Edge Davao 7 Issue 245

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

A LITTLE HELP. A passerby drops coins into a plastic container owned by a physically challenged person outside San Pedro Cathedral in Davao City. Many Dabawenyos out of kindness continue to extend help to mendicants even though the city prohibits it under the Anti-Mendicancy Law. Lean Daval Jr.

NO WAR VS PINOYS Duterte nixes all-out war against BIFF

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

O WAR must be declared against fellow Filipinos.

This was the clear message of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as he rejected calls for an all-out-war against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF)).

Describing the AFP’s decision for an all-out-war as reckless, Duterte said government will only put the lives of the people in danger as BIFF will not engage in gun battle but rather conduct bombing attacks.

He cited the case of Davao City, which suffered a series of bomb attacks that claimed the lives of innocent people.

“Napaka i- responsable mo naman na gobyerno ka tapos magsabi ka ng all-out war (That’s irresponsible statement. You are government and you talk of all-out war),” Duterte said.

Duterte said the Sasa Port and the old Davao City International Airport experienced bombings in 2003. Bombs, too, exploded in the San Pedro Cathedral twice.

The local chief executive

said that in a humane society, the government should not declare war against fellow Filipinos.

The government ,Duterte said, has not even settled the problems with the New People’s Army which has existed for 42 years already.

“Do you think you can get the victory there,” he said.

Earlier, AFP Chief-of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. ordered an all-out offensive operation against the BIFF. Catapang directed Western Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero to

spearhead the “all-out war” against the BIFF which mostly operates in Maguindanao and North Cotabato.

The Philippine News Agency reported the order to strike out against the bandits took place a day after the Senate concluded the hearings on the Mamasapano, Maguindanao incident where 44 Special Action Force members were killed on Jan. 25 after battling with Moro Islamic Liberation Front and BIFF for several hours.

The report said that the

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INSIDE EDGE MEGAWORLD PROJECTS POPULATION OF 1M IN ITS TOWNSHIPS BY 2020 Economy Page 6 AN AFTERNOON OF GOLD AND GLITTER WITH IKEBANA DAVAO

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2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

EXONERATION. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte delivers his message during the turn over ceremony of the New People’s Army Prisoners PO1 Jorie Amper, PO3 Democrito Polvorosa, and PO1 Marichel Contemplo who were abducted in November of last year. (CIO)

NPA rebels free 3 cops

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA and ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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HE New People’s Army (NPA) rebels released on Thursday here the three policemen they abducted in Surigao del Norte last year.

The three cops--Police Officer (PO)1Jorie Amper, PO3 Democrito Polvorosa, and PO1 Marichel Contemplo—were turned over to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte after over three months in NPA captivity.

Duterte said he was prompted to negotiate for the cops’ release after their wives sought his help last year.

“They asked me if I could

help them and I said I will talk to the NPAs. I am always willing to help,” Duterte said.

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines, in a statement, said the release of the Prisoners of War was ordered as an act of goodwill for the resumption of the GPH-NDFP peace talks and for humanitarian consideration of the POWs themselves and their families.

The release of the three POWs were earlier cancelled three times after the request of the NPA rebels for a suspension of military and police operation in the area of Surigao

Mayor Rellon turns other cheek on detractors’tirades

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IRST-TERMER Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon is turning his other cheek to the persistent tirades of detractors, saying instead that they are proof on how democracy has at last come in the city when he was elected as the mayor compared to the time past.

The mayor is not calling nor exacting revenge to insults and attacks against him hurled by blocktime broadcasters in local radio stations and by political detractors in public and even on Facebook.

In an interview, he said : “Sa totoo lang, may freedom na ang mga tao ngayon sa city, that even me, I’m subject to people’s freedom to express their feelings.”

He debunked a recent is-

sue that he has ridiculed and put to shame a political rival, saying “it did not come from me and I never said that in media interviews or in public.”

He said he is rather taking it as an opinion that he would take as important consideration in his continuing crusade for good governance in the city.

“There’s one friend who keeps on giving worst comments on his Facebook, but your mayor will not react on that, I’ll just keep my cool and just continue serving,” he added “There are others there who are no longer objective in their commentaries, in just wanting to destroy my person,” Rellon continued, “but these instead encourage me to serve

FMAYOR, 11

was rejected.

Meanwhile, the 3 POWs were grateful to the city mayor for taking charge of their release.

“Dako jud kaayo among pasalamat kang Mayor Duterte. Wala mi nag dahom nga siya pa ang makatabang sa amoa nga mapa-uli mi samo pamilya (We are really thankful to Mayor Duterte. We never thought that it would be him who can help us in returning home to our families),” Contemplo said.

He said celebrating Christmas and New Year away from their families was very painful.

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However, the three police officers said the NPA treated them well.

“Atong Pasko gibuhat nila (NPA) tanan para madasig mi, pero dili jud mawala ang kamingaw sa mo pamilya (During Christmas they did everything to cheer us up, but we really missed our families),” Contemplo said.

Polvorosa and Contemplo were abducted by the NPA rebels in the town of Alegria, Surigao del Norte in Novermber 16, 2014.

The two policemen were on their way to Barangay Pungtod aboard a patrol car

for a meeting with officials from the Department of Social Welfare and Development and residents for the government’s Pantawid Pampailyang Pilipino Program.

Amper was the first one to be abducted, He was seized by the rebels in a remote village in Malimono last November 12.

On Wednesday, Duterte said he was prompted to negotiate for the cops’ release after their wives sought his help last year.

“I called the Communist Party of the Philippines. Sabi ko kung walang kasalanan,

i-release na yan (I told them if the cops have not committed crimes then they must be release,” Duterte told reporters at the Grand Men Seng Hotel Wednesday afternoon.

The local chief executive read before the media the release order signed by signed by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) chairman Luis Jalandoni.

Jalandoni, in his order, gave the go-signal for Duterte to fetch the cops.

Duterte stated that the release is in compliance with the Geneva Convention of August 12, 1949.

She spoke well of the “preparedness and the coordination” sparked by “good leadership and bravery” of the police and the military elements of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) 701st Infantry Brigade based in Sitio Magay, Brgy. Don Martin Marunda, Mati City.

Police regional director, Police Chief Supt. Wendy Rosario in the same occasion said the police engaged in a 15-minute gun-battle with the raiding NPAs belong to guerilla front (GF) 18 about 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 15.

One police was wounded during the gun-battle, while two died and four were

wounded from the responding 701st Inf. Bde. team, due to improvised explosive device (IED) explosion.

He looked at such coordinated moves of the military and the police as “living proof of your dedication by performing best beyond your call of duty”, citing them as “models of exemplary service.”

Major General Aurelio Baladad, AFP Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) commander, in the same occasion cited such action of the police and the military as a “good example of how coordination between the AFP and the AFP really works” in the province of Davao Oriental.

While, coordination was a much disputed word between the military and the police at the national level, he noted coordination in Davao Oriental as worthy of being modelled because of the deep involvement of the local government unit (LGU) in waging peace, security and development.

He gave credit to Gov. Malanyaon for the united effort to establish peace in the province and to address insurgency which, he said, carries factors beyond military and police solutions particularly politics, socio-economic, cultural, legal and diplomacy.

He assured the constitu-

Military, police coordination cited during NPA raid in Mati

ILITARY officials in Eastern Mindanao and local government executives of Davao Oriental Tuesday gave credit to the coordination between the police and the military at the height of the New People’s Army (NPA) raid on Mati City Police Station on Feb. 15.

During the recognition ceremony held at the vicinity of Mati City Police Station, Provincial Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon gave her salute to the police and the military personnel who held their line during the gun-battle against the NPAs, repelling the lawless elements from taking over the police station.

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

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4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

PNP-12 commends cops in P25-M ‘shabu’haul

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DIALOGUE. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte talks with Indigenous Peoples (IP) protesters in front of Grand Men Seng Hotel. The IP groups requested Duterte to help them in their appeal to the Armed Forces of the Philippines to

stop the militarization in some communities of Agusan Del Sur and Davao Del Norte. Photo By Armando Fenequito Jr.

Hataman: Peace without bloodshed ‘not impossible’

By JEFRY M. TUPAS

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UTONOMOUS Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv Hataman reminded those who are calling for an all-out war in Mindanao about how the country overcame the violence of the dictatorship through the bloodless EDSA People Power Revolution.

Hataman said the victory of People Power 29 years ago must guide Filipinos now especially in the midst of calls for the abandonment of the peace process between the government and the Moro Is-

lamic Liberation Front (MILF) following the bloody Mamasapano carnage on January 25.

Hataman noted how Filipinos “responded with a collective courage” to revolt against the rule of then-President Ferdinand Marcos.

“It was a revolution that left a mark and stunned the world that froze in sheer admiration over a people, a nation that successfully ended the reign of terror. It was peaceful,” Hataman said.

“Fast forward to today, we reminisce with a smile and

pride how Filipinos ended the country’s dark years without blood. It’s not impossible, we say,” he added.

Hataman, however, lamented the Filipinos’ change of heart.

“As we look back, we also realize how time changed us as a nation, as a people. As times passed us by, many of us lost it,” he said. “The recent Mamasapano incident exposed how Filipinos have become over the years. While the EDSA People Power 29 years ago saw the unison marching of millions of

the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) led by its chairman Lualhati Antonino , the Department of Agriculture, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and those who actively participated for the success of the activity.

“We are hoping that this move will inspire others, as collaboration and unity among stakeholders is the key to address the adverse impacts of climate change,” he said.

He noted how in recent years Mindanao had been battered by strong typhoons and huge floods in what could only be attributed to climate change impacts, and said that the sheer number of trees planted under the TreeVolution program, if properly cared for to maturity, would benefit the people of Mindanao and the environment.

Paje cited the sequestration of carbon, which greatly contributes to global warming and climate change; recharging of aquifers; stabilization

of the soil; food security; and livelihood creation as only some of the benefits that the project would bring to surrounding communities and the environment.

During the TreeVolution, more than 122,000 participants simultaneously planted 2.29 million seedlings, across 29 locations in Mindanao on September 26 last year, surpassing the previous record of 1.9 million trees planted by India in 2011.

Paje lauded the commitment of Mindanao’s local government units who contributed five hectares each for the planting sites, through a resolution passed by the Confederation of Provincial Governors, City Mayors and Municipal League Presidents of Mindanao or Confed-Mindanao.

He reiterated that the TreeVolution was in support of the government’s National Greening Program, which aims to cover 1.5 million hectares with trees by 2016.

(DENR)

Paje says’Treevolution’a big step in restoring Mindanao forests

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NVIRONMENT Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje has lauded the record-breaking “TreeVolution: Greening MindaNow” as a big step forward in restoring Mindanao’s rapidly dwindling forest cover and fighting climate change.

“More than setting the now-confirmed world record, we will always consider TreeVolution as a big step taken by Mindanao residents themselves in re-greening their landscape to help mitigate climate change and protect themselves against its adverse impacts,” the environment chief said.

Records tally-keeper Guinness World Records has recently confirmed Mindanao, through the TreeVolution – a massive tree-planting activity held in various locations in the region in September last year – as the new title holder for the most number of trees planted within an hour.

Paje congratulated the DENR’s partner organizers,

feet under the rhythm of peace, a stark contrast is unfurling before our very eyes today, something that is doubly ominous given that we are a nation that values democracy.”

He said what happened in Mamasapano was tragic, adding that “there is not enough act of anguish for the lost loved ones.”

However, he said, justice for all of the victims will not be achieved through violence.

“What happened on January 25 in Barangay Tukanali-

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HE Police Regional Office (PRO) 12 commended police personnel of Sto. Niño town in South Cotabato yesterday for the recovery of around Php 25-million worth of metamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu in a raid in the area last Tuesday.

Chief Supt. Lester Camba, Region 12 police director, said the accomplishment of the Sto. Niño municipal police station was a major boost to their intensified anti-criminality campaign in the entire region.

Also known as Soccsksargen, Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal,

Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.

“I expect other police units to conduct similar operations to eventually make Region 12 a drug-free zone,” he said.

Camba said he earlier issued a directive to all police units in the region to step up their operations in connection with their campaign against illegal drugs.

He said the successful operation in Sto. Niño town showed that local police units were complying with the directive and relentless in their drive.

The raid in Purok Malipayon, Barangay Ambalgan in Sto. Niño on Tuesday morning

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Gov’t troops kill 14 Abu Sayyaf

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S-TRAINED army commandos on Thursday killed 14 Islamist militants belonging to the al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf group in the first major battle this year on a remote southern island, as the Philippines stepped up efforts to rescue foreign hostages.

The Abu Sayyaf is the smallest but most deadly of several Muslim groups fighting for independence in the south of the Roman Catholic country.

It is estimated to have about 500 hard-core followers based mostly on Basilan and Jolo.

It has links with Jemaah Islamiah, a Pan-Asian radical Muslim group blamed for attacks in Indonesia, including the 2002 Bali bombings and two Jakarta hotel bombings last month.

Troops used artillery and air strikes to hit the positions of about 300 Muslim rebels,

who are holding three foreign captives, including a Malaysian and European, outside Patikul town, military spokesman Colonel Restituto Padilla said.

“Our troops are trying to box in the Abu Sayyaf rebels for a decisive battle,” Padilla said, adding infantry and marine units have been positioned as containment forces to prevent militants from escaping the Patikul jungles.

Padilla said 14 militants were killed and 19 wounded in the two-day battle. Two soldiers were also killed and 14 were wounded after commandos chanced upon a large group of Abu Sayyaf led by Hatib Hajan Sawajaan.

Two Southeast Asian militants from Singapore and Indonesia were involved in the fighting, together with Abu Sayyaf leader Furuji Indama.

Two Abu Sayyaf leaders are in

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NEW CABLES. Linemen of a telecommunication company install new cables along E. Quirino Avenue in Davao City as part of the company’s rehabilitation project to improve its services. Lean Daval Jr.

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

PAL flies to New York via Vancouver

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HILIPPINE flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) will stretch its network in Canada as it announced new air service to New York through Vancouver, Canada starting March this year.

“As of mid-March, there will be 11 flights weekly to Vancouver, four of which go on to Toronto, while four will continue on to New York,” Canadian ambassador to the Philippines Neil Reeder said during the general member-

ship meeting (GMM) of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce- Davao Chapter at the Park Inn by Radissons-Davao yesterday.

Reeder said Canada and the Philippines concluded an updated Air Service Agree-

ment that doubled up the number of flights between the two countries from seven to 14.

Another initiative that will surely increase the tourist arrival in each country is the recent announcement of PAL.

OVERLOADED. A public utility vehicle bound for the hinterlands of Davao City waits for commuters along the road in Bunawan – even though it is already loaded to the rood with passengers and merchandise. Lean Daval Jr.

Phl economy seen to rise 7% in 2015

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he Philippine economy is expected to pick up and return to above seven-percent gross domestic product (GDP) growth this year, fuelled mainly by the recovery of government spending for infrastructure and a sharp decline in inflation rates.

“We expect a continuation of the four-quarter surge into 2015, starting from the very first quarter of the year,” said a joint report by the First Metro Investment Corp. (FMIC) and the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P).

The economy expanded by 6.9 percent in the fourth quarter of 2014 as government spending and construction resumed their high growth trajectory during the period.

The October to December growth figure brought the fullyear GDP growth to 6.1 percent, making the Philippines as Asia’s second fastest-growing economy next to China.

The report noted that the national government (NG) is expected to increase infrastructure and general spending this year in view of the Presidential elections in May 2016.

“It is likely that the NG will have more fiscal space to ramp up infrastructure spending in 2015, since the expected 2014 full-year deficit will end up much below the target 2 percent of GDP,” the latest issue of the Market Call said.

It said the massive election spending can start in the second half of the year. (PNA)

“Last week, we welcomed the announcement that PAL and Canada’s Westjet Airlines will start a new code-sharing agreement allowing PAL to begin marketing and selling WestJet-operated flights, and carry its passengers to key Canadian domestic points,” Reeder said.

An earlier report said that these Canadian domestic points include five more Canadian cities including: Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, and Winnipeg aside from Vancouver and Toronto.

Code-shairng designations will be available on selected WestJet flights from Vancouver and Toronto, and all code-share sales ate offered directly through PAL or through its global distribution network, he said.

According to the report, the agreement between the two airlines will boost PAL’s presence is North America “10 destinations in spite of a shortage of wide-body aircraft needed for further expansion.”

“Philippine Airlines will now be placing its own flight numbers and selling seats on the following routes operated

by WestJet: Toronto to Ottawa, Toronto to Montreal, Vancou-

ver to Calgary, Vancouver to Edmonton, Vancouver to Toronto, and Vancouver to Winnipeg,” the report added.

Reeder said that Filipinos travelling to Canada will now be able to enjoy a seamless travel experience with the ability to book flights through PAL to onward Canadian destinations served by WestJet from Toronto and Vancouver.

“Passengers will board the Philippine Airlines aircraft in Manila bound for Vancouver or Toronto, and then upon arrival in Canada, connect to a WestJet flight bound for Ottawa, Montreal, Winnipeg, Edmonton, or Calgary on a single-ticket,” the report added.

“Although PAL will be code-sharing on a WestJet flight between Vancouver and Toronto, it is believed that PAL will continue to operate its own flights to Toronto via Vancouver,” the report said Last year, he said close to 430,000 one-way trips were made between the two countries, making the Philippines Canada’s 14th largest air travel market.

“Approximately 120,000 visitors from Canada travelled to the Philippines last year,” Reeder said.

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

Aboitiz: TSI power plant operational next month

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HE first unit of the Aboitiz Power’s Therma South Inc. (TSI) will start its commercial operation next month.

Bobby Orig, Aboitiz Power first vice president for Mindanao Affair, announced that the first unit with 150 megawatts (MW) of the 300 MW coalfired power plant is scheduled

to go online by March.

“It is 95 percent completed,” Orig said in an interview at the Park Inn by RadissonDavao yesterday.

The TSI’s 300 MW coalfired power plant is located in the boundary of Toril District, Davao City and Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. Orig said the completion of

the power plant is on schedule and would most likely to meet it targeted time table for its commercial operation which is March, first quarter of the year.

The second 150 MW unit, meanwhile, will start its commissioning by June, he said.

The operation of the first unit will augment 100 MW to Davao City and other franchise

Cellular, but also that of Smart.

“We are honored to have been entrusted by Smart and Sun Cellular with their name as we drive for entrepreneurial success,” says the country’s first Laguna-based Sun Satellite Branch owner. Luna, who started her mobile telecommunications business in 2003 as a regional distributor of prepaid offers in Batangas, eventually ventured to expand her business to serve a wider market.

The establishment of the Sun Shop Satellite Branch in the area is a welcome devel-

opment for those who work and live in that part of Laguna.

Luna even shares that when they announced that they will open a satellite branch in the area, a property official thanked her because of the easier access the shop will provide. “Before, you had to take three trips via public transport just to get to the nearest Sun Shop. Now, people who live nearby and those who work in the industrial park do not have to travel far to avail of offers and services of Sun Cellular and Smart,” Luna shares.

Sun Shop satellite branch paves way to success for Laguna entrepreneur

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HERE are many opportunities to achieve success. For entrepreneur Maria Teresa Luna, this opportunity came when she opened her own Sun Shop Satellite Branch in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. As one of the pioneer owners of the Sun Shop Satellite Branch, she gets to expand her existing Smart Prepaid load distribution business to include postpaid offers in this new channel.

Sun Shop Satellite Branches are third-party owned and operated shops that provide not only the same offers, service, and support from Sun

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areas of Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC).

Therma South will also deliver much needed power to the major cities of Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Butuan, Gen. Santos, Tagum and Kidapawan among others.

Also receiving much needed power are the Agusan and Surigao provinces, Davao re-

gion, North and South Cotabato, Sarangani, Misamis provinces, Zamboanga provinces and parts of Bukidnon.

However, Orig did not assured that power supply in the Mindanao power grid will normalize once TSI’s first unit become operational next month.

“We’re just one of the (power) suppliers. The Na-

tional Crid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) will be on the better position to answer that,” Orig said.

But, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is positive that the operation of TSI, among other coal-fired power plant, will ease the tight power supply situation in Mindanao.

SATELLITE. PLDT, Smart and Sun Cellular executives join Sun Shop Satellite Branch owners Maria Teresa Luna and Edwin Luna and LGU representative, Mrs. Josefina Arcillas as they officially open the first Sun Shop Satellite Branch in Laguna.

Megaworld projects population of 1M in its townships by 2020

By KRIS M. CRISMUNDO

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S it aggressively expands its township developments across the country, real estate giant Megaworld announces that the population in its various urban townships is expected to reach at least one million by 2020.

Speaking during the 18th Outstanding Filipino Retailers & Shopping Centers of the Year Award by the Philippine Retailers Association, Megaworld chairman and CEO Dr. Andrew L. Tan revealed its 20 townships across the country will be home to around 600,000 condominium and village residents and 400,000 business process outsourcing (BPO) and office workers.

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“By 2020, we expect to increase our total population by 150% in all of our urban townships, which will reach at least one million,” Dr. Tan announced.

At present, Megaworld has around 250,000 residents and 150,000 BPO and office workers in all of its existing townships.

The number of BPO workers comprises around 15 percent of the total BPO population in the country, which now stands at around 1.04 million.

Dr. Tan explained that the increase in population in its mixeduse communities “indicates the opportunities that await the company’s commercial and retail partners.”

Through the years, Mega-

world has successfully built malls and commercial centers in each of its townships to primarily cater to the growing communities within its developments.

Among its malls and commercial centers include Eastwood Mall, Citywalk 1 & 2 and Cyber & Fashion Mall in Eastwood City; Newport Mall in Newport City; Venice Piazza and Tuscany in McKinley Hill and Lucky Chinatown in Binondo, Manila, among others.

New malls in Uptown Bonifacio and McKinley Hill, both in Fort Bonifacio, are expected to open within the year.

“Condominium residents, for example, need not go far to buy groceries and gifts, or even

1, is one of several meetings held in conjunction with Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN 2015, Malaysia’s International Trade and Industry Minister Mustapa Mohamad told reporters in the country’s northeastern city of Kota Bharu.

Mustapa, who will chair the meeting, said the gathering will enable ASEAN economic ministers to as-

sess and take stock of overall achievements in regional integration and discuss new initiatives.

“This meeting is critical as the ministers will focus on ensuring that all core economic integration measures as stipulated in the AEC blueprint substantially are realized.

“This AEC is set to come

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ASEAN economic ministers to discuss AEC establishment

CONOMIC ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members will meet at the end of the month in Malaysia to discuss crucial matters on the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), a government official said Wednesday.

The meeting, to be held from February 28 to March

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

Not just another national flower

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HEN we were still in high school, we were told that sampaguita was our national flower. We later found out that the flower is a native of India.

So last year, the waling-waling was named as the country’s newest flower icon -- thanks to Senator Loren Legarda. It was she who pushed for the declaration of the beautiful orchid as another national flower to make its beauty known to the whole country and to the world.

“The waling-waling’s beauty adorns our treetops, especially in Davao, Cotabato, and Zamboanga where it is endemic. But there are threats to its survival, as the flowers that grow and thrive in the wild are harvested for commercial and decorative

purposes, and their habitat is destroyed by deforestation,” Legarda said in a statement.

Waling-waling “is one of the finest orchid species endemic to the Philippines, desired by orchid growers and breeders alike for its showy and attractive flowers and ability to impart its vigor and floral characteristics to its progeny,” wrote Dr. Helen Valmayor in her book, “Orchidiana Philippiniana.”

“A Pictorial Cyclopedia of Philippine Ornamental Plants,” described the exotic waling-waling in these words: “The flowers are flat, to eight centimeters across; the sepals and petals are obviate, bluish pink, with buff-yellow stain, and dull-crimson reticulations on the lateral sepals; the lip is small and con-

cave, purple-red at base, strongly recurved and brownish purple at apex; with three prominent keels.”

The waling-waling, named in “allusion to a moth in flight,” was discovered on Mindanao in 1882. It used to grow on tree trunks in the rainforests of Davao, Sultan Kudarat and other parts of the island. It is worshipped as “diwata” (fairy) by the native Bagobos.

Unfortunately, the exotic orchid is almost on the brink of extinction. “The waling-waling is almost extinct in the wild,” deplored Dr. Domingo Madulid, one of the country’s noted botanists.

“Rarer varieties of this plant can only be found in expensive nurseries.”

Recent surveys show that

the waling-waling can be found in abundance no longer in the Philippines but in other countries, particularly Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Hawaii.

It is the best orchid variety of the country, Madulid said. But most Filipinos didn’t know that it could be one of the biggest sources of dollars for the country. In the 1950s, the “systematic plunder” of wild plants, including orchids, started.

Madulid said that long before the country was sending maids to Singapore and Hong Kong, upland farmers had been despoiling the forests and selling rare orchid varieties, such as waling-waling, abroad.

There’s an interesting on how the world came to know waling-waling. Valmayor, in her very informative book, shared this story: “One of the most successful and secretive collectors was Carl Roebelin, who was in the employ of Frederick Sander of the Orchid House of Sanders at St. Albans, England.

“About 1879, the Spanish

Waling-waling (Photo by Henrylito D. Tacio) government of the Philippines initiated a regular mail service between Manila and Mindanao. This provided a satisfactory means of sending collected plant material from the southern island to Manila. Consequently, Sander commissioned Roebelin to explore Mindanao for spectacular and still undiscovered orchids.”

It was February or March of 1880 when Roebelin came to Mindanao in the Bay of Illana near Cotabato. The place was described as “a very mountainous region on the western side of Mindanao.”

Valmayor added this additional information: “At that time, only the coastal regions and some rivers were controlled by the Spaniards. The interiors were populated by hostile tribes who were wary about white intruders.”

The story continued: “Earlier, (Roebelin) had heard of sto-

The country’s second national flower.

(Photo by Henrylito D. Tacio) ries from natives about an orchid that grew on trees in mosquito-infested jungles with ‘flowers as big a dishpans.’ This whetted his appetite to seek the mysterious orchid, thinking of fabulous prices it would command in Europe.

“To reach the area, Roebelin had to travel with Sam Choon, half Chinese and Filipino, for apparently he was the only one who could trade safely with the natives. (The two) sailed up the river towards Lake Magindanao to the interior village of a rather peaceful tribe, the Subanons.

They lived above the mosquito zone in tree houses about 50 feet above the ground. These raised dwellings protected them from the marauding warlike Bagobos, who would attack the villagers at night. Ladders for the tree houses made up of tree trunks were pulled up for the night, making them safe from raids of the Bagobos.

“Roebelin slept for the night in one of these tree houses very close to the tree branches. While asleep he was awakened by a loud roar and the shaking of the flimsy thatched hut. He was sure it was an earthquake and pro-

ceeded to tie himself to a branch while the shaking continued.

He dropped off exhausted, fell asleep, and when he woke up in the morning he saw the beautiful spray of purple and brown flowers which the natives called as ‘waling-waling.’”

Roebelin took some plants and mailed them but they never reached England, “as themail service was disrupted by the earthquake.”

Valmayor wrote: “Roebelin returned to England with only an illustration of waling-waling, but he was again dispatched by Sander to go back, and this time he did secure the orchid.”

When the orchid flowered in England in 1882, German taxonomist Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach named the plant after Sander, hence the name “Vanda Sanderiana,” or “Euanthe sanderiana,” as another taxonomist preferred to call the plant.

After that, Sanders introduced waling-waling to orchid enthusiasts and lovers in London the following year.

Since then, it has influenced another thousand or more colorful and attractive vandaceous hybrids that are now part of the world’s multibillion-dollar orchid and cutflower industry.

For almost a century, waling-waling disappeared in the Davao gardens. But thanks to Charita Pentespina, it has “returned” to its native home. Then a neophyte orchidist, Puentespina successfully pioneered in mass producing the waling-waling through embryo culture in 1985.

During the 48th Araw ng Dabaw, the first waling-waling seedlings in compots (community pots) were sold to the public, which in no time generated interest among hobbyists and commercial orchid growers.

Since then, the waling-waling has become a fixture in almost every garden in Davao.

“The return of the waling-waling to every home garden in Davao and elsewhere in the country is one thing,” one noted author wrote. “It is another thing to see it bloom in its habitat at the foothills of Mount Apo.” Yes, waling-waling is endemic to the country. “Our national symbols are vital to our identity as Filipinos,” Legarda pointed out. “As we discover more about ourselves, we must also update the symbols that represent us.

I believe that initiatives to do so increase the engagement of everyday Filipinos with the symbols of our nation, and aid in our nation-building process.”

8

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

EDITORIAL Rody’s perfect world

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HAT does a Rodrigo Duterte presidency look like?

Mayor Duterte, sounding more like the presidential bet that he denies himself to be, has revealed his idea of a perfect world, and it looks like this: a thriving federal form of government with 14 federal states, police forces for every federal state, a national police force supervising the federal police forces, and a National Armed Forces under the Federal Government.

That means no other armed group except the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) shall exist.

In a report by Philippine Star’s Edith Regalado, Mayor Rody’s picture of a perfect world means all other armed groups including, that of the communists and secessionists, would be disbanded for the country to achieve stability. That in effect tells us that he wants the New People’s Army, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Moro National National Liberation Front, Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Figters, Abu Sayyaf, and other armed groups to disband and only the legit remain.

He wants them all to lay down their arms if these groups agree

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to join his administration under a unity government.

It’s a tall order but nonetheless, he has spoken of one thing we have not even heard from other leaders. Not even from this present administration.

Mayor Duterte has started to make rounds around the country, not to tweet his presidential bid, but to campaign for a change to federalism. Many have cogitated that to be testing the waters.

A Duterte-led federal government is envisaged to prevent the creation of powerful and autonomous states, particularly in areas covered by the proposed Bangsamoro entity. Duterte believes stability in the country could only be attained if no other group aside from the PNP and the AFP would be allowed to carry firearms.

Putting things in perspective, the creation of federal states sounds like the best option to the Bangsamoro which has been clamouring for self-governance.

With the peace process in Mindanao in peril and the Bangsamoro Basic Law flirting rejection in Congress after the Mamasapano incident, Mayor Rody’s “perfect world” could be just what the doctor ordered for this country.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Passive citizens make federalism an oligarchy

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DVOCATES of the federal system of government had better be sure about how they define it, how it is implemented, what role the people will play in its dynamics, and how they are to be initiated into the system so it will really perform as intended.

It’s important to be clear about these because, like most utopian ideas, federalism is easier said than done. And it can end up a captive of vested interests—especially by traditional politicians (trapos) with feudal sensibilities and habits.

Consider for example the long-standing and much-extolled ideal of local autonomy. It’s supposed to empower citizens and enable them to exemplify self-government in administering the affairs of their immediate community.

To institutionalize local autonomy or self-government, the Local Government Code was enacted in 1991 (R.A. 7160).

It streamlined the political structure and established appropriate mechanisms at the grassroots for the exercise of People Power in every barangay—which it transformed into a full-fledged government where its constituents play a direct role in its operation. ***** Today, already 23 years since the Code went into effect, the people of the barangay are still powerless, without effective voice or influence in respect of their own government. And no one in the upper-level governments does anything to remedy their state of powerlessness.

As a result, with People Power asleep, the trapos are having the time of their lives living off the fat of the community

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while fattening their dynasties.

And because autonomy remains a pipe-dream, still to become reality, governance is dysfunctional because of its failure to kick in especially at the primal level of our system.

This dismal lack of autonomy and failure of people empowerment places the chances of success for federalism in serious doubt. ***** The essence of federalism is autonomy, which is a less complicated concept and easier to grasp. If 23 years cannot implant autonomy into the people’s consciousness effectively to enable them to govern the small community of the barangay, what are the chances that they can govern a federal in the foreseeable future?

True autonomy can only sprout from the involvement, energy, and inputs of the people—and not just the run-ofthe-mill type of people, but people with some sense of their being sovereign citizens, and who will brook no abuse or manipulation of their inherent power.

Any call for a shift to federalism must be built upon citizens with a commitment to democracy, people who know more or less how to govern, and who are ready, willing, and able to participate in the governing process—doing so with a passion for citizen responsibility and good governance.

To build a federal system upon the tenuous assurance of leaders with a knack for autocratic or presumptuous leadership would be to start a delicate balancing act with the wrong foot. ***** It will only plant the seeds of oligarchy and dynastic rule, and more surely entrench the already powerful. It will give more power to those in power, but none for the people.

Thus, advocacy for the federal system at this time should be accompanied by a campaign to empower the people, ushering them into the processes of governance in their community or barangay.

It would not be a difficult campaign to launch, as it would merely entail leadership in complying with the Local Government Code, propagating knowledge of its empowering provisions, and sense that only an active citizenry can assure good governance, prevent corruption, and induce equal opportunity for all.

But where people prefer a strongman type of leader, federalism will only create conditions for oligarchs and martinets to takeover, be firmly in control, and let political dynasties crowd out the democrats. ***** Democracy is not served by autocratic or bullying styles of governing. To enthrone such leaders within the framework of a federal system will only serve the purposes of scofflaws and shameless political monopolists.

It’s not wise to change a system and unwittingly indulge the spoiled attitudes and habits of imperious leaders,

who then develop a messianic complex, thinking themselves God’s Gift to society. It will embolden them all the more to exploit the system, to indulge their penchant for pushing around hapless constituents, to employ intimidation to browbeat people into toeing their line, and to say or do things as it they’re above the law or exempt from due process. In which case, federalism will sire a resurgent feudalism.

The success of a federal system lies in the extent to which people at the grassroots participate in government.

Unless they’re actively engaged at their level, a federal system would merely create additional layers of bureaucrats and politicians, entrenching family dynasties more solidly.

Thus, a passive citizenry does not augur well for a federal form of government. To advocate for it, one must start with promoting the spirit, substance, and motions of autonomy. And the Local Government Code, with its prescriptions for the primary government of the barangay, is a perfect framework to start with.

(Manny is former UNESCO regional director for Asia-Pacific; secretary-general, Southeast Asia Publishers Association; director, Development Academy of Philippines; member, Philippine Mission to the UN; vice chair, Local Government Academy; member, Cory Government’s Peace Panel; awardee, PPI-UNICEF outstanding columnist. An author of books on governance, he is chairman/convenor ofGising Barangay Movement Inc.valdehuesa@ gmail.com)

has built his MY TWO CENTS’ career as a local official and legislator in a far flung city away from the capital.

Called up by previous adminisJohn Tria trations to ecisouth@gmail.com join their cabinets, he graciously declines. I guess he is his own man, comfortable in his own skin, eschewing ambitions for national prominence and measured in his political moves. Smart and cunning, yet simple and straightforward like other Mindanaoans, he possesses none of the attitudes and trappings of people like Alan Cayetano or the Estrada Family.

He knows when to open his mouth and does so with clear, grounded statements grounded on clear principles that he can

explain whether to diplomats or common folk. No doublespeak, just plain speech. This sets him apart and perhaps inspires many.

It’s the common sense that enables him to anchor his local policies on a set of principles, and years of common sense have created the smoking and firecracker ban, the speed limit, the tough implementation against criminals that have made him consistent. Common sense builds its own rapport with others seeking the same from governance.

It’s the common sense that takes the policy direct to stakeholders and engages them to see a perspective that may differ from how they are used to doing things. Let the stakeholder stake charge of the situations they find themselves in, encourage them to get out of the holes that excessive politics, through time and forgetfulness, has dug for them. This creates a situation of empowerment, and cascades a respect for rules, and an empathy for each other that, collective-

ly, helps regulation.

Its time to exercise common sense to start building our common future.

The rule of law, the peaceful transfer of power through fair elections, the implementation of the most basic rules such as waste segregation and traffic laws help people understand and get on the bandwagon that tell us that effective governance comes from the consistent application of rules that strengthen the collective common sense of the governed, who in turn, govern each other under principle and mutual benefit.

These become the seeds of a mature political culture that no longer seeks to overthrow authority at the slightest provocation, rather, seeks its renewal in participation in the common undertakings of building society.

Governance becomes less tedious when people participate in the governance process. Political maturity therefore comes as an indirect result of credible and consistent application of our own common sense.

THE WORM’S EYEVIEW

BY MANNY VALDEHUESA

Common sense for our common future

E’VE had brilliant and not so brilliant presidents, from esteemed lawyers, bemedalled soldiers to multi awarded actors. Yet the Philippines continues to be the complicated democracy, sputtering from start to start, yet never really moving forward in a consistent manner to bring the sustained economic growth needed by its people for development. It is likewise a state that has yet to either win the wars or clinch the peace with various insurgent groups. Needless to say, politics is what drives and influences growth, makes it sustainable, and ensures the proper sharing of gains. The market alone cannot force people to share above their own self interest. The Philippine state in general is big on words, small in real sense. You feel it with every senate diatribe and the grandstanding of national politicians.

Little wonder why Rody Duterte is a breath of fresh air in national politics dominated by the Manila political elite.

Obviously, he is from the south, and

10 ICT HUB EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

Probe into SIM spy hack finds no massive privacy leak

A

DUTCH SIM-maker allegedly targeted by British and U.S. spying agencies says it believes there was a hacking operation, but it didn’t result in a massive privacy leak.

Netherlands-based Gemalto, a maker of SIM cards used in mobile phones and credit cards, said Wednesday that an internal investigation “gives us reasonable grounds to believe” an operation by the U.S. National Security Agency and its British counterpart “probably happened.”

The operation was reported last week on the website The Intercept using documents supplied by Edward Snowden.

Gemalto, a supplier to major mobile phone operators including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon and Sprint, says the attacks in 2010 and 2011 “only breached its office networks and could not have resulted in a massive theft of SIM encryption keys.”

Gemalto said it had established a secure transfer system with its customers by 2010, and that the spy agencies would have been able to steal the encryption keys that permit them to listen in on conversations “only in rare exceptions.”

Any surveillance undertaken with stolen keys would have affected only the older 2G networks, Gemalto said, as more recent 3G and 4G networks are not vulnerable to this type of attack.

“When we redesigned the 3G and 4G systems we made sure that if a key was

HACKED. The Gemalto logo is seen during a press conference on February 25, 2015. The Netherlands-based maker of SIM cards used in mobile phones and credit cards said an internal investigation “gives us reasonable grounds to believe” an operation by the U.S. National Security Agency and its British counterpart “probably happened.” (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon) intercepted in transit like it was attempted, it would be useless and this is why 3G and 4G are immune to this type of attack,” said Gemalto

Chief Executive Olivier Piou.

In addition to SIM cards, Gemalto is a leading maker of encryption systems for other business and indus-

trial uses, including electronic payment processing and “smart” key cards that businesses and government agencies use to restrict ac-

cess to computers or other sensitive facilities.

The Intercept offered no details on how the intelligence agencies employed

the eavesdropping capability and no evidence that they misused it to spy on people who weren’t valid intelligence targets.

OTOROLA is updating its low-cost smartphone, the Moto E, as it targets first-time smartphone buyers worldwide.

Among the improvements over last year’s model: The camera now has auto-focusing, whereas the older model had a fixed-focus lens that didn’t compensate for how far away the subject was. The new Moto E will also have a front-facing camera for selfies, though images won’t be as sharp as the 5 megapixels on the rear. There’s also a model with 4G cellular connectivity. Last year’s model was available only for slower, 3G networks.

In the U.S., Motorola will

target prepaid customers, as well as those looking to buy children their first smartphones. The 4G model will cost $150 in the U.S., while the 3G will go for $120, both without contract requirements. The screen measures 4.5 inches diagonally, slightly larger than before.

Motorola, which Lenovo Group bought from Google Inc. in October, has been trying to set itself apart from other phone makers by selling cheaper phones that have some features found in higher-end products. For instance, all of its phones use Corning’s Gorilla Glass for durability.

“Even in developed markets, a large percentage of the

population isn’t on a smartphone,” Rick Osterloh, Motorola’s CEO, said in an interview.

“This category represents the biggest growth area.”

Motorola, which is headquartered in Chicago, announced its new phone Wednesday ahead of next week’s Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain. Samsung, HTC and others are expected to unveil their spring lineups at the show. Sony also announced a budget phone this week for 129 euros ($146), though there’s no plan to sell it in the U.S. LG announced four midrange smartphones. Details on prices and U.S. availability weren’t immediately revealed.

AP

Motorola aims new phone at first-time smartphone buyers M SMART. File photo shows Motorola president and chief operating officer Rick Osterloh unveiling the latest Motorola smartphones in Beijing last January 26. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

NEWS 11

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

No war... FFROM 1 military offensive aims to protect the communities against the armed attacks by the BIFF. Catapang said in the report that he has also reminded all unit commanders to conduct the joint law enforcement operations with the Philippine National Police within the framework of the ceasefire mechanisms in order to avoid clashes with the MILF. He said government forces must remain strong and united against a common enemy.

The BIFF is composed of about 1,000 armed men who are former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels that broke away in 2008 to push for independence in Southern

Philippines.

Headed by Ameril Umbra Kato, former head of MILF’s 108th base command, the group resorted to bombings, extortion and forced taxation against civilian targets in Maguindanao, North Cotabato and Cotabato City.

It recently figured in a clash with MILF forces in the borders of Maguindanao and North Cotabato and occupied at least 10 outskirt villages that forced the dislocation of about 20,000 civilians.

The MILF, through the joint ceasefire committees of the government and the MILF, sought military assistance in flushing out the BIFF.

led to the recovery of a total of 2.546 kilograms of shabu, with an estimated market value of Php 25 million.

“This is the biggest drug haul in the region in recent history,” the official said.

The illegal drugs were seized from the residence of couple Johney and Fatima Mantawel, who remain atlarge.

The recovered shabu comprised nine jumbo packs, five medium packs and three small packs.

The raiding team also recovered a caliber .45 pistol with six rounds of ammunition, cash money worth Php 3,700 and various shabu paraphernalia.

The operation was implemented by virtue of search warrant no. 73 issued by Judge Marlo Brasales of the Municipal Circuit Trial Court of Norala-Tantangan for violation of Section 5, 7, 11 and 12 of Republic Act 9165 or the Com-

prehensive Dangerous Drugs Act. Chief Insp. Joel Fuerte, Sto. Niño police chief, said the suspects were unaware of the operation but were able to leave their house shortly before the raid.

He said they were last seen heading towards the Poblacion of Sto. Niño aboard a motorcycle.

As of Thursday morning, the police official said the PRO12’s crime laboratory already completed the examination of the recovered shabu and other evidences.

“We will file the charges against the suspects within the day (Thursday),” Fuerte said.

The latest operation was the second major accomplishment this year recorded by the Sto. Niño municipal police station.

In January, Fuerte and his men also seized around Php 1.3 million worth of shabu in a raid in the same village.(PNA)

Mayor... FFROM 2

Gov’t... FFROM 4

Military... FFROM 2

Hataman... FFROM 4

watch movies. BPO workers, on the other hand, need not take public transportation just to buy food or eat in restaurants. In our communities, everything is just within reach,” said Dr. Tan. Megaworld started its commercial and retail business when Eastwood City was established in 1999. Recognized as the Philippines’ first urban township and cyberpark, Eastwood City in Bagumbayan, Quezon City is now home to almost 25,000 condominium residents and around 70,000 BPO and office workers.

It used to be a 16-hectare township but it expanded its land area last year to meet the growing demand for residential, office and commercial spaces. Today, the township houses more than 500 commercial and retail partners.

The company is replicating the LIVE-WORK-PLAY-LEARN model that it pioneered in Eastwood City to other areas around the country. At present, the Megaworld Group, which also includes its subsidiaries Suntrust Properties, Inc., Empire East Land Holdings, Inc. and Global-Estate Resorts, Inc., has integrated urban township developments in Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Cebu, Iloilo and Davao. The group has recently announced it is further expanding in five more areas: two in Luzon, two in the Visayas and one in Mindanao within the year.

“More townships mean more jobs and opportunities.

From construction to BPOs, from retail and food to small-and-medium enterprises and transportation, our townships help create economic clusters, which in turn, help boost purchasing power and consumerism among Filipinos,” Dr. Tan added.

The company is launching at least 20 new malls and commercial centers in its existing and new townships in the next 5 to 8 years.

“These malls and commercial centers will primarily cater to the residential and BPO communities inside our townships,” said Dr. Tan. Last year, Megaworld announced that it is spending P230-billion to develop its various existing townships until 2019. This figure is exclusive of the development costs for the new five townships that the company is launching this year.

Recognized for his contribution in “giving retailers premium sites for expansion with ready markets coming from the residential and office components of Megaworld’s developments,” Dr. Tan was given the prestigious PRA President’s Award of the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) this year. The PRA Board unanimously decided to bestow upon Dr. Tan the title “Pillar of Mixed-Use Developments” as recognition for his pioneering effort in introducing the LIVEWORK-PLAY-LEARN concept for integrated urban township developments in the Philippines.

PNP-12... FFROM 4

Megaworld... FFROM 6

MANUAL DELIVERY. A man and his son manually deliver second-hand tires to a used tire store along E. Quirino Avenue in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

more and they could not stop me in serving the people,” He said he would tell all his accomplishments come his State of the City Address scheduled on the coming March 18.

He said he has been giving sets of certificates of commendations to police officers

during first Monday’s convocation of employees as a “simple way of acknowledging their accomplishments which had not happened before” and for contributing in maintaining good peace and order situation in the city. - Cha Monforte, Correspondent

ents of Davao Oriental and the City of Mati that the AFP and the PNP “is behind every aspect of peace and development”.

To beef up security from NPA threats, Maj. Gen. Eduardo Ano, commanding general of the 10th Inf. Brigade, revealed that his command will add one battalion, making up to three military battalions to guard the peripheries of

Davao Oriental against entries of NPAs from nearby provinces.

He also said that the military and the police forces in the province had strengthened their ties through the Peace and Security Coordinating Committee to fortify coordination and defenses against lawless elements. (PIA 11/Jeanevive Duron-Abangan)

Lease Supervisor at Greenfield Development Corporation Natasha Avecilla affirmed the convenience that the Sun Shop Satellite Branch offers.

“For more than three years, I have done my transactions at Sun Shops in Binan, Sta. Rosa City Proper, and other malls near my workplace.” Avecilla added that it used to take her around 40 minutes just to get to a Sun Shop to access services such as bills payments.

“Now that Sun has arrived here in Arcadia, Greenfield City, I look forward to faster and easier transactions, at a Sun outlet just five minutes from my work and home,” she added.

During the store’s opening, Executive Vice President and Head for Consumer Wireless Business of Smart and Sun Cellular Charles A. Lim explained the benefits of such stores for businesses and customers. “We are able to combine the strength of Smart and Sun with this strategy. People can come in to avail of postpaid services, avail of prepaid packages, get the latest gadgets and devices, and enjoy the benefits of after-sales services.

We are very excited with this development because we are able to expand our reach, and most importantly, we are able to serve our customers better,”

Lim said.

Aside from the one in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, Sun Shop Satellite Branches will soon open as well in Metro Manila (Commonwealth, Quezon City and Marikina), La Union (San Fernando), Pampanga (Sindalan), Bulacan (Meycauayan and Pulilan), Laguna (Binan), Batangas (San Jose), and Mindanao (Davao, Tagum, Panabo, Cagayan de Oro, Dipolog, Ozamis, General Santos, Koronadal, Kidapawan, and Cotabato).

Sun... FFROM 6

the most wanted list of the US State Department.

US forces helped evacuate the wounded troops, four of them in critical condition.

“They are not involved in combat, but we requested them to bring our wounded personnel to the main army base in Zamboanga City,” Padilla said.

Abu Sayyaf is blamed for the worst militant attack in the

Philippines, the sinking of a ferry in Manila Bay in 2004, in which 100 people were killed.

It has also been in the spotlight for beheadings and high-profile kidnappings, most recently the abduction of two German nationals on Jolo, who were later freed. Newspapers said large ransoms were paid, although officials deny this.

pao, Mamasapano, Maguindanao was, as has been said, tragic. Right now, it is the civilians that are suffering the brunt of that tragedy. And in the middle of the clamor for violence, the civilians’ wounds are left open, gaping wide, bleeding profusely, as their cry for justice slowly silence to only disappear through a sky darkened by a looming war,” he said.

Filipinos, he said, must reject calls for an all-out war in Mindanao.

Following the Mamasapano incident, deliberations for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law were suspended.

Investigations are also being conducted on the incident.

“We are not strangers to

battles, as countless battles have gone beyond the fields and into our lives. Here at home, it is our collective experience in the Bangsamoro that makes our voice and actions all the more valuable in realizing this country’s dream for the future, our quest for just and lasting peace,” Hataman said.

“Together, we have moved forward and have gone from the dark days of a dictatorship to days of hope and promise.

More than ever, we need to take care of our hard-earned gains, to remind each other why there is no other option but peace, and to ensure that the message is not lost despite the noise of a few who have forgotten what we fought for,” he added.

into effect on Dec. 31 this year and is aimed at creating a single market and production base in the region to further bolster ASEAN’s progress and prosperity,” he said.

Mustapa said the ministers are also expected to provide guidance on the draft of the Post-2015 Economic Vision and Plan for ASEAN. (PNA/Xinhua)

ASEAN... FFROM 6 DAVAO HELEN’S PAWNSHOP CORP. De Guzman St., Davao City Telefax (082)225-4473

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All unredeemed items pawned during the month of December 2014,if not redeemed/renewed on April 30, 2015 will be put on Auction Sale May 2, 2015 at 9:00 A. M. to 5:00 P.M. Pahibalo nga ang tanang wala malukat nga prenda sa bulan Disyembre 2014,kung dili malukat sa Abril 30, 2015 isubasta sa bulan sa Mayo 2, 2015 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag hangtud sa alas 5:00 sa hapon.

DAVAO HELEN’S PAWNSHOP CORPORATION Davao City: 252 San Pedro St., 167 San Pedro St., CVA Bldg., C. M. Recto St., G/F Victoria Plaza Bajada 120-B Lapu-lapu St., Agdao 75C R. Magsaysay Ave., 2nd Level Gaisano Mall Bajada, G/F NCCC Bldg., R. Magsaysay Ave., Centerpoint Plaza Matina Fronting San Pedro College Guerrero St., Carlson Bldg., Lapu-lapu St.,Agdao NCCC Mall Matina Saavedra St., Toril

Gaisano South Citimall, Ilustre St., Km. 11 Sasa Km. 13 Panacan Boulevard Buhangin Cabantian Bankerohan Calinan Davao del Norte Gaisano Mall, Panabo Davao del Norte Gaisano Grand Mall of Tagum, Tagum City Gaisano Mall of Tagum, Tagum City Purok Marilag 11, Quezon St.,Tagum City Davao del Sur Gaisano Grand Mall of Digos , Quezon St., Digos City

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DAVAO CITY MAIN OFFICE

GENERAL SANTOS CITY MARKETING OFFICE

Director of Sales

Marketing Specialist

JOCELYN S. PANES

Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel: (082) 224-1413 Telefax: (082) 221-3601

EDMUND P. RENDON

General Santos City

Mobile: (Sun) 0925-357-3460 (Smart) 0907-202-3844

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

ANGELICA R. GARCIA Marketing Manager 97-1 Bayanbayanan Ave., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 654-3509

INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

EVENT

DATA PAST PRESIDENTS. Nine of the 17 past presidents of the 42-year-old tourism association were present during the celebration. From left: George Misa, Arturo “Art” Boncato Jr., Mary Ann “Baby” M. Montemayor, Claude L’endre, Joji IlaganBian, Angel Puentespina, Ma. Margarita “Margie” M. Floirendo, Doy Lopez and Paul Borromeo. EDGEPIX

A glittering night

DAVAO’S TOURISM PILLARS RELIVE 4 DECADES OF DATA Serenitea offers

By Kenneth Irving Ong

THE PILLARS and nostalgic dans was the night’s event ormembers of Davao’s travel and ganizer, Ms Floirendo, George tourism industry reminisced Misa, Angel Puentespina, Joji the glorious days they had of Ilagan-Bian, Paul Borromeo, four decades of eventful ex- Doy Lopez, and Claude L’endre, istence of the Davao Tourism the only foreigner to head the Association (DATA) during a iconic group. (Ms Sally San Jose glittering night of the group’s of Chippens is DATA’s current 42th founding anniversary cel- president) ebration at the ballroom of the An entertaining part of Marco Polo Hotel last February the night was the choice of the 19. best dressed woman and best The fete was led by no less dressed man attending the afthan Department of Tourism (DOT) assistt secretary Arturo Boncato Jr., and former Miss Universe Ma. Margarita “Margie” M. Floirendo, both past DATA presidents.

Asec Art briefed stakeholders on the Aquino government’s plans for the industry, including a well-funded aggressive advertising campaign promoting the country’s tourist destinations.

Newly-assumed DOT 11 Regional Director Roberto “Robbie” Alabado III took advantage of the evening to egg players to offer new destinations and lures taking advantage of the region’s abundance in exotic food, fruits and vegetable.

Ms Ma. Felisa “Liset” Marques, head of the City Tourism Op- EVENING’S BEST DRESSED. Davao Oriental erations Office (CTOO), Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon was picked also announced Davao as the best dressed lady of the night, City’s initiatives and while homegrown international projects designed to couturier Alfonso “Boy” Guinoo was the enhance the attractive- best dressed gentleman. EDGEPIX ness of the island-tohighland destinations, including the CTOO’s transfer fair. to a more spacious and preA team of judges picked sentable office in the newly- by Konkordans selected Davao refurbished Pasalubong Center. Oriental Gov. Corazon N. MalanAt least nine of DATA’s more yaon was the best dressed lady than 17 past presidents, a few of the night and international of them deceased, graced the couturier Alfonso “Boy” Ginoo rare occasion. Present were as the best dressed gentleman.

Gift certificates and goodies Boncato, Mary Ann “Baby” M. Montemayor, whose Konkor- were raffled off to lucky guests.

JUMBO CUP FOR DAVAO! The casual teashop with passion for tea is now open in Davao! Since early this year, Serenitea Davao has been serving excited crowds with its signature milk tea drinks and deliciously prepared snacks. Now, what used to be a Manila and Cebu food escapade is a Davao staple that can be enjoyed by all.

As a treat on its grand opening, Serenitea Davao offers its famous JUMBO CUP for DAVAO from February 27 to 28, 2015! For every Large Sized order of any of their TOP 10 Drinks, you get a FREE JUMBO upsize (1 liter)!

Top 10 Drinks include Okinawa Milk Tea, Wintermelon Milk Tea, Hokkaido Milk Tea, Chaffe Milk Tea, Emperor Milk Tea, Fruitea (except Calamansi), Taro Lover, Winter Frost, Yakult Drink (excpet Lemon) and Milo Dino.

What better way to make your Serenitea an experience to remember than by ordering any of the Classic Snacks?

Choose from its Hash Brown, Pepper Tofu, Pepper Rounds, Pepper Corn, Chicken Chops, and Chix on Sticks.

Quench that thirst for the best Milk Tea in town. Celebrate the day and head on to Serenitea Davao at Victoria Plaza Complex, J.P. Laurel Ave., Bajada (old Fiorgelato).

Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 midnight.

For the latest news, promos and events, browse Serenitea’s Facebook fanpage at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Serenitea-Davao/478956712240585 and website http://www.iloveserenitea.com/.

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UP AND ABOUT

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

ENTERTAINMENT

Know more about Pinoy hometowns with Smart’s Doon Po Sa Amin eBook THE best stories on Philippine culture and tradition generated by students all over the country are now compiled in an eBook, made available by Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart).

The eBook highlights the best 100 stories selected from thousands of website entries submitted to Doon Po Sa Amin (DPSA), Smart’s community mapping project, since it was launched in 2008 up to 2011.

DPSA, which is supported by the Department of Education, is the biggest and longest-running online local content activity that encourages Filipinos to join the digital conversation about the nation. It is an annual search for the best hometown stories that showcases the best of history, traditions, festivals and activities, places to visit, notable people, unique plants and animals, special delicacies, and local products.

“The Philippines has a very rich culture and tradition and we still haven’t uncovered them all. In the DPSA eBook, you’ll see a comprehensive picture of our country as seen through the eyes of students who live in different localities of the Philippines,” said Smart Public Affairs Group Head Ramon R. Isberto.

Stories featured in the DPSA eBook, include the Maligcong orange of Bontoc, Mountain Province; the history and landmarks of Pasig; the untold stories of the indigenous people of Batanes called Ivatans; the LPG-powered tricycles of Bataan; the exotic foods in Pampanga; the rock formations in the caves of Zambales; the unexplored beaches of Catanduanes; the commercialization of the Peñafrancia festival in Naga; the Guso (type of seaweed) of Barobo, Surigao del Sur; and many more stories about the way of life of Pinoys and the country’s beauty and pride.

Each story in the eBook has a summary with a supporting photo or video. If readers want to learn more about the story, a link to the original website entry is also provided at the end of each story. The school that created the entries and the awards they received are also specified in each story.

The DPSA eBook can be downloaded for free from Google Play.

Jaya serenades fans at Abreeza Mall on

VALENTINE’S DAY

ROMANCE reigned at Abreeza Mall on Valentine’s Day as Jaya graced the Activity Center to sing love songs for her Davaoeño fans.

The powerhouse singer, dubbed the Philippines’ Queen of Soul, put the audience in a romantic mood by singing popular love songs both foreign and local, among these her original hit “Wala Na Bang PagIbig” and timeless OPM ballads such as “Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang,” “Nandito Ako,” “Kailangan Kita,” and “Pangako”.

DPSA Year 7 Jaya gave fans a once-in-a-lifetime From website and blogsite entries in the first four years opportunity when she invited anyof the competition, the format of DPSA entries evolved to one to come forward and sing with videos which are pinned in an online map, powered by her. A few lucky individuals jumped Here. This interactive map is available at the DPSA website. at the chance, held their own in a Now on its 7th year, DPSA reached more Pinoys by in- duet, and impressed the Queen of cluding an open division allowing any Filipino to partici- Soul herself. pate in the competition and become their town’s local To close the show, Jaya delivered ambassadors. an energetic performance of Gloria Smart recently recognized the winners of DPSA 7 in Gaynor’s disco anthem “I Will Suran awarding ceremony held in Raffles Hotel in Makati to vive”, and dedicated it to all “survicoincide with the 11th SWEEP Innovation and Excellence vors of heartbreak”.

Awards, another grand annual event of the telco which Jaya’s show is part of Abreeza recognizes student teams with the best technology inno- Mall’s week-long Valentine’s celebravations.

Domingo Yu Chu National High School bagged the grand prize for the student division with the documentary on the discovery of fossils of Ammonites in Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro. In the open division, a team from Rizal took home the grand prize with their entry about Rizal as the Art Capital of the Philippines.

To view all the entries, visit the DPSA website at www. doonposaamin.ph. You may also follow DPSA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DoonPoSaAmin, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/doonposaaminph, or subscribe to its Youtube channel at www.youtube.com/DoonPoSaAminPH for more Pinoy local stories.

DPSA is aligned with Smart’s Internet for all advocacy that aims to make information available and accessible to more Filipinos through web and mobile technologies.

tion, which also included the Better Together Bazaar, a promo called It’s a Pair Affair which offered couples two-for-one deals and discounts from participating merchants, and a Valentine’s Flower Wall where mallgoers could take pictures with their loved ones and claim sweet freebies from Abreeza Mall.

Davaoeños can expect more breathtaking entertainment at Abreeza Mall before February comes

to a close, as the world-renowned Gregorian Choir of Paris brings their amazing vocal harmonies to the Activity Center on February 27 at 6 p.m. The group will also sing as a special choir at the 5:30 p.m. Holy Mass on February 26 at the Sacred Heart Parish in Obrero. The Davao show is part of a Philippine tour around the Ayala Malls which also sees the group performing at Greenbelt in Makati, Alabang Town Center, Ayala Center Cebu, and Centrio Mall in Cagayan de Oro. The tour is supported by the Alliance Française de Manille and the French Embassy, and is endorsed by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines.

For inquiries and updates on Abreeza Mall news and events, please visit the Main Concierge at the ground floor or call (082) 3219332. Stay updated by liking www. facebook.com/AbreezaMall and following @abreezatweets on Twitter and @iloveabreezamall on Instagram.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

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Sunshine Dizon excited to work again with Dingdong Dantes KAPUSO actress Sunshine Dizon will be part of the newest inspirational primetime drama series of GMA-7, Pari Koy. After almost a decade, Sunshine gets to work again with one of her closest friends, Dingdong Dantes.

“I’m excited to work with Dong. He’s one of my closest friends in the industry and I’m excited

to see how he has grown as an actor,” Sunshine shared in an interview.

Aside from the Kapuso youth-oriented series T.G.I.S, Sunshine and Dingdong last worked together in the top-rating telefantasya Encantadia back in 2006.

Meanwhile in Pari Koy, she will portray the role of Noemi, one of the people Father Kokoy (Dingdong) will get to in-

teract with in the parish.

According to Sunshine, she is happy to become part of a program like this, especially because it is grounded with moral values, which they can impart to their audience.

“Pari Koy will deal with different stories about triumphs and downfalls that mirrors what is happening in our society.

Sa lahat ng mga nangyayari, hangad namin na magbigay inspirasyon.

We aim to remind them to never lose hope and renew their faith,” Sunshine added.

Under the helm of the award-winning director, Maryo J. Delos Reyes, Pari Koy will air this March on GMA Telebabad.

Kaye and Erich feel mixed emotions, admit ‘Two Wives’ very special to them THE unconventional story of infidelity brought to Filipino viewers by “Two Wives” is about to end soon.

The top-rating primetime soap hasn’t ended yet but its lead stars Kaye Abad and Erich Gonzales are already feeling mixed emotions for their upcoming finale.

“Of course I’m sad that the show will end because I will surely miss everyone, even the character of Yvonne,” said Kaye.

“I also feel sad, but happy, in a way that show will end with the management very pleased with the outcome and with the fans really supporting us until the end,” said Erich.

Both women also admitted that “Two Wives” is a very special soap to them. For Kaye, playing Yvonne is a big break for

her career, especially that she is one of the show’s lead stars.

“The management took a very big risk for giving me this project,” Kaye playfully quipped.

Meanwhile, for Erich, “Two Wives” gave her the opportunity to play bida-kontrabida for the first time on television.

“This is my first time to do a bida-kontrabida role. I accepted it to challenge myself. I don’t want to typecast myself in a specific role. Many people got affected with Janine and this is when I realized that it is really hard to do such roles because viewers can’t help but get carried away with the story. They thought its really happening in real life,” explained Erich.

For months, viewers have passionately pit Yvonne and Janine against each other, along with the various men in their lives--- Victor (Jason Abalos), Albert (Patrick Garcia), Dale (Rayver Cruz), and Kenjie (Daniel Matsunaga). Aside from consistently winning the ratings game in its timeslot and from trending on social media every weeknight, “Two Wives” success has also been evident in how Yvonne, Janine, Victor and Albert became household names and a topic for discussion among friends, family, colleagues, and more.

As the program’s fina-

le draws near, everyone is eager to find out how Yvonne and Janine’s intense rift will end. When will revenge stop consuming them? Who will emerge victorious in the end? Is there a room for forgiveness for both of them? Since this is a local adaptation, will the story of the Pinay “Two Wives” end just like that of their Korean counterparts?

Don’t miss the last few weeks of “Two Wives,” weeknights after “Forevermore” on ABS-CBN’s Primetime Bida. For more updates, follow the program’s official social media accounts at www.facebook. com/2wivesabscbn, w w w.instagram. com/2wivesabscbn, at www.Twitter. com/2wivesabscbn or visit its official website at www.twowives.abs-cbn. com.

Meanwhile, viewers may also catch up on full episodes and past episodes of “Two Wives” through ABS-CBNmobile. For more information, please go to www. abscbnmobile.com.

February 27 - March 1, 2015

KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE Colin Firth, Samuel L. Jackson R16

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

CRAZY BEAUTIFUL YOU Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla PG

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

FOCUS Will Smith, Margot Robbie R13

R-16

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

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY / * CRAZY BEAUTIFUL YOU/ **PREDESTINATION R18/ *PG/ **R16

Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan / * Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla / **Ethan Hawke, Sarah Snook

11:40 | 2:10 LFS / * 4:40 | 6:55 LFS / **9:20 LFS

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

STYLE

An afternoon of gold and glitter with

IKEBANA DAVAO

Text and Photos by Kenneth Irving Ong

IKEBANA International Davao Chapter 133 together with Jewels by Allison held a jewellery show at the second floor hallway of the Abreeza mall last February 6.

Held as a fund-raising event for the club an its activities, the show featured the extensive fine jewellery collection of Jewels by Allison. From wonderful gold cuffs to intricately crafted pendants, luscious pearl necklaces and candytone coloured stones, the pieces were modelled by the officers and members of Ikebana Davao which wowed the guests as well as the gathered crowd around the mall.

The event also allowed the members of Ikebana Davao to gather together to enjoy an afternoon of flower arrangement and camaraderie.

Congratulations to Ikebana International Davao Chapter 133 on a fabulous job well done.

NEWS13

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

Peace advocates rally behind Deles, Ferrer

By ALEX D. LOPEZ

I

N the midst of the recent calls for the resignation of Secretary Teresita Deles of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) and GPH panel chair Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, various Civil Society Organizations (CSOS) and peace advocates in the country and in Mindanao have joined forces and aired their voices to defend the two officials.

After the termination of the Senate hearings on the Mamasapano incident, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano called for the resignation of Deles and Ferrer, alleging that the two sided with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Cayetano’s call is “unfair and anchored on partial and prejudiced understanding on the situation for the Bangsamoro people in Mindanao,” the CSOs said in a statement sent to the media.

The gains of the peace process between the government and the MILF must be strengthened, they added.

“We believe that resolving the historic injustice committed to the Bangsamoro people towards national unity and country’s progress is the primary goal fo the GPH and the MILF negotiating panel,” said Yashira Moner, head of the YMPN Women’s

Committee.

She pointed out that instead of resigning, Deles, Ferrer and the members of the MILF panel must be allowed“to continue the peaceful way of finding truth, justice and lasting peace in Mindanao.”

“Rather than be swayed by the self-vested interests of politicians, we ought to move forward towards building the culture of peace and harmony in diversity” she said, assuring the commitment of YMPN to bring forth justice to the fallen 67.

A member of the business community in Cotabato City, Pete Marquez of the Metro Cotabato Chamber of Commerce also expressed his belief that Deles and Ferrer should be retained to continue their works to attain just and lasting peace in Mindanao.

He said it was hard for both Deles and Ferrer hearing accusations of being the mouthpiece of the MILF. “People could easily misunderstand them but hardly did not appreciate their selfless efforts to get the MILF-GPH to the peace table,” Marquez stressed.

“CSOs will not support the calls for the resignation of Secretary Deles and Professor Ferrer” said Habbas Camendan, vice-chair of the Mindanao People’s Peace

Thousands of supporters to the on-going peace process between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) staged a rally on Wednesday, February 25 in Cotabato City expressing their support

to President Benigno S. Aquino III and made a call to the leaders in Manila to support the BBL for the attainment of peace and development in Mindanao. (Photo by Alex D. Lopez)

Movement (MPPM).

Camendan said that calls for all-out-war will not heal the flaming emotions of the widows and orphans of the killed SAF men in Mamasapano.

“Such will only aggravate the problem that will result to further damage of life,

“We are already on the road to peace. Please don’t make a detour. Otherwise babalik na naman tayo mas malala pa,” Fr. Layson said.

He also recognized the contributions that both Secretary Deles and Professor Ferrer had made to the current status of the peace pro-

property and other resources that will push the country to unmanageable crisis,” he said.

Fr. Bert Layson, OMI, an active peace advocate in the country and head of the OMI’s Inter-Religious Dialogue also shared Camendan’s call.

cess with the MILF. On Cayetano’s call, Fr. Layson said: “Huwag sana kasi sila ang nakakaalam ng daan tungo sa kapayapaan ng matagal na naming hinihintay dito sa Mindanao at sa ating bansa. Ang pagkukulang ng iilan ay sana huwag idamay ang lahat.”

14 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

Davao City

DCWD, DepEd ink agreement for educational assistance in uplands D AVAO City Water District recently signed various agreements with the Department of Education (DepEd)-Davao City Division and recipient schools for its educational assistance projects in the upland.

The signing was done last February 10 at the DepEd Davao City Division office with DCWD official spokesperson

and Community Relations and External Affairs Department OIC manager Bernardo D. Delima Jr. and DepEd Davao City Division superintendent Helen D. Paguican.

Also present in the ceremony were DCWD Environment and Watershed Protection Division manager Anthony D. Miranda and community relations officer Ellanena

J. Gabuya, DepEd Adopt-aSchool coordinator Teresita del Valle and Baguio District in-charge Melinda A. Roma and heads of recipient schools Hyacinth H. Flores of Tamugan Elementary School, Alejandro P. Auxtero of Tawan-Tawan ES, Eric A. Amistad of Tambobong ES, Charito F. Cortez of Malagos ES and Pelagio A. Wapaño Jr. of Baguio Central ES.

Delima, who spoke on behalf of DCWD general manager Edwin V. Regalado, thanked the DepEd and school officials for giving DCWD the opportunity to help. He said assisting the students in the uplands also helps DCWD in its environmental protection campaign these students and partner schools will become DCWD’s environmental stewards in the

watershed areas.

Paguican and the school heads extended their gratitude for having been chosen

by DCWD as recipients in its corporate social responsibility projects. All of them agreed that the assistance given will help motivate the students to perform well in their studies.

The educational assistance stipulated in the agreements will be conducted thru various DCWD programs and project. These are the “Tulong Eskwela” program for the People’s Organization members of DCWD’s Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan watershed rehabilitation project in Barangay Tambobong

where they will be given Alternative Learning System (ALS) classes for ten months; the “Karunungan ng Kabataan sa Komunidad” project intended for 30 youth in Barangay Carmen who will also be given ALS classes for six months; and the “Tulong Aral ng DCWD” program for 10 grade five and 10 grade six students of Tamugan, Tawan-Tawan, Tambobong, Malagos and Baguio Central elementary schools who will receive P200 incentive for every rating of 85% or higher in their Science, Math and English classes every periodical grading period. (Jovana T. Duhaylungsod)

Davao City Water District extends educational assistance to upland schools and communities. Representatives from DCWD and the Department of Education - Davao City Division headed by DCWD official spokesperson Bernardo D. Delima Jr. and DepEd Davao City Division superintendent Helen D. Paguican (7th and 6th from L) pose for posterity after the ceremonial signing.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015

Wack Wack on top

EDGEDAVAO Sports 15

By CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY

W

ACK Wack shot 117 points in the second round Thursday to grab the lead from Orchard halfway through the 68th Philippine Airlines Interclub centrepiece men’s division in Cebu Showing its fiery form at the Club Filipino de Cebu, Wack Wack had a two-day total of 241 for a one-point lead as the defending champion struggled in Day 2.

Sammy Sy spearhead Wack Wakc’s second-day attack with 32 points while Elphege Wong added 31. Kit Lopez and

C

scoring for Southwoods.

Cebu CC is at fourth spot after a 126, The tournament is backed by Hotel H20, Travelife, Boeing International Corp., Business Mirror and GE Aviation are sponsoring the PAL Interclub Seniors and Regular Men’s events.

Other backers include Manila Bulletin, Mareco Broadcasting Network (Crossover), People Asia Magazine, Whealth Inc., Aerospace, Uniglobe Travelware Co. Inc., Tanduay Distillers and Intercontinental Manila as sponsors.

game with 42 points on top of efficient quarterbacking plays and keep the City Hall dribblers undefeated in 13 outings.

Accompanied by Go all the time, Duterte had been going around the country to campaign his advocacy of shifting the current centralized unitary form of government to federal parliamentary system and personally see the public clamor for him to consider the presidency in 2016.

Spot-up shooter Glenn Escandor contributed 16 markers for CMO that also drew 16 from De Guzman and 10 from Joel Aberilla.

Everball Columbia once again fell short to end its losing skid despite the imposing return of Rico Kwan Tiu who had 28 baskets.

Earl Angsinco, Filbon

Maligro and Barriga had 12 apiece for Everball Columbia which continued to hound by its inability to defend the perimeter and offensive breakdowns in the final stretch.

The City Hall dribblers haven’t lost since early December last year and beat the Everball Columbia side 16 games in a row, including the last three games of the previous series. (Rico Biliran) Box scores: CMO – 112 GO 42, ESCANDOR 16, DE GUZMAN 14, ABERILLA 10, PELOTON 8, LABOR 6, CLORIBEL 6, REYES 4, POLIQUIT 3, APOSTOL 4 EVERBALL – 99 KWANTIU 28, ANGSINCO 12, BARRIGA 12, MALIGRO 12, SUZREZ 11, DELA CERNA 11, FRANCISCO 7, CABALLERO 2, MENDING 2, CABRERA 2, AVINANTE 0

Go helps CMO stretch win streak to 13 vs Everball

HRISTOPHER “Bong” Go took time to play ball in the midst of busy schedule and everybody knew that the trusted-aid of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte played at a high level everytime he sneaked on the hardcourt.

Go drained nine triples to put up an amazing performance as the City Mayor’s Office stretched its winning streak to 13 games against Everball Columbia Computer Center with a 112-99 victory in their 2015 Basketball Friendly Series on Tuesday night at the Davao City Recreation Center Almendras Gym. Coming off from an eventful “Listening Tour” Luzon leg of Mayor Duterte’s Federalism information caravan, Go shrugged off fatigue to finish the

Y

Ernesto Marcelo also scored 27 points apiece for Wack Wack. The 26 of Augusto de Jesus did not count.

Orchard led at the start of the tournament but had only 111 in the second round, drawing 31s from veteran Rodel Mangulabnand and King Stehmeier. Other scorers were Peter Salvador (27) and Niko Santiano (22).

Southwoods shot 119 points to occupy third place.

Vince Lauron, a former pro, fired 31, Jets Sajulga 29 and Jun Jun Plana 27 to complete

OU have to buy Derrick Rose a new pair of knees. Or at least his battered right knee.

If only.

The hardest part of being an athlete is an injured knee. Most great athletes, not just ballplayers, go down with knee injuries once in their careers. For Derrick Rose, it’s just not once, not twice.

Tiger Woods had knee injury, so do Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Rafael Nadal and Tom Brady. Ironwoman Brodie Moir had knee injury too recently. Even football stars are easiest preys to knee woes owing to the sports’ contact and movement.

Runners are sidelined by the so-called “runner’s knee” – pain behind the kneecap, mostly from overuse – while about 80,000 people annually injure an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the tiny band of tissue that provides crucial knee stability.

I have bad knee too that pops and feels unstable when I work out. I have tried a number of therapies but deep inside I know if I am ever to get this knee to work like brand new again is to go under the knife which I do not find the need to unless I am a professional athlete or if I cannot walk.

FIST PUMP. Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club’s Roderick Lo pumps his fist after sinking a putt on the 18th hole during the second day of the 68th PAL Interclub Golf Tournament Men’s Regular at Cebu Country Club yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Taojo injures elbow as Palos scores 111 points

R

ANCHO Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club team captain Noe Taojo injured his right elbow and failed to see action today in Day 2 of the 68th Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub Men’s Golf Tournament at the Cebu Country Club.

RPV, however, still improved their second round output with 111 points after strong performances from 21-year old Ernest James “EJ” Casintahan and Ronald “Ninot” Galicia, who both carded 31s.

Roderick Lo added 30 while RPV general manager Jose Vincent Lopez chipped in 19 points.

The 52-year old Taojo rested his injured right elbow two weeks ago for the PAL Inter-

Athlete’s knees

It helped LET’S GET IT ON that I am using a Bauerfeind knee support.

The same one used by Kobe, Kevin Durant and most pro athletes.

It’s now being used too by PBA and UAAP players, and Neil Bravo even golfing lawyer Atty. Ed Batacan. Thanks to my good friend Emet Penson who introduced me to Bauerfeind. Anyone interested to try one, may as well get in touch with me.

Having said that ad lib, let’s back to knees and Rose.

Now, it’s just too bad Rose had to go under the knife again for another knee surgery on the same right knee. Just not the right time when he was about to get back his old form the past few weeks before the All-Star break and the Bulls having a good shot at the playoffs.

Even with another knee surgery, I don’t

club.

“But then I still couldn’t even carry a club during our practice Monday here,” said Taojo, also last year’s team captain in Bacolod.

“Sayang wala kasi kaming alternate player” said teammate Randy Cadiogan.

Casintajan, who is only playing for his second straight year with RPV, shot back-toback birdies at holes no. 7 and 8. He also made nine pars and five bogeys but got one pick-up at the par 5 no. 11.

Galicia also birdied the 2nd and 6th, both par 5s, and had 10 pars.

RPV debuted in the Founder’s division with 104 at the Club Filipino de Cebu last

know if Rose will come out the same again.

And as I have said, that knee should be brand new.

Since we are into this, let me walk you through a bit about knee injuries. As doctors would say, the most feared knee injury is an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. But any knee injury can keep you away from play or cause long-term problems.

In football, next to the ankle, the knee is a commonly injured joint. Direct (being tackled or blow) or indirect (pivoting, twisting) impact to the knee may affect the ligaments (particularly the anterior cruciate ligament), tendons or cartilage.

Let’s put it in a perspective. The major mechanical part of an athlete’s body is his knees.

And the worst enemy of your knees is tearing that thing called ACL which is one of the major stabilising ligaments in the knee joint that prevents excessive movements of the lower leg against the thigh.

Imagine this. Seventy per cent of all ACL injuries happen without contact with another player. Mechanisms in sports involve a onestep stop deceleration, a sudden change of direction, landing from a jump with the knee and hip at extension – or a lapse of concentration.

Wednesday from Casintajan (29), Lo (28), Cadiogan (24) and Leo Yap (23).

Jose Vincent Lopez’s 20 did not count.

His younger brother Marc was expected to arrive this afternoon afternoon to see action for the last two remaining days (Feb. 27-28).

Also slated to still see action for the Mandug-based squad are Kuresh Samanodi and Christopher Tan for 36 holes.

Yap, Galicia and Cadiogan each has one more 18 holes to play in the 4-day event.

Apo and Davao City golf clubs are also both entered in the Founders division while Lanang is in the Sportswriters division. (LDR/CSDD-CMO)

You don’t need to be a rocket scientist for you to know that once you injure your knee, you will be away for sometime from the sport you play. And worse, when you come back, the trauma will be there. So your movements will not be the same for fear of being injured again.

Three things sports scientists are recommending for bad knees (or how to avoid them)—running and walking, cycling and swimming, and squatting and lunging.

I don’t want this to sound like a health column, but once in a while it pays to know.

My mom, who turned 83 yesterday, walks with some pain on her knees as it goes with ageing. I bought her a rollator walker a year ago to help her walk. She never used it as much as I desired she would.

She goes. “We were born with legs not wheels. I’ve been standing on these knees for 82 years. I cannot buy a new one.”

Crazy mom. But she’s right.

Yes, we can’t buy knew knees. Not even Derrick’s millions can buy him knew knees.

Not even Tiger, or Rafa.

Oh, the hazards of trade.

Postscripts: Listen to “Let’s Get It On with Neil Bravo” on 105.9 Balita FM every Saturday 8-10 a.m.

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 245 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 - 28, 2015