Edge Davao 9 Issue 226

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

RIDING THE ‘ZEBRA’. A young boy sits atop a wooden zebra which is part of a carousel used during the celebration of Pasko Fiesta sa Davao 2016 and now being dismantled by carnival workers at Rizal Park in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

OCCUPIED BANANA FARMLAND RETAKEN Bill on LGBT help desks

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ FTER conducting cooperative”. Lapanday has a security sweep a growership contract with and inventory of HEARBCO-1.

According to the LFC, farm equipment in the farm areas in Barangay there was “no violence, nor Madaum, Tagum City, any untoward incident in the members of the Hijo Em- course of the retaking of the ployees Agrarian Reform areas as theses posts were Beneficiaries Coopera- practically left unattended”.

“The unlawful occupative 1 (HEARBCO-1) have tion ended with the supportretrieved their “unlawfulers MARBAI many of whom ly-occupied” properties.

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Lapanday Foods Corporation (LFC) confirmed in a media statement that in the morning of December 31, the breakaway group Madaum Agrarian Reform Benefeciaries Association Inc. (MARBAI), and its supporters abandoned the premises leaving in their wake over 20 hectares that were “viciously and unnecessarily destroyed that deprived the livelihood of the legitimate members of the

were from other provinces, abandoned their post, Lapanday Foods Corporation was informed,” according to the statement.

LFC added, HEARBCO -1 discovered that many of the farm equipment used for various operations have gone missing.

“Since the breakaway group led by Mely Yu and supporters forcibly entered the farm premises last 9 De-

cember, unlawfully occupying portions of the plantations registered in the name of the cooperative and its legitimate members, they have not only chopped standing bananas crops, and illegally harvested and sold fruits, but they have also ransacked its bodegas,” LFC said.

LFC charged that the objective of the breakaway group failed to fully disrupt the operations of HEARBCO-1 and to prevent the cooperative from complying with its existing valid contacts with Lapanday Foods Corporation.

The company claimed that HEARBCO-1 is the absolute and legal owner of these lands, which have been also been previously awarded by the DAR to HEARBCO-1 and its lawful agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs).

Earlier, a Cease and Desist Order (CDO) was issued by DAR Secretary Rafael V. Mariano on December 14, 2016, awarding the land to the members of Madaum Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association, Inc. (“MARBAI”). LFC has branded this action of Mariano in their press statement as “violation of due process and confiscatory in nature”.

The work to restore the areas of the farms that were destroyed by Yu’s group will now begin and assistance will be extended to the helpless agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) whose awarded lands were ruined for no justifiable reason so that they can start farming on their lands again and be able to fend for their families, Lapanday said.

LFC said MARBAI,

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pushed in House plenary

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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BILL that would establish lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) help and protection desks in all police stations

nationwide has recently been approved in the House of Representatives.

In a press statement,

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wants $20M BIG BUCKS Manny to fight Crawford P15

EDGEDAVAO Sports

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

CEDULA QUEUE. Dabawenyos form a long queue as they wait for their turn to obtain residence certificate outside Sangguniang Panlungsod building in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

DOH warns against tetanus from firecracker wounds

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HE Department of Health (DOH) on Monday called on those who were injured by firecrackers to get tetanus shots immediately.

“All firecracker wounds are tetanus-prone. This means that regardless of whether (the wound is) small or big, there is the risk of developing tetanus,” said health department spokesperson, Dr. Eric Tayag.

Citing that tetanus can be deadly, Tayag said the wound should be cleansed in running water and should not be ig-

nored.

“And you can only be vaccinated with anti-tetanus vaccine if you go to hospitals,” he said, noting that it is given free in government hospitals, along with treatment for all firecracker-related injuries and wounds from stray bullets.

Last year, a PHP10 million budget was allotted for the treatment of such injuries.

This year, the health department expects less expenses due to a huge drop in the number of firecracker-related injuries. (PNA)

4 Filipino women recruited as surrogate moms nabbed

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UREAU of Immigration (BI) agents intercepted four Filipino women bound for Cambodia to become surrogate mothers for foreign clients in exchange for a fee close to P500,000 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on New Year’s Day. Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said the four victims and their female recruiter were barred by the bureau’s travel control and enforcement unit personnel from boarding a Thai Airways flight at the NAIA 1 terminal last Sunday.

During interrogation, the women admitted that after arriving in Bangkok, Thailand, they would proceed to Phnom Penh where they will be fetched by a Cambodian who arranged the deal with the foreigners

who were supposed to be fathers of the babies they would bear.

“This is a new modus operandi of a human trafficking syndicate that preys on our Filipino women who are enticed to bear children of strangers for a fee because of their poverty. We cannot allow this to happen,” said Morente in a statement.

The victims claimed that they were each promised the amount of USD8,700, USD200 of which will be paid after the first injection of the foreigner’s sperm into their uterus and USD500 will be added upon confirmation of the unborn child’s heartbeat.

The rest of the money will be paid in monthly instalments during their pregnancy and until the baby is delivered and sent to the country of the pater-

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Landslides, obstruct roads in ComVal, Davao Oriental

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE regional office of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Davao region (DPWH-11) reported of obstructions and landslides in major road networks in the provinces of Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental due to the incessant rainfalls starting from the end of December of 2016 until New Year.

DPWH-11 regional director Allan S. Borromeo caused the mobilization of maintenance men and equipment from the region as well as the engineering districts in said

provinces to perform clearing operations since January 1, said Dean Ortiz, DPWH-11 spokesperson.

Involved during the operations of debris were the engineering district in Compostela Valley and the 1st engineering district in Davao Oriental.

Ortiz said road networks affected include the Nabunturan - Maragusan Road, particularly the Katipunan - Cambagang Section; the Compostela-Cateel Road particularly the Barangay Panansalan, Spur 2 Section; the Compos-

tela-Cateel Road in Barangay Panansalan; and the Compostela-Cateel Road in Barangay Ngan to Sitio Nursery Section.

“We dispatched fleets of equipment in the area including dump trucks, backhoes and bulldozers to do clearing operations,” Ortiz added.

He also reported of the repairs done on the damaged approach potion of the detour bridge in Cateel, Davao Oriental particularly in Aliwagwag area.

Ortiz said a concrete bridge is still under construction in Aliwagwag and the de-

tour bridge is presently being utilized by commuters and travellers.

“All of the clearing operations and repairs were already completed as of afternoon of January 2. These road networks are now passable,” he added.

He said Director Borromeo ordered some of the maintenance men and equipment to remain as rains continue to affect in said areas.

Ortiz also lauded the support provided by the contractors during the clearing and repair operations.

population so together we can join forces in the battle against crimes, bring perpetrators to justice and show that the rule of law continues to prevail. We can better apprehend and obtain convictions against perpetrators of vigilante killings, including rogue policemen and any criminal through the continuous participation of the people,” he said.

The senator, chair of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, earlier pointed out that people must be part of the process of change. This was contained in the committee report that he submitted to the Senate on the investigation, in aid of legisla-

tion, that his committee conducted on recent and rampant killings.

“To effectively put an end to the killings with impunity, people must be part of the process of change. People must organize village watch groups to guard against crimes, particularly the influx of drug dealers and pushers, in their respective areas. The people themselves should be empowered to help transform their respective areas into “drug-free” neighborhoods where their families may safely reside,” he said in the report.

Gordon, former Olongapo mayor, noted that his anti-illegal drugs campaign in Olon-

gapo City was successful with the help of the Barangay Anti-Narcotics Group.

“In the old days in Olongapo, I had the Barangay Anti-Narcotics Group who had kids in school and people in the community who helped me weed out drug pushers.

We drove them away from Olongapo. It has been proven that when people participate, the effort will succeed,” he said.

Gordon stressed that it is time to replace the citizens’ growing apathy with energized people participation as the government continues its fight against crimes and illegal drugs. (PR)

Gordon: Coordination, communication vital in fight vs crimes

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ITH the start of the New Year, Senator Richard J. Gordon is hoping for a closer coordination and communication between the government and the people in order to increase ways to overcome the challenges and win the battle against crimes and illegal drugs.

Gordon explained that with the participation of a united country and the Filipino, the campaign against crimes and illegal drugs will be even more successful.

“With the New Year, we hope that the government will have closer partnership and communications with the

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DOH to push for signing of EO on regulated use of firecrackers

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EALTH Secretary Dr. Paulyn Ubial on Tuesday expressed optimism that President Rodrigo Duterte would very soon sign their proposed executive order on regulating the use of firecrackers or the firecrackers firing act.

“We are expecting that within this month, we can push for Malacañang’s issuance (of the EO), so we can avoid all the unnecessary injuries (from firecrackers),” Ubial said.

She explained that their determination to have the proposed EO signed stems from the fact that while the number of firecracker-related injuries from the recent celebration was lower compared to figures in the past 10 years, these injuries still resulted in disability,

pain and misery.

She noted that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources strongly supports the signing of the proposed EO due to the negative impact of firecrackers on the environment.

President Duterte was supposed to sign the order last year but postponed it in consideration of those whose livelihood depends on the manufacture of firecrackers.

The EO would further reduce the number of injuries from firecrackers, Ubial said, noting that floating the idea of a presidential order on the ban on firecrackers has actually deterred people from lighting them, contributing to the drop in the number of injuries

NEWS 3

Safe conduct of Yuletide activities in Davao lauded

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

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HE City’s various activities during the entire Yuletide season were a complete success, safe and secure as the security personnel beefed up their security measures for the entire celebration.

Despite the several bombing in the nearby provinces with the same bomb signa-

ture used in the Roxas Night Market bombing here, the Davaoeṅos enjoyed the entire celebration without letting their guards down.

Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) chief Benito De Leon said that the entire Christmas and New Year’s celebration was safe and secure because of

the “collective efforts” of the different offices and the community as well.

“I attribute the safe conduct of the entire celebration to the collective efforts of the City Government, Davao City Police Office, Task Force Davao, Central 911, Emergency Medical Technicians and the people’s cooperation that

endured it,” he said.

De Leon said that they have maintained the full alert status since the September 2 bombing in the city.

Task Force Davao Commander, Col Erwin Neri said that his troops has intensified the Area security, mobile and foot patrol and fixed and ran-

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AFP says it has successfully fended off ASG, Maute Group, BIFF threats

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HE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has successfully fended off security threats coming from the Abu Sayyaf Group, Maute Group and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters during the recently-concluded year.

This was stressed by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla in an interview Monday.

“The AFP has shown its determined efforts to deal with these groups so as to secure our municipalities and major cities, so 2016 showed

and proved that the AFP forces is effectively performing and doing its job following the successful arrests of many of the Davao City bombing suspects,” he added.

The AFP spokesperson also said the military performed well in eliminating the threats poised by the three lawless groups.

During the last two months of 2016, the AFP together with the Philippine National Police (PNP) has successfully arrested nine out of the 12 suspects

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UNIQUE UMBRELLA. A pedestrian crosses the street carrying a wooden table he uses as shield against the heavy downpour on Monday afternoon as Davao City experienced low pressure area (LPA) since New Year’s day. Lean Daval Jr.

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CAROUSEL DISMANTLING. A carnival worker piles up parts of a carousel used during the celebration of Pasko Fiesta sa Davao 2016 being dismantled at Rizal Park in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Senate eyes health, T gender equality bills

AFP hopeful 2017 will be the year of real peace

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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ENATOR Risa Hontiveros on Monday expressed her concern on the need to prioritize the passage of different gender equality and health bills this year.

In a press statement, Hontiveros as the Senate Committee chairperson for women and health sees longer maternity leave for women in 2017 as the extended maternity leave would provide mothers with ample transition time to regain health and overall wellness.

It can be recalled that Hontiveros filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 215 or the Extended Maternity Leave Act that seeks to extend the maternity leaves of working women

from the current 60 days to 120 days and 150 days for single mothers.

President Duterte supported the longer maternity leave, saying that mothers should have a longer rest period to provide them more time to breastfeed their babies.

“I agree that you need a longer period of rest for maternity leave – I even want it to last for a year,” Duterte said.

Hontiveros added in her press statement that her committee is now preparing the committee report on the different versions of the bill.

Hontiveros also promised to push the Anti-Discrimination Bill, also known

as Senate Bill No. 935 that penalizes discrimination against sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) in workplaces and schools, and would offer equal protection to members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

The bill made its way to the plenary and is ready for second reading and that the senator’s proposed measure is the first anti-discrimination bill that reached the Senate plenary.

Hontiveros is also seeking to stop the practice of hospitals asking for advance payment before admitting patients in an emergency situation.

The senator filed Senate

Bill No. 216, known as the Amendments to the Anti-Hospital Deposit Act that seeks to impose heavier penalties on hospitals that continues to violate the law while providing tax incentives to those that will admit indigent or needy patients in case of emergency.

Hontiveros said the Anti-hospital deposit law is part of her priority legislative measures this new year because it is unallowable that the lives and health well-being of the people to be sacrificed longer for profit’s sake.

“We will conduct another hearing on this issue, submit the bill to the technical working group and release a committee report as soon as possible,” Hontiveros mentioned.

system in mind and the number of voters was only at 30 million. It is really that outdated,” the poll body chief said.

“This time, we want to make sure that the OEC is relevant to the society. We must make use of the available technology and other modern day conveniences to help our voters. We must make the voting system easier,” he added.

Bautista is also pushing for the amendment in the campaign spending limit to make it more relevant to the present era.

“That is a tricky issue but we have already said in the past that we really need to

adjust the spending limit,” he said.

Under the law, candidates for president and vice president are allowed to spend PHP10 for every registered voter in the country and overseas; while candidates for other positions can spend PHP3 for every voter currently registered in the constituency where they are running.

Independent candidates, meanwhile, can spend PHP5 for every voter currently registered in the area where they are running; while political parties and party-list groups are also allowed to spend PHP5 for every voter.

With this, he revealed that a draft OEC amendments has been prepared based on a study conducted by a team they have formed.

“There is already the draft but we still need to ratify them. I think we should copy international best practices. But we also have to make sure that they are adaptable to Philippine setting,” Bautista said.

The team was created after the Senate and House committees on electoral reform and suffrage asked the poll body to submit its recommendations on how to best revise the OEC. (PNA)

Comelec to ask House to amend Omnibus Election Code

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HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) will be asking lawmakers to amend the over three-decade old Batas Pambansa 881 commonly known as the Omnibus Election Code (OEC).

“We are hoping that, by the first quarter of 2017, we can already pass (our draft amendments),” said Comelec Chairman Juan Andres Bautista.

He believed that it is high time that changes be made in the 31-year old law.

“I really want to have a new OEC because the BP 881 comes from circa 1985. At that time, we only have manual

HE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) strongly supports President Rodrigo Duterte’s agenda for a just and lasting peace and is hopeful that 2017 will be the year where it will finally start.

This was disclosed by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla who said the entire military is hoping that something positive, concrete, and definite will be announced this year regarding the ongoing peace talks with the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

“We are all supportive of the President’s agenda to have a long lasting and justice with the group and we are looking forward, the year 2016 was a pioneering year for the resumption, it was a good year for the resumption of the peace talks and hopefully year 2017 will start with a good joint declaration,” he added.

Armed confrontation between the AFP and the NPA finally ceased after Duterte restored the declaration of

ceasefire on Aug. 21 after noting violations from the rebel group.

The President’s gesture in restoring the erstwhile unilateral ceasefire declaration effectively reimposed the suspension of military operations earlier issued by the AFP to its field units.

“Further, peace-building efforts were exerted to ensure that line units are aware of the advocacy of the Commander-in-Chief, including the dissemination of the proposed reconstituted JASIG (Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees) list and the release of detained alleged political prisoners. The original JASIG list was meant to identify communist members who will figure in the peace negotiations with the CPP-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front) and will aid in the implementation of the ceasefire with the rebels,” the AFP earlier said. (PNA)

OLICE are hunting down two men on a motorbike who lobbed a hand grenade in front of a residential home in Barangay Poblacion, Pikit, North Cotabato on New Year’s Day. Chief Inspector Donald Cabigas, Pikit town police chief, said the suspects particularly lobbed the hand grenade at past 3 p.m. in front of the house owned by Felomina Ferenal located beside the Poblacion Barangay Hall.

Luckily, Cabigas said, the grenade failed to explode and

was safely deactivated by police and Army bomb experts.

But he admitted that the grenade attack caused fear among residents nearby.

The Ferenal family could not say why their home was subjected to grenade attack.

Police investigation continues.

Meanwhile, in nearby Arakan town, also in North Cotabato, a former town vice mayor was killed in a vehicular accident Sunday afternoon.

Wennie Canario, former

Grenade attack fails in North Cotabato P

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BOC-NAIA steps up anti-corruption, anti-illegal drugs campaign in 2016

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HE Bureau of Customs (BOC) based at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport intensified its efforts in the last two quarters of 2016 to help protect the country from the drug scourge, as well as assist other government agencies in carrying out the Duterte administration’s campaign against corruption and smuggling.

As a result, the BOC-NAIA was able to significantly enhance its revenue collections, intercept the entry into the country of some P242 million-worth of high-grade cocaine at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), along with other types of narcotics and illegal substances, and apprehend devices and paraphernalia used for money laundering and illegal gambling.

Year-on-year collections of the BOC-NAIA went up by 28 percent from P1.36 billion in 2015 to P1.9 billion in 2016, according to a report by the Bureau to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III. Actual collections amounted to P8.3 billion in the third quarter and P8.4 billion in the fourth quarter, said this BOC unit in its report to Dominguez.

For the entire year, the BOC-NAIA’s collections have already reached P33.7 billion as of the third week of December 2016 which is 93.8 percent of the full-year target of P36.12 billion.

Customs Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon also issued a new order covering the NAIA Collection District III, which now requires accredited public bonded warehouses to provide the BOC the necessary tools and equipment, such a X-ray machines, CCTVs, and

computers, to enhance its revenue collection and strengthen enforcement initiatives.

Cash collections with monetized currencies seized by the BOC from different airline passengers since January 2016 have reached P33.7 billion.

The BOC-NAIA also created an Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Lane at the NAIA International Passenger Terminals 1, 2 and 3 in line with the thrust of the present administration to further assist and to provide hassle-free clearance for arriving OFWs. Dominguez had lauded the BOC-NAIA for its successive arrests of suspected drug couriers with the help of airport and drug enforcement authorities at the NAIA. Last Nov. 14, the BOC-NAIA Interagency Drug Interdiction Group (IADIG), apprehended Malaysian Nasir Uddin Bin Mohd Hasnan after he was found to be carrying 4.6 kilos of high-grade cocaine with an estimated street value of P23 million.

In October 17 , 22-year old Genesis Lorena Pineda Salazar was found to be carrying 4.3 kilograms of cocaine worth P21.5 million.

The Customs team assigned at the NAIA, working under the IADIG and in close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), also arrested lastOct. 15 Brazilian Yasmin Silva, who was found to be carrying 6.8 kilos of cocaine with a street value of P34 million.

Last Oct. 5, the IADIG nabbed two Chinese from Hong Kong and a Russian at the airport for trying to smuggle in 27.9 kilos of cocaine with a street value of P139.5 million. (PR)

DA releases P75M to help areas get out of poverty

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HE attainment of the current administration’s goal of reducing poverty in the country is now rolling.

Three checks worth P25 million each were released by the Department of Agriculture 12 to provincial local government units (PLGUs) which are identified recipients of the government’s Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) program.

Under SAAD, the Agri department will focus on top 10 prioritized poorest provinces, in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s thrust to increase food production and to trim down poverty prevalence through the enormous provision of livelihood projects.

Engineer Milagros Casis, DA 12 regional executive director said, “North Cotabato, Sarangani, and Maguindanao were among the three provinces included in SAAD program, and just this month, we were able to hand-over checks to their local chief executives with an initial fund of P25-M each.”

The lady director ex-

plained that although Maguindanao is under the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), its fund was downloaded to DA 12.

The P25-M each received by said local government units (LGUs) was the first tranche of the commitment of the DA per target province.

Aside from the earlier mentioned provinces, the other areas are Apayao, Eastern Samar, Western Samar, Northern Samar, Negros Oriental, Zamboanga del Norte, and Lanao del Sur. Meanwhile, Director Casis noted, “Farmer and fisher groups and local governments not included in this special program are encouraged to still propose for more agri-fishery interventions under our agency’s regular programs.”

In August, this year, Secretary Emmanuel Piñol led the launching of SAAD program in Kidapawan City and called on the proactive participation of the LGUs and all agri-fishery stakeholders in this poverty alleviation initiative. (PR)

BUDGET PRESS BRIEFING. Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno provides updates on the 2017 budget of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s administration during a press briefing at Malacañang yesterday. TOTO LOZANO/Presidential Photo

BFAR targets 65,597 MT of fish production in Davao

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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HE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is targeting 65,597 metric tons of fish production this year, an increase from the 43,657 metric tons of production recorded in the third quarter of 2016.

BFAR XI Regional Director Fatima Idris on Monday said they will work to achieve the target in collaboration with the other concerned agencies and stakeholders, to include the livelihood and commercial fishing operators, and the local government units (LGUs).

“We would be focusing on the cultivation of aquatic plants and animals to boost production,” she said.

The BFAR will also focus on the production of seaweed,

tilapia, bangus, shrimp, tahong, hito, and lapulapu with an eye to expanding sales to the international market.

She said more livelihood production such as fingerlings and broodstock were already provided to the farmers and fishermen in the area.

The agency is also working on developing post-harvest facilities and supplying needed technologies.

BFAR will be distributing 1,500 units of fiberglass boats to Davao Region’s coastal municipalities and another 50 units of vessels in every congressional area of the region this year.

More or less 24 coastal towns and 11 congressional districts in Davao Region will receive the new fishing boats.

“We are still preparing for the areas of distribution; however the recipients are still subject to validation for the replacement of old boats,” Idris said.

She also encouraged the LGUs to avail the new vessels.

“Farmer organizations and mayors who want to avail of the boats will have to write a request addressed to BFAR or Agriculture Secretary Manny Piñol,” Idris pointed out.

Idris said boats made of fiberglass are very sturdy compared to wooden-hulled boats and would increase the productivity level of the fisherfolks.

“Usually ang harvest nila [fisherfolks] pag ginagamit nila ang wooden boats would be two to three kilos in an

average compared dun sa 10 kilos na harvest nila kung gagamitin ang fiberglass boats,” Idris added.

The new boats according to Idris would include full fishing equipment and accessories.

“They are resistant to corrosion and are good enough to resist water current,” she said.

Idris added that the fiberglass could generate more income, employment and economic boosting in endeavors.”

The BFAR is also hoping that enforcement measures will help prevent illegal fishing that affects production.

“I’m very positive that the fisheries sector will be enhanced and improved because of our enforcement and regulatory actions,” said Idris.

he said “drive the Filipinos’ optimistic outlook for 2017.” The Philippines accepted last September 2016 the ASEAN chairmanship, which has adopted the theme “Partnering for change, engaging the world,” a reference to President Duterte’s campaign slogan, “Change is coming.”

The Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship coincides with the 50th anniversary of the founding of the 10-member regional bloc. “During the Philippines’ chairmanship, we will highlight ASEAN as a model of regionalism and a global player, with the interest of the people at its core,” Duterte stressed.

“We will pursue initiatives and enhance cooperation with global partners to ensure that ASEAN citizens live in peace, stability, security and growth, all the while retaining ASEAN’s centrality, unity and solidarity, that we will maintain for all times,” he added.

Second in Salceda’s list is the completion and launch of

2017-2022 Philippine Development Plan (PDP) earlier this year. The PDP will translate AmBisyon Natin 2040 and the administration’s 0+10-point Socio-economic Agenda into strategies, policies, programs, and activities that emphasize “Malasakit at Pagbabago tungo sa Patuloy na Pagunlad” (Concern and change towards continuous growth).

AmBisyon 2040 represents the collective long-term vision and aspirations of the Filipino people for themselves and for the country in the next 25 years.

It describes the kind of life they want to live, and how their country will be by 2040. As such, it is an anchor for development planning across at least four administrations.

Seen as third most important economic event in 2017 is the approval and proper implementation of the proposed Traffic and Congestion Crisis plan, that gives Duterte emergency powers to solve the debilitating

transport problem and save the country billions of pesos in daily loses.

Fourth is the enactment of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion or TRAIN that will reduce the personal income taxes of ordinary working Filipino families by P156 billion.

Supporting this is the fifth in list; the initial implementation of the Tax Administration Act or TARA, which paves way for the government’s efficient tax collection strategy. Both measures were sponsored by Salceda in the lower house.

Likewise among the top of these 2017 events are the Final Peace Agreement with the National Democratic Front Comprehensive Agreement on SocioEconomic Reforms or CASER, and the creation of Bangsa Moro Authority by legislation.

Salceda said these will ease up the government peace and order campaign, resulting to improved economic conditions.

(PNA)

Salceda lists 12 top events driving optimism for 2017

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ILIPINOS have witnessed how the latter half of 2016 ended on a positive note, both on socio-political and economic aspects. The Philippines registered its most significant gains in 2016 under President Rodrigo Duterte, as the fastest growing economy in Asia -- a 7.1% third quarter growth, its most robust in three years, which even surpassed China’s 6.7% and Vietnam’s 6.4%.

Looking forward this time, what significant developments could drive Filipino optimism for 2017, as noted in a recent survey report? Noted economist Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda, a member of the Duterte economic team, lists a dozen economic developments and events this year, on which the man on the street can brightly look forward to, as growth drivers.

Salceda’s list is topped by the Philippine chairmanship and successful hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) summit which

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CAAP: More airports being readied for night operations

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HE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said more airports are being prepared for night operations for 2017.

CAAP noted that night operations are vital to solve air traffic congestion, especially at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Last year, 19 airports were made capable of night operations: NAIA, Clark, Mactan, Subic, Davao, Laoag, Puerto Princesa, Iloilo, Kalibo, Zamboanga, General Santos, Bacolod, Laguindingan, Tacloban, Butuan, Legazpi, Dumaguete, Roxas and Caticlan.

The agency also cited that improving the air traffic system will significantly reduce fuel burns and carbon emissions.

CNS/ATM system Meanwhile, CAAP said

that by mid-2017, the Communication, Navigation, Surveillance / Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) system will be operational in the country. ”CNS/ATM is a computer-based flight data processing system that will enable aircraft operators to meet their planned schedule of departures and arrivals, as well as to adhere to their preferred flight profiles with minimum constraints and without compromising safety,” CAAP explained.

Furthermore, the CNS/ ATM will enable the country to monitor 80 percent of the Manila Flight Information Region, the agency added.

About 500 air traffic controllers will be needed in the next five years once the CNS/ ATM becomes operational, CAAP said. (PNA)

DILG: Thousands benefit from potable water projects

S

OME 840,381 households nationwide are now benefiting from the 1,825 completed potable water supply projects from the Bottom-up Budgeting (BuB)-Water Supply Project since the program started in 2013, according to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

The BuB-Water Supply Projects is one of the components under the DILG-BuB program which aims to strengthen local communities’ participation in national budget formulation and project implementation.

“We all know that water is life and these potable water supply projects will greatly help our fellow Filipinos in the waterless municipalities to have access to potable drinking water,” said DILG Secretary Ismael D. Sueno.

Sueno said that the Department through the Office of Project Development Services Water Supply and Sanitation Unit (OPDS- WSSU) is also

monitoring the progress of the remaining 1,469 projects that are in various stages of project implementation.

Of the 1,469 projects, 697 are on-going implementation, 252 are on procurement stage, 334 have approved initial documents like Detailed Engineering Design (DED) or Program of Work (POW), and 186 are on preparation of initial documents.

The DILG Secretary explained that potable water supply projects take a long time to complete because of the nature of work needed to be done. The initial documents take about 2-3 months to complete then the procurement takes another 2-3 months. The entire project implementation phase takes about 18-20 months to finish.

Billions allotted yearly for water projects The DILG Secretary explained that the Department allotted a total of P1.058 billion in 2013 for the 678 potable

F DILG, 11

PERMIT RENEWAL. A business owner pays her permit fee at the Office of the Treasurer at Sangguniang Panlungsod building in Davao City during the second day of business permit renewal yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Traders expect better profitability exports B

USINESSES have better expectations in the Philippines in terms of profitability and exports in the next 12 months, but overall optimism in the economy has declined.

According to the P&A Grant Thornton International Business Report (IBR) in fourth quarter of 2016 released on Tuesday, the Philippines IBR showed that business outlook for the next 12 months become less optimistic in Q4 2016 at 80 percent, which declined from 84 percent in Q3 and 94 percent in Q2, but higher than Q1’s 56 percent.

Economic uncertainty in the country also increased to 40 percent in the last quarter’s report from 38 percent and 24 percent in Q3 and Q2, respectively. Economic uncertainty was at its peak this year in Q1 at

46 percent.

Expectations on employment and research and development for the next 12 months both dropped by 10 percentage points quarter-on-quarter basis.

Employment outlook fell to 54 percent in Q4 from 64 percent in its previous quarter while prospects for R&D weakened to 46 percent from 56 percent.

Businessmen’s expectations on their revenues likewise declined to 58 percent in the last quarter of 2016 from 84 percent in Q3, but profitability outlook recovered from 58 percent in Q3 report to 72 percent in Q4.

Outlook on exports further improved in the last quarter of 2016 to 30 percent.

At the start of 2016, prospect on exports was only at 18 percent. It went up to 20 percent in Q2 and increased to 24

percent in Q3.

Meanwhile, the IBR showed that business optimism globally increased by five percentage points to net 38 percent.

“Globally, the increase in optimism reflects a view among the business community that uncertainty over the outcome of major events like the EU referendum and the US presidential election is now behind them,” said P&A Grant Thornton Chairperson and CEO Marivic Españo.

“Knowing the results will allow businesses to have a clearer steer on key issues such as taxes, jobs and trade policy,” she added.

But in Asia Pacific economies, a split in optimism for the next 12 months was recorded as developed economies registered a decline of eight percentage points in Q4 2016 at net -16

DOT targets 3-M increase in tourist arrivals in 2017

T FATMA WITH MEDIA PERSONS. Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Director Fatma Idris (fifth from right, standing) gamely joins media practitioners in a rare group photo after last Monday’s staging of “Kapehan sa Dabaw” at SM City Davao annex, wherein she discussed extensively the region’s fish production in the year just ended. From left, first row: Seth delos Reyes (SunStar Davao), Joey Sem Dalumpines (Philippine Information Agency), Arjoy Ceniza (Mindanao Daily Mirror), Marvin Pineda (Radyo ni Juan), Christian Lim (SunStar), Tiziana Celine Piatos (Edge Davao), Jessie Boga (Mindanao Times) and Juliet Revita (SunStar). Second row,

from left: Genesis Canete (DXRD-Sonshine Radio), Arnold Colama (Radyo ni Juan), Ayan Mellejor (Philippine News Agency), Marianne Abalayan (SunStar), Edith T. Isidro (PIA), Rose Bernales (Mindanet News), Anggie Chagas (Bombo Radyo), Ruth Dumandan (GMA Super Radyo), Peng Alino (Radyo ng Bayan), Maymay Benedicto (ABS-CBN Radio), Bing Gonzales (M. Times), Alex Lopez (Edge Davao), Antonio Ajero (Kapehan convenor and host), RD Idris, RA Colina (MindaNews/Manila Bulletin), Awi Cayon (Business Mirror), Prix Banzon (PNA) and Kristianne Fusilero (M. Times).

percent while emerging economies has increased optimism by 11 percentage points to 53 percent.

“There is a striking split in the direction of travel between business leaders in emerging and developed Asia Pacific countries. Part of the reason for this could be the likely scrapping of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), out of which developed economies - like those of Australia and New Zealand - stood to gain the most,” Españo noted.

“However, China is looking to implement its own regional economic partnership, which could fill some of that gap.

The high levels of optimism in emerging economies reflect what can happen when closer economic ties are in place, with the ASEAN Economic Community agreed in 2015,” the executive explained. (PNA)

HE Department of Tourism (DOT) is aiming a three million increase in visitor arrivals this year from 2016’s six million in Davao region.

Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon Teo in an interview Monday said, “this mark could be too ambitious but we will market our destinations around the globe the best way we could”.

“You know I am very ambitious but we will work hard for it,” she said, explaining that 2017 is a very busy year for as several events have already been lined up towards the end of the year.

“We are starting the year right with big international events,” she said.

She said the hosting of Miss Universe pageant is a big opportunity for the city and the Philippines to be known around the world.

“The ASEAN 50 is another big one that we are hosting this January,” she added.

Meanwhile, Teo also vowed to market the country’s destinations and will push Davao’s presence in both domestic and international travel fairs.

She said DOT will be pouring bigger budget for the promotion of Davao.

“And in all of the travels that I’ve done especially on international, I endorsed the country’s destinations including Davao,” she said.

F DOT, 13

7 HEALTH

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

Diabetes: The hidden epidemic

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

“D

(Second of Two Parts)

IABETES doesn’t need to be a life sentence of ill health,” wrote Lam Lye Cheng in an article published in Reader’s Digest some years back. “With prompt diagnosis, simple lifestyle adjustments and, if necessary, medications, people with diabetes can expect to have a long and productive life.”

Dr. Gauden Galea, a public health physician who was still with the regional office of the World Health Organization when interviewed by this author a couple of years ago, agrees: “Diabetes is not a death sentence. A normal life is possible with diabetes.”

History has proven this.

Among those who have defied diabetes include Filipino singer Gary Valenciano, Soviet premier Yuri Andopov, Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin, French painter Paul Cezanne, American inventor Thomas Edison, American writer Ernest Hemingway, Oscar winner Spencer Tracy, Egyptian politician Gamal Abdel Nasser, and English author H.G. Wells.

But “we cannot win the war against diabetes if we do not know the enemy,” the Philippine Center for Diabetes Education Foundation said in a statement. “Get to know about the disease.”

For instance, diabetes tends to run in the family.

“Diabetes is a hereditary disease passed on from generation to generation,” said Dr. Alberto Romualdez when he was the head of the Department of Health. “When there is a diabetic in the family, no matter how distant a relative the patient is, the characteristic is still passed on through the genes.

“If both parents have diabetes,” Dr. Romualdez pointed out, “the children’s chance of developing the disease is greater. It is very important therefore that everyone in a family with a diabetic member must prepare early to prevent the onset of the disease.”

Other predisposing factors include age and weight.

Most diabetics discover the disease when they are past 40.

On the other hand, three out of four diabetics are overweight.

“Obesity is a risk factor for diabetes,” reminded Dr. Galea. “Fat also makes the control of blood glucose more difficult, causing lowered responsiveness to insulin.”

In the first part of this series, it was mentioned that there are two types of diabetes. Medical science says both types have very similar symptoms. Among the most common signs are excessive urination and abnormal thirst. “I was always thirsty. I had to go to the toilet frequently at night, and my urinal always had ants,”

recalled former health secretary Juan M. Flavier on how he discovered he had diabetes.

Other symptoms include unusual hunger, rapid loss of weight or excessive weight, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, drowsiness, itchy skin and skin disorders, cramps or numbness in the limbs, and abdominal pain.

Among the two types of diabetes, it is type 2 that is most common. “If you look at the spread of the scourge around the world, type 2 diabetes occurs as a country advances technologically, when people come out of the fields to sit behind the desk,” observes Dr. Irwin Brodsky, director of the Diabetes Treatment Program at the University of Illinois in Chicago.

The Philippines is moving to become an industrialized country. As much, more Filipinos are expected to suffer from type 2 diabetes. In fact, 8590% of diabetes cases in the country are adult-onset.

In the past, diabetes was considered a disease of the wealthy. But these days no one is spared. And diabetes is such a costly disease. “It affects all tissues and organs of the body,” says Dr. Alberto Romualdez, former secretary of health.

“Once a person is diagnosed a diabetic, he or she will be on medications of the rest of his or her life and will die a diabetic.”

Augusto D. Litonjua, found-

ing president of the Philippine Society of Endocrinology, says complications that arise from diabetes include blindness, heart diseases or stroke, kidney trouble, impotence, renal failure, and amputation.

“Blindness can occur 25 times more in diabetics than non-diabetics,” Dr. Litonjua says. “They are also twice as prone to heart attacks and strokes, 17 times more prone to kidney disease, five times more prone to gangrene and about 50 percent of men with long duration of diabetes are impotent.”

Here’s a bad news for pregnant women: studies showed birth defects occur in 5-10% to women with diabetes, four times higher than in women without diabetes.

Living with diabetes is a lifelong project. But nowadays, diabetes can, for the most part, be controlled quite well with treatment which is simple and highly successful. “The goals of treatment for diabe-

tes are to improve the body’s use of insulin, reduce its need for insulin and thus provide glucose control in the blood,” a doctor explains.

Despite medical advances with new drugs and insulin formulations, diet remains “the cornerstone of diabetes treatment,” to quote the words of Dr. Cynthia Chua-Ho of the Far Eastern University Hospital.

Medical experts advise that 20-30 percent of the total dietary energy should come from fats and oils. Protein should not exceed to more than 15% of the total energy required.

The bulk, however, should come from carbohydrates: 5565% of the total energy. But diabetics must talk with their doctor or dietician to know the suitable diet for them.

Generally, diabetic patients are advised to eat most of the following: legumes, lentils, cereals, fresh fruits (non-sweet) and vegetables. What about rice? “Rice is a traditional diet for Asians and provides a rich

source of many essential vitamins and minerals,” explains Dr. Tham May Ked, senior medical officer of the Department of Health in Hong Kong. “For diabetics, the key is moderation.”

Likewise, diabetics must have small serves of foods rich in protein like fish, seafood, lean meat, skinless chicken, nuts, low-fat cheese, yoghurt, and milk. They must minimize eating foods and drinks that contain a lot of simple sugar, such as honey, sweets, cakes, soft drinks and beer, among others.

Since Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, health experts are focusing more research on the said type. Treatment involves one or more of the following: Lose weight. “This is the number one priority,” says Dr. Stanley Mirsky, associate clinical professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine of the City University of New York.

Most diabetics, it has been observed, tend to live a sedentary life and eat a lot. Obesity may obliterate insulin receptors so sugar can’t enter the cells and remains in the blood. “If you’re overweight, diet and exercise will almost certainly help you lose some weight and get your blood sugar back to normal, and that may be all you need.”

Watch your diet. Actually, this is the first line of treatment for all types of diabetes.

“Whether or not you need to lose weight, the kind and the amount of food you take in are important factors to improving your condition,” a doctor explains. “In many cases, Type 2 diabetes can be controlled by diet alone. Sugar levels start dropping rapidly, sometimes even before much weight is actually lost.”

Get moving. “Physical activity burns excess fat and increases muscle mass, reducing insulin resistance,” says Dr. Litonjua. “Try to get at least 15 minutes of physical activity every day this week. Then each

Understanding what the disease is and recognizing that there are things you can do really helps.

“Knowledge is power particularly with this disease...” week add 5 minutes, until you get to the recommended 30 minutes a day.”

Be especially particular about breakfast. “There’s some evidence that those with diabetes have a harder time with carbohydrates in the morning, when insulin resistance is greatest,” says Dr. Christine Beebe, chairman of the Council on Nutritional Science and Metabolism for the American Diabetes Association.

Dr. Rafael R. Castillo, a cardiologist at the Manila Doctors’ Hospital and editor-in-chief of Health and Lifestyle, also suggests: “A full, healthy breakfast refuels your body and jumpstarts your day. If your blood sugar level is adequate, you feel good and function better and this suppresses the tendency to overeat for your next meal.”

Understanding what the disease is and recognizing that there are things you can do really helps. “Knowledge is power particularly with this disease,” says one diabetic. “Because people don’t know much about it, the usual notion is to consider it as a grave disease. But if you dig deeper, it only becomes dangerous because most of the patients are not well-informed.

The lack of information prevents them from taking the necessary precautions.” (Photos taken from the net)

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

EDITORIAL

I

Online stalking

N Japan, a law has been passed making online stalking il- with people taking their illegal schemes online and hiding unlegal.

Japan’s version of anti-stalking law took effect recently

der fictitious accounts.

The internet is simply open to enormous possibilities of de-

to crack down on online stalking via social networking ser- ceit and intimidation that violate one’s privacy even if privacy vices (SNS), which reportedly affects a growing number of settings and security mechanisms are in place. teenagers.

It has also become the main battleground for political pro-

The law makes it illegal to send messages repeatedly through paganda as proven in the last elections.

SNS even though the recipient does not want to receive them and relentlessly leaving comments on someone’s blog.

With the creation of the new Information Technology agen-

cy, it is in the best interest of social media users to be protect-

The law actually makes sense and could very well be ap- ed from any form of harassment—stalking being one to begin

plied in our jurisdiction. The social media these days is filled with.

EDGEDAVAO

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EDGEDAVAO “Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives - choice, not chance, determines your destiny.” ― Aristotle *** OBERT Frost is one of the most famous American poets but oftentimes people misunderstood the message he wanted to impart in his poems. But in “The Road Not Taken,” the first poem in the collection “Mountain Interval,” the message is very clear: choices.

“Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, / And sorry I could not travel both / And be one traveler, long I stood / And looked down one as far as I could / To where it bent in the undergrowth,” Frost wrote.

He had a hard time deciding which road to take but in the end, he “took the one less traveled by.” He wrote: “Because it was grassy and wanted wear; / Though as for that the passing there / Had worn them really about the same.”

Life has been defined as the sum total of all a person’s choices. From the cradle to grave, we are faced with many important decisions.

Life, so goes a popular saying, is what we make it. In other words, you are what you are from the decisions you have made.

Dr. Charles Wood, longtime head of the psychology department at Baylor University, used to tell his students: “There are three decisions each person must make for himself – the choice of a profession, of a life’s mate, and of a religious

R

T

HE world of entertainment, both the ‘tin pan alley’ (for musicians) and the ‘silver screen’ (for movie icons), is a discipline that has drawn few personalities from Davao region. If there are many local singers who have left their legacy in recording annals, the number of actors who made an imprint in cinema has also swelled in the past decades.

In the territory of hiring of actresses as leading ladies and main stars, producers preferred women with mestiza features, while auburn-skin aspirants almost always ended up getting the roles of housemaid, bit player, background assistants, etc. It was cruel and discriminatory, but movie financiers thought a beautiful face would be the key to commercial success.

From Davao region, only Lourdes Medel, a native of Caburan, Jose Abad Santos, Davao Oriental, really made it to the big league at a time when the build-up of movie stars was the monopoly of few cinema production houses in Manila. She was the daughter of Spanish expatriate who had permanently settled in Davao where he married a local maiden.

It was Artemio Marquez, father of international beauty queen Melanie, who discovered Lourdes, nicknamed Lulu, during a shoot for a movie under Premiere Productions. She was introduced in the 1958 movie Wala Kang Paki, co-starred by Nida Blanca and Nestor de Villa.

The following year, she took the lead role in Linda Mora, playing the role of a Muslim princess.

As fate had it, Lulu was later paired with Bernard Bonnin, father-in-law of Aga Muhlach, who was then LVN’s top action star and with whom she later bore a lovechild. Aside from the

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

A matter of choice

VANTAGE POINTS

9

faith. Parents THINK ON THESE! and friends will, at times, try to decide one of these things for you, but if you are to be happy and successful in life, they are decisions you alone can make.”

C o n c e r n - Henrylito D. Tacio ing our choices, Joseph Epstein henrytacio@gmail.com in his book Ambition: The Secret Passion, wrote: “We do not choose to be born. We do not choose our parents. We do not choose our historical epic, or the country of our birth, or the immediate circumstances of our upbringing. We do not, most of us, choose to die; nor do we choose the time and conditions of our death.”

Epstein added: “But within all this realm of choicelessness, we do choose how we shall live: courageously or in cowardice, honorably or dishonorably, with purpose or adrift. We decide what is important and what is trivial in life. We decide that what makes us significant is either what we do or what we refuse to do.”

He ended his explanation with these words: “But no matter how indifferent the universe may be to our choices and decisions, these choices and decisions are ours to make.

We decide. We choose. And as we decide and choose, so are our lives formed.”

According to J. Richard Sneed, our lives in this world can be described in one of these four ways: as a journey, as a battle, as a pilgrimage, and as a race. “Select your own metaphor, but the finishing necessity is all the same,” he wrote. “If life is a journey, it must be completed.

If life is a battle, it must be finished. If life is a pilgrimage, it must be concluded. And if it is a race, it must be won.”

The words of Sneed came to my mind while reading an e-mail sent to me by a friend. It’s a short anecdote but it tells more about life and our choices. I have modified a little bit but read the story, anyway: A week before their college graduation, seven friends went to the office of their professor and talked with him. “Sir,” one of them said, “is it possible if eight years from now we will meet in your house and have a reunion?”

The professor answered affirmatively. Several years passed and the seven friends became very successful in their chosen fields. Jonathan is now heading his own business firm in Makati, Philippines. Rudy is a highly-respected forester working in a United Nations agency in Rome, Italy. Gary has a flourishing career as a consultant in Bangkok, Thailand. Anselmo is a renowned physician in Cebu City, Philippines.

The three others - Carlos, Rodel, and James - are all engineers working in other parts of the world: Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Canada, respectively.

Eight years later, all seven got together at their professor’s house. Talk, talk, talk, and more talk. Soon, conversation turned into

complaints about stress in work and life.

Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an assortment of cups - porcelain, plastic, glass, some plain looking and some expensive and exquisite, telling them to help themselves to hot coffee.

When all the seven friends had a cup of coffee in hand, the professor said: “If you noticed, all the nice looking, expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. It is but normal for you to want only the best for yourselves. And that is the source of your problems and stress. What all of you really wanted was coffee, not the cup, but you consciously went for the better cups and are eyeing each other’s cups.”

The professor continued: “Now, if life is coffee, then the jobs, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life, but the quality of life doesn’t change. Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee in it.”

Life is a matter of choice. There are always two sides of a coin. Left and right. Good and bad. Beautiful and ugly. Rich and poor. Each of us is given to be what we want to be. Life is a lot like tennis – the one who can serve best seldom loses.

In The Light in the Heart, author Roy T. Bennett reminded: “Attitude is a choice. Happiness is a choice. Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice. Giving is a choice. Respect is a choice.

Whatever choice you make makes you. Choose wisely.”

popular Palos FAST BACKWARD series with Bonnin as lead actor, Lulu starred in movies such as Casa Grande, Ang Mga Lawin, Palos Kontra Gagamba, El Filibusterismo, and Kardong Kaliwa, to name a few.

Antonio V. Figueroa After marrying hubby Jaime Llora, Lulu accepted only few assignments, two of them the Salamisim and Alex Big Shot, her last movie before deciding to migrate to Australia with her family.

Of course, the Davao entertainment roster also includes William ‘Yam’ Laranas, movie director (‘The Echo’) and cinematographer; actors Justin Simoy (‘Puso ng Pasko’), Marco Alcaraz (‘Pitik Bulag’), Maricar Fernandez (‘U Belt’), Kristine Jaca (‘Tatarin’), Mirla Criste (‘Lost Dog’), Piero Vergara (‘Princess and I’), Jasmine (‘Wandeuk-i’), Rob Sy (‘Amaya’), and Sharmaine Arnaiz (‘Milagros’); actress-singer Malu Barry (nee Marilou Baring) of ‘Minsan Pa’; columnist-actress Juliana Palermo (‘Panaghóy sa Subâ’), and adult porno star Mimi Miyagi (born Melody Damayo) in Sex Trek II: The Search for Sperm.

In the past two decades the roster of Davao talents has expanded to include television-film actress Erich Gonzales (‘Pinta Kasi’), Cassandra Ponti of Tagum City (‘Banal’), television actress Aileen Q. Iwamoto (‘My Monster Mom’), Ryan Ramos (‘Oras na Para Lumaban’), and

actor-television agri-host Ruben Gonzaga who popularized the Budotz Dance.

Behind the silver screen, some Dabawenyos have made a name in American cinema. For instance, Eric S. Calderon is producer of the Japanese-American television film anime titled Afro Samurai: Resurrection (US); Ian S. Tan is with the editorial department of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (US); and John Butiu is a visual effects designer involved in the making of The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.

A key personality that promoted Davao films was Briccio G. Santos {‘Manikang Papel’), son of the former Davao City mayor and former head of the Film Development Center of the Philippines (FDCP). He sired the first Davao Film Festival in the seventies and built the iconic Cinematheque Davao, which exhibits documentaries and short films shot by local talents.

Movie directors such as Palanca playwright Arnel Mardoquio, Charliebeb Gohetia, and Sherad Sanchez have also made a name abroad for their in-depth films.

The rise of independent movie-making in Davao, starting 2003, meanwhile, has earned the region the title as the ‘Hollywood of Mindanao.’ Dax Canedo and Drei Boquiren, both from Davao, started the Guerilla Filmmaking Workshop, an activity for budding local filmmakers, which has snowballed into what is now the Mindanao Film Festival.

Meanwhile, in the realm of recording, Davao contributed a good number of Marcos-era artists whose songs (in 45 and 33 LP vinyl records) became jukebox hits. Romeo Quiñones, a native of Mati, ruled the airwaves with his tribal O Kay Budi (Inday, Come Home) and Al Comendador

of Maa, Davao City, who popularized the Visayan song Pangandoy.

Perhaps the most popular Visayan song to come from Davao is Usahay. It was written and composed by the late police Col. Gregorio R. Labja, a former band leader of the defunct International Harvardian University (IHU) who went on to become regional director for Administration at PNP Camp Catitipan, Davao City. Though born in Sibonga, Cebu, his family permanently settled in Pantukan, Compostela Valley Province.

And who would not know of Datu Bago awardee Joey Ayala of Bagong Lumad, who introduced in the global stage the exotic sounds of tribal instruments and drums from Davao region?

Among the singing ladies from the region who were popular during their heyday were Geraldine, Pauline Sevilla, Ruth Vergara (composer of the Visayan song Buta and member of the group Passionata), and Verni Gonzalez (of the Dalawa Kaming Api fame), to name a few.

In later years, names like Davao City’s Juris Fernandez (of the MYMP duo), guitarist-songwriter Cynthia Alexander, and KZ (Kristine Zhenie) Tandingan of Digos City gained national accolades.

Then there was Jay Durias (of South Border), Jinky Vidal and Carlo Tapia (of Freestyle) and Champ Lui-Po (of Hale). Equally visible and active is Ronulfo ‘Popong’ Landero, a local guitarist and roots reggae musician. When talking about bands, names like South Border, Wadab (Dabaw spelled in reverse), Passionata, Thea, and Brownman Revival, among others, come to mind.

Of thespians and musicians

EDGEDAVAO

10 COMPETITIVE EDGE

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

DOLE: 11 Pinay nurses qualify in Germany’s Triple Win Project

E

ABOITIZ AIDS 4,740 TYPHOON NINA-STRICKEN FAMILIES. Over the holiday season, the Aboitiz Group mobilized its business units in Albay, Mindoro, and Batangas and sent much-needed relief items to families affected by Typhoon Nina, with AP Renewables-Tiwi leading with a pledge of

P1.8 million in canned goods, rice, water, and The Care Package high-energy biscuits in Tiwi, Albay. In addition, AboitizPower Distribution Utilities quickly spearheaded re-electrification efforts in Tiwi, Albay.

Aboitiz brings yuletide cheer to over 4,000 Typhoon Nina-stricken families Nearly P2M pledged for aid over the holidays, with re-electrification efforts underway

T

HE Aboitiz Group, through its corporate foundation Aboitiz Foundation and AboitizPower geothermal unit AP Renewables, Inc. (APRI), has allotted P1.8 million to supply much-needed relief items to families in Tiwi, Albay affected

by Typhoon Nina over the holiday season.

This amount was used to provide canned goods, rice, and water for 4,740 families who represent 60% of APRI-Tiwi’s host barangays.

Also distributed by APRI-Tiwi were The Care Packages,

developed by Aboitiz food business unit Pilmico, which contain 100-gram high-energy biscuits loaded with 450 kilocalories (equivalent to one full meal) each, designed as an efficient disaster relief solution that not only addresses hunger but provides adequate nutrition via a sustainable food supply. This is in addition to the P500,000 worth of The Care Packages donated by Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. to Mindoro via the Office of the Vice President, and the 10 rice sacks donated by AboitizLand to San Juan, Batangas.

Meanwhile, AboitizPower Distribution Utilities Group also organized five gangs (two each from Visayan Electric Co., Inc. and Davao Power & Light Co., Inc., respectively and one from Subic EnerZone Corporation, including a boom truck) to undertake priority power restoration to APRI-Tiwi and surrounding communities.

“Despite the devastation caused by Typhoon Nina, the Aboitiz Group has committed to provide a bit of holiday cheer and goodwill for our partner communities in Tiwi, Albay. We hope this assistance

will allow them to welcome the New Year with optimism and joy,” Maribeth L. Marasigan, First Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

The Aboitiz Foundation is an organization of compassionate service, one that can be counted on to provide assistance to those in need as part of its thrust to promote Health & Well-Being for a BetterWorld. In 2015, the Foundation provided essential relief packs to 4,669 families affected by typhoons throughout the year, with 114 team member volunteers nationwide.

countries with the same demographics and profile, buyer profile,” SMDC Executive Vice President Jose Mari Banzon told reporters.

Banzon said they are looking to construct affordable, five-star amenities in ASEAN countries.

“Similar to what we’re doing (here) --affordable, five-star amenities. So it’s the same business model,” he

said.

SMDC has properties strategically located in key areas across Metro Manila and Tagaytay City. SM Prime, meanwhile, now has six malls in China.

“Most likely when you go overseas, you’d like to work with people who are locals because it is difficult on your own… In other countries, most likely (we will be) in

partnership with locals,” he added.

In the Philippines, Banzon said the residential developer will launch 12 projects comprising 15,000 units to 18,000 units this year, bulk of which are mid-rise buildings (MRBs) located outside Metro Manila.

“The high-rise (segment) continues to be our bread and butter. Our growth (area) is the MRB,” he said. (PNA)

SMDC scouts for opportunities in Southeast Asia

S

M Development Corp.

(SMDC), a subsidiary of property giant SM Prime Holdings, is scouting new business opportunities in Association of Southeast Asian (ASEAN) region, as it expands outside Philippines and China.

“We just really have to have bigger markets. We’ve been very successful here. We want to do the same in other

LEVEN more Filipina nurses passed the recognition examination under the Triple Win Project as Qualified Nurses (Gesundheits-und Krankenpflegerin) in Frankfurt, Germany, Labor Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III said.

The said nurses are now qualified to work in Germany, thus bringing the total number of Filipina nurses who passed the Recognition Examination under the Triple Win Project to 66.

The 11 Filipino nurses who passed the Recognition Examination were: Homer Aliling; Jane Anonuevo; April Diaz; Lizette Gutiza; Krischelle Fenequito; Elizabeth Salomon; Virtue Solis; Reza Canoy; Jo-Ann Zaparilla, Joey Maniaol, and Georgina Musa.

As of September 2016, there were 170 Filipino nurses deployed under the TriRepublic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Applicantion for a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a A TH FREIGHT TRUCK service

Case No. 2016-XI-01783 DANTE D. SUICO, Petitioner

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

NOTICE OF HEARING Applicant requests authority for a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a TH FREIGHT TRUCK SERVICE for the transportation of freight on the route:WITHIN DAVAO CITY AND FROM SAID PLACE TO ANY POINT IN THE ISLAND OF MINDANAO ACCESSIBLE TO MOTOR VEHICLE TRAFFIC AND VICE VERSA with the use of ONE (1) unit.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JANUARY 25, 2017 at 10:10 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

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

SM BEARS OF JOY. SM City Davao surprised kids at the House of Hope and the Cancer Pediatric Ward at the Southern Philippines Medical Center last December 30. The group led by mall manager Lynette Angala-Lopez and

group brand manager Aron Dalaza distributed more than 50 SM Bears of Joy at SPMC. SM Bears of Joy is a project of the SM Cares which allows shoppers to purchase two plush bears—one they keep and the other, for donation.

WITNESS Atty. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-In-Charge, this 16th day of December 2016 at Davao City.

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

ple Win Project. Some 300 nurses are either undergoing language training or awaiting training schedule.

The Triple Win Project started in March 2013 after Germany’s Federal Employment Agency (BA) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) signed a bilateral agreement.

Under the agreement, the BA’s International Placement Services (ZAV) recruits hospital employers willing to support Filipino candidates, while the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) prepares the nurses to be deployed and provides integration services and monitoring of candidates onsite.

The POEA, on the other hand, recruits and deploys qualified nurses whose immediate goal is to fulfil their requirements for recognition and German language proficiency level. (DOLE) Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

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

Case No. 2001-XI-00092-DP EDDIE D. RAMOS, Petitioner

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

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an PUJ DUAL Ordinary Service on the route: TAGUM CITY-BRGY. FLORIDA KAPALONG (DAVAO DEL NORTE) AND VICE VERSA and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on June 6, 2016.. In the petition filed on December 19, 2016, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JANUARY 30, 2017 at 09:10 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

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

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

WITNESS the Honorable TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-InCharge, this 20th day of December 2016 at Davao City.

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

INdulge!

An artistic

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

ARTS AND CULTURE

FAMILY AFFAIR

THE DAVAO MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND ETHNOGRAPHY recently launched a new exhibit featuring Davao City’s artistic families, the Ayala, Bajo, Basa, Edades, and Locsin, with interests ranging from literature, music, architecture, the visual arts and dance at the museum’s Don Antonio O. Floirendo Gallery.

Opened in simple ceremonies with a dance performance by the Locsin Dance Studio and a song presentation by Geejay Arriola, the Davao Arts: All In The Family exhibit catalogues the various contributions of these families to Durianburg’s

URBANISSIMO A2

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ARTS AND CULTURE

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

URBANISSIMO A1 growing art scene from the love expressed by the songs, poems, and paintings by the Ayala family, the expressed movements in dance created by the Locsin family, to the inspiring forms and lines by the Edades family.

On exhibit are various visual works by National artist Victorio Edades, as well as various artistic works by Joan Edades, Joe Ayala, and Tita Ayala.

Also on exhibit are the prototype masks used for Agnes Locsin’s “Moriones”, and the signature silver ballet shoes used by the dances of the Locsin Dance Workshop.

Aside from various art pieces as well as artefacts on display, the exhibit marks the first time the Davao Museum utilised the use of technology to showcase the

different works. From the Samsung tablets, one can browse though various documentary details such as performances by the Locsin Dance Studio, plays by Rolando Bajo, concerts of Joey Ayala, Cynthia Alexander and Geejay Arriola, and photos of the various archi-

tectural masterpieces by Ramon and Renato Basa.

There is also an area where visitors can sit down and watch video documentaries on Victorio Edades, his daughter Joan, Tita Lacambra Ayala, and Bing Locsin for a better understanding on their artistic though pro-

cesses and inspirations.

The Davao Arts: All In The Family exhibit is on now until the end of June at the Davao Museum of History and Ethnography and I highly recommend a visit. The Davao Museum is located at Agusan Circle, Insular Village Phase 1.

EVENT

What Pearl Farm has to offer in 2017 PEARL FARM BEACH RESORT IS UNDENIABLY THE BEST RESORT IN MINDANAO. In fact, it is the only 5-star Resort in the entire region, acquired just in the year of 2016.

2016 is indeed a great year for Pearl Farm Beach Resort.

Within the same year, the Resort won the most prestigious Awards a Hotel Resort could have, namely the Halal-Certified, ASEAN Green, PWDFriendly Awards and the 5-star Rating Plaque.

Pearl Farm oozes the extravagance in designs and of-

fers an extensive range of customer service for years. With the new management, it finally mustered up the confidence to tap Department of Tourism and got ready to receive whatever star rating it deservesand it approvingly deserved the best.

Although it has been a year of transition for the resort, it

rose above the challenges and commits to guarantee that the Guests’ stay is memorable and enjoyable. It jives on to be the crème of the crop.

2017 will be an exciting year for Pearl Farm as it continues to retain its standards in all as-

pects. Pearl Farm promises to add facilities. There may even be a new restaurant to serve both groups and individual travelers. It will still reciprocate the Mindanaoan Culture that it has been uniquely offering. To add, Pearl Farm is

eyeing to accommodate more Guests without risking the exclusivity that they are paying.

The events are also to look out for in the Resort; as rumors’ have it that one of the biggest events in the Philippines will be held in Pearl Farm as well.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

UP AND ABOUT

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INdulge! A3

Healthcare at the digital age

2016 HAS BEEN A YEAR OF ADJUSTMENT AND GROWTH for the country’s healthcare industry. Developments such as the implementation of a universal health coverage through PhilHealth, the strengthened execution of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health (RP-RH) Law, the promotion of mental health education and assistance, and the government’s recent plan to distribute free medicine worth PHP2 billion to marginalized Filipino families show that the Philippines’ health sector is ripe for disruption especially with more focused government spending and investments on the digitization of healthcare.

For a long time, there has been a high demand for treatment and a low supply of accessible and affordable hospitals, equipment, and doctors.

In fact, the ratio of rural doctors to the number of

(L-R) Globe Business Director for Marketing Services Nikka Abes, Healthcare Information Management Association of the Philippines Chairman Jeff Williams, eInnovation Project Lead Monchito Ibrahim, and Healthcare Information Management Association of the Philippines President Beng Coronel give their insights on the rise of healthcare information management in the country.

patients accommodated is 3 is to 100,000, while there are 7 city doctors for every 100,000 patients. On an average, it takes close to an hour or two for families to reach health facilities. Public hospital patients have to deal with overcrowding, while bearing with the pains of recovery.

Even with the presence of medical programs and infrastructures for public use, majority of Filipi-

NOW SHOWING

December 27-30, 2016

SEKLUSYON Rhed Bustamante, Neil Ryan Sese Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

R13

12:25 | 2:20 | 4:15 | 6:10 | 8:05 | 10:00 LFS

ANG BABAE SA SEPTIC TANK 2 Eugene Domingo, Jericho Rosales Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG

12:35 | 2:25 | 4:15 | 6:05 | 7:55 | 9:45 LFS

DIE BEAUTIFUL Paolo Ballesteros Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

R13

12:40 | 3:00 | 5:20 | 7:40 | 10:00 LFS

SAVING SALLY Rhian Ramos, Enzo Marcos Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

PG

12:45 | 3:00 | 5:15 | 7:30 | 9:45 LFS

“

With 24/7 available phone consultation, patients can receive medical assessment for general healthcare inquiries, which lessens the instance of selfmedication that could lead to more severe problems.

nos still shell out money for medicine and other fees, which is why many forgo consultations and opt for self-medication.

The Department of Health (DOH) acknowledges that there is a clear disparity between the quality of service received by those who can afford medical aid and those who cannot.

In its Philippine Health Agenda, DOH unveiled its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for years 2016 to 2022.

These include financial protection and lower healthcare costs, quality medical services both in private and public infrastructures, and a responsive health system.

One of DOH’s many initiatives to achieve its SDGs is an eHealth Strategic Framework, which aims to integrate Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) with health-

care. This allows medical facilities to streamline information systems, make use of electronic medical records, process online submission and receipt of clinical results, automate operations and business processes, and create fast access to data and research for healthcare workers.

For instance, Telemedicine—the use of ICT to connect with patients for immediate treatment—is quickly gaining popularity, especially in the Philippines where many areas are still in great need of accessible healthcare.

Globe supports the SDGs through a partnership with Salud Interactiva. The number one mobile telecommunications company is offering KonsultaMD to both prepaid and postpaid subscribers. The service provides Filipinos with convenient and affordable access to

licensed Filipino doctors. With 24/7 available phone consultation, patients can receive medical assessment for general healthcare inquiries, which lessens the instance of self-medication that could lead to more severe problems.

“Our company’s core purpose is to create wonderful experiences for people. Good health contributes to a better quality of life--and we strongly believe that Filipinos deserve both,” mentioned Mike Frausing, Globe Senior Advisor for Enterprise and IT Enabled Services Group.

Aside from KonsultaMD, Globe has also partnered with ACCESS Health to give maternal and child care services.

In addition to this, the company has made efforts to supply individuals with HIV awareness, counselling referrals, testing, and treatment

programs with the help of the Philippines National Aids Council (PNAC).

Another is Globe Telecom’s HopeLine which is a 24/7 suicide prevention and emotional crisis line wherein customers can call 804-HOPE (4673) or dial 2919 for free.

In creating an easier and more convenient way to contribute and lend aid, Globe also partnered with Philippine General Hospital (PGH) to allow the public to donate funds to the pediatric clinic rehabilitation through their prepaid credits or charged to their postpaid bill.

The company has also made investments in Kickstart projects, such as Lifetrack which allows accessible radiology readings through a software platform, and Medix, a cloud-based clinic management service.

The country’s healthcare industry still has room for improvement and investments are continuing to pour in, especially in the IT-BPM industry where the health sector is the biggest contributor. In fact, it is projected to gain revenue worth US$276 billion by 2021. With the high demand for good medical facilities, the renowned quality of service from Filipino medical professionals, and technology well on its way to advancing the healthcare system, the Philippines is becoming an investment hotspot for global healthcare players.

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

EDGE DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

OCCUPIED... FROM 1

the breakaway group led by Yu and their supporters will be made to account for the destruction of the area, the theft of farm equipment and other facilities that are now being assessed with the help of HEARBCO-1 members and cooperatives’ security guards.

Meanwhile, MARBAI supporter Unyon sa mga Mag-uumang Nagtikad para sa Tinuod nga Reform ang Agraryo (UGMAD-TRA) which formerly occupied the lands set up an encampment outside Madaum

Village to protest on the action of HEARBCO-1 and LFC. In an interview with the local media, spokesperson Antonio Tuyak claimed that LFC security guards who conducted the security sweeping “forcibly took over” the area where they set up their station.

“Some went to the hospital as they were kicked, others lost their wallets and cellphones, and there are also motorcycles which were not returned because they were blocked,” Tuyak added.

nal parent.

The women added that their babies will be fathered by a German, a Nigerian, an Australian, and a Chinese.

The offloaded passengers also bared that another batch of would-be surrogate mothers were scheduled to depart at the NAIA at an undisclosed date, hence the alert order.

A surrogate mother is as

one who bears a child on behalf of another woman, either from her own egg fertilized by the other woman’s partner, or from the implantation in her uterus of a fertilized egg from the other woman.

With this, the BI chief directed personnel at the NAIA to be vigilante in screening Filipino tourists departing for Thailand and Cambodia. (PNA)

4 Filipino... FROM 2

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

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

Case No. 2015-XI-00936 SUSAN M. ALER, Petitioner

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

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service on the route: DALIAON and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on January 9, 2017.. In the petition filed on December 9, 2016, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JANUARY 24, 2017 at 09:10 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

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

WITNESS Atty. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-In-Charge, this 12th day of December 2016 at Davao City.

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

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

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

Case No. 2012-XI-00905 ANTONIO Y. ROM, Petitioner

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

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Service on the route: DIGOS CITY MALALAG (DAVAO DEL SUR) AND VICE VERSA and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on May 21, 2017.. In the petition filed on November 29, 2016, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JANUARY 18, 2017 at 09:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

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

WITNESS Atty TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-In-Charge, this 1st day of December 2016 at Davao City.

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

NEWS 11

EDGEDAVAO

OWWA releases livelihood starter kits O

VERSEAS Workers Welfare Administration Regional Welfare Office VIII released a total of 38 livelihood starter kits in its Balik-Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay Program (BPBH) beneficiaries all over the region.

This program is part of OWWA’s Reintegration Program for the distressed OFWs who were repatriated due to political conflicts in host countries, wars and other distressful situation.

The Regional Welfare Office VIII received a total of 74applications from June up to September 2016.

Qualified beneficiaries of the said program were given a starter kit worth Php10,000.00 and can choose from these livelihood projects: Health and Wellness (massage, cosmetology, spa, reflexology), House Repairs, (plumbing, welding,

Bill... FROM 1

Batangas Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto as the author of House Bill (HB) 2952 pointed out that the proposed LGBT desks in Philippine National Police (PNP) should act on every case involving crimes against chastity, sexual harassment and committed against LGBTs in the Philippines.

“The said bill seeks to create a police organization that is eager and capable of responding to any criminal or emergency incident regardless of the gender orientation of the people involved,” said Santos-Recto.

Santos-Recto added that PNP should be mandated to ensure gender neutrality of its human resources, from recruitment and selection to promotion and deployment of police officers to complement the help desks.

Antipolo Representative Reynaldo Acop, chairman of the public order committee, said that HB 2952 would be incorporated in the existing laws on the subject to “ensure its smooth passage.”

The bill seeks to amend Title VII of Republic Act 8551, also known as the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998, to “Creation of Women’s, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Desks in All Police Stations and the Formulation of a Gender Sensitivity Program.”

The committee, in a previous hearing, agreed with National Police Commission (Napolcom) to establish the LGBT help and protection desks in all PNP stations in the country through a memorandum order or resolution to be issued by the Napolcom instead of a new law to be passed by Con-

electrical servicing, appliance repair), Food Processing (native snack preparation and other food and beverage preparation), Personal Accessories Repair &Maintenance, Handicraft, Priority goods under One-Town-OneProducts scheme and Agriculture-related projects.

Before these livelihood starter kits were released, OWWA RWO VIII see to it

that the beneficiaries have the necessary social preparations and gave them a oneday Entrepreneurial Development Training to aid with business planning and enhanced their business management skills.

The training was conducted into three different batches last November 9, 10 and 11, 2016 through the help of the Department of

Trade and Industry-Province of Leyte.

This year a total of 182Balik-Pinas, Balik-Hanapbuhay applications were received by the Regional Welfare Office VIII and 131 starter kits were already released.

OWWA continues to implements responsive program that will help uplift the welfare and interest of every OFW. (OWWA)

gress.

involved in the Sept. 2 bombing in Davao City.

The incident killed 15 persons and wounded 70 others.

The suspects have professed affiliation with the Lanao Del Sur-based Maute Group.

Padilla said the AFP will continue cooperating with the PNP regarding law enforcement operations until threats posed by the ASG, Maute Group and the BIFF are totally neutralized.

“Definitely the AFP rates itself as having successfully dealt with all these local terrorist groups and these efforts

of the Armed Forces prevented many violent activities from being conducted within these communities,” he added.

“We will continue to conduct focused military operations but at the same time we will work with local government units so that they can effectively reach out to these individuals and perhaps convince them to have a change of heart so that as one nation we can work together for the upliftment of the lives of our citizens instead of having these conflicts,” Padilla stressed.

(PNA)

dom checkpoints in the entire city to ensure the safety of every Davaoeṅos enjoying the festivity.

“The entire celebration was safe and secure since everybody coordinated and we have intensified our entire

security measures to avoid terrorism from entering the city,” Neri said.

It can be recalled that the recent bombing in Hilongos, Leyte has the same bomb signature used in the Davao blast.

during the recent holidays. “(Some people in the provinces) had the impression that somehow they would be caught and punished if they use fireworks or firecrackers,” she said.

The health chief further said that the proposed EO would help the authorities monitor the indiscriminate firing of guns during the New Year revelry.

Without firecrackers, it would be easier to hear the shots from guns, she said,

pointing out that many victims and their families have admitted that they were surprised to learn that they were injured by stray bullets.

As of 6 a.m. Tuesday, the health department has recorded a total of 581 fireworks-related injuries. The figure is lower by 323 or 36 percent compared to the same period last year. More than 50 percent of the injuries however involved children, the youngest of whom was barely one year old. (PNA)

water supply projects. Of these, 643 are completed, 30 are on-going implementation, and 5 are on procurement stage.

He added that another P2.136 billion was allotted for the implementation of 1,075 BuB-water supply projects in 2014. Of these, 734 are completed, 253 are on-going implementation, 65 on procurement stage, 21 with approved initial documents, and 2 are under

preparation of initial documents.

For the 2015 program, 1,145 projects amounting to P2.791 billion was programmed by the DILG. A total of 445 projects out of these have been completed, 390 are on-going implementation, 143 on procurement stage, 135 with approved initial documents, and 32 are on preparation of initial documents. (DILG)

However, Santos-Recto on the second hearing argued that the amendment of the law would provide long-term protection to the LGBT community.

“Coming up with a memorandum order with a resolution is good because this will provide an urgent response to the discrimination problem faced by the LGBTs, but we have to think long-term.

It is easier to release a memorandum order compared to amendment and law. We only want to push the full protection for the LGBTs not only for this term. We hope that it will be permanent, not only through resolution but through law. I hope this committee will support this endeavor,” Santos-Recto said.

Santos-Recto added that there is still discrimination against the members of the LGBT sector despite several constituents of the LGBT sector are more open.

Acop mentioned that the approval of the bill is subject to the requirement that the PNP and that the authorized representative of the Lesbian and Gay Legislative Advocacy Network (LAGABLAB) and Santos-Recto would make sure that the similar amendments to existing laws will be incorporated in the substitute bill.

Santos-Recto stated that she would coordinate with the committee on women and gender equality regarding the title of the act on what should be appropriately included when referring to gender.

“It’s just a matter of harmonizing terms,” she pointed out.

Grenade... FROM 4 vice mayor of Arakan, was driving his motorbike in Barangay Doroluman when he collided with another motorist, identified as Emilio Aringo, student of Coabato Foundation College for Science and Technology.

Canario sustained head

serious injuries since he was not using crash helmet while Aringo sustained minor injuries. The former town official was declared dead on arrival in the hospital.

Traffic police are still determining who was at fault.

(PNA)

AFP... FROM 3

Safe... FROM 3

DOH... FROM 3

DILG... FROM 6

EDGEDAVAO

12 SUBURBIA Caraga police to file raps vs. violators of pyrotechnics law

A

PPROPRIATE cases are set to be filed in court today, Monday against the identified possible violators of selling and distribution of firecrackers and pyrotechnics prohibited under Republic Act 7183 in Region 13, according to Caraga Philippine National Police chief PCSupt.

Rolando B. Felix.

A large volume of assorted prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnics representing the confiscations during the Christmas season of the yuletide and New Year celebrations were presented for inspection by the regional police here.

This, even as the Caraga Police announced a reduced number of injured victims and “zero” case of indiscriminate firing and stray bullet injuries during the height of the revelries on Sunday afternoon.

The confiscated items presented for inspection

by PCSupt. Felix at the police regional headquarters grandstand, Camp Rafael C. Rodriguez, this city, consisted of assorted firecrackers and pyrotechnics such as Picolo, Giant Kwitis, 5-Star OG, imported Baby Rocket, Pop Pop, Super Lolo, Watusi and Big Mega, which were confiscated from the cities of Bayugan and Butuan.

The confiscated items from the cities of Surigao, Bislig, town of Prosperidad and other areas were left at

the disposition of their local police as these will be used as part of the pieces of evidence during the filing of cases.

The total volume of confiscated firecrackers and pyrotechnics in the region, according to the PNP regional chief, reached 563,188 pieces.

Also, he announced a reduction by 57 percent of the number of firecracker-related injuries, as this year records only 15 as compared to 35 during the same period of last year.

All of the cases were minor injuries and were treated out of the medical facilities, police said. CSupt. Felix clarified however that their report is unofficial as only DOH can issue the official report on the matter.

The police here in Caraga also announced a “zero” case of indiscriminate firing and stray bullet victims as of noon on January 1.

“The community reported and cooperated to the call of the authorities for the safe Yuletide and New Year celebration and (the success was) also due to the relentless pro-active measures conducted by the Department of Health and the local government units including the help of the media in information dissemination on the campaign against the use of illegal firecrackers in greeting the New Year,” Felix also said.

(PNA)

SoCot to strengthen process of selecting prov’l workers

I

N a bid to ensure the hiring of competent and competitive workers, the provincial government of South Cotabato is pushing for more reforms this year in its selection process for prospective employees.

Alex Basco, provincial human resources office chief, said Tuesday the provincial selection board is currently working on the implementation of additional requirements for the hiring of new workers.

He said these requirements will be included in the amendments that it will introduce to the existing provincial ordinance governing the selection process.

“The board is also pushing for the stricter compliance by the applicants of the necessary requirements,” he said.

Basco said the proposed amendments include the mandatory neuro-psychological examination for new applicants of plantilla positions.

Previously, applicants were only required to undergo drug tests as well as skills and competency examination, he said.

For applicants in job order positions, Basco clarified that they will not be required to undergo the neuro-psychological exam.

He said they will be subjected to drug test and skills or competency exam by the concerned offices.

Applicants for driver positions and workers of projects under the Provincial Engineer’s Office are required to present National Certificates II or NC-II and other related documents requirements from the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority, he said.

Basco said applicants for positions under the Provincial Security Unit and Provincial Jail are required to present their security licenses.

The official said the board will come out within the week with a resolution detailing the proposed amendments for approval by South Cotabato Governor Daisy Avance-Fuentes.

The amendments will later be sent to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for concurrence and to the Civil Service Commission for final approval.

Basco said the continuing reforms in the selection process are in line with the provincial government’s promotion of the “Integrity in Jobs” or I-4J Project.

“We would like to ensure that all applicants who are hired are physically, mentally and emotionally competent to work,” he added. (PNA)

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

Hydro plant to boost investments in DavOr

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

A

adlopez0920@gmail.com

PROPOSED 16 megawatt hydropower plant that will be established in the province of Davao Oriental is seen to boost further the province’s business climate and investments.

Governor Nelson Dayanghirang dubbed the proposed project as a major breakthrough of the provincial government’s continuing efforts to bring in huge investments that will spur local economic growth.

In a statement, Dayanghirang said the hydropower plant will be established by a private power generating company.

The governor opted not to reveal as of press time the name of the private firm as negotiations and preparations are still being facilitated.

“The project will tap the energy of water flowing in the vast Sumlog River in Lupon town that will create renewable source of energy enough to meet residential and ultimately industrial needs in the province,” Dayanghirang pointed out.

He described the project as promising as it will help create a sustainable economic

growth through employment in Davao Oriental.

The project, he added, will also ensure that the biodiversity surrounding the river will be preserved.

He stressed that the project is part of his administration’s agenda as specified in the crafted Executive-Legislative Agenda and the on-going six-year successor plan for 2017-2022.

Projects incorporated in the plan will ensure that eco-tourism, environment protection, health, and social services will be strengthened in the province.

He also called on his constituents for support especially in all undertakings that are

aimed to bring in progress and development in the province.

“Pragmatically, my optimism is drawn from the support of my dear constituents and those from our ever-dependable stakeholders,” Dayanghirang said.

He also recognized the previous administration of former governor Corazon Malanyaon for setting up the pattern and blueprint for development in Davao Oriental.

What the former administration had started and implemented will be continued and sustained under the new leadership in the province, he added.

Malanyaon now serves as representative of the first con-

gressional district of Davao Oriental.

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

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

Case No. 2014-XI-00649 JACINTO Z. REFUGIO, Petitioner

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

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an PUJ DUAL Ordinary Service on the route: BUNAWAN VIA SASA and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on January 30, 2017.. In the petition filed on December 5, 2016, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JANUARY 17, 2017 at 10:20 a.m. at this office at the above address.

BAD WEATHER. Fishermen brave the strong currents and winds in Davao Gulf on Tuesday morning as unfavourable weather condition continue to affect most provinces in the region including Davao City and the Island Garden City of Samal. (Alexander D. Lopez)

Pagadian police chief sacked for taping cops’gun muzzles T

HE local police chief has been relieved from his post for disobeying orders from the highest official of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Relieved as city police chief was Supt. Michael Palermo. He was replaced by Supt. Kiram Jimlani, the former deputy provincial director for operations and chief of the intelligence division.

Senior Supt. Sofronio

Ecaldre, provincial police director, on Monday told the Philippines News Agency that Palermo was relieved as he ordered the taping of the gun muzzles of policemen contrary to the order of Director-General Ronald Dela Rosa, the PNP chief.

Dela Rosa has stopped the taping of the gun muzzles before Christmas Day, citing such practice did not prevent indiscriminate firing of guns by po-

licemen in past Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Dela Rosa decided to forgo the tapping of the gun muzzles to show to the Filipinos that the policemen are more disciplined under his stewardship.

Ecaldre said Palermo ordered the taping of gun muzzles of the local policemen despite the directive from Dela Rosa, thus, he was relieved from his post effective December 31, 2016. (PNA)

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

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

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

WITNESS Atty. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-In-Charge, this 6th day of December 2016 at Davao City.

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

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 13

PNP-12 unveils modern training facility I

N a bid to enhance the performance and capabilities of its personnel, the Police Regional Office (PRO)-12 unveiled a “state-of-the-art” training facility at the regional headquarters here.

Chief Supt. Cedrick Train, Region 12 police director, said Tuesday the new facility will mainly serve as “incubator” of police commissioned and non-commissioned officers

in the region who have high potentials of assuming leadership roles or positions in the future.

Dubbed Makatarungan Training Complex, the facility was formally inaugurated on Monday in a ceremony joined

by Interior and Local Government Secretary Ismael Sueno, local government officials and other stakeholders in Region 12.

P2,000 SSS pension hike being studied by Pres. Duterte

P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has decided to study first the proposal to increase the pension of the Social Security Service (SSS) pensioners by P2,000 upon the recommendation of his economic managers, Palace Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said on Monday.

“The President is looking for a win-win solution where

he can give pensioners the increase they have been asking for while that SSS will remain solvent at all times,” Andanar said in a text message.

“As the President said, he does not want to use taxpayers’ money, especially money of non-SSS members, should funding problem arises because of the increase,” he added. (PNA)

She said they will do more promotions for Davao and Mindanao.

Teo also said they expect more tourism-related investments to come to Davao. In fact, she noted, a team of investors from China came to the city to visit the sites referred to them.

Teo did not give details

on this, but she said the investors already checked on the area early December last year where their requirement is about 300 hectares.

She said they prefer beach line properties where they could build hotels and put up other related tourism establishments. (PNA)

DOT... FROM 6

Train said called the training complex as the “regional incubator for police excellence.”

He said the facility is considered “a first in the entire” in terms of the implementation of the “incubation program.”

“We will train our police personnel there on various competencies and skills to further develop their potentials for higher responsibilities, as

well as improve their performance,” he said.

The police official said the facility, which was constructed within the PRO-12 compound in Barangay Tambler here, features a firearms training simulator donated by the United States Embassy in Manila.

He said it also hosts a classroom and a mini-theatre that are outfitted with various modern equipment.

GIVE LOVE, FEEL LOVE. Hedcor’s volunteer-employees spent the last working day of the year with happy hearts as they made some of the elders in Care for The Elderly Foundation felt the love and care of a family by remembering and giving them smiles and warmth this season. Hedcor’s Labor Management Cooperation serenaded the elderly

Train said the training facility was constructed through pooled local resources and without any funding from the Philippine National Police central office.

He said they received material and funding support for the project from concerned private individuals and local government units (LGUs).

These include the LGUs of Cotabato City, General Santos

City, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani.

For the construction works, he said they utilized their personnel who have backgrounds in engineering and those who are skilled in carpentry, masonry and building electrical systems.

“Labor was free and we did not purchase a single hollow block as they were all made by our personnel,” he said. (PNA)

brothers and sisters with classic songs. The volunteers also served as Santa’s Christmas elves as they packed and turned over bags full of essentials for aged people such as disposable diaper, toilet tissue, toothbrush, toothpaste, antibacterial soap, alcohol, plus packaged snacks to the foundation. This is the Hedcor way of ending a good year.

14

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

BIG BUCKS T Manny wants $20M to fight Crawford

SPORTS 15

CDO netter advances

M

ANNY Pacquiao reportedly is willing to fight Terence Crawford next, but only if promoter Bob Arum guarantees him a $20 million purse.

Crawford has sought a fight against Pacquiao for more than a year, but thus far the Filipino superstar has avoided facing the undefeated WBC/WBO super lightweight champion.

Michael Koncz, Pacquiao’s longtime adviser, told the Manila Bulletin for a story posted Monday that Pacquiao (596-2, 38 KOs) is willing to face Crawford (30-0, 21 KOs) if the price is right.”

“If it’s Crawford that Top Rank wants for Manny Pacquiao, then we’ll fight Crawford,” Koncz said. “But we want a guarantee of $20 million.”

The 38-year-old Pacquiao accepted a lower guarantee for his November 5 victory over Jessie Vargas largely because, other than his incomparable pay-per-view fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr., Pacquiao’s pay-per-view numbers have decreased in recent years.

According to contracts filed with the Nevada State Athletic Commission, Pacquiao’s guarantee for the

Jimmy Butler rose above the Hornets time and again on Monday. (AP)

BIG FIGHT. Manny Pacquiao (left) and Terence Crawford (right) could be in for an April showdown.

Vargas fight was $4 million, though he presumably made much more from his share of pay-per-view revenue, ticket sales and other revenue streams.

Koncz also told the Manila Bulletin that Pacquiao’s next fight must take place in April because that’s when the Philippine senator will have a break from his full-time job as a politician.

The Philippine Senate is scheduled to take a break from mid-March until May 2, according to Khan. Arum told BoxingScene.com last month that he was considering push-

ing back Pacquiao’s return until June.

Koncz said fighting in June won’t work for Pacquiao because the Philippine senate will be in session by then.

Pacquiao trained for the Vargas fight while the Philippine Senate was in session in the fall, but it was difficult even for the energetic Pacquiao to maintain such a hectic pace.

“It was a demanding schedule,” Koncz said, “because after his Senate work, he had to go to the gym and train.” Arum, Pacquiao’s longtime promoter, expects to visit Pacquiao in the Philippines

soon.

He plans to have a deal consummated for Pacquiao’s next bout before he returns to the United States. The 29-yearold Crawford, who dominated John Molina Jr. (29-7, 23 KOs) en route to an eighth-round technical knockout December 10 in his hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, hopes Pacquiao finally is willing to fight him.

“That’s up to Bob Arum, my managers and my coaches,” Crawford told HBO’s Max Kellerman in the ring after stopping Molina. “Of course I would love to fight Pacquiao, but it’s a business.”

HERE was a funny moment midway through the fourth quarter of the Chicago Bulls’ Monday night meeting with the Charlotte Hornets. Bulls star Jimmy Butler, who had played 32 minutes through three quarters, came off the bench with just over six minutes left in the game and Chicago trailing by four. As he walked onto the court, though, he realized he hadn’t yet taken his shooting shirt off.edge Butler laughed, tossed off the warm-up gear and checked into the game. It

wasn’t quite as iconic as stepping into a phone booth and ripping off your suit, but the results were about the same.

Butler absolutely dominated the end of this game, outscoring the Hornets by himself 17-11 over the final 6:21, including a dagger jumper with 32 seconds left and some clutch free throws in the final half-minute to lead the Bulls to a 118-111 victory over the visiting Hornets. He finished with a season-high 52 points — just one point off his career high, set nearly one year ago — to go with 12 rebounds, six assists, three steals and a block in 38 minutes of work. He completely carried a Bulls club playing without starting shooting guard Dwyane Wade, who

OP seed Gennifer Pagente of Cagayan de Oro cruised into the next round of the 28th Andrada Cup Junior Tennis Championships after posting a 6-0, 6-0 victory over Justine Alvarado, 6-0, 6-0, on Monday at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.

Pagente, double champion in the PSC-Philta event last December, will be up against No. 8 Justine Maneja, who scored a 6-3, 6-1 win over Lila Salvacion.

Other matches saw third seed Micaella Vicencio winning over Trish Romero, 6-0, 6-0, and unranked Crystal Mildwaters elimianating fourth seed Blanche Lagrisola, 6-1, 6-0.

Meanwhile, Julia Ignacio outplayed Frenchesca Elise Cruz, 6-4, 6-4; Kryshana Brazal rallied past Mica Ella Emana, 6-0, 2-6, 10-7; and Bettina Catoto downed

Trish Romero, 6-0, 6-1 to advance in the next round of the Group 1 tournament supported by former Philta vice president Manuel Misa of Altamar Shipping, Thaddeus Sporting Goods and official ball Babolat.

In the boys’ 16-under division, Daniel Estanislao outplayed Lucas Fernandez, 6-3, 7-5; Jerome Ignacio prevailed over Keno Enriquez, 6-1, 6-0; and Jeremiah Macias IV won over Sam Mamaril, 6-2, 6-3.

Other winners were Shant Nuguit over Keno Enriquez, 6-1, 6-0 and Marco Macalintal over Ezequiel Jicutan, 3-6, 6-4, 10-6, in the boys’ 14-under category while in the boys’ 12-under category, the winners were Lance Fernandez over Joshua Diva, 6-2, 6-2; Sherwin Nuguit over Ethan Gunida, 6-0, 6-2; and Chad Cuizon over Kidlat Estogero, 6-3, 6-0.

(PNA)

Green’s triple double keys GSW win

E

was sidelined by swelling in his left knee, and point guard Rajon Rondo, who picked up another DNP-CD as head coach Fred Hoiberg continues to go with young point guards Michael Carter-Williams and Jerian Grant over the veteran.

With the exception of a lone long ball on a four-point play to give Chicago a onepoint lead midway through the third quarter, Butler did his damage the old-fashioned way, knocking down 15 of his 24 field-goal attempts — 7-for-9 at the rim, 6-for-8 from midrange — and going a remarkable 21-for-22 at the foul line on his way to the third half-a-hundred-hanging in less than a week, and the eighth of the 2016-17 NBA season.

VERYBODY on the bench kept reminding Draymond Green in the final few minutes, ‘’One more rebound, one more rebound.’’

He figured they had jinxed him.

Then he blocked out and secured that last board for a putback with 28.9 seconds left to give him his second triple-double of the season, also getting 15 points and 13 assists to lead the balanced Golden State Warriors past the Denver Nuggets 127-119 on Monday night.

As much as the Golden State starters have sat through the fourth quarter during blowouts this season, Green has had fewer chances at triple-doubles and still come close. ‘’No, I don’t care at all. It’s not really a focus of mine,’’ Green insisted. ‘’Trust me, if I cared I’d have a lot more than what I have - one? - this year.’’

Klay Thompson had 25 points to lead six Warriors in double figures, while Stephen Curry scored 22 points in Golden State’s eighth straight home victory.

Kevin Durant scored 21 points, Zaza Pachulia reached double digits for the third time with 11 points and nine rebounds, while Ian Clark came off the bench to score 12 points. ‘’At the end of the day we can all just miss and let Draymond clean it up,’’ Curry quipped.

Durant had a triple-double

Friday against Dallas and the consecutive triple-doubles by different players were a first for the franchise, the Warriors said according to The Elias Sports Bureau. ‘’He does that for us every night,’’ Durant said of Green’s steady stat line.

The Warriors also reached 30 assists for the third straight game and NBA-best 24th time total. Golden State is the first team in NBA history to win 30 of its first 35 games in three consecutive seasons.

Wilson Chandler and Nikola Jokic scored 21 points apiece to lead Denver, which matched the star-studded Warriors for most of the first half. Golden State shot 56.3 percent and the Nuggets 54.2.

Chandler’s 3-pointer with 8:13 to play cut the Golden State lead to 104-98 before Andre Iguodala dunked on the other end moments later.

Curry had seven 3s in the last meeting against Denver on Nov. 10, but went 3 for 9 from long range. He moved into sole possession of 15th place in NBA history for career 3-pointers (1,722), passing Dale Ellis (1,719) - with Curry saying, ‘’I vaguely remember him as a player and it’s kind of cool every so often when you get another notch on that list that name that you do pass and kind of getting a look back into the history books.’’

Defending the 3-point line was a top priority for Denver, which also is still working to finish out games.

This was announced over the weekend by national coach Cesar Lobramonte, who has submitted the names of Salamat, Avegail Rombaon, Irish Wong, Tomas Mojares and Aidanjames Mendoza to the Bahrain Cycling Association.

The Asian Cycling Championships will have two competitions, namely the 37th Asia Road Race Elite Cycling

Championships and the 24th Asian Road Junior Championships. Both tournaments feature Individual Time Trial (ITT), Criterium and Road Massed Start events.

Salamat and Rombaon will see action in the elite tournament while Wong, Mojares and Mendoza will join the junior tournament.

Lobramonte said the cyclists are gearing up for their

month-long training in Bugallon, Pangasinan, where Salamat is also based. The national coach noted the hot and windy weather in Bugallon is similar to Bahrain’s weather.

The last time the Philippines won a medal at the Asian Road Championship was in 2011, courtesy of Rustom Lim’s bronze in the road massed start junior division.

(PNA)

Butler torches Hornets with 52 T

5-man PH squad to see action in Bahrain bikefest

A

FIVE-MEMBER team led by Marella Salamat will compete in the Asian Cycling Championships slated to be held on Feb. 24 to March 3 in Bahrain.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports HE’S BACK. Roger Federer returned to tennis after a spate of injuries and looked good in leading Swizerland past Greta Britain in a teamup with Belinda Bencic.

Hopman Cup photos

VOL. 9 ISSUE 226 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017

BACK IN THE GROOVE Federer impressive in first match in six months

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

P

ERTH, Australia -- Not even the six-month layoff with knee and back injuries nor the scorching Perth weather could dampen Roger Federer’s return to tennis.

The Swiss legend walked into the biggest crowd ever in Hopman Cup history and won in straight sets on Monday beating Great Britain’s Dan Evans 6-3, 6-4 in the mixed team

njb@edgedavao.net

event.

The seventeen-time grand slam winner marked his long-awaited comeback with a sterling performance on a blistering afternoon that had highs of 38 degrees.

The 35-year-old Swiss, representing his nation in the 29-year old tournament he first won in 2001, disposed off the game Birmingham native 6-3 6-4 in a match that lasted an hour and three minutes.

Federer missed the past six months with knee and back injuries but he showed no signs of rust as he

opened the singles showdown with an ace, then broke Evans in the sixth game of the first set that lasted only 28 minutes.

Evans, ranked no. 3 in Great Britainn, yielded Federer the match by dropping his serve in the second-set opener and half an hour later as the legendary Swiss put one point on the board for Switzerland.

Federer’s teammate Belinda Bencic completed a sweep of the singles matches after turning back a tough Heather Watson in three sets 7-5 3-6 6-2 to lead the Group A session.

The Swiss duo then iced the tie with a masterful 4-0 4-1 win in the mixed doubles for a clean 3-0 sweep.

A record-breaking crowd of 13,684 erased the previous biggest session attendance in the tournament’s 29-year history of 13,509 set in 2013.

The results:

Monday 2 January Day: France d Germany 2-1 Andrea Petkovic (GER) d Kristina Mladenovic (FRA) 6-2 6-1 Richard Gasquet (FRA) d Alexander Zverev (GER) 7-5 6-3 Mladenovic / Gasquet d Petkovic / Zverev 4-2 4-1

Night: Switzerland d Great Britain 3-0 Roger Federer (SUI) d Dans Evans (GBR) 6-3 6-4 Belinda Bencic (SUI) d Heather Watson (GBR) 7-5 3-6 6-2 Bencic / Federer d Watson / Evans 4-0 4-1

Tuesday 3 January Day: USA d Spain 2-0 CoCo Vandeweghe (USA) d Lara Arruabarrena 6-2 6-4 Jack Sock (USA) d Feliciano Lopez 3-6 6-2 6-3 Vandeweghe /Sock v Arruabarrena / Lopez