Edge Davao 7 Issue 193

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

ALL AGLOW. Camella Northpoint’s 35-foot Christmas tree, which is made up of hundreds of lanterns, wows the crowd that witnessed the grand lighting of the company’s Christmas display along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City on Tuesday night. Lean Daval Jr.

BIFF HANDIWORK Military charges Lintang for deadly bus blast

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

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HE military said it has filed multiple murder cases against Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) sub-commander Garnet Lintang over the bus bombing in Maramag, Bukidnon bombing last

Tuesday that killed 10 people and injured 42 others.

Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) deputy commander Brigadier General Alexander Balutan said the military has pinpointed Lintang as the brain behind

the bombing.

“According to historical technical signature of the bombing incident, it is the handiwork of the BIFF,” Balutan said.

He said Lintang is facing multiple murder charges for

masterminding the bombing.

Rural Transit of Mindanao Inc. bus number 2640 reportedly just left the main gate of Central Mindanao University (CMU) in Barangay Dologon in Maramag af-

FBIFF, 10

INSIDE EDGE FAVORITES MARCH IN PACQUIAO 10-BALL OPEN SPORTS page 14

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

CASTING RED. A protester casts a plastic bag full of red dye on a mural with the image of President Aquino and top military officials during a demonstration by various militant groups to commemorate International Human Rights Day yesterday at Rizal Park in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

‘Missing’ cocaine already seized in Canada: DCPO

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

D

abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Police Office (DCPO) director Senior Superintendent Vicente D. Danao Jr. yesterday said the case of the cocaine traces found inside a container van at the Sumifru compound in Bunawan last month is “closed” because the drugs had already been seized in Canada before the van entered the Philippines.

In an interview, Danao told Edge Davao that based

on the report of Customs Police, the point of origin of the container van was Russia. It passed through South Korea and then reached Canada.

“On suspicion na nay karga tong van, giabrihan sa Canadian Immigration. So, nakita didto naa juy karga, mao na tong 109 bricks (On suspicion that the van was carrying something illegal, Canadian Immigration offi-

cials opened it. They found that it was indeed carrying 109 bricks of cocaine),” he said.

Danao said the cocaine shipment was intended to be sold in Canada since the van contained salmon which was to be delivered to that country.

The van was released from Canada in September and reached Davao City in November. The ceiling was

already destroyed so the company decided to have it repaired here since the cost is lower than in Canada.

The seized cocaine left 110 traces on the van which Davao City police found when a confidential agent reported the matter on November 23.

Police immediately went to the Sumifru compound to investigate, but when they searched the container van

FMISSING, 10

Mindanao Ombdusman aims to reduce backlog by yearend

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HE Office of the Ombudsman in Mindanao is fast-tracking the disposal of complaints filed before it.

Speaking to reporters, Deputy Ombudsman Ronaldo Elman said his office is targeting to reduce its backlog before the year ends.

Elman said his office was able to manage a total of 1,626 complaints, including backlogs. Of the total managed complaints, 1,520 were received this year.

“Of the letter of complaints received this year, 22 percent are docketed for assistance, 10 percent or about 160 complaints are docketed

for fact finding investigation, and the rest are docketed for criminal and or administrative case,” he said.

Elman said his office recorded a total workload of 2,151 cases, of which 1,190 are criminal cases and only 960 are administrative case.

“In the past 11 months, we were able to reduce it by 1,119 and we are targeting to reduce it to 1,000 to 1,100 before the year ends,” he said.

Elman said his office has been given until Friday to submit resolutions on high-profile cases involving

FMINDANAO, 10

Phoenix donates P2M worth of traffic signs

BIFF HANDIWORK. Eastern Mindanao Command deputy commander Brigadier General Alexander F. Balutan says the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) was behind the deadly bus bombing in Maramag, Bukdinon that killed 10 people on Tuesday. Balutan was a guest in yesterday’s AFP-PNP press corps forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel. Lean Daval Jr.

D

AVAO City-based Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc. has donated 105 traffic signs to the Davao City government in support of the city’s traffic program.

The company turned over the signs to Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte during the lighting and opening ceremony of “Pasko Fiesta saDabaw

2014” on Monday night.

In an interview, Phoenix Petroleum Inc. Vice President for External Affairs lawyer Raymond T. Zorrilla told Edge Davao that they came up with the project to support the transport regulation policy of Duterte.

“Because we value life… we support the ef-

FPHOENIX, 10

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

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Brgy cap, 4 others killed in Maguindanao ambush

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JAILBIRDS’ GIFT. Davao City Jail warden Simeon S. Dolojo hands over a Philippine Eagle-inspired handicraft to Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte at the Grand Men Seng Hotel on Tuesday afternoon. The handicraft is a Christmas gift from jail inmates to the mayor. Also in photo is Duterte’s executive assistant Christopher “Bong” Go. Lean Daval Jr.

BARANGAY captain, a councilor, and three others died on the spot as an undetermined number of armed men sprayed bullets towards their Multicab in Datu Odin Sinsuat town in Maguindanao early evening Tuesday.

Major Jo-ann Petinglay, information chief of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said they received reports from ground troops that the ambush took place as the barangay captain and his companions were traversing Barangay Dimapatoy of the said town around 6 p.m.

Dimapatoy is just a few kilometers from the 6ID’s camp.

Senior Insp. Datu Tulon Pinguiaman, Datu Odin Sinsuat chief of police, identified

the fatalities as Michael Sinsuat Dalidig, chairman of Barangay Dimapatoy; barangay councilor Jonathan Benito; Benito’s wife; and Dalidig’s relatives who suffered multiple gunshot wounds that caused their instantaneous death.

Initial police investigation disclosed that the assailants used various kinds of high-powered firearms, including M-16 rifles, based on empty shells gathered from the crime scene.

Pinguiaman said they don’t have leads yet as to the motive, but said the victims came from the house of Benito when ambushed.

Police manhunt and fol-

FBRGY, 10

37 former rebels get livelihood assistance

Soldier in teen’s rape goes AWOL T

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

A

SOLDIER accused of raping a teenager inside her own home in Kitaotao, Bukidnon last month has gone missing after being placed under restricted custody in his unit’s headquarters in Malagos, Davao City.

10th Infantry Division Civil Military Operations commander Lieutenant Colonel Llewellyn Binasoy told reporters yesterday that Private First Class Benjie Blancada had gone absent without leave (AWOL) from

the 84th Infantry Battalion.

“The alleged perpetrator of the rape incident went AWOL, but the 10th ID will not stop in conducting investigation even with his absence,” Binasoy said during the AFP-PNP Press Corps media conference at The Royal Mandaya Hotel yesterday morning.

Binasoy said Blancada is automatically discharged dishonorably from service but added that this “will not preclude whatever criminal charges that will be filed

HE crime volume in Davao Region decreased by 19.9 percent from January to November this year compared with the same period last year.

In 2013 the Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 recorded a total of 77,874 crimes, but this year it went down to 62,352 for the same period, a difference of 15,522.

PRO 11 spokesperson Chief Inspector Antonio Rivera attributed the decrease to the strict enforcement of the law which has resulted in a number of arrests, particularly against drug dealing.

For this year, authorities recorded 825 drug oper-

ations that resulted in the apprehension of 1,213 individuals.

Security forces recovered 65.29 kilos of cocaine, 2.81 kilos of shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) and 59.38 kilos of marijuana.

The total street value of the seized drugs is P414.8 million.

Despite the decrease in the crime volume, the authorities vowed to continue implementing security measures in the entire region.

“We still remind the public to be vigilant at all times and to report any untoward incident especially since we are going to celebrate the Christmas season,” Rivera said. [FPG]

Crime volume goes down in Region 11 T

against him.”

He said the military will also investigate how Blancada escaped the restricted custody area of the 84th IB in Malagos.

Binasoy said the military will issue a nationwide alert in order to give notice to the people and places where the Blancada would possibly go.

The victim, Jessa (not her real name), was allegedly raped by Blancada inside her own home in Kitaotao, Bukidnon on November 17.

Last Tuesday, Gabriella Women’s Party launched a press conference together with Jessa in which she narrated the incident.

For his part, 84th IB commander Lieutenant Colonel Arnold Bernardo said his unit had tried but failed to reach out to the victim in order to get her side.

But Bernardo assured the public that his unit will continue to investigate the matter and will “definitely seek the truth” behind the alleged rape.

abf@edgedavao.net

HIRTY-SEVEN former New People’s Army (NPA) fighters received P50,000 worth of livelihood assistance from the city government on Tuesday night.

Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte, who led the distribution at the Grand Men Seng Hotel, said aside from the financial assistance, he will also give the former rebels where they can build their permanent houses.

The lots are intended as relocation areas for fire victims, but Duterte said he was including the 37 former rebels so they can have their own homes that can no longer be taken away from them.

The mayor said the government is serious in addressing the needs of the people, even those who had joined taken up arms against it.

“Kay kung sige tag giyera, gastos og kwarta, kalas kayo satawo (If we continue the war it is just a waste of money and lives),” he said.

Last October, Duterte said he would provide former rebels with minimal assistance to build their own houses as well as jobs just make sure they do not return to the armed struggle.

Duterte told the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) to give the former rebels a parcel of land in the resettlement area in Los Amigos, Tugbok.

He said if they opt to live in the area, he would provide assistance to buy amakan (woven bamboo) and cement so they can have even a temporary house.

Duterte said he would also ask city administrator J.

F37 FORMER, 10

PERSONAL BREAK. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte (left) and Davao City Police Office (DCPO) director Vicente Danao Jr. (right) both take a breather while issues and concerns are being discussed on the floor during the joint meeting of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) and City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) at the Grand Men Seng Hotel on Tuesday afternoon. Lean Daval Jr.

4 AGRITRENDS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Raising goats for milk and profit (Second of Two Parts)

Text and Photos By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

A

S far as milk production is concerned, a top government official has seen the potentials of goat as a “gold mine.”

Secretary Mario G. Montejo of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) says that tapping goat as source of milk “forms part of the innovative vision of making the country a ‘science nation.’”

Dr. Edwin C. Villar believes so, too. “Thinking about goat beyond Filipino dishes such as kaldereta and papaitan and pursuing the science in dairy goat production requires some degree of sophistication considering the peculiar requirements of dairy animals to be able to produce the desired amount of milk for a give lactation period while maintaining its quality and wholesomeness,” he said.

Dr. Villar is the Chief Science Research Specialist Director of the Laguna-based Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD).

PCARRD’s executive director, Dr. Patricio S. Faylon, said developing the dairy goat industry “will somehow boost the local milk production, thus reducing the amount of milk and milk products imported.”

A report released by the National Dairy Authority (NDA) said that imports of milk and dairy products increased by 2 percent -- from 300.68 million kilograms in 2011 to 305.45 million kilograms in 2012.

Fortunately, local milk production increased also by 2 percent. “Today, on the average, one out of three glasses of liquid milk we drink is now pro-

Goat house

Raising goats

duced locally,” reported NDA, which was created through Republic Act No. 7884 “to ensure the accelerated development of the Philippine dairy industry through policy direction and program implementation.”

Local milk production comes from the dairy animal inventory that had increased by 7 percent (40,696 head).

Of this inventory, dairy cattle registered an increase of 9 percent (15,677 head) which produced 65 percent to the total volume of milk produced.

Population of dairy carabao increased by 7 percent and contributed 33 percent of the milk produced.

Goat inventory totaled only 3,952 head thus contributing a measly 2 percent of the total volume of milk produced.

“If only more and more farmers will raise goats in their farms, the health status of our children will improve,” said Roy C. Alimoane, the director of the Davao-based Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC).

When compared with other milk from animals, goat’s milk is nearest to mother’s milk. “An excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins A and B-complex, milk builds bones and teeth, muscles and brain tissues,” Alimoane says.

“Infants, children, and adolescents need a body-building food like milk.”

The good thing about goat milk is that it has well-emulsified fat globules without agglutinin protein. “Goat’s milk can be digested within 20 minutes compared to cow’s milk which takes at least two to three hours to be digested,” Alimoane added.

More profitable In the Philippines, the chief sources of milk are cows, carabaos, and goats. Of these three, it’s more profitable to raise goats. Dr. Emilio M. Cruz of the Central Luzon State University reported that goat dairying gives more opportunity to make money from the daily milk collected from the animals or the sale of animals either for breeding or slaughter.

For an initial capital of P40,000, a dairy goat farmer can buy 3 breeder goats and earn P223,440 for seven lactations in 5 years, according to Dr. Cruz. If a farmer, however, buys either cattle or carabao for the same amount, he ends up earning only P200,000 for the same period.

“If one goat dies, the farmer can still earn income with the remaining two animals while if the farmer loses a head of cattle or carabao, all the investment is lost,” Dr. Villar said.

“Goats are very popular among Filipinos because they require low initial capital investment, fit the smallhold farm conditions, and multiply fast,” PCAARRD explained.

“Culturally, goats are integral to every special occasion such as birthdays, baptisms, weddings, and fiestas. Hence, they command a higher price compared with other meats in the market.”

In Bansalan, Davao del Sur, more and more people are raising goats in their respective farms. Take the case of Benjamin Lao, an integrated farmer whose farm is located in barangay Eman. In the beginning, he had only seven goats. But he found out there

Nubian goats

Milking goats was money in goats, so he opted to increase the number.

Today, he has about 170 goats in his farm. “Buyers just come to my farm and select the goats they want to buy,” he said.

Lao uses the goat manure as organic fertilizer. According to the Ohio State University Extension, goat manure is drier than cow manure or horse manure. It has less odor and is easier to work with and spread. It also composts more quickly. More importantly, goat manure is higher in nitrogen than horse and cow manures.

Raising goats in the uplands The MBRLC has developed a farming system that integrates goat raising into its internationally-known Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT). It is called Simple Agro-Livestock Technology (SALT 2).

Under the SALT 2 scheme, 40 percent of the farm’s land is devoted to agricultural crops (like citrus, black pepper, beans, and corn), 40 percent to livestock (particularly goats), and 20 percent to forestry (mostly fruit trees and various nitrogen fixing trees and shrubs).

“Our model farm is only one-half hectare,” Alimoane said. Instead of raising cattle, which requires a land area of one hectare per animal, MBRLC recommends goats.

“Although a goat is small, she can produce as much as four liters of milk every day if she is purebred and is given a ration to meet all of her nutritional requirements,” he said.

In SALT 2, 12 does and one buck are raised. The buck is

separated from the does so that when it is time to milk the does, the milk won’t “catch” the “goaty smell” of the buck.

During breeding, a doe is brought to the cottage of the buck. The manure is utilized as fertilizer for the forage and the crops.

As it follows the original SALT system, hedgerows of various nitrogen fixing trees are planted all over the farm.

At the lower portion, more forage crops are planted. The forages and hedgerows are cut every now and then and the cuttings are used as feed for goats.

The goat manure is utilized as fertilizer for the forages and agricultural crops (which are planted at the upper portion of the farm). Studies have shown that goat manure contains 1.5 percent of nitrogen, 1.2 percent of potassium, and 0.5 percent of phosphorus.

There is money in goat’s milk. At the MBRLC, fresh milk is sold at P19 (330 milligrams), 26 (500 milligrams), and 50 (one liter). When mixed with chocolate and a little sugar, the cost is P22, P33, and P60, respectively. “With fresh goat’s milk, you can be sure that the milk your child is taking is free from harmful chemicals,” Alimoane declared.

Indeed, there’s a “gold mine” in goat dairying. “I think the contribution of goats in the country’s milk production will greatly improve if farmers will include raising goats into their system of farming now,” Alimoane said.

Health problems But people who go into

goat farming should be aware that there are some factors that limit productivity of goats.

There are parasites that wreak the health of the animals. Haemonchus contortus has been identified as the most pathogenic worm in goats that causes economic losses in many farms in the Philippines. “Removal and control of this parasite could be done through the use of anthelmintics or dewormers,” PCAARRD said.

However, the PCAARRD report pointed out that synthetic dewormers leave residues in the meat and its continuous use can cause the worm to develop resistance to the drug.

Other drawbacks: synthetic dewormers are expensive, not always available in remote areas, and have the possibility of polluting the environment.

Several studies conducted showed that there are some herbal dewormers which can serve as alternatives to the synthetic anthelmintics.

Compared to synthetic drugs, they are more accessible, inexpensive and available all year round.

Earlier phytochemical studies showed that “caimito” (Chrysophyllum cainito) has high concentration of alkaloids, “makabuhay” (Tinospora rumphii) has high flavonoids, and “makahiya” (Mimosa pudica) has high tannins.

These bioactive compounds are critical are critical in killing and expelling adult worms, their eggs and larvae; and in healing inflammation brought about by the worms.

When combined as a cocktail drug, the efficacy of the herbal dewormer is expected to increase.

5 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Phoenix’s proposed P1.5 B STCPs rated PRS 2 minus P

HILIPPINE Rating Services Corporation (PhilRatings) assigned an Issue Credit Rating of PRS 2 (minus) to Davao City-based Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc.’s (Phoenix Petroleum) proposed short term commercial papers (STCPs) worth P1.5 billion.

The total STCP amount rated by PhilRatings in relation to Phoenix Petroleum is now at P3.5 billion, having rated an earlier STCP issue amounting to P2 billion.

Obligations rated PRS 2 exhibit above average (strong) capability for payment of both interest and principal. This is normally evidenced by many characteristics of a PRS 1 rating but to a lesser degree.

Earning trends and coverage ratios, while sound, will be more subject to variations.

Capitalization characteristics, while still appropriate, may be more affected by external conditions. Ample alternate liquidity is also maintained

by the company. A plus or a minus sign can be added to further qualify an assigned rating.

The rating reflects the following key factors: Phoenix Petroleum’s business operations are able to generate substantial revenues, with profitability expected to improve going forward; its adequate liquidity and financial flexibility, and competent and experienced management team.

Furthermore, Phoenix Petroleum’s network retail expansion is seen to support and enhance its market position.

PhilRatings’ ratings are based on available information and projections at the time that the rating review was performed. PhilRatings shall continuously monitor developments relating to Phoenix Petroleum and may change the rating at any time, should circumstances warrant a change.

Phoenix Petroleum is the biggest independent oil player in the Philippines.The com-

CHRISTMAS CHEER. The Marco Polo, Davao General Manager Anthony Ang (right), sales and marketing director Pamela Villegas (center), and Edge Davao editor-in-chief Antonio M. Ajero (second from left) cut the traditional Christmas log cake during the Club 888 Forum Christmas party yesterday. With them are club moderators Derf Maiz, Jon Joaquin, and Rudolph Ian Alama. Lean Daval Jr. pany continued to lead with a 4% market share as of the

first half of 2014. In addition, Phoenix Petroleum had a total

of 412 service stations as of September 30, 2014, with 135

stations in Luzon, 56 in Visayas and 221 in Mindanao. (PNA)

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Meralco reduces bill

by P38 this month

F

OR households with a typical monthly consumption of 200 kilowatthours (kwh), the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) will reduce bills

by P38 or 18 centavos per kilowatthour (kwh). ”Power rates will go down by P0.19 per (kWh) in December for a typical household consuming 200 kWh, equivalent to a decrease of around P38 in the bill,” Meralco said in a statement Tuesday.

The company cited December as the second consistent month, which had a fall in bills. It had decreased an overall rate of 60 centavos per kwh, combining the reduction last month.

Meralco explained the lowered charges – a considerable Christmas treat – was due to the fall of generation charge at 17 centavos per kwh. It is paid to power plant companies. ”The downward adjustment is attributed principally to the P0.17 per kWh reduction in the generation charge, which registered its lowest level for the year,” it said.

Also, the distribution utility noted the plummet of its overall generation charge, which had fallen below the P5 per kWh mark since Oct 2013.

Further, Meralco said generation charge decreased as well due to the lower Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) charges, catalyzed by the sustained operations of Luzon Power Plants. It specified the return of the Sual Unit 1

(647 MW) helped stabilize supply. ”In addition, WESM charges decreased due to the completion in October of adjustments from prior months, which include additional Must-Run Unit (MRU) compensation for Malaya and the secondary cap additional compensation for the supply months of May and June 2014,” Meralco said.

The reliability of the power plants brought an overall reduction of P1.70 per kWh monthly charge to the WESM, with Malaya contributing P.09 of savings this month. ”Contributing also to the overall downward adjustment in the bills to households is the P0.014 decrease in taxes and P0.023 cumulative decrease in the system loss charge and subsidies,” the distribution company utility added.

However, Meralco pointed out average rates of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and power plants covered by Power Supply Agreements (PSAs) had increased by 10 centavos and P.03 per kwh, respectively.

Transmission charge, which is paid to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), has also increased by P.017 per kWh, caused by higher ancillary service charges.

Meanwhile, Meralco’s distribution charge is still the same, as its earlier statement said it will retain the charge until June 2015. (PNA)

Business registration up 20% in Zamboanga, Isabela

T

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) registered a total of 1,871 businesses during the past 11 months in Zamboanga City and in Isabela City, 316 or 20 percent more than the 1,555 during the same period last year.

Business Name Registration (BNR) announced an increase of 316 or 20 percent in the since January until November compared to the same period last year in this city and in nearby Isabela City.

Maria Carmen Laguardia, DTI Trade and Development Specialist, said that the trade

and industry department here processed 1,447 new business applications from January to November this year and 424 for renewal of business names.

Last year, the DTI recorded 1,292 new application and 263 renewals of business names.

Laguardia said there was an increase in business names registration (BNR) “because many are looking for additional income, so they are getting into business.”

Registration of business name is a requirement before prospective businessmen can open a business. (PNA)

IT’S THE TIME OF YEAR. The Buhangin gymnasium in Davao City has become a temporary shelter for more than a thousand indigenous people from the city’s Paquibato District and Talaingod, Davao del Norte as they roam downtown asking for Christmas presents. MindaNews photo by Toto Lozano

APEC members to offer a million scholarships by 2020

S

OME one million students from Asia and the Pacific are set to benefit from the planned scholarship grants to be offered by members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) membercountries.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Laura del Rosario, chair of the APEC 2015 Senior Officials Meeting, said they target to hit the one million goal by 2020.

“And that’s because APEC believes in investing in human capital. The jobs in the future will be more complex,” she said in a briefing after the twoday Informal Senior Officials’ Meeting (ISOM) in Makati Shangri La Tuesday.

Del Rosario said they have communicated with all the major universities in the Philippines to join the program and two have already pledged to offer scholarships.

She, however, did not name the higher learning institutions

that have committed to join the program.

Del Rosario said the program was launched and discussed during the APEC event in China last November.

The program aims to equip students in the region especially on technological advances.

Del Rosario explained that given the technological innovations, people should be equipped with the right skills to be able to cope with the demand of jobs.

She said people should adapt to these changes to take hold and be able to grab opportunities presented to them.

“In APEC, we consider technology as the engine for growth. Technological processes and products create jobs,” she noted.

Del Rosario also pointed out that leading universities around the world are adopting these innovations and offering

courses to be taken online. ”That changes the model of education…These changes are because of technology… and this is what APEC is looking at…the changes ahead of us,” she said.

Del Rosario said leaders who attended the ISOM are unified in further strengthening the bid for a more inclusive growth through human capital development.

The priorities of the APEC 2015 Meetings, which the Philippines hosts, were presented during the two-day event attended by officials from other 20 APEC-member countries.

These priorities include the achievement of free and open trade and investment by 2010 for developed members and by 2020 for developing members; 10 percent improvement in supply chain performance by 2015 in terms of time, cost and uncertainty; aspirational goal

of a 25 percent improvement in ease of doing business by 2015; and reduction of tariffs on APEC list of environmental goods to five percent or less by end-2015.

Other priorities are the reduction of aggregate energy intensity by 45 percent by 2035; a universal broadband access in APEC region by 2015; convergence on regulatory approval procedures for medical products by 2020; the aspirational goal of increasing forest cover in the region by at least 20 million hectares by 2020; conserve at least 10 percent of coastal and marine areas by 2020; and increasing the share of renewables in APEC energy mix by 2030.

“And they strongly supported them because our theme of inclusive growth resonated with them. It’s an objective that they themselves saw also as necessary in their own economies,” Del Rosario said. (PNA)

participate in PPP projects.

“Now we see more and more companies participating and they are very confident that the Philippines will continue to grow,” Vernet said.

“We believe in the Philippines and we know it’s one of the fastest growing countries in the region,” he added.

Vernet noted that French companies are also aware of the investment grades that the Philippines received from investment rating agencies

around the globe which strengthen the confidence of French businesses in venturing in the country.

On Monday, RATP Dev signed the contract with Light Rail Manila consortium -- a joint venture of Ayala Corp. and Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) -- for the LRT1 project. It is the first PPP project of the company and France in the country.

RATP Dev also expressed its interest to join the LRT Line 2 project together with

the same local partners.

Aside from LRT1 project, France’s Egis Group participated in the bidding of Mactan-Cebu International Airport and the CaviteLaguna Expressway (CALAX) projects.

Vernet said many French companies are interested to join the bidding for Laguna Lakeshore ExpresswayDike Project, Clark airport and other airport projects nationwide, as well as the proposed new international airport in Manila. (PNA)

French firms to participate in more PPP projects in Phl F

RENCH conglomerates are eyeing to participate in more public private partnership (PPP) projects in the Philippines as the country earns the confidence of French companies.

Speaking at the sidelines of the contract signing between Light Rail Manila consortium and France’s RATP Dev for the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 Project, French Embassy Economic Councilor Gilles Vernet said the Philippines can expect more French groups to

7 ENVIRONMENT

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Annual Tulong Eskwela in Barangay Tambobong for the children of DCWD’s partner people’s organizations.

DCWD embarks on Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan Watershed Rehabilitation Project By: JOVANA CRESTA T. DUHAYLUNGSOD

I

MAGINE this – crystal clear, gushing river water backdropped by towering mountains draped in lush trees and wild vegetation.

For the present generation which is all too familiar with nature’s retribution with the effects of climate change and typhoon devastation as examples, this kind of picturesque scenery is just largely left to people’s imagination. However, Davao City is fortunate to still nestle in its forested mountain ranges the pristine Tamugan River enjoyed first-hand by the city’s Indigenous People community in the uplands.

Recharged by Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan watershed, the Tamugan River is eyed as the most viable future water source of Davao City.

Thus, protecting, restoring and preserving said river and watershed is very crucial because it greatly reinforces the promise of a crystal clear future state of Davao City’s water supply. And in the hands of Davao City Water District are heavily full of this task.

For more than 10 years now, DCWD has been implementing its rehabilitation project in Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan with the help of the Obu-Manuvu tribe in Barangay Tambobong in Baguio District. What started

out as a mere environmental protection advocacy for water resource sustainability has actually blossomed into bigger proportions benefitting the tribal community living inside the project area and promising Davao City sustained water supply.

But the unfolding of this wonderful story of partnership did not come easily.

Prompted by its mandate to ensure that the present and future Davaoeños will enjoy adequate supply of potable water, DCWD climbed Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan to do rehabilitation and protection activities. It did the same thing in the other water sources of Davao City.

Since the project area in said watershed is part of ancestral domain, DCWD had to secure a Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) from the National Commission for Indigenous People (NCIP) in 2004.

Part of the processing of the FPIC, NCIP did consultations among the tribal community especially those with Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title living within the 1,365 hectares ancestral domain to get the tribe’s approval of DCWD’s intervention in their community. When the FPIC

DCWD consults with the Obu-Manuvu tribal council at the tribal hall.

Free medical and dental services and medicines to residents of Brgy. Tambobong

was granted, DCWD, NCIP and the Obu-Manuvu Tribal Council of Elders signed a memorandum of agreement on February 2, 2005 allowing DCWD to conduct its rehabilitation project inside Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan.

DCWD then implemented its development plan which was initially targeted for completion within 2005 to 2010. The plan was divided into two phases. Phase One involved the rehabilitation of 316 hectares of land inside the watershed conservation area and 15.3 kilometers along the riverbank while Phase Two was for the 716 hectares outside the watershed conservation area.

However, seeing the need to accomplish more, said plan was later renewed in 2011

by DCWD and its partners to extend up to 2026.

At the onset, DCWD soon discovered that rehabilitating Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan watershed was not going to be an easy feat. Most of the trails going to the project areas in sitios Kidale, Danga, Suhod, Beha, Langgonuan, Kibigtud, Kibangbang and Laling are only accessible by foot and turns extremely difficult during rainy seasons.

The Tamugan River with its gushing current also overflows from time to time and becomes impassable. The peace and order situation is also a big consideration with insurgency threats emerging every now and then. Lastly, and the most defining factor was the need to work hand-inhand with the Obu-Manuvu community whose previous unfortunate experiences with other agencies and groups made them unreceptive to and doubtful of outside help including that of DCWD’s. Because of the tribe’s reluctance, DCWD was forced to hold

Turn-over of the rubber latex harvesting tools donation by the DCWD Board of Directors led by Chairman Eduardo A. Bangayan (5th from L) to Datus Joshua P. Andip and Joel A. Unad (6th and 7th from L) of the Obu-Manuvu tribe. the implementation of the first phase of its development plan and proceed directly to the second phase.

Because of the difficulty that these trust issues caused, DCWD knew that it had to earn the confidence of the tribal community considering the important role that the Obu-Manuvus play in the successful implementation of DCWD’s rehabilitation programs.

Being the grassroots of the rehabilitation project, the community has an extensive knowledge of the terrain and activities in the watershed and this knowledge is very helpful especially to DCWD’s foresters who are foreign to the area. Aside from being able to directly monitor and maintain planted trees, they can also easily ward-off and report environmentally damaging activities.

Thus, alongside the reforestation of open lands or brush lands with forest species suitable in the area, rehabilitation of denuded and sloping areas using agroforestry schemes and regular water quality monitoring, DCWD intensified community-based people participation activities, community relations and livelihood projects.

Abaca harvesting of the community To encourage community-based people participation, the water utility helped establish and organize the officers of the Obu-Manuvu Ancestral Domain Multi-Purpose Cooperative (OMAD-MPC) which was registered in the Cooperative Development Authority last March 13, 2007 with registration number RN-8293-DVO. To enhance and improve capability building of the organized cooperative, DCWD spearheaded trainings and seminars on cooperativism, simplified bookkeeping and other financial management schemes to cooperative members and officers.

For improved community relations, DCWD conducted year-round corporate social

responsibility programs which helped improved the welfare of the community.

These programs include the annual free medical and dental missions, Operation Tuli and provision of community comfort room for health interventions. As for education, DCWD instigated Tulong Eskwela or donations of school bags and supplies to children of partner POs, Indigenous People’s scholarship, Alternative Learning System, provision of school supplies to deaf students and donation of educational equipment and services and school drinking facilities to upland schools. Consequently, these programs became very instrumental in bringing

Actual rubber latex harvesting at an Obu-Manuvu farm.

F DCWD, 10

8

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Security hole

AST month, Edge Davao printed a photo on its front page depicting two men – one of them carrying a large black backpack – climbing on to an air-conditioned bus bound for General Santos City. The act in itself was nothing out of the ordinary; after all, millions of people board buses in the Philippines where such mode of transportation is still the cheapest. But what merited our lensman’s attention was that the bus was already at the gate of the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) when the two men were boarding, which means they had not gone through the strict inspection being implemented by Task Force Davao at the entrance of the terminal. And what we printed was just the picture of two men; what readers did not see were the other photos that showed more people rushing to board the bus, sans the inspection that other people had to suffer through.

That photo now carries grave significance in light of the deadly bus bombing on Tuesday afternoon in Maramag, Bukidnon that claimed the lives of 10 people and injured 42 others. According to reports, the Rural Transit of Mindanao Inc. bus had just picked up

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passengers at the main gate of Central Mindanao University (CMU) in Barangay Dologon when the explosion took place a little past 6 p.m. The bus had a long distance route, but it was still picking up passengers in areas other than transport terminals. This is a common practice among bus drivers, and it is one that places the lives of innocent people in danger as someone with criminal intent can easily board a bus anywhere he chooses and plant a bomb inside.

What is the point in placing an entire city under heightened security when this can so easily be skirted? The Maramag blast is an embarrassment on the authorities who promise to keep the public safe but cannot even implement a simple security check. The photograph Edge Davao published last month is proof of this: what if one of the people who had boarded that GenSan-bound bus had a bomb in his bag? Indeed, the person who planted the bomb in Tuesday’s blast probably did so outside of a terminal. Bus companies must also be held accountable for such incidents because they place profit above the lives of the people they serve. Let us hope something is done to address this security hole.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

AGAPITO JOAQUIN JR. Associate Editor

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. CHENEEN R. CAPON BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO Reporters MEGHANN STA. INES AQUILES Z. ZONIO NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA Lifestyle Photography CHA MONFORTE JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA Correspondents ARLENE D. PASAJE Contributing Photographer Cartoons MUNDA • HENRYLITO TACIO • MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO AURELIO A. PEÑA • MARY Columnists: CARLOS MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. ANN “ADI”• C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN • VIDA MIA VALVERDE • Economic Analysts:• ENRICO BORBON MARY ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN • NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN EMILY “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER PEREZENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA EconomicM. Analyst:

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GENERAL OFFICE SANTOS CITY CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OLIVIA D. VELASCO JOCELYNRICHARD S. PANES C. EBONA SOLANI D. MARATAS OLIVIA D. VELASCO SOLANI D. MARATAS MARKETING OFFICE | Marketing Manager General Manager of Sales SpecialistFinance General Manager DirectorAdvertising FinanceLEIZEL A. DELOSOLEIZEL A. DELOSO | MarketingFLORENCE ManagerS. VILLARIN

RICHARD C. EBONA AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation Marketing Supervisor

Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Marketing Specialist Cagayan de Oro City c/o PZ Villarin Marketing Cagayan de Oro City Tel: (088) 852-4894

Tel: (088) 852-4894

Salvani St., Oringo Brgy. City Heights Tel: (083) 303-2215

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

ANGELICA R. GARCIA | Marketing Manager Blk. 1, Lot 10, La Mar Townhomes, Apitong St., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 654-3509

EDGEDAVAO

W

E’VE been taught since childhood to pray and believe in prayers. Regardless of religion and the rituals we perform, we pin our last hopes on God’s compassionate hands – especially when we face adversities, calamities for example.

During typhoon Yolanda last year and typhoon Ruby this month, the Filipino’s brand of religiosity played a central role as both a collective and personal coping mechanism. Endless storms may batter our shores and land, but expect the Filipino’s faith to surmount the difficulties, destruction and even death caused by nature’s wrath, and in a way that has made the rest of the world confused and amazed at the same time.

We pray for deliverance from the winds, floods, landslides and whatever

T

HE Philippines, considered “the only Christian country in Asia,” celebrates the longest Christmas season in the world. Once the month of the year starts to end in “…ber” (as in September), people commence saying, “Merry Christmas.” You can also hear Christmas songs being played in the radios, televisions, and department stores.

“Joy to the world, the Lord is come,” so goes a line of a very popular song. “Let earth receive her King.” Filipino singer and composer Jose Mari Chan urges: “And may the spirit of Christmas be always in our heart.”

So what’s so special about Christmas, anyway? Saint Luke has written one of the most thought-provoking stories of the first Nativity. In Luke 2:1-14, he recounted: “In those days, Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.

“So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

“And there shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Prayers of the wicked kind hazards a storm brings.

We pray for ourselves, for our loved ones, for our neighbors, for the whole nation to be safe.

But to pray for ourselves to be spared at the expense of other human beings is something else. That’s exactly what TV Patrol news readers Korina Sanchez and Noli de Castro did when they publicly asked for prayers for Ruby (Hagupit) to take a northerly track so that the Philippines could be spared – never mind if Japan would be hit instead be-

cause that country can cope and recover more easily anyway.

Sanchez and De Castro were basically asking divine intervention to save the Philippines at the expense of Japan. Granting their wish happened, would we say “Thank you, God, for saving us and unleashing the typhoon’s fury on the Japanese”? How would have I felt if I heard my neighbors thanking God for burning just our house and not theirs, during that fire that razed our home 10 years ago?

A few years back, a European friend confided that he felt awkward attending a thanksgiving mass for a friend of his who was saved from a bombing incident. “Morag nagpasalamat no nga ang uban lang ang namatay dili siya?” he asked rhetorically. I believe though that that friend of his had no such thing in mind; she was simply

thankful for being saved and at the same time saddened that some people died in a violent manner.

Sanchez’s and De Castro’s utterances, however, were entirely different. They went too far, asking God to be kind to us and wicked to the Japanese, as if the latter belong to a sub-human species unworthy of any empathy. “Lord, sila lang please.”

Never knew until now that religiosity borders on sadism – never mind stupidity.

So unbecoming of two public figures – one a former vice president, the other the wife of a high-ranking Cabinet official.

Sanchez might as well say goodbye to her dream of becoming the next First Lady.

(MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. H. Marcos C. Mordeno can be reached at hmcmordeno@gmail.com.)

For unto us a child is born shone around THINK ON THESE! them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid.

I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all Henrylito D. Tacio the people. henrytacio@gmail.com Today, in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’

“Suddenly, a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.’”

C. Neil Strait once wrote: “The coming of Christ by way of a Bethlehem manger seems strange and stunning. But when we take Him out of the manger and invite Him into our hearts, then the meaning unfolds and the strangeness vanishes.”

Indeed, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was born in a manger because there was no more room available in the inn.

Since those staying in the inn never knew that a King was born on that night, what would have been their reaction? Michael Daves tried to imagine what was in their mind by writing a letter to the innkeeper: “I was a guest at your inn a few weeks ago. My visit to your city was most unpleasant. The Romans were enrolling me for another of their miserable taxes. And the stay

in your hostel did not improve matters.

“I am a patient man, innkeeper. One must be if he is to be a merchant. I can forgive you for many inconveniences. I can overlook the fact that your wine was poor and your bread stale.

“But, innkeeper, there are several things I cannot forgive. For my private room, you charged an unreasonable price. And it was about as private as the market place. The stench from the stable was unbearable.

“No sooner had I fallen asleep when I was awakened by shouts of ‘Hallelujah, the King is born!’ I saw a group of shepherds in front of the stable. I could see them by the light of bright stars. I ordered them to be quiet, but they paid me no mind. At long last, they disappeared into the stable and it became relatively quiet again.

“Five minutes later, I was awakened again, this time by the crying of an infant.

Strangely enough, the cries came from the stable. I looked out again and, through the open stable doors, could see the infant and its mother. I yelled down to keep the baby quiet but apparently they didn’t hear me.

“I could not sleep for the rest of the night.

It was the most miserable night of my life… and all because of those people in the stable.

“If you are going to permit your high-paying guests to be disturbed by those who pay less and are less, then I hope you are prepared to suffer great financial loss. You will never get anything from shepherds and a family which had to be housed in a stable.”

So, how do you explain the greatness of the Man whose birthday we celebrate each year on December 25? Let’s make a humble attempt: He was born in a stable, the child of a peasant woman. He grew up in an obscure

village; worked as a carpenter until He was 30; and then became an itinerant preacher for three years. He never went to college. He never wrote a book. He never held an office.

He never owned a home. He never had a family. He never had a lot of money. He never traveled farther than 200 miles from His place of birth. He never accomplished any of the things that usually mark greatness. He had no credentials but himself.

Although He spoke with great authority, taught with unusual wisdom, and was widely accepted by the people, the religious leaders of His day opposed Him. While He was still a young man, the tide of popular opinion turned against Him. He was betrayed by a friend, abandoned by his associates, and turned over to His enemies. He was falsely accused, endured the mockery of a trial, and was unjustly condemned to die.

He was crucified between the two thieves, and while He was dying His executioners gambled for the only piece of property He had on earth, and that was His clothing. When He was dead, He was buried in a borrowed grave through the pity of a friend.

Ian McCrae wrote: “Many who saw a Man hanging on a cross almost 2,000 years ago thought: ‘The Christian religion is dissolved.’ But it was not so. It is true now as it was then. The end is the beginning.”

Today, in the twenty-first century, He is the central of figure of the human race, and the cornerstone of world progress.

John 3:16 reminds: “For God so loved the world that He gave His One and Only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

The late Jaime Cardinal Sin surmised, “Jesus on the Cross showed us how valuable mankind is.”

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

BIFF... FFROM 1

TRAFFIC. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 11 social welfare officer Pedrita Dimakiling, together with Child Alert’s Bernie Mondragon, discusses issues on human trafficking in time for the culmination of International Day Against Human Trafficking on December 12. Dimakiling and Mondragon graced yesterday’s Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo, Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

ter it picked up student passengers going home when the explosion took place a little past 6 p.m. on December 9.

The Public Affairs Information and Assistance Office (PAIA) of the provincial government identified the fatalities as Kim Lloyd Vallente, 16, of Malaybalay; Catherine Villahermosa, 28, of Valencia City, Bukidnon; Anecita Santillan, 21, of Dologon, Maramag; Jhon Bernard Cunahab; Jhon Rey Baldesco; Jonathan Balida, of Panadtalan, Maramag; Mariele Achacoso, 16, of Malaybalay; Glezyl Mae Gonzaga; Michael Bostos; and Johani Sususco.

PAIA head Hansel Echavez said the bomb exploded in the middle of the bus.

Last November 6, four

people were injured in another bombing of an RTMI bus also in Barangay Dologon in Maramag. Bus number 204 came from Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat and bound for Cagayan de Oro City.

Meanwhile, Task Force Davao commander Colonel Macairog Alberto said strict security measures will continue to be implemented in Davao City.

“We are still conducting strict checkpoint operation, foot patrol and other security measures to maintain the city peaceful,” Alberto said.

Alberto also reminded the public to cooperate with the authorities and to extend their patience if they experience delays due to the strict checkpoint operations. With a report from Walter I. Balane/MindaNews

it was already empty save for the 110 traces of cocaine.

Danao said police are monitoring other vans that

reach the city in partnership with Customs Police, Philippine Ports Authority, and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 11.

Last March, 61 bricks were seized in a Maersk container van also at the Sumifru compound.

high ranking officials in Mindanao.

He said in 2014, his office was able to dispose of 517 criminal cases and 435 administrative cases.

Under the criminal cases, 401 were dismissed and only 24 percent or 124 cases prospered and were filed in the court.

“Of the filed cases, 97

cases were filed in the regular court, while 17 were filed before the Sandiganbayan,” he said.

The cases involved 12 mayors, two congressman, one judge, one prosecutor, and 20 barangay treasurers from all over Mindanao.

“Common offenses among them are graft and corruption, malversation,

falsification, and violation of the code of ethical standards,” Elman said.

For the administrative case, the Ombudsman disposed a total of 435 cases, of which 329 were dismissed because no probable cause was found during the investigation, while the rest were filed and were penalized.

forts of the city government to instil discipline as well as to give value to the life of the motorists,” he said.

Zorrilla said among the traffic signs the company donated are road safety reminders and speed limits that will inform motorists on the designated speed limit in a particular area.

He said Phoenix spent P2 million for the project as part of its Corporate

Social Responsibility (CSR) program.

“As a responsible company, we are not just after the bottom line. It is also a way of giving back to the community that has loved us and from where we share our beginnings,” Zorrilla said.

He said the 105 signs donated last Monday were just the first phase, with 75 more to be given early next year.

Traffic Management Center (TMC) head Rhodelio Poliquit said the new signs donated by Phoenix will be installed in the pobalacion area because a large number of pedestrians and passengers converge there.

Polquit said TMC will install the signs immediately so that the old signs in the downtown area can be transferred to more distant areas.

[ABF]

hometown stories.

DPSA is a team competition open to all Filipinos. Registration and submission of entries are done online via the DPSA website. Deadline for entries is on December 21, 2014.

DPSA is supported by media partners Manila Bulletin, Philippine Star, Mindanao Times,

Sun.Star-Cebu, Tiger 22, and RMN (Cebu, Dumaguete, Davao, Iligan) and community partners Google Business Group-Baguio, Cebu Blogging Community, Iloilo Bloggers, Davao Bloggers, CDO bloggers, and Soccsksargen Bloggers.

DPSA is aligned with Smart’s digital inclusion

advocacy that aims to make technology and information accessible to all Filipinos. In tandem with Smart services such as Smart Free Internet and Wikipedia Zero, the company is promoting the responsible use of digital and mobile Internet technologies for community development and social good.

Missing... FFROM 2

DCWD... FFROM 7 DCWD closer to the tribe.

Todate, these corporate social responsibility programs and cooperative trainings and seminars are still continuously being provided by DCWD. On top of this assistance, according to the community, the most significant contribution of DCWD was the introduction of various sustainable livelihood opportunities.

DCWD provided the trainings and seedlings needed to start abaca, fruit trees, cacao, and rubber plantations.

The income that they get is enough to discourage them from leasing their lands to commercial banana growers.

The partner POs have already earned Php20,000 from the planted 2,000 abaca and Php30,000 from the grafted fruit trees since 2010 and 2007, respectively. The cacao seedlings, planted in 2013, are yet to bear fruits but promise to open new sustainable income generating prospects. But the big economic break came with the rubber tree farms.

In 2007, 20,800 rubber seedlings were planted in 50 hectares of land by DCWD’s 54 farmer beneficiaries and of these 13,520 survived.

Just this year, 2,500 trees were already ready for tapping and another 2,500 trees in 2005 and so on until 2018. It was estimated

that 250 rubber trees are expected to produce Php45,000.00 worth of rubber sap in a month or around Php500,000.00 in a year. The promised Php15,000.00 lease for every hectare of land by banana growers obviously fails in comparison.

With all these, it is no surprise that the tribal community has learned to trust and actively partnered with DCWD. Thus, on top of all the development experienced in the ObuManuvu community, DCWD and the POs were able to successfully rehabilitate 80 hectares inside the Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan project area and plant more than 6,250 Malibago seedlings along 25 kilometers of the riverbank which surpassed the 15.3 kilometers target.

In nine years’ time, DCWD was not only able to successfully restore denuded portions of Mt. TipologTamugan. It was also able to help improve the living conditions of its upland partners. During DCWD’s ceremonial turnover of rubber tapping tools donation last September 5, 2014, OMAD-MPC adviser and Obu Manuvu elder Datu Joel Unad expressed the gratitude of the ObuManuvu tribe to DCWD for its invaluable assistance.

He said that DCWD is the

low-up investigation is under way, he added.

Maguindanao Vice Gov. Datu Lester Sinsuat, a relative of the slain victim, immediately rushed to the

crime scene tonight as he vehemently condemned the killing.

The Sinsuat clan is one of the biggest political clans in Maguindanao.

Melchor V. Quitain to give the former rebels jobs.

The mayor said he plans to deploy the interested returnees to the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)

possibly as street sweepers.

CPDO officer-in-charge Marcelino Escalada Jr. said former rebels who are interested can have a 60 square meter lot.

Brgy... FFROM 3

37 Former... FFROM 3

only agency which sincerely helped the tribe by offering holistic assistance which encompassed education, health and livelihood.

Yet, DCWD does not take all the credit in this remarkable development.

The Php1.1 million donation given by the New Zealand Agency for International Development thru San Miguel Foundation along with the Php8.8 million from DCWD’s coffers helped finance all the rehabilitation activities in Mt. TipologTamugan. The support of the City Agriculturist’s Office, City Cooperative Development Office, City Veterinarian’s Office, Cooperative Development Authority, Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Trade and Industry, National Commission for Indigenous People, the local government unit and some nongovernment organizations were also very instrumental in DCWD’s endeavors.

At the end of the day, rehabilitation has spelled symbiosis for DCWD and the partner Obu-Manuvu tribe. Rehabilitation of Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan watershed has meant improvement in the lives of the upland people and assurance of water sustainability for the city of Davao.

Mindanao... FFROM 2

Phoenix... FFROM 2

Smart... FFROM 13 music video, documentary, short film, or an animation, and are mapped and made available online via www. doonposaamin.ph.

Now on its 7th year, DPSA is the biggest and longest running multimedia crowd-sourced community mapping activity in the country generating over 1,500

11 ICT HUB

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Team GameX Wargods bagged the League of Legends (LOL) championship at the recent Esports and Gaming Summit held at the SMX Convention Hall to become the top-ranked pro LOL team in the country. The team consists of (from left): Neil “vyy” San Juan; Ronel “Stronger” Tan; Jaiby “JLC” Paglingayen; Robert Conrad “Otchie” Pascual; and Kenneth Jordy “Skill” Garcia.

Globe is an official Kudos ICT partner of APEC T G LOBE Telecom takes in the important task of handling the information and communication technology requirements of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2015 to be hosted by the Philippines beginning this month until November next year.

As an official ICT partner for APEC, Globe is providing enhanced indoor and outdoor cellular and WiFi connectivity for all venues as well as infrastructure and on-site technical support.

Globe is also taking care of the mobile communication needs of the APEC National Organizing Council (APEC NOC).

“We are excited to be part of APEC and to share our services and facilities to make the meetings successful. We are doing this in support of the efforts by both the government and private sectors to look for ways to drive economic growth in the country and the region,” said YolyCrisanto, Globe Senior Vice President for Corporate Communications.

The communication facilities will be utilized during the 25 APEC meetings to be held in 18 venues nationwide, first of which is the Informal Senior Official’s Meeting which was moved from Legaspi City to Makati City due to the onslaught of Typhoon Ruby.

The meetings include

leaders of the various local government units and national government agencies such as, among others, the Office of the President, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of the Interior and Local Governments, Department of Tourism, Department of Finance, Department of Transportation and Communication, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Energy, Department of Agriculture, and Department of National Defense.

APEC is a forum for 21 Pacific Rim member economies that seeks to promote free trade and economic cooperation throughout the Asia-Pacific region to raise living standards and education levels through sustainable economic growth and to foster a sense of community and an appreciation of shared interests among Asia-Pacific countries.

APEC includes newly industrialized economies and aims to enable ASEAN economies to explore new export market opportunities for natural resources as well as to seek regional economic integration through foreign direct investment. Members account for approximately 40 percent of the world’s population, approximately 54 percent of the world’s gross domestic product and about 44 percent of world trade.

HERE is no stopping the Holy Child College of Davao – IT in bagging the Over – all champion cup of the recently concluded Mindanao Wide IT Olympiad, held at Holy Cross of Davao College last November 28, 2014. The IT program of Holy Child cut above the rest and made its way to the top, besting more than 20 able schools who competed in the different events of the IT Olympics.

The Mindanao Wide IT Olympiad is an event organized by the Council of Deans for IT Education in Region XI (CDITE-XI) and the Philippine Society of IT Educators-Region XI (PSITE-XI) with the participation of the Commission on

Champions!

Higher Education-Region XI (CHED-XI). This is held annually in a host school, this year, at Holy Cross of Davao College, Main Campus. To note, the different competitions participated by different schools in Mindanao, pave the way for the students to showcase their skills and competencies in the different fields of Information Technology.

Joining in diverse competitions which started 26th of November and ended on the 28th, the HCIT landed on a sweet spot in IT Quiz Bowl participated by Kathryn Faye Te Eng Fo and Jim Pendon, as champion among the 33 schools; champion in Hackathon participated

by Anthony King Valdez, Emmanuel John Tierra

and Reymbrant Alcantara, among 16 schools; champion in Infomercial participated by Ian Kristoffer Vasquez and Brian Earl Paje, out of 18 schools; and, champion in Infographics competed

by Edmund Jay Michael Rubin, Janssen Panizales, Joanna Lyn Labarite and Arvin John Magturo, out of the 24 competitors. While the Programming event competed

by Gerard Oesterdal, Samuel Jonne Bustamante and Carlo Aqui, pulled off a close fight against 33 schools placing 11th in the rank. A share of the lead is attributed to the coaches sphere-headed

by Mr. Regil De Castro, Mr. Alvin Mark Cabelino and Mr. Joash Tubaga.

Amidst trials and struggles in nailing this compe-

tition, the success can all be credited to the collaborative efforts of the IT academic lead, the flexible and vibrant faculty and coaches, the heads – up participants, and the whole HCIT community.

Having brought home the bacon, the Holy Child College of Davao – IT is gearing towards higher goals for the coming competitions so as to meet its statement, “When everybody becomes different, we become the standard; when everybody becomes standard, we become different.”

And, while there is so much bragging to say, the glory still belongs to God who made HCIT the champion amongst all.

Kudos champions!

[KADV 11302014]

TYPHOON RUBY UPDATE

Telco service fully restored in Visayas G

LOBE mobile coverage in many areas in the Visayas region has already been restored following intensified efforts of the telecommunication provider’s network operations team to fire up cell sites adversely affected by Typhoon Ruby.

“We are now approaching full restoration of cell sites impacted by Typhoon Ruby and in fact, we may restore a good number of our sites in Eastern Samar within the day,” Globe Senior Vice President for Corporate Communications Yoly Crisanto said.

In Eastern Visayas, mobile coverage has been restored in the towns of Guiuan, Hernani, Julita and Salcedo in Eastern Samar; Abuyog, Albuera, Barugo, Capoocan, Carigara, Isabel, Kananga, La Paz, Mahaplag, Matagob, Padre Burgos, Palo, Palompon, Saint Bernard, Tabontabon, Tanauan, Leyte and Ormoc and Tacloban Cities in Leyte, Crisanto said.

Globe also has restored mobile coverage in the towns of Allen, Catarman, Las Navas, Mondragon, Catubig, Palapag, Pambujan, San Roque, and San Isidro in North-

ern Samar; the towns of Anahawan, Hinunangan, Hinundayan, Macrohon, San Ricardo, Silago, Sogod, Tomas Oppus and Maasin City in Southern Leyte; Calbayog City, Pansanghan, Tagapul-an in Western Samar; and Culaba in Biliran.

In Cebu, Globe already achieved full restoration of telecommunication services Daanbantayan, Danao City, Lapu-Lapu City, Madrilejos, Medellin, Pilar, Poro, Bogo City, San Franscisco, Consolacion and Tabogon. Globe also has restored all sites in Pontevedra, President Roxas, Sapian, Altavas,

Ivisan, Mabusao, Roxas City in Capiz; Monreal, San Fernando, San Jacinto in Masbate, Bachawan, Espana, San Agustin, Santa Maria, Cambalo, Cajidiocan Marigondon, Azarga, Cambijang, Bagacay, Magdiwang, Sablayan, Tobigon, Hinagungan in Romblon; Buruanga, New Washington and Kalibo in Aklan.

Globe suffered no major outages in Southern Luzon and maintained most of the service disruptions in Visayas were due to power outages and transmission issues due to misalignment of antennas.

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

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FOOD

Tokyo Tokyo opens second Davao store

By Bai Fauziah Fatima Sinsuat Ambolodto

AUTHENTIC, affordable and delicious... these three seldom see each other, eye to eye, in the same sentence at the same time. Value for money is what we always look for; with Tokyo Tokyo opening its second branch in Davao, you need not look any further.

For years now, Tokyo Tokyo has been satisfying us Filipinos with their traditionally Japanese yet Filipino gastronomical experience. Davao is no exception. Since opening the flagship store at the SM Lanang Premier back in 2012, Davaoeños has been enjoying the many eats and flavors of Tokyo

Alone? Try any of their unbeatable BENTO Meals (PRAWN and VEGGIE Tempura is a definite must try!). Sharing with a friend? Order a SUMO Meal and together explore happiness in every bite - with unlimited rice and their signature Red Iced Tea. Satisfaction overload, right?

Tokyo, one bento meal at a time!

Tokyo Tokyo Marketing Manager Joan Optina enthusiastically stressed of their confidence in the growing Davao demand for Tokyo Tokyo Japanese cuisine. This in return validates that we are no longer afraid to venture and explore the many flavors of the world through our palette.

With more than 50 stores strategically scattered all throughout the country, everyone can now try the flavors of Japan minus the traveling costs. Step inside and you’ll be transported in a world of aroma and happiness. With its menu, you are sure to find one (or two!) for your satisfaction.

For years now, Tokyo Tokyo has been satisfying us Filipinos with their traditionally Japanese yet Filipino gastronomical experience.

If you think Tokyo Tokyo is only about California Maki, Tempura, Chicken Teriyaki and Tonkatsu, then you’ll be in for a surprise. Try Their SNACK BENTO and enjoy munching a on a juicy JapaDog or a delectable Mini Burger with their Nori-Wasabi Fries and signature Red Iced Tea. If

you want to go Japanese, then they always have a bowl of authentic Ramen and a plate of gyoza to satisfy you. Cold and sweet treats? They have them too. With five incredible flavors and super fine vanilla flavored ice , you’ll feel the tingling icy effect with every spoonful. Now, snack time need not be boring!

Visit Tokyo Tokyo at the ground floor of SM City Davao (SM Ecoland), fronting Healthy Options.

For the latest offerings, promos and business opportunities, like and follow their Facebook fanpage www.facebook.com/TokyotokyoPhilippines or follow them on instagram @ tokyotokyophilippines and twitter @TokyoTokyoPHL.

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UP AND ABOUT

Munchtown Diner finds its home at SM Lanang Premier A friendly joint that is the brainchild of celebrity Chef Robby Goco is now open at SM Lanang Premier.

Munchtown Diner, which has gained popularity in Metro Manila for its famous sliders, can now be found at Davao’s premier shopping, dining and lifestyle destination. Local restaurateur Carlo Lorenzana together with entrepreneur Marga Norgrales teamed up with Chef Robby, the creative genius behind Green Pastures, Tequila Joe’s, and Charlie’s Grind and Grill, among many others, in setting up Munchtown Diner’s first restaurant in Visayas and Mindanao.

Located at the 1st Level of The Fountain Court, Munchtown Diner is the go-to place for delicious comfort food that appeals to all ages. Chef Robby has curated the most flavorful dishes made of the freshest ingredients for Munchtown Diner.

Bestsellers such as the Black Angus burgers, Angus sliders, juicy hotdog smokies, French fried chicken, Mexican burrito bowl, taco salad topped with smoked meat, freshly baked pizzas, original Greek gyro, Canadian poutine fries and many more are guaranteed to whet your appetite. Top it all off with creamy, milk shakes in Oreo and Salted Caramel flavors and other luscious desserts for a more enjoyable gastronomic experience.

Satisfy your cravings at Munchtown Diner at SM Lanang Premier! For inquiries, contact (082) 285-1541 or visit Munchtown Diner’s account on Facebook. You may also check out SM Lanang Premier on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for news updates and store offerings.

Native Shoes to open specialty shoe store at SM City Davao PRIMER GROUP BRAND, Native Shoes, is opening its doors at SM City Davao before the year ends.

From its roots in Vancouver, Canada Native Shoes now has a global distribution in over 30 countries. Using comfortable lightweight materials in an array of colors, Native is creating designs for an everyday active lifestyle. It is a combination of superior construction and style for anybody, anywhere, anytime. The products are made of waterproof and odor resistant material making it wearable in summer, rainy season and even at the beach!

The shoes are inspired by classic and casual silhouettes and are made from foam injection molded ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). Its fans love it because it not only offers durability and comfort but updated style and designs as well.

Visit Native at the Ground Floor of SM City Davao. Like SM City Davao on Facebook or follow @SMCityDavao on Twitter and @SMDavao on Instagram for more store updates.

Celebrating Beauty with Shadz Cosmetics and Beauty Shop SAY GOOD-BYE to bad skin days and hello to a new glowing you! Introducing Shadz Cosmetics and Beauty Shop!

With a wide range of cosmetics, anti-ageing and whitening solutions readily available any time of the year, you would be rejuvenated without the hefty cost!

Choose from their extensive selection and glow from within. Shadz Cosmetics and Beauty Shop is the Authorized Distributor of Tokyo Love Soap and other popular Thailand and Japan beauty Products.

Visit their booth at the Davao Convention Centre on December 15 to 18 and be mesmerized! Now, looking beautiful is easy with Shadz! See you there!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

FOOD

A holistic experience at Sea Green Café and Lifestyle Shop CRADLED in the heart of downtown Davao is a café and lifestyle shop that transports you in the Hamptons any time of the day. Be it sunny, cloudy or rainy, this quaint shop will have you wanting a vacation in an instant.

Sea Green Café and Lifestyle Shop is more than just a café; it is place where your mind, body and soul is able to recharge from the hustle and bustle of city life. For one, they serve the most delicious seafood and greens on this side of the city. From appetizers to brunch meals, main course and dessert, their dishes are spot on delicious.

Aside from their cute clipboard menu, everything inside and about Sea Green Café and Lifestyle Shop is beautiful.

Look around and you’ll be treated to a wall of inspirational quotes, artworks and a shelf of local products and produce that are sold for a cause. From sweet raw ingredients to condiments to bags and essential oils, you can have a tour of Mindanao without leaving your seat.

For almost a year of feeding the people of Davao, both locals and foreigners, Sea Green Café and Lifestyle Shop has deSmoked Malasugue and Arugula is the perfect starter.

Try their Shrimp and Mango Avocado Burger and you’ll never look at burgers the same way again.

veloped a strong following and connection with their clients. From walk-ins to regulars, Sea Green Café and Lifestyle Shop is now becoming one of the most in demand places in town.

Of food and their deli-

cious creations, Sea Green Café and Lifestyle Shop is a product of love, passion and determination to make a difference. It being different makes it intriguing and more sought after by people who are willing to go the distance and experience quality and delicious food all under one roof.

Before the year ends, Sea Green Café and Lifestyle Shop adds another delicious masterpiece on their menu. With our craving for a slice (or two) of bread, they now have 4 freshly baked goodies that

will surely make your Sea Green experience even more delicious.

Give their Focaccia bread a try and you’ll be in for a treat. Have a bite of their Baguette and be transported in the streets of Paris in a snap. Grab a slice of their Carrot and Herb bread and taste the many flavors in your palate. If you want a gastronomic adventure, then their Yoghurt with Coconut Syrup bread is for you.

If you want good food, quality service and an ambiance to remember, head on to Sea Green Café and Lifestyle Shop at the Circumferential Road, Doña Vicenta Subdivision, Davao City. Operating hours are from 11:30 am to 10:00pm on Mondays until Saturdays and 10:30 am to 9:00 pm on Sundays.

They also deliver; call them at 082. 3054765. Browse their facebook fan page for the latest food news https:// www.facebook.com/seagreencafe!

Make #TheRoyalChef your Thursday habit! Follow and tag me on instagram (herroyalheiress) for your delicious pics and food finds!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

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ENTERTAINMENT

Going Bulilit Star Chacha Canete bags 2nd place in Europop 2014 Berlin CHACHA CANETE has proven that she is the little big star in Europop 2014 held in Berlin, Germany when she won 2nd place in the 10-13 age group category last November 28-30.

As the youngest and smallest delegate in the international singing competition, Chacha bested out 17 contestants in her category, the toughest group among the age brackets.

Chacha was declared the silver medal recipient after singing “The Impossible Dream” as her worldwide hit entry and “Wish” for her original song/national hit performance. “Wish” is Chacha’s original song that is part of her Bulilit Rockstar album. The combined

The Philippines was a big winner in Europop 2014 as other Filipino delegates also grabbed awards in other categories: Ana Katrina Ramsey (1st place, 18-24 division); Gleenete Gaddi (3rd place, 14-17 division) and Gian Marla Gloria (4th place, 18-24 division).

In the meantime, “Goin’ Bulilit” brings summer in

scores of the participants’ songs were added and tallied to determine the winners.

Known as a crowd

charmer, Chacha was one of the audience’s favorites and one of the most applauded delegates for her performances and during

December for this Sunday’s (December 14) second part episode of the Boracay special with our favorite segments ‘Umagang kay Bongga,’ ‘David Salon Spoof’ and ‘Sinetch si Itey.’

Don’t miss out on “Goin’ Bulilit” which airs after “TV Patrol Weekend” and “LUV U” which airs after “ASAP 19” on ABS-CBN Channel 2.

the announcement of winners. Chacha also earned a lot of praises from co-delegates and coaches during the competition.

Kris, Coco, Anne, and KathNiel recognized

by COMGUILD Academe Choice Award ABS-CBN emerged as the most awarded TV network at the recently held COMGUILD Academe’s Choice Awards after it earned nine out of the ten accolades given out during the event, including the Advertiser’s Friendly Television Network.

Queen of All Media Kris Aquino was named the Iconic Female Endorser, while Coco Martin and Anne Curtis were the Most Admired Male Endorser and Most Admired Female Endorser, respectively. Teen King and Queen Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo, meanwhile, were hailed as

the Most Loved Male and Female Teen Endorsers.

Morning program “Swak na Swak,” formerly known

as “Kabuhayang Swak na Swak,” was awarded the Best Entrepreneurial/ Business Show, while “My

Puhunan” anchor Karen Davila was the Best Entrepreneurial/Business Host.

Noontime show “It’s Showtime,” on the other hand, won as the Advertiser’s Friendly Noontime Show.

COMGUILD Academe’s Choice Awards commends the significant contribution of Filipino endorsers, entrepreneur shows, and hosts in the field of entrepreneurship, business, marketing, and advertising. Awardees of the said award-giving body are voted by students and members of the academe from various colleges and universities in the Philippines.

The Sottos share their Christmas family traditions WORKING MOM’S holiday issue gives you a peek on how the Sotto family celebrates Christmas as Ciarra Sotto and husband Jojo share what it’s like to prep up as first-time parents while Danica Sotto and Mark reveal their secret on their seven year wedding bliss. Tito Sotto and Helen Gamboa, one of the entertainment industries’ long standing marriages, also chat with Working Mom about love, respect, and fulfillment through the years.

Working Mom’s December 2014 issue also showcases 60 plus ways to have a fun and meaningful Christmas celebration and gives the scoop on the secrets of savvy moms during Christmas shopping. The holiday issue is also packed with tips on how to ace the holiday #OOTD as you and your kid take a memorable Christmas selfie.

Meanwhile, kids will also love Bar-

puts a twist to the classic Bingo game with a Christmas Bingo that kids can play with their best friend.

With all these and more, don’t forget to grab copies of ABS-CBN Publishing’s holiday issues of Working Mom and Barbie magazines available at your favorite newsstands today!

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 1 Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson

PG 13

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

PAST TENSE Kim Chiu, Aiai Delas Alas, Xian Lim

bie magazine’s holiday issue. Barbie teaches how to add an extra touch while wrapping gifts with pretty gift tags. Barbie has also prepared a gift wish list where kids can just tick off the Barbie items that they want to receive from mommy and daddy this Christmas. Inside this issue, Barbie

GP

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

THE PYRAMID Ashley Hinshaw, Denis O'Hare James Buckley, Daniel Amerman

R 13

R-16

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

EXODUS: GODS AND KINGS Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton John Turturro, Aaron Paul

PG13

1:00 | 4:00 | 7:00 | 10:00 LFS

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EVENT

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Jenson Land and Realty Development Corporation’s Mini Olympics 2014

By Bai Fauziah Fatima Sinsuat Ambolodto

SYMBOLIZING the Olympic spirit of never-ending peace, harmony, sportsmanship and camaraderie, Jenson Land and Realty Development Corporation, its employees, management and Golden Mindanao Global Holding Company held a Mini Olympics to the satisfaction of everyone.

Jenson Land and Realty Development Corporation is a home and realty development corporation that has been making Davao City one of the most sought after living destination in the world. With years under its belt, JLRDC has proven itself to be a leading realty company in its industry.

Opening the event was a grand parade participated by all. With the sun on high alert, everyone came in ready to join the games and create memories with their companions. Truly, it was a display of happiness and colors unlike any other.

Engr. Noi Bajada, who formally opened the

event, made everyone excited by the minute. Like the heralds who used to tease the great Greek audience during a sporting event, there too were torches ignited to symbolize peace and success. Assisting the bearers was Sir Nelson Chua that made the event even more festive.

As the great Gods and Goddesses look upon the crowd through the radiance of the sun, a word of commitment, or an Oath of Sportsmanship, was lead by Sir Randy Arcena. Expressing commitment to fair play and merrymaking, everyone in attendance promised to make this glorious event peaceful and fun.

And it turned out better than expected.

In every sporting event, aside from the games, a banner contest always gets the crowd hyper. With its mechanics discussed, banners representing the different teams were showcased with a downpour of accolades from all sides of the field.

The day was greeted with much excitement and anticipation that made it all the more special. From cheers, defeats and triumphs, everyone was in awe of the honor to partake in an event as grand as this. Truly, the Greek God Zeus himself is honored for the inundation of tribute and admiration given to him!

To all the winners, congratulations!

COMPETITIVE EDGE 13

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Smart program promotes LGU-community collaboration I

N Barobo, a small municipality in Surigao del Sur, a group of students and teachers is inspiring change and action in their community through online videos and content.

A coastal municipality bounded by Lianga Bay on the north, and by the Pacific Ocean on the east, Barobo is home to rich marine life and other natural resources. Unfortunately, illegal fishing and illegal mining activities became rampant in the area which degraded the land, waters, and natural habitats of Barobo.

Students from Barobo National High School (BNHS) have taken it upon themselves to raise public awareness about these issues through Doon Po Sa Amin (DPSA), an annual community mapping competition being held by Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) since 2008.

Their activity has not only created awareness but it has also prompted the local government to take on a proactive stance on environmental issues.

Affecting change in the community

BNHS has been consistently placing in DPSA from the very beginning, except in year 5 when they weren’t able to participate in the contest. But what the team considers as their biggest accomplishment is the positive impact of their DPSA project to their community.

“Our DPSA entries are already recognized in the community. When we published our entry to DPSA Year 2, Sumbada: Buhay Lambat, featuring our local fishing industry, our local government subsequently pushed for a strict implementation of local ordinances and national laws concerning municipal waters protection,” said Alex Mistula, BNHS ICT Coordinator. Sumbada is an illegal method of fishing which uses fine mesh nets and active gears.

For the DPSA Year 3, the BNHS entry was about their local mining industry urging the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the LGU to conduct water sampling on the areas that the team had helped identify to

be contaminated with mercury and cyanide. The local government also intensified the regulation of local mining operations.

As a result of the active collaboration between BNHS DPSA team and the local government for DPSA, Mistula eventually became a member of the local tourism council which he is still a part of.

“I was chosen by the LGU to become a member of the Tourism Council because of my active involvement in community-related projects starting with DPSA year 1, back in 2008. All our DPSA entries became sources of information for the LGU’s programs,” shared Mistula.

Empowering the youth Being part of the change in their community, the students are becoming more responsible and empowered citizens. Mistula shared that the participating BNHS students felt more accountable for every development in their community. “They become more aware of their social responsibility,” he said.

Mistula also added that

Students and teachers from BNHS interview local fisherfolks for their Doon Po Sa Amin entry about the state of Barobo municipal waters.

DPSA boosted their students’ confidence as they learn new skills such as photography, photo and video editing, and mapping.

Going out to do research and interview their townsfolk and some local government officials, the students also enhanced their people skills, while having fun at the same time.

“One of the things I like with DPSA is the adventure.” said Nhorlex Balbin, one of the members of BNHS DPSA team last year.

She enjoyed going out of the community with her team-

mates, learning new things while having fun.

Enabling communities “At Smart, our advocacy from the very beginning is to enable communities through technology. This is why we are very happy to know that through DPSA, we are able to connect citizens and the local government and help them work together for the advancement of their community,” said Smart Public Affairs Group Head Ramon Isberto.

BNHS and the local government continue to work

hand in hand to address the needs of the community. Last year, the school did a music video entitled Dali nagdi sa Barobo (Come visit Barobo) for DPSA featuring the diverse seafood available in their place.

DPSA is an annual search for the best hometown stories which can be about a town’s history, traditions, festivals and activities, places to visit, notable people, unique plants and animals, special delicacies, and local products. The stories are presented through

F SMART, 10

SPORTS DAVAO 14 EDGE Sports

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

TOP PERFORMERS. The Philippines’ Ronnie Alcano (top), Germany’s Thorsten Hohmann (lower photo), and USA’s Shane Van Boening led the march of favorites in the ongoing MP Philippine Cup International 10-Ball tournament in Gen. Santos City.

BIG NAMES, BIG GAMES Favorites hold sway in MP PH Cup International 10-Ball

T

HE favorites continued to stamp their class against local aces sorely lacking in experience and savvy as the MP Cup Philippine Open 10-Ball Championship entered its second day of eliminations Tuesday at the SM City Mall here.

Defending singles champion and World No. 7 Thorsten Hohmann towed other winners and big-name players Shane Van Boening, the world No. 3 from the United States and Mika Immonen of Finland, ranked 16th into the next round.

120 players from 10

countries are still battling it out in the tournament offering $150,000 in cash prizes bankrolled by billiards enthusiast and player and 8-division boxing champion Manny Pacquiao, who is celebrating his 36th birthday on the 17th of December.

Van Boening, traveling to Asia for the first time, had to fight off jet lag with a hard-earned 9-7 victory over local bet Archie Ygloria, in stark contrast to the effortless 9-1 win of compatriot Rodney Morris over Raymond Faraon.

Wednesday’s pairings will be harder as Immonen

faces unpredictable Antonio Lining and Hohmann taking on the challenge of Arnel Bautista. Ahmad Taufiq battles Alex Lumpay among other featured matches.

Other winners advancing into the next round include Ronnie Alcano, Ramil Gallego, Roberto Gomez, Francisco “Django” Bustamante, among others.

Minor upsets included wins by Jech Lima over Mohammad Zulfikri of Indonesia, 9-6, William Mijares beating Gandy Valle, 9-7, and relatively unknown Edwin Gamas shocking Jordan Legaspi, 9-1.

the team’s record. Now 4-19, they are off to the worst start franchise history.

Jackson, a Hall of Famer who has won a record 13 NBA titles as a player and coach, was named president of the Knicks in March.

In June, Derek Fisher reunited with his old mentor as the team’s new head coach, saying he wanted to revive a championship culture in New York.

It’s been slow going, and Jackson said that while the Knicks have often been competitive in games “Right now we have a loser’s mentality because we’re not finishing games. We have to break through that zone.”

Even eccentric exNBA star Dennis Rodman weighed in on the Knicks on Tuesday, saying he felt for his former coach Jackson and denigrating Fisher’s coaching ability.

“I don’t know what’s up with that team,” Rodman said on a publicity trip to New York.

Contemplating Jackson’s comments, Anthony said he didn’t necessarily agree with the assessment, but he thought he understood what Jackson meant.

“When it comes to having a loser’s mentality,” Anthony said, “what I can take from that, I think when you lose games consistently the same way that we’re losing games, I think it’s easy to get accustomed to kind of trying not to lose rather than trying to win games.

“I think that’s where we’re at as a team right now.

“I don’t like to lose,” he added. “I know we don’t have a losing mentality. I just know that when you’re losing basketball games, it’s easier to figure out how not to lose than it is how to win games.”

Knicks extend losing funk to 9 I

F New York Knicks president Phil Jackson hoped calling out the team for a “loser’s mentality” would spark a quick turnaround, he was in for disappointment on Tuesday.

Tyreke Evans scored 27 points and the New Orleans Pelicans put together a strong fourth quarter to beat the Knicks 104-93, handing New York a ninth straight NBA defeat.

Evans netted eight points and Omer Asik had seven during a fourth quarter in which New Orleans outscored New York 27-20.

Amare Stoudemire scored a season-high 26 points for New York, but Carmelo Anthony was held to a subdued 17 that included just two points in the final period.

The game came a day after Jackson told reporters he was “pretty disappointed” in

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

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15

Bolts arrange QFinals duel with Purefoods T

HE Meralco Bolts claimed the last twice-to-beat slot in the quarterfinals with a 9280 victory over GlobalPort Batang Pier, Tuesday night at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay.

John Wilson and Gary David made key shots in the end game while Sean Anthony and Cliff Hodge gave the Bolts much-needed energy and crucial stops.

A corner triple from Wilson gave the Bolts a 7365 advantage with less than three minutes left in the game but Anthony Semerad replied with a long two on the other side to keep the Batang Pier alive.

However, this attack was the last in a long while for GlobalPort as they failed to hit the rim in their next four possessions. The Batang Pier committed two turnovers, had a blocked attempt, and shot an airball in following plays.

During this stretch, David made a difficult jumper and added two free throws with 1:11 left in the game, which gave Meralco a commanding 77-67 lead.

Hodge was named the Best Player of the Game with 15 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and two steals.

Anthony led Meralco in scoring with 16 points while Wilson and David added 13 each.

Stanley Pringle led GlobalPort with 19 points, nine rebounds, and three assists but he was not used a lot in the end game. Alex Cabagnot added 18 markers for their side but Terrence Romeo struggled with only nine points.

With the win, Meralco sets up a showdown with the Purefoods Star Hotshots.

The Bolts will be holding the twice-to-beat advantage against the defending Philippine Cup champions.

GlobalPort on the other

had will hold a twice-to-win predicament in their quarterfinals matchup against the Barangay Ginebra Kings on Friday.

The Main Man: Hodge was all over the court for Meralco as he worked hard on defense and offense.

He had a key block and rebound against Romeo which helped them seal the win.

Honorable Mentions: Anthony, David, and Wilson shared the load on offense with Hodge as they combined for 42 points.

Game Turning Point: GlobalPort had a stretch of four possessions without even hitting the rim. On the other side, David stepped up with key baskets to give Meralco a 10-point lead with 1:11 left in the game.

Stat of the Game: Meralco shot a steady 40% from the field compared to only 32% for GlobalPort He Said It: Meralco head coach Norman

just six, 19-13, after the first 12 minutes.

But San Miguel blew the game wide open with a 31-18 margin in the second period, pushing their lead to 19, points, 50-31, at the break.

They opened the period with a 13-2 run – all of the points coming from the San Miguel bench – to make it 32-15 before Marcio Lassiter caught fire later in the quarter, knocking down three three-pointers in another 13-2 blast that turned it into a 25-point game, 4722.

The Beermen had four players – Lassiter, Fajardo, Mercado and

Arwind Santos – leading the way with nine points apiece.

San Miguel kept it going in the third, again outscoring Blackwater to make it 70-45.

Blackwater showed some signs of life early in the fourth, but Tubid snuffed out the Elite’s comeback hopes by scoring nine unanswered points.

He hit a three-pointer from the corner, stole the ball and cruised for a transition basket and earned back-to-back trips to the line for four free throws as San Miguel’s lead ballooned to 30, 81-51.

Beermen clinch outright semis

IN TRAFFIC. Cleveland Cavaliers' LeBron James (23) shoots against Toronto Raptors' Landry Fields in the first quarter of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

James keys Cavs win over Raptors

L

EBRON James scored 35 points, making the tiebreaking 3-pointer with 48 seconds remaining, and the Cleveland Cavaliers rallied to beat the Toronto Raptors 105-101 on Tuesday night for their eighth straight victory.

James’ jumper from the top of the key gave Cleveland a 102-99 lead and tied him with Mark Price for the franchise record for 3-pointers at 802.

James scored 10 points

in the fourth quarter as Cleveland rallied from a 10-point deficit early in the period. Dion Waiters came off the bench for 18 points and Kevin Love added 17.

Jonas Valanciunas and Terrence Ross each scored 18 for Toronto. Kyle Lowry added 16, but only scored two in the fourth quarter as he was hounded defensively

by Cavaliers guard Matthew Dellavedova.

Following Lowry’s missed shot that hit the top

of the backboard, James added a free throw with 14.2 seconds remaining for a four-point lead. Ross’ dunk on an offensive rebound with 4.2 seconds left made it 103-101, but Kyrie Irving’s two free throws with 3.8 seconds left sealed the win.

Trailing 95-85 early in the fourth quarter, Cleveland went on a 10-2 run and tied the game on Love’s 3-pointer with 3:50 remaining.

mode and the competitions,” Czech-born American Navratilova told the WTA website.

“I was delighted when Agnieszka asked me if I would collaborate with Tomasz and I can’t wait to get started.”

The 25-year-old Radwanska, who lost to Serena Williams in the 2012 Wimbledon final, claimed one tour title in 2014 before reaching the semis of the WTA Tour finals in Singapore, where she lost 6-2 6-2 to Simona Halep.

By following the trend set by players such as Novak Djokovic

and Roger Federer, who work with former greats Boris Becker and Stefan Edberg respectively, world number six Radwanska hopes the appointment of Navratilova will have a positive impact.

“Her achievements speak for themselves and I hope that I can learn from all her experience,” Radwanska said.

“My goal is to win a grand slam, so to have someone with Martina’s accomplishments in my corner is going to be hugely advantageous and give me a big boost.”

T

HE San Miguel Beermen clinched the second outright semifinal spot after a rout of expansion team Blackwater, 91-62, finishing the PBA Philippine Cup eliminations with a 9-2 record on Tuesday at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.

Ronald Tubid scored 18 points and Sol Mercado added 15, both off the bench, to lead San Miguel in the 29-point rout.

June Mar Fajardo, last season’s MVP, has 14 points, nine rebounds and four blocks.

Blackwater kept things fairly close in the first quarter, trailing by

Radwanska upbeat with ‘supercoach’

P

OLAND’S Agnieszka Radwanska hopes to win the first grand slam title of her career after appointing 18-times grand slam champion Martina Navratilova as her new “supercoach”.

The 58-year-old Navratilova, one of the game’s all-time greats with 59 grand slam singles, doubles and mixed doubles titles to her name, will work alongside Radwanska’s full-time coach Tomasz Wiktorowski.

“I did not sleep very well last night (Monday), thinking about getting back into match

UPBEAT. With legendary tennis star Martina Navratilova as coach, Agnieszka Radwanska is looking at grand slam glory.

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 193 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014