Edge Davao 6 Issue 61

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Rody serious about

Privatizing garbage collection

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2 THE BIG NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Davao City: Choice destination for tourists from South Korea

D

TRAFFIC LIGHTS. An employee of Abratique and Associates Philippines conducts a routine check and maintenance of traffic lights yesterday on R. Magsaysay Avenue, Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

In the first week

AVAO City is the preferred destination in the Davao region for tourists from South Korea, according to Department of Tourism region 11 director Art Boncato who led a 32-man delegation from the city to 26th Korea World Tourism Fair (KOTFA) held at the COEX Convention and Exhibition Center, Seoul, Korea last May 30 to June 2.

Included in the group were private sector representatives from hotels, travel and trade sector as well as performers and chefs.

“Davao City was the highlight destination in region 11, meaning we have the edge to lift the entire region’s tourism status,” Boncato said.

South Korea is the number one client of the Philippines with over one million travelers visiting

key destinations in the country in 2012.

“Koreans are looking for new destinations to visit, and are targeting Davao City for its golf, beach, honeymoon packages and travel incentive on top of its ESL program (English as a secondary language learn program),” Boncato added.

He said that Maricon Ebron, tourism attache to South Korea, suggested to Koreans several destinations in the country, saying that Davao City is the next stop in the Philippines.

Boncato and Ebron spoke to the 240 travel trade guests during the Philippine Travel Presentation at the Lotte Hotel, Seoul Korea last Tuesday where Davao City’s primary properties were presented, such as: The Marco Polo Davao, Seda Abreeza Hotel, Park Inn

Y October this year, the P20 million new administration building of the Bureau of Customs (BOC)Davao port is expected to be completed in October 2013, according to James Dy Buco, acting district customs collector. The building is located just behind the old one.

The construction time-frame was placed at six months.

The money used in the construction represents the cash incentive that was awarded to the Davao port for surpassing its collection revenue target three consecutive years from 2010, BoC Davao received two major awards during the bureau’s 111th founding anniversary held at the

Malacañang sa Sugbu in Cebu City last February 6 where the Davao port bested its counterparts in the country in the medium category by surpassing its assigned quota in 2012 and for winning as the most consistent port to hit its revenue collection target.

In May 2013 alone, the Davao port collected P506,193, 494against its assigned quota of P494,557,000 or an excess of P11,636,494.

Dy Buco bared that the new building is part of the modernization program introduced by the BOC in its all ports where they are gradually implementing the paperless transaction policyxto fast-track processing of documents of their clients. CMP

New anti-smoking law snares 410 violators B

P20M BOC-Davao building to be finished in October

By CHE PALICTE

F

or the first week of implementation of the New Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance in Davao City saw the apprehension of 410 violators.

In a text message sent by Anti-Smoking Task Force (ASTF) head Dr. Domilyn Villareiz yesterday, she bared that Talomo police station arrested the most number of violators—149.

Other police stations that apprehend-

ed anti-smoking violators are: Sta. Ana police station nabbed 116, Mobile Patrol Group scored with 87, San Pedro police station caught 50, Calinan police station seven and one in Sasa police station.

Those arrested were issued citation tickets and ordered to pay P500 as fine to the city treasurer’s office and undergo smoking cessation counseling in the health clinics and in Davao Adven-

1BAP party-list group

FDAVAO CITY, 10

tist Hospital which is the accredited hospital for smoking cessation counseling.

In the law, the citation tickets issued by deputized officers must be returned three to five days to the police station to avoid criminal charges.

Ordinance No. 0367-12, known as “The New Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance” was passed by the City Council last year and

approved by Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio early this year. The ordinance repealed inconsistent provisions of original comprehensive anti-smoking- ordinance.

The new law and the continuous apprehension by Philippine National Police (PNP) and ASTF aimed to give the Dabawenyos the right to breathe air and prohibit smoking inside enclosed public places including public vehicles.

‘Bebot’goes to Congress

By ANTONIO M. AJERO

T

HE BOY who originally wanted to become a priest someday and serve his flock as an archbishop is now a lawmaker.

He is Silvestre H. Bello III, or simply “Bebot,” first nominee of 1BAP (Unaang Barangay AtingPaunlarin), a party-list group which won a seat in the recent May 13, 2013 elections.

After only afew years in the seminary, Bebot decided priesthood was not for him and enrolled

in AB political science at MLQ University and finished his law studies at the Ateneo de Manila University in 1970. He became a member of the bar a year after.

His initial sally into politics was when he was a very young councilor of his hometown, Cawayan, Isabela. When martial law was proclaimed by then President Ferdinand E. Marcos, he moved to Davao City to get married and practice law. He served briefly as person-

al secretary to then Mayor Luis T. Santos.

It was in Davao City where he made a name as a fierce human rights lawyer and political activist leading the fight against the Marcos dictatorship.As secretary general for Mindanao of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), he led one of history’s longest “welgangbayan” that halted transportation, crippled the martial law government machinery, and stalled for a week

economic activities in Mindanao. The other leaders of that unprecedented people’s strike, a virtual uprising in those days of living dangerously, were Soledad “Nanay Soling” R. Duterte, mother of mayor-elect Rodrigo R. Duterte, the late LaurenteIlagan, and now regional prosecutor Antonio Arellano, retired government lawyer Marcos Risonar, then assemblyman and OIC City Mayor Zafiro L. Respicio

F’BEBOT’, 10

BELLO

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

SUBURBIA

3

Kapamilya turns over school buildings in Davao Oriental T

HE opening of classes this June is no longer a big challenge to teachers and students in ten schools across the three towns ravaged by typhoon Pablo here in the province as new classrooms were turned over last May 30, 2013 by giant media company –ABSCBN in its bid to provide a conducive learning environment to students amidst the catastrophic aftermath typhoon Pablo has left be-

hind in their towns.

The school building projects is a joint endeavor by the ABSCBN Foundation Sagip Kapamilya, the Philippine Army, the provincial government and local government units, along with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Tina Monzon Palma, Program Director of Sagip Kapamilya personally turned over these school buildings hoping to curb

the threat of education becoming another casualty of the typhoon aftermath. She thanked the active involvement of different agencies especially the Philippine Army’s Engineering Brigade who offered manual labor, cutting unnecessary labor costs in the construction.

Among the ten recipient schools of the 28 school buildings were Cripsin-Rojas Elementary School, Baganga Elemen-

tary School, Baganga National High School, Cateel Agri High School, San Antonio High School, Banao Elementary School, Dr. Beato Macaraya NHS, Boston NHS, Cateel Vocational HS, and San Rafael Elem.

School.

The devastation left by typhoon Pablo was enormous leaving more than 1,200 school buildings and all its facilities shattered and thousands of students at risk of missing

CEREMONIAL RIBBON-CUTTING. Excited kids and teachers in San Rafael Elementary School in Cateel – one of the towns ravaged by typhoon Pablo-join the blessing and ceremonial ribbon-cutting of their new two-classroom building donated by ABSCBN Foundation Sagip Kapamilya.

New classrooms remain bleak for Andap grade school children

C

HILDREN enrolled at the Andap Elementary School in New Bataan, Compostela Valley will have to bear holding classes in makeshift classrooms inside the Andap National High School compound until new school buildings are built for them.

When the new elementary classrooms would rise, principal Maria Diazon has no definite answer.

She told MindaNews that they will hold classes in six makeshift classrooms inside the high school premises—three under tents and the rest made of light materials.

Kindergarten and Grade One students are holding classes in two high school classrooms.

Elementary teachers utilize another extra room as their office.

Of the 15 elementary classrooms, only one was left as the rest were destroyed by flashfloods triggered by Typhoon “Pablo” last December.

Since January, elementary classes have been relocated inside the high

school compound.

While the Department of Education has allocated P7 million for the building of classrooms, Diazon said they were told that the Mines and Geosciences Bureau did not give a clearance to build a new school site in Barangay Andap.

“Our problem is the school site,” she said.

In February, Mayor Lorenzo Balbin Jr. cited a map prepared by the Department of Science and Technology, which shows that only 189.19 hectares are safe for relocation or just 0.27 percent of the 68,860-hectare total land area of New Bataan town.

Areas covered by Typhoon Pablo’s debris --a mixture of mud, rocks and boulders—spanned 2,472 hectares or “about the size of Makati City,” according to the DOST briefer.

The town’s population as of May 2010 was 47,470, 7,550 of whom live in Barangay Andap, which was covered with rocks and boulders.

[Keith Bacongco /MindaNews]

out school the entire year.

With the newly built classrooms and the outpouring assistance from different groups gives new hope to the hapless victims of the catastrophe.

Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon extended her heartfelt gratitude to the Sagip Kapamilya and all partner entities who made this project possible intended to touch lives especially the young ones. “I thank Sagip Kapamilya in helping us fulfill children’s basic right to education and provide hope for their future,” says the Governor.

Meanwhile, tasked by the President Aquino, Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Secretary to the Cabinet who was joined by two other cabinet secretaries— Sec. Teresita Ging Deles who heads the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) and DSWD Sec. Corazon ‘Dinky’ Soliman have vowed to fast track national programs that will benefit the typhoon affected towns.

Secretary Almendras said that they were tasked by the President to visit the province to discuss with the provincial government the advancement of the shelter program among other concerns intended for the typhoon

victims. On a report submitted by the provincial government, there are at least 24,000 families who desperately need new homes.

During their visit, Almendras assured the people that the President and the national government are determined rehabilitate the three towns and that the government will never abandon its people.

“Today we have beautiful classrooms, thanks to Sagip Kapamilya. However, the task ahead is enormous. There are still bridges, roads, and homes, among many others that needed to be repaired or constructed,” he said.

“Our program for rehabilitation for Davao Oriental and Comval will be done for over three years because the President wants to finish all that is needed here before his term ends in 2016,” says Almendras.

Meanwhile, DSWD Secretary Dinky Soliman said that distribution of food packs will continue and that the department is planning to expand cash for work program than the food for work, enabling people to choose what food to buy as that the market is now steadily recovering. [KLD/PIO Davao Oriental]

Urbano said the local government has signed up a number of local schools, shopping malls, companies, neighboring local government units as well as some private and government agencies as principal part-

ners for the activity.

He said these partners committed to help provide the needed volunteer-planters, water and food supplies and transportation services. [Allen V. Estabillo/MindaNews]

Koronadal to plant .5M trees in 2,000 hectares T

HE Koronadal City local government is targeting to plant around 500,000 trees for the city’s third tree-growing festival slated on June 29 along two critical mountain ranges in the area.

Cyrus Urbano, Koronadal City administrator, said Friday the local government has identified around 2,000 hectares of land along the Roxas and Quezon mountain ranges as sites for the upcoming festivity, which is considered the biggest tree planting activity in Region 12.

He said the planting sites are situated in 11 of the city’s 27 barangays that are straddled by the two mountain ranges.

“The preparations for the 500,000 seedlings are ongoing and we’ve also started a city-wide campaign for the enlistment of around 30,000 volunteers for the activity,” Urbano said.

The official said Mayor Peter Miguel earlier created several working committees to spearhead the preparatory activities for the tree-growing festival, which

has a budget of around P4 million.

He said the initial preparatory activities include the enlistment of volunteers, information and education of local stakeholders, site and seedling preparation.

COURTESY CALL. Newly-installed Eastern Mindanao Command Major General Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III visits Department of Environment and Natural Resources 11 Regional Executive Director Joselin Marcus E. Fragada to discuss strategies in combating illegal-logging activities in the region.

DENR and AFP are working hand in hand in the implementation of Executive Order 23 or the “moratorium on the cutting

and harvesting of timber in the natural and residual forest”.

Per Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force Resolution No. 2012-005, the Department of National Defense (DND), through the AFP, shall lead all the anti-illegal logging operations in Mindanao, including but not limited to confiscation of illegally-cut logs/ lumber and apprehension of violators.

4 NATION/WORLD

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

PHL’s cockatoo’s last refuge in peril A

short boat ride from Narra, a quaint town some 90 kilometers south of Puerto Princesa City, will take you to Rasa Island, the last stronghold of the endangered Philippine cockatoo.

Nestled in the sanctuary made up mostly of coral and lined with lush mangrove forests are about 260 of the world’s remaining 1,000 red-vented cockatoos known to Palawan locals as katala.

The white-feathered birds perch on trees’ highest branches and build their nests in tree holes.

When food is scarce, the katalas fly to the Palawan mainland in search of food for its young.

Residents of Panacan, the Narra village closest to Rasa Island, are thus used to occasionally seeing the white-feathered birds on trees in the neighborhood.

Their experience with the katala, they say, is a perfect example of how human communities can live in harmony with wildlife, instead of competing with them for resources.

But that might not be the case soon.

Now, locals feel threatened not only for themselves but for the birds as well, amid a conglomerate energy arm’s plans to establish a coal-fired power plant near Panacan’s shores, not a kilometer away from Rasa Island.

They also fear that big business, with its promise of profit, jobs and devel-

opment, could turn local leaders and even neighbors, who they expect to be allies, into their enemies.

“Nanganganib ang kabuhayan at kalusugan namin dahil sa coal-fired power plant na ipapatakbo sa aming lugar (Our livelihood and health are at stake because of a coalfired power plant that will be run in our area),” said Rolando Esperancilla, who filed a petition via the online platform Change.org against the coal-fired power plant.

Esperancilla, a fisherman, lives in spitting distance from the site where Consunji-led DMCI Power Inc. is expected to construct a 15-megawatt plant which will supply power to the Palawan Electric Cooperative (Paleco).

Citing the experience of other communities, Esperancilla said he is worried that ash, chemicals and other waste from the plant will pollute their community and drive birds and fish away from the shoreline.

“Mariin naming tinutulan ang proyektong ito pero di kami pinakinggan ni isinama sa proseso sa pag-apruba (We have strongly opposed this project, but we were not heard—and not even involved—in the approval process),” Esperancilla said.

In a move Esperancilla and other residents refer to as “a betrayal,” Panacan’s barangay coun-

cil awarded DMCI with a permit for the project, one of four local permits any business venture in Palawan should secure.

The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD), a multi-sectoral body headed by the island province’s governor, has also allegedly given DMCI green light.

The quasi-government body in its April meeting in Manila reportedly lifted

the conditional endorsement it had earlier awarded in February and instead gave its full approval for the project.

Furthermore, the decision was made despite the fact that the 18-member PCSD was then only meeting as an “executive committee” due to the absence of a quorum.

“Di ba dapat dumaan muna sa pinakamababang lebel bago umakyat sa

yond Orwellian” while others argued the idea of a massive dragnet encompassing tens of millions of phone records was unconstitutional.

The program, which began under the Bush administration, apparently does not monitor the content of telephone calls or who is making them, but provides “metadata” on phone numbers used and the duration of calls.

Advocates say the data,

collected on calls inside and outside the United States, can then be crunched to show odd patterns of communication which can tip off spy agencies to possible planning for terror attacks.

Senior US officials, while not confirming reports in the Guardian newspaper that service provider Verizon had been ordered to turn over reams of data, defended the National Security Agency (NSA), the secret listening

service.

“Information of the sort described in the Guardian article has been a critical tool in protecting the nation from terrorist threats to the United States,” said a senior US official on condition of anonymity.

“It allows counterterrorism personnel to discover whether known or suspected terrorists have been in contact with other persons who may be engaged in terrorist activities, particularly people located inside the United States.”

New controversy The official said that all three branches of the US government, the White House, Congress, and the judicial system, were involved in reviewing and authorizing intelligence collection under current laws.

Officials also stressed that information acquired in the surveillance does not allow the government to “listen in” on anyone’s calls or provide information on the content of conversations or a caller’s name.

[AFP]

A quarter of the world’s remaining population of the Philippine cockatoo, known to Palawan locals as katala, live in Rasa Island, some 90 kilometers south of Puerto Princesa City. [Katala Foundation Inc./Rommel Cruz]

Reports of the US government monitoring cellphone calls anger Americans

U

S gov’t defends phone call monitoring as terrorism

‘tool’ The US government said a top spy agency was using a “crucial tool” against terrorism by sweeping up domestic telephone records, but new revelations on the program sparked a swift backlash.

One civil liberties group branded the practice, authorized by a top secret court order, as “be-

PCSD (Shouldn’t projects go through small government units before it reaches the PCSD)?” asked Josefina Danao, chief of Panacan Dos, one of the village’s two barangays.

“Kahit na may approval na ang barangay council ng Panacan Uno, sa municipal level wala pang approval, sa provincial level wala rin. Bakit ang PCSD na-approve (Even if the barangay council of Pana-

can 1 has given its approval, there are no approvals yet in the municipal and provincial levels. Why did PCSD approve)?” she added.

PCSD, under Republic Act 7611 or the Palawan Strategic Environmental Plan Law, is mandated to ensure, among others, the “social acceptability” of business ventures in the resource-rich island of Palawan. [Yahoo]

Senate urged to pass more laws pro-women laws

C

AN senators continue to craft laws that protect women from abuses?

It can and it should, Senator Loren Legarda said, as she highlighted the election of new female senators in the 16th Congress.

“The presence of women legislators in the Philippine Senate has been helpful in creating a more gender-sensitive Congress and in uplifting the plight of women through legislation,” Legarda said.

Speaking before the U.S. Embassy about women and the political process, Legarda expressed confidence that the six female senators would intensify the fight for women in the next Congress.

Legarda, Grace Poe-Llamanzares, Nancy Binay, and Cynthia Villar will join incumbent Senators Miriam Defensor-Santiago and Pia Cayetano as new members of the Senate after winning in the 2013 senatorial elections last month.

In her speech, Legarda noted that modern

Filipino society continues to face serious challenges on gender parity, citing figures from Philippine Commission on Women.

Legarda said she hopes the Senate will be able to follow through on its passage of the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act last year.

The law, which prompted the U.S. government to upgrade the Philippines’ status in its anti-human trafficking watchlist, was aimed at protecting women from trafficking.

The Senate was also able to approve Kasambahay Bill, whose enactment early this year is seen as a major step in according “kasambahays,” who are mostly women, better living conditions.

“We recognize the significant efforts being undertaken by the Philippine government to curb violence against women, particularly those related to human trafficking,” Legarda said.

“But we can do more and better than this,” she added.

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

5

6 THE ECONOMY

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Stat Watch

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

7.1 1st Qtr 2013

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

7.8 1st Qtr 2013

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

USD 3,741 million Feb 2013 USD 4,708 million Feb 2013 USD -967 million Feb 2013 USD -640 million Dec 2012 P 4,964,560 million Feb 2013

8. Interest Rates 4/

2.4 % Mar 2013 P113,609 million Mar 2013 P 5,281 billion Mar 2013

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

P 41.14 Apr 2013

12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

6,847.5 Mar 2013

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

132.8 Apr 2013

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

2.6 Apr 2013

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.1 Apr 2013

16. Visitor Arrivals

418,108 Feb 2013

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

20.9% Jan 2013

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

7.1% Jan 2013

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

2013

2012

2011

40.67 40.73

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

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

It figures

Camella Tagum’s Lessandra series Great value at affordable cost C

AMELLA Tagum allows homebuyers to get their preferred homes at a cost that is easily within reach through the Lessandra series, charming and stylish homes that are priced affordably.

Another landmark development of Camella in the region, Camella Tagum is an Italian and Mediterranean themed community sprawled over 14 hectares of prime land at the Visayan Village along the national highway.

It is the first master planned community in Tagum that has a high-end appeal but with affordable packages that will entice a wide spectrum of homebuyers looking for the best value for their money.

Lessandra homes are priced just right, with monthly amortization as low as P10,372 or P345

per day. Reservation fee can go as low as P7,500, and if buyers reserve this June, they can further save as much as P70,000.

Camella Tagum’s Lessandra homes will fit right in the budget of newlyweds looking for their new nest where they can start building their dreams. Young families will also find these as the perfect base to raise and enjoy family life.

Lessandra homes are attractive to single professionals who will find Camella Tagum’s strategic location and deluxe amenities right up their discriminating taste. Here they will be able to strike a good balance between live, work, and play.

Even empty-nesters will find living in Camella Tagum satisfying, as they will be surrounded by neighbors, young families,

and professionals who will provide a diverse and stimulating community.

Camella Tagum has a clubhouse, swimming pool, parks, playground, multi-court activity area, grand entrance plaza, jogging lanes, perimeter fence, shuttle service, and 24/7 security system with CCTV. With all these, it is an easy sell for homeowners who want to rent out their units, a wise investment as rental rates can fetch from P10,000 to P15,000, well above the monthly amortization.

“Camella Tagum offers the best value proposition with its convenient location, beautiful surroundings, deluxe facilities and amenities, and its stylish, functional homes,” said Sheila Mae Lara, Marketing Head of Ca-

mella Tagum.

Homebuyers who do not wish to wait can avail of ready-for-occupancy units for immediate move-in.

Lara urges them to contact 09175639617,09998864150, and (084) 2164309 for any inquiries.

That’s not all. A Camella Village Center, a commercial development, will soon rise within Camella Tagum, giving homeowners the convenience and privilege of leisure and shopping a few steps away from home.

“We are also pleased to announce that Camella Tagum is now open for Pag-ibig financing,” said Lara, adding that all inquiries are welcome at their offices at Unit 12 Gaisano Grand Arcade, Lapu-Lapu Extension, Apokon Road, Tagum City.

BCP President, NYU science dean express disappointment over Bt eggplant ruling

T

HE Biotech Coalition of the Philippines (BCP), a non-profit membership association which promotes the safe and responsible use of modern biotechnology for national development,has expressed disappointment over a decision of the Court of Appeals (CA) to halt confined field trials ofBttalong.

BCP President Dr. Nina Glorianisaid that “confined field trials allow our scientists to better understand how biotech varieties grow in real-life conditions. Researchers have long taken government guidelines for confined field trials very seriously and have worked to minimize any risks to the environment and human and animal safety.”

Dr. Gloriani, who is also the current Dean of the College of Public Health, UP Manila,emphasized that our current regulatory protocols are very rigid and science-based. “Applicants who wish to conduct confined field trials have to follow strict guidelines and best industry stewardship practices. Our current biosafety laws already provide for a high

standard of protection for the environment and human health, and a track record of more than a decade of field trials and commercializationof Bt corn,” she added.

Meanwhile, specific to the new protein in the biotech eggplant being developed, Dr. Michael Purugganan, a Filipino plant geneticist and Dean of Science, New York University,also noted that the Bt protein has been used by farmers as a spray since the 1960s, and is so safe for humans that US organic farmers spray it into their fields to fight insect pests. “At the heart of this court ruling is a public perception that GMOs are intrinsically bad. Yet these crops have been around for more than two decades. In 2010, 66 million hectares of land in the US was planted with GMO crops, including corn, soybean, squash and papaya. Eighty-five percent of corn and 90 percent of soybeans that are planted in the US are GMOs. Americans have been consuming GMO foods for nearly 20 years, and there have been no reported health issues,” Dr. Purugganan said.

BY THE NUMBERS For the first four months of 2013, disbursements for infrastructure and other capital outlays rose

44.8% year on year to

P75.2 billion SOURCE: DBM

3

P27.89 B

P13.25 B

Number of Philippine beaches that were recognized as among the 100 best in the world, according to a survey on the CNN travel website. CNN’s list included Palau Island in Cagayan Valley, El Nido in Palawan, and Puka beach in Boracay.

Remittances of government owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) would use for more infrastructure projects, including the rehabilitation of typhoon-hit areas across the country

Amount the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) will spend for the world-class air traffic communications, navigation, and surveillance system that is expected to be finished by November 2015 or before the end of President Aquino’s term in June 2016.

This system should result in increased security and airport capacity while cutting flight delays.

EDGEDAVAO

MOTORING The 2013 Subaru Forester: VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

7

A more practical, decent family car

T

HE new Subaru Forester is proof that, despite tough times over the past few years, Subaru’s self-belief remains intact.

A strong Japanese yen has made Subarus expensive in the UK and, despite introducing a diesel engine, its dedication to four-wheel drive and comparatively large-capacity boxer engines has meant that it hasn’t been able to reduce CO2 emissions and fuel consumption as dramatically as many rivals have.

UK sales have plummeted, resulting in a scaled-down operation, with a reduced model range and smaller dealer network.

Subaru is happy to remain a niche brand, however, and the latest Forester sticks unflinchingly to the principles and engineering that have made it so.

At first glance the new, fourth-generation Forester even looks so similar to the outgoing model that you’d be forgiven for thinking this was little more than a facelift.

In fact, everything is new and when the two cars are stood side-by-side

their different proportions are clear. The new car is taller (by 2mm), wider (by 15mm) and 35mm longer. The wheelbase has increased by 25mm and the base of the windscreen has shifted forward. All of which gives the new Forester a chunkier appearance and a more practical cabin.

Underneath, a new chassis incorporates updated suspension, while the steering moves from hydraulic to electric assistance.

All versions have permanent four-wheel drive: manual models have a centre differential and viscous limited-slip differential, while automatic versions get an electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch.

The engines are all four-cylinder horizontally opposed “boxer” units.

The entry-level petrol is an updated version of the previous 2.0, with the same 148bhp and

146lb ft of torque. A new 237bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre engine (based on the naturally aspirated unit in the B R Z )

powers the range-topping XT model.

The 145bhp turbodiesel is expected to account for half of all Forester sales. With peak torque of 258lb ft from just 1,600rpm it responds eagerly at low revs and you can afford to be very lazy with the six-speed manual gearbox. It’s smooth and reasonably quiet in its comfort zone; it gets wheezy at higher revs, but there’s rarely any

need t o

push it hard.

The entry-level petrol engine requires more effort, and although the optional “Lineartronic” transmission is one of the better Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) gearboxes around, it’s an acquired taste.

The XT gets a CVT gearbox as standard and, with as much torque as the diesel, it’s impressively smooth and quick. It gives a 0-62mph time of just 7.5 sec and, thanks to Subaru’s decision to drop the Impreza STi from the UK range, the XT now flies the flag for Subaru’s high-performance fourwheel drive models.

Unusually these days, there’s just one suspension set-up across the range. It’s a good one. Ride comfort is excellent over most surfaces, regardless of model or wheel size, and body roll is well controlled through corners.

There’s a hint of floatiness over large bumps, but overall the Forester feels well suited to the

UK’s demanding roads.

The steering is less satisfying, because it’s overly light and doesn’t provide much information through the wheel. It responds quickly enough, however, and there’s plenty of grip.

Overall refinement is good rather than exceptional. Road and wind noise aren’t intrusive and the engines, although boomy at higher revs, don’t get loud.

Where many rival SUVs aren’t likely to encounter anything more taxing than a muddy puddle, Subaru says that the majority of Forester buyers live in rural areas and are likely to put their cars’ off-road abilities to the test.

We put the latest version through its paces on a reasonably demanding series of muddy slopes, fields and tracks and (on standard road tyres) it acquitted itself admirably.

Lineartronic models have a new X-Mode system that incorporates a hill descent control function and which adjusts the stability control and accelerator pedal responsiveness to give maximum control in slippery conditions. It works well.

Maximum towing weight is likely to be of interest to Forester buyers, too, and they should be satisfied with a useful 2000kg braked limit for all versions other than the 2.0 manual, which has an 1800kg limit. A Trailer Stability Control (Towing VDC) function is standard across the range.

Thanks to its increased dimensions the Forester is more practical and makes a decent family car. A raised hip point compared with the previous model means that you sit higher, and even in the rear there’s plenty of space for six-footers.

Access is unusually good, thanks to low, narrow door sills, and large, wide-opening doors.

Boot capacity has increased to 505 litres: less than the Honda CR-V or BMW X3 provide, but the space is well shaped and there’s no lip to load things over. A space-saver spare wheel comes as standard.

If the overall impression is one of a car that’s thoroughly engineered, the interior is one area where the Forester is less polished. Build quality is solid and most of the controls are easy to operate, but the design, entertainment systems and materials aren’t as sophisiticated as those of many modern SUVs. Running costs aren’t a match for those of frontwheel drive rivals, but aren’t wildly different to those of the Forester’s four-wheel-drive competitors. The diesel engine averages 49.6mpg – 4.0mpg more than the equivalent Land Rover Freelander, but 0.8mpg less than the Honda CR-V 2.2 i-DTEC. CO2 emissions range from 150g/ km for the diesel to 197g/ km for the XT. Thanks to a weakening Japanese yen, prices for the new Forester haven’t risen above those of the outgoing car. It’s still not cheap, though: at £24,995 the cheapest diesel model costs £285 more than the equivalent four-wheel drive version of the Honda CR-V and £495 more than the cheapest four-wheel drive diesel-powered Land Rover Freelander.

Standard equipment is good - entry-level X trim includes 17in alloy wheels, climate control, heated front seats and door mirrors, Bluetooth and climate control. All versions come with a five-year/100,000 mile warranty.

As ever, the Forester won’t be on a huge number of SUV buyers’ radars – it simply doesn’t have the image or wow factor.

Subaru fans will love it, however, and it might just entice a few newcomers to the brand.

8 VANTAGE POINTS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

Cash bonds for candidates

I

T’S almost a month after the 2013 mid-term elections but look around and there are still campaign materials of local and national candidates as well as party list aspirants left in many areas around Davao City.

Like in previous elections, most candidates never do their responsibilities. Who else but the candidates themselves caused those propaganda materials to literally litter the town? Such campaign materials were put there by candidates and their hired people precisely to project the image of the candidates as highly principled citizens who have the welfare of their constituents, their district/town/ city/province at heart.

Maybe, it would be asking too much of the losers to remove all their now unwanted, useless scraps of paper, streamers and tarpaulins from the view of the public which had repudiated them at the polls (eat your hearts out, idiots, and enjoy the view!).

But we would expect the winners to not only show their concern for how their city looks, but also as a token of gratitude to to those who voted them into office to at least begin by cleaning up all that trash that they left behind on their way to victory. That’s the mark of a good citizen.

In some countries like Malaysia, candidates deposit some amount at the time of filing their candidacy. Those

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ruinning for seats in Parliament pay RM 5,000 (roughly P35,000) while state assembly candidates pay RM 3,000 (roughly P21,000) in the form of deposit that will serve as election bond to answer for any violation the candidates commit. For example, if after the elections a candidate fails to remove his campaign materials, his deposit will answer for the penalties assessed for violating election laws.

The cash deposit ensures that candidates follow strictly the minimum standards of election like availing of common poster areas, using biodegradable campaign materials and correct sizes of propaganda materials, among others.

Our Constitution provides that any person, not otherwise prohibitted by law to seek elective position can run in the elections without academic requirement (but can read and write) and economic (income) requirement.

Amending our election laws in the future to require candidate’s bonds may be something we can seriously consider. Likewise, it will get rid of nuisance candidates who are ridiculously filing for elective positions without real intention of mounting a serious campaign.

This could just turn out to be a brilliant election reform, right Honorable Chairman Brillantes?

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

T

Deep-rooted culture of “padrino” system

HE LONG-ESTABLISHED PRACTICE OF ACCOMODATING FAVORITE “POLITICAL PETS” – In case you think that this norm or practice – or at least practice under a democratic system is new, think again.

People have come to accept it as part of the political reality that even to this day under the Aquino administration, the customary or long-established practice where top civil servants upon retirement or bowing out of office in the case of elective officials are offered vital government posts. Others are accorded cushy and high-paying jobs either in government-controlled corporations or probably private companies seeking to take advantage of their connection and influence.

Let’s think about President Benigno Aquino III’s recent pronouncement insinuating that after their term in the Senate expires on June 30, Senators Panfilo Lacson and Francis Pangilinan possibly will be offered crucial positions in government. After serving a six-year term, the two eventually add to the ranks of the president’s “jobless” close political allies. The fact that their proposed appointments are being discussed at all shows how seriously the President is in accommodating Lacson and Pangilinan. Inside sources have already indicated the two will be given cabinet portfolios.

We have no idea whatsoever if the appointments of the two if it pushes through are within the bounds of the rules and guidelines that regulate appointment procedures. If I got it right, under the civil service code retired, semi-retired government and military personnel must wait two years before accepting or get appointed in agencies they used to work or other government bodies – executive, legis-

O

lative and the judiciary. But it seems the powers-thatbe, customarily bypass the ruling by appointing their favorite “political pets” to juicy cabinet posts, government-controlled corporations or affiliated companies.

What happened is that their normal sense of judgment gets warped because “appointees,” as their wont, will continue to act and strut like little kings in their newfound kingdoms. So, whether their expected appointments are justified by long experience in both government and military service, the appointing authority should have at least observed a bit of delicadeza. And it is only fair for the people to raise this dominant question: “Do we lack competent, capable and credible people to handle important positions in government that the appointing power have to mainly rely on “recycled” and not-so popular party mates? Or does the appointment procedure had a fixed definition or it is just merely a prerogative of the appointing authority?”

Well, such practice or prearranged scheme is not new in our political system. It brought into the open a deep-rooted culture of “padrino” system. But the conventional appointment procedure inflamed public anger because of the sheer excesses and seemingly lavish and opulent lifestyles displayed by favorite political appointees in the face of floundering economy. One glaring example is the number of assistant

secretaries (Asecs) and under-secretaries (Usecs) that overcrowded the different government departments and line agencies. Many of these appointees are “do-nothing,” but they actually eat up a big chunk of the annual budget. This contributes to the current problem in government’s financial capability.

Just to give a clearer picture of the appointment procedure, public sentiment does not favor the excesses and trespasses of numerous past and incumbent favored political appointees.

Although there are exceptions, many news outlets even reported lurid examples of entertainment lavished on these bureaucrats. Private companies and other business entities seeking “assistance” would bestow favors on them – including rounds of golf, top entertainment, plentiful gifts or, outright bribery with young, beautiful and seductive women thrown in as compliment.

A person or group who wants to transact business with government typically would seek favor from hardfaced and thick-witted bureaucrats and are only too happy to oblige to their demands. In most cases the expenses incurred in the dealings could be justified by both parties as “grease money or padulas.”It is also within legal bounds so long as there is no visible and direct transfer of cash or gifts.

As scandals involving enterprising political appointees unfolded, doubts remain over whether drastic reform is really on the way even if mounting complaints have already reached the highest office. Of course, promised actions have been stalled even during the time of PNoy’s predecessors.

Would it remain the same during his term? Just asking, sir!

COMMENTARY

would be of social disturbances that such a fragmented world would bring, as well as of the poverty it would re-impose.

The ethical energy of these two versions of democracy that have been dominant in Europe for the past six decades is diluted today. King is likely right in his view that the more we face aging societies, ascendant new nations and increasingly costly resources, the less likely it is that we will not recover the fine, careless assumption that growth is our birthright. The United States, too, faces higher health and welfare bills over the next two decades – at the end of which the federal debt is forecast to be 90 percent of gross domestic product. The “end of Western affluence” in King’s title may be more than hyperbole.

We will need to find, within fear or in a change of heart (fear seems more likely), a way of identifying which economic arrangements will keep democracy on the road. The way is not easy to glimpse; but it’s a central task for the coming generations of politicians.

Reviving a European democracy

VER time the substantial claims of these two great and antagonistic ideologies came to resemble each other. Social democrats like those in the Catholic Church rarely admire capitalism, but they no longer wish to destroy it. The best-known theorist of modernized social democracy, Anthony Giddens, wrote in Beyond Left and Right that “the only common characteristic of socialist doctrines is their ethical content … ideas brought together by a condemnation of the evils and injustices of capitalism.” It is a claim that rests on the fact that few leftist governments hew to the once-standard policies of nationalization, workers’ control or the high taxation of the rich.

Both social and Christian democracies are weaker today. The Catholic Church is led by the Argentine Pope Francis, who has stressed the need for solidarity, observing tartly that “while the income of a minority is increasing exponentially, that of the majority is crumbling.” Francis’ power to shame the wealthy minority into

BY JOHN LLOYD

(Conclusion) renouncing their pursuit of riches will be limited, as was the futile gesture of the Socialist Party president of France, Francois Hollande, in making the actor Gerard Depardieu pay the 75 percent wealth tax last year (an action later judged unconstitutional).

In a lament for the passing of a social/ Christian democracy that enjoyed widespread support through much of the Western world in the decades after the war, the late scholar and writer Tony Judt argued in one of his last public appearances that the only impetus to revive such a political economy and to escape from what he saw as the dire consequences of a steadily fragmenting and unequal world, was a “social democracy of fear.” The fear, of course,

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Election cases and the culture of impunity WORM’S EYEVIEW

BY MANNY VALDEHUESA

(Conclusion)

W

HENEVER cases lay unresolved or a crime goes unpunished, the Culture of Impunity gets a boost. The subliminal message is: go ahead even if what you’re thinking is criminal, go ahead and violate it because, who knows, you could get lucky and no one will arrest you! Besides, maybe it’s not a crime after all because others are doing it and no one is running after them! The Culture of Impunity encourages others to commit wrongdoing.

From barangay to municipio or city, to province and region, throughout the nation, this kind of thinking goes on because the laws are belittled or the law enforcers are remiss. The Culture of Impunity drives traditional politicians (trapos, young and old) to play greedy, reckless, corrupt politics. Unconcerned about the consequences of public cynicism, dissatisfaction or disgust, they commit improper, illegal acts. They do so in the belief that they will not be held accountable or punished anyway. “Let people grumble,” they’ll say. “Let them raise their voice or complain nothing will happen anyway! Besides, I can always bribe my way out!” That’s what goes on in the minds of trapo candidates and criminal campaigners because of the Culture of Impunity.

Then, even as political dynasties proliferate, squeezing every ounce of power and privilege they can extract from the community, no one complains or challenges them. No one denounces their vanity. No one stops the greed for power. No one questions unceasing quest for enrichment at the expense of the community.

People blithely get away with being self-indulgent, focused on their ego-centric agendas.

It all springs from the idea that there’s nothing wrong with corruption or from being self-serving where the Culture of Impunity reigns, because it’s how everyone is, including the bureaucracy. And this goes on despite the multitude of lawyers and countless laws on the books, spreading unconcern about wrongdoing, promoting acceptance of it as normal--especially among people with no expectation of reward from an abstract idea called Rule of Law. Then the part played by luck in one’s life assumes a higher importance. And that’s why gambling and the Culture of Impunity will always be with us! [MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. Manny Valdehuesa is the president and national convenor of Gising Barangay Movement Inc. He can be reached at valdehuesa@gmail.com.]

10 NEWS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Privatizing garbage collection.. FFROM 1

T

HE challenging task of collecting the huge amount of garbage that Davao City produces everyday (411 tons in 2012) will be given to private contractors.

This is one of the plans of mayor-elect Rodrigo R. Duterte.

In an interview with Edge Davao Wednesday night, Duterte, who’ll be on his seventh term as chief executive of this premier city of Mindanao, said the privatization or outsourcing of garbage collection and dispos-

al should first be discussed thoroughly in the Sangguniang Panglungsod and various public forums so that a strong consensus can be formed. The discussion should delve into the details of the work and answer the questions which aspects of solid waste management will be outsourced to a private service company.

The mayor-elect is for a very transparent process of bidding of the contract that should also be published online.

List of problems Vice Mayor Duterte said that many problems are being faced in

the city’s solid waste management.

These include dilapidated garbage bins purchased by the city government a decade ago, lack of garbage trucks, gasoline pilferage, among many others.

He complained that under the existing setup, even repairs of defective garbage trucks take forever because the Cenro (City Environment and Natural Resources Officer) has to follow the usual bureaucratic regulations in purchasing parts, like the required bidding process.

Scavengers The mayor-elect

also pointed out the need to find a win-win solution to the problem of increasing number of scavengers who descend on the trash bins daily to find whatever they can salvage for recycling or resale.

“You cannot just prevent scavengers from indulging in this daily practice and depriving them of their means of livelihood without giving them an alternative,” Duterte said, adding that creative ideas to solve this problem from the public are always welcome.

The mayor said that while solid waste segregation in the city is

being implemented, it still is not fast enough as there are still problems in the barangay level.

Solid waste management, particularly segregation at the source. has succeeded in reducing garbage collected daily from 500 tons in the past to 411 tons in 2012.

Budget The city government’s budget for garbage collection for 2013 is P191,196,364.

Of this, P113.3 million is for hauling services alone.

The city’s estimated income from garbage collection taxes and fees for 2013 is P30

From Davao with love

million. More than P24 million of this has been collected.

The incoming mayor said the proposal to privatize garbage collection and disposal will be discussed more thoroughly during the mayor’s long-running television show “Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa” which will resume soon.

He said the television program every Sunday morning and replayed several times during the week is important to his administration, adding that the media has a limited time to focus on city issues because they have other issues to tackle.

OFWs is over 71,000 T

HERE are 71,000 thousand Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from Region 11 as of June 6, 2013, according to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Davao.

Director Zenobia Caro told members of local media in the Kapehan sa Philippine Information Agency (PIA) held at NCCC Mall Thursday that the number is actually 71,198.

The bulk of these OFWs come from Davao del Sur (which includes Davao

City) at 48,758, Caro said.

There are 14,633 Compostela Valley, 12, 493 from Davao del Norte and 5,102 from Davao Oriental.

Of the total, 60,462 are on land (70 percent of whom are female and 27 percent male).

On the other hand, 10,236 are at sea (94 percent male, 6 percent).

Caro said, there has been an increase in the number, since her last report was as of 2011 yet (64,904 from Region 11).

“We are expecting

more, especially with the women agreement on Saudi household services, which is why aspiring OFWs are being trained inthe Arabic language,” Caro said.

Philippine Overseas Employment Administration 11 (POEA 11) Center for Mindanao chief, Maria Carolina Agdamad, advises those who want to work abroad to check with the POEA if the agency recruiting them is legit to avoid illegal recruitment.

EJF

S of yesterday 181,691 elementary students and 65,553 secondary students are enrolled in Davao City public schools as of June 5, according to the Department of Education region 11.

DepEd 11 assistant Division Superintendent, Maria Antonia Diaz, in the iSpeak forum Thursday said, compared to the reported enrollees for March 2013, DepEd is still short of 32,000 enrollees for elementary and 11,163 for secondary.

DepEd is still expecting these numbers to rise, since August is the final enrollment, and it may take some time for other students to enroll, especially because of the rainy season, According to Diaz.

She said that according

to her “conservative estimate,” DepEd observed a two percent increase in numbers of students enrolling every year.

She also said that there is a deficiency on the budget DepEd gets, since the budget they get is based on the number of students that were enrolled for the past year.

Meanwhile, Teresita Del Valle, DepEd’s Adopt a School Program Coordinator invited more businesses from the private sector to adopt a school and get tax incentives.

Del Valle said that for 2012, Deped garnered P87,684,932 from private sectors and Local Government Units (LGUs) through the Adopt a School Program, two thirds of it came from the businesses from

the private sector.

“Republic Act 8525, known as the Adopt a School Program (ASP) is based on the value of volunteerism, and multiple partnership,” Said Del Valle.

She said that some of the top donors for the ASP here in Davao are Davao Light and Power Co., Holcim, Alcantara and Sons inc., Abreeza, NCCC and more.

Diaz said that ASP gives 150 percent rebate taxes to the amount of help that a business from the private sector would give to a school.

For private businesses who would like to avail this tax advantage through adopting a school, Del Valle said, they can visit her office anytime to discuss the terms. EJF

by Raddisson, The Ritz Garden Hotel, Pearl Farm Beach Resort and Tour operators, SureliteTravel and Tours and Bloomers Travel and Tour.

Boncato said that Philippine Ambassador to South Korea, Luis Cruz and wife Minda Cruz, had also mentioned that Davao City is the key city in the south-

ern Philippines.

Boncato will be meeting with executives of the Philippine Airlines (PAL), Cebu Pacific and Zest Air to discuss the establishment of direct flights between Davao and South Korea.

He also added that they will also be having the following activ-

ities: June 7, Independence Day Celebration at Hilton Hotel with performances by the Kalumon Performing Ensemble, and on June 11, a SKAL presentation with guest of honor South Korean member of Congress Jasmin Lee, a Davao native, at the Millennium Hilton Hotel. CMP

181-T Elem, 65-T HS enrolled in Davao City

MORNING SWIM. A family takes breakfast after an early morning swim in the sea off the Sta. Ana wharf in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

‘Bebot’.. FFROM 2 and Dionisio dela Cerna, former Housing czar, among other activists at the time.

When President Cory Aquino assumed office after the EDSA People’s Revolt in February 1986 ousted the strongman Marcos, Bebot was drafted as undersecretary of justice serving with then Justice secretary Franklin Drilon. That was the start of almost three decades of distinguishedservice in the national government, chiefly in the Cabinet of past Presidents Aquino, Fidel V. Ramos and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

He was Justice secretary twice, served a secretary to the Cabinet, solicitor general, presidential adviser for new government centers and many other positions, including one as general manager and CEO of the Philippine Reclamation Authority, presi-

dent and CEO of the PNOC Development and Management Corporation.

To many Filipinos, Bebot is best known as chairman of the GRP (Government of the Republic of the Philippines) Negotiating Panel for Talks with the CPP/NPA/NDF under whose watch the government was able to hammer out the first substantive agreement with the communists-- the Comprehensive Agreement on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL).

Bebot will also bring to Congress his wealth of experience in the corporate world and big business. He is currently a director of Camp John Development Corporation and had served in the boards of directors of Philippine Airlines, San Miguel Corporation, CAP Realty Inc., and 10 other

existing corporations.

As 1 BAP party-list representative, Bello vows to champion the improvement of the country’s justice system and address the education and health needs of the barangays.

Unbeknownst to many Dabawenyos, Bebot is the father of Karlo “Kaloy” S. Bello, topnotcher councilor of Davao City’s Third Legislative District for the third straight election.

There are four Dabawenyos who will serve in the House of Representatives (16th Congress) as representatives of party-list groups.

Aside from Bello, they are Rep. Luzviminda Calolot-Ilagan of Gabriela, Rep. Karlos Isagani Zarate of Bayan Muna and Rep. Mariano U. Piamonte of A Teacher. Ilagan and Piamonte are second timers.

A

Davao City.. FFROM 2

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013 THE BIGGER PICTURE

11

Only a fraction of PHL agriculture is organic

By EJ Dominic Fernandez

O

RGANIC agriculture still has a long way to go in the Philippine setting as it is still in its “formative years” as it comprises only 0.12 percent of the country’s agriculture.

This was one of the points emphasized by former officer-in-charge (OIC) of the city agriculturist office and councilor-elect, Leonardo R. Avila III when promoted organ-

Beware

ic agriculture to Davao Rotarians at The Marco Polo Davao last Tuesday.

The global demand for organic products is estimated at $15.6 billion, however, the Philippines’ organic exports have only reached a relatively low $18 million, Avila said.

The domestic demand for organic products is estimated at $20 to $30 million, which is P860 million to P1.3 billion.

Looking at agriculture in the Philippines as a whole, it is noticeable that organic agriculture is still a small percent of this sector.

Avila said that agriculture in the Philippines produces 17 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and involves 33 percent of the country’s labor force.

The agriculture sector covers 55 percent of the

country’s poorest population and it contributes 33 percent of the country’s greenhouse emissions, according top Avila’s report.

The figures above are the reasons why the agricultural sector envisions the organic agriculture sector to contribute to the country’s over-all agricultural growth and development, in terms of sustainability, competitiveness and food security, Avila

said.

The organic agricultural sector also envisions at least five percent of Philippine agriculture farm areas to practice organic farming and both national and international consumers to increasingly support Philippine organic food products by 2016.

In Davao City, Mayor Sara Z. Duterte signed June 2011 for the total

implementation of organic farming in the city through the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the City Ordinance 0384-10, known as the Organic Agricultural Ordinance of Davao City.

According to Avila, this is “an ordinance institutionalizing, promoting, and developing organic agriculture in Davao City, providing funds therefore and for other purposes.”

Rainy season brings dengue

By Che Palicte

T

HE advent of the rainy season ushers in the dengue season brought about by stagnant water in such places as ditches, ponds, abandoned water reservoirs, pools, even in decorative flower vases of homes, to air-conditioners, egg shells, coconut shells, and abandoned tires of vehicles.

These small, rejected but dangerous collections of water create a highly suitable breeding environment for the Aedes mosquitoes.

Dengue is caused by the dengue virus, a member of the flavivirus group. It has four stereotypes: Dengue I, Dengue II, Dengue III and Dengue IV. Any one of these four types may cause dengue fever.

If a person is infected with any type of these viruses, the person develops a life-long protection against that particular type and at the same time also develops

protection against other types for seven to eight months.

If the person is infected by other types of viruses beyond this time limit then the disease may become dangerous, it is now known as “Dengue hemorrhagic fever” which is a deadly one.

The Department of Health (DOH) recently reported that the number of dengue cases in the country increased this year, although number of deaths declined.

Citing DOH data from January 1 to May 4, dengue cases increased by 7.47 percent to 33,458 this year from 31,133 in the same period last year including 49 recorded deaths due to the the disease, lower compared to the 211 deaths in the same period last year.

In region 11, Davao City recorded 1,138 cases with nine deaths; Davao del Sur, 419 cases with seven deaths; Davao Oriental, 347 cases with one

death; Compostela Valley, 305 cases with five deaths; and Davao del Norte, 216 cases (two deaths).

Of the 2,425 cases, 1,299 of the victims were male and the remaining 1,126 female.

John Dave Sabidla, 19, was the recent victim of dengue hemorrhagic fever and was hospitalized for about eight days.

He told Edge Davao that he thought he would not survive after vomiting blood during confinement in the hospital.

“My stomach was hurting, my gums are bleeding, and I could not eat because all I could taste was the blood in my mouth,” he said.

Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a more severe form of the viral illness and this form of dengue fever can be life-threatening and can progress to the most severe form of the illness--dengue shock syndrome.

The DOH- Center

for Health Development-Davao Region calls the community to help prevent the increase in deaths caused by dengue, especially in this rainy season. They sug-

gested the four o’clock habit drive of the department.

The DOH encourages the public to Stop what they are doing by 4:00 pm, Look for mosquito

breeding places inside and outside the house and Listen while barangay officials discuss dengue’s status and join Action Barangay Kontra Dengue activities.

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

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NOTICE OF LOSS Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) under LOYOLA PLAN issued to the following planholders, to wit; PH NAME CFP NO. CONTRACT NO. 1. SEVILLA NOEL L. 1389 MRO530001530 2. SEVILLA, HEIDE S. 21007335 UUU400221281

were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

6/3/10/17

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EDGEDavao

Serving a seamless society

Sales Representatives (2) - Male / Female, not more than 30 years old - Candidate must posses a Bachelor/ College Degree in any Business field.

- Willing to work under pressure, flexible, persuasive, can speak fluently and computer literate - A team player - With Basic Salary, Transportation, Communication, allowance + Commission For interested applicants, you may send your resume to: HR Department EDGEDavao Doors 13 & 14 Alcrej B;dg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel. No. (082) 221-3601 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com

CLASSIFIEDS ADS 13

14 SPORTS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Woods, McIlroy together at US Open

A

Tiger Woods, left, talks with Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, as they wait to hit on the 12th hole during the final round of the Memorial golf tournament Sunday in Dublin, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

RDMORE, Pa. (AP) -- Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy will play together the opening two rounds of the U.S. Open next week at Merion.

For the third straight year, U.S. Open officials have put the top three players in the world ranking in the same group. The feature group will start at 1:14 p.m. Thursday off the first tee, and then 7:44 a.m. starting on the 11th tee Friday.

The U.S. Open disclosed the Nos. 1-2-3 group in a tweet, and McIlroy immediately responded on Twitter. ‘’Decent group for the first 2 rounds at Merion I see ...’’ he tweeted.

Woods is trying to end five years without a major title. McIlroy, who has

yet to win this year, will be trying to capture a major for the third straight year. Scott is the Masters champion, the only player capable of the Grand Slam this year.

This will be the first time Woods and McIlroy have played together in any round of a major.

They have played in the opening two rounds together at five previous tournaments - twice in Abu Dhabi, the Cadillac Championship at Doral this year (won by Woods), the BMW Championship last year (won by McIlroy) and The Barclays last year.

The USGA first went to the 1-2-3 grouping in the 2008 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines - Woods, San Diego native Phil Mickelson and Scott.

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ Ordinary Regular Service

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

EDGARDO A. ARONZADO, Petitioner Case No.2010-XI-00333

x- - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - x NOTICE OF HEARING

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

VILLAGE OPERATORS AND DRIVERS TRANSPORT SERVICE COOPERATIVE (VODTRANSCO), Petitioner Case No.93-XI-00894

x-------------------x

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ-DUAL Ordinary Regular Service on the route: TIBUNGCO VIA BUHANGIN ROUTE and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on July 7, 2013. In the petition filed on May 6, 2013, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ Ordinary Regular Service on the route: CIRCULATION ROUTE 1 with the use of TWO (2) units, which Certificate will expire on January 18, 2014. In the petition filed on May 06, 2013, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use the same units previously authorized.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence.

This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JUNE 24, 2013 at 9:50 a.m. at this office at the above address.

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 7th day of May 2013 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Chief Transport Development Officer

NOTICE OF HEARING

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JUNE 24, 2013 at 9:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 7th day of May 2013 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Chief Transport Development Officer

INdulge!

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

EVENTS

The QWERTY factor

Davao City says ‘hi’ to the all new BlackBerry Q10 smartphone

JUST a few months back, BlackBerry revolutionised their smartphone lineup with the launch of their all new BlackBerry Z10 together with their all new operating system, BlackBerry 10. Featuring a full touch screen interface, the Z10 was a game changer for BlackBerry but was lacking a full physical QWERTY which saddened BlackBerry users who are used to having a physical keyboard at their fingertips.

Kristian Salvo, Senior Business Manager for BlackBerry in the Philippines, shows off the latest BlackBerry Q10 smartphone.

Enter the BlackBerry Q10.

The Q10 is the evolution of the classic BlackBerry. Available in two colours, Black and White, the BlackBerry Q10 smartphone combines the power of the BlackBerry 10 platform with a large, re-engineered physical keyboard and stunning touchscreen display – the largest ever on a BlackBerry QWERTY smartphone.

Kristian Salvo, Senior Business Manager for BlackBerry in the Philippines, took time out to introduce the new phone

last June 6 to Davao media and select bloggers. He pointed out the meticulous attention to detail and the smartphone’s use of innovative materials.

“The chassis of the phone is made from just one piece of metal.” says Salvo “The Q10 also features frets which raises the front and back of the phone away from surfaces.”

The event also served as the venue for the announcement of the updated BlackBerry 10 software.

Dubbed 10.1, the software update is free for all current BlackBerry Z10s and comes preloaded in all Q10s.

With the update, you can now set up personalised notifications for your contacts and acFTHE QWERTY FACTOR, A4

BlackBerry Q10

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

Enjoy 70% off at SM Lanang Premier’s Freedom Sale HUGE discounts await mall shoppers this Freedom Sale at SM Lanang Premier! Grab up to 70% off on selected items from participating stores from June 8-12, 2013. Avail of special deals on great selections when you buy at Arrow, Kultura, The SM Store, Forever21, Mossimo, Mags, Kashieca, Nafnaf, CLN, Diagold, Chris Sports/Empire, G-Factory, Prestige, George Optical, L’Optique, Karat World, SM Supermarket, National Bookstore, Green Coffee, Bulgogi Brothers, CD-R King, Chef Tony’s Popcorn, and Flight 001 on the said dates.

Don’t miss this 5-day Freedom Sale at SM Lanang Premier and at SM Supermalls nationwide, including SM City Davao and SM City General Santos from June 8-12. For inquiries, contact 285-0943 loc.

136. Like SM Lanang Premier on Facebook or follow @SMLanangPremier on Twitter for news and event updates.

Misto at Seda Hotel Abreeza offers June buffet specials EXPERIENCE Misto’s delectable offerings guaranteed to make you come back for more as Seda Hotel’s all-day dining concept offers an Asian Dinner Buffet and a Power Pinoy Breakfast Buffet, all Saturdays and Sundays of month of June.

Taste the best of Asia with Misto’s Asian Dinner Buffet for only Php750 nett a person from 7pm to 11pm. Early risers can try the Power Pinoy Breakfast Buffet for only Php500 nett per person from six in the morning until 10am.

For reservations, you may call 2443000 or 3228888 or email dvo@sedahotels.com.

High five for a great Dad! LEAVE a mark for only Php 750.00 nett, you get one bucket (5+1) beer and a sumptuous platter of pica-pica amidst live musical entertainment @ Vinta Bar on June 15,2013 from 6:00 PM to 1:00AM Enjoy a 20% discount on succeeding orders on standard brands and beverages from our wide away of beverages.

For reservations and inquiries, call +82 3008881 or 2332881 to 87 for more.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

Tony Mabesa to conduct acting workshop in Davao Cinematheque The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) through its Audio-Visual Development Program, will hold a basic acting workshop for beginning actors for film, at the Cinematheque Davao from June 20 to 23, 2013. Tony Mabesa - director, actor, professor and advocate for the Philippine arts will be conducting the workshop.

Mabesa is an icon in Philippine cinema and theater. He immersed himself in his craft, studying theater and the arts at the University of California and the University of Hawaii, and backpacking through Europe to watch the best stage performances.

Upon his return from abroad, he took up a teaching position at the University of the Philippines.

Excited to share his wealth of knowledge, he founded the Dulaang UP, where he staged, directed and acted in various plays. He is considered one of the pioneers of modern theater in the country.

His love for acting spread to the silver screen, as he also starred in many films such as: Sidhi (1999), Mano Po (2002) and El Presidente (2012). He also

won the FAMAS award for best supporting actor for Migrante (2012). To date, Mabesa has appeared in more than 30 movies, directed plays for 50 years and has appeared in over 140 plays all over the world.

Assisting him with the workshop are three prominent figures within the arts: Adriana Agcaoili is a writer, director and actress.

She has starred in many plays like Hamlet and Florante at Laura. She is recognized for her portrayal of “Ate Joji,” her role in the children’s show Batibot (1984 – 2002).

Peter Alcedo Jr. mentors dance troupes. He has choreographed several award-winning numbers, and is the founder, director, manager and performer of PILENTO (Pinagbukod ng Talento).

Finally, Brian Arda is a

FROM June 5-12, SM Lanang Premier is putting on display Davaomade Barongs by Arch.

Michael E. Dakudao in celebration of Philippine Barong Tagalog Week.

promote love for the Philippines and impart appreciation for our very own national costume.

Arch. Dakudao has been featured in many publications for his insatiable passion for collecting Barong Tagalog, particularly those made from sinamay and piña and adorned with handmade embroidery. A graduate of Doctorate degree in Architecture from Tokyo University, he has been amassing it ever since

theater practitioner from the University of the Philippines – Manila. He has starred in various plays and films. He was most recently part of Erik Matti’s OTJ (On the Job), which was screened at the Direc-

tor’s Fortnight in the 2013 Cannes Film Festival.

Registration is ongoing until June 9, and forms are available at the Davao Cinematheque. Slots are limited and are subject to firstcome, first-serve basis.

his Japanese professor in architecture taught him to better appreciate the national costume while he was studying at Tokyo University.

His Barongs made from various fabrics and embellished with handmade embroidery in diverse patterns are being showcased at the Barong exhibit. Some of these include designer Otoy Mercado’s minimalist piña Barong Tagalog featuring three Japanese art deco brass buttons for ac-

cent, and a Barong Tagalog made from 1930’s vintage Iloilo piña with multi-colored embroideries of sunburst patterns done in pure silk threads by designer Rene Salud, who used to have a shop in Davao City.

Show your love for the Philippines by visiting this Barong Exhibit! For inquiries, contact 285-0943 loc.

136. Like SM Lanang Premier on Facebook or follow @SMLanangPremier on Twitter for news, promos and event updates.

Barong Davaoeño exhibit at SM Lanang Premier stirs Filipino nationalism

Titled Passionalism: An Exhibit of the Barong Davaoeño, the exhibit at the mall’s Atrium features Arch. Dakudao’s exquisite collection of the Philippine national attire for men, the Barong Tagalog. It aims to

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Prince Michael steps out in wake of sister’s alleged suicide attempt A day after reportedly visiting younger sister Paris Jackson in the hospital following her alleged suicide attempt, Michael Jackson’s eldest son, Prince Michael, was snapped shopping at Barneys of New York with rumored gal-pal Remi Alfalah.

News of the 16-year-old actor and TV personality’s excursion comes as E! News reports the siblings fell out over 15-year-old Paris’ desire to rebuild a relationship with her mother, Debbie Rowe.

Sources tell E! News Prince Michael was against her efforts, causing a strain in their relationship that might have contributed to her fragile emotional state.

But upon learning of her hospitalization, he immediately canceled a scheduled appearance on the German TV show Wetten, dass...? So

The clip starts out with foreboding music courtesy of Hans Zimmer and a voiceover by our DC superhero’s dad, Jor-El (Russell Crowe) as he watches explosions on Krypton.

“Every person can be a force for good, free to forge his own destiny,” he says as he sends young Kal-El on his intergalactic journey to his

NOW

11:10 1:30 3:50 6:10 8:30

12:00 2:10

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

4:20 6:40 9:00

(GP)

11:40 2:00

1:10 3:45

4:20 6:40 9:00

perhaps there’s hope for a reconciliation yet.

Meanwhile during his concert in L.A. last night, shock rocker Marilyn Manson dedicated his tune “Disposable Teens” to Paris, who’s reportedly a big fan.

“This song is for Paris Jackson,” the punk villain said.

Manson’s shout-out

came on the same day he released a statement sending get-well wishes to Jackson and inviting her to his shows after reports that before she tried to take her own life, she was upset about not being allowed to go to his concert.

We second his emotion.

Feel better, Paris!

new home.

Jor-El’s nemesis, General Zod (Michael Shannon), makes his entrance, at which point the trailer kicks into high gear with a series of epic thrills. Kal-El, now known on Earth as Clark Kent and played by British thesp Henry Cavill, fulfills his destiny by becoming Superman and goes about saving humanity, not to mention galpal Lois Lane (Amy Adams), from his father’s arch-enemy.

Man of Steel, helmed by Zack Snyder (300, Watchmen), flies into theaters on June 14.

Justin Bieber announces world tour dates, snubs Venezuela BELIEBER backlash!

Justin Bieber upset some pretty die-hard fans in Venezuela yesterday after the singer announced more world tour dates and seemingly skipped over the country.

The “Boyfriend” singer is stopping at almost a dozen nearby Latin American countries, like Colombia and Brazil, however.

He’ll start touring the area on Oct. 19 and finish

up in the region exactly one month later. What a busy four weeks!

Upon hearing the news, Venezuelan fans took to Twitter to vent their disappointment.

By mid-afternoon, the hashtag #Venezuelawantsbelievetour was trending worldwide.

While Biebs has yet to officially comment on the fandemonium, we’re pretty sure the singer got the message.

SHOWING

AFTER EARTH

Man of Steel final trailer unleashed THE final trailer for Man of Steel is in the wild, and in case you thought the eagerly awaited Superman reboot was light on action, think again.

JUNE 5, 2013

STAND-UP GUYS (R-13)

JUANA C.THE MOVIE

(R16)

EPIC (GP)

12:00 3:00 9:00 HANG OVER PART 3 (R-13)

STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS 3D (GP)

SIDE EFFECTS (R-13)

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

6:15 6:15

6:20 9:00 AFTER EARTH (GP)

NOW YOU SEE ME (PG-13)

FAST & FURIOUS 6

(PG-13)

JURASSIC PARK 3D (GP)

A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EVENT

The QWERTY factor.. FFROM A1 counts. Customize ringtones and vibrations for calls or message from each of your friends, family or colleagues. You can also set up a different notification for different accounts (such as for different email accounts, Facebook, Twitter, etc.)

BlackBerry 10.1 also adds an HDR (high dynamic range) shooting mode for taking beautiful images in tricky lighting conditions. High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode takes multiple pictures at different exposure levels and layers them automatically to produce a single photo that combines the best of the dark and light areas. It also includes improved red eye and golden eye reduction in the picture editor.

There are also more apps for BlackBerry10. In just two months, the number of apps has grown significantly from just 70,000 in the beginning to over 100,000 as of press date.

This number includes a Skype app for BlackBerry which allows for more ways to keep in touch.

The Q10 is definitely a total QWERTY smartphone evolution is is poised to make a bold statement. The BlackBerry Q10 is now available from mobile phone retailers all over the city and will be available also with a plan from any of the country’s leading carriers.

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

Daniel Do, Seniors Carrier Sales Manager for BlackBerry in the Philippines, demonstrates the new and updated features of BlackBerry 10.1.

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

SPORTS 15

Nadal edges Djokovic

S

OME thought we might finally see the changing of the guard on Friday at the French Open with Rafael Nadal and his complete domination of this clay surface. Facing the No. 1-ranked player in the world in Novak Djokovic, the match was expected to be every bit as exciting as the hype, and it lived up to everything one would expect between these two.

Nadal beat Djokovic 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7 (3), 9-7 in what can only be described as another classic match between these two legends, a match that you could never really get a feel for until the very end. Nadal will now face the winner of the Jo-Wilfried Tsonga-David Ferrer match, and moves to an astonishing 58-1 in his career at the French Open.

It started off as you might expect. Nadal and

Djokovic traded early blows, with Nadal breaking Djokovic at 4-3 and holding serve to snag the first set. The second set was the oddest, with Nadal breaking Djokovic again at 3-2 but then dropping three straight games to Novak, who squared the match at a set apiece.

Then the third set happened and it looked like it was all but over for Djokovic. Nadal was finding another gear, pounding the ball on his favorite surface and it took a late service game to allow Novak to win any game at all in the set, setting up the fourth.

It was here that it first looked like Djokovic might just win this thing. Nadal broke Djokovic to go up 4-3, but Novak came right back and broke Nadal’s serve to even the set at four games each. Nadal again took command with

a break to go up 6-5, and with his back completely to the wall, Djokovic was able to break back again to push the fourth into a tiebreaker.

From there is was the Djokovic show, and he took the momentum from that set into the fifth with a break in the first game, but Nadal was just too tough, breaking back. The rest of the match was back and forth but it seemed that Nadal was always a step ahead, winning 9-7 in what can best be described as a semifinal that very much felt like the championship match.

Djokovic now must wait another year to see if he can complete his career Grand Slam, and while he wasn’t able to pull this match out, it seemed he is getting closer and closer to figuring out Nadal on this surface.

IAMI (AP) — Dwyane Wade’s first three trips to the NBA Finals all were accompanied by a statistical oddity. The Game 1 winner in each of those series wound up watching the other team celebrate a championship.

M

He’s hoping form holds again.

Somehow, the Miami Heat seem to regularly disprove the notion that Game 1 winners almost always end up prevailing in a best-of-seven matchup, an axiom that probably comes out after

the initial contest in every playoff series.

Since Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh joined up their team has lost Game 1’s now on four occasions — the most recent being Thursday’s 92-88 loss to San Antonio

cused on my match.

I knew that it was a very important match for me, and it didn’t matter if we could not finish it tonight. I was just focused on my

match.”

Ferrer will find it hard, though, to go a step further, as he has lost his last 16 meetings on clay against Nadal.

“Defeating Rafa is

very difficult on any surface - it’s even worse on clay,” he said.

“But once again, I’m going to try to play a beautiful match. I don’t want to think of whether it’s the occasion, the opportunity of my life, if it’s a dream.

“If you start thinking like that, it’s not very positive.”

Game 1 loss not enough to derail Heat confidence

FGAME I LOSS, 16

Ferrer reaches French final

P

ARIS (Reuters) - ‘If at first you don’t succeed try, try, try again’ could be David Ferrer’s personal motto after the Spaniard reached his maiden grand slam final on Friday at his 42nd tilt at a major.

Since tennis turned professional in 1968, the previous longest wait for a player who eventually reached a grand slam final was Kim Warwick’s 32 majors after he fought his way into the Australian Open title match in 1980.

In addition, fourth seed Ferrer, who beat France’s Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 6-1 7-6(3) 6-2 on Court Philippe Chatrier to set up a meeting with Rafael Nadal, avoided emulating Briton Tim Henman’s six grand slam semis without making the final.

“It’s a dream for me to be in a grand slam final, and Ro-

land Garros is more important for me,” Ferrer told a news conference.

Having stalled five times at the penultimate hurdle, Ferrer managed to stay composed despite having to wait until the end of Nadal’s match against Novak Djokovic, which lasted four hours 37 minutes.

“I thought that maybe we would not be able to finish the match,” Ferrer said.

“But I was quite calm, very f o -

Spain’s Rafael Nadal returns the ball to Serbia’s Novak Djokovic during their semifinal match of the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros stadium Friday, June 7, 2013 in Paris. (AP Photo/Michel Spingler)

16 SPORTS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 61 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JUNE 09-10, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Game 1 loss..FFROM 15 to open the NBA Finals.

And in the first three instances of them facing an 0-1 deficit, not only did they win every time, but they never as much as lost another game in each of those series.

“That history-repeatsitself-hopefully thing, that would be great,” Wade said. “But right now we have to figure out how to make the adjustments to win Game 2. We’re playing against a very, very good team. Very intelligent, smart team.

And we have to break the code. We have to crack the code and figure out how to be more effective, you know, in Game 2 than we were in Game 1.”

Trying to continue that trend won’t be easy.

The last time the Spurs won Game 1 of any playoff matchup on the road and failed to prevail in that series was 1978.

And when the Spurs win Game 1 anywhere, home

or road, they’ve won 27 of their most recent 31 series.

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich isn’t a big believer in those sorts of trends actually mattering.

“I think each game is an entity until itself,” Popovich said.

“It unfolds differently, and I actually spend zero time wondering about how the next game is going to go, because I really have no idea. ... It unfolds as it goes. I don’t take much from game to game. It’s about what you do in trying to execute that and trying to pick up things on the other team’s weaknesses or strengths as you go. But from game to game, it’s a new deal.”

The Heat would probably agree with that.

That is, until they find out where an opponent is weakest and determine a way to use that information.