Edge Davao 6 Issue 56

VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

www.edgedavao.net

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Going to the depths to rise to the sky

By Neil Bravo

Photo by Chito Malabanan

I

n three years, a Davao City structure will finally get closer to the sky.

We’re referring to the latest property development project getting to the earth-moving phase— that’s the stage where images on drawing boards and blueprints are gradually transformed into tangible structures. Aeon Towers of the FTC Group of Companies is set to become the city’s tallest skyscraper at 90.8 meters or 33 levels of mixed-use property.

Before Aeon Towers, The Marco Polo Davao, at 18 storeys, holds the distinction of being the city’s tall-

est.

So, how does the Aeon Towers fare when ranged against the tallest buildings in the country? Midget.

Aeon would be nowhere in the top 50. PBCom Tower in Manila is the country’s tallest at 259 meters although it has fewer floors (54) compared to no. 2 ranked Gramercy Residences with 72 floors but lower in height at 250 meters.

Discovery Primea (250 meters, 68 floors), Kingsbridge (220 meters, 64 floors) and GT International (217 meters, 47 floors) occupy the rest of the top 5.

What are the limitations for

builders to construct high-rise buildings in Davao?

Ademar Pama, structural engineer of Aeon Towers, said that basically the challenge is dealing with the soil quality and Davao being in the critical zone of the so-called Ring of Fire.

“The challenge in this part of the area (J.P. Laurel Avenue) is the first few layers of the foundation’s soil are really not quite good, it’s soft.

But deeper, it’s already quite stable, that’s why we have it on piles,” Pama said in explaining how they prepared the Aeon Towers design.

“The foundation is basically a board pile. The board pile would

extend to the hard strata,” he explained.

The maximum depth of the board pile, according to Pama, is about 40 meters from the basement level (from the bottom of the excavation). That means, the total depth of the foundation is 56 meters from ground level.

“We really need to have that depth,” Pama stressed.

With a 56-meter foundation, the Aeon Towers engineering team was able to come up with the ideal height of 90.8 meters from the ground. However, as they go up, there’s another challenge--staying

FDEEP RISE, 10

2 THE BIG NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

New smoking ban

Only three violators nabbed on first implementation day

T

He first day of full implementation of Ordinance no. 036712, called The new Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance last Friday, netted only three violators by the Mobile Patrol Group (MPG) whereas Police Office (DCPO) city police director Ronald dela Rosa confirmed that Davao City police stations had zero apprehension of violations.

“Dabawenyos are afraid to violate the law because the media keeps informing them about the strict implementation of the new ordinance,” Dela Rosa said.

Anti-Smoking Task Force (ASTF) head Dr. Domilyn Villareiz told edge Davao that the surprisingly low number of violators proves that Dabawenyos are aware of the new ordi-

nance. “even if it’s too early to tell, we’re happy about the result and we hope that in the coming days, months and years Davao city will have zero smoke violators,” she said, adding that ASTF was really expecting few apprehensions during the full implementation of the new anti-smoking ordinance.

However, the Talomo Police Station commander Julius Silagan said they have apprehended 20 violators in their area during the first 24 hours of the ordinance’s implementation.

“These violators have five days to comply with the penalty and the required counseling session otherwise we will file appropriate case in court,” Silagan said.

Meanwhile, Villareiz

bared that the launching of the new ordinance coincides with the 11th anniversary of a very successful smoke-free Davao City. earlier, about 100 youth advocates joined a motorcade to distribute leaflets showing the ill effects of smoking and informing the public about the provisions of the new ordinance in the city. Almost a hundred vehicles joined the motorcade which started out from three different points in the city.

Villareiz announced that the city government has cited two hospitals, one hotel and one mall as best smoke-free establishments. These are the Davao Adventist Hospital and Brokenshire Memorial Hospital, the Park Inn Hotel and SM Lanang Premier. CMP

the soldiers and is in the custody of the Philippine national Police (PnP) in Laak ,” he added. He failed to say how old the young rebel was.

Paniza said the first encounter happened around 8:40 am in Sitio Kugon, Barangay Lunganapan in Laak after concerned civilians informed the troops of the San Antonio Patrol Base about the presence of armed men who had set up a roadblock.

“Our troops responded to the scene to prevent further harassment of, and and panic to the civilians,” he said.

He said the a firefight lasted about 20 minutes and the troops were able to

recover forty (40) rounds of ammunition for caliber 7.62 mm and M60 machinegun, one backpack and fifty (50) meters of electrical wire suspected to be used for making landmines.

The second encounter occurred at 1:40 pm when troops of the 60th Infantry Battalion pursued the withdrawing nPAs at the vicinity of Sitio Buayahon, Barangay San Antonio, Laak.

“This is where we rescued the nPA minor and we recovered the AK 47 automatic rifle from him,” he explained.

There were no reported casualties among the troops.

Troops recover young reb, arms

By Che PaliCte

STUBBORN. Some smokers in Davao City still can’t stop lighting up cigarettes in public places like these two men who make the space behind plants their hiding place to avoid apprehension on the second day

of the full implementation of the New Comprehensive Anti-smoking Ordinance where violators will be fined P500 and will be required to undergo counseling.

Lean Daval Jr.

Oklahoma City tornadoes kill 5

H

OUSTOn (PnA/ Xinhua) -- The Oklahoma authorities confirmed on Friday that at least five people were killed when tornadoes slammed Oklahoma City and its suburbs which are still recovering from a monster twister that ravaged it less than two weeks ago.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol said earlier a mother and her baby were killed in their car while traveling on Interstate 40, just west of Oklahoma City.

The Oklahoma Medical examiner’s Office said two of the deaths occurred in Union City and one was in el Reno, west of Oklahoma City.

Some 40 to 50 people were being treated for storm-related injuries, of which five are in critical condition, among them a child, according to the Integris Health hospital system.

The storm, hitting the city during the evening rush hour, crumbled cars and tractor-trailers along a major interstate highway and caused havoc, a local TV channel ABC13 reported.

Hail and heavy rain swept the metro area and emergency workers have trouble responding to “widespread” reports of injuries, according to reports.

Flash flooding and tornadoes also killed three people in Ar-

kansas late Thursday and early Friday.

Three others were reported missing in floods.

The US averages more than 1,200 tornadoes a year. Most tornadoes in the country are relatively small. Of the 60 top-of-the-scale eF-5 tornadoes to hit since 1950, Oklahoma and Alabama have been hit the most -- seven times each, according to media reports.

A tornado, classified as an eF-5, hit Moore, in the southern part of the Oklahoma City metropolitan area, on May 20, killing 24 people and injuring 377 others.

As many as 12,000 homes were damaged. (PnA/Xinhua)

T

WO successive encounters in Laak, Compostela Valley Province last Friday resulted to the death of one member of the new Peoples army (nPA), “rescued” one wounded nPA (a minor) and recovered one M60 macinegun, an M16 rifle with M203 grenade launcher and one AK 47 automatic rifle.

In a letter sent to edge Davao by Lt. Col. Lyndon Paniza, Army’s 10th Infantry Division spokesman, said minor had sustained a head injury during his escape from the scene of the encounter and rolled down the rugged terrain.

“He was given immediate first aid treatment by

DRAWING THE CROWD. Franco Reyes, lead vocalist of popular rock band Franco, performs in front of the delighted crowd at the activity center of Abreeza Mall on J.P. Laurel Avenue, Davao City Friday night. Lean Daval Jr.

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

NATION/WORLD 3

Vietnam PM seeks regional unity as China pushes maritime claims V

IeTnAM’S prime minister called for unity among Southeast Asian countries as China asserts its claims to the energy-rich South China Sea, warning that any conflict could disrupt international trade and the global economy.

Tensions in the decades-old territorial dispute between six Asian claimants have risen in recent weeks after Chinese vessels converged near a ship the Philippines ran aground on a reef in 1999 to mark its territory.

“Somewhere in the region, there have emerged preferences for unilateral might, groundless claims and actions that run counter to international law and stem from imposition and power politics,” nguyen Tan Dung said in a speech on Friday at the Shangri-La Dialogue, an annual regional security forum in Singapore.

“A single irresponsible action or instigation of conflict could well lead to the interruption of huge trade flows, causing unforeseeable consequences not only to regional economies but also to the entire world,” he said in remarks translated from Vietnamese.

China claims almost all of the South China Sea as its territory, setting it directly against the Phil-

ippines and Vietnam as it displays the growing “blue water” reach of its navy and the United States turns more of its attention to Asia.

Brunei, Taiwan and Malaysia also claim parts of the South China Sea, whose waters are vital to the international flow of goods and energy and whose seabed is believed to contain rich deposits of oil and natural gas.

U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel is attending the three-day forum convened by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), with the U.S. “pivot” toward Asia, the region’s military build-up and the South China Sea high on the agenda.

Stressing the need for “strategic trust”, Dung said the Association of Southeast Asian nations (ASeAn) must stay united and strong, without any of its 10 members “forced to take sides with one country or the other for the benefit of their own relationships with big powers.”

ASeAn has been talking to China about a binding code of conduct to ease tensions but Beijing has said it will negotiate “when the time is ripe”. ASeAn foreign ministers are due to meet in Thailand in August to

KEYNOTE ADDRESS. Vietnam’s Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung prepares to give the keynote address at the 12th International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Asia Security Summit: The Shangri-La Dialogue, in Singapore May 31, 2013. [REUTERS] forge a position on the code of conduct before meeting Chinese officials in Beijing.

Vietnam will not be a military ally to anyone or allow any country to set up military bases on its soil, Dung said, adding the modernisation of its forces was “only for self-defence and to safeguard our legitimate interests”.

China’s response to the actions of its rival claimants may be part of a very long-term negotiating strategy, said Chris-

tian Le Miere, a senior fellow at the IISS. “I would call it a form of opportunistic assertiveness whereby China is often aware that these actions are going to happen and then uses them as a justification for its overzealous reactions,” Le Miere told a news conference.

“What we will continue to see is China trying to change the facts on the water and trying to build a stronger legal case and adapt the legal environ-

ment to its own benefit wherever possible and continue with its maximalist claims because they will, in the future, provide China with a stronger negotiation position.”

A Chinese military think-tank, the Centre for national Defence Policy, said this week the U.S. pivot to Asia had “shattered” the relative calm of the South China Sea. “While the conditions do not yet exist for a large-scale armed clash,

the dispute is becoming normalised and longterm ... and ineffective management may lead to a serious crisis,” the report said, according to the China news Service.

Washington says it is focusing more security, economic and diplomatic attention on Asia to engage the fast-growing region, which has fuelled Chinese suspicions that the United States is trying to contain its economic and military might. [Reuters]

OP Un officials have urged governments across the world to ban all forms of tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship, so as to help curb a major global health threat that kills some six million people a year.

“Tobacco use is one of the top threats to human health, killing half the people who use it,” said Un Secretary-general Ban Kimoon while marking the World no Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31.

The Day is intended to encourage a 24-hour period of abstinence from all forms of tobacco consumption across the globe, as well as to draw global attention to the widespread prevalence of tobacco use and its negative health effects, which currently lead to 5.4 million deaths worldwide annually.

Member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) created the Day in 1987. In the past 26 years, the Day has been met with both enthusiasm and resis-

tance across the globe from governments, public health organizations, smokers, growers, and the tobacco industry.

“When we reduce people’s exposure to tobacco advertising, we reduce the likelihood that they will start to use tobacco,” Ban said.

Tobacco is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases.

The WHO estimates that by 2030, tobacco use will kill more than eight million people every year, with four out of five such deaths occurring in low and middle-income countries. every year on May 31, the WHO and partners everywhere mark the World no Tobacco Day, highlighting the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocating for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption. [PnA/Xinhua]

UN officials urge ban on tobacco advertising

Ombudsman, WB to install electronic SALN system T O MBUDSMAn Conchita Carpio Morales and World Bank country director Motoo Konishi signed over the weekend a US$ 230,000 Grant Agreement on “enhancing the Income and Asset Declaration System Project.”

The project aims to improve the effectiveness of the system of filing and analyzing Statements of Assets, Liabilities and net Worth by transforming the manual-based system into an electronic or IT-based system, streamlining business processes and procedures, enhancing the monitoring and enforcement of the SALn requirements, and improving transparency and access to the SALns. In the signing ceremonies held at the Ombudsman Function Room

in Quezon City, Morales said equipping the office with proper tools and systems complement the enhanced techniques and strategies of its graft investigators in the conduct of lifestyle check.

She said “bad elements are keeping up with the times and employing the most sophisticated means of acquiring and hiding their ill-gotten wealth.”

She added it “behooves any anti-graft body to arm itself with upgraded weapons and superior counter-tactics to crush the enemy.”

In his speech, Konishi said the signing of the grant “represents the World Bank’s support to the Government’s broader effort to build stronger and more accountable institutions

and promote inclusive growth.”

“We share the Aquino Government’s commitment to ensure that scarce resources are spent honestly and wisely. When public funds are rightly spent, citizens get the education, health care and social services they have paid for and deserve; roads lead to markets; businesses flourish and more people get decent jobs,” he added.

The WB has approved the grant under its Institutional Development Fund, as it recognizes that the system of income and asset declaration is an important tool in detecting and preventing corruption.

Under Republic Act no. 6713, or the Code of Conduct and ethical

Standards for Public Officials and employees, government officials and employees are required to file their SALns “(a) within thirty (30) days after assumption of office; (b) on or before April 30, of every year thereafter; and (c) within thirty (30) days after separation from the service.”

The law imposes a penalty of suspension of one month to six months for the first offense, and dismissal from service for the second offense, for failure to file a SALn declaring under oath their assets, liabilities, net worth and financial and business interests including those of their spouses and of unmarried children under 18 years of age living in their households. [PnA]

4

EDGEDAVAO

MOTORING

VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

All-new 2013 Kia Carens rolls out W

Hen you think MPV, you think of something practical but nothing much more. They’re seen as the modern equivalent of beasts of burden—great at ferrying passengers and large cargo. It isn’t something you bring to a Friday night date much less brag to the entire barkada. It’s a car purchased mostly because of necessity rather than desire. That is until the sleek and sexy Kia Carens came along. exuding as much appeal as a Victoria’s Secret model, the allnew Carens is designed from a clean-sheet design and is truly contemporary and distinctive. The outside is downright sporty with its cab-forward design, short overhangs, LeD park lamps, and standard 205/55R16 tires (the top-of-the-line eX gets 225/45R17s). It marks a dramatic shift away from the looks of its more subdued predecessor, but is able to maintain the Carens’s functionality. In terms of dimensions, the allnew Carens is actually shorter (20 mm), narrower (15 mm), and lower (40 mm); yet it features an increased wheelbase. An improved interior design and packaging also enlarges the passenger room.

Inside, the Carens is a truly innovative MPV that introduces a wealth of modern comfort and convenience features that advance every aspect for all occupants. First, drivers will enjoy excellent ergonomics thanks to the standard tilt/telescopic steering wheel, height-adjustable driver’s seat, and an “organ-type” accelerator pedal which features a pivoting mechanism on the floor.

Under the hood of the all-new Carens is a new 1.7-liter CRDi engine with 136 horsepower and 330 nm of torque for the M/T and 319 nm for the A/T. Both transmissions have six forward ratios with the automatic gearbox

receiving a manual override function. To match the new powerplant, the Carens features a re-engineered suspension system with its MacPherson Strut front suspension now mounted on an

allnew subframe to isolate the cabin from road shock.

The rear suspension features a new Coupled Torsion Beam Axle (CTBA) which replaces the previous model’s multi-link system. And in order to give the Carens a new-found feeling of sportiness, it comes standard with the Flex Steer System as standard. This system offers three different steering weights to match customer preference: normal, Sport, and Comfort. Finally, the Carens comes with all-wheel disc brakes as standard equipment cou-

pled with the security of anti-lock brakes. The

range-topping eX receives eSP or electronic Stability Program as standard as well.

The all-new Kia Carens has two trim levels: the entry-level LX and the higher-trim eX. All models come with a seven-seater capacity and are differentiated mainly by the addition of convenience features. The eX model receives the benefit of a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, panoramic sunroof, full leather upholstery, dual zone automatic climate control, light-sensing headlamps,

rain-sensing wipers, and an integrated audio system with a large 4.3-inch TFT LCD display, Apple iPod integration and Bluetooth hands-free. Outside, the eX is differentiated by its standard front fog lamps, puddle lamps, side mirror integrated turn signal repeaters, mudguards, and roof rails.

engineered for the modern family, the Kia Carens is sure to offer a unique combination of style, function, comfort, and refinement never before seen in the MPV segment.

With its stunning new look and enhanced features, the all-new Kia Carens features a MSRP of P 1,140,000 for the LX M/T, P 1,230,000 for the LX A/T, and P 1,480,000

for the eX A/T. It’s available in a suite of colors of five colors, the availability of which depends on the variant.

The all-new Kia Carens is set for a public launch at the Bonifacio High Street (BHS) Central Fountain Area, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig on Friday, May 31. everyone is invited to witness the revolutionary new sexy MPV.

engaged in the business of trading refined petroleum products and lubricants, operation of oil depots and storage facilities, shipping/logistics and allied services.

“We are sincerely happy that a young and visionary company like Phoenix has decided to continue this pact with Trans Sport Show, which in turn is the longest-running auto show of its kind in the Philippines, and possibly in Asia,” said Tradeshow International president Sophie de los Santos.

Phoenix Petroleum started the partnership in the highly successful 2012 Trans Sport Show (TSS), aligning its vision of “Fuels Life” with the strong market attraction of the show.

The perfect fit benefited both brands, resulting in stronger ticket sales for TSS while creating a brand campaign for Phoenix Petroleum.

“Phoenix Petroleum is

very happy with its collaboration with Trans Sport Show. We were able to deliver our message of our technologically advanced fuel formulations at affordable prices successfully to our customers,” said Phoenix brand and marketing manager Celina Matias.

Rated highly by car enthusiasts and respected by the automotive public in general, the Trans Sport Show has been for many years selected as a perfect venue for new product launches. Since it opened the stage in 1992 as a real car enthusiasts’ show, the TSS is now one of the most popular automotive brands in the industry today, easily recognized by at least two or three generations or the “car crazy.”

Trans Sport Show is the longest running and most enduring car show in the country, organized by industry professionals and car enthusiasts.

Phoenix petroleum backs Trans-Sport Show 2013

P

HOenIX Petroleum Philippines, the country’s leading independent oil company, renewed partnership with Trans Sport Show for 2013 slated which concludes today at the SMX Convention Center by Mall of Asia.

The Davao-grown firm is now on its second year of a 5-year contract between the two companies—with the slogan “Phoenix Petroleum Fuels A Driving Generation.”

This year’s Trans Sport Show will be its 22nd run as an interactive, entertaining and experiential forum for car enthusiasts to witness excellent executions of automotive aftermarket design concepts, current technologies, car restoration and automobile heritage.

Phoenix Petroleum is the no. 1 independent and fastest-growing oil company today with an expanding network of operations nationwide. It is

5 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

Smart is sole PHL finalist at international LTE Awards T

He country’s Long Term evolution (LTe) pioneer Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) was recently named a finalist at the prestigious LTe Awards, organized by international industry publication Telecoms. com. Smart was the only Philippine operator shortlisted by the award-giving body, join-

ing the ranks of industry leaders including Cisco, Samsung electronics, and Huawei Technologies.

Smart made it to the finals under the category “Most Innovative LTe Launch,” for the highly successful August 2012 launch of Smart LTe, the first commercially available high-speed data technology in the coun-

MJ playfully shows off Topkidz, a leading multivitamins for kids distributed by KBA AdPro and Media Management during the 2nd day of the 9th VisMin Drugstores

try.

Initially deployed in select areas across five Metro Manila cities, Smart LTe now covers close to 1,000 sites in 115 cities and municipalities all over the Philippines.

The country’s largest LTe network is supported by more than 54,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables connecting

Business Conference at SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center. Lean Daval Jr.

Smart’s base stations to the core network. This infrastructure enables Smart and parent company PLDT to deliver the best data services at the speed of light.

Smart LTe allows users to enjoy speeds of up to 42 Mbps on LTe-enabled devices such as the iPhone 5, Samsung Galaxy S4, Sony Xperia Z, nokia Lumia 920, iPad mini, fourth generation iPad, LTe USB dongle, and LTe Pocket WiFi. Smart has unveiled a wide array of LTe packages, some of which allow selected postpaid subscribers to enjoy the service for as low as P50 a day. Smart LTe usage is expected to grow further with the recent launch of the country’s first and only prepaid LTe service.

Winners of this year’s LTe Awards will be presented during the LTe World Summit in June in Amsterdam, netherlands.

6 THE ECONOMY Stat Watch

1. Gross National Income Growth Rate (At Constant 2000 Prices)

5.4 4th Qtr 2012

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

6.8 4th Qtr 2012

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

USD 3,969.51 million Dec 2012 USD 5,135.46 million Nov 2012 USD -1,585 million Nov 2012 USD -209 million Mar 2012 P 5,171,689 million Dec 2012

8. Interest Rates 4/

3.6 % Jan 2013 P155,308 million Nov 2012 P 5,381 billion Nov 2012

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

P 40.67 Feb 2013

12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

6,242.7 Jan 2013

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

132.4 Feb 2013

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.4 Feb 2013

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.8 Feb 2013

16. Visitor Arrivals

352,438 Nov 2012

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

20.9% Jan 2013

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

7.1% Jan 2013

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

2013

2012

2011

40.67 40.73

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

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

It figures

VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Regulatory reforms needed to accelerate investments G

OVeRnMenT’S consistency in stirring economic activities and in ensuring strong macroeconomic fundamentals has once again resulted to a strong GDP growth for the country, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) said as it lauded the Aquino administration for the 7.8% GDP growth in the first quarter of the year, and the five-point gain in the 2013 world competitiveness ranking.

Atty. Miguel B. Varela, president of the largest business organization in the country said, “Credit should be given to government. Its performance continues to stir business optimism in the economy as the country positions itself for higher growth.”

The positive growths of services and agriculture are also enticing for investors, Varela said, “as we see that these sectors are critical especially in maintaining our comparative advantage”.

Varela added, “The slower growth of industry is something we had expected primarily due to high cost of production and cost of raw materials. Plus, the first quarter is normally a lean season with more production for export activities happening toward the second half of the year.”

PCCI expressed optimism

that with enough infrastructure spending underway, industrial output will improve in the coming quarters. noting that the two key engines of growth are government spending and consumption driven by remittances, Varela expressed PCCI’s optimism that the current momentum will be sustained if these two elements remain stable and consistent.

In the long term, PCCI said strong growth must be generated from agriculture and the manufacturing sectors. It is investments in these sector that can create quality jobs and decent incomes and that can help uplift poverty, PCCI stressed.

While the organization cited government for the creation of the ease of Doing Business Task Force to address issues of competitiveness, PCCI underscored the need to accelerate the implementation of the game plan laid down by the national Competitiveness Council.

Varela said, “Streamlining and standardization of business process and licensing system and the implementation of the Philippine business registry, which have been a works in progress for the longest time, should be implemented along a measureable timeline.” He added that the PCCI has actually been working with several administrations on these pro-

by the numbers

The continued inflow of remittances from OFWs boosts the Gross National Income (GNI) growth to

7.1 percent in the first quarter of 2013 from

5.7 percent recorded during the same period in 2012.

Source: nSCb

grams and are now hopeful that with a pro-active nCC and a task force with mandate from the president himself, these programs will finally bear fruition.

At the same time, PCCI urged government to enhance the regulatory systems to support dynamic and proactive reforms to

take advantage of the growth momentum. Among these are benchmarking of incentives especially in terms of supporting the entry and expansion of investments in very critical areas such as transportation and infrastructure that develop the value chains of agriculture and industries. [PnA]

cially for parents who have children to support and to the new graduates who now have their turn in supporting their siblings’ education,” Baldoz said.

The cabinet member noted call center industry remains to be the second biggest employer, with a need for about 8,888 agents as of May 29.

There are also vacancies for the following jobs: Service crew - 8,757 vacancies, technical support staff - 6,458 vacancies, production workers/ factory workers - 5,180 vacancies, sales clerk - 5,003 vacancies, cashier - 4,708 vacancies, production machine operator - 2,823 vacancies, customer service assistant - 2,718 vacancies, office clerk - 1,969 vacancies, janitor - 1,863 vacancies, merchandiser - 1,718 vacancies, security guard - 1,418 vacancies, production technician - 1,369 vacancies, sales officer - 1,300 vacancies, head wait-

er - 1,234 vacancies, promo girl - 1,228 vacancies, janitress - 1,216 vacancies promo salesperson, 1,146 vacancies.

Baldoz advised jobseekers to be more patient in their job hunt, explaining that recruiters are having a hard time getting applicants with competencies that match their job description.

She also encouraged job seekers to improve their qualification by taking technical-vocational course related to their craft.

The labor chief advised students to consider the current market demands for jobs in choosing a college course.

Aside from obtaining the required skills and qualifications of a particular job, Baldoz reminded the job applicants to create their accounts at the Phil-Job.net website for an easier online job application, which will definitely help them save time, money, and effort.

DOLE to unemployed: Thousands of jobs waiting

W

eLL, the Department of Labor and employment (DOLe) claims there are about 130,290 jobs you can pick from this month alone.

Citing job search portal Phil-

Job.net’s data, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz said the sales industry tops the list of jobs with 11,971 vacancies in various offices nationwide.

“This is good news espe-

AFFECTED. A vehicle is covered with bubbles after it underwent car shampoo process at a car wash shop along J.P. Laurel Avenue in

Davao City yesterday. Car wash business is one of the industries most affected by the recent water rate increase. Lean Daval Jr.

7.8% According to the National Statistical Coordination Board, this is the Philippines’ gross domestic product (GDP) growth for the first quarter of 2013: the highest so far under the Aquino administration, and also the third consecutive quarter in which growth exceeded 7.0 percent—exceeding government’s 6.0 to 7.0 percent growth target for this year.

P36.8 B P5.7 B Budget surplus for the month of April 2013, a record high for the Aquino administration. According to the Department of Finance, this surplus trims the country’s year-to-date deficit to P29.675 billion.

Australia’s total official development aid to the Philippines for the fiscal year 2013-2014, a P480-million (A$12 million) increase from the allocation in 2012-2013.

38th

Standing of the Philippines in this year’s World Competitiveness Ranking, according to a global survey of 60 countries on competitiveness conducted by international business school, IMD. With an economy growing at a robust pace, the Philippines’ ranking jumped by five notches from last year’s ranking of 43rd.

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013 THE BIGGER PICTURE

7

Are you ready for school?

By John Carlo Nuñez, Campus writer F. Bangoy national High School

I

T’S time for school again! For sure stressful months, sleepless nights, and busy days are waiting students and teachers alike this beginning of the school year.

The question is, are you ready for school? If so, prepare for your fully equipped positive mind and step on for another exciting academic journey.

We asked several students and teachers and even security guards and canteen vendors of F. Bangoy national High School to give their opinions, suggestions, and insights about the opening of classes.

MRS. ROWeNa QUiJe, a Grade 7 teacher. “In regards to K-12 implementation, school will be a long journey because 2 years will be added. But in the good side, after you graduate you can easily access a job.”

StePheN BReNt BalDOS, incoming Grade 8 student. “I’m so excited and feel nervous but

still I’m well – prepared for the upcoming school year.”

JOhN PatRiCK PaJaRiN, incoming 3rd year.

“Wala na, mao ra gihapon.

Wala man ko na-excite kay permintera man ko sa school ug sa SSG. MRS.

FlOReNCia

FUlliDO, 65 years old, canteen vendor. “Kailangan jud makatabang sa mga estudyante ang mga pagkaon na among iprepare kay giingon sa

Matanao’s 4H Club leads 2013 ‘Gawad-Saka’ winners

By Che PaliCte

A

small-town 4H Club is among the six farmers’ associations and 18 individual farmers who emerged as this year’s winners of the Gawad-Saka in rites held Friday at the Royal Mandaya Hotel in Davao City.

Gawad Saka is a yearly event intended for the month-long celebration of Farmers and Fisherfolks Month in the Davao region.

Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 9 (DA-RFU-9) regional director Remelyn Recoter said the event is important for it recognizes the contributions of farmers, fisherfolks, rural women and youth to the promotion of agricultural development in their respective communities.

Recoter said 23 cate-

gories were contested by the candidates.

Region “For this year there were about 50 nominees, but only 23 were chosen by a regional evaluation committee as winners,” she added.

Among the group winners were the Inyam 4-H Club of Matanao, Davao del Sur which was chosen as the Young Farmers’ Organization of the Year while the San Vicente Multi-Purpose Cooperative of Sto. Tomas, Davao del norte bagged the Best Small Farmer/Fisherfolk Organization.

In the individual category, Benjamin Lao of barangay eman in Bansalan, Davao del Sur was named Agri-entrepreneur of the Year; Perseverando Dalumpines of Tiguman, Digos City as Corn Farmer

of the Year; Delia Caminero of Malinao, Padada, Davao del Sur as Rice Farmer of the Year; and, Dr. nila nanette Revilla of SPAMAST in Malita, Davao del Sur as Agri-Scientist of the Year.

The individual category winners received a plaques of appreciation and cash prizes worth P30,000 each while group winners received P50,000 each.

“All the winners in the regional level are automatically nominated to the national level competition,” Recoter said, adding that they winners will be invited as resource persons in different activities in the region to effectively share and spread their knowledge and applied technologies in farming.

DOH na nutritious yet delicious na food jud ang kasagaran namong ibaligya.”

MR. TOMAS A. ORGe JR., 38 years old, security

guard. “nadungagan na pud ang mga estudyante, mga buguyon pa jud ang uban pagka nalang, busy na jud ta ani karong pagabri sa klase.”

8 VANTAGE POINTS

EDITORIAL

S

VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

Solution

OMeTHInG big and extraordinary is happening in the field of solid waste disposal, particularly of non-biogredable plastic products which have been blamed for the clogging of waterways that in turn cause street flooding, traffic jams and other related problems.

A Dabawenyo has developed a technology that converts plastics into durable chairs, yes, chairs that last 20 years.

The technology has caught the attention of former congresswoman Cynthia A. Villar, who immediately made a trip to Davao to have a look-see.

Convinced of its viability, Mrs. Villar, now a senator-elect, jointly with Villar Foundation, husband Senator Manny Villar and son Rep. Mark Villar, embarked on the project, something that fulfillscher promise of creating livelihood to the poor, while protecting the environment.

Days ago, the Villars inaugurated the first Waste Plastic Recycling Factory in Metro Manila, which turns plastic wastes into durable school chairs that could last up two decades.

“We have a lot of plastic wastes here in Metro Manila. When disposed of improperly, this results in the clogging of our drainage system and eventually causes flooding, the spread of diseases, and many others. So, we thought of processing these plastic wastes and coming up with something useful,” Mrs. Villar said.

Dabawenyos are as excited as Mrs. Villar, not only for the livelihood it brings to the poor, but also for the beneficial effect

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on the environment.

We’re sure the rare facility will have a positive impact on Metro Manila’s never-ending battle against all kinds of solid wastes that pollute the metropolis.

In time, there will be a clamor to build similar facilities among local government units and capitalists will only be too happy to jump onto the bandwagon.

Since the technology originated here, we’re hoping the Villars would also build a big facility in Davao City. If they will not do that in order to protect the Dabawenyo innovator’s own business, they can at least take a look at neighboring cities and provinces of the region where the facility could be very useful not only in providing livelihood but also in supplying less costly but durable chairs to public schools.

Meanwhile, we commend the Villars for adopting such a very laudable project.

She explained, the plastic wastes recycling factory located in Ilaya, Las Pinas City is a pilot project of the Villar Foundation.

Villar said if this project will be successful, it can be replicated in other provinces in the country.

Villar earned the moniker, MisisHanepbuhay, because of her many livelihood projects built benefitting the poor.

Before running for Senate, Villar served as Congresswoman of Las Pinas for 9 years and became Managing Director of the Villar Foundation, where she continued providing livelihood projects in 200 towns and cities all over the country.

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

P

Lack of fitting solutions

eRRenIAL PROBLeMS In OUR eDUCATIOnAL SYSTeM – Government educators should not operate on complicated logic. Perhaps a gradual approach and acceptable implementing procedures toward a better education program will work wondrously.

As the SY 2013-2014 to start next week, doubts and trepidation over the implementation of the highly controversial K to 12 education enhancement program of the Department of education (DepeD) remained. Top officials of the education department insist that students who complete 12 years of basic education will be better equipped technically or vocationally, and become competent enough with their acquired skills as soon as they graduate.

However, there are two faces of a coin. While top Deped officials insist that the K to 12 program is a key to competitiveness and employment, critics, other education experts and groups adverse to the program, on the other hand, strongly argue that lengthening the education cycle has no direct basis for improving the quality of education. They don’t believe adding two more years of school will solve the problem of education, and later on unemployment because those are two different things. So what kind of education enhancement program is the Deped talking about, it might be asked?

The K to 12 education scheme agued some unsympathetic groups is only a burden rather than a solution to the recurring problems. They say the “well-defined” K to 12 guidelines is good only in papers, probably at this juncture since it need about two or three years before we could see the result – progressive or otherwise.

Different factions who strongly opposed the Deped initiative stressed that the problems actually besetting the country’s education system are basic and these have been perennial drawbacks – lack of classrooms, books, desks, tables, water and power supply and other facilities, and of course, lack of qualified

W

teachers. The biggest problem as we all know is money because the education department relied mainly on the annual appropriation to meet the acute shortage. Ranking Deped officials therefore should take into account that the annual government appropriation for education may never meet the requirements especially with years and years of backlog in the education budget. In any case, adversarial groups have proven their point that additional budgetary requirement for education is what the country needs and not additional years of basic education.

It was rather unfortunate that despite getting a bigger slice of the budget for this year, DepeD still failed to address the recurring problems pestering the country’s educational system.

If our education sector is serious in reclaiming its rightful place as an Asian leader, government should at least pay attention and look prudently into these key priority areas: make education accessible and relevant to the times, take extra effort to lower our current high dropout rates and serious investments should be made in improving the plight of our public school teachers by way of refining their teaching knowledge and skills. no matter how government educators and planners add years to basic education, the perennial problems if not attended to posthaste would not provide the right condition for learning. With over 40 million Filipinos living on less than P100 a day, there is very slim chance families can allocate for education much more for additional years of basic education. Consequently, many of our children are roaming the streets instead of remaining in school.

And for those children who are fortunate enough to go to school are also confronted with another problem. They suffer a silent hunger that only the poor know. Without any food in their stomachs, these children could hardly comprehend their lessons or even stay in school.

So how could the Deped’s much-vaunted K to 12 education enhancement program keeps in tune with the enduring problems plaguing the country’s education system? What’s more, child malnutrition is in fact a leading cause of high student dropouts especially in the poorest areas throughout the country. Dropout rates are something government educators have to contend with. But the serious shortcomings of government are the virtual absence of teachers’ training. each year only a pittance is spent per public school teacher on their training, and sadly of course, they are also victims of chronic underpayment.

Teachers’ salaries should be increased immediately if we are to keep members of this noble profession from leaving the country to look for greener pasture abroad or from going hungry.

With such low pay and lack of proper training many qualified people are not attracted to teach in public schools – to the detriment of the students. Most importantly, in investing for their training, our educators can continue learning and become more efficient teachers.

Furthermore, we live in the age of technology. Children need to know not only basic reading, writing and math.

They need to know how to speak the language of computers. Having access to computers, our children will learn to use them – and the whole new world of technology will be open to them. This will keep our education system current with the times even without the much-vaunted K to 12 programs, since our students will improve their skills and teachers will also constantly update their knowledge and expertise.

Just the speeches, not the writers

HATeVeR dissatisfaction he had was an internal matter with his communications group composed of persons close to him. He could have just called them to a lunch or dinner conference to discuss the problem. He might have discovered to his dismay the existing miscommunication between him and his hand-picked communications group.

On the part of his communications group, as shown in Valte’s remarks in the Inquirer report, they seem to have taken lightly the President’s dissatisfaction with their work as not an expression of displeasure with them.

Instead of being so cavalier, showing how they relate with the President, they should have resigned en massé!

Valte told the Inquirer of the confidence they continue to enjoy from the President and of their efforts to intro-

MINDA DA NEWS

By Patricio P. diaz

(Conclusion) duce something new always. “We are always looking to improve strategies that we can employ, and there is always room for improvement as far as we are concerned.” evidently, the President wanted to impress his audience, foreigners included, that he had done great for the people but this had not been effectively communicated to them so they had not appreciated the “good things.” not his fault! evidently, too, the Malacañang communications group – as Valte has said – wanted to impress the nation that they have always been trying to

improve their “strategies” in telling the people the “good things” being done for them and if their “strategies” have not been effective “there is always room for improvement.” An admission of failure!

So, the people should ask: If the President believes that we don’t see and appreciate the “good things” he has done for us, what and where are these things? We should see! Will an improvement in communication strategies make us see what we don’t see now? Do we have to be told to see the “good things” if we are really enjoying them now?

Unfortunately, the President’s imprudence and the cavalier way his communications group through his deputy spokesperson have denied but unwittingly admitted their failure do not inspire confidence. [Mindanews]

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Martial Law took the fun out of citizenship THE WORM’S-EYE VIEW

By Manny ValdehueSa

(1st of two parts)

B

eFORe the unrepentant dictator and the remorseless martial law administrator cast the shadow of authoritarian rule over our society in 1972, we had a vibrant democracy, pleasing to libertarians, exhilarating to freedom-lovers. We faced the challenge of nation-building and we went at it with vigor and determination. especially in the 1960s, years when the youth of the world awakened and drew attention to the fact that they too were citizens.

Thus we staged eyeball-to-eyeball debates, conducted “teach-ins.”

We marched and held rallies, calling it “parliament of the streets.” We organized forums of various intensities, formal and informal, in plazas, on campuses, on radio and TV. We were young professionals and students, but even bystanders debated issues into the wee hours, informing themselves and others, forming judgments and community decisions—which is what civilized debates do or ought to do.

And we did so throughout the Philippine archipelago, from Appari to Tawi-tawi.

It was unconscionable for a political candidate in those years to avoid debates or refuse to take part in one.

Besides, over a century of Balagtasan, elocution, and oratorical contests had conditioned the young and youngonce to watch, listen, participate, or follow debates wherever they took place. Debates were as natural as the haranas and festive singing that took place wherever a guitar materialized and a group formed. Debating was a close cousin of merrymaking among fun-loving Pinoys.

Marcos and enrile changed it all The social dynamics changed with Martial Law. Authoritarianism cramped social relations. It inhibited spontaneity and took away the joy of creativity. It robbed merrymaking of its verve, carousing of its abandon.

That Marcos needed no coaxing to make a speech, or that Imelda needed no excuse to belt out a song, was no joy to behold but an obligation to suffer—to be indulgent, to be polite, to smile wherever and whenever importuned, as one does towards a monarch holding court before intimidated subjects.

That was the effect of Martial Law. It not only took away freedom, it peeled off the joy of citizenship. It was as if society had been injected with formaldehyde, just like Marcos’ cadaver in his mausoleum, so the surface of its skin would not betray the decay beneath it.

Thus embalmed, it could be displayed with a set demeanor that is ever pleasing to the powers that be. Cosmeticized corruption. Corruption with a pleasing appearance and a false façade.

So thoroughly was our society controlled and corrupted during those regimented times; such that like a virus-afflicted computer, our society and political system needed to be cleansed and reprogrammed. But it couldn’t be restored to normal operation unless Martial Law and the Conjugal Dictatorship ended. Unfortunately, by the time we managed to end it at eDSA, neither President Cory nor President eddie had it in them to undertake the task.

10 THE BIGGER PICTURE

VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

DEEP RISE.. FFROM 1

TOWERING PROJECT. (L-r) Francisco T. Cruz, chairman of FTC Group of Companies, Ian Y. Cruz, president of FTC, Rolando Avante, president of Phil-

ippine Business Bank, and Ian Campbelle, project manager of Campbelle and Associates. Lean Daval Jr.

clear of the flight paths of incoming and leaving planes using the Davao International Airport.

“We originally designed for a 45-storey building, but because of the limitations and the recommendation of the Aviation Transportation Office (ATO), we settled for 33,” said FTC Group of Companies president Ian Y. Cruz.

Cruz, however, clarified that the project does not fall within the flight path. “We are not in the path, we are near the path. It’s

volcanoes and is home to over 75 percent of the world’s active and dormant volcanoes.

It is sometimes called the circum-Pacific belt or the circum-Pacific seismic belt.

About 90 percent of the world’s earthquakes and 81 percent of the world’s largest earthquakes occur within the Ring of Fire.

The next most seismic region (5–6 percent of earthquakes and 17 percent of the world’s strongest earthquakes) is the Alpide belt, which extends from Java to Sumatra

through the Himalayas, the Mediterranean, and out into the Atlantic. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is the third most prominent earthquake belt.

“The Philippnes as a whole is part of the ring of fire and the risk is really high, the whole country is affected, except Palawan and Tawi Tawi,” Pama explained.

He said the Philippines is divided into two zones--zone 4 (high-risk) and zone 2 (moderate risk).

Davao, he said, is in zone 4.

“Major earthquakes are considered in the design of the building,” said Ian Campbelle, president of Campbelle and Associates, the project manager of Aeon Towers.

For the record, Campbelle’s reputation is renowned, having been involved in the development of PBCom Tower.

Campbelle said the building is designed to be fire-proof and earthquake-proof.

“It will be a fullyautomated building, we’ll have automated sprinklers, smoke de-

world.

Christine Vertucci, director of Mindanao Peacebuilding Institute (MPI) Foundation Inc.

said peace advocates in different countries, who have earlier established contacts through the institute’s trainings, continue to share their views and experiences through Facebook and twitter.

“They continue to build solidarity. This is the potential of social media that can be used in societal transformation,” she said.

Vertucci said the social media can also be used in promoting conflict management and resolution in changing public attitudes and behaviors towards prejudice and other issues that are associated with many causes of conflict.

The MPI is an Asian training institute grounded in the Mindanao context using models developed and adapted for and

by Asians. It equipped peacebuilders from different Asia countries by providing skills, conduct-

ing research and building solidarity within the “conflict transformation framework.”

“MPI creates a space where peacebuilders meet in mind, heart and spirit to keep abreast of the challenges which the issues of peace and justice present. In a professional and personal way, MPI, through its programs, offers opportunities by which the journey of peace becomes real in the lives of peacebuilders and their communities,” Vertucci said.

MPI’s trainings lay out the fundamental parameters, approaches and processes encompassed in the field of peacebuilding such as conflict resolution, trauma healing, peace education, restorative justice, gender and security, and nonviolence.

It also introduces field-based courses which provide learning opportunities by engag-

the distance from the flight path which was reckoned with and not the vertical clearance.”

Davao City also has to contend with the ‘Ring of Fire.’

The Ring of Fire is an area where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur in the basin of the Pacific Ocean. With a 40,000 km (25,000 mi) horseshoe shape, it is associated with a nearly continuous series of oceanic trenches, volcanic arcs, and volcanic belts and/or plate movements. The Ring of Fire has 452

SourCe: WikiPedia

tection system, and smoke-proof emergency elevators,” Campbelle said.

The building will boast of a state-of-theart ‘fireman’s elevator’, which Campbelle described as a specialized elevator that runs fully-automated and smoke-free.

Outside Aeon Towers, there are around 17 other high-rise building projects in Davao City that have been approved by the Office of the City Building Official as of the first quarter this year.

Social media in peace building

By GReG G. DeliGeRO

T

He role of social media played in uprisings that unfolded in 2011 across Middle east and north Africa

can be well replicated in peacebuilding initiatives across conflict-ridden communities in the country and other parts of the

DOROTEO JOSE “JUN” M. AC-AC

This is to inform the public that DOROteO JOSe M. aCaC whose picture appears above is no longer connected with NatiONWiDe DeVelOPMeNt CORPORatiON (NaDeCOR). Any transaction entered into by DOROteO JOSe M. aC-aC shall not be recognized or honoured by nADeCOR.

ing real world communities where peacebuilding practices and initiatives are being implemented, challenged and refined.

Peacebuilding is a term describing outside interventions that are designed to prevent the start or resumption of violent conflict within a nation by creating a sustainable peace.

Peacebuilding activities address the root causes or potential causes of violence, create a societal expectation for peaceful conflict resolution and stabilize society politically and socioeconomically.

Vertucci said graduates from MPI trainings are now using the social media for their continued interaction and sharing of experiences in their respective peacebuilding initiatives in Asian countries like India, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

“They established relationship,” she said.

ICT HUB 11

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

Microsoft now developing Windows 8.1 S

OMe seven months into the release of Windows 8, Microsoft has released details regarding the first major update to the operating system, which will be dubbed Windows 8.1, outlining changes planned for the operating system based on feedback from consumers and Microsoft’s vision for the product.

Further personalization has been added in Windows 8.1, with new colors and backgrounds to choose from for the start screen. Users can now turn their Windows 8 devices into a picture frame of sorts as the lock screen shows a slide show of a user’s pictures. Users can also snap photos

with any built-in cameras on Windows 8 devices without needing to bypass the lock screen. enhanced search and maneuvering functions are also in place for Windows 8.1, giving global search results powered by Bing and quick actions to get to certain functions of Windows faster.

Apps on Windows 8.1 will also have upgrades or alterations for ease of use, and more ways to show multiple apps on-screen have been worked out.

Cloud connectivity also helps here, as files from the computer that have been worked on by Windows apps can also be saved to cloud.

Windows 8.1 will

also introduce an updated PC settings page to lessen the need to visit the Control Panel, improved keyboard

and mouse functions, and the introduction of Internet explorer 11.

Windows 8.1 will be available for free lat-

er in the year for Windows 8 users through the Windows Store. A preview of Windows 8.1 will be available

beforehand, however, when the Build developer conference rolls around on June 26. Rappler.com

Samsung teases with new devices S

AMSUnG is teasing a number of devices for consumers around the world, beginning with an announcement for some new devices in London and a notice for the release of some new Galaxy handset types in Asia.

Samsung announced in a press release that it would unveil some new technology on June 20.

The teaser announcement on Samsung’s website mentions earls Court 2 as the venue, with Galaxy and ATIV specific announcements slated for the date, leading to the possibility of a formal reveal of a Galaxy S IV Mini.

Samsung will also livestream the proceedings through YouTube through the Samsung Mobile YouTube page.

CneT also received word of the impending

release of Samsung’s Galaxy Mega handset in select Asian countries.

CneT reports two sizes for the Galaxy Mega.

While the 5.8 inch and 6.3 inch Mega units both use dual-core processors, run on Android 4.2, sport an 8-megapixel camera, and take advantage of LTe connectivity, the 6.3 inch phone-tablet hybrid has a 1.7GHz clockspeed versus the smaller one’s 1.4GHz clockspeed. The two units will also have removable batteries.

An update to their report notes the release dates for the two devices, with the 6.3 inch Mega being available from mid to end June for US$570. The 5.8-inch Mega will come out in mid-June for people in Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam for US$460. - Rappler.com

Move over, TV: ‘Mobile’ is the new primetime

“P

RIMeTIMe” used to mean the most coveted spot in a television network’s daily schedule that reaches the biggest audience possible, but with the emergence of new technologies such as smartphones and tablets, the concept of primetime may have to be redefined soon, at least according to a telecom executive.

In his keynote address during the first-ever Philippine CMO Mobile Summit last week, former Smart Communications top executive noel Lorenzana claims “primetime” isn’t just the 6 PM to 10 PM time slot anymore.

Primetime is now anywhere, anytime, and for

any person, especially with the prevalence of mobile devices.

According to studies, an average of two out of three people sleep with their mobile phones within reach, and at least 25 percent of people who own handsets use it on the dinner table. Lorenzana pointed out that in most instances, phones have become an extension of people’s limbs, like an integral body part that couldn’t be taken too far away from the body.

“Life is already becoming increasingly mobile,” he said, especially since work and lifestyles have practically forced people to be always on the move.

[Yahoo!]

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Gilas-Pilipinas flies to Lithuania G

TRIP TO HISTORY. Japeth Aguilar (4) and the rest of the Pilipinas Smart Gilas will embark on a 61day training in Lithuania.

ilas-PiliPinas left Saturday for Klaipeda City in Lithuania to begin what coach Chot Reyes termed as its “61-Day Trip to History” in the hope of forming a competitive team for this year’s FIBA-Asia World Championship qualifying tournament the county is hosting two months from now.

Twelve players of what remained of the 17-man national training pool chosen three months ago, plus one in lieu of one of four who begged off due to injuries, join Reyes and team manager Butch Antonio in the 22hour flight for the 16-day Klaipeda sojourn where they will attend a training camp and play six goodwill tune up games, two against the Lithuanian national squad.

They are regular national pool members Larry Fonacier, Jimmy Alapag, Jason Castro and Ranidel de Ocampo, all of Talk ‘n Text, Gabe norwood and Jeff Chan of Rain Or Shine, Mark Pingris of San Mig Coffee, June Mar Fajardo of Petron, and L.A. Tenorio of of Barangay Ginebra, Gary David and Japeth Aguilar of Barako Bull

and naturalized player Marcus Douthit.

Beau Belga, also of the elasto Painters, one of several players who answered the call made by Reyes to at least join the two-week practice sessions that ended last Friday, was given the signal to join the trip by the Rain or Shine management, headed by Raymond Yu and Terry Que. Belga will be leaving sometime next week as soon as his travel papers are done with.

The stocky Belga, who admitted he was not even thinking of joining the trip, much more, chosen to become members of the nationals, have been working out with the national pool along with Arwind Santos and Denok Miranda of the Blaze Boosters and JR Reyes of Meralco.

Belga, who can play at least three positions, will replace Sonny Thoss of Commissioner’s Cup champion Alaska Milk, the last of three other pool members who were stricken off the list due to separate injuries, the others being Kelly Williams, Jared Dillinger and Ryan Reyes, all of the Philippine Cup titlists Tropang Texters.

RePUBLIC OF THe PHILIPPIneS ReGIOnAL TRIAL COURT 11TH JUDICIAL ReGIOn OFFICe OF THe CLeRK OF COURT-SHeRIFF DAVAO CITY

hOMe DeVelOPMeNt MUtUal FUND OR PaG-iBiG FUND, Mortgagee -versus-

eJF-ReM CASe nO. 14,222-13

MaRlON M. lUMaYaS, married to JeSSelYN N. lUMaYaS, Mortgagor/s.

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x NOtiCe OF eXtRa-JUDiCial Sale

Upon extra-judicial petition for foreclosure and sale under Act 3135, as amended, filed by the mortgagee Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-ibig Fund against the mortgagor/s MARLOn M. LUMAYAS, married to JeSSeLYn n. LUMAYAS with postal address at LOT 31 , BLK. 15, DeCA HOMeS CABAnTIAn BUHAnGIn , Davao City to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of Jan 4, 2013 amounted to ( P 522,473.37) Philippine Currency, inclusive of interest, penalty charges, plus attorney’s fees equivalent to Ten ( 10%) of the total indebtedness plus other legal expenses incident of foreclosure and sale; the undersigned Sheriff IV of the Regional Trial Court, Davao City, will sell at public auction on June 28 , 2013 at 10:00 A.M. or soon thereafter, at the main entrance of Hall of Justice, ecoland,Davao City to the highest bidder for Cash or MAnAGeR’S CHeCK and in Philippine Currency, the following real property together with all the improvements thereon, to wit: Transfer Certificate of Title no. T- 444300 “A parcel of land (Lot 31, Blk. 15, . Pcs-11002129 xxx) situated in the Barangay of Cabantian, C Davao City, Island of Mindanao.xxx Containing an area of eIGHTY One(81) SQUARe MeTeRS, more or less” All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above-stated time and date.

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date,it shall be held on July 26, 2013 without further notice.

Prospective buyers are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the titles herein described real property/ies and the encumbrances thereon, if any there be.

Davao City, Philippines, May 8, 2013

FOR THe eX-OFFICIO SHeRIFF:

noted by:

(SGD.) ROBeRt M. MeDialDea Sheriff IV

(SGD) attY. eDiPOlO P. SaRaBia, JR. Clerk of Court VI & ex-Officio Provincial Sheriff (edge 5/20,27,6.3)

INdulge!

STYLE

Fairway FASHION VOL. 6 ISSUE 55 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 31 - JUNE 01, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Fashion can be both trendy and functional this spring/ summer 2013. Taking inspiration from everything sporty, fun and hip, this season’s look is bright and bold yet with a layer of understated elegance and sophistication.

Doing away with the longtime noFFAIRWAY FASHION, 10

On Allan: Shirt, cardigan, belt and shorts by Ellesse.

On Queen: Sleeveless shirt, shirt, shorts by Ellesse.

Photography: Brian Dexter Medija | www.dexterityph.com Lighting assistance: Dalton Odwens Ceniza art Direction & styling: Kenneth Irving Ong styling assistance: Kenneth “Vixen” Towanna hair and Makeup: Melody Tinoy Clothes: Ellesse | 2nd Floor abreeza Mall Models: Queen of Metropolitan Models Allan of Glam Models Location: Apo Golf and Country Club

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

SM Lanang Premier kicks off Independence Day celebrations with giant LEGO Philippine map IN observance of Independence Day, SM Lanang Premier, in partnership with LEGO and Toy Kingdom, brings to Davao City and Mindanao for the first time the largest-ever Philippine map exhibit of LEGO, the leading maker of toy building bricks in the world.

Dubbed as “It’s More Fun in the Philippines with LEGO,” the exhibit will be on display from June 3-30, 2013 at The Atrium, SM Lanang Premier. It embraces the Department of Tourism’s slogan and shows the beauty and diversity of the Philippines through a fascinating display of bricks and colors. The exhibit has finally made its way to Davao City after being shown at SM Mall of Asia, SM North Edsa-The Block and SM City Cebu in the past years.

Highly creative and educational, the LEGO exhibit showcases the country’s spectacular landmarks, icons and tourist attractions, providing an opportunity for mall shoppers of all ages to learn more about the Philippines. What makes it even more significant is that it also helps promote national pride among citizens.

On June 3, the Grand Launch and Unveiling of It’s More Fun in the Philippines with LEGO exhibit will be held at The Atrium, SM Lanang Premier and various stakeholders are expected to be part of this momentous occasion.

Davaoeños are invited to witness the said event and take a quick tour of the Philippines through the exhibit. Kids and the young at heart can also participate in LEGO’s fun activities such as the “My Own Creation” and “Play Area,” which will run daily from June 3-30 at the sidelines of the LEGO exhibit. Exciting prizes await the winners of these activities.

The exhibit at SM Lanang Premier is supported by LAJ Marketing Philippines, the exclusive distributor of the LEGO brand, AIR 21, Microtel by Wyndham, Park Inn by Raddison Davao and BricksPhilippines.com.

Celebrate love of country with the LEGO exhibit at SM Lanang Premier! For inquiries, call 285-0943 loc. 135-138. Like SM Lanang Premier on Facebook and follow @SMLanangPremier on Twitter for event and promo updates.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 55 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 31 - JUNE 01, 2013

PEOPLE

Of mentors and apprentices

W

iTh the first season of The Apprentice Asia hitting the airwaves, INdulge! would like to know from Dabawenyos on what is on their minds and asks: “if you could be an apprentice to any living person in the world right now, who would it be and why?” Below are some of their chosen mentors and reasons why they would like to be an apprentice.

John Naranjo CEO, Ingenuity Either Jeff Bezos or Richard Branson. Top of mind lang. To me they’re the consummate technopreneurs, and being one myself, i’d love to learn a lot from them. i’d like to know first hand how they built their businesses, the many problems they had to go through, and how they were able to solve them and what they plan for the future.

Junnie Artajo Designer it could be Zac Posen, i admire the way he handles the chaotic world of fashion while enjoying every single minute of his life in nY. his design process comes from simple objects found in unusual places and create a masterpiece.

Tiffany Goyeneche Yoga warrior Tiffany Cruickshank yoga guru. she started yoga at an early age and she studied sports medicine and acupuncture. Tiffany also travels all around the world to teach yoga. Plus free travel ka pag ikaw ang apprentice!

Karla Stefan Singson hahaha!

Marketing consultant and college instructor Sarah Kay spoken Word Poet, literary advocate. i want to be better at telling stories and i also want to be able to teach other people do the same.

Raymond de la Paz Operations manager, Casa Leticia Richard Branson. Because he’s an idealist and i admire his entrepreneurial swagger.

EJ Pasia Architect Design genius Philippe stark. it would be a great honor to actually experience and be a mentored on the way he would think about everything.

Wilson Niñofranco Limon Fashion designer if i could be an apprentice to a living person, it would be Karl Lagerfeld because he still manages to keep up with Coco Chanel’s vision even if he is living in the present. Even after each spectacular design, he outdoes himself all over again. he even personally shoots his own campaigns to truly send out his message.

SUMMER’S LAST PARTY AT SM CITY GENERAL SANTOS. Dance the night away with Party DJs and Fire dancers as we goodbye to Summer with El Ritmo Mondo: Summer Party Series at the Fountain Court of SM City Gensan this coming May 31 & June 1.

Caitlin Yao Chef Chef David Chang the chef/owner of momofoku group of restaurants.

Because he’s awesome!

Apol Legario PR officer aung san suu Kyi. if i could learn to be half the woman that she is, i’d be instrumental in making the world a better place (in a greater scale, that is).

VOL. 6 ISSUE 55 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 31 - JUNE 01, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Jennifer Lopez’s sexy Britain’s Got Talent performance draws complaints from viewers JENNIFER Lopez put on quite a show last night on Britain’s Got Talent, but not everyone in the U.K. was impressed.

Wearing thigh-high boots and a skintight bodysuit that left little to the imagination, the 43-year-old performed her hit single “#LiveItUp.” The judges—even Simon Cowell!—were blown away

by J.Lo’s provocative performance, but viewers at home found her sexed-up look to be inappropriate for a family-friendly program.

Ofcom, which is similar to the FCC in that it regulates media, confirmed to E! News it has “received complaints, which we are currently as-

MAY 29, 2013

NOW

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

12:20 2:30 4:40 6:50 9:00

11:40 2:00 4:20 6:40 9:00

EPIC (GP)

FAST & FURIOUS 6

(PG-13)

HANG OVER PART 3 (R-13)

11:10 1:25

11:00 1:20 3:40

1:15 3:55 6:35 9:15

3:40 6:20 9:00

STAND-UP GUYS (R-13)

HUMMING BIRD (R-13)

6:00 9:00 NOW YOU SEE ME

(PG-13)

sessing but not investigating at the moment.”

“If we consider the potential that the broadcasting code wasn’t abided by, there is potential we would investigate,” a spokesman for the organization said. “But it’s too early to speculate.”

SHOWING

BANGKOK HAUNTED 4 (R-13)

FAST & FURIOUS 6

12:30 3:30 6:15 9:00

JURASSIC PARK 3D (GP)

(PG-13)

Lopez and her dancers, however, seemed oblivious to any potential parental concerns. She posted an Instagram photo of her team holding her up post-performance, writing simply, “Thanks @GotTalent for a great night #liveitup.”

George Michael discharged from hospital, “Continues to rest and recuperate” following car accident GOOD news George Michael

for

The 49-year-old singer “has been discharged from hospital and continues to rest and recuperate” from his car accident May 16, a statement on his official website said yesterday.

The statement also noted that the “I Want Your Sex” singer “is well and thanks everyone for all the messages of support.”

Michael was a passenger in a Range Rover on

the crowded M1 motorway near St. Albans, Hertfordshire, England, when the

vehicle was involved in a traffic accident. His rep issued a statement at the time confirming Michael was hospitalized for “superficial cuts and bruises” but was “fine.”

Just last week, his rep told Reuters he remained in the hospital “but purely as a standard precaution for observation because he suffered some bumps and cuts to his head.”

We’re glad to hear he’s on the mend!

Amanda Bynes fires back at model Chrissy Teigen on Twitter AFTER mastering the art of selfie pictures, Amanda Bynes is continuing to test her talents at Twitter feuding.

The actress, who has called out a number of celebs on the social media site recently, slammed model Chrissy Teigen after she wrote, “The fact that Amanda Bynes has any ‘support’ to retweet is really unsettling...Support people with mental illness, yes. But don’t condone/enable scary and poor behavior.”

Bynes tweeted, “Ur not a pretty model compared to me. I signed to Ford models @ age 13. I don’t look up to u beauty wise. I’m far prettier than u! I’m offended that you’re saying I have a mental illness when I show no sign of it, but thankfully

EPIC 2D Amanda Seyfried , Colin Farrell GP

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

NOW YOU SEE ME 2D Mark Ruffalo, Morgan Freeman PG-13

not one man that wants me wants you and you are an old ugly model compared to me!”

She continued, “You look 45! You’re not pretty so I’m not intimidated by you! I think you’re jealous that you’re just an ugly model whos career is uninspiring! I don’t respect you! You’re no beauty queen! I’m a beauty

queen.”

Instead of adding fuel to the fire, Teigen tweeted, “Nope. Not going to indulge.

Wish the best for her, truly,” and begged her followers to do the same. “Don’t, guys. Just don’t...I never ask anything of you guys but please. I don’t need defending and please stop writing her. It’s not funny, it’s sad.”

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

HANGOVER 3 2D Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms R-13

12:00 | 2:00 | 04:00 | 06:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS

R-16 FAST AND FURIOUS 6 2D Vin Diesel , Michelle Rodriguez PG-13

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

A4 INdulge!

STYLE

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 55 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 31 - JUNE 01, 2013

Fairway fashion.. FFROM A1 On Allan: T-shirt, belt and shorts by Ellesse. On Queen: Sleeveless shirt, shorts, cap and shoes by Ellesse.

tion of loose pants, slouchy tees and caps, sexier and smarter silhouettes are now the mainstay of the new sporty look that is at home in the country club, on the fairways, or even just at a day at the mall.

into their look.

Bold and strong with an attitude Men can dress it up at the greens this 2013 with sporty yet comfortable shirts in more subtle colours yet accentuated by blocks of bright reds, violets and Chic, bright and sporty purples for a more dyWomen this season namic look. Bold stripes can choose to stand complete the slicker, out with bold sporty sportier look. tops with stripes in rich tropical colours ranging Sporty is classy With a new mindfrom citrus, tangerine, bright blues and rich set and luxe attitude to reds. The more con- sports and living, sporty servative ladies can opt fashion is morphing to go with more subtle into a new embodiment tones with fluorescent of style on and off the accents to add some zest playing field.

On Allan: T-shirt, cardigan, belt and shorts by Ellesse. On Queen: Blouse, leggings, bag and sandals by Ellesse.

SPORTS 15

CLOSING TIME

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

HEAT IN A HUDDLE. The Heat will go for the clincher on the road today.

Can the Heat finish off the Pacers in Game 6 today?

M

IAMI (AP) -Standing on the cusp of the nBA Finals has tended to agree with the Miami Heat in each of the last two seasons. When the Heat have gotten a game away from the title round, they’ve finished the task as quickly as possible.

And here they are again.

A third straight eastern Conference title is now just one win away for the reigning champions, though if the way this series has gone so far is an accurate indicator, that win will hardly come easily.

The Heat - without suspended forward Chris Andersen - will visit the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night, leading the best-of-seven east finals 3-2 and in position to close out their new rivals on their own floor for the second straight season. ‘’We’re desperate, too,’’ Heat forward and four-time nBA MVP LeBron James said Friday. ‘’We’re desperate to get back to the nBA Finals. So both teams are desperate in their own sense of they’re trying to keep their season alive and we’re trying to advance.’’

The teams have alternated wins and losses through the first five games, and if that

trend holds, then it’s the Pacers’ turn to prevail on Saturday and send the series back to Miami for a winner-goes-to-the-finals Game 7 on Monday night.

If the Heat - who have won each of their last six potential series-closeout games, including two in the 2011 and 2012 east finals - win, then the championship round against the San Antonio Spurs will begin in Miami on Thursday. ‘’You can’t start thinking about opening up the invitation,’’ Heat coach erik Spoelstra said. ‘’That’s over there. You can’t even think about that.’’

The Pacers saw their season end a year ago on their home floor, at Miami’s hand, in Game 6 of a second-round series.

So Indiana’s biggest source of motivation on Saturday may be the desire to avoid the indignity of watching Miami advance in Indianapolis for a second straight season. ‘’Game 6 will really determine how much we’ve grown, because we’ve been in the same ditch, I guess, being in the same predicament,’’ Pacers star Paul George said. ‘’Going 2-2, losing in Miami, then coming

back home and losing at home. So we’ll see where we’re at. We’ve done well all year, especially in the postseason, dealing with adversity and overcoming games where we didn’t play as well as we wanted.’’

The shirts in Indiana say ‘’Gold Swagger’’ for a reason. even down 3-2 against a team that hasn’t lost back-to-back games since early January, the Pacers still have plenty of confidence, and it starts with a coach who came into the series insisting his club had genuine belief that it could knock off the champions. ‘’It’s not just false talk,’’ Indiana coach Frank Vogel said. ‘’There’s a reason I’m confident. I like to tell these guys that I’m not an optimist. That’s what my image is. I’m a realist. And when I look around at what I see in the room when I’m talking to this team, and what I see on the court, and the level of execution that we’re capable of ... it gives me real confidence in this basketball team. Our guys understand it’s not just happy talk.’’

Adjustments will be made by both sides before Saturday, of course. But at this point, it’s more than

likely that the sides are out of ways to tactically surprise one another.

A play here, a play there, that might be the difference, and that sort of thinking is shared by both sides.

‘’It’s about effort,’’ Pacers center Roy Hibbert said. ‘’It’s about who wants it more, who wants to get that offensive rebound, who wants to get that blocked shot, who

wants to get the loose ball. We just have to come out with more determination. It’s not anything the coaches can tell us, it’s about what’s in here. It’s lose or go home right now.’’

Moonbeem rips VMO, Go limited to ‘just’ 19 l StaNDiNGS W T HIS time, a dose of chilling defense kept the usually hot Bong Go cold all night.

Go, the spitfirish executive assistant of mayor-in-waiting Rody Duterte, was held to just 19 points on Wednesday night and his multi-titled VMO squad went down in a crushing 90-73 loss to Moonbeem at the Goldstar Gym. Tata Ramos and Lindy Dawal did the fireman’s job for the Moonbeem Building Specialists who turned an anticipated close match into a blowout as they clamped down on the league’s most prolific scorer. Ramos topscored for 33 points while Dawal added 24 and Monciller 23 for Moonbeem.

Jojit Duremdes backed up the embattled Go with 16 points while ex-pro Dindo Pastor had

LTO-MOOnBeeM

3

0

ORO eAST

3

1

VMO

GOLDSTAR DCPO JYC

PURPLe BeAn BLBe

12.

Moonbeem now rests atop the standings all by its lonesome with a 3-win no-loss card while VMO dropped to 2-1. VMO was playing Oro east late last night in a bid to get back on the winning track. Oro east totes a formidable 3-1 record in the tournament sponsored by Phoenix Petroleum.

2 1 2 1 0 0

1 0 3 2 1 4

BOXSCOReS: Game Result on May 29 MOOnBeeM 97-- Ramos 33 Dawal 24 Monciller 23 Alesna 8 Barrios 3 Marata 2 Ang 2 Caballero 2 Tan 0 Rubi 0 VMO 73-- Go 19 Duremdes 16 Pastor 12 Josol 8 Mondigo 6 Mamalinta 4 Gadiano 4 Mosqueda 2 Alfeche 2 Salinas 0 Aleman 0 Bredol 0. NJB

16

VOL. 6 ISSUE 56 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 02 - 03, 2013

EDGEDAVAO Sports

SLIP IT. Russia’s Maria Sharapova in action against Canada’s Eugenie Bouchard in their second round match at the French Open tennis tournament, at Roland Garros stadium in Paris.

Sharapova won in two sets 6-2, 6-4.

FRENCH JOKE

Nadal wins, calls schedule a ‘joke’ P

ARIS (AP) -- Rafael nadal wanted to get a few things off his chest. not about the quality of his play Friday, which fell below his usual standards at Roland Garros for the second match in a row, he dropped a lethargic opening set before winning.

What really bothered the usually affable nadal was the way the French Open’s scheduling decisions, and the weather, combined to force him

to now play on consecutive days, while his thirdround opponent Saturday, Italy’s Fabio Fognini, was ‘’watching the TV in the locker room’’ on Friday. ‘’That’s not fair,’’ nadal said, his arms crossed, his voice stern. ‘’This is not right,’’ the seven-time champion in Paris said moments later, shaking his head and arching his left eyebrow.

What flustered nadal, basically, was that his 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 victory

over Martin Klizan of Slovakia was supposed to be played Thursday but wound up being postponed because of rain in part because it was the third match slated for its court.

The 27th-seeded Fognini’s second-round victory win over Lukas Rosol, meanwhile, was no. 2 on its court and finished Thursday. nadal’s point: When there’s rain in the forecast, everything possible should be done to ensure that two matches whose winners will face each other next should be completed on the same day. nadal also didn’t like that while Fognini-Rosol followed one women’s match - which, because they are best-of-threesets, tend to be shorter than the men’s bestof-five - on Thursday’s program, nadal-Klizan followed both a men’s match and a women’s match. His match should have taken priority on a day when showers made rescheduling likely, nadal argued, because if women ‘’have to play two days in a row, (it) is not a big deal.’’

Ana Ivanovic, the 2008 French Open women’s champion, sided with nadal on that point, saying men should ‘’get more time to recover.’’ ‘’especially now, when he has to play day after day, I think he’s

right. They should play early,’’ Ivanovic said after reaching the fourth round with a 6-3, 6-2 win against Virginie Razzano, the Frenchwoman who stunned Serena Williams in the first round last year.

Another complaint from nadal: He said he was told by tournament officials they wanted to make sure Rosol got on court Thursday because, unlike nadal, he also was in men’s doubles. ‘’I am sorry, but that’s a joke,’’ nadal said. ‘’Why do you want to protect the player who has to play doubles? So I’m going to (sign up for) the doubles draw then, and I have the priority to play?’’

A request for comment from tournament referee Stefan Fransson was declined by French tennis federation spokesman Christophe Proust, who said: ‘’The federation does not want to respond.

We don’t want to get drawn into a controversy.

It’s not the first time that the scheduling has been criticized.’’ now nadal will need to win six matches over 10 days if he’s going to be the first man to collect eight trophies at one Grand Slam tournament. ‘’Well, if I can win (Saturday), I’ll have a day off, and that should be enough,’’ the Spaniard said. ‘’I don’t think that will be a problem.’’