Edge Davao 6 Issue 253

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

Serving a seamless society

ETHNIC DANCE. Members of Davao City’s Kalumon Performing Ensemble, an ethnic dance troupe known for their enchanting live music and colorful ethnic costumes, perform various dances of Mindanao during the launching of Register File Pay (RFP) tax campaign at the Annex of SM City Davao.

Lean Daval Jr.

TARDY COUNCILORS Pulong gives ultimatum to late-arriving dads

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

Davao City vice mayor Paolo Z. Duterte once again chided councilors who come to sessions late.

“You don’t need to be reminded about our 10 o’clock schedule sa atong session,” Duterte reminded them in yesterday’s regular session.

There was no quorum in the early minutes of the session as there were only 13 members, including the

vice mayor, who responded during the roll-call.

Majority floor leader Tomas Monteverde IV asked for a 10-minute recess because he was informed that some of the members were attending the district celebration

FTARDY, 10

12 dead, 9 wounded in Dav Sur clashes FASHIONABLE RIDE. Councilor Mabel Sunga-Acosta shows off her motorcycle riding skill when she tested a brand new Vespa scooter during the opening of the popular Italian Motorcycle brand’s Davao City showroom on Gen. Luna St. over the weekend. Lean Daval Jr.

T

HE number of people killed in the series of clashes between the military and New People’s Army rebels in Davao Del Sur has climbed to 12 with nine others wounded.

Major Jake Obligado, 10th Civil Military Operation officer, said that this develop as one of the eight soldiers wounded in the landmine blast succumbed to his

F12 DEAD, 10

2

EDGEDAVAO

THE BIG NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014 MODEL HOUSE. An eager young mall-goer examines a miniature model of a house made from a miniature container van, a project of Ateneo de Davao University School of Engineering and Architecture (SEA) students, which was highlighted in the SEA Exhibit 2014 held at the atrium of SM Lanang Premier. Lean Daval Jr.

PDIC takes over Eye 100,000 tourists RB Montevista for ‘Araw ng Dabaw’ D

EPOSITORS and other clients of the Rural Bank of Montevista (Davao del Norte) Inc. (RBM) are now assured of the return of their deposits following the announcement by the Philippine Deposit and Insurance Corp. (PDIC) that it is immediately taking over the operations of the rural bank under receivership.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) under Resolution No 407 dated March 6, 2014 designated PDIC as Bank Receiver following the declaration of a bank holiday

b y the bank’s board of directors and officers due to severe liquidity problem. The swift BSP action took place in the morning also of the same day of March 6 when RBM officially informed BSP through a letter – and public – of its decision to turn over the bank to ODIC to protest its depositors, especially the common folk in the remote areas.

It may be recalled that the bank experienced severe cash liquidity problems especially after the area was hit

by Typhoon “Pablo” and Ty-

FPDIC, 10

WEATHER FORECAST

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

S

OME 100,000 tourists are expected to visit Davao City for the celebration of ‘Araw ng Dabaw’ and the Big Davao fun sale.

City Tourism officer Maria Felisa Marques said they are hoping to surpass last year’s count which reached over 90,000 tourists.

“Of the 90,000, less than 10 percent were oreigner,” said Marques.

She added that aside from the two biggest events in the city, there are also national conventions to be held in the city for the whole month of March.

She said that tourist arrivals are based on hotel occupancy records.

On the other hand, the city council will discuss the road closure ordinance for the activities of ‘Araw ng Dabaw’ in today’s regular session.

The ordinance was supposed to be approved by the council in yesterday’s session, but Traffic Management Center (TMC) chief PSupt.

Rhodelio Poliquit did not

present his traffic plan because he received only three road closure orders.

Poliquit said that the traffic plan he has is only for road closure during events like ‘Parada Dabawenyo, Banda Hudyaka, and Sayawan sa Da’n’.

Councilor Louie John Bonguyan has asked the

ever, poverty incidence remains to be on an increasing trend at 28.6% in 2012 compared to 2009’s 27.3% or 1.3 percentage points higher. All provinces in the Region recorded higher poverty incidence rates in 2012 compared to 2009 with Davao Oriental remaining to have the highest poverty incidence among Davao Region’s provinces.

This situation provides a compelling reason for the RDC to adopt focused and strategic sectoral and geographic targets as basis for outcomes-based budgeting in Davao Region.

In this light, PAPs that are responsive to the specific regional concerns

were highlighted in the presentations aside from the objectives, strategies and priority programs and projects laid down in the National Budget Memorandum (NBM) No. 119.

These are; a) Achievement of the goals and targets of the Davao Regional Development Plan (RDP), 20142016 update; b) Climate Change, particularly for the rehabilitation and recovery of municipalities affected by Typhoon Pablo in 2012; c) The Industry Clustering Strategy as the Region’s primary development strategy in addressing the opportunities

and challenges presented by the ASEAN Economic Community Integration in 2015; d) PAPs for all the Region’s 49 target municipalities/cities included in the Grassroots Participatory Budget (GPB) provided for in the DBM-DILGDSWD-NAPC Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No 4, Series of 2013; and, e) The Gender and Development (GAD) Plan and Budget, formulated by the Regional Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (RGADCC) and adopted by the RDC XI. The budget proposals were evaluated through

FEYE, 10

P66.9 B projects for R11 pushed T

HE Regional Development Council XI convened to review and endorse around 66.9 Billion Pesos of proposed programs, activities and projects (PAPs) for Davao Region for Fiscal Year 2015 during its Budget Review and Consultation held on February 20-21, 2014 in NEDA-RDC XI Center, Bangkal, Davao City.

In her opening message, RDC XI Acting Chairperson and NEDA XI Regional Director Maria Lourdes D. Lim, CESO II cited that the regional economy grew by 7.4% in 20112012 which was double the growth recorded in 2010-2011 at 3.7%. How-

FP66.9 B, 10

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

3

4 NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

FUN SALE. The Big Davao Fun Sale signage is in place and ready to welcome shoppers this coming March 14-16 at the entrance of SM City Davao Annex .

Lean Daval Jr.

Bayantel Davao More organic centers expanding in ‘14

T

ELECOMMUNICATION giant Bayan Telecommunication, Inc. (Bayantel) will be expanding its services to Toril district this year because of the growing economy there.

Thomas Alcantara, area manager for Bayantel, told reporters that the business sector there has been growing for quite some time.

“Businessmen are calling me already and asking for our services,” Alcantara said, adding their feasibility study revealed that there are “enough subscribers to justify” the installation of equipment needed

for expansion.”

“We are just waiting for the materials to start the installation,” he added.

Alcantara, guesting in yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Annex, said that the expansion of sites where their services are offered would help them attain at least 20 percent increase in their corporate subscribers this year.

Bayantel in Davao City had 6, 000 corporate clients as of last year, he said, adding that most of these are small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

FBAYANTEL, 10

PH joins search for missing airline

T

HE Philippines joined efforts of its neighboring countries in searching for a Malaysian Airlines airplane that went missing while on its way to Beijing, China, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr said.

Coloma said that Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin had issued the directive to the Armed Forces of the Philippines to commence patrol of the West Philippine sea in hopes of locating the missing Malayasian Air plane.

The AFP immediately sent an F-27 plane and the BRP Gregorio del Pilar to conduct a surveillance mission in the

West Phillipine Sea in hopes of locating the Malaysian Airlines plane.

The Malaysian airlines plane, a Boeing 777-200, disappeared from radar screens just 40 minutes into its flight from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing in the early hours of Saturday morning. It was last detected over the seas between Malaysia and Vietnam.

“Ayon sa direktiba ni Kalihim Voltaire Gazmin ng Tanggulang Pambansa, ang AFP ay nagsasagawa ng surveillance at patrol sa West Philippine Sea bilang pagtulong sa patuloy na search and rescue operations para sa nawawalang

needed in Davao City

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

P

crc@edgedavao.net

ROVIDING a market venue for organic products will help in sustaining the industry.

Mary Ann Fuertes, executive director for International Development Intervention Inc., (IDIS) said that establishing more organic centers in the city will help small- scale farmers showcase their products.

“We are proposing for the establishment of at least three other organic centers in the city,” Fuertes Edge Davao during the weekly Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Annex yesterday.

The three other organic centers, as proposed by Fuertes, shall be in the public markets of Calinan, Matina,

and Bankerohan.

“This will establish and sustain the livelihood of organic producers and the daily needs of consumers,” she said, adding that officials from barangay and the city agriculturist’s fice (CAO) should come together for implementation.

Currently, the city government has implemented the

revival of the Friday Organic Farmers Market at the Rizal Park on San Pedro Street.

It began operating last January 17 participated in by organic producers, mostly from the third district.

Fuertes said that there are 10 stalls selling a variety of organically-produced prod-

FMORE, 10

MERGER. Bayan Telecommunication (Bayan Tel) area manager Thomas Alcantara discusses Globe Telecom’s planned takeover of Bayantel which aims to

FPH, 10 improve their services during Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

5 SUBURBIA

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

TAGUM CITY

Sec. Alcala inaugurates diversion dam in Tagum F

ARMERS in three rural barangays in Tagum City are grateful as Agriculture Sec. Proceso J. Alcala formally turned over a diversion dam that will provide a stable irrigation system that can supply sufficient irrigation water for rice production.

No less than the Agriculture Secretary formally turned over the said agricultural infrastructure project located in Sitio Mandapaan in Barangay New Balamban worth P5, 293, 170.02 which was funded through DA’s Agri-Pinoy Rice Program in line with President Benigno S. Aquino III’s agenda on food security and sufficiency program.

The said project also includes a provision of essential services and assistance that will enhance farmers’ efficiency and productivity.

The said diversion dam will benefit farmers and their respective farms in New Balamban (28 hectares), Nueva Fuerza (36 hectares) and San Agustin (62 hectares).

In his informal talk with farmers, Secretary Alcala urged the farmers to

SOUTH COTABATO

maximize the use of barren lands and urged them to engage in inter-cropping, apiculture and livestock raising, specifically on native pigs. He instructed the regional officials of DA, Philippine Coconut Authority and the National Irrigation Administration to facilitate the assistance to Tagumeño farmers.

Aside from the dam project, Secretary Alcala also distributed 50 bags of rice seeds, 5000 fingerlings, five carabaos, five native pigs and sprayers as a support to farmers.

“We are more than willing to partner with the local government of Tagum to make your idle lands productive that the farmers can benefit,” he said, referring to the city government’s plea of his department’s assistance in maximizing the use of government-owned properties.

Secretary Alcala, who also served as the guest speaker of the 16th Araw ng Tagum, also visited the DA-funded programs and projects in the city accompanied by city officials led

by Mayor Allan L. Rellon.

The city government paid homage to Secretary Alcala for pouring funds to the city which includes repair and establishment

of farm to market roads, construction of slaughterhouse, mangrove enhancement project and the establishment of a multi-specie

the environment and the health of residents within the province’s 10 towns and lone city.

She said they have documented problems on health, environment, loss of genetic diversity, pest infestations, among others due to the expansion of industrial and plantation crops in the province.

Fecundo pointed out that the use of the monocropping system by the plantation companies mainly increases the vulnerability of crops in nearby areas to various insect pests and diseases.

“Their use of harmful pesticides could cause, not only health hazards, but also the possible contamination of the soil and trigger the scarcity of surface and ground water resources,” she said.

Owing to this, Fecundo said it is only proper for the provincial

government to look into the matter and set regulatory policies.

Citing provisions of PAFC Resolution No. 005, she said the local government should specifically review the current practices of companies currently maintaining or operating agricultural plantations in the area.

The resolution specifically noted the banana, pineapple, papaya, avocado and other agricultural plantations operated by multi-national agricultural companies, among them the Stanfilco, Dole Philippines, Lapanday Corporation and Sumifru Corporation.

Francisco Domingo, South Cotabato provincial agriculturist, supported the PAFC’s move saying the setting of proper regulatory policies for the introduction and expansion of industrial and plantation crops augurs well with the prov-

ince’s food security initiatives.

He said majority of the province’s land area is currently planted with agricultural crops or specifically around 164,800 hectares or about 44 percent.

Of these, Domingo said 35 percent or around 57,000 hectares are planted with corn while 25 percent or a total of 41,420 hectares are planted with various high-value commercial crops (HVCC).

The most planted HVCCs in the province are pineapple with 22,144 hectares, banana with 6,066 hectares, cassava with 3,977 hectares and papaya with 1,294 hectares, he said.

The official said rice or palay comprises 22 percent or a total of 37,109 hectares and the remaining 18 percent or 29,263 hectares compose the other crops.

[MindaNews]

TURN-OVER. Agriculture Sec. Proceso J. Alcala and Tagum City Mayor Allan L. Rellon lead in the turn-over of a diversion dam at Mandapaan, Barangay New Balamban last March 7, 2014 that will provide a stable irrigation system that can supply sufficient irrigation water for rice production. The said infrastructure project worth 5, 293, 170.02 was funded through DA’s Agri-Pinoy Rice Program Program in line with President Benigno S. Aquino III’s agenda on food security and sufficiency program. [Leo Timogan/CIO Tagum] hatchery project, among others.

“We shall maintain and we will see to out that this will be maximized so that

every farmer can benefit,” assured Mayor Rellon.

[Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum]

KORONADAL CITY

Go slow on expansion of plantations, LGU urged Koronadal to bid hosting

A

G R I C U LT U R E stakeholders in South Cotabato province have sought for the regulation by the provincial government of the introduction and expansion of industrial and plantation crops due to their noted environmental and health hazards.

Belen Fecundo, chair of the South Cotabato Provincial Agricultural and Fishery Council (PAFC), said Monday they have passed a resolution asking the provincial board or the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to pass an ordinance that would regulate the planned expansions of agricultural plantations within the province.

She said their studies showed that the ongoing introduction and expansion of various industrial and plantation crops in the province pose serious risks to

of ‘15 Palarong Pambansa

T

HE Koronadal City local government is set to submit a formal bid to the Department of Education (DepEd) for the hosting of the 2015 Palarong Pambansa.

City Mayor Peter Miguel said Monday they are currently preparing a comprehensive plan and program for the hosting of next year’s edition of the national games, which is returning anew to Mindanao after two years.

He said the local government has sought the endorsement of the Regional Development Council of Region 12 for its bid for the Palaro, which it plans to co-host with South Cotabato province.

Such move was part of their plans to make the hosting of the games a regional showcase should they win the bid,

he said Koronadal City, which is a component city of South Cotabato, is the regional seat and center of Region 12 or the Soccsksargen Region.

The region comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.

Miguel said the city is more than capable of hosting the 2015 Palaro Pambansa based on its experiences in the hosting of three major sports events in the last two decades.

The city and South Cotabato province hosted the Palarong Pambansa in 1996 and 2007 and was among the main playing venues of the now defunct Palaro ng Bayan in 2000.

[MindaNews]

6 THE ECONOMY Stat Watch Indicator

Latest

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

7.1 1st Qtr 2013 6.8

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

7.8 1st Qtr 2013 7.5

(At Constant 2000 Prices)

(At Constant 2000 Prices)

3. Exports 1/ 3. Exports

4. Imports 1/ 4. Imports

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

7.6.Broad Money Liabilities Balance of Payments

2nd Qtr 2013

2nd Qtr 2013

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

8. Interest Rates 4/

7. Broad Money Liabilities

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

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

10.Revenues National government outstanding debt outstanding debt

P 5,609 P 41.14 Aprbillion 2013

11.Stocks Peso per US $ 12.

Composite

Index 6/

6,847.5 P 43.83 Mar Sep2013 2013

12. Stocks Composite

6,191.8 132.8 Sep 2013 Apr 2013

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100 14.

Headline Inflation Rate

135.2 Oct2.62013

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

Sep 2013

13. Consumer Index Price Index 2006=100

Apr 2013

14. 2006=100 Headline Inflation Rate 15.

Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

2.9 Oct3.12013

2006=100

Apr 2013

2006=100 16.

Visitor Arrivals

418,108 Oct 2013 Feb 2013

15. Core Inflation Rate

2.5

382,022 Aug 2013 20.9%

16. Visitor Arrivals

17. Underemployment 7/ 17. Rate Underemploymen

Jan 2013 19.2%

18.

18.Unemployment UnemploymentRate Rate7/

7.1% Jan 2013 7.3%

Rate

Jul 2013 Jul 2013

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

2013

2012

2011

43.83 43.86 43.35 42.91 41.30 41.14 40.71 40.67 40.73

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

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

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

300-room JTC hotel in Lanang opens soon

By ANTONIO M. AJERO ajero_antonio@yahoo.com

A

NOTHER hotel with 300 rooms is due to open its doors to customers sometime in November this year.

This was learned from Ped Quiamjot, associate and consultant of hotel owner Jose T. Cuyos, a successful miner in the Caraga Region who is the municipal mayor of Rosario, Agusandel Sur. Quiamjot, who used to manage Silahis Hotel, owned by the Panlilio family in Manila and the Price Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City, said the new hotel is called JTC Tower. It will be 12-storeys tall. It is located along the Davao-Agusan Highway in Lanang, a stone’s throw away from SM Lanang Premier.

Another source told Edge Davao that JTC Tower is expected to

BILLIONAIRE COOP. Miriam Baloyo (right), chair of the Board of Tagum Cooperative, says during this week’s edition of Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao that their cooperative now ranked second among the billionaire cooperatives in Mindanao. Lean Daval Jr. cost a little over P1 billion once completed.

Earlier, Assistant

HOORAY FOR TODAY!

Secretary Arturo Boncato Jr. of the Department of Tourism told

reporters that Davao has now a total of more than 8,000 hotel rooms,

making the city capable of hosting international gatherings.

McDonald’s celebrates 2nd National Breakfast Day with free McMuffins

A

FTER the success of the first National Breakfast Day last year, McDonald’s Philippines, together with thousands of other McDonald’s restaurants in Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa, will be celebrating the second National Breakfast Day. On March 17, McDonald’s will once again be treating Filipinos to a free McMuffin. Close to 320 McDonald’s breakfast stores nationwide are joining the celebration to say ‘thank you’ to its customers who start their day at McDonald’s. Starting

6:00 AM, each participating McDonald’s breakfast store will be giving away free McMuffins to the first 1,000 customers at a first-come-first-serve basis - that’s over 315,000 hot and fresh McMuffins to be given away nationwide via Dine-In, TakeOut, and Drive-thru.

“We were so encouraged by our customers’ resounding response in the region last year, we are bringing back National Breakfast Day to remind people about waking up to better mornings with breakfast,” said Andrew Hisp-

ley, Chief Brand Officer of the McDonald’s for Ais Pacific, Middle East and Africa. “Breakfast is a significant business for McDonald’s. And we know the convenience of a hot McMuffin on-the-go makes breakfast so much more accessible for people who are often caught up in the morning rush.”

As a firm believer of breakfast, McDonald’s aims to make more people say “Hooray for Today!” and get the filling meal that they need, especially in the morning.

“Together with the rest of the region, we are

both excited and ready for this year’s National Breakfast Day. There have been heavy preparations in our stores to make this year’s celebration bigger and better for more Filipinos to experience the goodness of a McDonald’s breakfast,” says Kenneth S. Yang, McDonald’s Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer.

“We continue to see potential growth in our breakfast business – and want to demonstrate that our delicious quality breakfast is a convenient way to start the day,” he

added.

McDonald’s Philippines has been serving breakfast since the 1980’s but was relaunched in 2008 with local products like Hamdesal. Iconic menu items, like the Egg McMuffin, made with lightly grilled Canadian bacon, freshly cracked Grade A egg, and melty American-style cheese sandwiched between warm perfectly toasted English Muffins, have become a breakfast favorite for Filipino customers who are on-thego and prefer a no-fuss handheld meal.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cebu-Davao-Cebu

16:45

7 ENVIRONMENT

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

So much ado about GMOs

By GERRY T. ESTRERA Contributor

T

HEY call it GMO or genetically-modified organism. A GMO is a living organism, plant or animal, containing a gene coming from the same or different organisms introduced through genetic engineering techniques.

Genetic engineering is the alteration of an organism’s genetic, or hereditary, material to eliminate undesirable characteristics or to produce desirable new ones.

“With this modern technology, our scientists and plant breeders can make better plants faster by transferring specific and desired characteristics into the plant,” said a coalition of leading Filipino scientists promoting the use of biotechnology in the Philippines.

Biotechnology, of which genetic engineering is part of, has existed since ancient times. Spirulina, one of the oldest forms of life on earth, is believed to be what the ancient Israelites of the Old Testament called “manna from heaven.”

Those who equate biotechnology with modern science, the French geneticist Alex Kahn has this to counter: “In 6,000 B.C. in Egypt, man fermented microorganisms and obtained an alcoholic beverage called beer. In 5,000 B.C., he created a vegetal monster, wheat, by crossbreeding three genomes of different sub-species.”

Dr. Khan, director of research at the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research, warned that the fears and expectations aroused by biotechnology have existed since the beginning of time.

“They are entwined with ancient myths, prejudices, and aspirations,” he pointed out.

With the advent of genetic engineering, the border between myth and reality appears increasingly blurred. Is the molecular geneticist to be equated with the magician who could transform a pumpkin into a carriage, or again, with an ancient soothsayer, now able to read the future with powerful genetic tools?

“The molecular geneticist who teaches bacteria how to make human insulin, an anti-hemophile agent or a growth hormone is without a doubt a magician, but should he necessarily be feared?” Dr.

Khan asked.

In the Philippines, when the National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP) approved the applications for field testing of Bt corn a few years back, there was a howl of protests.

“Why introduce Bt corn to solve the corn borer problem when small farmers have an inexpensive way of solving this problem by detassling, which takes one farmer only three days to do per hectare?” wondered the Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Ikauunland ng Agham Pang-agrikultura (Masipag).

Bt corn refers to a variety of corn where Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) gene has been introduced or inserted, which makes the crop naturally resistant to the Asian corn borer, the number one pest of corn in the Philippines. Bt is a protein which has been used for almost 50 years by organic gardeners and farmers around the world as a biological insecticide.

“The insertion of the Bt gene into the corn plant allows the corn to produce a Bt protein which when eaten by the corn borer larvae will kill them in one to three days,” explain the coalition of biotech proponents. “This Bt protein is highly specific and therefore will only cause detrimental effects to insects that have specific gut re-

ceptors for the toxin, such as insects belonging to Order Lepidoptera, where corn borer and other caterpillars belong.”

In recent years, it has been shown that Bt corn have adverse effects on non-target insects. A study conducted by Cornell University in the United States showed that Monarch butterfly larvae fed with Bt pollen die.

The Filipino scientists who are experts on biotechnology have this explanation: “The Monarch butterfly belongs to Order Lepidoptera which is the host range of the Bt protein. The Monarch butterfly larvae died when it was fed with milkweed dusted with fresh Bt corn pollen under laboratory conditions. In fact, it has been reported that Monarch population in North America has been increasing in the last two years which coincides with the increased plantings of Bt corn. The distribution of milkweed in the field and the behavior and migration pattern of the Monarch butterfly in relation to the growing season in the US minimizes, if not precludes direct exposure of the caterpillars to Bt pollen on milkweed.”

Other issues concerning biotech-derived foods include: Allergies: Dr. Romeo Quijano, of the Department of Pharmacology of the University of the Philip-

pines College of Medicine, said GM foods are hazardous commodities because they carried new proteins that may cause allergy.

The National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (BIOTECH) and its team have this answer: “Contrary to common perception, it is natural foods, not additives and artificial flavors, which account for majority of food allergies like nuts, shrimps, crabs and others. In fact, any food that contains proteins has the potential to cause allergic reactions depending on individual susceptibility.

“Furthermore, extensive food safety evaluation has been implemented to minimize the possibility that allergenic proteins are introduced into commercialized genetically modified crops. There is no single commercialized genetically modified plant that is known to cause any significant risks of allergenicity.”

Cancer: People eating GM foods are likely to be susceptible to cancer. This was discovered in a study conducted by Dr. Arpad Pusztai of the Rowett Institute on genetically engineered potatoes on rats.

In his research, he fed rats on two strains of potatoes: one with genetically engineered with lectinfrom snowdrop bulbs and another with ordinary potatoes.

The result of his study: immune systems and brains, livers, kidneys and other vital organs of the rats fed with lectin-spiked potatoes were damaged while those fed with ordinary potatoes showed no damage at all.

“There is no evidence that the technologies used to produced-genetically modified foods are inherently harmful,” BIOTECH and other institutions concluded. Referring on the study done by Dr. Pusztai, they said it was debunked by the Royal Society of London. They found the Pusztai study as “flawed in experimental design, execution and analysis.”

Antibiotic resistance: Dr. Quijano said a scientific data indicate that “the emergence of new diseases, the rapid evolution of virulence and the widespread occurrence of drug and antibiotic resistance are associated with the rise of genetic engineering.”

The BIOTECH team claims otherwise: “The possibility that antibiotic resistance genes built into genetically modified plants could be transferred to bacteria harmful to humans has been thoroughly studied. To date, no reliable and stable transfer has been reported. In fact, there are no known mechanisms for effective transfer of genes from plant to bacteria under natural conditions.

“The probability of this occurring has been calculated as less than one in 1018,” the team said. “That is less than the chance of winning first prize in lotto three times in a row.”

Besides, antibiotics are used only in the laboratory during development process of the GMOs. The GMOs, they claimed, do not produce antibiotics nor do they require application of antibiotics in the field.

Meanwhile, Dr. Kahn argued that right questions about transgenic plants are not being asked.

“To ask whether a transgenic plant is dangerous makes no sense,” he complained. “It’s like wondering whether a vegetable plant is dangerous: tomato isn’t, hemlock is.”

Are these plants dangerous for the environment? “For two to three centuries, colonial powers brought back exotic plants and transplanted them on their territory without knowing anything about the environment.

The molecular geneticist is probably much less uncertain about what he is doing than the selector who crossbred species at random to make wheat. Genetic engineering should be seen as one manner of apprehending a problem that man has pursued over time: to improve the variety and quality of plant species.”

8

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

EDITORIAL

Triumph in Nuremberg

G

OV. EMMYLOU “LALA” TALINO-MENDOZA of North Cotabato and other high- and low-profile advocates of organic agriculture in the Philippines have reason to be on cloud 9 these days. The positive development on this front is that, after the passage of the Organic Agriculture Act in 2010, many local government units (LGUs) have followed through with their own local ordinances. Among the LGUs which have come up with their versions of the landmark legislation pushed by Proceso Alcala in the House of Representatives, and Juan Miguel Zubiri, are Davao City and North Cotabato.

However, the most dramatic event occurred in Nuremberg, Germany, the place where the famous trial and conviction of World War 11 criminals happened. It was there where the 25th Biofach Organic Fair, the world’s leading trade fair for organic food products, was held last February. It was there where Mindanao’s organic black rice and coco sugar earned international attention, according to an article dispatched by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA).

Bios Dynamis, an organic rice producer popular for its sought-after organic black rice, and TreeLife coco sugar from the town of Carmen showcased Mindanao-grown organic products during the four-day exhibit in Germany, which was attended by more than 42,000 trade visitors from 135 countries.

The event featured 2,235 exhibitors from 76 countries who presented their food and cosmetic products to top buyers from Germany, Italy, France, and The Netherlands. It was unlike our

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NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

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usual exhibitions; it was a B-B event, meaning the participants were businessmen and buyers only, no curiousity-seekers.

“The reception by the international community of our locally grown products is very promising. It only shows that, indeed, there is a bigger market for our farmers and small to medium scale businesses, as long as they pass specific international standards,” said Governor Taliño-Mendoza, whose province was the only participant from the Philippines funded by the Philippine-European Chamber of Commerce (PECC).

To date, the North Cotabato provincial office is processing confirmed orders from The Netherlands, UK, Australia, and New Zealand, which are expected to be formalized in the next six months. Moreover, potential buyers and customers from USA, South Africa, Asia, and Singapore have expressed interest in the featured Mindanao products.

Bios Dynamis has already shipped organic black rice and other food products to Hong Kong, Macau, and China. Tree Life Coco Sugar on the other hand initially introduced their products to The Netherlands and UK. Mendoza said the provincial government of North Cotabato is looking forward to a regular participation in similar international exhibits, since they serve as platforms for showcasing the best of Mindanao’s products.

No doubt, this triumph of North Cotabato in Nuremberg has inspired other passionate organic farming advocates across the country.

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG Creative Solutions

ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant

GREGORIO G. DELIGERO Associate Editor

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

ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR./ CHENEEN R. CAPON Reporters

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

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

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S

Johnny to Gig: ‘Gusto ko happy ka’

ENATE minority leader Juan Ponce Enrile (JPE), one of three senators implicated in the multi-billion peso pork barrel (PDAF) cam, has repeatedly denied pocketing kickbacks worth over 300 million pesos despite socialite Ruby Tuazon’s testimony directly linking him to the scam.

Testifying under oath, Tuazon revealed that she personally delivered to Enrile’s chief of staff Atty Jessica “Gigi” Reyes the said kickbacks.

And here comes Mrs. Cristina Ponce Enrile in defense of Mang Johnny.

In an exclusive interview with Winnie Monsod in her TV talk show “Bawal ang Pasaway”, Cristina emphatically declared that her husband is not involved in the scandal.

“I don’t think Johnny is that stupid.

I don’t think, I don’t believe that he is involved in it.”

Well, if Mang Johnny’s hands are clean, whose hands got the PDAF money?

Ruby said she gave it to Gigi. Now, did Gigi give it or hand it over to Johnny? Johnny said he never touched it.

P

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

Enrile has an established business empire.

He doesn’t have to dip his fingers into the people’s cookie jar.

So, it is most likely that he let Gigi Ryes keep the loot. He must have whispered to her, “Gusto ko happy ka.”

So, Gigi kept the money, then flew away to the “land of milk and honey” – good old US of A. And she must be a very happy girl with millions to her name.

I guess, some people are born lucky. ooOoo Cristina Ponce Enrile has disclosed on national television that JPE is a womanizer who has had extra-marital affairs with 38 women. But she clarified that Johnny is not a playboy. He simply could not turn away from wom-

en who are (or were) attracted to him.

Well, well, now don’t call Enrile Mang Johnny. Call him Chickboy Johnny. ooOoo Doctors are cheats?

Doctors are at odds with Kim Henares and the BIR over a print ad that portrays doctors as tax cheats – professionals who do not pay the correct taxes.

The doctors are absolutely mad – and rightly so.

That advertisement is an insult to the medical profession. It’s an ill-advised, ill-conceived piece of enticement that reflects an undiplomatic, ill-mannered and unethical mind.

That should be pulled-out pronto.

And Henares should issue an immediate public apology to the PMA. But considering Henare’s one-track mind with respect to tax collection, I’m afraid that she won’t backdown.

She even said that doctors should be ashamed and not be mad.

Anak ng tarsier! That girl has the heart of a zombie.

interests.

But doubt remains that Filipinos will be able to pull through the current rough patch.

In the past, far worse crisis have re p e a t e d ly underscored their resilience. However, what people have to worry about is if the present dispensation is not keen on stretching quality leadership.

More key issues are looming after “self-inflicted” wounds like a string of foreign diplomatic faux pas and alleged enmeshment of some members of Congress in the use and misuse of government funds. Even as public confidence in the economy is improving, polls also show that Filipinos’ approval of top officials and Congress is at or near record lows. The Aquino administration is mindful of the enormous public anger that the series of blunders ignited and its damage done to its long-term socio-economic programs.

Right now, the administration and the opposition stand at a junction.

There’s no need for any expert analysts to tell us that we cannot have a country that has been paralyzed because of the conflicting views and opinions of the contending parties. There is no sure winner in this set-up and the Filipino people are completely fed up of their grandstanding and senseless political bickering. It is not safe to assume anything because these have not done much to reassure, let alone inspire the public who gave the present power-obsessed and self-satisfied officials

their lowest approval ratings yet.

Finger-pointing still abounds between the administration and different opposition groups much ahead of the crucial 2016 presidential elections that will determine the successor of the present man at bat. This time can and should be a breakthrough year for the Aquino administration. It should now set the table to build on the socio-economic progress it has made over the past three years - and it is incumbent to offer potential solutions to the interlocking problems to avoid a brinkmanship that could probably done much to diminish a political momentum.

SHORT POLITICAL BURST – Oft-repeated political promises must be kept aside at this stage, of course, and there is no shortage of critical issues to be examined. Our top officials and lawmakers should always remember they have one important duty that precedes all others: to keep the country stable and prosperous before their terms expire.

That would mean less political point-scoring and grandstanding and more practical policymaking. Our officials will involve themselves in the business of government especially economic management, liberal social environment, infrastructure system, poverty alleviation, job generation and maintenance of peace and security.

Handling the responsibilities of a representative government is something that requires precious time and effort for our political leaders to learn.

The question now is whether the present crop of lawmakers and civil service servants can learn quickly enough to leave a positive legacy that will transcend their terms.

Standing at a crossroad

ULLING THROUGH THE CURRENT ROUGH PATCH – Political pundits commented that there has been little interaction between the civil service and lawmakers to seek ways out of the country’s present difficulties. These have included the unabated oil price adjustments, power outages, currency and stock crash, highly publicized cases of officials’ incompetence, bureaucratic red tape and persistent incomparable corruption scandals.

Public perceptions reflect the prevailing situation: a series of surveys showed that more people than ever are dissatisfied with government’s dealing s with their present predicament. The much-vaunted civil service performed much less. For example during the fluctuations of fuel prices, unprecedented power rate hikes and power interruptions, the relevant departments came under heavy fire for alleged bungling in their operations.

In addition, critics and political adversaries alleged that the Aquino administration seems to have upheld the colonial tradition under which appointed senior officials never resign to take responsibilities even for gross blunders. These people always have the temerity to say that “we serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and only the latter has the right to decide on our fate.” When things got messy in any department, disciplinary measures supposedly should be taken in concerned agencies.

Yet so far, all has been quite on this front. Demanding accountability not only removes incompetent and undesirable personnel, but also reassures citizens that there is a watchful authority in charge who will protect their

9

Dream come true for Davao’s organic man

I

T’S HARD to believe at first, until I finally saw it with my own eyes---- a huge, sprawling organic fertilizer plant in the farmlands of Panabo in Davao del Norte, all owned and operated by the Organic Producers and Exporters Corporation or OPEC, the trading arms of FARMCOOP, or Foundation of Agrarian Reform Cooperatives in Mindanao, Inc. Koronado “Nadz” Apuzen, the executive director who runs Farmcoop, still can’t admit it’s probably the country’s biggest organic fertilizer plant, but we’ve come across a number of similar plants that are not as big as this one in Panabo.

I can’t imagine seeing a organic fertilizer plant, all covered with a roofing that stretches end to end for one hectare or 10,000 hectares--after starting only with 600 hectares a few years ago. And to think that this one is owned by a foundation composed of agrarian reform farmers who benefited from the land reform law.

If one is looking for solid proof how land reform has actually helped farmers free themselves from the bondage of big land owners and landlords in the years past, well, this is it--- I’m looking at it with my own eyes.

Funny thing is, when Nadz was starting to convert his own banana farm into organic several years ago, people thought it couldn’t be done on a big commercial scale--- until a group of Japanese buyers found this “organic man” in Davao.

These importers were looking for a banana outfit growing Cavendish bananas “organically” using only organic fertilizer and organic pesticide--- without touching any chemical inputs. Little did we know that there was a growing “organic movement” in Japan among consumers buying only fruits and vegetables grown using only organic inputs.

OPEC was probably one of the first exporting firm to export organic fresh bananas to Japan and it made a strong mark in the Japanese fruit market. Even the “low chem” fresh bananas grown by Farmcoop that uses very little traditional farm inputs made a strong impression in a discriminating market that avoids fruits and vegetables grown with lots of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Top officials of the Department of Agriculture was so impressed with the efforts of Farmcoop’s agrarian farmers’ coops to put up their own organic fertilizer plant to supply the growing demand of banana farms in Mindanao that the government agency chipped in with some funds to help OPEC built the covered structure of the organic fertilizer plant in Panabo.

During my first visit to this complex they call “Eco Park” in Davao del Norte, I saw the different sections of the processing operation--- the machine that crushes banana rejects into bits, the machine that collects coco peat and fiber from coconut husks, the rice shells (palay) being smoked and roasted and the other mixtures that are combined in the sprawling mixing area by smiling workers---who seemed to be happy with what they were doing, despite the smell.

I was also shown the state-of-the-art mechanical “Compost Turner” and the mechanical “Mixer” device that were designed and fabricated by Farmcoop’s own mechanic named Jessie Lucero.

OPEC’s own organic fertilizer, according to Apuzen, has been found to contain “multiple nutrients” and high organic matter, based on a recent DA laboratory analysis. To make it fully commercial, he’s working on a brand name in a bid to make a big splash in the local market for organic fertilizer.

This agrarian farmer’s group has also included in their “Eco Park” a P6-Million Bio-Plastic Plant and another multi-million plant facility to produce fiber out of banana trunks for export to waiting buyers in Europe.

No, they’re not dreaming--- they’re beyond the “dream” stage and taking all those small, sure steps to make all these plans a reality in the Davao region. ( Comments ? Email me > tradingpost_ davao@yahoo.com)

10

NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

Tardy... FFROM 1 of Araw ng Dabaw and were caught in traffic.

After councilor Bernard Al-ag came in, the session began at 10:03 a.m.

“First and last na ni, pag sunod adjourn na ta diretso!”

Duterte warned.

The vice mayor already called the attention of the councilors during the January 7 regular session when they began the session at 10:05 a.m.

He said councilors should follow what is provided in the house rule, otherwise they will have to amend it.

“Kami ang nagbuhat anang house rule dapat ila ng respetohon . Ug dili nila masunod atong i-ammend ang house rules. Kay ngano man gyud na mo abot og 10:05 a.m. na.

Councilors who answered the roll-call were Nilo M. Abellera, Al Ryan S. Alejandre, Karlo S. Bello, Louie John J. Bonguyan,

Danilo C. Dayanghirang, April Marie C. Dayap, Leah A. Librado-Yap, Berino L. Mambo-o, Bonifacio E. Militar, Tomas J. Monteverde IV, and Rachel P. Zozobrado.

The late-comers were Joanne M. Bonguyan- Quilos, Rene Elias C. Lopez, Diosadao A. Mahipus Sr., Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte and Victorio U. Advincula Jr. Councilor Maria Belen S. Acosta also came late tp the session, but she was on official business when she presented her proposed Freedom of Information ordinance to department heads meeting in the city hall.

Absentees were Leonardo R. Avila III, Jimmy G. Durezam, and Myrna G. Dalodo-Ortiz who were on domestic leave; Marissa P. Salvador-Abella and January N. Duterte were on official business while Antoinette G. Principe was on sick leave.

wounds around 1:45 p.m.

At around 2: 30 p.m. one of the three police officers wounded in the 4: 30 a.m. attack at the Matanao Municipal Police Station succumbed to his injuries.

Around 50 rebels attacked the above-mentioned police stations.

The NPA force was under the command of one Felix Armodia, leader of the rebels’ Front 72.

The rebel force managed to capture seven M-16 automatic rifles, two 9mm pistols, one .45 caliber pistol and two handheld radios from the police station.

Pursuing government soldiers killed two of the attacking rebels in Barangay Saboy.

The names of those killed in the series of encounters were not revealed yet pend-

ing the notification of their next-of-kin.

As of this posting, the number of wounded has been reduced to nine or two lower than the 11 reported earlier.

This can be broken down into seven wounded for the military side and two from the police while the number of fatalities can be divided into seven for the military, three for the police and two for the rebel side.

The slain soldiers were on their way to reinforce the military’s Dongapekong Detachment, also in Matanao town, which was being harassed by the rebels, when the New People’s Army (NPA) detonated a landmine as their convoy was passing through Barangay Asbang.

[PNA]

phoon “Agaton” which ruined the economies of the communities in Agusan del sur, Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte and Compostela Valley provinces. This devastated the livelihood of the micro-finance borrowers rendering them unable to repay back their loans. Efforts to infuse new capital however proved futile.

It may be recalled that the bank concentrated on ex-

tending micro finance loans to the poorest of the poor in the communities in positive response to the government’s poverty alleviation program.

The bank through its president, Felix Maceda has assured that the bank will assist its depositors with their claims with the PDIC which is expected to start attending to the depositors within the next few days.

body to approve the 9 proposed temporary road closure ordinances, saying that he already got the endorsement of the TMC.

However, councilor Bonifacio Militar moved to defer the proposal and discuss it today as the TMC chief promised to present a plan.

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NOTICE OF LOSS

Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s)21048995under LOYOLA PLAN Contract No.(s) 194656-2 issued to HELEN C. FRIAS was lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

3/4,11,18

WORLD KIDNEY DAY. Dr. Clarissa Orsolon (left) and Dr. Jeanette R. Ybiernas, secretary of the Philippine Society of Nephrology Mindanao chapter, hold a poster of the 2014 Kidney in Focus, a post-graduate course, set for March 14-15 at the Apo View Hotel during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao where they also promoted World Kidney Day slated March 13. Lean Daval Jr.

DepEd opens application for 2014 student employment

T

HE Department of Education (DepEd), through the Office of the Undersecretary for Regional Operations, has opened the application for the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) 2014.

SPES is an annual summer employment program that encourages students to make their vacation productive by working during summer there-

by earning extra which they can use during regular school days.

The program is spearheaded by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and supported by other government agencies. It aims to immerse the youth in the government and hone their sense of leadership and public service.

Qualifications to be accepted as a SPES Trainee are the following: (1) Students/

out-of-school youth who are at least 18 years old but not more than 25 years old; (2) He/she must be enrolled this school year (in-school) or if not, must have intention to enroll next school year (out-of-school); (3) the combined annual net income of both parents must not exceed Php 143,000; and (4) applicants must possess office skills with priority given to those with computer-re-

lated skills.

The following requirements must be accomplished for the SPES application: (1) SPES Application Form (Download Official SPES Application Form from http://tinyurl.com/DepEdSPES2014); (2) Birth Certificate / Baptismal Certificate (Certified True Copy / NSO); (2) Income tax returns of both parents.

[DepEd]

3 primary criteria, namely: 1) its support to major regional development thrusts and directions; 2) its contribution in achiev-

ing the targets or development results in the Updated Results Matrices (URM), 2014-2016 of the Updated Davao Regional Develop-

ment Plan; and, 3) its contribution in achieving spatial equity. The RDC XI reviewed a total of 27 Budget Proposals wherein 24 were

endorsed to their respective Agency Central Offices, Department of Budget and Management and Congress.

[Emil B. Clarito]

eroplano ng Malaysian Airlines,” Coloma said.

He added the President had been updated of the AFP’s inclusion in the search and

rescue mission.

“Ito ay isinasagawa sa pamamagitan ng F-27 plane at ng BRP Gregorio del Pilar at patrol boats ng Philippine

Navy. Simula pa kahapon, ayon kay Kalihim Gazmin, patuloy ang koordinasyon sa AFP ng mga defense attaché ng Malaysia at Vietnam sa

pamamagitan ng palitan ng impormasyon. Lahat ng mga ito ay naiuulat kay Pangulong Aquino,” Coloma said. [PCOO News Release]

ucts in the market starting at 3:00 p.m. daily until 7: 00 p.m.

“Pag open pa lang, nauubos kaagad ang mga paninda nila kasi yung ibang tao inaabangan talaga ang mga gulay at iba pang produkto,” Fuertes said.

Aside from facility, Fuertes

said that CAO should subsidize products coming from farflung places, adding that transporting goods and products hinder some farmers from availing of the weekend organic market.

CAO should also allocate a budget for the promotion of

organic goods in the community level, she added.

In the same event, Fuertes and IDIS media advocacy specialist Erolle Lisnus T. Miranda, announced that recipients of the 2014 Lunhaw Awards will be recognized on March 13 at 6 p.m. at tht Taboan, Matina

Town Square during the concert of music icon Joey Ayala.

Lunhaw Awards cites individuals who excel in advocating environmental initiatives in education and agro-forestry, forest-based initiatives, pollution control, waste management, and renewable energy.

The telecommunication company is also planning to strengthen its connection

from Ecoland to Matina.

Corporations and small businesses, according to

him, are already mushrooming in residential areas.

Currently, internet and telephone services of Bayantel are limited to areas near the University of Mindanao, Matina campus.

“We are also planning to build up stronger connection in Maa,” he said, adding that this year’s plans and projects aim to widen their sites.

At present, Bayantel has one office in Davao City on J.P Laurel St. fronting Grand Regal Hotel.

In the same event, the area manager said that Bayantel and Globe Telecom Inc. will be merging soon.

“The merging is planned for five years,” he said, adding that Bayantel appears to be a magnet for telecommunication companies because of its two digit growth for three consecutive years.

“It will strengthen our capacity,” he said.

The merger of the two companies would ensure the reliability of their respective services. [CRC]

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More...FFROM 4

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NOTICE OF LOSS

Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s)21048996 under LOYOLA PLAN Contract No.(s) 194657-3 issued to NARCISO C. FRIAS was lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

3/4,11,18

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

BIGGER PICTURE

11

Mindanao braces for another power crisis

By GERRY T. ESTRERA Contributor

T

HIS summer, Mindanao is expected to face long brownouts

again.

The long and intense dry spell that summer brings will definitely affect the performance of Mindanao’s hydroelectric power sources, said Jovy P. Batiquin, chief operation officer of Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI).

TMI, an Aboitiz Power Corporation unit, operates two power barges on the island with a combined capacity of 200 megawatts (MW). In addition, Aboitiz Power has minority stakes in coal-plant operator STEAG State Power, Southern Philippines Power Corporation, and Western Mindanao Power Corporation.

Mindanao is heavily dependent on hydropower. “It comes only from one source, which is Lake Lanao,” says Manuel ‘Bobby’ Orig, first Vice President for Aboitiz Power Corp. in Mindanao. “This is the reason why during summer months or during long dry spell, when water level in Lake Lanao is very low, the power supply in Mindanao is gravely affected.”

Fifty-two percent (662 MW) of Mindanao’s power comes from hydropower.

Oil contributes 24% of the power supply (311 MW) while geothermal is the source of 8% (98 MW). The remaining 16% (203 MW) comes from coal.

A study done by Adoracion Navarro, a senior research fellow of Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), showed that the annual average electricity demand growth in Mindanao from 2010 to 1029 is 4.28 percent, way above the national rate of 3.63 percent for the period.

In 2013, Mindanao’s peak demand was 1,428 MW which would increase to 1, 823 MW by 2019.

“To meet peak demand and, at the same time, maintain security and reliability of the power grid, generation capacity must not only correspond to peak demand but also provide for other ancillary services,” PIDS said.

“Mindanao needs to balance its power sources so it will not be overly

dependent on hydro power,” points out Orig. “That is why Aboitiz Power and other companies are building baseload power plants to address the on-going power crisis and prevent future power crisis from happening.”

Aboitiz Power will soon complete several power plant projects to solve the Mindanao power crisis. This year, Hedcor – a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Aboitiz Power, which specializes in generating renewable energy from run-of-river hydropower systems – will complete the Tudaya 1 and 2 projects in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur with a combine power capacity of 13.6 MW. Next year, Therma South, another Aboitiz subsidiary, will complete the 300-MW coal-fired power plant.

Wilfredo Rodolfo, branding and commu-

nications manager of AboitizPower says coalfired power plants will not displace hydropower as source of electricity in Mindanao. “The Agus-Pulangi hydroelectric power complex (which supplies half of Mindanao’s power needs) will still supply a significant portion of the demand of Mindanao,” he says. “The baseload power plants will only complement the power coming from hydro sources. With baseload power, Mindanao will be assured of power supply even during summer months and during long dry spells.”

“Mindanao should not make the mistakes of the past,” Orig adds. “We should not wait for the shortage and the brownouts to hit us first before we start to build new power plants, considering it takes 3-4 years to build

major power plants.”

Senator Aquilino Pimentel III also called for the construction of more base-load plants that can handle the increased requirements of Mindanao.

He also suggested for the exploration of alternative sources of energy such as solar, bio mass, wave, wind and geothermal energy.

“By end of 2014 or early 1025, the shortfall will be met by the plants being built now, which will come online at that time,” Pimentel was quoted as saying.

In the meantime, Mindanao has to live with the rotating brownouts this coming summer. “We have a continuing power deficit in Mindanao and summer months will further aggravate the power situation,” notes Atty. Jesus Dureza, president and chief executive officer of Advocady MindaNOW Foundation,

Inc.

Veteran journalist Edwin Espejo, who has been following the energy crisis in Mindanao, agrees. “With no new capacities going on commercial stream until early or late next year, expect the power problem to persist,” he says.

“Moreso when the water levels in the Agus power complex again become problematic during the summer and during scheduled preventive maintenance of these and other thermal plants,” Espejo adds.

According to Dureza, “If all the power plants in the pipeline to be built will be operational, then Mindanao’s power crisis will be solved. But that’s still projected for 2016 or 2017.”

What big cities in Mindanao – Davao, General Santos, Tagum, Cagayan, Cotabato, and Zamboan-

ga – should do is “to install gensets and small scale power plants so they are onstream on short period,” Dureza suggests. “But then it will spike prices of power.”

It has been said that electricity bills in Mindanao have been lower compared to those in other parts of the country because the government continues to subsidize power costs. Soon, consumers can expect the prices to go up.

At the Mindanao Power Summit in April 2012, President Benigno Aquino III told the audience that the era of cheap and subsidized power may soon be over: “Everything has its price and people have to pay a real price for a real service. There are only two choices: pay a little more for energy, or live with the rotating brownouts.”

12

EDGEDAVAO

MOTORING

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

Vespa opens Davao showroom

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

T

HE top Italian-made motorcycles from the classic Vespa to the modern day beast Agusta have just arrived in Davao City.

Norminring Corporation, which is also the distributor of Ducati and KTM in Davao City and the entire Mindanao area, added the prestigious motorcycle brands in the global market—Vespa, Piaggio, Agusta, Husqvarna and Moto Guzzi—to its product line in one showroom located at Gov. Duterte Street.

The inauguration of the new showroom last Saturday was attended personally by Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte, himself a motorcycle enthusiast, along with Councilor Mabel Acosta, former Gen. Santos City mayor Darlene Antonio-Custodio and Norminring President Jondi Lacson.

Acosta rolled out with the red Vespa in a test drive around the corner of Camus and Ilustre streets.

“We are proud to bring to Davao City these

very popular motorcycle brands,” said Lacson during the launch inside the showroom compound.

For the first day of business, Norminring offered the Vespa promo at P99,000 all-in.

Norminring general manager Jimmy Gomez said they expect brisk sales for the Italian motorcycles. “Vespa is known by its tag ‘my second car is a Vespa’ which speaks of its quality and legendary performance,” Gomez told Edge Davao.

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EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

Indulging in the heart of Makati The Holiday Inn & Suites.

LET US FACE IT, we often dread travelling to Metro Manila with its terrible traffic situation making simple tasks such as meetings or shopping a chore.

Luckily for me, my last meeting in Manila with Agoda.com’s PR Manager for the Philippines, Charise Vilchez, was not a traffic nightmare as the dinner meeting was held right in the heart of Makati at the Holiday Inn & Suites Makati.

The 20-storey hotel is directly connected to the Glorietta Shopping Complex and a stone’s throw away from many of Makati’s major lifestyle and business centres. The location is so ideal that I actually decided to stay here a couple of months ago since I wanted to stay conveniently close to the Ayala Center, plus the rooms were huge and the king-sized bed was amazing.

Together with Teri Flores, Holiday Inn & Suites Makati’s PR & Marketing Communications Manager, and other

At Flavours Restaurant. travel writers from Davao and Cebu, we had dinner at the hotel’s Flavors Restaurant which features an exciting and contemporary international buffet that is sure to satisfy any palate. I particularly loved the restaurant’s childfriendly menu which encourages children to try different cuisines together with their parents.

After dinner, we were invited by Teri to try the hotel’s rooftop poolside bar Oz. Located at the roof deck, the bar has the Makati skyline as it’s backdrop with furniture

Chilling out at the Oz Bar.

Holiday Inn’s Teri Flores, Cebu Pacific’s Michelle Eve de Guzman and Agoda.com’s Charisse Vilchez.

by Kenneth Cobunpue lending a tropical feel and glowing lamps adding a colourful touch to the place. Given its central location, OZ Bar is a destination bar that is a most visit whenever one need to chill out and detach from the grind of the big city.

Raising a signature cocktail, we capped the evening with good friends and good vibes.

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

EDGEDAVAO

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UP AND ABOUT

Adventure awaits students in Cebu Pacific’s Juan for Fun Backpacker Challenge CEBU PACIFIC, the country’s leading airline, calls on all adventurous and fun-loving college students for a chance to go on an ultimate all expenses paid backpacking trip. Now on its third year, the Cebu Pacific Juan for Fun Backpacker Challenge 2014 is bigger and better than ever, with five student teams traveling to international and domestic destinations for nine days for free.

The Juan for Fun Backpacker Challenge 2014 is open to all university and college students who have an insatiable thirst for adventure and a knack for budget travel. To qualify, they must form a team of three members and upload a video that answers the question “What’s your idea of a fun adventure?” to www.juanforfun.com.

Teams will find out their destinations when the challenge kicks off on June 24, 2014, and they have until July 2, 2014 to have as many fun and exciting experiences and discoveries within a given travel allowance. To earn extra points and additional prizes, they must also complete the special fun challenges prepared by Cebu Pacific in each destination.

Levelling up this year’s challenge are Adventure Coaches—noted personalities known for their love for travelling— who will be assigned to mentor each team before they head to their destination. During the course of the challenge, the Adventure Coaches will stay in touch and cheer for their respective teams through social media.

The trio with the most number of fun activities out of their given budget, and the highest standing in the Special Fun Challenges, will win the competition and score awesome prizes to go on even more exciting trips. Prizes include 12 round-trip tickets to any Cebu Pacific international or domestic destination of their choice, plus over Php150,000.00 worth of other exciting prizes such as Canon Powershot SX510HS cameras, Vaude Sapporo Carry-On Trolleys, Vaude Hogan Ultra-Light Tents and a whole lot more.

The Cebu Pacific Juan for Fun Backpacker Challenge 2014 is co-presented by Jack n’ Jill Pretzels. It is supported by Vaude, Canon, Botak and the Department of Tourism, and endorsed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Last year, the challenge brought the teams on a weeklong backpacking trip around the Philippines. They took on daring and colorful adventures, from exploring the Puerto Princesa Underground River and eating crocodile sisig in Davao, to haggling the price for jetskiing in Boracay. Silliman University students Sesinando “Sesi” Quilao, Jr., Patrik Norouzi and So Myeong Lee of Team Crimson bagged the grand prize, accomplishing over 100 fun activities with approximately Php20,000 in savings.

“This is one of our favorite events of the year, because we get to meet so many adventurous students, who are bursting with energy and enthusiasm for travel onboard Cebu Pacific. The world outside the four walls of a classroom can teach so many life lessons, and the passion for travel, once ignited, can lead to a lot of wonderful discoveries. We are very excited to watch this year’s video entries for our biggest Juan for Fun yet,” said Cebu Pacific Vice President for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.

Form a team now and let Cebu Pacific fly you to a oncein-a-lifetime backpacking trip with friends. Submission of entries is until May 10, 2014. For more details, visit www.juanforfun.com or Cebu Pacific’s official Facebook and Twitter (@ CebuPacificAir) pages.

THE SM STORE GOES ON SALE FOR BABIES. Mommies!

Head over to The SM Store nearest you and enjoy up to 70% off on selected items with our BABY SALE happening now until March 31! Mom Card Member? Get a free Baby Company gift cash! See posters for more details!

Tattoo and GK: Building a community of hope for the people of Ormoc THIRTY-EIGHT year old Lhaly Laviste has been living a peaceful life with her husband and three children in Brgy. Tambulilid, Ormoc, Leyte since 1996 when Typhoon Yolanda came and destroyed her home together with the houses of her neighbors.

With hardly any source of livelihood, the future seemed bleak for Lhaly and the people of Tambulilid until Gawad Kalinga (GK) and Globe Telecom came and gave them a promise of something wonderful – a 32-square meter loft house of their own, strong enough to withstand the onslaught of another super typhoon.

“Para nako, magpasalamat ko kay gikan sa Yolanda naay gihatag sa Ginoo na mutabang ka namo, kanang Globe (For me, I am thankful because from Typhoon Yolanda, God gave us someone to help us, and that is Globe),” said Lhaly in the vernacular.

She added: “Pintor ang akong bana pero naglisod kami kay walay trabaho.

Para mutabang, sige lang mi labada para may suporta na pang bugas. P300 kada labada kada simana.

Ingon ang Globe, hatagan kami ug balay ug panginabuhi (My husband is a painter but we’re having a difficult time because he doesn’t have any work now.

To help, I wash clothes to buy rice. P300 per wash every week. Globe said that they will give us a house and livelihood).”

Brgy. Tambulilid became a GK Village after the Rotary Club of Ormoc donated the land as a relocation site for survivors of the 1991 killer flood which took the lives of about 8,000 people in the province. With their homes again destroyed this time

by Typhoon Yolanda, the area was adopted by Globe to become a Tattoo-Rotary GK Village upon recommendation of GK. “We’ve been involved with GK for about 10 years already. Because of our partnership and trust in GK, we allowed them to

Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu (right) assists in the building of one of the homes “This Tattoo Village is setting the standard in Ormoc because the houses are already comparable to a middle class structure.

The footprint is about 21 sq. meters but you can add a 10-12 sq. meter loft. It is enough for a family of five,” said Jose Luis Oquinena, GK Executive Director.

Aside from the affected families already residing in the area, the Tattoo-Rotary GK Village will also accommodate underprivileged Ormoc residents who do not have the capacity to rebuild their homes as well as those living near the danger zones.

Livelihood opportuniLhaly Laviste, one of the beneficiaries of the Tattoo-Rotary GK Village ties will also be provided to select the place where we they move in. This un- the community since most would provide assistance. dertaking is part of Globe of the residents no longer We very much believe in Telecom’s commitment have any source of income. their ability to choose the to provide wonderful op“We taught them how proper sites where we can portunities to underserved to make hollow blocks make the most impact. Filipino communities which will go a long way So far, they have not been so that they can partici- because we are supplying wrong,” said Globe Presi- pate and contribute to the other builders. Then we dent and CEO Ernest Cu. country’s progress. This will hone their skills in Tattoo, the broadband is also a good opportunity carpentry. That is just one brand of Globe, donated for both our employees source. We are also lookP15 million to GK to build and our customers to share ing for places where we 100 houses at P125,000 per their time, talent and trea- can plant citronella, lemon house with the remaining sure for nation-building,” grass, and if possible, sunP2.5 million earmarked added Cu. flower to supply the needs for livelihood assistance.

Globe employees led of other enterprises that we An additional P1.2 mil- by the company’s se- support,” Oquinena said. lion was also collected by nior leadership team and Tattoo has also allocated Globe from an internal brand ambassadors such P7.5 million for the buildfund-raising activity to be as model Giorgina Wilson, ing of homes and distribuused in building 10 more style maven Liz Uy, and DJ tion of shelter repair kits in houses.

Mars Miranda went to the Daanbantayan, Cebu and “We are encouraging Tattoo-Rotary GK Village Guiuan, Eastern Samar in volunteerism and com- inauguration recently and partnership with Habitat munity participation so took time to join the vol- for Humanity, an internathat they will take more unteers in house construc- tional housing organizacare of these homes after tion. tion.

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

ENTERTAINMENT

Miley Cyrus Goes High Fashion in Marc Jacobs Spring 2014 Campaign

MILEY CYRUS is leaving the booty shorts and onesies at home…for now.

The 21-year-old “Wrecking Ball” crooner went high fashion for Marc Jacobs’ spring 2014 campaign, looking stunning in sequin-embellished skirts, structured tops and glam gowns as she poses with a couple of other models on a desolate-looking beach.

In most of the pictures, Cyrus gives a fierce stare off into space, rocking squarerimmed glasses in one shot, and a blue structured gown in another, laying lifelessly in the sand along the shore.

Her smattering of tattoos are on full display in some of the shots, her nails are painted black and her lips are generally in a pout.

The full release of the photos comes after Cyrus

Paris in Luneta

Paris Hilton who is back in Manila posted a photo on Instagram of her and her brother Barron posing in front of the Rizal Monument.

It may seem Paris is having fun in the Philippines.

was announced back in January as the new face of the campaign.

And the collaboration didn’t come as much of a surprise, considering the singer, who is a big fan

of the designer (and vice versa), rocked Jacobs’ sheer mesh gown at the 2013 Met Gala in New York.

“We wanted this beach with the girls kind of sulky and broody, and we thought it would be cool if it was Miley with what could be two friends, feeling distant and quite dark,” Jacobs said.

“We all just love her and her entire being, her talent, her intelligence, everything,” he said. “There’s nothing I don’t like about her. She is just genuine and very natural.”

The shoot didn’t exactly

go off with a hitch though.

Juergen Teller, the inhouse photographer that typically shoots Jacobs’ campaigns, refused to work with Cyrus and didn’t shoot the 2014 ads.

“I have worked with Juergen for years and love him as an artist,” Jacobs told Women’s Wear Daily. “He just didn’t want to shoot her” (Teller’s rep told E! News of the shoot at the time, “Juergen does not want to comment”).

Photographer David Sims shot the photos instead on the beach set styled by Stefan Beckman.

Marian Rivera wins Best Actress in 5th Northwest Samar State University Students’ Choice Award There’s no stopping Primetime Queen Marian Rivera from basking in the limelight of her successful career after receiving yet another acting award from the 5th Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) Students’ Choice Award for Radio and Television (NSCART).

The Primetime Queen won as Best Actress in a Primetime Teleserye for her outstanding performance in the Kapuso Network’s Pinoy adaptation of the top-rating drama, Temptation of Wife.

Marian is very overwhelmed with this new recognition from the students of NwSSU, “Lubos akong nagpapasalamat sa parangal na ibinigay ng mga mag-aaral mula sa NwSSU. Maraming salamat dahil naappreciate nila ang naging pagganap ko bilang si Angeline/Chantal na isa sa mga roles na ipinagmamalaki ko

at memorable para sa akin.

Sana ay hindi sila magsawa na suportahan at mahalin ang iba ko pang mga projects sa GMA,” said Marian.

Meanwhile, after a month since its launch on GMA Telebabad, more and more

Filipino viewers are mesmerized with the loveteam of Marian and Kapuso Network’s leading man Alden Richards in the drama series Carmela.

Marian and Alden’s onscreen chemistry is very palpable considering this is the first time they are paired together in a major project of the network. Both artists not only captivate viewers in their every scene but also their powerful performances make audiences connect and relate to their characters Carmela and Yago.

Their popularity is not only evident in the Philippines but also in other countries where fellow Pinoys get to watch Carmela through GMA Pinoy TV, the flagship international channel of GMA Network.

The network has been receiving positive feedback here and abroad about their

performances. One of Marian and Alden’s avid supporters is a GMA Pinoy TV subscriber in New Jersey, USA who has been a loyal follower of GMA 7 most especially Marian for many years since she first appeared in Marimar back in 2007.

She shared that many Filipinos in New Jersey love and admire Marian and they look forward to see her perform the theme song of Carmela - Sana’y Ikaw - with Alden, “They (Marian and Alden) really amazed us every time they have a scene together on Carmela. They really have the chemistry and they’re both excellent in their craft.”

Get the latest updates about Carmela from its official facebook page www. faceb ook .com/Carmel aGMAOfficial , twitter account @CarmelaGMA and the GMA Network website www.GMANetwork.com.

STARTING OVER AGAIN 2D / * 12 YEARS A SLAVE 2D Piolo Pascual, Toni Gonzaga / * Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender PG 13 / * R 13

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

POMPEII 2D Kit Harington, Emily Browning PG 13

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

NON-STOP 2D Liam Neeson, Julianne Moore R 13

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

R-16 THIRD EYE 2D Carla Abellana, Ejay Falcon PG 13

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

EDGEDAVAO

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HOUSE & HOME

Home trends for 2014 WHILE 2013’s decor trends were all about monochromatic bold colors, psychedelic and retrolooking wallpaper prints to neutral vintage country styles, 2014 has taken a different direction. So if you are planning on redecorating your homes in the near future, here are some useful decor tips which will maintain class, practicality and longevity for the coming years. In a world where home decor is ever-changing and unpredictable, it’s comforting to know that the design trends are so far more neutralized and sophisticated.

Trend #1: Bright, Bold Colors Bright, bold colors are still most certainly “IN”. You can add a splash of your favorite color to you most dull and boring area of the house. Earth and neutral tones can be strategically paired with contrasting, yet complimentary, bold and bright colors to create a unique look. It also adds a touch of “wow” appeal, and an economical and inexpensive way to produce such an effect with bold colours that exude tons of personality.

Trend #2: Cost-Effective Bathroom Revamp Showers are becoming more popular than tubs so bathtubs are “OUT”. I’m definitely sure that only a handful of you use your tubs at home. It consumes almost half of your bathroom and adds cost to your monthly water bill. Some homes use it mainly to stock up water if there are scheduled water interruptions and outages. Another tip if you are planning on renovating you bathroom is working your way with the existing plumbing layout to alleviate with expensive fixing up of plumbing

Like in kitchen design trends, industrial modern decor will transform and morph into a more classic and relaxed feel.

drains, water lines, and vent stacks.

Trend #3: Kitchen Ideas Modern, sleek and edgy types were left behind in 2013. Bright lights, neutral and soft tones and a more homey effect are the trend for kitchens for 2014. Organic modernism with a touch of warm modern materials such as solid surfaces for countertops, wood-stained cabinetry and use of reclaimed wood instead of the ever popular melamine boards and use of bricks, concrete and wood planks for walls are some components which may achieve a more sophisticated and timeless look for the kitchen. Open shelves and glass front cabinets are also “in” for 2014.

aging elderly. Some examples of which are furniture considerations (veer away from edgy sharp-cornered furnitures), room designations (if possible, seniors’

EDGEDavao Davao Partners Trend #4: From Modern to More Classic and Modest Like in kitchen design trends, industrial modern decor will transform and morph into a more classic and relaxed feel. Undoubtedly, a juxtapose of wood, stones and raw metals finishes will still be popular with a touch of earth shades and rounded designs instead of boxy and sharp edges. In this way, your designs will never go out of style.

Trend #5: Eco-Friendly Materials While 2013 were all about modern style, 2014 is about going back to basics. Use furniture and cabinetry

Bright lights, neutral and soft tones and a more homey effect are the trend for kitchens for 2014.

rooms in ground floor), tile selection (opt for non-skid type rather than smooth polished floors) and bathroom design (for elderly and the impaired).

made from natural wood instead of laminates, for flooring use bamboo tiles or carpet tiles (replace one tile instead of an entire room = less waste); they are easier to clean and are environment-friendly. Opt for led lighting even though they are initially more expensive, they can considerably reduce your electricity costs due to its low wattage.

Trend #6: Urban Downsizing (the Compact, the Better) Living in a fast-paced generation, having a compact dwelling is better and this will continue to be a long-term trend. Some people (especially careeroriented ones) opt for small houses or condo-types so they will have to clean and maintain lesser area.

Trend #7: Multigenerational Consideration In redesigning homes, we must consider every living arrangement - drawbacks and benefits. We must take into account the dwellers and their (special) needs; whether they may be infant, toddler and even the

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

Invites Suitable and Qualified Candidates to apply for the following positions: SALES MANAGER  Male or female, 30-40 years old  College degree holder of a business course; a post degree an advantage  Five (5) years work experience in the sales/ marketing job in a supervisory or managerial capacity  Excellent communication skills (oral & written) in the English language and human relations skills as well  Effective in forecasting, credit and collection and in building quality relationships with business partners.  Decisive, performance driven and results oriented  A persuasive leader, good coach and motivator ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE  Male or female, 25-35 years old preferably single  College degree in business, marketing or its equivalent  A two (2) year work experience an advantage  With excellent communication, customer relations, leadership, analytical and negotiation skills  Ability to work in high- paced and challenging business environment  Pleasing Personality, results oriented  Computer literate  Willing to be assigned anywhere in Mindanao or Visayas PROMOTERS  Male or female,21 to 30 years old, preferably single  College graduate preferably in marketing or its equivalent  At least two (2) years experience as a promoter or merchandiser an advantage  Communicates well in English and Pilipino language  Possesses a pleasing personality  Computer literate  Willing to be assigned anywhere in Mindanao or Visayas MANAGEMENT TRAINEES  Male or female, 28-35 years old, preferably single  Bachelor degree in business or marketing or its allied courses  With previous work experience in sales or marketing, a plus factor  Hardworking, task oriented and results oriented  Excellent communication skills both oral and written in the English language  Willing to learn and develop his/her skills and abilities  May be assigned anywhere in Mindanao and Visayas ACCOUNTING MANAGER  Male or female, 29-40 years old  College degree in accountancy or its allied courses  Five (5) years work experience in a supervisory/managerial capacity  Extensive exposure in General Accounting, Budgeting and Financial Analysis  Excellent communication skills in (both oral & written) the English language  With good interpersonal relationship skills, leadership and managerial skills  Computer literate ACCOUNTING CLERKS  Male or female, 25-30 years ols  College degree in Accountancy or its allied courses  Two years work exposure to general accounting jobs  Hardworking and reliable  Excellent communication skills and interpersonal relationship skills  Computer literate Interested and qualified applicants may send application letter, resume with details of previous work responsibilities, and 2X2 photo Thru: telfax #: Email:

(808)282-8136 helpdesk@stratlink.net

CLASSIFIED 13

14 CLASSIFIED EDGEDavao Davao Partners

VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

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SPORTS

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VOL. 6 ISSUE 253 • TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 2014

BOONE OR BANE?

COUNTER BLOCK. Japeth Aguilar of Ginebra (dark) blocks Doug Kramer of San Miguel (light) during the battle between two SMC-owned teams in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. Nuki Sabio.

SMB undecided on fate of import S

an Miguel Beer import Josh Boone displayed a high level of professionalism in the Beermen’s first win in the PLDT Home TVolution Commissioner’s Cup. On Sunday, the import showed much more than that, finishing with 32 points and 21 rebounds in an impressive performance that would leave a strong impression in case this turns out to be his final PBA game.

The San Miguel coaching staff, head coach Biboy Ravanes and coaching consultant Todd Purves in particular, remained tightlipped on the fate of Boone, though, even as a replacement import has reportedly arrived in the country.

D-League standout Kevin Jones arrived in the Philippines last Saturday but SMB management decided to stick with Boone for the game against Barangay Ginebra.

“He had a good game tonight and Josh has been professional beyond belief. I anticipate tomorrow morning, I’ll have some news regarding that. I’m waiting to speak with management tonight and I assure you everybody will be informed in the very near future, the direction we are going,” Purves told reporters after

the game.

“Regardless of the direction that the management determines, I can’t say enough good things about Josh Boone and his level of professionalism. The effort he gave knowing he’s in an adverse situation, I tip my hat to him, regardless

of what the outcome is,” he added.

“We’ll address it as soon as there’s a change made.

Until then, Boone is our guy.

Until management lets us know it’s someone else, to speculate wouldn’t be professional with regards to his career.”

the Phoenix Run included a raffle and the Zumba party that warmed up the runners.

The Phoenix Family Fun Run is presented by Phoenix Petroleum Philippines and Pioneer Insurance, and co-presented by Trans-Overseas Industrial Corporation. It is organized by Vantage Sports with SM City Davao as venue partner.

Proceeds from the Phoenix Family Fun Run will go to the Phoenix Philippines Foundation, Inc. to support its programs on Education, Environment,

Health and Safety, and Outreach.

The Run is part of Phoenix Petroleum’s five major events for the 77th Araw ng Dabaw celebration. The other four are: the recently-concluded 7th Phoenix Open golf tournament, 2014 Phoenix Premium 98 Regional 1/8 Mile Drag Racing Championship Series, 2014 Phoenix Accelerate Vega Regional Autocross Championships, and the 77th Araw ng Dabaw Cyclomax Motocross.

Major sponsors of the Phoenix Araw ng

Dabaw events are Brenton Engineering and Kairos Oil Trading. Gold sponsors are Custom Grafix, Seadove Maritime Services, Inc., Cebu DLS Construction & Development Corp., Novalco, WorthRand Petropower Corp., Philippine Bank of Communications, Banco De Oro, and Mechatrends. Silver sponsors are EEI Construction & Marine, Inc., Bayan Communications, Globe, Unifield Enterprises, Inc., Measurement & Controls Technology Inc., Greenflex Consulting, Santos Land

JOSH BOONE

Veterans...FFROM 16

Lee: Let’s respect Greg and Marcio Development Corp., and PLDT. Bronze sponsors are Landbank, Aeolus, HSBC, F2 Logistics, Maybank, Joytrade Industrial Marketing, Chinatrust, TFBotones Construction Corp., RealSoft, Inc., Emicor Inc., HR Apilado Construction, Gendiesel Philippines Inc., YL Fishing Corp., Philhua Shipping, Inc., ESBE Industrial Builders, Emcor, and Mega Fortris Philippines.

Media partners are Sunstar Davao, The Mindanao Daily Mirror, EDGE Davao, Mindanao Times, Gold Star Daily and TV5.

light. Now Paul Lee, Jared Dillinger, and to a lesser extent Beau Belga might be looked at by some as players gunning for a spot in the team traveling to Spain even if they were not there to help the team qualify.

Lee, however, has no ill feelings towards Slaughter and Lassiter.

“Respetuhin na lang natin yung decision nila,” the point guard said after his Rain or Shine Elasto Painters lost their 2014 Commissioner’s Cup debut against the Barako Bull Energy. “Sa kanila naman yun e. Yun yung gusto nila so respetuhin na lang natin.”

Back problems could force Tiger out of Masters

D

BACK WOES AGAIN. Tiger Woods tees off from the 4th hole during the final round of the WGC - Cadillac Championship golf tournament at TPC Blue Monster at Trump National Doral.

B

ARANGAY Ginebra’s Greg Slaughter and San Miguel Beer’s Marcio Lassiter gave the same reason for pulling out from the 17-man Gilas Pilipinas pool.

They both thought that the original 12 members of Gilas, those who were with the team when they got a silver in the FIBA Asia Championship, should be the same 12 going to Spain.

Slaughter and Lassiter both said they didn’t want to take away a slot from the 12, which explained their decision to pull out. These statements could have unintentionally placed the other additional players in a bad

ORAL, Florida (Reuters) - World number one Tiger Woods arrived at the WGC-Cadillac Championship with concerns over his fitness and gingerly walked off the Blue Monster Course on Sunday with new questions about his ailing back.

With the year’s first major just a month away, Woods’ Masters preparations may have to be quickly reworked as he deals with back spasms that have plagued him through his last two

events.

After pulling out of the final round of the Honda Classic a week earlier, the defending champion looked ready to make another unscheduled early exit at Doral on Sunday when his back problems flared up again on the sixth following an awkward shot out of the bunker.

“It is back spasms, so we’ve done all the protocols and it’s just a matter of keeping everything aligned so I don’t go into that,” said Woods. “It’s

basically started on six, the second shot out of the bunker, my foot was out of the bunker.

“That’s what set it off and then it was done after that, just see if I could actually manage through the round, keep the spasms at bay.”

Woods, a seven-time winner of the WGC-Cadillac, had surged into contention on Saturday with a third round 66 to start the final day three shots behind but returned a six-over 78 to finish tied for 25th.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. VOL.66ISSUE ISSUE253 253••TUESDAY, TUESDAY,MARCH MARCH11, 11,2014 2014

Veterans rule Phoenix Run

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

S

njb@edgedavao.net

ONNY Wagdos and Monalisa Ambasa capitalized on their vast experience and the absence of some of the local running circuit’s big guns to pull off easy wins in the Phoenix Family Run over the weekend at the SM Lanang Premier.

Wagdos ruled the premier 10K category with a time of 33 minutes and 24 seconds in a lone dash to the finish. Second placer Elmer Bartolo (34:34) arrived a minute and ten seconds after Wagdos while Michael Echalico (34:41) finished third.

In the distaff side, the veteran Ambasa finished on top with a time of 42:59 in another solo finish. She led comfortably through the remaining three kilometers over her understudy second placer Cynthia Jaro (44:36) who placed second while April Diaz (46:10) checked in third.

10K champions each received a grand prize of P5,000 in cash. Second placers received P4,000 while the third placers took home P3,000.

In the 5K race, among among running groups, The Youngest Runner gory. He received a certifi- delegation with four memmen Michael Ian Constan- and Vicente Hizon Ele- Award was awarded to cate and P500 in cash. bers of the family running tino finished first, clocking mentary School the biggest 2-year old Joann Francis The Cagape Family together under the 10K in at 16:55, while Maygae school delegation. Eeach Palacio who ran with his was also given a special category.

Nenora took the women’s received P5,000 in cash. father under the 5K cate- award as the biggest family FVETERANS, 15 title at 19:48. At second and third places were Rolly Paderna (17:08) and Glen Payag (17:12). Ruffa Sorongon (20:11) finished second and Creselyn Jaro (20:22) third. 5K first placers each received P3,000 cash, second placers P2,000, and third P1,000 in cash.

The 3K race among kids 12 years old below was a close one in the boy’s division with winner Jet Li Lizaran (10:20) only three seconds ahead of Jilian Naparan (10:23). Josaiman Bajao (12:21) came in third. Pia Suarez led the girls side with a time of 12:08, followed by Vernagil Sabueno (12:28) and Natalie Margarette Roble (13:55).

The Phoenix Run was participated by more than 2,000 runners from Davao City and other cities. The delegation from Compostela Valley was the largest among LGUs, while Team PHOENIX RUN 3K WINNERS. Phoenix Petroleum Brand and Marketing Manager Celina Matias awards the winners of the 3K category of the Phoenix Titans was the biggest Family Fun Run on March 9 at SM Lanang Premier. (PR)