Edge Davao 9 Issue 211

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

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Serving a seamless society

HINTERLAND-BOUND. Volunteers repack food packs inside Felcris supermarket along Sales Street which will be given to Lumads and residents living in the hinterlands of Davao City as Christmas gift of the city government of Davao. Each food pack contains two kilograms of rice, two cans of sardines and noodles. Lean Daval Jr.

TAGUM GUNPLAY ORDERED PROBED 7 people wounded as guards assault farmers Rody off to Cambodia, Singapore state visits

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

GRARIAN Reform Secretary Rafael “Ka Paeng” Mariano has ordered the Regional Office of the Department of Agrarian Reform, Region XI, and the Provincial Agrarian Reform Office of Davao Del Norte to investigate the reported gunfire attack by security guards of the Lapanday Foods Corporation at the farmers’ encampment in Brgy.

Madaum, Tagum City.

Seven members of Madaum Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries, Inc., (MARBAI) were wounded on Monday morning after armed men identified as security personnel of banana plantation Lapanday Food Corporation fired their weapons at the group of

farmers who were camping in the area since Friday last week to assert ownership of the lands inside the said plantation.

Wounded farmers were identified as Jose Balucos, 42, Emanuel Buladaco, 46, Talban Miparanun, 16, and some members of Panalipdan Youth and Hugpong sa Mag-uuma sa Pantukan, namely: Belardo Francisco, Jojo Gomez, and two others named as Rico and Bobong.

MARBAI and the other group called Unyon Farmers are asserting their rights as government-recognized beneficiaries and owners of the 145-hectare agricultural land being claimed by Lapanday for

the last six years.

Lapanday already denied it ordered the attack against the farmers.

In a statement, the company said it sought police assistance to investigate the presence of armed men who were seen within the areas of Hijo Employees Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative 1 or HEARBCO1.

Lapanday said the place where HEARBCO1 and MARBAI farmers stayed were in the same location.

In a statement on Monday, Secretary Mariano also instructed the local DAR officials to coordinate with the Philippine National Police of Davao del Norte for the possible filing

of cases against the suspects of the shooting incident.

“Almost 2,000 farmworkers and members of peasant organizations have joined the farmers’ camp in Brgy.

Madaum to support the fight of the MARBAI farmers,” the DAR statement added.

The agency said that MARBAI members are farmer beneficiaries who were given Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) in 1996 under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).

Each of the 159 farmers owns a 0.79-hectare piece of the 145-hectare banana plantation.

“According to Mely Yu,

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RESIDENT Duterte has left for Cambodia and Singapore on Tuesday for a four-day state visits with the objective of establishing cohesive relationships with Association of South East Asian Nations countries and in line with the chairmanship of ASEAN and the holding of the summit in November next year.

“We are hosting the ASEAN Summit in 2017. I have to go around in ASEAN countries to formulate policies for the upcoming summit next year,” the President said in his departure speech as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Tuesday.

He also emphasized the importance of gathering the

EDGEDAVAO Sports

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BITTER LOSS

Davao boy Moralde loses in Japan P15

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

WORDS OF ASSURANCE. President Rodrigo R. Duterte addresses the members of the Wallace Business Forum during a dinner at Malacañan Palace on Monday night. REY BANIQUET/Presidential Photo

South Cotabato officials raise alert level as dengue kills 24

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EALTH officials in South Cotabato have raised an alert level on dengue cases as the number topped the 5,000 mark or more than 100 percent higher as compared from January to November last year.

Dr. Rogelio Aturdido, South Cotabato provincial health chief, said 24 patients have died as of Dec. 12 due to dengue, ironically “a preventable disease should everybody cooperates.”

Data from the South Cotabato provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit showed that Koronadal City has the highest number of fatality due to dengue with six, followed by Tupi which has five deaths.

The upland towns of Polomolok and Surallah have four each while two were reported killed in Banga town. In the

towns of Tantangan, Norala and Lake Sebu have one fatality each.

Aturdido said since January to Dec. 13, a total of 5,719 dengue cases were reported in both public and private hospitals in the province. The figure was 100.3 higher as compared to data last year which has only about 2,600 cases.

Aturdido told reporters that public support and participation in the general efforts of containing dengue cases is as important as life.

He said public participation is so simple that all they need is to clean their surroundings as well as inside homes and residential areas.

Aturdido said water containers should be cleaned, canals and passages ways should be cleared of stagnant waters.

(PNA)

HE House of Representatives on Tuesday ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the proposed PHP3.35 trillion national budget for 2017, the first under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.

The report, which was voted through viva voce, will then be transmitted to the Palace for President Duterte’s approval.

House appropriations committee chair Karlo Nograles said the House contingent in the bicam accepted the Senate’s position to allocate some PHP8.3 billion, originally allotted for development projects in the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao , to the Commission on Higher Educa-

tion (CHED).

The agreement between the two chambers was meant to remove the impasse on the budget and avoid further delays on its approval, thus paving way for the Duterte administration’s agenda for change, he noted.

“We are one with the position of President Duterte that we really need to develop Mindanao if we want to defeat the insurgency problem in the region, which is why we programmed infrastructure projects in Mindanao, including the ARMM. But some members of the Senate opined that this could be in violation of the ARMM Organic Act,” said Nograles. (PNA)

Rise of investments in Davao seen in 2016

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

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AVAO City has seen an unprecedented increase in the number of business establishments for the year 2016, according to investment promotions center head Lemuel Ortonio.

Speaking during a media forum at DermPath, SM Ecoland, Davao City, Ortonio said these businesses are either new or have renewed their licenses.

The DCIPC head also expressed optimism that the city could look forward to more investments in 2017, citing the number of investment inquiries that his office has received from Japan and China.

“As of the third quarter, we have 39,887 in the number of business permits and establishments,” said the DCIPC head.

Ortonio added that the number is comparatively high compared to the previous record which is 36,950 for the entire 2015.

For the capitalization, the DCIPC head said the agency has recorded a total of P232.87 billion investments in 2016, higher than last year’s figure of P217.14 billion.

Ortonio explained that with the constant development of Davao City, a number of business establishments

have shown interest to invest.

This is despite the incident that challenged the disaster preparedness and resiliency of the city, noted Ortonio.

“There were no specific inquiry yet but we usually present the 10-priority investment areas of DCIP,” said Ortonio.

However, there were some Chinese and Japanese investors who have inquired on the manufacturing sector particularly on car parts.

Ortonio further explained President Duterte’s recent visit in China has influenced the investors to show interest on what Davao City has to offer.

The Davao City Invest-

ment Promotion Center (DCIPC) is the lead agency of the City Government of Davao in promoting Davao as a viable investment site through organization or participation in business missions, fairs, exhibits, conferences and fora.

It operates mainly to provide investors and the business community free professional services such as investment incentive facilitation, assistance in securing business permits and licenses, assistance in finding suitable sites, manpower and raw materials, business matching, investment counselling and data banking.

lograms of rice, 2 litres of oil, 1 kilogram of sugar, ½ kilogram of salt, 12 tins of sardines, 1 liter of soy sauce, and a hygiene kit containing shampoo, bath and laundry soaps, toothbrushes and toothpaste. In July, the ICRC through the PRC provided essential household items and hygiene kits to 17,000 displaced people in Tipo-Tipo, Al-Barka and Ungkaya Pukan municipalities.

Also recently, the ICRC arranged for 12 emergency health kits to be delivered to hospitals and rural health units in Sulu and Basilan provinces to

support the medical needs of the affected civilians. These kits also contain dressing materials to treat the weapon-wounded.

Together with the PRC Zamboanga City chapter, 113 health workers from six rural health units of Basilan were trained on first aid and basic life support from August to October to boost the capacity and readiness of health workers and the community to help save lives during armed fighting and other emergencies.

As part of its mandate to raise awareness of and respect

House ratifies P3.35-T gov’t budget for 2017 Basilan armed clashes displaced 7,000 people T N

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

EARLY 7,000 people have been displaced for more than a month in the wake of continuing armed clashes between government security forces and armed groups in Basilan province, southern Philippines, the International Committee of the Red Cross reported.

“These families left their homes and sources of livelihood after the hostilities started in November,” said Nezar Tamine, deputy head of the ICRC sub-delegation in Mindanao.

The Red Cross official said

the residents of six villages in the conflict-affected municipalities of Al-Barka and Tuburan chose to stay with relatives or in evacuation centers for fear of being caught in the crossfire.

“The ICRC’s distribution is in response to their basic needs for food,” said Tamine.

To support the needs of the evacuees, ICRC has provided food rations and hygiene items on December 7 and 9 for the affected families in Al-Barka and Tuburan, with the support of the Philippine Red Cross Basilan chapter.

Each family received 25 ki-

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PESKY DUST. A tricycle driver and his passengers cover their faces to protect themselves from the dust while traversing along Davao-Cotabato national highway in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur which is undergoing road rehabilitation and construction. Lean Daval Jr.

New city roads to open in 2017

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

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EVERAL alternate and new roads will open next year to lessen traffic congestion in the city, City Councilor Conrado Baluran said.

The chair of the committee on energy and transportation chairperson said on Tuesday that there were at least two alternate routes that will be opened in the early months of 2017.

He said that he joined sev-

eral city officials in a meeting with Land Transportation and Regulatory Board chairperson Martin Delgra to help map out additional routes in the metropolis with a view to lessening traffic congestion.

Baluran said that the Public Utility Vehicles will have new routes as soon as the road constructions for the new paths will open.

“Our number one target is

to really open the new modification approach, we really need to change the route since Matina Crossing is where the vehicles converge so we need to open more routes in the area,” he said.

Matina crossing is one of the most congested areas of the southern portion of the city.

He said that they an alternate route is soon to open in

the Ulas area to prevent cars from passing the Matina intersection and decongest the traffic.

Meanwhile, two alternate routes in the northern and southern portion of the city will open in the early months of 2017.

“There are two shortcut roads that are about to afford next year one is in the Lanang

illegal drugs at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City.

House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and House Committee on Justice Chairman Reynaldo Umali personally filed the complaint against De Lima in DOJ for violation of Article 150 of the Revised Penal Code for disobedience to summons issued by the national assem-

bly, its committee or subcommittees. ”(What we filed) is violation of Article 150 of the revised penal code and DoJ has the jurisdiction since this is a crime under a revised penal code. In essence of the case is about disobedience to summons issued y the national assembly which is Congress

and so Senator De Lima advise Dayan to hide and not face the house inquiry that constitutes a violation of Article 150 because she induced Dayan to hide and not to obey the summon of congress particularly of the Justice Committee of the House of Representatives,” Umali told reporters.

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Solons filed case vs. De Lima for ignoring House summons

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EMBERS of the House of Representatives on Tuesday filed a criminal complaint before the Department of Justice against Senator Leila De Lima for ignoring the summons issued

by Congress and for instructing her former driver and lover Ronnie Dayan to snub the probe on the proliferation of

PIA AWARDEES. Two officers of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in the Davao Region received Loyalty award for 25 years of service and “Gantimpala” award for excellence performance during the 30th anniversary of PIA at the

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Bahay Alumni of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City last week. The awardees are Regional Director Efren Elbanbuena and Information/ Media Relations Officer Edith T. Isidro, shown posing with PIA Deputy Director

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No deal yet on arms purchase from China A FIREARMS deal between the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China needs a signed government to government agreement before it can push through.

“We have not come to that stage. Yes, yes preliminary talks has just started. But I cannot say when they will meet again,” Geng Shuang, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman told reporters in an interview at the sidelines of the Christmas party hosted by the Chinese Embassy at the Shangri-la Hotel in Makati City Monday night.

Shuang said both parties are still exploring the possibilities of China providing arms and radars. He added: “We have not come to the stage of finalizing any deal.”

He said China is exporting light weapons to other ally countries for their own defense build up but they cannot discuss details.

He said it needs to pass many processes before they can call it as done deal.

“Again, I would like to say that this is the right of the Filipinos to decide to which country they would like to have weapons,” he pointed out when informed that the Philippines is also interested to buy weapons from Russia.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has expressed willingness to accept an arms deal proposed by China, further signifying a recent thaw in relations between the two countries.

Duterte promised to send Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to China to accept the firearms which are to be paid within 25 years.

Shuang claimed that they have no time frame to ink the firearms deal. He said the Philippine government has yet to be convinced that their firearms can compete with other dealers. (PNA)

EPARTMENT of Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II on Tuesday said that he will recommend to President Rodrigo Duterte the dismissal of two high-ranking officials of Bureau of Immigration in connection with their involvement in extorting money from online gaming operator Chinese gaming tycoon Yon Lok Lam alias Jack Lam. Aguirre said he can only recommend the relief of associate commissioners Al Argosino and Michael Robles to President Duterte since they were presidential appointees.

“I am going to recommend today to the President na for your immediate relief from your position. Because of the anti-corruption program of the government, it’s better that they be relieved,” Aguirre told reporters adding he will also recommend to the President the relief of other BI officials and employees who might have been involved in similar activities, which he refused to identify.

“On my part, I can only make a recommendation because I don’t have the power to dismiss,”

he added.

Argosino and Robles were allegedly caught on video accepting money from former police chief superintendent Wally Sombero who is linked to Lam inside a casino mall in Paranaque.

Aguirre said he had seen the CCTV footage though he said he would not make an immediate judgment.

He said BI Commissioner Jaime Morente has already ordered Argosino, Robles and Acting Immigration Intelligence Chief Police Director Charles Calima Jr. to answer the allegations within 24 hours.

Aguirre also said he “felt betrayed” by Argosino and Robles,who are his fraternity brothers at Lex Talionis. ”Siyempre you felt betrayed they were not following the order of the President to go after corruption,” Aguirre said adding that Argosino and Robles were among the legal team of President Duterte during the presidential campaign.

During the press conference on Tuesday, Argosino and Robles personally turned over the

DOJ seeks dismissal of 2 BI execs for extortion D

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General Gelo Villar. In the photo at right, the awardees pose with Presidential Communication Office Assistant Secretary Joseph Lawrence “Bambam” Garcia and National Information Bureau chief Director Virgina “Gigi” A. Agtay.

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DOF: Collection targets seen if taxes indexed to inflation

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HE government will never realized or surpass its collection targets unless it indexes taxes to inflation and modernizes fiscal incentives given to certain industries that account for over P100 billion in, according to Finance Undersecretary Karl Kendrick Chua.

Chua said that alongside these reforms, the government also needs to relax the country’s bank secrecy laws that are among the most restrictive in the world and which prevents the Bureaus of Internal Revenue (BIR) and of Customs (BOC) to conduct the proper tax audits and subsequently run after tax dodgers and money launderers.

The Philippines, according to Chua, is only one of three countries that still keep bank accounts out of the scrutiny of tax officials.

“Let me put it in perspective: we collect 13.6 percent of GDP in taxes. That is very low.

Thailand has 17 percent, most of the advanced countries are above 20 percent. There’s no way we can fund massive, radical ways in providing service if we do not raise the tax-to-GDP ratio. The highest that has been achieved was in 1997 when we reached 17 percent. But since then we have fallen to as low as 11 percent,” Chua said during a recent tax forum organized by the StratBase-Albert Del Rosario (ADR) Institute.

Chua said the Philippines has to improve its current taxto-GDP ratio of 13.6 percent to 16.6 percent, which means the government has to raise some P600 billion per year in new tax revenues, to enable the Duterte administration to fund its planned unprecedented investments in infrastructure, human capital and social protection for the country’s vulnerable sectors.

Citing as one of the reasons the failure to index taxes to inflation for the country’s

low revenue collection rate, Chua pointed out as an example the case of fuel excise taxes, which have not been adjusted since 1997, although the peso value of the tax rate has eroded and incomes have increased over the past two decades.

Another major reason revenue collection targets are never met is the grant of numerous incentives to protected industries, which violate any or all of the four principles on why these had been given to them, Chua said.

He said fiscal incentives in other countries follow these four principles: they must be time-bound, performance-based, transparent and targeted for specific beneficiaries.

These principles, Chua said, are seldom practiced in the Philippines, whereincentives are given with no time limits, are neither transparent nor based on performance, and never target specific areas that need investments to spur economic growth. “[Incentives] should be targeted, typically to those investing in the provinces, if you want to make development in the provinces, if you are an exporter, or if you can create jobs.

But not all are targeted,” Chua said.

“Not all (incentives) are performance-based. There are many instances wherein firms that are underperforming are still getting incentives without limits,” he added.

Chua said the country’s outdated fiscal incentives program has resulted in foregone revenues totaling P100 billion, of which half are from income tax holidays and the rest from special tax rates given to companies.

He noted that there are over 200 laws granting incentives to various industries that were approved and enacted without amending the Tax Code. (DOF)

SORTING OUT. A vegetable vendor at the “bagsakan” area at Bankerohan Public Market arranges newly-delivered legumes from Marilog District in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Rody won’t back charter change if Filipino land is sold to foreigners P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has said he is open to the proposal to touch the economic provisions of the Constitution except for the selling of lands to foreigners.

During a two-hour talk with a business group late Monday in Malacanang, President Duterte said he will support Charter change even if Congress will reverse the 60/40 percent foreign ownership provision.

“Maybe, I said, the equity can be increased to reverse, 60-40 or 70 if it’s a foreign corporation. But to sell the land, I will not. For the life of me, I will not agree to that. I will lose my country to foreigners,” the President said.

President Duterte explained that the Filipinos, most of them are poor, might be tempted to sell their lands

to the world’s superpowers like China and United States.

“With the growing economy of the super giants, China and the rest, you know, they can always come here and buy the land and they can buy the whole of Tondo and relocate there and we’ll have with nothing and everything sold,” the President said.

“At this time of our financial life and civilization, you can easily sell the land even for a pittance. It would come to other people almost as free and then what happens?

Where will I go if everything is already owned?,” he added.

Last week, President Duterte signed Executive Order No. 10 creating a 25-member consultative committee that will review the 1987 Constitution.

The committee shall study, consult and review the Charter provisions “including, but

not limited to, the provisions on the structure and powers of the government, local governance and economic policies.”

The panel has six months to complete its recommendations and proposals which will be submitted to President Duterte before it will be transmitted to Congress.

Expected to be included in the recommendations and proposals is the shift of the form government from presidential to federal with a prime minister and a president.

President Duterte said federal form of government is the solution to the long decades of armed conflict in Mindanao.

“If we do not adopt federalism, there is no way that peace can be attained in Mindanao, now or in the future,” he told the business leaders.

The President said he is

ready to step down if Congress can craft a Constitution creating a federal form of government even midway of his sixyear term.

“If they can craft a Constitution creating a federal setup, a country, and providing for a strong president just like the type which France has, then I am willing to step down without waiting for the six years,” he said.

President Duterte said he already instructed Senate President Aquilino ‘Koko’ Pimentel III and House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez to hasten the shift of government to federalism.

“That’s why I said for those who are asking for my ouster, do not dream about it. If you do not like me, go for the federal type and you are freed of my presence in government,” he said. (PNA)

OMISYON sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) is planning to spearhead in Metro Manila next year another landmark event aimed at further promoting Filipino, the country’s national language.

KWF’s planned “Pandaigdigang Kongreso sa mga Pagaaral hinggil sa Filipinas” will focus on studies about the Philippines, advocate use of Filipino in research on the country and will be the highlight of next year’s Buwan ng Wika annual celebration in August.

“Our target is to conduct in Filipino -- for the first time -- all sessions of that planned congress,” National Artist and KWF Chairperson Virgilio Almario said Monday in Metro Manila during a briefing on the matter.

He noted such target is in line with KWF’s bid to promote intellectualization of Filipino.

“Our aim is to show Filipi-

no can be used in all kinds of discourse -- we’re not just using this language,” he said.

This year, KWF hosted several fora featuring experts who demonstrated use of Filipino in their respective fields.

English is the language mainly used in teaching and research activities across different fields in the country but it’s possible to use Filipino as well, noted KWF. KWF is coordinating with Philippine Studies Association (PSA) and other parties regarding conduct of “Pandaigdigang Kongreso sa mga Pagaaral hinggil sa Filipinas.”

“The congress proposes and intends to demonstrate Philippine studies are more properly and effectively conducted in Filipino than in any other language especially if either foreign or local scholars want to look deeply into the Philippine context of history.

the social sciences and other fields of knowledge concerning the Philippines and its people,” said KWF. Almario also said using Filipino reaffirms Philippine citizens’ national identity since this language is “organically connected with Philippine realities and the Filipino experience.”

“We think Filipino must be used first in conducting studies on the Philippines,” he added.

PSA, National Museum, National Commission on Culture and the Arts, Filipinas Institute of Translation (FIT) and Unyon ng mga Manunulat sa Pilipinas are KWF’s partners in the congress set for Aug. 2 to 4.

“I hope everyone will support that event,” PSA president Dr. Bernardita Churchill said at the briefing.

She noted Filipino must already be the language mainly used in Philippine studies.

FIT head and the congress’ director Dr. Galileo Zafra urged Department of Education (DepEd) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to include Philippine studies in curricula of schools nationwide.

“Such studies must be at the core of Philippine education,” he said at the briefing.

He hopes presentations during the congress can be published to help address shortage of education materials in Filipino.

“There’s lack of academic publications in Filipino - we must produce more,” he said.

KWF will accept until Jan. 16, 2017 proposed presentations for “Pandaigdigang Kongreso sa mga Pag-aaral hinggil sa Filipinas.”

The proposals must be original and not yet presented in other venues, noted KWF. (PNA)

DTI recalls certification KWF eyes 2017 Philippine studies congress in Filipino of 20,000MT steel bars K

T

HE Department of Trade and Industry has recalled the Import Commodity Clearance of 20,000 metric ton steel bars imported

by Mannage Resources Trading Corporation .

In a letter to MRTC President Lawrence Daniel Sy, DTI noted that the recall of the ICC aims “to ensure that the objective of the applicable laws, rules, and standards, on traceability, quality, and safety are met.”

To recall, DTI Zambales issued provisional ICC for the 12-millimeter diameter by 12-meter deformed steel bars or rebars despite MRTC has no registered logo for their imported rebars.

The rebars were imported from China with an estimated amount of PHP95 million.

Philippine Iron and Steel

Institute has welcomed DTI’s decision to withdraw the ICC of the imported Chinese steel bars.

“DTI’s recall and stricter implementation of mandatory standards is welcome news to the consuming public as this can lead to stopping the proliferation of uncertified and/or substandard steel bars in the market,” said PISI President Roberto Cola.

He added that stricter implementation of standards shall be applied to both locally manufactured and imported steel products.

“The Philippines is located in an earthquake zone and typhoon area, so the best disaster prevention is to prevent sub-standard mandatory steel products from being sold in the market” Cola mentioned.

(PNA)

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P34-B Davao coastal road gets initial P1.98-B funding

T INSTANT FUEL. An oil depot sits near a national road in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. Petroleum companies implemented a new round of big-time price increases in gasoline, diesel and kerosene effective today. Lean Daval Jr.

Northern Mindanao aggie produce plummets in 2016 T

HE Gross Regional Domestic Product of the agriculture sector in Northern Mindanao plummeted, for the first time, behind the industry and service sectors, agriculture officials said Tuesday.

Roxana H. Hojas, the assistant regional director of the Department of Agriculture here, attributed the GRDP fall to the decrease in raw exports for the year 2016.

The GRDP in the region for 2016 was only 3.9 percent, while that of the industrial sector was at 7.6 percent.

The services sector registered a GRDP growth of 5.9 percent.

The results were presented at a meeting of the regional

directors of national government line agencies here on Monday, Hojas said.

The regional officials were present to approve Northern Mindanao’s contribution to the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022.

“In the GRDP computation, only the exported raw produce are counted under agriculture.

There is seen an increase in the production of agricultural by-products in Northern Mindanao and this is credited to the manufacturing sector. Hence, there is an expected increase in the services sector, too,” Hojas said.

Among the prolific by-products exported by the region are processed coconuts such as activated carbon, coco-

nut chemicals, coconut fiber, coconut cream, coconut milk powder, coconut oil, coconut husk, coconut shell charcoal, coconut water, copra cake/ meal, dessicated coconut, fat coconut, fresh young nut, reduced fat coconut, sweetened coconut, toasted coconut, palm acid oil and palm oil’s fatty acid.

In the past Philippine Development Plan 2010-2016, the challenges facing the country’s agriculture sector were high cost of production inputs, inefficient supply chain and logistics systems, inadequate provision of irrigation infrastructure, low rate of adoption of technologies including mechanization, limited access to formal credit and financing,

climate change, environmental degradation, weak agricultural extension service, contradictory rice policy, incomplete implementation of asset reforms, limited investments in public goods, limited investments on commodities with comparative advantage, incomplete implementation of the Strategic Agriculture and Fishery Development Zones and preparation of Integrated Development Plans and delay in the implementation of rationalization plans.

The Cabinet would meet in January next year to evaluate whether these challenges were overcome for the past six years.

The report will form part of the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022. (PNA)

was located in the upland village of Indahag, an outskirt village in Cagayan De Oro City.

Buenaflor Patriana, village chief of Indahag, said that the evacuation center, located abutting the village plaza and near the village public school, was intended for about 500 people.

Patriana said that the center is a two-level building with about nine big rooms,

seven rest rooms, equipped with water and light facilities.

“The evacuation center looks like a big gymnasium, where a basketball and tennis court could be installed on the ground floor as recreational facilities,” she said.

Patriana said that the evacuation center could also serve as a multi-purpose building where seminars, meetings, and other gatherings could be held.

Agabe said that the DILG has constructed the evacuation center in preparation in time of emergency where a number of people would be relocated.

He said that the Indahag evacuation center was the second evacuation center to be constructed in the city.

The first evacuation shelter was built in Pagatpat, a remote village in the city’s west district. (PNA)

interest rate computed in advance. It is covered by a loan redemption insurance, which deems the loan fully paid in case of demise of the borrower, provided that loan repayment is up to date.

Active members working or residing in the area are qualified to apply for the loan if they are not on leave of absence without pay, have no arrears in paying premium contributions, and have no unpaid loans for more than

six months.

They may apply for a Php20,000 loan. If with existing emergency loan, they may avail of up to Php40,000, from which their outstanding balance will be deducted.

Active members may apply through the GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System (GWAPS) kiosks located in all GSIS branch and extension offices; provincial capitols; city halls; selected municipal offices; large government agencies

such as the Department of Education; Robinsons Malls; and selected SM City branches in North EDSA, Manila, Pampanga, Cebu, and SM Aura in Taguig.

Old-age pensioners in the area must apply in person to avail of the Php20,000 emergency loan.

Pensioners who are also active members (after having reentered government service) may apply for the loan only once. (PNA)

CDO City acquires new P7-M evacuation center

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NEW evacuation center worth P 7.2-million that would also serve as a multi-purpose building was turned over to the city government here Tuesday.

Allan Agabe, the regional director of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), said that the evacuation center was a DILG project in coordination with the local government unit.

The evacuation center

GSIS offers emergency loan to members in Maguindanao

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HE Government Service Insurance System has earmarked P14 million in emergency loan for some 300 active members and oldage pensioners in Datu Piang, Maguindanao who were affected by flash floods that hit the municipality in November.

The deadline for loan application has been fixed on Dec. 27, 2016.

Emergency loan is payable in 36 equal monthly installments at 6 percent yearly

HE planned 35-kilometer coastal road here, which will cost P34 billion to complete with a reclamation component, has been allocated an initial P1.98 billion in the 2017 budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways.

DPWH spokesperson Dean I. Ortiz, said initial work on the infrastructure will be undertaken while the government carries out discussion with Mega Harbour Port and Development, Inc. on how the road and its succeeding costs can be integrated into the company’s proposed 200-hectare reclamation project.

Former mayor and now President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed a joint venture agreement with Mega Harbour earlier this year for the P39-billion reclamation project, which will have an international port and four islands with residential, commercial and tourism areas. The project is still subject to the approval of the National Economic and Development Board and the Philippine Reclamation Authority.

Mr. Ortiz said the depart-

ment wants to ensure that the coastal road “will become a tourist attraction” with parks and esplanades on the side.

Based on the design, it will also have three roundabouts, which will become parks for joggers, he added.

Meanwhile, he said the national government is also planning to set up 10 bypass roads in the city, with a total budget of P7.6 billion, to decongest the main roads.

Mr. Ortiz noted the worsening road congestion in the city, including the main highways in the northern and southern sides of the city.

“At present, most main roads leading to the city center are really congested,” he said, referring in particular to the portions of Ulas in the south and Tibungco in the north.

The planned bypass roads, which will have a combined length of about 108 kilometers, will serve as alternative routes.

Mr. Ortiz said the allocation is part of the DPWH 2017 budget, which has yet to get Congressional approval. – (Businessworld)

Rody assures investors of government support

P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has assured businessmen on Monday that his administration will honor contractual obligations, fight corruption and red tape, and allow businesses to flourish under a free market environment.

During the Wallace Business Forum Dinner in Malacanan, President Duterte addressed various concerns of investors in the country particularly on his economic policies and agenda.

A representative from the business process outsourcing industry expressed concern about the stability of BPOs amid changes in policies of the current administration.

“Forget your fears. This is a democracy. We follow the free enterprise. There would be changes, there would be changes for the better, not to kill businesses,” President Duterte said as a response.

“You can stop worrying, it’s actually a product of the other side. They would like to create an economic situation whereby there would be a tilt of balance there somewhere and destroy the economy and blame it on me,” he added.

The President said he believes in free enterprise and businessmen could come in and invest, and should not worry about contracts as long as they pay the right taxes.

“I am a lawyer and I believe in free enterprise, I believe in democracy that’s why I ran for President. I’m duty-bound by the Constitution. And about the outsourcing there, I would even guarantee to you that the Philippines would honor its contractual obligations,” he further said.

He then encouraged businessmen to put more money in the Philippines. The President likewise assured investors that there will be no graft and corruption in his government.

He vowed to fight red tape in the bureaucracy and told investors to approach members of his Cabinet should they encounter problems.

Also discussed during the forum were moves to amend the present Constitution, with the President saying he is ready to reverse the 60-40 foreign ownership as long as Congress is ready.

“I will go along with it,” he said, stressing however that he would not allow selling of lands to foreigners.

With regard to the Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN Summit next year, the President said he will particularly focus on spurring economic activity in Mindanao.

“Well, one thing is that we lack the connectivity. We have to have our own BIMP-EAGA (Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area). We have to create an economy over there,” he said, adding the reason why the Abu Sayyaf prospered was because of lack of economic activity when the barter trade in the southern region was shut down.

He said the barter trade was good and it provided livelihood to many people, especially the Muslims.

The country’s terrible traffic congestion problem was also discussed and the President expressed his frustrations over the moves of Congress for not acting fast enough to give him special power to tackle the traffic situation.

EDGEDAVAO

7 SUBURBIA

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

Child labor free villages in R-12 named T

HE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Region 12 has declared or certified eight more barangays in the region as child labor-free.

Albert Gutib, DOLE Region 12 acting regional director, said Monday they issued the declaration following a series of interventions implemented by the agency in coordination with concerned government agencies and local stakeholders.

He said it was also based on the results of the agency’s continuing assessment on

the prevailing child labor situation in various barangays in the region.

Declared as child labor-free barangays are Maibo in Tantangan town in South Cotabato; Tuyan and Lun Padidu in Malapatan, Sarangani; Upper Baguer in Pigcawayan, North Cotabato; Salaman in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat; Kalandagan in Tacurong City; and Rosary Heights-9 and Poblacion 3 in Cotabato City.

The agency documented a total of 239 working children or child laborers in the eight barangays.

Tribute to employees C APITOL workers have spent an evening of fun and entertainment as the Provincial Government staged a special and joyous Christmas get-together at the Provincial Capitol on December 9, 2016.

Set up in a simple evening cocktail party with employees clad in impressive attires, this year’s Christmas Fellowship dubbed as Seal of Good Local Governance: Tribute to Employees was centered on the hard work of the 2,200-strong employees of the Provincial Capitol who are behind the achievements and successes of the province for the past years.

Newly installed Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang, who spent his first Christmas fellowship with the Capitol workers, filled his Christmas message with words ofgratitude to the entire workforce of the Provincial Government along with its partner agencies for their support to his administration and for trying to make sure that the milestones achieved by his predecessor are sustained.

“I really thank everyone especially the Capitol employees for rendering their services and giving their support to me eventhough I have just assumed office,” he said, hoping that their support to his administration get even more stronger in the next years of his term as chief executive of the province.

“I want to steer the province in the right direction andIam counting on your support in the coming years,” he said, calling for unity among all Capitol workers to render competent service for the people of the province as he is determined to provide a strong leadership that is committed to sustain the gains achieved and further boost development.

“I am not going to spoil the trust the people has entrusted

to me. Wherever I am now, I owe it to the people. I will cherish it and will offer my genuine service to them and to God,” he said.

MORE REASONS TO CELEBRATE Friday’s festive celebration got even more ecstatic and elating as the employees get more reasons to celebrate.

Receiving cheers and applause from the crowd of Capitol workers, Governor Dayanghiranghas announced during the celebration the much-anticipated year-end bonus of the employees which was kept under wrap until the Governor’s ‘big reveal’.

Elected officials, Department Heads, Assistant Department Heads, and consultants will receive a bonus of P25,000.

Rank and file, casuals, and coterminous: P20,000. Job orders, who have rendered services above three months as of December 15, will receive P15,000 while those who have rendered services below three months will get P6,000.

Aside from the big bonuses, the night of celebration was made even more merry with the thrilling raffle draw that gave away cash and other grandprizes to lucky winners.

Among the major prizes given away were P20,000 cash, a brand-new Mio motorcycle and a brand new multicab, all of which are tax-free.

While the celebration was filled with loads of fun and excitement, Governor Dayanghirang reminded the Capitol employees to offer the celebration to God who is the reason why the event was organized. Furthermore, he also stressed this celebration as a means to have and fun and be of fellowship with one another as one big Provincial Capitol family. (Karen Lou Deloso – DavOr PIO)

Gutib said barangays with documented child laborers undergo a series of processes and interventions before they are declared as child labor-free.

He said barangay officials and local stakeholders should initially commit to address the problem on child labor in their areas and launch sustainable preventive measures.

A concerned barangay is required to pass a resolution and related measures detailing initiatives for the identified child laborers, he said.

The official said complementary interventions later come in from city, municipal or provincial governments and government agencies, among them the Department of Education, Department of Health, Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

These include the rollout of family welfare programs and provision of livelihood projects to families of documented the child laborers, he said.

“The process involves the

convergence of different government agencies and local stakeholders,” Gutib said.

The DOLE central office had set six indicators for the declaration of a barangay as child labor-free.

The concerned barangay should have no child below 15 years-old who is working, except for those exempted under the provisions of Republic Act 9231 or the Child Labor Law; no child 15-17 years old is engaged in the worst forms of child labor; all children of school-age are attending formal school or

alternative learning sessions; parents have economic activity to support the needs of their children; presence of functional Barangay Council for the Protection of Children; and, implementation of local ordinances or resolutions to address child labor concerns.

DOLE-12 has already certified a total of 35 barangays in the region as child labor-free in the last three years.

At least 12 barangays were initially declared in 2014 and 15 more were added to the list in 2015. (PNA)

HE Local Government Unit (LGU) in Panabo City officially opened its PASKOhan sa Panabo 2016 with a ceremonial lighting of the giant Tree of Hope, or popularly known as IWAG last December 7 at the Parks and Plaza.

Mayor James G. Gamao led the ceremonial lighting of the giant Tree of Hope and PASKOhan Village, ostentatiously decorated with dazzling lights, colorful and vibrant lanterns which have started since 2006.

Mayor Gamao said that the lighting of tree is a symbolic tradition of the LGU that has been a part of the city’s memorable and meaningful way of celebrating the joy and happiness of the season to bring hope and gladness to all Panaboans.

He further said, “This annual ceremony symbolizes the spirit of humility, charity and peace to Panaboans and may constantly remind us that everyone is a precious creation out of His unconditional love.”

Moreover, My Only Radio (MOR) Station DJ “Idol Dagul” hosted the program that added fun to the celebration.

Among the visitors who

graced the program were Vice Governor Allan Dujali, Congressman Anthonio Floirendo, Jr. represented by Renato de Leña, Jr. Department Heads, employees, various sectors, among others.

Prior to the IWAG program, Panaboans and various sectors joined the civic torch parade

from Sto. Niño Parish Ground to Parks and Plaza.

Other activities that await spectators are KANTAYAW (Kanta and Sayaw), a sing and dance competition and HUDYAKAAN Christmas Rock Band competition on December 8 at the ARF Gym; Videoke Challenge from December 7 to 23;

1st Mayor James Gamao Tamiya Big Race at ARF Gym on December 10; Pasko Para sa mga Bata on December 14 at Panabo Gym; Ravevolution Foam and Neon Party at the Baywalk on December 17; and Acoustic Night at the Baywalk, Barangay Cagangohan on December 18.

(Jasmine Paras – PIO Panabo)

E have always shown that we can do things more effectively if we are together. As we embark with a new journey, the ‘MASA MASID’ program, I hope that we show the same unity we’ve

exhibited before. The MASA MASID heavily relies on community involvement to succeed rather rely on a top-down solution.”

This is part of the message of Gov. Jayvee Tyron L. Uy as the Provincial Local Govern-

ment Unit of Compostela Valley in partnership with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) launched the “Mamamayang Ayaw Sa Anomalya, Mamamayang Ayaw sa Ilegal na Droga” or ‘MASA MASID.’ Masa Masid is a community based program for the prevention of corruption, illegal drugs and criminality in Barangays which was launched on December 8, 2016 at the Provincial Capitol Grounds in Cabidianan, Nabunturan, Comval. The program aims to encourage communities to take a proactive stance in the government’s fight against corruption, illegal drugs, and criminality.

Governor Uy added that “MASA MASID will harness the networks within our com-

munities to solve the drug problem- from religious organizations who can conduct spiritual renewal sessions, from former drug users that can share their stories. More importantly, the program highlights the role of the family in the reformation of our drug dependents.”

Other top officials who attended are the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) led by 1001ST Brigade Commander Col. Macairog S. Alberto duly represented by Col. Gilbert Saret and the Philippine National Police (PNP) led by PD PS/SUPT. Armando S. De Leon as well as the other local officials of the province led by Vice-Gov. Manuel Zamora, the municipal mayors led by the League of Municipalities of the

Tree of hope shines in Panabo City T

Comval launches MASA-MASID program “W

F COMVAL, 11

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

EDITORIAL

I

Soaring budget, soaring expectations

T’S relative. The bigger the money, the higher the stakes.

That’s exactly what it means when you set the appropriations high for the city’s budget. You also set the bar of expectations high.

So it all comes down to this. The annual budget of the City Government of Davao for next year could reach over P6.9 billion. That is in line with the increase in the internal revenue allotment (IRA) worth P4.1 billion for 2017.

Davao City will get a 14 percent increase from the previous IRA share of P3.6 billion. The IRA is the local government unit’s share of revenues allotted by the national government through the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

Based on the data by DBM for 2017 IRA allocation showed that Davao Region will gain an IRA of P23.624 billion, which would be shared to the provinces (P5.606-billion), cities (P7.455-billion), municipalities (P6.802 billion) and baran-

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ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

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

gays (P3.760 billion).

With that, this year’s proposed budget approximately P6 million higher than last year’s budget which is P6.3 billion.

The City Council committee assigned for budget preparation is now working on the second reading of the documents prior to its submission to the national government by the end of December.

With that increase in next year’s budget come the soaring expectations of improved government service to help alleviate people’s lives.

Likewise, the increase in IRA share also comes with the equivalent responsibility of the city government to efficiently collect taxes and for taxpayers to pay their taxes promptly and accurately.

Without that synergy, we cannot achieve real change. Simple as that.

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

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

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

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

9

A divine dance

T

HE spinning movements of the whirling dervishes of the Sufi Muslim tradition is said to be a remembrance of God or zikr. Apparently, remembrance of God happens with repetitive, lyrical, and meditative physical movements that enable the dervish to lose oneself and ultimately connect with the divine. The Mevlevi Order of the Whirling Dervishes was founded by 13th century poet and Sufi mystic Mevlana Jalal Al-Din Muhammad Rumi (1207-1273). Lore has it that Rumi passed by a goldsmith’s shop and was overcome by the rhythm of the constantly pounding hammer.

The rhythmic pounding somehow plunged Rumi into an ecstasy that he started spinning and even invited the goldsmith to spin along with him.

This dance, or sema, was the inspiration of Rumi and has become an iconic practice of Tukish history and culture.

The sema is meant to connect the person to the infinite. The resulting ecstasy is achieved when the semazen

T

VANTAGE POINTS

or dancer falls into a state of meditative consciousness because of the rhythmical movements that suspend thought and will.

The ritual of the whirling dervishes integrates poetry, music and dancing as these are believed to be tools in one’s spiritual goal to find union with God inasmuch as they provide an emotional link to the divine. Before the semazen or whirling dervish is fit to perform the ceremony he must have first undergone one thousand and one days of reclusive training, aptly termed 1001 days of penitence. The regimen for whirling mainly consists of two toes enclosing a nail between them and turning around this pivot.

Whirling as this religious practice is grounded on the scientific reality that everything in nature revolves- from the sub-atomic particles that compose matter up to the planets and heavenly bodies in the cosmos. The human person lives through and by these revolutions; be these revolutions of particles or revolutions in her life. The life of the human person is essentially cyclical in that she comes from the earth and will eventually return to it.

“For you were made from dust and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19).

Whirling is a recognition and honoring of all these. Furthermore, it is a physical expression of the words from the Quran, “To God belong the East and the West, and wherever you turn is the face of God. He is the All-Embracing, the All-Knowing” (Surah Baqara 2:115).

The semazen, thus, shares and participates in the revolutions of all reality.

He tries to approximate the molecular and the cosmic in the hope that a larger transcendent reality will eventually

be revealed.

Even if the turning is a dance of yielding to the divine, it is executed with a strong centered discipline borne of rigorous training and otherworldly sensitivity. When the semazen spins, his right arm is extended upwards with the palm facing the heavens while his left arm is downwards with the palm facing the earth.

It is believed that the dervish receives blessings from heaven through his upturned hand and sends these to earth with the other downward facing hand.

This dance is a prayer that serves as a link between the transcendent and the earthly. Rumi expresses, “There are many roads which lead to God. I have chosen the one of dance and music.”

Dance, when you’re broken open.

Dance, if you’ve torn the bandage off.

Dance in the middle of the fighting.

Dance in your blood.

Dance, when you’re perfectly free.

-Rumi

decent SPECKS OF LIFE livelihood in their h o m e land and are boldly taking the bull by its horns, Fred C. Lumba seeking employment abroad to provide the basic necessities their families need.

More than 42% of Filipino families, according to the latest SWS survey done in September this year, rated themselves poor. Of this, 36% were from Metro Manila, 34% in Luzon, 56% in the Visayas and 49% in Mindanao.

Poverty, for your layman’s understanding, is the result of the unfair and inequitable distribution of wealth.

Cooperatives development is the answer to this basic problem.

That is why I am happy to report

that during the Nov. 21 assembly, I witnessed personally the eager readiness of the cooperatives stakeholders to welcome HB 1474.

Led by the CDA chair, Atty. Orlando Ravanera, the attendees voiced their united approval and support of the Plaza bill, an action that elicited a confident smile from Sec. Evasco who sat during the entire four-hour proceedings.

Ravanera publicly admitted that the present setup in the CDA like the lack of logistics and competent personnel prevents the agency from pursuing its objectives as efficiently and as competently as possible.

Three of the five principal co-authors – Rep. Prospero Pichay and partylist congressmen Rico Geron and Sabiano Canama – strongly urged the cooperative sector as well as those in government to extend sincere support to HB 4174.

From way, way back, our bureaucratic government set up has prevent-

ed Filipinos from achieving financial freedom. We need to unshackle ourselves of these chains of bondage.

Look at Israel. It grew progressively because of the creation of the Kibbutz, a cooperative movement that started as a farming community.

Today, these kibbutzims are Israel’s source of revenues that export elegant and high quality finished materials imported by many foreign countries – computer hardware and software, military equipment, aircraft technology, beauty products, organic health products, etc., etc.

Filipinos, by nature, are hardworking and industrious just like the Israelis.

Unfortunately, politics – patronage and negotiable politics – lamost always gets in the way of progress and development.

We have, sadly speaking, too many geniuses in our midst. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.).

God bless the Philippines!

Department of Cooperatives on the roll

HIS is not only a bit of good news amidst the bad conditions the country Is in right now.

It is the biggest news for every Juan, Jose, Pedro and Josefa and Juanita!

HB 1474, sponsored by Agusan Sur 1st Dist. Congw. Maria Valentina Plaza, proposes amending the Cooperatives Development Authority Act and thereby creating the Department of Cooperatives.

On Nov. 21, 2016, just four weeks ago, CabSec Chief Leoncio “Jun” Evasco called for a national consultative meeting at the Palace. Summoned were officers of various cooperative unions and federations nationwide which geographically represented concerned stakeholders.

That poverty is the major culprit in our lives is very obvious.

It is the malicious dragon that needs to be slain.

As you can see, more and more Filipinos cannot find employment and

10 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

Tips to celebrate a low-carbon Christmas C

HRISTMAS is the season of generosity, but it doesn’t mean we should go on endless shopping sprees and host furious binge parties every night!

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) estimates that humanity is currently using the resources of 1.6 planets, meaning many of its resources are no longer naturally replenished. With the global population expected to breach nine billion by 2050, we need to learn to minimize our consumption today!

So this Holiday season, let less be more. Celebrate a green or eco-friendly Christmas by recycling decor, opting for energy-efficient lights and heeding these 10 quick tips to help minimize humanity’s holiday carbon footprint. After all – a fun, simple and meaningful period of reflection is our best gift to the Earth.

Buy local products and support homemade crafts - Flown or shipped in from distant locales, it takes more resources for imported goods to reach our homes and offices. Patronizing local products cuts carbon emissions while boosting the local economy.

Support native handicrafts, particularly if the raw materials are sustainably-sourced, like twigs, leaves and pine cones.

Bring eco-bags when shopping for gifts - An

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SIGNATURE DISPLAY. Davao City homegrown artist Kublai Millan’s sculptural creation called “Ilaw ng Davao” prominently stands at the façade of the Davao City National High School along F. Torres Street.

“Ilaw ng Davao” is a project of Millan’s DCNHS batch 1991 led by its president Ariel Decena as a honoree batch for this year’s alumni homecoming set on December 18. Lean Daval Jr.

homes and offices ranges from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius.

Recycle last year’s wrapping paper for this year’s gifts - Printed paper wrappers comprise one of the largest Christmas wastes. Use last year’s wrappers for this year’s gifts! Old boxes, ribbons and strings can also be repurposed to minimize waste.

Reuse old props for this year’s parties - Bring out old decor and leftover trimmings for this season’s celebrations. In need of refreshing? A little glitter and paint can go a long way. Why not ask your buddies to donate a few things for the party? This allows everybody to participate and spread the Christmas spirit!

Observe proper cleanup after partying - Before staging your next party, ensure there are enough bins and trash bags that are clearly marked with the right labels for proper disposal. Try forming a ‘green team’ and announce to everyone that this is an Earth-friendly Christmas party where their love for the planet will be appreciated.

Remember, everyone has a duty to the environment. These 10 quick tips can lessen your impact on the planet. Get more tips on reducing your carbon footprint here. Don’t forget to join the #WWFChristmasPanda contest here. Have a Merry Green Christmas!

8 9

estimated one trillion plastic bags are used worldwide each year and most end up in landfills. This means over a million plastic bags are used every second – and most are used only once. Please don’t add to the waste by switching to eco-friendly canvas or recycled bags.

Use LED Christmas lights with timers - Energy-efficient LED (light-emitting diode) Christmas lights are up to 90% more efficient than regular tungsten bulbs. They’re far safer and last longer too!

3

Remember to plug them into automated timers to ensure they’ll turn themselves off a little after you go to bed, saving power and ensuring that in terms of your carbon footprint, you won’t be naughty but nice.

Make your own personalized Christmas cards About two billion Christmas cards are wasted every December. Why not craft your own cards from recycled books, magazines or packaging? A little creativity with some crayons, paint brushes or colored pens can ease out your inner

4

artist! It will mean more to your special someone, too!

Use recycled décor - With some tinkering and a touch of creativity, your old jars, gifts and gizmos can be converted into nifty Christmas decorations. This is not just cheaper - you’ll even ensure that each homey gift piece is unique!

Buy only what you’ll use Hosting this year’s Christmas party? Then politely ask your guests to minimize leftovers and get only the food they can consume. Every year, 1.3 billion tonnes of food is

5 6

wasted. Buy just the right amount of sturdy plastic cups and bring out a marker to assign cups. Minimize waste and your waistline this Holiday season!

Set that thermostat a bit higher - Your office doesn’t have to be like the North Pole!

When the party’s getting too cold, you can increase your air conditioner’s thermostat by one degree Celsius. This will leave you feeling comfortable while cutting down the energy bill by as much as 10%. The ideal temperature range for

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10

Batch ’91 to host DCNHS grand reunion on Dec. 18

By ADDIE BORBON

S

EEING your high school friends for the first time in 25 years? The feeling is indescribable! It’s like your 16 all over again!

Last year, my younger sister, Trixie, was witness to our Davao City High School batch 1990’s hosting of the premier public secondary school’s annual homecoming.

This year, on December 18, 2016, it will be her turn. DCHS Batch ’91 has got all their gears ready for their hosting…and guess what? It’s like they are all set and roaring! (Hmmm, better than ours?!

We’ll see. Hehe!)

Part of their activities in renewing old friendships, they have been meeting regularly for coffee and discussing things that they could do to raise funds for their event but most importantly, how they could give back.

So last December 4, 2016, all 21 classmates and batchmates came together to visit Lolos and Lolas of Cu Su Gian Home for the Aged in

Buhangin. I can just imagine how happy they have made them merely by their presence. Terry , one of their batchmates, put on a clown costume and did some magic! Grannies also joined in a singing contest! To put a smile on their faces is just priceless…

Another one of their planned activities happened last December 2. It was a Culture and Arts Forum conducted by the now renowned artist/sculptor, Kublai Millan, who is also a member of the DCHS 1991 hosting batch. Those who took part in this forum where the Visual Arts students of the school itself.

Four more days to go and it’s homecoming once again! For our dear alumni, please text 0922 832 8316 and 0905 444 1108 for your tickets!

Watch out for more announcements from this vigorous batch!

SAVE THE DATE: Dec. 18, 2016, City High new gym, 4:00 pm. THE 2016 CITY HIGH GRAND ALUMNI HOMECOMING. COME HOME!!!

INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

EDGEDAVAO WOMEN

The simplest of accessories can give an outfit a whole new look.

Stay warm by layering light pieces.

Fit and stylish in

COOL DESTINATIONS

TRAVELERS WHO CHASE THE COLD SEASON, fitness enthusiasts who never break their rhythm, for Peabo and Clarice looking good is just one of the effects of regular work out and proper diet, but during globe-trotting season, how do these women manage to stick to their healthy lifestyle?

It’s not a surprise that Peabo Taojo, 27, ended up managing her own gym.

At a young age, she played golf and got serious about fitness after joining the university varsity rowing team. Exercise became an

Smart travelers. Go for cahsmeres & knot tops in neutral colors with no print.

indispensable part of her weekly routine, and fitness goals have evolved massively since then, including teacher’s certificates in yoga and Crossfit.

Clarice Lu, 33 and mother of two, was pas-

sionately dancing in the past and elated that she rekindled her love for it today. Dance, along with a new-found interest— Crossfit, are juggled with family and her two jobs as HR officer in a familyowned school and as managing partner of an active clothing brand.

Twinning in Winter 2016 M&S Collection, get to know how these sisters in fitness travel and stay fit throughout their journeys to their favorite cool places.

What is your regular fitness regimen?

Peabo: Resistance training at the gym three to four times a week and swimming or running for cardio once or twice a week.

Clarice: After a long day, I look forward to working out at CrossFit Cranium with my husband who happens to be my gym/ box buddy.

How often do you travel?

Peabo: I travel monthly out of town monthly for

METROMOM A4

Favorite cool placesTunisia & Loire Valley for Peabo, Hokkaido & Sapporo for Clarice.

EDGEDAVAO

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EVENT

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

When school heads come together

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO “THE BIRTH OF THIS COUNCIL is brought about by our need to collaborate and create an avenue where we can interact easily and regularly, to exchange information and explore solutions to the common problems or situations we are facing while managing our academic programs.”

The statement came from Gypsy Mae B. Casurao while delivering her message to the officers and members of the Council of Deans for Tourism and Hospitality Education – Region XI (CoDTHE-XI).

She believed that the newly-formed organization “will become a great avenue for all of us to enhance our professional

aspects of our personality towards bringing our institution to a higher level of success.”

The CoDTHE was born because of the idea of Bernardo Luis Alejandro, Jr. who urged academic deans and heads of educational institutions offering hospitality and tourism degree programs to organize and form a

council.

To get a share of the pie, you have to be competitive and upgrade the quality of education you are offering to your students, said Alejandro, who is a supervisor from the Commission of Higher Education and the organization’s adviser.

Casurao, who is the dean of College of Hospitality Education of the University of Mindanao, urged the audience “to be an active member of this dynamic community of vibrant and forward thinking deans and heads of tourism and hospitality programs in Region XI.” The launching of the organization was done at

Martha’s Place in Brokenshire College. The officers were also inducted by Alejandro.

Casurao is the president with Raffy P. Yroma (Holy Cross of Davao College) as vice-president for hospitality programs and Norjames S. Goad (Philippine Women’s College) as vice-president for tourism programs.

The rest of the officers: Melwin G. Mende (St. Mary’s College of Tagum, Inc.), secretary; Girly E. Picaza (Philippine College of Technology), assistant secretary; Dec Vincent M. Lafuente (Holy Cross of Sasa), treasurer; Rona Vic O. Gutierrez (Cor Jesus

College), assistant treasurer; Bernadito L. Dacubor (Samson Polytechnic College of Davao), auditor; and John Mart C. Derla (Davao Doctor’s College), public information officer.

The board of directors are composed Rosemarie M. Rasparil (Joji Ilagan College of Business and Tourism), Armando A. Mortejo (Brokenshire College of Davao) and Jason O. Molina (University of Immaculate Conception).

So far, the organization has about 33 members – mostly from Davao City and from the nearby provinces of Davao del Sur and Davao del Norte.

OSAKA TOUR OPERATORS VISIT THE WATERFRONT INSULAR HOTEL DAVAO. Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao hosted an al fresco dinner for a group of 13 tour operators and travelers from Osaka, Japan. The intimate dinner was held at La Parilla and joined by the Department of Tourism Regional Director Robby Alabado, Japanese Consul Tomoko Dodo and Hotel Manager Bryan Yves Lasala. The hotel was their last destination in their 3-day familiarization tour in Davao.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

ENTERTAINMENT

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STEP INTO THE ENCHANTED WORLD OF FAIRY TALES as Toy Kingdom and the world’s leading family entertainment company – The Walt Disney Company – brings the magic of the Beauty and the Beast to SM Lanang Premier in Davao on December 14 and 15, 2016.

Belle of the Disney fairy tale classic will have an exclusive Meet-and-Greet at the Atrium.

Admission is free.

Fans and mallgoers can grab a chance to have their photos taken with the captivating Beauty and the Beast character at the meet-and-greet sessions scheduled at 1:00pm, 2:45pm, 4:30pm, 6:15pm and 8:00pm on Wednesday and Thursday. Slots are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The said activity is one of the Merry Magical Christmas happenings at the metro’s premier shopping and lifestyle destination this holiday season.

Mallgoers can also take Instagram-worthy photos with their families and friends at the city’s tallest indoor holiday tree and the Disney Christmas Village set at the Atrium featuring the lifesize houses of Mickey and Minnie Mouse and Goofy’s Diner.

For premium gift holiday shopping, Disney items are on sale at

the Atrium until January 8.

In 2015, the SM Group has partnered with The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia in bringing well-loved Disney brand of stories closer to Filipinos through mall, retail and amusement opportunities. Envisioned as a venue where Filipinos bond with their families, SM aims to give customers a lifetime of happy memories through such

world-class entertainment offerings from Disney for the kids and the young at heart.

Come and see Disney’s Beauty and the Beast come alive at the Meet and Greet at SM Lanang Premier. For event updates, visit SM Lanang Premier’s official account on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and search for #TKChristmaswithBelle and #DisneyatSMLanang.

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choosing what clothes to pack when traveling to cooler places. I go for cashmere, knit tops, coats, leggings and comfy boots. And hats and scarves, too! It never fails to rev up an outfit.

METROMOM A1

paragliding and scuba diving, and once or twice a year to different continents. I travel mostly with my family because that’s when I get to bond with them without talking about work and enjoy the outdoors at the same time.

Clarice: Traveling is a must for me. It opens doors to new ideas, interests and passion. It’s my reboot button. I used to travel abroad twice or thrice a year, but with the kids now, it’s trimmed down to doing it once a year.

Does it include the gym outfit?

Peabo: For trips in the big cities where I know we would be staying in nice hotels, yes. Not for expeditions or exotic trips, when the experiences are workouts in itself.

Clarice: Yes, it’s a must!

How do you keep fit when on the road? Still manage to hit the hotel gym?

Peabo: When the hotel has a gym, oh yes. I wake up extra earlier than my travel buddies, grab a piece of fruit and do a 20-30 minute resistance workout before having breakfast. When the hotel doesn’t, I do my workouts in the room or in nearby parks.

There are workouts you can do even without any equipment or little space.

Clarice: I don’t usually go to gyms when I go on a trip, however I always make sure that I work out even in my hotel room since most of my exercise requires body weights.

Preferred destinations and for how long?

Peabo: Best ever in my life were Tunisia, Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region in China, the Loire Valley in France. I’m usually gone from five to fifteen days.

Clarice: We loved Sapporo and Hokkaido. We usually allot a week or two to savor the trip.

Why the cooler season?

Peabo & Clarice: Because I never get to experience cool weather in the Philippines!

Travel light? What ends up in the bag?

Peabo: Yes I do. Preferred outfits for traveling are earth or neutralcolored clothes with no print. I get to mix and match them easily and wear them repeatedly and nobody would notice!

Clarice: I try to, but it’s a challenge. You have to be smart in

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

They travel light. Solid colors always work best.

Any dietary restrictions when far from home?

Peabo: My policy to myself is, when traveling for leisure, it’s cheat day everyday! No restrictions. I’m a big foodie and exploring different cuisines is one thing I really look forward

to when traveling. When I get home though, its extra work in the gym and back to my regular low-carb diet.

Clarice: I indulge in food whenever I travel, it’s one thing that excites me. However, I go less on high glycemic carbs.

Your fitness tip when on the road.

Peabo: Push-ups, squats, and hip thrusts. A minute each in the best form possible for 4 to 5 rounds. No equipment and not much time and space required.

Very basic but very effective.

Clarice: Do at least 30 burpees, 50 if you can, daily during your trip. It’s a whole body work out and requires no machine nor place to do it.

And a fitness enthusiast’s one fashion tip when traveling?

Peabo: Go for neutrals and earth colors with little or no print, that way you get to easily mix and match and you’d look great in any context (restaurant, street, castle, ruin, forest, beach, mountain).

Clarice: Always go for comfort over fashion, when you’re comfortable with what you’re wearing your unique personal style comes out which sets you apart from everyone else.

Fashion: Marks & Spencer M&S Collection Winter Collection is available at the M&S stores at Abreeza Mall and SM Lanang Premier Photography: Wizbren Ang Make-up & Styling: Otoy Mercado Location: Seda Abreeza Hotel

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

Rody... FROM 1

He will also meet with Prime Minister Hun Sen to discuss the ways to intensify bilateral cooperation and issues of mutual concerns.

The concerns will include defense, trade and investments, protection of Filipino workers, tourism, security and law enforcement and the war against trade of illegal drugs.

President Duterte added that he will also meet with Singapore President Tony Tan on his state visit to said country.

“Singapore and Philippines are exceptional but there are issues of mutual concerns we can work on especially on growth on areas where both governments need a safe and secure environment for businesses to thrive,” he said.

The President added he will also discuss the increase of levels of two-way trade with Singapore as he will seek to strengthen defense and security cooperation to address traditional and emerging threats that undermine progress.

unified stand of ASEAN member countries in the midst of formation of blocks among world nations – the European Union and the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation – World Trade Organization (APECWTO), are among those mentioned by the President.

“I have no clear idea of where we stand as a group of nations ,” President Duterte stressed.

He also hit the formation of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which the President said will create more disadvantages to countries like the Philippines.

TPP is a trade agreement among twelve nations within the so-called Pacific Rim, including the USA. The agreement was finalized on February 4, 2016 in Auckland, New Zealand.

Based on its concept, TPP is aimed to promote economic growth; support the creation and retention of jobs; enhance innovation, productivity and competitiveness; raise living standards; reduce poverty in the signatories’ countries; and promote transparency, good governance, and enhanced labor and environmental protections.

Aside from the US, other members of TPP include Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Brunei, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, Chile and Peru.

President Obama recently treated TPP as a priority trade deal that need to be ratified but he was criticized by the US opposition stating that the trade agreement will only favour big businesses.

For his part, US President-elect Donald Trump has promised to abandon the TPP as soon as he takes office next year.

President Duterte expressed gratitude to the stand of Trump into the TPP as he sees negative impacts of the agreement into the economy of the Philippines.

“These state visits will reaffirm our relations with out close neighbours in South East Asia and seek to further strengthen our engagements with our brothers in ASEAN,” he said.

He said he will meet with King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia who invited him for the state visit.

The President recognized the long and deep ties between Philippines and Cambodia that served as strong foundations of friendship that must be renewed.

Support to indigents, drug dependents The President also announced he already released around P2 billion to support the medicines of indigent families in the country and the medications of drug dependents.

He said the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) had turned over to him P5 billion funds recently.

“I am appropriating P1 billion through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to provide medicines to Filipinos especially those who are holding now medical prescriptions for the purchase of medicines,” the President said.

He instructed the indigents to proceed to the nearest DSWD office and ask for their medicines.

Support for the medication of drug dependents also got a separate P1 billion funding out of the total funds from PAGCOR, the President added.

He advised drug dependents, especially those who are now undergoing programs under the government to remain in their respective residences and wait for one or two days to process their medical support.

“Just stay in the house and I will order medical workers in the country to go around the areas to look for drug dependents who are undergoing treatments,” President Duterte said. ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

PHP30-million to Aguirre for safekeeping which they claimed was “bribe” money from Sombero in exchange for helping Lam secure license for his gambling operations.

“This is our best evidence against the number 1 illegal online operator who has never been charged during two decades of operations only during the term of President Duterte,” Argosino said.

Aguirre said the DOJ accepted the money for safekeeping and “without prejudice to the

ongoing investigation that is being currently made by the NBI and the BI.” Both Argosino and Robles are now the subject of investigation by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and BI following an accusation from small town lottery expert Wally Sombero that they extorted PHP50 million from Lam last November 27.

The deputy commissioners said of the PHP50-million, Sombero took PHP2 million as his commission. (PNA)

DOJ... FROM 4

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 11

SKIRTING THE ISSUE. Elementary students navigate through huge culverts and heavy equipment as the drainage system in front of their school is being rehabilitated yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Tagum... FROM 1 President of MARBAI, they were forced to enter a Banana Sales and Marketing Agreement with the LFC who buys their products for export.

They were tricked into selling high-grade bananas which were poorly classified for a lower price, thus, resulting to a measly Php 2,000.00 monthly income, she added. Because of the agreement, the farmer beneficiaries became indebted to LFC for more or less a billion pesos (P1,000,000,000.00).”

The DAR has been meeting with the farmers for their installation to the 145 hectares as ordered by Provincial

Agrarian Reform Adjudicator (PARAD) Jose Nilo Tillano in his December 15, 2015 decision, which has long been final and executory.

DAR also pointed out that in October of this year, when the farmer-beneficiaries were already in a camp-out in front of the gate of LFC, Secretary Mariano himself visited the farmers and had a dialogue with them assuring them that the agency is studying the matter carefully and wanted to install them peacefully into their landholding without compromising their safety and security.

Senator Leila de Lima on her part slammed the move of House leaders to file an ethics complaint against her noting that it was an effort to save face.

“The House leaders’ move to file complaints against me at the Senate Ethics Committee and at the Department of Justice is nothing but an attempt to save face after the House inquiry on the Bilibid drug trade was exposed to be all of a farce,” De Lima said in a statement sent to media.

De Lima, former Justice Secretary and Commission on Human Rights Chair, stood by her advice to former security aide and alleged drug money bagman Ronnie Dayan to avoid attending the congressional probe into the proliferation of the illegal drug trade in the New Bilibid Prison maintaining her innocence.

She also said that her honor as a public official remained intact despite efforts to attack her.

Joining Alvarez and Umali as complainant is House Majority Floor Leader Rodolfo Farinas. ”Correct the impression that were not ganging up on Leila, who used to be my “kumare” and sis (fraternity) but there was nothing I could do but she’s then one who courted these actions. The feeling of Speaker Alvarez that there

was disrespect on the House as an Institution, for Congressman Farinas there was disrespect and disregard of the rules of Congress,” Umali explained.

In their complaint, De Lima was invited to attend the Congressional inquiry on the proliferation of illegal drugs inside the NBP on Sept. 20 and 21 and Oct. 5 and 6.

“Respondent opted to ignore all invitations and failed to attend any of the hearings conducted by the Committee.

Worse, respondent even insulted the House of Representative by calling its Committee a kangaroo court/committee and its proceedings a sham,” the complaint stated.

Also in the complaint, a subpoena was also issued to Dayan but it was also ignored.

Then, on Oct. 6, after failing to attend the hearing, a show cause order was issued ordering him to explain why he should not be cited for contempt.

Then, on Oct. 10, for issuing the order, he was ordered arrested by Congress.

After Dayan’s arrest, the Congressional inquiry was reopened last month. During the hearing, it was revealed that De Lima instructed Dayan not to appear in Congress. The Senator gave the instruction through a text message to Dayan’s daughter. (PNA)

Solons... FROM 4

Basilan... FROM 2 for international humanitarian law, the ICRC continues to remind all parties to the conflict about the need to protect civilians and those who are not or no longer participating in the hostilities.

The ICRC is a neutral, impartial, and independent hu-

manitarian organization whose mandate is to protect and assist people affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. It has had an established presence in the Philippines for more than 70 years and a permanent presence in Mindanao since 1982.

area at the northern part of the city and in Catalunan Pequeño in the Southern part of the city,” Baluran said.

Through this, the city council is expecting to lessen the traffic woes in the metropolis.

A multi billion coastal road is also part of the project of the city and the Department

of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to open new roads in the city.

The said project will cost around P34 billion that will cover the northern part of the city to southernmost area.

The said project is under the P41 billion worth of road construction allocated by the DPWH.

Philippines (LMP) President Comval chapter Hon. Roberto M. Yugo and barangay officials were also present during the celebration.

According to DILG Provincial Director Noel Duarte, “We are complaining that there are many anomalies in the government, corruption, criminality and addiction, but this time-- all of that, we can all help through the MASA MASID program.”

“Ang pag sumpo sa anomalya, kriminalidad, kurapsyon ug druga dili lang taga gobyerno ang mohimo niana, but with this new program ang private sector specially sa Barangay level, NGOs and Civil Society organizations will help cooperate, or katabang sa taga gobyerno para masumpo kining tanan kay gusto man kaha ta ug pagbabago,” Duarte added.

MASA MASID is envisioned to unite different organizations in creating safer and drug-free communities in the country. Which brought together with the barangay officials and religious groups for programs on good governance and community development, MASA MASID stresses the importance of multi-sectoral linkages in communities in

combatting the spread of illegal drugs, as well as corruption andcriminality.

Prov. Dir. De Leon also gives update on Oplan Double Barrel Alpha saying that they are tasked to accomplish or make account the remaining 5,500 supposed drugs users, pushers or dependents of the province.

De Leon added that “we have until December 31 to complete the accounting or to make them surrender. We already knocked on more than 3,000 houses and have 1,300 individuals surrender as of December 8, 2016. As regards to the pushers, we have arrested a total of 22, I hope that with the launching of MASA MASID, we can do that,” said De Leon.

Meanwhile, Gov. Uy also emphasized that “the core of MASA MASID is the story of ComVal. No one can say ‘I built this province’, or ‘I made this province become progressive.’ We built this together, we make things happen together.

Let us show this spirit in the upcoming fight against illegal drugs.”

“We will reform our drug dependents together, we will not leave them, and we will work hard together,” he ended.

(Rey M. Antibo, IDS Comval)

New... FROM 4

Comval... FROM 7

12 COMMUNITY SENSE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

ARMM celebrates Universal Children’s Day

By BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO

T

HE Regional Human Rights Commission of ARMM led the worldwide celebration of the Universal Children’s Day at the historic Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex at the ORC Compound in Cotabato City last November 20, 2016.

Established in 1954, the Universal Children’s Day is celebrated (yearly on the 20th of November) to promote awareness, unity and improvement of children’s welfare worldwide.*November 20 was when the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child.

Quality Education to Stop Violence Against Children was this year’s theme.

A first for ARMM, the worldwide celebration was participated in by government employees, teachers, doctors, media friends and of course, students from the 5 provinces of ARMM. Marilou del Rosario, Grade 1 teacher from Broce Central School, excitedly shared, “This is also a first

for our school. With us today are 100 kids from Grade 2 to Grade 6 and 10 teachers. We are happy to be invited and participate”.

Outside the complex, a number of booths were set-up. Participants included Plan International, Save the children, ACF, Moropreneur, Int’l Visual Artists, CFSI and International award-winning Islamic art and calligraphy artist, Zohayma Montaner, Al-Haj. Regional Human Rights Commission Chairperson Atty. Abdulnasser Badrudin said, “Today we celebrate as we reaffirm our duty and moral and legal obligation to protect and fulfil our children’s rights”. More so he added, “Quality education fulfils human rights”.

Providing an informative overview of the event, Atty. Mojahid Salic Guro, Chairperson of the Child Protection Committee of DepEd-ARMM emphasized that, “Common settings (of where violence normally takes place) includes home, school, community

and online”. According to Atty. Guro, violence can be stopped through the promotion of quality education, awareness and conscious prevention.

DepEd ARMM Assistant Secretary for Special Projects Alfhadar Pajiji provided relief as he gamely exchanged jokes with the audience and re-informed everyone of DepEd’s Hotline Number that caters to complaints.

In lieu of Governor Mujiv Hataman’s absence, Regional Human Rights Commission Executive Director designate Jehan Yap Mitmug read his State of the Children Address. “Today is also historic as this is the first in the history of ARMM that we are celebrating the Universal Children’s Day”, Mitmug said.

Gov Hataman through Mitmug, asserts on the concern to continually respond to the needs of the children. That working for a better future entails taking care of our children and fulfilling their rights.

The same has been part and parcel of the mandate of the government of ARMM. It was added that, “Through poverty alleviation programs, we are able to better the quality of lives (of families)”.

During the event, children from the different provinces of ARMM delivered some heartfelt messages that focused on their dreams, ideals and hope for a better future.

Christopher Everingham, National Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Philippine Volcanoes,

led an exciting balancing mind and body exercise for the children. Everyone inside the complex happily joined in the fun.

Dr. Sherjan P. Kalim, MD, DPSP, Cotabato Regional & Medical Center Blood Bank Head, acted as everyone’s Big Brother with a story-

telling session about the “Story of One Blood” and introduced the character “Duglit” to the children.

The big reveal came with a big version of Human Rights’ Colouring Book titled Kulay at Karapatan. Of which, everyone received a copy.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

Teaching teachers

NEWS 13

US grants alumni hold training for IP teachers I

RISH Mae G. Fernandez, a teacher of University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) in Bo. Obrero, Davao City, who was a Fulbright foreign language teaching assistant (FLTA) at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor in 2014, proposed for an extension project under the U.S. Exchange Alumni Philippines

(Small Grants), a proposal-based competition which the U.S. Embassy Manila provides for US government scholarships alumni each year.

The proposal dubbed as TEACHING TEACHERS: Empowering Teachers in Indigenous Communities was among the approved projects in the country for the year

2016.

The projects has two legs. The first one took place on November 25-26 at the American Corner of Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU). The invited speakers were Prof.

Rioliza Molina (USG alumna and an English professor from USeP Davao), Alvert Dalona (Philosophy Prof from Min-

danao State University Iligan Institute of Technology (MSUIIT), Keith Bacalso (teacher from Maa elementary school in Davao City ), and Ivan Metternich Augustus Lampayasen (from Sutherland), who tackled the topics on preparing for teaching, and challenges and opportunities for Indigenous Peoples (IP) teachers.

The last leg, which focused on Retooling Pedagogical Practices, happened on December 2-3 at the same venue. Joining Ms Fernandez were Geoffrey Marfa (Program Chair, UM PeĂąaplata); Prof. Rioliza Molina (Prof of USeP-Obrero); Ms. Aivie Marie Dacay (English Prof from DMMA); and Prof.

March de Ramos (USG alumna and a professor from ADDU).

The session on December 3 (Saturday) was simultaneous with other youth-led activities of YSEALI members all

over Southeast Asia dubbed as YSEALI YOUnified.

This project generally aims to assess English language teaching readiness, current pedagogical strategies, and reinvent their approaches in the classroom in order to improve the delivery of instruction in IP schools.

A total of 80 teachers from seven indigenous school-communities had been the beneficiaries of the free trainings under the project Teaching Teachers.

14

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016

BITTER LOSS

CONTROVERSIAL LOSS. Engelbert Moralde (left) stalks Japan-based Mexican Kenbun Torres.

Davao boy Moralde loses in Japan

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

J

AMA eyes Jeron for D League

A

MA coach Mark Herrera expressed his intent on choosing 6-foot-2 wingman Jeron Teng as the first overall pick of the PBA D-League Draft on Dec. 20 at the PBA Cafe in Pasig.

“We’re sure that Jeron Teng will be our first pick,” he said.

The recently-crowned UAAP Finals MVP, once formalized, will join a Titans crew led

by Jay-R Taganas and the key players from their NAASCU campaign this past season.

Tanduay, on the other hand, will pick second and, despite the likely unavailability of Teng, will still have a lot of good players to choose from as San Beda’s Davon Potts and Robert Bolick, FEU’s Monbert Arong, Letran’s Jom Sollano, and SWU’s Mac-Mac Tallo are also among the big names in this year’s draft applicants.

One hundred twenty-eight players declared for the D-League Draft, 113 of which are locals with the other 15 being Fil-foreign ballers.

Racal will choose third, while Cafe France, once again primarily bannered by newly-crowned UCBL champ CEU, owns the fourth pick. Wangs, which returns after missing the Foundation Cup, has the fifth pick.

Meanwhile, two college teams, NCAA’s JRU and NAASCU’s MLQU, will join next year’s Aspirants Cup starting on Jan. 19 along with fellow newcomers Cignal and Batangas. Their draft order will be determined through a lottery before the draft proper on Draft Day itself.

The Malaysia Dragons will once again join next year’s D-League season under the Blu brand but will not join the draft. (PNA)

NEXT D LEAGUE STAR. Jeron Teng, who played early this year for The Royal Mandaya Hotel-CMO, is being eyed by D League team AMA College. In this file photo, Teng receives a ball from President Rodrigo Duterte and the late SBP regional director Boy Cua. Lean Daval Jr.

njb@edgedavao.net

APAN’S history of hometown decisions has claimed another victim.

Davao’s Engelbert “Aguila” Moralde lost by unanimous decision to Mexican ‘homeboy’ Kenbun Torres in a non-title bout held in Japan held on Saturday.

Whoever said fighting in Japan is easy does not know his boxing.

The 24-year old Dabawenyo boxer (9W-3L,6KO’s) got up to that rude awakening ater he failed to knock his foe down despite winning in the exchanges.

Philboxing reported that the official result was relayed by Sanman Pro-

BEST OF 2016

motions CEO Jim Claude Manangquil.

In an e-mail statement, Moralde said, “I thought I did enough to win the fight. But I understand in this sport enough is not enough to get the decision if you are not the hometown fighter.”

Moralde dropped to his fourth loss at 9-4,6KO’s while the Japan-based Torres improved to 122,9KO’s.

Moralde, a former amateur standout, was coming off a big win after from his split decision loss to Joyjoy Formentera last year. He scored a unanimous decision victory against Jun Eraham in Tupi, South Cotabato last

Cristiano Ronaldo wins fourth Ballon d’Or

C

RISTIANO Ronaldo won his fourth Ballon d’Or this morning to get one over his nemesis Lionel Messi in their long-running duel for the title of best footballer on the planet.

It was the perfect ending to another fantastic year for the Real Madrid star, who won the Champions League for the second time in three seasons and then led Portugal to their first major title at Euro 2016 — albeit he went off early injured and in tears in the surprise win over France.

As has been the case for almost a decade now, the 31-year-old’s main rival was Messi — but the Barcelona and Argentine maestro had to relinquish the crown after a less-than-stellar year for club and country by his lofty standards.

Never one to play down his achievements, Ronaldo was spotted midweek in training having dyed his

S

hair gold in anticipation and several media outlets published a photo earlier on Monday appearing to confirm he was the winner, before France Football made the official announcement.

Ro n a l do is now o n e Ballon d ’ O r behind last year’s winner Messi. “For me there is no debate. The Ballon will be for him,” Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said after his talisman’s hat-trick saw off Atletico Madrid last month to underpin Real’s domination in La Liga.

September.

He was hoping to set a wining trail again but could not hold off the 29 year old Torres (11W-2L,9KO’s) who was born in Celaya, Mexico but his last 12 fights were held in Japan after losing in his pro debut in Mexico in 2003.

His Boxrec record shows no activity from 2008 to 2015 but last April, he beat Thai Kaosaen Kaolanlekgym by first round TKO. Engelbert is the brother of John Vincent “Mulawin” Moralde who rose to prominence after defeating an Aussie foe who later collapsed and died in the hospital.

FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR. Cristiano Ronaldo edged out Leo Messi in this year’s voting.

Stakeholders laud Tagum PIS seminar

TAKEHOLDERS lauded the recently-concluded Philippine Institute of Sports seminar that drew a total of 551 participants at the Department of Education Building, Provincial Capitol compound in Tagum City.

The four-day seminar, conducted November 28 to December 1, tackled sports medicine by Doctor Victor Felix Gaddi, training a young athlete by Rene John Futalan, The Phases of Talent Search: A Sports Development Program

by Josephine Joy Reyes, sports nutrition by Karen Leslie Pineda and sports psychology by Karen Katrina Trinidad, a doctor of psychology.

Department of Education Davao del Norte superintendent Josephine Fadul, after receiving a token and certificate of appreciation from PIS national training director Marc

Velasco after the last day of the seminar, said she’s honored that Deped Davao del Norte hosted the PIS event.

“The seminar has been an eye-opener for all of us. I, myself, learned so much. We hope that this will not be the last time that the PIS will give a seminar like this here so more coaches and trainers can also learn what had been taught,” Fadul said.

Velasco, for his part, assured that more seminars like the one held at the sidelines of the Batang Pinoy 2016 National Championships will also be conducted not just in Davao Region but in other areas of the country as well.

He added that the PIS welcomes requests for holding seminars for free as long as organizers will just provide a venue for them.

“Our team of experts is

open to hold seminars upon request,” he said.

Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) senior development officer Rose Lanticse, meanwhile, said in the vernacular: “I really appreciate the seminar, particularly the topics on talent identification and sports psychology. It helps us identify the type of players suited for the sport.”

She also said it has been a heart-breaker for sports officials and coaches like them when they train players who are not really fit for rugby.

“Now that we know what to look into a potential athlete, we can recommend him or her to other sports if he or she is not suited for rugby. This way we can also help other sports identify their talents,” Lantice added.

She also said that it’s a welcome development that

the PIS and Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) are helping stakeholders like Deped, national sports associations (NSAs) and local government units (LGUs) on how to identify talent and who whould train them.

Lanticse also said that the seminar aided them to level up their coaching skills.

Participants who joined came from Tacloban City, Tayabas, Lucena, Makati City, Pangasinan, San Pedro, Davao del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Bohol, General Santos City, Zamboanga City, Siquijor, Bulacan, Sarangani, Camarines Sur, Surigao, Naga, Malaybalay, Koronadal City, Aklan, Quezon City, Calamba, Bislig, Dagupan, Olongapo City, Cotabato City, Tagum City, Mati City, Carmen, Digos City, Bantukan, Iligan City, Valencia City, Taguig City and Santa Rosa. PIS PR

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 211 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016