Edge Davao 9 Issue 199

VOL. 9 ISSUE 199 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES OPENER. A student performs ballet dance routine during a field demonstration as part of the opening of Batang Pinoy 2016 National Championships at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex in Tagum City on Sunday night. Lean Daval Jr.

BUMPED BY A BMW Davao City nurse dies, another hurt in Abu Dhabi mishap

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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FILIPINA overseas worker from Davao died while her friend was seriously injured after a speeding car bumped them along a highway in the United Arab Emirates recently, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration reported Monday.

Eduardo Bellido, OWWA Region 11 director, identified the fatalities as Esfee Banaag and Melissa Roble, both nurses in Abu Dhabi.

Bellido said in a press briefing Monday that both Filipinas were on their way home from their work when they were hit by a BMW on November 12.

Both Banaag and Roble were brought to a hospital in Abu Dhabi, said Bellido.

“One nurse [Banaag] died on Sunday, November 27, from severe brain injury – which is irreversible,” Bellido said, adding that Roble suffered a spinal column injury after the mishap.

OWWA is working to bring the remains Banaag back to the Philippines, while they are doing their best to assist Roble as much as they could.

Authorities are also investigating the incident, Bellido said.

However, it was not clear if both the Filipina workers were in the OWWA’s list of registered OFWs, hence they could not fully provide life insurance for the victims.

“Hindi sila makakatanggap ng benefits from OWWA

because lumabas pala na tourist visa lang ang gamit nila and that undocumented workers sila sa amin,” Bellido explained.

Bellido pointed out that only OFWs who are registered in OWWA are the ones receiving the life insurance in his or her working experience abroad, revealing that the family members of the overseas worker will receive PhP 100,000 for death due to natural cause or PhP 200,000 because of an accident.

He also stressed that people who leave the country on irregular status to the Middle East are vulnerable to abuses and cannot receive assistance from government once they encounter problems such as accidents or death.

Ma who left baby in airport missing

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UTHORITIES are still in the process of identifying the mother who left her three-month-old baby to a woman she just befriended at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 on

EDGEDAVAO Sports

Nov. 24.

Ed Bellido, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Region 11 director, said the Family Welfare Officer in Compostela Valley was still ascertaining if Vilma Lasti-

NEXT GEN HEROES P15 PSC says Batang Pinoy a source of nat’l pride

ma who was identified as the mother is a resident of Maco municipality.

“The person’s address was identified to be somewhere in Maco but records

FMA, 10

The southernmost jewel of the Philippines:

TAWI-TAWI Indulge A1

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 199 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

UNFAZED. Officials from the provincial government of Davao del Norte led by Governor Antonio Rafael Del Rosario, Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William Ramirez, commissioners Charles Raymund Maxey, Ramon Fernandez and Celia Kiram, Speaker of the House Pantaleon Alvarez and other government

Davao City seeks end to violence vs. women

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

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HE city government of Davao, in partnership with Department of Tourism, launched the 18-day campaign to end violence against women (VAW) dubbed, “Orange Your Icon” on Friday at People’s Park.

For the opening, an “Orange Zumba” and variety show featuring Davao Artists were held at People’s Park, considered as a popular tourist destination in the city and dubbed as one of the cleanest parks in the Philippines.

The campaign observed un-

til December 2, 2016, is an annual nationwide observance which bears the slogan #VAWfreePH. In a press statement from DOT Asst. Secretary for Mindanao Eden David, she stated that as the leading agency in hospitality industry, DOT will ensure that respect for women and children’s rights is upheld and laws for equality and gender are observed.

“The campaign “Orange Your Icon” for Vaw-free Philippines is being done to major

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Bishop condemns bombing of church in Sultan Kudarat

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OTABATO Archbishop Orlando Cardinal Quevedo has condemned on Sunday the bombing of a Catholic Church in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat, calling it “pure terrorism.”

In a statement following the 5:40 a.m. Sunday bombing in front of Our Lady of Hope Parish Church in Barangay Saliao, Esperanza, Cardinal Quevedo said it was an attack against innocent civilians.

Two persons were injured when an improvised bomb detonated by still unidentified suspects exploded Sunday morning in front of the gate of the church.

“The bombing in front of the gate of Esperanza parish church at the end of our 5:30 a.m. First Sunday of Advent Mass is pure terrorism,” the prelate said.

“It was made worse because of the sacredness of the place, the sacredness of the day and the sacredness of the event that had just taken place,” he said, referring to the First Sunday of Advent Mass among Roman Catholics.

“As the leader of the Archdiocese of Cotabato, I voice my strong condemnation against this act of irrational terrorism,” Cardinal Quevedo said.

“It is an attack on innocent human lives,” he added.

The country’s second working cardinal said “it was also an attack on freedom to worship.”

He urged security officials to take control of the situation and bring the culprits before the bar of justice.

“I appeal to our security

FBISHOP, 10

officials brave the heavy downpour as they welcome the delegates of Batang Pinoy 2016 National Championships at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex in Tagum City on Sunday night. Lean Daval Jr.

ARMM holds summit of LGUs, Nov. 30-Dec.1

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HE Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will conduct the 3rd Local Government Unit (Summit geared towards regional development, from November 30 to December 1 in Davao City.

Sharifa Pearlsia A. Dans, assistant regional secretary of the ARMM’s Interior and Local Government department said President Rodrigo Duterte will be the summit’s guest of honor.

“President Duterte, during his visit here at the region’s seat, reiterated that he will personally handle the ARMM,” Dans said.

A total of 116 municipal mayors with their planning officers, two city mayors, five

provincial governors, and members of the 9th regional legislative assembly are expected to participate in the two-day summit.

To be held in coordination with the DILG national office, this year’s summit carries the theme “Pagkamulat, Pagbabago, Pag-Unlad”.

Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio of Davao City is expected to be present during the summit’s opening program. “The twoday event is actually a development summit, the activities which are dialogues and workshops are geared towards development,” Dans said.

The summit will be a venue to facilitate dialogue on

current issues at the local level and secure the commitment of the LGUs in improving or scaling up their good governance standing and eventually to initiate plans for national and regional programs prioritization.

To set the tone of the summit on the first day, ARMM Executive Secretary Laisa Alamia will discuss the region’s development framework, followed by the state of local governance that will be delivered

by DILG-ARMM Secretary Atty.

Noor Hafizullah Abdullah.

There will also be a presentation of ARMM and Local Development Investment Program for the year 2017 as well as workshops on priority pro-

grams, activities, and projects.

Local chief executives will also have dialogues with officials of national government agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Department of Education, Department of Agriculture, Department of Public Works and Highways, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Labor and Employment, and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council.

President Duterte and DILG Secretary Ismael Sueno are expected to be present on

demands, it is nevertheless up to the task of monitoring the slaughter, processing and delivery of meats from slaughter houses to the market centers in the city.

At present, there are five slaughter houses that are operating in Davao City situated in Calinan, Toril, Nenita Farm, Maa and Panacan.

“We are expecting around 10% increase in the demand for meat in the city by the start of November this year,” she noted.

Increase in the number of pigs, cattle and carabaos

slaughtered during the month of October this year also increased compared to the same month last year.

This month, a total of 501 pigs were already slaughtered compared to 481 in October last year; 233 cattle as against 481 in the same month last year; and 233 compared to 121 in October of 2015.

This month, a total of 2,807,317 chickens were already slaughtered, but the number is lower compared to the 2,930,005 chickens slaughtered in the same month last year.

Goats slaughtered this month also decreased with 427 heads in number compared to 517 in October of 2015.

Tellano also clarified that the cause of the complaints aired by vendors last week on the delay of the delivery of meats from slaughter houses was due to unavoidable malfunctions of machineries at slaughter houses.

She said such malfunctions were already addressed and that early delivery of meats from slaughterhouses already returned to normal since late last week.

FARMM, 10

Spike in meat demand in Davao expected

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

S the celebration of the Yuletide season is getting near, the City Veterinary Office (CVO) has predicted an increase in the demand of meat in Davao City.

Dr. Clarita Tellano of CVO told reporters during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City in Davao on Monday the city has enough supply of meat to cope with an increase in demand starting from October towards December.

Tellano said that while the CVO is not abreast of the variations in the prices of meat during the increase in

VOL. 9 ISSUE 199 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

Livestock assistance handed to former rebels in ComVal

N ROADMAP FOR CHANGE. Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 Regional Advisory Council chair Ednar Dayanghirang shows the Philippine National Police (PNP) P.A.T.R.O.L. (Peace and order Agenda for Transformation and upholding of the Rule Of Law) Plan 2030 roadmap during yesterday’s

Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Dayanghirang bared that the number of police officers included in the anti-drug campaign list from January to November 23, 2016 as part of PNP’s internal cleansing reached 1,048. Lean Daval Jr.

Increased NPA presence in Davao region reported

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

A

adlopez0920@gmail.com

FORMER member of the peace panel of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) talking with the National Democratic Front (NDF) aired his concerns on the increasing activities of the New People’s Army, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in the countryside of Davao region.

Ednar Dayanghirang, former member of GRP panel in the past administration said he observed the increased activities of the NPAs in remote areas in the region particularly now that the unilateral ceasefires from both the government and the NDF are already in place.

Dayanghirang now serves as chairperson of the advi-

sory council of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Davao region and head of the multi-sectoral advisory council of the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division of the Philippine Army.

He told reporters during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City on Monday that NPA activities in the region include medical missions, lectures and recruitment of new members.

“Most of these activities are non-violent given that the unilateral ceasefires from both sides are now in place,” he said.

The presence of the unilateral ceasefires also prevented the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to take necessary moves against the NPAs, he added.

Dayanghirang said there

and at least 927 fishermen were affected by the drought that hit the city early this year.

Maria Luisa T. Bermudo, head of the CSSDO, said the distribution of food assistance that included rice and canned goods started middle of No-

vember.

The drought devastated farms in Calinan, Tugbok, Marilog, Paquibato, and Toril, mostly hinterland areas famous for agricultural production.

The city government has distributed 981 sacks of rice

in Tapak and 1,300 in Colosas, both in Paquibato.

The assistance was approved by the city government through a resolution declaring the affected areas under the state of calamity because of the drought. CIO

FINCREASED, 13

Davao City assists farmers, fishers affected by drought

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housands of farmers and fishermen affected by the El Niño phenomenon received assistance from the local government of Davao.

The Davao City Social Services and Development Office said around 37,000 farmers

SSS pensioners to receive their 13th month pension

EARLY a hundred farmers and former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) from various villages in Mawab town, Compostela Valley province received support from the government through livelihood and livestock assistance, the army’s 71st Infantry Battalion said on Satuday.

The distribution of livelihood support was spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture in Davao region (DA-11) with the support of the army, the provincial government of Compostela Valley and the local government unit of Mawab.

Among the farmer’s group and former rebels who benefited from the livelihood support include the members of Sitio Estabillo Andili Rural Association of Farmers (SEARAF) and Kaibigan Workers for Peace and Development Organization (KWPDO).

The facilitation of the release of the livelihood assistance was made possible upon the request of the 71st IB to help the former rebels and farmers in the area.

Beneficiaries belonging to SEARAF received on Saturday two heads of gilts, five heads of piglets and five heads of

Boer goats; while the KWPDO members were awarded with 50 heads of native chickens with an overall total amount of P60, 000.00 as starter kits on Native Chicken Production and Swine and Goat Raising Livelihood Program.

The livelihood and livestock assistance will provide the beneficiaries with shortterm and long-term livelihood programs and a way of alleviating their income and making them productive members of their respective communities.

DA-11 was represented

by Marie Ann M. Constantino, livestock coordinator, who asked the farmers and the beneficiaries to take good care of the animals with the hope that the program will help them improve their living conditions and earn more incomes to sustain their needs.

Constantino added that the agriculture department in Davao region will continue to extend assistance to farmers in rural communities in collaboration with the various stakeholders.

The local government of Mawab, through its municipal agriculture office also facilitated a seminar on livestock rais-

TOTAL of 121 families and 27 individuals affected by the fire that hit Barangay Tomas Monteverde in Agdao Sunday received assistance in cash and kind from the city government through the City Social Services and Development Office (CSSDO).

The victims are currently at the barangay’s covered court. They were given food packs, sleeping mats, and medicines.

Maria Luisa Bermudo,

head of CSSDO, said the local government is set to extend financial assistance to the victims this week.

Owners of houses destroyed by fire will receive P10,000 each. Those whose houses were partly damaged by the fire will also receive P5,000.

Renters and boarders will also receive cash assistance.

Bermudo’s office will also provide stress debriefing sessions to the victims, especially the mothers and children. CIO

FLIVESTOCK, 10

Fire victims receive assistance from city A

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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HE Social Security System member-pensioners will soon receive their 13th-month pension along with their pension within next month, according to a regional official of the SSS. This is in continuation of the annual tradition that started in 1988 as the SSS’ way of improving pensioners’ benefits.

SSS Davao Information Officer Mario Daray said the 13th-month pension of retirees and survivor pensioners is equivalent to the number of their regular monthly pensions, excluding the career allowance for disability pensioners.

“Partial disability pensioners should be given a full year’s allowance for them to be eli-

gible for the extra month pension,” Daray said, adding that children receiving dependent’s pensions are also entitled to the 13th-month pension.

Daray added that SSS members or their beneficiaries may claim their 13th-month pensions on a schedule depending on the members’ contingency dates for retirement, disability or death.

“Most banks, however, allow pensioner-depositors to withdraw their benefits earlier than their contingency dates to enable them to enjoy the Christmas season,” Daray said.

Daray added that retirement pensioners, at the same time, death beneficiaries of their deceased spouses who were members of the SSS,

FSSS, 13

UNACCOUNTED. Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) 11 director Eduardo Bellido gives updates on the Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) from Maco, Compostela Valley Province who left a three-month old

infant at Ninoy Aquino International Airport and a road accident involving two Dabawenya nurses in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 199 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

Gov’t to release P1-B funding for micro-enterprises in 2017

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HE government has allotted PHP1 billion for next year as a new source of funding for start-ups and micro-enterprises, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said on Monday.

During the Manufacturing Summit 2016 in Makati City, Lopez said the funding next year will come from the Office of the President but will be under the budget of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the coming years.

On the sidelines of the event, he added that the PHP1 billion fund next year is only an initial amount for a program to be called “Pondo para sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso” or P3.

The program aims to improve micro-enterprises’ access to finance.

Under P3, the DTI targets to allot PHP1 billion per region, or a total of PHP18 billion, as a source of financial products and services for startups and micro-enterprises.

“We will try to do the funding, retailing of these micro funds that will reach to mi-

cro-enterprises,” said Lopez.

The trade chief mentioned that the government intends to roll out the program through wholesale funding via DTI’s financing arm Small Business (SB) Corp., which will do the retailing to microfinance institutions (MFIs).

“We have MFIs; the big ones, they are about six,” said Lopez.

He added that CARD MRI, which has about three million borrowers and with a repayment rate of 98 percent, will be one of the MFIs under the new program.

“CARD is one of them and we will identify five more. This will not be inclusive (to one MFI),” the official said.

He noted that the interest rate under the P3 will be within the market rates for small and medium enterprise (SME) lending of about 8 percent to 9 percent but lower than that of a loan shark, such as the so-called ‘5-6’ which has an interest rate of 20 percent.

“The collector is the MFI. They already have the system,” said Lopez. (PNA)

Traders enjoy the high demand of printed shirts as delegates of Batang Pinoy 2016 National Championship flock to the stores area of the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex to buy souvenir shirts and other items over the weekend. Lean Daval Jr.

Connectivity & economy top PHL refining ease of doing business BIMP-EAGA meet in Palawan to boost influx of FDIs from Spain

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HE Philippines is improving the ease of doing business to encourage increased investments from Spanish and other foreign business groups that want a foothold in the highly lucrative and emerging integrated Southeast Asian market, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said.

Speaking at the opening of the 8th Tribuna Espana-Filipinas held here, Dominguez also said the Duterte administration is committed to keep the robust pace of domestic growth that expanded 7.1 percent in the third quarter and has begun taking initiatives to sustain this momentum that has made the Philippines among Asia’s fastest-growing economies.

These steps include moving rapidly in modernizing the country’s infrastructure, bringing down production costs to competitive levels and opening public private partnership (PPP) projects to clear traffic congestion and improve the flow of commerce throughout the country.

“There should be ample opportunities for Spanish firms to participate in these projects,” Dominguez said at the symposium held at the Marco Polo Hotel, pointing out that the Philippine government is set to invest $180 billion in infrastructure over the next six years.

“I would like to recognize that Spain is very advanced in infrastructure, particularly highways and railways,” Dominguez added.

Under the 2013-2016 Master Plan for Spanish Cooperation, the Philippines is the only priority country of Spain in Asia.

As of April this year, data from the National Economic and Development Authority show that on-going Spanish Official Development Assistance purely grants to the Philippines amounts to US$ 29.93 million.

The government is also improving the ease of doing business in the country by drastically cutting red tape, through, among others, simplifying procedures and

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

reducing the number of approvals required for businesses to set up shop and in the future, utilizing modern information technologies to build a national database and expand electronic governance, Dominguez said.

“In the third quarter of this year, the Philippines overtook all other Asian economies by posting a robust 7.1 percent GDP growth.

The Duterte administration commits to maintaining that pace of economic growth into the medium term and beyond. This is the only way we could bring down our poverty rates and absorb our very young population into the workforce,” Dominguez said.

Among the prominent personalities present at the gathering were Spanish Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Ignacio Ybanez; George Barcelon, president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Jose Leviste, Chair of the Philippines-Spain Business Council; Ramon Moreno, director-general of Casa Asia; and members of the diplomatic corps of Spain and the Philippines.

“As part of improving the ease of doing business, we are now closely reviewing the investments negative lists,” Dominguez said. “We will try to cut these lists as much as is constitutionally possible in order to enhance investment flows to our economy.”

“We wish foreign investors to come in and provide the competition our economy so direly needs,” he said. “Foreign investments not only induce competitiveness among firms, they cause transfers of technologies that will yield rewards for our economy in the long run.”

“We need to do this. For the economy to maintain its pace of growth and become more inclusive, it must be investment-led. Our economy can be investment-led only if government learns to become an enabler of enterprise rather than a gatekeeper for vested interests,” Dominguez noted.

adlopez0920@gmail.com

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INISTERS and senior officials of the Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia the Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) convened for a three-day meeting at the Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa in Palawan that started on Sunday for the 25th Senior Officials Meeting , the Mindanao Development Authority said.

In a statement, MinDA pointed out that the gathering of BIMP-EAGA ministers and senior officials is considered as the largest annual meeting designed to tackle priority programs and socioeconomic projects for the sub-region.

More than 300 delegates from the four member coun-

tries joined the meeting, MinDA added, as they reviewed and assessed the priority programs and projects under the BIMP-EAGA Blueprint 20122016, that outlined the socioeconomic directives pursued by the sub-region in past four years.

Leaders also discussed the BIMP-EAGA Vision (BEV) 2025 as the sub-region sets its sights in achieving future goals anchored on the theme to become a Resilient, Inclusive, Sustainable and Economically Competitive (RISE) BIMP-EAGA by 2025.

“BEV 2025, being the new development blueprint of EAGA aims to shape the sub-region’s future as a more

relevant sub-grouping that is fully integrated into the ASEAN Economic Community,” said Secretary Datu Abul Khayr Alonto, MinDA chairperson and the country’s signing minister for BIMP-EAGA. Alonto added that the high-level discussions also revolved around ensuring continuity of current initiatives while pursuing new directives that will enhance trading and cooperation within the sub-region.

Comprehensive discussions of ministers and leaders on the establishment of transport connectivity, the strengthening of trade and investment facilitation services, the mainstreaming of Islamic financing

initiatives, and the promotion of halal industry were also included.

“These projects are expected to serve as the catalysts for investment growth in the sub-region that will greatly benefit its small and medium enterprises, considered as EAGA’s basic production units,” the MinDA chair added.

To further spur economic development in the sub-region and to strengthen economic cooperation among its private sector, Alonto emphasized that EAGA must prioritize transport connections through multi-modal transport networks.

“This is specifically cru-

in the Philippines, including in the area of banking relations,” Rahimpour said.

Rahimpour also said that Iran can help “secure the [Philippines’] energy needs for the future.”

Iranian Ambassador to Manila Mohammad Tanhaei, who was also at the meeting, said Rahimpour’s visit “reflects the special attention of our government to the Philippines.”

Dominguez, on his part, said that as part of the country’s Monetary Board, he was ready to assist Iranian officials in establishing a branch of one of its banks here, and said he would explore the possibility of setting up a branch of the Land Bank of the Philippines in Iran to address the banking and remittance needs of overseas Filipino workers in that country.

“We know that you’re open for business now, you

have been open for business before, but now, it’s going to be much easier to transact with your [government], and we look at Iran as a good potential partner for the Philippines in the Middle East. It’s a great country, and we admire your history and your people,” Dominguez told Rahimpour.

Dominguez said “there are very, very good prospects” of the government procuring a part of its fuel and fertilizer requirements from Iran while, at the same time, reinvigorating the business exports of Philippine bananas to that country.

In an earlier meeting with Dominguez, Ambassador Tanhaei said Iran plans to increase its imports of bananas from the Philippines, along with exploring areas of cooperation in the energy sector and investing in infrastructure projects here.

Tanhaei has said he has been coordinating with local business groups, like the Phil-

ippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) to explore areas of investments for Iranian companies.

“In the (Iranian) private sector…for example regarding bananas, there are some big companies that said we still need more bananas from the Philippines,” Tanhaei has said.

Filipino banana producers used to export 30 percent of their produce to Iran. The past UN trade restrictions imposed on the Iran, however, led to a decline in Philippine banana shipments to that country. The recent lifting of the trade sanctions could mean Iran might once again be one of the Philippines’ largest markets for its fresh banana exports.

Tanhaei has also said Iranian companies are interested to invest in the Philippines, particularly in infrastructure, power transmission and water purification projects

FCONNECTIVITY, 10

RP, Iran agree to expand bilateral ties into banking

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HE Philippines and Iran have agreed to further expand their bilateral ties, beginning with establishing banking relations and renewing the strong economic cooperation between the two countries.

In a meeting with Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Iranian Deputy Minister for Asia-Pacific Affairs Ebrahim Rahimpour offered Tehran’s assistance in supplying the Philippines’ energy requirements and expressed the hope that banking relations with Manila could be established soon.

Rahimpour also raised the possibility of President Rodrigo Duterte’s visit to Iran and extended the invitation as well to Dominguez.

“We are focused on expanding bilateral relations with the Philippines. At the same time, we are ready to increase the level of engagement

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 199 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

Lower budget deficit reported in October T

HE Bureau of Treasury reported a much lower fiscal deficit incurred by the national government in October this year compared to that of the same month a year ago.

The BTr reported submitted to the Department of Finance on Friday said the government’s budget deficit dropped by 91% to 2.3 billion last October from P27 billion in the same month last year.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, in a statement took note of the significant decrease in national government’s budget deficit last month as the government’s total revenues also increased up to seven percent in the same month, or P174.6 billion compared to P163 billion in October 2015.

Of the total increase last month, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) collected P121.9 billion or five percent growth in tax collection compared to P115.8 in October last year; while the Bureau of Customs (BOC) garnered P33.4 billion collection or a three percent increase in revenues last month compared to P32.5 billion collection in the same month in 2015.

The BTr added that tax collection of other offices, meanwhile, posted a 98 percent jump in October to P2.3 billion from P1.1 billion while non-tax revenues also improved by over a quarter to P17.1 billion from P13.6 billion a year ago.

Despite of the increases in collection this month, the BTr’s said its own income was down last month, or 13% decrease to P4.9 billion from P5.6 billion in the same month last year.

In a statement to the media late last week, National Treasurer Roberto Tan explained that the decline in Treasury’s revenue was due to lower income from government deposits with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and lower dividends on share of stocks from state-owned and -controlled corporations.

Tan said the government’s expenditures in October amounted to P177 billion, down by 7 percent year-on-year from P190 billion.

But setting aside the P16.1 billion in interest payments, the national government recorded a

FLOWER, 13

UPDATES. Social Security System public information office Dr. Mario Mario Daray (left) and Apoleyo Torrefranca discuss the restructuring and condonation programs of the agency during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw

DOF says P861B alloted for infra projects in 2017

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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said the Investment Coordinating Committee (ICC) has earmarked P355.7 billion to improve and build road networks, flood control systems, seaports, airports, school buildings, hospitals and health centers, and irrigation systems.

“The projects to be conceptualized from this initiative would then be considered for inclusion in the Philippine Development Plan for 2017 to 2022, which is now being consolidated by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA),” she added.

She also emphasized that Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, who also sits as chair of the ICC, has given instructions to scale up and prioritize the development of infrastructure projects that would have an impact on areas outside of Mega Manila.

These areas of focus, she added, include the Cordillera Autonomous Region, Eastern

Visayas and Mindanao, particularly in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao or ARMM. Tionko also told the DCCCI members that planned big-ticket infrastructure projects in Mindanao will include the 2,000-kilometer Mindanao Railway Project; the modernization of the Davao Sasa Port; the expansion of the Francisco Bangoy (Davao) International Airport; the development of the Laguindingan Airport; Mindanao Logistics Infrastructure Network; and the Rural Road Development Program.

She added that the Duterte Administration has initially placed a premium on the improvement of the island-wide transportation infrastructure network to facilitate a faster, safer, more convenient and efficient transport of people and goods going in and out of Mindanao.

“At the same time, these

investments are designed to be future-proof to avoid the horrendous traffic jams and airport congestion our brothers and sisters are experiencing almost daily in Metro Manila and other highly urbanized areas in the country,” she said.

Tionko also stressed that among the main concerns for Mindanao has always been the peace and order situation.

She however expressed confidence that peace and order in the island region will soon be addressed by the government, stakeholders, and concerned parties.

“When that happens, we expect investments in Mindanao to pick up significantly more in the coming years,” she said.

its collaboration with national government agencies such as the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Tourism, Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Ecozone Authority (PEZA), and Department of Agriculture.

Lemuel Ortonio, chief of DCIPC, said Davao City will be showcased as an area where peace and order are given topmost priority — making it an ideal location for tourism, business centers, and economic development zones.

“We will be meeting the Cabinet secretaries and other key officials to identify areas

for collaboration and align the city’s program with our partners in the national government,” Ortonio said.

On November 29, a tourism and investment breakfast forum will be held to be attended by leading members of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and selected foreign chambers of commerce in the country.

“We also want to tap the private sector, through the chambers of commerce, to help us in promoting the city as the perfect place for both tourism and investment,” said

Tourism Officer GeneRose Tecson.

Ortonio and Tecson are joined by Davao City Administrator Zuleika T. Lopez and Councilor Al Ryan S. Alejandre, Councilor Jimmy G. Dureza, Public Safety and Security Command Center Head Major Gen. Benito de Leon.

The roadshow is also supported by the private sector headed by Dr. Maria Lourdes G. Monteverde of the Philippine Real Estate Service Practitioners (PhilRES) Davao and the Mindanao Islamic Chamber of Commerce. CIO

Speeding up Mindanao projects Tionko also reported that the first phase of the Mindanao Railway Project, which

FDOF, 13

Roadshow stresses city’s tourism, investment potentials

T

HE Davao City Investment Promotion Center and the Davao City Tourism Operations Office is holding a 5-day tourism and investment roadshow in Manila starting yesterday (November 28) and ending on Friday (December 2).

The roadshow is aimed at boosting the tourism activities and investments in the city — especially in the areas of trade, agriculture, ecozone development, and infrastructure projects.

Through the roadshow, the city is also hoping to widen its network and strengthen

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. 2007-XI-00107

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Department of Finance said the administration of President Duterte will spend around P860.7 billion on large-scale infrastructure projects next year to keep its commitment to disperse growth and create enough jobs for Filipinos, especially in the countryside.

The budget infrastructure, the DOF added, will represent 5.4 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

DOF Undersecretary Antonette Tionko told the members of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCCI) in its general membership meeting that the P860.7 billion is more than double compared to the annual infrastructure spending in the past administration or about P100 billion more than the 2016 outlay of P756.4 billion.

Of the total budget for infrastructure next year, Tionko

at the Annex of SM City Davao. Torrefranca also bared that the agency have already filed cases against at least 150 employers for failing to pay SSS contributions of their employees. Lean Daval Jr.

ERMELINDA M. CRONIN, 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. 2007-XI-00484 ALLAN L. GRAN, Petitioner

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

NOTICE OF HEARING

NOTICE OF HEARING

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: TUGBOK 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 August 24, 2017. In the petition filed on November 11 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: TAGURANO 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 October 31, 2017. In the petition filed on November 15 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

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

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

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

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

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JANUARY 09, 2017 at 09:50 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

WITNESS the Honorable TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-InCharge, this 14th day of November 2016 at Davao City.

MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV Acting Administrative Officer V

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JANUARY 10, 2017 at 09:50 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

WITNESS the Honorable TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-InCharge, this 16th day of November 2016 at Davao City.

MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV Acting Administrative Officer V

EDGEDAVAO

7 SUBURBIA

VOL. 9 ISSUE 199 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

Japan donates new school 2,000 DavOr residents benefit building for Maguindanao from outreach program launching T

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

T

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE provincial government of Davao Oriental formally launched on Friday outreach caravan program dubbed as “Nagkakaisang Lingkod-Bayan ng Davao oriental Barangay Outreach Caravan” in the remote villages of Taocanga and Rizal in the town of Manay.

More than 2,000 residents in said villages benefited from the launching of the province’s outreach caravan program that pooled the resources of various agencies and stakeholders and deliver various goods and services closer to the people especially those living in geographically isolated and depressed areas.

In a statement to the media here, the provincial government of Davao Oriental said that the launching of the activity saw the broadened partnership of the provincial government, the office of the 1st congressional district, national government agencies, the municipal local government unit, and non-government organizations in bringing services to the people.

Programs and services includes medical and dental checkups, distribution of food packs and school supplies, legal consultations, provision of seedlings, and the conduct of lectures on various important social issues.

“This program is an opportunity for the government to make a difference in the

Program launching of the Nagkakaisang Lingkod-Bayan ng Davao Oriental Barangay Outreach Caravan in Barangay Taocanga, Manay, Davao Oriental on Nov. 25, 2016. (Photo by PIO-DavOr) lives of people. This program is tailored to meet the basic needs of these most desperate communities that are seldom reached by the government,” Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang said.

The governor strongly pushed for the program as he wanted to make the government’s presence felt by the people, especially those in marginalized communities that have long been affected by armed conflict and prolonged impact of abject poverty due to lack of opportunities.

The outreach program was also conceptualized as a way of promoting peace particularly in the most destitute communities in Davao Oriental that have long suffered from the ravages of poverty and insurgencies.

The army’s 701st brigade also joined the outreach caravan and contributed its personnel in the delivery of

Sarangani rediscovering heritage

R

EGION 12 Tourism Council president Michelle Lopez Solon links the three-day Munato Yesterland Theme Park that opened on November 24 to “rediscovering (the) roots” of Sarangani.

Solon said as a promising young province filled with rich heritage of Indigenous Peoples, its cultural festival dubbed as Munato should stand out from the rest of the festivals in the country by retracing heritage and “recreating a new concept” for the people to best understand its culture.

“We want a culture to be relatable and easily understood by the young. We want you not to just read the books. We want you to see it, to experience and to enjoy it,” by joining Munato, said Solon.

Munato is a coinage of the vernacular “muna” which means first, and “to” which means people.

Solon, who is also Sarangani Tourism Council chair, said with the archeological finds in Maitum, Sarangans should feel blessed that in the “whole Southeast Asia the earliest civilization and its proof rests in Maitum- Sarangani’s westernmost municipality”.

The Munato Yesterland Theme Park, according to Solon, is the first festival-based theme park in Mindanao.

Solon pointed out the importance of making people experi-

ence and understand the diversifying cultures in Sarangani. She said the theme park provides a very good experience thru immersive and interactive presentations like the 3-D street arts, cultural village and other showcases of IPs in Sarangani like Blaan, Moro, Tagakaulo and Tboli.

Like in 2015, Solon said organizers are making Munato an international event. This year, “we carry with us what the foreigners want to feast. We are calling it international because we have foreign performers from Indonesia.”

Davao City-based Consul General Berlian Napitupulu of Indonesia personally brought in performers to go onstage during the festival and led the cultural exchange with Sarangani on November 25.

Napitupulu underscored their part of the festival as he particularly identified a lot of cultural commonalities being shared by Sarangani and Indonesia.

Through this cultural exchange, Solon said both Indonesians and Sarangans are able to learn new things and celebrate each other’s culture which she described to be a lot similar.

“We want to build better understanding with them,” Solon added, especially that there are several Indonesian villages in Sarangani that have been around for decades. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Beverly C. Paoyon)

services.

Col. Rodolfo Lavadia represented Col. Bienvenido Datuin, Jr., the brigade commander, during the event.

In his message, Lavadia highlighted the importance of addressing the needs of the people, especially those in impoverished far-flung communities not only as a means to promote peace but also in ushering progress.

The army has provided active role in various activities in the grassroots level in Davao Oriental, particularly through the implementation of Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP).

Through PDOP, the army was able to recommend to the provincial government and line agencies priority areas for the outreach caravan based on the Needs Assessment Survey (NAS) they previously conducted.

For the launching last Fri-

day, the army said the villages of Taocanga and Rizal were chosen as the pilot villages for the program as the areas are considered vulnerable that need the most attention from the government.

Aside from the army who helped in the medical and dental services and provided the transportation of the participants to the outreach caravan, the launching of the program was also joined by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and the Department of Trade and Industry.

The DAR, DENR and NCIP conducted free legal consultations particularly on existing land disputes in the area while the DTI provided the residents with orientation lecture on its programs and projects.

F2,000 DAVOR, 10

HE government of Japan, through the Japan Bangsamoro Initiatives and Reconstruction and Development (J-BIRD) recently turned over a school building in the province of Maguindanao, particularly in Barangay Bagoinged, Pagalungan town on November 17.

J-BIRD, launched in December 2006, has already poured in 19.1 billion Japanese Yen (P7.8 billion) to fund various development projects in the conflict-affected areas in the Bangsamoro areas in Mindanao.

As an initiative, J-BIRD is aimed to contribute to the peace process in Mindanao through delivering development assistance projects dubbed as “Dividends of Peace” in the conflict-affected areas in the Bangsamoro.

The turn-over was graced

by Takuhiro Watanabe from the Embassy of Japan and Major General Wira Zamrose bin Mohd Zein, a member of the Malaysian Armed Forces and currently serving as the head of mission of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) Mission 11.

In his message, Watanabe reiterated that the government of Japan is committed to continue in providing development assistance in the Philippines in any way possible.

He also asked the teachers, parents and students to take care of the building and use it optimally as it will benefit more young people in the area.

“Assisting in education is a contribution for the future of Bangsamoro,” was the central message of General Zambrose as he thanked the government

of Japan for the project.

He added that the project was the result of the great contributions from the Japanese people with the aim to invest education for the future leaders of Bangsamoro people.

“I sincerely hope that the Japanese government and its people will further assist the Bangsamoro, not only in infrastructure, but also spirituality and morally,” he added.

The turn over ceremony was also attended by Samir S. Ampatuan, Al Hadj, the district supervisor of Pagalungan District; Abdulkadir M. Abu Bakar, executive director of the Bangsamoro Development and Resource Center (BDRC); Kodjack P. Andoy, barangay chairman of Bagoinged); and Samir G. Pidtukasan, principal of Upper Bagoinged Elementary School.

The project was funded under the Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) in coordination with Joint GPHMILF Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities (JCCCH); the IMT, particularly the Socio-Economic Assistance Component (SEAC); and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP).

SEAC of IMT is led by Japan aimed to assist the GPH (Government of the Philippines) and the MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) in determining the development needs of conflict affected communities, assist in the formulation of development plan and early implementation in close coordination with Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), and facilitate the effective delivery of the development projects.

ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

ment of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Technology Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) 12 and the Tri-Media Association of GenSan, on the other hand, helped in the promotion of the activities.

Aside from the Trade Fair, Treasures of SOCCSKSARGEN

for 2016 showcased convergence photos, cultural display of the “First People” of Treasures of SOCCSKSARGEN”, a Craft Emporium and the BIMP-EAGA Pavilion.

Pocket shows featured SOCCSKSARGEN talents like the Teatro Ambahanon, singer Ms. Richielyn Mayoral and the SOX Performers of Sarangani.

The Department of Tourism also sponsored a cultural show in the second to the last day of the activity. DTI 12 RO / VTP/.

GenSan calamansi juice producer lauded

R

JH Rema Food Products of General Santos City bagged the Processed Food Top Seller Award generating a Total Sales of more than PHP200, 000.

This is among the 70 MSMEs who occupied at least 80 booths during the Treasures of SOCCSKSARGEN Trade Fair.

Second is the Cotabato Brassware Association of Cotabato City which is awarded as the Craft Top Seller as it generated a total sale of almost P100,000.

Kayamanan ni Juan of GenSan bagged the Booth People’s Choice Award for Craft Category while Don Bosco Multi-Purpose Cooperative of Cotabato Province was voted as the Booth People’s Choice Award for Food.

Jarod’s Native Products of Cotabato Province bagged the Most Innovative Award for Craft for its Bamboo Lamp ShadewhileDaily Grace Enterprise of GenSan got the Most Innovative Award for Food Category for its Garlic Chili Sauce.

The Treasures of SOCCSK-

SARGEN is held annually to showcase the best of Region 12’s products.

This year, it was done by the Department of Trade and Industry in convergence with other national government agencies composed of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources Mines and GeoSciences Bureau (DENR-MGB), Depart-

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 199 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

EDITORIAL

A

Be sorry for Neneng, not Leila

NYONE ever heard of Neneng Dayan? Perhaps just a few seconds of an interview was all that was mentioned of the spouse of Ronnie Dayan, the confessed driver-lover of Senator Leila de Lima.

Other than that, none. Who cares about Neneng anyway?

All that has been talked about so far has been Senator De Lima and her affair with Dayan which became the focal point of the House inquiry that was supposed to investigate on the illegal drug trade at the New Bilibid Prison.

Following Dayan’s revelations at the House probe, Senator Delima as usual used the gender cloak to protect her.

Her statements were always anchored on her being a woman, using that argument to project that she is the victim in this spectacle.

She said: “As a woman, it breaks my heart that my private life and personal relationship have become subject of the public and Congress’ ridicule.”

And another: “No woman, whoever or whatever she may be, whether a sitting senator or a humble secretary, deserves to be betrayed, to be treated with so much disrespect and without dignity,

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ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ KENNETH IRVING K. ONG JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS MEGHANN STA. INES RIA VALDEZ NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN Reporters FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA Lifestyle CHA MONFORTE LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. ARLENE D. PASAJE Correspondents Cartoons Photography Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. Columnists: • HENRYLITO D. TACIO • EDCER C.B. ESCUDERO • ATTY. EMILY ZEN CHUA • GREGORIO G. DELIGERO JOHN CARLO TRIA • BORBONCARLOS • MARYMUNDA ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO DAVAL SR., • NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN • NICASIO ANGELO•AGUSTIN • EMILY VIDA S. VALVERDE C. LUMBA • HENRY J. SCHUMACHER • VANESSA KATE MADRAZO• JONALLIER Economic Analysts: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG ZENMIA CHUA • CARLOS• FRED MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG M. PEREZ

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before the public eye, by any man she is with or had a relationship with.”

Through all that, Senator Delima did not even admit to her wrongdoing nor apologize to Neneng Dayan for engaging into an affair with Dayan.

Which leads us to the question: Who is the real victim here? Is it Senator Delima whose private life is now being feasted upon by the entire nation? Is it Ronnie who, for being a loyal driver, did everything for her boss which included his snob of the Congressional inquiry that led to his shoot-to-kill manhunt? Or is it Neneng, the scorned power-less wife?

As a woman, Senator Delima, a lawyer and a government official of the highest order, should know that her acts have caused so much pain to another woman and that woman’s daughter and mother.

Through it all, even the women who rallied behind Senator Delima did not feel any feelings at all for the poor wife. Vice President Leni Robredo to Senators Grace Poe and Riza Hontiveros should realize that it is Neneng Dayan, not Leila, who deserves their compassion.

Terribly misplaced, it is.

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE

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

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 199 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Is a 10% GDP growth achievable?

Opening telecoms and energy sectors, what that bodes (Third of 4 parts)

H

IS recent pronouncement after his return from Peru bolster the idea of economic openness, as he proclaims his willingness to open the energy and telecommunications sectors to more players. Isolationist? Read again. But the impact of that pronouncement has deeper implications that we think.

Telecoms and energy sectors are major drivers of economic growth and business expansion, especially given that the country’s Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector, already pulling in 25 billion dollars annually, and hosting a million jobs, will see its costs go gown when players in these two sectors expand services and volumes.

Telecoms: meeting the need for faster and cheaper internet

W

E all dream. Whether you are young or old, you go into that mysterious world when you sleep. “Dreaming is an act of pure imagination, attesting in all men a creative power, which if it were available in waking, would make every man a Dante or Shakespeare,” H.F. Hedge once said.

“Dreaming permits each and every one of us to be quietly and safely insane every night of our lives,” dream expert William Dement tells us. Dr. Edgar Cayce considers dream as “today’s answers to tomorrow’s questions.” And from the TV hit series, ‘X-Files,’ comes this quotable quote: “Dreams are answers to questions we haven’t yet figured out how to ask.”

We have known some great writers who took their inspiration from dreams. “I’m sure we would not have had men on the Moon if it had not been for (H.G.) Wells and (Jules) Verne and the people who write about this and made people think about it. I’m rather proud of the fact that I know several astronauts who became astronauts through reading my books.” So said Arthur C. Clarke while addressing the US Congress in 1975.

Yes, he was the same guy who wrote ‘Technology and the Future.’ In the said book, he penned: “The only way to discover the limits of the possible is to go beyond them into the impossible.”

Remember the words of ‘The Impossible Dream,’ the theme song of the 1972 movie, ‘Man of La Mancha’ (portrayed

by Peter O’Toole, who received an Oscar

Cheaper MY TWO CENTS’ and faster internet will be the main beneficiary of telecoms expansion, p u s h i n g telecommunications companies like Globe to John Tria spend 750 ecisouth@gmail.com million dollars mainly on data services over the next 3 years.

This is mainly because in its case, revenue on mobile data has increased by 55% to the tune of 22 billion pesos in 2015. Expect this to grow even more vs. voice services. Online shopping, and

online outsourcing (home based BPOs) will demand faster internet to take in the volume of transactions and exchanges.

Gone are the days when the internet was merely for student research and online gaming. It is now a part of the daily fare of the people. Experts have already noted that half of all Filipinos have a Facebook account.

We wonder how much PLDT is spending on the same, but we can safely assume its to the same tune if it hopes to stay competitive.

Getting the right internet speeds up for the country with the slowest internet in 2015 is a task by itself. Bringing in another two players may push the bands further and lower costs. With this, the Filipino benefits.

nomination THINK ON THESE! for his performance).

The first stanza goes this way: “To dream the impossible dream / To fight the unbeatable Henrylito D. Tacio foe / To bear henrytacio@gmail.com with unbearable sorrow / To run where the brave dare not go.”

Joe Darion, who wrote the lyrics, scribbled the second stanza with these words: “To right the unrightable wrong / To love pure and chaste from afar / To try when your arms are too weary / To reach the unreachable star.”

Many years ago, there lived a very old man in North China. His house faced South and right in front of his door stood the two gigantic peaks of Taihung and Wangwu. They blocked his way to the south. So, he sat down with his sons and made a solemn promise and then got out his hoe. They made up their minds to hack away those two mountains.

A neighbor saw them set to work and shook his head. “How stupid can one get?” he told the father. “It’s absolutely impossible for you to carry away these might mountains.”

The old man smiled and replied, “Well, when I die, my sons will carry on the work. When they die, my grand-

sons will continue what I have started.

Yes, the mountains are high but they won’t get any higher. But our strength can still grow. With every bit of soil that we carry away, we come closer to our goal. It is better to do something, than just sit around and complain that those mountains keep out the sunlight.”

And with complete conviction, the old man kept on digging. God saw what he was doing. He was moved to send two of His messengers to earth. They lifted the two mountains onto their shoulders and carried them off.

The Bible states, “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God” (Luke 18:27). This must be the reason why French novelist (1957 Nobel Prize for Literature) Albert Camus commented, “We turn toward God only to obtain the impossible.”

“Impossible is a word only to be found in the dictionary of fools,” commented French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. “I love those who yearn for the impossible,” admitted German playwright Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

“It’s kind of fun to do the impossible,” Walt Disney, pioneer of animated cartoon films, declared.

History is replete with impossible stories. Demosthenes stuttered.

He filled his mouth with pebble and walked the seashore shouting at the waves until in spite of his handicap he became Greece’s most famous orator.

To England, Horatio Nelson is the greatest naval hero. Yet, he never conquered the seasickness which assailed

Lower Asias highest power costs

Reaching the impossible dream

drives the manufacturing resurgence At the moment, our power costs are Southeast Asia’s highest, pushing up production costs for power hungry job generating sectors such as manufacturing, which, of late, has already been rising as a percentage of GDP. Lowering rates for these factories enables them to expand, generating more jobs, and lowering the cost of making these new products, making them competitive in a volatile market.

Lowering these costs make the BPO and manufacturing sectors even more competitive against India, for example.

This enables the Philippines to remain on top of this game. The multiplier effect of these sectors already is apparent, in the property and manufacturing boom, as more BPO employees with cash can now buy their homes and cars.

him the first time he took to the water and kept recurring all his life whenever he boarded a ship.

What grander symphonies were ever written than Beethoven’s? And yet the master melodist was deaf and never his own immortal music.

Glenn Cunningham, who hung up new records for the mile in running, had both legs so badly burned that he was expected never to be able to walk again. Against all odds, he defeated the impossible.

If you think you cannot do the task, don’t quit. You know somewhere and somehow, you can do it. As American editor and writer Elbert Hubbard puts it, “No one ever gets far unless he accomplishes the impossible at least once a day.”

Again, here are the remaining words of the ‘Impossible Dream’ song: “This is my quest to follow that star / No matter how hopeless, no matter how far / To fight for the right without question or pause / To be willing to march into hell for a heavenly cause, “And I know if I’ll only be true to this glorious quest / That my heart will lie peaceful and calm / When I’m laid to my rest / And the world will be better for this / That one man, scorned and covered with scars / Still strove with his last ounce of courage / To reach the unreachable star.”

“Well, the tragedy is over,” Albert Camus wrote. “The failure is complete.

I turn my head and go away. I took my share in this fight for the impossible.”

10 NEWS MA... FROM 1

at the municipal hall do not bear the name of the overseas workers,” he said.

Bellido added that Lastima went out of the country as a tourist and on a regular visa.

“Once a person carries a proper visa but works as a domestic worker, she could have encountered many challenges,” Bellido pointed out.

He added that they could hardly establish the identity of the mother who left the threemonth-old-child to a stranger and that the person could have left the country on an irregular status.

Bellido pointed out that Lastima left the child, feeding bottle, a few diapers, and travel documents to a certain Myrna Buenaobra.

“The mother met Buenaobra at NAIA Terminal 1 after

arriving from Amman, Jordan on board an Etihad flight,” Bellido said.

He said upon learning that Lastima would no longer come back, Buenaobra immediately reported the incident to the airport authorities who also informed the Department of Social Welfare and Development to ensure the proper care of the baby.

“We also verified with the welfare officer in Jordan, to know if they have this name Vilma Lastima, but it was not found in the list,” Bellido said.

He stressed that persons who leave the country on irregular status to the Middle East are vulnerable to abuses and cannot receive assistance from the government once they encounter problems. TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

and police forces to ferret out those responsible and bring them to justice,” he said.

Cardinal Quevedo urged all peace loving citizens of Mindanao to remain vigilant while the island is celebrating the Mindanao Week of Peace.

“Let us all be vigilant against acts of terrorism.” he said.

Senior Supt. Raul Supiter, Sultan Kudarat provincial director, said the victims, John

Renan Escanillan, 30, and Loren Erazo, 26, sustained only minor shrapnel wounds and are both out of danger.

The two were on board a silver Mitsubishi Adventure parked in front of the Church when the incident happened.

Police have put up checkpoints along major roads around the town and urged the public to report suspicious persons on motorbikes in the area. (PNA)

The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) distributed around 2,000 food packs and conducted feeding program to day care pupils while the Provincial Health Office (PHO) distributed mosquito nets and conducted medical and dental services during the event.

PHO also provided free eye checkup and reading eyeglasses including free medicines and dental kits, and distributed toilet bowls to residents in the area.

The Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO), on the other hand, distributed planting materials of various crops such as corn and vegetable seeds, fertilizers, and farm tools while the Provincial Veterinarian’s Office (PVO) conducted information drive on animal health and livestock disease control.

The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) also facilitated the profiling of coconut farmer’s registry system while the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) conducted an information drive on disaster preparedness enabling their community to become resilient to natural disasters.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Province Engineer’s Office, and the Davao Oriental Electric Cooperative conducted status diagnosis on the infrastructure, roads and electricity in the areas.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) also conducted advocacy campaign on vehicle

licensing and registration.

A non-government organization (NGO), the Global Impact Philippines Foundation also joined the caravan and provided the residents with orientation on their advocacy against human trafficking.

Bishop... FROM 2

2,000 DavOr... FROM 7

Long-term project The provincial government added that it is also working to address the long term needs of communities.

Development projects seen to provide long-term impact to communities are also being line-up for implementation.

In the villages of Taocanga and Rizal, the most pressing need the residents longed is the construction of road that will connect them to the town center of Manay towards the markets in major areas of Davao Oriental.

Governor Dayanghirang and 1st District Representative Corazon N. Malanyaon have been pushing for the road concreting project in the area that started this year.

“By allocating a yearly budget for this project, residents who are mostly corn and abaca farmers would soon easily transport their produce to the market, thus promoting socio-economic progress in the local community,” the provincial government said.

The road project will also help boost eco-tourism in the two villages where Lake Diomaboc, considered as one of the top ecotourism destinations in the province, is located.

EDGEDAVAO

BATTING FOR PEACE. Rotary Club of Downtown Davao Alstair Tecarro discusses the organization’s upcoming peace process project in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP)

Davao... FROM 2

landmarks and tourists spots to attract public’s curiosity thereby reaching new audiences and opportunity for advocates to explain the advocacy.

United Nations Secretary General Ki-Moon in a press statement explained that the bright and optimistic color orange which represents hope was chosen as a banner color “to symbolize the brighter future of a world free from violence against women and girls”.

According to Lorna Mandin of Integrated Gender and Development Division of City Mayor’s Office, the statistics of abuse is about five cases per day with an increasing trend year by year.

“80 percent of the cases is economic,” she said, adding

that a number of women come to their office to seek for help since their husbands cannot provide them financial support.

Mandin said that the rest of the cases (20 percent) are physical, psychological and sexual abuses.

From January to June 2016, the Integrated Gender and Development Division recorded 980 cases, alarmingly higher than last year’s record which is more than 600 cases.

Mandin added that they have been providing comprehensive response, including legal which is the PAO, medical and women and children protection unit of the Southern Philippines Medical Center and the Davao Women and Children’s Department and social welfare.

cial for Philippines, since we are not connected by land as compared to our EAGA counterparts,” he said, as he cited that one of the expected connectivity deliverables being eyed is the actualization of the Davao-General Santos-Bitung Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) shipping service, expected to be launched next year.

“We see this route as one of the mechanisms that will strengthen sea trading within EAGA, which is part of our strategy to develop a virtual economic bridge for the sub-region’s traders,” Alonto pointed out.

The meeting also served as a venue to prepare for the Philippine’s hosting of the 12th BIMP-EAGA Leaders Summit, one of the side events to the upcoming ASEAN Summit, where EAGA senior officials

and ministers will also meet development partners to include the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and senior officials from Japan, China, and Australia’s Northern Territory to strengthen both administrative and financial collaborations in support to achieving the goals of the sub-region.

A BIMP-EAGA Investment Networking Session will be held alongside the high-level meetings, as a venue to enhance the role of the private sector in spurring development in the sub-region.

“Our private sector partners also play a crucial role in the implementation of the programs and projects of BIMP-EAGA. The government’s role is to provide the enabling policies to ensure the programs’ sustainability,” Alonto said.

ing to the beneficiaries.

Lt. Col. Davice Christopher G. Mercado, commander of 71st IB expressed gratitude to the support of the DA, the provincial government and the LGU in their undertaking, particularly in providing support to the former rebels who opted to change their lives and go back to the mainstream society.

“This livelihood project is geared in helping the populace to be productive citizens that will contribute to the eco-

nomic growth and development of their communities,” Mercado said.

He added that the turnover ceremony was a demonstration of a true spirit of “Bayanihan” as various agencies of the government collaborate and complement to each other in helping the farmers and former rebels in the area.

“The military will continue to be a steadfast force as it takes a more expanded part in nation building,” Mercado said. ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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set on December 3 to 4 at the Brokenshire College. Tecarro in yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

ARMM... FROM 2 the second day of the summit.

The President, as the guest of honor, will deliver his keynote address.

“Since it is the first time that the president is handling 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. 2012-XI-00014 RADDAH J. SAMMAN, Petitioner

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

the ARMM, we look forward to more local chief executives who would be aligned with the administration in terms of development,” Dans said. (Bureau of Public Information) 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-02397 GILDA M. DE GUIA, Petitioner

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

NOTICE OF HEARING

NOTICE OF HEARING

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: TIBUNGCO VIA R. CASTILLO and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on July 3, 2017. In the petition filed on November 7, 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 2 and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of TWO (2) units, which Certificate will expire on November 21, 2017. In the petition filed on November 9, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

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

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

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

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

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on DECEMBER 20, 2016 at 09:50 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

WITNESS the Honorable TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-InCharge, this 8th day of November 2016 at Davao City.

MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV Acting Administrative Officer V

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on DECEMBER 15, 2016 at 10:30 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/Officer-InCharge, this 10th day of November 2016 at Davao City.

MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV Acting Administrative Officer V

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TRAVEL

EDGEDAVAO Badjao houses on stilts at Simunul.

By OLAN EMBOSCADO I HAVE SO MANY BEAUTIFUL STORIES TO TELL YOU about my recent trip to the southernmost province of the Philippines, the enthralling island province of Tawi-Tawi.

Stories that are often unnoticed and neglected because most of the times what we hear are stories of conflict, disorder and adversities fed to us by what we hear, read and see on the news. And because of that, the real picture that reflects about Tawi-Tawi, its natural beauty, culture and people, is sadly ignored.

So today, along with those thousands of people who were once lured to come to Tawi-Tawi, I will share my exciting stories about my wonderful experiences romancing the pristine and natural magnificence of this province I consider as “the southernmost jewel of the country”.

I’ve gone to some of the beautiful islands in the Philipines. I must say each possesses a distinct characteristic that makes it unique from other islands. And Tawi-Tawi’s are among the best example of those that are most pristine and beyond beautiful.

Like a precious treasure, Tawi-Tawi is a bedazzling gem that when carefully polished, it will shine and even outshines other gems we have in the archipelago.

Composed of 11 municipalities, Tawi-Tawi offers a variety of destinations that a traveler would certainly love to explore – they got caves which is said to be rock shelters in ancient times, mountain peaks that offer commanding view of Tawi-Tawi’s landscape and seascape, rich history and culture to learn from, delectable indigenous food that is served until now, hundreds of island and islets to visit and enjoy, and many many more.

Of the 11 towns of the province, I made to visit the four. These four towns teem with different attractions that best describe the sights, the vibe and the feel of TawiTawi. I must say that even with these four towns alone, one’s visit to Tawi-Tawi is assured of much delight.

Here are the first two towns, Bongao and Sumunul and the things to see and experience there. Watch out for part two where I talk about Panglima Sugala and Sapa-Sapa.

BONGAO Bongao is the capital town of Tawi-Tawi.

It also serves as the gateway to the Province. This town is a little charmer. The most imposing landmark one can find in this busy town is the Bud Bongao. About 340-meter above sea level, it is the highest peak in the entire Province. Bud Bongao is believed to be a sacred mountain possessing special healing powers. In fact, locals including other residents from other towns would come to Bongao, hike up to the top of the mountain and pray. They considered it as pilgrimage site.

The majestic peak of the Bud Bongao offers the breathtaking view of the Bongao town. It also offers the commanding view of the vast blue seas of Celebes as well as the beautiful islands and islets dotting the seascape. They say you’ve never been to Bongao if you have not trekked this iconic mountain. Bud in Sama means Mountain.

Bongao being the capital town is the trade center of the Tawi-Tawi. It is also the busiest town among other municipalities.

The southernmost jewel of the Philippines:

TAWI-TAWI Part 1 of 2

Tausug cuisine.

Drying and salting fish.

A dance performance.

Just one of TawiTawi’s many beautiful unspoilt beaches.

One of the most interesting trading sites in the town is the old Chinese Pier where seafood, dried fish and even agricultural produce are sold at very low prices. History has it that the Chinese Pier is the same spot where early trading with the Chinese merchants and locals took place hundred years ago.

If you’re flying bound for Tawi-Tawi, the town of Bongao is your gateway.

SIMUNUL Tawi-Tawi is where the seed of Islam was planted. It was in the island town

of Simunul where Islam was first introduced in 1380. It was an Arab missionary named Sheik Karimul Makhdum who brought Islam to the island and was widely embraced by the people and was spread to the other parts of the country.

Following the introduction of Islam to Simunul was also the establishment of the first mosque in the country. As years passed by, the mosque has gone several renovations but the four wooden columns of the original structure are left standing on the same spot, well-preserved inside the Mosque.

Today, the mosque is recognized as a National Historical Landmark. Every 7th of November, locals and other Muslims in the country would come to this part of Tawi-Tawi to commemorate the anniversary of its establishment. This year marks the 636th year of its establishment. The mosque is named after Sheik Karimul Makhdum and is called Masjid Makhdum.

Masjid Makhdum is located in Tubig Indangan (Simunul), about 15 minutes ride by speed boat from the capital town of Bongao.

EDGEDAVAO

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A weekend warrior’s

HAPPY PLACE

I’VE WAITED A LONG TIME to write about people who are living my dream or a part of my dream. The dream for me is to live by the ocean, just close enough to see the waves and if the conditions are right, surf just as if I decided to buy something from a sari-sari store.

That’s one part of the dream I have. The other part is to be able

to live by the ocean and write everyday, hopefully making a living out of the words that come out of my brain.

I used to only know people who live this kind of life in Instagram but then again, I am reminded that Instagram can be so pretentious so it’s important to be inspired just enough that you don’t go crazy with overthinking how to live an Instagrammable life because it’s not possible at all.

Though there are a few exceptions and I have been blessed enough to know a real human that lives the part of the dream life that I have for myself. A normal morning would include watching an amazing sunrise by the shore and if the conditions are right, a quick surf session right before having breakfast.

Living exactly by the ocean on an amazing humble strip of land that’s right smack in front of a surf spot, surfer and entrepreneur Gabby Sibala calls this home.

Having purposefully chosen to live surfing as a lifestyle, he’s the brain behind my happy place in Davao Oriental, Dahican Surf Resort (DSR). Located in the center of Dahican Beach, DSR is laidback resort that invites you to leave behind their city worries and enter the stress-free zone that is Dahican.

DSR had a humble and organic beginning. In 2010 to 2011, there were only two resorts in Dahican, Kanakbai and Botona Beach Resort where the former catered to the high-end market while the latter for mainstream beachgoers and families.

“I was already into surf-

ing since 2005. “ I would stay in Kanakbai and my surfer friends would also stay at the resort with me for free!” Gabby exclaims. “I then realized that there wasn’t a place here in Dahican for surfers and backpackers that would best embody their lifestyle.”

“I think it was in 2011 when the idea [DSR] came into my mind.

I always paddle from Kanakbai to the beach break whenever the waves were pumping and I would always see this empty space in the middle of Dahican.” Gabby fondly recalls.

What other people saw as their garbage dump and ‘just another vacant lot’, Gabby saw potential in the property where DSR now is located. Upon further inquiries, he was able to get a lease on the property and for three months painstakingly transformed the land into what is now DSR. “Used diapers, broken glass and all sorts of garbage filled this place when we started. Since it was ‘just another empty lot”, after drinking people would just throw the bottles here. They basically threw everything here.” He said.

Pointing to the Talisay tree where we were sitting under, Gabby goes on and tells me how painstaking the restoration process was.

“There were a lot of coconut husks and using my bare hands I would collect them for disposal.

It was only after I realized why there were just so many coconut husks in this place. The locals would use it to clean up after relieving themselves! Whenever

TOP TO BOTTOM: Free diving in Dahican is a wonder in itself. One can choose to dive around corals or sandy bottoms.

My favourite type of accommodation - affordable, easy to carry and fits anywhere! There are options too though if you prefer the usual bed and sheets.

Right before entering the resort’s carpark, inviting signage such as this truly makes you want to hug each tree before you enter.

the fishermen would clean their catch, they’d automatically throw the entrails and squid ink here.”

“Before, your feet would get as black as soot every time you’d walk here. People would make fire here so you can imagine how black the sand used to be. It was really that dirty. I had to cut up a few of the tree branches just so that sun and rain could naturally disinfect the whole place.” Gabby

fondly recalls.

By December 2011 the place had been transformed and by early 2012, DSR first opened to the public with a few open-air huts. It was instantly a hit to foreigners as it provided an immediate experience of the real island life.

With the intention of offering a stress-free haven to those who would enter, DSR has earned a

reputation for its laidback and chill ambience that resonates from its façade, staff and loyal customers. Even to those who haven’t tried surfing, one would get a glimpse of the lifestyle with how the resort was thoughtfully conceptualized.

DSR is not for the typical tourist that looks for luxury. With very basic amenities and accommodation, one would immediately feel the laidback and chill ambience of the true island life in Dahican.

Waking up to a breathtaking sunrise, chilling under the Talisay trees and just soaking in everything from the sea breeze to the white sand – communing with nature, this is exactly what started the vision for DSR. One thing is sure, those who have tasted the stress-free island life always keep going back to it.

City dwellers turned weekend warriors flock to the Dahican’s shores for their dose of seawater therapy. I was one of those weekend warriors, living for the weekend until I realised I found my happy place in Dahican.

Read more of my Dahican experiences in my blog: millennialmermaid.com

VOL. 9 ISSUE 199 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

UP AND ABOUT

EDGEDAVAO

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61 films featured in 12th Mindanao Film Festival ABOUT 58 SHORT FILMS AND THREE FULL-LENGTH FILMS AND DOCUMENTARIES will be screened during the 12th Mindanao Film Festival which will be held this December 7 to 13 at Gaisano Mall Cinema 6.

Opening the festival on December 7 will be the full-length independent film “Baboy Halas” helmed by Dabawenyo filmmaker Bagane Fiola. Another notable screening is the 2016 Busan International Film Festival Mecenat Awardee (Best Documentary) “Crescent Rising” by Zamboangueno filmmaker Sheron Dayoc.

Baboy Halas which tells the story of a Matigsalug hunter and his family living in the forest of Marilog received the Jury Prize given by NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) and Best Artistic Contribution for Cinematography which was awarded during this year’s QCinema International Film Festival held in Quezon City.

The various films entered in the Mindanao Film Festival (MFF) have come from different localities across Mindanao notably Davao City, Nabunturan in Compostela Valley, General Santos, Cagayan de

Oro, Iligan and Zamboanga City.

The festival carries the theme “Cinema of Change” which highlights the films as tools for awareness and subsequent transformation.

This year’s film screenings are thematic in nature as they will be blocked according to a certain theme rather than the previous geographical and school-based groupings.

Shorts in the “Films from Nabifilmex” include Sherador, Asay, Warak, Yagapanaw, Pamugas, Makaakar, Bahandi ni Lola, Belo and Panggaw.

These films were created by Comvalenyo filmmakers and were featured in this year’s Nabunturan Independent Film Exhibition (Nabifilmex).

Films tackling friendship are featured in the block “Amigo Ta” these include shorts Higala, Orpheus, Ma’am La, Anito, Ang Agimat, Birthday Boy, Kathryn and Margaret. Films about family are included in the “Ohana” block among these shorts include Dear Mama, Lipstick, Abal, Bulong, Lapok.

Films about crime and its repercussions are part of the “Crime Does Not Pay” blockshorts included are; God Must Think I’m Cain, Pulis, Fachada, Nino, Panun and Static. Short films centered on the lives of the

LGBT (Lesbian, Gay Bisexual, Transgender) are part of the “Bahaghari” block, these shorts include; Handuraw, Dasal, Love, Entre Medio del Fin. Shorts about love, its joys and pain are part of the block “Nagmahal, Nasaktan” these films include Kapanglawan, Soulmate, Allyn, First Time, Subang, First Time and Sad Boys

Club. Films that revolve around student life are featured under “Estudyante Blues” block, these short films include; Bobby, Gaba, Sta. Monica, Kinsa Ta?, The Project.

Documentary works are included in the CineReal block.

These films include; A Fading Heritage, The Soil of Dreams, Panicupan, Under the Canopy

of Light, Saranggola, Pagbarug ug Pagtuon. Two short films created by students and entered in the Davao region leg of the Population Commission’s 2016 Adolescent Health and Youth Development Independent Film Festival will also be screened these student shorts are Buboy and Kapit-os.

Films produced from the 2016 Guerrilla Filmathon, a 24hour filmmaking race held in the capital of Davao del Norte province will be shown in the “Filmathon DavNor” block these films include; Tanum, Huwag Na Lang, Ako Bahala sa Imo, Halug, Ang Hanas na Magsusugid, Balagtas, Amboy and A Father’s Promise.

The various films will vie for different awards and citations during the festival awards night that will be held on December 12 (Monday) at Gaisano Mall Cinema 6.

MFF is one of the country’s longest-running regional film festivals in the country, it is organized by the Mindanao Film and TV Development Foundation in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) with support from the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the Philippine Information Agency Region XI (PIA-XI). PR

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EVENT

VOL. 9 ISSUE 199 • TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

Seda Abreeza lights up in silver and blue NOW SHOWING

November 23 – 29, 2016

THE UNMARRIED WIFE Angelica Panganiban, Dingdong Dantes, Paulo Avelino Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

R13

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

THE WARRIOR'S GATE Dave Bautista, Sienna Guillory Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG

12:20 | 2:40 | 5:00 | 7:20 | 9:40 LFS

ALLIED Brad Pitt, Marion Cotillard Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

R16

1:35 | 4:15 | 6:55 | 9:35 LFS

FANTASTIC BEASTS & WHERE TO FIND THEM Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG

11:40 | 2:15 | 4:50 | 7:25 | 10:00 LFS

MAKING IT AN ANNUAL TRADITION, Seda Abreeza celebrates its Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 24th, exactly a month before the eve of Christmas. The event was attended by the highly respected executives of the ANFLO Group, the Consul Generals based in Davao City, Department of Tourism, City Tourism Office, City Council, Davao Chamber of Commerce, friends from the press, and top business partners.

In behalf of HM Ken Kapulong, Asst. Director of Sales Kathy Namuag delivers the welcome message and toast, highlighting the gratefulness and the success that 2016 has brought. “We are in that exciting time of the year again. A time to be thankful for another year of success and for surpassing the little bumps on the road. We in Seda Abreeza are always grateful that each one of you has supported and strengthened the partnerships we have made through the years. This is our own little way of thanking you and making you feel that Christmas is truly here.”

The ceremonial lighting was initiated by Seda Abreeza Asst. Director of Sales Ms. Kathy Namuag, DOT XI RD Robby Alabado, Councilor Bernie Al-ag, City Tourism Operations Officer Generose Tecson.

The tree lighting was followed by a Christmas musical show from the talents of Muzicskool, and a Yuletide food showcase by Seda Abreeza’s culinary team served for cocktails.

The theme for this year’s holiday season is snowflakes, with touches of blue, white, and silver. A color scheme that best describes the season and the warmth of love and giving we celebrate.

Seda’s Assistant Director of Sales Kathy Namuag, Department of Tourism-XI Regional Director Robby Alabado, Davao City Councilor Bernie Al-ag, and Davao City Tourism Operations Officer Generose Tecson does the ceremonial tree lighting.

Comm Officer Faith Dimaano, DOT RD Robby Alabado, and ADOS Kathy Namuag poses with members of Davao Digital Influencers.

Vocal Trio ZHALIA performs during the Christmas Show.

Abreeza Ayala Mall Execs during the tree lighting.

Seda Abreeza’s Sales & Marketing Team.

Muzicskool’s Champ Burgos serenades guests with a Christmas medley.

11 FEATURE

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Sowing the seeds of peace in Bangsamoro homeland The dawning of new hope after troubled past (First of three series)

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

A

adlopez0920@gmail.com

DAN Phari, 49, never imagined that one day changes will come into his life. A rice farmer and fisherman in the swampy areas of Purok Masigay, Barangay Tapayan, Sultan Mastura town in Maguindanao, Adan had been through difficult times as his village was once disturbed by a number of armed conflicts between the forces of the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Abandoning his abode and farm was among the painful experiences he had been to in the midst of previous armed conflicts, he said.

“In war there is no development, only hardships,” he told EDGE Davao in Tagalog during an interview. Due to the lack of support from the government, he only managed to cultivate a small portion of their farm, enough to feed his family. Besides, he added, he was also uncertain of the peace and order condition of their village – and that whenever armed confrontations erupted, he and his family would leave their home and his farm unattended for weeks. By the time the disturbances were pacified, he would return home and found his rice farm destroyed by grasses, weeds

and rodents.

Adan said he already felt tired of those situations and saw uncertainties of their future especially to his children. “My neighbours also shared my feelings and reservations. Some even lost members of their families due to war,” he lamented.

A glimpse of hope Adan said their community saw some glimpse of hope when the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the MILF formally sat down to talk peace. The peace process, he added, has assured them that armed conflicts will no longer disturb their community. “We were so glad then upon hearing of the peace process,” he stressed.

Besides seeing the end of the number of evacuations they had gone through, Adan was also thinking of one benefit the absence of war would bring in to their community – development. “I had this vision that one day, when the conflicts are gone, we would be able to develop our area for inland fishing,” he said.

And his vision is now realized.

Adan’s community is lying beside Lake Tumingay

Photo shows Adan Phari, president of Lake Tumingay Aqua Farmers Association feeding the growing Tilapias in cages at their project site in Purok Masigay, Tapayan, Sultan Mastura, Maguindanao. (Alexander D. Lopez)

Entrance to the site showed specifics of the project, including the support from JICA through the BDA and the municipal government of Sultan Mastura. (Alexander D. Lopez) in Sultan Mastura town. The lake is one of the sources of fresh water food such as Tilapia and other thriving fishes. To ensure that their voices would be heard, Adan and his neighbours organized the Lake Tumingay Aqua

Hiroyuki Kawamoto (front), chief of SEAC in the IMT led the recent visit to the project site of Tilapia culture in pond and cage in Barangay Tapayan, Sultan Mastura town in the province of Maguindanao. (Alexander D. Lopez)

Members of Lake Tumingay Aqua Farmers Association together with the representatives from JICA, the Embassy of Japan and SEAC-IMT posed for a group photo during the recent project visit Purok Masigay, Tapayan, Sultan Mastura, Maguindanao. (Alexander D. Lopez)

Farmers Association (LTAFA), composed of 15 families or 35 individuals. Organizers from the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) helped in strengthening their organization and prepared the members for the major project they envision – the Tapayan Tilapia Culture in Pond and Cage.

LTAFA, with the support of BDA and the local government of Sultan Mastura, was able to access support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The support from JICA came in May of 2015.

“The support was not in the form of money but through the provision of materials needed to construct tilapia fish cages,” Adan said. JICA provided LTAFA with fish nets, bamboos, strings, and plastic barrels. Experts on inland fishing from Japan and from the Mindanao State University (MSU), the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Department of Agriculture in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DA-ARMM) also came in and trained LTAFA members on aquaculture fishery.

“Now we are no longer troubled. We have this project to augment our incomes and ensure the future of our children,” Adan said. LTAFA now maintains 19 fish cages in their project site, four of which are intended for hatchery of tilapia fingerlings. In April

Adan Phari, president of Lake Tumingay Aqua Farmers Association feeds the fingerlings in one of the hatchery ponds inside their project site in Purok Masigay, Tapayan, Sultan Mastura, Maguindanao. (Alexander D. Lopez) this year, LTAFA had their first harvest of tilapia – a total of 387 kilos that earned them an income of P59,000. Adan said they sold their tilapia harvests to the local market in Sultan Mastura and the nearby towns. The Regional Hospital in Cotabato City also ordered from them 40 kilos of tilapia.

“The Regional Hospital will be our regular customer of tilapia. They will buy 40 kilos every time we harvest,” Adan said. The sharing system among the members of LTAFA was agreed at 60-40, meaning, 40% of the income will be reserved for the improvement of the project while 60% will be divided equally among the members. With their project in full swing, LTAFA is expecting Tilapia harvest in every two months. Aside from the development of tilapia culture, farmers in the area also developed their rice fields through organic farming.

Other members of LTAFA also started to venture into tilapia culture, Adan said.

Some utilized their first share of the proceeds to buy nets and needed materials. There are at least five members who now maintain their own cages in Lake Tumingay.

“Other members of LTAFA also share their knowledge and skills in tilapia culture to other organizations in Maguindanao,” said Guiamaludin Sampulna, an organizer from BDA.

Sowing the seeds of peace Of all the countries that provided support to the ongoing peace process between the GRP and the MILF, it is only Japan that opted to continue its Socio-Economic Assistance Component (SEAC) in the Conflict-Affected Areas in Mindanao (CAAM) through the International Monitoring Team (IMT). Other countries and international donor agencies have coursed through their respective supports directly to the GPH and line agencies.

IMT was officially deployed in Mindanao in October of 2004 and was regarded as vital commitment of countries exhibited their full support to the GPH-MILF peace process. The team is composed of Malaysia, Japan, Brunei, Indonesia and Norway and currently headed by Major General Wira Zamrose bin Mohd Zein, a member of the Malaysian Armed Forces.

IMT is tasked to observe and monitor the implementation of cessation of hostilities and the socioeconomic development programs and projects in CAAM areas. The team also assesses and determines the validity through field verifications specific reports, protests or complaints of ceasefire violations.

FFEATURE, 13

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are entitled to separate 13thmonth pensions under the two benefits.

He said that pensioners who also personally availed of the first 18 months advance pension and the three months advance pension for calamity victims are also entitled to the 13th-month pension, pointing out that pensioners may expect to have this amount deposited in their account within

December.

Daray added that the pensioners might also receive their cheques within the month of December for those people who are receiving their pensions in cheques.

“The pensioner is entitled to a full 13th-month pension on December regardless of the date of settlement of a retirement, death or total disability claim,” Daray said.

must be a declaration of bilateral ceasefire as the peace negotiations between the government and the NDF is pushing through.

“In bilateral ceasefire there are set of rules that must be followed. Complaints against violations from both sides can be filed and investigated,” he pointed out.

He also called on the provincial governments and local government units in Davao

region to reach out to their constituencies, especially those who reside in the remotest areas.

Dayanghirang also cited the move of the provincial government of Davao Oriental particularly on the recent launching of its outreach program services to far-flung villages.

“In order for the government to be relevant to the people, it must go to the people,” he said.

primary surplus of P13.7 billion in October, a reversal of the P10.9 billion primary deficit in the same month last year.

In the first 10 months this year, the government’s budget deficit stood at P216 billion, up by more than threefold compared from P52.6 billion in the same period last year, but still well below the P388.87 billion ceiling for 2016.

Tan said that at end-October, total government revenues increased by 3 percent to P1.821 trillion from P1.768 trillion a year before, adding that government tax collection also improved by 8 per-

cent to P1.629 trillion in the January to October period from P1.505 trillion in the same period last year.

Of that amount, the BIR contributed P1.293 trillion, while the BOC raised P321.3 billion.

BTr also reported that tax collection of other offices likewise jumped by 9 percent to P15 billion at end-October from P13.8 billion in the same month last year.

Revenues generated by the Treasury, meanwhile, declined by 6 percent during the period to P91.1 billion, while other offices’ tax collection suffered a 39 percent drop to a combined P100.7 billion, the

BTr added.

“But netting out the one-off transfer of P62.5 billon in coconut levy assets in May last year, the government’s 10-month total non-tax and tax revenue collection growth reached 7 percent year-on-year,” the BTr continued in its report.

Government expenditures in January to October, on the other hand accelerated by 12 percent to P2.037 billion from P1.820 trillion in the same period last year.

BTr said netting out interest payments, the government ended the first 10-month period with a P49.8 billion primary surplus, low-

er than the P219.3-billion primary surfeit in the same period last year.

Meanwhile, the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) earlier raised the government’s budget deficit ceiling to 2.7 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) this year and to 3 percent next year.

DBCC said the deficit ceiling was raised to enable the government to spend big on infrastructure, human capital and social protection, as part of President Duterte’s 10-point socioeconomic agenda to sustain high and inclusive growth. ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

starts from Davao heading to the eastern part of Mindanao toward Cagayan de Oro City, is expected to commence next year.

She added that Sasa Port will be developed into a modern and international-standard container terminal while the Davao International Airport will be expanded by doubling the capacity of the passenger terminal and cargo capacity to accommodate the

fast-growing number of visitors to southern Mindanao.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is also reviewing the development of the Laguindingan Airport, which serves as the main airport of the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan in northern Mindanao, through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program.

Initial allocation for the Mindanao Logistics Infra-

structure Network that aims to facilitate travel across the regional growth corridors in the island-region has already been raised from P19.5 billion to P31.5 billion for next year to speed up the development of an integrated and seamless transport system that will be supported by inter-island linkage projects.

“These projects, and those that will be added to this list, are worthwhile endeavors that

should help provide opportunities and uplift the lives of our people here in Mindanao once they come into fruition,” Tionko said.

She added that the goal of the Duterte administration in implementing these Mindanao initiatives and other large-scale infrastructure projects outside Mega Manila is to transform the country’s vibrant economy into a truly inclusive one.

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Japan, as a member of IMT implements its programs and projects through its Japan-Bangsamoro Initiatives for Reconstruction and Development (J-BIRD). The program was launched in December of 2006 and has already poured in 19.1 billion Japanese Yen or P7.8 billion to fund various programs and projects. It is aimed to contribute to the peace process through delivering Development Assistance Projects, also called as “Dividends of Peace” in CAAM areas.

J-BIRD works in three areas of concern – Community Development that focuses on poverty alleviation, livelihood, water, health and education; Capacity-Building in Transition Period that centers on Human Resource Development, Institutional Building and Good Governance; and Sustainable Economic Development in Mindanao that works on strategic infrastructure and regional development.

Hiroyuki Kawamoto, chief of SEAC in the IMT, said programs and projects are also funded through the Embassy of Japan particularly grants for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) and grant assistance for nongovernment organizations (NGOs) and people’s organizations (POs); and from JICA for technical assistance program, grant aid program and Yen loan program.

Within the peace process, SEAC in the IMT is tasked to monitor the socio-economic aspect in CAAM areas and assist in determining the development needs of conflict-affected communities, Kawamoto added. SEAC also provided assistance in the formulation of the comprehensive development plan and its early implementation, he added.

“In SEAC in the IMT, we also work to facilitate the effective delivery of development projects in conflict-affected areas,” Kawamoto said.

Adan’s community and organization are among those who received socio-economic support from the government of Japan through JICA in Sultan Mastura town. Other groups in the area also received support through goat and vegetable productions. JICA also rehabilitated a total of 1.5 kilometers of access road from villages to the market centers in said town.

“In behalf of my organization we express gratitude to the people and the government of Japan for this project,” Adan said.

He also hoped that the peace process between the government and the MILF will continue to prosper “for the future of our children and the Bangsamoro homeland.”

(Next: Sowing the seeds of peace in Bangsamoro homeland: “Building bridges over troubles past)

14 EDGEDAVAO Sports

ALL FOR ONE. Sports leaders and host officials led by House Speaker Bebot Alvarez, PSC chairman Butch Ramirez, Davao del Norte Governor Anthony del Rosario, Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon, PSC Commissioners Charles Maxey, Mon Fernandez and Celia Kiram, Rep. Prospero Pichay, and PBA Party List Rep. Koko Nograles flash the fist bump sign

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during the opening program of the 2016 Batang Pinoy National Finals last Sunday at the Davao del Norte Sports and Toourism Complex in Tagum City.

NEXT GEN HEROES PSC says Batang Pinoy a source of nat’l pride

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

F

njb@edgedavao.net

RESH hopes of producing new sports heroes for the country emerged anew as the 2016 Batang Pinoy National Finals formally opened last Sunday at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Commissioner Celia Kiram, the designated overseer of this youth sports program, expressed optimism that the weeklong event will

produce the next generation of national athletes.

The youth-oriented sports conclave is now underway at various venues in Davao del Norte with the main venue at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex in Mankilam, Tagum City.

“Batang Pinoy is a source of national pride because the best-of-the-best young home-grown talents from the countryside are seeing action

in their favorite sports,” said Kiram, who was designated

by PSC Chairman William Ramirez to supervise the tournament.

“I expect young fresh talents to emerge and new records will be established because all the participants have the burning ambition to shine in their pet events,” added Kiram, who headed the Philippine delegation to the Children of Asia International Sports

quiao. I’d be proud if somebody would give me the opportunity to fight Manny Pacquiao.”

Lomachenko was asked what weight he’d be willing to fight Pacquiao, and he said, “Probably 135 is the max, because right now, I came into the ring at 136 pounds.”

If Lomachenko wants the fight with Pacquiao badly enough, he might need to be willing to move up in weight higher than 135. It’ll depend on how hard Pacquiao wants to negotiate. Without Pacquiao having fought at 135 for the past eight years since his fight against David Diaz in 2008, it would put him at a disadvantage to drop down that much weight without experimenting. What Pacquiao doesn’t need is to be put in the same situation Oscar De La Hoya was when he moved down to 147 to fight him in their match in 2008. De La Hoya hadn’t fought at welterweight for seven years since 2001 when he took on Pacquiao at 147 in 2008. In hindsight, it was a foolish thing for De La Hoya to do. If Pacquiao wants to do something similar by moving down in weight to 135 to fight Lomachenko, he could wind up losing just as bad. It’ll be a lot easier for Lomachenko to go up in weight than it’ll be for Pacquiao to drop down. Pacquiao is about to turn 38 in December. He’s not a young fighter anymore. Dropping all that weight to fight a speedy guy that moves around a lot like Lomachenko, it’s a recipe for disaster for Pacquiao.

HE future looks bright for weighlifting.

After the silver medal conqyest of Zamboanguena weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, there’s a new kid on the block fllowing her trail.

17-year old Dessa Delos Santos, labeled as the next Hidilyn Diaz, is another Olympian in the making.

Like her idol Diaz, Delos Santos is also from the country’s weightlifting’s capital— Zamboanga City.

The 212 Batang Pinoy star turned to weightlifting when she was 11, the same as Diaz’s tender age.

In a span of 5 years, Delos Santos blossomed into an international competitor.

DZSR Sports Radio recently named Delos Santos as their Athlete of the Week.

The promising lifter swept three silver medals in the girls’ 53 kilograms at the recent Asian Youth and Juniors Weightlifting Championships in Chiba, Japan.

Delos Santos lifted 76 kilos in the snatch, and 96 in the clean and jerk for a total of 172, only five kilos behind the gold medal winner and World

Games in Russia this year.

Davao del Norte governor Anthony Del Rosario welcomed around 13,000 athletes who are competing in 27 sports calendared in the Batang Pinoy. Also on hand during the colorful opening program were House Speaker Bebot Alvarez, PSC Chairman Butch Ramirez, PSC Commissioners Charles Maxey and Mon Fernandez, PBA Party List Rep. Koko Nograles, Rep.

Prospero Pichay, Rep. Ruwel Gonzaga and Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon.

The province also hosted the 2015 Palarong Pambansa, 2015 PRISAA National Games and 2015 Mindanao Qualifiers of the Batang Pinoy.

The Batang Pinoy program is the PSC’s grassroots development program that caters to school-based and out-ofschool athletes 17-years-old and below.

Champions in the Batang Pinoy are sent to the Children of Asia tournament, an annual competition held in the northeastern Russian region of Yakutia.

Kiram, who is assisted by fellow Commissioner and former Edge Davao editorial consultant Maxey, said the PSC has allocated P15 million to ensure the successful conduct of the Batang Pinoy National Finals.

(With report from PNA)

Lomachenko keen on Zambo girl is next Hidilyn Diaz Pacquiao but at 135 I

F Manny Pacquiao wants to fight WBO super featherweight champion Vasyl Lomachenko, he might need to drop down 12 pounds to face him at lightweight, because that’s the weight class that the Ukrainian fighter is willing to fight him at. Lomachenko says he wants to fight Pacquiao, but he wants the fight to take place at 135lbs.

Being that the 28-year-old Lomachenko isn’t in the position to be calling the shots in terms of weight for the Pacquiao fight, it’ll be interesting to see if his match ever takes place. Lomachenko is not a pay-per-view fighter, and the chances are that he may never get to that level unless he starts picking up more boxing fans.

Pacquiao would be dropping a lot of weight if he’s going to take this fight. Is it worth it for Pacquiao to fight Lomachenko at 135? I don’t think it is. Pacquiao should take the fight at 143. If Lomachenko can’t agree to that weight, then it might not be worth it for Pacquiao to accommodate him with the weight.

Lomachenko stopped former WBA featherweight champion Nicholas Walters in the 7th round last Saturday night in their fight on HBO World Championship Boxing at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, Nevada. Walters decided he didn’t want to continue after the 7th round.

When asked if he’d like to fight Pacquiao, Lomachenko said, “I very much respect Manny Pac-

T

Champion from Thailand.

PHL Weightlifting Association president and head coach Elbert Atilano, who is also Diaz’s mentor, said Delos Santos could be the next Filipino Olympic medalist.

DZSR cited Delos Santos for her achievements in just a short span of time in the sport.

Competing internationally for only the third time since taking the sport five years back, Delos Santos proved she can even surpass Hidilyn’s olympic feat.

After her debut at the Asian Championships in Uzbekistan last April, she graduated to world-class level in the October 19-25 world juniors in Penang, Malaysia--but due to the absence of a far creditable experience, she missed the bronze and landed fourth.

Expectations are high for Delos Santos, not only from our na-

tional team coaches but especially from her own father-mentor, Alvin Delos Santos—a former Sea Games Super Heavyweight Champion himself, who strongly believes her daughter can follow t h e footsteps of Hidilyn.

H e r mother— Diwa—was herself a Philippine team weightlifter during her heydays—one good reason why this young lass have been inspired to step in to the discipline even as she first had her interests in Taekwondo and Dance sport.

Although she admits that she forced herself into weightlifting because she thoughtit could be her ticket to travelling overseas. But she eventually realized that it should not be so— and instead felt that the sport indeed runs in her veins.

Delos Santos is currently on full scholarship from the Universidad de Zamboanga, where she is a grade 11. She is also bound to receive cash incentive from the city government for her Asian Silver medal win.

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SPORTS15

Irving leads Cavs past Sixers

K

YRIE Irving took charge for the Cleveland Cavaliers this time, scoring a season-high 39 points in a 112108 come-from-behind victory over the Sixers on Sunday in Philadelphia led (Monday, Manila time).

The Sixers took a sixpoint lead in the first period, maintained that until haltime and were still up entering the fourth.

But Irving caught fire and scored 19 points in the fourth to lift the Cavaliers to their fourth straight win.

LeBron James posted another triple-double with 26 points, 10 rebounds and 13 assists as the Cavaliers notched

their 13th win in 15 outings.

Kevin Love had a huge double-double of 25 points and 11 rebounds for Cleeland, which has won four of five games on the road.

The Sixers absorbed their third straight loss, even as they came up with a solid balanced offense.

Joel Embiid came up with 22 points and was a rebound shy of a doble-double, while six other Sixers scored in double figures.

Jahlil Okafor came off the bench to deliver 14 points, while Gerald Henderson and Ersan Ilyasova scored 13 points each for Philadelphia, which has lost 13 of 17 games.

Argentina wins Davis Cup title A

RGENTINA won its first Davis Cup title on Sunday when Federico Delbonis swept past Ivo Karlovic in straight sets to complete a stunning 3-2 comeback win over Croatia.

Delbonis dropped to the ground after his 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory. His teammates fell into each other’s arms and celebrated in front of thousands of Argentine fans in the packed Arena Zagreb.

Players danced around the huge Davis Cup trophy and fans, including soccer great Diego Maradona, chanted and waved Argentinian flags.

This was the first Davis Cup title for Argentina in the fifth final it has played since 1981. Croatia won in 2005.

Going into the reverse singles Sunday, the Croats were leading in the best-of-five-series after winning the doubles on Saturday.

Juan Martin Del Potro then rallied from two sets down to beat Marin Cilic 6-7 (4), 2-6, 7-5, 6-4, 6-3 as Argentina drew level at 2-2.

“Delpo showed his huge heart after turning around the match that looked lost,” said Argentina team captain Daniel Orsanic. “Federico played a perfect match under huge pressure. I’m really proud to be part of this fantastic team.”

With the victory, Argentina became only the third team to come back from 2-1 down in the final since the World Group Davis Cup format was introduced in 1981.

Delbonis went up a break in the first two sets and added two more in the third when Karlovic sent a forehand wide for the victory.

The 41st-ranked Argentine passed the big-serving Croat veteran at ease throughout the 2:09-hour match.

“This is fabulous,” Delbonis said. “We somewhat felt we could do it despite trailing after the doubles.”

Karlovic, who returned to the Croatian team after a four-year absence, said he was “hugely disappointed.”

“Maybe I’ll feel better to-

morrow, but tonight it is awful,” he said.

The comeback started with Del Potro’s heroics that included a finger injury in the fifth set against Cilic.

“I was calm, I hoped all the time that I could win and I did it,” said Del Potro, displaying a bandage on his little finger on his non-racket left hand.

He said the injury happened in the fifth set while he was trying to catch a ball.

“I’m very happy to hand my team a chance of a victory,” Del Potro said.

The match at Arena Zagreb that lasted nearly five hours saw plenty of drama created by two players with similar styles.

“It is very difficult to lose such an important match,” Cilic said. “I feel a lot of disappointment.”

Cilic had a furious start to race to a 3-0 lead including a break in Del Potro’s first service game. The Croat capitalized on the first of three break points with a cracking forehand winner.

Del Potro fought back in the seventh game with Cilic under pressure at deuce. Two ground strokes, first a forehand long then a looping backhand, saw Del Potro break at the sixth attempt.

In the tiebreaker, Cilic raced to a 5-0 lead to seal the game with a slice backhand down the line that Del Potro could not control.

Under pressure after losing his fourth straight tiebreaker during the finals, Del Potro started the second set slowly and dropped his serve in the fifth game with a double fault and another in the seventh at love.

At that point, Cilic seemed to be cruising toward victory with some spectacular ground strokes that the tired-looking Argentine watched in disbelief.

But then Del Potro, who has recovered after two injury-hit years, showed the form he displayed in beating now top-ranked Andy Murray as Argentina knocked out holder Britain in the semifinals.

NEXT GEN SPORTS STARS. 10-year old Zachary Dwayne R. Balon of Colegio de San Ignacio and 16-year old sister Deanne Marithe R. Balon of San Pedro College, representing Davao City-Holiday Spa Gym, get off the delegation

bus for the usual accreditation process. The Balon siblings, seeing action in wrestling and judo, are among the 13,000 young athletes taking part in the ongoing 2016 Batang Pinoy National Finals in Tagum City, Davao del Norte.

NICO NAILS IT Rosberg wins maiden Formula 1 Drivers Championship in Abu Dhabi season finale

N

ICO Rosberg won his maiden Formula 1 world championship Sunday by securing second place behind Mercedes arch-rival Lewis Hamilton in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Reigning champion Hamilton ignored team orders in a last bid to block his German teammate. But Rosberg, who started the 21st and final race of 2016 12 points clear of Hamilton, would not be denied.

Rosberg’s second place meant he clinched his first championship by five points.

He emulates his father Keke who won the title in 1982.

Nico Rosberg celebrates winning the Formula 1 Drivers Championship in Abu Dhabi.

With the race win - his tenth of the year - assured,

Hamilton ignored team orders to speed up as he toyed with the pace, slowing it down in a last ditch bid to try to allow third-placed Sebastian Vettel and fourth-placed Max Verstappen to overtake Rosberg.

Rosberg returned to applause and cheers from the pits, and lifted F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone up in the air in a massive bear hug.

In contrast there was barely any contact between Rosberg and him and deposed champion Hamilton before the presentation.

Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg share an awkward embrace on the Abu Dhabi podium.

That came on the podium, when Hamilton congratulated

his former teenage go-karting companion with a handshake and a hug.

“Big congratulations to Nico, good job man,” said Hamilton.

Rosberg reliving the final tense laps, said: “With the

guys (Vettel and Verstappen) coming up behind me the end was not the most enjoyable.

“I’m very proud to have done the same feat as my Dad achieved.”

HOW THEY MATCH UP. A BBC News Infographic shows the match up between the two Mercedes Benz teammates slash rivals.

TEAMMATES AND RIVALS. Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg share an awkward embrace on the Abu Dhabi podium.

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