Edge Davao 7 Issue 266

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

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WHERE TO GO THIS SUMMER?

2 COVER STORY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

WHERE TO GO THIS SUMMER? Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

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ITH more than 7,100 islands, it’s not surprising that beaches are one of the big draws of the Philippines.

“Whatever your mood, there’s something to suit: from kilometers of fine white sand with a not a soul in sight, to party strands, to spectacular water-sports beaches, to tiny, sandy isthmuses in the lee of tropical islets,” wrote Lindsay Bennet in her globetrotter island guide book to the “Philippines.”

Some of the country’s fine beaches can be found in the coastal waters of Davao Gulf, which has an area of 308,000 hectares that cuts into the island of Mindanao from the Celebes Sea. It is surrounded by all four provinces in the Davao Region.

The largest island in the gulf is Samal Island. Davao City, on the gulf’s west coast, has the largest and busiest port on the gulf. Davao Gulf is surrounded by seven cities namely: Davao, Tagum, Panabo, Samal, Digos, Panabo, and Mati.

As a journalist who loves to travel, I have been fortunate to visit some of the best beaches in the region.

Here are some favorites: Kopiat in Mabini, Compostela Valley: Still undeveloped, the beach has white sand and crystal clear blue waters. It is located in an island, about 87 hectares, that is full of coconut trees and wild fruit trees.

The sea water is a known breeding ground of the hawksbill and leatherback turtles. Sea travel around the island takes about 20 minutes by motorized boat, while in-land tour takes about 45 minutes. A portion of the island encircles a seven-hectare lagoon.

Bonhomie in Banaybanay, Davao Oriental: It has is very clean area and the surrounding is well-maintained. Near its infinity pool is the powdery-white cream beach. Visitors and guests can request to be brought to the one-hectare Burias Islet, located at the boundary of Maputi and the Puntalinao Rivers. Just 12 minutes away by boat, it has a white sand beach and good for diving and snorkeling. The place,

just along the highway, is about 12 kilometers from the poblacion of Banaybanay. From Tagum City, it is about 52 kilometers away.

Welborn in Pantukan, Compostela Valley: This secluded beach is about 250 meters away from the highway. The beach is wide stretch where adults can walk and children play. The sea bed is flat and there are no stones or coral that makes bare walking dangerous. It is a haven for photographers as it has the best sunset and best panoramic/scenic view among the province’s beaches.

Dahican in Mati City, Davao Oriental: “A South sea dreams come true” was how a foreigner described the beach. Walking on barefoot on its white sand is a pleasure. Its serene and tranquil shores make it a great escape from strenuous busy life. Its old fashioned way of beach lounging made it become more relaxing and comforting. No parties, not crowded, just simple beach life. It is located about 15-minute ride from the heart of the city.

Bluewaters in Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte: Tired of the hassles of city life, the stress of your work, the fast tick of the clock, and the noise of the vehicles, then go straight to this place.

Here, you can relax, have peace of mind, and be with nature. It has two infinity pools, one for adults and another for children. Travel time from Davao City to this place is only seven minutes. Go to the boarding area located at the Davao Beach Club in Lizada Drive, Lanang.

Banana in Tagum City, Davao del Norte: Ever wonder it is named as such. The reason: it is located in what is touted as the world’s only beach resort within a banana plantation. Its coastline beach spans 4.5 kilometers of a flat and even seabed, which provides guests with popular water activities such as kayaking, skimboarding, banana boat riding, beach volleyball, water trampoline, Frisbee throwing, or simply building sand castles. About 15-minute drive from the heart of the city.

Little Boracay in Sta. Maria,

Davao del Sur: This place, far from the madding crowd, is so serene that disturbance is made only by cool breeze and splash of wave.

Tourists can gaze into the horizon and ponder into their problems and decisions. There are no crisscrossing banana boats or paragliders in the view to spoil serious contemplation. The long white beach is open and relaxing.

Malipano in Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte: The beach is located hundred meters off Samal Island. It island is part of the Pearl Farm Beach Resort and is the site of the seven executive villas. The island offers three holes of golf and a west facing white sand beach.

Pujada in Mati City, Davao Oriental: If your thing is nature at its best, then Pujada is it. Located in an island, it has no huts, kiosks or commercial establishments. What you have are only the talisay and coconut trees that provide cover against rain and sun. Davao journalist Rudolph Alama describes it this way: “Very fine white sand, clear clean waters plus a carpet of wild periwinkle flowers on an unspoiled beach.”

Go to these beaches sooner than you plan because most of them are now being developed.

By that time, they may accessible but will be expensive to visit.

Pujada

Dahican

Malipano

Little Boracay

Bonhomie

Kopiat

Welborn

EDGEDAVAO

3 THE BIG NEWS

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

BRISK SALES. A vendor sells garlands to parents and students in front of a school along Bacaca Road in Davao City where a graduation rite is being held. Garland and corsage vendors enjoy brisk sales during this time of the year when schools hold recognition and graduation exercises. Lean Daval Jr.

ARMM gov’t spends P12M a week to care for ‘bakwits’

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

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HE Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) spends P12 million per week for the evacuees affected by the all-out offensive of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters

(BIFF).

But Anak Mindanao (AMin) Rep. Sitti Djalia Hataman said the P12 million budget per week is still not enough to sustain the needs of the more than 125,000 evacuees – referred to as ‘bakwits’ – in Central Mindanao.

Women reject calls for PNoy resignation

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OMEN peace groups have said the call for the resignation of President Benigno Aquino will not solve the current problems of the Philippines, especially Mindanao.

In a press conference Friday in Davao City, Mindanao Commission on Women founding chair Irene Santiago said she would rather ask the President for accountabil-

ity on the recent problems in Mindanao than ask him to resign.

“I don’t think (the president should resign),” she said. “His resignation is not going to solve the problem we have.”

“But whether we should ask for accountability? I think that is proper,” she added.

Meanwhile, Miriam College’s Executive Director for Women and Gen-

FWOMEN, 10

“Ngayon kasi umaabot na ng 125,000 displaced individuals, yung budget ng ARMM per week para sa mga evacuees nasa P12 million na, kulang pa rin,” she said.

The AFP’s offensive against the BIFF was ordered by AFP Chief Gen

Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. and started on February 25, a month after the Mamasapano incident that killed 44 Special Action Force (SAF) troopers, 18 Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members, and five civilians.

Hataman joined peace

groups in asking for a stop to the war in Central Mindanao, saying civilians are the most affected by the conflict.

Hataman earlier said one day of war is equivalent to months of recovery for the community.

Latest records showed

that 2,288 of the 125,302 affected individuals are pregnant women.

Sixty-three schools were reportedly affected by the conflict, with 22 being abandoned because of the massive evacuation due to the military operations.

with the performances by local dance group,” Alabado said.

He said the partnership will also help the tourism industry in the region to maximize the exposures of its tourism products.

Alabado said the hosting of the annual sporting event will have a huge impact on the tourism sector not just in Tagum City or Davao

Del Norte Province but the whole region.

He said based on what he read in the newspapers, around 10,000 athletes will be joining the sports event.

“These 10,000 athletes. I am sure that their parents will also be accompanying them.

We are talking here of 30,000 to 40, 000 people coming in,” he said.

DOT getting ready to welcome Palaro athletes

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

HE Department of Tourism (DOT) 11 is now preparing to welcome the athletes, coaches, managers, and even the parents for the upcoming Palarong Pambansa on May 3 to 9 which will be hosted by Davao del Norte.

In an interview, DOT 11 regional director Reoberto Alabado III told Edge Davao his of-

fice is working closely with the governments of Davao del Norte and Tagum City in ensuring that visitors from all over the Philippines will have good a tourism experience in Davao Region.

“Our contribution in DOT is to provide good welcome performances to them. As they come in, we would like our visitors to feel welcome

4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

Iligan City has a new mayor

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HE Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has sworn in Vice Mayor Roderic Marzo as Iligan City Mayor on Friday.

Rene Burdeos, DILG regional director, said that Marzo would dispose the responsibilities as City Mayor following the 60-day suspension of Mayor Celso Regencia.

The DILG served the notice of suspension Friday afternoon amid the opposition of more than 1,000 supporters who barricaded the City Hall premises.

“We were able to post the notice of suspension at the door of the Office of the City Mayor. That was enough proof that the notice of suspension was served,” Burdeos said.

About 1,000 supporters barricaded the City Hall in Iligan City as Malacanang ordered the suspension of the City Mayor on allegation of

“abuse of authority.”

He said Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa signed the suspension order dated March 2, 2015.

Burdeos said that Marzo assumed the mayoral post by operation of the law as the city’s Vice Mayor and Prudencio Abragan, Jr. as Vice Mayor, as the first City Councilor.

The case stemmed from the complaint with “abuse of authority” filed by the dominant Liberal Party party members of the City Council against Regencia in January last year.

In the complaint, Vice Mayor Marzo accused Regencia of abusing his authority for issuing a memorandum that reportedly prohibits department heads and the City Council from processing and approving the appointment of casual employees without the City Mayor’s approval. (PNA)

LTO to train enforcers on new driving law

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

HE Land Transportation Office (LTO) 11 will start training all traffic enforcers in the region for the implementation of the Republic Act (RA) No. 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act on the third week of April.

In an interview, LTO 11 regional director lawyer Gomer Dy told Edge Davao that all enforcers from LTO, Philippine National Police (PNP), and the deputized traffic enforcers will have a three-day training from April 20 to 25.

Dy said there are

scheduled trainings in every province in the region during the period that will be conducted by the LTO national office.

He said the traffic enforcers will be trained how to flag down a vehicle is the driver is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

They will also be trained to conduct a series of sobriety tests such as making them walk in a straight line, doing a oneleg stand, and see the reaction of the eyes using a

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BIRD TIME. A park photographer spends a quiet Saturday afternoon feeding pigeons at Quezon Park in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

BBL battered but not yet out: Iqbal “

BATTERED but not yet out!”

This was the strong statement made by Mohaqer Iqbal, chief peace negotiator of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Friday night in the aftermath of the bloody Mamasapano incident that killed 67 people, including 44 police commandos of the Special Action Force (SAF) in Maguindanao last Jan. 25.

Eighteen MILF rebels and five civilians were also killed during the 11-hour gun battle that shattered the 1997 ceasefire agreement between the government and the reb-

els.

Iqbal statement coincided at the book launching marking the first anniversary of the signing of the Comprehesive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) held at the Baluarte San Diego Gardens in Intramuros, Manila.

The two books launched by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) were “Getting to Peace” and ”In Defense of the Draft Bangsamoro Basic Law. The killing of the 44 SAF troopers who were tasked to arrest wanted international terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir hid-

ing in Mamapasano, an MILF stronghold, has shattered the peace process and putting at risk the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) before Congress.

Iqbal admitted that the BBL “is battered but it is not yet down (and) I think there is now some sort of recovery” with the hope the BBL would be passed by Congress.

“On the part of the MILF, we keep on moving, moving and moving,” Iqbal said his extemporaneous speech at the book launching.

“A year ago we started a journey to realize the dream of the people in Mindanao,”

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Gov’t exhausting all means to save Pinay from death row

T ZOOFARI. Wilson Bangayan gives the details behind the concept of his newly- opened Pet Zoofari, a pet shop where customers can view animals in a zoo-safari-jungle ambiance, located at the ground floor of SM Lanang Premier. Bangayan graced the FAST Fridays media forum at Barrio Fiesta, SM Lanang Premier.

Lean Daval Jr.

he added.

Iqbal also said he has been involved in the peace negotiations for the last 15 years to find a just and lasting solution to the Mindanao conflict.

He said the Mamapasno incident was “tragic and unfortunate.”

“On behalf of the MILF we are so sorry that many lives have died,” Iqbal said.

In a related development, President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday formed a council of respected community leaders that would help work out the passage of the BBL.

HE government is doing everything it can to save a Filipina who has been sentenced to die in Indonesia after she was caught transporting illegal narcotics into the country, a Palace official said on Saturday.

“Ginagawa naman po ng ating pamahalaan ang ating magagawa within the legal framework of Indonesia to be able to push for her case,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in an interview aired over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

“As Foreign Affairs

Secretary Albert del Rosario has already said, the Philippines will continue to push other legal avenues to help her case,” Valte said.

Mary Jane Veloso, 30, has been sentenced to die by firing squad in Indonesia after she was apprehended at the Yogyakarta Airport in April 2010 for carrying 2.6 kilograms of heroin in her luggage.

Her family has insisted that the drug seized from Veloso’s luggage was secretly put there by a relative.

Veloso’s relatives in

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5 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

Consumer sentiment better in Q1

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ONSUMER sentiment in the first quarter of 2015 improved due to sustained drop in oil prices and stable prices of commodities.

Results of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) consumer expectation survey for the first three months of the year showed that confidence index (CI) remained in negative at -10 percent but way better than the -21.8 percent in the last quarter of 2014. ”The sentiment of consumers in the Philippines mirrored the improved outlook of consumers in the Euro Area, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan but was in contrast to the steady outlook in the United Kingdom and the less optimistic views of consumers in Australia, China, Thailand, and the United States for the first quarter of 2015,” the central bank said.

Other factors in the improvement of the index are higher family income leading to more savings, availability of more jobs and increase in the number of employed family members, appreciation of the peso, and improve-

ment of road infrastructure.

The BSP said the respondents also identified less calamities, less corruption in government and higher assistance like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) as among the reasons why the index got better.

The improved outlook was noticed across all income groups but was most noticeable among the middle-income group or those with monthly income of PhP10,000 to PhP 29,999.

For the next quarter, the index got better at 4.4 percent, higher than the 0.7 percent in the previous quarter’s survey.

Also, index for the next 12 months nearly doubled at 17.3 percent from 9.6 percent previously.

Meanwhile, the respondents expect inflation to go down, interest rates to go up and the peso to appreciate to a dollar. ”Moreover, fewer respondents expect unemployment to go up for the next 12 months, indicating more opportunities in the labor market,” the BSP report added. (PNA)

Belle Corp. profits down despite record revenue

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M’S property and gaming arm Belle Corp. on Friday reported that its profit declined by 29.67 percent in 2014 despite record revenue.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Belle said its consolidated net income reached P2.56 billion last year from P3.64 billion in 2013.

It attributed the decline to P1.5 billion in higher net non-recurring gains in 2013.

Excluding non-recurring items, Belle’s consolidated net income would have increased by 81 percent from P572 million in 2013 to P1.04 billion last year.

The company said it achieved record operating revenues of P3.16 billion in 2014 from P2.62 billion the previous year.

Its recurring operat-

ing earnings also surged by 62 percent to P1.4 billion on the back of higher revenue from its lease of the City of Dreams Manila property to Philippine entities controlled

by Melco Crown Entertainment Limited (MCE).

Belle said the higher income from sales of real estate and increased income from its listed subsidiaries -- Premium Leisure Corporation (PLC) and Pacific Online Systems Corporation also boosted its operating earnings.

PLC’s 2014 operations were highlighted by the soft opening of City of Dreams Manila last December, followed by the grand opening in February this year.

PLC has an operating agreement with MCE that accords it a share of gaming revenues or earnings at City of Dreams Manila. (PNA)

HOTEL PROMOS. Newly-installed Park Inn by Radisson Davao marketing and communications manager Patty Basa-Tan (left) and public coordinator Graziella Izza Cadiente announce the hotel’s latest promotions during the FAST Fridays media forum at Barrio Fiesta, SM Lanang Premier. Lean Daval Jr.

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

Mindanawons urged to join EY entrepreneur awards

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VISIT DAVAO. SM Lanang Premier mall manager Engr. Therese Lapeña-Manalo (right), together with marketing officer Arianne Pombo, promotes the upcoming Visit Davao Fun Sale (VDFS), Davao City’s biggest summer shopping and tourism extravaganza participated in by SM Malls and other top shopping destinations from April 3 to May 17 during the FAST Fridays media forum at Barrio Fiesta, SM Lanang Premier. Lean Daval Jr.

AirAsia to expand international routes

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

OW cost carrier AirAsia Philippines is targeting to expand its international presence as it opens the Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan routes after the resumption of the Davao-Manila route last Friday.

Speaking in last Friday’s Kapehan sa Abreeza, AirAsia Philippines chief executive officer lawyer Josephine Joy D. Cañeba said the company is working on getting the necessary permits to start the Manila-Hong Kong route by either May or June, and Manila-Japan as early as July.

She also said the Cebu-Singapore route will be launched by June.

Cañeba said the airline is operating three hubs, namely Manila, Cebu, and Kalibo in Aklan.

The Manila hub flies to six domestic destinations, namely Tagbilaran, Kalibo, Cebu, Davao, Tacloban, and Puerto Princesa. It flies to Kota Kinabalu and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia for its international destinations.

From the Kalibo hub, Air Asia flies to Incheon, South Korea, and Pusan in Shanghai, China.

The Cebu hub flies to Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and Kota Kinabalu.

Last Friday, AirAsia relaunched the Davao-Manila route with the arrival of maiden flight Z2611 captained by Giselle Bendong with first officer Iya Halageuña as the co-pilot.

“The only reason we pulled out earlier was we wanted to fix our operations,”

she said. “And now that we’re confident that we can serve the Dabawenyos, we came back... but definitely, I see this increasing to more than three times,” Cañeba said.

The airline also celebrated its maiden flight to Kota Kinabalu from Mactan International Airport in Cebu with passengers of flight Z2 131 receiving welcome gifts from Sabah Tourism Board upon its arrival. AirAsia flies to Kota Kinabalu four times a week, every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

Cañeba said the company is planning to acquire three new airplanes for AirAsia’s fleet.

“We currently have 15 aircraft that are fully utilized 12 to 13 hours daily,” she

offer has propelled mobile data customer growth of 120 percent, increasing mobile internet users by 6 million Filipinos.

“Our partnership with Facebook and the learnings from our successful ‘free FB’ campaigns have helped drive heightened awareness and interest about the Globe-Internet.org proposition. As such, this key partnership has led us to become the leader in creating a digital lifestyle for Filipinos, as evidenced by our 64 percent revenue market share in the Filipinos mobile data market. This clearly puts Globe in a unique posi-

tion as the preferred mobile brand in the Philippines,” said Horan.

True to the telco’s commitment to its customers, he happily announces that the highly successful and first-in-market “Free Facebook” offer with any promo purchase will be extended until May 15, 2015, allowing its 46 million mobile customer base to enjoy the full Facebook experience.

Mindful of another important customer segment who have yet to get on mobile internet, Globe is equally just as excited to share the good news on the launch of inter-

said.

The airline is operating in over 100 destinations across 22 cities.

HE program manager of the SGV Foundation’s Ernst & Young (EY) Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, encouraged entrepreneurs from Mindanao to join the 2015 edition of the search.

“I think this is a good year for Mindanawons,” Maria L. Balmaceda said in a press briefing for the launching of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year at the SGV office at the Damosa IT Park last Thursday.

Balmaceda said entrepreneurs in Mindanao are “very interesting” because of the island region’s nature and diversity.

She said businesses here seem to be innovative and competitive because of its proximity to the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) market.

“The organizer of this search expects that we’ll be receiving a good number of qualified nominations from Mindanao,” she said.

Balmaceda also said the EY receives at least 50 nominations from all over the country.

Among previous nominees from Mindanao were Federation of Banana based Cooperative of Davao (Fedco) CEO Ireneo S Dalayon and Sagrex Corporation and Philippine Exporters Confedera-

tion-Davao chapter president Ferdinand Marañon.

Marañon won the Emerging Entrepreneur award in 2011.

Other previous finalists and winners from Mindanao were 2003 finalist Mommy Gina Tuna Resources proprietor Joaquin Lu; 2004 Agribusiness entrepreneur RD Corporation president and CEO Rodrigo Rivera Sr.; and Master Entrepreneur and Entrepreneur of the year La Frutera Inc. president and chairman Senen Bacani.

For this year, Balmaceda said nominees will be competing for four categories, namely master entrepreneur, small business entrepreneur, woman entrepreneur, and young entrepreneur.

“The Entrepreneur of the Year will be chosen from the category winners. He or she will represent the country in the World Entrepreneur of the Year Awards in June 2016 in Monte Carlo,” she said.

She said the award allows driven entrepreneurs to expand their markets and to have easier access to financing.

The Entrepreneur of the Year was launched by Ernst & Young in 1986 and has expanded to more than 145 cities in more than 60 countries.

Cheneen R. Capon

its major residential projects, the 28-hectare Ponte Verde Residential Estates, is practically a stone’s throw from Davao International Airport, in Barangay Sasa and Communal, Diversion Road, Buhangin District. Investor confidence is bolstering commercial expansion within the strategic area and nearby towns, driving steady increase in property values.

This means that residents of

Ponte Verde can live it up at the center of the urban experience, and still take joy in the serenity and prestige of being nestled in an exclusive community.

“We’ve come up with another major high-end project in Ponte Verde. Davao has been good to us and we hope to continue serving that market,” says Sta. Lucia President Exequiel Robles.

Sta. Lucia continues to shape Davao’s upscale dev’t with Ponte Verde

Globe extends Free Facebook

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LOBE Telecom has announced that it will extend its current “Free Facebook” promotion until May 15, 2015 as it revealed that it signed an agreement with the leading social media app to make internet.org available to all Globe customers.

For the past two years, Globe has had incredible success working closely with Facebook to increase internet usage in the Philippines, through its “Free Facebook” offer on mobile.

According to Globe Senior Advisor for Consumer Business Group Daniel Horan, the telco’s “Free Facebook”

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EADING developer Sta. Lucia Land, Inc. continues to apply its decades of extensive real estate experience in Metro Manila to the burgeoning Mindanao region, initially in Davao which is now considered one of the biggest and fastest-growing cities in the world.

Sta. Lucia ranks first in terms of land area developed in Davao, comprising about 600 to 700 hectares. One of

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7 CULTURE & ARTS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

Halo-Halo: That Filipino iced dessert Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

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HE Filipino dessert halo-halo was recently included in an American website’s list of “10 food fads worth traveling for.”

Christine Sarkis, author of the article in smartertravel. com, which was also published in the website of USA Today, wrote: “In its native Philippines, halo-halo (pronounced hah-low rather than hay-low) isn’t a mere passing fad, it’s a classic summer treat.”

Two summers ago, the Cable News Network (CNN) handpicked halo-halo as among the “top 25 summer delicious foods” in the United States.

“In some countries, the coldest, sweetest dishes are considered the best foods for summer,” wrote Elizabeth Leigh, author of the CNN report. “In others, the hottest – in both senses of the word – are considered the best way to beat the heat.”

Leigh said halo-halo got the thumbs up from American celebrity chef and television personality Anthony Bourdain when the intrepid eater had it at Jollibee in Los Angeles for his show, “Parts Unknown.”

Bourdain is not alone. In fact, foreigners who have tried halo-halo considered it as one of the best impromptu treats.

“Bright, sweet, and bursting with attractions,” one American author wrote in “Gourmet” magazine. “Halo-halo is the Las Vegas of iced desserts.”

Halo-halo has been “taking over New York City,” according to an article published in The Atlantic Wire.

Literally translated, halo-halo means “mix mix” in Tagalog. It is often used as a metaphor for the country’s own distinctive mixture of East and West. You can see these cross-influences in the dessert itself, a mélange of ingredients

served in a tall, clear glass and eaten with a long spoon.

Halo-halo is a representative of the various sweets Filipinos enjoy. Legumes, root crops and fruits are cooked in syrup until tender and sweet.

Egg yolks and milk are made into “leche” flan. Ube is grated for “haleya.” Fresh ripe fruits are cubed, “pinipig” is toasted, “buko” is grated and if one has time – “sorbetes” or ice cream can even be made. All these are put in a tall glass that is then filled with shaved ice.

Sweet, cool and decadently nutritious, halo-halo is a filling tribute at the end of a satisfying meal.

Although it may be enjoyed throughout the year, halo-halo is most popular during the summer months, particularly from March through July. The concoction is usually served in tall dessert or parfait glasses but it can also be served in a shallow bowl.

Filipino culinary experts suggest that halo-halo is best enjoyed in a logical eating progression, based upon how the dessert is constructed. The top layer (ice cream) melts and combines with the exotic tropical fruits and beans that reside underneath. This is the heart of the dessert, which is best enjoyed with a spoon. The part of the dessert that is left, the melted ice cream, evaporated milk, shaved ice and any juice components, is sipped slowly and sensually. And the latter is the best part of the dessert.

No one knows who concocted the first halo-halo in the Philippines. But historical records showed that it was first introduced by “karayukisan-san,” Japanese women groups who traveled to East Asia and Southeast Asia to work as prostitutes about 100 years ago. These women, after retiring from prostitu-

tion, started to make Japanese sweets using Philippines’ local fruits and crops for new business.

Some people believed halo-halo is a modification of the Filipino “guinataan,” a general snack classification of a sweet soup or porridge made with “gata” (coconut milk) and whatever bean, root crop, or fruit you want to add.

Today, halo-halo is sort of an icon among iced desserts.

It has been compared to an American ice cream sundae, but with added flavors, textures and protein. In Japan, it is mentioned in the television show, “Degrassi: The Next Generation.” In the Season 7 episode, “We Got the Beat,” Jay was eating dinner at Manny’s house when Manny’s mom inquired, “More halo-halo, Jay?” Halo-halo was also featured as a Quickfire Challenge dish in the seventh episode of the fourth season of the American reality television series, “Top Chef.” The halo-halo, which featured avocado, mango, kiwi and nuts, was prepared by Filipino-Ameri-

can contestant Dale Talde and named as one of the top three Quickfire Challenge dishes by guest judge Johnny Iuzzini.

The popular Black Eyed Peas make a reference to halo-halo in their song, “Mare.”

Video game Dead or Alive 4 secret character Nicole lists

the delectable dessert as her favorite.

In the Philippines, halo-halo was originally sold along roadside stands, but it is now available in sweet shops, in shopping malls and as a meal-ender in both casual and fancier restaurants. In ad-

dition, many Filipinos are also making halo-halo at home for their families, something that is becoming easier to do. Recipes for halo-halo vary widely, due to personal preferences as well as the type and variety of fruits and beans that are in season.

For those who are interested in making their own halo-halo, here’s one recipe good for four persons. Estimated preparation time is about 50 minutes.

You need the following: one ripe large banana, two ripe mangoes or 1 cup canned ripe mango, one cup firm gelatin set into gel (cut into 1/2-inch cubes), one cup canned ripe jackfruit, one-half cup sweet corn, one cup young shredded coconut (fresh or canned), one cup cooked sweet yams or (“ube halaya”) glutinous purple yam (cut into 1-inch cubes), two cups shaved ice, two cups milk, four scoops of your favorite ice cream, and one-half cup chopped peanuts or “pinipig.”

How to prepare it: Peel mangoes and slice the meat into one-half-inch cubes. Discard the seeds.

Then, prepare four tall glasses. Divide each ingredient into four equal parts. In each glass place one-fourth of each ingredient, adding layer by layer starting with corn, cooked sweet yams, jackfruit, bananas, coconut, and gelatin. Top it with one-half cup shaved ice. Pour one-fourth cup milk over shaved ice and top with a scoop of ice cream. Sprinkle nuts or “pinipig” over it.

Each person may eat as it is or mix the whole concoction before eating. Some of the ingredients may be substituted with cherries, crushed pineapple, papaya, or any other ripe fruits in season.

Halo-halo, anyone?

8

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

EDITORIAL Where to Batch 2015?

T

HE country once again turns over thousands of college and technical-vocational graduates.

These graduates move on to become a part of the country’s pool of human resources. As valuable as these young men and women are to the human resources available for industries to tap into their education as well as tech-vocational skills, they also become additionational figures to thr growing statistics of unemployment.

This has always been the tragic part of graduation--the spectre of being lost into the world of job seekers racing for the meager jobs in the labor market. Most often, these graduates end up in a job mismatch. For example, not a few nursing graduates end up working as call center agent. That’s because the jobs readilu available here are those in the BPO industry.

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

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During the graduation ceremonies of the Ateneo de Davao Universitt, Fr. Joel Tabora, S.J., the university president, emphasized transcendence to the school’s over 1,600 graduates. Transcendence, according to Fr. Tabora, meant moving on in life after school not just seeking employment but seeking the end of poverty.

How? He said Ateneans are educated to become leaders, to be employers and to provide jobs for the poor.

It’s a word filled with optimism and responsibility.

It’s a challenge the graduates of 2015 will have to face, overcoming the bondage of labor mismatch and unemployment, overcoming poverty and hunger, and overcoming mediocrity in the midst of the highly competitive world that is evolving into more and more seamless with global economy levelling its ground for all.

To the members of Batch 2015, it’s time to transcend.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

AGAPITO JOAQUIN JR. Associate Editor

CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY Consultant

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

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

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D

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Final call for attendance in barangay assembly

O attend and take part in the session of your Barangay Assembly on Saturday, March 28.

It is a synchronized nationwide event decreed by Proclamation No. 260 which President B.S. Aquino issued in 2011.

We should all do so and activate this oft-ignored and under-rated local parliament. This periodic in-gathering of the Filipino community is important to induce the proper functioning of direct democracy at the base of our Republic.

When Congress transformed the barangay in 1991 from a quasi municipal entity (with no powers or resources) into a full-fledged government—corporate powers, police power, eminent domain, assured revenues, and all—it redesigned our Republic’s structure and improved its symmetry. It was a fundamental change but it seems to have escaped everyone’s notice Before that, the state structure was a squat, top-heavy monolith. It had only two layers: national and local— and local referred to the municipal and provincial governments since the barangay had no legal personality. Un-

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ELIGIOUS conversion in Davao gave rise to a number of conflicts that evolved not so much from the introduction of Christianity than from the political enforcements closely associated with conversion.

In the Samal revolt, the discord was not about Catholicism but the forced tribute and the resettlement issue the priests and the colonial administrators wanted to impose on local people. The Linao revolt of Agusan, on the other hand, erupted due to forced labor.

In 1908, in the first decade of American occupation, a religious movement started in Davao among the Manobos residing along Libuganon River at the boundary of Carmen town and Tagum City. It was known as Tungud, a vernacular term closely associated with katungod (rights).

The uprising, dubbed as a movement of deceit by Ireland-born author John M. Garvan who probed the unrest, was led by Mapakla, also known as Meskinan, who used his sickness to create a religious following.

Accounts say Meskinan was near-

THE WORM’S EYEVIEW

BY MANNY VALDEHUESA der that setup, policies and initiatives originated from the top, never from the people at the base.

The enactment of Republic Act No. 7160 (The Local Government Code of 1991) changed that. It reconfigured the structure into three levels: national, intermediate (municipal/provincial), and primary level (barangay).

And it made the barangay “the primary planning and implementing unit of government policies, plans, programs, projects, and activities in the community.”

It also gave the barangay a different system so the people can participate directly: direct democracy with a parliamentary form of government.

Theoretically, this enabled the people of the barangay to govern themselves directly, no need for representatives or proxies doing it for them—same as the direct democracy of the Israeli kibbutz or the Swiss canton.

Since everyone is a member of this Assembly, it is an all-inclusive parliament. The people themselves address

communal affairs, tackle problems, and work out solutions through its deliberations. Doing so fulfills another role of the barangay: as “a forum wherein the collective views of the people may be expressed, crystallized and considered, and where disputes may be amicably settled” (Sec. 384).

Therein lies the importance of the Barangay Assembly. Through it the community addresses issues in orderly manner, guided by parliamentary rules of order. It is direct democracy in action, the people’s sovereignty at work.

In the ideal order, out of the Barangay Assembly’s deliberations emerges enlightenment and consensus in the community. And the sum of all consensus in the 42,000 barangays that comprise our Republic translates into political will in the nation.

That’s how national purpose is forged, just like in Israel and Switzerland, or in America’s Town Hall meetings where issues are threshed out.

Why else would Ferdinand Marcos have created bogus “citizens’ assemblies” except to simulate consensus?

He needed to simulate it in order to unify the country and keep it intact for

his convenience.

The linchpin of national strength in advanced democracies is their peoples’ participation in government. A republic needs to be anchored upon the will of its people in order to attain and maintain stability, strength, and progress.

Filipinos must be motivated to participate in the direct democracy of their barangay and learn parliamentary rules of order in order to resolve issues or disputes as civilized societies do. It’s the effective and lasting way to maintain harmony, unity, and stability in society. And also the way to rebuild the nation from below.

Thus, do make it a point to attend your Barangay Assembly (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. He is chairman/ convenor, Gising Barangay Movement Inc. and author of books on governance. valdehuesa@gmail.com)

formed into a movement that was used as a means of dissent against the Americans and as sign of religious unrest. To add credence to his tale of possession, he fasted. He also sent out messages to people supposedly to save them from global meltdown.

Among the orders Meskinan issued was the killing of poultry and hogs so the farm animals would spare their owners from being eaten alive.

He also banned the planting of crops and ordered the setting up a house of worship which, it would soon be exposed, was used to deceive the gullible by using bogus priests, punuan (leader) and conniving aides called the taytayan (bridge). To add more religious color to the cult, he mandated the performance of sacred dances in his honor and the offering of gifts to his make-believe god, Magbabaya.

Separate investigations were also made about the group. Garvan found out that the religious movement, which later expanded inauspiciously, drew together warring tribal factions.

This suggested that the Meskinan affair was not just about counterfeit

religion but also a form of extortion.

Underscoring this was the symbolic offering of spears, bows and arrows, and bolos, which were sold to the members. As a commercial activity, kerchiefs and similar articles as a form of talisman were sold, and fees were charged to those who wanted to become a cult leader.

Fay Cooper-Cole, in his The Wild Tribes of Davao, said the uprising was an offshoot of Gov. Frederic Lewis’s plan to establish new villages in once-populated communities that were now abandoned. In the Mayo Bay area, he observed that the group was exploited by the Moros as a way of expelling American planters from their area.

By cordially inviting the Mandaya chiefs to their houses, they were also able to convince the tribal leaders to rise up in arms and destroy the Christians. Known to harbor anger against any form of colonial resettlement, the Moro plan to include the Mandayas was logical. The idea to harm the Americans was later discovered and exposed.

Tungud Movement

FAST BACKWARD

BY THE ARCHIVIST

death due to a serious illness when relatives abandoned him. He, however, showed up days later healed and healthy, claiming he was cured by a good spirit whose presence, it seemed, was affirmed by the trembling of his body each time he told his story. Soon, his claim was magnified, transforming him from a mere mortal to a priest and later as god. His assertion took a life of its own, expanding to as far as the common boundary of Davao and Bukidnon, converted hostile tribesmen into his fold, and trans-

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

POMELO FEST. Davao Pummelo Stakeholders’ Association, Inc. (DPSAI) president Andrew Tan (right) and Nilo Ramiso announce the upcoming Pomelo Festival at the SM Lanang Premier on April 11 to 15 during the FAST Fridays media forum at Barrio Fiesta, SM Lanang Premier. Lean Daval Jr.

Women... FROM 3

LTO ... FROM 4

der Institute Professor Aurora de Dios said their peace agenda goes beyond the President.

“Kahit sinong president may obligasyon na itaguyod ang kapayapaan.

It just so happens that it is President Aquino ang nag initiate nito,” she said.

De Dios said the peace negotiations goes beyond the question of the President and should be

pushed to the end.

“The question is not the President but what do we do with the peace process,” she said.

Anak Mindanao (AMIN) Rep. Sitti Djalia Hataman said even without the call for resignation of the President, the concerns regarding the BBL can still be addressed. Funny Pearl A. Gajunera

Named as members of the council were Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, former Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr., business magnate Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, former Ambassador to the Vatican and Malta Howard Dee, and youth leader Rohaniza Sumndad-Usman.

A National Peace Summit is expected to be held soon to discuss the BBL and to help the Filipino people understand the proposed law that would establish a new autonomous region for Muslim

Mindanao.

The President said that members of the council “will dissect the proposed law in a calm and reasonable manner that will not incite anger and hopelessness. This way, the BBL can be improved.

They will write a report that will be made public, so that everyone may be informed, and so that more of our countrymen may understand the matter. In this manner, we will be able to advance a reasonable decision as regards the Bangsamoro Basic Law.” (PNA)

the Philippines were recently saddened by Indonesia’s Supreme Court decision to reject the Philippine government’s request for a judicial review of her case in the hope of saving her from the death sentence.

Before the request for a judicial review, a plea for clemency had been

previously dismissed.

A second appeal for judicial review is being considered, Secretary del Rosario has said, adding he is confident that there will be no execution within the next two weeks.

He said his department is doing everything possible to explore all other options. (PNA)

BBL ... FROM 4

Gov’t ... FROM 4

Sta. Lucia ... FROM 6

small flashlight.

The training will also include the use of the breath analyzer, which will be used as a last resort.

“If the driver fails in the sobriety test, there is no need to undergo breath analyzer test,” Dy said.

He said the law states that a driver who has 0.05 percent the alcohol content on the breath analyzer will be charged with drunk driving.

“That is equivalent of two bottles of San Mig Light,” he said.

He said after the threeday training, the enforcers will have an on-the-job training in their respective areas.

“After week we will

start enforcing the law,” Dy said.

Davao City Traffic Management Center (TMC) chief Rhodelio Poliquit said his office is just waiting for the LTO to complete the training of its enforcers.

Poliquit said TMC will send many enforcers to be trained if the LTO will request it since the law is now “very enforceable” due to its clear rules and regulation.

Davao City Police Office-Traffic Group (DCPO-TG) head Superintendent Antonino B. Ibot said all 76 personnel should be trained since the TG’s mandate is to control vehicular incidents in the city.

net.org, which is Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s worldwide initiative on driving internet usage.

“The forthcoming landmark collaboration of Globe with internet.org will further encourage first time Filipinos Internet users to discover the power of the Web. This is indicative of our paramount role in leading them into the worldwide movement online through their Globe-powered digital lifestyle,” added Horan.

He said that the upcoming Globe-Internet.org partnership would serve as the company’s impetus to

launch new and exciting offers and make mobile internet more accessible within a safe browsing environment for Globe customers, without having to worry about unexpected charges.

With regard to the internet.org functionalities and content inclusions that will be made available to its base, Globe says it will be keeping launch details close to its chest and may yet spring a wonderful surprise for its customers. As a leader in innovation, Globe is known for giving a differentiated user experience compared to competition.

Globe ... FROM 6

The company made a strong debut in the area in 1997, with a residential-golf community development joint venture with the landholding family of Dizon Farms. Rancho Palos Verdes raised the bar for Davao’s golf and country club scene at the time by introducing the championship fairways designed by world-renowned architect Andy Dye. The all-weather course was created to be playable a mere 5-minutes after a heavy downpour.

For the Ponte Verde development, Sta. Lucia has masterplanned a neighborhood with a landscaped entrance gate with guardhouse, wide concrete road network, underground storm drainage system, and tall trees lined up along the roads. The centerpiece in this tranquil environment is the clubhouse, designed to be the ultimate one-stop leisure hub where community members can delight in exclusive amenities like the swimming pool, basketball court, and function rooms.

By offering residential and commercial lots sized from 150 to 550 sq. meters, Ponte Verde opens a wealth of possibilities for a market ready for an upgraded lifestyle but dislikes congestion that is common to our country’s megacities. “Davaoeños like their city to be developed minus the ills that plague most city centers,” Robles explains.

“What happened with

our Ponte Verde, being right in front of Davao International Airport, is that people were eagerly awaiting its opening.

They kept on asking when the lots will be available for sale.

The same thing happened to our golf community of Rancho Palos Verdes, which drew in investors as soon as it opened. In fact, when we launched Ponte Verde in 2013, immediately on launch day, we were able to sell half of the property.”

Sta. Lucia’s other ongoing projects in Davao include Riverfront Corporate City, South Pacific, Altea, Ciudades, Las Palmas, Valle Verde, and South Grove. It is also planning for expansion in General Santos and Cagayan de Oro cities.

According to Mr. Robles, big developers from Metro Manila have all come to Davao and are starting to build condominiums in the area. But Sta. Lucia remains focused on the subdivision niche market, contributing to the shaping of the residential landscape in the city: “We’ve established our name in Davao so we’re okay,” says Robles. “And I love the place so I am personally pushing for projects that help make the place more progressive but truly livable.”

To know more about Ponte Verde Residential Estates, call (82) 221-9442 or 9444, or visit the website of Orchard Property Marketing Corporation, the exclusive sales and marketing arm of Sta. Lucia Land at www. opmc.ph.

11 BIGGER PICTURE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

WET PLAYGROUND. A group of children look longingly at the water fountain playground at the Abreeza Mall grounds, perhaps wanting to cool off on a hot summer afternoon. JON JOAQUIN

Mag: Globe is best managed telco G

LOBE Telecom was cited as one of the best managed public companies in the Philippines and in the region, according to a survey by FinanceAsia Magazine among investors and analysts which ranked companies, senior executives , as well as policies on dividend payments and other matters.

In FinanceAsia’s recently published report of their 15th edition of Asia’s Best Companies, Globe emerged as one of the best-managed companies in the country, co-ranked as fourth along with SM Investments Corporation (SMIC), besting industry rival PLDT which came in at ninth. Globe also made it at seventh for best corporate

governance, together with SMIC and BDO Unibank.

Globe also ranked prominently at second as the “most committed to paying good dividends,” and fourth in investor relations. The telco’s President & CEO Ernest Cu was also adjudged as one of the best CEOs. “We are very honored to have been recognized

by investors and analysts in the region as one of the best organizations in Asia,” Globe Chief Financial Officer Albert de Larrazabal said.

“With sustained momentum in growth for almost all performance metrics, marked by record-breaking results in 2014, Globe has become an exemplar company in terms of setting the pace in

its industry, founded on very sound leadership and strong financials.”

According to FinanceAsia, the responses were culled from over 250 portfolio managers and buyside analysts from around the world on their opinions on Asian-listed companies.

Globe figured prominently on the survey on the

In a disclosure with the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) on Friday, the company said its net sales improved by 14 percent amounting to P84.294 bil-

lion from P74.044 billion.

SMC noted its income from operations also increased by 26 percent from P20.54 billion to P25.899 billion.

Its off-take volume also had a 5 percent increase from 16.2 Gigawatt-hours (GWh) to 17 GWh. The plant, which has a 17-GWh capacity, is Petron’s Refinery Solid Fuel-Fired Boiler (RSFFB), which has an installed capacity of 140 Megawatts (MWS) but has a dependable capacity of 60 MW. Its two incoming power plants are the 300-MW Malita in Davao del Sur and the 300-MW Limay plant in Bataan, which costs USD622.15 million or P 5.50 billion.

Limay’s target commercial operation for the first 150-MW is in May 2016, while its Unit 2 will start operations in September 2016 based on the Department of Energy (DOE) documents.

(PNA)

LL prepaid subscribers need to register their Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card should the proposed measure, which passed on second reading becomes a law.

This after members of the House committee on Information and Communications Technology, led by Chairman and Rizal Rep. Joel Roy Duavit, unanimously approved House Bill 5231, otherwise known as SIM card Registration Act of 2015, a consolidation of nine bills.

Under the proposed measure, all direct sellers are mandated to registered pertinent data in a registration form device for the purpose to include full name and address of the end users.

Authors of the measure are Reps. Marlyn Primicias-Agabas (Pangasinan), Magnolia Rose Antonino-Nadres (Nueva Ecija), Sergio Apostol (Leyte), Rodolfo Biazon (Muntinlupa City), Winston Castelo (Quezon City), Joel Roy Duavit (Rizal), Sherwin Gatchalian (Valenzuela City), Maximo Rodriguez Jr. (Abante Mindanao party-list), Rufus Rodriguez (Cagayan de Oro City), and Marcelino Teodoro (Marikina City).

Under the bill, every direct seller shall require the end user

SMC Global Power Holdings sales up S

AN Miguel Corporation Global Power Holdings Corporation’s net sales went up by 14 percent to P84.29 billion in 2014 from P74.04 billion in 2013.

VM Security Technologies Inc., Wholesaler and Retailer of Security Equipments (e.g.cctv, biometrics, fire and burglar alarm, access control) and System Integrator (Structured Cabling/Auxiliary System), is currently hiring for the ff. positions:

1. Marketing Manager (2) 2. Sales/Area Manager (5)

Qualifications are as follows:

*College Graduate (Any Course) *Male/Female at least 21 years old *With very good Public Relations (P.R.) Skills *Good looks and pleasing personality is a big plus *Applicants with experience in Retail/Corporate Sales will be an advantage *Willing to travel Visayas/Mindanao Area *Female Models with experience in Exhibits/Trade Shows are also encouraged to apply

*Applicants who will be hired as regular staff will receive the ff. benefits: **SSS, Philhealth and Pagibig **Transportation and Communication Allowance **Monthly food allowance **Annual Sales Commission of around P800,000 to P1,000,000 for those who will meet Monthly, Quarterly and Annual Sales Target.

**Interested applicants may email their resume at sales@vmtech.com.ph or call our office at (0917)3293471(CEBU) or (0917)7952469 (DAVAO) for interview schedule

**NOW HIRING FOR CEBU AND DAVAO!!!!!!!

strength of an excellent financial performance last year, which saw record highs in terms of consolidated service revenues of P 99 billion, a 9 percent growth year-on-year; total consolidated EBITDA of P39 billion, 8 percent higher than 2014; and core net income at P14 billion, up 25 percent from last year.

Mandatory registration of SIM card passage seen

A

of a SIM card to present valid identification with photo to ascertain the latter’s identity.

The direct seller shall also require the end user to accomplish and sign a control-numbered registration form issued by the respective Public Telecommunications Entity (PTE) of the SIM card being purchased.

The registration form shall include an attestation by the end user that the person personally appearing before the direct seller and the identification documents presented are true and correct and that the person is one and the same who has accomplished and signed the registration form.

A fine of Php300,000 would be imposed if the offense is committed by a PTE for the first time, Php500,000 for the second offense and for the third and subsequent offenses, a fine of Php1,000,000 each.

The bill also imposes a penalty of suspension of its operation on any direct seller who fails to comply with the provisions of the measure and a fine ranging from Php5,000 to Php50,000.

The House of Representatives is targeting to pass the bill on third and final reading before they adjourn sine die on June 11.

(PNA)

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EVENT

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

Teeyo’s first birthday

LIAM GILMER GREY AMORA aka ‘Teeyo’-- A wonderful and unique name for a cute and cuddly baby. Teeyo is the nickname given by proud parents Mommy Gellie and Daddy Gello to their first born; the name was taken from Teeyo’s grandfather Dototeo. Last March 7, 2015, Gello and Gellie celebrated their son’s First birthday at Northcrest Resort with the theme “Autumn in March”.

They came up with the theme because according to Gello and Gellie it truly is the season to fall in love with their baby. During the celebration, kids and kids at heart enjoyed the autumn inspired setup, fun activities like face painting, ventriloquist puppet show, human illusion show and magic show. Pictures are not enough to describe how fun and magical the night was with friends and family.

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EVENT

AirAsia marks return of Manila-Davao flight with an all-female flight crew AIRASIA celebrated women’s month with a flight between Manila and Davao todayoperated by an all-female flight and cabin crew. The flight also marked the return of AirAsia in Davao with 3x flights daily from Manila aside from its current 2x daily flights from Cebu.

AirAsia Philippines’ Chief Executive Officer, Joy Cañeba said, “At AirAsia, women work shoulder-to-shoulder with their male counterparts from the office of the CEO, flight operations, engineering, cargo, ramp, ground services to key operational and support departments. We are very proud of their achievements and contributions in ensuring that we give only the best, quality service to our passengers.”

Manila-Davao maiden flight Z2611 was captained by Giselle Bendong with First Officer IyaHalagueña as the co-pilot. Cabin crew is led by senior flight attendant Blanche Garcia with AnjelineGarchitorena, Jana Trajano, Christine Shane Dinong, Marah Gaa and Mayumi Arima.

To date, women make up almost 40% of all AirAsia Philippines staff with seven pilots and

AirAsia Philippines’ Chief Executive Officer, Joy Cañeba (center) strikes a pose at the tarmac of the Francisco Bangoy International Airport together with the all-female flight crew and the More Fun In The Philippines dancers. co-pilots combined, 253 cabin AirAsia also celebrated its Sabah Tourism Board upon Philippines and its latest procrew and the rest are in ground maiden flight to Kota Kinabalu, their arrival. AirAsia flies to motions and activities, follow services working as technicians, Malaysia from Mactan Cebu Kota Kinabalufrom Cebu every them on social media through mechanics, ramp officers, and International Airport today Monday, Wednesday, Friday Facebook (facebook.com/AirAin key operational and support with passengers of flight Z2 131 and Sunday. siaPhilippines) and Twitter areas. receivingwelcome gifts from For more updates on AirAsia (twitter.com/AirAsiaPh).

KarAsia launches all-new Mitsubishi Strada

By Kenneth Irving Ong KARASIA, the local distributor of Mitsubishi cars and commercial vehicles, recently launched the newest generation Mitsubishi Strada Pick-up with much fanfare at their Bajada showroom.

Since its conceptualization and sale in 1978, Mitsubishi Motors’ Pick-up has been one of the core models of the company contributing around four million sales worldwide.

The idea of “Dual Usage” was the driving force behind every L200 and Strada model as Mitsubishi Motors Corporation aimed to address both personal and commercial needs of its consumers. The concept of the “Sport Utility Truck” was born out of this desire.

“Mitsubishi Pick-ups have always been a favourite among Dabawenyos mainly for its flexibility in work and family life,” says KarAsia’s vice president for marketing, Bi-

anca Barretto-Uy “The Mitsubishi Strada allows their owners to bring their children comfortably to school in the morning, go to work at the farm, and still be able to have dinner at a fancy restaurant after.”

The 5th generation Strada inherits this “Sport Utility Truck” DNA of its predecessor with further advancements made to provide its customers great pleasure to drive, ride, and own. In order to provide a more enhanced pick-up model, the concept of the all-new Strada considers three major aspects such as functionality, quality, and a “Sport Utility Concept.”

The “Ultimate Sport Truck”, the Strada carries a high performance power train for great on-road performance. Aside from improved handling and power, the new Strada boasts a bigger cabin as well thanks to Mitsubishi’s “J-line” cabin design. A three-dimension-

al design of the front fascia as well as of the back bumper enhance the stylish appeal.

Inside, the cabin boasts of the amenities found on passenger cars with the stylish combination of black and gray mouldings and further accentuated with silver and chrome garnishes suggesting a sleek and vibrant aesthetic. Remarkable ergonomics of the cabin design promises to provide more “control” and “comfort” not only to the driver but also to its passengers.

Aside from easy handling, and improves reliability and safety, the new Mitsubishi Strada is poised to take the market by storm.

“We believe the new Strada has what it takes to take on the competition.” beams Samuel Rubia, KarAsia’s vehicle sales manager - Bajada & Tagum branch. “The new Strada will let us retake Mitsubishi’s leading position in the Pick Up market.”

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EDGEDAVAO

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ENTERTAINMENT

Biggest Kapuso stars banner GMA’s Araw ng Dabaw events

FOR one more night, GMA’s unforgettable team-up made a rare comeback.

Kapuso drama king Dennis Trillo and one of the Network’s sought-after leading men Tom Rodriguez locked gazes and instantly, the crowd went wild, making this year’s Araw ng Dabaw celebration a resounding success for GMA Regional TV.

True, My Husband’s Lover may have reached its end, but the crowd, seemingly, was still infected with the TomDen fever during a Kapuso Mall Show in Davao City’s Gaisano Mall last March 15.

Dennis, who’s a frequent Davao visitor, was still in utter amazement with the Dabawenyo’s reception to their show. “As always talagang napaka-enthusiastic ng crowd and very excited sila,” said Dennis in between breaths after the show. “Kaya kaming mga artist talagang ginaganahang mag-perform kasi mas masigla ‘yung mga tao, mas masarap magperform. Nakakatuwa.”

Tom, for his part, couldn’t agree more.

“Grabe ang sarap. Everytime na bumibisita ako rito, napaka-warm lagi. Napakasarap talagang magmahal ng mga Dabawenyo.”

Asked for a message to the thousands of fans who went to see his on-stage reunion with Dennis, Tom exclaimed, “Kaya sa mga Kapuso nating Dabawenyo

na magbalikan for my son Nate,” revealed Regine who strives to strike a balance between two important roles she has--one, as an idol to her multitude of fans, and two, as a mother to her three-year old son.

“Araw ng Dabaw 2015 would not have been successful without the all-out support from the local government, the sponsors, and ultimately, the Dabawenyos whose warmth we from the Kapuso Network have always put premium on since day one,” said Oliver Amoroso, GMA Network’s

rito nagpapasalamat kami ng sobra-sobra at sana magkita pa tayo ulit very, very soon.”

Recently-wed couple and Kapuso primetime king and queen Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, meanwhile, were thankful work did not only allow them to spend time together but to reconnect with their Dabawenyo supporters as well. Dingdong and Marian bannered a show at the Abreeza Mall last March 16.

In an interview prior to their mall show, Marian stressed the importance of finding time for Dingdong despite their busy schedules taping for primetime series Pari ‘Koy for her husband and The Rich Man’s Daughter for her. “Kailangan talagang meron (time for each other). Hindi pwedeng wala. Inaayos talaga namin ‘yung schedule,” according to Marian

who shared that she and Dingdong always set a DongYan day, “Saan kami pwedeng mag-date, saan kami pwedeng mag-bonding dito sa araw na ito. Sa ngayon magkakatugma ‘yung schedule namin, pag may trabaho ako, may trabaho siya, pag wala, wala rin ako kaya we’re thankful gaya nito nakapag-regional kami.”

Dingdong was quick to agree revealing that this

practice they got from their Ninong Ogie Alcasid. “May once a week talagang dapat inilalaan for family. Kailangan strikto na kung Sunday, Sunday; kung Monday, Monday, di ba? Nakuha namin ‘yun sa ninong namin, kay Ogie, saka si Regine, ganun sila eh. Talagang parati nilang sinasabi na, Tuesday yata sila eh, kahit ano’ng mangyari hindi sila tatanggap ng trabaho kapag Tuesday.”

Also present that day is Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alacasid who brought the house down in a Kapuso Fans’ Day held at the SM City Davao slated for this year’s Araw ng Dabaw fete. Regine, who flew in the morning of March 16, also took the last flight out.

“Whenever I can, I really make it a point to come home even after an event in the regions. I don’t mind

Head for Regional Strategy and Business Development (RSBD) Division and AVP for Regional TV. Highlights of the Network’s participation in this year’s Araw ng Dabaw can be seen via Let’s Fiesta! on April 19 airing in all nine GMA regional stations in Ilocos, Bicol, Dagupan, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Davao, GenSan, and Cagayan de Oro. To know more about the latest updates on the Network’s regional events, follow GMA Regional TV on Twitter and Instagram via @GMARegionalTV.

March 26-April 1, 2015

INSURGENT Shailene Woodley, Theo James PG

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

CINDERELLA Lily James, Hayley Atwell, Richard Madden G

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

SONG ONE Anne Hathaway, Johnny Flynn PG

R-16

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

HOME Rihanna, Jim Parsons G

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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

STYLE

An affair with

Flawless

SM LANANG PREMIER couldn’t have given women a fairer or fresher face than when they arranged to have aesthetic clinic Flawless bring in one of their young endorsers, Maxene Magalona, last March 21 to help the establishment celebrate the all-important Womens Month. A beauty talk with one of the brand’s resident doctors served as a prelude to the appearance of the freshfaced ABS-CBN Kapamilya star.

Dr. Faye Candao expertly handled the short forum on skincare and beauty, highlighting how investing in your looks can be made more convenient and an altogether more pleasant experience at the Flawless face and body clinic. The event’s host, Joey Sy Domingo kept the atmosphere lively and interesting as she and Dr. Candao exchanged banter on common skin ailments and touched on some of the basics on how to go about building a skincare regimen at home.

By the time host Joey had the crowd full of anticipation for a glimpse of that afternoon’s special guest, the 28-year old statuesque stunner arrived.

Maxene warmly greeted the growing crowd and was very candid about her skin regimen. Dressed in hot pink and white pumps, she personified someone who believed that it is a combination of skincare, exercise and healthy eating choices that makes someone flawless inside out. The young performer and TV host shared which among the Flawless products that she currently uses such as the spray-on sunblock and even admitted to availing of the clinic’s non-invasive treatments to trigger unwanted cellulite. This is a girl who isn’t afraid to admit that one can get all the help she can get, within reason and respecting her natural beauty as well.

The next part of the affair had Maxene making her way, to-

gether with Dr. Candao, to the Flawless clinic located at the Lower Ground level of SM Lanang Premier. There, glowing brightly under categories such as Whitening and Men’s products, one could already make out how brand intends to make enhancing beauty within everyone’s reach. The so-called Pink Revolution it has as its vision emanates from the spotless, customer-friendly façade of its clinic. Almost immediately, one can imagine discovering how a more beautiful confident self can emerge from behind their clinic’s doors.

Flawless in Davao is located at the Lower G r o u n d Floor of SM Lanang Premier, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Lanang, Davao City.

Contact the clinic for appoi nt ment s or consultations at (082) 2851980 or 09154356802.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

13

EDGEDAVAO NOTICE OF LOSS

Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) 1005316 under Loyola Contract No(s). 326802/NNN 130001030 issued to ANTONIO,MANILITA E. Plan Application Form No. OO-236051 issued to EMELY S. ADLAON were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

3/13,23, 30

DEED OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late DARIO R. LACAP has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT executed among his heirs per Doc. No.351; Page No.71; Book No. XXII; Series of 2011, of the NOTARY PUBLIC PAQUITO G. BALASABAS 3/23,30,4/6

Advertise with EDGEDAVAO CLASSIFIEDS

EDGEDAVAO

14 MOTORING

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

New Ford Everest: Redefining boldness T

AKING a bold step to redefine the SUV market in Asia Pacific and beyond, Ford recently unveiled the new Ford Everest, a technologically advanced, stunningly capable and refined seven-seat SUV that will be launched in 2015. In Asia Pacific, the Ford Everest will be available in nine markets: China, Australia, New Zealand, India, and markets across the ASEAN region. Ford will also introduce the rugged SUV to Sub-Saharan Africa and South Africa in 2015.

“The new Ford Everest is an exceptionally versatile vehicle, equally prepared for the everyday commute as it is for the most extreme off-road terrain,”

F

said Dave Schoch, president, Ford Asia Pacific. “The Everest’s unique blend of tough capability and exceptional comfort is going to resonate with drivers across Asia Pacific and around the world.”

With a rugged, sculptural design that reflects its unshakeable toughness and technological prowess, the new Ford Everest blends strength, smart features and style to bring consumers a tough and versatile SUV with true off-road capability. In addition to surprising and delighting fans of rugged off-road SUVs, the new Ford Everest embodies Ford’s fun-todrive DNA to deliver rewarding

and dynamic on-road handling, offering no compromises on refinement and comfort.

“The Ford Everest will help to expand our product footprint in the region with a tough and refined vehicle that enables drivers, their families, friends and colleagues to go anywhere comfortably – whether on urban roads or far off the beaten track,” said Trevor Worthington, vice president, Product Development, Ford Asia Pacific. “From the EcoSport to the Everest, our SUV portfolio in Asia Pacific offers something for everyone.”

Led by Ford’s Asia Pacific design and product development teams, and making use of Ford’s global SUV expertise, the new Ford Everest builds on the reputation of the current Ford Everest, which is praised for its durability and versatility. The new Ford Everest will be available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive variants depending on specific market demand.

“The new Ford Everest represents an epic commitment on the part of the Ford Motor Company to meet and exceed high customer expectations,” said Worthington. “From the very beginning we set aggressive targets, and with the Ford Everest we have truly raised the bar for this type of vehicle in design and capability, with advanced technologies for a smarter, safer and more capable vehicle at a very attractive price.”

Balancing rugged off-road and refined on-road capability The new Ford Everest was designed from the ground up with the durability to take on the most inhospitable environments. One of the toughest SUVs

Michelin is tire of choice for Porsche Cayman GT4

OR the launch of its new Cayman GT4, Porsche has chosen to equip all of the cars with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 ultra-high-performance tires: 245/35 ZR20 (91Y) TL N0 front and 295/30 ZR20 (101Y) XL TL N0 rear.

The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tire is the latest generation of road-legal track tires designed for ultra-high performance cars. The performance levels that this tire offers are clearly demonstrated by the fact that it is the OE fitment on recent Porsche models including the 918 Spyder and GT3.

Further evidence of the performance of this tire is highlighted by the Nurbur-

gring lap record set last year by the 918 Spyder which was fitted with exactly the same model of tires, albeit in a different size, that can be bought from any Official Porsche Centre.

Compared to its predecessor, the Pilot Sport Cup+, the Pilot Sport Cup 2 lasts up to 50 percent longer on track and also offers faster lap times due to technology developed in motorsport, at races such as the Le Mans 24 hours. Plus, these improvements in performance are achieved with no compromises in other areas, and are an example of Michelin’s Total Performance strategy.

The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 combines Bi-Com-

pound technology, which involves the use of different rubber compounds on the inner and outer sections of the tread with Track Variable Contact Patch 3.0, which is an innovation that optimizes pressure in the tire’s contact patch so the same amount of rubber is always in contact with the road or track, whether driving in a straight line or cornering.

To ensure the Cayman GT4 is prepared for difficult winter driving conditions, Michelin is the sole supplier of the winter tyre option for the car: 235/35R20 92V XLTL Pilot Alpin 4 N0 front and 275/30R20 97V XLTL Pilot Alpin 4 N0 rear.

in its segment, the Ford Everest has a true body-on-frame design, assuring the torsional strength required for challenging terrains. Together with an intelligent four-wheel drive system, an active transfer case with Torque on Demand, Terrain Management System, and bestin-class ground clearance of 225 mm and water-wading capability of 800 mm, the Ford Everest helps drivers navigate difficult terrain with ease.

For ultimate capability, the advanced Terrain Management System gives drivers four preset settings – Normal, Snow/Gravel/Grass, Sand and Rock– that alter the vehicle’s throttle response, transmission, intelligent four-wheel drive system and traction control to confidently tackle any situation. For extreme off-road environments, drivers can manually lock the transfer case in low-range four-wheel drive mode for increased control.

These impressive off-road credentials are paired to a new level of ride quality and dynamic handling beyond what consumers have come to expect in a rugged SUV. Thanks to its coil spring front and rear suspension and a Watt’s linkage on the rear axle, the new Ford Everest provides a comfortable, stable ride with agile and predictable handling on the road, keeping the promise of Ford’s fun-to-drive DNA. Advanced technology for a smarter, safer drive Ingeniously packaged with “up for it” functionality enabling extraordinary journeys, the new Ford Everest is one of the most technologically advanced offroad SUVs ever made, and builds on Ford’s global expertise in the utility segment.

The latest generation of Ford’s in-car connectivity solution, SYNC 2, lets drivers use natural voice commands to control the car’s entertainment system, climate controls and connected mobile devices more easily than ever before. SYNC 2 also boasts an 8-inch touchscreen with color-coded corners for easy menu navigation.

The new Ford Everest also offers a number of segment-first technologies, including Curve Control, designed to help drivers maintain control when approaching turns too quickly; Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Aid, two technologies that help prevent drivers from unintentionally drifting out of a lane; and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert, which informs drivers when there is a vehicle in their blind spot while driving or when preparing to re-

verse out of parking spots.

The vehicle also offers other advanced features, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Alert with Collision Mitigation, Roll Stability Control and an Electronic Stability Program that works with traction control to help the driver stay in control.

To reduce parking anxiety, Active Park Assist enables drivers to parallel park hands-free, requiring only accelerating, shifting and braking from the driver.

In addition to advanced active safety systems, a strong passenger cage built using highstrength materials like boron steel, and passive safety features, including seven airbags, help to keep occupants safe in the event of a collision.

Power and efficiency to go further The incredible capabilities of the new Ford Everest are made possible by one of three petrol and diesel engines, mated to durable and efficient six-speed automatic or manual transmissions. While availability differs across markets, all three engines deliver uncompromised power and torque with excellent fuel efficiency: A new 2.0-liter four-cylinder twin-scroll EcoBoost petrol engine will debut in Asia Pacific in the Ford Everest, offering excellent torque, power and refinement combined with projected best-in-class fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions For maximum power and torque for heavy-duty towing, Ford is offering the latest generation of its globally proven 3.2-liter Duratorq five-cylinder TDCi diesel engine, with upgrades including an updated exhaust gas recirculation system to boost efficiency For maximum fuel economy without compromising performance, Ford is also offering the latest generation of the 2.2-liter Duratorq four-cylinder TDCi diesel “This engine line-up demonstrates Ford’s commitment to offering the power of choice to customers in different markets with different needs and preferences,” said Worthington. “We’ve selected the engine technologies from Ford’s global powertrain range that deliver the best combination of performance and efficiency to meet and exceed the demanding requirements of SUV customers.”

Smart and functional design The new Ford Everest stands apart with a bold, sculptural design that communicates its impressive capabilities and advanced smart features, while

the robust front end with signature LED daytime running lights and wide stance make for a powerful presence on the road.

The chiseled and technical design is also highly efficient – extensive aerodynamic testing led to an exterior that seamlessly melds form and function.

The new Ford Everest’s bold exterior presence is paired with a modern interior that makes use of refined materials and emphasizes horizontal lines to create a comfortable, harmonious environment for up to seven adult occupants.

Interior features balance ride comfort with ultimate practicality, including a large moon roof, a convenient powered liftgate, more than 30 cleverly designed stowage spaces, multiple power outlets in the first and second rows, and flexible seating and cargo arrangements – including fold-flat second- and third-row seating – to achieve a perfect balance between passenger demands and packing efficiency.

To ensure exceptional cabin quietness, Ford equipped the new Ford Everest with Active Noise Cancellation technology in addition to optimizing cabin sealing and sound absorbing materials throughout the vehicle.

Similar to the systems used in noise-cancelling headphones, Active Noise Cancellation uses three strategically placed microphones inside the cabin to detect and measure sounds. A smart control module instantaneously generates opposing sound waves, which are then fed through the Everest’s audio system to cancel out unpleasant noises. The result is a quiet interior that lets the driver comfortably speak with third row passengers without shouting.

“With its safe and smart features, a refined interior and incredible on-road and off-road capabilities, the new Ford Everest sets a new standard in the medium SUV segment and represents a compelling addition to our global lineup of SUVs in Asia Pacific,” said Worthington.

“Taking advantage of our global design and development expertise, and our proud heritage in the utility segment, we’ve created a vehicle that goes far beyond customer expectations.”

The new Ford Everest will be manufactured at AutoAlliance Thailand in Rayong, Thailand, for ASEAN markets. In China, the new Ford Everest will be manufactured by Ford’s Jiangling Motors Corp (JMC) joint venture at the JMC Xiaolan Plant in Nanchang, China, and distributed through JMC’s Ford-brand network of dealers.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 15

Asenjo is clear underdog

By MANNY PIÑOL

T

INY Romel “Little Assassin” Asenjo is the clear underdog in his match up against one of Yucatan’s world champions, Juan Francisco “El Gallo” Estrada, but the Mexican boxing fans are not very comfortable.

The reason?

Asenjo is a Filipino and fighters from the Philippines are always known to be tough, strong and courageous.

“You cannot be overconfident when you are fighting a Filipino,” said Jorge Poga, one of the coordinators of the fight between Estrada and Asenjo which puts on the line the flyweight world title of two boxing organizations - the World Boxing Organization (WBO) and the World Boxing Association (WBA).

“When you watch a fight between a Mexican and a Filipino, you can almost always be sure that it will be an exciting fight,” said Andres Gonzales, a businessman and a boxing fan, who took notice of the diminutive Filipino fighter as he was shadow boxing in front of the Ibis Hotel in downtown Merida where the Philippine team stays.

The Mexicans are not confident that it will be an easy fight for Estrada, considered as one of the best flyweights in the world today who has included in his list of victims big name Filipino fighters like Brian Viloria, Milan Melindo, Richie Mepranum and Joebert Alvarez.

Estrada, who has a record of 31 wins with 22 knockouts and only two losses, stands two inches taller than Asenjo, a native of Pigcawayan, North Cotabato who now fights for the Sonshine Sports Management, a sports group organized by religious leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and

T

WENTY four years ago, I was one of the wide-eyed graduates marching for my college diploma. I remember celebrating it with a canned beer on hand as I gave myself a malty treat.

I felt heaven after having reached that far in life. It wasn’t an easy ride but I must say I had fun in school.

based in Davao City.

Asenjo, who at 25 is a year older than Estrada, has a record of 26 wins, 20 of which came by way of knockout with three losses.

Estrada has a 66.67 KO percentage while Asenjo has a 68.97 knockout percentage.

This is what scares the Mexicans.

“Filipinos can punch,” said Gonzales.

They all remember how Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, a huge underdog going into his first fight against Mexican boxing legend Marco Antonio Barrera, punished the great Mexican fighter to submission.

They remember Nonito Donaire’s almost fatal knockout of Fernando Montiel in 2011 and lesser known Edrin Dapudong’s shocking first round demolition of Jesus “Zurdo” Jimenez in Tepic, Nayarit in 2010.

Filipinos always love to be the underdogs which for so many years have proved to be effective in dealing with overconfident opponents.

“I have nothing to lose.

Estrada has everything to lose,” said Asenjo, who started out as an amateur boxer of the North Cotabato provincial government 15 years ago.

After a long night rest following a tiresome 30 hour trip from Manila, Asenjo did a light workout in front of the Ibis Hotel.

When he stepped on the scale for a trial weighin one day before the official weigh-in, Asenjo was only 51.7 kilos, just 700 grams over the limit for flyweights.

Asenjo has promised to give his best for the fight which could change his life.

Underdog, yes but this is a hungry dog.

Last Saturday, that scene flashed back in my mind again as I found myself back in another Ateneo graduation ceremony, only this time not as the wide-eyed graduate but the teary-eyed parent witnessing his daughter reach the finish line herself.

My daughter Jill, who also writes for this paper

Yam Maramba discusses the activities lined up for the 2-day Junior NBA/WNBA Philippines 2015 Davao Regional selection camp at the University of the Immaculate Conception over the weekend. Maramba was a guest of FAST Fridays media forum at Barrio Fiesta, SM Lanang Premier. Lean Daval Jr.

R

Nadal, Murray advance in Miami

AFA Nadal and Andy Murray got their Miami Open bids off to a solid start with straight sets victories at Key Biscayne on Friday.

Nadal defeated fellow Spaniard Nicolas Almagro 6-4 6-2 in 89 minutes in windy conditions as he began his campaign to finally win the Miami tournament where he has lost in the final on three occasions.

“In general I thought I played a solid match. I played well, I had good movement,” said Nadal. “I had to put the balls in and play with no mistakes -- that was the idea with very tough conditions. Almagros was not an easy opponent.”

Murray had little trouble dealing with American Donald Young in his opening match with a 6-4 6-2 victory. Murray, a two-time winner at Key Biscyane, broke left-hander Young four times as he wrapped up the win in 82 minutes. The Scot will face Santiago Giraldo in the next round after the Colombian beat Robin Haase of the Netherlands 6-2 3-6 6-0.

Murray is looking for his 10th Masters 1000 title and his third trophy in Miami, having won in 2009 and 2013. Key Biscayne is something of a ‘home court’ for Murray, who practices at

the venue during his off-season preparation. “I spend hours, hundreds and hundreds of hours, practicing on that court,” he said.

“Each week, when I am here, I would practice 14 hours at least on that court. Over the last seven, eight years, I have spent a lot of time on it.” South Korean teenager Chung Hyeon, who gained his first ATP World Tour win on Wednesday, was

beaten by eighth seed Tomas Berdych, the Czech triumphing 6-3 6-4.

Chung showed his promise again, however, gaining a 4-2 lead in a rain-interrupted second set before Berdych took control, winning the last four sets. Berdych will face the 25th-seeded Bernard Tomic, who edged American Austin Krajicek 7-6(6) 7-5. South African Kevin Anderson fought

superbly to beat American Sam Querrey 6-7(5) 7-6(3) 6-4 in two hours and 32 minutes.

Querrey served for the match at 6-5 in the second set, but could not close it out, and then dropped serve at the start of the third as Anderson fought back.

World number one Novak Djokovic gets his campaign under way against Slovak Marin Klizan on Saturday.

ANDY MURRAY. To the next round.

Jill

LET’S GET IT ON

Neil Bravo as an ICT Hub colum-

nist and lifestyle writer, received her diploma in Mass Communications at 19 years old.

Seeing her march in toga made me even prouder to be a parent who raised her almost single-handedly, essaying the role of “ina-tay” to the hilt.

Jill knew what we went through too and this moment is extra special for

her as well.

But I cut her short.

Told her the reality which she needs to bite and chew from this day on-the real battle has just began. The moment of joy during graduation is but shortlived. As fleeting as coming to a climax. After that, one needs to face the world.

My father told me

when I was a child that he cannot be there all my life and that at some point, I need to wage the daily battle all by myself. When my father died in 2001, I remembered his words.

Now, it’s my turn to tell Jill.

Twenty years from today, I wish to live to see another kid march his way to the finish. Magnus’ turn is next.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

OUSTED. Second seed Maria Sharapova suffered a shock 7-6(4) 6-3 defeat to compatriot and wildcard Daria Gavrilova in the second round of the Miami Open on Thursday. Sharapova trailed 3-0 in the second set but battled back to 4-3 down before her serve was broken again by the 21-year-old who broke into the top-100 this week.

NO PROB Pacquiao’s leg cramps not a reason for concern

R

ING icon Manny Pacquiao and his handlers dismissed as no big deal reports that the leg cramps incurred during roadwork at the mountainous Griffith Hills here are hampering his preparations or his coming May 2 welterweight unification fight against undefeated Floyd Mayweather Jr. “Not really, there’s nothing to worry,” Pacquiao said in an interview with this writer after another tough sparring Thursday afternoon (Friday in Manila) at the Wild Card gym.

“There are times really that I have to rest my body. Five weeks na tayong nag e-ensayo at siyempre napapagod din ng katawan. Hindi naman tayo bakal.”

“Like this morning, hindi ako pinatakbo because mayroong sparring at kailangan nasa ayos ang katawan ko,” the World Boxing Organization welterweight champion added.

“Pag may sparring kasi, Freddie (chief trainer Freddie Roach) and Justin (conditioning coach Justin Fortune) often times do away with the usual roadwork.”

“That’s b….s….t,” Roach, for his part, reacted to reports that the injury has been affecting the eight-division belt-owner’s training. “Leg cramps are nothing. Manny just shook off his legs and it’s gone.”

As for Thursday morning’s

failure to answer the call to attend the roadwork being held thrice a week at the University of California-Los Angeles track and field stadium, Roach said his pupil’s long, tiring day Wednesday was the reason.

“First, Manny didn’t have the chance to eat dinner on time because after training for three hours, he still had to be interviewed by seven television stations that lasted until past 8 in the evening,” the five-time trainer of the year honoree rued.

“Then this morning, at 3 o’clock to be exact, people in Manila woke him up to deliver a message at a press conference announcing a joint television coverage of the fight (among several television networks),“ Roach bewailed, adding that organizers of the media conference could have realized that by the time the announcement, it was early dawn in L.A. “It’s no big deal, really,” Fortune, on the other hand, said, also by way of reacting to the leg cramps reports. “Manny has to rest. It’s still a long way to go before the fight, one month, more or less.

“It’s good that we did that, because Manny sparred for eight rounds today against two different spar mates. Then he still did the mitts with Freddie for several rounds plus several more rounds with the balls,”

Fortune narrated.

“Poor Manny, he had a very long and hard day yesterday. He was at UCLA in the morning, rested a while before going to the gym, trained then interviewed on television with nobody even remembering to bring him at least a sandwich or something for a snack before the interview,“ he said shaking his head.

“Then somebody told me he had to wake up at the wee hour just to make a statement in a press conference held in the Philippines,” Fortune lamented.

“Look, Manny’s been working very hard or the past four weeks or so. Could somebody please give him a break?”

Pacquiao’s conditioning coach said the leg exercises the boxer of the decade has been doing thrice a week at UCLA is no easy job. It consists of, among others, climbing the 100-steps in the bleacher sidewise (left then right) then going down.

This is besides making five or six laps around the 400-meter oval, which Fortune describes as backbreaking, and only a man of Pacquiao’s strength can do.

“Even Mayweather, the man they call pound-or-pound king I tell you cannot do what Manny is doing,” Fortune disclosed. “I can guarantee you that.”

VOL. VOL.77ISSUE ISSUE266 266••SUNDAY SUNDAY--MONDAY, MONDAY,MARCH MARCH29 29--30, 30,2015 2015

EDGE DAVAO

Serving a seamless society

Destination DAVAO

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

D

AVAO Region, the gateway and center that will run from April 3 of commerce in Mindanao, is already single destination.

Discounted but excit- to May 17. known for its major tourist destinations The VDFS is a seven like the heights o Mt. Apo and the white sands ing Davao tour packages from highlands to islands week period of discountof Dahican.

But there are more destinations to be explored in the region, and these are already being packaged by tour opera-

tors. For local and foreign tourists, availing of tour packages is like jumping on the same boat and rowing together toward a

within Davao City and Davao Region are offered by tour operators in the region for the summer period, especially during the Visit Davao Funs Sale

ed shopping, fun and adventure, dining experience, fun tours and fun packages good for three days and two nights.

Malou Ampuan, pro-

prietress of Bloomers Travels and Tours, one of the tour operators participating in the VDFS, said the fun tours is composed of countryside tours that include mingling with the Philippine Eagle at the Philippine Eagle Foundation Center in Calinan Dis-

trict, hiking in the Eden Nature Park and Resort in Toril District, and maybe eating crocodile ice cream and crocodile meat sisig at the Davao Crocodile Park in Maa, Davao City for only 1,500 – inclusive of lunch, transportation, service

FDESTINATION, S2

S2 EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Destination DAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 266 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 29 - 30, 2015

Destination DAVAO Destination... FROM 1 from licensed guides, and entrance fees.

Special discounts don’t end as there are city tours for P600 and island tour for only P1,500.

Touring the city of Davao for P600 would start by learning the history of the chartered city at Museo Dabaw, City Hall, San Pedro Cathedral, Holy Infant Jesus Shrine Hills, all the way to Jack’s Ridge for the overview of the whole city. Then there is the trip to tge Durian Candy Factory and Aldevinco Souvenir Shops for

pasalubong and even “I love Davao” shirts and malongs.

Before ending your trip in Davao City, don’t forget to visit the People’s Park, Malagos Garden Resort, and try the Davao River White Water Rafting and the Outland Adventure Camp’s Xcelerator zipline.

For a more adventurous trip, VDFS offers an island tour for only P1,500 which includes the Coral Garden in Talikud Island in Samal Island, Babusanta, and Angel’s Cove in Davao del Sur.

If you still don’t get enough with tour packages, local government units such as Davao del Norte offer customized tour packages from P500 to P1,200.

Tourism officer Noel Daquioag said beach lovers could lounge in the long white sand beaches of Samal Island, the region’s island resort, and visit diving sites like Coral Garden and Marine Park in Talikud Island.

Food lovers could explore the mariculture park in Panabo City and fish their own bangus and tilapia.

Wondering how the region become the largest producer and exporter of banana in the country? Then visit Tadeco’s and Dole’s vast banana plantations also in Panabo City.

Tourists can also visit the municipality of Dujali for its vast rice fields of organic black rice and the town of San Isidro for its vast cacao plantations. Take a sip of the hot cocoa served by the farmers.

Tagum City’s sports complex would also enticing to sports enthusiast, while the Madgao

river in Asuncion will become similar to Loboc River in Bohol. Daquioag said the provincial tourism office of Davao del Norte is developing the site for activities like river cruising and kayaking, and events like dragonboat festival. ‘’We’re targeting to finish the development and open the Madgao river to the public this year,’’ he added.

Tourists also have the chance to visit the caves in Kapalong, the cave capital of the region, and see various rock formations, or visit

the cultural village in Talaingod and mingle with people of the Ata-Manobo tribe.

Daquioag said tour packages allow visitors to plan their vacation trips and allow local government units to promote local tourist destinations.

Tourists have the option to visit the falls in Maragusan, Compostela Valley and visit the ruins of typhoon Pablo in New Bataan. They can also visit Mt. Hamiguitan, a Unesco World Heritage Site, and Aliwagwag Falls in Davao Oriental. CRC

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A memorable weekend in Davao

People’s Park

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

M

OST visitors who come to Davao City describe it as a land of exotic beauty and rich culture. “Davao is probably the least exposed of the country’s urban areas, and the most appealing,” observed Gregory C. Ira, a Filipino-American who lives in Florida. “It’s a great holiday hideaway, what with its lush greenery and exotic wild flora and fauna that contribute to its picturesque view.”

With a total land area of 244,000 hectares, Davao is considered as one of the largest cities in the world. Approximately, it is 7.8 times the size of Cebu and three times that of the entire Metro Manila. As such, people can do so many things on weekends.

Every weekend and holidays, the Philippine Eagle Center – home to the country’s bird icon – in Malagos, Calinan District is one of the top destinations.

Here, you get the opportunity of seeing “Pag-asa,” the first Philippine eagle hatched and bred in captivity. Then, there’s “Mabuhay,” the 25th captive-bred eagle, which happened to be the first offspring of “Pag-asa.”

About two kilometers away from the eagle center is the Malagos Garden Resort. Visitors can marvel at the arrangement of flowers and ornamentals – in various forms and hues – scat-

FA MEMORABLE, S7

Crocodile Park

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DCWD’s pipe-bridge crossing

The making of a landmark

By ANTONIO M. AJERO

T

HE huge pipe-bridge crossing being built by the Davao City Water District (DCWD) in the Governor Generoso Bridge at Bankerohan is inspired by the iconic 75-year-old Golden Gate Bridge in the bay of San Francisco, California, U.S.A. The unique pipe-bridge crossing, with a diameter of 1,000 millimeters (one meter), is located in between the twin Gov. Generoso Bridge I and Gov. Generoso Bridge II (which had just undergone a major P63-million repair work). Reportedly a brainchild of DCWD chairman Eduardo Bangayan, it is aesthetically-designed to be a

new landmark of the city. That would be just one of the many structures reaching for the sky in the current building boom in this city long been considered as the informal capital of Mindanao.

Lawyer Bernardo Delima, DCWD spokesperson, told Edge Davao that on top of its main purpose as a huge water distribution line, the pipe bridge will be beautifully and fully lit at night that will serve as another scenic attraction of the city. (Please see architectural perspectives) The facility is a replacement of the old pipe bridge crossing in the same location that collapsed in 2012.

“The old pipe bridge was not able to withstand the

huge volume and strong current of the Davao River carrying heavy logs that impacted on the leg support of the pipe-bridge,” Delima said.

“The incident caused low water to no water pressure in a large portion of the central and northern areas of the city at the time,” the spokesperson recalled, saying that DCWD immediately installed temporary bypassed lines to address the predicaments.

Project costs P115.2 M Constructed by the joint venture of RD Policarpio & Co. Inc. and TGV Builders, Inc., the project’s total cost is P115,242,431.60. The original date of project completion was March 28, 2015 or 300 days,

“but due to actual field condition and variations as extension was granted to the contractor,” Delima bared. The extension is 30 days, with the counting starting on March 29.

Security fence The water district’s management also sees the need to secure the areas underneath the Bankerohan Bridge formerly occupied by informal settlers, numbering 126 “houseowners.”

“The water district sees the need to fully fence the areas to ensure the security of the facility and the water passing through it, as well; as the safety of the families that would live therein if again if allowed by he local government,” the lawyer spokesman said.

However, Delima admitted that the “high concrete fence covering the area underneath the bridge is among the proposed variations from the previous contractors’ project design that is yet to be approved by the city government.”

Approval by the city government of the concrete fence means another extension of 30 days.

He said the enclosed area under the bridge will also house the electrical and mechanical apparatuses of the pipe-bridge crossing needed to light it at night.

Some vignettes about Golden Gate DCWD chairman Ed Bangayan who’s said to be behind the idea of making the pipebridge a mini version of the Golden Gate, must have known some vignettes about the history of the 75-year-old structures.

Just for fun, here are some interesting facts are the bridge, culled from the internet.

1. The US military wanted the Golden Gate Bridge to be painted in stripes.

2. The Golden Gate Bridge’s original design was universally rejected because it looked like “an upside-down rat trap.”

3. The famous bridge is the top suicide location in the world. More than 1,500 people have committed suicide, or an average of one person less than every three weeks. But more than 30 jumpers have actually survived their attempts at self-annihilation. There are 11

crisis counseling telephones on the bridge that connect to trained suicide counselors. Plans to build a net under the bridge as suicide deterrent are being considered.

4. The bridge had an impressive safety record. Only 11 construction workers died in building of the $35-million Golden Gate Bridge, an impressive record, because at the time (in the 1930s), the rule of thumb was that one worker was expected to die for every $1-million in construction cost.

By contrast, 28 laborers died in the construction of the neighboring San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge which opened six month earlier.

5. Little federal or state money was used to build the bridge. Despite being in the midst of the Great Depression, voters in the District’s six counties in 1930 voted $35 million bond issue that required them to put their homes, farms and businesses as collateral. How about replicating this show of regionalism in the case of the much ballyhooed Davao City-Samal bridge?

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A memorable... FROM 4 tered throughout the resort. Sculptures, done by national artist Napoleon Abueva, are displayed all over the place.

A man-made destination is the Eden Nature Park and Resort nestled at the foothills of Mount Talomo in Toril. At 2,650 feet above sea level, it offers a breath-taking bird’seye view of the city and the Davao Gulf in the distance.

Over 100,000 pine trees are growing in the area, comprising about 80 hectares. A plus: the skycycling, where you pedal your way through the sky.

From there, you need to go to the Davao Crocodile Park, located at the Riverfront Corporate City along Carlos P. Garcia Highway in Ma-a. With about 700 crocodiles, the park is making waves as one of popular tourist spots in the city. It is home to the country’s largest crocodile named Pangil, measuring over 18 feet in length.

Most of the historic destinations are located near the city hall in San Pedro Street. Just walking distance away from it are the following: Sangguniang Panglungsod, San Pedro Cathedral (built during the Spanish period), Museo Dabawenyo (look for the bust face of Datu Bago), Quezon Park, Camp Domingo Leonor (where you can see the quarters of the Spanish and later American soldiers from the 1920s), and D’Bone Collector Museum (the first in the Philippines).

Two beautiful parks are located within the city prop-

Historical landmarks of Davao

Bone collection at Bone Museum er: People’s Park (patterned after the Central Park of New York City) and Magsaysay Park (located inside the Chinatown, touted to be the biggest in the world in terms of land area).

If swimming is your thing, then go to the adjacent Island Garden City of Samal, which can be reached in just a matter of 10 minutes by boat. Highly recommended are the Pearl Farm Beach Resort, Bluejaz Beach Resort and Water Park (home to the region’s highest water slides), Maxima Aquafun, and Paradise Beach Resort.

If extreme adventures are your thing, Davao has plenty. It hosts to a number of zip lines found along the diversion

road: Zip City and Outland Adventure. There is also a zip line located at Eden Nature Park.

Wake boarding can be done at the Deca Homes in barangay Tacunan. The Davao Crocodile Park offers water rafting adventure.

The city is one of the world’s leading producers and exporters of mango, pomelo, banana, papaya, and mangosteen. Its fertile volcanic soil makes it most suitable for sustained production of these tastiest tropical fruits in the country. Don’t miss eating the exotic durian, famous because of its spike and offensive scent (“It smells like hell, but tastes like heaven,” one scribe noted).

Just a reminder or two when you are in Davao City: Drinking of alcoholic beverages is allowed only until 1 am – beyond that until 8 in the morning, drinking is strictly prohibited. Smoking is also not allowed – except in the house, private vehicle, and in the smoking area of establishments that applied for exception.

For those who are not from the city, you can fly from Manila (about one hour and 30 minutes) to Davao International Airport. Flights are also available from other key cities such as Butuan, Clark, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Dipolog, Iloilo, Kalibo, Puerto Princesa, Zamboanga and even Singapore.

Biking up the sky

Bluejaz Beach Resort and Water Park

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