Edge Davao 7 Issue 218

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

GLOBAL WINNERS. Belle Angeline Aurelio holds her entry titled “My vision” that won second prize in the World Food Day Poster Contest on October 16, 2014. She and her brother Darryl Doie, who got the first place for his work titled “The role of the family,” were commended by the Davao City Council during yesterday’s regular session. See story on page 2. Lean Daval Jr.

NO CAMS IN BUSES Mayor nixes proposal to install CCTVs in buses

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

D

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte does not support the proposal made by Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) head Francisco Villaroman to require all buses plying in the city to install closed circuit television (CCTV) Cameras.

In an interview at the

Composetela Valley Provincial Capitol grounds on Monday, Duterte said Villaroman’s proposal should be done by the national government and not the local government unit.

“Kung ngari siyudad naa tay ana nga balaod, pag gawas kay wala man pud ana (We may have a

law like that in our city, but once outside the city those laws are not applicable),” he said.

“That is a very discriminatory one,” the mayor added.

Duterte said it is the Land Transportation and Franchising Board (LTRFRB) that should impose the mandatory installa-

tion of CCTV cameras in buses since is in charge of the issuance of franchises.

He said if the city enacts an ordinance making it mandatory for bus owners, it would probably be declared unconstitutional since no local law can supersede a national law.

“Those powers are

FNO, 10

INSIDE EDGE SHARAPOVA ADVANCES AT AUSTRALIAN OPEN SPORTS page 15

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

WAITING FOR A BREAK. An exhausted street vendor selling cartoon character-inspired accessories falls asleep as he waits for the break time of students of the Kapitan Tomas Monteverde Elementary School in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Danny changes mind on Dacudao trees T

Siblings commended for winning poster tilt

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

D

abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang yesterday withdrew his opposition to the cutting of some trees along Dacudao Avenue.

His withdrawal came a day after Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte said it is the decision of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) that must prevail and not Dayanghirang’s.

In yesterday’s regular session, Dayanghirang asked councilor Leo Avila,

the chair of the committee on environment and natural resources, to archive his resolution opposing the cutting of 22 of the 672 trees in the area after he heard the explanation of CENRO head Engineer Elisa Madrazo.

The City Council had invited Madrazo to shed light on the issue as requested

by Dayanghirang during last week’s session.

Madrazo explained to Dayanghirang that the 22 trees need to be removed

RIAS nixes motion to bar media from Danao case

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

T

HE Regional Internal Affairs Services (RIAS) 11 of the Philippine National Police (PNP) has denied the motion to exclude the public, including the media, from the proceedings of the case of Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Director Senior Superintendent Vicente Danao Jr. and wife.

RIAS 11 summary hearing officer Lawyer Nestor Fernandez said both parties had agreed upon the motion, which was filed by way of manifestation, during the pre-hearing conference yesterday morning.

RIAS, however, denied the motion.

Fernandez said it was

FRIAS, 10

because they are already infested by termites.

“Some of them are not in good status anymore.

Some are already dead trees, some are already leaning on the railings in the drainage, and some are really rotten, the body has cracks already,” she said.

Madrazo said CENRO is pushing the cutting of the trees as a matter of public safety since they might collapse and possibly hurt motorists or damage cars plying in the area.

The CENRO had made an assessment on the trees in October last year and came up with the recommendation to cut the 22 trees. CENRO then asked the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for a permit since there is a Presidential Decree prohibiting the cutting of trees.

Madrazo said the removal of trees in the area will also give way to the proposal of Task Force

OMPOSTELA Valley Provincial Rehabilitation Center warden Jose Mervin Coquilla, who was freed by the New People’s Army last Monday after almost a month in captivity, vowed to address the drug problem inside the jail.

“We will now look for a way to address that problem in our detention facility,” Coquilaa told reporters in an interview at the Compostela Valley provincial capitol where Mayor Rodrigo Duterte took him after

his release by the NPA. The NPA had earlier said Coquilla was taken into custody in order to subject him to an investigation on various complaints, including “overt and covert participation of drug trade and drug use inside the Comval jail.”

Coquilla was taken from his carwash business near his house in barangay Sto. Niño in Panabo City at around 7:45 a.m. on December 23. The NPA released him last Monday as an act of

FDANNY, 10

HE Davao City Council yesterday commended two young Dabawenyo artists who each won top prizes in an international poster-making contest last year.

In a privilege speech in yesterday’s regular session, committee on education, science and technology, arts and culture chair councilor Maria Belen S. Acosta recognized the respective victories of siblings Darryl Doie Aurelio and Belle Angeline Aurelio for winning the World Food Day Poster Contest held by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO-UN) on October 16, 2014.

Acosta said the FAOUN accepted entries from children around the globe under three age categories: 5 to 8 years old, 9 to 12 years old, and 13 to 17 years old.

“Daryl and Belle Angeline have made our city and our country proud by creating beautiful works of art and sharing their talent to the international community,” she said.

“The hard work of these young artists deserve to be commended and further encouraged,” she added.

Acosta said the siblings belonged to the 9-12 category. “They won the category, coming out on the top of artists from

goodwill and “to help propel the immediate resumption of the Government of the Philippines (GPH)-NDFP peace negotiations.”

Coquilla said while in captivity, the NPA had asked him to solve the drug problem in the rehabilitation center.

“Tungod kana sa setup nato sa rehabilitation center nga duha sad kabuok ang atong rehab. center sa usa ka lugar (It is because of our setup in the rehabilitation center that we have two re-

habilitation facility in one place),” he said.

The Compostela Valley Provincial Rehabilitation Center is beside the Davao del Norte Provincial Rehabilitation Center.

Coquilla said despite the preventive measures and strict security he has been implementing, the problem still prevailed.

Coquilla also said 50 percent of the population in his detention facility have drug cases. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

FSIBLINGS, 10

Freed warden vows to fix drug problem C

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS

3

Another NGCP tower bombed L

ESS than a week after a bomb toppled a transmission tower of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines in Maguindanao, another blast damaged a tower in Pikit town in North Cotabato on Sunday evening.

The explosion damaged NGCP’s post 41 in Barangay Batulawan, Pikit, North Cotabato at 8:10 p.m. Sunday, according to Insp. Sindato Karim, Pikit police chief.

The blast caused black-

outs in North Cotabato, Maguindanao and Cotabato City.

Police said initial investigation showed that two 81mm mortar projectiles connected to a 9-volt battery and cellular phone as triggering device were used in the bombing.

Authorities blamed the incident on the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. But the BIFF said it only attacks military targets. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/MindaNews)

Blast preempted in North Cotabato A

VILLAGE leader prevented a bombing attempt here by quickly reporting to the nearest police detachment, about 12 hours after another improvised bomb went off in Kabacan town, also in North Cotabato.

Senior Inspector Donald Gabico, Pigcawayan police chief, said an improvised bomb was found by Barangay South Manuangan purok leader Godofredo Piala left by two men on a motorbike at a roadside at 6 a.m. Tuesday.

Piala asked the two men why they left the sack at the roadside but they quickly fled.

This prompted Piala to check on the sack and found it contained a mortar, a cellphone and electrical wiring.

He immediately alerted the police detachment about 100 meters away.

After confirming it was an IED, Gabico said bomb experts detonated the bomb at past 8 am. The highway linking Cotabato City and Davao City was shut down for about two hours.

About 12 hours earlier, a cashier of a restaurant inside

Kabacan public market saw a man hurriedly leave after putting a huge cellophane containing merchandize in one of the market stalls and hurriedly.

She checked the cellophane and saw that it contained concrete nails, a cellphone and chemical concealed with rice, cream bread and other items.

She told the market guard who in turn alerted the police.

Chief Inspector Ernor Mergalejo, Kabacan police chief said, the bomb went off while bomb experts were about to disarm it at 6 p.m.

Monday. No one was hurt as the area had been evacuated.

No one has claimed responsibility for the twin bombing attempts.

Earlier, two separate bombing incidents occurred in Pikit, North Cotabato that toppled down two transmission towers of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines and sent Maguindanao, parts of North Cotabato and Cotabato City into darkness.

(Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/MindaNews)

WO moderate earthquakes struck the provinces of Tawi-Tawi and Davao Oriental on Tuesday, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

In its bulletin, the agency said the first quake with a magnitude of 5.6 occurred at 1:19 a.m. with its epicenter traced 15 kilometers southwest of Simunul in Tawi-Tawi.

Phivolcs said the tectonic quake, which had a depth of 35 kilometers, was felt at Intensity 4 in Simunul, Bongao and Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi, and Siasi, Sulu.

Intensity 3, on the other hand, was recorded in Languyan, Tawi-Tawi and Maim-

bung, Sulu.

At 11:02 a.m., another tremor with a magnitude of 5.0 hit Davao Oriental with its epicenter estimated at 185 kilometers southeast of Governor Generoso town.

The quake, which was also tectonic in origin, had a depth of 45 kilometers.

Phivolcs said there was no damage reported from both tremors but aftershocks were expected.

The agency said that an average of 20 earthquakes hit the country daily since the Philippines lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are frequent due to friction between shifting tectonic plates. (PNA)

Two quakes strike Tawi-Tawi, DavOr T

NEEDED LAWS. Acting presiding officer councilor Leonardo Avila (third from right) receives on behalf of the City Council 10 proposed environment ordinances from the second year law students of the Ateneo de Davao University College of Law led by Emiko Escovilla (second from left) during yesterday’s regular session. Lean Daval Jr.

4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

P25-M relocation site done by 2nd quarter

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

T

crc@edgedavao.net

HE city government of Davao is targeting to finish the P25-million land development project for the second phase of Los Amigos Relocation Area located in Tugbok District by the second quarter of the year.

Roy Ryan Rigor, officer-in-charge of Housing and Homesite Development-City Planning and Development Office (HHD-CPDO), said the development will be on a seven-hectare area that will be become the city’s next relocation site for informal settlers.

“Hopefully, if the land development of Phase II is completed we will be able to set up an additional relocation site in the area,” Rigor said.

He said the land devel-

Deputy Ombudsman for Mindanao lawyer Rodolfo M. Elman

opment project for the second phase of Los Amigos includes the construction of a drainage system and road networks.

Rigor said Phase II of the project will have a total of 511 lots with a minimum of 60 square meters and up to 112 square meter lot area located at corner blocks.

He said the second phase of the development project for Los Amigos is small compared with Phase 1 which has a total land area of 13 hectares and 832 lots.

The total lot area in the first phase’s more than 650 units are already occupied, including the houses constructed by the National Housing Authority (NHA).

Mindanao Ombudsman DMEMS processing sacks 42 corrupt workers permit for dorms

By ANTONIO M. AJERO

T

HE fight against graft and corruption in the government continued in earnest in Mindanao in 2014, resulting in the Deputy Ombudsman for Mindanao being able to dismiss from the government service a total of 42 erring employees during the year.

This was bared by Deputy Ombudsman Rodolfo M. Elman in a speech titled “The State of War versus Corruption” delivered before officers and members of the Rotary Club of East Davao yesterday.

The dismissals, averaging three cases per month, were part of the 512 administrative cases resolved by his office as of December, Elman said.

“We were able to successfully meet our target of disposing all 2010 and earlier docketed administrative and criminal cases,” he said, adding that also disposed were a total of 1,109 cases as of 12 December 2014, leaving only 979 pending cases, the lowest since 2000.

Elman said that 2014 has been a good year to the Office

Escape plan of Abu in Zambo jail foiled

B

UREAU of Jail Management and Penology personnel on Monday foiled a plan by suspected Abu Sayyaf members to escape from a detention facility in this city.

Chief Insp. Julius Arro, warden of the Zamboanga City Reformatory Center (ZCRC), said Tuesday the plan was foiled following the confiscation of three caliber .45 pistols and 140 rounds of ammunition delivered to a suspected Abu Sayyaf detainee.

Arro said two of the three pistols were hidden beneath one of the two home-made concrete charcoal stoves, while the

third one and the ammunition were brought to the ZCRC around 11 a.m.

Monday.

“Well cemented. No matter how you flip it over you can’t see what’s inside,” he said of the charcoal stoves.

The police official said they took back the two stoves for further scrutiny after the intended receiver, whose identity was withheld, acted suspiciously upon receiving the items.

He said when they opened the bottom of the two stoves “right there and then we found the hidden guns and ammu-

FESCAPE, 10

of the Ombudsman headed

by Justice Conchita Carpio Morales.

He said case dispostition has been gaining momentum with the Ombudsman surpassing the 6,691 cases resolved in 2013, with no backlog cases docketed in 2010 and earlier.

Also he had served in the Office of the Ombudsman for 25 years, Elman was sworn in as deputy Ombudsman for Mindanao by Justice Morales only last March 20,2014, a promotion from his position of Assistant Ombudsman for

Mindanao.

In 2014, he said his office was also able to recruit eight young lawyers to serve officers (GIPOs), three other lawyers as confidential staff assigned in the review team assisting the deputy Ombudsman office, and still another lawyer assigned to the Field Investigation Office (FIO).

“I am honored to say that all these positive developments at the Office of the Ombudsman came about under the term of Ombudsman Morales,” Elman said.

T

HE Davao Medical Education Management Service (DMEMS) is already processing the business permits of its three dormitories that house Indian students from Davao Medical School Foundation (DMSF).

Speaking to reporters yesterday, Business Bureau officer-in-charge Lawrence Bantiding said DMEMS staff member visited his office last Monday to apply for business permits.

However, he said the bureau was not able to issue a business permit to DMEMS because it did not have sufficient documents required for the

FP25-M, 10

application.

“I think DMEMS lacks lease of contract for the three dorms,” he said. The three dormitories are located in Bajada, Jacinto Street, and near Bankerohan.

Batinding said DMEMS will also pay surcharges if it is not able to secure its permit before the end of the renewal period, which was scheduled yesterday.

He also said DMEMS will pay 25 percent surcharge for 2014 and 2015 if it is not able to have its mayor’s permit.

Batinding said he does not have information on whether

FDMEMS, 10

TREE TALK. City administrator Melchor Quitain (right) discusses with Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang (left, back to camera) and Task Force Drainage (TFD) head Yusop Jimlani the cutting of some trees along Dacudao Avenue just before the start of yesterday’s regular session at Sangguniang Panlungsod session hall. Lean Daval Jr.

5 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

Biz permit renewal: 30K and counting

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

T

crc@edgedavao.net

HE Business Bureau recorded 30,037 applications for business permit renewal as of Monday, although the figure is expected to increase as business owners rushed to beat the January 20 deadline imposed by the City Government of Davao.

But, compared to the previous days, the Business Bureau noted a lesser number of last-minute applications for business permit renewal Tuesday, the last day of the 18-day business renewal period for 2015.

Atty .Lawrence Bantiding, Business Bureau officer-in-charge, said they are expecting to receive at least 500 applications for business permit renewal by midnight Tuesday.

Bantiding said last-minute applicants are avoiding the 25 percent surcharge to be imposed starting today.

“At the rate we are going, I think we can still cater to at least 500 applications for renewal by midnight,” Bantiding told Edge Davao.

He said that last year, a total of 1,168 businesses applied on the last day “This only means that

LGUs adopt streamlined BPLS scheme

A

S of December 2014, all the eight municipalities and three cities in the province of Davao del Norte are already adopting the streamlined Business Process and Licensing System (BPLS) according to a survey conducted by the National Competitiveness Council in the same year.

BPLS refers to the procedures followed by cities and municipalities in processing business permit applications (more commonly known as Mayor’s Permit) which must be secured by a businessman to operate legally in a certain locality. It is a joint project of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) which was launched last 2011 with a primary goal of improving the ease of starting and doing business in the country by simplifying and harmonizing the process of securing business permits and licenses.

The key features of the national BPLS standards set forth in the DTI-DILG Joint Memorandum Circular includes adoption of the BPLS Unified Form, reduction in the number of signatories, limiting the number of steps to a maximum of five and reduced processing time to five days for new applications and less than a day for renewals.

there’s still a huge number of applicants who tried to apply on the last day,” he added.

The Business Bureau head said the decrease in the number of last-minute applicants is a welcome development because this only means that enterprise owners in Davao City are becoming more aware of the annual business permit renewal scheduled every January.

He also said that this year’s information campaign, Bantiding said, was more effective compared to previous efforts of the Business Bureau in raising public awareness regarding the annual business permit renewal.

Bantiding said that of the 35,000 business establishments expected to renew their mayor’s permit, 30,037 were able to apply for renewal as of Monday. The largest bulk of applicants with a total number of 2,537 were recorded on January 9.

The Business Bureau also recorded 321 new applications for business permit.

The new system of receiving applicants eased the Business Bureau in accepting

DEADLINE BEATERS. Entrepreneurs in Davao City who chose to process the renewal of their business permits on the last day of renewal form a long queue at

FBIZ, 14 the lobby of Sangguniang Panlungsod building yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

Dad eyes lending institutions to boost city’s micro business

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

D

crc@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Councilor Jimmy T. Dureza is planning to tap financial and lending institutions in helping micro businesses in the city by offering loan program that will increase their capitalization this year.

Dureza, chair of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) committee on trade and industry, said asking the help of lending firms will help increase the survival rate of small businesses like sa-

ri-sari stores which belongs to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“Businesses belonging to micro and small enterprises have a huge impact on the economic growth of the city.

We cannot just rely on big businesses coming in,” Dureza told Edge Davao.

More than 95 percent of business establishments operating in the city are SMEs, according to Dureza, He admitted that access

to finance for capitalization is still a huge problem of SMEs because of strict regulations of commercial banks and lending institutions.

Increasing the capitalization of SMEs, Dureza said, will make each sector more competitive as the number of non-Davao based establishments spur in Davao City.

“We’re envisioning a micro business that will become small, small to medium and medium to large enter-

prises,” he said.

The councilor from the second district said members of the Davao City Micro Small and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Council headed by Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte will have a series of meetings this year to identify plans and programs that will equip SMEs in the city, especially with the Asean Integration.

The council aims to es-

tablish an a conducive environment and opportunities to the local SMEs sector; recommend to the City Council all policy matters affecting business in the locality; develop and provide appropriate services beneficial to local enterprises and entrepreneurs.

Earlier, Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DCIPC) officer-in-charge Ivan C. Cortez also admitted that the survival rate of

Johndorf’s Davao project sold out over 90 percent

J

KASAMBAHAY TALK. Students working as Kasambahay actively participate in the discussion during the 2nd Araw ng mga Kasambahay Celebration at the Assumption College of Davao.

2nd ‘Araw ng mga Kasambahay’ celebration set

T

HE historic law protecting the rights of domestic workers celebrated its second anniversary in an informative, fun-filled and youthful joy among working students.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Davao Region led the celebration dubbed the 2nd Araw ng mga Kasambahay in partnership with the Sunday High School Education Program of the Assumption College of Davao.

DOLE Davao regional director offrey M. Suyao said DOLE is throwing full support to Batas Kasambahay by further strengthening the information dissemination about the rights and duties of employers and workers as well as their (kasamabahay) protection from harmful or hazardous working environment.

“We are one in promoting the welfare and protection of our domestic workers,” Suyao said.

President Benigno S. Aquino III signed last January 18, 2013, Republic Act 10361 otherwise known as the Domestic Workers Act more popularly known as “Batas Kasambahay” instituting the policies for the protection and welfare of the domestic workers “The DOLE makes sure that through this landmark law of the Aquino administration, domestic workers are provided safe, decent and humane working conditions,” Suyao said.

This year’s celebration, the DOLE focused on disseminating information and advocacy campaign on Occupation safety and health of domestic workers.

Engr. Henjie Gatdula discussed Occupational Safety and Health tips to close to 200 participants who actively participated in the forum and fun games and surprises which highlighted the celebration.

“Sometimes, we may

not be aware that while we are working in inside the house we are already exposed to hazards, say exposure to chemicals, improper body positions and the like which seem trivial yet atual has great impact on our health and safety,” Gatdula said.

During the celebration, DILG representative Mika-Chan S. Magtulis was also present. Under the law, DILG is the lead agency mandated to register the domestic workers in every barangay.

According to DILG’s record, there is a very low number of recorded kasamabahays in the region.

“We are urging the barangay local government units to advocate in their respective jurisdiction the registration of kasamabahay for the protection of both employer and worker,” Magtulis said.

Kasambahay law cov-

ers general household helpers including yayas, cooks, gardeners, laundry persons and helpers hired on a live-out arrangement.

However, family drivers and individuals who perform occasional and sporadic work and not on an occupational and regular basis are not covered.

The law said that a kasambahay who has rendered service for one month is eligible for 13th month pay, SSS, PhilHealth and Pag-IBIG benefits.

“Aside from the social protection benefits, the law has also standardized the minimum wage of P2,500 for Metro Manila, P2,000 for cities and 1st class municipalities and P1,500 for other municipalities; daily rest period of 8 total hours, weekly rest period of 24 uninterrupted hours, five days annual service incentive leave with pay,” Suyao said. (Sherwin B. Manual/ DOLE11)

smalls businesses in Davao City is very low.

A data released by DCIPC recently showed that the survival rate of business establishments in Davao City reached 86 percent, and may go up to 90 percent once the issuance of business permit for 2014 is finished.

Cortez said that most businesses included in the 14 percent that closed down last year were small store mostly located in barangays.

OHNDORF Ventures Corp.

(JVC) sold out over ninety percent of 374 townhouses at Portville Davao in just two months since the company launched the 2.7-hectare subdivision in Barangay Sasa, Davao City.

JVC made the feat with its first development also in southern Mindanao even without any sales promotion, noted Michele D. Chiu-Bacungan, JVC sales and marketing manager.

“We were surprised by the Dabawaños’ reception of Portville Davao,” she said, adding that both the quality and affordability of the project appealed so well to the discriminating taste of the local market.

This encouraged company officials to pursue more property development projects in the city.

Bacungan said they are confident of selling the remaining inventory of 30 townhouses within a month, a record sales for the company that also sold Portville Mactan townhouses in Cebu in three

months.

She credited the company’s accredited brokers the massive sales of Portville Davao townhouse units, as well as the incentives it granted the sellers.

While JVC is a new player in Davao with Portville as its first project, the company earned the trust of the local market, especially that units are built even if the down payments have yet to be paid in full, she added.

Johndorf invested ₱200 million to develop Portville Davao, a community soon of middle-class 2-storey affordable townhomes designed with modern Asian architecture.

With every townhouse in a 44-square meter lot with 70-sqm in floor area, Portville Davao offers relatively spacious homes that attracted businessmen and professionals, young entrepreneurs and some foreigners who have long been in search for the right choice for a home to live in.

DA eyes development of glass eel industry

T

HE Department of Agriculture and local eel growers have agreed to consolidate their efforts to compete in the lucrative export market.

Secretary Proceso Alcala recently met with domestic players to discuss initial plans on how to further develop the glass eel industry in the country amidst the dwindling supply of Anguilla japonica, the preferred eel variety in Japan and South Korea.

Dr. Apolinario Yambot, Dean of the Central Luzon State University-College of Fisheries said that Japan and South Korea are counting on tropical eel as substitute for the japonica species. Eel growers present in the meeting said that the country could grow glass eels yearround, unlike in temperate countries.

Eel growers in the country, however, cannot export

to said countries because they require large volumes for eel imports. Currently, China provides the biggest export volumes for glass eel and Indonesia is also a big competitor.

The industry representatives expressed their aim of forming an association for them to work together to meet the required volumes for export.

Supporting the idea, Alcala instructed Undersecretary for Fisheries and Bureau of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources (BFAR) national director Asis Perez to assign a focal person in BFAR to oversee the formation of an organization.

Perez suggested that an eel forum to be attended by various stakeholders, including indigenous peoples (IPs) who consume eels as protein source, shall be conducted where the organization can be officially formed. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO

SCIENCE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

7

The bane of shellfish aficionados

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

C

ONTRARY to common belief, red tides do not necessarily produce a red discoloration on the water.

“It may also reflect sunlight as a pink, yellow, orange, violet, blue, green and brown discoloration,” wrote Cesar E. Tordesillas in an article published in Health News some years back. “But since red is the most common pigment, the phenomenon came to be known as red tide.”

Dr. Rafael D. Guerrero III, former head of the Philippine Council for Marine and Aquatic Resources Development, says red tide is the discoloration of the sea caused by the sudden proliferation of plankton blooms. A main constituent of red tide is algae, a group of primitive plants dating to the first terrestrial life.

The microscopic killers in most cases are algae that occur in the form of dinoflagellates, tiny single-cell organisms that usually photosynthesize and contain chlorophyll but also have the animal-like trait of bearing twin tails, which whirl the organism forward.

According to Dr. Guerrero, dinoflagellates “can swim at the maximum rate of one meter per hour.”

There are 2,000 types of dinoflagellates known to science, but only 20 species produce toxins or poisonous substances that kill human beings.

Tordesillas quoted Fe Bajarias, who was then the head of the red tide monitoring unit of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, as saying that the first local red tide bloom in the country happened in 1908 at the Manila Bay. “But the particular alga involved, peridinium, does not produce toxins harmful to the seafood eaters,” Tordesillas noted. “It only caused fish kill. But in June 1983, a red tide bloom consisting of the algae species

Pyrodinium bahamense var. compressum invaded Masqueda and Villareal Bays in Western Samar, producing the first cases of red tide poisoning and fatalities in the country.”

But how the said red tide organism appeared in the country is still unknown. Some scientists believe the red-tide causing organism may have been introduced here through the ballast water of ships coming from other Pacific countries where the casual organism is endemic.

The Cavite-based International Institute of Rural Reconstruction (IIRR) says seeds (cysts) of Pyrodinium organisms are found at the muddy bottom of shallow coastal waters. They do not survive in fresh water.

“These seeds are resistant to harsh conditions and may remain viable for one million years,” the Ramon Magsaysay awardee institution says. “Under favorable conditions, the seeds can germinate into a free-floating form suspended in seawater.”

Favorable conditions include right temperature and amount of nutrients.

“During the day, the seeds are found near the surface where they receive sunlight for their photosynthesis activities,” the institute says.

“At night, they occur deeper in the water column where they receive nourishment.”

The organism multiplies asexually and rapidly during its productive stage, which results in bloom.

During dormancy, the organism reproduces sexually and form cysts that “hibernate” in the sediment until activated by favorable conditions.

Some marine scientists believe that red tide outbreaks are linked to pollution. Take the case of Manila Bay. Monitoring in 1994 by the Environmental Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Re-

Oysters for eating (Photo by Henrylito D. Tacio)

sources showed that some parts of the bay were “not fit for food production.” No wonder, the red tide keeps coming back in the bay.

Unusual weather, too, contributes to the proliferation of the red tide organisms. Dr. Howard Seliger, author of Biology, Epidemiology and Management of Pyrodinium Red Tide, cites the outbreak in 1972, where a different red tide organism was distributed to the Gulf of Maine and southeast Florida in the United States.

The toxic red tide organism also appeared in Papua New Guinea that very same year. In 1976, it was reported in Brunei and Sabah in Malaysia. In 1983, it appeared in the Philippines. “All these were years of unusual weather conditions caused by El Niño,” wrote Seliger.

El Niño, Spanish for “the child,” is a warm ocean current that appears every three to six years in the eastern Pacific Ocean and affects climate and current patterns over a wide area of the globe.

Dinoflagellates serve as food to shellfish and other marine bivalves. When shellfish ingest too much of these, the shellfish become contaminated with red tide poison proven to be deadly to human beings. The most common shellfishes infested by red tide are mussels, oysters, scallops, cockles and limpets.

Experts claim fish and other seafoods such as squids, shrimp, crabs, lobsters, and seaweeds are generally safe to eat even when caught from red tide-infested provided they are washed thoroughly and the internal organs removed.

Dr. Guerrero says people get poisoned even if the contaminated shellfish is cooked because the toxin is not destroyed by heat.

The poison in the red tide organism is known as saxitoxin. It is a water soluble

Red tide (Photo by NOAA)

A red tide off the coast of La Jolla San Diego, California (from Wikipedia) salt that affects the nervous system. The potency of saxitoxin has been reported to increase by acidic chemicals like vinegar used in preparing common Filipino dishes such as adobo and paksiw, and the hydrochloric acid present in the human stomach.

In medical parlance, red tide poisoning is called paralytic shellfish poisoning. “Its symptoms appear 30 minutes after eating the contaminated shellfish, and are a numbness and tingling sensation around the lips, tongue, mouth,

face and jaw. Headache, dizziness and nausea follow,” Bajarias informed.

These symptoms may be mistaken for drunkenness and may be aggravated by alcohol consumption.

“In severe cases, it would later progress to paresthesia (muscular paralysis) of extremities with a feeling of lightness, numbness and/or periorbital edema (swelling around the eyes), difficulty of movement and breathing,” Bajarias further explains.

“Finally, there would be respiratory fail-

Shrimp ready for eating (Photo by Henrylito D. Tacio)

ure that causes the eventual death of the victim.

Death generally occurs within 17 hours after the onset of the symptoms.”

Doctors say the first thing to do in a poisoning case is to empty the victim’s stomach by giving the victim an oral emetic or simply by inserting a finger into the throat to induce vomiting. Since the toxin dissolves in water, the victim may also be given plenty of water to induce urination and minimize gastrointestinal absorption of the toxin.

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EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

T

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

Reason prevails

HE opposition to the cutting of trees along Dacudao Avenue is understandable and may be attributed to the growing awareness of Dabawenyos of environment issues and the need to be vigilant whenever the powers that be presume to make changes that support progress but disregard Mother Earth. Such was the case with Dacudao Avenue, a length of road that offers the harried traveler a respite from the concrete jungle due to its long rows of trees. The shade and greenery the avenue provides has long been a feature of Davao, and it has been proof that a city can become progressive while taking care of the environment.

When news, therefore, came out that there was a plan by the city government to cut down the Dacudao trees, Dabawenyos became indignant, wondering why City Hall would even think of felling the veritable forest that had grown right in the middle of a major road. The popular sentiment was that the city should, in fact, add more trees, not cut them down. Politicians, perhaps eager to take advantage of being part of an extremely

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popular advocacy, joined the fray, thus causing the postponement of the program. Again, it was all understandable; after all, who wants to see fewer trees? In an age of climate change, everyone knows that cutting down trees is bad news.

As it turns out, however, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) has valid ground for its recommendation. First of all, not all 600-plus trees will be felled; of that number, only 22 would be cut down – and for good reason.

CENRO head Engineer Elisa Madrazo said these 22 trees are already termite-infested and could come crashing down any time. Life and limb, as well as property, are already in danger, and so the trees must go. Given these reasons, even councilor Danilo Dayanghirang, who had given the last serious opposition to the program, withdrew his motion, giving way to the completion of the task.

It is good to know that reason prevailed over emotions in this case, and we can only wish that this is how we will choose to handle all issues that confront us.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

AGAPITO JOAQUIN JR. Associate Editor

CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY Consultant

ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. KENNETH IRVING K. ONG 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 ARLENE D. PASAJE Correspondents 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

I

’M sure you have experienced it too, at one time or another. I am referring to not having good sleep.

Or not sleeping at all for much of the night. Medical experts call it insomnia.

“Insomnia is a symptom, not a stand-alone diagnosis or a disease,” explains emedicinehealth.com. By definition, insomnia is “difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, or both” or the perception of poor quality sleep.

“Insomnia may therefore be due to inadequate quality or quantity of sleep,” the website further notes. “Insomnia is not defined by a specific number of hours of sleep that one gets, since individuals vary widely in their sleep needs and practices.”

Although most of us know what insomnia is and how we feel and perform after one or more sleepless nights, few seek medical advice. Many people remain unaware of the behavioral and medical options available to treat insomnia Insomnia is generally classified based on the duration of the problem.

Not everyone agrees on one definition, but generally, according to the website, symptoms lasting less than one week are classified as transient insomnia.

On the other hand, symptoms between one to three weeks are classified as short-term insomnia. Those symptoms which are longer than three weeks are classified as chronic insomnia.

No one is spared from insomnia -- whether you’re teenager, professional, poor, or obese. “Among adults, insomnia affects women more often than men,” the website informs. “The incidence tends to increase with age.

O

NE of the enduring historical questions that keeps popping up is where the dead body of 1st Lt. Edward Robert C. Bolton, Davao’s first quasi-civil governor, go.

Legend says his cadaver was buried in Bolton, a barangay of Malalag. Others claim, after finding out that the supposed grave of Bolton in that village was empty, this was stolen.

A New Yorker, Bolton was a private in Chicago when the Spanish-American conflict broke. He distinguished himself in that war, as did many other appointed governors in the district before and after him. In Santiago and El Caney, he displayed gallantry that was his ticket to promotion from the ranks. Later, he was sent to the Philippines as part of the fabled 17th Infantry, the military clique served by Col. Calvin Duvall Cowles, his superior.

His appointment as civil governor was recommended by his predecessor.

It was his war exploits and military leadership that stood out as his outstanding qualifications. But, more important, his personal belief that Filipinos could be governed through peaceful means was a departure from the concept of pacifi-

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Getting good sleep It is typically more THINK ON THESE! common in people in lower socioeconomic (income) g r o u p s , chronic alcoholics, and mental health patients.”

Henrylito D. Tacio Among henrytacio@gmail.com professionals, stress is the contributing factor that triggers shortterm or acute insomnia. “If you do not address your insomnia,” the website warns, “it may develop into chronic insomnia.”

There are several ways of getting a good sleep. Among the most popular ones are: maintaining a regular sleep/wake schedule (go to bed at the same time each night); maintaining a healthy diet; having a regular exercise schedule; avoiding or minimizing the use of caffeine, especially in the afternoon; avoiding alcohol which may help you doze off but increases early morning awakenings; and avoiding smoking.

But there are unconventional methods of getting that elusive sleep, according to Dr. Willie T. Ong, a health columnist for The Philippine Star and author of several health books. Recently, in his website, he posted 17 uncommon tips of getting a good sleep.

Due to space limitations, allow me to share the ten tips: 1. No mental work after 6 p.m. If you find yourself rummaging in the day’s

garbage and stressed at night, then avoid any heated meetings, excitable conversations, long-term planning at night.

2. Turn off your mind. Now, this differs for every person. Some individuals watch TV to relax their minds. Some exercise. Others play with the kids. Some read entertainment magazines or comics. Whatever relaxes you, just do it.

3. Turn around the clocks. Lessen the pressure of sleeping by not looking at or knowing the time. Replace noisy clocks or those that say cuckoo every 30 minutes. You don’t want to get reminded that you aren’t sleeping yet.

4. Don’t schedule an early morning meeting. Knowing and anticipating an early meeting can make it hard for you to sleep. That’s called anticipation anxiety and it’s a normal behavior.

5. Make your bedroom a sleep haven. Is the neighbor’s dog too noisy? Can you hear the irritated bus driver blowing his horn? Does the sunlight wake you up at 5 a.m.? Try to correct these “sleep botherers” by placing a darker curtain, installing air conditioning, and making your room more soundproof.

6. Invest in a good mattress and comfortable pillows and blankets. Buy adjuncts like a mosquito net, earplugs, eye pads, and a quiet electric fan (let it swing and not blow on you steadily).

7. Your bedroom is for sleep only.

According to Dr. Christine Rhea S. Igna, your bedroom is not the place where you think of your plans, your problems, and unpaid bills. When you go to sleep, try not to anticipate your future events.

Deliberately put them on hold.

8. Take a light snack or warm drink

one to two hours before bedtime.

Chamomile tea is an effective relaxation drink. It calms the bowels and smells wonderful, too. For some people, milk and cookies, hot soup or a banana help them sleep. Bananas have tryptophan and carbohydrates induce the brain to produce serotonin. Both are sleep inducers. And you can’t sleep if you’re hungry.

9. Try supplements. According to infectious disease specialist Dr. Rebecca Castillo, melatonin can not only induce sleep but also boost the immune system with its antioxidant properties. Vitamin B complex (the so-called “stress tablets”) helps you sleep, too. Studies also show that the herb valerian can enhance sleep similar to valium. But don’t take them all at the same time. Just try which one works for you 10. Use sleeping pills only occasionally. Dr. Lemual Tocjayao, internist and alternative medicine specialist, says sleeping pills are habit-forming and addicting. And their effect wears off if you take them daily. Try natural methods first and just use them as a safety net.

The 17th tip is very important so I am including it. Dr. Ong wrote: “Give your problems to God. Offer your insomnia to Him. Here’s one man’s nightly prayer: “Lord, we’ve had a good day today, I’ve had some tough decisions, but I know that you are with me. I will sleep now, but I know you’ll be there to protect me and my loved ones. I leave all my worries and concerns to you, Lord. And when I wake up tomorrow refreshed and ready, I’ll be able to do your work for me, Lord. Amen.”

Good night! Sleep tight!

Where is Bolton’s body?

FAST BACKWARD

BY THE ARCHIVIST cation many American colonial leaders embraced at the time.

Bolton’s administration was focused on continuing Cowles’ initiatives. Even with limited funds, he worked in linking settlements to primary roads, a gesture that appealed to local in-habitants. On the side, he had to attend to his own plantation and at times sit down with na-tive leaders in order to quell tension among disgruntled tribes.

In the end, it was his personal indis-

cretion, in a way, and the bitter deals and treatment the tribesmen got from plantation owners that contributed to his downfall. On June 6, 1906, he was hacked to death by Mangulayon, a Kulaman Manobo chief. His farm foreman, Benjamin Christian, also an American, also died in that tragic incident in Lacaron, Malita, Davao del Sur. Bolton’s death resulted in a bloody vendetta launched by the American military establish-ment. In search of the killer, innocent natives were unnecessarily sacrificed on the suspicion they were sympathetic to Mangulayon— which was not totally unexpected.

Bolton’s remains, contrary to urban legend, were recovered and sent to New York over two months on transit in a metallic coffin encased in a wooden box that bore his name, former military contingent, and political position. His burial procession was poignantly described in The New York Times in its September 3, 1906 issue: “Through the streets of New Rochelle where he played as a boy, the body of Lieut. Edward C. Bolton, Governor of a district in the Province of Mindanao, Philippine Islands, passed yesterday

afternoon on a caisson draped with the flag. Hundreds of persons followed it to the cemetery. As the procession led by the United States Artillery Band, many of the residents that old thoroughfare who remembered the dead soldier as a schoolboy and a nephew of the parish rector, looked from their windows with tears in their eyes.”

Bolton’s last rites were conducted by Rev. A.F. Tenney, an Episcopalian minister. He was escorted to his final resting place at Beachwood Cemetery by a squad of infantrymen who fired the traditional parting shots and bugle sound.

In Bolton’s memory, a small river at an altitude of 900 feet, close to Mt. Halcon in Oriental Mindoro, was named after him. In Davao City, a street (which has since been renamed to Paciano Bangoy, the last governor of undivided Davao) and a bridge are reminders of his legacy. A barangay at Malalag, Davao del Sur, which was created in 1953, has also been named after him.

The terrestrial fern Cheilanthes boltoni Copeland, characterized by smaller leaflets and originally found on rocks along the sea at Malalag, Davao del Sur, was also named in his memory.

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NEWS

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beyond us… beyond the capacity of the local government to create legislation,” he said.

Earlier, committee on transportation and communication chair councilor Tomas J. Monteverde IV told Edge Davao that he will expedite the discussion on the matter as soon as his committee receives the request of Villaroman.

Monteverde said it needs to be prioritized because it is a matter of public security.

Villaroman had earlier said he will ask the City Council for an ordinance on his proposal to oblige all bus companies to put up CCTV cameras in every bus.

He came up with the proposal in light of the deadly bus bombing in Maramag, Bukidnon last December that killed 10 people and injured 20 others.

Monteverde said he will study that matter in a proper committee hearing.

Drainage (TFD) to rehabilitate the drainage.

“If the project will start, we will assign personnel especially our foresters to work with the City Engineer’s Office (CEO),” Madrazo said.

When asked by Dayanghirang if the removal of the 22 trees will have a big negative impact on the environment, Madrazo replied that the effect would be minimal, reiterating that public safety is her main concern.

Last Monday, Duterte said the recommendation of CENRO must be followed because it has the expertise on the issue.

“Dayanghirang is not a technical man. Ang dapat paminawon ana kay ang mga taga CENRO (the persons we should listen to are those from CENRO),” the mayor said.

He said if the removal of the trees is a matter of public safety then there should be no objection to it.

Danny... FFROM 2

P25-M... FFROM 4 “The City Government of Davao with its public and private partners are still eyeing to build 150 units of the 832 lots,” he added.

Rigor said for the second of the development plan, the city has already partnered with various stakeholders for the construction of houses.

However, the Local Housing Board (LHB) will assess the classification of houses that will

be allowed to be constructed in the area.

Aside from Los Amigos, there are also relocation sites in barangays Catalunan Grande, Tibungco, Mintal, Marapangi in Toril district, Tigatto, Upper Malagamot, Panacan, and Mahayag in Bunawan district that are being filled up with relocated informal settlers from different parts of the city.

or not DMEMS was able to pa its fines and penalties worth P516,703.

Earlier, the City Treasurer’s Office (CTO) sent a notice to the DMEMS management on its fines amounting to more than half a million pesos.

The management of the three dormitories was not able to pay taxes from January 2013 to December 2014 and was operating without business permit.

DMEMS is the local partner of India-based Transworld Education Academy, which is the principal partner of Davao Medical School Foundation (DMSF) in bringing Indian students to Davao City for education.

Transworld chief operating officer Dr. David Pillai told Edge Davao earlier that the company is willing to pay its fines and penalties for evading tax. Cheneen R. Capon

applicants.

“We moved the receiving area outside the lobby of the Sangguniang Panlunsod because it cannot accommodate the huge number of applicants coming for business permit renewal,” he said.

The operation of Business Bureau at the Kadayawan Hall in NCCC Mall of Davao has been better since the start of the renewal period which was on last January 3, Bantiding said.

“Business owners were able to realize that it would be

much moreeasier to process renewal of permits in the NCCC Mall because we have a onestop-shop that will assist them from submission of application to issuance of permits,” he said Bantiding said that there will be no extension of the “no surcharge” period for the renewal of business permits.

“There will be a need for a City Council’s resolution if we will want to extend the renewal period. It is fixed that every year it will end on the 20th of January,” he said. Cheneen R. Capon

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

LTFRB issues new fare rates in CDO T

HE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) here on Tuesday issued new fare rates as prices of fuel continue to drop.

Mandangan Darimbang, regional LTFRB director in Northern Mindanao, said all passenger jeepneys and taxi cabs could now get the matrix of the new fare rates at

the LTFRB regional office here.

He said the newly adjusted fare rates for public utility jeepneys (PUJ) decreased from P7.50 to P 7.00 minimum fare, and for taxi cabs from P40 to P30 flagdown rate.

Darimbang said the adjusted fare rates were in response to the joint petition of the Taxi Drivers Association and the

PUJ transport groups asking the LTFRB to adjust the minimum fare rates as the prices of fuel continue to plunge to its lowest level this week.

Prices of gasoline have gone down to its lowest level at P 38.00 per liter while the prices of diesel sink at a range of P 31.00 per liter to P 34.00 per liter.

The City Council has

different countries,” she said.

Darryl Doie got the first place for his work titled “The Role of the Family” which emphasizes the role of the family “in advocating sustainable development in terms of helping the community to be productive through backyard farming and engagement in community based agriculture to help mitigate possible scarcity of the food resources.”

In his statement in the FAO website, Darryl said his entry “calls each one of us to take a hand in propagating technologies

in family farming, thereby greatly involving ourselves in the world and caring for the earth.”

For her part, Belle Angeline got second place for her work titled “My Vision” which highlights the role of the family in the provision of healthy food through farming.

“Positive Family values especially in promoting agriculture as a vehicle for sustainable development creates significant impact through the eyes of children which will encourage them to view family farming or agriculture itself as means

to feed the world and care for mother earth,” Belle said in the FAO website.

Acosta said the siblings started their craft at a young age through the encouragement of their father Virgel Aurelio. They had already won several school contests and local art competitions and joined many national contests.

A total of 3,010 entries from 65 countries were submitted for this year’s contest, which had the theme “Family Farming: “Feeding the World, Caring for the Earth.” Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

only during the pre-hearing that the public and the media were excluded.

He said it is during a pre-hearing conference that the parties are directed to mark their exhibits, stipulate what they want to agree on, and enumerate the witnesses they intend to present during the hearing.

“There is a motion to exclude the public in the trial (but) we just exclud-

ed the public, including the media, when the office give them time to talk among themselves,” he said.

Fernandez said Danao and his wife have not yet reached a settlement.

“There is no settlement so far, but a compromise in an administrative case is also discouraged,” he said.

The next hearing for the initial submission

of the investigation is scheduled on March 30 and 31.

Danao was slapped with an administrative case of four counts of grave misconduct filed against him by his wife.

A criminal case of Violation Against Women and their Children was also filed against him before the Department of Justice in the last quarter of 2014.

Siblings... FFROM 2

RIAS... FFROM 2

Escape... FFROM 4 nition.”

Arro said the jail guards also noted that the three people, including two women, who brought in the stoves immediately left after the intended recipient received the items.

He disclosed that investigation showed the plan of the suspected Abu Sayyaf members was to escape at nightfall and flee to nearby R.T. Lim Boulevard to board motorized bancas en route to Basilan.

“Not only jailbreak, there could be a bloody incident if we didn’t dis-

cover these firearms because according to the plan, after the investigation, they would really do all to escape. That is to include, of course, killing, if necessary,” he said.

Arro said the jail was holding 56 suspected Abu Sayyaf members, and some of them are allegedly related to a leader of the bandit group based in Basilan.

He said there were 1,638 inmates–1,468 males and 170 females–at the ZCRC. He added jail guards have been placed on high

alert.

The city police office and Task Force Zamboanga have also deployed personnel in the periphery of the facility.

Arro said they have in the meantime suspended the visiting hours while the investigation on the abortive escape plan was being conducted.

He said they have already requested for the transfer of the suspected Abu Sayyaf detainees to Bicutan but there has been no reply yet from higher authorities. (MindaNews)

also passed a resolution supporting the joint resolutions of the local taxi and PUJ operators here, Darimbang.

Prior to the passage of the resolution, the City Council has invited representatives of the transport groups and the LTFRB to tackle the petition letter of the local transport group, Darimbang added. (PNA) Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED UV EXPRESS Service.

ARNEL T. REBUSORA, Petitioner

Case No.2010-XI-00113 x- - - - - - - - -- - - -----x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED UV EXPRESS service on the route: DAVAO CITY-BUTUAN CITY VIA TAGUM CITY, MONKAYO (COMVAL PROVINCE) AND VICE VERSA with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on March 24, 2015. In the petition filed on December 12, 2014, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on FEBRUARY 9, 2015 at 09:10 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

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

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 12th day of December 2014 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ

Chief Transportation Development Officer

11 SUBURBIA

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

CAMPAIGN FOR ZERO. Department of Health regional director Dr. Abdullah B. Dumama Jr. campaigns for awareness and adopt- SUPPORT. Governor Malanyaon signs the D’CHAMPS campaign board, showing her support and commiting effective strategies to achieve zero infant and maternal mortality rate in Davao Region. ment to the advocacy of zero infant and mortality rate.

DavOr joins DOH in battle vs infant, maternal mortality P

ROVINCE of Davao Oriental – The Department of Health Regional Office 11 in partnership with the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental officially launched Team D CHAMPS on January 13, 2015 at Honey’s Hotel, City of Mati, this province with the aim of attaining the Millennium Development Goals of reducing maternal and infant mortality by 2015.

Team D CHAMPS (Team Davao’s Coalition of Health Advocates for the Mothers’ and Infants’ Protection and Safety) is a coalition created

by DOH 11 and was outlined

on Team D Coalition (Davao Region’s Determination, Dedication and Direction) towards its vision of zero infant and maternal mortality.

The launching ceremony was held in time for the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center (DOPMC)’s Maternal, Neonatal and Child Health and Nutrition (MNCHN) Referral and Service Delivery Network Workshop. It had the theme “Walang nanay at sanggol ang mamamatay dahil sa panganganak.”

MNCHN is an integrated strategy that will guide the development, implementa-

ARMM needs 1,000 more new teachers

T

HE Department of Education in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DepEd-ARMM) yesterday announced it still needs more than 1,000 new teachers to meet the growing number of pupils, especially in far flung areas.

Secretary Jamar Kulayan of the DepEd-ARMM said the ideal 1 is to 40 teacher-student ratio is still beyond reach due to lack of qualified teachers.

“It is not good if we maintain the status quo in the region as far as teacher-pupil ratio,” Kulayan told reporters.

“At present, there are many schools in island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi where the ideal ratio does not exist,” Kulayan added.

In 2014, he said, DepEd-ARMM hired about 800 new teachers but these were not enough to reach the ideal ratio so that the education of pupils in public educational system in the region will

not be compromised.

Kulayan said many applicants last year were not qualified because they were not from the community where they intend to teach.

New teachers should come from the village where they will teach so that he or she can really help improve the education of pupils.

Kulayan also said that teacher-applicants must undergo stricter screening process without political consideration for DepEd to hire qualified and competent teachers.

In the meantime, there are some teachers in the provinces of ARMM who handle 50 to 60 pupils at a time.

As a long term solution, Kulayan appealed to graduating high school students to take up education, especially those coming from island municipalities in Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi so they can help improve the communities they live.

(PNA)

tion, and evaluation of various programs of Local Government Units and other partners aimed at women, mothers, and children with the ultimate goal of rapidly reducing maternal and neonatal mortality in the country.

DOPMC head Dr. Resuldo D. Malintad said the launch was not just a celebration but also an awareness campaign on the “distressing” maternal and infant mortality ratio every year.

He said the provincial government has been improving the delivery of health services but the results show lower im-

pact on the community level.

Malintad said all guests and participants in the launch were now members of the coalition and implementers of the MNCHN strategies to accomplish the goals at the grassroots level.

“The mortality rate ratio every year serves as a challenge to us not just on the health sector, but on everybody… that we have to focus our strength and resources not to reduce the rate but to have a zero casualty rate,” Malintad said.

For his part, DOH regional director Dr. Abdullah B. Duma-

GOOD GOVERNANCE. Mayor Allan L. Rellon (standing second from the left) joins his counterparts and organizers of the recently concluded Best Practices Case Study Writing Workshop jointly funded by the University of Hawaii, the

ma Jr. said that while giving birth is one of the most wonderful experiences in life, it is also very risky.

He said according to an international medical survey, the Philippines is on track in achieving the goal of reducing child mortality but is very far from achieving the goal in maternal mortality. He said the international maternal mortality rate of 800 per day mostly occurs in low resource settings and most could have been prevented.

“I’d like to put it in your heart… that the women don’t have to die just because of giv-

ing birth,” Dumama said.

Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon welcomed the DOH’s decision to choose Davao Oriental as the first launching venue of the Team D CHAMPS in Region 11.

Malanyaon said reaching the goal of zero infant and maternity mortality rates is possible. “It is just a matter of being determined and being committed to pursuing it relentlessly. We just have to believe in the mantra ‘walang nanay at sanggol ang mamamatay dahil sa panganganak,’” she said. Van Jorain O. Rufin/ Photos by KLD

University of Khon Kaen and the International Association of Local Governments held on January 11 to 14, 2015 at Khon Kaen University, Thailand. CIO Tagum

Rellon highlights Tagum governance in Thailand

F

OR the third time in under ten months, the City Government of Tagum led by Mayor Allan L. Rellon was invited to present and defend one of its major programs which exemplifies good and participatory governance to the international academic audience.

Jointly funded by the University of Hawaii, the University of Khon Kaen, and the International Association of Local Governments (IALG), the IALG Best Practices Case Study Writing Workshop was held on January 11 to 14, 2015 at Khon Kaen University, Thailand.

Prior to this, the city government joined the IALG-sponsored International Case Study Competition in

which two of its entries – the Night Market of Tagum and its Literacy Programs – were shortlisted, but only the night market program made it to the cut.

During the event, Rellon discussed the case study titled “Dynamism of Tagum City Night Market as Fueled by Good Governance and Active Citizens’ Participation” to a set of participants from five ASEAN nations namely Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, and other participants from the Philippines.

These participants represented the NGOs, the academe, the local government unit, the LGU bureaucracy, and the civil society of all five countries.

Rellon said he was able to discuss with his fellow par-

ticipants facts relating to the night market as having been established only as a means of relocating the ambulant and/ or illegal vendors from the national highway as well as from other city and barangay streets and have them situated in a common place.

Also tackled were the problems and resistance which the city government had been faced with during the implementation of the program as well as the approaches and measures undertaken by the city government that made the vendors support the Night Market Program.

The case study, when finalized and submitted in a textbook form, will be published by the University of Hawaii, USA within this year.

“I feel really proud and fulfilled (considering) all the hardships. For (the City of Tagum) being recognized, not only in the country, but also internationally, particularly ASEAN countries,” Rellon said.

Rellon was also invited in two separate international conferences last year. First, by Oxfam and the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy last year in Singapore for the city’s programs geared towards disaster resiliency, where Tagum was named as one of Asia’s emerging secondary cities.

A few weeks ago, Oxfam also invited Rellon to discuss good governance in Vietnam.

The expenses for all these international trips were shouldered by the inviting organizers. Richi D. Gulle of CIO Tagum

12

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

UP AND ABOUT

Electrostatic 2015 DJs, robots, a laser light show, and raffle prizes at Abreeza Mall’s New Year party LAST YEAR, Abreeza Mall kicked off the New Year in spectacular style with Reverie 2014, the first 3D mapping party in Davao and in Mindanao. This 2015, Abreeza Mall once again welcomes the New Year with grand aplomb: by rounding up the hottest DJs, largerthan-life robots, and great prizes up for grabs.

Abreeza Mall invites Davaoeños to start the New Year with a spark at Electrostatic 2015, a welcome party happening on January 24, 7 pm at the Park Dining area. The event is open to everyone.

Making Abreeza Mall’s New Year welcome party truly one to remember are the three-meter tall Universo Robots who will be lighting up the scene with their LED suits, out-of-this-world laser light show, and other visually stunning gimmicks. Meanwhile, set to get the crowd dancing all the way until midnight are Amsterdam-raised, Manila-based DJ Samir Ayeb, as well as Davao talents Tien Batu, Wacky Masbad, Torch Gacuma, Uno Tupas, Jin Chan, and Niel Recinto. Electrostatic 2015 is organized by local event production group Manic Nightnings Productions and features acts of Manila outfit The Loop.

Electrostatic 2015’s

main act and one of the most in-demand DJs in Manila, DJ Samir Ayeb has been all around the world for gigs, from Thailand, India, and China to the Netherlands, France, and Tunisia. A certified heartthrob behind the decks, Samir will get Davao partyphiles on their feet with his ability to blend different kinds of music styles such as EDM, trap, hip-hop and RnB, deep house, and Top 40.

To give partygoers more reasons to rejoice in the New Year, raffle prizes are also up for grabs at Electrostatic 2015, among them brand-new LG smartphones and gift certificates from Ayala Malls and TGI Fridays. To join the raffle, just claim a coupon at the Main Concierge on January 24, 5pm to 9pm. Present a same-day single receipt from any Abreeza Mall store worth at least P300 to get an additional coupon. Winners will be announced during

the event at 11:30pm.

For inquiries and updates on Abreeza Mall news and events, please visit the Main Concierge at the ground floor or call (082) 321-9332. Stay updated by liking www.facebook.com/AbreezaMall and following @abreezatweets on Twitter and @ iloveabreezamall on Instagram.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

UP AND ABOUT

Call for applications to documentary scriptwriting residency in Cambodia on HOW does an idea become a project, and how does a project become a script? How can the film one dreams of become reality? These are some of the essential questions for any filmmaker that writing must first resolve or at least clarify?

These are some of the crucial questions of documentary filmmaking that have first to be answered or at least clarified by scriptwriting. This means also that project owners do not remain isolated and that they, from scratch, be confronted by other people’s points of view: it is true that writing is a single-minded activity, but filmmaking needs joint efforts. Based on this idea, is the search for talented documentary film authors/ makers to participate in this Asiadoc residency in Cambodia.

Applications to the “Documentary Scriptwriting Residency & Co-production meetings” to be held in Phnom Penh – Cambodia from February 16 to March 4, 2015 is now ongoing.

Twelve to 16 young Southeast Asian film authors/makers will be hosted in a writing residency for a two weeks

Chinese New Year offerings at The Royal Mandaya Hotel

KUNG HEI FAT CHOI! The Royal Mandaya Hotel gives you a great treat as we welcome the year of the wooden sheep.

Enjoy a wide selection of Chinese cuisines for a sumptuous dinner buffet at Php 595 per person.

Come in a group of four and get one extra person for free! Enjoy the thrill of an original lion dance, a fortune teller, plus a special treat will be given away for the first 25 walk-in guests. Come celebrate with your family and friends on February 19, 2015. Lots of fun-filled activities await you only at The Royal Mandaya Hotel.

For reservations, call 225-8888 or visit our website at www.theroyalmandayahotel.com.

workshop. The residency will take place in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, at the Bophana Center, from February 16 to

March 28. Two tutors from France, a writer and a director, will mentor the program.

Following the residency, the

most advanced projects will be presented during the Documentary Film Symposium, which will take place at the beginning of March in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

The symposium will allow the film writers/makers to present their project in front of an assembly of Asian and European producers and broadcasters who share the interest in starting a coproduction, especially in the frame of the Collection “Lumire d’Asie,” which is based on a fair coproduction charter.

The complete program info packet can be downloaded at http://www.fdcp. ph/media/upload/resources/20150114/201501142812. pdf.

Application forms can be downloaded at h t t p : // w w w. f d c p . p h / m e d i a / u p l o a d / r e s o u r ces/20150114/201501144124. pdf The program is funded by the International Association of French-Speaking Regions (AIRF), the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE), and the French Institute of Cambodia (IFC).

SM Accessories launches Pre-Summer collection SM Accessories takes 2015 in a desert storm with the pre-summer collection of 2015. See Anne Curtis, Xian Lim, Georgina Wilson, Enrique Gil, Julia Barretto, Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla venture into the wild with pieces that merge style and function.

Animal prints and bold chains from WWW dominate the ladies’ line, combined with soft tones of pearls and fur.

Indulge in multipurpose scarves that can be used in various ways—from hat and bag accents to turbans to a stylish sarong. Find your pair with eyewear in all shapes, colors and sizes for you to take around all year long. Layer bangles and necklaces and transform any outfit in an instant.

Combined materials such as leather and tweed from MSense take over the men’s line, from stackable arm swag to utilitarian backpacks and messenger bags for everyday use. The hues of army green, brown and black both camouflage yet make you stand out, perfect for easy mixing and matching.

Start the year right with all the right pieces you need in that wardrobe, and conquer your best year yet with SM Accessories. All items are available in SM Stores nationwide.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

After Oscars snub:

Jennifer Aniston finds the silver lining THERE are no doubts about it: Jennifer Aniston was definitely snubbed of an Oscar nomination for her performance in Cake.

But if you ask the actress herself, she’s more than a little surprised at all the support she’s receiving after Thursday’s announcement.

“Yeah, I’m the No. 1 snubbed,” she joked on Monday’s Ellen DeGeneres Show. “That’s the silver lining, right?”

She continued, “It hasn’t even come out. That’s the crazy thing. We’re so

shocked and amazed that we have had this much love for a movie that hasn’t even been released yet.”

For those curious moviegoers, the film does in fact hit theatres nationwide this coming Friday.

While the Friends alumna didn’t receive consideration for the Oscars, her performance as a woman fascinated by the suicide of someone in her chronic pain support group has already inspired a huge group of fans.

“What’s been so incredible is the amount of people that have come out

to me who are suffering with chronic pain and in the same situation,” she explained to Ellen DeGeneres. “It’s unbelievable how much positivity it’s bringing to those who are kind of silently suffering.

It’s a beautiful, hopeful movie.”

Besides, Aniston already secured a Golden Globe, SAG and Critics’ Choice Award nomination for her performance.

Oh, and did we mention she got to grab Kate Hudson’s butt on a recent red carpet?

“Well, my gosh, look at that ass,” she joked to DeGeneres when recalling her memorable Live From the Red Carpet moment.

“It’s such an irresistible tush. I’m allowed. Ryan Seacrest tried to get in.

Kate actually did say, ‘Oh well, that’s gonna go everywhere.’”

ABS-CBN’s “Forevermore” continues to spread the love worldwide via TFC THERE IS no denying the impact and power of love that the ABSCBN kilig series, “Forevermore,” spreads to its worldwide viewers through The Filipino Channel (TFC) as it continues to dominate primetime ratings in the Philippines, generate online hits and create a buzz worldwide.

Based on the recent data Kantar Media Philippines (television audience measurement provider) released, the series starring Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano scored a Philippine TV rating of 25%, beating its rival shows from other Filipino networks. “Forevermore” also continues to generate a buzz online as evident in the number of hits on TFC’s official online service, TFC.tv. Aside from the high-rating that the show continues to deliver, Filipinos have also fallen in love with the site location of the series specifically where the character of Soberano resides, Sitio Le Presa in Tuba, Benguet (Luzon).

Sitio La Presa is originally Sitio Pungayan but was coined as such because of the interest created by the teleserye. In a recent report from abs-cbnnews.com, people flocked to Sitio La

January 19-20, 2015

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB / * BEFORE I GO TO SLEEP

Presa during the holiday season last year to see the beautiful scenery of the village, take photo opportunities with the cast and take selfies with both the cast and house. Aside from Sitio La Presa, other famous spots featured in the series are Burnham Park, Wright Park, and The

Manor which, in the series, is a hotel called Hotel Grande owned by the family of Gil’s character.

Continue to feel the thrill of falling in love for the first time in ”Forevermore” on TFC worldwide from Monday to Friday (Tuesday to Saturday, Australian Daylight Savings Time or ADST, New

Zealand Daylight Savings Time or NDST, and Guam time). Catch every kilig episode via TFC.tv, right after its Philippine airing and through TFC’s videoon-demand or VOD (Internet Protocol television or IPTV) service available in the U.S.A., Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.

PG 13 / *R 16

Ben Stiller, Robin Williams/ * Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth 12:00 | 2:00 | 4:00 LFS / * 6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS

TAKEN 3 Liam Neeson PG 13

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

SEVENTH SON Ben Barnes, Julianne Moore, Jeff Bridges PG 13

R-16

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

EDSA WOOLWORTH / *AMAZING PRAYBEYT BENJAMIN Pokwang / * Vice Ganda, Richard Yap PG 13 / *PG 13

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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

WOMEN

Savings start from small beginnings EVERY YEAR is our chance to start on a clean slate. Well, at least not in the pocket. Money-wise, I’d like to think each one of us makes an effort to open the year with well-defined objectives to help get through the next 365 days with enough at hand.

The key to living comfortably is to, first and foremost, realize you need a budget. Regardless of civil status, whether you are a married with a family or a single mom, you need to have a financial plan and stick to it --- the latter being the bigger challenge. Most experts would say they find more accuracy in calculating annual savings target as compared to estimating expenditures. A budget, otherwise dubbed as a spending plan, is a summary of the anticipated income and expenses which can help track specific cash flow and set spending goals. By aligning your expectations in one transparent system, you can proactively gain control of your finances. Without a budget, it can be difficult to determine where your money is going.

I’m no accountant nor am I a Math whiz, but experience and personal trials have long taught me that money doesn’t grow on trees. You need to earn it, use it wisely and save it.

Budget planning should be every family’s business.

For most people, the idea of cutting a percentage of their monthly budget and allocate it to savings is both intimidating and unnerving. What we sometimes fail to remember is fact that the little amount we save now and every month will eventually grow a thousand fold in a year. Anytime is the right time to change your habits to save cash. For some, they differentiate “wants” from “needs” to help them identify the essentials, trim down their

expenses and maximize savings. There are also those who evaluate their spending patterns, analyze how to modify their lifestyle choices and adjust to what they can actually just spend. When it comes to marriage and money, you’d come to realize who between you is the spender and the saver. It’s always best for a couple to get on the same page and find a common ground.

Plan now, not later.

“Establishing a savings plan is practical and doable,” explains Kristin ‘Nina’ Borromeo, a fellow working mom who holds the position of Managing Director for Borromeo Insurance Agency, Inc. of Pru Life U.K. With her experience in guiding families in managing their wealth and preparing for their future, she shares a few helpful insights on how you can grow your assets through various cost saving measures.

1. Save first before you spend. Start at 10 percent of your income and gradually increase this amount depending on your savings goal.

2. Your monthly expenditure should not go beyond your monthly earnings. Live within means.

3. Personal Expenses

should have sub categories (e.g. Household Expenses, Educational Fees, Investment and Savings, etc.)

4. Minimize expenses in the “Miscellaneous” list. That’s one area where you can save more.

5. Be specific on what you want to save for and share / declare these goals with the family 6. Simple but effective system: Allocating cash for payables and keeping them in designated envelopes will help you stay within the budget.

7. Make your home more energy efficient to cut down on electricity costs.

8. Plan your trips to the grocery. Based from experience, I’d say it’s best to go after a heavy meal. Try not to make too many side trips and be aware of the impulse purchases (normally by the check-out counter).

9. Avoid using credit cards for credit but use it for convenience. Be aware of credit card charges and pay your dues in full to avoid interest and recurring charges.

10. Don’t forget to enjoy the simple things and live and love life. A common mistake when planning a budget is unrealistic expectations. Don’t deprive your family. What you can do is account the things they enjoy doing at a manageable rate.

Invest for coverage “Getting an insurance policy is also a way of ensuring your future,” says Nina’s husband, Paul, who also leads the same insurance agency as a Wealth Management Consultant.

“Simply put, it’s a back-up plan for you.”

“It’s best to start saving for your future early and think long term instead of short term. You can choose a flexible program that offers protection and savings, especially for the breadwinner.”

“Insurance will benefit those who will grow older or leave sooner,” Paul continues. “We believe insurance is a form of care and love which one can bestow

unto their family. Through insurance, widows and children will be secured, ailing persons will get the right assistance and our community will progress simply because the family, the core of every organization, planned and protected their future. It’s about what you want and need, how much you are comfortable to set aside for yourself, your future and your loved one. In the beginning as in the end,

it’s all about you and your family.”

Borromeo Insurance Agency, Inc. is now celebrating its 15th year in the industry, offering services to families and individuals for their needs for life, disability, illness, accident and income protection and savings through Pru Life U.K. For more information and inquiries on savings and insurance policies, please call +63 82 297 7788.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

13

EDGEDAVAO

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11TH JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT-SHERIFF DAVAO CITY

HOME DEVELOPMENT MUTUAL FUND Or PAG-IBIG FUND, Mortgagee -versus-

EJF-REM CASE NO. 14,959-14

ARNULFO S. LUMANLAN, married to VIRGINIA S. LUMANLAN, Mortgagor/s x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SALE

EDGE

Serving a seamless society

DAVAO

WANTS YOU!

ZION

ACCUPRINT PUBLISHING, INC.

MACHINE OPERATOR (Printing Press)

Qualifications:

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

- Willing to work under pressure, flexible, persuasive, can speak fluently and computer literate - A team player - With Basic Salary, Transportation, Communication, allowance + Commission

For interested applicants, you may send your resume to: HR Department EDGEDavao

Doors 13 & 14 Alcrej B;dg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel. No. (082) 221-3601 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com

- At least high school graduate, not more than 30 years old - Physically and mentally fit - Can handle minor repairs of the machine - Has the ability to be cool under pressure of deadlines and complex projects - Experience of at least one year Door 14 Alcrej Building, Quirino Ave., 8000 Davao City, Philippines E-mail: marketing@edgedavao.net zion_publishing@yahoo.com Telefax: (082) 2213601 Website: www.edgedavao.net

Upon extra-judicial petition for sale under Act 3135, as amended, filed by HOME DEVELOPMENT MUTUAL FUND OR PAG-IBIG FUND against ARNULFO S. LUMANLAN, married to VIRGINIA S. LUMANLAN with postal address at LOT 319-B, BLK.00 55 ROLLS ROYCE ST., DAVAO EXECUTIVE HOMES, MATINA, DAVAO CITY to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness in the total amount of ( P 731,495.84 ) Philippine Currency, inclusive of interest and penalty charges, as of April 28, 2014 plus attorney’s fees equivalent to TEN ( 10%) of the total indebtedness plus other legal expenses incident of foreclosure and sale; the undersigned Sheriff IV of the Regional Trial Court, Davao City, will sell at public auction on January 16, 2015 at 10:00 A.M. or soon thereafter, at the main entrance of Hall of Justice, Ecoland,Davao City to the highest bidder for Cash or MANAGER’S CHECK and in Philippine Currency, the following real property mentioned and described below together with all the improvements thereon, to wit: Transfer Certificate of Title No. T- 146-2010009723

“A parcel of land (LOT 379-B-2-C-1-D-1-0, PSD -11-020047, XXX) situated in the Barrio of Matina , City of Davao, Island of Mindanao…xxx Containing an area of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY (150) SQUARE METERS, more or less” All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above-stated time and date.

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date,it shall be held on FEBRUARY 13, 2015, without further notice.

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

Davao City, Philippines, DECEMBER 02, 2014

FOR THE EX-OFFICIO PROV’L SHERIFF:

Noted by:

(SGD.) ROBERT M. MEDIALDEA Sheriff IV

(SGD) ATTY. EDIPOLO P. SARABIA, JR. Clerk of Court VI & Ex-Officio Provincial Sheriff (1/7,14,21)

14 BIGGER PICTURE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

2015 is the year for Aliwagwag falls Text and Photos By OLAN EMBOSCADO/THE TRAVEL TELLER

W

HEN Super Typhoon Pablo ravaged Cateel, Davao Oriental in December 2012, Aliwagwag Falls was not spared. The horrifying winds brought by Pablo severely destroyed its vast rainforests and century-old trees.

The mossy forest was left balding. Wild flowers and orchids were gone. Waters overflowed.

For about three hours on that horrific morning of December 4, 2012, the majestic beauty of Aliwagwag Falls was spoiled.

But where there’s water, there’s life. Two years after that unforgettable day, the precious jewel of Cateel is back to her majestic shape again – even grander and more amazing.

The forest surrounding it is filled with green again. Waters are abundant and the multitiered falls looks stunningly like a stairway to heaven. In fact, it looks like it didn’t go through an unimaginable devastation from Typhoon Pablo.

Much as nature is a serial killer,

nature is also such an amazing healer.

And so today, this prized possession of my hometown is ready for the world. And I bet 2015 will be the year for Aliwagwag Falls to be the cornerstone of tourism not only in Davao Oriental but in the whole Davao Region.

An on-going Aliwagwag Development Program surrounding the falls is underway now to conveniently receive thousands of tourists expected to flock in the coming months.

This remarkable development plan is spearheaded by Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon, who is also a proud daughter of Cateel and whose top priorities include tourism development in the Province. In the coming days upon the completion of this project, Aliwagwag Falls is ready for the world. Everyone in our town, including myself, is excited!

I have been around many

places and have seen a number of waterfalls. Each of these waterfalls possesses a different charm, a different splendor, but Aliwagwag Falls is different. I may sound biased because I come from this place but for me the striking beauty of the Aliwagwag Falls is still without equal – still unmatched. Its mesmerizing grandeur is like no other. Even right now as I am writing this, my mind is wandering, thinking about its unrivaled majestic beauty, cotton-like cascades, and refreshing waters.

If you haven’t been there, come and see it for yourself and you’ll definitely understand why I call this jewel Her Majesty Queen Aliwagwag Falls.

For arranged trips or group tours to Aliwagwag Falls, you can call or text Olan Emboscado/The Travel Teller at 0939-342-3939. The Travel Teller hails from Cateel, Davao Oriental.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 218 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

15

Austria: Game 7 will boil down to desire

T

HE final game of the PBA Philippine Cup Finals will boil down to desire, according to San Miguel head coach Leo Austria as his Beermen prepare to take on the Alaska Aces in Game 7 of the hotly contested series.

SMB had a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series and appeared poised to win Game 6 as they took a double-digit advantage in the opening frame.

But once again, Alaska showed resiliency and mounted a comeback.

“We were outhustled in every department,” said Austria

in an interview. “I thought in the beginning, we can bag the championship because we had a good start in the first 10 minutes.”

Austria said the Beermen relaxed when Alaska’s Calvin Abueva checked out of the game due to foul trouble.

“Noong nawala si Abueva, they thought napakadaling manalo. But at the start, sabi ko sa kanila, it’s not going to be easy. This is a championship game. Their backs are against the wall, so they will do everything they can to extend the series, and it happened,” he said.

Game 7 is set for Wednesday night at the Araneta Coliseum, and Austria believes it will be one of those games where statistics have to be thrown out.

“In Game 7, I think lahat ng stats, set aside na ‘yan. Kung sino ang may desire, ‘yun siguro ang mananalo,” he said.

At the same time, Austria acknowledged that there were some factors that they will have to control in order to have a better chance of winning the game, including controlling the pace of the contest and dealing with Alaska’s physicality.

“Both teams want to dictate the tempo of the game, and for sure, Alaska wants an uptempo game because that’s the nature of their players and the nature of their defense,” he said. “They want us to run, because that’s their advantage over our big men, especially JuneMar Fajardo. They want to out-run us.”

As far as physicality is concerned, Austria said they need to match Alaska’s physical play but is happy that there have been no overtly dirty incidents so far in the series.

“The good thing with these

players, purely physical lang.

Hindi sila nagsusuntukan,” he said.

There have been some instances of players getting bloodied – notably Arwind Santos -- but Austria is relieved that the incidents have not escalated.

“Sometimes nagkakaduguan pero accidental lang ‘yun.

I hope na hindi mangyari ‘yun,” he said. “Sana ipakita ng both teams ang quality basketball.”

The two-day break between Games 6 and 7 should also serve his players well, said Austria, as energy is very

Sharapova advances at Australian Open

A

him and Lindsey.”

Woods had been wearing a scarf with a skeleton pattern over the lower part of his face, sunglasses and a stocking cap.

The photo was taken when the scarf was lowered.

Woods first showed up in the athletes’ area when Vonn’s father, Alan Kildow, escorted him in shortly after Vonn took the lead. The golfer then surprised Vonn and gave the skier an emotional hug.

S seed after seed in the women’s draw fell on the opening day of the Australian Open on Monday, world number two Maria Sharapova was vowing that she would not be one of them.

Eight women’s seeds departed on Monday, with world number five Ana Ivanovic the most prominent, before Sharapova restored some order to the rankings with a 6-4 6-1 victory over Petra Martic in the day’s final match on Rod Laver Arena.

“There were quite a few upsets today and of course I was very well aware of that,” Sharapova said after her victory that ruined Martic’s 24th birthday. “I certainly didn’t want to be one of them.”

Sharapova, who had entered the season-opening grand slam having won the Brisbane International title earlier this month, appeared comfortable against Martic but did run hot and cold throughout the first set, taking a 5-2 lead only for the Croatian to battle back to 5-4.

In the second, the fivetimes grand slam champion

faced some staunch resistance and while she took a 5-0 lead, the scoreline did not reflect the closeness of the match.

Sharapova, however, as was evident through much of the match, was able to convert the crucial points when they mattered and sealed it with her sixth ace.

“I played an opponent that’s capable of playing very good tennis,” Sharapova said of the 184th-ranked Martic. “She’s been injured a little bit I believe in the last year or so, but she can play. She’s got some big weapons.

“For a first round against someone that’s already played a few matches, I knew I had to be really strong from the beginning (because)... you never know what you’re going to get.

“You get really inspired opponents that are not seeded in the first round that are either coming from qualifying, and everyone’s eager to do well in this type of environment.

“You can’t ever underestimate their potential and how they can play. They’re going to fight till the very last point.”

coverages at that time with the golf media’s so-called brat pack. I was the lone Dabawenyo in that bunch, Nimrod Quinones of The Freeman was the lone Cebuano and the rest from Manila’s mainstream dailies like pareng Al Mendoza (then Inquirer), Lito Tacujan of Philippine Star, Ding Marcelo of Manila Bulletin, Rey Bancod of Tempo, Musong Castillo (PDI), Doods Catacutan, Badong Hilario, and the departed Roger Flores and Peter Alegre, among others.

Now Allenby is thinking over his future. Whether or not he will play next week in the United States depends on his mindset and how his body recovers from the beating.

As for Tiger, it was just as

strange. He got whacked with an overeager mediaman’s camera during the awarding rites for Vonn. He tried to walk in discretely not to be noticed by everyone but instead he almost stole the news from Vonn.

The shoulder-mounted camera hit Tiger as the mediaman turned.

Aw. That should really hurt.

Tiger, who was also in the same bunch of questions in that 1996 post-tournament presscon with Whitlock, is set to play next week in Phoenix to kick off his 2015 season.

Now, he has to make up his mind whether to play his first tournament of the year with one less tooth.

Tiger, who is trailing Jack

Nicklaus (18) with 14 majors, has lost grip on the world no.

1 which he last held last May 2014.

Already, we have seen Tiger almost defanged. Now he is de-toothed.

But Tiger is still dreaming to get past Jack. Losing a tooth is not the best sign though if you are dreaming.

Seriously, Tiger still has the bite whether he is one tooth less. He just needed to bring back the old roar in that gameface and the old fire down his belly.

Let’s wait for the sleeping Tiger to be awakened then.

Meantime, find me Tiger’s tooth please. That would surely cost a fortune in the auction when the legend in him retires.

Maria Sharapova through to second round after straight sets win over Petra Martic.

Tiger’s tooth knocked out by videographer

T

IGER Woods has another reason not to like cameras — his agent said it cost him a tooth.

Woods made a surprise visit to Italy on Monday to watch girlfriend Lindsey Vonn capture her record 63rd World Cup race. The photo that generated all the buzz was Woods missing his front tooth.

The culprit, according to his agent, was a camera.

S

TRANGE things are happening in golf lately.

First, Australian golfer Robert Allenby was rescued bathed in blood and badly beaten up after an apparent kidnapping and robbery incident in Hawaii.

Second, Tiger Woods lost a front tooth.

Both incidents did not happen in the golf course.

Allenby, a favourite of my pareng Chito Malabanan next to Japser Parnevik, was found either in a park 10 kilometers from a bar (Allenby’s version) or a block away from the bar (witnesses’ version), whichever way you would want to believe it goes.

Tiger lost his tooth in Italy watching girlfriend Lindsay Vonn won a 63rd World Cup

“During a crush of photographers at the awards podium at the World Cup event in Italy, a media member with a shoulder-mounted video camera pushed and surged toward the stage, turned and hit Tiger Woods in the mouth,” Mark Steinberg of Excel Sports said in an email. “Woods’ tooth was knocked out by the incident.”

Race organizers said this was not reported to them.

They added that Woods did

request extra security and a snowmobile to exit the finish area, and organizers met both requests.

“I was among those who escorted him from the tent to the snowmobile and there was no such incident,” Nicola Colli, the secretary general of the race organizing committee, told The Associated Press.

“When he arrived he asked for more security and we rounded up police to look after both

Catching Tiger by the tooth

ice ski victory.

As the PGA Tour’s pitch goes: “Anything happens.”

The 43-year old Allenby missed the cut Friday at the Sony Open in Hawaii after shooting consecutive oneover 71s. He has four career PGA Tour titles, the last one coming in 2001. Allenby was a celebrated pro with a reputation for issuing bad comments rose to no. 3 in the European PGA Tour Order of Merit.

In the late 90s while I was covering the Philippine Open at Southwoods, we were interviewing Aussie winner Rob Whitlock and the question drifted to Allenby as there were talks the Aussie star could be playing in the next editions of the Open.

Allenby never came

LET’S GET IT ON

Neil Bravo over the next year and Kevin Wentworth, the hard-luck lefty American who led the 1995 Philippine Open at the Apo Golf and Country Club in Davao by 14 strokes and lost it on final day to Mexican Carlos Espinosa, won the 1997 edition at Camp John Hay. I remember those golf

important in the do-or-die contest.

“Gusto ng kabila na tumakbo, and ganoon din with the physicality. If you don’t have the energy, you cannot survive,” he said.

“From start to finish, alam mo naman na talagang ginagawa ng bawa’t isa kung saan sila makakakuha ng advantage. So if you’re not in shape, talagang mawawala ka sa larong ito,” he added.

“That’s why sabi ko sa mga players, you have to rest well so that we have energy sa game natin sa Wednesday.”

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. VOL.77ISSUE ISSUE218 218• WEDNESDAY, • WEDNESDAY,JANUARY JANUARY21, 21,2015 2015

SWEET REVENGE IBP Davao romp City Hall Execs, shows readiness for national tilt

I

N their first game against City Hall Executives this year, Team IBP Davao hacked out an 80 – 74 victory on Monday night that should help develop Davao City lawyer’s confidence and chemistry for the 2015 Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) National Convention Basketball Tournament this coming March in Cebu.

IBP Davao, the defending national champion, played its full potential as the Davao City lawyers used their run and gun of play marked with quick ball

movement to get the better of the Executives.

Adrian Paguican was too tough to contain as the combo-guard came through 32 points that came in the variety of fashion.

Gil Ciudadano played well with 16 points for the IBP Davao which beat practically the same City Hall Executives team that swept them in the 2014 IBP-CMO Basketball Tournament where sweet-shooting Christopher “Bong” Go was fittingly named league MVP. Go, who averaged close to 40 points a game in the

2014 IBP-CMO Basketball Tournament, hailed the IBP team’s proficiency.

“They have a strong team,” said Go, who banked in 34 points on Monday night’s game against IBP – their 45th encounter dating back last year.

IBP Davao’s victory put an end to its losing streak and put the series at 35 – 10 in favor of the Executives.

Ryan Ongkiko made 14 baskets for the IBP Davao that went through a weekly practice scrimmage after bagging the Mindanao championship in Tagum

City last November as part of its build up for the national games.

“This is part of the preparation for the national competition that would help the team get into much better shape,” former PBA standout and IBP Davao coach Jomer Rubi told The Royal Mandaya Hotel commercial basketball team owner Glen Escandor and a group of SBP referees before the game.

John Flores had 10 points for the City Hall Executives. (Rico Biliran) Box scores:

I B P DAVAO -80 PAGUICAN A. 32, CIUDADANO 16, ONGKIKO 14, BAGUIO 8, CARPIO 5, RAÑON 3, SALCEDO 2, PAGUICAN J. 0, GALAS 0, PEPITO 0 EXECUTIVES – 74 GO 34, FLORES 10, ESCANDOR 9, CLORIBEL 8, ABERILLA 5, PELOTON 4, REYES 2, APOSTOL 2, CASAN 0, ROSAL 0

in the City of Durian after its absence in 2014 is a welcome development as this compliments Mayor Duterte’s sports development program.

“Mayor Duterte has always been an advocate of sports promotion and champion of the athletes,” Ramirez said.. “Through this program, the young athletes of Davao City will also be given the chance to display their skills

before our national coaches.”

Ramirez said the staging of the Jr. NBA will also show how peaceful Davao City is and that the City Government of Davao thru the SDD-CMO will let out a warm welcome to the visitors once they set foot in this part of the land.

The Davao event, which is set to be held in March this year, will also have the Jr. WNBA to include girl drib-

blers.

The Jr. NBA Philippines being presented by Alaska is a grassroots program for boys and girls between10 to 14 years old offering basketball clinics and training camps to communities, promoting fitness and healthy lifestyles to children and their parents.

The program has been running in the Philippines since 2008.

When the program was last staged in Davao City back in 103, it set a single-day record in Jr. NBA school clinic attendance with 1,003 kids of various ages from different schools and different cities, provinces and municipalities in Mindanao joining the basketball clinics.

Duterte backs Jr. NBA return to Davao T

HE return of the Jr. NBA to Davao City this year got a major boost with no less than Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte throwing his full support to the sports program for the country’s young dribblers.

Sports Development Division-City Mayor’s Office (SDD-CMO) officer-in-charge William “Butch” Ramirez said the move of the organizers to bring back the noble program

City Hall Executive’s hotshot Christopher “Bong” Go pulls up a jumper against IBP Davao. Lean Daval Jr.