Edge Davao 6 Issue 82

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Davao City leads ASEAN smoke-free campaign

By CHERRY MAE PALICTE

D

cdp@edgedavao.net

AVAO City is officially the first and only city in the entire Southeast Asia to initiate smoke-free laws.

The city government’s efforts to become a smoke-free city has attracted the interest of its ASEAN neighbors after the multi-nation Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA) cited Davao City for its “100 percent outstanding contribution” as a smoke-free city in Southeast Asia yesterday at the SMX Convention Center, Lanang, Davao City.

According to Bungon Ritthiphakdee, SEATCA director, Davao City was chosen for the award being the only city in Southeast Asia which has initiated smoke-free laws and pioneer efforts towards tobacco control.

The award was received by city councilor Melchor Quitain and Dr. Domilyn Villareiz, head of the city’s anti-smoking task force (ASTF).

“Other countries in Southeast Asia should learn from Davao City,” she said, adding that, “the challenge in other cities, although they have very good policies, is in terms of smoke-free law enforcement, unlike in Davao City where everybody participates in its successful implementation.”

FDAVAO CITY, 10

SPECIAL REPORT

Lolong: Frozen and forgotten

By EJ DOMINIC FERNANDEZ

S

ejf@edgedavao.net

UPERCROCODILE Lolong used to send shivers to his captors and the crowd at his temporary home in the quiet town of Bunawan in Agusan del Sur. Today, Lolong is frozen and forgotten.

“That’s how he is now,” is how Davao Crocodile Farm owner Philip “Sonny” Dizon describes of Lolong’s present state.

He said, Bunawan committed three mistakes which led to Lolong’s premature death.

SHINING BRIGHT. Parokya ni Edgar vocalist Chito Miranda shines in the midst of a virtual ocean of adoring Davao fans during the popular band’s concert at the Abreeza Mall over the weekend. Lean Daval Jr.

FLOLONG, 10

INSIDE:

Ramirez named 2 sports chief Crashed plane’s 11 pilot is a trainee Murray ends Britain’s 16 77-year wait

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

ASEAN delegates note media support for smoke-free city

By CHERRY MAE PALICTE

E

cdp@edgedavao.net

nvironment and health leaders from Southeast Asia cited the role of Davao City media in the campaign on smokefree laws.

During the launching of smoke-free cities in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) network in Davao City yesterday, representatives from the Asean recognized the efforts of the local media in supporting the implementation of smoke-free laws in the city.

The three-day regional workshop on ‘Smoke-free laws’ from July 8-10 is being attended by delegates from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam in the SMX Convention Center at SM Lanang Premier.

Dass Kandunni, chief environmental officer of Melaka, Malaysia told media that he is impressed by how the local media supports the advocacy to make

FASEAN, 10

RECOGNITION. Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA) director Bungon Ritthiphakdee (center) hands over the plaque for Davao City for its “100 percent Outstanding Contribution” as smoke-free city in Southeast Asia

to Councilor Melchor Quitain(right) and Dr. Domilyn Villareiz, head of Anti-Smoking Task Force, during yesterday’s Regional Workshop on Smoke-free Laws at SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center. Lean Daval Jr.

Ramirez named sports chief

Karlo proposes alcohol, tobacco, firearms agency

ORMER Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William “Butch” Ramirez has been appointed acting city sports development office (CSDO) chief by Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, ending days of speculations on who would be manning the controversial office.

The city sports office has been under fire for failing to lift the city’s performance in sports competitions and the lack of serious sports programs.

“Yes, I have accepted the job as the city’s

AVAO City Congressman Karlo Alexei Nograles has proposed the creation of an inter-agency law enforcement body similar to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) of the United States.

Nograles said he is pushing for an ATF-type body for government to be more effective in implementing the newly-signed Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) and Republic Act No. 10351 (Sin Tax Reform Law).

“These two historic laws might need a specially focused team of law enforcers just like the ATF in the US. The organization and set-up can

F

sports chief,” said the 62-year old Ramirez who has resigned as athletic director of the Ateneo de Davao University to return to government service.

Ramirez served as PSC chairman for six years under the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Ramirez, who immediately reported for work yesterday, said he met with Mayor Rodrigo Duterte yesterday morning where he presented his organization and policy platforms. “He took a quick look at it then gave

it back to me. He said ‘ikaw na bahala, Butch’,” Ramirez told Edge Davao in an interview.

Ramirez is taking over from Pocholo Elegino, who was his protégé under former Mayor Sara Duterte.

“My immediate concern is to organize this office and see how much budget we have left,” said Ramirez.

He stressed the implementation of a barangay sports program as his main concern as well as the streamlining of the budget of the sports office which is at a modest P5 milion for 2012-2013.

“We have a very small budget. I will push for the increase of budget to around P15 million,” said Ramirez who also pointed out that the budget configuration will be about even between training program and participation in various events.

Ramirez admitted the limitations of the city government in sports and he considers the job “very challenging.”

Personally, he considers the appointment as career defining. “History will judge me on how I performed in this office.” NJB

D

be made similar with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Authority (PDEA) but the focus would be running after cigarette and alcohol smugglers and other violations to RA 10351 and conduct operations against loose firearms and gun runners,” Nograles said.

Nograles noted that one of the issues raised by anti-sin tax law advocates was the proliferation of smuggled cigarettes and alcoholic beverages. He said while the Bureau of Customs (BoC) is doing exceptionally well in the campaign against smuggling, the proposed law enforcement body can provide operational support outside of the bureau’s jurisdiction to

FKARLO, 10

Drug pusher surrenders

A

NEW KAGAWAD. January Duterte, wife of vice mayor Paolo Duterte, takes her oath as Kagawad of Barangay Catalunan Grande before Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte at Davao City Hall yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

MBO Llanos, a suspected drug pusher in Barangay 22-Quezon Boulevard, Davao City gave himself up to Davao City Police Office chief Ronald dela Rosa yesterday morning.

Dela Rosa told Edge Davao that Llanos surrendered because he wants to live longer after a series of extra judicial killings of people involved in the illegal drugs trade.

“Llanos was the accomplice of former police officer NIlo Divinagracia who was killed in a shootout with police recently. He is the son of the owner of the house rented by Divinagracia,” he said.

Nilo Divinagracia, 39, was killed in a shootout last July 4 inside the house he had been renting at Block 27, Barangay 22-CQuezon Boulevard in

a buy bust operation..

During the shootout he managed to elude arrest and was chased by members of the Investigation and Detection Management Branch-DCPO (IDMB-DCPO) who failed to catch him.

The scene of the crime operatives (SOCO) got several pieces of evidence from the scene, including two empty shells of a .38 caliber pistol, five sachets of shabu and some drug paraphernalia.

Dela Rosa said that Llanos is being held by tactical interrogation.

Charges for violation of Section 26 in relation to Section 5, Section 6 and Section 12, Article II of Republic Act 9165 otherwise known as “The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002” are being prepared against the suspect. CMP

EDGEDAVAO

SUBURBIA

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

BAGANGA, DAVAO ORIENTAL

3

Mariwasa, GMA Kapuso Foundation inaugurate classroom buildings

M

ARIWASA Siam Ceramics, Inc. (MSC) the country’s leading tile maker joins the inauguration of the newly built 2-classroom building constructed by GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc. (GMAKF) in Kinablangan Elementary School.

“We are very happy that we are now reaping the rewards of our efforts in helping the people of Davao Oriental especially rebuild their lives. We are very thankful to GMA Kapuso Foundation for allowing Mariwasa to be part of their school rehabilitation projects. Mariwasa is a socially responsible organization and this is our way of giving back to the people” said Mr. Alberto Descalzo, AVP for Manufacturing and

Maintenance.

The turnover ceremony was the initial phase of inauguration of the total of 39 classrooms being built in the towns of Boston, Cateel and Baganga in Davao Oriental, the hardest hit places of Typhoon Pablo last December 2012.

Early this year, MSC extended product support amounting to P500,000.00 worth of ceramic tile products for the rehabilitation efforts in the said areas particularly aimed in the construction of school buildings. On top of that, the company donated P500,000.00 plus the voluntary contribution of its employees amounting to P40,000.00 for a total of P540,000.00 cash donation in order to provide relief assistance

PANTUKAN, COMPOSTELA VALLEY

A NEW HOPE. Students of Kinablangan Elementary School in Baganga, Davao Oriental will have a new reason to get motivated going to school.

Thanks to Mariwasa-sponsored GMA Kapuso Foundation’s classroom buildings. Mr. Alberto Descalzo, AVP for Manufacturing and Maintenance of

Mariwasa Siam Ceramics, Inc. (third from left) joined by his team and some school and local officials in the inauguration of 2-classroom building in the said school. A total of 39 GMAKF classrooms will be completed by the end of August 2013 in Davao Oriental.

such as food, medicines and basic necessities to the typhoon-hit areas of

hands together in reaching out to underprivileged Filipinos and both

Mindanao.

GMAKF and MSC have been constantly joining

TAGUM CITY

share the same business philosophy in caring for the community.

Calalang Group is Nadecor’s rightful board -- CA Rellon distributes gift certificates to Tagum kids I N a decision promulgated last February 18, 2013, the Appellate Court stated that the August 15, 2011 election of the Calalang Group to the board of directors of Nadecor is valid.

The Court of Appeals decision in effect has empowered the current board of directors which includes Conrado Calalang, Alfredo Ayala, Leocadio Nitorreda and Roberto R. Romulo (Calalang Group) to act on behalf of the Nationwide Development Corporation (Nadecor). Interestingly,

KIDAPAWAN CITY

Jose G. Ricafort and Jose P. de Jesus are not on the current board of directors for Nadecor.

At the same time, the CA also declared as null and void the lower court order dated December 21, 2011 nullifying the annual stockholder’s meeting of Nadecor last August 15, 2011 on the ground that Nadecor failed to give appropriate and proper notice within the period fixed in its by-laws to the “respondents”.

Respondents mentioned above refer to Cora-

zon H. Ricafort, Jose Manuel H. Ricafort, Marie Grace H. Ricafort, and Maria Teresa Flora Ricafort-Santos (Ricafort Group).

The Ricafort Group claimed that they were not informed prior to the stockholder’s meeting on August 15, 2011 and that they only received their respective notices only days after the meeting.

The CA however said that the presence of Jose G. Ricafort in the said stockholder’s meeting, representing the Ricafort Group, is enough. It was learned

that Jose G. Ricafort was also appointed as proxy by the Ricafort Group in any and all of the meetings of the shareholders of the Company.

Lastly, the Court of Appeals declared the permanency of the writ of preliminary injunction they issued last June 13, 2012.

The writ prohibited the Ricafort Group from acting as “hold-over board” and from scheduling and holding any stockholder’s meeting, including the then scheduled June 13, 2012 stockholders’ meeting.

LGU execs, climbers group to conduct validation climb

O

FFICIALS of the Kidapawan City and the “No to Stairway to Mt. Apo” Movement will jointly conduct a validation climb on July 18-21 to resolve the controversial issue.

“Let us all be part of the solutions, not part of the problem,” said Danilo “Jun” Bacus, president of the Tribung Mindanao Mountaineering Club (TRIMMOC) and past president of the Mountaineering Federation of Southern Mindanao (MFSM).

Bacus spearheaded the ‘No to Stairway to Mt. Apo’ Movement which had earlier opposed the reported

plan of the Kidapawan local government unit to put up stairways along the Kidapawan trail.

But Kidapawan City Tourism Officer Joey Recimilla clarified that “it was just a mere discussion paper and a concept on how to preserve and rehabilitate.”

“It was also just part of the plans to address concerns on tourist safety.

Wala po tayong pag-usapan dahil walang project (We don’t have anything to discuss because there is no such project),” Recimilla told Bacus’ group during their initial dialogue last month.

The initial plan of the city is “just to establish and/or enhance the existing wooden ladder in the identified 87-degree and 90-degree portions of the Kidapawan Trail and to establish a stable bridge in the Marble River.”

“This will definitely ensure protections of every mountaineer especially to foreign tourists who are pushing every LGUs to establish the so-called International Safety Standards in mountaineering,” Recimilla said.

Bacus, on the other hand, said that he is “happy with this development” and said that the tourism

office of Kidapawan is “sincere and will be holding through to its statements to really protect the environment particularly the ever-loved Mt. Apo.” “There were salient points discussed which may be considered good news for those who have joined and took part of this movement,” said Bacus, also a representative of the Mountaineering Federation of the Phils.

Inc. (MFPI).

Aside from Recimilla and his staff, the validation climb will also be joined

by Bacus and selected officers of the different mountaineering groups. [PNA]

T

AGUM City Mayor Allan Rellon on Friday, July 5, 2013, jump-started the distribution of gift certificates to indigent Tagumeño students who will be using them for the acquisition of additional school supplies.

More than 50 students from the different puroks in Barangay San Miguel each received a gift certificate amounting to 300 pesos each which are donated by the proprietors of the Gaisano Mall of Tagum—signaling a vibrant support of the private sector to the new administration.

This event kicked off the series of gift certificates distribution to identified students across Tagum City, with Mayor Rellon planning to institutionalize this in his three-year term as local chief executive.

“The education sector is very close to my heart and I will do the best that I can to promote and support the education of our children,” Mayor Rellon, who is also an educator, said in his casual talk to stu-

dents and their parents at Laureta National High School.

Rogeneth Llanos, in-charge of the said program, said Gaisano Mall has donated a total of 200 thousand pesos-worth of gift certificates.

As the local government’s counterpart, service vehicle will be fetching the identified students from their respective barangays to the mall during the weekends.

Mayor Rellon stressed he will be urging other malls operating in the city to also donate for the benefit of the city’s indigent students, as a way of encouraging them to work hard in their respective studies.

Meanwhile, key personnel of the Department of Education-Division of Tagum City headed by Superintendent Cristy C. Epe paid a courtesy call to Mayor Rellon where the latter expressed his all-out support to the education sector, being one of the key thrusts anchored on his EAGLE WINGS Program. [Louie Lapat/ CIO Tagum]

4 NATION EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

EASTERN CONNECTION. San Miguel Corp may partner with All Nippon Airways as a strategic partner in PAL’s ownership. File photo by AFP/Jay Directo

MANILA

All quiet in N. Cotabato, Maguindanao F

IGHTING between the renegade group “Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters” and government forces have ceased in North Cotabato and Maguindanao, military officials said Monday.

Armed Forces public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said “It is peaceful there now.”

But despite the cessation of fighting, military units in the area

MANILA

are still on alert.

Zagala also clarified the resulting AFP offensive and pursuit operations against the BIFF fighters who attacked AFP personnel based there, were coordinated with the leadership of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

“They (MILF leadership) were consulted first before any retaliatory attacks were conducted against the BIFF,” he added.

Zagala said this was

necessary as the renegades have hidden themselves in an area known to host large numbers of MILF fighters.

The AFP public affairs office chief said the coordination was necessary to prevent encounters between government and MILF forces, hereby endangering the ongoing peace talks between the two parties.

“The MILF leadership agreed that such

attacks should not be left unanswered,” Zagala pointed out.

He also clarified that the BIFF attacks are harassment tactics only aimed at mobile and soft targets of the AFP. “These are only small skirmishes and harassment attacks,” the AFP public affairs office chief stated.

However, Zagala said that the incidents are deeply regretted by the military as they cost lives of five sol-

diers.

At least 23 were were believed killed as clashes broke out Saturday between the military and the BIFF in North Cotabato and Maguindanao.

Of those killed, five were from the government side, including one junior Army officer and four enlisted personnel.

Some 18 were reported killed from the BIFF side.

Two soldiers were

MANILA

also wounded-in-action, said Col. Dickson Hermoso, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, said.

Recent atrocities by the BIFF, perceived by the military as hellbent to derail the peace process between the central government and the MILF, had prompted the military, and police as well as the government-MILF Ad Hoc Joint Action Group to launch law-enforcement operations. (PNA)

2 moderate quakes jolt Surigao Norte, GenSan Tropical Storm ‘Soulik’ expected Wednesday T

WO moderate earthquakes rocked some parts of Mindanao on Monday morning, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

MANILA

In its bulletin, the agency said the first quake with magnitude 3.7 occurred at 1:57 a.m. Monday. Its epicenter was traced some 99 kilometers northeast of Burgos in Surigao del Norte, at a depth of

around five kilometers.

The second quake happened around 2:16 a.m., a magnitude 3.9 rocking General Santos City with its epicenter located about 218 kilometers southeast at a depth of four kilometers.

Phivolcs said the two earthquakes were tectonic in origin.

The agency further noted that no damage or casualty was reported and aftershocks are not expected as well.

[PNA]

TATE think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) has a new president. Dr. Gilberto M. Llanto officially took his oath of office on July 4 at the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Pasig City, with Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and NEDA Director-General Arsenio Balisacan administering the oath.

Dr. Llanto takes over from Dr. Josef T. Yap, who served PIDS for two con-

secutive terms from 2005 to 2013.

He was a Senior Research Fellow of PIDS and also served as its Vice-President.

Dr. Llanto also served as Deputy Director-General of the NEDA and Executive Director of the Agricultural Credit Policy Council. He chaired the Technical Board of the Investment Coordination Committee during his stint at the NEDA, which gave him first-hand insights into

factors constraining infrastructure development. He was also President of the Philippine Economic Society from 2003 to 2004.

As a public finance expert, Dr. Llanto holds important positions in different local financial institutions. He is a member of the Governing Board of the Agricultural Guarantee Fund Pool. He also serves as an independent director of the CARD Bank, a leading microfinance institution in the country. Dr.

Llanto is also a member of the Konrad Adenauer Medal of Excellence Committee, which gives awards to outstanding local government units in the Philippines.

Dr. Llanto has a Ph.D. in Economics from the UP School of Economics.

He has researched and published extensively on financial markets, public economics, local governance, institutional economics, and infrastructure regulation.

State think tank PIDS has new president S

A

tropical storm (international name “Soulik”) could enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Wednesday morning, the state weather bureau said.

In its Twitter account, PAGASA said that as of 10 a.m.

Monday, tropical storm Soulik was estimated at 2,140 km east of Basco, Batanes (19.1˚N, 145.1˚E), outside the eastern boundary of the PAR. PAGASA said that Soulik packs a maximum sustained winds of 65 kph with gustiness of up to 80 kph.

It is forecast to move west at 20 kph.

The weather agency added that it is ex-

pected to enter the PAR on Wednesday morning and will not have any direct effect on any part of the country within the next two days.

However, Soulik will enhance the southwest monsoon and bring rains on the western part of the country by Thursday, PAGASA said.

Weather Forecaster Jori Loiz said that once the cyclone enters the PAR, it will be named “Huaning” – the first cyclone to visit the country this month and the eight for the year.

The state weather bureau expects two to three storms to affect the country this month. (PNA)

5 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

DTI-Davao OTOP outlet showcases region’s products

T

HE Davao OTOP Store is continuously offering authentic and export-quality products

for the local and foreign tourists.

The Davao One Town One Product (OTOP) Store is Davao

Region’s brand of Tindahang Pinoy, a pasalubong center that showcases Davao Region’s authentic, sustainable

products ranging from processed foods, gift items and stationeries, fashion accessories, furnishings and home

HAIR CLIPS. A lady browses a collection of hair clips on display at the activity center of Abreeza Mall yesterday where Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development (MSED) Week 2013 is being held. Lean Daval Jr.

decors, furniture, to other items typically found in a souvenir shop.

The store is a marketing facility that assists the region’s OTOP small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

To further expand its market, DTI 11 and its private sector partner, Davao Ecocrafts, Incorporated, which has transferred to its new home at Deri Building, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City (just across Camella Homes) last June 27.

Previously, the Davao OTOP Store was located at the DTI Regional Office in Davao City.

DTI 11 officer-in-charge for Business and Investment Development Division (BIDD) Marie Anne J. How said that such move is expected to generate bigger sales.

“Since the new house of the Davao OTOP Store will already be in a more accessible and visible location, it is expected that there would be more influx of buyers, thus, a bigger opportu-

nity to hit higher sales,” she said.

How said that at present, the region’s pasalubong center corners P130,000 quarterly sales on the average.

Meanwhile, DTI 11 Regional Director Marizon S. Loreto said that Davao Region, being a thriving tourist destination, must be able to showcase its worldclass products and made them available to the region’s guests/ visitors and tourists Loreto added that the Davao OTOP Store is not just an ordinary pasalubong center since it carries products that are truly made in the region by the Davao SMEs, and not simply outsourced from abroad.

Both How and Loreto encouraged all interested buyers to call up DTI 11-BIDD to know more about the products the Davao OTOP Store offers.

They can reach Ms. Jovita T. Quiñones at (082) 224-0511 local 415. [DTI 11/JenMendoza]

6

THE ECONOMY

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

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

LGUs prefer renewable energy projects over private companies L

OCAL government units are the better developers of renewable energy projects like hydroelectric power because of faster time to develop at lower cost, among other reasons.

David A. Tauli, of the Mindanao Coalition of Power Consumers, told MindaNews that LGUs can obtain permits from government agencies faster, and can offer lower rates because of the lower rate of return requirement.

“The best part of the renewable energy solution to the Mindanao power problem is that most of the power plants will be owned by the people through their local governments and not by private corporations or the national government,” he added.

Romeo Montenegro, investment promotions and public affairs director of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), said if the LGU is capable, competent, and has put in place a proper mechanism to operate a plant like a private entity, then the scheme is preferred. “With LGUs, more profit means more budget is ploughed back to the project for the benefit of the owners – more services for the people,” he added.

But he stressed that if the LGU lacks the qualifications, then

it should not go into power generation. Tauli pointed out that it is easier for LGUs to obtain lowcost loans. “Earnings from hydro (electric) projects go to the LGU for use in the development of the river and its watershed area, as well as for other government services,” he added in a PowerPoint presentation.

He said a greater part of about 540 megawatts total new capacity from 2016 to 2018 will be owned by the local government in partnership with private corporations, the latter will take charge of construction, operation, and maintenance.

Tauli, also an engineering consultant of Bukidnon Rep. Florencio T. Flores (2nd Dist.), was previously connected with the Cagayan Electric Power and Light Company (Cepalco). He said the provincial, city, or municipal government can be the developer and owner of the project with the advantage that the project itself is the collateral for bank loans.

He added that LGUs need not infuse capital into the project “but can borrow all funds required for project implementation.” But he clarified that construction should not be done by administration or by the LGU itself.

He said it should be done by private hydro corporations through public bidding and operations should be managed by private corporations, too, through public bidding.

Montenegro, however, clarified LGUs to work with the local electric cooperatives for embed-

ded capacity before offering their new power source to the grid.

He added that what bogs many power buyers from contracting with LGUs is the possibility of problems in sustainability, political dynamics, and lack of good governance in some. [Walter I. Balane / MindaNews]

enjoying strong performance with a string of remarkable growth in terms of revenues and subscriber base. Simpao takes over Nikko Acosta who will lead

the Enterprise Segments Group of Globe Business.

As former Managing Director of global consumer goods giant Unilever Philippines’ Personal

care categories, Simpao brings with him a wealth of experience in sales and marketing to a consistently-growing and profitable segment of Globe. Tattoo currently leads the industry with its game-changing and innovative broadband offers.

Simpao found his transition from a fast-moving consumer goods company to a telecommunications firm very fascinating.

While both industries are intensely competitive and action packed, telecom and broadband services are much more service oriented with a need to drive a great customer experience at each touch point. “I am also captivated by the nature of change in the telco and broadband industry. If you think of the basic business model of FMCG companies, it has remained basically the same for the past decade. But in telco, you need to reinvent the business model regularly given the emergence of new technologies. Customers are also more involved in telco and broadband services. They constantly give feedback and interact with their telco providers while in FMCG, if a customer is unhappy with a service, they simply drop you”.

BY THE NUMBERS The opening of classes slightly pushed up to

2.8 percent

the rate of incr ease of prices of goods and services in June from

2.6 percent in May.

SOURCE: NSO

Tattoo secures broadband stronghold with new leader G

LOBE Telecom recently appointed seasoned marketing professional Gilbert Simpao to lead its Tattoo broadband business, which has been

LINIMENT. A mall goer tries out a newly introduced liniment during the first day of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development (MSED) Week 2013 at the activity center of Abreeza Mall. Lean Daval Jr.

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

Cebu Pacific

Tue/Wed//Sat

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

5J965 / 5J968

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

13:35

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

Manila-Davao-Manila

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

14:05

Silk Air Mon/Sat Silk Air Wed/Sun Silk Air Thurs Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri Philippine Airlines August Zest Air Daily Cebu Pacific

Daily

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SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT 7

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

The coal hard truth about air pollution P

M2.5 is a measurement of small particulate matter in the air, and until recently its omission from official air quality readings has been a major hurdle in solving China’s air pollution crisis. Here’s everything you need to know about PM2.5, such as what it is, why it’s important, and how to protect yourself from them.

About PM2.5 Particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter are called “fine” particles.

These particles, approximately 1/30 the average width of a human hair, can lodge deeply into the lungs. Sources of fine particles include all types of combustion, including power plants, motor vehicles and residential wood burning.

China is suffering the world’s heaviest PM2.5 pollution. This is the direct result of an over reliance on coal. In 2009 China burned nearly half of the worl’s coal, and coal accounts for nearly 70% of

China’s energy mix.

PM2.5 vs. Visibility 5-10km: No special protection required.

3-5km: Reduce outdoor activities.

2-3km: Reduce outdoor activities, especially for respiratory patients; wear a mask outdoors; stop outdoor physical exercise.

Less than 2km: Avoid all outdoor activities, especially for respiratory patients; however if outside wear a mask.

Health hazards PM2.5 is readily inhalable and penetrates deep into the lungs. PM2.5 allow for many chemicals harmful to human health to be carried into our internal organs, causing a wide range of illnesses and mortality, including cancer (especially lung cancer), stroke and damage to unborn children.

They have a strong association with most types of respiratory illnesses, heart disease and even mortality.

Reproductive system PM2.5 is attached to various types of pollutants such as heavy metal and PAHs, causing placental blood toxicity that leads to direct harm to fetus, intrauterine growth retardation and low birth weight of babies, especially when PM2.5 exposure happens in the first month of pregnancy.

Cardiovascular system PM2.5 causes cardiotoxicity and also causes severe irritation to the autonomic nervous system, which regulates the activity of the heart muscle.

Blood system PM2.5 causes blood toxicity, blood coagulation abnormalities and can trigger heart disease.

Respiratory system The soluble part of PM2.5 directly enters the bloodstream and the insoluble part accumulates at the alveolus of the lungs, causing inflammation.

Self-protection measures Air conditioners:

When using air conditioners set the button on inner circulation.

Masks: Wearing N95 masks will provide effective protection against PM2.5 but ensure you are wearing the mask correctly with a tight seal around the face. N95 masks can be purchased in pharmacies and can be used multiple times. Only when it’s hard to breathe while wearing, should you dispose of it and buy a new one.

Reduce activity: Try to stay indoors during the most polluted hours of a day, which is normally from dawn till dusk. Do less physical activities outdoors.

Masks One strap paper masks and ordinary surgical masks has no effect on PM2.5 prevention.

While wearing the N95 mask ensure there is a tight seal around the face.

Deeply inhale and exhale to test whether the mask is air-tight. (From www. greenpeace.org)

of sea water, global mean sea levels rose about 3 millimetres (mm) per year, about double the observed 20th century trend of 1.6 mm per year. Global sea level averaged over the decade was about 20 cm higher than that of 1880, according to the report.

The WMO report charted rising atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases. Global-average concentrations of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere rose to 389 parts per million in 2010 (an increase of 39% since the start of the industrial era in 1750), methane to 1 808.0 parts per billion (158%) and nitrous oxide to 323.2 parts per billion (20%).

“A decade is the minimum possible timeframe for meaningful assessments of climate change,” said WMO Secretary-General Michel Jarraud.

“WMO’s report shows that global warming accelerated in the four decades of 1971 to 2010 and that the decadal rate of increase between 1991-2000 and 2001-2010 was unprecedented. Rising concentrations of heat-trapping greenhouse gases are changing our climate, with far reaching implications for our environment and our oceans, which are absorbing both carbon diox-

ide and heat.”

“Natural climate variability, caused in part by interactions between our atmosphere and oceans - as evidenced by El Niño and La Niña events means that some years are cooler than others. On an annual basis, the global temperature curve is not a smooth one. On a longterm basis the underlying trend is clearly in an upward direction, more so in recent times” said Mr Jarraud.

Between 2001 and 2010, there was no major El Niño event, which normally leads to higher temperatures (as occurred in the then-record warm year of 1998). Much of the decade experienced either cooling La Niña or neutral conditions, except for the 2009/2010 moderate to strong El Niño.

The 100-page report and an executive summary, incorporating findings from a unique survey of 139 National Meteorological and Hydrological Services and socio-economic data and analysis from several UN agencies and partners, were released to coincide with the first session of the Intergovernmental Board on Climate Services. This Board is overseeing the implementation of the Global Framework for Climate Services

- an international initiative to improve and expand scientifically-based climate information to help society cope with the natural variability of our climate and human induced climate change. ‘”A decadal perspective makes it possible to assess trends in the climate system and anticipate the future. It can also inform efforts to develop operational climate services that provide information and forecasts for decision-making in agriculture, health, disaster risk, water resources and other sectors. These efforts are being coordinated through the WMOled Global Framework for Climate Services,” said Mr Jarraud.

“Climate services are more necessary than ever to help us cope with global changes in our climate, which are accentuated at regional and national scales. Despite the significant decrease in casualties due to severe storms and flooding, the WMO report highlighted an alarming impact on health and mortality rates caused by the European and Russian heat-waves. Given that climate change is expected to lead to more frequent and intense heat-waves, we need to be prepared,’’ said Mr. Jarraud. [UNEP]

Report says unprecedented climate extremes in 10 years

T

infographic by greenpeace.com

HE world experienced unprecedented high-impact climate extremes during the 2001-2010 decade, which was the warmest since the start of modern measurements in 1850 and continued an extended period of accelerating global warming. More national temperature records were reported broken than in any previous decade, according to a new report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

The report, The Global Climate 2001-2010, A Decade of Extremes, analysed global and regional temperatures and precipitation, as well as extreme events such as the heat waves in Europe and Russia, Hurricane Katrina in the United States of America, Tropical Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar, droughts in the Amazon Basin, Australia and East Africa and floods in Pakistan.

The decade was the warmest for both hemispheres and for both land and ocean surface temperatures. The record warmth was accompanied by a rapid decline in Arctic sea ice, and accelerating loss of net mass from the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets and from the world’s glaciers. As a result of this widespread melting and the thermal expansion

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

D

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

Poor Lolong

O you still remember Lolong?

The world’s largest captive crocodile, when he was living that is, is practically forgotten and now one of the frozen delights, pardon the pun, at the Davao Crocodile Park. No, the management of the park has no plans of making Lolong’s remains as ingredients of their popular exotic crocodile ice cream or crocodile “sisig”—a favorite among tourists.

The Davao Croc Park only wants to know what the plans of Lolong’s self-proclaimed surrogate parents in Bunawan are with the dead crocodile’s remains.

Without much fanfare unlike when he was living, Lolong (or what remains of his head and skin to be exact) was silently slipped into Davao City by officials of the town of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur sometime in February. Brownouts in Mindanao over the summer hit hard the town of Bunawan and Lolong’s remains were in danger inside the freezer there.

It can be recalled that when Lolong was captured, the management of Davao Crocodile Park also volunteered to “adopt” Lolong and build a simulated environment for the supercroc. No, say the officials of Bunawan. In-

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stead, they built a huge pen for Lolong, constructed a gate with a ticket booth that would soon reverberate with ka-ching ka-ching as tourists eager to see Lolong alive parted with cash for a glimpse of the massive reptile and some shots that would make for Facebook cover photos and Instagram posts.

When Lolong died, all of a sudden Bunawan officials seem to lose interest in a lifeless croc that would send electric meter dancing round-the-clock. Lolong is no more box-office material. No more cash cow…err croc.

So now, Lolong is ice cold and in the words of Davao Crocodile Park owner Sonny Dizon, “frozen and forgotten.”

A dead crocodile sure does leave a bland taste and with his size and the cost of preservation through taxidermy, Bunawan officials may have been busy with other things in the past five months like the elections than minding Lolong.

Poor Lolong. At one moment, he was like a rock star in Bunawan. The next, he was floating lifeless. And now, frozen. Whose grieving now for Lolong?

Aah, time flies so fast for wasted crocodile tears.

ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant

GREGORIO G. DELIGERO Associate Editor

LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. • JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA Photography

EJ DOMINIC C. FERNANDEZ • CHERRY MAE D. PALICTE Reporters

AQUILES Z. ZONIO Correspondent

Columnists: MA. TERESA TERESA L.L.UNGSON UNGSON• EDCER • EDCER C. C. ESCUDERO ESCUDERO • AURELIO • AURELIO A. PEÑA A. PEÑA • ZHAUN • ZHAUN ORTEGA ORTEGA • MARY • BERNADETTE ANN “ADI” C.“ADDIE” QUISIDOB.• BORBON LEANDRO• B. MARY DAVAL ANN SR., “ADI” • NIKKI C. QUISIDO GOTIANSE-TAN • LEANDRO • NICASIO B. DAVAL ANGELO SR., •AGUSTIN NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN • VIDA MIA VALVERDE • NICASIO• ANGELO EconomicAGUSTIN Analysts: ENRICO • EMILY ZEN “GICO” CHUA G. DAYANGIRANG • CARLOS MUNDA • JONALLIER EconomicM. Analyst: PEREZENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 •TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

M

Uncomfortable squeeze

OBILIZING A PACKAGE OF ECONOMIC STRUCTURAL REFORMS AND TIGHT-MONEY MEASURES – In the wake of currency devaluation and the ongoing economic reverberation, the business sector raised this foremost question: “Can the Philippines still be regarded as a haven for investors?” Well, no man is an island. Neither is the country – economically. Despite its reputation as one of the fastest growing economy in Southeast Asia and the ASEAN Growth Triangle Area, the country has proven in recent weeks to be susceptible to the same ills that have infected the economies of neighboring countries.

True, the country has the splutters but fortunately still far from the “intensive care.” Some snooping economists suspect the peso has been victimized by currency speculators while the stock market index, too, has been skidding. One of the disappointing things that came about as a result of the recent currency realignment was that it fell along with the currencies of weaker Asian economies.

From the point of view of a prospective investor looking for a safe harbor, it certainly dented the notion that the Philippine peso will not fall in such an environment. Given the amount of reserves as reported by monetary authorities, there is no good justification for the peso’s decline and they expect it, particularly the business sector to hold up better. But the good thing is that depreciation does increase manufacturing competitiveness in the short run. It is a quick solution to depreciate the currency as others are falling so entrepreneurs won’t be whisked off at the sideline.

I

VANTAGE POINTS

Top government officials, monetary authorities and economic planners therefore must think of a long-term plan, and the comp e t i t ive n e s s issue should be uppermost in their minds certainly because two of the most powerful forces are not working in our favor. The currency value has peaked, but is now turning down and growth in the stock market is scarce. Moreover, government technocrats have seen a migration of some companies out of the country.

Though government forecasts still see a modest growth this year, it should not wait for fundamentals to slump further and faster as expected. Attracting new foreign investors and find a new generation of upand-coming technology and manufacturing companies therefore is a priority.

Nonetheless, government officials should mobilize a package of economic structural reforms and tight-money policies to stabilize the country’s financial system. If fully and consistently implemented, this package would provide a strong basis for the country to rebound from its current monetary difficulties and move to rapid rates of growth over the medium term. Most government and private economists and financial specialists believed the country stood a good chance of engineering an economic “soft landing” through sound economic fundamentals, prudent and tight-money measures. Likewise their

confidence was high that the Philippines could dodge the gut-wrenching contractions that started to plague the economy.

Of late, though, high-profile economic planners and some private economists noted that the economics aren’t crushing yet, but if no drastic action is done to cushion the impact it would be an uncomfortable squeeze. Yes, the economic environment is starting to smear but it’s not yet the time to reach for the sunglasses.

Government should push ahead with doable plans and adopt a tried and tested tradition in recent history: push reforms and structural change when the economy is down. Even then, government economic planners and politicians found it hard to act decisively. After much hemming and hawing, they seemed to be wasting their time and effort guessing and speculating rather than getting on with their jobs.

Through it all, government seemed more serious than it has ever been before about tackling the impending economic difficulties. Enticing and seeing new foreign and local investors pumping more money into infrastructure, manufacturing and consumer-based stocks will outlast the economic ills and could both hinder and help a turnaround. Massive investments reflect the dramatic economic rebound and will be hailed as a key to keeping the country financially sound above water. Nevertheless, the elements for an economic improvement – willingness to work diligently, uprightly and sweat – must be strong as ever. Then politicians, bureaucrats and business leaders will look at the current economic situation not as a stumbling block to progress, but rather a motivating factor.

crop, love the theatre so much, they were spending their own money just to be part of the guild.

Our stage productions here

atre course where I found myself classmates with Jose “Butch” Dalisay (who’s now a top professor in creative writing at UP Diliman) and Mario delos Reyes (who’s now a top movie director). Both acted in my lousy production of “Three Sisters”

by Anton Checkov at Fort Santiago--where most of us forgot our lines.

I still can’t figure out to this day why I was the subject of a research

by English Literature professors of two top universities here. Compared to Butch or Mario, I’m nothing but a theatre has-been. Although most of my short stories (fiction) survived the bloody national writers’ workshops of Siliman and Iligan and got published in the Graphic and Free Press, I never won the Palanca compared to some guys I know at Ateneo or UP. So, why did literature and theatre flourished and spread at University of Mindanao in the 1960’s ? I don’t know. You tell me.

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

When researchers dig up a literary past

will always be eternally grateful to Willie’s dad who was aware I had started only as a work scholar-janitor and school artist at this university after finishing my high school at UM Tagum. It was Willie’s dad who gave the OK to build us a little theatre at the fourth floor of the UM building at the west wing of the university campus. It was Willie’s dad who ordered school carpenters to help us build props for our stage, provide lights, etc in every production we had onstage.

It’s hard to remember all the title of all the one-act plays we produced for UMDG, but they included Nick Joaquin”s “May Day Eve”, Wilfredo Ma. Guerrero’s “Wanted: A Chaperon” and “Three Rats” , Alberto Florentino’s “New Yorker in Tondo,” Virginia Moreno’s “Straw Patriot”, and many others. Producing each of these plays required a lot of readings, research, memorizing, props making, blocking, rehearsals, etc--- but all our actors and actresses who happened to be the university’s cream of the

(Conclusion)

in Davao drew the attention of the Philippine Educational Theatre Association (PETA) in Manila which was then under Cecile Guidote who gave me a free scholarship in PETA’s three-month Theatre Acting, Directing and Production Training Workshop. I remember taking stage directing under Lino Brocka and Stanislav Smochek, a Czekoslovakian director.

It was during this summer the-

9

O’ my ghost!

W

HERE is the Philippines going?

Where are we, the Filipino people, headed?

The pessimists in our midst, citing mass poverty and calamities that seem inexterminable, say that our country is going to the dogs.

I wish they are right. You see, going to the dogs may not be bad at all.

At least, we can take consolation in the thought that the dog is man’s best friend – ever loyal, ever true, ever faithful and, has an extra sense of heroism (remember Kabang, that saved the lives of two children in Zamboaga City?

No, this country is not going to the dogs. It’s going to the ghosts! And that’s more terrifying than just seeing them.

But the ghosts I have in mind are not the kind that send shivers down one’s spine. They are not seen around haunted houses. They can be found in many government offices, specially where money freely flows by the millions.

These man-made ghosts have caused enormous and irreparable damage to our economy making the lives of millions of Filipinos miserable every passing day. They are tearing this country apart, robbing us blind and bringing about mass poverty, mass discontent and mass brownouts.

And we feel bad because we have been cheated, we’ve been fooled, we’ve been had.

Now, let’s meet the ghosts and remember them well.

Ghost Policemen. These are dismissed and AWOL personnel who have been surreptitiously retained in the payroll and whose salaries are being claimed regularly by alleged syndicate within the PNP itself.

Ghost Combat Uniforms. These were found in the AFP and allegedly went to the pockets of some ranking officers.

Ghost Projects. Government has lost millions of pesos on infrastructure projects that never were started at all, but reported to have been completed and fully paid. These were confirmed ghost bridges, roads, markets, classrooms and other ghost buildings.

Ghost Purchases and Deliveries. The AFP and PNP, according to COA, have lost millions of pesos for supplies which were never purchased and delivered.

Again, as in ghost projects, the budget were fully paid.

Ghost Travels. These are official travels made by government officials who merely hid in their homes and let the ghosts do the travelling. Of course, they routinely claim their per diems and other related expenses. Try counting the number of existing government offices, the number of officials authorized to travel, the frequency of these travels, and you’ll have fairly good idea of the staggering amount involved in those ghost travels.

Ghost Teachers. These are teaching positions that are filled up by fictitious teachers whose salaries and Allowances to thieving department officials.

Ghost Voters. These ghosts surface during elections in virtually all precincts in the country.

Ghost Precincts. These are the places where ghost voters stay on election day, with or without brownouts.

Ghost Barangays. These are fictitious communities that are created to serve or promote the political ambitions of some candidates.

Whether real or man-made, ghosts are destructive. We must destroy their creators. These master schemers have converted thievery into a multi-million industry called ghost-making.

These ghosts give us good inkling as to why ours continue to be a Third World country where 10% of the population control the nation’s wealth, 40% live just a notch above the poverty line, and 50% live in obscene poverty.

10

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Lolong..FFROM 1 First, a rough pond unsuitable for crocodiles, second, hovering palm trees in the crocodile pen covering 80 percent of the crocodile’s basking space, and third, they replaced the water in the pond with cold water from a mountain spring.

“Crocodiles are very sensitive to temperature, they need to bask in the sun if the water is too cold, and to stay in the water if the temperature is too warm,” said Dizon, adding that Lolong suffered from shock due to the cold water, which led to secondary infection pneumonia resulting to its death in February.

Lolong, the biggest salt water crocodile in the world, was brought to Dizon’s Davao Crocodile Park last February.

Only its head and body skin were brought there to fit into two separate freezers of the park.

The frequent brownouts in Bun-

awan had jeopardized the freezing of Lolong.

Dizon said, Lolong’s remains would deteriorate if they remain too long inside the freezers. The solution, he said is taxidermy, the process of preparing, stuffing, and mounting the skin of animals with life-like effect.

Dizon said he plans to do taxidermy on the remains of Lolong if it takes too long for the local government of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur and the National Museum to act on the huge saurian that died while in captivity last February.

Dizon said he had called on the media last Friday to somehow push the Bunawan LGU and the National Museum to co- FROZEN LOLONG. Davao Crocodile Farm owner Philip “Sonny” Dizon (right) presents to members of the media the frozen head of supercrocodile Lolong at the Davao Crocodile Park. Lean Daval Jr. share on the preservation and exhibition do with Lolong, then rials for it, and that the they would use metal for the job,” said Diof Lolong. However, we will do the taxider- glass box where it will rods and aluminum to zon. “However, I have until now it frustrates my ourselves,” he said, be placed for viewing replicate the skeletal not received any reply from them despite my him that he has yet to adding that it would by the public is very structure of Lolong.

“It is important that follow-ups on the isget any feedback from take no less than expensive.

P100,000 to do the His own staff told our staff is efficient sue. Not even a reply them.

“If there is still no job on Lolong, since it him that they have in taxidermy while from Bunawan Mayor word from them on needs different kinds the capability for the National Museum Edwin Cox Elorde rewhat they intend to of preservation mate- taxidermy, and that has the best people garding the matter.

Davao City..FFROM 1

ASEAN.. FFROM 1

The director said that the enforcement of smoke-free laws should also be implemented even in the different provinces of Southeast Asian countries.

“They should learn how Davao City does it, the creation of regulations as well as their enforcement,” she added.

According to Villareiz, “the Asean coun-

tries should copy the smoke-free law enforcement of Davao City which is not limited as they have included certain rules and regulations for night clubs and restaurants. ASEAN countries should copy the mechanisms, legislative measures and media support done by Dabawenyos.”

Davao City plays

host to a regional meeting that will strengthen the movement to curb tobacco use throughout Southeast Asia.

Delegates from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam are in the city from July 8-10 for a regional workshop on ‘smokefree laws’ at the SMX Convention Center.

stop the sale of smuggled goods that are subject to six tax.

Nograles added that there is also a need to have a special group which sole focus is to after gunrunning syndicates. It could also crack down on loose firearms and private armed groups (PAGs), the Congressman from Disrict 1 said.

Nograles acknowledged that the Philippine National Police (PNP) already has a Firearms and Explosives Division (FED) tasked to regulate the sale of firearms and granting gun permits. But he pointed out that FED has very limited law enforcement capabilities since its function is largely administrative in nature.

“FED lacks the manpower and there is a potential conflict of interest because of their frequent

dealings with gun shops and other groups that are in the firearms business, albeit legally,” Nograles said.

Nograles also noticed that while the PNP has achieved a good degree of success in its campaign against gun ban violators during the election period, there is no sign that it is making any dent in the fight against loose firearms and motorcycle-riding criminals.

“This trend only shows that gun ban or not, armed criminals will not be deterred by any law or by any checkpoint to commit crime.

What we need is a law enforcement agency that would put an end to the continuing proliferation of unlicensed firearms which lawless elements use to carry out criminal activities,” Nograles said.

“For example, did the police know that guns including unlicensed ones are being sold like laptops and cell phones over the internet? There is also no control on the proliferation of ammunition and gun parts which can be actually used to tamper with the gun’s ballistics report,” he elaborated.

Nograles said that the proposed inter-agency law enforcement task force can be manned by specially-trained tactical personnel from the PNP’s Special Action Force with the operational supervision of board composed of representatives from the Department of Justice, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the PNP-FED, BoC and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

Karlo.. FFROM 2

Davao City smoke-free.

“I’m very impressed by what is being done by the media in Davao.

In our country, we don’t have that kind of publicity,” he explained, adding that the implementation of making the city of Malaka smoke-free is supported only by health officials.

“I would like to congratulate the media here, the city is fully equipped with informa-

tion for the anti-smoking campaign, publicity that is not being undertaken in our country and in other Asean members,” he said.

In yesterday’s launching, heads of different media entities were able to present their contribution to the successful implementation of smoke-free laws in the city.

Antonio M. Ajero, editor in-chief of Edge Davao, said that Mayor

Rodrigo Duterte and Dr. Domilyn Villareiz, head of the city’s anti-smoking task force (ASTF) are highly credible, articulate, passionate and consistent in the anti-smoking campaign.

“These complete the logical magnet to media coverage,” he said.

Among those who presented their work in support of the anti-smoking campaign was Trisha Corpus of ABS-CBN Davao.

religious holiday.

Zagala also said that measures are already in place to ensure that this Muslim holiday will be commemorated peacefully.

“Our offensives are only directed against an enemy (BIFF) that has no known religion,” he stressed.

Of those killed, five were from the government side, including one junior Army officer and four enlisted personnel.

While 18 were reported killed from the BIFF side.

Two soldiers were also wounded-in-action, said Col. Dickson Hermoso, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, said.

Recent atrocities by the BIFF, which is hellbent to derail the peace process between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), had prompted the military, together with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the GPH-MILF Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) to launch law-enforcement operations. [PNA]

Pursuit operations against BIFF to continue despite Ramadan

S

TRESSING that terrorism has no known religion, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said pursuit operations against members of the “Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters” (BIFF) will continue despite the start of Ramadan within two days time.

But he clarified that the pursuit operations against the BIFF will be conducted with great sensitivity in order not to disturb Muslim communities from observing the month-long

11 WORLD

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

Crashed plane’s pilot is a trainee

S

EOUL (Reuters) - Asiana Airlines Inc said the pilot in charge of landing the Boeing 777 that crash-landed at San Francisco’s airport on Saturday was training for the long-range plane and that it was his first flight to the airport with the jet.

“It was Lee Kangkook’s maiden flight to the airport with the jet... He was in training. Even a veteran

gets training (for a new jet),” a spokeswoman for Asiana Airlines said on Monday.

The plane was travelling “significantly below” its intended speed and its crew tried to abort the landing just seconds before it hit the seawall in front of the runway, the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board said on Sunday.

“He has a lot of

experience and previously flown to San Francisco on different planes including the B747... and he was assisted by another pilot who has more experience with the 777,” the spokeswoman said.

Lee, who started his career at Asiana as an intern in 1994, has 9,793 hours of flying experience, but only 43 hours with the Boeing 777 jet.

Co-pilot Lee Jeongmin, who has 3,220 hours of flying experience with the Boeing 777 and a total of 12,387 hours of flying experience, was helping Lee Kang-kook in the landing, the spokeswoman said.

National Transportation Safety Board Chairwoman Deborah Hersman said Sunday that it was too early to say whether pilot error or mechanical

liner could stall, and they tried to abort the landing but crashed barely a second later, the head of the National Transportation Safety Board said Sunday.

While federal investiga-

tors began piecing together what led to the crash, San Mateo County Coroner Robert Foucrault disclosed that he was looking into the possibility that one of the two teenage passen-

gers who died Saturday actually survived the crash but was run over by a rescue vehicle rushing to aid victims as the plane burst into flames. Remarkably, 305 of 307 passengers survived the crash and more than a third didn’t even require hospitalization. Only a small number were critically injured.

Accident investigators are trying to determine whether pilot error, mechanical problems or something else was to blame for the crash. At a news conference, NTSB chief Deborah Hersman disclosed the Boeing 777 was traveling at speeds well below the target landing speed of 137 knots per hour, or 157 mph.

“We’re not talking about a few knots,” she said.

Hersman described the frantic final seconds of the flight as the pilots struggled to avoid crashing.

Did rescuers run over crash victim?

S

AN FRANCISCO (AP) -- Pilots of Asiana Flight 214 were flying too slowly as they approached San Francisco airport, triggering a cockpit warning that the jet-

GRIEF. Parents of Wang Linjia, center, are comforted by parents of some other students who were on the Asiana Airlines Flight 214 that crashed at San Francisco International Airport, at Jiangshan Middle School in Jiangshan

City, in eastern China’s Zhejiang province, on Sunday.

Chinese state media have identified the two people who died in the plane crash as Ye Mengyuan and Wang Linjia.

failure were to blame.

But she said there was no evidence of problems with the flight or the landing until 7 seconds before impact, when the crew tried to increase the plane’s speed and the plane responded normally. The control tower was not alerted to any plane issues.

Witnesses said the plane on Saturday appeared to be too low as it approached

the runway, hit the ground before the runway started and the impact sheared off part of the tail of the plane and possibly landing gear as well.

Asiana’s chief executive said on Saturday that he did not believe the fatal crash was caused by mechanical failure, although the carrier refused to be drawn on whether the fault laid with pilot error.

B R I E F S

5 killed, 15 injured in India building collapse SECUNDERABAD, India-- Indian police said that five restaurant workers were killed and 15 others were injured on Monday when a two-story hotel collapsed in the southern Indian city of Secunderabad.

Local NDTV said that nearly 40 people might still be trapped in the debris of City Light Hotel that collapsed at around 6:30 a.m. local time.

Police, fire fighting personnel and rescue workers managed to evacuate 10 people from the rubble and shift them to a nearby hospital, the TV station reported.(PNA/Xinhua)

Parents of plane crash victims to leave for U.S. JIANGSHAN, Zhejiang-- Parents of the victims of the plane crash in San Francisco will leave for the United States Monday, according to the vice principal of the victims’ middle school in east China’s Zhejiang Province.

A total of 12 parents -- for the two teenage girls killed and for another two injured in the plane crash -- will travel to Shanghai to obtain their visas before boarding a flight bound for San Francisco later on Monday, Zheng Liming, vice principal of Jiangshan Middle School, said at a press conference Monday morning.

The parents will be accompanied by two teachers from the victims’ middle school and four officials from Jiangshan City in east China’s Zhejiang Province. Their flight to San Francisco will be arranged by Asiana Airlines, the operator of the Boeing 777 aircraft that crashed while landing at San Francisco International Airport on Saturday.

The crash has left two teenage girls dead and 182 injured. According to Asiana Airlines, 141 Chinese citizens were aboard the craft.

12 CLASSIFIEDS ADS EDGEDavao Davao Partners

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

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14 SPORTS

PHOENIX TRIATHLETES. (From left) TRIAD VP Stax Savellano, member Dolly Yuste, President Felina Tadiaman, Phoenix Petroleum Philippines VP for External Affairs and Business Development Atty. Raymond Zorrilla, Corporate

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

Affairs Manager Ben Sur, and Assistant Manager for Brand and Marketing Neb Bulaclac, seal the partnership signed on June 19, 2013 at the Phoenix Petroleum Davao headquarters.

EDGEDAVAO

Phoenix supports Davao triathletes L

EADING independent oil company Phoenix Petroleum Philippines formalized its support to the Triathlon Association of Davao (TRIAD), a group of Davao-based triathletes who has competed in triathlon competitions in the country and abroad.

Under a one-year partnership agreement, TRIAD will compete in eight triathlon races carrying the name “Team TRIAD powered by Phoenix.”

The triathletes will wear tri-suits provided

by Phoenix Petroleum as they swim, bike, and run in the high endurance sport.

The MOA signing held on June 19, 2013 at the Phoenix Petroleum headquarters in Davao also formalizes TRIAD as an official endorser of Phoenix Petroleum at its events.

The MOA signing at the Phoenix Headquarters was attended by TRIAD VP Stax Savellano, member Dolly Yuste, President Felina Tadiaman, Phoenix Petroleum Philippines VP for External Affairs and Business Development Atty. Raymond Zorrilla, Corporate Affairs Manager Ben Sur, and Assistant Manager for Brand and Marketing Neb Bulaclac.

Goldstar drops VMO in Phoenix 36+ hoops SEMIFINALS (1) Moonbeem vs (4) VMO (2) Goldstar vs (3) Oro East Mining *1 and 2 teams enjoy twice-to-beat advantage

P

OWERHOUSE Goldstar Hardware finished second after dominating VMO 88-63 to end its eliminations campaign on a high note in the Phoenix Petroleum Above 36 basketball tournament at the Davao City Recreation Center on Sunday.

Veteran Jun Pansacala dominated the shaded lane and anchored the Hardwaremen’s stonewall defense while scoring 16 points of his own in a sterling performance backing up the 32-point explosion of top gunner Soco. Francisco Mejorada added 12 in Goldstar’s win which shoved them to a twice-to-beat position in the crossover semis against no. 3 Oro East Mining of this tournament sponsored by Phoenix Petroleum for players aged 36 and above.

VMO, with league lead-

ing scorer Bong Go clamped down on defense, dropped to no. 4 in the standings and will face top qualifier Moonbeem in the semifinals.

Tournament director Goldie Delvo said the schedule will be announced at a later date.

“We will announce the schedule soon, for now we are making arrangements with the teams and venue,” said Delvo.

Go was limited to only 19 markers—his lowest output so far in the tournament. He had two 50-plus point games in the eliminations.

Results for July 7 Goldstar 88-- Soco 32 Pansacala 16 Mejorada 12 Arellano 11 Rabino 7 Liston 6 Alison 4 Celis 0 VMO 63-- Go 19 Gamboa 14 Duremdez 12 Mosqueda 4 Josol 6 Pastor 5 Aleman 3 Alfeche 0 Mondigo 0 Gadiano 0 Salinas 0

INdulge!

STYLE

Lucio San Pedro inspires Freeway KNOWN for its collaboration with different renowned Filipino artists, Freeway is honored to launch the National Artist Collector’s Series for Fall 2013.

Freeway celebrates Lucio San Pedro’s 100th Birth Centennial with the brand’s collection of aweinspiring pieces beaming with Filipino pride. It’s no surprise that the 9th Na-

tional Artist chosen to pay homage for this series is a man full of talent and ingenuity. Lucio San Pedro, National Artist for Music, is a great Filipino composer and teacher. Known

for his composition of the widely popular lullaby “Sa Ugoy ng Duyan” (in collaboration with another National Artist, Levi Celerio) and the symphonic poem “Lahing Kayumanggi”, Lucio San Pedro has paved the Pinoy world of music with plenty of his beautiful compositions bearing national soul.

For the collection, it is composed of a wide array of casual to work tops and dresses using fabrics such as satinized twills, matte charmeuse, poplins and knits. The unique cuts and styles made out of different fabric combinations are carefully crafted to flatter the woman’s figure without sacrificing comfort by using mostly stretch fabrications. As for its visual prowess, the collection combines floral inspirations with hand drawn lines and curves fused with lyrics and title of San Pedro’s famous orchestra pieces. Colors range from the basic black and white to subtle tones such as beige and teal. Certainly, these pieces are made to capture the essence and mark of the Filipina’s modern beauty.

Freeway is located at the Ground Floor of the Abreeza Mall.

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

Marithé +François Girbaud Red Tag Sale GET READY as Marithé +François Girbaud holds its Red Tag Sale!

Enjoy 50% off on selected accessories, 30% off on selected apparel, 10% off on ALL bestsellers, and 60% to 70% off on selected items. It’s a sale you don’t want to miss!

Plus, Club Le Jean members get an extra treat: earn double points every time you purchase! This promo is until July 14, 2013 only.

Visit the Marithé +François Girbaud stores at SM City Davao and Abreeza Mall now.

CEB slashes 70% off fares, hotels to Phuket THE Philippines’ leading low-cost carrier, Cebu Pacific (PSE:CEB) slashes 70% off its lowest year-round fares from Manila to its newest international destination, Phuket, Thailand.

P999 seats available until July 11, 2013 or until seats last, for travel from August 15 to December 3, 2013.

Using its fleet of brand-new Airbus A320 aircraft, CEB will operate a thrice weekly Manila-Phuket service every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The maiden flight will leave Manila at 8:00 pm and arrive in Phuket at 11:00pm. The return flight will depart Phuket at 12:00am the next day, and will arrive in Manila at 5:05am.

Phuket is CEB’s 2nd destination in Thailand, aside from Bangkok where CEB operates 12 weekly flights from Manila and twice weekly flights from both Cebu and Clark. After the seat sale, lowest year-round fares start at PHP3,499.

CEB, through its partner Agoda.com, also offers 70% off on Phuket hotels for travel until October 31, 2013. This includes hotel accommodations starting at USD16 at The Album Loft at Nanai Road. USD17 rooms are also available at The Grand Orchid Inn and Forest Patong Hotel.

Other hotel stays on sale include APK Resort and Spa, The Belle Resort, The Album Hotel, Sugar Palm Resort, Supalai Resort and Spa, and Sea Sun Sand Resort and Spa, with room rates ranging from USD25-56 per night.

To book these special Phuket hotel deals, go to www. agoda.com/cebupacific. Agoda.com specializes in the lowest discount hotel prices, and its network includes more than 200,000 hotels worldwide,.

“We encourage passengers to take advantage of Cebu Pacific’s seat sale and Agoda.com’s hotel deals for the most affordable holiday in the island paradise of Phuket. By booking in advance, guests can maximize their travel savings so they can spend more at their destination,” said CEB VP for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.

CEB is the first and only airline to provide direct air services from the Philippines to this popular island destination.

Located approximately 860 kilometers south of Bangkok, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and is known for its dive sites and beaches.

Presently, CEB offers 22 international destinations: Bali, Bangkok, Beijing, Brunei, Busan, Dubai, Guangzhou, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hong Kong, Incheon, Jakarta, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, Macau, Osaka, Phuket, Shanghai, Siem Reap, Singapore, Taipei and Xiamen.

For bookings and inquiries, guests can go to www.cebupacificair.com, or call the reservation hotlines (02)7020-888 or (032)230-8888. The latest seat sales can also be found on CEB’s official Twitter and Facebook pages.

Those still booking flights may also sign up to be a CEB Club member through the Cebu Pacific website, for seat sale alerts, easy management of flights and travel funds, and a faster booking process.

CEB currently operates 10 Airbus A319, 26 Airbus A320, 1 Airbus A330 and 8 ATR-72 500 aircraft. Its fleet of 45 aircraft is one of the most modern aircraft fleets in the world. Between 2013 and 2021, Cebu Pacific will take delivery of 16 more Airbus A320, 30 Airbus A321neo, and 3 Airbus A330 aircraft.

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

MOVIES

Despicable Me 2 crushes Depp’s The Lone Ranger JOHNNY Depp and Armie Hammer were just no match for the minions.

Despicable Me 2 rocked this weekend’s box office, pushing way past the Lone Ranger’s gross with $82.5 million for the No. 1 spot.

Universal Pictures’ animated flick netted the production company its biggest five-day gross ever with a whopping $142.1 million, according to Forbes.

Meanwhile, the Lone Ranger landed in second, falling short of analysts’ expectations with $29.4 million in its debut ($48.9 million total during the same period). This was a big disappointment for Disney, with the adventure flick costing the studio about $225 million to make.

Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy’s comedy The Heat followed with $25 million, along with Monsters University with $19.6 million and World War Z at $18.2 million.

Also worth mention-

ing is Kevin Hart’s stand up comedy film Let Me Explain, which raked in $10.1 million in its debut.

The film could be on its way to become one of the highest grossing stand-up comedy films of all time.

It had the second highest opening for a film in its genre behind The Original Kings of Comedy (which opened with $11.1 million), and currently sits

at No. 5 for the highestgrossing stand-up comedy films ever.

Here’s a complete look at the weekend’s top movies, per Friday-Sunday studio estimates and stats as compiled per Box Office Mojo: 1. Despicable Me 2, $82.5 million 2. The Lone Ranger, $29.4 million 3. The Heat, $25 million

4. Monsters University, $19.6 million 5. World War Z, $18.2 million 6. White House Down, $13.5 million 7. Man of Steel, $11.4 million 8. Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain, $10.1 million 9. This is the End, $5.8 million 10 Now You See Me, $2.8 million E!Online

5 Ways the Lone Ranger hopes to bring the West back HI-YO, SILVER! Fact: We don’t hear the famously rousing call to action until near the end of the movie’s nearly 150-minute running time. Will that matter for the cowboys and cowgirls who line up to see the latest live-action spectacle from the creators of the Pirates of the Caribbean series?

Director Gore Verbinski, mega-explosive producer Jerry Bruckheimer and Johnny Depp hope to infuse their special brand of humor, puzzling set pieces and gun-toting action to the 80-year-old legend.

Armie Hammer is John Reid, do-gooder in the shadow of his lawman brother. A dastardly plot puts Reid and a Native American warrior (Depp) on the same side to prevent a war and derail a scheming trainman.

But first, Reid’s gotta wear a mask…

Early word on the film has been largely negative, but then again, no one sees a summer blockbuster as a contender for awards season.

Our take: The visuals are gorgeous, the action never lets up, and Depp is still en-

really high place to take a nap.

Helena Bonham Carter’s Gun-Leg Rules.

Both the actress and her pistol-packing appendage might seem a better fit in a Tim Burton film, but every one of her scenes packs a wallop. As Red Harrington, she runs her brothel by keeping her ivory prosthetic’s sights on customers who get all handsy.

Like a Live-Action Red Dead Redemption. If you’re a fan of Westerns, the photography

by Bojan Bazelli (Rock of Ages) is splendid on the big screen. An early ambush lets viewers get lost in the grandeur of giant, beautiful landscapes. Hooray that vistas this breathtaking don’t need no stinkin’ 3D glasses!

More Like The Lone Ranger Begins…At nearly two-and-a-half hours, only the last actionpacked 30 minutes unleash John Reid (Hammer) as the masked avenger with his trusty steed Silver. Cue the William Tell Overture. A very rousing finale even if in the back of your mind you’re thinking, “Finally…” E!Online

3 tertaining—delivering his unique brand of eccentric. At the end of the day, The Lone Ranger is more akin to Batman Begins or Star Trek ‘09: less of a remake, more of a set-up with a twist on the origin story. Which merits plus and minuses.

Here’s the five ways The Lone Ranger aims to bring back the big-screen Western: Depp’s Tonto: No Sidekick. Stanch, painted in cracked-white makeup, Depp plays the tribe-less wanderer as big as Jack Sparrow, but less drunk. Most of the story (including, an unnecessary framing device) is told from Tonto’s point of view. Does that make Hammer’s masked man as bland

1

4 as Orland Bloom was in Pirates? Hammer has much better banter with Depp so we’ll give him the edge.

Plenty of Impossible Escapes. Like his Pirates trilogy (Verbinski didn’t do the fourth one), the director fiendishly places these actors in crazy, brainteaser-like contraptions. Most involve high-wire stunts atop trains, but this one is just Reid, a cliff and a

2

5

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EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Chris Pratt undergoes physical transformation STEP aside Matthew McConaughey and Jake Gyllenhaal, there’s a new shirtless hunk in Hollywood.

Chris Pratt shared an Instagram pic over the weekend, proving he may currently have the hottest bod in town.

The 34-year-old Parks and Recreation actor has upped his game, undergoing a physical transformation for his role in the upcoming sci-fi flick Guardians of the Galaxy.

Chris captioned the shirtless photo: “Six months no beer. #GOTG Kinda douchey

to post this but my brother made me.”

And this isn’t the first time Chris has laid off the booze to bulk up. The actor also transformed his bod

for his role as a member of Navy SEAL Team 6 in Zero Dark Thirty.

Pratt, who is married to Anna Farris, revealed back when he was preparing for the Osama Bin Laden assassination flick: “I worked out really hard and I cut out everything bad for me for a long time and I just focused on trying to become a believable Navy SEAL.” Now he’s taking it intergalactic! This dude is serious when it comes to getting in to character and we’re not complaining.

Keep the pics coming, Chris! E!Online

JULY 4, 2013

NOW

1:15 3:50 6:25 9:00

SHOWING

12:30 2:40

12:15 3:10 6:05 9:00

BLING RING

(R16)

4:50 WORLD WAR Z

(PG-13)

6:55 9:00

HAUNTED MOTEL

(R-13)

THE WHITE HOUSE DOWN (PG-13)

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

10:40 1:15 3:50 6:25 9:00

12:45 3:30 6:15 9:00

DESPICABLE ME 2

(GP)

FOUR SISTERS AND A WEDDING

MY LADY BOSS

(PG-13)

(PG-13)

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

DESPICABLE ME 2 3D (GP)

(G)

Pregnant Kate Middleton’s cravings and more details about the royal baby birthing plan MORE details are surfacing in the royal baby rundown.

It appears Kate Middleton has had a thing for hot vegetable curries and Haribo sweets during her pregnancy, according to the Daily Mail.

After Middleton popped into Peach’s Spar convenience store in Bucklebury, England and told store owner Chan Shingadia she “had a craving,” he made her a batch of vegetable curry with rice and flatbreads, and said she has been a regular visitor to the store since then, last taking a trip there a couple of weeks ago.

While Middleton is due to deliver her first child with Prince William July 13 or 14, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge haven’t chosen a name for their baby just yet, according to the site.

Since the royal duo asked not to be told the baby’s gender, they reportedly have a “shortlist of boys and

girls’ names” but won’t make the final decision until the baby is born.

Once the royal baby is born, there could be a change in tradition in terms of how Queen Elizabeth II is informed.

While it is general protocol for the Queen to be notified via an official handdelivered notice to the Buckingham Palace, Prince

William may change that up and call Queen Elizabeth II on an encrypted phone instead.

In terms of Middleton’s delivery, the mom-to-be is set to give birth at the five-story Lindo Wing of St. Mary’s Hospital in London, where a suite costs about $13,000. The front windows of that wing have reportedly been frosted to prevent anyone from getting a sneak peek.

Middleton’s sister, Pippa, and her mom Carole are expected to be in the delivery room with the couple, but the Queen will be waiting at home for the news and the baby will be brought to her.

The couple’s private secretary, Jamie LowtherPinkerton, will then inform Prime Minister David Cameron, among others, and an official notice announcing the baby’s birth will be placed at Buckingham Palace’s gates to alert the public. E!Online

FOUR SISTERS & A WEDDING 2D

John Mayer proclaims his love for Katy Perry during concert JOHN Mayer kicked off his Born & Raised Tour Saturday night in Milwaukee with love.

Dedicating his romantic jam “A Face to Call Home” to girlfriend Katy Perry, sharing his feelings in front of a massive crowd (and the singer herself) how Katy stood by his side as he recovered from throat surgery.

Mayer shared Katy is “more incredible than I ever

thought,” adding that the “Wide Awake” singer would help him communicate when he didn’t have his voice while he was forced to

take 10 months off for vocal rest.

“She would order for me... and she would tell people, ‘it’s nice to meet you, he says’...When I was in Montana...with bad service... she was so patient as to continue to get to know me and love me.”

He then ended his adorable soliloquy, “To Katy, who is my face to call home.”

Swoon much?!

Toni Gonzaga, Bea Alonzo, Angel Locsin, Shaina Magdayao, Enchong Dee

PG 13

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

DESPICABLE ME 2 2D Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig GP

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

WHITE HOUSE DOWN 2D Channing Tatum, Jamie Foxx PG 13

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

R-16 WORLD WAR Z 2D Brad Pitt PG 13

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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

TRAVEL

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

Rock the Kasbah!

IT WAS on a recent trip to Manila that I was able to catch up with my friend Mark for some chitchat.

No thanks to crazy schedules, we had to conduct catching up while working. Fortunately the meeting was held at the Fort Strip’s hippest restaurant bar Kasbah.

As soon as we arrived, the restaurant’s massive antique wooden doors greeted us. Huge Moroccan drapes also added a souk-like atmosphere to the place which I love. The Moroccan magic spills over inside with huge Arabesque windows, antique wooden balusters, bluetiled wall mosaics, Bedouin lamps and a massive twostorey bar completing look.

Of course all this would be for naught if the food was not good, and I am glad to know that the food at Kasbah was simply amazing. The Lamb Tajine was tender and cooked beautifully with nuts and lots of citrus notes. Dessert was another level altogether with their Baklava. And don’t get me started with their unique drinks and cocktails that would keep you up dancing all night long.

No wonder Kasbah is considered one of the IT places to dine and party by the in crowd at the Fort.

And by the looks and taste of it, it deserves the title.

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

Kasbah’s Baklava

Outside Kasbah at the Fort.

The delicious Lamb Tajine.

The delicious Lamb Tajine.

The huge antique wooden door.

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 •TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

ZOOM FROOME Froome keeps lead after Stage 9 SPREAD EAGLE. Dan Martin of Ireland crosses the finish in Stage 9.

B

AGNERES-DE-BIGORRE, France (AP) -- Left alone and with his teammates far behind, Chris Froome held off repeated attacks to retain the Tour de France lead Sunday as the three-week race left the Pyrenees mountains.

Dan Martin of Ireland, a 26-year-old GarminSharp rider, won Stage 9 following a two-man sprint against Denmark’s Jakob Fuglsang after they escaped Froome and the other pre-race favorites on the last of five tough climbs along the 105-mile trek from Saint-Girons to Bagneres-de-Bigorre in southwest France.

As the race neared its first rest day Monday, Froome was relieved he was able to quash four attacks by Movistar’s Nairo Quintana on the last climb - la Hourquette d’Ancizan - despite his

Sky teammates lagging behind. They were worn out after a strong team effort to help him win the yellow jersey a day earlier. ‘’That was one of the hardest days I’ve ever had on a bike,’’ Froome said. ‘’I’m really happy with how I came through today ... It’s not easy to follow Quintana in the climbs.

He’s a light little Colombian who can fly up hills - so to cover his attacks definitely wasn’t easy.’’ ‘’But yeah, I was quite ready for more attacks, and I’m quite glad there weren’t,’’ he said, adding that it was ‘’quite understandable’’ that his teammates weren’t with him after Saturday’s effort.

The Briton kept an eye on his top rivals to win the title in Paris on July 21, including Spaniard pair Alberto Contador, of the Saxo Bank team, and

Alejandro Valverde - one of five Movistar riders in the front bunch of about two dozen riders.

The Briton was content to let Martin and Fuglsang go ahead, and fight for the stage win. After a brief cat-and-mouse game, Martin wheeled around the Dane before the final bend with about 150 meters to go and held on for his first Tour stage win. Martin is the nephew of 1987 Tour champion Stephen Roche and a cousin of fellow cyclist Nicolas Roche. ‘’I was confident in the final stretch because I know I have some speed,’’ Martin said, adding he was lucky to have Astana’s Fuglsang with him to share the work of holding off the favorites. ‘’I knew I had to be ahead in the last two corners and, when I saw that I was, I knew I could win.’’

‘’Luckily I had the legs to finish the job.’’

They crossed 20 seconds ahead of Froome, two-time Tour winner Contador, and 2011 champion Cadel Evans of Australia, among others.

Overall, the top standings didn’t change much, except that Sky rider Richie Porte of Australia tumbled from second place overall to 33rd after finishing nearly 18 minutes behind Martin.

Froome’s closest challenger is Valverde, who is 1:25 behind. Contador is sixth overall and trails by 1:51. Martin is eighth, 2:28 back.

Froome captured the yellow jersey Saturday by launching a devastating attack in the final climb to win Stage 8, thanks in large part to a strong escort from Sky - including Porte, who was second in that stage.

But the fact there were none of his teammates around to help Froome will encourage the other teams that the seemingly unbeatable Sky team may have weaknesses. Tired from their efforts Saturday, the other Sky riders fell back early on and Froome was left to fend for himself.

As is required of the yellow jersey holder after each stage, Froome went straight to anti-doping control after the race.

This is the first Tour since Lance Armstrong’s fall from grace after he was stripped of his seven Tour titles from 19992005 for serial doping.

Froome vouched after his win Saturday that he was ‘’100 percent’’ clean and was asked on French television after Sunday’s stage if he has ever taken a performance-enhancing product.

Davao’s Saludar signs up with ALA

F

NEW RECRUIT. Saludar (C) with his father, Vic (L) and ALA Promotions Vice President Dennis Cañete(R).

‘’No,’’ Froome said. ‘’I trained for many months to arrive here in this form.’’

With temperatures once again well into the 30s Celsius (above 90 Fahrenheit), Froome found himself isolated on the day’s first category 1 ascent up to Col de Mente, where Evans fell 40 seconds behind the yellow jersey group. Then, a breakaway group featuring Ryder Hesjedal, Tom Danielson and Pierre Rolland forged ahead.

Froome’s chasing group included Contador, flanked by his Saxo-Tinkoff teammates, while Quintana sat behind Froome.

Once they got over Col de Mente, Valverde attacked on the descent and chased after the breakaway group, prompting Froome to go after him.

ORMER national team member, Victorio Saludar III of Panabo City, Davvao del Norte, will be taking another step towards building his boxing career as he signed with the country’s premiere boxing promotional outfit, ALA Promotions.

The 22 –year old Saludar, the youngest of three boxing brotherswas an amateur standout, a 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games bronze medalistand a steady contender winning 2 Palarong Pambansa gold medals and 6 national championship gold medals. The pride of Polomolok, South Cotabato was also named “best fighter of the tournament” during the 31’s Tammer Cup held in

Tampere, Finland.

Saludar, who goes by the moniker “Vicious” joined ALA boxing’s stable of fighters for the exciting 108 pounds division. He is set to make his pro-debut on the upcoming 21’st edition of Pinoy Pride mega boxing series which headlines WBO World Minimumweight champion Merlito Sabillo going up against WBO world rated no. 6 challenger Jorle Estrada of Colombia.

ALA Promotions thrust is in giving opportunities to boxers who are eager to elevate their careersand chance to turn dreams into reality. Witness Saludar’s professional debut on Pinoy Pride 21 as he brings pride to the people of South Cotabato.

16

EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 6 ISSUE 82 • TUESDAY, JULY 09, 2013

PUMPED UP. Andy Murray pumps his fist after winning the Wimbledon trophy for Great Britain ending 77 years of waiting.

Murray ends Britain’s 77-year wait

HISTORY BOY L

ONDON (AP) -- Andy Murray needed one more point, one solitary point, to win Wimbledon - a title he yearned to earn for himself, of course, and also for his country.

Britain had endured 77 years since one of its own claimed the men’s trophy at the revered tournament referred to simply as The Championships, and now here was Murray, on the brink of triumph after 3 hours of grueling tennis against top-seeded Novak

Djokovic under a vibrant sun at Centre Court.

Up 40-love, Murray failed to convert his first match point. And his second. And then, yes, his third, too. On and on the contest, and accompanying tension, stretched, Murray unable to close it, Djokovic unwilling to yield, the minutes certainly feeling like hours to those playing and those watching. Along came three break points for Djokovic, all erased. Finally, on Murray’s fourth chance to end it, Djokovic

dumped a backhand into the net.

The final was over.

The wait was over.

A year after coming oh-so-close by losing in the title match at the All England Club, the No. 2-ranked Murray beat No. 1 Djokovic of Serbia 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 Sunday to become Wimbledon’s champion in a test of will and skill between a pair of men with mirror-image defensive styles that created lengthy points brimming with superb shots. ‘’That last game will be

the toughest game I’ll play in my career. Ever,’’ said Murray, who was born in Dunblane, Scotland, and is the first British man to win the grass-court Grand Slam tournament since Fred Perry in 1936. ‘’Winning Wimbledon - I still can’t believe it. Can’t get my head around that.

I can’t believe it.’’

For several seasons, Murray was the outsider looking in, while Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Djokovic collected 29 out of 30 Grand Slam titles. But now Murray

has clearly and completely turned the Big 3 into a Big 4, having reached the finals at the last four major tournaments he entered (he withdrew from the French Open in May because of a bad back).

And he’s now a two-time Slam champion, having defeated Djokovic in five sets at the U.S. Open in September.

All this from a guy who lost his first four major finals, including against Federer at Wimbledon in 2012. After that defeat, Murray’s voice cracked

and tears rolled as he told the crowd, ‘’I’m getting closer.’’

How prescient. Four weeks later, on the same court, he beat Federer for a gold medal at the London Olympics, a transformative victory if ever there was one. And 52 weeks later, on the same court, he beat Djokovic for the Wimbledon championship. ‘’You need that self-belief in the important moments,’’ observed Djokovic, a six-time major champion, ‘’and he’s got it now.’’