Edge Davao 7 Issue 16

VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

REELING FROM DEVASTATION 6-hour fire razes some 4,000 homes

2 ON THE COVER EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

REELING FROM DEVASTATION 6-hour fire razes some 4,000 homes

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. and CHENEEN R. CAPON Photos By LEAN DAVAL JR.

W

ITH the huge devastation from fire last Friday night that razed thousands of houses and other valuable properties in Davao City’s three coastal barangays, affected residents are left seemingly hopeless and uncertain over their present condition and their future.

At the covered court in Barangay 23– C Mini-Forest, most of the evacuees housed in the facility appear to have already resigned to their fate, spending their time as if waiting for someone or something.

As Edge Davao went around the area last Saturday afternoon, too conspicuous is the presence of the victims’ relatives who volunteered to make the chores for the affected residents.

One resident, Samina

Hadjisalic approached Edge Davao to ask about the relief goods that they expect to arrive since Saturday morning.

After the fire incident, she said that what the victims have received so far was a ration of porridge from the City Social Service and Development Office (CSSDO).

Hadjisalic said the food provided by CSSDO was insufficient and more “appropriate for infants.”

She said that most of the victims are left helpless as almost all of their belongings were lost the fire.

Another victim, Sheryl Ondangan, expressed hope to receive financial and other assistance from the city government especially now that her husband is forced not to work to take care of their three children whom

WEATHER FORECAST

they tagged along in the evacuation center.

She is looking for assistance in rebuilding their homes saying they cannot stay longer in the evacua-

tion center as their youngest child is suffering from asthma.

Ondangan is feeling assured of the assistance after Davao City Mayor Ro-

drigo R. Duterte visited the victims and promised to extend help in rebuilding their houses.

For Amimbae Brahim, 46 and a resident in the area for the past 13 years said it will take seven years before they will be able to completely construct a new house.

“It will take us a long time before we can go back to our normal lives. I and my husband need to wait for our salary to arrive,” Brahim who is also a teacher in Madrasah.

Even as she is not discounting the possibility of another fire incident in the future, Brahim said they are determined go back to Isla Verde and start rebuilding their homes.

Based on initial investigation of Bureau of Fire (BFP), the fire started at the house of a certain Tisay Mohamad, emanating from an unattended candle.

Fire and police authorities put the initial cost of damage at P14 million.

It is the largest fire incident recorded in the recent history of Davao City,

according to CSSDO district head Norman Baloro.

Most of the houses razed were made of light material like bamboo and ply wood.

BFP staff Nicomedes M. Basok and a strong wind during that time made the conflagration spread faster.

“Although a lot of fire stations responded, it is also hard to control the fire because the road leading to the area is small and narrow,” he said.

Combined efforts from firefighters of Central 911 Urban Search and Rescue, and Central 911 Fire Fighters, Bangoy Fire Station, Talomo Fire Station, Talomo Fire Station, Buhangin Fire Station and Lanang Fire Station were able to control the blaze at 1: 25 a.m. on Saturday.

CSSDO district head Norman Baloro said that they are still consolidating the data on victims affected by the incident.

Other victims are now staying in nearby gymnasiums, parks, covered courts, health centers, and elementary schools.

EDGEDAVAO

THE BIG NEWS

VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

DavNor’s Ugmad Komunidad empowers lowly barrio folks

T

HE livelihood projects coming from the Ugmad Komunidad (UK) program of the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte have given poor citizens, especially mothers, the opportunity to increase the income of their families.

Oliva Matro, Chair of the Kaugmaran sa Kababainhan sa Sta. Cruz (KAKASA) in Sta. Cruz, Talicud Island, Island Garden City of Samal, said beneficiaries were all praises to the UK program for turning their life around.

She said that members, who are mainly composed

of mothers, now make use of their idle time to produce spicy dilis (anchovy), which they now peddle to residents and visitors of the resort island.

She disclosed a number of livelihood projects in the past have flopped and failed to improve their lot because of lack of sense of ownership, capacity building and management expertise, among other factors.

She said that with the UK program, the recipients were encouraged to get involve and identify their own viable projects.

FDAVNOR’S, 10 DEMANDS. Charles R. Avila (right), national president of the Philippine Association of Small Coconut Farmers Organization (PACFO) and executive director

IGaCoS Water District has new GM

I

SLAND Garden City of Samal [IGaCoS] Water District General Manager Antonio Gerardo C. Orlanes took oath of office officiated by City Mayor Aniano P. Antalan at Igacos Water District Main Office, Penaplata, Samal District, Island Garden City of Samal on April 1.

The board of directors and employees of IGaCoS Water District expressed relief that finally a new general manager was selected and took oath of office after more than two years

3

of waiting and existing under a temporary officer in charge manning them.

Antalan commended the new general manager Antonio Gerardo Orlanes for his accomplishments in convincing some barangays to turn-over their water project to Igacos water district in spite serving the organization as temporary officer in charged.

Antalan also praised the unified effort of his co-workers who stood behind him in his struggles

FIGACOS, 10

of the Confederation of Coconut Farmers organizations of the Phils. (CCFO), declares in behalf of coconut farmers and moral leaders during the Bishops-Ulama-Priests-Pastors-Farmers-Lumad Conference (BUPPFALUC) Consultative Assembly on United Coconut Planters Bank (UCPB) yesterday at Villa Margarita in Davao City that coconut farmers will not be contented with anything less than a creation of a special farmers’ bank for their timely financial needs and a new law which will be a mechanism for the beneficial utilization of the coco levy funds now held in escrow at the Bureau of Treasury. BUPPFALUC) is under the leadership of Archbishop Emeritus Fernando Capalla (left). Lean Daval Jr.

Scholarships to go on sans PDAF - Sid Ungab S

CHOLARSHIPS for poor and deserving students in college will continue, despite the abo-

lition of the controversial Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). This was the assurance made

by Davao City Rep. Isidro T. Ungab, Ungab is the chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations responsible for crafting the P3-trillion annual budget of the country for 2014.

The lawmaker, who first made a name for handling

the passage of the controversial Sin Tax Law as chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means in the 16th Congress, said that after the Supreme Court ruled that PDAF was unconstitutional, the House removed P25-billion PDAF allocations from the 2014 General Appropriations Act. However, he said, the money was given to five

government agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Highways (35 percent), Department of Social Welfare and Development (20 percent), Department of Health (DoH), Department of Labor (DOLE) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) with 15 percent each.

In removing PDAF, Congress saw to it that part of

T is high time we provide the right incentives to front line workers who work hard for the formative development of our children.”

Thus said Rep. Maria Carmen Zamora as she lent her signature as one of the co-authors of House Bill

No. 829 entitled, “An Act Providing Benefits and Incentives to Accredited Child Development Workers (Day Care Workers), Child Development Teachers, Teacher Aides, Barangay Health Workers and Nutrition Providers, Rural Health Midwives, and Other

Care Providers, Amending for the Purpose Republic Act No. 10410, Otherwise Known as ‘Early Years Act of 2013’.” The bill is principally authored by Rep. Jonathan de la Cruz of ABAKADA Party-list.

“While it is clear un-

measure.

Among those who pledge support in passing the bill were young neophytes who personally approach the author asking him to be co-sponsors.

They claimed that they have high respect to senior citizens as they admitted that they too wanted to reach the bonus life.

In his House Bill 3731,

Davao del Norte Rep. Anthony del Rosario seeks to lower the age of coverage from the present 77 years old to 70 years old.

Del Rosario said the present age requirement is no longer reasonable considering today’s average lifespan of senior citizens that is shorter compared to the past decades.

FSCHOLARSHIPS, 10

Zamora co-authors bill providing incentives to child care providers “I

FZAMORA, 10

Bill raising monthly income of senior citizens gains support

PREPARATION. A student takes advantage of the two-month school break to earn some extra cash in preparation for the upcoming school opening. Lean Daval Jr.

A

N measure seeking to double the monthly income of senior citizens from P500 to P1,000 gained support from members of the House of Representatives.

Although there is a big drop in percentage of senior citizen lawmakers which is now dominated by young and debonair solons, they too support the

FBILL, 10

4

EDGEDAVAO

BIGGER PICTURE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

New hope for cancer patients

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

A

NYONE who is battling the Big C, more often than not, is reduced to a hopelessly sick individual with a defeatist mindset.

Cancer, in its various forms and stages, is a formidable foe only a few men gifted with the resources in life could wage battle with reasonable chances of survival.

According to the Philippine Cancer Control Program, cancer is the third leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Philippines. The leading cancer sites/types are lung, breast, cervix, liver, colon and rectum, prostate, stomach, oral cavity, ovary and leukemia.

The PCCP reported that “there is at present a low cancer prevention consciousness and most cancer patients seek consultation only at advanced stages. Cancer survival rates are relatively low.”

The Philippine Cancer Control Program, which begun in 1988, is an integrated approach utilizing primary, secondary and tertiary prevention in different regions of the country at both hospital and community levels. Six lead cancers (lung, breast, liver, cervix, oral cavity, colon and rectum) are discussed.

Features peculiar to the Philippines are described; and their causation and prevention are discussed.

A recent assessment revealed shortcomings in the Cancer Control Program and urgent recommendations were made to reverse the anticipated ‘cancer epidemic’.

But while the cancer survival rates are relatively low, that does not mean the Philippine cancer situation is hopeless.

DAVAO CANCER FORUM: BETTER MEDICAL ACCESS FOR FILIPINOS IN MINDANAO Cancer has always been seen as a death sentence to the patient, especially to people in the province who has not much access to medical treatments.

Dra. Irene Penamante, seeing her fellow citizens in the Southern Philippines suffering and dying from various cancer diseases, decided to take the step for a change. She coordinated with Davao City Health Officer and Modern Cancer Hospital Guangzhou to conduct an informative Cancer Forum for both medical practitioners and patients in the south.

On March 27, 2014 in Grand Menseng Hotel, Cancer Forum was conducted

with special guest speaker from the well known international cancer hospital in Guangzhou China, Dr. Xiaochi Peng, the Director of Oncology Department of Modern Cancer Hospital Guangzhou.

Dr. Peng, the prominent Chief Oncologist of Modern Cancer Hospital Guangzhou, talked on “New Choices for Cancer Treatment: Minimally Invasive Approach.”

Dr. Peng was warmly received by the forum participants who were treated to a glimpse of the new cancer treatment choices.

If at all, the talk given by Dr. Peng opened the eyes of many in attendance to the bright prospect head for cancer treatment.

“There’s still hope. It’s encouraging,” said one attendee.

Dr. Peng, chief of the Modern Cancer Hospital Guangzhou, assured that the facility has built a reputation for being a comprehensive modern hospital specializing in oncotherapy and operating under the auspices of the Chinese government and Ministry of Health. The rapid development of China has attracted attention from all over the world.

Chinese medical treatment has been one of the beneficiaries of this development, with Modern Cancer Hospital Guangzhou as a model 21st century health care facility.

Dr. Peng was joined in the forum by Mr. Bennett Ho, general manager of MCHG in the Philippines.

In the forum, Dr. Peng informed the audience that many cancer cases are now curable. With many new approaches in treating cancer, a multitude of cancer patients had already won the fight against cancer.

The most efficient approach in the international trend is the Minimally Invasive Approach consisting of TACE, Cryoablation, RFA, Radioactive Seed Implant, Bio-immunotherapy, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. These modalities can lessen the side effects of conventional treatment and increased the treatment efficiency to more than 8 times due to its targeted approach in tackling the tumor.

Moreover, complemented with TCM, patients suffer less pain from the treatment and quickly regain their strength. According to Dr. Peng, to certain extent, some of the modalities can serve as a substitute to surgical operation for elderly patients or those of weak condi-

Modern Cancer Hospital Guangzhou presenting souvenirs to Davao City Health Office as a sign of friendship and acknowledgement of their efforts in promoting health of the citizens (from left to right: Mr. Bennett Ho, general manager of Philippine Branch Office of MCHG, Dr. Xiaochi Peng, the Director of Oncology Department, Dra. Villafuerte, Davao City Health Officer, Dr. Ashley Lopez,

Dr. Xiaochi Peng, the Director of Oncology Department of Modern Cancer Hospital Guangzhou, sharing new insights about Minimal Invasive Cancer Management tions that can no longer withstand the trauma of surgery.

In the past few years, MCHG has already handled hundreds of Filipino patients and more than 90% of them have earned amazing treatment results.

The new approach is definitely a breakthrough in the medical field of cancer treatment. These new options bring new light to cancer patients and their families.

Davao City Health Officer, Dr. Josephine Villafuerte commended the organizers for bringing the cancer forum to Davao City.

She was really impressed by the advancement of medical approaches in China and was happy that the good news can be spread to Davao and other areas in the south. As the city health officer, she mentioned that medical care has always been hard to access for the people

in Mindanao area, especially the provinces. Now that this new information and access is introduced to them, she believed that the health of the citizens can be well improved.

“It is good to know that medical advancement is no longer limited to Manila only. Now that MCHG has reached Davao City and will be traveling to other areas in the South to disseminate the new medical breakthroughs, Filipino patients from Mindanao area will now be given a chance to pursue better medical care despite being far from Manila. This shall be the first step of realizing the dream of “Medical Care beyond Boundaries,” Dr. Villafuerte said.

The forum was attended by some 100 medical practitioners, cancer patients and their families, as well as government health officials led by Villafuerte.

Dr. Villafuerte said that in the Philippines, more

Davao City Health Officer, Dra. Villafuerte giving her acknowledgement speech people are suffering from cancer. Most of the cancer patients end up dying because of abject poverty and depression, eventually succumbing to the financially-draining cancer.

With the escalating cost of cancer treatment procedures, cancer patients face the grim prospect of losing the battle to the Big C. GOING ALTERNATIVE Alternative cancer treatments are alternative or complementary treatments for cancer that have not been approved by the government agencies responsible for the regulation of therapeutic goods.

They include diet and exercise, chemicals, herbs, devices, and manual procedures.

The treatments may be untested or unsupported by evidence, either because no proper testing has been conducted, or because testing did not demonstrate statistically significant efficacy. Concerns have been raised

about the safety of some of them. Some treatments that have been proposed in the past have been found in clinical trials to be useless or unsafe. Some of these obsolete or disproven treatments continue to be promoted, sold, and used.

Studies revealed that alternative cancer treatments are typically contrasted with experimental cancer treatments – which are treatments for which experimental testing is currently underway – and with complementary treatments, which are non-invasive practices used alongside other treatment.

Dr. Peng assured that traditional Chinese cancer treatment has very minimal side effects as compared to other alternative cancer treatment choices.

For more details on MCHG and these alternative cancer treatment choices, visit www.asiancancer.com.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

5

6 THE ECONOMY Stat Watch Indicator

Latest

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

7.1 1st Qtr 2013 6.8

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

7.8 1st Qtr 2013 7.5

(At Constant 2000 Prices)

(At Constant 2000 Prices)

3. Exports 1/ 3. Exports

4. Imports 1/ 4. Imports

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

7.6.Broad Money Liabilities Balance of Payments

2nd Qtr 2013

2nd Qtr 2013

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

8. Interest Rates 4/

7. Broad Money Liabilities

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

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

10.Revenues National government outstanding debt outstanding debt

P 5,609 P 41.14 Aprbillion 2013

11.Stocks Peso per US $ 12.

Composite

Index 6/

6,847.5 P 43.83 Mar Sep2013 2013

12. Stocks Composite

6,191.8 132.8 Sep 2013 Apr 2013

13. Consumer Price Index

135.2 Oct2.62013

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

Sep 2013

13. Consumer Index Price Index 2006=100

2006=100 14.

Headline Inflation Rate 14. 2006=100 Headline Inflation

Apr 2013

2.9 Oct3.12013

Rate 15.

Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

2006=100

Apr 2013

2006=100 16.

Visitor Arrivals

418,108 Oct 2013 Feb 2013

15. Core Inflation Rate

2.5

382,022 Aug 2013 20.9%

16. Visitor Arrivals

17. Underemployment 7/ 17. Rate Underemploymen

Jan 2013 19.2%

18.

18.Unemployment UnemploymentRate Rate7/

7.1% Jan 2013 7.3%

Rate

Jul 2013

Month Average December November October September August July June May April March February January

‘Amending VAT law will make local agri products competitive in AEC’ M

AKING all agriculture-related inputs and services exempt from the value-added tax will make local agricultural products competitive in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) which starts next year, the Bukidnon Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (BKCCII) said.

In a report given to members last week, BKCCII president Roderico Bioco said the chamber continues to push for preferential tax policy which he considered important for local competitiveness.

“In most AEC members, unlike the Philippines, all inputs and services for agricultural production are VAT exempt, including fuel, transportation, and toll services (toll milling, toll breeding, etc.),” Bioco’s report said.

He added the move would make their (other AEC members) agricultural products highly competitive when sold in the Philippines.

Bioco said that while the proposed tax amendment would be difficult to implement, it is “a test of resolve for our government to truly help our industries compete in a

Jul 2013

MONTHLY AVERAGE EXCHANGE RATE (January 2011-September 2013) 2013

2012

2011

43.83 43.86 43.35 42.91 41.30 41.14 40.71 40.67 40.73

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

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

VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

H

ELEKTRISYAN NG BAYAN. The Top 5 winners of Davao Light and Power Company’s Elektrisyan ng Bayan Award for 2013 pose for photo ops after the awarding ceremony held at Grand Men Seng Hotel last February 28. From left: 2nd Runner Up Rogelio Pitogo, 1st Runner Up Jeffrey Solatorio, Grand Winner Severino Bandilao, 3rd Runner Up Alex Montilla and 4thRunner Up Wennie Santander. The winners served as inspirations to the other private electrical practitioners as they embody professionalism and excellent customer care with their records of no complaints, violations and non-compliance. The award, a project of Davao Light in cooperation with the Aboitiz Group’s social development arm, Aboitiz Foundation, Inc., is spearheaded by the company’s Customer Retail Services Group and Community Relations Department. new economic environment.”

He cited that the chamber is working with Senators Juan Edgardo Angara and Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV on the proposal.

He said the chamber has conducted an aware-

ness drive on the Asean Free Trade Agreement and is now leading programs to mitigate the “ill effects of AEC”.

He said there are creative government financing programs that should be offered in Bukidnon such as the Department

of Trade and Industry’s Shared Service Facilities, the Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Guarantee Fund Pool as well as other programs of the Departments of Agrarian Reform and Science and Technology.

He noted that while

these programs “ironically have very low utilization in most parts of the country”, Bukidnon was able to harness the funds through close working relationship between the chamber and government agencies. [Walter I. Balane/MindaNews]

period, prices of tobacco and alcoholic beverages dropped significantly. If not for an uptick in the price index of the heavily weighted food and non-alcoholic beverages, inflation could have been lower during the period,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.

Data from the PSA revealed decreased inflation in alcoholic beverages and tobacco (4.9% in March 2014 from 7.1% in February 2014) and housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels (2.7% from 3.6%).

However, the March inflation was higher than the 3.2 percent in the same period a year ago.

Inflation in the food

and non-alcoholic beverages increased further to 6.0 percent from 5.9 percent in the previous month as majority of food items recorded faster year-on-year growth.

Due to tight domestic supply, rice prices continued to increase (11.8% from 10.7%). According to the PSA report, the total rice stock inventory in commercial warehouses and NFA depositories as of 01 February 2014 was lower relative to the January 2014 and February 2013 levels.

Prices of meat, fruits, and milk were also on the uptrend in March 2014.

Conversely, price inflation of vegetables decelerated

to 8.7 percent from 12.0 percent while the growth in the price index for fish remained relatively stable at 3.9 percent.

Inflation among nonfood items eased to 2.5 percent in March 2014 from 2.7 percent in February 2014 mainly due to slower inflation in the price indices of electricity, gas and other fuels price (4.4% from 6.8%). The generation charge of MERALCO declined by 1.9 percent or

by PhP0.45/kWh year-onyear in March 2014 from a 5.6 percent year-on-year increase in February 2014 due to lower generation costs from suppliers.

In the National Capital Region, headline inflation

was up a tad to 2.9 percent from 2.8 percent in February 2014, and 1.9 percent a year ago. In areas outside Metro Manila, headline inflation moderated to 4.2 percent in March 2014, slower than the 4.5 percent in February 2014, but higher compared to 3.5 percent a year ago.

Meanwhile, inflation among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-5 countries were on mixed adjustments in March 2014. Inflation rates of the Philippines and Indonesia decelerated while that of Thailand inched up. In February 2014, inflation rate eased in Singapore but inched up in Malaysia.

Inflation slows down in March 2014

EADLINE inflation slowed down in March despite a general increase in food prices due to slower growth in alcohol, tobacco, electricity and LPG prices, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

This statement came after the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that last month’s headline inflation eased to 3.9 percent, lower than the 4.1 percent in February.

“The slower growth in the price indices of alcoholic beverages and tobacco in March 2014 may be attributed to the dissipated impact of the sin tax reform law. During the

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cebu-Davao-Cebu

16:45

7 ENVIRONMENT

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

WWF: Earth is in deep trouble A

UN climate impact report, released last 31 March, gives the clearest and most comprehensive evidence yet that the earth we call home is in deep trouble. It reinforces the sobering view that climate change is real, it’s happening now and it’s affecting the lives and the livelihoods of people as well as the sensitive ecosystems that sustain life.

This is the second in a series of four reports being prepared by the world’s leading climate authorities in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). It assesses the impacts, adaptation and vulnerability of human and natural systems, the observed impacts and future risks of climate change, and the potential for and limits to adaptation.

Samantha Smith, leader of the WWF Global Climate & Energy Initiative says the report highlights, for the first time, the dramatic difference of impacts between a world where we act now to cut emissions, which now come mostly from using fossil fuels; and a world where we fail to act quickly and at scale.

“This report tells us that we have two clear choices: cut emissions now and invest in adaption and have a world that has

challenging and just barely manageable risks; or do nothing and face a world of devastating and unmanageable risks and impacts.” ”The report makes it clear that we still have time to act. We can limit climate instability and adapt to some of the changes we see now. But without immediate and specific action, we are in danger of going far beyond the limits of adaptation. With this risk posed so clearly, we have to hope that the next IPCC report which is being released in Berlin in April, will provide us with strong statements on the solutions that we know exist,” she says.

Despite the warnings given by the IPCC in its reports over the past 20 years - reinforced by the release of the report today - the gap between the science and what governments are doing remains huge, says Sandeep Chamling Rai, head of the WWF delegation to the meeting.

“The science is clear and the debate is over. Climate change is happening and humans are the major cause of emissions, driven mainly by our dependence on fossil fuels. This is driving global warming. This report sets out the impacts we already see, the risks we face in the future, and the opportunities to act. It has

Global institutions call for building resilience to climate change impact

R

EPRESENTATIVES from the research community, civil society, farmers organisations and private sector gathered in London on Thursday, to identify actions the world must take to deliver agriculture growth, jobs and food security in the face of climate change.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, released earlier this week, concluded that climate change is already damaging food production and increasing food prices, and will have further impacts in the future.

Responding to this, Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the World Bank, global risk adviser Willis, the International Sustainability Unit, and the British Department for International Development (DFID) organized this high-level discussion.

“The IPCC assessment shows that the threat to food security is not just a problem for the future, but something that is happening right now and demands

immediate attention,” said Pramod Aggarwal, who leads adaption work in South Asia for CCAFS and is also a reviewer of the IPCC report.

“The challenges are significant,” he added. “But options to adapt abound and innovation has always been a constant feature of agriculture.”

The IPCC report indicates that overall crop yields in Africa and South Asia could decline by 8 percent by 2050 and yields from tropical fisheries could decline by as much as 40 percent. Yet during this same period, demand for food is expected to surge as diets change and populations rise in the developing world.

“In the developing world, where 500 million smallholder farms are responsible for up to 80 percent of food production, it is critical that we act now by investing in practical solutions that strengthen the resilience of smallholder farmers and improve the sustainability of their livelihoods,” said Michel Mordasini, vice-president of IFAD, a specialized UN agency investing in rural people. [PNA/Xinhua]

been accepted by the member governments of the IPCC. Now it is up to people to hold their governments to account, to get them to act purposefully and immediately,” he says.

The risks of collective inaction are greatest for developing countries, says Chamling Rai. “All countries

are vulnerable but developing countries have a greater sensitivity, with more people living in poverty and fewer resources to respond to climate disasters. We need to put in place those measures that will slow down warming and put us on a fair and just transition to a sustainable world. The

report shows that ambitious emissions cuts now can reduce the risk of climate change in the second half of this century.”

And the regional assessments – given in depth in this report – show with a great degree of certainty what the impacts will be in the key regions of the

world. “”We now have a better understanding of how climate impacts will affect people and nature in different regions. International adaptation efforts need to be intensified to adequately respond to such varied impacts,” says Chamling Rai.

during a briefing on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 5th assessment report covering impacts on, vulnerability andadaptation to climate change.

IPCC is the international body for assessing the science related to climate change.

Alferez said assessment of government’s action so far show need for improving climate financing, boosting technology development and transfer, mainstreaming the National Climate Change Action Plan, integrating CCA measures into national and local plans as well asNational Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s coordination on CCA and DRR. Government must prioritize renewable energy development and formulate its strategy to reduce emis-

sion of climate change-driving greenhouse gasses, he continued.

Aksyon Klima, environment watchdog Greenpeace Southest Asia and development organization Oxfam International urged action, noting the IPCC report released this month cites a “grim” climate forecast for Southeast Asian nations that include the Philippines.

According to Dr. Lourdes Tibig, one of the report’s lead authors, among key findings of the assessment is decades-long changes in climate caused impacts on natural and human systems across all continents and oceans.

“The evidence for such impacts is strongest and most comprehensive in natural systems,” she said at the briefing.

She also said the report confirms human influence

in climate change at present.

Key risks listed in the report include those for death, injury, ill health and disrupted livelihood in coastal areas due to storm surges, flooding and sea level rise, Tibig noted.

The risks likewise cover food insecurity from weather extremes and flooding, mortality and morbidity due to extreme heat as well as biodiversity loss, she said.

Experts earlier cited sea level rise, temperature increase and onslaught of weather extremes as among repercussions of climate change.

RA 10174 established PSF in 2012 and provides PhP1 billion as this fund’s opening balance under the General Appropriations Act to finance adaptation programs and projects nationwide. [PNA]

Groups urge more, urgent action on climate change T

HREE groups and an expert raised urgency for further government action on climate change’s projected worsening impacts nationwide, noting much still to be done to protect life, limb and property.

Such action include operationalizing the People’s Survival Fund (PSF), incorporating disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA) into disaster-stricken areas’ rehabilitation plans as well as integrating climate change mitigation and adaptation measures.

“One thing is certain: climate change is here and a morecoordinated approach to this matter is needed to ensure communities’ resilience,” advocacy network Aksyon Klima Pilipinas’ National Coordinator Voltaire Alferez said Friday (April 4) in Metro Manila

8

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

EDITORIAL

U

The Internet challenge

NBEKNOWNST to many Filipinos, close to one million of their compatriots earn a living from the Internet not by working in contact or call centers or in the business outsourcing industries but through so-called virtual jobs mostly from their homes.

This was reveled by an official of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) during a recent celebration marking the 20th anniversary of establishment of the Internet in the Philippines.

Virtual work is full-time or part-time online job, usually done from the homes with Internet connectivity, like virtual assistant, website designer and developer, writer or editor, an official of the DOST Information and Communications Technology Office (ICTO) was quoted as saying. The ICTO official called it an emerging industry, and rightly so, be-

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

the national association of newspapers

Printed by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Building, Quirino Avenue, 8000, Davao City, Philippines Tel: (082) 301-6235 Telefax: (082) 221-3601 www.edgedavao.net editorial@edgedavao.net marketing@edgedavao.net

cause thousands of call center agents who are having difficult time in adjusting to the irregular work hours of BPOs have opted to quit preferring homebased on-line jobs.

Sadly though, there is a great challenge in this kind of livelihood from the home that could potentially give jobs to millions of Filipinos. This is the utter lack of Internet connectivity in our country as more than half of the 92 million Filipinos still don’t have access to the Internet.

Government and the private sector should address the problem, pronto, if only to fully exploit the potentials of this livelihood opportunity that could benefit millions of Filipino workers, thereby drastically reducing joblessness in our country.

Of course, this is not to count the million and one other advantages of Internet connectivity.

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG Creative Solutions

ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant

GREGORIO G. DELIGERO Associate Editor

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

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

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

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

JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

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EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

achieved economic progress and sustained development , streamlined the government and on track with regard to priority programs while the job generation agenda is being left in the backburner.

Thousands of new graduates are the ones who are in trouble. Despite the government’s much-hyped job fairs, only a relatively small number of applicants have been hired by prospective employers. Looking for a job actually is time consuming aside from the expenses incurred during the job hunting spree. As all this is taking place, higher authorities must find appropriate ways posthaste to cushion the impact of the unemployment glitch.

With so many applicants scrambling for a spot in the scarce job market, especially the decent and suitable vacancies, leap-frogging is not only unavoidable but virtually guaranteed. After several months of job hunting, the experienced and knowledgeable applicants have learned the truth.

Many jobseekers shared their sentiment prodding them to raise this concern: despite their skill, intelligence and effort, they lacked the one thing that would enable them to realize their aspiration to find a modest but stable job. They do not have godfathers – a padrino, a term

coined for connections, patrons.

Without a well-placed padrino or influential backer to speed their way into landing a job especially in government, they understood that their objective to be able to acquire a permanent and nice-paying job could never be a reality. Many job applicants have long given up their job hunting binge while others are searching for another future preferably a chance to work abroad.

Such concerns are disheartening, especially in a society where the natural instincts of jobseekers have been blunted by decades of life under different administrations that have not fully address the job generation policy. Worse, desperate jobseekers stay at home, thinking intently and waiting. For what? No one really has the answer. Without a means of decent livelihood, they cannot define their future. They cannot plan, only react.

As long as the unemployment problem remained in status quo, the country’s standing social, economic and political stalemate between the multitudes of jobless people and their leaders may never be settled.

Admittedly, looking for a job is no laughing matter and making money is not easy. The truth is, despite being bragged about as robust and vibrant, the economy can only offer menial jobs.

Thus the best and brightest, skilled and competent can be found outside the country – in the US, Canada, Europe, Middle East, England or Japan. It’s a simple case of a brain drain, but detrimental to the country and government.

Obama: Ineffectually Challenged

HE biggest surprise is foreign policy. During his first term, foreign policy was Obama’s strongest issue. He eliminated Osama bin Laden and Muammar Qaddafi from power. He ended the war in Iraq. He won the Nobel Peace Prize. Now his foreign policy ratings have taken a tumble — even though Obama has been careful to do what the American public wants him to do.

The public opposed a military strike in Syria. So Obama held back.

The public opposes a military confrontation with Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. Obama has complied. Nonetheless, the human devastation in Syria continues unabated. And Russia has annexed the sovereign territory of another country. In both cases, the U.S. doesn’t seem to be able to do anything.

We are ineffectual.

Commentators have been wrestling with the puzzle of Obama’s low foreign policy ratings. Robert Kagan of the Brookings Institution writes that the American people “may want what Obama so far has been giving them,

COMMENTARY

BY BILL SCHNEIDER

(Conclusion) but they’re not proud of it, and they’re not grateful to him for giving them what they want.” Kagan describes this as “a narrowly self-interested American policy.”

Really? Daniel Larison argues in The American Conservative, “No one can seriously believe that Obama would have benefited politically from waging an unnecessary war [in Syria] over the strenuous objections of both the public and Congress.”

Ross Douthat comes closest to the answer when he writes for The New York Times that what matters isn’t the policy, but the results. If a president does what the people want and it turns out disastrously, the president will still be blamed.

On foreign policy, just like on the economy and so far on Obamacare,

people haven’t seen many good results. That means there is likely to be a big market in 2016 for a candidate who can deliver what Obama hasn’t — effectiveness. Right now, the candidate who fits that description is not a Republican, but another Democrat: Hillary Clinton.

The March CNN poll gauges the public’s perception of both Obama and Clinton on 12 different qualities.

Obama’s lowest rating: “Can manage the government effectively” (43 percent). Clinton’s rating on effectiveness is 16 points higher (59 percent). That’s the biggest difference between the two Democrats.

The second biggest difference?

“Strong and decisive leader” (Clinton 64, Obama 50).

Third biggest difference? “Tough enough to handle a crisis” (Clinton 64, Obama 53).

It will defy every gender stereotype if voters decide they want a stronger, tougher, more effective leader than Obama in 2016 and they turn to a woman.

9

It is time to save the EU

Lingering unemployment problem

ESPAIRING JOB APPLICANTS CAN ONLY IMAGINE WHAT MIGHT BE – Has the government gone far in the crusade against massive unemployment? With the jobless queues in job fairs sponsored both by the government and the private sector, concerned agencies notably the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) should pause at that question.

Unemployment, quipped some social experts, makes it possible for people from all walks of life to live in a conducive neighborhood without a fix income. Job creation therefore is an important indicator to how a country’s economy is doing.

There are enough pressures on government to keep the appalling unemployment problem in check. To the extent that it dampens the jobseekers enthusiasm and expectation of more job openings, a well-meaning and long-term job generation program can work. But here’s the catch: matching words with action means doing something concrete about the nation’s unemployment drawback.

Now, in a recent report, several thousands of fresh graduates will add to the country’s already burgeoning jobless population. Concerned officials should have to take a second look at the unemployment data while poor jobseekers raised this concern: that the government may need to execute effective, resolute action.

With employment opportunities insufficient, job applicants can only imagine what might be. It is useless to crow about and say that we have

T

VANTAGE POINTS

ANALYSIS

BY JOHN LLOYD

S

(Conclusion)

O what can be good about that?

For one thing, it can lead to a greater integration of the euro zone, and maybe the EU. The European Commission — the business end of the EU — is trying to pull a rabbit of triumph from a hat of tragedy by arguing for “a deep and genuine economic and monetary union,” which should be accompanied by parallel steps toward a “political union with reinforced democratic legitimacy and accountability.”

The logic underlying the crisis is the construction of a new state. A United States of Europe — the vision of the EU’s founders. It’s happening slowly, but it may, in the end, be a reality.

The third piece of bad news is an impending tragedy. Crimea, part of Ukraine, has been taken into Russia, from which it is unlikely to emerge.

NATO is pointing to “very sizable” Russian forces massing on the border between Russia and Ukraine.

Sergei Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, is pushing a plan that includes a veto on any Ukrainian application to join NATO and a decentralization of powers in the Ukrainian regions, thus allowing the eastern regions to institute a “soft secession” to Russia.

Ukraine’s former President Victor Yanukovich had toyed with the idea of an association agreement with the EU for months when, a few weeks before its signing, he abruptly cancelled it and opened talks with Russia on joining the Eurasian Union. He was soon driven from office by protesters.

It’s right to blame the EU for not thinking through what the offer to Ukraine would mean for Russia, and how, if taken, it would destroy Ukraine’s balancing act between Europe and Russia. I’ve placed blame myself.

But, careless or not, the fervor with which many Ukrainians embraced the EU and aspired to democracy, clean government and the rule of law, is moving. It jerked us out of our solipsistic brooding on our own problems and reminded us that we’re lucky and we should continue to spread that luck around. Sometimes you need to have your belief in the advantages of law, freedom and democracy confirmed by the power of those who yearn for them.

All three of these hammer blows, each one serious and difficult, could be turned around — but only with a revival of the passion and idealism that lays behind the founding of the EU after World War Two. It was a move designed to put an end to future wars. The setbacks could force Europe to rediscover its values and its energy and to understand that through struggle against adversity can come a stronger union — one that can shape its future for the good of the world.

For Europeans, the challenge is there to be met. If its leaders can rise to it then the union has a future. For the moment, in its introspective and fearful state, hoping its troubles will lift, it does not.

10 NEWS Bill... FFROM 3

“The coverage should be lowered so that our elderly will be able to avail of the benefits longer into their twilight years,” Del Rosario said in his explanatory note.

The measure amends Republic Act 7432, as amended, otherwise known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010.

“The time is ripe to re-visit the provisions embodied in the existing law and uphold the time-honored principle that those who have less in life should have more in law,” Del Rosario stressed.

“It cannot be denied that over the years the prices of commodities have increased and by increasing the senior citizens’

purchasing power, this bill hopes to alleviate the situations of our indigent elderly,” Del Rosario said.

The Mindanao lawmaker also cited Article XV, Section 4 of the 1987 Constitution, which states that the family has the duty to care for its elderly members but the State may also do so through just programs of social security.

“The principles enshrined in the Constitution do not only serve to protect the less privileged and the most vulnerable sectors in our society such as the elderly but also affirm their important role in the community as partners in nation-building,” Del Rosario explained.

in attaining the position that gave him an edge over other applicants to the position.

“I am happy that finally the long wait is over, and the price is worth waiting for” Orlanes said.

In a delivered speech, Orlanes expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the people who trusted and believed in his capacity and competence. He

willingly accepted the challenge to better the services of the institution with the support of his co-employees and the city government.

On the same occasion, new IGaCoS Water District Board of Director Chairman Noel Torres Uy and BOD Secretary Madeline Ortiz took oath of office administered by City Vice Mayor Al David Uy. [PR]

IGaCoS...FFROM 3

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11th Judicial Region Branch 11, Davao City

IN THE MATTER OF THE SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED ROBERT KILMAR, ADELAIDA KILMAR & RENARD ROY KILMAR, SPEC. PROC. NO. 11,791-12 Petitioners x-------------------------------------------------------x AMENDED ORDER

BY THIS verified SECOND AMENDED PETITION and for the reasons therein stated, the above-named petitioners, assisted by counsel,seek for an Order of this Court to apportion, divide and award the estate, specially the bank accounts (0806 3073-342 for Bank of Montreal; and 293-1-500239-9 for Standard Chartered Bank), RRIF with Bank of Montreal Financial Group with Account No. 013336286 and Transfer Certificate of Title No. T179317 of the Register of Deeds of Davao City to the petitioners who are the legal heirs of the deceased Robert Kilmar.

Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, the same is hereby SET for continuation of the hearing before this Court, sitting in the Hall of Justice, Candelaria St., Ecoland, Matina, Davao City , on May 21, 2013 at 8:30 in the morning, at which place, date and time, any interested person may appear and show cause, if any, why the same should not be granted.

Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioners once a week for three (3) successive weeks in a newspaper published in the City of Davao and of general circulation in he said city and the provinces of Davao as determined by raffle in accordance with law.

Furnish each with a copy of the petition and of this Order the Register of Deeds of Davao City and the City Legal Office of Davao City as counsel for the City of Davao.

SO ORDERED

March 4, 2013, Davao City , Philippines.

4/7,14,21

(Sgd) VIRGINIA HOFILEÑA EUROPA Presiding Judge

VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

OUST PNOY. Jerry dela Cerna, secretary general of Barog Katawhan sa Gov. Generoso Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BKGMPC), demands the ouster of President Benigno S. Aquino III for allegedly failing to address the problems of the farmers in the country during the Bishops-Ulama-Priests-Pastors-Farmers-Lumad Conference (BUPPFALUC) Consultative Assembly on United Coconut Planters Bank (UCPB) yesterday at Villa Margarita in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

DavNor’s...FFROM 3 The program guided the beneficiaries through the intensive community processing, from problem identification, to skills training, product development, business management and marketing.

“Gitabangan mi dili lang sa pag-ugmad sa produkto, apan usab sa pag-ugmad sa among creativity, talento ug apil na ang maayong pamatasan (aside from the products, the program also nurtured our creativity, talent and character),” Matro said.

Over 2,000 individuals have already benefited from the UK initiative, which was launched by Governor Rodolfo del Rosario two years ago to help constituents generate more revenues through livelihood and

sports tourism activities.

KAKASA is among the 12 UK communities spread around the province that were organized and trained to produce their own local products and handicrafts utilizing available resources abundant in their respective areas.

In his recent State of the Province Address (SOPA), the governor cited the achievement of another UK recipient, the Linosutan Association of Community Achievers Development (LACAD), also from Talicud, which is now engaged in successful jewelry-making business.

The association got the attention of Samsung Corporation, which awarded them a parcel of land for their souvenir shop.

Local products and handicrafts being produced and marketed by the other UK communities include fruit juice and concentrate, romblon handicraft, bamboo handicrafts, chocolate bars and durian candies, coco-coir twines, fish lamayo, banana paper, souvenir T-shirts and banana key holders, as well as, kurobata and amek (Muslim delicacies).

The UK products are now prominently displayed at the DavNor Pasalubong Shop at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex, together with the One-Town, One-Product (OTOP) products from the different local government units.

Aside from the UK communities, the province

is also helping develop, produce, and market the products and handicrafts of the beneficiaries of the Alternative Learning System for Indigenous People (ALS-IP) program.

The province recently conducted a business-matching-cum-project proposal-making forum for the UK and ALS-IP programs beneficiaries to improve the quality and marketability of their home-made merchandises.

Assistant Provincial Administrator Romulo Tagalo revealed the local products are being primed so the province can offer a wide variety of local products to the ever increasing number of tourists visiting the province each year.

[Noel Baguio/DavNor PIO ]

the money going to CHED would be used to continue college scholarships earlier funded by the pork barrel of congressmen.

However, under the new setup, he said it is CHED which is tasked to select the truly deserving scholars and the lawmak-

ers have nothing to do with the selection. There are 400,000 scholarships, equivalent to 10 percent of all college students. The

total number of college scholarship under the new setup are divided among all more than 200 members of Congress. [AMA]

der RA 10410 that the above-identified workers are mandated to provide services to promote the rights and welfare of children from age zero (0) to eight (8) years, there is unfortunately no clear and definitive provision relative to the promotion and improvement of the social and economic well-being of these public service providers. We need to support our

child-care workers, hence, the urgent need for this legislative measure” Rep. Zamora said.

HB 829 puts in place a defined system of compensation and benefits to day care workers, child development teachers, teacher aides, barangay health workers, nutrition providers, rural health midwives, and other care providers, to make them more respon-

sive and better equipped to accomplish their mandated services.

The funds needed for the implementation of the uniform career and development plan for these workers shall be charged against the current year’s appropriations of the DepEd, DSWD, DOH, NNC, DILG and the local government units (LGUs) presently employing them. Additional

funds from the PAGCOR and the ECCD shall augment the budgetary allocation, along with such sums as may be necessary to be included in the General Appropriations Act (GAA).

“Without a doubt, the institutionalization of benefits and incentives for our child development workers will redound to the well-being of our children,” Rep. Zamora also said.

Scholarships...FFROM 3

Zamora...FFROM 3

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

BIGGER PICTURE

11

Imao: Artist for Peace

By CHARLES R. AVILA

I

T took a while for the Philippine nation to name him “national artist,” and understandably so because Filipino that he is, his nation is first of all the Bangsa Moro, that smaller older nation within our nation of nations.

If truth be told, and credit be given where it is due, then we all must reach out to Imao today because he first reached out to us through the years. Who is Imao? Did he ink a peace pact, as Ramos and Misuari did, or Sultan Qudarat and many others before PNoy and Murad?

No, Abdulmari Asia Imao did not ink an agreement but multi-coloured, sculpted, photographed, researched, articulated, carved and etched the truth and the beauty of our land and peoples. Creating largescale sculptures and monuments of Muslim and regional heroes and leaders in selected sites from Batanes to Tawi-tawi, he developed among cultural groups the trust and confidence necessary for peace making and the building of a more just society.

Through his works, the indigenous ukkil, sarimanok and naga motifs were popularized and instilled in the consciousness of the Filipino nation and other

peoples as original Filipino creations.

One could probably say that Imao was not always this way – marked by the Sarimanok or the fish, or a combination of both and adorned with elaborate okir patterns and designs.

He first went the route of the University of the Philippines and studied under the masters Guillermo Tolentino and Napoleon Abueva who honed his skills in sculpture, metal casting, photography and painting, Then he (more) moved on to the University of Kansas for his masteral degree in sculpture and travelled through the Americas and Europe for a few more years before returning to his country determined to master Moro culture and arts.

Patiently and deliberately, Imao observed and learned from the Maranaos and T’Bolis while teaching them modern bronze casting techniques. Then he became so skilled in fusing Islamic art, design and culture with the techniques of the West to make unmistakable Eastern Islamic works.

The overall result of his journey is unique – a unity of the best in the Moro nation and the Westernized (Christian) Filipino.

Today we are often told that “peace is the key to development.” Imao’s life and work tell us that throbbing indigenous art is one secret of peace. The instruments of war are stilled with the creation of art and the consequent discovery of the human soul. In this way, it can be said that Imao belongs to a league of artists who integrate art in daily life. They are peaceable though brave and become natural peace-makers.

He recalled in one of his writings, “Once I caught a fish I was so fascinated about—its shape, scales, pigment and its glossy snout. I brought it home but as soon as the aroma of cooking drifting from the kitchen skewered my nostrils, fat tears ran down my cheek. I couldn’t bring myself to eat it, and Mother had to comfort me all night long.”

See Imao in a different light in “Harimao the Sarimanok Flight” in Davao City at the end of the month Multimedia artist/ curator Claro Ramirez, Jr. lends his expertise in this ground-breaking event fresh from his stint at the Singapore Biennale.

Meet Imao. Go with him and be still. The experience can be an encounter with your own soul.

Smart has since come out with other initiatives in the mEducation space.

These include digitizing content of the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System, and making available to students in remote areas learning resource from expert teachers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) discipline.

The University of the Philippines Open University has launched the country’s first Massive Open Online Course last year on Android Mobile Applications Development, which was co-developed with Smart. Anybody, anywhere in the world can access this new course via online. It virtually expands the number of Android apps developers, which is among the in-demand professions today.

“We have found Internet to be a useful and valuable resource in enabling learning. It expands the whole information

ecosystem. At the same time, it allows any learner anywhere in the world to access quality education from top-notch universities for as long as they have Internet connection,” said Ramon R. Isberto, head of Smart Public Affairs.

“The Internet also revolutionized the delivery of healthcare services via our various initiatives. Our InfoBoard, a web-based SMS information tool, has helped saved lives in a number of disasters. Using the web, we have helped our community partners sell their sculptures and designer tarp bags. The Internet was more than just a platform for our CSR initiatives, it was also one of the key drivers for these projects to take off,” added Isberto.

Smart was a pioneer of mHealth in the country and two of these award-winning innovations have been showcased as best practices during the 2nd World Health Organization

Internet-based solutions at the heart of Smart’s CSR initiatives W

IRELESS services leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has taken to the Internet the promotion of social good, harnessing digital technologies in pushing advocacies like mobile education, mobile health, disaster preparedness, environment protection, and community building.

In the area of mEducation, which integrates mobile technology with learning, Smart has utilized the Internet to democratize access of students to information and quality education. Smart, under the Internet for All campaign, launched in 2004 the Smart Schools Program to promote information and communications technology (ICT) in education in select public schools nationwide. Through the program, Smart provided Internet connectivity and trained teachers and students in computer and Internet literacy.

Conference in Geneva last year.

These are the patient-screening application called Amputee Screening through Cellphone Networking (ASCENT) launched by Smart and Ateneo Java Wireless Competency Center in 2009, and SHINE (Secured Health Information Network and Exchange), which is a web and mobile electronic medical record (EMR) and referral system piloted by Smart in Iloilo in 2010.

The ASCENT App, which was developed in consultation with the Physicians for Peace (PFP), allows health workers to type in patient data, take photos of the amputation, and send these data via Internet to an online central database for PFP to assess.

Meanwhile, SHINE enables health facilities and professionals to create an electronic medical record, send electronic referrals to other health facilities,

generate reports, and send SMS reminders to patients.

The Smart InfoBoard, a web-based solution that utilizes SMS to broadcast alerts and other information to registered users, has proven an effective tool in saving lives during disasters. Used as an early warning communications tool by high-risk cities and barangays during disasters, it facilitates more efficient coordination among the leaders and the constituents on crucial information like when to evacuate especially during floods.

Using the Internet, Smart has maximized social media in pushing our advocacy for environment protection and helping mitigate the effects of global climate change.

Green and energy saving tips were propagated via digital media to subscribers encouraging them to do their Smart Acts for the environment.

Using social networks,

Smart helped the GK Sooc community and the Banglos sculptors sell their creations virtually to anybody. The Sooc community in Iloilo upcycles tarpaulins discarded by Smart into bags under the tutelage of designer PJ Arañador, meanwhile, the Banglos sculptors create art pieces from driftwood washed ashore during typhoons.

“These are just some of the noteworthy initiatives where Smart made use of the Internet for social good. As we celebrate the 20th year of Internet in the Philippines, we want to highlight the positive change the Internet has brought to countless of Filipinos via our CSR initiatives,” said Isberto.

Integrating its advocacy to the business, Smart offers data services bundled with devices at affordable price points so that these can be accessible socio-income segments.

12 CLASSIFIED

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

EVENT

Teens take over!

Davao teens vie for Miss Teen Philippines 2014 Regional Finals Photos by Nikon Knights Davao

AS they say, start ‘em young.

The Philippines, now on the radar of beauty pageants the world over after a glorious run in 2013, sets up the 2014 season with a bevy of pageants.

Only recently, Davao’s very own MJ Lastimosa was crowned Bb. Pilipinas-Universe. So, will the youngsters be far behind?

Certainly not. And certainly, not in Davao.

Davao’s awesome beau-

CHILL JILL

Athena Jillian Bravo ties and talents took to the runway in varying outfits and wowed everyone with their wits and talents during the recent regional

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

Left to right, Trixie marie Cabales, Nina Grace Sartagoda, Ivory Claire Dequilla, Jan Junibelle Lura and Princess Dana Acapulco finals for the Miss Teen Philippines 2014. When the smoke cleared, five lovely ladies went on to qualify as the region’s bets for the MTP 2014 Search on March 30, 2014 in Manila.

Actually, 20 candidates vied for the Top 5 as they flaunt their cocktail dresses and speak out who they are in a well-attended finale at the SM City Annex Event Area.

Trixie Marie Cabiles, a junior student of Ateneo de Davao University-High School, clad in white ballerina cocktail dress, ran away with the title. She was also given a special award from local sponsors as Ms. RDL White Skin and Ms. Mendez Gluta Skin.

Also making it are Nina Grace Sartagoda of the University of Mindanao, Princess Dana Acaulco of F. Bangoy National High School, Jan Junibelle Kura of F. Bustamante National High School, and Ivory Claire Dequilla of M’lang National High School.

Sartagoda, a Mass Communication student of University of Mindanao, who also wore a white

FTEENS, A4

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UP AND ABOUT

VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

EVENT

Music and colors at SM City Davao’s Fashion Edge 2014 SUMMER’S most anticipated fashion event Fashion Edge 2014 comes to life on April 12 at SM City Davao Open Parking.

SM Davao has got the lowdown on the key pieces you should be lusting after for the summer.

Indulge your sunloving, pastelsporting side now that the sun is up and summer is on full swing!

This year’s fashion forecast is about colors, music and a whole lot of fun.

The first-ever outdoor Fashion Edge is expected to showcase the season’s hottest looks fresh from the racks.

Summer will definitely be more fun with funky colors and playful silhouettes. Enjoy the sun with Plains & Prints, Sabella, Surplus, Mags, Artwork, Get Laud, Nike Athletic Club, Levi’s, Sanuk, South Shores, Espada and The SM Store.

It is going to be no ordinary Fashion Edge on Saturday.

Get ready for the last leg of the BIG DAVAO FUN SALE Weekend Party after the show. Show starts at 6PM. Fashion Edge is also made possible by Davao’s pride Emi Englis, Philippine Women’s College Fashion Design students, Yellow Cab and BonChon.

For inquiries, call 297.6998. Like SM City Davao on Facebook or follow @smcitydavao on Twitter and @SMDavao on Instagram for event and promo updates.

ASUS Grand Graduation Salute ASUS salutes the new graduates this year with three recommended mobile devices that are fit for the new mobile era.

As 2-in-1 devices are becoming the next big thing, ASUS has three devices that will fir the graduate’s needs in their future career.

ASUS Transformer Book Trio TX201LA The Transformer Book Trio is the only Dual OS device in the Philippines. Functioning as an Android or Windows Laptop, Android Tablet and Windows Desktop. With the ability to switch between Windows 8 and Android at the press of a button, Transformer Book Trio offers unmatched three-in-one flexibility for users who want the best of all mobile worlds. Powered by an Intel Atom Processor in the Android Tablet and either a Core i5 or Core i7 processor in the Windows Dock. Perfect for graduates who seek adventure and productivity in one device.

The New Transformer Pad TF701T Perfect for graduates who seek to upgrade their tablet for an entertainment centered device. A whole new tablet experience awaits with the new Transformer Pad TF701T. With an industry leading 10.1 inch 2560x1600 IPS display resolution, experience videos and photos with vibrant clarity and colors. Powered by the powerful NVIDIA Tegra 4 processor, users can elevate their tablet experience with enthusiast level games, blue ray quality movies. The new Transformer Pad also features the famous keyboard dock with additional battery for up to 17 hours of battery life and USB Ultra-Fast 3.0 connectivity on a tablet. All these on an aluminum built tablet, with the famous spun circular finish from the ASUS. Google Nexus 7 2013 Hailed as the best 7” tablet of 2013, the Google Nexus 7 still remains undefeated in delivering the best tablet experience in one portable and powerful device, now upgraded by the latest Android KitKat 4.4 to let users experience the best of android. The Google Nexus 7 is perfect for graduates who seek the perfect 7” tablet.

Powerful, portable and ready for their next carrier, the tablet is powered by a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor and displaying outstanding visuals with a 1920 x 1200 IPS display panel on a compact, lighter and Corning Fit Gorilla Glass Protection. Also provided is a free travel cover for extra protection worth Php895.

Dabawenyos observe Earth Hour at SM Davao HUNDREDS of Dabawenyos flocked SM City Davao for the observation of the Earth Hour at the mall’s Open Parking last Saturday.

The celebration was kicked off with a parade around the mall which was participated in by the mall tenants, and both private and government agencies—Department of Energy, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Education and Bureau of Fire Protection. The local government of Davao was also in full support of the movement as members and staff of the City Mayor’s Office, Museo Dabawenyo, Central 911, City Treasurer’s Office, City Assessor’s Office, City Social Service and Development Office, City ENRO, City Administrator’s Office, City Agriculture’s Office and other organizations joined the event.

“This evening, all 48 SM Supermalls across the nation and our 6 malls in China, will simultaneously turn off their lights for the Earth Hour – reinforcing the statement that the time to take action against global warming is now,” mall manager Lynette Lopez shares in her welcome address.

SM City Davao has been supporting WWF’s Earth Hour since 2008.

The mall’s commitment to supporting the cause has helped raise environmental awareness not only among SM’s shoppers and

Glowing face paint was applied on the participants during the program.

WWF’s Junrey Tubongbanua(3rd from the lest) joins SM Davao executives (L-R) mall manager Lynette Lopez, and assistant mall managers Engr. Warren Bautista and Engr.

SM City Davao staff at the Earth Hour celebration.

Nick Santos in the count down.

The Matthew 19:14 Band business partners but the community as well. In 2012, SM Davao was the official Earth Hour Switch Off site for Mindanao.

At 8:30 PM, 100% of our malls’ building lighted logos and 50% of our mall interior and perimeter lights were switched off.

“Earth Hour does not end when the lights are switched back on. It is a yearlong commitment to reduce our use of energy, water and other resources.

It is also about climate ad-

aptation. The Philippines is the third nation most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. We sit on Ground Zero of storms birthed from the Pacific.

It can no longer be business us usual. Let tonight’s Earth Hour remind us of our shared duty and commitment to build a climate-resilient Philippines.

WWF thanks SM Davao for leading the ceremony to unite all of us behind a common purpose,” shares Junrey Tubongbanua in

behalf of WWF. Amid the rain, the program proceeded with entertainment numbers from the fire dancers, the drum beaters and the cute kids of Matthew 19:14 band.

Other organizations who expressed support were Philippine Eagle Foundation, Philippine Red Cross, Boy Scouts of the Philippines, Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Little Pearls of Heaven and MTC Academy.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Ruffa Gutierrez makes it a heart-warming Summer with family RUFFA GUTIERREZ is now preparing for an upcoming movie and a new TV reality show, but despite never really leaving the public eye, she makes sure that she gets to spend enough of this summer break with her two daughters, Lorin and Venice.

In the latest issue of Working Mom, Ruffa talks about what it’s like to be a single mom raising two children, and how her mom Anabelle’s tough love is something that she wants to eventually pass on to her daughters. “I don’t have a father figure to help me raise my children, so I have to be the one that’s nice to them, and the one that disciplines them,” she says.

Ruffa also reveals her next career move and a side of her that’s never been seen before.

Working Mom’s latest issue also gives readers ways to make the most out of summer with 150+ ideas--from boredom-busting activities, a “hot” reading list, fashion and beauty essentials, and yummy, artisanal ice creams. Aside from these, get tips on staying safe under the sun and making home into a place that’s even more cool and comfy, especially during these hotter months. Also in the Working Mom’s latest issue, meet the magazine’s roster of cool mamas-a tattoo artist, club DJs, a pole dance instructor, and a cartoon voice actor.

ABS-CBN Publishing also makes summer extra fun for the kids with the April issue of Barbie magazine.

In its summer issue, the magazine gives kids the keys to having fun under the sun.

Let the kids enjoy the summer

Get an affordable IMAX experience at the Big Davao Fun Sale CAP the city-wide sale with today’s most immersive movie experience at the IMAX Theare at SM Lanang Premier a very affordable price of P150.

Featuring Under the Sea 3D, new IMAX 3D adventure, transports moviegoers to some of the most exotic and isolated under the sea locations on Earth, including Southern Australia, New Guinea, and others in the IndoPacific Region, allowing them to experience face-to-face encounters with some of the mysterious and stunning creatures of the sea. It offers a uniquely inspirational and entertaining way to explore the beauty and natural wonder of the oceans, as well as the impact of global climate change. In IMAX 3D, the images will leap off the screen and float around the theater, putting the audience in the movie.

Promo runs from April 7 until April 16, 2014. One screening only per day @ 10:55AM. Hurry! Buy your tickets now. Just visit IMAX @ SM Lanang Premier or call (082) 285-2356.

break with advice from Barbie-dress up for the season, look hip and cool, play by the pool, and build sand castles by the beach.

Barbie also makes sure the kids don’t forget anything with a beach checklist, including Barbie swimwear, a beach robe, sunglasses, sun block, a bottle of water, and flip flops or sandals.

Plus, join Barbie on a beach bike ride and have fun doing “A Mermaid Tale” activities! This summer,

get some reading done, too. “An Egg-celent Easter Story” is the perfect place to start, apart from the comics section of the first webisode of “Barbie Life in the Dreamhouse, The Closet Princess”.

Grab a copy of Working Mom and Barbie at favorite bookstores and magazine stands nationwide.

For comments and contributions for Barbie Magazine Philippines, email the team at BarbieMagPHL@gmail. com.

‘The Legal Wife’ stirs up strong reactions among loyal celebrity viewers WITH its top caliber cast, realistic plot, beautifully written script, and fiercely passionate scenes, ABS-CBN’s most followed ‘TV affair’ “The Legal Wife,” topbilled by Angel Locsin, Maja Salvador, JC De Vera and Jericho Rosales, continues to stir up strong reactions of support from primetime TV viewers, including some celebrities who follow the show since day one.

“People love to watch something which they think can resolve their questions about life.

That’s what ‘The Legal Wife’ offers! It has a simple story but we’re sure that it’s really happening and anyone can easily identify with the characters of Angel, Maja or Echo,” shared actress-TV host Janice de Belen.

Like Janice, actress Dimples Romana ad-

mires the honesty of primetime series that has turned into a nightly affair that viewers look forward to. She said, “When I’m watching ‘The Legal Wife,’ I’m seeing reality.

The audience, particularly couples, can really learn a lot from the show, especially when it comes to protecting the marriage.”

For Senator Sonny Angara and wife Tootsie, married couples can pick up lessons from the

challenges faced now by Monica (Angel) and Adrian (Jericho). They also believe that the show can serve as an eye-opener not only to husbands and wives but also to people caught in an illicit affair.

“For those women involved with married men, they should realize that they are not only causing pain to the wives but also to the whole family of the couple,” said Tootsie.

Will Adrian and Nicole (Maja) completely fall

into the trap of infidelity?

How will Monica fight for her marriage and protect their family?

Don’t miss the nation’s most followed ‘TV affair,’ “The Legal Wife” after “Ikaw Lamang” on ABSCBN Primetime Bida. For more updates about the show, simply visit its official social networking sites at Facebook.com/ thelegalwife2013, Instagram.com/iam_thelegalwife, and Twitter.com/ IAmTheLegalWife.

DIARY NG PANGET 2D James Reid, Nadine Lustre PG 13

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

SON OF GOD 2D Diogo Morgado, Roma Downey PG 13

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

DIVERGENT 2D Shailene Woodley, Theo James PG 13

11:40 | 2:15 | 4:50 | 7:25 | 10:00 LFS

R-16 CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER 2D Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson PG 13

11:20 | 2:00 | 4:40 | 7:20 | 10:00 LFS

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EDGEDAVAO

EVENT Ms. Mendez Medical Group Jovilyn Gavan of Holy Cross Davao College.

People’s choice award winner, Caryl Ligan of San Pedro College.

Teens...FFROM A1 elegant cocktail dress. She was also given the Ms. Mendez Medical Group award because of her brilliant communication skills and beauty that got the nod of Dr. Joel Mendez.

Acapulco, a student of F. Bangoy National High School wore a Barbie pink dress and was also awarded as Ms. RDL Baby Face.

Lura, wore a long silky dress and was also awarded as Ms. Congeniality.

She received a gift certificate from Holcim.

Dequilla, the only final-

Ms. RDL Baby skin, Fatima Bisan fron Sarangani Province.

ist from outside of Davao City, paraded on a summer inspired cocktail dress.

These five ladies will vie

for Miss Teen Philippines 2014 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila on May 22, 2014.

The People’s Choice Award online with a cash prize of ten thousand pesos went to Caryl Ligan from Cagayan de Oro City, who is also a student from San Pedro College, with more than 600 votes in the social media polls.

Two from the 20 candidates also received special awards from RDL and Mendez Medical Group.

They are Fatima Bisan from Sarangani, who was awarded as Ms. RDL Baby

Skin, and Jovilyn Gavan of Holy Cross Davao College, who was awarded as Ms. Mendez of the Night.

The finalists will continue to espouse their advocacies on education under the theme “ Global Awareness through Education”.

This event was sponsored and supported by the Department of Education, Punongbayan and Araullo, PICC, NYC, Yakult, SMART, SM Supermalls, Gerry’s Grill, Manna Korean Restaurant and officially photographed and documented by the Nikon Knights Davao.

13 COMMUNITY SENSE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

Edge Davao hiring 3 reporters

EDGE DAVAO is a need of three staffwriters/reporters for its expansion program.

The reporters will be assigned to the business, science/environment and political beats.

Applicant must be a graduate of a four- year college course.

Experience is not needed although preferable.

Interested parties may send their application letter to Mr. Antonio M. Ajero, Edge Davao editor, thru email address ajero_ antonio@yahoo.com. For inquiries, please call Mr. Ajero thru mobile phone 09052422686 or landline 221-3601.

WE’RE HIRING!

INTERIOR DESIGNER / ARCHITECT STORE MANAGER / ADMIN OFFICER SALES / MARKETING

Mining company continues to pour in millions for CSR projects in Pantukan

T

HE St. Augustine Gold and Copper Ltd. (SAGCL) is keeping on with its social corporate responsibilty (CSR) projects in the mining town of Pantukan in Compostela Valley as their hopes remain high that its $2 billion project would meet its timetable to start commercial operations by 2017.

The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources recently reviewed the environmental impact study submitted by SAGCL for its King-King Copper and Gold Project (KCGP).

Clyde Gillespie, SAGCL country manager, said the regulatory body has returned the study with notes on issues the company needs to address.

Gillespie said their company’s recent exploration drillings will address issues raised by the EMB. Approval of such environmental study is necessary before an environmental

compliance certificate is issued for the company to start operation.

He said their company is confident it can secure all necessary permits soon. Gillespie said they hope to get the declaration of mining project feasibility of the project before the end of this year, and the environmental compliance certificate by June or July this year.

The local government of Pantukan meanwhile expressed support on the project. Pantukan Mayor Roberto Yugo said that even before the start of their commercial operation, KCGP had already provided jobs for locals.

He said that once the operation starts, they expect more jobs to be generated.

Early this week, more than 2,000 families availed of the Community Livelihood Initiative Projects (CLIP) conducted

by KCGP. One of the projects is the Vegetable Garden and Fish-

pond in Purok Sta. Teresa, which is in partnership with the Girl Scouts of the Philippines(GSP) and the community.

Aside from this, other programs of the mining company focused on the livelihood of Mansaka tribe. These include the provision of sewing machine and dress-making training to the tribal women’s group.

The projects also included establishment of water system, distribution of farm implements and development of other important infrastructure.

Jonathan Bañez, the company’s community development officer, said St. Augustine has continued to spend on community projects with an annual allocation of about P25 million for projects which is bigger that the 10% requirement for corporate social responsibility projects.

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Send your CV / Resume to furnoneabreeza@gmail.com and become part of our team.

3rd Floor Abreeza Mall, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Davao City

WORKERS’ INCENTIVES. Labor and Employment Regional Director and Wage Board Chair Joffrey M. Suyao gestures as he explained to members of the Banana Industry and media the benefits of the Two-Tiered Wage System during the Launching of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board’s (RTWPB) Advisory No. RB XI-01 “Implementation of Productivity-Based Incentive Schemes for the Banana Industry. Also in photo is National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) 11 Regional Director and Wage Board Vice-Chair Maria Lourdes T. Lim. [Sherwin B. Manual/DOLE 11]

14 SPORTS

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

Durant equals MJ’s record H

OUSTON (AFP) Oklahoma City’s Kevin Durant notched his 40th straight NBA game with 25 points or more on Friday, but it wasn’t enough to hold off the Houston Rockets.

Houston’s James Harden scored 39 points, grabbed nine rebounds and handed out seven assists to lead the Rockets to a 111-107 victory that secured their post-season berth.

Durant scored 28 points for the playoff-bound Thunder, matching Michael Jordan’s streak of 40 straight games of 25 points or more in the 1986-87 season.

Durant also pulled down 12 rebounds and passed out six assists, but he missed a potential game-tying three-pointer in the final minute.

The Thunder forward, who will certainly figure in Most Valuable Player

Raptors beat slumping Pacers

T Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant reaches for a rebound against Houston Rockets forward Terrence Jones.

(AP Photo/Richard Carson)

Wolves outlast Heat in double-OT M IAMI (AP) -- Making one free throw at the end of regulation wasn’t enough for the Miami Heat, nor was making just one again at the end of the first overtime.

In the second extra session, one made all the difference for Minnesota.

Corey Brewer hit one of two free throws with 1.8 seconds left after getting a call on an awkward-looking play, and that was enough to help the Timberwolves escape a three-hour thriller with a 122-121 victory over the Heat on Friday night. ‘’Great call,’’ Brewer

said. ‘’He pushed my back.’’

Kevin Love scored 28 points and grabbed 11 rebounds for Minnesota, which got 24 from Chase Budinger, 15 from Gorgui Dieng and 13 apiece from JJ Barea and Ricky Rubio, who also added 14 assists. Referee Ken Mauer called the last foul on Miami’s Norris Cole, who was guarding Brewer near the basket as a pass was coming his way. ‘’You just want to see the players decide it at the end,’’ Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said calmly after the game. ‘’I didn’t get a good look at the replay. ... Still, we had

many more opportunities to close that game out.’’

Ray Allen missed a wild jumper as time expired for Miami, which blew a chance to move two games clear of Indiana in the loss column atop the Eastern Conference standings. ‘’We gutted one out,’’ Love said. ‘’This was a fun win.’’

LeBron James scored 34 points for the Heat, who got a season-high 24 from Mario Chalmers and 24 more from Chris Bosh, including a tying 3-pointer with 10.8 seconds left in the second overtime.

ORONTO (AP) -Late in the third quarter Friday night, some jostling between John Salmons and Paul George turned into a shoving match.

The dust-up brought the cheering crowd at the Air Canada Centre to its feet and earned both players matching technical fouls.

But even more, said Salmons, it showed that the Toronto Raptors won’t be pushed around.

Terrence Ross led the way with 24 points as the short-handed Raptors defeated the Indiana Pacers 102-94. ‘’We’re not going to back down from anybody, we’re not going to quit, we’re going to be there, we’re going to fight,’’ Salmons said. ‘’Our leader (Kyle Lowry) hasn’t been playing the last two games, but we’re still fighting. ...

We’re definitely not going to back down, we’re going to continue to fight.’’

Jonas Valanciunas added 22 points and nine rebounds, while DeMar DeRozan scored 20 points and added nine assists for the Raptors, who earned

their fifth win in six starts despite missing starters Lowry and Amir Johnson. ‘’We feel like we can beat anybody when we step out there on the court,’’ DeRozan said. ‘’They’re a top team in the east, and that’s a team that we’re fighting to be in their position. Tonight was a big game at this time of the season.’’

Greivis Vasquez and Nando De Colo each had 10 points, while Patrick Patterson, who started in place of Johnson in only his third game since missing 11 with an elbow injury, had seven rebounds.

Paul George had 26 points to lead the Pacers and David West added 21. ‘’This is a playoff team,’’ George said of Toronto. ‘’Down the stretch they just got a lot of bounces that created second shots for them. If you give a playoff team another look or an opportunity they are going to knock you down.’’

There was a postseason vibe to the Eastern Conference matchup between two teams that could potentially meet in the second round of the playoffs.

voting, can surpass Jordan’s streak on Sunday, when the Thunder face Phoenix.

Durant last failed to score at least 25 points on January 5 against Boston, when he settled for 21 points.

His rare run has included a 54-point game against the Golden State Warriors on January 17, and over the course of the steak has averaged 36.3 points per game.

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

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service JOEL R. PIEZAS, Petitioner Case No.2002-XI-01221 x- - - - - - - - -- - - -----x NOTICE OF HEARING

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ-DUAL Ordinary Regular Service on the route: SIRAWAN ROUTE and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE(1) unit, which Certificate will expire on June 20, 2014. In the petition filed on March 27, 2014, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on APRIL 28, 2014 at 9:10 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

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

Minnesota Timberwolves forward Luc Richard Mbah a Moute goes to the basket as Miami Heat forward Chris Andersen defends. (AP Photo/Alan Diaz)

Toronto Raptors guard Terrence Ross (right) soars past Indiana Pacers forwards David West, left, and Paul George during the first half of an NBA basketball game on Friday in Toronto. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Frank Gunn)

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 27th day of March 2014 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 16 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, APRIL 6-7, 2014

SLAM DUNK CHAMPS. Justin Melton and Rey Guevarra put on a show before splitting the PBA slam dunk trophy in Friday’s All-Star festivities. PBA IMAGES/NUKI SABIO

DACHEA HOOPS

Left hook will stop City Admin bags Category B title Pacquiao - Bradley

T

HE media came to see Timothy Bradley as he trained at the brick-walled Fortune Gym along the famous Sunset Boulevard.

The undefeated American was a gracious host, fielding every question thrown at him.

Later on, he got up the ring, took off his shirt and flaunted his great physique.

Then he worked out with his trainer, Joel Diaz.

Bradley also vowed to knock Manny Pacquiao out and here’s how he intends to do it.

“I’m going to knock him out with the left hook,” he said.

“Not the right (hand) but the left hook. That’s what I’m going to knock him out with,” added the native of Indio, California with a ring record of 31 wins and 12 knockouts.

Bradley won a hotly-contested decision over Pacquiao in June 2012 and while he believes he deserved the win he feels he needs to prove it here.

The current holder of the WBO welterweight title said he trained hard for the fight that takes place on April 12 at the MGM Grand.

To him, it’s the only fight that matters.

“This is everything to me. Everything I’ve worked hard for in boxing. This is everything to me,” he said.

Bradley is on the eighth and last week of his training, and during his media day workout he declared himself fit and ready to face the heavy-handed Filipino.

Bradley said he can go 12 rounds “easy” in the coming fight because in training he did more than what’s needed to get him in top shape.

“I did 10-minute rounds with three different guys straight,” he said of his unusual training regimen that calls for just a 15-second break before a new sparring partner comes in.

“I get 15 seconds to drink water and boom right back on it and 15 seconds rest and boom another fresh guy comes in. It was so intense -extremely new,” he told mediamen inside the dressing room.

Someone asked if it was possible that he over-trained for the fight, “No,” was the quick reply.

EDWOOD CITY, California – Three Filipinos, including the Philippine Ice Prince Michael Christian Martinez, have taken the ice at the Triglav trophy in Slovenia.

After a six-week break to nurse his injuries, Martinez is in first place.

Martinez competed in the senior men’s short program earlier. His score of 63.29 has put him in first place out of seven competitors.

He will compete in

the free skate program today.

As for the women, Hawaii born Philippine Representative Samantha Cabiles came in sixth in the junior women’s short program with a score of 36.96.

Representing Norway, Norweigan-Pinay Camila Gjersem, the twin sister of Olympian Anne Line Gjersem, had a short program score of 41.04.

She is in tenth place among seniors.

Martinez tops short program in Slovenia R

T

HE City Administrator’s Office demolished General Services Office, 119-95 in Game 2 yesterday (April 4) to bag the Category B division title in the Davao City Hall Employees Association (Dachea) 77th Araw ng Dabaw basketball tournament at the Almendras gym.

The City Admin exploded with a 33-21 bomb in the first quarter and never looked back to

sweep its best-of-three championship series. City Admin won Game 1 via a 96-82 victory last Thursday.

City Administrator Melchor Quitain also watched the game to give his moral support to his team.

Meanwhile, the Vice Mayor’s Office of Vice Mayor Pulong Duterte forced a deciding Game 3 after stopping City Plannning, 75-70 also yesterday

in the Category C. City Plannning earlier won Game 1 by 20 points, 78-58 last April 3. VMO, however, came back strong in Game 2 via a come-from-behind victory.

VMO had a slow start, trailing by three points, 16-19 but grabbed the lead, 31-30 at the end of the first half. VMO again struggled by four, 51-55 before finally stepping on the gas with a 24-15 run in

the final canto.

The winner-take-all match will be played on April 7 at 11 a.m. following Game 1 in the Category A championship between the City Mayor’s Office and City Civil Registrar’s Office (CCRO) at 9:30 a.m.

The tournament is supported by the City Sports Development Division under OIC William “Butch” Ramirez as still part of the Duterte Game Plan. [CSDD-CMO/LDR]

time we again ask for understanding that we do not intend to disclose details.

“This is necessary to protect the privacy of Michael and his family, and to enable the medical team to work in full calmness.”

Schumacher remains unable to breathe on his own and is on a ventilator.

Doctors began the process of gradually awakening him more than nine weeks ago.

Wife Corinna, 45 - with whom he has two children Gina Marie, 16, and Mick, 14 - has remained at his bedside.

Meanwhile, a family friend has insisted that the legendary driver will be moved to a rehabilitation facility, but not one at his

home, as has been previously claimed.

The friend rubbished reports that his wife Corinna is spending £10 million to build a medically-equipped suite at their home in Switzerland because doctors have warned her that his chances of a full recovery are negligible.

“Michael will be moved to a rehabilitation clinic at some stage, however not at this stage,” the friend said.

“We are confident Michael will wake up. Therefore why would we need to build facilities for a vegetative man at his home?

“This would imply that his case is hopeless.”

The seven-times world champion remains in in-

tensive care in Grenoble Hospital in France, but his family remains “confident” he will wake from his coma, according to Sabine Kehm, Schumacher’s manager and agent.

She added that there was no truth in reports that Schumacher’s family were building the medical facility at their home, or indeed his father’s new apartment.

“Rumours saying that Corinna is rebuilding her house in order to take the allegedly hopeless case Michael back home are absolutely untenable,” Kehm said.

“This counts too for Rolf’s house which is being built at the Schumacher’s site.”

Schumi showing signs of consciousness

M

ICHAEL Schumacher suffered a ski accident 14 weeks ago and is in the waking up process after being placed in a medically-induced coma, with Sabine Kehm offering an encouraging update regarding his condition.

“Michael is making progress on his way,” said Kehm in a statement. “He shows moments of consciousness and awakening.

We are on his side during his long and difficult fight, together with the team of the hospital in Grenoble, and we keep remaining confident.

“We would like to thank you all for the continuous sympathies. At the same

Michael Schumacher

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. VOL.77ISSUE ISSUE16 16••SUNDAY-MONDAY, SUNDAY-MONDAY,APRIL APRIL6-7, 6-7,2014 2014

Nat’l PRISAA Games opens Sunday in DavNor

By NOEL BAGUIO

D

AVAO del Norte – The country’s best collegiate athletes will slug it out in the weeklong 2014 Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) National Games that will be held mainly at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex (DNSTC) in Tagum City.

Philippine Sports Commission Chair Ricardo Garcia will keynote the kick-off ceremonies at 4 p.m. on Sunday (April 6), which will be capped by a spectacular fireworks display.

Some 5,000 athletes and officials from 17 regions are expected to join the country’s biggest sports conclave for college students that will run from April 6-12, 2014.

The eighteen sporting events that will be disputed in the championship games include athletics, baseball, basketball, badminton, boxing, beach volleyball, chess, dance sport, football, Judo, karate-do, lawn tennis, sepak takraw, softball, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, and swimming.

The competition will be jazzed up by the Search for Mutya ng PRISAA, together with academic con-

tests in debate, declamation and oration and cultural competitions in vocal solo and duet.

Reigning champ PRISAA 7, top billed by the best athletes from the provinces of Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Siquijor in Central Visayas, is expected to defend its title to snatch a 4-peat victory, in spite of the calamities that hit the region late last year.

The provincial government of Davao del Norte has left no stones unturned in ensuring that there will be no glitches in its first hosting of a national championship event.

Governor Rodolfo del Rosario, in his recent State of the Province Address (SOPA), specially mentioned the PRISAA championship, which is dubbed as a final dry run for Davao del Norte’s bid to host the Palarong Pambansa next year.

The event will also mark many first in the 60year old national competitions.

PRISAA-Davao Executive Director Boy Sarabia recently said this will be the first time that a city in Davao Region will host the event.

The Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex (DNSTC) in Tagum City.

He added PRISAA 2014 will also feature for the first time some events to be played in the evening, like swimming, track and soccer events.

PRISAA President Lita Montalban likewise said in a TV interview that

this is the first time that PRISAA did not cash out in holding the games.

She thanked the generosity of Governor Rodolfo del Rosario for hosting the event, including Mayor Allan Rellon for being the co-host.

Founded in February 17, 1953, PRISAA is the country’s largest national athletic association composed of private schools, Christian schools, and home schools, with more than 500 member colleges and uni-

versities in the country.

It aims to carry out the mandate of promoting physical fitness and sports development among the youth with the help of various government departments and agencies and private entities.