Edge Davao 9 Issue 114

VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016 CLOSURE ORDER. A bird’s eye view of “Tiangge sa Katawhan” or better known as Roxas night market, which is considered the Dabawenyos’ street food and “ukay-ukay” haven since January 2014. Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio has ordered the closure of the popular night market starting tonight due to a number of violations committed by the vendors. Lean Daval Jr.

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MAYOR SHUTS NIGHT MART City hall firm vs violators, dummies Inside Edge

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

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AYOR Sara Duterte-Carpio has ordered the closure of the city’s night market along Roxas Avenue starting today after receiving complaints that vendors have not been following the rules set by the city government.

The mayor said she had a meeting with representatives of the night market, city human resource management

office chief Erwin Alparaque, and city transport and traffic management office chief Rhodelio Poliquit.

During the meeting, Duterte-Carpio said Poliquit recommended the closure of the night market, which also got the concurrence of the mayor.

According to the mayor, the reasons that led to the closure order include the vendors’ refusal to observe the

“one family, one stall policy,” and their insistence in choosing their own stall.

Moreover, the chief executive learned that the vendors had been used as dummies of big financiers, in which their stalls were rented out by different people.

She added there were also individuals who insisted in putting up a stall at the night market because they already

had allegedly bought it.

“The city will not compromise with them as long as they will not follow the rules of the city,” Duterte said.

The mayor expects her office to receive adverse reactions from the over 700 vendors operating in the market.

Duterte, however, is open to holding another dialogue with the vendors if they prom-

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Magsaysay top cop critical after shootout • News Pg2 Ex-NPAs surrender in Compostela Valley • News Pg4 Sec. Teo: Add more flights, improve infra in Minda airports • Economy Pg7

Pacquiao to make All-Star debut • Sports Pg16

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

RODY’S MARK. The Marco Polo Davao general manager Dottie Wurgler Cronin(second from right) and Halifax Davao Hotel, Inc. senior vice president Francis Ledesma (rightmost)unveil the plaque with President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s signature at the hotel’s lobby on Monday evening. Kadayawan sa Davao 2016 co-chair Art Boncato (third from left), Malaysian Consul General Abdullah Zawawi Tahir (second from left) and his wife witnessed the unveiling ceremony. Lean Daval Jr.

City councilors upbeat over Mega Harbour coastal project

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HE fate of Davao City’s multibillion Mega Harbour, a pet project of President Rodrigo Duterte, is now in the hands of the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA).

In a statement, Councilor Jimmy Dureza, chair of the Committee on Trade, Commerce and Industry, said the success of the P35 billion port and coastal development project now depends on the PRA pending its issuance of a permit for the project.

Right before he assumed the presidency, Duterte entered into an agreement with Mega Harbour Port and Development (MHPD) for the development of the proposed reclamation project, which was approved by the City Council last year.

The project targets to develop 214 hectares of coastline into a port and residential complex. At least 70 hectares will be developed into a port that will cater to both international and domestic containers.

Duterte signed the agreement with the assurance that people living in the coastline will not be displaced. In fact, the developer promised the project will provide livelihood opportunities for the residents.

Dureza expressed optimism that the project will be approved.

The councilor revealed that his committee is carrying out a massive information dissemination to help the coastline residents understand the objectives of the project. (CIO)

More faith-based groups back DILG program for surrenderees

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O help in the enormous task of rehabilitating drug dependents in the country, two big faith-based groups have committed to support to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) program for drug surrenderees through a proposed values formation program for the spiritual nourishment of victims of illegal drugs.

Officers of the Jesus is Lord (JIL) Movement and the Philippines for Jesus Movement (PJM), an umbrella coalition of 3,000 churches all over the Philippines, paid a courtesy

call Tuesday afternoon to DILG Secretary Ismael “Mike” Sueno to express their willingness to lend a hand in the government’s program to help change the lives of illegal drug victims.

The groups said they supported President Rodrigo R. Duterte in the last election and acknowledged that Duterte is the first President who waged a war against “narco-politics.”

“Gusto naming magtagumpay ang presidency na ito, lalo na ngayong may mga critics na nagpapahayag na hindi ito tatagal dahil sa walang

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Magsaysay cop chief critical after shootout

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

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HE chief of the municipal police station in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, is in a critical condition after engaging in a gunfight with the town’s top drug personality on Wednesday morning.

Based on an incident report released by the police station, Police Senior Inspector Ricky Boy Remoroza was issuing a warrant of arrest against Vicky Calago for violation of section 5 of RA 9165 and direct as-

sault when the incident occurred.

The shootout took place at around 10 a.m, resulting in the death of the suspect and seriously wounded the police officer.

Authorities recovered a

homemade .38 caliber pistol and 2 sachets of shabu from Calago Remoroza was rushed to the Southern Philippine Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao City after the encounter.

stantly, while the perpetrators took his motorcycle and escaped.

According to the same report, an undetermined number of NPA members led by a certain Bobby, also attacked a CAFGU detachment situated in Barangay Sallab, Magpet, North Cotabato at around 9:50 a.m., that same day.

The CAFGU members were able to defend their position, and foiled the attempt to overrun their detachment.

In a statement, 10th Infantry (Agila) Division chief information officer Captain Rhyan Batchar said the army’s 39th Infantry Battalion had immediately alerted all units in its areas of operation following the series of attacks staged by the NPAs. Similarly, 10th ID commander Major General Rafael

Valencia condemned the attacks and ordered his men to pursue the perpetrators.

“We shall use and deploy all our available forces, continue offensives and support law enforcement operations against these armed lawless groups,” Valencia said.

To recall, President Rodrigo Duterte declared a unilateral ceasefire with the CPP-NPA during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 25, ordering the AFP to pull out its troops from their areas of operation.

However, despite the president’s declaration, the NPAs ambushed a group of CAFGUs in Davao Del Norte last on July 29, killing one of its members and wounding four others.

Duterte asked the NPAs to explain the incident and gave an ultimatum to the group

to reciprocate by July 30.The deadline lapsed without any word from the rebels, prompting the president to withdraw the ceasefire, even as he directed the AFP to proceed with its counter-insurgency operations.

The NPAs in Southern Mindanao, through its spokesperson Rigoberto Sanchez, accused the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) of fabricating lies to spin President Duterte and the media.

Sanchez said there was no “conspicuous and veritable unilateral ceasefire exercised

by AFP, PNP and paramilitary troops in Southern Mindanao” five days after the proclamation.

The 10th ID described Sanchez’s statement as malicious and unfounded.

The army reiterated the

CAFGU killed in NorthCot as NPA attacks escalate

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Philippine Army reported on Wednesday the death of another member of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) this time in the province of North Cotabato, even as it condemned the escalation of attacks staged by the New People’s Army (NPA).

Based on an army report, suspected members of the NPA shot and killed last Monday (Aug 1), 54-year-old CAFGU member Oscar Emba, a resident of Barangay Mua-an, Kidapawan City.

Emba, who was assigned at the Balabag Detachment, was on board his XRM-125 motorcycle when he was waylaid by the NPAs at Crossing Birada in Kidapawan City at around 7:00 a.m.

The victim sustained six gunshot wounds and died in-

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3 rebels surrender in Compostela Valley

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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Gov Cagas out on P1-M bail Ex-mayor Fernandez also granted bail G

OV. DOUGLAS R. CAGAS, detained for murder for allegedly masterminding the killing of a media practitioner, reported for work yesterday afternoon at the provincial capitol for the first time, hours after the court granted his petition for bail.

This was learned from lawyer Marivic Diamante, member of the Davao del Sur provincial board and a former

mayor of Kiblawan and partymate of Cagas.

Cagas, who had served as congressman and governor of the province for many times in the past, was welcomed by thousands of his supporters at the provincial capitol at barangay Matti, Digos City.

A number of supporters reportedly cried unabashedly due to happiness.

Earlier at about 9 a.m., the

NAPOLCOM recommends promotion to 2-star rank of Davao PNP officials

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HE National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) recommended to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte the promotion to two-star rank of two Police Chief Superintendents and the promotion to one-star rank of five Police Chief Superintendents of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

NAPOLCOM Vice-Chairman and Executive Officer Atty. Rogelio T. Casurao said that the Commission recommended to President Duterte the promotion to Police Director (equivalent to twostar General in the military) of Chief Supt. Fernando H. Mendez Jr. who is presently designated as Acting Director for Personnel and Records Management, and Chief Supt.

Ramon C. Apolinario who is currently the Acting Director

for Integrated Police Operations–Western Mindanao.

“The Commission recommended the promotion to two-star rank of Police Chief Superintendents Mendez and Apolinario since their present positions call for the rank of Police Director,” Casurao said.

The Commission also recommended the promotion to Chief Supt. (equivalent to one-star General) of Sr. Supt.

Cesar Hawthorne R. Binag, Acting Chief of the Firearms and Explosives Office, Civil Security Group; Sr. Supt. Amando Clifton B. Empiso, Acting Regional Chief Directorial Staff, National Capital Region Police Office; Sr. Supt. Joel Crisostomo DL Garcia, Acting Executive Officer, Directorate for Personnel and Records Management; Sr. Supt. Romu-

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governor who campaigned from his detention cell during the May 9, 2016 election, posted a bail bond of P1 million for his temporary liberty.

Also freed after posting a P1-million bail was Butch Fernandez, former mayor of Matanao town also in Davao del Sur and co-accused of Governor Cagas.

Cagas and Fernandez were detained for murder

after they were accused of being the masterminds of the killing of newsman Nestor Bedolido, who was shot dead three months after the 2010 elections. The governor and former Matanao mayor were pinpointed as the masterminds by the Mirafuentes brothers, supposed triggerman and accomplice.

Both Cagas and Fernandez

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

ORMER members of the New People’s Army (NPA) returned to the folds of the law in the province of Compostela Valley, the Army’s 10thInfantry (Agila) Division reported.

Last Monday, August 1, three former NPA members identified only as Glen, John and Simon surrendered to the 71st Infantry Battalion in Barangay Nueva Visayas, Mawab, Compostela Valley Province.

Glen is a former medic of Pulang Bagani Company (PBC) 5 while both John and Simon were members of Guerrilla Front (GF) 2 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, chief information officer of 10th ID, said the real names of the three former rebels are being withheld for their personal security.

The increasing number of NPAs who have voluntarily surrendered to authorities convinced the three ex-combatants to come out and peacefully turn themselves in to the 71st IB, Batchar added.

He said the rebels will be included in the continuing Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) of the national government.

Prior to the surrender of the three rebels, a mem-

ber of the medical platoon of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) 2 of the NPA also gave up to elements of Charlie Company of 69th Infantry Battalion last July 31 in Barangay Talian, Maragusan, Compostela Valley.

Peter (not his real name), was aided by barangay officials in the area as he decided to lay down his arms and avail of the government’s amnesty program.

“A total of 64 former rebels in Compostela Valley have already received their monetary remuneration under the CLIP program,” Batchar said in a statement.

The number of surrenderees, he added, is based on records provided by the office of provincial government.

A total of P4.16 million was already released to the rebels who surrendered since last year, the data showed.

A total of 141 former NPAs yielded to various line units of the 10th ID from January to July of this year, Batchar said.

The government’s peace efforts is paving the way for other NPA members to abandon the armed struggle, 10th ID commander Maj. Gen. Rafael Valencia said.

“We are all Filipinos, we should end violence and let us all give peace a chance,” Valencia added.

Solon urges employers to comply with anti-age discrimination law

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OLLOWING the passage of the Anti-Age Discrimination in Employment Act into law, Taguig City Rep. Pia Cayetano urged employers on Wednesday to immediately start doing away with the practice of age discrimination in the workplace even as the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR) are still being formulated.

The former senator, who is the measure’s principal author in the Senate during the 16th Congress, likewise urged

the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to begin an information campaign for the new law which is set to take effect on Aug. 16.

“Even as we await the law’s IRR, I urge employers and job-fair organizers to start doing away with age bias and discrimination,” Cayetano said.

“I also urged publishers of job ads to do the same,” she said as she noted that several classified ads pub-

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MORE MUSCLE. Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 director Chief Superintendent Manuel Gaerlan says the participation of the military in the fight against illegal drugs is a welcome development as they will give muscle to the crusade. Gaerlan made the statement during yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at Ritz Hotel. Lean Daval Jr.

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

DSWD lauds North Cotabato for women, children’s center T

HE Department of Social Welfare and Development Office - Standards Bureau (DSWDBS) on Tuesday cited North Cotabato province for fully complying with the requirements set by DSWD for the management of a Home for Women and Children Center (HWCC).

The DSWD conducted the validation in April this year, and acknowledged the effort of the provincial government for its invaluable support to women and children in need

of special protection.

In a communiqué, DSWDBS Director Marites Maristela notified Governor Emmylou Mendoza over the province’s outstanding performance for a first level accreditation on the three principal standards set by the DSWD-BS that include administration and organization, helping interventions, and physical structure and safety.

“These are the criteria being measured by our office, which facilities like the HWCC must be able to comply or

meet so as to be given the accreditation,” Maristela said.

In addition, Maristela cited the orderly and efficient supervision and management of the provincial social welfare office to the center, being the office in control and with overall responsibility as to the HWCC operation.

As a 1st level accreditation holder, the HWCC must maintain DSWD standards and continue to provide its personnel ample technical assistance, capacity building and skills training.

Vergelita Guilaran, provincial social welfare officer, said the center primarily provides immediate, short-term help to individuals who experience emotional, mental, physical, and behavioral distress or problems.

The center, erected at the provincial capitol grounds here in February this year at a Php 5-million budget, has 16 minors under its care.

The HWCC operates a 24bed facility for victims of domestic, physical, sexual and emotional abuse. (PNA)

30 families displaced by armed conflict

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OME 30 families who fled their homes due to the ongoing armed conflict in Matalam town have received relief assistance from the North Cotabato provincial government, officials said Wednesday.

Marchita Capilitan, provincial Social Welfare Develoment Office focal person, said the affected families were from Sitio Mateo, Barangay Manubuan, Matalam, who evacuated several days ago after skirmishes broke out between armed groups who are involved in a land ownership dispute.

Capilitan said the affected families were composed of 15 Moro families and 15 Indigenous Peoples (IP) families received food packs.

“Each relief pack contains 5 kilos rice, 2 cans sardines and 2 packs noodles and serves as augmentation to the assistance provided by the LGU,” Capilitan said.

The local government of Matalam began distributing emergency relief assistance

immediately after the outbreak of hostilities.

The IDPs opted to remain in their relatives’ homes and temporary evacuation sites for fear that returning to their homes would put their lives in danger.

Arnulfo Villaruz of the provincial Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Division said the relief efforts were carried out on orders of North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Mendoza.

The government also ordered the PSWD and provincial health office to check on the health status of the internally displaced persons, especially the children.

Mendoza also called on warring groups to end the armed hostilities, and resolve their misunderstanding peaceful negotiatiations.

“We want these conflicts to end or if not lessen the differences among fighting groups all for the sake of innocent civilians who are the primary victims here,” Mendoza said in a statement. (PNA)

GenSan council pushes revision, updating of city’s revenue code

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DRRM AWARDEE. Tagum City Mayor Allan L. Rellon (2nd from left) formally receives the Gawad Kalasag Award for Tagum City as Region XI’s Best LGU in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Humanitarian

Assistance. Joining him in receiving the award from the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is City Administrator and CDRRMO Action Officer Giovanni L. Rellon (extreme right).

CDO dads alarmed over illegal gas peddling

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OCAL officials in Cagayan de Oro have expressed alarm over the proliferation of “fuel peddling” along the city’s sidewalk here.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported that the fire in the village of Camaman-an here a few months ago might have been due to fuel which the owner hoarded inside his

house.

City Councilor Romeo V. Calizo, chair of the city council committee on public safety, said authorities could not apprehend these bootleg fuel vendors since there is no national law preventing them from selling on the streets.

In response to the BFP findings, the City Council is drafting

an ordinance declaring it illegal to sell petroleum products outside the accredited gas outlets.

The association of gas dealers here had earlier expressed concern on the illegal sale of petroleum products along the streets sans the necessary permits.

The gas dealers said the sales of accredited gas dealers

have been affected due to the unscrupulous petroleum peddlers.

“As gas dealers, we obtained permissions from the Energy Commission and acquired the required business permits and BFP clearance prior to the selling of petroleum products,” the gas dealers said.

(PNA)

One of the police officers in the province was found positive of illegal drug use, as three are from Sultan Kudarat, according to Supt. Romeo Galgo, PNP-12 regional spokesperson.

Galgo did not name the four police officers, but said the urine samples they submitted are undergoing confirmatory laboratory examination.

Alvero ordered the mandatory drug test for all police officers across the province

in the face of allegations some police officers were involved in illegal drug related activities.

South Cotabato Governor Daisy Avance Fuentes earlier ordered all provincial government employees to undergo drug test to erase suspicion some are into illegal drug activities.

Fuentes said 10 employees are now facing dismissal from service after they yielded positive of shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) use.

A surprise drug test was conducted last week, in which the names of the 10 workers were withheld while the investigation is still on going.

Fuentes said some of the employees who were found to be positive of drug use were job orders, while some were regular employees.

The job orders were automatically dismissed from service, while the regular workers will undergo administrative charges. (PNA)

Compulsory drug test for SouthCot cops continue

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OUR police officers in South Cotabato face administrative charges for refusing to submit themselves for compulsory illegal drug tests.

Senior Supt. Franklin Alvero, South Cotabato police provincial director, did not identify the police officers but issued a directive for them to submit themselves for drug testing or face charges.

He, however, did not identify the officers.

N a bid to increase the city’s revenues, the city council is pushing for the immediate revision and updating of the local government’s tax or revenue code and other related regulations.

Vice Mayor Shirlyn Banas-Nograles said Wednesday the city government needs to come up with a new revenue code or ordinance to replace its existing regulations, which were implemented 20 years ago.

Since it was passed in 1996, she said the city’s revenue code has not undergone any revision or updating.

“There is an urgent need to update our Local Revenue Code, which dates back to 1996. The measures, rates

and schedules found there are already antiquated,” Nograles said.

She noted that most of the code’s provisions are no longer applicable at this time, as the city’s business and economic activities have grown by leaps and bounds over the past two decades.

The vice mayor specifically cited the development and expansion in the area’s consumer and service-based industries.

“Just try to imagine, I was still in college when our existing revenue code took effect,” she said.

Nograles said the revision of the revenue code will complement the passage last year of the city’s updated investment code. (PNA)

Comelec registers 13,135 new voters in Zamboanga

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HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) reported a total of 13,135 youths and regular voters who have registered in this city during the just concluded 15day registration period.

The registration of voters started on July 15 and ended July 31.

Atty. Lerdo Matildo Jr., second district election officer, on Tuesday told the Philippines News Agency that 6,998 of the 13,135 new voters registered in his district, while the remaining 6,137 in the first district.

The first district consists of 37 barangays and the second district comprises of 61 barangays, including eight island villages.

Matildo said the registration documents of the new voters will be sent to the Comelec

central office for Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) to ensure none of them are multiple registrants.

Matildo said the Election Registration Boards (ERBs) of the first and second districts will also convene to deliberate and approve the registration of the new registrants.

The youth registrants are aged 15 to 24. However, only those 18 to 24 years old can file their candidacy for the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections, while those aged 15 to 17 can only vote.

Youths 18 to 24 years old can also vote in the regular elections.

Meanwhile, Matildo announced that the filing of the certificate of candidacy for the barangay and SK elections is from Oct. 3 to 5. The election is on October 21. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO

6 ECONOMY

BEST OF KADAYAWAN. Department of Tourism (DOT) 11 director Robbie Alabado (third from left, seated), Kadayawan sa Davao 2016 co-chair Art Boncato (second from left, seated), Kadayawan 2016 heads the finance ways and means committee Gene Bangayan (rightmost, seated) and Jasper Huang (rightmost), Park Inn by Radisson

VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

Davao executives led by its general manager Emelyn Mauhay (second from right, seated) together with members of local media pose for a photograph during the preview of the hotel’s Kadayawan special – the Boodle Fight Meal at RBG Bar and Grill yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Al-ag wants 100-ha area turned into industrial zone S

Silangan Mindanao Mining halts operation in Surigao

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

OUNCILOR Bernard Alag is proposing the development of a 100-hectare government-owned property in the city into an industrial zone, a move that is in line with the Duterte administration’s thrust of developing more economic zones for business people who want to invest in the manufacturing sector.

“We’re eyeing to establish the government-initiated industrial zone either in Paquibato or Bunawan.So, tingnan natin baka may mga properties diyan na hindi ginagamit, tayo na lang ang magdevelop kung meron,” Al-ag told reporters during an interview after last Tuesday’s Sangguniang Pan-

glungsod session.

The councilor said the details of the plan will be discussed during the Executive-Legislative Agenda (ELA) meeting slated at the end of the month.

He noted the establishment of accredited industrial zones will help increase investment in the city’s manufacturing sector, and contribute to the city government’s goal of boosting job generation.

“I think the manufacturing sector, [is one of] sector[s] that can provide really hundreds or thousands of jobs,” he added.

Al-ag bared the city government plans to carry out a benchmarking of existing in-

PHL aerospace players gear to become global suppliers

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HE Philippine aerospace industry is gearing towards complying and aligning its capabilities as global suppliers of aerospace parts and components as qualified local aerospace companies are set to undergo training that will aid them in implementing Aerospace Quality Management System (AQMS) in their firms leading to AS 9100 certification.

AS 9100 is a widely adopted and standardized quality management system for the aerospace industry. Major aerospace manufacturers and suppliers worldwide require accreditation to AS 9100 as a condition of doing business with them.

An initiative under the Aerospace Roadmap, the training program is set to be

implemented this year under the “Supporting Philippine Companies in the Preparation and Implementation of an AQMS Aligned with AS 9100 Requirements” Project following the recent signing of a memorandum of agreement between the Board of Investments (BOI) of the Department of Trade & Industry (DTI), the Metal Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Aerospace Industries Association of the Philippines (AIAP).

“The next two decades could see the Philippines becoming a hub for manufacturing and aftermarket services in the aerospace and aviation industries in the ASEAN re-

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dustrial parks operated and owned by the government such as the one in Laguna, which the city might use as a model.

The councilor said the city government may decide to develop its own industrial park “if it has the money,” or declare an area as an industrial zone and encourage investors to develop the site.

Although Davao City has existing privately-owned industrial parks, some manufacturers are hesitant to locate there due to the high real property cost.

Moreover, locators also have to invest in developing utilities and to construct road networks, which would signifi-

cantly increase their operating costs, he added.

Al-ag revealed the city recently lost a P50-million agribased manufacturing investment because of the dearth of affordable sites for industrial use.

He said the investor instead went to Laguna and put up her cacao processing plant there.

“We lost many opportunities,” the councilor lamented.

Al-ag stressed he wants the city government-owned and operated industrial parks to be investment-ready, with all key services and infrastructure in place and ready for the use of investors.

DISSAPPOINTED. Unifrutti executive vice president and PISO lead convenor Edgar Bullecer expresses his disappointment regarding the HARVEST facility project for the Bangsamoro, which until now has not yet been realized due

ILANGAN Mindanao Mining Corp. (SMMCI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Philex Mining Corp., has pushed back mining operations in one of its prospective mineral reserves in Surigao del Norte.

Businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan, in an interview with the media on the sidelines of PLDT’s financial results briefing, said they expect commercial operations at Silangan mine by 2020, a year later than initially planned because of the extension in the mine life of the company’s Padcal copper-gold mine in Benguet.

“We are currently completing requirements for the feasibility study on Silangan,” said Pangilinan.

Philex earlier said it is looking at 2018 or early 2019 for the commencement of initial ore production at Silangan project, which is the

company’s next big prospective mine and will replace the Padcal mine whose mine life is expected to end in December 2022.

As of end-2014, the mining company has already invested more than PHP13 billion in the project for the initial exploration and related works on the site. This is on top of the estimated commercial operations project cost of about USD 1.2 billion.

Pangilinan, however, said the estimated cost of developing its new Silangan copper-gold mine has been reduced to USD 900 million.

The Silangan project is located in Surigao del Norte, at the northern part of Mindanao.

It combines the development of Boyongan and Bayugo deposits, which are comprised of gold, copper, and silver.

Its current resource esti-

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to unknown reasons even though the funds from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are already available. Bullecer shared his views in the weekly Wednesdays @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Lean Daval Jr.

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ECONOMY 7

Mining group hits ADDU for its exclusion in mining gab

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EMBERS of the Alliance of Responsible Miners of Region 11 (ARMOR) complained of their exclusion as participants in today’s forum on mining organized by the Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU).

Business leader Vicente T. Lao, past president of ARMOR, told Edge Davao yesterday that none of the alliance’s members were invited by the organizers to take part in today’s event.

According to Lao, miners, specially the responsible ones, are entitled to a level playing field, as they are among the industry’s main stakeholders.

Edge Davao tried to get the

side of the forum’s organizer yesterday evening. However, the group did not release any statement regarding their decision.

Environment Secretary Gina Lopez will grace today’s “Oya Mindanaw! The State of Mindanao Environment Day,” an event that aims to highlights the issues and concerns confronting the people of Mindanao vis-a-vis the current state of the island-region’s environment.

The event is organized by ADDU, through its Institutional Communications and Promotions (ICOMMP) Office. CHENEEN R. CAPON

DOF sec trains eyes on improved collection among large taxpayers

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INANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said on Tuesday the government’s bid to secure funds for its programs will be backed by strengthened efforts of broadening the tax base and by property collecting from large taxpayers.

In his keynote speech during the First Metro Investment Corporation-Financial Times (FMIC-FT) economic summit at Fairmont Hotel in Makati City, the finance chief said economic managers are reviewing the country’s tax base and eye a PHP1-million all-in income tax for large taxpayers.

Asked by reporters to provide more details, Dominguez explained the government will focus its collection on large taxpayers because he does not believe the current figures based on the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s (BIR) Large Taxpayer Service (LTS) is only about 2,800.

“We are going to put more effort in tax collections and the biggest yields you get are in relatively large taxpayers.

I can’t see why there’s only 2,800. It should be more than that. BIR should expand that number,” he said.

Dominguez noted that the tax base in the country was created in 1997, and no longer applicable to the present time.

He explained that maximum tax exemption based on the current law is only PHP500,000 and this needs to be adjusted and pegged against inflation.

“We have not come up with the exact tax tables yet because we are consulting the various members of legislature,” he said.

Dominguez said the strengthened tax collection efforts would be “aggressive” but not to the point of shaming people similar to the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign.

“I hope that taxpayers do not require us to make it that aggressive. We expect more compliance. And we will be very happy if they just cough up the money that they owe us,” he added. (PNA)

ARMM eyes Sabah Trade Expo for regional business ventures

T

HE Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is upbeat in joining the Sabah Trade Expo in Malaysia slated on Sept. 15 this year, which will be participated in by member-states under the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asian Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).

Lawyer Anwar Malang, regional trade and industry secretary, views the upcoming business event as another chance for ARMM to lure business partners from the BIMP-EAGA under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.

The ARMM comprises the cities of Marawi and Lamitan, and also the provinces of Maguindanao, Sulu, Lanao del Sur, Basilan and Tawi-tawi.

Malaysian authorities have earlier closed Sabah, which is near Tawi-Tawi, to barter trading, due to relentless kidnapping activities staged by members of the extremist Abu Sayyaf Group between the waters of Malaysia and Philippines

in the south.

Slowly though, the Malaysian government has eased its stance on the issue, after seeing ongoing security improvements implemented by the Duterte administration in the area.

“We are specifically targeting on micro scale businesses with PHP5-million capital to do trading with us,” Malang said during a Tuesday press conference following a DTI–ARMM management conference meeting held at the Pagana diner here.

He said the ARMM needs to connect with BIMP-EAGA trading partners to start the expansion of industries in the region, whose Gross Regional Domestic Product is signficantly affected by intermittent clashes between state forces and Moro rebels since 2014.

Malang said he would like to present to the Sabah exposition the region’s booming industries such oil palm, coconut and seaweeds, among others, to entice trading partnerships in the region. (PNA)

Home-grown developer and one of the top 10 developers in the country according to BCI Asia Awards is among the participants in this year’s Subdivision and Housing Developers Association, Inc. (SHDA) housing fair held at the activity center of Abreeza Mall yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Sec. Wanda wants more flights, improved Mindanao airports

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

T

crc@edgedavao.net

OURISM Secretary Wanda Teo wants Davao City and the rest of Mindanao to be more accessible to foreign and domestic tourists by adding more international and domestic flights, and modernizing the facilities of airports in the region.

This developed following the marked increase in tourist arrivals in Davao City and the rest of Mindanao, which has been largely attributed to President Rodrigo Duterte’s victory in the 2016 elections.

The plan was bared during an inter-agency meeting recently, which was spearheaded by the Department of Tourism (DOT) in response to a resolution passed

last month by the Davao City Council titled “Requesting the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) for Additional Local and International Flights in Davao City”.

The inter-agency meeting was attended by key officials and representatives from the DOT, DOTC, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Mindanao Development Authority (MINDA), as well as representatives from the city government which included councilor Bernard Al-ag of the City Council’s Committee on Rules and Councilor Conrado Baluran of the Committee on Transportation.

In his speech during Tuesday’s regular session, Councilor Alryan Alejandre, who chairs the City Council’s committee on tourism, said the DOT 11 has thrown its full support behind the Council’s proposal to improve air connectivity in the city.

“The regional office of the DOT in Davao however agreed with the observation of the City Council that one of the issues that confront us nowadays is our city’s lack of connection to international hubs and destinations,” he said.

To entice more international carriers to fly the Davao route, Alejandre said it was agreed upon during the meeting to align of the

programs of concerned national government agencies with those of the city government, and develop an incentive program for industry players.

Representatives from different airline companies also presented their development programs and future plans in line with the ongoing efforts “to chart the development of tourism” in the country.

“During the discussion, the airline companies likewise laid out their current programs including fleet expansion and modernization and route network expansion, while also suggesting some airline needs,” Alejandre said.

out the go signal from Mayor Sara,” he added.

Cortez said the Malaysian firm is currently finalizing the project proposal which will be submitted to the city government for the body’s assessment and approval.

“They’re doing some pencil pushing with regards to cost, because I already told them that because you are proposing with a PPP (public-private partnership), it should be at no cost to the city,” he added.

This means that Mercury should incorporate all foreseeable expenses in their project costing, including the tenement housing and condo-type buildings they intend to build for the residents who will be displaced by the project.

Cortez said he encouraged the group to focus on developing the coastal area of the city, and extend the project up to the portion of Magsaysay Park.

The project will also involve reclamation, but won’t cover the area to be developed by Mega Harbour for its multi-billion reclamation project, which includes port operations, as well as commercial, residential and tourism-related activities.

Cortez also bared that Mercury Group will partner with Mega Harbour to develop a 200 hectares of reclaimed lands stretching from Agdao to Bucana.

Last year, the group estimated that the project, identified as an unsolicited propos-

al, will cost around P3 billion to complete.

Cortez, who used to be chief of the Davao City Investment Promotions Center (DCIPC), reported last year the city government was able to finally resolve the issue concerning the presidential proclamation issued by then-President Joseph Estrada designating the 123,201-square meter area of Isla Verde as a residential area.

The said proclamation prevented the city government from accepting investors who were interested in developing the area into a commercial-tourism hub.

The city government sent a letter of request in 2014 to Malacañang to reclassify the area. CHENEEN R. CAPON

F SEC. WANDA, 13

Malaysian company to proceed with development of Isla Verde M

ALAYSIAN firm Mercury Group Ltd. is bent on pursuing the proposal it presented a year ago to develop Isla Verde into a commercial, tourism and residential area.

This developed after the group had a meeting with officials of the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) last month, even as the firm expressed its desire to proceed with the project.

“I think they’re very interested to resume the proposal to pursue the development of Isla Verde,” Ivan C. Cortez, CPDO chief, said Tuesday.

However, Cortez advised the group to talk to Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio to formalize the project.

“We will not move with-

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

EDITORIAL A nationwide 911

B

RACE yourselves for a 911 all over the country.

After the 888 complaints line, the national government has launched the 911 hotline for emergencies. For starters, the 911 caters to police functions at the moment.

Unlike in Davao City, where the 911 hotline connects callers to police, fire, medical, and other emergency units, the nationwide version, which is handled by a 45-station strong call center, can only directly connect to police units.

The nationwide 911 at the moment is purely police response. Soon, we can add the medical, emergency and disas-

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

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ter helplines incorporated under 911.

Under the nationwide 911 system, concerns of callers are coursed through the different hierarchies of the PNP – from the National Operations Center (NOC) to the Regional Office, down to the Provincial Police Office, until it finally reaches the municipal or city units.

It may take some time before the 911 of Davao City becomes a nationwide service but with the government’s resources, this life-saving initiative deserves to be given top priority. It is one consolidated system that will put this country ahead in responding to disasters, emergencies and crime.

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE

LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager EDMUND D. RENDON Unit 6, SouthbankMarketing Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Specialist General Santos City Cagayan de Oro City Mobile: (Smart) 0948-823-3685 Tel: (088) 852-4894

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EDGEDAVAO

M

Y father quit smoking five years ago. “I don’t care anymore,” he replied when told about the sin tax bill, which make cigarettes and liquors more expensive. “But that’s a good news,” he added.

He is now in his early 70s but he still works – as a mechanic. “I feel so tired when I stop working,” he said. In fact, when he quit smoking, he also started bicycling – as a sort of his hobby.

My mother is four years younger than my father and she’s still going great – although she walks slowly these days. Thanks God that she’s healthy – she doesn’t have diabetes, hypertension, or Alzheimer’s disease. Her form of exercise: just walking two times a day from the house going to the public market, which is about half a kilometer away.

Why I am writing this piece? The reason: senior citizens are in the news these days. A couple of years ago, the “Philippine Daily Inquirer” reported that Mamie Rearden, of Edgefield, South Carolina, died. She was considered “the oldest living American citizen.” She died at the age of 114.

Rearden was more than a year younger than the world’s oldest person, 115-year-old Jiroemon Kimura of Japan, according to the Gerontology Research Group, which verifies age information for Guinness World Records.

“If only , when one heard / That Old Age was coming / One could bolt the door, / Answer

E

VERY year Davao City celebrates two significant events, the March 16 ‘Araw ng Dabaw’ and the mid-August ‘Kadayawan Festival’, originally called the Apo Duwaling.

While it is not difficult to discern that Kadayawan, a Bagobo term, is a tribute to good harvests, there’s a nagging question why Davao City celebrates its Araw on March 16, the date Commonwealth Act No. 51, which elevated the old town to a city, took effect. The law was filed in the National Assembly by Romualdo Cauilan Quimpo in 1936 as Bill No. 906.

If you take a curious look at the last section of the Act, which is Article VII, it has no effectivity date and merely stipulates that it would take effect upon approval.

This historical conundrum is further muddled by two documents that predate the March 16, 1937 formal inauguration of Davao as a city, which was attended by then secretary of the interior and finance Elpidio Quirino, instead of Commonwealth President Manuel L. Quezon.

At the time of the inauguration, Quezon was in the US for a joint statement to be signed on March 18, 1937 alongside with Assistant Secretary of State Francis Bowes Sayre, Sr., chair of the Inter-Departmental Committee on Philippine Affairs, a preparatory working group created for the granting of Philippine independence.

Sayre, a professor at Harvard Law School who was named US High Commissioner in the Philippines (1947-52), is the same person honored by a highway that stretches between

VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

The rise of senior citizens

VANTAGE POINTS

9

“Not at home” THINK ON THESE! / And refuse to meet him!”

This poem, written in Japan in 905, shows that avoiding old age has been a common goal among people the world over Henrylito D. Tacio for centuries. henrytacio@gmail.com Ponce de Leon’s quest for the mysterious fountain of youth led him to discover Florida. With its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and palm trees, Florida in itself is a kind of fountain of youth. Many Americans today who retire to Florida do seem to recover their youthful energy and vigor.

In 1808, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe wrote of a 14th century alchemist, Faust, who sold his soul to the devil in exchange for a youth-restoring potion. As expected, Faust came to an unpleasant end.

The Bible recorded the oldest living man through these words: ‘When Methuselah had lived 187 years, he became the father of Lamech. And after he became the father of Lamech, Methuselah lived 872 years and had other sons and daughters. Altogether, Methuselah lived 969 years, and then he died” (Genesis

5:25-27).

No one lives forever, for sure. But this fact doesn’t stop doctors and scientists to search for ways how to live longer. “Aging is the progressive accumulation of changes with time associated with or responsible for the ever-increasing likelihood of disease and death which accompanies advancing age.” That statement comes from Denham Harmon, one of the leading experts in the field of anti-aging research.

In recent years, people are living longer – thanks to science. This is particularly true in the Philippines. A press statement released by the Department of Science and Technology said the country is now home to around 6.8 million senior citizens. This figure is expected to reach 12 million by the year 2040.

Most of those senior citizens are females.

According to the Washington-D.C.-based Population Research Bureau (PRB), life expectancy of women in the country is 72 years old while those of men is 65 years old. For both sexes, the life expectancy is 69 years old.

As of mid-2012, the Philippines has about 96.2 million people, PRB reports. The number is expected to increase to 117.8 million by mid2025 and further to 154.5 million by mid-2050.

The country’s births per 1,000 population is 25. In comparison, the deaths per 1,000 population is only 6. As expected, the percentage of those in the age bracket of 65 years and older is 4 while those from 15 years old and below is 35.

“Age is an issue of mind over matter,” wrote American humorist Mark Twain. “If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”

But it does! In fact, a range of degenerative diseases accompany aging, such Alzheimer’s disease, a disorder that causes the gradual loss of brain cells. There are an estimated 200,000 senior Filipinos suffering from this kind of disease, but very few are diagnosed because many families do not consult a doctor and dismiss the ailment as forgetfulness that comes with old age.

“Alzheimer’s disease is chronic and progressive, and it takes its toll economically and socially,” reminded neurologist Jacqueline Dominguez of the St. Luke’s Memory Center.

She encouraged vulnerable groups – 65 years old and above – to engage in activities that stimulate mental exercise like cards, bridge, scrabble and domino. If your parents like videoke singing, don’t stop them. Doing so makes the brain works as it requires reading the lyrics and remembering the tunes while the old folks are enjoying themselves.

To end this piece, allow me to quote some words from the song popularized the Frank Sinatra: “And now, the end is near; and so I face the final curtain. My friend, I’ll say it clear, I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain. I’ve lived a life that’s full. I’ve traveled each and every highway; and more, much more than this, I did it my way.”

Bukidnon and FAST BACKWARD Cagayan de Oro. It was he who led the project since its start of construction.

Back to the two documents. Quezon, in a press stateAntonio V. Figueroa ment dated March 1, 1937, sent a telephoned message to Secretary Jorge B. Vargas, greeting the people of Davao on the occasion of the city’s inauguration. In full, the communication runs: “To the people of Davao: The inauguration under its new charter of the city of Davao, important in international trade, brings to realization one of my long cherished plans of affording your city every opportunity to make great strides in its political, social, and economic development. I have selected as your Mayor a man long tried in municipal administration and I am confident that your city officials, with the wholehearted cooperation of all elements of the community, will succeed in making of Davao a progressive and model urban center.

“From the United States, I send you my greetings and felicitations.”

To underscore the significant of March 1, 1937 as the original schedule of the inauguration, he even issued a predated edict on Jan. 23,

1937 declaring the date as a special holiday in the province of Davao. In part, Proclamation No. 132, states: “By virtue of the powers conferred upon me by law, I, Manuel L. Quezon, President of the Philippines, do hereby set aside March first, nineteen hundred and thirty-seven, for the inauguration of the City of Davao, created

by Commonwealth Act Numbered Fifty-one, as amended by Commonwealth Act Numbered Two hundred nine.

“In order to provide full opportunity for the people of Davao to participate in the celebration of the inauguration of the said city, so that the day may be fittingly observed, March first, nineteen hundred and thirty-seven, is hereby declared a special public holiday for the Province of Davao.”

But there was a change of schedule, which meant moving forward the inauguration to a later date and it’s unclear who made the adjustment. Instead of March 1, the inauguration was now timed on the date Commonwealth Act No. 51 was approved.

In retrospect, the first Araw (though there was no such celebration until the post-Marcos era) and the city’s inauguration were held together on March 16, 1937. This historical twist could be the reason why the City Council passed in 1968Resolution No. 197, changing Tomas P. Claudio Street to Elpidio Quirino, in honor of the person who led the city’s inaugural ceremony.

Still, in the official declaration of ‘Araw ng Dabaw’, two post-Marcos laws passed by Con-

gress, probably due to lapse, are redundant.

Republic Act (RA) No. 7551, which declares March 16 of each year as Araw and is a special nonworking public holiday in the city, states: “In accordance with the approval of Commonwealth Act No. 51, otherwise known as the Charter of Davao City, mandating the creation of the city as a distinct political subdivision, this Act declares March 16 of 1990 and every year thereafter as Araw ng Davao, a special nonworking public holiday in the entire Davao City.“ Additionally, it mandates that “the officials of Davao City shall lead appropriate and meaningful celebrations and activities participated in by officials and employees of the national government agencies or instrumentalities, civic, religious and nongovernment organizations, and private companies doing business and operating in Davao City in order to give significance and meaning to the occasion and to honor the inhabitants of Davao City.”

This first Act was passed during the first Aquino administration.

In RA 7685, the second Araw law passed during the time of President Fidel Ramos and approved on Feb. 23, 1994, states that “March 16 of every year is hereby declared as a special nonworking public holiday in the City of Davao, to be known as the ‘Araw ng Dabaw.’”

The question begging response remains: Is there really a need to issue a yearly executive order (after the matter of holiday declarations were placed under the President) for the same purpose already stipulated under RA 7551?

An issue of inaugurations

10 NEWS MAYOR... FROM 1

EDGEDAVAO

ise to abide by the rules set by the city.

Meanwhile, Poliquit said the closure order will only be temporary until the city government has developed a

better system for the vendors.

“The mayor has the power to close it or temporarily stop it if they will not abide by the law,” he stressed.

From January to July this

year, the city has earned P2.98 million from the night market.

The night market’s total revenue increased from P2.24 million in 2014 to P5.47 million in 2015.

CAFGU members who were ambushed by the NPAs last week were already out of their camp days before the ceasefire was declared, and that, in compliance to President Duterte’s declaration, were immediately ordered to go back to their pa-

trol base.

“We are calling on the NPA to stop resorting to propaganda and instead truthfully show their sincerity in the efforts of President Duterte to bring peace to the entire nation,” the 10th ID commander said.

The command added the whole AFP fully supports President Duterte’s peace agenda as they call on all Filipinos, including the communist rebels, “to take this opportunity and support our President to finally bring peace to our country.”

tigil na patayan. We do not want the President to fail because the failure of the government is tantamount to our failure as a church because we voted for him in the last election. The President cannot do it alone,” they pointed out.

For his part, Sueno expressed his gratitude for the groups’ visit and their offer to help the government.

He said rehabilitation is one of the areas where churches and other faith-based groups can help the government in transforming the lives of drug surrenderees.

“Ang ilegal na droga ay sakit ng buong lipunan kaya kailangan natin ang suporta ng lahat ng sektor para sugpuin ito. Malaki ang maitutulong ninyo sa ating rehabilitation program para sa mga drug surrenderers,” the Secretary told

the groups.

The JIL and PYM are among the faith-based groups, people’s organizations and other sectoral groups which have thrown their support behind the DILG’s program for rehabilitation and reintegration to society of drug surrenderees.

Earlier, bishops and priests who are part of the Ugnayan ng Barangay at Simbahan (UBAS) also expressed their willingness to help by marshaling People’s Watch (Masa Masid) to help cleanse the government of corruption.

JIL head Bro. Eddie Villanueva said, “We passionately love God and our country. We want to be the base support of the administration by silently helping and coordinating with the local chief executives for the spiritual nourishment of surrenderers.”

Villanueva said they believe in the capacity of Secretary Sueno to handle the enormous task as the head DILG because of his gentle heart governed by love and understanding just like the heart of Jesus Christ.

“Our members believe that Secretary Sueno was anointed

by God to be in this DILG position. Promotion does not come from the East or West or North or South, it comes from God. And we know that Secretary Sueno has a gentle heart to balance the strong personalities of President Duterte and PNP Chief Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa,” he noted.

Towards the end of the meeting, the group prayed over Secretary Sueno and the DILG leadership and personnel for the success of the Department’s programs and projects. (PNA)

CAFGU... FROM 2

More... FROM 2

Gov Cagas... FROM 4

have denied having to do with the crime.

The petition of bail was granted by Judge Lydia Lily Laquindanum of RTC Midsayap. The marathon hearing on the petition for bail of Cagas and Fernandez by an-out-oftown RTC judge was ordered by the Supreme Court after all local judges begged to inhibit

themselves from the case.

The marathon hearing was conducted by Judge Laquindanum for two weeks ending yesterday.

Governor Cagas who appeared calm and composed during the hearing was represented by a battery of lawyers led by Dennis Manalo who figured in the impeachment trial

of the late Supreme Court chief justice Renato Corona, while ex-mayor Fernandez’s lead legal counsel was Raul Tolentino Sr. The private prosecutor was Ceasar S. Europa Jr., past president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Davao City chapter. (With reports from MANNY CAUSING, Edge Davao correspondent).

gion,” said Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo during his keynote message at the ceremonial signing of the agreement with MIRDC and AIAP at the Innovation Hub of the DTI International Building in Makati City.

As the country’s participation in the global value chain is increasing, the capability-training programs suits well as these will further enhance the competitiveness of our local aerospace industry.

This means more quality jobs for Filipinos and more export earnings for the country,” said Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo during his keynote message at the ceremonial signing of the agreement with MIRDC and AIAP at the Innovation Hub of the DTI International Building in Makati City.

“Under the Tripartite Collaboration Project, the BOI, under the Industry Development Program (IDP), will provide the funding as well as coordinative and administrative

support for the smooth implementation of the program,” Rodolfo added.

MIRDC, meanwhile, will implement the program in coordination with the AIAP for the needed assistance, specifically in the pre-screening and selection of prospective participating companies to the capability-building training activities.

The Aerospace Industry Roadmap envisions the country to be a hub in aerospace parts manufacturing and allied services (MRO) in Asia.

The industry also projects to export about USD 2.57 billion worth of aerospace parts and components by 2022, and for the industry to employ around 15,000 personnel by 2022.

Authored by the AIAP, with the guidance of the BOI and other government industry stakeholders, the Aerospace Industry Roadmap identified technological constraints in the integration of process capabilities in the country.

Apart from the challenge

of building a pool of suppliers with AS 9100 and NADCAP certifications, the industry is faces challenges in the areas of small supply base that can cater to the requirements of the Tier 1 aerospace parts manufacturers in the Philippines.

Additionally, investments in critical supply chain gaps, such as surface treatment, heat treatment, plating, anodizing for aerospace application, is needed to reduce cost of local manufacturers to 19 percent.

The roadmap is being implemented through a Technical Working Group composed of several government agencies such the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, Philippine Aerospace Development Corporation, MIRDC, Commission of Higher Education, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Philippine International Trading Corp. along with the private sector composed of the AIAP, the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul industry and the Aviation Schools Association of the Philippines. (PNA)

PHL... FROM 6

VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

TURNING A NEW LEAF. Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 11 director Adzhar Albani bares during yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at

Ritz Hotel that some of the pushers and users who surrendered are already undergoing rehabilitation especially those from Tagum City. Lean Daval Jr.

NAPOLCOM... FROM 4

lo E. Sapitula, Acting Executive Officer, Directorate for Integrated Police Operations– Southern Luzon; and, Sr. Supt.

Danilo L. Maligalig, Acting Deputy Regional Director for Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service

Case No. 2014-XI-00395 BABITO M. HINAY, Petitioner

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

Administration, Police Regional Office 10.

Vice-Chairman Casurao said that the NAPOLCOM approved and recommended to President Duterte their proRepublic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service

Case No. 2012-XI-00879 FELJUN O. ARCILLA, Petitioner

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING

NOTICE OF HEARING

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ-DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: TIBULOY and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on May 26, 2017. In the petition filed on July 21, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ-DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: TIBUNGCO VIA R. CASTILLO and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on December 16, 2016.

In the petition filed on July 21, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

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

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

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

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

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on AUGUST 15, 2016 at 09:10 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 22nd day of July 2016 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on AUGUST 15, 2016 at 09:50 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 22nd day of July 2016 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

motion to star rank positions after the PNP Chief,recommended their promotion and certified that they meet all the requirements for promotion.

(PNA/Xinhua) Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI Service

Case No. 2014-XI-01037 MYRNA B. JEMINA, Petitioner

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI service on the route: WITHIN DAVAO CITY to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on June 7, 2016. In the petition filed on July 21, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on AUGUST 15, 2016 at 09:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

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

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 22nd day of July 2016 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

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Madison’s Avenue Cafe: A foodie’s hip hangout

VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT DAVAO IS A FOODIE’S PARADISE. From fresh produce, to an array of international flavours, Davao is a destination that you need not miss. Every nook and corner in the city holds a treasure chest of exciting flavours that aim to excite the palate unlike any other. What’s more, the selection is endless. . . limited only by your imagination!

Over the years, the city has become a coffee hub, with affordable and high-end cafes lining every street. From internal coffee brands to the more laidback local coffee shops, Davao’s coffee industry has been brewing like crazy. But the best thing about our local coffee industry is the support provided to local farmers and producers. Now, that’s something to be happy and proud about.

Madison’s Coffee Avenue. Yes, Madison’s Coffee Avenue is a ‘nub’ -- a newbie in this coffee infested city. Still, it is one of those coffee shops that you need to visit when you are in town. Simple and downright straight to

the point, Madison’s Avenue has the essentials of an authentic Davao coffee experience -- homey, friendly and of course, very relaxing.

Since they opened their doors to the public, their red and white colored walls are always crowded with people.

From students to yuppies to just about anyone who

happens to crave for an instant gastronomic fix, Madison’s Avenue Cafe is ready to satisfy you.

Their location is also very convenient (located right along Roxas Boulevard, fronting a strip of wagwag/ukay-ukay stalls).

Their menu is simple.

Not exhaustive; just plain simple. Dishes offered are very homey thus, easy on the palate. A wide selection of hot and cold frappes and smoothies will surely have you smiling in an instant. Not to mention their crowd favorites, budget meals, available all day long.

Also in their menu are pastries and organic juice for you to choose from.

Although fairly new in the “gastro” industry, the coffee shop already has developed a list of best-sellers. Enjoy an afternoon of fun and food with their plate of nachos (rich, textured and crunchy), spaghetti bolognese (meaty without going overboard with the flavours), lumpia shanghai with egg, Madison’s

buttered chicken and garlic pork. Their budget meals (served with iced tea) include fried chicken, fish fillet and pork adobo.

Also included their menu is the Madison’s pancake, carbonara, clubhouse sandwich, egg sandwich and french fries. Also, hotdog with

egg and longganisa with egg.

Want some cold frappes? Try their Madison’s Choco Java chips (rich and decadent), durian frappe (soooo sarap!), rocky road frappe, mocha frappe and vanilla hazelnut frappe to name a few.

If smoothie is your cup

of tea, then better order one of these: mixed berries, strawberry, durian, raspberry banana, banana caramel, mango banana and carrot cucumber.

So, the next time you want to relax and enjoy a gastro adventure without breaking the bank, go ahead and pay Madison’s Avenue Cafe a visit. Tag your friends along.

Enjoy Happy Hour at Madison’s Avenue Cafe every 2:00pm to 4:00pm, Mondays to Saturdays. Buy 1, Take 1 on all their smoothies!

Madison’s Avenue Cafe is located Door 109 Charlotte Dormitel Bldg., Roxas Ave., 8000 Davao City, Philippines.

For inquiries, you may call them at 09985674996.

You can also find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MadisonsAvenueCafe.

Make #TheRoyalChef your Thursday habit. Follow my messy food affair at attheroyalchefeats. wordpress.com or on Instagram at @iamleebai.

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

FOOD

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

ED

PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS

Bar Pintxos holds Davao pop-up A RISING STAR IN METRO MANILA’S CULINARY SCENE, BAR PINTXOS IS A SECRET SPOT IN ALABANG WHICH SERVES AUTHENTIC BASQUE CUISINE. With the desire to give Dabawenyo a taste of Bar Pinxos, Crazy Cook’s Carmina del Rosario and Lagarde Wine’s Carlo Lorenzana teamed up to hold a Bar Pintxos Pop-up event last July 29 at the Marco Polo Davao’s Polo Bistro.

“We wanted to give the food lovers of Davao an experience that is unique to widen their palette,” said Carmina, “this is why we produced

this pop-up event.”

In attendance were many of Durianburg’s foodies who are already fans of the restaurant , as well as serious food afficionados who were eager to sample the gastronomic delights, this writer included.

On the menu was the restaurant’s famous Lamb Paella, but the highlight, or dare I say highlights, of the dining event were

clearly the restauran namesake, “pintxos.

Pintxos are sm bite-sized tapas co sisting of a small tow of savoury toppings sembled on top of a s of bread. There are set rules when ma ing pintxos, each d served that eveni was as interesting a diverse as Bar Pintx chef Miguel Vecin c create them.

A few of my favo rites that night inclu

DGEDAVAO

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

TOP ROW FROM LEFT: Bar Pintxos’ famous Pulpo. Pintxos pop-up partners Miguel Vecin of Pintxos, The Crazy Cook’s Carmina del Rosario, Tinchu Gonzalez, and Lagarde Wine’s Carlo Lorenzana. Salmon, truffle, goat cheese, caviar pintxos.

RIGHT: Marco Polo Davao’s Josef Ledesma, Honorary Spanish Consul Francisco Lon, and Swiss Deli’s Marcus Kehl and Romano Venuti.

s

nt’s .” mall onwer asslat no akdish ing and xos’ can

ouud-

BOTTOM RIGHT: Cheesemaker Olive Puentespina, Marco Polo Davao’s Pearl Peralta-Maclang, and Dottie Wugler-Cronin.

ed the Piquilla Brie Jamon (red pepper, brie, Jamon Serrano), the Salmon, Bacalao (salted dried codfish), Truffle, Caviar, homemade Corizo, the tender Pulpo (octopus), and Slow-cooked Angus beef cheeks which literally melted in my mouth and leaving me wanting for more.

A big congratulations to the organisers, I cannot wait for the next culinary pop-up.

The slow-cooked Angus beef cheeks were tender and flavorful.

PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS

Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO GENSAN PARTNERS

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ENTERTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO

SM Supermalls give KadayawanGoodVibes IN SUPPORT OF THE CITY’S ANNUAL KADAYAWAN FESTIVAL, SM malls are set to stage varied activities on Davao’s art and culture and bring loads of entertainment and shopping fun for locals and tourists alike.

From August 5 to September 4, mallgoers can enjoy exciting events slated at SM Lanang Premier and SM City Davao.

South by Mouth – a Mindanaowide culinary fair at all SM malls – kick offs in SM City Davao with a Grill Fest on August 12-14 at the Annex Driveway. It makes a stop in SM Lanang Premier, through the Davao Gourmet Collective, on August 19-21 at the Fountain Court grounds.

Mallgoers can party the night away at the Castaway Kadayawan Vibe Fest, which features some of the country’s most in-demand DJs, at SM Lanang Premier Fountain Court grounds and SM City Davao Open Parking C. DJs Marc Marasigan and Travis Monsod headline the party on August 19 while DJ Badkiss plays for the exclusive ETC Paintensity event in SM Lanang Premier on August 20. Sponge Cola top bills the music festival at SM City Davao along with DJs Jet Boado, Ron Poe, Madela x Marasigan x Monsod, MC Boo and Carlo Atendido. SM Youth ambassadors are also expected to join the party at the Open Parking C on Friday.

For the first time, SM Lanang Premier is staging the city’s most formidable fashion design competition for young, up-and-com-

ing designers – the Moda Mindanao Season 11 – August 21, 6pm at The Atrium. It is also having the Kadayawan Durian Festival on August 5 to September 4 at The Fountain Court grounds to boost appreciation for Davao’s King of Fruits. Other mall events to watch out for this season include the Kuntaw Mindanao Drum Circle and Cultural Show on August 21 and the Bumper to Bumper Car Show on August 20 to 21.

Meanwhile, SM City Davao hosts the country’s largest Agro Trade Fair until August 31. The farm and garden fair showcases

the city’s agriculture and horticulture products. On August 15, SM City Davao also highlights the city’s vibrant culture with the Sayaw Mindanao and the “IndakIndak” Street Dancing around the mall on August 15.

As a Kadayawan treat, shoppers of both malls can also grab up to 70% off on great finds at participating stores on August 15 to 21.

Get into the #KadayawanGoodVibes at Supermalls. For inquiries, check out SM Lanang Premier or SM City Davao on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

11 COMPETITIVE EDGE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

New study reveals the Internet is a source of family conflict and disconnect

T

HE way we live our digital lives at home is having a big impact on our family relationships, according to new research from Kaspersky Lab and iconKids & Youth. With people spending ever more time online, a fifth of parents and children say that the Internet and connected devices can be a cause of family tension.

The research, which surveyed over 3,700 families in seven countries, provides an insight into how the digital world is disrupting traditional family dynamics. Whereas in the past, parents were the first port of call for children seeking answers to questions or advice, one-in-four (23%) of the parents surveyed say that their kids now prefer to go online rather than talk to them.

The research also found that almost half (42%) of parents are not friends with their children on social networks, and one-in-five (18%) says

this is because their children would find it embarrassing.

All in all, a fifth of parents (21%) and children (22%) say that the Internet can cause family tension. Most concerning of all, one-in-three parents (31%) believe the Internet isolates them from their children.

The conflict may be exacerbated by the fact that the devices used to go online are often shared. Two-thirds of the families surveyed said they share a family computer.

As result, a third of parents (31%) complain that their child has broken something on a connected device or infected it with a virus while online (30%) and a quarter (24%) had to pay for something their child had ordered or downloaded. Similarly, 13% of kids accuse parents of breaking a device and 16% complain that their parents had accidentally deleted some of their data.

“It is only natural that

using – and misusing – each other’s connected devices can become a cause of conflict for families. However, as we spend more and more time online, family dynamics are also changing. It is important that families maintain an ongoing dialogue about how to spot and respond to potential dangers, with parents and children together agreeing on the basic rules on how they can best navigate the digital world,” said Andrei Mochola, Head of Consumer Business at Kaspersky Lab. “It is also important to be serious about protection.

We recommend installing an integrated home Internet security solution on all devices in the home. This should be enhanced with Parental Control software, which can block access to inappropriate sites or apps and prevent sensitive data from being shared or deleted,” he added.

“Although the Internet becomes a source of conflict in

some families, a recent study by the Joint Research Center of the European Commission interestingly underlines an emerging trend, with siblings and extended family members taking on a much bigger role in children’s online activities. Unsurprisingly, children are instinctively turning to the person they perceive to be able to fix technical issues, advise on sites and security tools and provide more objective responses to delicate queries,” commented Janice Richardson, Senior Advisor at European Schoolnet.

She adds: “This underlines the importance of parents and guardians developing their own technical competence and building trusting relationships with their children, whilst also establishing basic rules on Internet and device usage to avoid conflicts. At the same time, software and social media providers, too, should seek to develop more ‘family-friendly’ tools.”

Students of Almendras Elementary School get portals to digital world

T

EACHERS of Almendras Elementary School in Sta Cruz, Davao del Sur are helping their 600 enrolled students become more globally competitive by integrating computer literacy in their curriculum.

To help the school produce future-ready students, Hedcor donated 10 new computer units that will be used to educate pupils under the Department of Educa-

tion’s K-12 and computerization program.

“We are delighted with Hedcor for being a consistent partner of DepEd in increasing the achievement of the literacy levels of our children. Utilizing the advanced feature of computers will prepare our children to face the future with confidence and awareness of digital technologies,” said DepEd Division-Education Program Supervisor Christopher Fe-

lipe.

The promotion of computer literacy in the school also included the upgrading of teachers’ information technology skills (IT) through Hedcor’s Labor-Management Cooperation.

After the turn-over of the computers, Hedcor personnel conducted an orientation-workshop for the teachers on software application and firewall security access

to aid them in their teaching-learning activities.

Last year, the same school received six brand new classrooms from Hedcor, school supplies and hygiene kits.

Sta. Cruz is the home of Hedcor’s four run-of-river Sibulan and Tudaya hydropower plants with a total capacity of 56 megawatts, which supply the franchise areas of Davao Light and Power Company and Davao del Sur Electric Cooperative.

Water service interruption in some Ecoland areas, August 6

D

AVAO City Water District advises of a water service interruption on August 6, 2016 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 NN affecting some areas in Ecoland particularly from corner Ecoland Drive and Peacock Street to Doña Candelaria Street, portion of Ecoland Subd. Phase 2 specifically Eagle Street and Sparrow Street left and right, Moonland Subd., Sitio Narra, Sabroso Kabacan, Narra Street and Malamboon.

This water service interruption will give way to the tapping and installation of 100mm diameter gate valve to the existing 150mm diameter Polyvinyl Chloride pipeline for the new service connection of DMC Urban Property Development Inc. at Peacock Street in Ecoland.

DCWD general manager Engr. Edwin V. Regalado

asks for the understanding and cooperation of wouldbe affected customers. He also advises them to store enough water prior to the scheduled water interruption as water supply may be restored earlier if work goes smoothly or later if unforeseen problems arise.

The general public may visit DCWD website (www. davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www. facebook.com/davaowater) or call the Central Information Unit / Call Center through the 24-hour hotline 297-DCWD (3293) and press “1” on their phone dial to listen to latest daily water updates. They may also call / text 0927-7988966, 0925-5113293 and 09084410653 for other updates, complaints, queries and matters pertaining to DCWD services. (KATRINA BELEN M. ROBLE)

PLDT, Smart expand Wifi footprint in Mindanao

P

LDT and Smart Communications have reinforced the data connectivity at the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental with its Smart Wifi.

The firing up of Smart Wifi would improve customer experience for travelers using airport connectivity in the key gateways serving Northern and Southern Mindanao. Last week, PLDT and Smart also installed Smart Wifi in Davao City’s Francisco Bangoy International Airport.

The upgrade of the wireless connectivity in the airport would enable travelers to maximize their digital experience while surfing the Internet for their favorite sites, and keeping connected with home and office while traveling.

With a bandwidth of up to 1 gigabit per second, Smart Wifi promises a world-class digital experience.

“Connectivity is important for a country of many islands like the Philippines.

Smart Wifi is just the first in a series of projects that the Department of Transportation intends to roll out in the coming days in partnership with PLDT and Smart,” said Transportation Undersecretary Roberto Lim during the rollout in Davao City’s airport.

“A tourist’s impression of a country will be largely based on the first and last experience of his destination. Smart Wifi contributes to improving this experience and to the success of having them come over and visit Laguindingan Airport is one of busiest regional airports in the country.

It serves the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, as well as the provinces of Misamis Oriental and Lanao del Norte in

Northern Mindanao. It can accommodate 2,000 passengers a day, and up to 1.6 million a year.

“The installation of Smart Wifi in the Laguindingan airport is part of our commitment to improve Internet access and coverage nationwide. With the data connectivity, travelers will get to enjoy a seamless digital experience for more productive and meaningful journeys,” said Eric R. Alberto, EVP for PLDT/ Smart, and president and CEO of ePLDT. The Laguindingan and Davao airports are among the 21 major transport hubs identified by the DOT for installation of Smart Wifi as laid out by the Memorandum of Understanding signed by Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and PLDT and Smart chairman, president and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan.

The initial rollout also includes all four passenger terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport as well as airports in Iloilo, Bacolod, Dumaguete, Kalibo, Laguindingan, General Santos, Clark, Laoag, Cebu, Caticlan, and Zamboanga.

Also in the list are key seaports in Southern Luzon as well as MRT 3, and LRT lines 1 and 2 for Metro Manila.

Smart Wifi’s footprint will also be expanded to cover more public areas, such as city halls, schools, hospitals, and establishments such as malls, restaurants, and coffee shops, among many others, amid the increasing demand for more public Wifi hotspots in the country.

The rollout is backed by PLDT’s robust and resilient fixed and wireless networks.

EDGEDAVAO

12 HEALTH

VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

Much ado about kissing

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

“W

HAT’S in a kiss?” so goes a line of a very popular song. In a controlled experiment, it was found that increasing the frequency of kissing in marital and cohabiting relationships results in a reduction of perceived stress, an increase in relationship satisfaction, and a lowering of cholesterol levels.

Kissing can also cause the adrenal glands to release epinephrine and norepinephrine (adrenaline and noradrenaline) into the blood. This creates an adrenaline rush, which has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system because the heart pumps faster. In an experiment by Dr. Alexander DeWees, a passionate kiss generally burns up to 2–3 calories per minute.

Now, let’s talk about the other side. When you lock lips with someone, you actually allow yourself to catch germs. But no one seems to pay attention to it. However, a study published in the journal Microbiome showed that kissing does more than just making your blood race. A long intimate kiss -- about 10 seconds -- leads to the transfer of as many as 80 million bacteria between partners.

A news report gives this bit of information: “Humans have in them an ecosystem of more than 100 trillion microorganisms that thrive inside us - popularly called the microbiome. It is shaped by genetics, diet and age, but also the individuals with whom we interact.

With the mouth playing host to more than 700 varieties of bacteria, the oral microbiota also appear to be influenced by those closest to us.”

The Webster dictionary defines kiss as “an application of the lips to a person or things in token of affection, or reverence.” Robert Ripley (of Believe it or Not distinction) calls it “an anatomical juxtaposition of two orbicularis oris muscles in a state of contraction.”

Charles Darwin theorizes its beginnings from the act of lower animals who grappled their prey with their teeth. The physiologists identify it as a contraction of the mouth due to an enlargement of the heart.

The behaviorists tag it as a pleasant reminder that two heads are better than one.

During earlier times, man did not see it to express emotions through lip

The Webster dictionary defines kiss as “an application of the lips to a person or things in token of affection, or reverence.”

Robert Ripley (of Believe it or Not distinction) calls it “an anatomical juxtaposition of two orbicularis oris muscles in a state of contraction.”

movement. Actually, kissing, as it has been called, is the fruitful result of man’s ancient quest for salt (from which the word “salary” came from).

Researchers point out that early cave-dwellers were the first to discover the presence of salt on sweat-covered faces, so they took to licking the salty faces of their mates and loved ones. “At the dawn of civilization, the desire of salt-licking cave folk gave way to sensation far more pleasurable than the taste of salt itself,” one scribe noted.

The modern world, however, gave various interpretations on how to exacerbate a sensation depending on the mood and attitude of the sodium-seekers. This explains, therefore, why there are today many forms of kissing.

The early Christians made kissing a sign of fellowship. They greeted “all the brethren with an holy kiss.” Even more ceremonial is the “kiss of peace” given to the newly baptized and in celebration of the Eucharist. After a time, by ecclesiastical regulations, men were allowed to kiss only men, women only women.

More effusive was kissing as a court ceremony.

The ceremonial kiss, especially developed by the Persian kings, reached Greece after the Macedonian conquest, and Rome toward the end of the Republic, being afterwards adapted to imperial and papal habits.

The Oriental hand-kiss spread to the Greco-Ro-

man world, was revived at the courts of Christendom during the Renaissance.

The Greco-Roman custom of kissing the feet of temple statues was adopted by the primitive Church. From the same source sprang the practice of kissing the Book after oath-taking in courts of law.

According to Professor Vaughn M. Bryant, chairman of the anthropology department at Texas A&M University, where he teaches the origin of kissing as part of an introductory anthropology course, traced the history of kissing back to the Indian subcontinent.

“But it wasn’t kissing as we know it now,” he pointed out.

Prof. Bryant said that about 4000 years ago, the Eastern Indians used to kiss by pressing their noses together. “Well, okay, it’s not too hard to figure out what happened next.

Evidently they were pressing their noses together and somebody slipped and touched lips,” he added.

The custom spread to the Sumerian peninsula, because mention is made in ancient cuneiform writing of kissing - and brewing beer, incidentally. In 500 A.D., Karma Sutra wrote about kissing and the various places when a man should kiss women to arouse them.

According to Prof. Bryant, it was the Romans who really got wrapped up the osculatory habit. They took the kissing art to all the countries they conquered or traded with - the first kissing missionaries.

In the Roman literature, there are three types of kissing listed. The first is called osculum, which is just a friendship kiss and is not meant to arouse passion. It’s just like the peck hosts give their guests as they arrive or depart.

The second is called basium, which is a more passionate kiss, such as would be exchanged by lovers.

(The Spanish word for kiss, “beso,” comes from this Roman word, and so does the old English word “buss.”)

The third word for kiss the Romans used is savium, considered to be an erotic kiss since the tongue is nearly always brought into play. These days, it’s called the soul kiss or “French kiss.”

The earliest reference to kissing in the Old Testament is in Genesis 27:26, when Jacob deceives his father to obtain his blessing: “And his father Isaac said unto him, Come near now, and kiss me, my son.”

A little later, the first man-woman kiss in the Bible was recorded in Genesis 31:11, when Jacob flees from Esau and comes to the house of his uncle Laban: “And Jacob kissed Rachel, and lifted up his voice, and wept.”

One memorable kiss recorded in the Bible was the betrayal kiss of Judas. As told in the New Testament, Jewish leaders under the high priest Caiaphas had paid Judas Iscariot 30 pieces of silver to identify Jesus Christ. With a kiss, Judas singled him out. Jesus was arrested, charged with blasphemy, and con-

demned to death.

The custom of kissing the hand or foot of a political or religious leader to show respect and reverence dates back from ancient times.

In the Philippines, there are several superstitions regarding kissing. It is believed that kissing a sleeping baby will make him stubborn when he grows up, or he will get seriously ill. Letting two babies of different ages kiss each other will hamper the learning ability to talk of the older baby; he will wait for the younger one to start.

According to other beliefs, kissing the baby’s hand will cause the baby to have bad breath. A kiss on the baby’s nape will make him a spoiled brat. Kissing the baby’s foot will hamper his walking. Some believe that a person who kisses a baby on the lips will encourage him to “talk back” to elders. Fortunately, some of these superstitions are beginning to die.

And yes, there is a kissing disease and it is called mononucleosis. The disease was first described accurately in 1920 by doctors at John Hopkins University. They reported a strange illness in six students which was distinguished by fever (102 Fahrenheit); swollen glands all over the body but especially under the jaw and at the back of the neck; tonsils coated with a thick, whitish substance; skin covered with a fine, red rash; and changes in the white blood cells. The normal white cells were overshadowed by large cells with a single nucleus, hence the name, mononucleosis.

In the 1950s, the disease received wide publicity when Dr. Robert Hoagland, then chief physician at West Point Military Academy, reported quite accurately that the strange disease called mononucleosis was spread primarily by prolonged, passionate kissing.

(Kissing, however, is not the only way the disease can be transmitted. A few cases have originated by the communal use of drinking utensils.)

Fortunately, mononucleosis isn’t fatal. But, then, it is a bothersome illness to catch. It takes two to three weeks off a young person’s precious time - and it does make one feel really down. The disease often produces a mental depression of its own, independent of the virus. (Photos from the net)

VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

Sec. Wanda... FROM 7 The first inter-agency meeting of the tourism sector provided a venue to review the gaps identified by the Regional Development Council’s (RDC) airport inspection team, as well as determine how concerned agencies will be able to address the issues and concerns raised by the team.

With regards to infrastructure development, the (CAAP) presented the proposed P40-billion modernization and expansion of the Davao International Airport, which falls under the national government’s public-private partnership (PPP)

scheme.

Although the project is still under review, the Duterte administration gave its assurance the project will push through in line with the President’s goal of improving key infrastructure and enhancing transport connectivity across the country.

Alejandre also said the development of DIA, as well as the NAIA, Mactan-Cebu, Clark, Kalibo, Iloilo and Puerto Princesa airports, was identified by the DOT as a strategy to boost the nation’s tourism industry.

According to the councilor, Wanda said the DOT “will

NEWS 13

EDGEDAVAO also prioritize partnership with airlines in Asia with vast networks in other regions and participate in air services negotiations and various aviation/route events; conduct networking meetings with air carriers, and provide marketing support to local and foreign carriers.”

“There is a harmonious relationship between various agencies and everyone is excited to increase the connectivity in Davao City,” Alejandre said, adding “Everyone is willing to work hand in hand in improving the current status of our airline connectivity.”

Silangan... FROM 6 mates register average metal grades of 0.68 g/t for gold and 0.56 percent for copper, and indicate the presence of about five billion pounds of copper and nine million ounces of gold for the first 30 years -- classifying the project as a mid- to large-scale mining operation by international standards.

Philex is currently mining at 908 ML with 61.2 million MT of ore at .22 percent copper grade and 0.349 gram of gold per ton; 798 ML with 46.2 million MT of ore at 0.20 percent copper and 0.357 gram of gold per ton; and 782 ML with 40 million MT of ore at 0.22 percent copper and 0.368

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATES WITH WAIVER AND RENUNCIATION OF RIGHTS

Notice is hereby given that the Estates of the late ROMEO S. IBAOS has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH WAIVER AND RENUNCIATION OF RIGHTS executed among his heirs per Doc. No. 15; Page No. 3; Book No. VI; Series of 2016, of the NOTARY PUBLIC JENNIFE DP DUMALAG-BORONG 8/4,11,18

grams of gold per ton.

The 908 ML should have been mined out at the end of 2015. However, the broken reserves of some collapsed draw points at the level, which were not included in the October 2015 disclosure, will now be mined at 890 ML providing a remaining reserve of 0.7 million tons, it said.

The mineral reserves at 800-600 ML are seen extending Padcal’s mine life by two more years from 2020 to 2022, while the Bumolo project is currently under study.

Philex earlier announced “encouraging” results from its ongoing drilling at the Bumolo porphyry copper-gold project in Benguet, which could potentially further extend mining operations at the adjacent Padcal mine beyond 2022.

The mining firm said that the maiden inferred resource was estimated at 21.7 million metric tons (MT) at 0.2 percent copper, and 0.3 grams of gold per MT at 0.274 per-

cent copper equivalent cut-off grade.

The Bumolo deposit lies within the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) 156-2000 of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) of Philex.

The Bumolo deposit is only 1.5 kms east of the Sto. Tomas II deposit of the Padcal Mine, which has been in active operation for the past 58 years and has produced over 378 million tons of ore to date, primarily using the underground block caving method.

Copper price is seen to reach USD 2.73 - USD 2.80 per pound in 2017 to 2022 as forecast by World Bank and the UK-based Economic Intelligence Unit -- The Economist Group.

The price of gold, on the other hand, is forecast to reach USD 1275 - US$ 1290 per ounce in 2017 to 2019 as noted by Deutsche Bank and Economic Intelligence Unit - The Economist Group. (PNA)

lished Wednesday in one of the major broadsheets still contained age requirements for prospective job seekers despite the law being enacted last July 21.

Cayetano attributed this to low public awareness of the new law and urged the government to step up information campaign efforts.

In the meantime, the lady lawmaker said that she was elated that the bill she had

worked and pushed hard during the last Congress has become a law.

“The bill was particularly close to my heart as many of those marginalized by the practice of age discrimination were mothers, who temporarily left the workforce to care for their children, only to find that they could not anymore get a job upon returning because of age factor,” Cayetano said. (PNA)

Solon... FROM 4

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

SECOND STINT. Jasmine Alkhaldi, who thought of retirement earlier, will try to improve on her second stint in the Olympics.

SPORTS 15

Go explodes as DC goes 8-1 series lead C HRISTOPHER “Bong” Go went firing superbly at all fronts to propel Team DC to a 77 – 66 win against IBP in their basketball friendly series on Saturday at the Davao City Recreation Center Almendras Gym. Go, the sweet-shooting special assistant to President Rodrigo Duterte, came through with 43 points as DC extended its winning run to five games and widened the series lead to 8 – 1.

The Presidential Management Staff (PMS) boss

nailed seven treys and shot nine baskets from within the arc to lead the scoring punch.

IBP played hard keeping in the tight pace of the game behind it’s balance offensive attack.

But the lawyers just fell flat down the stretch to stretch its losing skid. They also botched to rattle off DC burst in the winding minutes.

Armand Dioso scored 20 points as Adrian Paguican made 15 for the IBP which downed in the series, 8-1.

John Flores chipped in 11 points for DC.

PH swimmer hopes to improve on second Olympic stint US, China expected T

HERE’S a big room for improvement for Filipina swimmer Jasmine Alkhaldi when she competes here in Rio, which is actually her second straight Olympics.

In 2012 in London, the tall swimmer finished 34th among 50 participants with a time of 57.13 seconds in the 100m freestyle. She is doing much better now.

Alkhaldi is coming here with a best time of 55.94 in the same event. Now, she can look forward to a better finish than her Olympic debut four years ago.

“Of course, the goal is to improve from the first time I competed in the Olympics,” said the 23-year-old Alkhaldi inside the Athletes Village here.

“I trained a hundred percent harder than before,” she said.

Ranomi Kromowidjojo of the Netherlands won the 100m freestyle in London in 2012 with a time of 53 seconds flat.

She also took the gold in the 50m free with a time of 24.05 seconds.

Since arriving from Ha-

waii three days ago with her coach Jennifer Bufin, Alkhaldi has frequented the training venue with her fellow competitor from the Philippines.

Jessie Khing Lacuna is also in his second straight Olympics. He will vie in the men’s 400m freestyle on Aug. 6.

Alkhaldi, the Philippine record holder in the 50m, 100m and 200m freestyle and 50m and 100m butterfly, will not see action until Aug. 10.

All her hard work the past four years under Buffin will be put on test in Rio.

“I’ve been improving every year. And the target is to even get better here,” said Alkhaldi, still trying to catch up on her sleep in this city famous for its Ipanema Beach.

“I still feel a little sleepy (jet-lagged),” she said.

While working out at the pool, Alkhald has been visiting the fitness center as well.

“I’ve been training twice a day since my race is still on the 10th. So, it’s still swimming and weights until I stop with the weights. Days before the competition, it will be all rest,” she said.

HE 2016 Total Quartz Lubricant Hot August Races reels off this August 13 and 14 at the Speed City Riverfront Drive located at the city renowned Crocodile Park grounds.

Fritz Tan and Jinggo Camomot of the organizing AM/FM Productions in yesterday’s SCOOP Session at The Royal Mandaya Hotel said, that some 80 entries from Davao, General Santos,

Cagayan de Oro, Cebu and Manila are expected to join the legal 1/8 mile drag racing event which is dubbed as the 1st President Rody Duterte Cup. The two-day motorsporting activity is in cooperation with the Davao Classic and Sports Car Club Incorporated and the City Government of Davao.

“Local car clubs led by the Davao Classic and Sports Car Club Incorpo-

rated, Ground Image, Team Classic and Mashado Racing to name a few are to see action,” Tan said.

Time trials will be on August 13 while the race proper is scheduled in the 14th for Class A, B, C and Quick 8 categories.

Interested parties may inquire at (082) 227-9535 and look for Anne Nadela.

Backing the event as major sponsors are Mindanao Trucking Corporation,

Dimsum Break, SHERG Janitorial and Allied Services.

Minor backers are Lemuel Podador, Go Forward Manpower and Pest Control Services, Meridian Assurance Corporation, Paramount Life and General Insurance Corporation and Vitalab Redmark Corporation.

Patrons are Ground 101, Metropolitan Insurance Company, Trigen Marketing and Zyther Pharmacy and Medical Supply.

OP Rank boss Bob Arum is set for a Manila visit by next week to personally talk to Manny Pacquiao regarding the boxer’s planned comeback fight this November.

The veteran boxing promoter made the announcement on his Twitter account

@BobArum.

“Leaving for Manila next week to meet with @MannyPacquiaoTR to discuss plans for his November 5th bout,” Arum tweeted.

Arum and the Pacquiao camp already had initial talks regarding the fight, which serves as Pacquiao’s ring re-

turn after initially announcing his retirement last April to run for a Senate seat in the last national polls.

The 37-year-old Pacquiao was impressive in his farewell fight, twice knocking down Timothy Bradley on his way to a unanimous decision win.

But three months after,

the boxing legend, now an elected senator, decided to unretire, stressing he still ‘misses boxing.’

Arum is expected to present the list of possible Pacquiao opponents, reportedly to be a two-cornered choice between Terrence Crawford and Jessie Vargas.

team manager Butch Antonio bared that they are now in the process of forming a pool of 24 players for the tournament set from September 9 to 18 in Tehran, Iran.

“That’s the focus now, we have to come up with a roster, may deadline na kasi tayo this month to submit the lineup list of 24 on August 9 and the

final 12 lineup on August 25,” Antonio said.

Antonio said they are still in the process of identifying the 24 pool members which they hope to complete over the next eight days.

The first day of practice was supervised by assistant coach Josh Reyes in the absence of TabBaldwin and at-

tended by former Gilas cadets Roger Pogoy, Russelle Escoto, Mac Belo, Mike Tolomia, Von Pessumal, Almond Vosotros, Gio Jalalon, Ed Daquiaog and Kevin Ferrer.

Also part of the first training camp were new Gilas pool invitees CJ Perez, Cris Javier, Karl Brian Cruz, Jonathan Grey and Arvin Tolentino.

2016 Total Quartz HAR set Aug. 13 and 14

T

Arum coming to arrange comeback fight T T

to dominate Rio T HE world’s two largest economies, the United States and China, will again win most gold medals at the Olympics and Britain will push Russia into third place in the overall standings, Goldman Sachs predicted in a survey released on Monday.

American athletes will come away with 45 gold medals from the Rio de Janeiro Games which start on Friday, one less that they got in London four years ago, while China will win 36, two fewer than in 2012, according to the investment bank’s economists.

Beyond athletic performance, economic success enhances the chances of Olympic glory, according to Goldman Sachs, because “a country is more likely to produce worldclass athletes in a world-class environment”.

Britain, which hosted the Games four years ago, will win 23 gold medals, six less than in 2012. But in the overall count, it will take home 59 medals, one more than Russia, the survey said.

The Russian team, hit by

doping bans, will collect 14 golds, 12 fewer than the recently revised total of their London haul four years ago, Goldman Sachs predicted.

Host country Brazil has long been an Olympic under-achiever considering its population of 200 million people, the world’s fifth largest, and its position as the world’s seventh-largest economy, according to the International Monetary Fund.

Goldman Sachs expects Brazil to miss its goal of breaking into the 10 top of total medal winners despite a big increase in funding ahead of the Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Brazil is expected to tie with Jamaica, the world’s 131st-largest economy, in the gold medal count. In the overall standings, Goldman Sachs predicts Brazil to come 11th with 22 medals, just ahead of Ukraine, the 48th largest economy and a nation of 44 million people, less than a quarter of Brazil’s population.

Brazil’s per-capita gross domestic product is also more than double Ukraine’s.

New faces for Gilas cadets

HE Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has started its buildup for the new Fiba calendar on Monday, gathering 15 amateur standouts for the first practice of the Gilas Pilipinas side to the Fiba Asia Challenge Cup at the Meralco Gym. SBP deputy director for international affairs and Gilas

HALF-PINAY FENCER. Lee Kiefer, daughter of a Dabawenya doctor Teresa Kiefer, will be among the athletes of Team USA. Kiefer will try to win a medal in fencing.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 9 ISSUE 114 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

Pacquiao to make All-Star debut M ANNY Pacquiao is set to make his PBA comeback on Wednesday. Three days later, he is set for his All-Star de-

but.

Mahindra officials said on Tuesday the team’s playing-coach will be playing in the Blitz game pitting the Greats against the Stalwarts when the PBA All-Star Weekend begins on Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Pacquiao, a team official said, will be taking the place of Mahindra guard LA Revilla in the Blitz game that features a mix of league greats like Alvin Patrimonio, Johnny Abbarientos and Noli Locsin, rising stars like Ian Sangalang, Chris Banchero and Kevin Alas, and D-League standouts Mac Belo and Roger Pogoy.

The eight-division world champion had also taken the place of Revilla in the Mahindra active roster after the former La Salle star broke his nose in practice on Monday, keeping him out of the Enforcers’ game against Alaska on Wednesday and the Blitz game two days later.

On the other hand, Mahindra youngster Paolo Taha will take Revilla’s place in the Obstacle Challenge, team officials said.

Also seeing action in the exhibition game are Maverick Ahanmisi, Anthony and David Semerad, Raymond Almazan, Ed Daquioag, Cris Tolomia, Russel Escoto, Raffy Banal, Jonathan Grey, Bryan Cruz, Bong Ravena, Nick Belasco, Ronnie Magsanoc, Paolo Bugia, and Topex Robinson.

ALL STAR. Mahindra playing coach Manny Pacquiao will play in the Blitz Game of the PBA All Stars.