Edge Davao 9 Issue 221

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

UNRATTLED. A rider with passengers in tow maneuvers his motorcycle against the strong current of a river in Paquibato District, Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

SICK REBELS TO BE FREED

Bello gives assurance in visit to NPA stronghold

G

OVERNMENT chief peace negotiator Silvestre Bello assured rebel leaders that some of the sickly and elderly political detainees would be released sooner than expected.

“It is just a matter of time.

The president will keep his word,” Bello said.

Bello made a historic first by visiting one of the village strongholds of the rebel New People’s Army in Paquibato District, Davao City on Monday to attend a peace forum which also coincided with the 48th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines .

Speaking before 8,000 rebel sympathizers and supporters, Bello shared the same

optimism with CPP founding chair Jose Maria Sison who, in a video message, said the prospect of achieving peace under the Duterte government is brighter than any point in the rebel’s almost five decades of armed rebellion.

The head of the GRP peace panel was accompanied by his undersecretary Joel Maglungsod and Interior and Local Government Secretary Mike Sueno.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier announced he would order the release of elderly and sick detained rebels in time for Christmas for humanitarian reasons.

Presidential Adviser for Peace Process Jesus Dureza

also confirmed that a directive has already been issued for the release of some 17 or 20 detained rebels.

“Let us just wait for the formal announcement of the president,” Dureza earlier said.

Bello also explained that the next release of rebels for humanitarian reasons is not tied to the bilateral ceasefire agreement that the government is seeking to forge with the rebels.

The National Democratic Front, the political umbrella of the CPP and the NPA, has demanded the release of 434 detained rebel leaders and members as compliance to the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect of Human Rights and

International Law (CARHRIL), which the two peace panels signed during the Ramos administration.

Bello however asked for a little more patience.

“There are some legal process that we have to comply before they can be released,” he explained.

He said he will be meeting with the president on December 29 and will again bring up the matter.

Meanwhile, Bello, who is also labor secretary, agreed with Sison that a final peace deal will have to be signed very soon so that “this can be implemented under the Duterte administration.”

F SICK, 11

The Royal Mandaya Hotel; set on a balanced system

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

W

HAT does it take to become a partner for change?

The Royal Mandaya Hotel is one of the premiere hotels in Davao City which offers a wide array of ser-

vices and amenities. For this year, the establishment has played a vital part in the success of Philippine president, Rodrigo Duterte who used its facilities as his political head-

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EDGEDAVAO Sports

FIGHTER OF THE YEAR P15

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

RUDY AS SANTA. President Rodrigo Duterte spends part of his Christmas Day visiting the victims of Midsayap explosion at Anecito T. Pesante Sr. Memorial Hospital in North Cotabato. KIWI BULACLAC/ Presidential Photo

11.57% pass PNP Digos market fire blamed entrance exams A

TOTAL of 2,946 or 11.57% out of the 25,462 examinees passed the Philippine National Police Entrance Exam conducted by the National Police Commission on October 16, 2016 in designated schools in Metro Manila and other testing centers nationwide.

NAPOLCOM Vice-Chairman and Executive Officer Atty. Rogelio T. Casurao announced Tuesday as the Commission released the partial

list of successful examinees in the PNP Entrance and Promotional Examinations [Police Officer (PO) and Senior Police Officer (SPO) categories only].

Vice-Chairman Casurao added that out of the 6,567 who took the PO Exam, 1,220 (18.58%) passed while 1,267 (17.25%) out of the 7,345 examinees hurdled the SPO Exam. The results of the Police Inspector and Police Superintendent exam categories shall

F 11.57%, 11

on faulty electrical wiring

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

A

N open flame and faulty electrical wiring triggered the late Christmas Eve fire at the Digos Public Market, a Bureau of Fire Protection official said.

According to BFP Digos City Fire Marshal Senior Inspector Karl Badilles, they are still gathering more information to determine other causes of fire in the market.

It can be recalled that a

Zamboanga Sur placed on‘triple red alert’status Typhoon update:

P

OLICE and military forces in Zamboanga del Sur have been placed on “triple red alert” to be able to swiftly respond to atrocities from lawless and terrorist groups, officials disclosed.

Senior Supt. Sofronio Ecaldre, provincial police director, on Tuesday disclosed they raised the alert status based on the recommendation of the National Security Council following intelligence report of possible attacks and bombings by terrorist groups.

On Christmas eve, 16 people, including a policeman, were injured in a grenade explosion in front of a Catholic church while churchgoers were receiving holy communion in Midsayap, North Cotabato.

However, authorities

said the grenade, which was lobbed towards a police car, was the handiwork of a drug syndicate affected by the anti-drug campaign in North Cotabato.

Ecaldre said it was agreed during the Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting that police and soldiers’ visibility will be increase in public places like public markets, plazas, bus terminals, malls, and churches especially on New Year’s eve.

He said the city and municipal police stations would take charge of security in their respective areas while the Provincial Public Safety Company, together with the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion, are designated to conduct mobile checkpoints along the national highways. (PNA)

blaze started in the older section of the Digos Public Market at around 8 in the evening last December 24.

The fire was already under control at around 10 in the evening and one was injured in the fire that caused an estimated P25 million in damage.

“The fire spread quickly to neighboring stall areas resulting to razed booths as most of the structures in the affected

area were made of light materials,” Badilles said.

Meanwhile, BFP reminded the public to make sure that the electric wirings in their homes and business establishments are of high quality and do not cause electric short circuit.

“Avoid tampering, flying electric connections, and all electrically sourced appliances or any electric repairs must be

properly installed by competent licensed electricians to prevent fire,” Badilles pointed out, stressing that everyone must not use lights and wirings that are not safe.

He also reminded everyone to never leave candles and cooking food unattended and avoid the use of external heating equipment inside homes and establishments to prevent open flame to cause fire.

The state weather bureau, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said ‘Nina’ is expected to exit from the country today, Wednesday.

As of Tuesday noon, the typhoon was traversing the West Philippine Sea with maximum sustained winds of up to 120 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 150 kph, heading west at 17 kph.

The NDRRMC said the number of families directly

affected by Nina increased to 25,959 or 11,634 persons as of 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday in 384 barangays in the regions of CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, V and VIII. A total of 87,059 families or 429,485 persons were pre-emptively evacuated in the same regions, the NDRRMC added.

Decrease in the number of stranded passengers and cargoes in 20 ports in the affected areas decreased from Monday’s count.

The NDRRMC reported that only 192 passengers, 10 rolling cargoes and 4 vessels remain stranded in 20 ports in areas hit by typhoon Nina.

A total of 337 flights were also cancelled as of Tuesday morning – of which, 272 were domestic flights while 65 were international flights.

The NDRRMC also reported that 13 road sections and three bridges in regions II, MIMAROPA, V and VII were still not passable last Tuesday due

Affected families increase as“Nina” continues to pummel Luzon, Visayas

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

T

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported of the increased number of affected families, mostly in Luzon as as typhoon Nina continued to wreck havoc in said areas on Tuesday, December 27.

As of 4:00 a.m. on Tuesday, the eye of Nina was spotted 360 kilometer west of Iba, Zambalez with a maximum sustained winds of up to 120 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 150 kph.

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 3

Davao to open new roads by 2017

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

D

ABAWENYOS may expect several new road constructions and the opening of several alternate routes on 2017 as a remedy to the traffic woes experienced in the city.

Councilor Conrado Baluran, chair of Committee on Energy and Transportation, told Edge Davao that discussions regarding the plan were already done between the city officials and Land Transportation and Regulatory Board Chairperson Martin Delgra.

“Around two to three alternate routes would be launched early 2017,” Baluran said, revealing that one of the

new routes would help decongest the traffic volume at Matina Crossing.

Baluran explained that they need to change the route in that area because of the volume of vehicles passing through it.

Another alternate route that will be soon opened in Ulas and Catalunan Pequeño is expected to divert vehicles from passing the Matina intersection.

“The development of an efficient transport system is one of the ten priorities of the administration of Mayor Inday Sara Duterte,” Baluran said.

The Department of Public Works and Highways is also intending to open new roads as it pursues a multi-billion coastal road and bypass road in the city.

In a separate interview with DPWH - Davao Public Affairs and Information Officer Dean Ortiz, the government has initially allocated P1.98 billion in 2017 for the coastal road project to decongest the highways and thoroughfares in the city.

“The 35-kilometer road project will stretch in Bago Aplaya to Sta. Ana wharf and will have rotunda in Matina

PEAKER Pantaleon Alvarez today called for an investigation into the alleged plot hatched by former US Ambassador Philip Goldberg to undermine President Rodrigo Duterte to eventually oust him from power.

A report citing an unnamed source said Goldberg has left behind a “blueprint” for Duterte’s ouster or a recommendation to the US State Department for the removal of the Philippine President from

office.

“If true, this has serious consequences not only on our country’s political stability but also on the economic and social fabric of our nation. It would also have grave repercussions on our relationship with the United States,” Alvarez said.

“In view of this serious allegation I am calling for a congressional investigation to find out if there is basis to this reported ouster plot against

President Rodrigo Duterte,” he added.

According to Alvarez, if the US indeed would actively engage in covert and overt actions to overthrow Duterte, this would be tantamount to subverting the will of the sovereign Filipino people unequivocally expressed in the resounding vote for Duterte in the May 2016 election.

“That is anathema to the gospel of democracy the US

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Alvarez seeks investigation of alleged Duterte ouster plot S F ALVAREZ, 11

DETERMINED. Health Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial says the agency will implement the free hospitalization program of the government next month with Davao City and National Capital Region eyed as the pilot areas. Lean Daval Jr.

4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

UPBEAT. A t-shirt printer arranges his display of Duterte shirts at his makeshift shop along Quimpo Boulevard in Davao City yesterday. Demand of Duterte-inspired shirts goes up this month due to the arrival of domestic and foreign tourists who will celebrate yuletide season in the city. Lean Daval Jr.

GRP chief negotiator visits NPA stronghold G

OVERNMENT chief peace negotiator Silvestre Bello made a historic first by visiting one of the village strongholds of the rebel New People’s Army in Paquibato District, Davao City on Monday to attend a peace forum which also coincided with the 48th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines .

Speaking before 8,000 rebel sympathizers and supporters, Bello shared the same optimism with CPP founding chair Jose Maria Sison who, in a video message, said the prospect of achieving peace under the Duterte government is brighter than any point in the rebel’s almost five decades of armed rebellion.

The head of the GRP peace panel was accompanied by his undersecretary Joel Maglungsod and Interior and Local Government Secretary Mike Sueno.

Bello assured rebel leaders

that some of the sickly and elderly political detainees would soon be released.

“It is just a matter of time.

The president will keep his word,” Bello said in the sidelines during a break in the program of the rebels.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier announced he would order the release of elderly and sick detained rebels in time for Christmas for humanitarian reasons.

Presidential Adviser for Peace Process Jesus Dureza also confirmed that a directive has already been issued for the release of some 17 or 20 detained rebels.

“Let us just wait for the formal announcement of the president,” Dureza earlier said.

Bello also explained that the next release of rebels for humanitarian reasons is not tied to the bilateral ceasefire agreement that the government is seeking to

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Proposed law sought to ban trade in sharks

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

A

adlopez0920@gmail.com

BILL has been filed in the Senate seeking to prohibit, under pain of imprisonment and fine, all trade in sharks and rays.

Sharks and rays, the proposed bill said, are being threatened by unchecked overfishing, including by catching.

Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri authored Senate Bill 1245 or the “Sharks and Rays Conservation Act” that proposes to forbid “the catching, sale, purchase, possession, transportation, and exportation of all sharks and rays or any part thereof” all over the Philippines.

“No effort must be spared

to protect the biodiversity of our waters as well as the natural balance of our marine ecosystem, for the enjoyment and economic benefit of future generations of Filipinos,” Zubiri said in a statement to the media on Tuesday.

The proposed bill seeks to impose penalties of up to 12 years imprisonment, or a fine of up to P1 million, or both, to violators of the ban, including those who “inflict injury on sharks and rays.”

Zubiri said the Marine Wild Fauna Watch of the Philippines Inc. provided a data stating that the country has at

least 60 species of sharks and 32 species of rays.

“The most celebrated Philippine shark is the butanding, or whale shark, a slow-moving filter-feeding animal regarded as the largest fish in the sea, measuring 40 feet or more.

The butanding is featured on the reverse of the P100 bill,” he added in the statement.

He pointed out that marine scientists believe that whale sharks may actually have breeding grounds, not just feeding areas, in the country.

“This was bolstered by the discovery of the smallest living

specimen of the whale shark – measuring only 38 centimeters – at a beach in Pilar, Sorsogon,” he added.

But shark population has been under severe pressure in recent years, Zubiri said, as the numbers killed have climbed due to demand driven by the fin soup trade in Hong Kong and China.

He added that the United Nations’ Food and Agricultural Organization estimated at almost $1 billion the value of global trade in shark commodities alone.

Aside from sharks, the

residents. The province was placed under typhoon signal number 4 until yesterday.

Sec. Taguiwalo said that some 12,000 family food packs have been prepositioned in the province even before ‘Nina’ made a landfall. She added that 2,596 food packs arrived yesterday and today.

About 2,500 more will arrive anytime soon.

Sec. Taguiwalo shared that a press briefing was also conducted with Catanduanes Governor Joseph C. Cua and Vice Governor Shirley Abundo, and other officials of the province to discuss the effects of ‘Nina’

in the Bicol Region. The initial assessment was presented

by Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) - Bicol Chairperson Bernardo Alejandro IV. She further shared that President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to lead the ceremonial distribution of food packs to families affected by ‘Nina’ in the province.

“We are glad for the continued support of the President to the DSWD’s efforts to provide immediate assistance to Filipinos affected by calamities. We want to waste as little time as possible to address the

immediate needs of survivors of calamities and to respond to the calls of LGUs for augmentation when it comes to relief funds and goods. Much still has to be done to make our response system as fast and as efficient as demanded by the emergency situation created by the calamities, but slowly yet surely, we are improving as we go. We appeal to all LGUs to work hand-in-hand with DSWD and our Field Offices when it comes to distributing all aid to affected families. We want to ensure that all the assistance meant for calamity

F PROPOSED, 11 NBI files charges vs 6 suspects including 3 Chinese nationals DSWD Sec. Taguiwalo joins Duterte team in Catanduanes

T

HE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Tuesday filed charges for violation of Section 5 (Sale of Dangerous Drugs), Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, against six suspects including three Chinese nationals in connection with the raid of its agents that resulted in the confiscation of 500 kilos of shabu worth around Php3 billion in San Juan City last Dec. 23.

The three Chinese nationals were identified as Shi Gui Xiong, 44; Che Wen De alias Jackie Tan, 44; Wu

Li Yong alias David Go, 44; while the three others were Abdullah Jamal, 33; Salim Arafat, 19; and Rasher Jamal, 19. They were taken to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to undergo inquest proceedings.

The three Chinese nationals will also be charged for violation of section 8 and in relation to Section 26 Article 2 of Republic Act no. 9165 otherwise known as the Dangerous Drugs Act 2002.

The suspects were caught inside the warehouse which they have been occupying for months. (PNA)

D

EPARTMENT of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo joined the team of President Rodrigo Duterte who flew this morning to Virac, Catanduanes to check on the condition of families affected by Typhoon Nina.

Cantaduanes was one of the provinces badly hit by Typhoon Nina. The typhoon made a landfall in the island of Catanduanes at 6PM on Christmas day, December 25, toppling trees, cutting power and communication lines, damaging hundreds of houses, and displacing thousands of

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5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

Law to allow HE grads to teach special subjects

T

HE House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a bill seeking to allow competent Home Economics graduates to teach home economics subjects and home economics-related technical-vocational subjects in all public and private elementary and high schools despite the requirements set by the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC).

Approved by the House before the adjournment was House Bill 416 authored by Rep. Evelina G. Escudero (1st District, Sorsogon), chairperson of the House committee on basic education and culture, which aims to provide a solution to the additional personnel needed to teach tech-voc subjects in accordance with Republic Act No. 10533, otherwise known as the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 or the K+12 Law. Escudero said this law recognizes the importance of tech-voc subjects as a necessity to prepare graduates with added skills for specific trades and vocations, making them employable prior to college education.

Moreover, Escudero said Section 8 of RA 10533 allows the DepEd and private schools to hire graduates of tech-voc courses provided that they possess the necessary certifications from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

They are also allowed to hire practitioners with expertise in the specialized learning areas to teach in the secondary level, provided that they are hired on part-time basis only.

“If enacted into law, HB 416 will allow Home Economic graduates the opportunity to teach without a TESDA certification, recognizing that the training and experiences developed by the Home Economics graduates are proof of possession of skills necessary and equivalent to said certification. This will also streamline the hiring process, as this will allow Home Economics graduates who do not possess Licensure Examination for Teacher (LET) certificates, to teach tech-voc subjects fulltime,” said Escudero.

Escudero said it is recognized that Home Economics graduates are more than ade-

quately prepared for teaching positions in the elementary, secondary, tertiary as well as in the non-formal and vocational levels.

“Home Economics degree holders are also allowed to take the LET and possess skills not only in teaching but also as chefs, food service managers, consumer and marketing researchers, trainors, and entrepreneurs,” said Escudero.

The bill provides that the DepEd and the CSC, in consultation with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), shall jointly formulate the appropriate standards and guidelines, to include academic requirements and competencies to assess the qualifications of Home Economics for the tech-voc subjects.

The bill also mandates that Home Economics as a profession shall be represented in the Teacher Education Council (TEC).

The measure directs graduates of Home Economics to obtain a National Certificate Level 1 (NC1) and National Certificate Level 2 (NC2) from the TESDA before they can teach tech-voc subjects in secondary educational institutions.

Likewise, graduates of Home Economics shall be required to take the LET within five years from the date of hiring.

On the other hand, graduates who are willing to teach on part-time basis shall not be required to take the LET. Co-authors of HB 416 are Reps. Christopher de Venecia (4th District, Pangasinan), Len B. Alonte-Naguiat (Lone District, Biñan City), Victoria Isabel G. Noel (Party-list, AN WARAY), Jose Christopher Y. Belmonte, (6th District, Quezon City), Deogracias Victor B. Savellano, (1st District, Ilocos Sur), Sandra Y. Eriguel (2nd District, La Union), Pablo C. Ortega (1st District, La Union), Ana Katrina M. Enverga (1st District, Quezon), Lianda B. Bolilia (4th District, Batangas), Rosanna V. Vergara (3rd District, Nueva Ecija), Ron P. Salo (Party-list, KABAYAN), Mark O. Go (Lone District, Baguio City), Cecilia Leonila V. Chavez (Party-list, BUTIL), Luisa Lloren Cuaresma (Lone District, Nueva Vizcaya), Divina Grace C.

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Samsung retrieves over 90% of Galaxy Note 7 in S. Korea

S

AMSUNG Electronics said on Tuesday that it has retrieved over 90 percent of fire-prone Galaxy Note 7 smartphones sold in South Korea, leading the company to consider software upgrades to further limit the battery-charging capability.

Over 850,000 Note 7 devices have been retrieved among about 950,000 phones sold here, raising the recovery rate to 90 percent.

Samsung said in a statement that it is considering the upgrade of the software patch the firm released in October to limit the maximum charging capability of Note 7 to 60 per-

cent.

The South Korean tech behemoth has decided to discontinue the lastest Galaxy device on reports of the devices catching fire or overheating globally.

In the United States and Europe, where the retrieval rate surpassed 90 percent, Samsung already took an action to restrict the battery capability for the protection of consumers.

Exchange and refunds of the fire-prone phones will continue here until next month, but benefits and favors from the replacement is scheduled to end by the end of this month. (PNA/Xinhua)

GUARDED SECRET. A lechonero stuffs a pig with his secret ingredients before roasting it inside one of the biggest lechon establishments in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Angara urges: Save money with ‘PERA’ F

ILIPINOS can now prepare and save up for retirement by investing in a Personal Equity Retirement Account (PERA), the country’s first-ever voluntary retirement account with tax incentives.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has recently launched PERA, eight years after Republic Act 9505 or the PERA Act of 2008 was signed into law.

“Marami sa ating mga Pilipino ang hindi nakaugaliang mag-ipon o mag-invest. It’s best to start saving early on, and the PERA law gives Filipinos an incentive to do so. Kaya sa mga may natanggap na extra na bonus ngayong Pasko, pumunta na sa bangko at mag-apply ng PERA,” said Senator Sonny Angara, who was then still a congressman when he authored the law.

The counterpart measure was pushed in the Senate by his father, former senator Ed Angara.

The PERA law aims to promote savings mobilization and capital market development to contribute to fiscal sustainability through the provision of long-term financing.

A national survey on financial inclusion conducted by the BSP showed that only 10.8 percent of Filipinos save for retirement or old age.

“We’re happy that the BSP finally launched this investment tool that will help and encourage Filipinos save up for their sunset years or for emergency medical situations,” Angara said.

The PERA law allows individuals to open up to five PERA accounts through accredited PERA administrators, which can be a bank

or a financial company, and invest up to P100,000 annually.

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) can invest up to P200,000 annually or double the limit.

“It’s open to all working Filipinos--in the government, private sector, self-employed and professionals, and even our kababayan abroad. PERA supplements the social pension Filipinos can get from SSS or GSIS. It especially targets OFWs, who may not be contributing to either of these funds, so they can live comfortably when they retire,” the senator explained.

Individuals who invest in PERA are entitled to a 5-percent income tax credit.

For example, if an individual made a P100,000 investment in his PERA account in one year, he or she gets to deduct P5,000 from his or her annu-

al income tax liability.

All income earned from PERA investment products-which include unit investment trust funds, share of stock of mutual funds, insurance pension products, government securities, and other financial products--upon reaching retirement or death are tax-exempt.

Payments will be made when the individual reaches the age of 55. This can be either in lump sum, a pension for a definite period, or for a lifetime.

Early withdrawals will be subject to a penalty, except in cases when the individual is totally disabled due to an accident or hospitalization.

The BSP and the Bureau of Internal Revenue have so far accredited Banco de Oro and Bank of the Philippine Islands as PERA institutional administrators. (PR)

to nearby cities, such as Iligan and Cagayan de Oro. “This project, which has the support of Chinese investors, will further spur industrial development in the south since it is located between two strategic cities,” Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo said.

“With the government pushing for more infrastructure projects in the countryside by next year, the role of renewable energy is crucial in achieving the pace of industrialization,” Rodolfo added.

Data from the Mindan-

ao Development Authority showed that Mindanao is sourcing 31 percent of its power supply from renewable energy.

Under Republic Act No. 9513 or the Renewable Energy Law, renewable energy projects are included in the Mandatory List of BOI’s Investment Priorities Plan (IPP).

As investments in renewable energy are among the priority areas of the IPA, the government shall provide fiscal and non-fiscal incentives.

The government provides such fiscal incentives as income tax holiday, exemption

from taxes and duties on imported spare parts, exemption from wharfage dues and export tax, duty, imposts, reduction of the rates of duty on capital equipment, spare parts and accessories, tax exemption on breeding stocks and genetic materials, tax credits, and additional deductions from taxable income.

Its non-fiscal incentives include employment of foreign nationals, simplification of customs procedures, importation of consigned equipment, and privilege to operate a bonded manufacturing and trading warehouse. (PNA)

BOI grants perks to P1.36-B hydropower project

T

HE Board of Investments (BOI) is set to give incentives to the Liangan Power Corp. (LPC) as the investment promotion agency (IPA) approved the company’s P1.36 billion hydropower energy project in Bacolod, a fourth class municipality in Lanao del Norte province.

LPC’s project is expected to be fully operational by January 2019, generating 44 new jobs.

The facility will have the capacity to produce 11.9 megawatts (MW) of hydropower and can supply power

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DOF: Gov’t domestic borrowings won’t crowd out micro enterprises

F

INANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said the Duterte administration’s move to increase borrowings from the domestic debt market next year won’t crowd out micro and small enterprises, as a new law now provides for a mechanism that would allow these businesses to tap convenient, flexible and affordable loans through microfinance services.

Owing to the excess liquidity in the market, commercial banks would be more willing to take risks and lend to entities that provide microfinance services and operations because they would get higher yields from them than from the government, Dominguez said.

“Our financial markets are very liquid at the moment and there is really very little overlap between government funding. We are not crowding out the commercial enterprises nor the small and medium enterprises,” Dominguez said at a recent congressional hearing.

According to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data, domestic liquidity as a percentage of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was at 63 percent as of June 2016 while domestic credit as a percentage of the GDP was at 60.1 percent during the same period.

“In fact, the banks would be more encouraged to lend to the smaller enterprises because they certainly get higher yields than they get from us,” Dominguez said.

The finance chief earlier told Congress that the new administration’s policy “is to source much of our financing needs from domestic sources.”

He said this borrowing mix

would help protect the welfare of exporters and overseas Filipino workers who would otherwise be at the mercy of foreign exchange fluctuations if the government borrows more from foreign sources.

Dominguez made the assurance in response to concerns raised by legislators over the government’s preference to borrow from domestic, rather than from foreign, sources, which, he said, could shut out small enterprises from the local debt market.

According to Dominguez, banks would be earning only about 1.8 percent per annum if they lend to the government, but at least three times as much if they provide funds for small and medium enterprises.

“If they lend it to the private sector particularly the small and medium enterprises, I think their interest rates at least would maybe be three times as much, and I think it’s worth the risk,” Dominguez said.

He informed lawmakers that under a new law, aspiring small entrepreneurs who would otherwise be considered as “unbankable” by traditional lending sources would be able to conveniently access loan facilities through accredited nongovernment organizations (NGOs) that exclusively provide microfinance services to small enterprises.

At the 13th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Business and Investment Summit held last September in Vientiane, Laos, President Duterte called on ASEAN to support the development of micro, small and medium en-

F DOF, 13

Gov’t’s National Broadband Plan to boost fixed-line internet services

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HE country’s fixed-line broadband speed and penetration is expected to further improve once the national broadband plan is implemented.

National Telecommunications Commission Deputy Commissioner Edgardo Cabarios made this comment after Akamai, a leading content delivery network services provider for media and software delivery and cloud security solution, noted in its third quarter survey that the Philippines had registered marked improvements in terms of connectivity.

Based on Akamai’s Q3 report, the country’s average connection speed (IPv4) for mobile internet was now ranked first in the Asia Pacific region, registering an average speed of 13.9 Mbps, up from 8.5 Mbps in the second quarter.

On the table presented in the study, the Philippines’ average mobile speed of 13.9Mbps came in fastest in the Asia Pacific cluster, topping the speeds of Australia (12.8Mbps), Japan (11.6Mbps), South Korea (11.2Mbps), Indonesia (10.9Mbps), New Zealand (10.8Mbps), Taiwan (9.4Mbps), China (8.9Mbps),

Singapore (8.5Mbps), Hong Kong (6.1Mbps), Thailand (6.1Mbps), Sri Lanka (5.4Mbps), India (3.5Mbps), and Vietnam (3.4Mbps).

The report also cited an improvement on the “above 10 Mbps broadband adoption” category, of which the Philippines adoption rate is now at 5.4 percent, representing a growth rate for the country of 9.1 percent QoQ and 517 percent YoY. The Philippines also showed an improvement in the “15 mbps broadband adoption” category, of which the country is now at 2.4 percent adoption, or an improvement 11 percent QoQ and 645 percent YoY. According to Cabarios, the significant improvement in mobile internet speed may be attributed to the recent activation by Globe and Smart of Long Term Evolution (LTE) cell sites, making use of the 700 MHz spectrum.

He added that once the Department of Information and Communications Techonology (DICT) has finalized the national broadband plan, it will give a boost to fixed-line internet speed and improve coverage across the country. (PNA)

EASY DOES IT. Workers unload blocks of ice to be delivered at nearby stores at Bankerohan Public Market in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Bello: 17K more endo workers to be regularized before Dec. 31 A

TOTAL of 17,000 more contractual workers will become regular before the end of December, according to Labor Sec. Silvestre H. Bello III. Bello told Davao journalists in a briefing yesterday that some 32,000 contractuals have been regularized as of December 22.

He said that a big nationwide food chain has committed to regularize 17,000 more workers of the company before December 31st, in answer to the appeal of

President Rodrigo R. Duterte to the business community to end the illegal practice.

“A management lawyer in Cebu City likewise told me that the company he is representing is also scheduled to regularize 700 workers before the end of 2016, and another 700 in 2017,” Bello said.

The Labor secretary said President Duterte’s program to end the illegal practice of contractualization is on tract.

He however said that the program does not include

workers who are hired lawfully under Republic Act 106 which allows the temporary hiring of security guards and seasonal workers whose employment ends when they are no longer needed.

Bello said the government program against endo is being implemented after a continuing series of consultations with the business sector.

During the press briefing, the Labor secretary also announced the recent appointment of the Mariano “Marnie”

R. Alquiza, former regional director of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Region 11 as assistant secretary for regional operations of the Department of Labor and Employment.

Alquiza is a resident of Davao City having started his government employment with DPWH here with most of his brothers and sisters who are all professionals.

He is a licensed civil engineer who finished college studies from the University of San Carlos in Cebu. AMA

Duterte has declared he wanted a shift to a federal form of government to address the imbalance in the sharing of resources among the country’s provinces.

Jalandoni also said that the revolutionary forces can be tapped to assist the government in national defense.

But he said these things will be tackled when during the negotiation on the End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces, the last item on the 4-point agenda of the GRPNDF peace process.

During the Ramos administration the government and the NDF signed the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law. The two parties are currently negotiating on the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms or Caser.

Next on the agenda of the talks will be Political and Constitutional Reforms and End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces, in that order.

NDF consultant Wilma Tiamzon heads the Reciprocal Working Group on End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces (EOH-DOF).

On January 18 to 25, the GRP and NDF panels will resume talks in Rome, Italy to discuss Caser, dubbed the “heart and soul” of the peace negotiations.

Caser covers the most contentious issues such as the agrarian reform, national industrialization, and foreign policy.

It aims to eradicate “Philippine poverty and reduce inequality in all their aspects and dimensions to have productive, decent and dignified lives,” according to common framework and outlines agreed upon by both panels.

“Maraming pang balakid na kailangan ma-overcome (A lot of hurdles need to be overcome),” Jalandoni said.

Labor secretary Silvestre Bello III, chair the GRP panel, said he is open to the proposal of Jalandoni that the NPA troops must not be disarmed.

Bello, along with Local Government secretary Mike Sueno, Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael “Ka Paeng” Mariano, and National Anti-Poverty Commission lead convenor Liza Maza, was invited to the CPP’s 48th anniversary celebration.

Bello, also the GRP peace panel chair, said the revolu-

tionary forces may no longer need to lay down their arms because the government could even issue them licenses so that they perform their new roles, for example, as forest guards.

‘Agrarian reform a major challenge’ Porferio Tuna, member of the EOH-DOF working group, said that agrarian reform remains a major challenge.

He said a “true land reform” could bring about genuine peace in the country. “(At least) 75 percent of the population are farmers, so we can say the agrarian reform is very essential. We have to fight for this,” he said.

He cited the members of the Madaum Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association Inc., who are fighting for recognition as owners of the 145-hectare banana plantation in Barangay Madaum, Tagum City being run by Lapanday Foods Corp.

“This is going to be a big battle against the big landowners because they do not want genuine land reform, so the masses must speak in one voice against them to achieve real land reform,” he said. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)

NDF: NPA can be tapped on socioeconomic reforms

T

HE New People’s Army, armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, should not be disarmed but should instead be strengthened to assist the government in implementing major socioeconomic reforms, an official of the National Democratic Front said on Monday.

In a press conference during the CPP’s 48th anniversary celebration in Paquibato District here, NDF senior adviser Luis Jalandoni said maintaining the NPA [as an armed force] will ensure the protection of socioeconomic reforms, such as in health and education, as well as the rights of the Lumad and the Moro people.

“Kapag nagkaroon ng (once there is a) comprehensive peace agreement, ang NPA will continue to defend the masses in the programs of land reform, national industrialization, environmental protection, and national defense,” Jalandoni said.

“The CPP-NPA can be a co-founder in the “People’s Federal Republic of the Philippines,” he said, adding, “Malaki ang mawawala, kung wala ang NPA (It’s going to be big loss if there will be no more NPA).”

President Rodrigo R.

EDGEDAVAO

7 SUBURBIA

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

DOH turns-over 2 CT Scans to ComVal “T

NEW FACILITY. Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial and Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy inspected one of the two CT SCANS that were turned over by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and the Department of Health (DOH) to the provincial hospitals in Compostela Valley. (M. Lasaca/IDS ComVal)

Former rebels in Agusan get cash assistance

S

OME 13 former rebels (FRs) enrolled in the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) of the government received their Livelihood Assistance and Immediate Cash Assistance amounting to P50,000 and P15,000, respectively in a ceremony held at the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Provincial Capitol in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. Vice Governor Samuel

Tortor who was assisted

by DILG Provincial Director Arlene Anne Sanchez, PSWDO Razel Montemor, and 26IB Commanding Officer LTC Rommel Pagayon personally handed over the cash assistance with a total amount of P65,000 for each beneficiary. Two of them who surrendered an extra M16 and a Garand rifle, aside from their own rifles, also received additional 90,000 cash as additional firearms remuneration.

The surrender of the former NPAs was made possible by the 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB), 3rd Special Forces Battalion and 401st Brigade with the Agusan Sur PNP Provincial Office.

At present, there are more than 300 FRs in the province who have benefited from the CLIP and have started a new life with their love ones. They are calling their former NPAs comrades to go down with their firearms so that they will have

something to start with and prove to themselves that they were treated well by the soldiers who were in fact too accommodating and helpful to them.

“This is an opportunity for them to go back to their families and start a new life.

The province has a program to complement what is due them from the CLIP and the Army will also help,” said 401st Brigade Commander Col. Cristobal Zaragoza.

(PIA-Agusan del Sur)

VER 900 Indigenous Peoples’ faces were adorned with warm smiles as they received gift packages from the City Government of Tagum last December 22, 2016 in Tagum City Trade and Cultural Center.

“Malipayon kaayo ko kay tibuok kong kinabuhi karon ra ni nahitabo. Manghinaot unta

ko na makabalik mi diri. Wala gyud gipili niya nga tao nga tabangan, kami gihalagahan niya paghatag. Malipay gyud mi magluygsong sa tagum kaywala gyud mi pasagdi,” said Ata Manobo Elsa Cois from Talaingod.

Participating IPs from Ata Manobo, Talaingod, Langilan, Dibabawon, and Matigsalog also took part in the numer-

HIS is indeed a momentous occasion for the province of Compostela Valley for Mindanao and for us, the Department of Health (DOH). I firmly believed that health is everybody’s concern and not just the DOH. Without all of you and without all of our partners that are working with us in the DOH, we cannot have realized these facilities as it is today.”

This is part of the message of the DOH Secretary Dr. Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial during the blessing and the ribbon cutting ceremony of the two units CT Scans to the Compostela Valley Provincial Hospitals (CVPH) in Montevista and CVPH Pantukan on December 21, 2016.

The said hospital equipment is worth P25 million each from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and the DOH. Ubial recalled that the first time she visited Montevista a long time ago, the hospital was then called as District Hospital.

It was just a one line building with a 50-bed capacity and said that at that time, there was a vehicular accident.

“They rushed the patient to the emergency room and rushed the patient out again to bring them to the Davao Regional Hospital. I was listening to the staff they called this as the ‘Monaliza Hospital’-- ‘they just lie there and they die there’,” she recalled.

“So we have come a long way from that scenario in 2007, I was the regional director of the Davao Region in 2006-2007. That was the time I meet Mayor Rodrigo Duterte but very briefly, I was actually with Mayor Sarah Duterte for longer period of time because I stayed in Davao up to 2010 as the Assistant Secretary for Mindanao. That is my history and probably attachment to this

place as I saw the development through the years,” said Ubial.

She added that “I visited several times after that and I’ve seen the improvements of this hospital and I think this is the testament to the cooperation, collaboration of all our partners the Local Government Unit the Governor, Mayor and the Congressman and all the people, the PCSO, police and the National Government Agencies.”

According to Gloria C. Ybañez - PCSO Department Manager for Mindanao “it’s our honor and we are very happy being a partner of this activity and being a partner of the hospitals.”

She added that they recently expanded their offices in North Cotabato and South Cotabato for them to expedite the processing of helping those people in need in different areas of the country.

On the other hand, Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy expressed his gratitude to the PCSO and the DOH and explained that this request was done during the time of his father, former Governor and now Senior Board Member Arturo T. Uy. “We needed the equipment especially after typhoon Pablo hit the province, gagamitin namin ito talaga at hindi namin ito ipagkakait sa mga pasyente,” he said.

Also in attendance to the said occasion are the Assistant Secretary of Health for Mindanao Dr. Abdullah B. Dumama Jr., provincial officials headed by Vice Governor Manuel E. Zamora, Congressman Ruwel Peter Gonzaga, Municipal Officials of the municipality of Montevista headed by Mayor Eutropio Jayectin, Mayor Rupet Gonzaga of Mawab, PCSO officials, Chief of hospitals and hospital staff.

(Rey Antibo, IDS ComVal)

ous fun games prepared by the LGU. “Giaccomodate gyud diri sa Tagum ang mga kaigsuunan namo nga lumad ug matud pa nila, pirting pasalamat gyud nila na makauli sila sa ilang lugar na malipayon sila kay aduna silay mabitbit,” said Datu Carlito Alejo.

This event in line with the

Culture and Social Services component of the EAGLE WINGS Program, the administration’s ten-point agenda.

Mayor Allan Rellon said that they are always welcome in the city during the holidays and that this would certainly not be the first and last Pamaskong Handong for them. (MJ de Castro/CIO Tagum)

6 firecracker injuries Tagum offers Pamaskong Handog to IPs recorded in Region 12 O

S

IX persons were injured by firecrackers in the Soccsksargen region as they welcomed Christmas Day, health officials said Monday.

Jenny Ventura, focal person of the regional health office’s campaign against firecrackers in an effort to prevent firecracker-related injury, said the monitoring for the region began last December 20.

As of Dec. 25, Ventura said, the Online National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (ONEISS), reported six cases of firecracker-related injuries in the provinces of North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and the cities of Cotabato, Kidapawan, Tacurong, Koronadal and Gen. Santos.

Ventura said the figure is 68 percent lower compared to the same period last year.

Of the victims, five were male and one was female, and their ages ranged from 5 years to 56 years. She added that five of them were classified as “active users” of firecrackers and one was a bystander.

Four of them were victims of the banned ‘piccolo’, while one was hit by a ‘kwitis’ and one by an unidentified firecracker.

Ventura said all of them were sent home after receiving medical treatment from various hospitals in the region.

She also appealed to parents to remind their children not to play with firecrackers to save them from deadly injuries.

In last year’s monitoring by the health department, Ventura said the regional health office recorded 64 firecracker-related injuries.

(PNA)

CHRISTMAS GIFT. Tagum City Mayor Allan L. Rellon led the distribution of gift packages in the first ever Pamaskong Handong for Indigenous Peoples’ (IPs) from the towns of Talaingod and Kapalong last December 22, 2016 in Tagum City Trade and Cultural Center. (Kelvin Palermo/CIO Tagum)

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

EDITORIAL

T

Improving cyber infrastructure

HE need for faster internet connectivity couldn’t have been more over emphasized than at the present as the world’s economies shift financial heft to cyberspace.

That is the way to go Because of that urgency to compete globally, drastic improvements should be in place.

Once the national broadband plan is implemented, the country’s fixed-line broadband speed and penetration is expected to further improve.

The National Telecommunications Commission Deputy noted in its third quarter survey that the Philippines had registered marked improvements in terms of connectivity.

The country’s average connection speed (IPv4) for mobile internet was now ranked first in the Asia Pacific region, regis-

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ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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tering an average speed of 13.9 Mbps, up from 8.5 Mbps in the second quarter.

The Philippines’ average mobile speed of 13.9Mbps came in fastest in the Asia Pacific cluster, topping the speeds of Australia (12.8Mbps), Japan (11.6Mbps), South Korea (11.2Mbps), Indonesia (10.9Mbps), New Zealand (10.8Mbps), Taiwan (9.4Mbps), China (8.9Mbps), Singapore (8.5Mbps), Hong Kong (6.1Mbps), Thailand (6.1Mbps), Sri Lanka (5.4Mbps), India (3.5Mbps), and Vietnam (3.4Mbps).

Once finalized, the national broaband plan, will give a boost to fixed-line internet speed and improve coverage across the country.

That will further boost the clout of the country’s global internet capabilities.

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

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VANTAGE POINTS

9

Yes, beer is good for your health!

“2

4 HOURS IN A DAY, 24 beers in a case. Coincidence? I think not,” humorist Henry L. Mencken once wrote. “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy,” so said American statesman Benjamin Franklin.

After all, although not referring to beer at all, British playwright George Bernard Shaw wrote: “When we drink, we get drunk. When we get drunk, we fall asleep.

When we fall asleep, we commit no sin.

When we commit no sin, we go to heaven.

So, let’s all get drunk and go to heaven!”

“In heaven there is no beer, that’s why we drink it here,” so goes the line of a song that was originally composed as a movie score for the film 1956’s “Die Fischerin vom Bodensee.” “When we’re gone from here, all our friends will be drinking all our beer!”

Beer is the world’s oldest and most widely consumed alcoholic beverage and the third most popular drink overall (after water and tea). It is produced by the brewing and fermentation of starches, mainly derived from cereal grains – the most common of which is malted barley, although wheat, corn, and rice are also widely used.

Nutritionists claim beer contains vitamins B and B2 (as well as B6, which is needed to make hemoglobin, the red coloring in blood) and essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and phosphorus. Dark beer is better for you than light beer. A recent study published in the “Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture” has found that dark beer has higher iron content compared to lighter beers. Dark beer also contains more flavanoids which are natural

C

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

oxidants that THINK ON THESE! help to protect the body from disease.

The beneficial effects of drinking alcohol have been guessed at from the earliest days of hu- Henrylito D. Tacio mankind. Beer henrytacio@gmail.com was first used as a homeopathic remedy back in the good old days of the Egyptian Pharaohs. Since the beginning of the 20th century, doctors and researchers have sought scientific evidence to understand the association between alcohol and human health.

According to a study published in 1999’s “New England Journal of Medicine,” those who drank one beer a week compared to those who drank one beer a day experienced no variance in reducing stroke risks. It is said that light to moderate drinkers will decrease their chances of suffering a stroke by 20 percent.

In the United States, a researcher at the Texas Southwestern Medical Center reported that those who consume moderate amounts of beer (one to two a day at the most) have a 30-40 percent lower rate of coronary heart disease compared to those who don’t drink.

More than 100 studies also show that moderate drinking trims risk of heart attacks and dying from cardiovascular disease by 25 to 40 percent, reports the Harvard School of Public Health. A beer or

two a day can help raise levels of HDL, the “good” cholesterol that helps keep arteries from getting clogged.

Beer contains high levels of silicon, which is linked to bone health. In a 2009 study at Tufts University and other centers, older men and women who swigged one or two drinks daily had higher bone density, with the greatest benefits found in those who favored beer or wine. However, downing more than two drinks was linked to increased risk for fractures.

A beer a day may help keep Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia at bay, researchers say. A 2005 study tracking the health of 11,000 older women showed that moderate drinkers (those who consumed about one drink a day) lowered their risk of mental decline by as much as 20 percent, compared to non-drinkers. In addition, older women who downed a drink a day scored as about 18 months “younger,” on average, on tests of mental skills than the non-drinkers.

Drinking beer also reduces risk for diabetes. A 2011 Harvard study of about 38,000 middle-aged men found that when those who only drank occasionally raised their alcohol intake to one to two beers or other drinks daily, their risk of developing type 2 diabetes dropped by 25 percent.

The researchers found no benefit to quaffing more than two drinks. The researchers found that alcohol increases insulin sensitivity, thus helping protect against diabetes.

In 1999, a Finnish-U.S. study of beer-drinking, middle-aged men was published in the “American Journal of Epidemiology.” The report stated that an increase in

beer consumption may reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. Results showed that there was a 40 percent lower risk of kidney stones in beer drinkers, but the researchers were stumped as to whether the results were due to water, alcohol or hops.

Of course, there are also bad sides of drinking beer. For one, there’s such thing as “beer belly.” In a German study, Gerard Klose said “dangers begin to emerge in men measuring more than 94 centimeters around the middle, and become ‘really risky’ at a girth of 102 centimeters.”

Here’s the hitch: “Too much fat,” Klose said, “makes diabetes, certain forms of cancer, and heart disease a distinct possibility.”

It’s no secret that high level of fat accumulated on the body is unhealthy and can cause serious illness over time. An article in the London Times reports that fat that collects around the internal organs to form the typically male beer belly will also find its way into the bloodstream and in turn, raise your cholesterol levels. This leads to heart and vascular disease and strokes.

Again, as in all things, moderation is the key here. A 12-ounce of beer (one bottle) is equal to one drink. One drink per day for women, two for men, is considered a safe and beneficial amount. Excessive drinking will produce negative health effects. “Beer,” commented Thomas Jefferson, “if drunk in moderation, softens the temper, cheers the spirit, and promotes health.”

Drinking beer and other alcoholic beverages over moderation can lead to liver damage, dangers of drunk driving, and damage to fetuses of pregnant women who are drinking – just to name a few.

all feel hapSPECKS OF LIFE py by sharing their personal time, their i n fe c t i o u s smile and resources.

I call this spiritual Fred C. Lumba gift-giving.

Notice that many - and a big majority of us – lean towards satiating themselves, filling what they hanker and yearn for as if they too have nothing at all.

Permit me to quote verses in the Bible to complement this piece. 2 Cor.9:69 says: “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not

reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor, their righteousness endures forever.”

How many times and how often has it been said that life is about making choices?

Some of us have a narrow-minded view of life. Some activities are trained on aggrandizing personal egos. Some endeavors are about giving political favors so that they are able to build political ROIs. Some take the opportunity to “showcase’ their generosity to the poor so that the giver will be remembered on (re) election day.

Therefore, it is a must that we live a life that is fully engaged.

Some, if not the majority of humanity,

appear lost, wandering in the deep crevices of their being unaware and unconscious. Or else, suffer the fate of those who are absent-minded and half-conscious in choosing a half-interested and half-engaged life.

Because after this year, don’t settle on a survival mode.

Positively expect the coming of the unexpected.

There will be key moments and circumstances that will beckon to us in a most surprising way. Therefore, we must be spiritually prepared, spiritually healthy and God-ly confident.

Where were you when God poured out His blessings?

Were you in deep slumber, lazily snoring your day away?

Remember, you reap what you sow and you sow what you reap. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) God bless the Philippines!

Engage in a spiritually-abundant and healthy life

HRISTMAS day is over but the season is not yet.

Most of us forget, during a season of plenty and also during seasons like this, what it is like living a healthy though frugal life.

As 2016 comes to an end, there are people who splurge on just about anything materially because this is a season for gift giving.

Sometimes, it depends on how you give and to whom you give.

Celebrating birthdays and enjoying this very important occasion with friends and family is a traditional custom handed down from generation to generation.

I have read though of a few celebrities and philanthropists who share the celebration of their birthdays with people they do not even know personally.

Instead, they go out of their way to make underprivileged children, the poor and homeless folks who have nothing at

10 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

Worth P16 billion

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

Today at Marco Polo Hotel

BOI okays 3 petrochem A projects of JG Summit T

HE Board of Investments (BOI) has approved three projects of Gokongwei-led JG Summit Holdings, Inc. (JGSHI) for petrochemical manufacturing facilities worth P15.8 billion.

JG Summit Petrochemical Corp. (JGSPC), a wholly-owned unit of JGSHI, invested two pioneering projects.

The first project is worth P4.2 billion for manufacturing of butadiene and raffinate, which the company targets to annually produce 70,000 metric tons (MT) of butadiene and 89,000 MT of raffinate.

JGSPC is also investing P3.0 billion to produce other

Learning events on reducing global-warming risks of HFC

petrochemicals such as benzene, toluene, mixed xylene, C8+/C9+ Cut and non-aromatics.

Target annual production for these petrochemical products include 126,000 MT for benzene, 76,000 MT for toluene, 46,000 MT for mixed xylene, 18,000 MT for C8+/ C9+ Cut , and 29,000 MT for non-aromatics.

BOI also approved the P8.6-billion investment of JG Summit Olefins Corp. (JGSOC) for the expansion of its naphtha cracker facility to produce Polymer Grade Ethylene, Polymer Grade Propylene, Mixed C4 and Pyrolysis (Py) gas.

With the expansion project, JGSOC aims to manufacture additional 160,002 MT of ethylene, 51,000 MT of propylene, 26,418 MT of Mixed C4, and 78,876 MT of Py gas yearly.

These three BOI-approved projects of JGSHI will be located in its petrochemical complex in Batangas City.

All projects, located in JGSHI’s petrochemical complex in Batangas City, are expected to be fully operational by 2021 and will generate 133 new jobs.

JGSHI units aim to export petrochemical products to China, South Korea, and other Asian markets.

“We very much welcome investment projects such as these. The company’s initiative and innovation in expanding their petrochemical plants is definitely a big boost to the manufacturing industry and its sub-sectors,” Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo said.

JGSPC currently operates two polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) plants with a combined annual capacity of 320,000 MT of PE and 180,000 MT of PP. JGSOC started the operation of the naphtha cracker plant in 2014. This is also the country’s first and only naphtha cracker facility. (PNA)

KSYON KLIMA, in partnership with Christian Aid, DENR-EMB, and the Philippine Ozone Desk, has held nationwide learning events on Ozone-depleting substances (ODS), with particular focus on Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC), in a bid to mitigate global warming.

HFC, a compound found in common refrigerants, aerosols and sealants, has been widely-used for decades as an alternative to ozone-depleting Chloroflourocarbons (CFCs). It was later discovered, however, that HFC has a higher global-warming potential, which when emitted into the atmosphere traps heat and contributes to global warming.

The nationwide event has kicked off at the University of the Philippines-Visayas in Iloilo City on September 2 and on World Ozone Day last September 16 and in Quezon City.

The Mindanao leg of the event will be held at the Marco Polo Hotel in Davao City which will be attended by various sectors including students, academe, and the business sector.

The learning events will have the following objectives: · Provide the participants with scientific information on the state of the ozone layer and climate change;

· Explain the characteristics of HFC on how it promotes the protection of the ozone layer but create problems to climate change; · Assess HFC use in the Philippines and possible alternatives of the industries/sectors; and · Provide updates about the current Philippine state on Climate Change and the developments on the Conference of Parties (COP22). Speakers Melvin Purzuelo, National Coordinator of Aksyon Klima Pilipinas and Jessica Bercilla, Christian Aid Senior Advocacy and Policy Officer for Asia and the Middle East, both participated in the recent COP 22 in Marrakech, Morroco.

This learning activity seeks to spread awareness and advocate for the phase down of HFCs to help stop global warming. We would like to invite you to join us for this event: WHAT: OZONE AND CLIMATE: A Learning Event on Reducing Global-Warming HFC WHEN: December 28, 2016 (Wednesday), 9:00 am – 12nn/ Press Conference at 10:00 am WHERE: Jade 1 Function Room, 3rd floor, Marco Polo Hotel, Claro M. Recto St., Davao City

Trash to Cash at SM Supermalls, Jan. 6-7

PANTAWID FOR IPs. Director Mercedita P. Jabagat of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) leads the payout of cash-for-work under the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer for Indigenous Peoples (MCCT-IP) in Barangay Catigan, Toril, Davao City. Over 300 families of the Bagobo

Tagabawa tribe from the area have benefitted. To date, there are some 29,884 family-beneficiaries under MCCT-IP in Davao Region while 233,796 families are covered by the regular Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.

(DSWD)

DOH to buy up to P100M worth of condoms

I

N line with its campaign to avert increasing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases in the country, the Department of Health (DOH) is scheduled to procure P50 to 100 million worth of condoms next year.

DOH Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo announced this during Tuesday’s press briefing in Malacanang where he said PHP1 billion has been allotted by the DOH to address the problem of HIV and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in 2017.

“For the condoms, I think P50 million to 100 million worth of condoms is scheduled for procurement next year,” Bayugo said.

At present, Bayugo said the DOH has 10 million condoms ready for distribution in the pilot areas, particularly in the high-risk areas in Metro Manila, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) and Central Luzon

regions.

He said DOH Secretary Paulyn Jean Ubial is proposing the distribution of condoms in schools due to current statistics in which HIV is increasing among the youth aged 15 to 24 years old.

“Two of the three infection that is happening is among 15 to 24 years old and we need some actions on this,” Bayugo said.

Bayugo said there is low condom use rate, citing a lot of varying reason for not using condom such as lack of knowledge about the disease, lack of access to condom and some legal hurdles since 15 to 17 year old youngsters need parental consent.

“But the Secretary is convinced that this will help a lot in averting and even reversing the increasing trend of HIV in the country,” Bayugo said.

“Let us equip the youth with the correct and consistent information against HIV and

AIDS,” he added.

Bayugo said the distribution of condoms in schools will also address the high number of teenage pregnancy.

“The number of teenage pregnancy has doubled in the last 10 years. Teenage pregnancy is there, is becoming a big problem and pre-marital sex is happening and because of this, a lot of teenagers are getting HIV-AIDS,” he said.

As to the Catholic church opposition, Bayugo explained the DOH is doing the program not to control the population but to promote awareness about the danger of HIV and AIDS. “We are very much willing to seek their (church) assistance and help in promoting awareness about the morality of our children, the proper way that children needs to behave sexually and condoms are just there as stocks guards,” Bayugo said.

The DOH official informed

the Palace media that January 1984 to October 2016, a total of 38,114 cases of HIV were reported in the country.

“In 2016, roughly 26 new HIV infections every day are being reported or a total of 7,756 HIV cases alone for 2016,” he said.

“Compare this to 2008 where we have only one case a day or one infection per day being reported. Most were reported from January 2011 onward or about 32,000 cases were reported from January 2011 up to October 2016,” he added.

Based on the current information, Bayugo said at least 1,912 Filipinos have died because of AIDS. “The predominant mode of transmission from 1984 to 2007 was unprotected heterosexual, meaning boy and girl. After 2009, male to male unprotected sex became the predominant mode of transmission,” he said. (PNA)

S

TART the year right and turn wastes into cash at SM Supermall’s Trash to Cash Recycling Market.

The Trash to Cash campaign was launched in 2007 in cooperation with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to raise awareness on environmental issues as well as provide a public incentive program for proper disposal and management of waste materials. In Davao, the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. was also an institutional partner.

“This is part of SM’s effort in engaging our shoppers in our commitment to proper waste management and ultimately, conservation of the environment,” SM Davao mall manager Lynette Lopez shares. She also added that the malls also practice water and energy conservation as well as incorporation of green designs for more efficient use of energy. Also, SM City Davao is set to implement the used oil collection pro-

gram among its merchants, to be turned over to the City ENRO. This endeavor is in support of the city’s bio-fuel conversion project.

SM’s Trash to Cash across all SM malls, which happens every first Friday and Saturday of the month, accepts plastic and PET bottles; tin and aluminum cans, paper scrap including books, newspapers, used papers, cartons; and scrap metals. Classified hazardous waste such as batteries and e-wastes, however, are not accepted because of its harmful content. This year’s first SM Trash to Cash (Recycling Market Fair) will be on Friday and Saturday, January 6 and 7.

Visit the Trash to Cash at Parking C of SM City Davao, Parking D of SM Lanang Premier, Las Ramblas Parking at SM City Cagayan de Oro and at the Ground Floor of SM City General Santos’s Car Park Building.

This 2017, be a champion for the environment at SM Supermalls. For inquiries, call your nearest SM mall.

INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

WOMEN

EDGEDAVAO

A woman in a man’s world

BEHIND EVERY SUCCESSFUL MAN IS A WOMAN. Perhaps this holds true with Rocky’s Barbershop, the first barbershop to open in a mall in Davao City 20 years ago in 1996.

Rocky’s was the brainchild of Tom Gempesaw, who wanted to make to offer men’s grooming in a convenient environment.

In the right shoes, so to speak, “Where would the most convenient location for me to get a haircut than the mall,” said Tom. Victoria Plaza, the first mall in the city, was the site of the first Rocky’s, the first barbershop in a mall.

Twenty years after, the “barbero ng tunay na lalaki” grew with the city.

With each mall rising Rocky’s was there—SM Lanang Premier, SM City Davao, Abreeza Mall and Gaisano Mall in Davao.

They even ventured to the neighboring regions, Centrio Ayala Mall and SM City in Cagayan de Oro City.

Behind the scene, there

“

In 2013, Kay gave up her baking business to take an active role in Rocky’s as Marketing and Customer Service Coordinator. is this woman who has been the principal support of the business—Kay Gempesaw.

Even before the plan came to be, Kay was excited for the man she was dating, “He would share with me the results of the market study he made on whether a barbershop in a mall would work as well as his plans for the barbershop.”

Tom and Kay eventually tied the knot and the marriage bore them two kids. Kay took the role of the wife and mother and in between, she was a baker, painter, and Tom’s unofficial consultant.

“I did not really participate in the business back then except to support Tom in his endeavors and

act as sounding board to his plans. I was doing my own thing back then so we’re both busy doing different things.”

In 2013, Kay gave up her baking business to take an active role in Rocky’s as Marketing and Customer Service Coordinator. ”We were about to celebrate 20 years and he needed help in planning the promotions and events celebrating this milestone. He was also planning to expand outside Davao City so he wanted someone to handle the marketing, customer service as well as revamping the brand.”

“Tom is always open and supportive to new ideas. He is very proactive and forward thinking when it comes to his vision of where Rocky’s is headed.”

“Our main focus as a company is the customer’s comfort and satisfaction.

With this in mind, I was able to implement a more personalized service between barbers and clients.

Each of the barber now sport a name tag for easy recognition and name recall. We gave the barbers personal calling cards so the clients can book their suki barber and cut on their waiting time.”

The Rocky’s receiving line, the receptionists, are also regularly trained on customer service and business etiquette, and Kay regularly visits all the branches to make sure that customer comfort is being managed by our staff daily.

Extending customer service and comfort in all the Rocky’s branches, TVs were installed and reading materials are always updated to entertain clients in a homey and comfortable reception area. “They can even enjoy complimentary coffee

Metro Mom A4

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

Davao tourism:

SHINING BRIGHT THE OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM-REGION XI (DOT-XI) hosted a simple Christmas party for the region’s tourism players last December 15 at the Grand Ballroom of the Royal Mandaya Hotel.

In attendance were representatives from Davao Region’s city and provincial tourism offices, hotels, restaurants, travel and tour operators, and event organizers. “This is our way to gather everyone together for some fun as well as get updated with destination trends and happenings across the region,” said DOT-XI director Roberto Alabado III. Before the opening of the event, a moment of silence was offered to DOT Mindanao Assistant Secretary Eden David for her quick recovery from her accident. I personally miss her energetic vibe and wish that she would be up and about again soon.

Formal presentations

by Miguel Trocio of Davao Oriental, Noel Daquio-

ag of Davao del Norte, and Generose Tacson of Davao City gave guests an overview of the latest trends and tourism data gathered for 2016. A presentation by MICE Davao chair Kennedy Kapulong also highlighted Davao Region’s aggressive thrust to host bigger and better meeting and conventions.

For his part, DOT XI director Robby presented the accomplishments of the department for the year 2016 as well as future

plans and concerns of the department for 2017.

The 2017 iteration of the Visit Davao Fun Sale was also launched during the event with the formal induction of its tour consortium officers. “The Visit Davao Fun Sale is the only region-wide tourism effort in the Philippines and it has already showed

positive results. From its inception as a city-wide mall-based sale, it now includes dining establishments, hotel accommoda-

tions, tour packages, and event art” shared Robby.

Congratulations to DOT-XI and the tourism players of the region

in the promoting of the region’s destinations and providing jobs and opportunities for the people of Davao.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

UP AND ABOUT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

Davao-made app wins multiple accolades at GameOn’s ICT Creatives Awards Night

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YOUNG DEVELOPERS from renowned, locally-grown tech company, Ingenuity, received three accolades for their Tamagogo mobile game from the Game Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP) at the GameOn! ICT Creatives Awards Night.

GDAP has been recognizing game developers since 2011. The organization rewards student and studio developers.

Ingenuity is one of the few participants who excelled in three categories: Best in Mobile/Handheld Games, Best in Game Art, and Best in Game Play.

Tamagogo is a casual stealth and strategy game with a one-touch control mechanism which makes it easier to navigate a simple plot: escape a terrain of moving hazards, including roving guards, while helping a monster (the game’s hero) rescue and hatch its eggs. The app is available for download on iOS and Android.

Tamagogo took four months to develop and was created from scratch by game developer and designer Resa Embutin, 22, and Kevyn Montana, 24.

Embutin and Montana are both BS Information Technology graduates of the University of Mindanao and of the University of Immacu-

late Concepcion, respectively.

Tamagogo was intended to be a portfolio game, showcasing the team’s skills, but it soared beyond its purpose. “It is humbling to be acknowledged this way. We are fairly new to game development and we are excited and encouraged to explore more of what we can do,” says Kevyn.

“At Ingenuity, we recognize talented budding developers and enable them to explore their potential by giving them flexibility to tap into their imagination and develop new and innovative concepts. We provide them the platform to come up with solutions and products that entertain, educate, and inspire,” John Naranjo, CEO of Ingenuity, said.

Naranjo believes in the role of young minds in shaping the future and molds Ingenuity to be the ideal

venue for talent development in the tech sector. He is particularly keen on building local talents.

Ingenuity, founded in 2010, is a Davao-based software company that builds world-class applications across platforms, serving various industries. The company is driven by making meaningful connections in the community and in the industry. Their growing suite of applications and products include Cloudsite (for enterprises), Insta! (for local restaurants), Hackademy (for the education sector and local community).

“We partner with startups, creative agencies, and corporations to create defining solutions--from mobile apps and games to enterprise software suites--that transform brands, grow businesses, and make people’s lives better,” said Naranjo.

EDGE DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO

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WOMEN

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

Metro Mom A1

and tea, and Wi-Fi.” Kay spearheaded the introduction of new lines of service to accommodate the needs of the growing diverse clientele of the barbershop.

Last year, the hair spa and a wider range of hair dye colors were added to the men’s grooming menu. Under the supervision of professionals, the barbers were trained on product knowledge and application.

“We’re making Rocky’s a one stop place for men’s grooming needs.”

“On the marketing aspect of my job, I set up online presence with Facebook and Instagram; offered Gift Certificates that clients can purchase to give to their friends, which promotes Rocky’s as well; and launched the Rocky’s Loyalty Card, which is a way for us to give back to our loyal customers as well as strengthen our brand.”

Kay was also the brainchild of the 20th Anniversary promotions. The regular press releases beat the drum on the coming celebration.

On 2016, Rocky’s 20th birthday, the first Rocky’s calendar was released. Entitled the Traditions, it featured the prominent Father and Sons in Davao who have become loyal clients.

“We are showcasing how Rocky’s men’s grooming are being passed from one generation to the next. It has become a tradition for our clients just as it is

a tradition for Rocky’s to extend good service.”

With the new services, what was the client’s reception then and now?

“The client’s reception has definitely been positive. I am happy to say that although some of our customers try new barbershops opening in the city, they still come back to Rocky’s.

The usual feedback we get is that at Rocky’s they feel like a king! Which is of course what we aim for.”

Kay doesn’t take credit for any of the additions that made Rocky’s an exicitng stop for men’s grooming. She admits that the success of Rocky’s comes from the fact that everyone in Rocky’s is working like one big family.

“It’s definitely a team effort.

From the management to the barbers and cashiers, we all work as one unit and our goal is to make our customers feel like they are part of that family. I always consult with all the

members of the team whenever I plan for promotions or additional services because I value their inputs. The fact that our Rocky’s family has been very supportive of my contributions is a big part in making my role in this company successful.”

As to the coming years, Kay shared that Rocky’s have more plans in line with strengthening the brand.

“What I am most excited about is our plan to give back to the community. We have sev-

eral plans regarding this and we are in the consultation phase.”

“In the next 20 years, I see Rocky’s as strengthening its hold as a local homegrown Mindanawon brand. We have started expanding in key places in Mindanao and So far the reception has been good. I also see Rocky’s strengthening its legacy of being the place for men’s grooming that offers the best quality barbers whose work ethics are based on traditional values.”

VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

SICK... FROM 1

A former human rights lawyer, Bello said it is time to end the war in the countryside for the sake of combatants and the communities affected by the war in the countryside.

He said the next round of talks that will be held in Rome, Italy would now focus on the crucial agenda of social and economic reforms.

“We have tapped the ex-

pertise of economists from the University of the Philippines to draft the economic reform agenda of the government which we will present on the negotiating table in Rome,” Bello revealed.

At least two days have been dedicated for discussions on social and economic reforms during the five-day formal talks, which begin on January 19. (PNA)

quarters during the campaign period and on the election day.

TRMH general manager Benjamin Banzon admitted that, with its resounding success, 2016 is the most blessed year for the hotel.

“It’s the most productive year for the management, business partners and its employees. 2015 was a great year as well, but we were able to surpass the achievements of 2015, indeed the hotel is growing. As we continue to embrace the changes and learning, the hotel will keep on moving forward,” said Banzon.

According to the general manager, the hotel’s occupancy rate has increased to 18 percent in 2016, with the highest influx on the month of December.

Banzon pointed out that the positive performance of The Royal Mandaya Hotel in 2016 is credited to a balanced system that made the owners, their valued guests, and their human resources happy.

“Keeping them with a full hearted happiness is indeed the gauge of our success,” added Banzon.

Banzon explained that the hotel’s performance covered the economic, social, mental and spiritual of everyone involved in the organization. He added that its direction can be quantified by, attaining budget revenue (for the owners) physical development, enhancement of the facilities and amenities, service beyond expectations (for the clientele), training and development for employees, wellness and comprehension of staff needs, above average compensation package (for em-

ployees), yearly CSR activity, adopt a school program, medical, dental missions in rural areas, Christmas visits for the less fortunate community and charitable institutions ( for the community).

The general manager also attributed the election of Pres. Duterte not only to the TRMH’s success but to the success of other hotels in the city.

Banzon considered it a challenge on how they can make use of such great opportunity and be a part of the changes, especially in the political arena and how the institution could contribute in the creation of a great nation through the leadership of the President.

“Definitely, The Royal Mandaya hotel will be heading to that bright future,” assured Banzon.

Finally, Banzon expressed his optimism for more success in store for the TRMH in 2017 as he pointed out there is no reason for them to step back and relax even if they ended up the 2016 with a huge success.

“We will continue dream, to dream BIG for 2017,” he stressed.

With its humble beginnings in 1992 with only 20 rooms, The Royal Mandaya Hotel was built by Colonel Emilio D. Escandor as an expression of love for his wife Violeta.

With the hotel’s ever growing clientele, Escandor built a bigger facility. In September 8, 1998, The Royal Mandaya Hotel was formally established as one of the premiere businesses of Escandor Group of Companies now headed by chairman Glen Escandor.

manta and mobula rays are also at grave risk due to soaring demand for their gills, which are widely used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Zubiri said his proposed bill will mandate the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), to issue the requisite orders to categorize

all sharks and rays as endangered species.

“It likewise compels the Department of Tourism and the Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving to provide the necessary assistance to the BFAR, DENR, and local government units in identifying the habitats of sharks and rays so that these may be declared as protected areas,” Zubiri added.

forge with the rebels.

The National Democratic Front, the political umbrella of the CPP and the NPA, has demanded the release of 434 detained rebel leaders and members as compliance to the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect of Human Rights and International Law (CARHRIL), which the two peace panels signed during the Ramos

administration.

Bello however asked for a little more patience.

“There are some legal process that we have to comply before they can be released,” he explained.

He said he will be meeting with the president on December 29 and will again bring up the matter. (PNA)

NEWS 11

EDGEDAVAO

The Royal... FROM 1

Proposed... FROM 4

GRP... FROM 4

THE OTHER SIDE. Teenagers read a propaganda material distributed during the 48th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines in Paquibato District, Davao City on Monday afternoon. Lean Daval Jr.

Typhoon... FROM 2 to fallen trees and debris.

Eleven power lines in regions V and CALABARZON were still cut off since December 25, the NDRRMC added.

Grounded ships, missing passengers Typhoon Nina also grounded two huge ships in Batangas province on Monday while eight of the passengers of one of the ships were reported missing by authorities.

Reports said that roll-on, roll off (RORO) ships M/V Super Shuttle 5 and M/V Starlite Atlantic were grounded along the coast of Mabini, Batangas when typhoon Nina made a landfall in Lobo, Batangas at around 11:00 a.m. on Monday.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in the area said surging waves and rapid currents brought about by ‘Nina’ drifted both RORO ships to rocky and shallow waters while trying to moor for refuge at the port in Mabini, Batangas.

One passenger of M/V Starlite was reported dead while eight others were reported missing.

Coast guard authorities are still conducting search and rescue operations in the area but their operations were hampered by strong winds

11.57%... FROM 2 be released next week.

“The immediate release of the results of police exams is in consonance with the Commission’s commitment with the PNP and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to make the examination results in synch with the police recruitment process,” Casurao said.

Vice-Chairman Casurao reiterates the Commission’s earlier warning for applicants of the PNP Entrance and Promotional Examinations not to commit any form of examination irregularity, such as cheating, impersonation, perjury or violation of examination rules, since the NAPOLCOM has a

and huge waves.

Three persons in Albay were also reported killed when ‘Nina’ hit the area last December 25.

Continuing assistance The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said it has already provided P9,159,851 worth of relief goods and assistance to all the victims of typhoon Nina in Luzon and Visayas.

DSWD said it has a total of 322,149 family food packs on standby and ready for distribution to various affected areas.

The agency, as of Tuesday, has P94,860,209.81 standby funds that can be used for its operations and assistance to the affected families.

On Tuesday, DSWD Secretary Judy Taguiwalo has made a call to all families and residents directly hit by typhoon Nina to immediately proceed to their LGUs and DSWD outlets.

“Huwag kayong mag-atubiling lumapit sa inyong mga local na pamahalaan kung anuman ang inyong mga pangangailangan, at i-report din agad sa mga awtoridad kung may maoberbahan kayong iregularidad sa pamamahagi ng tulong,” Taguiwalo said.

computer system that keeps track of the answer patterns of examinees.

Atty. Casurao said that the list of successful examinees will be posted at the NAPOLCOM central office located at the DILG-NAPOLCOM Center, NAPOLCOM Bldg., Edsa Corner Quezon Avenue, West Triangle, Quezon City, and can be viewed at the NAPOLCOM website at www.napolcom. gov.ph.

Individual reports of rating will be mailed to all examinees. Verification of test results will be entertained at the NAPOLCOM central office and its regional offices nationwide in January 2017. (PNA)

Davao... FROM 3

Aplaya, Times Beach, and Roxas Avenue,” Ortiz said.

He added that DPWH would also have 10 bypass road projects worth P7.6 billion, including the widening of existing roads and road openings in some areas in Davao.

Currently, access to different areas in the city is through highways and thoroughfares which lead to congestion and gridlocks, particularly in Ulas and Panacan-Tibungco areas.

“The Bypass Road at Davao-Cotabato Road [Bang-

kal] to Catalunan Grande Road, Junction Davao-Bukidnon Road [Mintal] which seeks to unburden traffic decongestion at Ulas,” Ortiz said, adding that there will be seven bypass road projects to decongest Panacan-Tibungco section of the Davao-Agusan Road.

Ortiz said the 107.9-kilometer road project is done in coordination with the local government of Davao City which identified the road networks to be made into bypass routes.

government, especially under the administration of Pres.

Obama, has been preaching to the world,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez added that any such US ouster plot against Duterte constitutes a violation of our sovereignty under the non-intervention principle widely recognized in international law.

He cited the “Declaration on the Inadmissibility of Intervention in the Domestic Affairs of States and the Protection of their Independence and Sovereignty” that the United Nations General Assembly adopted in 1965.

Among others, the UN declaration said that “no state has the right to intervene, directly or indirectly, for any reason whatever, in the internal or external affairs of any other state.”

Alvarez said the same principle is embodied in Article 8 of the 1933 Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of State, of which the US is a signatory.

The supposed Goldberg “blueprint” for the ouster of Duterte calls on the US gov-

ernment to employ a combination of socio-economic-political- diplomatic moves against Duterte “to bring him to his knees and eventually remove him from office.”

Among the recommended strategies to be employed include the political and economic isolation of the Philippines in the region as well as blackmailing neighboring countries so they would turn against Duterte by reducing trade with the Philippines in favor of countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.

Alvarez noted that President Duterte has been saying that he has no intention of staying in office after he has accomplished the change he has promised to our people.

“Removing him from office won’t be such a big thing for Pres. Duterte. But I’m sure he would not stand idly when he sees our people suffering if our economy crumbles as a result of such US machinations,” Alvarez said.

The report said it is unclear if the US State Department has given its imprimatur on Goldberg’s recommendations. (PR)

Yu, (1st District, Zamboanga del Sur), Vilma Santos-Recto (6th District, Lipa City), Glona G. Labadlabad (2nd District, Zamboanga del Norte), Ana Cristina S. Go (2nd District, Isa-

bela), Marlyn L. Primicias-Agabas (6th District, Pangasinan), Jose Antonio R. Sy-Alvarado (1st District, Bulacan) and Raul V. Del Mar (1st District, Cebu City). (PR)

Alvarez... FROM 3

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

Not just another kind of war the farmers shared their woes and the solutions they tried to apply, the MBRLC experts visited the farms. In all visited farms, they observed one common thing: soil erosion.

According to Watson, once the fields are devoid of topsoil, the productivity of every farm will always be low – and the farmers won’t earn enough to meet their basic needs. “Soil is made by God and put here for man to use, not for one generation but forever,” he said. “It takes thousands of years to build one inch of topsoil but only one good strong rain to remove one inch from unprotected soil on the slopes of mountains.”

Lester R. Brown and Edward C. Wolf, authors of Soil Erosion: Quiet Crisis in the World Economy, further explained the consequences of soil erosion in food production: “The loss of topsoil affects the ability to grow food in two ways. It reduces the inherent productivity of land, both through the loss of nutrients and degradation of the physical structure.

“It also increases the costs of food production. When farmers lose topsoil, they may increase land productivity by substituting energy in the form

Text and Photos by Henrylito D. Tacio

“There are about a dozen major environmental problems, all of them sufficiently serious that if we solved 11 of them and didn’t solve the 12th, whatever that 12th is, any could potentially do us in. Many of them have caused collapses of societies in the past, and soil problems are one of those dozen.” – Ward Chesworth of the University of Guelph, Ontario

T

HE present administration is waging a war on drugs. President Rodrigo R. Duterte is hell bent on curbing, if not stopping, the proliferation of illegal drugs which have destroyed so many lives already.

But there is a kind of war that the government fails to engage itself. It’s an enemy that most Filipinos are aware of but no one seems to recognize it. It attacks on broad daylight and creeps at night when everyone is sleeping.

The adversary is not in the form of a human being but soil erosion. And because soil is less spectacular, media focused more their attention on on fossil fuel problems, climate change, ocean acidification, biodiversity, logging and forest fires.

“Soil erosion is an enemy to any nation — far worse than any external enemy coming into a country and conquering it because erosion is an enemy you cannot see vividly,” pointed out Harold R. Watson, a former American agricultural missionary who worked as director of the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) Foundation, Inc. in Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur. “It’s a slow creeping enemy that soon possesses the land.”

While experts talk about biotechnology, organic farming, high value crops, more

crop production, and exportation, they fail to include soil – “the bridge between the inanimate and the living” – in the equation. After all, it has been estimated that more than 99 per cent of the world’s food comes from the soil.

“Without soil, there would be no food apart from what the rivers and the seas can provide,” said Edouard Saouma, former head of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). “The soil is the world’s most precious natural resource. Yet, it is not valued as it should be. Gold, oil, minerals and precious stones command prices which have led us to treat soil as mere dirt.”

Without soil, food security will always be an issue. Hunger is present all the time and peace and stability are but just dreams. “If the soil is not well cared for, a county can never develop a sound agricultural base. And without that, national development plans rarely succeed,” the United Nations food agency reminds.

But farmers themselves never consider soil erosion as an opponent in crop production. The story of Manong Doming is a representation of most farmers living in the uplands, which account 60% of the country’s total land area of 30 million hectares.

“At first, everything was just fine,” Manong Doming recalled.

“We had enough and almost everything was affordable. We practice kaingin (slash-andburn farming). Land was fertile and the use fertilizer was unknown to us then.”

This was in the 1960s when his family moved to the hinterland near Mount Apo, the country’s highest peak. But as the years went by, he noticed something was not right in the method of farming he used.

Manong Doming observed that the produce from the farm considerably declined. This was evident in the corn he was planting. Over a period of 10 years, the corn production had dropped from 3.5 tons per hectare to only half ton.

But it was not only corn that was affected. Yields of

other crops like banana, coffee, coconut and even fruit trees had also decreased by more than 50% over the same period. “Whatever happened?” he wondered.

To augment his production, Manong Doming started using fertilizer. He also used seeds of improved varieties of corn and other crops. To eliminate pests and diseases attacking his crops, he sprayed them with pesticides.

But despite all those efforts, crop production was still low. Together with other farmers in the area who were experiencing the same problem went to the MBRLC to find some possible solutions.

Watson and his Filipino staff talked with them. Hearing

of fertilizer. Hence, farmers losing topsoil may experience either a loss in land productivity or a rise in costs of agricultural inputs. And if the productivity drops too low or agricultural costs rise too high, farmers are forced to abandon their land.”

In the humid tropics, starting from a sandy base, a soil can be formed in as little as 200 years, experts said. But the process normally takes far longer. Under most conditions, soil is formed at a rate of one centimeter every 100 to 400 years, and it takes 3,000 to 12,000 years to build enough soil to form productive land.

But what nature takes a very long time to form could be washed away in 20 minutes or less by just one heavy rainfall in

areas where the farmers don’t use the land carefully.

In a position paper in 1991, then environment official Victor O. Ramos said that denuded forest land experience 100 tons of soil loss per hectare in contrast to less than 8 tons per hectare per year from natural forests. Slash-and-burn farming, which most uplanders practice, has an erosion rate of 300-400 tons per hectare per year.

Once the topsoil is lost, it is lost forever. “No other soil phenomenon is more destructive than is soil erosion,” wrote Nyle C. Brady in his book, The Nature and Properties of Soil. “It involves losing water and plant nutrients at rates far higher than those occurring through leaching. More tragically, however, it can result in the loss of the entire soil. Erosion is serious in all climates, since wind as well as water can be the agent of removal.”

Soil erosion is nothing new. Archaeological sites of civilizations, studies showed, were undermined by soil erosion. The fertile wheat-growing lands that made North Africa the granary of the Roman Empire are now largely desert.

The lowlands of Guatemala that once nourished a thriving Mayan culture were drained of their fertility by soil erosion.

“Societies in the past had collapsed or disappeared because of soil problems,” wrote Tim Radford, science editor at The Guardian. Quoting Ward Chesworth of the University of Guelph, Ontario, he further wrote: “Easter Island in the Pacific was a famous example.

Ninety per cent of the people died because of deforestation, erosion and soil depletion. Society ended up in cannibalism, the government was overthrown and people began pulling down each other’s statues, so that is pretty serious.”

Watson and his Filipino staff knew it well. That was the reason why they came up with a sustainable farming scheme called Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT).

“SALT is a packaged technology of soil conservation and food production that integrates several conservation measures in just one setting,” said Roy C. Alimoane, the current MBRLC director.

“Basically, the SALT method involves planting of field and permanent crops in 3-5 meter bands between double-contoured rows of nitrogen fixing shrubs and trees (examples: ipil-ipil, kakawate and introduced species such as Flemingia macrophylla and Desmodium rensonii) to minimize soil erosion,” Alimoane explains.

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AGRITRENDS... FROM 12 Permanent and agricultural crops are planted all over the farm. Permanent crops refer to cacao, coffee, banana, citrus and fruit trees. Among the recommended crops are vegetables, cereals, and legumes.

In SALT, crop rotation is being implemented. For instance, those strips planted with cereals (corn or upland rice) earlier are planted with peanuts or winged beans in the next cropping. “Crop rotation helps to preserve the regenerative properties of the soil and avoid the problems of infertility typical of traditional agricultural practices,” Alimoane says.

Multistory cropping may also be practiced (planting black pepper, corn, and lanzones together in one hedge). In waterlogged areas, gabi, kangkong and other water-loving crops are planted. “We all do these to make use of all the available spaces of the farm,” Alimoane says.

“Some of the crops should be planted to feed the farmer’s family, while other crops are grown for sale, so family income is well spread out over the season,” says Alimoane. “Every week or every month, there’s always something to harvest. The system can, in fact, raise the family income threefold.”

But what makes SALT environment-friendly is that it helps in the establishment of

a stable ecosystem. The double hedgerows of leguminous shrubs and trees between the land strips where crops are planted help conserve water and soil. The hedgerows, when cut every 30-45 days and incorporated back into the soil, improve its fertility and serve as mulching materials.

A study conducted at the MBRL C farm showed that a farm tilled in the traditional manner erodes at the rate of 1,163.4 metric tons per hectare per year. In comparison, a SALT farm erodes at the rate of only 20.1 metric tons per hectare pear year.

“The rate of soil loss in a SALT farm is 3.4 metric tons per hectare per year, which is within the tolerable range,” Alimoane claims. “Most soil scientists place acceptable soil loss limits for tropical countries like the Philippines within the range of 10 to 12 metric tons per hectare per year.”

The non-SALT farm, on the other hand, has an annual soil rate of 194.3 metric tons per hectare per year.

“The decline of our soils is a chronic, slow process without the urgency of other environmental crises,” declares Priscilla Grew, former director of the US Department of Conservation for the State of California.

“Yet, soil is the basis for our very existence. Where it is lost, civilization goes with it.”

NEWS 13

Kids, teens told not to spend cash gifts on firecrackers A

WASTE and pollution watchdog has reminded the public, especially children and teenagers, not to spend the Christmas cash gifts they have received to buy firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.

The EcoWaste Coalition, a civil society partner of the Department of Health (DOH) in the ongoing campaign for an injury-free celebration, aired the appeal following the rise in the number of firecracker-related injuries a few days before the New Year.

“We would like to again remind our kids and teens that firecrackers are not toys.

Please don’t be tempted to spend the money given by your godparents and others to buy banned ‘piccolo’ and

other firecrackers, which can put your lives in danger,” said Aileen Lucero, the coalition’s national coordinator.

“We address this appeal to kids and teens and their parents, as most of the victims in last year’s revelry were very young people,” she added.

According to the last DOH report, 500 of the 920 firecracker-related injuries involved children less than 14 years.

The top fireworks that caused injuries were the ‘piccolo’ (42 percent), ‘kwitis’ (11 percent), ‘luces’ (6 percent) and ‘5-star’ (4 percent). Unknown firecrackers accounted for 11 percent of the injuries recorded.

“We also appeal to all con-

scientious vendors not to sell firecrackers to kids and teens who are most prone to accidental injuries. The life you save may be that of your own son or daughter. There must be a safer way to earn money during the holidays without jeopardizing the well-being and future of our youth,” she said.

The EcoWaste Coalition instead called on households and commercial establishments to donate the money set aside for firecrackers and fireworks to charitable causes.

“Instead of burning money for dangerous, deadly and dirty firecrackers and fireworks, please make donations to the victims of Typhoon Nina in the affected provinces

in the Bicol and Southern Tagalog regions,” she suggested.

“Our little acts of charity can alleviate the sufferings of the Christmas typhoon victims,” she said.

On Wednesday, Dec. 28, the EcoWaste Coalition, in collaboration with animal welfare groups, will hold a “PetA-Thon” at the Quezon Memorial Circle to encourage the public not to use firecrackers for the sake of animals who suffer a lot from the ear-splitting noise.

On Friday, Dec. 30, the group will organize a community parade in Barangay Project 6, Quezon City to show alternative pollution-free noisemakers for the New Year revelry that can be used in lieu of firecrackers. (PNA)

survivors go to them,” she said.

As of 2 am today, ‘Nina’ has affected 27,085 families or 116,154 individuals in 395 barangays in Regions CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, V and VIII. Around 22,078 families or 93,271 persons are still staying in 367 evacuation centers, while 1,206 families or 5,243 persons are with their relatives and friends.

Meanwhile, the number of damaged houses has increased to 332 in Region MIMAROPA; of which, 293 are

partially damaged, while 41 are totally damaged.

As of 2AM today, 16,155 passengers remain stranded in 20 seaports: two in CALABARZON, three in MIMAROPA, 11 in Region V, and four in Region VIII. The DSWD Central Office, in coordination with DSWD CALABARZON and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has conducted yesterday until today a feeding activity for 1,500 stranded passengers in the port of Batangas. (PR)

terprises (MSMEs).

Mr. Duterte said in his speech that for the Philippines, “our economic focus will be towards the promotion of inclusive growth through innovation in four areas,” including MSMEs. Dominguez said at the hearing that “we just signed the IRR for [this new law on microfinance NGOs] and we gave them a very big tax credit.”

Qualified microfinance NGOs are eligible for preferen-

tial tax treatment of 2 percent tax—in lieu of national taxes— based on their respective gross receipts from microfinance operations under the recently signed Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 10693, or the Microfinance NGOs Act. Thus, poor families considered as “unbankable” loan clients can now tap government funding to open up small businesses by accessing credit facilities provided by microfinance NGOs. (PR)

DSWD... FROM 4

DOF... FROM 6

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EDGEDAVAO Sports 15 FIGHTER OF THE YEAR VOL. 9 ISSUE 221 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2016

E

Pacquiao, Crawford, Gonzales contend for Fighter of the Year

IGHT-DIVISION champion Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines is in the list of the top contenders for the year’s best fighter although the top pick could be Terence Crawford.

Other boxers considered by some American writers for the prestgious BWAA FOTY Award are Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, Carl Frampton.

The 37-year old Filipino boxing superstar came out of retirement to defeat Jessie Vargas last November in a spectacular return following his short hiatus after beating American Tim Bradley earlier this year.

Crawford is the favorite among the three candidates to win the Fighter of the Year honors. Crawford is ranked by The Ring as the world’s fifth best boxer, pound for pound, and was voted Fighter of the

Year for 2014 by the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA).

Crawford defended his junior welterweight championship on February 27 with an astounding fifth-round TKO of Hank Lundy before a sellout crowd of 5,092 at the Theater of Madison Square Garden.

Crawford connected with 89 of 247 punches (36%), compared to 47 of 411 for Lundy (22%).

Crawford and Viktor Postol, both undefeated faced each other during the much awaited super-lightweight unification fight on July 23 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Both fighters climbed the ring with a record of 28 wins, no losses. Both boxers also fought at the MGM Grand Garden Arena for the first time in their respective careers.

Crawford won by unan-

imous decision and unified two light welterweight world titles and also claimed the vacant lineal and Ring Magazine titles. Crawford scored two quick knockdowns in the fifth round, winning on all three

scorecards 1181 0 7 , 118107 and 117-108.

O n December

10, at Crawford’s hometown at CenturyLink Center in Omaha, Nebraska he fought John Molina, Jr. who was four pounds overweight. Molina gave $400,000 of his purse to Crawford, and gave up his rights to challenge the titles.

Crawford defended successfully his titles in stopping Molina in the 8th round

before a large hometown crowd in Omaha. Crawford was clearly dominating the out of shape Molina. In round 8, Crawford stopped Molina with combinations to the head and to the body causing referee Mark Nelson to stop the punishment. Crawford landed 184 punches out of 419 thrown, while Molina landed 41 of 287 thrown.

STILL IN TOP FORM. Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines is being considered as Fighter of the Year. Another contender is Terrence Crawford. Yahoo Sports photos

Thai stint awaits Alyssa

V

OLLEYBALL star Alyssa Valdez is set to take her skills overseas and hopes more opportunities will pave the way for Filipino players following the interest expressed on her

by Thailand team 3BB Nakornnont.

Valdez is flying over to Bangkok by next year and talk to club officials regarding her contract.

“I thank 3BB Nakornnont for giving me the opportunity to join them next year. We are still threshing out details as of now, but I will be flying to Thailand on January 15 to begin preparing for a tournament starting January 29,” she said in a statement.

“I am very excited about this and hope that this open doors for more Filipino volleyball players to get the chance to play overseas. This is a blessing that has been very timely as we celebrate Christmas season,” she added.

Valdez asks for prayers as she takes on another chal-

lenge in her celebrated career.

“I’d like to request your prayers and support since this is a challenge I’ve never encountered before,” she said. “I also like to thank my family, friends, and fans for sticking with me through thick and thin.”

“It’s always been a dream to play internationally and this is a very important step to making it happen. Thank you,” she said.

On Christmas day, Philippine Super Liga (PSL) president Tats Suzara sent a text message saying top club teams in Thailand are eyeing to get the services of Foton star Jaja Santiago, RC Cola Army opposite spiker Jovelyn Gonzaga, and the F2 Logistics pair Aby Maraño and Kim Fajardo. (SPIN.ph)

OVERSEAS STINT. Alyssa Valdez will be playing in Thailand next year.

Caluag leads PH riders to‘17 SEAG

A

SIAN Games gold medal winner Daniel Patrick Caluag will banner the Philippine cycling delegation to the 2017 Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Marella Salamat, gold medalist in the Individual Time Trial (ITT) event during the 2015 Singapore SEA Games, and many-time champion Mark John Lexer Galedo will also join Caluag in the biennial tournament scheduled August 19-31.

National coach Cesar Lobramonte said Salamat will lead the three-member women’s Road team, while Galedo, George Oconer, Jerry Aquino Jr. and six other riders make up the men’s team.

Daniel, who won the BMX gold at the 2014 Incheon Asian Games, his younger brother Christopher John, and Sienna Fines have expressed their interest to compete in

Malaysia next year. The three cyclists are based in the United States.

Daniel, who competed in the 2012 London Olympics, won the gold and Jonathan took the silver in the 2013 SEA Games in Myanmar. Galedo also won the gold in the 50km ITT in the same tournament.

The Sacramento-based Fines, whose relatives in the Philippines are from Ilocos Sur, won the gold medal in the junior division of the 2015 Asian Continental BMX Championships in Myanmar.

The 2017 SEA Games organizers allow 10 entries in the Men’s Road Race event, four in the Team Time Trial event and six in the Road Massed Start event. In the women’s division, two riders can compete in the Criterium event and two in the Road Race event. The BMX category features two riders each in the men’s and women’s divisions per country. (PNA)

OP Filipino junior Alberto “AJ” Lim Jr. survived the two-round qualifying of the Hong Kong F5 Futures tournament over the weekend to advance in the main draw.

Lim defeated wild card Chak Pong Marco of Hong Kong, 6-2, 6-2, in the first round and eliminated No. 2 Xi Qi of China, 7-6 (6), 7-6 (8) to join seven other qualifiers in the next round which begins on Monday.

“I am expecting to do damage in the second week and try to get my first ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) points,” said the 17-year-old Lim, who is playing in only his sixth tournament in the pro circuit.

Lim will be up against

Jay Clarke of Great Britain, who reached the quarterfinals in the first leg last week.

Last week, Lim took an early exit when he lost to top seed Japanese Shuichi Sekiguchi, 4-6, 6-3, 3-6 in their first-round encounter at the Victoria Park Tennis Centre.

Meanwhile, Cing-Yang Meng, Wei-De Lin, Chung Han Tsai and Chun Hsin Tseng of Chinese Taipei; Ki Lung Ng of Hong Kong; Kazuma Kawachi of Japan; and Gary Kushnirovich of the United States also book their seats in the main draw.

The other seeded players in the main draw are No. 2 Takuto Niki, No. 3 Shintaro Imai, No. 4 Masato Shiga and No. 6 Jumpei Yamasaki of Japan, and No. 7 Geofrey Blancaneaux of France. (PNA)

PH netter advances to main draw

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