Edge Davao 9 Issue 159

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES FATHER AND SON. Presidential grandson Uno plays beside his father, Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte, who is being interviewed regarding the Senate hearing on the alleged extra judicial killings and the allegations of self-confessed “Davao Death Squad” member Edgar Matobato at his office at Sangguninang Panlungsod yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Serving a seamless society

PULONG: IT’S NOT MY JOB TO KILL PEOPLE

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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INALLY, Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte has broken his silence regarding accusations hurled against him by alleged Davao Death Squad (DDS) hitman Edgar Matobato.

In a closed-door meeting with media, Vice Mayor Duterte claimed he has never asked anyone to liquidate his enemies, emphasizing it is not his “responsibility” to kill people.

It can be recalled that during the Senate inquiry that is investigating the spate of extra judicial killings (EJKs) in the country, Motabato revealed the presidential son ordered members of the so-called Davao Death Squad (DDS) to execute his enemies.

The vice mayor explained he does not personally know Richard King, a Cebu-based businessman who was felled by an assassin’s bullet inside his office in Davao in 2014.

According to Vice Mayor Duterte, there was a need to address the “insanity” behind the allegations of Matobato linking him to the murder of King.

“It would be unfair for me to appear before the Senate based entirely on hearsay and Matobato’s allegations,” the vice mayor said, as he challenged the Senate to test Matobato’s mental health.

Vice Mayor Duterte, however, said it would be unlikely he will file charges against Matobato

despite the hitman’s outlandish claims.

He pointed out that it would be useless to file a case against a “deranged person.”

The vice mayor also denied the claim of Matobato that the latter worked as his personal bodyguard.

“To tell you frankly, Mr. Matobato, I don’t know you!” he said, adding he had never seen Matobato.

The presidential son added he and his family are already used to being criticized by other people.

“I believe his [Matobato’s] allegations was just [meant] to destroy the reputation of my father [President Duterte],” he said.

GRP not complying with agreements: NDFP

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) has accused the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) of not complying with previously signed agreements especially on the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect

EDGEDAVAO Sports

for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) and the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG).

In a statement emailed to media on Monday, the NDFP expressed concern over the statement of GRP

Ramirez bags gold in Milo Little Olympics P15

Panel chair Silvestre Bello III that said “a draft amnesty proclamation that enables the release of the political detainees is ready for submission during the second round of peace talks.”

The NDFP added that Bello qualified his statement by further

Creativity & purpose

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saying: “a general amnesty could be declared

by President Duterte, with the concurrence of Congress, once the peace talks are successfully concluded.”

“The release of all political prisoners should not be an out-

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Electric cars are really the way forward P14

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

ENERGY SAVING TIPS. Crizaldo Santos, science and research specialist II of the Department of Energy (DOE), imparts energy conservation tips to participants of yesterday’s Power Patrol Seminar on Energy Efficiency and Conservation for Households participated by barangay captains and kagawads held at the Davao City Recreation Center. Lean Daval Jr.

Mayor Inday Sara asks LGU backing for education programs, projects

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AVAO City Mayor Sara Duterte ordered the reconstitution of the Local School Board (LSB) as she stressed the all-out support of the local government for the programs and projects of the Department of Education.

Mayor Inday signed Executive Order 16 on Monday as she stressed the local government’s full support for programs and projects of DepEd in the city.

The LSB is essential in making local decisions that meet the local needs of the education sector.

LSBs were created through the Local Government Code to help fund the needs of public school through the Special Education Fund.

Davao City has 285 public elementary schools and 72

public high schools.

The Davao City LSB is focused on interventions that provide system-wide solutions to the concerns of the schools in the city. The Davao City government funds salaries of teachers and build schools. It is also providing funds for trainings of teachers.

The Davao City LSB is chaired by Mayor Inday.

The members include the Sangguniang Panglungsod Committee Chair on Education, City Treasurer’s Office, Representative of the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation, President of the City Federation of Parents- Teachers’ Association, Representative of the Teacher’s Organization in the City and representative of the Non-Academic Personnel of Public Schools in the city. CIO

City gov’t to strengthen brgy. peace-order unit

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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N line with the city government’s intensified efforts to curb criminality, Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio wants barangay local government units to actively support the local police force in maintaining peace, law, and order.

In an interview, Mayor Duterte-Carpio’s chief of staff Atty. Raul Nadela yesterday said his office has not officially

discussed the matter with the auxiliary department yet, but has already sent a memo to several Barangay Police, Peace, and Order Unit (BPPOU) members.

“The memo stated that they will only do their duty up until Sept. 30. That’s why they are no longer members [of BPPOU] effective Oct. 1,” Nadela explained.

He said Mayor Duterte-Carpio wants Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) head Benito de Leon to review the staffing of the BPPOU. “If ever de Leon wants to reinstall [members], then mayor [Duterte-Carpio] will decide,” Nadela said.

He said that the purpose in relieving some members of the

BPPOU is for the city government to maximize its available manpower resources.

Meanwhile, Nadela clarified that Mayor Duterte-Carpio is not on leave.

“Mayor [Duterte-Carpio] is still very active in monitoring the city with the help of his brother [Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte] and the rest of the employees,” he said.

The Freeman.

JASCOR aims to recognize excellent stories from the print media that help the public better understand, appreciate and support sustainable construction. It is jointly organized by construction solutions company Holcim Philippines and the Philippine Press Institute (PPI), the country’s biggest association of newspapers.

As defined by the LafargeHolcim Group, one of the world’s leading suppliers of cement and aggregates, sustainable construction is “building in a way that is socially, economically, environmentally, functionally, and aesthetically balanced to meet today’s needs

and to conserve resources for future generations.”

Now on its third cycle, the JASCOR is the first and only one of its kind in the Philippines. The awards ceremony is slated for November 10, 2016 at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City.

For this year’s awards, JASCOR’s boards of screeners and judges evaluated stories published from August 1, 2015 to July 31, 2016.

Holcim Philippines and PPI will award the Sustainable Construction Story of the Year in each category—one for national newspapers and another for community newspapers— to the writers whose articles best demonstrate un-

derstanding of the value and benefits of sustainable construction. The two winners will each get a cash prize of P50,000 and a trophy.

The remaining finalists will each receive a consolation prize of P10,000.

The Inquirer will receive the Merit Award for Sustainable Construction Reporting and a cash prize of P75,000 for having the most number of finalists this year, sweeping the national newspaper category.

For more details about JASCOR, please contact PPI at (02) 527-9632/527-4478 or email ppressinstitute@gmail. com and dongil.carreon@lafargeholcim.com.

One national daily, four community papers vie Army tags NPA in extort, for Sustainable Construction Reporting awards abduction raps in R-12

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RMY officials have raised concern over the rising cases of “extortion, abduction and harassment” of civilians these past weeks in parts of Region 12 and the neighboring areas involving alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA).

Col. Tyne Bañas, commanding officer of the Army’s 1002nd Brigade, said they have recorded these cases in remote villages in the provinces of Sarangani, South Cotabato and Davao Occidental.

He said that while encounters and other violent incidents have ceased as a result of the indefinite ceasefire earlier de-

clared by the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF), the rebel group’s illegal activities have continued on the ground.

The ceasefire declarations came after the government formally opened the peace negotiations with the NDF in August in Oslo, Norway.

“These activities should stop to ensure that the negotiations will not be jeopardized,” Bañas said in a press conference.

A report released by the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion said it has confirmed cases of abductions supposedly perpetrated by NPA members.

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OR their outstanding reportage on sustainable construction, focusing on little-explored topics—from using inclusive strategies to rebuild from the rubble to giving voice to indigenous peoples’ aspirations for a school they could call their own—one national and four community newspapers have emerged as finalists in this year’s Journalism Awards for Sustainable Construction Reporting (JASCOR).

Finalists include three stories from the Philippine Daily Inquirer for the national newspaper category, and five from community papers, namely, Baguio Chronicle, Mindanao Observer, Sun.Star Cebu, and

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Army offers 8 more camps for drug rehab centers

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HE Philippine Army (PA) has offered the use of eight more of its military camps as possible treatment and rehabilitation centers for drug dependents and users, according to PA spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao. These camps include Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija; Camp Melchor F Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal; Camp Alfredo Santos in Calauag, Quezon; Camp Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz; Camp Kibaritan in Kalilangan, Bukidnon; Camp Lucero in Carmen, North Cotabato; and Camp Paulino Santos in Alamada, North Co-

tabato.

Recently, the 401st Infantry Brigade headquarters opened its two-hectare facility inside the Prosperidad Military Reservation in partnership with the province of Agusan Del Sur. The center, called the Residential Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (RTRC), can accommodate 60 patients at a time and shall be managed by the Agusan Del Sur provincial government.

“The PA is committed to give its all-out support to the anti-illegal drug campaign of President Rodrigo R. Duterte,” Hao added. (PNA)

Drilon on increase in PNP, AFP pay: ‘How about civilian employees?’

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ENATE President Pro-Tempore Franklin M. Drilon on Tuesday urged President Duterte to grant a P3,000 additional allowance to about 1.3 million civilian employees – including public nurses and teachers – following the recent increase in the combat duty pay and combat incentive pay for soldiers and policemen.

“I urge the President to extend his generosity that he has showered our uniformed men and women to our equally deserving and dedicated civilian personnel,” Drilon said in a statement released by his office.

“It is only timely and proper that we provide relief to civilian employees, whose purchasing power has eroded through the years, by way of an additional allowance of P3,000 per month,” he added.

Under Executive Order No. 3, the combat duty pay of the officers and enlisted personnel of the AFP and uniformed personnel of the PNP is fixed at P3,000 per month from the previous rate of P500 per month for the enlisted personnel of the AFP and the P340 per month for the uniformed policemen.

The President also granted an increase in the combat

incentive pay of the members of the AFP and the uniformed personnel of the PNP who figure directly in actual combat against members of various insurgent, terrorist and lawless elements, shall be entitled to additional Combat Incentive Pay of Three Hundred Pesos (P300.00) per day.

The budget for these increases amount to about P4.06 billion from September to December of this year and P12.2 billion for 2017.

The senator said he agreed with the President that “there is an urgent need to increase the said benefits to improve the living conditions of the men in uniform.”

However, Drilon said such is also true with civilian employees “who are having a hard time to cope with the rising cost of living.”

The senator said the additional allowance shall be given on top of the mandatory allowance currently received by all government employees, referring to the Personnel economic Relief Allowance (PERA) that amounts to P2,500 per month.

From September to December, Drilon estimated the budgetary requirement at approximately P15.73 billion, saying “the amount can be

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STATE OF EDUCATION. Councilor Pilar Braga turns over a situationer on the state of Davao City’s teachers to Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte during yesterday’s regular session at Sangguniang Panlungsod in time for today’s celebration of National Teachers’ Day. Lean Daval Jr.

City gov’t unhappy with bogus Lingap applicants

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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HE City Government of Davao has expressed disappointment over how some unscrupulous individuals are taking advantage of the Lingap Para sa Mahirap (Lingap) program.

According to Atty. Raul Nadela, chief of staff to Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio’s, his office has received reports that there are people who are

using fake documents in order to avail of the program.

The Lingap Para sa Mahihirap or Lingap is a program under the City Mayor’s Office which provides financial assistance to marginalized residents.

“We always receive reports yet there are no formal complaints,” Nadela said.

He noted that the city gov-

ernment has enough staff to assist applicants, thus eliminating the need for them to seek the help of liaison officers.

“We are still discussing other safeguards that we still need to put so that this will not happen again,” Nadela said.

It can be recalled that fake Lingap documents were presented during a committee level meeting called for by the

city government to investigate the scam and uncover its perpetrators.

“It will only take the applicant two hours to apply for the Lingap program,” Nadela said, adding the government doesn’t want to waste money on fake prescriptions, orders, and/or guarantee letters.

“We do not want these

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interview with the press at his office Tuesday morning.

Matobato, who was presented as a witness by Senator Leila de Lima, alleged in a recent Senate inquiry that Paolo ordered the so-called Davao Death Squad (DDS) to execute certain people, including Cebu-based businessman Rich-

ard King.

Paolo said he does not personally know King, who was killed in 2014 inside his office in Barrio Obrero in Davao.

He, however, disclosed that before this, King wanted to get in touch with the him over a business transaction that did not go through because of the

businessman’s sudden death.

“The meeting never happened because he was murdered,” he said. “I do not know King personally.”

Earlier, vice mayor Duterte has refused to comment on Matobato’s allegations.

He broke his silence on

Presidential son Paolo Duterte:

‘Never in my life that I ordered the killing of my enemies’ RESIDENTIAL son and Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte broke his silence and countered the claims made against him by self-confessed killer Edgar Matobato.

“Never in my life that I ordered someone to kill my enemies,” the vice mayor said in an

around the city’ streets that the agency would take custody of their livestock and fine them, as these animals have become safety hazards. Lean Daval Jr.

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Angara urges‘mutual respect’ in Senate inquiry into EJKs

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SAFETY HAZARD. Cows roam across the main road of Doña Pilar Village in Sasa, Davao City yesterday. The City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) warned livestock owners who allow their animals to wander

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ENATOR Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara on Tuesday urged for restraint and mutual respect among his colleagues in the conduct of the Senate inquiry on extrajudicial killings after a heated exchange among senators led another senator to walk out of the plenary hall Monday night. ”I call on our colleagues, myself included, to exercise restraint, calm, sobriety and mutual respect in all our dealings with each other,” Angara said.

To recall, Gordon accused de Lima of committing material concealment for allegedly withholding information that witness and self-confessed Davao Death Squad (DDS) hitman Edgar Matobato had been charged over a kidnap-for-ransom case

in 2000.

De Lima explained that she did not remember if Matobato had mentioned the kidnap-for-ransom case during the hearing so she told them that Matobato may or may not have mentioned it.

She said that she had the detail in her notes. However, Gordon, Chair of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, took this as material concealment.

Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV, who had protective custody of Matobato, defended de Lima by reading parts of the transcript that proved that Matobato indeed mentioned it twice in his previous testimony.

Gordon also got irked when

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DENR- ARMM gives computers to MSU I

N a move to instill environmental awareness among the youth, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DENR-ARMM) donated computer sets and trash bins to a state-run university in Maguin-

danao.

The DENR-ARMM’s visit coincided with the Mindanao State University-Maguindanao’s opening ceremonies for its 43rd founding anniversary on Monday.

DENR-ARMM Secretary Kahal Kedtag inspired university

students, as he handed over two sets of desktop computers with printers to the school’s College of Forestry to help enhance the research and extension capacity of the department.

Eight more computer sets will also be given to the other colleges of the university, Ked-

tag said.

He also led the turnover of 10 big trash bins to the university in support of its clean and green environment advocacy.

Kedtag, an alumnus of the university, reminded students on the value of education as a great social equalizer.

“Up to this day, never have I been proud to know that most of us, alumni of this institution, have assumed executive positions in the government as well as in the corporate world,” Kedtag said.

During his visit to the school, Kedtag also witnessed

the signing of a memorandum of agreement between the MSU administration led by Chancellor Bai Soraya Sinsuat and 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion for their campus greening project in line with the National Greening Program of the government. (PNA)

SouthCot to acquire more modern hospital equipment

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HE provincial government of South Cotabato is set to acquire modern equipment for its provincial hospital in order to cope with the residents’ growing health requirements.

Dr. Conrado Brana, provincial hospital chief, said Tuesday the move is part of the local government’s continuing efforts to upgrade and enhance the capability and services of the hospital.

He said they are specifically working on the purchase of a magnetic resonance imaging or MRI scanner and additional x-ray machines.

South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes and other provincial officials earlier endorsed the move as among the provincial government’s priorities.

“We’re targeting to finalize the purchase before the end of the year,” Brana said in an interview.

The official said the purchase of the new equipment will complement the ongoing

upgrading of the hospital’s ward and other vital facilities.

The conversion of the hospital’s mini gymnasium into a temporary ward is due for completion by the end of the month, while the expansion of the old research building is expected to be finished in March next year.

Brana said the Department of Health (DOH) has contributed to the upgrading of the hospital’s equipment and facilities.

He said the DOH has released some P17 million for the expansion of its ward through the Health Facilities Enhancement Program.

According to Brana, the health department has already approved an equipment grant of 10 dialysis machines for the provincial hospital, he said.

He said they are planning to set up the dialysis machines at the pay wing of the hospital.

“We really need these machines as we’ve been seeing increasing cases of renal failures here in South Cotabato,” Brana added. (PNA)

OLICE operatives in Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat arrested Monday a 30-year-old woman while in the act of selling 83 sachets of prohibited drugs, authorities said.

Supt. Raul Supiter, Sultan Kudarat police provincial director, said Bainot Nemenzo of Barangay Poblacion, did not resist arrest but was obviously surprised she was dealing with a police officer who posed as a buyer.

“It was a family source of income,” Supiter said of Nemenzo’s illegal drug pushing activities. He said the husband, whom he did not identify, was also earlier arrested for possession of illegal drugs.

Supiter estimated the market value of methamphetamine hydrochloride seized from Nemenzo at about P400,000 to P450,000.

Nemenzo told police she sourced the stuff from an unidentified supplier in the adjacent town of Sultan sa Barongis in Maguindanao.

“She was sourcing the illegal substance in Sultan sa Barongis for the past two years,” he said, adding that Nemenzo had “clients” in Tacurong City and Koronadal City and in the provinces of Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato.

Nemenzo, now detained at

the Lambayong police lock up cell, has been in the police drug watch list.

In South Cotabato, police said about 127 minors have voluntarily surrendered to authorities since July 1, following the implementation of Oplan Double Barrel.

Supt. Barney Condes, Koronadal City police director, revealed that in the city alone, 27 minors presented themselves at the police station, and admitted their involvement in illegal drugs, while vowing to reform.

Those who showed up at the police station were endorsed to the city social welfare office for counseling and intervention.

During the South Cotabato provincial peace and order council meeting, the Polomolok police reported that 15 minors have voluntarily surrendered.

Other towns with youth surrenderees include Tupi (6), Tampakan (11), Banga (11), Norala (8), Sto Nino (16), Surallah (29), Lake Sebu (4), T’boli (2) and Tantangan (1).

Police said the homes of these minors have been visited by police teams implementing “Oplan Tokhang” wherein their parents were taught how to save their children from the clutches of the deadly narcotics trade. (PNA)

Kudarat woman yields 83 sachets of ‘ s habu’ Lutayan all set for 2016 Kanduli fest P Above: Captiol employees have been seen participating during the drill as they duck, covered their heads and lined up towards open fields, which are the basic safety protocols in an earthquake. Bottom: Provincial CSU Chief,

I

T’S all systems go for the week-long celebration of the Kanduli Festival in the lakeside town of Lutayan in Sultan Kudarat province which will formally open on Saturday, Oct. 8.

Lutayan Mayor Bai Princess Rihan Mangudadatu Sakaluran said Tuesday they have finalized the necessary arrangements for the festivity, which will mainly showcase the municipality’s thriving industries and natural attractions.

Retired Major Hermie V. Montelebano explains to the Capitol employees the importance of participation on the earthquake drill.

She said this year’s celebration will focus on the theme: “Iba’t-ibang Kultura, Isang Lahi Tungo sa Maunlad at Matatag na Lutayan.”

“It signifies the long years of positive relationship and unity between Muslims and Christians here in Lutayan,” the first-term mayor said.

Sakaluran said the 2016 Kanduli Festival will open with a colorful thematic parade at the town center on Oct. 8.

The parade will signal the opening of the annual agri-

trade fair and daily activities that will be highlighted by appearances from invited celebrities.

The other activities are the drum and lyre competition, bicycle race, “Lutayan Got Talent,” zumba, basketball competition, bahay kubo contest, Mutya ng Lutayan and a “disco sa kalye.”

Moreover, Sakaluran said they have scheduled an “LGU Night” and a medical and dental mission that will be spearheaded by the Municipal

Health Office and other departments of the local government.

She said the main highlight of this year’s celebration will be the street dancing competition scheduled on its culmination day on Oct. 12.

A Kanduli showcase will also be held at the Lutayan public market’s open court that will be graced by Sultan Kudarat Gov. Sultan Pax Mangudadatu, Vice Gov. Raden Sakaluran and Rep. Suharto Mangudadatu of the province’s first district. (PNA)

these sidewalk vendors and confiscating their stalls every time they put it up,” Dr. Danda Juanday, city administrator, said.

Juanday clarified the drive was not abrupt, as the vendors were given notices since August to vacate their positions or be subjected to clearing operations.

Task force personnel, to the delight of both motorists and rushing workers, have demolished the bulk of illegal stalls along the sidewalks of Don Rufino Alonzo and Japal

Guiani Sr. Streets and Sinsuat Avenue here.

“The flow of traffic has improved,” Nelson Yu, a local trader, said.

Juanday said the local government has to implement the law, as a lot of street vendors operate without permits.

He said they have often reminded vendors to sell their products inside the public market and pay the required fees.

“In short, the clearing operation aims to give back the sidewalks to the pedestrians,”

Juanday stressed.

For her part, City Mayor Frances Cynthia Sayadi noted that the illegal structures could become a place of refuge of thieves and other law offenders.

Worse, if left unnoticed, terrorists can easily leave explosive devices in these areas, Mayor Sayadi added.

“The city government is only doing all it can to protect our citizens. Rest assured that these operations are in compliance with the law,” the mayor said. (PNA)

Cotabato City govt. rid sidewalks of vendors I

T is now a breeze for Cotabato City residents to walk along the sidewalks here after the city’s streets have been cleared of illegal vendors.

Since Monday, the city government, together with elements of the city police and village officials, have been continuously monitoring the possible return of illegal vendors to the sidewalks following a massive cleanup drive.

“A local task force has been created to take on the responsibility of monitoring

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

Businessmen laud Rody’s accomplishments

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Duterte administration’s war against drugs and crime in the country has gained the support of the business community, particularly from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

PCCI President George Barcelon said President Duterte has been able to fulfil his promise to the Filipino people, and that is to fight drugs, crime and corruption.

“We are very happy that he delivered although the President requested to extend it to six months. I think that is reasonable because of the gravity of this issue. Many people did not realize how rampant this drug issue is and we know very well that drugs normally lead to crime,” Barcelon told reporters during a regular press briefing at the Malacañang Palace on Tuesday.

Drug-related crimes are not only common in the Philippines, but also abroad and even in the United States, Barcelon added.

“In the United States, drug-related death[s] is about 30,000 to 35,000 annually,” he added.

Barcelon disclosed the PCCI was a strategic partner during the launching of Sulong Pilipinas in June of this year which resulted in the formulation of the Duterte administration’s 10-point agenda.

“We know that the 10-point agenda of the President is still being pursued by the economic team,” Barcelon said, adding the business community is constantly in contact with different agencies through consultations in order to learn about the plans of government.

“I think their plans are all very positive,” he said.

Barcelon said observers usually put an emphasis on the first 100 days of a new administration.

But to be realistic about it, he pointed out, 100 days is ac-

tually a very short time.

Barcelon added there are also sectors who are saying they have not seen the impact made by Duterte administration on the nation’s economy.

“I will tell the business community that we have to be patient. We have been patient before, in previous administrations. I think we owe it to this government that [it] still in its [first] three months and we would like to give them more time to work out things,” he emphasized.

He explained there are issues related to infrastructure that some members of the local business sector are concerned about, as the President has asked Congress to grant him special emergency powers in order to address the Metro Manila’s traffic woes.

“We have been positive to that (emergency power). What we are waiting is the details on the deliverables,” Barcelon said.

The business leader also lauded the reduction of bureaucratic red tape in government agencies, as he also urged local government units (LGUs) to follow the President orders to simplify their procedures to spur the growth of small businesses.

Barcelon also noted that PCCI’s constituents include small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

“I go to regional conferences to hear them out and see what they need. They are also very frank with their assessment and concerns that include power, telecommunications, infrastructures especially roads, airports and seaports,” he said.

Barcelon said the business sector is pleased that the issues and concerns they have raised with the Duterte Administration are now being addressed.

“For a President who loves his country and the people, we firmly believe that he will do the right thing,” Barcelon said.

Rody’s 10-point socio-econ agenda to reverse PH competitiveness drop

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INANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said the 10-point socioeconomic agenda of the Duterte administration aims not only to combat generational poverty but also to sustain high growth by, among others, sharpening the country’s global competitiveness to entice more investors to do business here.

This is why the new government has jumpstarted over the past three months, said Dominguez, a vast array of initiatives to improve the ease of doing business in the country and reverse the sharp decline in the Philippines’ ranking in the World Economic Forum (WEF)’s global competitiveness list in the last year of the former Aquino presidency.

“Alongside reducing the poverty incidence by 9 percentage points over the next

six years, the new government has given top priority to sharpening the Philippines’ global competitiveness, precisely to improve the ease of doing business here and turn our country into a magnet for investments on the Duterte watch,” Dominguez said.

Dominguez pointed out that hitting the ground running, President Duterte has, “as soon as he assumed office, put in place his 10-point socioeconomic agenda that already addresses these concerns raised by the international business community in the annual global competitiveness report of the WEF.” Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran noted that the Philippines slipped in the WEF competitiveness index partly as a result of its low ranking in

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MEAT SHORTAGE. A meat dealer sharpens his knife while waiting for customers at his stall inside the Agdao Public Market yesterday. Prices of meat in Davao City’s public markets have increased by as much as P20 per kilo due to the shortage of supply. Lean Daval Jr.

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Conserve electricity: DOE

By RIA VALDEZ

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HE Department of Energy (DOE) conducted a Power Patrol Seminar dubbed “Energy Efficiency and Conservation for Households” yesterday at the Davao City Recreation Center (Almendras Gym).

“We are hoping to lower the costs of electricity and stop nonsense brown-outs by the end of this year.” said DOE Undersecretary Benito Ranque in

his remarks during the event.

Ranque explained the seminar was organized in accordance to President Duterte’s directive to the agency to spearhead efforts that will teach Filipinos to conserve energy.

“We are in an energy crisis,” noted Ranque, as he cited several areas in the Philippines which have very low power supplies.

Filipinos now more vigilant against counterfeit scheme

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S counterfeit money find their way into the country’s financial system, Filipinos are no longer taking this matter sitting down.

This is according to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor on Monetary Stability Sector Diwa C. Guinigundo who said a growing number of Filipinos are now displaying greater vigilance against this financial crime.

Speaking during the “Conference on Gearing Up for External Competitiveness” in T’nalak Room, SEDA Hotel, Davao, Guinigundo said that due to the enhanced security features of peso bills, people have learned to distinguish real money from the counterfeit ones.

“This is actually a good sign,” said Guinigundo who recalled years ago when it was very difficult to determine the authentic bills from the fake ones, which resulted in a spike in counterfeiting schemes.

The BSP official said that in order to provide a smooth transition from the New Design Series (NDS) to the New Generation Currency (NGC) series, the BSP retained some NDS features, such as the size, predominant colors, and the featured Filipino personalities.

However, the said the features of the bill were also enhanced by adding security features which will make it more difficult for perpetrators to imitate.

Guinigundo said the BSP is conducting seminars and trainings for bank and business establishment personnel regarding the NGC, its security features, and how to combat counterfeiting.

Meanwhile, Guinigundo reminded the participants of BSP’s campaign on demonitization that the old banknotes can only be exchanged in banks and BSP offices until Dec. 31, 2016 and will no longer be accepted for transactions starting Jan. 1, 2017.

However, there is an exemption for the NDS banknotes which will still be used in Philippine courts as evidence, as well as those bills that are being kept

by Overseas Filipino Workers.

“OFWs may register on line for application to exchange from October 1, 2016 until December 31, 2016, and they are given the whole 2017 to exchange their old banknotes to the New Generation Currency (NGC),” said the BSP deputy governor. JERMAINE L. DEAL CRUZ

DOE eyeing re-opening of Bataan Power Plant, other RE sources

T

HE Department of Energy is studying the feasibility of reopening the mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant.

This was bared by Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Benito Ranque during an interview at the sidelines of an energy conservation seminar in Davao City.

According to Ranque , the DOE first has to determine if the project is viable before the agency submits a proposal for its operationalization to Congress.

“We are not saying we are for it, but we are studying it,” he said.

Ranque explained the project must adhere to Department of Environment and National Resources (DENR) Secretary Gina Lopez’s instructions to ensure the safety of the environment and the people.

“We won’t sacrifice safety,” he stressed.

Ranque that the DOE needs to obtain the consensus of all stakeholders before the project can move forward.

As long as there is a consensus, he said, there is a possibility the project will be endorsed to Congress.

In the meantime, Ranque cited other potential sources of energy in MIndanao which include solar and geothermal power.

He added that another potential power source is clean coal energy where modern technology is used to get rid of the coal’s carbon content.

Ranque said that the DOE is still studying how other countries are utilizing this technology.

He also said the energy department is looking into other possible alternative energy sources in order to improve the power situation in the country, particularly in Mindanao. RIA VALDEZ

According to the DOE official, the best way to address this major concern is to inform the public on how to conserve and use energy efficiently.

Ranque said the DOE is in the process of reviewing policies that would effectively address power-related issues, particularly in Mindanao.

Regarding reports of rotational brown-outs in Mindanao, he assured the public that Min-

danao has a sufficient supply of power, adding the agency will coordinate with electric cooperatives to determine where the complains are coming from.

Asked on the progress the Duterte administration has made in addressing energy concerns, Ranque said “This is not magic,” referring to the number of consultations and trainings they need to conduct to teach energy conservation to

consumers.

He pointed out that a lot of the problems the DOE is addressing now stem from the shortcomings of the the previous administrations.

“Consultations are effective,” Ranque stressed, as he disclose that the energy department will also be holding consultation with private companies regarding the rise of oil prices.

In the meantime, the energy department also promoted its National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program (NEECP) during the seminar.

Genevieve Almonares, DOE senior science research specialist, said this program will be carried out through an intensive Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign that will target radio and TV stations.

Construction workers excavate holes along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Lanang, Davao City for the rehabilitation of water pipes project which causes the traffic congestion in the city’s main thoroughfares. Lean Daval Jr.

BSP holds gab on external competitiveness T

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) spearheaded a forum dubbed “Conference on Gearing Up for External Competitiveness” yesterday at the SEDA Hotel, Davao City.

The conference was attended by around 100 participants coming from the banking, academe, export and government sectors.

According to BSP Deputy Governor on Monetary Stability Sector Diwa C. Guinigundo, the conference aimed to enhance the awareness of participants on the latest developments in the global market, efficient management of foreign exchange risks, and the

improvement of the country’s external competitiveness.

“We organized the conference to provide our business and banking community the economic and financial context of doing business and banking in the Philippines,” explained Guinigundo.

She said the BSP asked experts from Asian Development Bank (ADB), Department of Foreign Affairs and their own staff to provide the participants a glimpse of the global economy vis-à-vis the risks, issues and the challenges involved.

“With the DFA, we saw the challenges of regional integration and how this is going to be

very important in the decision for exporters for example, in relating their investment in production decisions on the imperatives of ASEAN integration,” Guinigundo said.

She pointed out that there is a need for exporters to widen as well as shift their perspectives by not only focusing on internationals markets but also at the regional economy as well.

“So our exporters will say when the peso is appreciating too much, we will lose competitiveness, [and] we tell them, ’no’,” explained Guinigundo on the current performance of the Philippine peso vis-à-vis the current exchange rate.

“The exchange rate is only one of the pillars of competitiveness. There are other ways from which we want to be competitive like being efficient, productive, and having a complete value chain,” she added.

The Conference on Gearing Up for External Competitiveness is a biannual event spearheaded by BSP held on the first and second quarter of the year in various parts of the country to educate stakeholders on external competitiveness.

The conference was launched in 2010 immediately after global financial crisis when the Philippine peso depreciated significantly.

United Kingdom’s technical assistance for the Project Repeal will involve conducting supplementary focus group discussions as well as technical workshops on Regulatory Cost Analysis and Cost Data Capture and Standardization.

Launched in June, the Project Repeal aims to scrap unnecessary and redundant rules and regulations of various government agencies as well as legislation and ordinances in the local government unit.

This initiative targets to cut red tape in public offices due to irrelevant and burdensome regulations that drag the com-

petitiveness of the country’s business environment.

According to NCC Co-Chair for Private Sector Guillermo M. Luz, some 21,684 government rules and regulations from different departments and their attached agencies will undergo review of the Project Repeal Technical Working Group Committee.

As of September 1, the Committee completed the review of 3,777 rules and regulations which are mostly department orders.

Luz said that half of the rules and regulations which has undergone review are subject

for repeal or the full elimination of the rule or issuance that is no longer necessary.

Most of the remaining half are for delisting or removal of repealed rules but still listed in government websites and active rosters which misled people that these rules are still enforced.

Other types of repeal under the initiative also include consolidation of rules in one circular that are distributed and spread in different circulars as well as amendment which requires addition, deletion and/ or changes of certain provision of a rule or regulation. (PNA)

Trade Sec. Lopez, UK envoy sign MOA for Project Repeal

D

EPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon M. Lopez and British Ambassador to the Philippines Asif Ahmad signed on Tuesday a memorandum of agreement for the British Embassy in Manila to support the Project Repeal of the National Competitiveness Council (NCC).

Under the agreement, the British Embassy through its Asia Pacific Bilateral Programme Fund, supports the development of Standard Cost Model for Project Repeal which will determine cost savings for the government in undertaking this initiative.

7 COMPETITIVE EDGE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

DLPC DONATES COMPUTERS. Davao Light and Power Co. Inc. (DLPC) formally turned over computer units to Davao and Panabo electrician associations last Sept. 28, 2016 at the Davao Light Ponciano Office. These computers are expected to help improve the electricians’ delivery of services to its customers. The donation was led by DLPC Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Arturo M. Milan, who handed over the computers to the presidents of the different electrician associations. This donation was witnessed by the officers and members of the United Electricians

of Metro Davao (UEMD), Integrated Electricians Association of Davao (IEAD), Davao Private Electricians Association (DAPREA), Davao Electrical Practitioners Association (DEPA), Davao United Registered Practitioners in Electrical Eng’g Services (DURPEES) and Panabo Skilled Electricians Association (PUSEA). Also present during the turn over were DLPC Assistant Vice President for Retail Services Group Arnold Arsolon, together with the company’s team leaders and members from the Customer Retail Services Department and Panabo Branch.

DCWD water service Building colorful classrooms interruption: Oct. 6 - 8 for Davao’s lumad students T

F

OR 35 kids at the Mt. Apo Elementary School at Sibulan City Side in Davao City, school just became more fun and interesting now that they get their lessons inside brand new, brightly painted classrooms.

AboitizPower subsidiary Hedcor and Aboitiz Foundation, Inc., in partnership with AGAPP (Aklat , Gabay, Aruga tungo sa pag-angat at Pag-asa) Foundation, recently turned over a one-storey, two-classroom Silid Pangarap building — painted in bright green, yellow and red — that will mainly benefit Bagobo-Tagabawa kindergarten pupils.

The new school building

also houses a library that is equipped with books, educational toys and posters.

The school’s sole kindergarten teacher, Jessica Almiñana, said they did not have a kindergarten classroom so she had to share a room with the Grade 2 class. She thanked Hedcor for donating the Silid Pangarap, which she described as a “blessing to their community.”

“The kids joined me as I arranged the donated books inside the classroom and I could really see the joy and excitement in their eyes. This classroom will surely inspire them and me as well,” shared Almiñana.

A grandparent also expressed her gratitude. “For many years, we have not experienced learning inside classrooms as spacious and comfortable as these. So thank you so much Hedcor, Aboitiz Foundation, and AGAPP Foundation for giving us and our children a hope for a better future,” said Elisa Erano, a grandparent of a kindergarten pupil.

To date, Hedcor has donated classroom to 10 deserving adopted schools in Mindanao.

Aside from these classrooms, Hedcor also provided the beneficiary community of Sibulan City Side with a water system, footbridge and tribal

hall. The road to the community was also concreted with Hedcor’s help.

As Hedcor provides renewable energy to the Mindanao grid, it remains committed to help promote the welfare of its host communities, and to make sure its operations have the least impact on the environment.

Hedcor has been delivering 60.5 MW of clean energy to the Mindanao grid for many years now. By the third quarter of 2017, Hedcor will add another 68.8 MW of renewable energy to its portfolio with the completion of its Manolo Fortich Hydropower Project in the Province of Bukidnon.

to communicate with others – 94% of over-55s email regularly. They are also going online to complete day-to-day tasks.

This age group is more likely than others to conduct financial transactions over the Internet, with 90% of over-55s shopping and banking online (compared to an average 84% of users across all age groups).

Yet despite all of this, only half of over-55s (49%) worry about their vulnerability when

purchasing products online and the vast majority (86%) do not believe they are a target for cybercriminals.

Worryingly, four in ten (40%) have put themselves at risk by sharing financial details in the public domain (compared with 15% across all age groups).

Their lack of cyber-savviness is making over-55s less prepared for the dangers of the online world. As a result, this generation is being victimized by cybercriminals.

According to the report, 20% of Internet users overall have older relatives that have encountered malicious software, and 14% have older relatives that have fallen for fake prize draws online.

In addition, 13% have older relatives that have shared too much personal information about themselves online, and 12% have older relatives that have become the victim of an online scam, seen inappropriate/ explicit content, or communicated with dangerous strangers online.

“On the one hand, it’s great

Kaspersky Lab shows online habits of over-55s

T

HE findings are worrying, because the research, which questioned 12,546 Internet users across the globe, suggests that the older generation is actually a very attractive target for cybercriminals.

When they are online, many over-55s shop, bank and communicate with loved ones without effectively protecting themselves, and the things that are most important to them, from cybercriminals.

Despite the fact that this age group is more likely to install security software on their computers, they are less likely to protect their mobile devices or change their behavior online to stay safe. For example, they use high privacy settings on social media and in their browser less than other age groups (30% vs. 38%).

They are also unlikely to use the security functions that come with their devices (such as ‘find my device’) or VPN – 28% and 10% respectively compared to 42% and 16% respectively of users across all ages. When sharing informa-

tion, only 35% double-check messages before sending and only 16% avoid sharing information when tired (versus 44% and 31% among the youngest respondents).

The older generation is using the Internet for many aspects of their lives – increasing their vulnerability to cybercriminals if they continue to go online without taking precautions.

They are using the Internet

HE Davao City Water District has announced two separate sets of water service interruptions in order to give way to the completion of ongoing service improvement projects.

The first set is scheduled on Oct. 6, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and will affect the following areas in Catalunan Grande: Sta. Martha, Sarpha Village, and portion of Sta. Felomina (from Sta. Felomina Chapel to Sarpha Village).

In a statement, the DCWD explained this water service interruption is due to the tapping of the newly installed 3-inch diameter Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pipeline to the existing 3-inch diameter PVC pipeline for the mainline improvement at Sarpha Village in Catalunan Grande.

Once completed, the project will allow DCWD to install more service connections in the affected areas.

The second set of interruptions will be from 8:00 PM of Oct. 7, until 3:00 AM of Oct. 8. Affected areas include the Davao-Bukidnon National Highway (from Green Meadows Subd. to Ulas Cemetery) including Green Meadows Subd., Sapid Compound, Hacienda Heights, Rosalina Village I, Batalla Village, Maligaya Village, Bacalso Compound, Wellspring

to see that so many over-55s are using the Internet to shop, bank and stay connected with loved ones. The report shows clearly that this generation is embracing a connected life, and all of the opportunities that come with it. On the other hand, however, it’s clear that the over-55s are not doing enough to protect themselves properly. Worryingly, they don’t even believe they are a target for cybercriminals, but they are putting themselves in danger time and again,” says Andrei Mochola, head of Consumer Business at Kaspersky Lab.

Village I, II and III, Pag-ibig Country Homes, Greenhills Subd., Bacanaya Compound, BRC Village, Keith Williams Subd., and immediate environs. DCWD’s crew will tap the newly installed pressure regulating valve projects at the Davao-Bukidnon Road, Catalunan Pequeño in Tugbok District, which will help reduce non-revenue water.

The DCWD management has asked for the understanding and cooperation of would-be affected customers. They are also advised to store enough water prior to the scheduled water interruption. 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 for the latest daily water updates. They may also call / text 0927-7988966, 09255113293 and 0908-4410653 for other updates, complaints, queries, and matters pertaining to DCWD services.

(John Winston Anthony C. Ajero II) “At Kaspersky Lab, we are urging older Internet users to become more aware of the dangers they face online, and to act in a more cyber-savvy manner. We are also encouraging younger Internet users to help their older relatives and friends to better protect themselves from the very real threats posed by cybercriminals. Being vigilant online, as well as installing reliable security solutions and ensuring high privacy settings on all devices used to access the Internet, will ensure a happy and healthy connected life,” he concludes.

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

EDITORIAL

A

Saying less than necessary

S he nears his first 100 days in office, there is one conclusion we can draw from the presidency -- President Rodrigo Duterte’s troubles has always stemmed from his mouth.

From the moment he won the elections, the mainstream media from Manila’s news organizations who are not used to his words engaged him on delicate issues mostly baiting into his colorful tongue. In so little time, he had already started to spin a web of conflict which later became too troublesome for comfort. Then he drew to a stop, halting all press conferences and for a while it worked.

Then he opened himself up again, and the trouble began to resurface. The press conferences where he could dish out freely his fiery thoughts became a regular fishing ground for scorching statements and no sooner than the world began to notice him, the world had felt his fire.

If we go by Robert Greene’s 48 Laws of Power, it will interest us to revisit Law No. 4: Always say less than necessary.

Yes, as the book says, “knowledge is power” and this is probably one of the most famous sayings in modern world. Further, the book would put it: “Humans are machines of interpretation and explanation; they have to know what you are thinking.”

That is the fundamental principal behind the fourth law. The more a person talks, the more information he gives away and thus, the more his power decreases. This is because by talking, we reveal our intentions, biases, quirks and personality (basically, we reveal who we are). When this information reaches the ears

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of other people, it can be used to stop one’s plans, it can be used against one or it can be used to gain one’s favor.

Now, when one says less than necessary, he puts others on the defensive. The silence will make them uncomfortable and as a result, they will try to fill in the void with comment and talk. In the process they will reveal something about themselves, which can later be used against them.

The book says when King Louis XIV was in court, he would say very little. All he would say is “I shall see”; then without telling anyone, he would implement whatever he decides. His officials did not know what he wanted; as a result, the officials ended up talking more in an attempt to convince the king on their stand.

They had to do this because they did not know what the king wanted, so they are unable to make decisions based on the king’s wishes. They were uncomfortable around the king because of his silence. As a result, they said a lot more thus exposing their own beliefs to the king. King Louis XIV would then use their words against them.

It’s a simple thumbrule. As the Chinese would say, “less talk, less mistakes, more talk, more mistakes.”

President Duterte can heed his allies’ unsolicited advice to just keep his mouth in check. Words once uttered cannot be returned so he must choose his words carefully.

Or he can risk it all and go the way he is until everyone in the world, by stroke of genius and a lot of luck, gets used to him and passes it off like foul air.

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EDGEDAVAO

L

AST Tuesday, the headline of EDGE Davao caught my immediate attention: “CHILD PROSTITUTE IN THE CITY RISING.” Source of the information was Talikala (Chain), Inc., a non-governmental organization assisting commercial sex workers, including children, within the Mindanao region. It was bared the Kapehan sa Dabaw media forum held at SM City Davao in Ecoland.

At least “60% of the 240 prostituted women they have helped are below 18 years old,” wrote Ria Valdez, author of the news report.

“It hurts how kids talk about selling themselves for their daily meal(s),” Jeanette Ampog, Talikala’s executive director, was quoted as saying.

Ampog pointed out that children “are more saleable” than their older counterparts. For three hours of commercial sex, a child prostitute is paid a measly P1,500 each.

Children who are engaged in the sex trade is common not only in Davao City but throughout the country.

“Child prostitution is relatively widespread in the Philippines, both as part of the general sex industry and other abuses of children’s rights,” said the End Child Prostitution in Asian Tourism (ECPAT), a group who works on advocacy, education, and lobbying campaigns against child sex tourism and prostitution.

“The child sex industry in the Philippines is patronized by tourists and locals,” ECPAT said, adding that “prostituted children can be found in bars, brothels, tourist hotels, and along streets. Underage girls work in bars and brothels with false age certificates. Street children,

S

EPTEMBER is celebrated as National Month for Teachers to honor the biggest group of government workers belonging to the biggest department in the government bureaucracy. The role of the so-called noblest profession in the world in nation-building and its sacred commitment to the molding of the youth make the teachers deserving of more than just abstract accolades once a year.

They need to be inspired with better incentives.

The tiresome and repetitive work of guiding the youth as future hope of

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Children of lesser god both boys and THINK ON THESE! girls, and child hawkers sell sex on the streets and beaches to tourists and locals.”

But there are also chilHenrylito D. Tacio dren who are henrytacio@gmail.com not involved directly in sexual act but exposing themselves through the internet. It is called webcam childsex tourism, which has already gained global attention.

One of the lawmakers who was alarmed by this recent development was Senator Grace Poe. In a study conducted by Terre des Hommes Netherlands, Davao City was not among the five cities identified; these were Angeles City in Pampanga; Taguig City in Metro Manila; and Cordova, Dalaguete and Cebu City in the province of Cebu.

“Filipino children seem to have an extraordinary appeal to both casual and hard-core pedophiles wanting to offer financial rewards to children forced to perform sexually in front of the camera,” said the international development organization.

The United Nations defines child prostitution as “the act of engaging or offering the services of a child to perform sexual acts for money or other consideration with that person or any other person.”

On the other hand, the Convention on the Rights of the Child’s Optional Protocol on the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution, and Child Pornography defines the prac-

tice as “the act of obtaining, procuring or offering the services of a child or inducing a child to perform sexual acts for any form of compensation or reward.”

Both definitions emphasize that the child is a victim of exploitation, even if apparent consent is given. The Worst Forms of Child Labor Convention of 1999 (Convention No 182) of the International Labor Organization (ILO) describes it as the “use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution.”

The Geneva-based ILO said child prostitution and child pornography are two primary forms of child sexual exploitation, which most of the times overlap.

The former is sometimes used to describe the wider concept of commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC). However, it excludes other identifiable manifestations of CSEC, such as commercial sexual exploitation through child marriage, domestic child labor, and the trafficking of children for sexual purposes.

A previous study conducted in the Philippines has shown that street children make up three percent of the children and youth in the urban centers.

Some of them moonlight as sex workers during evenings or early mornings.

“Although one tends to think first and foremost of young girls in the trade, there is an increase in the number of young boys involved in prostitution,” wrote Maureen Jaffe and Sonia Rosen from the International Child Labor Study Office.

“The most disquieting cases are those children who are forced into the trade and then incarcerated. These children run the possible further risk of torture and subsequent death.”

In the Philippines, most of the chil-

dren engaged in the sex trade are usually between the ages of 13 and 15 years, according to one study. At 16, they become pimps because they are considered too old to be entertainers or prostitutes.

One reason why child prostitution has become a “popular sex industry” is because of fear of being infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the microorganism that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

Clients, mostly adults, think children are AIDS-free.

“With the growing fear of HIV infection, many people are always on search for younger and younger victims and (the demand) has been unfortunately met by the ever-eager middlemen,” the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) says.

The causes of child prostitution are complex. But in the Philippines, as in most developing countries, the root cause is poverty. An ILO study found that many Filipino child prostitutes were street workers from urban slums, who started out by selling cigarettes and other goods, or shining shoes. They were eventually enticed into prostitution by leaders of sex rings or by other children engaged in the activity. “They became involved largely because prostitution pays well,” the study concluded.

To some child prostitutes, there is no way out. Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children in East Asia and Pacific, published by UNICEF, explains: “Once in sex trade, it is difficult – if not impossible – to get out. Mentally scarred, the child prostitutes become street-wise, cynical, hardened and embittered. Sex becomes a commodity to be traded. It also becomes their only means of financial support.”

the country TIMELY and TIMELESS is as heroic as the task of the soldiers in exposing themselves to danger to preserve peace and order everywhere. Hence, DIOSCORO the Teachers VICENTINO Month of September should be celebrated not only by

the teachers and the DepEd but also by the parents whose children are the direct beneficiaries of the educators’ effort.

The nobility of the teaching profession and the greatness of the teachers’ role in developing their pupils to become model citizens of the world were the compelling reasons for this columnist who retired as DepEd XI Regional Supervisor to compose “I’m a Teacher” which was declared by the late Education Secretary Ricardo T. Gloria as “national song for teachers in the Philippines” and “Tanglaw ng Kabataan” which won first prize in the 1996

Nationwide DECS Hymn Writing Contest.

Another school-related song is “Child-friendly World” which was adopted as theme song by many Child-friendly schools in the Philippines. Incidentally, Davao City has been conferred the Presidential Award for the fifth year (1998, 1999, 2013, 2014, 2016) as the most child-friendly highly-urbanized city in the Philippines.

The music score and voice record of the said songs sung by the Sta. Ana Teachers Quarter may be obtained by texting 0918-3493846.

Happy Teachers Day to all

10 NEWS GRP... FROM 1

come of a final peace agreement,” NDFP panel chair Luis Jalandoni clarified.

Jalandoni added that “anchoring an amnesty proclamation to a final peace agreement would make the more than 400 detained political prisoners and the recently released NDF consultants as virtual hostages to the peace talks.”

The release of said political prisoners is a matter of compliance with the CARHRIHL and the JASIG, he said, noting that there seems to be a disconnect between President Duterte - who has committed to the expeditious release of all political prisoners through an amnesty proclamation - the GRP Peace Panel, and the legal courts in the Philippines.

“The fabricated criminal cases that are not yet dropped are like swords of Damocles hanging over the heads of JASIG-protected consultants of the NDFP. Their freedom of movement is being restricted,” he added.

Jalandoni also urged the GRP peace panel not to use the political prisoners and the recently released NDF consultants as trump cards in the peace negotiations.

The second round of peace talks between the GRP and the NDFP will take place on

Rody’s... FROM 5

infrastructure, which incurred a massive backlog during the Aquino administration Beltran also pointed out that this year’s WEF assessment for its global competitiveness list was conducted prior to the May 2016 elections or long before President Duterte took over following his landslide victory at the polls.

“The increased spending in infrastructure, which will account for 5 percent of GDP under the Duterte presidency, will be a significant factor in boosting the country’s ranking in the WEF index, Beltran said.

“The Duterte administration aims to reverse the decline in the Philippines’ WEF competitiveness rating that happened in the final year of the former Aquino presidency, resulting primarily from the business community’s nagging concerns over their perceived bureaucratic inefficiencies, poor infrastructure, official corruption and tax issues,” he added.

Dominguez and Beltran were reacting to the sharp fall in the Philippines’ ranking from No. 47 in 2015 to No. 57 this year in the WEF’s Global Competitiveness Report, which is an annual WEF assessment of factors affecting productivity and growth in 138 countries.

In this year’s competitiveness report, WEF said the Top 5 most problematic factors for doing business in the Philippines have to do with the inefficient bureaucracy, inadequate supply of infrastructure, corruption, tax rates, and tax regulations.

Dominguez pointed out that the very first directive by the President in his State-of-

Thursday, Oct. 6 to 10 in Oslo, Norway.

In a statement on Monday, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said the proposed bilateral ceasefire and the amnesty proclamation will be the focus of the next round of peace talks.

It can be recalled that after the first round of talks last August, both panels issued a joint statement saying the GRP panel will immediately recommend to President Duterte the issuance of an Amnesty Proclamation, subject to the concurrence of Congress, for the release of prisoners who are listed by the NDFP. The joint statement also said GRP and NDFP will discuss the content and language of the Amnesty Proclamation.

The NDFP also said they had already shown the GRP panel a proposed framework and outline for the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER).

CASER is the second substantive agenda of the peace negotiations as agreed within the framework set by the Hague Joint Declaration of 1992, the NDFP added.

Under the CASER, the NDFP proposes the following: the-Nation Address last July was for all government agencies to cut red tape as a way to speed up the processing of permits and other official documents in the bureaucracy, delays of which have been a perennial complaint of individuals and businesses in previous administrations.

At the DOF, for instance, Dominguez has named Beltran as the head of a newly formed anti-red tape committee mandated to fast-track the processing of official papers not only at the department but in attached agencies as well like the Bureaus of Customs (BOC) and of International Revenue (BIR).

To close the infrastructure backlog, he said the Duterte administration has decided to relax deficit spending from 2 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the past Aquino in government to 3 percent of GDP from hereon, to help Malacañang accelerate spending on its three pro-poor and growth-friendly priorities of public infrastructure, human capital development, and social protection for the most vulnerable sectors of society.

Stamping out official corruption is likewise one of the top priorities of President Duterte, who has, among others, green-lighted the long-pending Freedom of Information (FOI) measure as one way to better check shenanigans and “keep government officials on their toes.”

As for the concerns over tax rates and tax regulations, Dominguez said the DOF is crafting a Tax Reform Roadmap for Acceleration and Inclusion, which the government wants the Congress to pass

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

CATNAP. An attendee dozes during yesterday’s Power Patrol Seminar on Energy Efficiency and Conservation for Households participated by Barangay captains and kagawads held at the Davao City Recreation Center. Lean Daval Jr. the implementation of agrarian reform and national industrialization; the advancement of the rights of the exploited, oppressed, discriminated and disadvantaged sectors of the society; the upholding, protection, defense and promotion of economic sovereignty; and the conservation of national patrimony and protection of the environment. soon enough, to clear the way to long-needed reforms in tax policy and administration for the benefit of both individual and corporate taxpayers.

In fact, he said, the DOF submitted last Sept. 26 to the House of Representatives ways and means committee the tax reform plan’s first package, which is topped by cuts in personal income taxes (PIT) via the adoption of a modified gross system that will exempt a sizeable number of low-income Filipinos from paying income taxes altogether.

To offset foregone revenues from the proposed PIT reductions, he said that Package One includes such measures as broadening the now-narrow Value Added Tax (VAT) base, adjusting excise taxes on petroleum products, and restructuring the tax on automobiles, with the exception of trucks, cargo vans, jeepneys, jeep substitutes and special purpose vehicles.

Package Two, which the DOF will soon submit to the Congress, includes proposed reductions in the Corporate Income Tax (CIT), in order to address the concerns of businesses that have long griped about the Philippines having among the highest corporate tax rates in Asia.

This comprehensive tax reform plan will help the government raise enough revenues to fund its three priority programs that are meant to keep the economy on its high growth path, said Dominguez, to improve the living standards, particularly of poor and low-income Filipinos, and to better attract foreign direct investments that generate jobs.

(PNA)

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. 2002-XI-00001-DO DOMINGO A. GARDE, Petitioner

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

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. 2001-XI-00031 EPIFANIO G. CASTILLON, JR., Petitioner x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

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

Petition for Approval of Sale and Transfer of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ-DUAL Ordinary Regular Service.

Case No. 2016-XI-01649 (2015-XI-00074) RODELIO A. IDAL, Petitioner-Vendor

WILMA R. GOMEZ, Petitioner-Vendee

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: TAGUM CITY-LUPON (DAVAO ORIENTAL) AND VICE VERSA 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 February 20, 2017. In the petition filed on September 1, 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: CIRCULATION ROUTE 8 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 September 27, 2017. In the petition filed on September 14, 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

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.

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 OCTOBER 26, 2016 at 02:10 p.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 TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-InCharge, this 2nd day of September 2016 at Davao City.

MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on OCTOBER 31, 2016 at 09:40 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 TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/OfficerIn-Charge, this 15th day of September 2016 at Davao City.

MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV

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

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioners request authority for the Approval of Sale and Transfer executed by RODELIO A. IDAL in favor of WILMA R. GOMEZ of a Certificate of Public Convenience with Equipment issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ –DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: BUNAWAN VIA SASA and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate is still valid and subsisting up to July 30, 2020.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on OCTOBER 26, 2016 at 09:40 p.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 17th day of August 2016 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ Chief Transport Development Officer

INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

EDGEDAVAO STYLE LEFT: Diamond Eternity Necklace and Drop Earrings.

BOTTOM: African Star Ruby Cabochons.

Romance of the old world

IT ALL STARTED WITH JUST A DREAM 25 YEARS AGO AND TODAY, Emilia Sitjar Jewellery is regarded as a premier jewellery shop in Davao City.

It is a place where one can find jewellery that are beautifully designed, uniquely created with unadulterated love, and meticulously crafted by hand.

With this philosophy in mind, Emilia Sitjar Jewellery introduces its silver year collection, “Poetic Elegance, The Filipinoiserie Collection,” which takes its inspiration from the richness and beauty of the history of Filipino women. Inspired not only by the materials used for jewellery Filipino women love such as pearls, corals, noble metals and shells, the set highlights the kind and quality of lives Filipino women have lived through the years.

“We found ourselves taking a cue from vintage pieces, redesigning and reworking them to a more contemporary old-meets-new, east-meets-west feel.” said Emil Sitjar of Emilia Sitjar Jewellery in a private preview at their store in Abreeza, “The collection is also all about bringing the best of Filipino culture and influence to the modern global stage.”

“A huge influence of the jewellery we designed and created for Poetic Elegance could also be traced from the evolution of the way of life of Filipino women: From the old world recreation of piano playing and well-guarded family recipes, to a modern woman who successfully mixes her busy profession with afternoon teas; from the love of embroidery, veils, and filigree, to a woman who loves simple silhouettes but employs statement accents,” added Emil.

The 25th year collection is also a collection of gratitude, shared Emil. “We are grateful that we have played a part in the lives of our clients who have allowed us to be part of their stories and build long lasting friendships throughout the years. We are grateful that we have been given the opportunity to design and create jewellery and have been welcomed by the market. And we are grateful that Emilia Sitjar, the public school teacher, who gambled

URBANISSIMO A3

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Neckalace and Bracelet set of Rubellite beads with multi-color sapphires studded accents. Tortoise Shell Ring and Bracelet with 4-Direction Good Luck Emblem. Earrings with Keshi Pearls Sapphires, Neckalce with Keshi Pearls and Topaz. Carved Columbian Emerald Earrings.

A2 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 201

PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS

STYLE METRO MOM A4

ing to be comfortable in her own skin. It took a couple of alterations in college before she finally found what she really wanted to pursue in life. She had a choice to study in one the most popular and highly-respected design schools in Manila, but opted to return to Davao to be closer to her little bundle of joy.

“My daughter is my inspiration, and I was really bent on fulfilling my dreams with her by my side.” Yes, this young creative is also a proud mom, whose work ethic and dedication stem from her determination in providing a bright and promising future for her child.

Mandy says she started with minimalist cuts and designs.

“For my thesis in school, I played around with a lot of whites, texture, and basic silhouettes. It was in that thesis presentation cum runway show that I first got recognized, as I was awarded the Best Thesis Collection.”

From there, she explored other styles without veering away from her intuitions. She springs from contemporary minimalist to care-free boho, and sometimes leans towards the sexy-savvy feel of a preppy or office look.

Asked if she has any particular preferences in terms of texture or materials, she says it’s always a love-hate relationship among all her choices. But, for her current collection, she utilized soft and stretch fabrics. “They’re difficult to work on, yet easy to wear.”

Expounding on the current challenges she faces, as with other designers, Mandy says, “To stay in this industry, you need a strong sense of creativity and artistic vision. Standing out as a designer means that work should not only be stylish and unique, but also functional and practical. That means our inclinations and aesthetics must not only look good on people, but also meet everyone’s basic needs. This industry, even with high end and luxury lines, is changing. We are leaning towards two levers for longer term and sustainable growth: creativity and purpose.”

Log on to @amandadavaoph and @amandamandalove on Instagram to view more of Mandy’s sample work. You may contact her for design services through 0995 450 8669 or email mandyvelascofd@yahoo.com.

16

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3 URBANISSIMO A1

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

her ‘early-retirement’ money 25 years ago to fulfill a dream, is still actively involved in a business which may well be her very legacy for generations to come.”

When asked how she views jewellery now after 25 years in the business, Emilia Sitjar said, “Gems are God’s creations. Own and wear them with love, to spark your heart.”

Emilia Sitjar Jewellery will unveil its latest collection to select guests and VIPS with a jewellery show on October 12, which also feature dresses created by Davao top couturier Edgar Buyan.

September 30 – October 4, 2016

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A4 INdulge!

STYLE

EDGEDAVAO

Creativity & purpose

WATCHING HER MOTHER WORK ON COMMISSIONED ILLUSTRATIONS, Mandy Velasco discovered her passion for fashion at a very young age.

Born to a free-thinker whose artistry played such a pivotal part in opening doors for creative possibilities, she gives credit to her mom for providing her with the tools she needed to develop her own talent. At home, papers, pencils, and glossies were a constant on her mom’s desk, and Mandy, a keen observer, learned about the fundamentals of human anatomy and proportions as she traced her hands through fashion pages and watched her mom sketch in action.

Now, at 28 years of age, Mandy Velasco is a full-fledged fashion designer, who has garnered more praise and admiration after winning the Samsung Designer of the Year award at the Mindanao-wide competition dubbed “Stellar: Rising Fashion Star”.

Getting recognized for her talent is a major feat for Mandy, simply because her foray into this industry is also a journey to knowing more about herself and learn-

METRO MOM A2

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

One... FROM 2

National Newspaper Category Finalists Baguio-La Trinidad Traffic Solvers Hope for E-Trains Vincent Cabreza Philippine Daily Inquirer September 22, 2015

Climate Change Revives ‘Natural Building’ of Houses Yolanda Sotelo Philippine Daily Inquirer February 3, 2016 New Growth Areas for Renewable Energy Riza Olchondra Philippine Daily Inquirer June 30, 2016

Community Newspaper Category Finalists A Brave New School Without Walls Lina Sagaral Reyes, with reports from ReyGarcia, Mel Madera, Nova Thirdy Agravante, Mary Rose Silvidad, Dahlia Benemerito

City... FROM 3

things to happen again because it is a criminal act once a person [falsifying documents] is proven guilty,” he added.

Nadela stressed the City Government wants to help more residents who cannot afford medical care.

The City Council is still currently reviewing the 16-yearold memorandum of agreement (MOA) with its partner

NEWS 11

Mindanao Observer July 24, 2016

Basilica Minore del Santo Niño: Restoring a Historical Landmark July 31, 2016 May Miasco The Freeman Disaster-Proofing Bantayan Flornisa Gitgano Sun.Star Cebu July 27, 2016

St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Clarin, Bohol: Rising from the Rubble Michael Vencynth Braga The Freeman July 31, 2016

The Zero Carbon Resort Demonstration Cottage: Retrofitting the “Bahay Kubo” for Climate Change Frank Cimatu Baguio Chronicle May 28-June 3, 2016 agencies and amend some of its provisions.

In the meantime, Nadela bared the City Government is planning to establish a onestop-shop for the Lingap Program.

“We have to place all the offices [related to Lingap Program] in a compound for the people to save money and time,” he said.

Davao City Brgy. Officials attend Power Patrol Seminar on Energy Efficiency and Conservation for Household. It was initiated by the City Government of Davao, Philippine Information Agency, and Department of Energy at Davao City Recreation Center Tuesday morning. CIO

Village chiefs, kagawads join energy conservation seminar D

AVAO City barangay leaders on Tuesday learned energy saving tips during the Power Patrol Seminar on Energy Efficiency and Conservation for Households held at the Davao City Recreational Center (formerly

called the Almendras gym).

According to Jose Ong, chief of Barangay Cultural Community Affairs Division (BCCAD), the barangay captains and their kagawads from Davao City’s 182 barangays are expected to share the sem-

inar output with their constituents.

“The seminar was about household energy consumption,” he said. “At least we will all be able to conserve energy and save on money from the inputs given by experts.”

The tips were basic, practical and were easy to follow but were effective in decreasing expenses. The tips include switching off or unplugging of unused appliances, proper use of fans and airconditioning systems, among others. CIO

HE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) awards the regional and provincial winners of the 2016 Regional Search for Huwarang Pamilyang Pilipino at Grand Men Seng Hotel, Davao City on Thursday, October 6.

“The search aims to recognize family beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program who maintain strong family ties, demonstrate posi-

tive Filipino values, and have a positive impact in the community where they reside,” said DSWD Regional Director Mercedita P. Jabagat.

Some 29 families from allover Davao Region will gather during the awarding ceremony.

Highlighting the event will be the awarding of the regional and provincial winners -the Hinampas Family of Asuncion, Davao del Norte; Jabanes

Family of Kiblawan, Davao del Sur; Bagolaque Family of New Bataan, Compostela Valley; Diansing Family of Malita, Davao Occidental; Pleños Family of San Isidro, Davao Oriental; and Sarino Family of Tigatto, Davao City.

Launched in 2012, the search is open to all Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries who have good standing in the community with no derogatory records

and have not been convicted of any administrative, criminal, civil case or cases involving moral turpitude in the last five years, and a family with 100% compliance in all Pantawid Pamilya conditionalities.

The Regional Winner will receive P 20,000.00 and a plaque while all Provincial Winners will receive P 10,000.00 each plus plaque.

(DSWD)

Lt. Col. Ronnie Babac, 73IB commanding officer, said the victims reported they were forcibly made by the NPA to attend supposed dialogues but were eventually held.

He said some of the victims were only released after paying a substantial amount to the rebels.

The official cited the case of two barangay councilors of Datal Anggas in Alabel, Sarangani identified only as Calibay and Baan who were reportedly asked by the rebels to pay P25,000 each after being forced to attend a supposed dialogue last Sept. 25.

On Sept. 27, he said a local

resident identified as Romeo Mansiguil and another unnamed barangay councilor of Barangay Datal Anggas were abducted by NPA rebels led by a certain alias “L3.”

Babac said the rebels took the firearms of the victims and demanded P50,000 in exchange for their release.

In Malita, Davao Occidental, he said a store owner in Barangay Little Baguio was held and asked to pay P20,000 after being forced by the rebels to attend a supposed dialogue.

Bañas urged the media to help them monitor these cases and eventually expose them to the public. (PNA)

Tuesday saying he felt that wanted to address the insanity behind the claims of Matobato whom he labeled as a madman.

He intimated that it would be unfair for him to appear before the Senate based entirely on Matobato’s allegations. He instead challenged the Senate to test Matobato’s mental health.

“The Senate will invite me to answer the allegations made by a madman?” he said.

He also belied the claim that Matobato worked as his

bodyguard.

“To tell you frankly, Mr. Matobato, I don’t know you!” he said. “I’ve never seen you in this city, not even once.”

But despite Matobato’s claims, he said it is unlikely that he will file charges against the witness of Sen. de Lima.

“Why would I file a case against a deranged person? It would be useless,” he said.

The son of President Rodrigo Duterte said the allegations of Matobato were apparently out to tarnish the reputation of his father.

sourced from the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefit Fund (MPBF).”

Annually, it will only cost additional P47 billion in government coffers, which can be lodged under the MPBF or in the agencies’ respective budgets, Drilon added.

Drilon said that if the President approves this proposal, Congress can include the amounts necessary for the grant of additional allowances to both the uniformed and civilian employees in the 2017 national budget.

he called Matobato to testify but was later told that the witness had already left the Senate premises to seemingly “hide something” from them.

While Trillanes admitted that he allowed Matobato’s exit, de Lima said she did not know that the witness had already left.

After Gordon refused to

apologize for accusing De Lima of material concealment, De Lima walked out in frustration stressing that she felt like her fellow senators were “ganging up on her.”

The fifth Senate inquiry into extrajudicial killings allegedly linked to the administration’s anti-illegal drug campaign lasted for over 12 hours. (PNA)

DSWD awards Huwarang Pamilya 2016 winners

T

Army... FROM 2

Drilon... FROM 3

Never... FROM 3

Angara... FROM 3

12 ENVIRONMENT EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

Oceans in deep trouble!

Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

“The degradation of our marine ecosystems has always been a gut issue as it pushes poverty deeper in the coastal communities through loss of livelihood, vulnerability to natural hazards, hunger and even health problems. We must all work together to bring back our coral reefs and the whole marine ecosystem to excellent condition so that our seas can benefit us in a sustainable manner,” – Senator Loren Legarda

T

HE world’s oceans are so huge and literally unfathomable that no one seems to believe that they are in deep trouble. But they are, according to Alexandra Cousteau, an ocean explorer, filmmaker and conservation advocate.

This is particularly true in the Philippines, she said during her recent visit to the country.

Although she was awed of the country’s “incredible beauty,” she also talked of its “extraordinary former glory.”

“When I dive here, it’s so beautiful but I feel like we’re missing 50% of the fish,” she was quoted as saying by Alya Honasan of “Philippine Daily Inquirer.” “I feel that there

***

should be so much more, it feels empty – and that’s kind of sad.”

The “center of marine biodiversity” is how scientists described the Philippines because of its rich marine life on a per-hectare basis. Unfortunately, it also earned a description of being “a hot spot” as its marine-biodiversity are fast disappearing.

Take the case of the ecologically-fragile coral reefs, which are considered the food basket for the fish. “A square kilometer of healthy coral reef may yield about 30 tons of seafood every year. But 94% of our corals are in fair or poor condition, they will not be able to produce fish enough for our

Fish from the open sea needs,” said Senator Loren Legarda in a statement.

The Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance said that the destruction of coral reefs would mean less fish population, which would translate to lower fish catch and lower protein for the people. Some estimates showed that 80% of the animal protein requirement of Filipinos come from the oceans.

“No other people can understand the ocean better than Filipinos. You are ultimately connected to the oceans. We must protect the place that we call home,” pointed out Cousteau, who is the

granddaughter of Jacques Cousteau, the man who “sailed the world for much of the late 20th century, educating millions about the Earth’s oceans.”

Life’s support system “From afar, aliens might see the obvious: the sea is Earth’s life-support system,” wrote marine biologist Sylvia A. Earle, former chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration. “The services provided are so fundamental that most of us who live here tend to take them for granted.”

Caught by fishing “The earth’s great sea is the heart of the hydrological cycle – nature’s solar-driven water pump,” explains Don Hinrichsen, an award-winning American environmental journalist and author of “Coastal Waters of the World.”

About 430,000 cubic ki-

lometers of water evaporate from the oceans every year.

“Of this amount, around 110,000 cubic kilometers fall as freshwater precipitation over land, replenishing surface and ground waters and eventually completing the cycle by returning to the

F ENVIRONMENT, 13

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

ENVIRONMENT... FROM 12 sea,” Hinrichsen reports.

Unknowingly, more than 70% of the world is covered by ocean, and yet the marine environment remains one of the most mysterious ones on Earth. “Oceans have no respect for the artificial boundaries drawn by man,” said Klaus Topfer, former executive director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

In the past, the ocean was seen mainly as a means of travel. Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, and Christopher Columbus were some of the famous voyagers who discovered new lands using the oceans.

“The conflicts that arose were about territories, about trade routes,” notes Federico Mayor, former director-general of the United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). “It was the surface of the sea that was Mangroves

being fought over, as if it were an extension of the land.”

Today, the oceans are seen as the source of food. “The sea provides the biggest source of wild or domestic protein in the world,” the Save the Sea Organization reports. “Each year some 70 to 75 million tons of fish are caught in the ocean.

Of this amount around 29 million tons is for human consumption. The global fish production exceeds that of cattle, sheep, poultry or eggs.”

The ocean is also the engine that drives the world’s climate, storing huge quantities of solar energy in the process.

“The ocean absorbs and stores carbon dioxide from the atmosphere,” says Hinrichsen.

“Since this invisible gas is one of the main agents of climate change, the ocean is an important sink that helps to modify human impacts on global climate.”

13

EDGEDAVAO Bounties from the ocean In danger “The world’s oceans are in danger, and the enormity of the challenge is bigger than one country or organization,” said World Bank president Robert Zoellick during the World Oceans Summit held in Singapore some years back.

According to Katie Auth, contributing author of Worldwatch report, “State of the World 2015,” the combination of overfishing and climate change is putting the oceans’ health -- and our own wellbeing -- at risk.

“As our negative impact on the oceans has grown, so has our understanding of the myriad ways in which the health of the marine environment determines our own,” writes Auth.

“The combined stresses of human activities like overfishing and climate change now pose distinct and intensified threats to marine systems.”

“Rapid human population growth and rising incomes are increasing the demand for food fish and pushing wild fish populations to the brink,” said the Worldwatch in a press statement.

Climate-related changes in the marine ecosystem are also

Coral reefs

affecting the oceans. “Over the last 40 years, the upper 75 meters of the world’s oceans have warmed by an average of more than 0.1 degrees Celsius per year,” Auth writes. “Temperate species are responding to this change and other stressors, such as pollution and fishing pressures, by moving toward the poles, possibly increasing competition with polar animals.”

If that is not enough, increased carbon in the atmosphere is also triggering ocean acidification. About a quarter of human-caused carbon dioxide from the atmosphere has been absorbed into seawater.

This changes the chemistry of the water and makes it more difficult for some marine organisms (such as oysters and corals) to form shells and skeletons. Once these populations are affected, entire food webs

are threatened.

Warmer sea temperatures and ocean acidification will decrease marine fish capture by about 50% in the southern part of the Philippines by the year 2050, according to a 2013 study by the World Bank.

“We have one of the world’s richest ecosystems, but several factors, including unsustainable fishing practices, urbanization and climate change, have been posing serious threats to our seas.

Oceans have acidified, having absorbed about a third of the carbon dioxide emitted which has resulted in coral bleaching.

For an archipelagic country, this unraveling scenario is a nightmare because it will ultimately affect our food security,” said Legarda.

Saving oceans The oceans must be saved – before it’s too late. In the Inquirer feature, Cousteau gave some ideas. “We need to get away from the idea that

conservation is just about not touching the oceans. Conservation is about restoring abundance and diversity that will feed more people, feed more marine life, and create resilience against climate change and ocean acidification that will the Philippines really hard.”

She suggested that Filipinos must work together. “Getting the right people engaged is a huge part of it,” Cousteau said. “We have to make sure small-scale fisherfolk are represented; they’re not the ones plundering the ocean. We have to stop illegal commercial fishing; we have to source the fish responsibly. It’s been done before, it’s not a magic formula.

Increase the marine protected areas, stop bycatch, stop illegal fishing – et voila!”

“Life originated in the ocean millions of years ago,” UNESCO’s Mayor reiterated.

“Today, life depends on the oceans. They were the roots of life. Now, they are its wings.”

EDGEDAVAO

14 MOTORING

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

FAST AND AFFORDABLE Electric cars are really the way forward

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

H

AVING seen two Tesla cars on the recent E-Vehicle Fest 2016 in Fremantle, West Australia, you wouldn’t believe these machines actually run on electric power.

Until you look under the hood.

I was pretty impressed with the Tesla version of electric cars, and along with Porsche’s e-Cayenne and the BMW i3, these cars should lead the way into the future of electric vehicles.

Take the American car’s Model S luxury sedan, probably one of the best e cars in the market today.

A little bulky in size, the Model S has that naughty beast look of a macho machine.

Here are the specs: The Model S is available in a wide range of configurations including the choice between two battery packs; one with 60 kilowatt hours and the other with 85. Both are considerably bigger than other electric cars.

For example, Nissan uses a 24 kWh pack in the Leaf. But the bulky energy storage system is built into something Tesla refers to as a “skateboard” chassis.

If you stop by one of the company’s stores, you’ll see a bare version of the platform on display. Its name presents a clear description. There are four wheels, suspension components and a long, wide, flat metal housing to join them.

The battery pack hides inside the structure.

The flat housing packs all of the drivetrain components, of which there are relatively few. An electric motor powers the back wheels. The result is a remarkably smooth and stable ride with absolutely thrilling acceleration.

POWERFUL AND FAST The car ranges from 302 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque for the 60 kWh battery to 362 hp and 440 lb-ft with the 85 kWh. That climbs even farther to 416 hp and 443 lb-ft if you

buy the P85, which comes with a high-performance drive inverter. Sprinting from 0-60 mph takes 5.9, 5.4, or just 4.2 seconds depending on which one you choose.

I browsed through reviews and market performance of Tesla’s Model S and found out that its performance of late is way too impressive.

At a time when the price of oil is unpredictable, consumers are really taking the electric vehicles seriously.

In the United States, reports say Tesla didn’t have the best spring thanks to sub-par deliveries, but it made up for that in style this summer. The company reports that it delivered 24,500 electric vehicles in the third quarter, or a whopping 70 percent more than it did in the second quarter -- and over twice the 11,580 it shipped a year earlier. It’s not simply a matter of clearing a backlog, either, as production was up 37 percent (to 25,185 cars) over the second quarter.

Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk and company haven’t explained what led to the spike, although it’s easy to see Tesla’s more accessible lineup playing a part.

The surge hints that Tesla shouldn’t have much trouble hitting its target of 50,000 deliveries in the second half of 2016. It’s predicting that its fourth quarter deliveries will be as good or better than it managed last year.

The company said their bigger challenge comes in 2017, as it gets ready for the Model 3. Tesla will have to ramp up Gigafactory production and deliver many, many more EVs to eager drivers.

Electric cars in Australia have been off to a slow start but commuters believe the change to electric vehicles is an inevitability. It’s now time to make the switch.

It’s a pretty interesting subject that I now closely follow—a shift from the ultra modern petrol-driven cars to battery-operated ones—and through time, I will attempt to

take one brand closer into our running research and review of electric vehicles, it is undeniable that we are at the beginning of a renaissance in battery operated vehicles with developments in technology that will exchange

the toxic global vehicle fleet to a more environmentally benign one. ]We will follow closely the results of this technological shift as it will be a significant reduction in air pollution, better health outcomes in cities around the world and less climate altering greenhouse gases in our atmosphere. As the aim of this new technology, the shift will also change the way we consider energy generation and storage.

Electric vehicle advocates and carmakers agree that as oil consumption leads to reductions in air quality, poor and expensive health outcomes – as supply becomes more uncertain with high strategic risks, as climate change accelerates, electrifying the vehicle fleet is the obvious way forward.

I am starting to believe.

EDGEDAVAO Sports 15

VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

GOLD IN GOLDEN CITY

Ramirez bags gold in Milo Little Olympics

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

MILO LITTLE OLYMPICS. Gold Medalist Jam Ramirez (third from left) and bronze medalist Stephen James Cartagena with AAK Davao coach Rommel Tan (second from left) and assistant Marc Damayo (extreme right) during the recently concluded Milo Little Olympics in Cagayan de Oro City.

4 teams shine in Rotary bowling tourney

F

OUR teams emerged early leaders during the opening of 30th Rotary Tenpin Bowling Championships at the Big 3 Entertainment Center of the NCCC Mall in Matina, Davao City, last Sunday afternoon.

Past president Valentino “Val” Dionisio, tournament chairman, said Rotary Club of Sta. Ana-Davao notched 1,693 pinfalls against RC East Davao, RC South Digos and RC Central Davao with 1,591 pinfalls, 1,545, and 1,514 apiece after two games.

RC Ea st Davao, which is managing the Oct. 2-23

weekly encounters, is the current champion, in perennial rivalry with RC Sta. Ana –Davao, home club of past district governor Remegio “Boy” Salanatin.

During last Sunday’s opening, Deputy District Governor Paul Yuste, speaking in behalf of District Gov. Meanne Solomon, emphasized the importance of physical fitness in the lives of Rotarians and other civic leaders.

RC East Davao president Fred Yelinek, the first American to head RC East, welcomed the club bowlers to the tournament, urging

them to consider the games opportunity for bonding and fellowship with fellow Rotarians.

Desiree Geralde of RC Digos was adjudged “Miss Rotary 2016” among a field of nine contestants.

On the other hand, RC South Digos was chosen as the club to have the best uniform by a panel of judges composed of PDG Bading Angala of RC West Davao, DDG Yuste and District Governor-elect Art Tan of RC Central Davao.

Next outing is on Sunday, October 9.

Host Club - RC East Davao

Best Uniform - RC South Digos with AG Bing Cabardo and PP Val L. Dionisio Tournament Chairman

A

PAIR of teenagers lifted defending champion Manila Southwoods-Masters to a four-point lead over rival Cebu Country Club Tuesday at the start of the 11th Philippine Airlines Ladies Interclub golf team championships at the Camp John Hay golf course here.

Rookie Bernice Ilas, 14, and Sophia Chabon, 15, delivered for the five-time champions, scoring 54 and 52 points, respectively.

Ilas mixed four birdies with four bogeys to finish at even par 68 while Chabon returned a 70 on two birdies against four bogeys.

Counting Lora Roberto’s 47 points, the SW-Masters totaled 153 points.

“As long as we’re up, it’s a good day,” said SW playing captain Claire Ong.

Miss Rotary “Desiree Geralde” of RC Digos with DDG Paul Yuste

F

njb@edgedavao.net

ORMER Athlete of the Year Julian Ambrose Ramirez from Precious International School of Davao bagged a gold medal on Sunday at the recent 2016 Milo Little Olympics at Limketkai Mall in Cagayan de Oro City.

The 16-year old Ramirez won convincingly in the finals defeating Alister Icayan of Misamis Oriental 6-1 in the -63 kgs high school kumite.

Ramirez booked a seat to the finas with a masterful 7-0 win over Nino Justo of Cagayan de Oro in the semi finals.

Ramirez was the 2015 So Kim Cheng athlete of the year awardee in Davao City.

Teammate John Paul Ponce, another standout from Precious International

School, failed to win a medal in the below 52kgs kumite after bowing to Kalyawen Danmar of Bukidnon National High school 3-4 in the quarter finals.

Stephen James Cartagena, a Grade 6 student of Brokenshire Science High School, took home a bronze medal in the grade school 5-6 kumite category.

He settled for the bronze after losing to Rence Reid Cordova of Cagayan de Oro City.

Davao City fielded 3 karatekas only inn the tournament which was participated by 28 schools all over Mindanao.

Ramirez and Cartagena both represented their schools in the said event but are members of AAK Davao

under coach Marc Damayo.

The tournament was officiated by referees coming from Manila headed by former National team members Asian Gamer Richard Anthony Lim, World Championship veteran Sonny Montalvo, Bernard Alvarina and Jeff Lagasca.

Local officiating members were also given the chance to officiate as judge headed by Meds Bacunawa (Bukidnon) and Ernie Naive.

AAK Davao thanked Jay and Joanne Ramirez, Miguel Ramirez, Randy Magallanes, Sharon Cartagena, Richard Lu, Perla Kwan and Miko Kwan of PISD, Beth Dumanig of Brokenshire and Beefit Gym for supporting the athletes.

N the eve of their first preseason game in the post-Kobe Bryant era, the Los Angeles Lakers have yet to decide on their starting five.

With less than 24 hours before the tip-off against the Sacramento Kings, new Lakers coach Luke Walton admitted as much according to ESPN. com’s Jovan Buha on Monday (Tuesday, Manila time).

“I don’t know. We’ll figure it out before gametime,” said Walton, who went on to share that all positions are open at this point when pressed for more details.

“We don’t know our starters yet. We’ll figure it out later today,” he added.

Walton said he has an idea of who the frontrunners but has yet to sit down with the team when it comes to announcing his picks.

Based on the Lakers training camp, observers believe

the team will go with the young core of D’Angelo Russell and Jordan Clarkson in the backcourt, newly-hired veteran Luol Deng will partner with power forward Julius Randle at the forward positions while center and free agency acquisition Timofey Mozgov will hold the middle.

The 36-year old coach earlier said Brandon Ingram, the Lakers’ top pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, will come off the bench during the regular season.

A c cording to Walton, a place in the starting lineup and the rotation will not be judged solely on talent, but how the players can

play well together. He bared his intent to experiment with several lineups during the preseason as there are currently 20 players vying for 15 roster spots.

Fiber, Mastercard, Tanduay Distillers and Zalora.

The results: Championships: Manila Southwoods Masters, 153 (Ilas 54; Chabon 52; Roberto 47) Cebu Country Club 149 (Neri 57; Gabasa, I. 48; Gabasa, J. 44) Founders: Alabang Country Club 145, Valley Golf South 140, The Orchard Team 1

131, Tagaytay Highlands Ladies Chapter 127, Rancho PalosVerdes 125, Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club 120, Del Monte 111, Manila Southwoods Legend 110 Sportswriters: Eagle Ridge 121, Camp Aguinaldo Team A 119, Apo Golf 115, Davao City Golf Club 109, Manila Golf 108, Camp John Hay 106, Anvaya

Golf Club 105, Valley North 102, Pueblo de Oro 101, Lady Eagles Australian/New Zealand 98, Bacolod Golf 94, Iloilo Golf 90, Friendship: Wack Wack 99, Victorias 97, Alabang Ladies 95, Baguio Country Club 92, Camp Aguinaldo Team B 89, Orchard Team 2 80, Port Moresby 76

No starters yet for Lakers O

Southwoods-Masters seizes 4-point lead SW-Masters was forced to use only three players after one of its players, Andrea Pineda, failed to make the trip due to her studies.

CCC, out to end SW-Masters’ five-year reign, rode on Crystal Faith Neri’s 57 points to stay in contention.

Neri made six birdies against three bogeys to score the day’s best score.

Sisters Irina and Junia Gabasa shot 48 and 44 points, respectively to round out CCC’s scoring. Ryoko Nagai failed to count with 34 points.

In the Founders division, Alabang Country Club surged on top with 145 points behind Ma. Josefina Gorres (51), Rita Horan (47) and Marilyn Reyes (47).

Valley Golf South, powered

by Marielle Isabela Tee’s 49 points, took second spot with

140 followed by Orchard Team A with 131 points.

Eagle Ridge was the leader in the Sportswriters class after submitting 121 points.

Scoring for Eagle Ridge were Lita Samson 47, Erlinda Goble 40 and Leonila Patricio 34.

Two points behind was Camp Aguinaldo Team A while Apo Golf was running third with 115 points.

A three-horse race was shaping up in the Friendship bracket among Wack Wack (99), Victorias (97) and Alabang Ladies Golf Chapter (95).

Major sponsors of the 72hole event include Solar Entertainment Corp., Airbus, Business Mirror, Mareco Broadcasting Network, People Asia and Manila Broadcasting Corp.

Other backers are Philippine Daily Inquirer, Fonterra, Mega

ROOKIE. No. 2 pick Brandon Ingram will be coming off the bench for the Lakers.

PAL LADIES INTERCLUB. Team Captains of 29 ladies golf teams gathered at Camp John Hay Golf Club in Baguio for the 2nd team captains meeting of the 11th PAL Ladies Interclub golf tournament with the theme ‘Glam on the Greens’.

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 159 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016