Edge Davao 8 Issue 41

VOL. 8 ISSUE 41 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 29 - 30, 2015

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INSIDE EDGE

Rody: No comment to Nograles’ endorsement The BIG NEWS P2

Duterte’s campaign videos leaked The BIG NEWS P2

Rice prices stable despite lean period The ECONOMY P6

VISUAL SCREENING. An elderly woman undergoes free visual screening during the Women’s Health Fair at the Davao Medical School Foundation compound yesterday. The event was organized by the Reproductive Health Network Davao in observance of the International Day of Action for Women’s Health. Lean Daval Jr.

PROBE ON SASA PORT PUSHED Zarate: Is this made of gold or diamonds?

By CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY

Are you ready for B Alyssa Valdez?

Sports P16

AYAN Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani T. Zarate on Wednesday called on Congress to launch a formal investigation into the alleged anomalous P17-billion

Davao Sasa Port Modernization Project, which he described as highly overpriced.

Zarate made the call through a personal and collective privilege, say-

ing it is the duty of lawmakers to safeguard the people from irregular undertakings such as implementing overpriced projects.

“Mandato po natin,

bilang mga kinatawan ng taumbayan, na tiyakin na hindi talo and mga mamayang Pilipino sa mga proyektong ito (We are mandated, as represen-

FPROBE, 11

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 41 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 29 - 30, 2015

MOVING ON. A physically challenged person in his wheelchair traverses along R. Castillo Avenue, ignoring the danger of being hit by vehicles plying in the area. Lean Daval Jr.

Duterte tops Aksyon Duterte has no comment Radyo 5, DWIZ survey

D

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte continues to dominate the surveys for the 2016 presidential derby conducted by at least two radio stations last week.

In a radio survey thru SMS (short messaging system) conducted by Aksyon Radyo 5 at 92.3 FM station last May 19, the tough talking Davao City mayor was very much ahead of his potential opponents in the presidential race.

The radio station program received a total of 1,444 SMS based on the question “Sino ang napupusuan nyo na susunod na maging pangulo ng bansa,” (Who would you like to be the next President of the Philippines).

And out of the 1,444 votes, Duterte garnered the highest score with 728 votes, surprising the two Aksyon Radyo 5 anchors of the result of their own poll that saw the Davao mayor as the runaway winner.

The popular Senator Grace Poe, who is one of the front runners in the next year’s poll, was afar 2nd with 256 votes while the scandal-ridden Vice-President Jejomar Binay, who always emerged as number one in recent surveys, was at 3rd place with 204 votes.

The other possible presidential contenders who were chosen by texters in the Aksyon Radyo 5 poll survey were Senator Bongbong Mar-

FDUTERTE TOPS, 11

on Nograles endorsement

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

D

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte would not comment on reports that former House Speaker Prospero Nograles will support his possible presidential bid in 2016.

“There are two things. Either it comes from his heart, for the people of Davao City, which I do not believe. The other side is, he might be afraid that I will become President because I might go after

him, which I am not (inclined) to do,” Duterte said in an interview at The Grand Men Seng Hotel.

Duterte said he is not a kind of person to plant a grudge in his heart, adding he has never filed “a single case against” Nograles even though the latter has sued him many times.

“Sige siya’g file pero ako... hilom lang gyud ko. It is because I’m a forgiving person,

Smoking TF warns stores against large cigarette ads T

HE Davao City Anti-Smoking Task Force (ASTF) warned store owners that they will be fined if large cigarette advertisements are not be removed from their premises.

Speaking in yesterday’s I-Speak Media Forum, ASTF chair Dr. Domilyn Villarreiz told reporters that stores with excessive sized tobacco ads will be fined P5,000.

“Pag nasa store na kasi, that is the responsibility of the

owner already hindi ng company (If it is already posted in the store, that is the responsibility of the owner already and not the cigarette company),” Villarreiz said.

She said the Business Bureau will also issue a notice of violation to the owners once caught in the inspection.

Villarreiz said the ASTF was prompted to issue the warning after learning that some stores allow tobacco companies to post many post-

ers and large tarpaulin ads, which is a violation Republic Act 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003.

She said the store owners who have permits to sell cigarettes already know this since the Business Bureau oriented them on the law.

Villareiz said even store signs that have the name of cigarette brands are prohibited.

She said she told the tobacco companies that they are limited to leaflets and one

poster in every store, but the companies replied that it is beyond their control because it is the advertising agencies that distribute the materials.

“So, if that is the case, then we should remove everything and let the stores post only one material each,” Villarreiz said.

Villarreiz said the ASTF will start the removal of tobacco ads today (Friday) in Bankerohan Public Market.

Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

kasi totoo na wala lang yun (He filed cases against me several time… but I remained silent. It is because I’m a forgiving person, and I know it was nothing),” he said.

Nograles had earlier said he was endorsing the possible presidential candidacy of Duterte, his bitter political rival.

This came after his son, incumbent Davao City First District Rep. Karlo Alexei B.

Nograles, said he was supporting Duterte’s bid for the presidency.

Asked if he is burying the hatchet with Duterte for the sake of Mindanao, Nograles said there is “no hatchet to bury.”

“Politics is never personal but is about issues, beliefs, programs, and purpose!

Davao must be united against others. Rivalry is purely local,” he said.

Rody’s campaign teaser ad leaked A

N apparent teaser video showing Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte touting the city’s progress under a “fearless” and “compassionate” leadership has been leaked to the internet.

The 34-second video was posted on YouTube on May 27

by Mugstoria, a Cebu-based social news website.

In the video, a helmeted Duterte rides through Davao City on a motorcycle and interacts with a number of people, including children.

A voice that sounds like Duterte’s says the following:

“Hindi sikreto kung paano umunlad ang Davao. Kailangan lang ng kaunting tapang; tapang para ituwid ang mga mapagsamantala, mga lumalabag sa batas, at nang-aapi sa walang laban. May katahimikan sa Davao. Kailangan lang ng disiplina at determinasyon.

Dumami ang trabaho, nakapag-aral ang mga bata, sumaya ang bawat pamilya. Pwedeng magkaganito ang buong Pilipinas. Kailangan lang ng tapang at malasakit.”

(It’s no secret how Davao became progressive. It just

FRODY, 11

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Cotabato residents launch ‘PisoparasaPederalismo’

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

V

PLANNING METHODS. A couple listens to a volunteer’s lecture on the different family planning methods during the Women’s Health Fair organized by the Reproductive Health Network Davao in observance of the International Day of Action for Women’s Health at the Davao Medical School Foundation compound yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

OLUNTEERS and supporters of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte in Cotabato City launched the “PisoparasaPederalismo” campaign on Wednesday afternoon during the mayor’s visit there.

A basket was given to Duterte containing one peso coins that came from volunteers, peace advocates, and other groups.

They said the basket was a sign of support for federalism which the mayor has been advocating for several months now.

The group also said the campaign intends to gather funds to convince Duterte to run for president in 2016.

The basket will move around the entire country to gather more support and funds.

The group said the basket will serve as a motivation for Duterte to run for the highest post.

“Itongbayong ay iikotnasabuongCotabato City patinasaVisayas at Luzon, ito ay makakalikomngmalakinghalaganamanggagalingsamgatagahangani Mayor, supporters, volunteers at buongpublikonananiniwalasakanyangkakayanannamamunosabansangPilipinas (This basket will go around Cotabato City and the Visayas and Luzon. It will collect a large amount from the mayor’s supporters, volunteers, and the public who believe in his capacity to lead the entire country),” they said.

Duterte turned emotional when he received the basket full of coins.

“Maramingsalamat. Alam-

P9B earmarked for port Duterte: Let Misuari development in Madaum join BBL discussion

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

T

crc@edgedavao.net

he Hijo International Port Services (HIPS), owned by the International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), is shelling out a total of P9 billion for the development of a 54-hectare Hijo-owned property in Madaum, Tagum City for the next five years.

“The first phase of the project worth P4 billion will start this year,” Hijo Resources Corporation vice president for industrial port services Jacobo C. Mantecon told reporters in a recent interview.

Mantecon said the first phase is expected to bring one

million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) that will be available in the next two years.

The second phase will bring out the remaining 1 million TEU capacity of the port which is believed to be the largest in Mindanao once completed.

Mantecon said ICTSI and Hijo are planning to rehabilitate their old berths to accommodate more shipping vessels. A five-hectare lagoon will also be created in the area as well as a storage facility for clients.

Mantecon said ICTSI, the investor and operator of the

Alaska Milk spearheads World Milk Day in Davao

A

LASKA Milk Corporation will spearhead the celebration of the second Alaska World Milk Day in Davao City with a 3-kilometer Family Run and a Zumba Fest at the Open Parking B of SM City Davao in Ecoland.

“The World Milk Day (WMD) is celebrated annually every first of June in many countries worldwide, providing an opportunity to focus attention on milk as a global food central to health and well-being across cultures and nations, and to highlight the contributions connected with milk and the overall dairy industry,” a press statement furnished by the company to Edge Davao said.

The same event will be simultaneously conducted in Manila, Cebu, and Baguio.

For Davao City, the family run will be at 3 kilometers starting at the Open Parking B of SM City Davao up to the intersection of Quimpo Boulevard and McArthur Highway in Matina.

For every participant, Alaska will be donating an equivalent number 1.8 kilogram can of milk to Children’s Hour, it said.

Last year, about 500 Dabawenyos participated in the first Alsaka World Milk Day celebration at the Rizal Park, Davao City.

The Alaska Gatas for Breakfast campaign was also launched last year during the celebration.

Aside from the simultaneous milk-drinking activity, there were also Zumba classes

FALASKA, 11

port, has not started the rehabilitation project of HIPS because of typhoon Pablo in December 2012 which affected the traffic of cargo in the region.

“Farmers in Compostela Valley are not yet replanting. I think some of the big ones in the banana industry are hesitant to replant again because of the threat of typhoon,” he said.

To support operating banana farmers in Davao del Norte and Compostela Valley, the management has put a temporary port with a capacity of only 250 TEUs.

Mantecon said he expects that the traffic of cargo from the region’s banana industry will fully recover in the next five years, especially when Japan starts to import containerized banana from the region.

Mantecon said the local government of Tagum City and Davao del Norte were very supportive of the project.

“There are already fourlane roads in the area leading to the port at present,” he added.

HIPS is 65 percent owned

by ICTSI and 35 percent by Hijo.

DEADLINE. Commission on Elections (Comelec) 1st District election supervisor lawyer Marlon Casquejo says 179,967 registered voters still do not have their biometrics and need to have this taken before the deadline on October

M

AYOR Rodrigo Duterte said one way to achieve peace is to let Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chair Nur Misuari join the talks on the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

Speaking at a symposium on federalism at the Cotabato City State Polytechnic College on Wednesday afternoon, Duterte said one of these days he will ask President Benigno Aquino to declare a ceasefire and allow Misuari to leave self-exile in Jolo, Sulu.

Duterte admitted that he still communicates with Misuari.

He said that once the President declares a ceasefire he

FCOTABATO, 11

will be the one to fetch Misuari so he can join the talks on the BBL. “Like I said, those 10 provinces in the BBL are part of the treaty between Misuari and Imelda (Marcos) and treaties must be obeyed. That’s the rule in the international law,” he said.

Duterte said Misuari will have no problem sitting with the peace panel to talk about BBL as long as Aquino implements a ceasefire.

Misuari went on self-exile after being blamed for the encounter between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and MNLF members in Zamboanga City in September 2013.

Funny Pearl A. Gajunera

31 so they can vote in next year’s polls. Casquejo and Davao City Anti-Smoking Task Force (ASTF) chair Dr. Domilyn Villarreiz graced yesterday’s I-Speak media forum at City Hall. Lean Daval Jr.

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 41 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 29 - 30, 2015

EDITORIAL Wrong interpretation

J

USTICE Secretary Leila De Lima’s comments in reaction to Mayor Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial statement on summary killings in Davao City is, to say the least, disturbing.

She said: “Yung iba sa atin natutuwa pa. Lalong ina-idolize si Mayor Duterte. But is that right? Hindi po tama yun. Killing is killing no matter what.”

Secretary De Lima must have forgotten her law here.

In our jurisdiction, killing is not killing and that is enshrined in the Revised Penal Code. The reason there are Excempting Circumstances, Justifying Circumstances and Mitigating Circumstances provisions in the law.

The presence of these circumstances in case a person is killed will affect the nature and gravity of the crime as well as the penalty that attaches to the crime.

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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

the national association of newspapers

OLIVIA D. VELASCO D.D. MARATAS RICHARD C. EBONA OLIVIA D. VELASCO JOCELYN S. PANES SOLANI SOLANI MARATAS General Manager Finance Advertising Specialist General Manager Director of Sales Finance RICHARD C. EBONA Marketing Supervisor

To say that “killing is killing no matter what” is a very dangerous premise. We live in a society where laws are not hard and fast and circumstances could change the very nature of killings for example.

It’s understandable, De Lima’s pronouncements are a result of her frustrations to try to pin down Mayor Duterte on his alleged involvement with extrajudicial killings in Davao City most especially those that involve illegal drug suspects.

It appears De Lima’s axe to grind against Duterte, if at all, should not get the better of her. If she thinks she has a strong case against the tough-talking Mayor of Davao and she is not motivated by her desire to seek public office in 2016, then she better do her work sans the unecessary talk that will only cloud her argument.

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE

LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager EDMUND P. RENDON Unit 6, SouthbankMarketing Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Specialist General Santos City Cagayan de Oro City Mobile: (Sun) 0925-357-3460 Tel: (088) 852-4894 (Smart) 0907-202-3844

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

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

INdulge!

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EDGEDAVAO

ARTS & CULTURE

Ceejay Sagarino

A dose of indie music at heart of CHINATOWN WHEN one talks about Davao’s Chinatown, visions of its busy streets come into mind aside from the constant hum of business.

Once the sun goes down however, Chinatown grinds to a halt and slumbers. Or does it?

I was recently invited to the EP launch of Davaobased indie folk band Thea at the Sales Tekanplor Bar located at the second floor space and third floor roof deck of a discreet building along Sales Street. I had heard of the place before from friends who say it was an interesting place to chill out and they were right!

Jad Montenegro

The interior of the bar was bare to say the least, with a small stage at a corner and a bar on the far side of the room. A small sound booth occupied another corner in front of the stage.

A narrow flight of stairs leads to the bar’s rooftop lounge which has another bar and some tables and chairs to hang out on. The area feels like a page out of a New York’s Queens district with a massive graffiti wall dominating one side of the space.

Since I arrived early, I was able to catch the opening acts of the evening.

Listening to Ceejay Sagarino sing accompanied by the tunes composed on her smartphone and Skymarines on the synthesiser opened my eyes to the creativity of Durianburg’s young indie artists. The last opening act featured Jad Montenegro who enchanted the audience with her powerful vocals.

Led by Thea Pitogo, lead vocalist and ukuleleist, the band also includes Ronald Tubio, lead guitarist and second vocals; Topee Lim, acoustic guitarist and second vocals; Paul Jaso (also known as ‘Jepax’), bassist; Darryl Tingzon, keyboardist; and Jacob El-

Urbanissimo A4

Thea Pitogo

Skymarines

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UP AND ABOUT

A smarter way of finding the best talent THEY SAY good things come to those who wait, but better things are achieved by those who hustle.

When it comes to talent recruitment, more companies are veering from the traditional post-andpray approach (where employers place “wanted” ads in newspapers or online job sites and then wait for applications to come in), toward a more active search for the right people for the job.

Mobile services leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has harnessed the power of the Internet to proactively connect with people who could best fit the company’s employment needs. As it looks for talents with digital skills, Smart has also leveled up its approach for attracting and retaining employees. The company has successfully used the business-oriented social networking service LinkedIn and the popular social networking sites Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

“Just this year, we got in touch with several professionals on LinkedIn and hired 16 executives and 26 supervisors and staff. We got a new assistant vice president through LinkedIn,” said manager Rowena Vasquez of Smart’s People Group.

“Social networking sites really help because you instantly get to know about potential employees – especially on LinkedIn where you can see their employment history and skills set.”

“You can be more targeted about your search, and you can communicate with them faster,” she added.

Vasquez said that to increase interest in Smart as a potential employer, it posts company and industry updates on its WorkatSmart online accounts, and also shares photos about fun employee activities.

“We also want them to know more about Smart.

We want them to get acquainted with the industry we’re operating in, as well as the benefits and perks of being a Smart employee. The information flow should be two-way,” she said.

According to Smart, when a company sends the right message to its target audience, it becomes easier to attract the right candidates.

Smart also posts job application tips on its social media accounts.

Smart’s efforts have paid off, as it has become the first Filipino company to get 80,000 followers on LinkedIn – more than double the follower count of other top companies in the country. Moreover, Smart has more followers than foreign telcos like SingTel of Singapore and Telus of Canada, which have also been on LinkedIn for a little more than a year.

Smart also has a 92% response rate on LinkedIn – meaning, when it sends a message to potential candidates, it gets a response right away.

The WorkatSmart accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram also have thousands of followers, and the numbers are growing by double-digit rates month-on-month. In the first four months of 2015, the company has hired about a dozen people it was able to connect with through these social networking sites.

“Interest in Smart has been high. It helps that Smart has been winning several top employer awards both here and abroad,” said Smart’s Senior Vice President for the People Group Annette Santiago.

Last March, Smart was named winner in the Employee Engagement and Development category of the Asean Corporate Sustainability Awards. In 2014, it won the Top Employer citation from the Asia CEO Awards, and Best Place to Work honors at the Asia Communication Awards.

When Smart made an online announcement about a job fair earlier this month, it expected to attract about 200 applicants. When the event day arrived, about 600 people arrived at the Smart headquarters in Makati City.

“Our employee engagement efforts, Smart’s reputation for excellence, and our innovative talent recruitment strategies help us get and retain the best employees in the country,” she added.

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EVENT

A lovely afternoon te party by French Bak at SM Lanang Prem MOMS were in for a dainty treat when the metro’s favourite boutique bakery and premier shopping and lifestyle destination hosted a special tea party for them on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2015.

The French Baker indulged its Mommy patrons with generous servings of hot tea and a wide assortment of scones, sandwiches, and pastries at the Atrium, SM Lanang Premier. Mothers who dined at The French Baker from May 9 to 10 received free entry passes to join the event and enjoy their Sunday afternoon with their families and friends.

Guests took delight in tasting a selection of teas – pure chamomile, Assam Bari and Morgenthau – made available during the tea party.

As an artisan bake shop known for its fresh delish breads and baked goods, French Baker also served Fruit Tarts, Swan Puffs, Raspberry and Chocolate Parisian Macaroons, Quiche Lorraine Ham and Cheese, Quiche Veggie, Chicken Sandwiches, Carrot Cakes, Blueberry Lite Cheese Cakes, and even barbecue-flavored Potato Chips and Chicken Lollipops, all of which were presented beautifully in 2-tiered silver serving trays.

Rounding out the affair’s cozy and relaxed ambience, a pianist and a sax player played romantic ballads to serenade the guests.

Enjoy freshly-baked, high-quality and healthy breads and meals at The French Baker located at the Upper Ground Level and at The Fountain Court of SM Lanang Premier. For dining reservations, call 285-2639 or 2857127.

Visit SM Lanang Premier on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for event updates and exclusive promos.

Hot tea was served generously during the event.

French Baker representative Janica Rizelle Hakim talks about French Baker’s offerings for the tea party guests.

Sweet Embassy owner Krizia Agduma (extreme right) with her family.

Cupcakes to Go owner Ruby Periquet and her kids .

Mom’s Tea Party entrance at SM Lanang Premier.

A mother and her daughter pose for a selfie at the tea party.

A family shares a bonding moment at the event.

SM Lanang Premier Assi PR Manager Acey Punoand her family

VOL. 8 ISSUE 41 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 29 - 30, 2015

ea ker mier

Luscious scones, pastries and chicken lollilops by The French Baker .

istant Mall Manager Jerome Yeo (center) and -Reyes with Mindanao Times’ Marilyn Roque

EDGEDAVAO

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ENTERTAINMENT

GMA International leads Philippine Independence Day celebrations in Kuwait and Dubai NOW on its 10th year of touching hearts across the globe, GMA International continues to bridge Filipinos abroad to their home country as it celebrates the 117th Philippine Independence Day with key celebrations (PIDC) in Kuwait and Dubai this June.

Kapuso Premier Actress Lovi Poe will headline the biggest and most-anticipated annual PIDC event in Kuwait, Musika at Tawanan, which is now on its 5th year of entertaining Filipinos abroad.

“We promise all the Pinoys in Kuwait a night of pure fun as we celebrate all things Filipino in Musika at Tawanan 5!

Even if you’re far from home, we will be bringing the Philippines closer to you!” assures Lovi, who co-starred with Dingdong Dantes and Ms. Maricel Soriano in the groundbreaking series Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real and will soon be seen in the upcoming series Beautiful Strangers with Heart Evangelista.

The free admission concert, organized by the Alliance of Filipino Organizations in Kuwait (ALLFILL-OK) in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy, will take place on June 12 from 1:00 to 7:00 pm at the Fakher Din Palace, Al Dawlia

grams, international channels and events, visit the website www. gmanetwork.com/ international, Facebook pages www. facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV, www.facebook.

Complex (behind Qatar Airways Building) Kuwait City. ALLFILL-OK is composed of the Filipino Badminton Committee, Filipino Cultural Club, SANDIGAN, Filipino Association of Secretaries Employment Agencies in Kuwait, Philippine Society of Marketing Specialists in Kuwait, Filipinos in Kuwait, Filipino Zumba Association, KFMO, UFCORGS and MAKULAY. Meanwhile, the 117th Philippine Independence Day Celebration in Dubai, the biggest annual event which draws crowds of up to 5,000 people will welcome Kapuso stars Rochelle Pangilinan and Betong Sumaya who

are ready to fire up the crowd with their performances.

Rochelle, a pioneering member of the popular female dance group SexBomb before launching a solo career as a dancer and actress, can be seen regularly on Sunday All Stars. Meanwhile, Betong, who became a household name after being the sole survivor in the GMA reality show Survivor Philippines: Celebrity Doubles Showdown, appears as the well-loved Antonietta in the country’s longestrunning gag show Bubble Gang and co-hosts Sabado-Badoo with Sef Cadayona.

The event is organized by the Philippine Independence Day Organizing Committee led by the Office of the Philippine Consulate General, Dubai.

The celebration will be held at the Ice Rink Arena, Al Nasr Leisureland, Dubai on June 12, from 8:00AM-8:00PM. Through these events, GMA International is one with Filipino communities around the world as they gear up for the annual celebration of Philippine Independence Day, remaining committed to keeping the Filipino spirit alive in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

For updates on GMA Network’s artists, pro-

com/gmalifetv, and w w w.facebook .com/ gmanewsinternational, Twitter pages @gmapinoytv, @gma_lifetv, and @gmanewstvintl and Instagram account @ gmapinoytv.

May 28 – June 2, 2015

YOU'RE STILL THE ONE Maja Salvador, Dennis Trillo PG

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

PITCH PERFECT 2 Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson PG

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

TOMORROWLAND George Clooney, Britt Robertson PG

R-16

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

SAN ANDREAS Alexandra Daddario, Dwayne Johnson PG

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

A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

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ARTS & CULTURE

Sales Tekanplor Bar’s ecclectic rooftop area.

Urbanissimo A1

emento on drums.

The band’s second EP after Love More, The Wise + The Wiser draws from Thea’s folk and jazz routes with hints of ballad and reggae. “Folk is a universal genre and has been for years. We cannot say that our music is folk alone; some of us has dealt with Jazz, Pop, Death Metal, Ballad and Reggae. It is a crazy idea putting these artists together but at the end of the day it’s all about collaboration,” says lead singer Thea “This makes our music colourful and

more expressive than how it should be.”

When asked what her inspiration was on the new EP Thea reveals that its all about the heart and hope which is a fitting way to say that hope and life exists in Davao Chinatown and it beats to the drums and guitars of the creative youth who call the Sales Tekanplor Bar home.

Follow me on Instagram or on Twitter at @kennethkingong for more travel stories, foodie finds, and happenings in, around, and beyond Durianburg.

Thea

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HE Rody Duterte Roadshow has been going around the country for several months now, ostensibly to promote Federalism, and questions of whether he will or will not run for President in 2016 have hounded his every step. To be fair, our popular mayor of Davao City has been consistent with his answer. But that hasn’t stopped people, depending on where they stand regarding his possible candidacy, from reading volumes between the lines and sound bites.

For the people of Davao, where Mayor Duterte has consistently topped every poll he has entered, there is an overwhelming desire, even a sense of inevitability, that he will be the next resident of Malacañang. And hoping that what he would do for the rest of the country what he has done for the “safest city” in the Philippines, the groundswell has even grown beyond the borders of Davao, to the rest of Mindanao, the Visayas, Luzon, and Metro Manila.

But while Duterte has played it coy with the electorate, Vice President Jejomar Binay, the current frontrunner in the surveys, has been unequivocal in his pronouncements that he will run in 2016. As recently as a couple of days ago, during a visit to Iloilo, Binay remained adamant about his desire to be the next

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Critical choice in 2016

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President despite what everyone else says. “Lahat ng kasiraan, akala ko wala nang katapusan pero hindi po ako aatras.

Ka ka n d i d a to po ako sa darating na 2016.”

This is of course unsurprising since it has been common knowledge as early as six years ago that Binay has harbored designs on the highest office of the land even before he had time to warm the seat of his current position. Such is his ambition to be the President that he has consistently disregarded the public’s growing mistrust about his and his family’s alleged involvement in numerous cases of graft and corruption.

The contrast between the two public officials does not end in their approach to the campaign, a fact not lost to many netizens who have been very vocal with their opinions on who is the better candidate. One critical comparison has to do with their respective handling of the various relief operations that they have been in charge of.

On the occasions of typhoons Pablo and Yolanda, many were quick to point out Binay’s otherwise effective but extremely self-promotional response to the disasters, which was completely opposite to the equally effective but more lowkey efforts of Duterte in helping those thousands left homeless and hungry.

As a result of the overwhelmingly negative comments about Binay, Duterte even had to downplay the rivalry by saying that “Some people are now comparing (him) with Binay. You know, Binay is Binay. He is the Vice President. I just did my part. Credit must go to the Dabawenyos. After all, it’s the people’s money that we used. It’s your money.” Unfortunately the mayor’s self-effacing response has had the opposite effect, driving home the impression that he is the more sincere of the two in serving the people.

The Vice President on the other hand has stuck with his current mantra of “experience” and “competence” as winning attributes that would take him to 2016 and beyond. Taking it from the horse’s mouth himself, the vice president has said in an interview that he “sincerely believe(s) that the issue in this coming election – for the presidency particularly – is experience and competence.”

Elaborating further, Binay even took a not so subtle swipe at the man whose

office he so wants to occupy when he said that the country and the Filipino people have “undergone and are still undergoing so many things that could not have been serious problems were it not for the fact that one does not have experience and competence.”

On the part of President Aquino, he has responded diplomatic to questions about Binay’s troubled candidacy by saying that “The impression has been that he has been at the forefront of the (Presidential race) if we look at all of the surveys. But at the same time, I think that question (of whether or not he will continue to be in the lead) rests on his ability to be able to answer all of the allegations that he is being confronted with at this present time.”

So far, Binay has not taken up this challenge.

For now, this debate will rage on for another year, or at least until October if Mayor Duterte decides to remain in Davao. The battle lines have been drawn, even if the antagonists have not yet been clearly identified. People rooting for either candidate would always have something to say on why theirs is the right choice. But in the end, it will again be up to the voters to choose who will lead us beyond 2016. God help us and may the better man win.

they receive YOUR RIGHTS HKD4,010 AND THE LAW but in reality they do not.

In Hong Kong, underpaying workers is illegal and can land employers in jail. But once signatures DANILO REYES are signed on contracts, the law assumes that both parties agree to the terms of the contract in good faith, unless one party complains.

And for those who lack better choice, it is hard to complain. Employers have a variety of choices to get their workers replaced by other nationals – Thais, Indonesians and Nepalese – who speak Cantonese. In fact, workers who do not complain are preferred by abusive employers.

But since most of the workers from the Philippines coming here to Hong Kong are professionals, they do complain and assert their rights. This is one good thing about us.

Second, not all red dates in the calendar are holidays for workers here. The

law is not clear about public holidays for domestic workers. In contracts, they get 12 days annual leave, but when public holidays exceed 12 days, some workers are not allowed holidays. The domestic worker would have to rely on her/his employer’s generosity.

Third, Hong Kong’s labor laws have been criticized as discriminatory against domestic workers. As of May 1, 2015, the statutory minimum wage for workers in Hong Kong is HKD30 per hour (P165).

But the law excludes domestic workers, and their rate is far lower than non-domestic workers.

Domestic workers, notably those who are staying in-house, are working longer hours than ordinary workers.

Some cannot go to bed until their employers fall asleep, and workers are expected to be up until midnight, if not dawn, ready to serve. This explains why in-house domestic workers are prone to abuse and exploitation.

Not only are they excluded from getting a higher minimum pay, they are also excluded from acquiring permanent residency. In Hong Kong, a person with valid travel documents who entered Hong Kong legally and has “ordinarily resided” for at least seven years can acquire permanent residency.

Hong Kong permanent residents have rights equal to Hong Kong Chinese residents, like access to government subsidized health care, education, and housing. Their stay is also no longer subject to conditions.

Permanent residents, like me, are not required to renew their employment visas, have no restrictions in employment, and can get government subsidies in case of serious illness that make them unfit to work.

But due to discriminatory laws in Hong Kong, some domestic workers who have been in Hong Kong longer than I have – some for over 30 years – are legally excluded from acquiring permanent residency. The domestic workers may feel this place has become their home, but the law does not say so. This has to change.

So, before you decide to come here to Hong Kong, I suggest you think it over seriously.

(Danilo Reyes is the deputy executive director of the Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC), a regional human rights NGO based in Hong Kong. Before joining AHRC, he studied Mass Communication at the University of Mindanao and earned his Master of Laws in Human Rights at the University of Hong Kong.)

Hong Kong: Discrimination in domestic work

ONG Kong is one of the destinations for migrant workers, including domestic workers from Davao and other parts of Mindanao. It’s Asia’s business hub known for a rich and lavish lifestyle.

How does a would-be migrant worker see his or her place in this city?

Before you decide to leave your husband, children, and family for a “greener pasture” abroad, you need to weigh things seriously. I’ve known registered nurses, medical technologists, and even an English professor who have chosen to work here, but their families do not know they ended up doing domestic work.

I’ll spell out some of the facts and practices that may help you decide and help you avoid being lured into trafficking and working illegally to get extra pay.

First, what are the facts. Minimum wage for workers is HKD4,010 (around P22,055); annual leave, 12 days; rest day, once a week; working hours, as long as the employers need you. You are not allowed to earn extra income.

The practice, however, for workers who lack choice (those medically unfit to work, those with serious illness, those with no work to return to in their hometown, etc.) is to sign on paper that

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Hike in night market revenue eyed

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HE City Mayor’s Office-Drainage Management Unit (CMODMU) is targeting to increase by 50 percent this year its revenue from the operation of the Tiangge sa Katwahan Night Market along Roxas Avenue.

“We recorded a revenue of P2 million from the operation and rental of more than 250 stalls in the night market,” DMU chief Ret. Col. Yusoo Jimlani told Edge Davao.

Jimlani said the number

of applicants and renters continuously grow because of the increasing market activity in the area.

“Our sidewalk vendors from different parts of Davao City are starting to see the viability of the night market because customers are starting to recognize it as a destination where they can shop and eat,” he said.

Jimlani said more applicants are expected after the modernization of the area by this year which includes the

MUSLIM TRADERS BACK RODY. Samad “Sammy” Pangandaman, a master of civil engineering who heads the Mindanao Islamic Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (MICCI), says Muslim business groups want Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte to be Philippine President during last Monday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw

establishment of better lightings and road impediment.

“We’ve already requested the Office of the City Mayor for funding,” he said, adding that the total cost of the modernization project will be at least P300,000.

Jimlani said his office is just waiting for the approval of the funding to start the project either by June or July this year.

The modernization project for the night market is already needed because it

will entice more customers as well as vendors.

“At present, there are areas in the market that still have no proper lighting,” Jimlani said.

The road impediment will also improve the security and safety of consumers and vendors in the road-long night market which starts at 6 p.m. to 12 midnight.

The night market started January last year. At present, more than 300 vendors selling street foods, assorted

at SM Annex. To his left is Amilodin “Mating” Usman, barangay captain of Barangay 23, president of the Federalism for Duterte Movement. (Laling Ramos/Philippine Information Agency)

Muslim business groups cite reason why they back Rody

By ANTONIO M. AJERO

M

OST Muslim businessmen like Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte and are active in the movement to urge him to run for President because they believe business and commerce will flourish when he becomes the leader of the country.

This was the statement of Samad “Sammy” S. Pangandaman, president of the Davao City-based Mindanao Islamic Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (MICCI), during Monday’s edition of KapehansaDabaw at SM Annex in Ecoland.

Pangamdaman, an engineer, joined Barangay Captain Amilodin “Mating” Usman of Poblacion Barangay 23, and Barangay Captain Alfredo Balansag of Pandaitan, Paquibato, in explaining the activities of the Duterte for Federalism Movement.

The movement which is

just one of the groups endorsingDuterte nationwide held two funrun events in Davao City Saturday and Sunday said to have been joined in by a total of 9,000 Dabawenyos.

Usman, who heads the group, said they plan to conduct rallies in the Luzon area for Mayor Duterte.

Pangandaman holds a bachelor of science in civil engineering degree from the Mindanao State Universitywhopassed the government licensure examination for civil engineers in 1986. He joined the city engineer’s office in 1987, then moved to the RCDP (Regional Cities Development Project), a foreign-funded special project of the Department of Public Works and Highways, before working for the Mindanao Economic Development Council (Medco) and the Office of the Presidential Assis-

tant for Mindanao (Opamin) until March 1996. He studied in Japan to get his master’s degree in engineering from 1996 to 1999 as a Monbusho scholar and then worked in Tokyo until 2010.

Pangandaman has been president of MICCI in 2010.

Being a resident of Davao for years now, he had observed and experienced the success of Mayor Duterte in making Davao City a peaceful and safe place to live and do business in.

“This is why many of us businessmen like him as a leader,” Pangandaman said in explaining why his group has joined the movement to convince the mayor to run for President.

In a separate statement, Marilou W. Ampuan, founder officer of the Universal Islamic Center, and MICC secretary,

said “we are 100 percent for Mayor Duterte because he is a model politician and leader.”

“Although he can be harsh sometimes, he only thinks of what is best for the people,” according to the leader of UIC , which circulates for free information about Islam, educational film showing, lectures, reading materials, counselling and prayer room space “for all Muslims and non-Muslims.”

Under the leadership of Mayor Duterte, the city government is quick to address all challenges and issues confronting the community, said Ampuan, who is also active in the city’s tourism industry.

“He is the reason why Davao is the adjudged one of the safest cities in the world,” she said, who added that Duterte is known for his effective leadership with patriotism and integrity.

apparel, catered shoes, bags, and assorted accessories Renting vendors are paying P25 per area daily.

Jimlani, meanwhile, said that the night market will not be replicated in Ilustre St. Extension from the underpass of Bangkerohan Bridge to the corner of Ilustre and Pichon streets., Duterte to General Luna Sts., both sides of Roxas Ave. particularly beside the drainage canal from corner of Father Faura and Pag-asaSts., Bangoy to Alva-

rez Sts. in Magsaysay Avenue, and Bangoy St. towards the fly-over bridge in Agdao this year.

“We decided to focus first in Roxas,” he said. “However, if we see that there’s already a need to establish another night market for the city then we make it.”

Jimlani said it won’t be hard for the drainage unit to have another market in another those areas because it is already backed by an ordinance.

HE price of commercial rice in the Davao City remains stable despite the onset of the months, an official of the National Food Authority said.

NFA Davao provincial director Virgilio B. Alerta said the price of the regular milled commercial rice ranges from P32 to P33, while well-milled is P35 to P37.

Alerta said the price didn’t went up even if it is still not the harvest season and despite rice production areas being hit bymild El Niño.

“We have enough supply commercial rice in the city from production areas in Davao City and nearby provinces like North and South Cotabato and Agusan,” Alerta said.

He added that the price of commercial rice, which comprises 80 percent of the daily rice requirement supply of Davao, is expected to stay stable until next month.

“The NFA still don’t see any indicator that price will increase by June,” Alerta said.

The price of commercial rice in nearby regions is also still stable despite the arrival of the lean months, according to him.

Meanwhile, the supply of NFA rice for Davao City have increased with the arrival of 206,000 bags with 50 kilogram (kg) each from Thailand last week.

“We have a total buffer stock of 520,000 bags,” Alerta said. “This can last until the month of September this year.”

NFA supplies 15 to 20 percent of the 10,000 bags of daily requirement of Davao City.

NFA distributors across the city sell regular milled NFA rice at P27, while well-milled is at P32.

Alerta said there’s still no advisory of another shipment of imported NFA rice. Cheneen R. Capon

Prices of rice stable despite lean period T

AMRECO hopeful House will pass Minpocor bill

A

N electric cooperative is hopeful that the proposed bill creating Mindanao Power Corporation (Minpocor) will get approval from Congress.

“This bill is a welcome development,” Sergio Dagooc, president of the Association of Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperative (AMRECO), said in a text message to Edge Davao.

His optimism came after the bill, principally authored

by Party-list Rep. Edgardo Masongsong of I CARE and other legislators, including Oriental Mindoro Rep. Reynaldo Umali, was approved on the joint house committee hearing last week.

Dagooc said the consolidate bill of House Bill 676,2621 and 4883 is a bill is really for the protection of Mindanao electricity end users and is pro-poor because it would prevent the increase of

electricity rate.

He said the establishment of Minpocor was originally an AMRECO’s ambitious proposition that become possible because of the support of Mindanao Development Authority and some legislators from Mindanao, who also opposed the privatization of the stateowned Agus-Pulangi Hydro Complexes.

The Agus-Pulangi is the island-region’s biggest power generator with an installed capacity of 982 megawatts. It supply almost 50 percent of Mindanao’s generation mix.

With the approval of the bill, Dagooc said the Mindanawon-led Minpocor will purchase the hydro complexes from the government’s Power Sector Assets and Liability Management (PSALM).

PSALM is a government agency that is mandated to privat-

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PROBE... FROM 1 tatives of the people, to make sure that the Filipino citizens will not be at the losing end from this project),” Rep. Zarate said in his speech.

Zarate said pushing through with the Sasa port project at such gargantuan cost will only burden the lowly Filipinos as docking and port fees will automatically shot up.

He said the investor or whoever will be the winning bidder will definitely seek a return of investment right away out of the project, which will be implemented under a public-private partnership (PPP) scheme.

“Simpleng economics lang, Ginoong Speaker. Kung malaki ang kapital na ipinuhunan upang mapalaki and mapaayos ang pantalan, kagyat na mataas din ang sisingilin ng private operator na docking fee at wharfage fee sa mga magkakarga at magbababa ng produkto sa mga barkong dadaong dito (It’s just simple economics, Mr. Speaker. If the investment is high just to rehabilitate the port, naturally the private operator will also ask for higher docking and wharfage fees to those who will load or unload products from the vessels which will dock at the port),” Zarate said.

The partylist representative from Davao added that with the high price of the port project, importers and exporters will look for other ports outside of the city which offer lower port service fees.

“Dahil dito, napakalaki ng posibilidad na unti-unti nang kokonti and mga mag-aang-

kat sa Sasa Wharf, hanggang sa tuluyan na itong malugi (Because of this, there is a possibility that the number of port users will reduce and eventually makes the port to lose income).” Zarate said.

The solon became the latest one to question the controversial P17-billion Davao Sasa Port Modernization Project.

Earlier, Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang and former councilor Peter T. Laviña expressed strong opposition to the project because of its massive cost.

Laviña recalled that when he was still a councilor the original cost of the port modernization as proposed by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) was only P4 billion.

Increasing the project cost to P17 billion led Laviña to conclude that the Sasa port modernization was a scheme of the Aquino administration to raise funds for its campaign kitty in preparation for the 2016 presidential elections.

Even the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII) raised its objection to the high cost of the project and came up with a position paper expressing its displeasure with the Department of Transportation and Communication’s decision to increase its budget to a whopping P17 billion.

“Gawa ba ito ng ginto o diyamaznte ang materyales na gagamitin sa rehabitasyon sa Puerto) Is this made of gold or are the materials to be used for the rehabilitation of the port made of diamonds)?” asked Zarate.

needs a little fearlessness; fearlessness to straighten the opportunists, those who break the law, and those who maltreat the helpless. There is peace in Davao. It just needs discipline and determination.

The number of jobs increased, the youth are able to study, every family is happy. This can be true for the entire country. All we need is fearlessness and compassion.)

The video ends with Duterte posing with the words “Tapang at Malasakit” (fearlessness and compassion) in the background and the voices of a group of children shouting, “Duterte!” and the words.

The video closes with the words, “This is a paid advertisement.”

Sought for comment, Mugstoria said it had stumbled upon the video and decided to leak it on YouTube with the description, “Leak of Duterte’s campaign ad?”

The video, however, does not say that Duterte is running for President. The mayor has consistently said he is not interested in running for the position because he has no money to mount a campaign.

Election law also prohibits early campaigning among candidates, although candidates usually go around the rule by producing teaser ads and infomercials.

A separate source told EDGE Davao that the ad will start airing on national television today (May 29).

as part of their promotion of a healthy lifestyle.

Participants of the first Alaska World Milk Day in Day in 2014 were able to enjoy breakfast, which consisted of Alaska powdered milk paired with champorado drizzled with Alaska Evaporated Milk, pandesal filled with Alaska Condensed milk, and cereal with Alaska Fresh Milk, as part of the Alaska Gatas for Breakfast campaign, a report

said.

Alaska Milk Corp. representative Fen Marquez said in a report that the firm brought the celebration in Davao City because the milk company wants to heighten the awareness in drinking milk that it is not only for kids but for adults as well.

The group of Alaska will conduct a press briefing today (Friday) at the Royal Mandaya Hotel. CHENEEN R. CAPON

Rody... FROM 2

Alaska... FROM 4

NEWS 11

KADAYAWAN UPDATES. Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre gives updates of the upcoming 2015 Kadayawan Festival which is once again expected to attract a large number of domestic and foreign tourists. Alejandre was a guest of the I-Speak media forum at City Hall yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

No extension on voter registration: Comelec

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

T

abf@edgedavao.net

HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) Davao City will not extend the voters registration period this year.

Speaking in yesterday’s I-Speak Media Forum, Comelec first district election officer Marlon Casquejo said October 31 will be the last day for voter registration, biometrics, and transfer of voting precinct.

Casquejo said the Comelec will not extend the registration

beyond October 31 since the filling of certificate of candidacy (COC) will immediately follow.

“Dili na makahatag og extension kay from that time filing of COC naman pud na siya.

So, preparation na pud na sa atong list and printing sa election materials (We cannot give an extension because the filing of COC will soon follow. We will be busy preparing the lists and printing election materials),”

he said.

Casquejo said there are still 179,967 voters in the city who have no biometrics and are in danger of not being able to vote next year. Of this number, 82,663 are from the first district, 57,760 are from second district, and 39,544 are from third district.

Casquejo said if these voters fail to submit their biometrics, the number of registered voters in the city will also de-

crease. He advised them not to wait for October 31 to complete their biometrics.

As of April 20, the city has a total of 708,475 voters. Of this, 297,372 are from the first district, 202,553 are from the second district, and 208,550 are from third district.

Casquejo said that if the people have no biometrics will complete before the deadline the city will have a total of 888, 442 voters.

cos with 74 votes; former Sen Panfilo Lacson - 59; Sen Miriam Defensor Santiago -32; Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas – 28; Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada- 18; Sen. Allan Peter Cayetano – 13; Sen Francis “Chiz” Escudero12; Sen Antonio Trillanes IV - 9 votes; former Sen Manny Villar – 6; former Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro – 3, and Brother Eddie Villanueva, 2 votes.

In another survey conducted by DWIZ 882 last March 25, Duterte again emerged as the winner with 29 percent of the votes followed by Grace Poe with 18 percent.

The DWIZ survey of presidentiables was part of the “Boses ni Juan 2016 Sur-

vey” wherein the question asked was: “Kung Ngayon ang Eleksyon, Sino ang iboboto Mo?” The results were based on the survey conducted by DWIZ in Manila, Legaspi, Naga, Cebu, Iloilo, General Santos, Davao, Cagayan De Oro and Palawan.

For president, here are the results of the DWIZ survey: Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte - 29 %; Grace Poe -18 %; Jejomar Binay - 14 %; Bongbong Marcos - 8 %; Miriam Defensor Santiago - 6 %; Panfilo “Ping” Lacson - 5 %; Mar Roxas - 4 %; Chiz Escudero - 3 %; Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro - 2%; Gloria Macapagal Arroyo - 0.60 %, and Manny V. Pangilinan 0.60 %.

For vice president, Grace

Poe is runaway winner with 37 percent. The rest of the result is as follows: Miriam Defensor Santiago - 9 %; Bongbong Marcos - 9 %; Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte - 8 %; Chiz Escudero - 7 %; Jejomar Binay - 6 %; Antonio Trillanes IV - 4 %; Gibo Teodoro - 3 %; Ping Lacson - 2.70 %; Mar Roxas - 2 %; Joseph Estrada - 0.60 %; Vilma Santos - 0.60 %; Dick Gordon - 0.60 %; TG Guingona - 0.60 % and Alan Peter Cayetano - 0.60 %.

Duterte’s big lead over his possible rivals came as a surprise considering that he has not yet confirmed of his intention to run for the presidency in next year’s general elections Duterte has been on his “Listening Tour” in the last two

and half-months, espousing for the adoption of Federalism which he said is the lasting solution to many ills afflicting our country.

He reiterated that under Federal system of government, patterned after the US style of government system, the President of the Republic will be directly elected by the people and he will still be the head of state and head of government.

Duterte had said he wants a Constitutional Convention to decide whether the Filipino people would like a shift from a highly centralized government to a Federal Parliamentary system. He also believes that rising criminality requires drastic solutions.

niyo pag naging presidente ako, yung isang paa ng mga Muslim nasa Malacañang, Salamatpo (Thank you very much. You know that if I become President Muslims will have one foot in Malacañang. Thank you),” he said.

Meanwhile, a manifesto by the Local Government Units (LGUs) of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

(ARMM) and Region 12 was made to show their support for federalism.

“We are declaring that we are one and united in our aspiration for peace and development in ARMM and Region 12 by supporting the advocacy of Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte for the establishment of freedom in the Republic of the Philippines,” the resolution reads.

ize state-owned power assets previously owned by the National Power Corporation (NPC).

“This will prevent other private companies from buying Mindanao’s largest power source. And this will protect consumers from high electricity rate,” he said.

Under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 that is being amended,

all state-owned power assets should be state-owned, including the Agus-Pulangi.

PSALM is planning to proceed with the privatization of the Agus-Pulangi by 2017.

Aside from Agus-Pulangi, the PSALM is also planning to bid out for privatization the 210 MW STEAG coal-fired power plant in the next two to three years with a lock-in price. Cheneen R. Capon

Duterte tops... FROM 2

Cotabato... FROM 4

AMRECO... FROM 10

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DAVAO CITY MAIN OFFICE

GENERAL SANTOS CITY MARKETING OFFICE

Director of Sales

Marketing Specialist

JOCELYN S. PANES

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

EDMUND P. RENDON

General Santos City

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

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

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

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13

Nickel Asia, PPI partner for 2016 Civic Journalism programs F

OR almost two decades, the Philippine Press Institute (PPI), also known as the national association of newspapers, has awarded the best of the best in community journalism in the Philippines via its Civic Journalism Community Press Awards. Its annual National Press Forum has also become a venue for discussion of pertinent global, national and local media issues.

In 2016, the Institute is proud to have Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC) as its new principal partner for Civic Journalism—a flagship program of the PPI aimed at “building better communities”.

“Nickel Asia is happy to be

a principal partner of PPI. We are proud to join PPI in recognizing outstanding journalism among community newspapers across the country,” said Jose Bayani D. Baylon, NAC’s vice president for corporate communications during the 2014 Civic Journalism Awards last May 16 at Diamond Hotel in Manila. In the last awards season, NAC partially supported both the conference and the awards. Baylon also served as member of the national board of judges.

“PPI is thankful for Nickel Asia’s support in the Awards, which honor community news organizations not only for editorial excellence but also for their role as catalysts for community development,”

NOTICE OF LOSS

Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. That CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) 21089680 under LOYOLA PLAN Contract No.(s) 193889-2 / UUU 430005892 issued to MELANIE S. GAJARDO REINSTATEMENT FORMS: 2401-2316, 240173056, 2401-73109, 2401-73142, 2401-7731977320, 2401-77324, 2401-77329, 2401-77512, 240177524, 2401-77549 issued to TERESITA F. ERAMIS were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

5/29,6/5,12

Baylon officially announces the partnership during his closing speech in the last PPI conference and awards. said PPI executive director Ariel C. Sebellino. He added that the partnership with NAC also includes seminars on reporting elections and civic

journalism Nickel Asia Corporation is the country’s largest producer of lateritic nickel ore and one of the largest in the world. The

company’s programs in promoting safety, environmental protection, as well as community relations and sustainable development in the various

communities where they operate have resulted in numerous awards at the annual Presidential Mineral Environmental Industry Awards.

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Truly Davao!

Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

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AVAO City, with a total land area of 2,444 square kilometers, is indeed one of the country’s -- if not Asia’s -- biggest cities. It is 7.8 times the size of Cebu and three times that of the entire Metro Manila. It’s no wonder the city serves as the main trade, commerce, and industry hub of Mindanao and the regional center of Davao Region.

I had been to other cities of the world but Davao still fascinates me no end. There are several reasons why I consider the city home.

Davao City has one of the world’s lowest crime rates (averaging 0.8 per 10,000 population per month). It is the only city in Asia to have an integrated emergency response system similar to that of the United States and Canada.

According to the World Health Organization, Davao City has the world’s second best potable water. The Finance Direct Investment magazine of the Financial Times Group cited the city as one of the Top 10 Asian Cities of the Future based on investment opportunities and governance.

Visitors who come to the city describe Davao 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 now 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.” “(Davao) is a city by appearance but a home by heart,” wrote columnist Rene Lizada.

“It’s a clean and green city -where things actually work,” added Ernie Abella.

Allow me to share of the people, landmarks, historical buildings, food, and other things that really make Davao a truly fascinating city. Some of these may not be around anymore but they represent what Davao is all about.

Rodrigo R. Duterte: The current mayor and has been touted as The Punisher. He has been in the news lately as he is considered as the next president of the country -- although he said he is not running.

San Pedro Cathedral: The oldest and most popular worship place for Catholics.

It grabbed headlines from around the world when it was bombed twice.

Lyric and Crest: These used to be two cinema houses in San Pedro Street. It was in Crest that I saw my first sensurround movie entitled Earthquake (which topbilled Paul Newman and Faye Dunaway).

Galaxy, Garmon and Golden: Three adjacent cin-

emas which were located in Ilustre Street (Galaxy and Garmon) and San Pedro Street (Golden). One of the most memorable movies I saw in one of these theaters was Ice Castles.

Tagumpay and Lawaan: It was in Tagumpay where I saw my first X-rated film. Lawaan followed suit later.

University of Mindanao: One of the best well-known universities in Davao, whose engineering courses are famous.

Immaculate Concepcion College: During its heydays, it had the highest building.

Harvardian University: Some of my friends used to go this university located at the extension of San Pedro Street.

It ceased to exist today.

Aldevinco Shopping Center: For visitors, this is the place to shop for pasalubong.

Victoria Plaza: The original shopping mall in Davao.

Despite the proliferation of other malls, it is still doing business.

Datu Complex: The first shopping center which had escalator.

Insular Hotel: A favorite destination for tours among students from the provinces.

Apo View Hotel: Perhaps the oldest hotel of Davao.

Mindanao Times: The oldest newspaper of Davao, known for its in-depth reports and features.

Peryodiko Dabaw: Before Sunstar Davao, there was this local daily where I used to write a regular column on agriculture called “Agribiz Jottings.”

San Pedro Express: Another local daily which used to bring inside news of the city. It already ceased publication.

Mindanao Daily Mirror: One of the biggest local newspapers and still doing great.

Edge Davao: The newest among the league of local dailies; recently, it won three awards from the Philippine Press Institute.

Pagasa Magazine: A weekly magazine published by a group of media people from Mindanao. It already ceased publication.

Museo Dabawenyo: If you want to know history about Davao, this is the place to go. For one thing, there is no entrance fee.

D’Bone Collector Museum: Managed by Darrell Blatchley, a recipient of the 2014 Datu Bago Awards. The chief executive officer is an American but he can speak Bisaya well.

Eden Nature Park: Located in barangay Eden in Toril, the resort is 2,650 feet above sea level. It offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the city and the Davao Gulf in the dis-

tance.

Philippine Eagle Center: Nestled along the rolling foothills of Mount Apo, it is home of the country’s bird icon.

Malagos Garden Resort: Just two kilometers away from Philippine Eagle Center, it’s a 12-hectare inland nature theme resort. A bonus: Malagos Gardens Amazing Bird Show, sculptures of national artist Napoleon Abueva, and waling-waling, the country’s second flower icon.

Davao Crocodile Park: You don’t only see crocodiles but other animals as well.

Gap Farming Resort: The city’s original tourist destination located about 30-40 minutes from the city proper.

Durian: You have not been to Davao if you have not tried this fruit which, according to one scribe, “tastes like heaven but smells like hell.”

White House Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge: The home was a historical landmark. It has been converted into a restaurant. If you get lucky, you may be able to meet its chef, the beautiful Cathy Binag.

J. Palermo’s Diner: Owned and managed by Juliana Palermo, a Filipino film star who used to appear in several movies. One of the comeons is its inverted burger.

Colasa’s: Mention barbeque and you get “Colasa’s” immediately.

Luz Kinilaw: General Santos City may be the tuna capital of the Philippines, but Davao is known for its grilled tuna, especially if it is served at Luz Kinilaw. Don’t forget to try its delicious fresh tuna kinilaw.

Alsa Masa: At the time when communism was at its highest, the people rose against them thus “Alsa Masa” came into existence. Literally, it means “the rising of the masses.”

Dumoy Water: The city has one of the best waters in the world. Perhaps the best among them all are those waters that come from Dumoy.

No Smoking: Yes, smokers beware. No one is allowed smoking in any part of the city except at your own home and in some designated places.

Speed Limit: If you are fast and furious, the city is not a place for you. There’s a speed limit of 40 within the heart of the city and then it goes up as you go farther from the city.

No More Drinking: Yes, you can still drink your favorite beer and other alcoholic beverages in restaurants, bars, and hotels but only until 12 midnight. After that, you better go home and sleep.

I know the list is far from complete. And I am sure that those who live from Davao have also their own list.

Fruits of Davao

The controversial durian fruits

D’Bone Collector Museum

Eden Nature Park

Davao Crocodile Park

VOL. 8 ISSUE 41 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 29 - 30, 2015

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

CELEBRATION. The 40-year wait is over for the Golden State Warriors and Steph Curry, the league MVP, has led the team to the Finals this year.

GOLDEN WAIT

Warriors eliminate Rockets, end 40-year NBA Finals drought

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FTER a generation of wishing and waiting, the Golden State Warriors have finally arrived on basketball’s biggest stage again.

Stephen Curry had 26 points and eight rebounds, Harrison Barnes added 24 points and the Warriors advanced to the NBA Finals for the first time in 40 years with a 104-90 victory over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night. ‘’Why not us?’’ Curry said to a roaring, golden-yellow shirt wearing crowd after the Warriors received the Western Conference trophy from Alvin Attles, the coach of their last championship team in 1975.

‘’The Bay Area’s been waiting for 40 years,’’ Curry said later. ‘’I think it’s time.’’

The Warriors shook off a slow start and sweated out a shaky finish in Game 5 to close out the Rockets and set up a matchup with LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers beginning June 4.

It was hardly the prettiest performance - but one they’ll savor nonetheless.

Yellow streams and confetti fell from the rafters when the final buzzer sounded. The Warriors shared hugs and handshakes, and the crowd chanted ‘’M-V-P!’’ for Curry.

He relished the moment on the court with his 2-year-old

daughter, Riley, who joined him in his postgame news conference - laughing, playfully interrupting him and walking around the room again. ‘’I think she’s taking advantage of the moment for sure,’’ Curry quipped.

Dwight Howard led Houston with 18 points and 16 rebounds.

But MVP runner-up James Harden had a forgettable finale, with a playoff-record 13 turnovers and 14 points on 2-of-11 shooting. ‘’Tried to do a little bit too much and turned the ball over and gave them easy baskets in transition,’’ Harden said. ‘’This isn’t where we wanted to end at. It’s a really good season for us. Next

year we want to be better, and we will.’’

It was a tough way for the Rockets’ run to end. They overcame a knee injury that sidelined Howard half the season to finish second in the West, played without starters Patrick Beverley and Donatas Motiejunas in the playoffs and rallied from a 3-1 deficit to beat the Los Angeles Clippers in the second round.

The Warriors were one obstacle Houston couldn’t clear. ‘’The guys fought hard,’’ Rockets coach Kevin McHale said. ‘’One thing about the team is that they were battlers, and a lot of guys in that room you feel pretty comfortable going to war with.’’

LEBRON JAMES. Fifth straight NBA Finals appearance.

Curry wants what LeBron has

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HEARTSTRONG. Ateneo Lady Eagle Mae Tajima (with mic), one of Ateneo’s two Dabawenya members, invite fans to the “Heartstrong” charity game during a meet and greet yesterday at the Davao Crocodile Park. Lean Daval Jr.

HE NBA Finals start June 4 with the Golden State Warriors against the Cleveland Cavaliers, two teams who have little experience playing this time of year.

James does, getting ready to appear in his fifth straight finals. He won two titles in Miami before coming back home to Ohio, and now Curry wants what the four-time MVP has. ‘’He’s been here plenty of times before, five straight finals appearances, I think, so we’ve got to bring our A game if we’re going to beat a great team and a great player like that four times,’’ Curry said. ‘’We’re excited about the challenge. He had to win his first one at some point, and nobody on our team has experienced that, so we’re going to be fighting like crazy every night.’’

Not for a while, though.

Both teams were so good in the conference finals that they won too fast, the Cavaliers finishing a sweep of top-seeded Atlanta in the East on Tuesday and the Warriors completing their five-game victory over

Houston a night later.

The lengthy layoff will benefit banged-up players on both teams, and provide plenty of time to hype the Curry-James duel.

They started in the same place, born in the same Akron, Ohio hospital, but couldn’t have been more different upon arriving in the NBA. James was the can’t-miss Chosen One taken with the top pick in the 2003 draft, a perfect 6-for-8 combination of size and speed.

Curry had the sweet shot but a small stature, considered by many not big enough for NBA super stardom when he was drafted out of Davidson in 2009. Yet he put together a season-long highlight package this season with his brilliant ballhandling and smooth stroke and was voted MVP, finishing two spots ahead of James.

Curry averaged 31.2 points and shot nearly 50 percent from 3-point range in the West finals, while James nearly averaged a triple-double in the Cavs’ four-game romp.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

ARE YOU READY FOR ALYSSA? Lady Eagles see action in Davao today

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

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HE country’s premier volleyball star Alyssa Valdez is in the flesh today, and boy, are you ready?

Valdez will lead the two-time UAAP champion Lady Eagles in an exhibition match at 5:00 pm today at the USEP Gym against Davao Lady Agilas in a match dubbed as “Heartstrong: A Charity Game.”

“We are all excited for this one. The wait is over,” said Noli Ayo, athletic director of Ateneo de Davao University.

Two Dabawenyas who are also in the roster of the Eagles--Mae Tajima of Ateneo de Davao University and Maggy Madayag of Davao Chris-

tian High School--will also show their wares today before their ‘home crowd.”

But all that will have to take a backseat for Valdez whose popularity is being equated to celebrity Nora Aunor. Oh, pardon the generation gap.

A preliminary game is set at 3:00 pm as curtain raiser. Proceeds of the event will go to the Gawad Kalinga project and to the Coaches for Peace in Mindanao project.

Yesterday, the Lady Eagles, sans Valdez who is due to arrive today, held a meet and greet at the Davao Crocodile Park.

They will be at the the Abreeza Mall today and some of them at the FAST

Fridays media forum in SM Lanang Premier.

Fans who will bring in used sneakers can get photos with the Lady Eagles. The used sports shoes will be distributed to indigent athletes in Davao City under the Generous Soles program which was authored by Ateneo stars Valdez and Kiefer Ravena.

The Davao Agilas, meantime, will be bannered by a selection of Davao City collegiate volleyball players.

The Lady Eagles are the reigning women’s volleyball champions after beating De La Salle University for the title in the 76th and 77th seasons of the UAAP.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 41 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 29 - 30, 2015 VOL. 8 ISSUE 41 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 29 - 30, 2015

TOP EAGLE. Alyssa Valdez, shown here in action during the UAAP Finals, will spearhead the Ateneo Lady Eagles in “Heartstrong” charity match today at USEP Gym.