports to EU under the GSP+ amounted to €743 million while total exports in the previous year under the GSP amounted to €584 million, according to the first EU-GSP+ monitoring report endorsed by the European Commission (EC).

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6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

1.5M households enrolled in 4Ps‘taken out of poverty’

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ROUND 1.5 million of the 4.4 million household beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pampamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) across the country have been taken out of poverty, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said Monday.

Speaking during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City, DSWD-11 regional director Mercedita P. Jabagat said they will release between March and April the number for the Davao Region.

She said the region has finished the Listahan Household Assessment but other regions have yet to submit their own assessments causing the delay in the release of the report.

She said the regions that failed to submit reports were those hit by disasters like the Eastern Visayas which was hit by super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) on Nov. 8, 2013.

The 4Ps or conditional cash transfer program is an anti-poverty alleviation mea-

sure that seeks to eradicate “extreme poverty and hunger, achieve universal primary education, promote gender equality, reduce child mortality, and improve maternal health.”

The individuals assessed under Listahan Household Assessment are the recipients of the DSWD programs created under Executive Order 867, which provides “for the the adoption of the National Household Targeting System for poverty reduction as the mechanism for identifying poor households who shall be recipients of the social protection programs nationwide.”

Among these programs are the 4Ps, Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services, and Sustainable Livelihood Program.

In Davao Region, DSWD11 assessed and encoded 835,831 households, surpassing its target of 793,770 households. (Antonio L. Colina IV/ MindaNews)

N economist of ING Bank Manila remains positive on structural inflows to the Philippines amidst the slower growth of remittances.

Growth of remittances slowed in 2015 and monetary officials attributed this to foreign banks’ more stringent rules against money laundering.

As of end-November 2015, cash remittances has grown 3.6 percent year-on-year to US$22.83 billion.

Total personal remittances, with include in-kind remittances, rose 3.4 percent year-on-year to US$25.2 billion during the same period.

These were lower than the 5.9 percent growth of cash remittances and 6.3 percent for personal remittances in end-No-

vember 2014.

The central bank is scheduled to report the full-year 2015 remittance report on Feb. 19, 2016.

Some sectors said the sustained drop in oil prices may be a factor in the growth deceleration of remittances but ING Bank Manila senior economist Joey Cuyegkeng, in a research note, said “ascertaining the overall impact of the oil price plunge on OFW (Overseas Filipino Workers) deployment and employment conditions is difficult.”

“Deployment so far has been favorable while some rely on resiliency of OFWs in the face of challenges which has been proven during the Arab Spring,” he said, citing his flat growth projection for remittances this 2016. (PNA)

Outsourcing revenues support inflows to Phl A

Obama kicks off talks with ASEAN leaders

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S President Barack Obama on Monday opened a meeting with leaders of Southeast Asian countries, looking to deepen what he called a “strong and enduring partnership.”

The two-day gathering, the first of its kind on US soil, will focus on economic and security issues.

Speaking at the opening session, Obama said he looked to build on the momentum of US engagement with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The two sides forged a strategic partnership aimed at deepening economic and security ties in Kuala Lumpur in November last year.

On Monday, the meeting focuses on economic issues, including discussion of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a multilateral free trade pact signed earlier this month in New Zealand.

Four ASEAN countries are in the 12-member trade bloc, namely Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam. Other ASEAN members are Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines and Thailand.

ASEAN countries are collectively the United States’ fourth-largest trading partner.

Trade in goods expanded 5 percent in 2015 and now tops USD 226 billion, according to the White House.

On Tuesday, the two sides will hold a session on political and security issues, including terrorism, climate change, pandemics and maritime disputes.

Amid concerns that the United States might attempt to corral ASEAN countries into a united front against China, many observers have stressed that ASEAN has its own foreign policy principles and Washington should refrain from using the meeting against China. (PNA/Xinhua)

GOING DOWN. A motorcyclist looks at the prices of petroleum products at a gasoline pumping station along R. Magsaysay Avenue yesterday. Oil companies implemented another rollback on the prices of petroleum products yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Sun Life: Mutual funds are safer investments

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HILE it is susceptible to the ups and downs of the economy, investing in mutual funds is safer than “too-good-to-be-true” investment scams.

In a press conference yesterday, Ma. Charina M. Fuentes, head of strategic development and training of Sun Life Assets Management Company, Inc. (SLAMCI), said lack of financial literacy makes many Filipinos easy prey to organizers of investment scams.

Fuentes said investing in mutual funds and educating oneself on financial management will protect people from scams.

“Education is the best tool not to be susceptible to scams and a start towards a journey of a financial freedom,” she added.

SLAMCI president Valerie Pama, meanwhile, reminded the public to look for reputable firms before investing, especially scams are becoming more visible to the public due to the social media.

“Investors should do their research whether the investment company and its products is registered by the Securities and Exchange Com-

mission (SEC),” Pama said.

To elevate financial literacy and promote investing habit, SLAMCI launched the “Sun Life Prosperity Card” yesterday.

“We have revolutionized mutual fund investing. The Sun Life Prosperity Card is the first of its kind in the market which will make investing in mutual funds “accessible, convenient, tangible, and shareable,” Fuentes said.

The Sun Life Prosperity Card is only available locally and can be purchased from Sun Life financial advisor, Sun Life Financial Store, or online at sunlifeprosperity.com.ph. thant can be paid through Peso Pay. Fuentes said the prosperity card can be used as a gift card with a fixed value of P5, 000 which will allow recipients to open an account and start investing in any peso-denominated mutual funds managed by SLAMCI. “Compared to any other tangible gift, this (Sun Life Prosperity Card) is something that appreciates and grows in value over time,” Fuentes said.

She said the card is a good investment for young profes-

sionals who have high disposable income and are targeting to attain financial freedom as they get old.

SLAMCI is offering six mutual fund products in the market, namely the money market fund, bond fund, government securities fund, balance fund, equity fund, and the index fund.

“Recipients can choose any of the six depending on their personal preference and investment risk profile,” Fuentes said.

She said aggressive investors can either play between equity fund and the index fund while safe players can resort to money market fund which is the “most stable but with little return.”

Investors in both index and equity funds invest in the local stock market and reflect the performance of the economy.

She said while it is susceptible to the ups and downs of the economy, investing in index and equity fund has a bigger chance of growing than investments in money market fund, especially if it is for the long-term.

Fuentes said in 2014, the

mutual fund industry had total assets under management (AUM) of P228 billion, contributing 1.8 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.

Fuentes also said the growth of investment in mutual funds is faster than time deposit in banks, which earns less than 1.5 percent interest.

Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. chief investment officer Michale Gerard D. Enriquez said it is time to invest in mutual funds as the Philippine economy is projected to bounce back by the second semester of the year as consumption increases due to the election and investment on public infrastructure projects of the private sector through the public-private partnership.

“The Philippine stock market will grow and become more stable by the second quarter after it closed at -10 in December and -3 as of today (February 16),” he said.

He said the slowing down of the Chinese economy, economic problems in Europe, and fears of increasing interest rates have pulled down the stock market.

“We’re targeting the facility to be set up in MTE’s office along Quirino Avenue in Davao City before the end of the first semester,” Ambi told reporters during the consultative meeting of DTI 11 and civil society organizations yesterday at Park Inn by Radisson-Davao.

She said the facility will be nearer industry stakeholders if it is located in the heart of the city. The original plan was to house it in the University of the Philippines-Mindanao.

Ambi said the laboratory will house a 3-D printer and a

small milling machine for the production of design prototypes. The procurement of the equipment was completed last December.

“We’re just waiting for the equipment to arrive,” Ambi said.

Asked if DTI 11 plans to add additional machineries, Ambi said DTI has to look for another source of funding.

The MTE will charge service fees from MSMEs that will use the facility. The income from the operation will be used to sustain maintenance of the equipment, Ambi said.

“This will at least complete the support we extend for the industry’s value chain starting from product development up to marketing support,” she said.

Ambi said there is an increasing demand in the global market for GWH products that are ecologically and environmentally friendly.

She also said that while DTI 11 has not yet conducted a formal study on the industry, it has huge potential both in the domestic and international markets because of shifting trends. CHENEEN R. CAPON

DTI eyes mini-fab lab in Davao City T

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 11 is eying the establishment of a P1.7-million mini fabrication (mini-fab) laboratory in a bid to improve the product designs of small players in the gifts, wearables, and home styles (GWH) sector in Davao Region.

DTI 11 regional director Maria Belenda Q. Ambi said the department has partnered with the Mindanao Trade Expo Foundation (MTE) which will manage and maintain the Shared Service Facility (SSF).

7 AGRITRENDS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

The days of balimbing are here!

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

I

N Philippine politics, a person who is a turncoat or has many faces is called “balimbing.” The term originated from the stunning fruit whose shape has five angles or points. If you slice the fruit, however, a cross-section looks like a star, which is why is sometimes called the star fruit.

In English-speaking countries like the United States, it is called carambola. In India (where it is native), the fruit is calledkamranga or kamrakh.

The Chinese are said to call the fruit yongl’o or foreign patch.

In Vietnam, it is called khe, khe ta, or similar terms; in Kampuchea, spu; in Laos, nak fuang; in Thailand, ma fueang. Scientifically, it is called Averrhoa carambola.

“The Chinese and the Hindus eat the carambola when green as a vegetable, when ripe as a dessert,” writes Wilson Popenoe, author of Manual of Tropical and Subtropical Fruits. The author puts balimbing under “miscellaneous fruits” along with durian, santol, and tamarind.

However, it is best to consume balimbing when ripe. An unripe fruit will appear green, while a ripe balimbing will display colors of bright yellow with a light shade of green. It will also have brown ridges at the five edges and feel firm. An overripe fruit will be yellow with brown spots. The fruit is entirely edible, including the slightly waxy skin. It is sweet without being overwhelming and extremely juicy. The taste is difficult to compare, but some scribes has likened it to “a mix of papaya, orange, and grapefruit altogether.”

The description of W.F. Safford is more apt: “(The fruit) contains a clear watery pulp: astringent when green and tasting like sorrel or green gooseberries, but pleasantly

acid when ripe, or even sweet, with an agreeable fruity flavor, and a strong perfume like that of the quince.”

Balimbing fruit is extremely nutritious and contains approximately 36 calories per 100 grams. “The fruit, when fully ripe, are eaten out of hand, or they may be stewed,” Popenoe writes.

“When slightly unripe, they are used for jelly and pickles.”

It is also used as garnish on avocado or seafood.

There are more uses.

Balimbing can also be cooked in puddings, tarts, and curries.

The Chinese cook balimbing with fish. Thais boil the sliced green fruit with shrimp. In Queensland, Australia, the sweeter type is cooked green as a vegetable.

Cross-sections of balimbing may be covered with honey, allowed to stand overnight, and then cooked briefly and, put into sterilized jars. Some cooks add raisins to give the product more character. A relish may be made of chopped unripe fruits combined with horseradish, celery, vinegar, seasonings and spices.

In the United States, balimbing has diverse uses.

Because if its attractive appearance, many Americans like to use the fruit as a decorative piece in their home or, as an edible adornment to buffet and luncheon platters.

The juice squeezed from the fruits is served as a cooling beverage. In Hawaii, the juice of sour fruits is mixed with gelatin, sugar, lemon juice and boiling water to make sherbet.

In the Philippines, people often use the juice as a seasoning.

The juice is bottled in India.

To make jelly, it is necessary to use unripe “sweet” types or ripe sour types and to add commercial pectin or some other fruit rich in pectin such as green papaya, together

“close-grained, medium-hard.”

Research conducted by Morton showed the wood has been utilized for construction and furniture. That’s another good source of income for farmers who will go into balimbing plantation.

Like other fruits, balimbing is also a medicinal plant.

Among older people and in rural areas, crushed shoots or leaves are used externally for headaches and ringworm.

Boiled flowers are used to expel worms. The dried fruit or juice is used for fevers. In India, the ripe fruit is used to stop hemorrhages.

Health experts consider balimbing as one of the “superfruits” as it is rich in antioxidants, vitamins B and C, potassium, and iron. It is low in sugar, sodium and calcium.

In addition, balimbing is a po-

with lemon or lime juice.

Julia F. Morton, author of Fruits of Warm Climates, reported that the flowers are added to salad in Java, Indonesia while in India, they are made into preserves.

As balimbing contains potassium oxalate, the unripe fruit is used in dyeing and to

remove iron-rust. In southern China, balimbings are preserved in tin and exported to other countries. In the Philippines, the acid-type balimbing is occasionally used for cleaning and polishing metals.

The wood of balimbing is white, becoming reddish with age. It is often described as

tent source of both primary and secondary polyphenolic antioxidants.

Studies done in the United States showed that fresh mature green fruit of balimbing has a total acid content of 12.51 milligrams per gram while the mature yellow fruit has a total acid content of 13

milligrams per gram.

Balimbing is touted to be a potent inhibitor. Some studies show that the consumption of balimbing fruit or its juice in combination with certain medications can significantly increase their effective dosage within the body.

But there are also health risks when eating balimbing.

Like grapefruit, balimbing contains oxalic acid, which can be harmful to people suffering from kidney failure. Studies have shown that those who eat balimbing with kidney failure can experience hiccups, vomiting, nausea, and mental confusion. In some instances, death may also result.

Balimbing should not be eaten by patients taking kidney dialysis treatment as well.

As they say, forewarned is forearmed.

Balimbing is a tropical and subtropical fruit. In India, it grows in up to 4,000 feet in elevation. It prefers a total exposition to the sun, but requires enough humidity and a total of 70 inches or more of rainfall a year. It does not have a preference in grounds but it requires a good drainage.

The balimbings are planted at least 20 feet from each other. For good production, they must be fertilized three times a year. They grow fast and produce fruits 4-5 years after planting, although some varieties bear fruits even before that.

Balimbing trees are longlived and they bear fruits almost throughout the year. Father J.S. Tavares, who studied Brazilian fruits, wrote of the tree: “During the entire year, it loads itself with successive crops of flowers and fruits, except for a short period when it is devoid of foliage.”

The priest may also be writing about the situation in the Philippines.

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

EDITORIAL Of migraine, shoes, and jets

T

HE presidential campaign has been on the road for just six days and yet some sparks have started to make it exciting.

First, there was Mayor Rodrigo Duterte hogging the headlines for his health issues after being admitted to hospital after complaining of migraine. Duterte, who does not usually attract a lot of airtime from a leading network in his sorties, this time picked up more airtime just because he had migraine and other illnesses which the network swept in one report. Two other illnesses Duterte had, according to the news report, were reported to have been associated with smoking and drinking. These all make up for negative impact on the tough-talking presidential bet from Davao City.

Next came Grace Poe’s son whose controversial post on Instagram of his expensive footwear caused ripples on social media.

Brian Poe bragged about his Nike Mag 10 shoes which, according to those familiar with sneakers, easily sell for hundreds of thousands of pesos. The limited edition pair of Nikes only had 1,500 pairs manufactured and sold only online.

Senator Poe denied it costs that much, saying it was bought for only P10,000 which is the average cost of a basketball sneaker these days. But the Nike Mag 10s are no ordinary sneakers. They

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are what are called intelli-shoes. Their shoelaces are self-tightening and adjust as they are worn. If Senator Poe comes to the rescue of her son for the ostentatious display of wealth, it is but a mother’s instinct. The photo has since been deleted.

But the latest to cause some rumblings is administration bet Mar Roxas’ reported use of eight jets costing P2.3 billion and owned by a businessman who owns a controversial mining concession in Agusan del Sur. Roxas allegedly had been using the airplanes even before the campaign period began. The mining firm, according to a report, has benefitted from tax incentives as “small-scale,” although it owns a fleet of equipment not falling under that category. It has also been ordered closed for overextraction but still remains in business.

Roxas has denied he was using the jets from the mining firm as his benefactor, saying he paid for the use of the aircraft with his own money. Whether that explanation by Roxas is taken as truth by the electorate remains to be seen. The expenses, if ever, should be reflected on Roxas’ electoral expenditures.

The circumstances surrounding the mining firm and Roxas point to something more than a lease. Unless, of course, people are too naive or just plain stupid to buy his explanation.

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

9

Foods that lower hypertension

P

OOR diet, lack of exercise, strenuous weight training, even innocuous-sounding activities such as public speaking can make your blood pressure leap. But when your blood pressure goes up and stays up, there’s cause for concern.

“Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases the risk of problems such as stroke, aneurysm, heart failure, heart attack, and kidney damage,” points out The Merck Manual of Medical Information.

In medical parlance, high blood pressure is called hypertension. “Hypertension per se does not kill, but the complications are the ones that disable and kill a person with hypertension,” says Dr. Rafael Castillo, a cardiologist at the Manila Doctors’ Hospital.

Majority of Filipinos with hypertension have no symptoms and many don’t even realize they have high blood pressure. “Practically nine out of 10 hypertensive patients have uncontrolled blood pressure which make them good candidates to develop heart attacks and strokes, or literally drop dead before they could realize what was wrong with them,” said Dr. Esperanza Cabral, former secretary of health.

The good news is that many Filipinos with high blood pressure can do something about it without drugs. If you’re among them, your doctor has no doubt mentioned the importance of regular exercise, avoiding smoking, managing stress and changing your diet, and to put limits on alcohol, salt, and fat.

But there are foods that can take your blood pressure down a notch or two. Frank Mangano, author of Blood Pressure Miracle, has identified at least five foods that can do the trick. However, only three are common in the Philippines: banana, cocoa, and garlic. The other two are the artichokes and beets.

In The Healthy Food Directory, author Mi-

W

VANTAGE POINTS

chael Van Straten THINK ON THESE! ranks banana near the top because the fruit helps alleviate 14 medical conditions. “The banana is nature’s wonder fruit and the perfect fast food,” hailed Dr. Willie T. Ong in his Henrylito D. Tacio book, How to Live henrytacio@gmail.com Longer.

According to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, incorporating bananas in one’s day-to-day meals can actually cut stroke-related deaths by as much as 40 percent.

A 1997 study at Johns Hopkins University recommended eating at least five bananas daily to achieve the desired effect, and that is to lower elevated blood pressure levels. However, a study conducted by Indian researchers at the Kasturba medical college revealed that people who eat two bananas a day, for one whole week, can lower their blood pressure levels by 10 percent.

“Bananas are rich in potassium, which is responsible for the proper functioning of the heart. It works with sodium to maintain balance of the body’s fluids, which is an important factor in the regulation of blood pressure,” Mangano writes.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Bananas are grown in 132 countries worldwide, more than any other fruit crop. India leads in global banana production, representing approximately 23 percent of the worldwide

crop but most are consumed domestically. In Asia, banana is also grown in the Philippines, Indonesia,China, Thailand, and Malaysia, among others.

Cacao – from which cocoa is derive from – was first cultivated by the Mayas around the 7th century A.D. They carried the seed north from the tropical Amazon forests to what is now Mexico. In the 16th century, the Spanish planted cacao across South America, into Central America, and onto the Caribbean Islands. In the 17th century, the Dutch transported the cacao to other places around the globe like Java, Sumatra, Sri Lanka,New Guinea, and the Philippines.

A study conducted by researchers from Germany’s University Hospital of Cologne revealed that cocoa – which comes from cacao – can significantly lower high blood pressure levels.

Study results were published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. “The beneficial heart effects of cocoa are attributed to its flavonoid content, specifically procyanids,” Mangano informs.

Because cocoa is most commonly found in chocolate, people falsely assume that eating a lot of chocolate could be good for the health.

“Keep in mind that cocoa in chocolates have undergone a lot of processing, and it has been mixed with loads of sugar, so this is not totally healthy,” Mangano writes. “The best way to take advantage of the health benefits offered by cocoa is to choose raw cacao – it is good for the heart, the brain and the liver. Raw cacao nibs go great in smoothies!”

Studies have shown that cacao contains 0.5% to 2.7% theobromine, 0.25% caffeine, and other methylxanthine alkaloids. Cocoa contains the antioxidant catechin. Theobromine has weaker stimulant effects than caffeine but is a more potent diuretic, cardiovascular stimulant, and coronary dilator.

From the earliest times, garlic has been

used as a food. It formed part of the diet of the Israelites in Egypt (Numbers 11:5). It was consumed by the ancient Greek and Roman soldiers, sailors and rural classes.

When Dr. Benjamin Lau of Loma Linda University in California gave people with moderately high blood cholesterol one gram a day of the liquid garlic extract (about one teaspoon), their cholesterol levels fell an average of 44 points in six months. In 1993, the Journal of the Royal College of Physicians reviewed data on cholesterol and found that after just four weeks there was a 12 per cent reduction in cholesterol levels in the research groups that had taken garlic.

Recently, researchers from South Australia’s University of Adelaide have conducted studies, which provide solid proof that the consumption of garlic can indeed help lower elevated blood pressure levels.

Garlic supplements in powder form were given and results revealed that it produced a reduction in systolic blood pressure. “Garlic has been known all over the world as a very important herb, especially with its heart-protecting capabilities,” Mangano writes.

The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences journal has published the results of a laboratory test showing how garlic juice can lead to a decrease in blood pressure levels. “Although not as potent as prescription drugs, two or three cloves of garlic can help reduce cholesterol levels and can make the blood less sticky,” writes Dr. Ong. Hypertension is here to stay. And Filipinos should consider it a crucial health risk. “Hypertension is truly a serious problem that requires more serious attention,” points out Dr. Cabral.

“It’s no longer acceptable that just any doctor can treat any patient with hypertension. Many cases of hypertension are more complicated than they seem.”

against MY MILLENNIAL MIND same-sex relationships: that it is unnatural.

It’s against what our body parts were created to do, Vanessa Kate Madrazo which is, he implies, to reproduce. He likens animal relationships to human relationships. He concludes that if humans can’t identify who to mate with based on their biology, then they are worse than animals. Based on that statement, he implies that human beings are supposed to be higher in the hierarchy because animals are inferior to humans—that’s the only way to make sense of his insult to the LGBT. I’m glad that he brought up the ascendan-

cy of humans to animals. He’s entirely right on that aspect, I’ll give him that, because unlike animals, human beings are capable of transcending our animal instincts. We’re more than our bodily functions. We are more than our need to procreate. We are not defined by what our biology is. We are thinking and feeling beings who are able to transcend these limitations and create meaning out of the things that are supposedly meaningless.

Love is a human concept that’s not just driven by the need to survive. The concept of self-sacrifice is inconsistent with our animal instincts to preserve our self-interest. Respect for dignity, not just of human beings but even of animals and of the planet, is a human construct. The right to life, the right to marry — these are things that humans just made up.

And just to appeal to religious conservatives out there, belief in a God entirely transcends whatever our biology is. Both believers and non-believers seem to exist just fine in this

world.

The point is that many things that human beings do are unnatural. We use our hands not just to hunt for food but also to paint and write, to hug a friend who is in pain, to wipe the tears of our loved ones. We use our feet not just to run from danger but also to run and play, or kneel to pray, or stand in front of an altar in marriage. The idea that same-sex couples should not be allowed to marry, or to declare their love, or to be intimate just because it’s unnatural is false, outdated, and inhumane. If we follow that logic, basically 90 percent of human activities should be banned, too.

Love is unnatural. Art is unnatural. Friendship is unnatural. And that’s perfectly OK. Humanity was never just natural.

So if Pacquiao is so adamant in believing that the purpose of intimate acts of love is to merely fit the purpose of our body parts just like what animals do, doesn’t that make him less than human?

On Pacquiao, animals, and humans

ORLD boxing icon and two-term Saranggani congressman Manny Pacquiao described same-sex couples as “mas masahol pa sa hayop (worse than animals)” in a video interview with Bilang Pilipino that has provoked angry sentiments from netizens online. Pacauiao said even animals know that mating was exclusive to couples of opposite sexes, and if that’s the case, he concludes that same-sex partners who are humans are worse than them.

Unfortunately, his views only represent that part in the Philippine society that not only opposes the legal recognition of LGBT rights but only sees the LGBT community as a group of people who do not deserve human dignity.

He represents a huge danger not only to homosexual couples but also to that dignity especially because he aspires to have a position in the Senate. I can’t allow this idea to go unchallenged, so let’s deconstruct his assumption.

He uses the most prominent argument

10 NEWS PAOLO... FROM 1

our house rules say),” he said.

“You cannot defer an item which is already in third and final reading just to entertain some parties to express their opinion,” he added.

Responding to statements by environment groups that they were not informed of the amendment, Paolo said the item was posted in the notice board in the Sangguniang Panlungsod and was also published in local newspapers.

He said the item had been in his office since May last year and was passed on first reading in August.

Prior to the interview with Paolo, Acosta made a privilege speech in yesterday’s regular session in which she asked if Tabora could speak in the plenary regarding the opposition to the amendment.

Councilor Diosdado Mahipus objected, saying the item had already been approved.

Councilor Karlo Bello agreed, saying the City Council would be placed in a bad light if Tabora would be allowed to speak because the amendment had already been approved.

Councilor Bonifacio Militar, however, said Tabora should be allowed since it was the privilege right of Acosta to invite someone to speak.

Paolo allowed Tabora to speak, and the latter expressed his opposition on the removal of the 10 percent green space from housing subdivisions.

After Tabora’s speech,

the Vice Mayor asked for a 30-minute recess and called the councilors to a closed door meeting.

Emerging from the meeting, Paolo told reporters he asked the councilors why environment groups are opposing the amendment when theCouncil was just redefining the existing 30 percent open space.

“If you are going to read the amendment, we defined it clearly that the 10 percent of the 30 percent should be allocated for green space,” he said.

He also said if the groups want to express their opposition, they should talk to Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte because the ordinance is already in the latter’s hands.

Paolo said he also reminded Acosta in the meeting to stop “fueling” the environmentalists’ opposition because it gives the Council a bad image.

“Mura man siyag dili konsehal, pila katuig na siyang konshel. She should have known better,” he said.

“Nganong pinturahan man mig itom tapos isa ka tao lang ang puti (Why should we be painted black while she is the only one painted white)?” he added.

After the interview with Paolo, reporters tried to get the side of Acosta who was still in the Councilor’s Lounge, but she was not available.

EDGE Davao also tried to call Acosta but her phone was out of reach.

couraged to develop/solicit power projects in accordance with their respective projections at local economic development,” he said.

offices of the DA and DENR to Mindanao makes sense in that it focuses government’s priorities on the production base for both agriculture and agroforestry. Market linkage infrastructure is a concrete need in bringing the volumes of Mindanao produce cost-effectively and quality-wise to the Visayas, Metro Manila and China markets,” he added.

Duterte... FROM 3 Makes sense Agbon, however, agreed that bringing the other key departments to the South would be beneficial.

“Relocating the central

Comelec... FROM 3

“There are 100 electrical connections that will be made available. All radio orgs wanting a feed will be given a simultaneous feed,” the network said.

GMA 7 listed the news organizations that would be allowed one reporter each to the venue.

These are: Business Week of Cagayan de Oro; Sunstar Cagayan de Oro; Super Balita Cagayan de Oro; Gold Star Daily; Mindanao Times of Davao City; Sunstar Davao; Super Balita of Davao City; Davao Catholic Herald; Mindanao Daily Mindanao Daily Mirror and

Edge newspaper.

Thirteen slots will be given to the Cagayan de Oro Press Club and two slots from two major blogging groups in Cagayan de Oro Ravelo said this is the arrangement that was relayed to them by the network, adding they could not do anything since the debate is an event of GMA7 and Philippine Daily Inquirer.

COPC secretary Herbie Gomez said he is concerned that the arrangement is lopsided in favor of journalists from the print sector. (Froilan Gallardo/MindaNews)

in smart phones.

“It established a doctor-patient relationship between DAF-ARMM and farmers organizations,” he said.

He said the research center is reproducing four palay varieties that could withstand both extreme dry and wet seasons.

The varieties that had

worked from the 15 experimented types of seed in the area are varieties 226, 238, 158 and 302.

“DAF-ARMM aims to make farmers harvest 1,000 tons per hectare using climate change resilient varieties,” Mangindra said. (Ferdinandh Cabrera/ MindaNews)

Villagers... FROM 13

EDGEDAVAO

Daily... FROM 2

allocation varies every hour.

The number of feeders as well to be interrupted depends on the supply deficit on a certain hour in a day, it added.

DLPC said it will still continue to optimize supply contracts with the following other generating plants: Therma Marine Inc. for 30 MW, the Unit 1 of TSI coal-fired power plant for 50 MW, Hedcor Sibulan for 38 MW, Hedcor Talomo for 3 MW and the Western Mindanao Power Corporation for 15 MW. It said the Bajada Power Plant will continue to run and the Interruptible Load Program will still be activated to help mitigate the impact of the very tight power supply situation.

Under the ILP, companies

with stand-by generation capacities will be compensated if they use their own generating facilities during instances of power supply deficit.

“Davao Light emphasizes that due to no reserve of power supply in Mindanao, any major plant that will undergo shutdown will have an effect on the supply situation in all distribution utilities, including Davao Light,” it said.

It also said the rotating power interruption is being implemented “to prevent total shutdown of the Mindanao-grid, which happens when the demand for power exceeds with what is being supplied.”

The company said it will continue to give its customers daily updates on any change in the power supply situation.

Poe’s detractors to file petitions to disqualify her as presidential candidate in the May elections. Poe is still waiting for SC’s decision. ”I just don’t understand why they have been saying that my daughter is not a Filipino. How she landed here (in Iloilo)?,” Roces said.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) ruled in favor of the petitioners who also claimed that Poe has not met the 10-year residency requirement, prompting her

camp to elevate the disqualification case to the Supreme Court (SC).

Poe returned to Iloilo on Tuesday for the third campaign rally of the Partido Galing at Puso (PGP) to be held in front of the Jaro church where she was abandoned 47 years ago.

“It’s symbolic because that is where I was found,” said Poe, a leading presidential candidate based on the Pulse Asia survey. (PNA) Jelly F. Musico

The DTI said in the three quarters of 2015 alone, the electronics industry’s exports to the EU increased by €42.7 million, exports of aircraft and spacecraft parts grew by €6.9 million, exports of optical, photo, and medical equipment pegged an increase of €9.6 million while exports of animal/ vegetable fats and oil rose to €7.3 million compared to exports during the same period in 2014.

Since its acceptance in the preferential tariff scheme, DTI has been conducting stakeholder consultations and information sessions around the country to enable local firms to acquire technical knowledge on rules of origin and knowledge on export product standards under the EU-GSP+.

This includes more than 180 information sessions of “Doing Business with the European Union using the GSP+” in the major export cities of the Philippines such as Cebu, Davao, General Santos City, and Angeles City.

ments under the EU-GSP+. The Philippines beneficiary status under the GSP+ necessitates the ratification and implementation of the 27 international treaties and conventions on human rights, labor rights, environment, and governance.

“While we are making headway on our commitments under the GSP+, we will continue to build competitiveness locally while encouraging foreign companies to invest or consider investing in the Philippines,” Rodolfo said.

Susan... FROM 2

Phl... FROM 5

EU-GSP+ an essential achievement of the Philippines Trade Undersecretary Dr. Ceferino Rodolfo said being a beneficiary of the EUGSP+ program is an essential achievement of the Philippines’ strategy to sustain and nurture the country’s trade and investment relations with Europe.

According to the European Union’s monitoring report, the Philippines has been making good progress on the implementation of its commit-

Working with the labor department The DTI has been working with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on tripartite consultations with labor unions in the tuna industry to improve workers’ rights and working conditions to meet the stringent requirements of the EU. Both government agencies are also working on a Certification and Decertification Workers’ Rights Review Board for garments exporters that would facilitate the accreditation of manufacturers before they avail of preferential tariffs.

The EU is ranked as the Philippines’ 4th largest trading partner, 3rd largest import source, and 4th largest export market. Major exports of the Philippines under the EU GSP scheme include crude coconut oil, canned tuna, pneumatic tires, spectacle lenses, relays, preserved fruits, board and similar cabinets for electric control or the distribution of electricity, and ballasts for discharge lamps.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

Book... FROM 2

the Director.

In his letter, Gaspar recalled that “more than 30 of us writers who were part of this network of human rights activists” during martial law held office in the Susana Building along JP Laurel Avenue, among them the Mindanao-Sulu Pastoral Conference Secretariat where Gaspar served as Executive Secretary, the Mindanao-Sulu Secretariat of Social Action, the Philippine Business for Social progress, the Foundation of the Banana Planters, Inc., the Mindanao-Sulu Conference for Justice and Development, the Citizens’ Council for Justice and Peace and the Alternate Forum for Research in Mindanao.

He said the building was “constantly under the surveillance of the agents of Marcos’ authoritarian rule and in fact there were a few raids that took place” there.

When the Marcos dictatorship was toppled by the People Power revolt on February 25, 1986, most of the Susana Building’s occupants “remained actively engaged in various social and ecological advocacies.”

They continued to “interact given our sustained com-

mitment to justice, peace and the integrity of creation” and attend reunions and would often talk about this dream book project.

The decision to make that dream book a reality finally came during a reunion two years ago.

Thirty-four essays are featured in the book. Aside from Gaspar, the other authors Lilian Abella, Marilen Abesamis, Elvira Ang Sinco, Joey Ayala (his songs from that period), Lourdes Badelles, Amelita “Melot” Balisalisa, Leon Bolcan, Alberto Cacayan, Agnes Miclat-Cacayan, Joaquin Cadorna, Marilou B. Caharian, Orlando Carvajal, Avelina Baliong-Engen, Antonio Ll. Ferrer, Dorothy Friesen, Jeanette Birondo-Goddard, Remedios Arquiza-Guillena, Jehovenn Honculada, Rebecca Jolito, Daz Lamparas, Herminio Lavina, Cesar Ledesma, Flora S. Leocadio, Fr. Tom Marti, MM, Earl Martin, Teresa Naraval, Iluminada Ramoso, Leila Noel-Rispens, Wilfredo “Nonoy” Rodriguez, Jacquelyn Schramm, Gene Stolfus, Ma. Lourdes Tiangco and Florante Villas.

The book costs P450 but launch price is P350. Carolyn O. Arguillas

Boloron said the cloud seeding sorties since Jan. 23 has resulted to occasional rains in parts of Region 12 and the neighboring areas.

“There were noted heavy rains in the mountainous areas and light rains in southern lowland areas,” he said.

He said among the areas that

experienced rains as a result of the cloud seeding were the municipalities of Palimbang, Columbio and Senator Ninoy Aquino in Sultan Kudarat; Magpet, Arakan, Makilala and Antipas in North Cotabato; Kiamba and Malungon in Sarangani; Tampakan in South Cotabato; and, the cities of Koronadal and General Santos. (PNA)

they choose, lucky subscribers can get a chance to win a trip for two to Japan or Hong Kong to experience an adventure inspired by the lifestyles of iconic heroes Batman and Superman.

The Batman experience gives the winner an exciting driving experience through the streets of Tokyo with a professional guide, and a luxurious seven-course meal at the Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest tower that offers a stunning 360-degree view of the city. On the other hand, the Superman experience takes the winner to an adrenaline-pumping jetpack flight, as well as an exhilarating Superman-style Sky Jump from the Macau Tower.

Batman v Superman Hub at the Smart Jump Store Subscribers can also head to the Smart Jump Center in Megamall and enjoy interactive games. As part of the part-

nership, Smart will also launch exclusive Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice-themed premium items and limited edition Smart Prepaid Call and Text Cards.

Smart’s team-up with Warner Bros. Pictures follows a string of groundbreaking partnerships which the telco made with world-leading digital content and services providers such as Fox, iflix, Uber and Airbnb, which reinforce its Smart Life campaign of empowering Filipinos with meaningful mobile innovations so they can enjoy entertainment, convenience and peace-ofmind on the go.

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice will be released worldwide in 2D, 3D, and select IMAX cinemas beginning March 25, 2016, from Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

of the month.

LPG-MA has been batting for greater competition in the cooking gas market, and for increased consumer protection against potential unfair trade and pricing abuses.

The group has been pushing for the passage of a bill that seeks to rigorously regulate the LPG sector in order to encourage freer competition, ensure adequate supplies at all times,

and promote the safe consumption of good-quality cooking fuel.

Congress is expected to ratify in late May the proposed Act Establishing the Regulatory Framework for the Safe Operations of the LPG Industry, Delineating the Powers and Functions of Various Government Agencies, Defining and Penalizing Certain Acts, and for Other Purposes.

DA-12... FROM 3

Smart... FROM 11

Petron... FROM 11

11 COMPETITIVE EDGE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

Petron cited for clearer LPG product base price

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CERTIFIED GUEST SERVICE PROFESSIONALS. Seda Abreeza further enhances its standard and quality service as it produces a new batch of Certified Guest Service Professional Training (CGSP) graduates on February 11, 2016. Seda BGC’s Assistant Director of Human Resources Manny San Luis, CGSP and Seda Abreeza Hotel Manager Ken Kapulong, CGSP graced the pinning ceremony and graduation. Being the highest salutation of awarding-winning guest service for hotel associates in the hospitality industry, the Certified Guest Service Professional designation offers recognition for individuals who know how to complete and express extraordinary service by engaging with their guests and creating unforgettable experiences. This is under the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) and Asia World Hospitality (AWH).

Innove to provide budget, treasury mgt system to gov’t I

NNOVE Communications, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Globe Telecom, recently entered into a partnership agreement with the government to provide a Budget and Treasury Management System (BTMS) to effectively execute and monitor annual budgets in a manner that is more transparent to the public.

The project, worth P495 million, involves the implementation and operation of a fiscal management solution which will be used by the Department of Budget and Management, as well as Bureau of Treasury and Commission on Audit. This system will eventually be rolled out to the rest of the government agencies and operating units. The new system will improve the timely execution of budgets to the agencies and provide timely information on the actual utilization of funds.

“As the leading provider of ICT solutions, Globe and its units are fully committed to nation-building by helping the government raise its ICT ca-

pabilities to enhance delivery of public services for the benefit of the country as a whole,” said Innove President & CEO Gil Genio.

Once in place, the new budget and treasury management system will be the main source of information on government budgets, appropriations, allocations, releases, obligations, expenditure and performance reporting. The solution will also provide online, updated and ready access to allocations, liabilities, payments, receipts and account balances and will generate reports to suit specific needs of agency users. The system will also improve accuracy of cash flow projections, planned versus current expenditure, revenue and debts, thus minimizing borrowing costs and improving fiscal forecasting.

The solution will enable application of common controls and standards across spending agencies for recording, processing and releasing of payments to suppliers, employees, and other payees.

To implement the project,

Innove entered into a joint venture partnership with FreeBalance, a Canadian provider of software solutions for public financial management.

The joint venture between Innove and FreeBalance will be providing a solution based upon Version 7 of FreeBalance Accountability Suite, a trusted and proven integrated suite of software modules designed specifically for government financial management. The web-based FreeBalance Accountability Suite will leverage a robust hardware and networking infrastructure, while maintaining a significantly reduced footprint when compared to client-server applications. The overall solution is designed as a highly flexible service oriented architecture system, scalable, and low-risk option for the government.

As the solution is mostly configuration based, the risks of project over-run due to customization is greatly minimized, allowing the government and the joint venture of Innove and FreeBalance to focus on process re-engi-

neering, change management and capacity building. Innove will assume the role of lead partner providing the hardware platform and the local support services and as overall solution integrator while FreeBalance will provide the solution software and related services. “FreeBalance works directly with governments to accelerate the reform process with sustainable technology.

We fundamentally believe that good governance provides improved development outcomes and enhances citizen services,” said FreeBalance President & CEO Manuel Pietra.

FreeBalance helps governments around the world leverage technology to accelerate country growth. The FreeBalance Accountability Suite has been successfully deployed in 22 countries around the world, including government organizations in Canada, United States, Uganda, Afghanistan, Mongolia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Sri Lanka, Nicaragua, Timor Leste and Kosovo.

IL giant Petron Corp.’s acceptance of the international contract price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as the well-defined pricing index for the company’s cooking fuel products has been welcomed by the LPG Marketers’ Association (LPG-MA).

“Petron’s adoption of the international contract price of LPG as benchmark gives more meaning to pricing transparency,” LPG-MA Rep. Arnel Ty, a senior member of the House energy committee, said.

“The other players in the market have long been using the international contract price of LPG as their exact base price,” Ty said.

With two branded cooking fuel products in the market — Gasul and Fiesta Gas — Petron is the dominant player in the nation’s LPG market, with 42.2-percent share.

The other market participants are Liquigaz Philippines Corp., with 26.1 percent share; Isla LPG Corp., 14.3 percent;

Petronas Energy Philippines Inc., 9.0 percent; Pryce Gases Inc., 4.3 percent; and Total (Philippines) Corp., 3.6 percent, according to the Department of Energy (DOE).

The rest of the LPG market is being supplied by smaller players, including independent refillers who obtain their stock directly from importers.

The international contract price of LPG, also known as the Saudi Aramco contract price, is considered the universal standard and set once a month. It determines the base price importers of LPG will pay to bring the gas into their own country.

The last time Petron slashed the suggested retail price for Gasul and Fiesta Gas, the firm pointed to the drop in the February international contract price of LPG as the basis for the downward adjustment.

Petron declared a P3.40-per-kilogram rollback in LPG prices, or a cut of P37.40 per 11-kg cylinder, at the start

F PETRON, 10

NEW COLLECTION CENTER. Davao City Water District opened a bigger collection center at the second floor of Felcris Centrale on February 11 to accommodate more customers, Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Board of Directors Chairperson Eduardo A. Bangayan and Director Abdul M. Dataya, assisted by Dir. Ma. Luisa L. Jacinto cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the new collection center. Fr. Richard C. Ong officiated the ceremony and also blessed DCWD officers and tellers.

Smart expands video, digital arsenal in partnership with Warner Bros.

B

(From Left): Ariel P. Fermin, Executive Vice President and Consumer Business Head at PLDT and Smart; Chaye Cabal-Revilla, Smart Chief Financial Officer; Sionee Lagman, Warner Bros. Pictures Marketing Director; Kathy C. Carag, Smart Masterbrand Department Head; Francis Soliven, Warner Bros. Pictures General Manager and Ramon R. Isberto, PLDT and Smart Public Affairs Head

OLSTERING its thrust in providing Filipinos with the widest breadth of video and digital content via its full-packed mobile data offers, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has partnered with Warner Bros. Pictures to offer awesome digital and real-life experiences inspired by the epic adventure Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, the most anticipated film of the year.

As part of the partnership, Smart takes the lead in taking the Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice beyond the film into the digital realm at the fingertips of subscribers through exciting mobile content, such as videos and in-

teractive online challenges on its dedicated portal at http:// www.smart.com.ph/batmanvsuperman.

Smart is also giving subscribers a chance to live like heroes in all-expense-paid trips to Japan and Hong Kong, as well as win premium items and special movie passes for every registration to Big Bytes 50, Smart’s biggest mobile Internet offer yet.

Super-sized video experience with Big Bytes 50 “We are thrilled to partner with Warner Bros. Pictures as the official mobile partner on Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice in the Philippines, which further widens our

lead and effectively boosts our already extensive digital arsenal that is now coupled with larger-than-life perks and super-sized treats, which our subscribers can get a chance to experience every time they subscribe to our data offers,” said Ariel P. Fermin, Executive Vice President and Consumer Business Head at PLDT and Smart.

Now boosted to give all subscribers the best mobile video experience on top of other digital content, the new Big Bytes 50 comes with 350MB for surfing and access to top social media apps and games, plus 600MB of videos and music from YouTube, Vimeo, Skype Qik, Daily Motion,

Spinnr and iflix – all valid for three days for just P50. Smart subscribers can register to Big Bytes 50 by simply dialing *121# – the all-access portal for all Smart promos.

Text TEAMBATMAN or TEAMSUPERMAN to 238 For every top-up of Big Bytes promos (50, 99, 299, or 799), Smart Prepaid, Smart Postpaid and Smart Bro subscribers can start earning and accumulating e-raffle entries.

They will be notified via SMS to choose their side – either TEAMBATMAN or TEAMSUPERMAN – and send this to 238.

Whichever experience

F SMART, 10

12 CLASSIFIEDS

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EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT Serving a seamless society

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Advertise with

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Tel No. 082.221.3601/224.1413 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com marketing@edgedavao.net

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EDGEDAVAO WOMEN

The epitome of a

TRUE TAGUMEÑA

By Olan Fernandez Emboscado

ON THE EVENING OF NOVEMBER 19, 2015, the City of Tagum crowned their newest ambassadress of goodwill. For some, it was just a night of glitz and glamour, but for the stunningly beautiful Jane Irish Mae Duque, the reigning Mutya ng Tagum City who bested other nine candidates, that night was a realization of her longtime dream.

Like most of the girls, joining beauty pageants was not new to this 21-year-old lass. Although she has joined and won other beauty pageants in the past, it was her dream to join Mutya ng Tagum City.

Before her mom passed away, it was also her wish to see her on the pageant stage of Mutya ng Tagum.

And the universe conspired for her that night.

Jane Irish Mae captured the hearts of the audience and the judges with the striking beauty and intelligence she exuded throughout the competi-

tion.

Winning the crown was something that God has blessed her with. She believes that not every girl is given the opportunity to become the Mutya ng Tagum. Thus, she vowed to do her best to fulfill the tasks given to her and savor every moment while she’s still in the reign.

As the city’s ambassadress of goodwill, this new Mutya ng Tagum who represented Barangay Mankilam during the pageant will help City Government in extending programs and projects in the community.

What is “Mutya ng Tagum” to you?

Jane Irish Mae: Mutya ng Tagum is the epitome of a true Tagumeña beauty – a woman of excellence, competence, and intelligence. But the crown and

the title is not just about glamour and beauty. It is also about character and attitude. Mutya ng Tagum possesses the heart that can help, influence, inspire, and touch the lives of others.

What inspired you to join Mutya ng Tagum aside from representing your Barangay?

Aside from representing our Barangay Magugpo North, it was my dream to become a beauty

queen and show the world that I have the aptitude to become one. It is a way for me to prove that despite of my imperfections I can represent the city to the

TAGUMEÑA A4

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EVENT

Aeon Towers usher in Chinese New Year with an Open House

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO AEON TOWERS ushered in the Year of the Fire Monkey with a Chinese New Year-inspired Open House last February 8 at the Aeon Towers Showroom.

The special event was attended by clients, prospects, sales agents, real estate brokers, and the company’s marketing team.

FTC Group of Companies president and CEO Ian Cruz personally led the celebration which had all the trimmings of ancient Chinese tradition complete with dragon dance performances.

“It’s a great way to usher in the lunar year. We wish everyone prosperity and good luck this year of the Fire Monkey,” said Cruz.

The showroom was adorned by predominant-

ly red colors with Chinese lanterns for good luck.

“This event is extra special because it falls on the Lunar year which is widely celebrated by the Chinese community of Davao,” said Cruz.

Aeon Towers is a 33-level state-of-the-art high-rise development of te FTC Group of Companies, its initial venture into the real estate business. Its expected turnover is December 2016.

Meantime, construction of the Aeon Towers is now on the sixth level with concrete pouring almost completed.

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EDGEDAVAO

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Green Windows

By ATHENA JILLIAN BRAVO THE CHINESE NEW YEAR is one of the foreign-inspired celebrations Filipinos have learned to embrace. Thus, it is not surprising that this year’s celebration marking the start of the Chinese Lunar Year has been declared as an official public holiday.

Green Windows Dormitel, one of the establishments in Davao City whose owners are members of the huge local Filipino-Chinese community, was one of the many business entities which ushered in the Year of the Fire Monkey with the traditional Chinese celebration.

The downtown boutique hotel located at the FTC Towers along Mt. Apo Street showcased lion dances courtesy of the Davao Lion Dance Association and offered its guests with the traditional tikoy.

“It’s our way of ushering the New Year in the tradition of ancient Chinese. We wish everyone good luck and prosperity in the year of the fire monkey,” said MJ Escudero, Green Windows marketing manager.

Green Windows is operated by FTC Group of Companies. It has 59 rooms ranging from Executive, De Luxe and Standard and 29 dormtype rooms offering only P188 per night.

February 17, 2016

JOY/ *HOW TO BE SINGLE Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, Robert De Niro/ *Dakota Johnson, Alison Brie, Leslie Mann

PG/*R16

12:00 | 2:30 | 5:00 LFS / *7:40 | 10:00 LFS

DEADPOOL Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin R16

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THE CHOICE/ *THE FOREST Teresa Palmer, Benjamin Walker/ *Natalie Dormer, Eoin Macken PG/*R13

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ZOOTOPIA Jason Bateman, Ginnifer Goodwin, Alan Tudyk PG

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

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

PEOPLE TAGUMEÑA A1

The road to become Mutya ng Tagum was not easy for me. After being crowned as the new Ambassadress of Goodwill, I’ve become a better person.

best of my knowledge and ability.

What were the preparations you made before joining the pageant?

I came so prepared – physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. I slept well and ate only nutritious food. I worked hard during the competition but prepared for whatever result will come out. Beauty pageants are competitions but I made sure to make friends with fellow candidates. I read books and made myself aware of the currents events to be relevant.

And above all, I just left to God my fate on that beautiful night.

In the end, those preparations made me win the title and brought me to where I am now.

What have you become after being crowned as the Mutya ng Tagum 2015?

The road to become Mutya ng Tagum was not easy for me.

After being crowned as the new Ambassadress of Goodwill, I’ve become a better person. I gained new friends. I learned so many things from this experience. I believe all the learnings I gained will shape me to become a well-rounded person and this will open the door of many opportunities in the future.

Do you have planned or linedup activities as part of your responsibility being the Mutya

must take a look at ourselves and make a change.

ng Tagum 2015?

Education was the theme during the Mutya ng Tagum 2015. My project proposal during the competition was called Project I.R.I.S.H (Institutionalization of Real Innovation through Systematic and Highly Appreciated Instruction) where we intend to donate a laptop and a projector to a Day Care Center in Brgy. Bincungan. I still want to pursue this kind of projects during my reign.

As the reigning Mutya ng Tagum, how can you promote

Tagum City as a tourism destination in Davao Region?

First and foremost, being a good example to every person is the best way to show the true nature of a Tagumeño. As an Ambassadress of Goodwill I will do my very best to become the epitome of good deeds. I will be a catalyst of change. I strongly believe that change comes first from us. I can promote Tagum as a colorful city with unique events and colorful festivals in Davao Region. There are beautiful natural and man-made tourist spots in the city worthy

to be visited. And of course, our people. Tagumeños are recognized to be friendly, hospitable, and happy people. Tourists visiting our city can call it their home away from home.

What is your message to the people of City of Tagum and to those reading this article?

Tagum Tagumpay can be achieved if we can show that there is unity in the midst of diversity. We must always remember that if we want to make Tagum City a better, peaceful and progressive city, then we

Irish Jane Mae finished her college education at the University of Mindanao – Tagum College with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. She is currently working at Pacific Oil Farmers, Inc. in Davao City as part of the Accounting Staff.

The annual search for the Mutya ng Tagum City is organized by the City Government of Tagum through the Tagum City Tourism Council in partnership with Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. It aims not only to showcase the candidates’ beauty but also their commitment to take part in community-building.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 13

FOR IMMEDIATE HIRING A leading distributor of Irrigation System, Agricultural Machinery, Generator and Heavy Equipment immediately needs sales personnel to complement its staff, with the following qualifications: 1. Licensed Agricultural Engineers or Licensed Mechanical Engineers; 2. Male or female, 24-35 years old; 3. Background knowledge or sales experience in agricultural machinery, irrigation system, generators or heavy equipment is an advantage; 4. Must be willing to travel within the island of Mindanao.

Interested applicants should submit application letter, bio-data and transcript of records to:

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RESISTANT. Halid Daud, a farmer in Barangay Bugawas, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, shows off a droughtresistant rice variety developed by the Agriculture department to help farmers cope with the effects of drought.

MindaNews photo by Ferdinandh Cabrera

Villagers benefit from rice variety that can withstand drought, flood

A

DROUGHTand flood-resistant rice variety developed by three agricultural institutions has helped farmers in a village here cope with the effects of the El Nino phenomenon that has hit other parts of the province.

The rice variety was developed by the Integrated Agricultural Research Center and Department of Agriculture and Fisheries of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, and Philippine Rice Institute,

Saudi Mangindra, IARC research coordinator said Friday.

He said farmers planted it in 175 hectares in Barangay Bugawas here cushioning the impact of the dry spell that has dried up rice fields and grasslands in the village.

“Our harvest production even tripled as compared to previous cropping while other farmers have, unfortunately, suffered,” Halid Daud, a farmer leader in Bugawas said in an interview Friday.

He said it was the first time

that they enjoyed such good harvest amid a dry spell.

He said local farmers are no longer worried regardless of whether they experience drought or flood because of the new variety.

Daud said an hectare of the new rice variety yielded 65 to 70 sacks of palay per box area.

Their previous harvest was only 25 to 30 sacks.

Mangindra said DAFARMM assisted farmers using modern technology and apps

F VILLAGERS, 10

14 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

Go lifts DuCay quintet C

HRISTOPHER “Bong” Go played marvelously and the Team Duterte-Cayetano edged PNP 88 – 87 in their basketball friendly game at the Goldstar Gym on Sunday.

Showing his competitive itch, Go took charge in the pay off period of the epic contest to propel the Team Duterte-Cayetano to victory over the hard-fighting

PNP squad.

Go, the trusted executive aide of presidential contender Rodrigo Duterte, nailed a crucial three pointer in the winding seconds to put the game away from the PNP. Vice presidential candidate Alan Peter Cayetano made 21 as Joel Aberilla scored 16 to provide adequate scoring support for Go who finished the game with 33 baskets.

Daniel Pumecha put up a remarkable performance coming through with 20 points to lead the charge for the PNP’s losing cause.

Donald Concepcion scored 15 points while RandolfArbutante had 11 for the PNP. Go played as the driving force early on top of his timely shots, facilitating his teammates that set the tone for the Team DuterteCayetano offense.

The balanced attack kept the PNP at bay.

PNP showed its force behind the attacking of Pumecha and shooting of Concepcion at the start of the final period that pave the way for the down the wire finish.

Team Duterte-Cayetano bounced back with the big win after losing to Team ACQ, 103 – 94, on Saturday at the Jose Maria College Gym.

Roach confident Pacquiao will KO Bradley H

ALL-OF-FAME boxing trainer Freddie Roach is confident that Manny Pacquiao will end his boxing career with a dominant victory over American Timothy Bradley Jr. on April 9 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

The “Pacman” will fight for the last time against Bradley, whom he has fought

Christopher “Bong” Go’s crucial three pointer in the winding seconds lifts Team Duterte-Cayetano edged in their basketball friendly game at the Goldstar Gym on Sunday. Lean Daval Jr.

Davao Rugby Festival set Feb. 27

T

HE first leg of this year’s Davao Get Into Rugby Festival will be held on February 27 at the Ateneo de Davao University Matina campus.

Seven teams will see action in the Boys Under 14 while five squads are entered in the Girls Under 14 division.

Seeing action in the Boys Under 14 are the Don Juan dela Cruz Central Elementary School, MatinaAplaya ES, SOS Children’s Village Davao, Sta. Clara ES, Piedad Central ES, Foundation of BalayPasilungan and Sirawan Beach EC of Toril.

Also taking part in the Girls Under 14 are SOS Children’s Village, Don Juan dela Cruz ES, Piedad Central, Sta. Clara ES and Sirawan Beach.

“We’re really very excited since more than 100 boys and girls will be playing now,” said Rose Mae Lanticse, Senior Rugby Development Officer of the Philippine Rugby Football Union at the SCOOP Session of The Royal Mandaya Hotel last Tuesday.

Also present at the weekly public service sports program sponsored by TRMH, Genesis

88 and Beefit Gym and Aerobics was PRFU Development Officer Blessie Kate delos Santos.

“The U14 tournament format is a single round robin with the top two teams to vie for the Cup Division championships, while the 3rd and 4th place teams for the Plate Division championship,” said delos Santos.

Medals courtesy of the Mindanao Rugby Football Development Inc. will be awarded to the top four teams.

The festival is set for bestof-three championships in the Minis Rugby U10s Cup and the Youth Rugby 7s Cup divisions.

The Foundation of BalayPasilungan and SOS Children’s Village will battle it out in the Minis Rugby U10s Cup Division while the Durian Puyat (1st District selection) and Durian Arancillo (2nd District selection) will collide in Youth Rugby 7s Cup. The festival is also supported by the Pot Bellied Pigs RFC Hong Kong, World Rugby, DHL, Department of Education Davao City Division, Philippine Sports Commission and SCOOP Davao.

twice before. Pacquiao controversially lost to Bradley in 2012, but got his revenge in their 2014 rematch when he won a wide decision.

He chose to face Bradley again in his farewell fight, and the Filipino boxer’s trainer believes the “Pacman” will go out a winner.

“I think Manny will

knock him out,” Roach told Jenna J of On the Ropes Boxing.

Pacquiao has not registered a knockout win since 2009, when he stopped Miguel Cotto in the 12th round of their showdown. Yet that has not stopped Roach from predicting a KO win, especially as he holds little regard

for Bradley’s new trainer, Teddy Atlas.

“Teddy Atlas will ruin Timothy Bradley with his stories, because his stories have nothing to do with boxing,” Roach said of the trainer, who previously worked as a boxing commentator for ESPN. “There’s no instruction

of how to get better,” Roach added. “All they heard in his last fight (against Brandon Rios) was that he was not scared of fire and that he trains in the heat.”

Roach is clearly not a fan of Atlas’ impassioned speeches in between rounds, saying it was not at all helpful to the fighter.

It’s TIME to CHANGE THE GAME.

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016

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Rody bares plans for PHL sports P

Presidential candidate and Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte. Lean Daval Jr.

Fil-Aussie Day moves to second in world golf rankings

J

Jason Day lines up his putt on the second hole during the final round of the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am at Pebble Beach Golf Links. Photo by Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports/Reuters

ASON Day has edged back ahead of Rory McIlroy to take second place in the world rankings, courtesy of a tie for 11th place in the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am. McIlroy moved up to second ahead of the Australian at the start of the month, but after kicking off his season with two tournaments in the Gulf, the Irishman was inactive last week.

Still atop the rankings is young

American Jordan Spieth, who is almost two points clear of Day and he looks likely to stay there until the first of the year’s majors, the Masters, at the start of April.

The only other change to the top 10 sees South African Branden Grace, who won in Qatar at the end of January, ease ahead of US veteran Jim Furyk for 10th place.

Australia’s Adam Scott is ranked in 19th position.

Brazil court freezes Neymar assets in tax evasion probe

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RAZILIAN authorities have blocked assets of Barcelona star Neymar, including a yacht, a jet and several properties worth almost $50 million.

A Sao Paulo federal court rejected an appeal from the Brazilian striker last week and started issuing warrants to freeze the assets worth 192 million reals (almost $50 million), Brazilian media reported on Monday.

Last year, Neymar, his family and related businesses were found guilty of evading 63 million reals in taxes (almost $16 million) between 2011 and 2013 when he was playing for Brazilian club Santos. He has denied any wrongdoing.

The 23-year-old Neymar used the jet to travel to Brazil for World Cup qualifying matches and holidays.

Iagaro Jung Martins, an auditor with Brazil’s federal tax agency, told The Associated Press that Neymar isn’t likely to go to jail if he pays what regulators say he owes.

“He can still appeal that decision, but it is a step forward,” Mar-

tins told the AP. “Nothing changed to what was in place last year: if he pays what he owes, the case is closed. Our legislation isn’t too harsh.”

The assets seizure is the latest in a streak of bad news for the Brazilian star off the pitch.

On Feb. 2 Neymar and his father were questioned for three hours in a Madrid court about the player’s transfer to Barcelona. The case was brought by Grupo Sonda, which invested in Neymar early in his career and was allegedly entitled to 40 percent of the total transfer amount.

Barcelona maintains the deal cost the club 57.1 million euros (then $74 million). Santos officially received a payment of 17.1 million euros ($18.5 million), with the remaining 40 million euros ($55.5 million) going to a company owned by Neymar’s father, Neymar Santos. But investigations in Spain later showed that Barcelona spent nearly 83.3 million euros ($90 million) to acquire Neymar.

Former and current Barce-

lona presidents and representatives of Santos were also questioned. The Brazilian club also claims to have been hurt by the transfers.

All parties denied any wrongdoing.

An auditor with Brazil’s federal tax agency says Neymar isn’t likely to go to jail if he pays what he owes.

RESIDENTIAL candidate Rodrigo Duterte believes that creating a Department of Sports can address all of the ills plaguing a sector which he said is an important part of nation building.

The Davao City mayor revealed he’s fully aware and completely dismayed with the sad state of sports in the Philippines, which has gone from being a top contender in Southeast Asia into one of the whipping boys of the region.

“Walang masyadong focusing eh. Napapag-iwanan na tayo,” the outspoken Duterte told Spin.ph, adding he is fully aware of the values that sports teaches the citizenry.

“Sports is something that will build the muscle of the nation. Sports [instills] discipline. It’s part of growing a paradigm for young women or real men,” added the lawyer-politician.

If elected president, Duterte said he plans to create a body that can solely focus

on all sports concerns and with more teeth and finances than the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), an agency under the Office of the President.

“I-se-separate ko ‘yan. Parang dati na Department of Education, Culture and Sports, pero I am inclined to create another authority. I want sports and sports only sa opisina na yun,” he said.

However, Duterte admitted such a plan will have to take a backseat in his first six months of office which he plans to spend addressing bigger concerns like hunger, poverty, criminality, illegal drugs and unemployment.

“Sabi ko nga, I want to focus muna on infrastructure and sa tao. Like I told you, allow me to focus my first six months in disciplining our country. Six months, after nun, I will tell you wala nang kriminalidad, wala nang drug addict then we will focus on other aspects of nation-building,” he said. Spin.ph

Baldwin lays down stricter rules on ‘excused absences’from Gilas practices

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ILAS Pilipinas coach Tab Baldwin is growing frustrated over the continued lack of players taking part in national practice with the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in July nearing.

Only 13 players, including two observers in June Mar Fajardo and Marcio Lassiter, showed up for the national team’s first training session this year - and its first after a two-month break - on Monday night at the Moro Lorenzo Sports Center inside the Ateneo campus.

“But what has that (getting frustrated) accomplished?” Baldwin asked after practice. “I’ve got to work with the guys in here and we got to do the best that we can.”

“But they’re all supposed to be here,” the American-Kiwi mentor was quick to add. “It’s been consistent: absences and lack of participation in practices.

And a lot of it are sometimes for good reasons – reasons that we have approved. But that didn’t help me do my job.

“I want to do my job as well as I can for Gilas, for the country, for the fans, for my boss,” he continued. “And I need the compliance of the players to do that.”

While the absent players, including Jayson Castro, Calvin Abueva, Greg Slaughter, and Paul Lee, were all excused, Baldwin is letting them know their spots in the team for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament are not

secure.

“All I can do is: give them a hard message that those on the court that work are going to be the guys that I select.

That’s the way it is,” Baldwin said.

Still, the national coach believes Gilas, despite returning to practice just on Monday, are hardly behind schedule – in comparison to group-mates France and New Zealand, among others.

However, that edge in preparation is being watered down by the continued lack of players in the Monday-only practices, Baldwin rued.

“We might have an edge in terms of preparation, but we have to use that preparation wisely,” he said. “And this is the source of my frustration: we have a good opportunity on these Monday nights, but not if we don’t get the one-hundred percent of the mind and body.”

From hereon, Baldwin said the only the only reason he’ll allow players to be absent from practices is injury.

“We need guys to prioritize differently than what they’re prioritizing right now,” he said. “If you had a game yesterday, you have to get here and work. If you have a game tomorrow, get out here and work.”

“I’m not going to overburden those guys,” he added. “I understand what’s at stake, but if anybody’s trying to protect themselves against injuries or anything else, it just doesn’t work that way. You’ve got to be a ballplayer if you’re going to play for the national team.”

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 233 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2016