Edge Davao 8 Issue 159

VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

DR. MARK ANTHONY BENIGNOS

SMILES FOR EVERY STRIDE

2 COVER STORY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

FINISHER. Dr. Mark Anthony Benignos takes a pose at the huge billboard of the Chicago Marathon 2015.

RUNNING FOR SMILES

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

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njb@edgedavao.net

HIS year, a Dabawenyo urologist ran the Chicago Marathon and at the same time helped raise funds for charity organization Smile Train to help give children around the world not only new smiles, but a second chance at life.

Dr. Mark Anthony Benignos, 46, is an endurance athlete. He regularly joins major triathlon events in the country and last year, completed his first international triathlon race in Langkawi, Malaysia.

Travelling around the world is part of Dr. Benignos’ schedule as he is a regular participant to several international medical conferences. In those trips, he made sure he does some running on the side.

When the schedule is rather cooperative, he joins minor international races like the Orange County Marathon in California in 2014 However, Dr. Mark has set his sights on the bigger ones. To name a few, there’s the Boston Marathon, the Chicago Marathon, and the New York Marathon—three of the most prominent races in the world.

This year, he earned a spot to the Smile Train’s Team Empower.

Smile Train is an international chil-

dren’s charity that provides free surgery to poor children suffering from cleft lip and cleft palate. Children born with cleft cannot eat or speak properly, aren’t allowed to attend school or hold a job and face very difficult lives of shame and isolation, pain and heartache. Some children are even abandoned or killed—all because of the way they look. Their clefts usually go untreated because they are too poor to afford the simple repair surgery that takes as little as 45 minutes and costs as little as 250 dollars or maybe as any as you can give. Yet with your help, we can save these children and give them the life changing surgery they both need and deserve.

Dr. Mark was eventually picked as one of the Team Empower members and the rest, as they say, is history.

On October 11, 2015, Dr. Mark officially became one of the over 20,000 runners of the prestigious footrace at the Windy City. He did not make the podium but he did achieve more than enough. First, he reset his personal best time in Chicago. Second, he helped children with cleft palates flash their smiles again to the world.

The 2015 Chicago Marathon contin-

ued to live up to its reputation as one of the most popular races in the world along several dimensions: a flat and fast course, more than a million cheering spectators, and thousands of top-notch volunteers.

The entire city seemed to embrace the event again this year.

Here are some fast facts about the 2015 Marathon: 45,000 entrants are selected to run through a lottery, which had more than 70,000 applicants.

A total of 37,182 runners finished the race (20,144 men, 17,038 women) Dickson Chumba won a slow men’s race in 2:09:25, while Florence Kiplagat won the women’s race in 2:23:33.

Dr. Mark crossed the finish line in 4 hours and 25 minutes. His wife Dr. Marilou Quezon-Benignos waited for him at the finish and gave him a big hug—perhaps the grandest prize for his achievement.

After Chicago, Dr. Mark is thinking of bigger things ahead. There’s the Boston Marathon and NY Marathons waiting for him, and just like that, he has not leveled up to the world-conqueror that he is right now.

My Chicago Marathon experience

By DR. MARK ANTHONY BENIGNOS (Editor’s Note: The writer is a Davao-based urologist, triathlete and endurance runner who recently conquered the 2015 Chicago Marathon. Here is his personal narrative of his Chicago Marathon experience)

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HE 2015 Bank of America Chicago Marathon is one the prestigious marathons on earth.

It is one of the major marathon events in the world together with Boston marathon, NY marathon, Berlin, London and Tokyo marathon. It is where the best of the best in marathon can be found, where world record and personal bests can be beaten.

It is a dream marathon for me that I had the chance to join this year. It was not an ordinary marathon but I did it for a cause. Smile Train, a charity institution which do free surgeries to children with cleft lip and palate, included me in their team to run for a cause in the Chicago Marathon. I ran for Smile Train’s Team Empower. It was an honor for me to do the run while helping children around the world have a better smile.

It was a different run environment. Unlike here in our country which is warm and humid, the Chicago run was cold and windy. And running together with more than 20,000 runners from 120 countries was an awesome experience.

Though there were thousands of runners, the event was handled and organized successfully. I had the chance to meet some Dabawenyos there like Dr. Mario Magnaye and veteran Davao runner Mr. Steve Hermosa.

The marathon started at the heart of the city, at the famous Grant Park and the route went through the different districts of the city of Chicago showing its unique communities. The people were so vibrant, cheering and encouraging the runners. I feel proud seeing Philippine flags waved by kababayans , cheering Filipino runners. Aid stations were frequent and there were plentiful of hydrating fluids and nutritional supplies.

Finishing the Chicago marathon was so significant for me especially so that I did beat my personal best time. I clocked 4hrs 25min. This finish may not put me in the podium but deep inside me, I am very much fulfilled. And the thought that a special someone is waiting at the finish line to give a finishing hug inspires me more. I was thankful to have my wife, Dr. Marilou Quezon-Benignos supporting me in this endeavor.

It inspires me to run more and hopefully be able to do another marathon major next year...perhaps the New York Marathon.

3 Discover the best Yuletide treats in Seda Abreeza VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

The urban lifestyle hotel offers festive celebrations with fabulous treats this holiday season.

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EDA Abreeza is more than ready to provide the best Christmas feelings in the world – from rooms, food indulgence, to exciting events.

This Yuletide season, the urban lifestyle hotel is ought to give our guests and valued partners

the best holiday feelings in the world. With an angel-inspired theme for this year’s celebration, Seda Abreeza aims to share beauty, goodness, protection, faith, hope, and love through its genuine hospitality service and through giving back to the community. The series of activities and

celebrations will commence through the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, where all Yuletide promotions, CSR activities, and other exciting updates will be launched.

Experience seamless service and celebrate the holidays in style and comfort as Seda Abreeza provides special holiday packages for its valued guests. Aside from all the facilities and amenities guests can always enjoy, a complimentary Christmas gift is also part of the package. For events and socials, Christmas Holiday P a r t y Packages are also available, with special compliments from the hotel.

A Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve Mass will also be held in the hotel, from 6PM to PM on the night of the 24th and the 31st to further feel the spirit of the season.

Seda’s all-day dining restaurant Misto has series of activities laid out as well. Yuletide Set Meals are available during lunch and dinner from December to January, which includes an indulging threecourse set that goes with the season. Starters include choices of Garden Salad with Strawberry Vinaigrette or the Soup of the Day, main course is Prime New Zealand Roast Beef with Rosemary Gravy served with choices among Mashed Potato, French Fries or Steamed Rice, and Milk Punch Tres Leches Cake for dessert.

A Noche Buena Dinner Buffet is featured on the 24th of December where families and friends can savor signa-

ture holiday treats as ham, keso de bola, and roast beef, perfectly matched with Yuletide beverages. Guests shall be entertained with live music all night, and surprise raffle items are up for grabs on this highly celebrated occasion. The buffet is available at Php 1380 nett for adults, Php 780 nett for kids aged 7-12, and free for kids aged 6 and below. Come Christmas morning, guests can meet and greet Santa with treats and gifts in the bag at Seda Abreeza’s hotel lobby as guest performers sing all-time favorite Christmas songs.

For New Year’s Eve, Seda Abreeza has lined up thrilling set of activities. A Media Noche 3-course Wine Dinner is available at Php 1380 nett for adults, Php 780 nett for kids aged 7-12, and free for kids aged 6 and below. Part of the menu is Grilled Chateaubriand with Porcini Mushroom Sauce, Served with

Roasted Potatoes and Caramelized Onions, all put up by Sous Chef Giovanna “Bang” Flores.

A pumped up New Year’s Eve Countdown Party will be joined by merry-makers with free-flowing drinks and cocktails from 7PM to 1AM, with exciting games and prizes the entire night. The upbeat and enthusiastic dance partying vibe is up ‘til midnight with a live band and a guest DJ to keep the music going. Guests my enjoy this event at Php 1480 nett for adults, Php 780 nett for kids aged 7-12, and free for kids aged 6 and below. Enjoy all New Year’s Eve events with a set dinner and countdown package at Php 2580 nett for adults, Php 1480 nett for kids aged 7-12 and free for kids aged 6 and below.

For inquiries and reservations, please call (082) 322 8888 or email dvo@sedahotels. com.

4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

Child abuse cases stand at 37: CWC

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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DRUG CONCERNS. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte discusses concerns, particularly the illegal drugs, with police station commanders during a command conference at Grand Men Seng Hotel on Friday. Lean Daval Jr.

Abu Sayyaf leader hurt in Sulu clash

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N Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) sub-leader allegedly involved in the kidnapping of a German couple and a Chinese national was confirmed wounded in a clash Saturday with government troops in Sulu.

Brigadier General Alan Arrojado, Joint Task Group Sulu commander, identified the

wounded ASG sub-leader as Ben Saudi, the brother of Aljine Jaelan Mundok alias Ninok Saparri, another ASG sub-leader.

Arrojado said Saudi was wounded in a clash with government troops around 11:20 a.m. Saturday in Barangay Liang, Patikul, Sulu.

Arrojado said the troops were conducting special oper-

ations when they encountered the group of Saudi.

He said the firefight lasted for about five minutes, after which the ASG members fled.

He said Saudi has three standing warrants of arrest for his alleged involvement of a German couple in April 2014 off Palawan and a Chinese national in May of the same year

in Basilan province.

Arrojado ordered all units to set up checkpoints to intercept possible transport of casualties by the ASG to the hospital in Jolo, the province’ capital.

He said Saturday’s clash was a result of the continuous military offensive against the ASG in the province of Sulu.

The targets of the offensive are the senior leaders of the ASG and their foreign cohorts.

(PNA)

abf@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City Council for the Welfare of the Children (CWC) has recorded 37 cases of child physical abuse in the city for this year.

CWC secretariat head Mae Aquino told reporters that the data came from the different government offices and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from the period of January to June of 2015.

“Hinaot unta dili na ni motaas (I hope this will not increase),” she said.

Aquino said last year her office received a record 109 cases of physical abuse.

She said the common perpetrators of abuse are relatives and neighbors.

She also said most victims are children of teenage parents who have no capacity to take care of them because they are still young and immature.

“Sa mga obserbasyon na among nakita, kasagaran pagpang-abuso nahitabo tungod kay ang mga ginikanan man gud sa mga bata nga giabuso, anak usab sa mga bata sa mga teenage na mga mothers or parents (In our observations, we noted that

the abuse happened because the parents of the abused children are teenagers),” she said.

“Tungod niana mas gipakusgan nato ang paghatag og enhanced parent effectiveness seminar (With that, we intensifies our goal to give them enhance effectiveness seminars),”she said.

Aquino said the CWC noted that based on the data from government and NGOs, the Davao City Children’s Welfare Code of 2006 has not been implemented strictly on the barangay level.

She said the CWC is pushing for the formulation of a monitoring mechanism in the barangay level to ensure that proper interventions are given to abused children.

Aquino also asked the City Council to approve a resolution calling for the strict implementation of the ordinance.

She said the resolution will correct some errors in the implementation of the ordinance.

Aquino said on November 19, the CWC will present its proposal in a conference will be attended by councilors.

1:33 a.m. and was traced 16 kilometers north of Davao City.

It has a depth of 14 kilometers, according to a news bulletin by Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

Nobody was hurt and there were no reported damages.

Phivolcs said Intensity 4 was felt in Davao City; Kidapawan City, Intensity 3 in Makilala, North Cotabato, Intensity 2 in Kabacan and Arakan, both in North Cotabato and Cotabato City and Intensity 1 in Gen. Santos City.

No aftershock is expected, Phivolcs said. (PNA)

Magnitude 4.7 quake hits Davao City, nearby areas A

MAGNITUDE 4.7 earthquake hit Davao City and its environs past midnight Saturday with the intensity felt as far as General Santos City and Cotabato City, the state volcanology office on Saturday said.

The tremor, which was tectonic in origin, occurred at

RELAXED. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte shares a light moment with Bureau of Custom (BOC) commissioner Alberto Lina at the Grand Men Seng Hotel

on Friday. Lina paid a courtesy call to the mayor during his visit in the city to attend various BOC activities. Lean Daval Jr.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

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6 NEWS EDGEDAVAO Cyclists push guidelines to make city bike-friendly

VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

GROUP of bicycle enthusiasts in Davao City has asked the city government to formulate guidelines in order to make the city bicycle-friendly.

Speaking at the FAST Fridays media forum Barrio Fiesta at SM Lanang Premiere, Cycle for Life head Monica Ayala said the city government still has not implemented the Bicycle Lane Ordinance which was approved in 2010.

Ayala said the ordinance, which pushed by councilors Leonardo Avila III and Maria Belen Acosta and former councilor Peter Laviña, still has no implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

“They told us that the IRR of the Bicycle Ordinance will be included in the New Traffic and Transport Ordinance,” she

said.

Ayala said as an alternative, the city should formulate guidelines to urge schools and business establishments to allocate spaces for bicycle parking in their respective premises.

She said it would be hard for her group to convince stakeholders on the importance of creating bicycle parking areas since it entails investment in money.

Ayala said there is also a need for an assessment on where to place the parking spaces so as not to expose bicycles to thieves.

Ayala said the malls in the city such as SM Lanang Premiere, SM City Davao, NCCC Mall, and Gaisano Mall have already spaces for bicycle parking.

She said the group also pushing a project for the establishment of a bicycle parking area at the Sangguniang Panlungsod building and at City Hall.

“The project was already approved and there is a small budget,” she said.

Ayala said the bicycle parking project is one of the steps in support of advocacy to get more people to use bicycles in going from place to place.

She said her group is coordinating with other bicycle groups in other cities to earn support for making Davao City bicycle-friendly.

“Here in Davao City, our dilemma is how can we push to get more support from the LGU (local government unit) and business establishments,” she said.

SANTA’S GIFT. A young boy receives an early Christmas gift from Santa Claus during SM City Davao’s unveiling and lighting of its Hello Kitty and Friends Holiday set Christmas tree and decorations on Friday night.

Hundreds of children from the City Social Services and Development Office (CSSDO) were chosen as beneficiaries of the mall’s annual gift-giving activity.

Lean Daval Jr.

blackout Lack of witnesses hampering 30-minute set on November 10 anti-human trafficking drive D

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HE lack of witnesses to prosecute illegal traffickers is hampering the drive against human trafficking.

This was according to assistant regional prosecutor Ritzel Rabor-Polinar during the monthly Kapehan sa NCCC press forum held Friday at the NCCC Mall in Davao City.

Rabor-Polinar and some members of the Inter Agency Council Against Trafficking

(IACAT) were at the media forum as part of the information campaign on the occasion of the Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

She said there are several factors that can weaken a human trafficking case. She said the relationship between the witnesses and the accused, particularly if they are relatives, can make witnesses reluctant to testify.

She cited a case against

a child pornography case in which the accused is the aunt of the victim/witness.

According to Department of Justice data, of the 85 anti-trafficking cases filed from 2004 up to the present, 85 cases have been filed, of which 11 were dismissed due to lack of evidence and lack of witnesses.

A total of 52 cases are still active, with 11 convictions and one acquittal.

The year 2014 was the busiest in the filing of anti-trafficking cases with 20 cases filed in court.

The 85 cases involve 123 victims, of which 68 are female children, 44 are female adults, eight are male children, and three are male adults.

Eighty-two of the cases involve sexual exploitation while the other three are forced labor cases. (PIA/RG Alama)

AVAO Light and Power Co. will conduct a 30-minute power interruption on November 10, Tuesday, anytime between 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m., affecting customers connected to selected feeders in Ponciano, Ecoland, Sta. Ana and Bajada Substations.

This service disruption will be necessary to temporarily transfer the loads from Ponciano substation to nearby lines to conduct the annual preventive maintenance and servicing of the power transformer equipment in the said substation.

Customers affected by these power interruptions are those in some parts of downtown area particularly in Ponciano, Rizal, C.M. Recto, Boulevard, Quirino, Marfori and Bankerohan. This also includes

SIR Sandawa and Ecoland Subdivision.

Also affected are those along J.P. Laurel Avenue that is from El Bajada Hotel up to Redemptorist Church. This includes areas of Dona Vicenta, Bacaca and El Rio. Customers along diversion road from Buhangin Underpass up to Maa proper including Yniguez Subdivision, Woodridge, Monteritz, Jade Valley, Crocodile Park, Langub and Magtuod will also experience this service disruption.

Davao Light apologizes for the inconvenience of this scheduled power interruption.

But it will exert all efforts to restore electric service as scheduled or earlier. However, there may be instances where restoration may extend beyond the schedule due to unavoidable circumstances.

2 would-be victims of trafficking rescued

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HELLO KITTY CHRISTMAS. Mall-goers troop to SM City Davao’s Annex as the mall unveils and lights up its Hello Kitty and Friends Holiday set Christmas tree and decorations on Friday night. Lean Daval Jr.

WO minors believed to have been lured into a trafficking scheme have been placed under the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 11 after they were rescued at the F. Bangoy International Airport last week.

DSWD-11 project development officer Alma Acera said during the Kapihan sa PIA at the NCCC Mall of Davao on Thursday that personnel at the assistance desk of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking at the airport rescued the two who tried to fly out using falsified birth certif-

icates and other documents.

She said the victims were a 13-year-old and a 15-yearold, and claimed to be in their 20’s. The IACAT officers, however, prevented them from boarding the plane on suspicion that they might just end up in the hands of human traffickers.

She said the children came from Pikit, North cobato, and were bound for Manila.

She added the two are currently housed at the DSWD’s Group Home for Girls and Women.

Acera said the facility

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

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as Camella Amarillo is unveiled

BY CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY

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T was one momentous day for Camella last October 30 as the company launched its newest housing development, the Camella Amarillo which will soon rise in Panabo City and the municipality of Carmen, Davao del Norte.

Camella executives led by their president Maribeth C. Tolentino, who came all the way from Manila, and Southern Mindanao cluster head Marlon Niño Escalicas were all ecstatic during the event held at the Maria Clara Resort and Restaurant in Panabo.

That’s understandable.

The company was launching the first housing project in both localities that offer complete amenities, including a 24/7 security service for the homeowners.

Camella’s bank partners, sales agents and invited guests were also in attendance during that night as Escalicas offered a toast to celebrate the official introduction of Camella Amarillo.

Scale models of the project representing different types were also unveiled in a Caribbean-themed party that was highlighted by an AVP presentation of Camella’s developments all over the country for the last 40 years under Vista Land, the Philippine’s largest home builder.

Escalicas said the launch signaled the arrival of Camella in Panabo and Carmen, adding that they are very much optimistic with the market in these areas as they offer affordable to high-end houses.

Now, people in

“We are developing a Camella community. This will be a typical Camella community that we will be putting in Panabo and Carmen.

Houses are of the same packages” Panabo and Carmen are finally having a complete community of their own.

“We are developing a Camella community. This will be a typical Camella community that we will be putting in Panabo and Carmen. Houses are of the same packages,” Escalicas said.

The amenities include a clubhouse, playground, swimming pool, open spaces, 24/7 security service and perimeter fence.

Camella also very excited with the project as it sees the tremendous economic potentials in both localities, specifically Panabo, one of three progressive cities of Davao del Norte. The other cities are Tagum and IGaCoS (Island Garden City of Samal).

Camella Amarillo, which

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015 VOL. 8 ISSUE 157 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2015

NOTICE TO SHAREHOLDE HOSPITAL (CLINIC

Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings, Inc. (“MPHHI”) (formerly Neptune Stroika Holdings, Inc.), is the current owner of 313,655 common shares of Davao Doctors

MPHHI has offered to acquire the remaining 587,154 common shares of DDH which comprise approximately 65.18% of the total outstanding shares of DDH Regulation Code and Rule 19 of the implementing rules and regulations thereof, setting out MPHHI’s offer (the “Tender Offer”) to acquire the remaining 587,1 with the terms and conditions contained in the summary below:

SUMMARY OF THE TERMS OF THE TENDER OFFER OFFEROR: Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings, Inc. (“MPHHI”), a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation SHARES SUBJECT OF THE TENDER OFFER: 587,154 common shares of DDH, which comprise approximately 65.18%% of the total outstanding shares of DDH (“Tender Offer Shares” or “DDH Shares”).

THE OFFER: MPHHI is offering to acquire the Tender Offer Shares on a tiered pricing in accordance with the terms and conditions described below: (i) If as a result of the tender offer, MPHHI acquires less than one hundred thirty six thousand seven hundred forty seven (136,747) DDH Shares: The Purchase Price shall be Two Thousand Three Hundred Pesos (Php 2,300.00) per share. (ii) If as a result of the tender offer, MPHHI acquires at least one hundred thirty six thousand seven hundred forty seven (136,747) DDH Shares but less than two hundred eighty six thousand eight hundred eighty one (286,881) DDH Shares: The Purchase Price shall be Two Thousand Six Hundred Pesos (Php 2,600.00) per share. (iii) If as a result of the tender offer, MPHHI acquires at least two hundred eighty six thousand eight hundred eighty one (286,881) DDH Shares: The Purchase Price shall be Two Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty Pesos (Php 2,750.00) per share.

For the avoidance of doubt, DDH Shares which were initially tendered but withdrawn pursuant to the terms hereof shall be considered as not tendered for purposes of determining the final purchase price.

TENDER OFFER PERIOD: 9:00 a.m. of October 01, 2015 until 5:00 p.m. of November 19, 2015 (“Tender Offer Period”) The duly accomplished Application to Tender Shares form must be received by MPHHI’s Tender Offer Agent (the “Tender Offer Agent”) together with the duly endorsed DDH stock certificates and all the other required attachments and supporting documents specified below not later than 5:00 p.m. of November 19, 2015 at the following address: SyCip Salazar Hernandez and Gatmaitan Law Offices Attention: Atty. Dominador Maphilindo O. Carrillo The Penthouse, 17/F, Landco Corporate Centre J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City 8000 Telephone No. : (6382) 221-3917 Applications presented after the end of the Tender Offer Period shall be rejected, unless the Tender Offer Period is extended by MPHHI with the approval of the SEC. Applications that are not properly completed, or lack any of the required attachments will also be rejected.

The Tender Offer Agent will likewise reject an Application if it cannot verify the signature of the stockholder on the Application or the endorsement of the stock certificate.

SETTLEMENT DATE: Within ten (10) calendar days after the termination of the Tender Offer Period, starting November 20, 2015 (“Settlement Date”)

SETTLEMENT: DDH Shares that are validly tendered shall be paid for by MPHHI under the following terms: 1. Initial payment of 80% of the purchase price (“Initial Payment”), payable within ten (10) calendar days after the termination of the Tender Offer period, starting on November 20, 2015 (the “Settlement Date”). It is expected that part of the Initial Payment will be used by the tendering shareholders to pay for the capital gains tax due for the sale of the DDH Shares.

2. The balance equivalent to 20% of the purchase price (“Balance Amount”) shall be paid within seven (7) calendar days from delivery of the original and valid Certificate Authorizing Registration from the relevant Revenue District Office of the Bureau of Internal Revenue authorizing the transfer of the DDH Shares from the tendering stockholder to MPHHI. All payments shall be made through check payable in the name of the stockholder of record who made a valid tender of DDH Shares. When collecting payment, the tendering stockholder (or his/her authorized representative) shall present the “Applicant’s Copy” of the application together with a certification duly signed by the Tender Offer Agent, as well as proper identification (e.g. driver’s license, passport). Duly authorized representatives shall be required to present an authorization from the tendering stockholder.

MPHHI, through its Escrow Agent (the “Escrow Agent”), shall issue check payments representing the Initial Payment for validly tendered DDH Shares. The check payments representing the Initial Payment shall be made available by the Escrow Agent for pick up by the tendering shareholders within the Settlement Date at the offices of the Escrow Agent at the address indicated below.

Banco de Oro - Davao Bangoy Branch Attention: Romeo Cabiling (Branch Manager) and/or Grace Adlawan (Operations Officer) R. Magsaysay Ave. cor. C. Bangoy St., Davao City 8000 Telephone Nos.: (6382) 227-2802/221-4480/222-2860 The check representing the Balance Amount (less allowable deductions as provided herein) shall be made available for pick up within seven (7) calendar days from receipt by MPHHI’s Tender Offer Agent of the original Certificate Authorizing Registration covering all of the DDH Shares tendered also at the same offices.

In case the stockholder fails to submit the Certificate Authorizing Registration to MPHHI within six (6) months after the Settlement Date, MPHHI and/or the Tender Offer Agent is hereby authorized to file the Capital Gains Tax Return, pay the Capital Gains Tax (together with any applicable penalties, interests and surcharges as the Bureau of Internal Revenue may assess) and apply for Certificate Authorizing Registration for the transfer of legal title over the shares to the Bidder, and all expenses incurred in undertaking such activity/ies shall be deducted from the Balance Amount.

DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS: The following documents must be executed and submitted to the Tender Offer Agent during the Tender Offer Period: REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS TO THE APPLICATION TO TENDER SHARES IN DDH TO MPHHI 1. Duly executed tender offer application form (3 original copies).

2. Original DDH stock certificates duly endorsed, which shall be verified by the Tender Offer Agent with the Office of the Corporate Secretary of DDH as valid and authentic certificates. 1

VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015 VOL. 8 ISSUE 157 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2015

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ERS OF DAVAO DOCTORS CA HILARIO), INC.

s Hospital (Clinica Hilario), Inc. (“DDH”) which represent approximately 34.82% of the total outstanding capital stock of DDH.

H. Accordingly, on September 29, 2015, MPHHI filed with the SEC a Tender Offer Report (SEC Form 19-1) in compliance with Section 19 of the Securities 154 common shares of DDH in the hands of all the other shareholders. All the shares tendered shall be purchased by MPHHI on a tiered pricing in accordance In case of lost stock certificates, a tendering stockholder must comply with the requirements under Section 73 of the Corporation Code of the Philippines and shall be required to submit (i) one (1) original of a duly notarized affidavit of loss, (ii) copy of the affidavit of loss as published in a newspaper of general circulation, (iii) affidavit of publication (of the affidavit of loss), and (iv) bond in an amount equivalent to twice the book value of the DDH Shares as of the date of execution of the affidavit of loss, multiplied by the number of shares covered by each lost stock certificate.

3. Duly executed Deed of Absolute Sale of Shares indicating all the required details in the form prescribed. The price will be inserted and the Deed of Sale will be notarized after the Tender Offer Period. For this purpose, the signatory to the Deed of Absolute Sale will have to appear before the notary public for purposes of notarizing the Deed of Absolute Sale on Settlement Date. (3 original copies) 4. Photocopies of two (2) valid identification cards issued by an official agency of the government, showing the applicant’s signature and photograph (i.e., driver’s license, SSS/GSIS card, or passport, etc.).

secretary attesting to the approval by the partnership to tender the DDH Shares and to sign, execute and deliver all documents and agreements, and to perform such acts as may be necessary for the tender of the DDH Shares to MPHHI in the form prescribed (3 original copies); (ii) copy of SEC Registration, latest Articles of Partnership and/or equivalent constitutive documents and General Information Sheet (or equivalent) certified as true copy of the original by the partnership secretary or equivalent person having official custody of the partnership records or a valid governmentissued identification card containing the picture and signature of the Applicant’s authorized signatory.

Note: Documents executed abroad must be consularized. In case of married shareholders who are Philippine citizens, the special power of attorney must likewise be signed by the spouse of such stockholder to indicate his/her consent to the appointment of the attorney-in-fact for purposes of disposing of the Tender Offer Shares.

WITHDRAWAL: Any DDH Shares tendered may be withdrawn by the tendering stockholder at any time during the Tender Offer Period upon submission of an original written request to withdraw the tendered shares from the tender offer. All written requests must be received by the Tender Offer Agent before 5:00 p.m. of November 19, 2015.

5. Duly executed capital gains tax return (BIR Form 1707) signed by the shareholder or his/her/its authorized representative, indicating the selling price and acquisition cost for the DDH Shares tendered, and the computation of the capital gains tax payable.

(3 original copies)

The request to withdraw from the tender offer must clearly state the name of the tendering shareholder and the number of shares to be withdrawn from the tender offer. MPHHI shall have the right to exercise discretion in determining the validity of any written request to withdraw from the tender offer.

6. Copies of the proof of acquisition cost of the DDH Shares tendered by the tendering shareholder sufficient for purposes of obtaining a Certificate Authorizing Registration (which will be used by the tendering shareholder in applying for a Certificate Authorizing Registration with the Bureau of Internal Revenue), including among others, the official receipt, Subscription Agreement or Deed of Sale for the purchase of the tendered DDH Shares by the tendering shareholder. 2

TAXES AND EXPENSES: The tendering shareholder shall be responsible for the filing of the Capital Gains Tax Return, payment of the applicable capital gains tax within the period provided by law and securing the Certificate Authorizing Registration. MPHHI shall shoulder the payment of the documentary stamp tax and filing of the appropriate return. The tendering shareholder shall shoulder all of its own costs and expenses for the sale of the DDH Shares to MPHHI under the tender offer.

7. Irrevocable Proxy in the form prescribed (3 original copies) 8. In case of individual stockholders: duly accomplished signature card containing the specimen signature of the Applicant and verified by an officer of the bank where the Applicant maintains an account or a valid government-issued identification card containing the picture and signature of the Applicant. Furthermore, if the individual shareholder will tender his/her shares through a representative, an original notarized irrevocable special power of attorney authorizing the stockholder’s attorney-in-fact to enter into all transactions and to sign, execute and deliver the documents and agreements enumerated herein shall also be submitted as part of the documents.

9. In case of corporate stockholders, (i) an original notarized certification from the corporate stockholder’s duly elected and incumbent corporate secretary attesting to the approval by the board of directors and stockholders (if necessary) to tender the DDH Shares and to sign, execute and deliver all documents and agreements, and to perform such acts as may be necessary for the tender of the DDH Shares to MPHHI in the form prescribed (3 original copies); (ii) copy of SEC Registration and latest Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws or equivalent constitutive documents and General Information Sheet certified as true copy of the original by the corporate secretary or equivalent person having official custody of the company records, and (iii) duly accomplished signature card containing the specimen signature of the Applicant’s authorized signatory and verified by an officer of the bank where the Applicant/authorized representative maintains an account or a valid government-issued identification card containing the picture and signature of the Applicant’s authorized signatory.

10. In case of partnerships: (i) an original notarized certification from the partnership’s duly elected and incumbent partnership

TENDER OFFER AGENT: SyCip Salazar Hernandez and Gatmaitan Law Offices shall act as the Tender Offer Agent for the tender offer. For copies of prescribed forms and other related documents, and for any inquiries regarding the tender offer, please contact the Tender Offer Agent as follows: Atty. Dominador Maphilindo O. Carrillo SyCip Salazar Hernandez and Gatmaitan Law Offices The Penthouse, 17/F, Landco Corporate Centre J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City 8000 Telephone No. : (6382) 221-3917 Email Address: dmocarrillo@syciplaw.com Bank of the Philippine Islands has confirmed that resources available to MPHHI are sufficient to satisfy the full acceptance of the Tender Offer.

Each stockholder of DDH is advised to read the full terms and conditions of the Tender Offer and SEC Form 19-1. Inquiries and requests for assistance and copies of SEC Form 19-1 may be directed to the Tender Offer Agent, whose address and telephone numbers are indicated above.

For corporate/partnership stockholders, the stock certificates must be endorsed by its authorized signatory/ies whose name and specimen signature/s is/are on file with the Corporate Secretary of DDH. 2 This is to enable the Bidder to apply for, and obtain the Certificate Authorizing Registration with the BIR in case the stockholder fails to submit the Certificate Authorizing Registration to MPHHI within six (6) months after the Settlement Date.

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NIGHT A1

sits on a 20-hectare property, features almost 1,000 houses that offers affordable to highend houses ranging from P1.2 million to P6 million.

Camella Amarillo features functional and stylish homes set against a backdrop of lush greenery and landscaped grounds, with deluxe amenities that will provide opportunities for rest and recreation. It will have tree-lined avenues, jogging trail, and ball court that can cater to an active lifestyle as well.

Camella Amarillo is the first subdivision of its kind in Panabo and Carmen, different from the other existing

subdivisions in the area.

“What makes our upcoming development truly special is that it will be the first master-planned community in these parts, offering firstclass facilities. Its strategic location is very accessible to nearby growth areas,” Camella marketing head Anna dela Peña said.

It was indeed a meaningful day for Camella and residents of Panabo and Carmen. Now, people in both localities and even the neighboring areas are finally having a complete community of their own.

As what Escalicas have aptly said, they are the brand when it comes to housing.

Cheers to Camella.

EDGEDAVAO

F

VANTAGE POINTS

9

FDI and the sustainable development challenge

ACED with common global economic, social and environmental challenges, the international community is defining a set of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs which are being formulated by the United Nations together with the widest possible range of stakeholders are intended to galvanize action worldwide through concrete targets for the 2015-2030 period for poverty reduction, food security, human health and education, climate change mitigation, and a range of other objectives across economic, social and environmental pillars.

The role of the public sector is fundamental and pivotal, while the private sector contribution is indispensable. The latter can take two main forms, good governance in business practices and investment in sustainable development. Policy coherence is essential in promoting the private sector’s contribution to the SDGs. Estimates for investment needs in developing countries alone range from US$ 3.3 to 4.5 trillion per year, mainly for basic infrastructure (roads, rail and ports; power generation; water and sanitation), food security (agriculture and rural development), climate change mitigation and adaptation, health and education. The SDGs will require a step-change in the levels of

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

N its long history of inspiring and enriching lives through communications, Globe Telecom has broken from tyranny not only once but twice.

The first time was “when the Japanese Empire’s invasion of the Philippines saw the interruption of the company’s wireless long-distance services which began in the then-US colony in 1928.”

Twenty years after the Second World War, in 1965, Globe rose from the ashes. “But this revival was cut short by the imposition of Martial Law in 1972, shutting down the company’s operations for eight years,” said a document obtained by this columnist.

In 1980, Globe was granted a tentative new franchise. Six years later, the historic People Power happened and a new president was installed. “Since then, Globe has vowed to be at the forefront of the cause of upholding the people’s basic rights, including the Freedom of the Press, which was curtailed during the dark years that began on September 21, 1972, and won back in 1986,” the document stated.

In order “to honor and continue to defend the Freedom of the Press,” the telephone company launched the Globe Media Excellence Awards (GMEA) in 2011. The objective is “to recognize media people who are breaking new grounds in their field.”

It further said: “Beyond the daily coverage of developing events, Globe wants to further encourage media excellence in civic, investigative and explanatory journalism that would delve into pressing societal concerns such as education, poverty, and corruption, among others.”

At first, the awards were open only to Cebu journalists in Visayas and Davao in Mindanao.

But this year, the recognition was also opened to Iloilo and Bacolod. In Mindanao, among the cities included were General Santos, Cagayan, and Zamboanga.

both public EUROPE BIZ and private investments in all countries.

To d ay, the participation of the private sector in investment in SDG-related Henry J. Schumacher sectors is relatively low. Only a fraction of the assets invested worldwide of banks, pension funds, insurers, foundations and endowments, as well as transnational corporations, is in SDG sectors. Their participation is even lower in developing countries, particularly the poorest ones.

Increasing the involvement of private investors in SDG-related sectors, many of which are sensitive or of a public service nature, leads to policy dilemmas. Policymakers need to find the right balance between creating a climate conducive to investment and removing barriers to investment on the other hand, and protecting public interests through regulation on the other. They need to find mechanisms

for providing sufficiently attractive returns to private investors while guaranteeing accessibility and affordability of services for all. And the push for more private investment must be complementary to the parallel push for more public investment.

Increasing private investment in SDGs will require leadership at the global level, as well as from national policymakers to provide guiding principles to deal with policy dilemmas; to set targets. A focused set of action packages can help shape a big push for private investment in sustainable development: • A new generation of investment promotion and facilitation, • SDG-oriented investment incentives, • Regional SDG Investment Compacts, • New forms of partnership for SDG investments, • Enabling innovative financing mechanisms and a reorientation of financial markets, and • Changing the business mind-set and developing SDG investment expertise.

Against the background of persistent crises and pressing social and environmental challenges, mobilizing investment and ensuring that it contributes to sustainable develop-

As indicated above, in the Philippines we have to look at SDG programs and investments that will foster inclusive growth, especially in manufacturing and agriculture. A more involved cooperation between government and the private sector is needed to address this as success formula for the future.

Now on its THINK ON THESE! fourth year, the GMEA is becoming more challenging. In Mindanao, a total of 58 entries were shortlisted for various categories in print, radio, television and digital me- Henrylito D. Tacio dia. henrytacio@gmail.com “The premier award-giving body which recognizes excellence in journalism from the best breed of scribes in Visayas and Mindanao, the awards gives recognition to print, broadcast, and digital media practitioners who have excelled in their respective fields,” said the press statement.

In Mindanao, the awarding will be done on November 17, Tuesday.

All in all, there were about 352 entries -- 43 more entries compared to last year’s 259. The entries “explore and promote advocacies in business and entrepreneurship, information and communications technology, environment and disaster response, governance and social progress and youth and education.”

Yoly Crisanto, Globe Senior Vice President for Corporate Communications, pointed out: “The number of entries that we received this year is a testament to the commitment of media practitioners to provide exemplary reporting in their respective fields given the vital role of the press in effecting positive societal transformation and nation building.”

EDGE Davao managed to get four nominations in all categories for print media. In the Explanatory or Investigative Story of the Year for Print/Online, I am nominated for my two-part series on “Davao City: Before and Af-

ter.” I made an in-depth research on how the city was transformed from being touted as Murder City to one of the safest cities in the world.

There are only three journalists nominated in this category. The other two are Newsdesk Asia’s Joanna Paola Garado for her article, “The woman warrior of Talaingod,” and Mindanao Times’ Jesse Pizarro Boga for his report, “From the frying pan into another fryer.”

I am also shortlisted for Reporter of the Year for Print for my article, “HIV/AIDS cases in Davao growing.” Again, Boga is also a nominee for his article, “The future lies in education.”

Three journalists from Zamboanga Today were nominated: Eugene Lasprilla for his article “Police releases computerized facial composite of Ayala blast suspect”; Hader Glang for “5 Abu Sayaff, 2 soldiers killed in fresh Sulu clashes;” and Liza Jocson for “Bush fire razes over 100 hectares of forest land in east coast.”

Mindanao Bulletin has also three nominees: Gandhi Kinjiyo for “BBL brings justice, peace and development for the Bangsamoro people”; Joseph Jubelag for “Gensan district hospital upgrades facilities”; and Ali Macabalang for “500 cholera-affected families get relief stuffs.”

Grace Albasin and Gil Emmanuel Enerio, both from SunStar Cagayan de Oro, are nominated for “State of Calamity in MisOr” and “Stakeholders to toughen dev’t plan”, respectively.

Gerry Lee Gorit, of Mindanao Daily News, is also nominated for “Hall of Justice fire remains a mystery” and Arianne Caryl Casas, of SunStar Davao, for “Cyberbullying.”

There are eight nominees for Columnist of the Year, including one for me for my column entitled “Getting Worse.”

The most number of nominees are from Mindanao Bulletin: Fred Lumba for “Federalism is good for the country”; Ka Iking Seneres for “The disruption of education”; and Julie Pear Marie Jubelag for “Farewell as of now Ate Ayana.”

SunStar Cagayan de Oro has two nominees: Arnold Alamon for “From climate change to climate justice” and Sorhaila Latip-Yusoph for “Teaching beyond the blackboard.”

Stella Estremera, of SunStar Davao, is nominated for her column, “Because they’re crazy that way” and Rev. Berlie Yap, of Zamboanga Today, for “Another sub-standard project, again?”

In the category Photojournalist of the Year, our very own Lean Daval, Jr. is in the running for his photo entitled “School Bus.” The two other photojournalists from Davao who made it are John Quineth Rodriguez for his “A sack of gift” and Seth delos Reyes for “Playground”; both are from SunStar Davao.

Remus Ong for “Water crises worsens,” Eugene Lasprilla for “Fire scene in Sto. Nino,” and R.G. Antonet Go for “The 30 beneficiaries who received sewing machine pose for a souvenir,” all from Zamboanga Today are also nominated.

Mindanao Bulletin has also three nominees: Jazztien Jubelag for “Explosion,” Joseph Jubelag for “Lights up,” and John Paul Jubelag for “Dugtong Buhay project.” The last remaining nominee is Gerry Lee Gorit, of SunStar Cagayan de Oro, for “First day of school.”

The other categories are Reporter of the Year for Television, Explanatory/Investigative Story of the Year for Television, Reporter of the Year for Radio, Blogger of the Year, and Social Media Advocate of the Year.

The decisions of judges for print and broadcast categories shall be based on the following criteria: 50% for content (“adherence to truth and responsible journalism as manifested in the accuracy, fair, and balanced presentation, and depth of reporting), 25% for style (“the ability to communicate clearly and effectively as shown by the writing style, clarity, logical presentation of issues, coherence, and fluidity of ideas”) and another 25% for social impact (“involves the impact of the articles on effecting change”).

And the winners are…

ment objectives, a new generation of foreign investment policies is emerging, with governments pursuing a broader and more intricate development policy agenda, while building or maintaining a generally favourable investment climate.

‘New generation’ investment policies place inclusive growth (much needed in the Philippines) and sustainable development at the heart of efforts to attract and benefit from investments. Broadly, ‘new generation’ investment policies strive to: • Create synergies with wider economic development goals or industrial policies, and achieve seamless integration in development strategies; • Foster responsible investor behaviour and incorporate principles of CSR; and • Ensure policy effectiveness in their design and implementation and in the institutional environment within which they operate.

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HEAVY TRAFFIC. Commuters living in Panacan, Tibungco, and nearby communities are expressing disappointment over the daily inconvenience they experience due to the perennial traffic in the area especially during rush hour. Lean Daval Jr.

2 would... FROM 6 takes in victims of human trafficking and has already served 24 clients, 17 of whom have been discharged.

She said that not all rescued victims came from Davao City. Some of them came from other provinces in Davao Region, Caraga Region, Cotabato, Bukidnon, and Cagayan de Oro City.

As of October 2015, the IACAT had rescued 63 trafficked victims in the region.

Forty-five of came from Davao City, eight from Davao del Norte, five from Davao Oriental, three from Davao del Sur, and two from Compostela Valley.

There were 13 victims coming from other region.

Four came from Bukidnon, another four from Cagayan de Oro, three from Caraga, and two from Cotabato.

Acera said Davao City’s development has also made it not only a source and transit area but also a destination where the victims are promised to land jobs.

She explained that minors are vulnerable to abuses because they get consent from their parents to work, or the parents themselves involve their children in pornography in exchange for money.

“Most of the victims are recruited for abroad,” she said.

She said most of the cases involve child labor and sexual abuse, the latter abetted by easy access to the internet.

She said they are planning to put up IACAT assistance desks in bus and van terminals because most of the transits are done by land.

DSWD-11 has integrated awareness drive about trafficking in its family development and youth development sessions for beneficiaries of the Pamilyang Pilipino Pantawid Program or the conditional cash transfer program.

A total of eight cases have been filed against suspects of human trafficking. As of Oct. 15, the suits have resulted in one conviction while six cases were still active, according to the Department of Justice.

DOJ-11 assistant prosecutor Ritzel Rabor-Polinar said human trafficking is punishable under Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act. Punishable acts include recruiting, transporting and receiving a person by any means for prostitution, pornography, sexual exploitation, forced labor, slavery, involuntary servitude or debt bondage. Antonio L. Colina IV/ MindaNews

in their two years’ time plan to put up five mall-type stores in Compostela Valley province.

Gaisano said the mall-

type stores will be located in the towns of Compostela, Monkayo, Mawab, Maragusan and New Corella. (PNA)

area.

Among the ILP participants are Coca-Cola Femsa Philippines Inc., Victoria Plaza Mall, Gaisano Mall of Davao, NCCC Mall Maa, NCCC R. Magsaysay, TADECO, Davao Bay Coconut Oil Mills, INTERCO, Pepsi-Cola, Robinsons Supermarket, Gaisano Mall of Toril,

Abreeza Mall, SM Lanang Premier, SM City Davao, Davao International Container Terminal and Davao Packaging Corporation.

“Around 4,167 customers enjoy the convenience of having electricity every time one large customer with a 1MW load from the ILP will be de-

Manila... FROM 7 DLPC... FROM 7

Maguindanao cops arrest 4 for illegal gun possession

P

OLICE authorities in Sultan Kudarat town in Maguindanao have arrested four persons for carrying unlicensed guns in front of a cassava factory Thursday, police said Saturday.

Sr. Insp. Bangon Mamako, town police chief, said the police were conducting surprise inspection along the national highway in Barangay Dalumangcob, Sultan Kudarat at about 4 p.m. when they

were alerted of a commotion near the gate of Lamsan Trading, manufacturer of cassava products.

When the police authorities arrived, they noticed four men with hand guns tucked on their waists. A check revealed the four suspects were carrying cal. 45 pistol each.

Mamako identified the gunmen as Bots Kamsa, Abdulrakman Panguilan, Daps Lindongan and Buhari Um-

bong, all residents of Barangay Dalumangcob, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

Umbong told reporters that they carried guns for self-defense. He also revealed that his relative who was working at the cassava firm was mauled by his co-workers. ”We came there to help my relative,” he said. Mamako said the mauling incident had been settled before the gun-

men arrived. ”They were civilians and they have no license or authority to carry guns,” Mamakod said. (PNA) Gun possession is among the peace and order issues the local police is facing in Sultan Kudarat where the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is based.

Mamakod said the four suspects denied they belonged to the MILF. (PNA)

Patrol Group (HPG), Criminal Intelligence and Detection Unit (CIDU) Comval, 3rd MC 11 RPSB, RSOG, CVPPSC, PAIDSOFT, MAIDSOFT. Lambat Sibat, a crime reduction strategy in managing police operation that aims to prevent and reduce crimes and targets criminals that have impact on prevalent crimes, The operation resulted in the confiscation of more or less seventy one (71) different sizes of heat sealed transparent sachets containing white crystalline substance believed to be methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu”, assorted drug paraphernalia and suspected marijuana leaves and fruiting tops with estimated weight of 1,130.2414 grams roughly equivalent to Php 33,907.34 as well as sei-

zure of assorted ammunition and a “jolen” gun.

There were 29 persons involved in drug trade, pushing, selling and drug used were also apprehended, including suspected drug dealer/pusher Juanito Quiral Jr. who was killed during the operation in Mawab when he resisted arrest and lobbed a hand grenade at the police operatives.

The PNP has yet to determine the involvement of Quiral in several drug-related killings in the province over the past months. Quiral is an enlisted and active personnel of the Philippine Army who is facing several cases before the military court, and with previous arrest record for illegal drugs and illegal possession of firearms.

Meanwhile, a concerned citizen sent a text message to

the CVPPO Chief Albert Ferro thanking him for the arrest of suspect Reynaldo V. Suedo, who is allegedly the source of illegal drugs in the area of Barangay Anislagan, Maco, Comval.

“Be forewarned, to anyone who would deal with illegal drugs, that the province of Compostela Valley, together with the local government units, the community, and the CVPPO, as well as other law enforcement units that drug dealing will not be tolerated,” Ferro said.

Vice Governor Manuel Zamora, who was also present during the press conference on Thursday, supported the call on the fight against illegal drugs and commended the PNP on its all out efforts and in securing peace and order in the province. (PNA)

ComVal police scores in provincial-wide ‘Lambat Sibat’

J

OINT elements of the Philippine National Police (PNP) swept through the houses of persons suspected involved in illegal drugs to implement 26 search warrants and three buy-bust operations, killing a suspected drug dealer, arresting drug pushers/sellers, confiscating assorted drugs, firearms and ammunition.

The simultaneous operation under the “Lambat Sibat” campaign of the PNP on October 30 and 31 was the first massive anti-criminality response of the Compostela Valley Provincial Police Office (CVPPO) in the wake of incidents of killings, robbery, extortion, and riding in tandems, and other drug related crimes, CVPPO operated in collaboration with Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU)-11, Highway

loaded,” DLPC said.

Meanwhile, the DLPC released a 10-day schedule of two hour rotating power interruption in its franchise area.

However, the rotating blackout was only implemented last October 29, 30, and November 1.

But, the power supply has improved since November 2

until yesterday.

As of November 5, DLPC’s power supply allocation was only 171 megawatt at peak hours, way lower than the contracted supply with NPCPSALM of 280 MW. Forecasted demand that day was at 335 MW. With the deficiency, a 1.5

hour rotating service disruption must be undertaken but since that morning, no power interruption was implemented, the DLPC said.

For Mindanao, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has not declared any grid deficiency despite the two Agus plants

are still isolated since October 29 because of the damage attained from the bombing of NGCP’s transmission line.

As of Friday, the power supply in the Mindanao grid was 1,413 MW, while the demand peaks at 1,406 MW that was equivalent to a surplus of 7 MW.

EDGEDAVAO

11 SCIENCE

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Planting rice

Golden rice fights hidden hunger

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO “The impact of hidden hunger on people’s health is very rea. It can result in more frequent and severe illness and complications during pregnancy, childbirth, infancy, and childhood.” -- International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)

T

***

HERE is a potential new “tool” again vitamin A deficiency (VAD), a form of hidden hunger. No, it is not in the form of a pill but still a food -- through the staple food of Filipinos. Yes, you’re right, rice. But it’s not just another kind of rice; it is called golden rice.

An expert from the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) said Golden Rice is a potential new food-based approach to help fight vitamin A deficiency (VAD), a form of hidden hunger.

Dr. Violeta Villegas, a scientist from the Laguna-based International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) said hidden hunger is a pervasive and persistent problem affecting more than two billion people globally.

“As a breeder myself, it gives me pride and joy to be part of a humanitarian project that seeks to address a major public-health problem,” said Dr. Villegas, IRRI’s golden rice project coordinator.

The Geneva-based World Health Organization (WHO) estimates some 190 million children and another 19 million pregnant women who are directly affected by VAD globally. VAD is more common in poorer countries but rarely seen in more developed countries.

“For children, lack of vitamin A causes severe visual impairment and blindness, and significantly increases the risk of severe illness, and even death, from such common childhood infections as diarrheal disease and measles,” the United Nations health agency said.

For pregnant women in high-risk areas, VAD occurs especially during the last trimester when demand by both the unborn child and the mother is highest. “Lactating mothers also need vitamin A because their milk is their babies’ primary source of nutrition,” Dr. Villegas said.

Vitamin A is found naturally in many foods, including liver of chicken, beef, pork, and fish. Most of them, however, can be found in root crops (carrot and sweet potato) vegetables (broccoli and tomato), and milk products (cheese and butter), and fruits (papaya, mango, melon).

“I always say yes, there are interventions like diversifying diet, breast-feeding, fortifica-

tion, and so on,” Dr. Villegas said. “They’re working, but the fact remains that there’s still a sizable portion of our population not reached by these interventions.”

According to Dr. Villegas, there remain sectors of society that are not reached by the current interventions, those who live in far-flung barangays, but they eat rice three times a day, sometimes more, so fortifying rice can indeed help.

“It will be very good if there will be an additional tool in our kit, in our toolbox, to complement the existing interventions,” she pointed out.

That’s where golden rice comes in. It is a good example of how agriculture and nutrition can work together to fight VAD. It is called so because it contains beta carotene, which is converted to vitamin A when eaten. Normally, rice plants produce beta-carotene in their green parts, but not the grain that people eat.

Golden rice is genetically engineered to produce beta-carotene in the edible part of the plant.

Using genetic modification techniques, respected scientists developed golden rice using genes from corn and a common soil microorganism that together produce beta carotene in the rice grain.

Rice farming

According to IRRI, conventional breeding programs could not be used to develop golden rice because rice varieties do not contain significant amounts of beta carotene.

Credited for discovering the golden rice were Ingo Potrykus, who was 65 at that time and was about to retire as a professor at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, and Peter Beyer of the University of Freiburg.

“My team targeted vitamin A deficiency because this is one of the largest health problems worldwide,” Prof. Potrykus was quoted as saying.

In 2005, scientists develop the current version of golden rice. In the Philippines, the first generation golden rice was first tested in advanced field trials in IRRI in 2008. The second generation of selected varieties was field tested in the wet season of 2010. At the state-owned Philippine Rice Research (PhilRice), confined field trials of advanced lines were conducted in February to June 2011.

“The field trials are an important step in evaluating the performance of golden rice and to determine if it can be

planted, grown, and harvested just like other popular rice varieties,” PhilRice said in a statement. “These trials are also part of the safety assessment of golden rice.”

Asked when golden rice will be allowed for cultivation, Dr. Villegas said in a press statement: “Our answer is, when we get all the approvals, we will share them immediately. I cannot say the year because we are following the regulatory system of the Philippines that prescribes all the steps that we have to take.”

But despite the good things that golden rice brings, there are those who are against its commercialization.

“The statement that golden rice would solve world hunger is ludicrous,” wrote Leonard Pollara of Organic Sage Consulting. “The proposal that any agricultural activity that relies upon a concentrated vertically-integrated food supply to end world hunger flies in the face of history and reality.”

One of the key arguments of the critics is that golden rice, once sold, will serve only the interest of multinational companies, an issue that is well-anchored on intellectual

property rights.

Others claim that the golden rice was just a ploy of agrochemical companies. To quote the words of Father Shay Cullen in an article he wrote recently: “They own and supply the specific fertilizer that makes the seed grow and upon which it is dependent. In this way, the corporations control the food supply through their genetically-modified seed and food products.”

International group Greenpeace, which has made a concerted effort to block golden rice’s introduction since it was announced in 2000, claims that vitamin A-fortified rice may not be effective in delivering vitamin A to children.

“The real reason Greenpeace is opposed to golden rice is because it is genetically modified and it can’t seem to imagine that even one beneficial crop might result from this technique,” writes Dr. Patrick Moore, a co-founder of Greenpeace who helped lead the organization for 15 years but is now an independent ecologist and environmentalist. “It is willing to put its zero-tolerance ideology ahead of a critical humanitarian mission.”

Golden rice (from IRRI)

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

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

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

x----------------------------------------------------------/ AMENDED ORDER

BY THIS verified SECOND AMENDED PETITION and for the reasons therein stated, the above-named petitioners, assisted by counsel seek for an Order of this Court to apportion, divide and award the estate specifically the bank accounts (08063073-342 for Bank of Montreal and 293-1-500239-9 for Standard Chartered Bank ), RRIF with Bank of Montreal Financial Group with Account No. 013336286 and Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-179317 of the Register of Deeds of Davao City of the petitioners who are the legal heirs of the deceased Robert Kilmar.

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

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

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

SO ORDERED

March 4, 2013, Davao City Philippines. ( SGD ) VIRGINIA HOFILEÑA EUROPA PRISIDING JUDGE

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015

Lakers nab first win of season, Raptors lose

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OBE Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers notched their first win of the NBA season on Friday, rallying for a 104-98 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.

In a Brooklyn arena packed with Bryant fans, the Lakers veteran shook off a slow start to score 18 points.

Rookie point guard D’Angelo Russell had his most productive game yet with 16 points, guard Jordan Clarkson also chipped in 16 and the Lakers upped their defensive intensity -- much to the satisfaction of coach Byron Scott.

“We were just much more aggressive,” Scott said. “We played with much more sense of urgency.”

The Nets trailed by as many as 11 points in the fourth quarter and by nine with less than four minutes to play.

And with 25.7 seconds to go they had trimmed the deficit to 98-95 when Nets point guard Jarrett Jack forced a turnover.

In-bounding the ball with a chance to tie the game, the Nets were called for a five-second violation.

Bryant then drained four free throws to rebuild the Lakers’ lead as chants of “Kobe!

Kobe!” echoed around the arena.

“It is great the fans appreciate him the way that they do and they’re showing their appreciation,” Scott said.

Even Jack said he could understand the admiration for a rival player at the Nets’ home arena.

“It’s a guy who’s a first ballot Hall of Famer,” he said of the crowd’s reaction to Bryant, who could be heading into retirement after this, his 20th season.

“We understand what it is.”

But the defeat was a bitter disappointment for the Nets -who had hoped to reverse their own fortunes against the struggling Lakers.

Instead they fell to 0-6 and remain in search of a first win of the season, along with the Philadelphia 76ers and New Orleans Pelicans.

- Raptors fall to Magic The Toronto Raptors vowed to come back stronger from their first defeat of the NBA season after dropping a 92-87 decision to the Orlando Magic.

EDGEDAVAO Sports

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EARN YOUR SPOT Gilas coach says players must compete for a Gilas spot

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HEN members of the new Gilas Pilipinas pool gather for the first time on Monday at the Meralco gym, they better not expect a picnic outside of the pre-practice niceties.

Tab Baldwin isn’t.

The national coach wants to hit the ground running when Gilas begins its preparations for the Olympic wildcard qualifiers in July, setting the tone for the Monday-only, once-a-week practices spread over seven months by saying he expects each one of the players to compete for his place in the team.

Seventeen of the best players in the PBA loaned to the national team program will be at Baldwin’s disposal, giving the American-New Zealander more depth and size than he ever had in the Gilas squad he took to the final of the last Fiba Asia championship in Changsha, China.

While he’s absolutely thrilled about that, Baldwin was also quick to point out that five of those 17 players will not

make the final 12-man team to the Olympic qualifiers, or may be more depending on the availability of naturalized player Andray Blatche and Fil-American guard Jordan Clarkson.

By that, everyone should know that no one is guaranteed a spot in the team.

“That people will be given something without having to work or compete for it, you know that’s not the nature of sports,” Baldwin told Spin.ph.

“In sports, we should be competing for something as precious as wearing the Gilas uniform. It’s incredibly honorable to wear that and it should never be assumed that it’s the right of any player. It’s not, it’s a privilege.”

That mindset should be there from the first day of practice, when Baldwin will be clear with what he expects from the players and what he will demand from each of them over a seven-month period until the ‘cream rises to the top.’

He can’t wait to get started.

“I’m really looking forward to it. There’s really I lot a wanna do with this group of players in

terms of building them into a strong basketball team,” Baldwin said.

“I’ve never really spoken to any of the players, I’m waiting until we assemble on Monday, and we will be starting things out by trying to set the tone of what it’s gonna mean to be in this team and the fact that the guys, six or seven of them or more, maybe, depends on Clarkson, depends on Blatche, will not be included in the final team, so it’s gonna be very competitive, and I want it to be competitive.”

Baldwin isn’t sure if the early start, which will give Gilas around 20 to 25 once-a-week practices before the players get together for the final month of the buildup, will be better than the two months his Fiba Asia team got on the way to a runner-up finish behind China in Changsha.

But the veteran internationalist intends to make the most of it as they prepare for what he expects to be a ‘brutally difficult’ tournament against some of the best teams in the world.

Asked what he intends to accomplish during those Mon-

day-only practices, Baldwin said, “I’d like to think that during that seven-month period we’d be able to introduce the system that we’ll be using and then we can refine those and work on them at the last period that we have before the tournament.

“But also we would like to develop a very strong team chemistry. This is difficult when you are only meeting once a week but we want to try and do that. And I want to make the players understand that when they come into the Gilas environment, they will bring all of their talents but they also bring a mentality and attitude that is specific to what we’re trying to accomplish.”

And what does he expect from the players?

“We want them to be great communicators; I want all of them to be great leaders and ambassadors for the team and the game, and I want them to understand that this tournament will be brutally difficult.

But we wanna go there and we wanna set our sights on winning games and qualifying for the Olympics.

“This is our continuing advocacy for clean air in Davao City and the rest of the country,” said Ayala.

Nervida said that a minimal P50 registration fee will be collected for the advocacy ride which encourages all biking enthusiasts using any bicycle type. All participants are entitled to raffles.

Registration venue is at Ridea shop at the Gaisano Mall of Davao 5th Floor.

Ayala said they are ex-

pecting close to 1,000 riders to join the ride which will also serve as the annual Flight of the Eagles. Special prizes to best in costume and unique bikes will be given away.

Meantime, Ayala said they are pushing for the passage of an Implementing Rules and Regulation for the Davao City Bicycle Code which was already passed by the City Council.

“Without an IRR, it will not be put in force,” she said.

National Bicycle Day set Nov. 22

Cycle for Life president Monica Ayala and Mumho Riders president Ferds Nervida announced the staging of the 2nd National Bicycle Day during the FAST Fridays media forum at the Archipelago 7107 by Barrio Fiesta at the SM Lanang Premier on Friday.

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HE 2nd National Bicycle Day will be staged on November 22 with the aim of pushing for cleaner air and the use of bicycles as public transport.

Cycle for Life president Monica Ayala and Mumho Riders president Ferds Nervida announced the staging of the event during the FAST Fridays media forum at the Archipelago 7107 by Barrio Fiesta at the SM Lanang Premier on Friday.

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 159 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - 9, 2015