Edge Davao 9 Issue 269

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 269 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 5 - 6, 2017

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Serving a seamless society

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES WITHOUT LET-UP. A member of Task Force Davao inspects a passenger bus at a checkpoint in Binugao, Toril yesterday. TF Davao stepped up its monitoring and security measures in preparation for the celebration of the 80th Araw ng Davao when an influx of visitors is expected to arrive in the city. Lean Daval Jr.

ALARMING

As number of killed peasant leaders rises to 12 Compostela opens 10th ‘Bulawan’ fest

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

LARMS are raised as the number of peasant leaders killed rose to 12 this year. The latest incident was recorded in Compostela Valley province where a peasant couple was mercilessly slaughtered inside their residence by unidentified armed men on Thursday, March 2.

Among those who denuonced the spate of killings was Secretary Rafael “Ka Paeng” Mariano of the Department of Agrarian Reform.

Secretary Mariano believes that most of the cases of killings of peasant leaders in the country are connected to land disputes.

The secretary has ordered DAR offices in all of the involved regions to resolve the agrarian disputes in the area.

He also assured farmers that DAR is laying down all appropriate measures to settle the land problems and prevent further injuries and casualties.

The latest case recorded was the killing of couple Leon-

ela Tapdasan Pesadilla, 55 and her husband Ramon Dagaas Pesadilla, 59, residents of Gawad Kalinga Housing Project in Barangay Osmeña, Compostela town, Compostela Valley.

Report from human rights group Karapatan in Southern Mindanao said the Pesadillas were gunned down by two unidentified gunmen who forcibly entered into their residence 9:00 p.m. Thursday.

The couple are members of Compostela Valley Farmers Association (CFA). They also donated a parcel of land for the lumad school SALUGPUNGAN TA TANU IGKANUGON LEARNING CENTER (STTI) in

Spur Dos (2), Barangay Ngan, Compostela town.

Both Leonela and Ramon expressed full support and joined the Madaum Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association, Inc. (MARBAI) in reclaiming the 145-hectare banana plantation from the Lapanday Foods Corp. since December 2016.

More Numbers But the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas said that since January this year, 18 farmers were already killed, as they blamed the Armed Forces of the Philippines and its program “Oplan Kapayapaan” to be responsible to the increase of the number of killings of farmers, activists and lumad leaders.

“Farmers and Lumad who assert genuine land reform are either killed, harassed and vilified,” said KMP Secretary

General Antonio Flores in a statement to the media.

Flores also called on the Presidential Agrarian Reform Council and Malacañang to act on the cases of killings of peasant leaders.

“We cannot just go on counting dead bodies. This merciless killing of farmers has to stop,” he pointed out.

Flores particularly asked PARC to look into the killings that are related to the victims’ defense of the land and advocacy for genuine land reform and the AFP’s all-out war declaration and intense military operations.

The group added that based on their documentations, killings of peasant leaders, from February to March, occurred in the provinces of Bukidnon, Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, Capiz, Quezon Compostela Valley and North Cotabato.

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HE province of Compostela Valley officially opened the 10th “Bulawan” Festival and the 19th Founding Anniversary of the province on Saturday, March 4.

The five-day annual celebration will feature series of activities and programs aimed to provide fun, excitement and services to the people of Compostela Valley.

Compostela Valley Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy with

Vice Governor Manuel “Way Kurat” Zamora and Senior Board Member Arturo Uy led the provincial and municipal officials during the opening ceremony in a motorcade and float parade in Poblacion Nabunturan.

A Trade Fair and Jewelry Expo were also opened during the first day of the festivities.

The festivity is expected to draw more than 7,000 lo-

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GC HANGING Davao salvages TOUGH 3rd, Apo 7th P16

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 269 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 5 - 6, 2017

DIGONG COMFORTS. President Rodrigo Duterte extends financial assistance to soldiers injured in a clash with the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu. The President also gave the wounded soldiers cellphones and Glock .45 pistols during his visit at Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Sulu on Friday. Presidential Photo

AdDU students rock and roll for a cause F OURTH year mass communication students of Ateneo de Davao University organized a battle of the bands event for a cause at Taboan, Matina Town Square on Friday, March 3.

Youthopia: Battle of the Bands under Domino Productions was held for the benefit of the Children’s Village at Bahay Pag-asa which is a rehabilitation home for children in conflict with law or those who were once involved and victimized by illegal drugs.

“Youthopia aims to help the children and inspire them. Gusto namin iparating sa kanila na hindi pa huli ang lahat at may pag-asa pa,”

Domino Productions head Joyce Mariel Mondejar said.

The event was open to all aspiring band groups in Davao. Out of the nine (9) participating bands, three bands were chosen to have performed the best, namely: Convene, Juna and Crayons who were awarded Second Runner-Up, First Runner-Up and Champion, respectively.

Domino Productions are still accepting donations of all kinds (e.g toys, clothes, monetary) for the Bahay Pag-asa until March 11. Interested donors may contact them their e-mail address at dominoproductions2017@gmail. com or their contact number 0943 405 3270.

Killing of volunteer doctor condemned

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

KBAYAN Senator Risa Hontiveros on Saturday joined the various sectors who expressed condemnation to the killing of volunteer doctor Dreyfuss Perlas, describing the incident as “heartbreaking and infuriating loss to the medical profession and to the community of Lanao del Norte.”

“I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Dreyfuss Perlas.

He was an idealistic young man who wanted to push for meaningful change,” Hontiveros said in a press statement.

Perlas, 31, was shot by unidentified gunmen Wednesday night, March 1, while riding his motorbike In Barangay Maranding Annex.

Reports said he was rushed to Lanao del Norte Provincial Hospital but was declared dead upon arrival.

“The loss of Dr. Perlas is nothing short of tragic. He is the latest victim of the culture of killing and impunity that has engulfed the country. We have few enough bright young doctors who are willing to serve in the provinces. I urge the

authorities to identify his killers and bring them to justice,” Hontiveros added.

Perlas had been working under the Doctors to the Barrios (DTTB) program, and was assigned in Lanao del Norte.

Hontiveros said that Perlas had the opportunity to return to his home province of Aklan, but chose to stay in Lanao del Norte even after his contract expired three years ago.

“No one is safe anymore.

Even those who are silently and selflessly working for the promotion of universal health-

care are not spared from an assassin’s bullet,” Hontiveros stressed, adding that the culture of death has already reached the health sector.

She also urged the health community to express their strong indignation against the killing of Perlas, stating that: “The current climate of violence under the Duterte government poses a serious threat to the people’s access to public health, and a mortal danger to the lives of health workers. We cannot allow this climate to continue unchanged.”

willing to talk once more with the NPAs. “I’m open to talk to the rebels, just not the killers. I’m ready to talk and I’m ready to stop this war. I would prefer for us to not have war, but we need to talk from the heart,” he said.

The President also said that communication and good intention are vital steps towards peace.

“I’m ready so long as we communicate well. I’m ready to resume the ceasefire again, but this time I want it to be sincere. Back then, there was a

ceasefire but my soldiers were killed. I’m ready to resume the ceasefire again so long as it is working towards peace,” he said.

When asked, President Duterte said his plans for peace negotiations with the NPA would include three requests from the rebel group -the release of hostages, the halt to revolutionary taxes, as well as asking of favors.

“They have to release all policemen, army, everyone from the government. They should release them all. Second, they should stop asking

for revolutionary tax. Third, they should stop asking for things. They’re burning a lot of things now and we’ll never meet each other half way if that’s the case,” he said.

President Duterte said he feels very deeply about the turmoil.

“It pains me to see Filipinos fighting against fellow Filipinos. I just want peace.”

He also said that no one wins in a war. “For me, no one will win. If we Filipinos fight against fellow Filipinos, nobody wins. The nation, the Philippines loses.” (PNA)

Inday Sibala,‘People Power’gov of Davao Oriental, dies at age 89 Duterte open to resumption of peace talks with CPP-NPA-NDF

By FERDINAND ZUASOLA

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ITY of Mati, Davao Oriental --- Josefina “Inday” Cunanan-Sibala, who was appointed governor of Davao Oriental by the late former President Corazon Aquino, has passed away on February 24 last month. She is 89 years old when she passed away due to old age, according to her family and friends.

When Corazon Aquino assumed presidency after a successful People Power revolution, she appointed Sibala as OIC governor of the province of Davao Oriental from March

25, 1986 to 1987. Antonio Olmedo was appointed OIC vice governor on the same year.

Governor Sibala was one of the “fearless leaders” in Davao Oriental who actively organized the anti-Marcos protests in the province, according to former Mayor Pedro Mejos of Banaybanay town, who is one of Sibala’s few remaining contemporaries. Hundreds of people including government employees have attended a necrological rites for Sibala held on March 2 at the Provincial Capitol. F INDAY, 11

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RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte is once again open to the resumption of the peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDF).

The President said this in an interview at the Camp Edilberto Evangelista Chapel when he visited Friday the wake of two soldiers who were killed in action in an encounter with NPA rebels on Feb. 27 and 28 in Misamis Oriental province.

President Duterte said that in pursuit of peace, he is

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Filipinos in US support Duterte goal of instituting real change

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CHARTER CHANGE. Southern Leyte Lone District Representative Roger Mercado (left), together with Rep. Vicente Veloso, presides over the Public Consultation on Constitutional Reform on Federalism held at University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) in Davao City on Friday. Lean Daval Jr.

Midterm review of PRDP to commence this year D

AVAO CITY -- With the implementation of DA’s Philippine Rural Development Project in the country nearing its third year, a midterm review is expected to commence this year, a top official said.

PRDP Mindanao National Deputy Project Director Arnel De Mesa said that once the engagement of a third-party review team is finalized, the midterm review of PRDP will

start on May or June.

“The review will determine if the Project Development Objectives or PDOs of PRDP are being achieved at this point in the project implementation cycle,” De Mesa said.

PRDP aims to increase household incomes of direct farmer-beneficiaries by 30 percent through the establishment of reliable infrastructure and supporting enterprise development projects in the

countryside.

For infrastructure projects, indicators like reduction of travel time, hauling costs, and postharvest losses will be looked into in the evaluation.

“We expect to already see the results of the review by September if the procurement process goes along well,” he added.

De Mesa also stressed that Provincial Commodity Investment Plans or PCIPs should

already be used by the local governments “to draw in investments.”

Introduced by PRDP as a planning tool, the PCIP identifies priority interventions on key commodities based on value chain analyses (VCAs) and the expanded vulnerability and suitability analysis (eVSA).

“Towards this end, PRDP has already started conducting the rapid appraisal of emerg-

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special forces were immediately sent to locate and rescue the victims, identified as Jose Duterte, 62, and his wife, Jessica, 52, of Barangay Santa Maria, Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte.

It is not known if the couple is related to President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

Wagan said they were

seized from their residence by seven gunmen at about 7:45 p.m. Friday.

He said the victims were having conversation when suddenly the gunmen, clad in bonnet masks and police uniforms, arrived and seized them.

He said the victims were forced to board a waiting speed-

boat that sped off to the high seas.

Wagan has ordered police forces in towns near Zamboanga del Norte to help locate the whereabouts and to rescue the couple.

He said no one has so far claimed responsibility for the incident. (PNA)

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FILIPINO group in the United States has manifested its full support for real change in the Philippines as declared by President Rodrigo R. Duterte in the war against illegal drugs, corruption and poverty.

In a press statement e-mailed to PNA on Friday, the newly formed group chaired

by Arnedo S. Valera said the US Pinoys for Real Change in the Philippines (USPRCP) held a prayer vigil rally in front of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., to drum up their support for the Duterte administration.

The USPRCP which is based in the State of Virginia held its own celebration during the 31st anniversary of the EDSA People Power last Feb. 21.

The four-day People Power revolution on Feb. 22-25, 1986 toppled the 20-year strongman rule of then President Ferdinand E. Marcos that enabled the Philippines to regain freedom and democracy.

“The spirit of EDSA should inspire Filipinos overseas that we are integral parts of the on-going change in the Philippines,” Valera said.

“We must remember that EDSA is not, and does not, belong to one political group or color, but to all Filipinos, including Filipinos overseas who fought for or support freedom

PDEA nabs 2 shabu pushers

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FTER validating the information from a concerned citizen of Digos City, Davao del Sur thru texting the PDEA Text Hotlines, two (2) shabu pushers operating in Digos City falls in the hands of the law.

Davao del Sur Provincial Drug Enforcement Office of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office XI conducted buy-bust operation last March 3, 2017 at around 1:15 p.m. at Jumao-as Street, Barangay Zone 1, Digos City, Davao del Sur. The suspect identified as Maylen Rañises @ Trixia, 27 years old, single, waitress and a resident of the said place.

Rañises was arrested by the PDEA Agents who acted as poseur buyer after selling one (1) sachet of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride commonly known as “shabu” worth Php 1,000.00. Anoth-

er two (2) small sachets of suspected shabu worth Php 2,000.00 and the buy-bust marked money bill were also recovered in her possession and control.

At around 1:50 p.m., another buy-bust operation was also conducted at Purok LapuLapu, Barangay Zone III in Digos City and resulted to the apprehension of Angel Alcala.

She was also arrested for selling one (1) sachet of suspected shabu worth Php 1,000.00 to PDEA Agents who acted as poseur buyer.

The suspects are now detained at Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office XI detention facility, while the seized suspected illegal drugs were submitted to Laboratory Service of this office for qualitative and quantitative examination. Cases for violation of Section 5 and Sec-

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SSS pensioners withdraw P1,000 additional benefit

Gunmen seize Zambo couple; pursuit underway H OVERNMENT troops are tracking down the whereabouts of a farmer-couple abducted by gunmen in the nearby province of Zamboanga del Norte.

Sr. Supt. Edwin Buenaventura Wagan, Zamboanga del Norte police director, said Saturday that joint police and Army

and democracy. Now is the time for constructive engagement and to contribute to positive change in the Philippines.

We should always be inspired by the heroism in EDSA.” The group’s organizers presented the USPRCP Statement of Support to Philippine President Duterte’s War against Illegal Drugs, Corruption and Poverty to Acting Charge d’Affaires Patrick Chuasoto, who met the participants outside the embassy and promised to promptly transmit the statement to President Duterte.

“We believe that winning the war against the illegal drug trade, and winning the war against the culture of corruption will go a long way towards winning the war against poverty, and vice-versa,” Valera pointed out.

The USPRCP also stressed its support to President Duterte’s thriving economic agenda.

Valera said that out of the “180 countries, the Philippines moved up from 70th place to 58th place in the 2017 Index of Economic Freedom. The annual Index is published by the Heritage Foundation, a leading think tank in Washington, D.C., which noted: ‘Despite the challenging global economic environment, the Philippines has achieved notable economic expansion, driven by

appy pensioners of the Social Security System trooped to various banks on Friday and withdrew from their respective accounts the P1,000 additional benefit for the month of January 2017 following the approval of the authority to release the said amount by President Rodrigo Duterte last Feb 22.

Pensioner Erlano Wenceslao was among those who

queued and withdrew his additional benefit increase at the Philippine National Bank at the SSS head office along East Avenue, Quezon City. Mr. Wenceslao, 74, has been a pensioner since September 2004.

The P1,000 additional benefit differential for the months of February and March, meanwhile, will be available for withdrawal on March 10 and 17, respectively. (PNA)

LEST THEY FORGET. High School students listen to a last minute instruction from their teacher before the start of the 3rd Regional Wildlife Quiz Bowl held at the Annex of SM City Davao on Saturday. Lean Daval Jr.

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NorCot lawmaker launches online‘agri wet market’guide

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PROVINCIAL lawmaker in North Cotabato has ‘invaded’ the social media to help his farmer-constituents find a market for their crops.

Board Member Socrates Piñol of North Cotabato’s 3rd district, soft-launched on Friday a virtual “wet market” in the worldwide web he dubbed as “Mlang Farmers Market”.

A native of this town and son of a farmer, Piñol designed the page on Facebook as an easy access for farmers to look for buyers of their agricultural produce.

“This is a campaign commitment, a promise that I will help look for buyers for our farmers’ products by conquering the social media,” he said, noting that at least half of more than 100 million Filipinos surf the Internet.

“All our farmers will do is to post their produce and contact information on FB page, ‘Mlang Farmers Market’, so prospective buyers could open communication lines,” said Piñol, who won his first term as board member single-handedly.

“In my visits to communities during the campaign period, I sensed right away they are clamoring for effective access to market,” he said.

“Because of that discovery, I re-assessed my political game plan to include marketing of agricultural products.”

Looking back at his un-

precedented victory at first try, Piñol, younger brother of Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol, said he made it to the provincial board because he carried the sentiments of the farmers.

He earlier vowed to establish a “Bagsakan Center” in Caloocan City in Metro Manila to serve as a wholesale center for North Cotabato’s crops but set aside the idea upon realizing doing it online is more effective.

Piñol however said that the “Bagsakan Center” idea is still in the pipeline but added “we will be more aggressive in marketing online”.

To prove his brainchild will be effective, he cited several Internet marketing platforms, such as e-bay.com, amazon, Lazada and olx.com that have become a multi-billion business by linking product sellers and buyers.

He urged the agriculture sector and the government to venture into Internet marketing of farm products.

“With more and more people using the latest technology like Android phones, online marketing is a potent marketing strategy,” he said.

Among his priorities for legislation is the crafting of local laws establishing the “Barangay Agriculture Data System”, which will put all important agricultural data for easy Internet access of prospective buyers. (PNA)

CLOSE-UP TOUR. Marco Polo Plaza Cebu communications manager Manna Alcaraz walks members of local media and bloggers through its luxurious amenities, great facilities and latest promotions during a dinner hosted by Cebu’s best luxury business hotel at Polo Bistro of Marco Polo Davao on Thursday evening. Lean Daval Jr.

Metrobank hosts series of lecture, art exhibit

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

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N an effort to reach out to a wider range of audience and to bring art closer to the public, Metrobank Foundation, Inc. through the Metrobank Arts and Design Excellence (MADE) in partnership with SM Supermalls, brought Art MADE Public 2017 to Davao City.

RP-UK schools offer cutting edge programs

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EN higher education institutions from the Philippines met with their partner academic institutions from the United Kingdom to discuss the joint development and implementation of transnational education (TNE) programmes in the country.

Set to be available to students by September 2018, the niche programmes were the primary agenda of the TNE Workshop: Philippine-UK HEI Partnership Meetings held last 22-24 February 2017 at the Discovery Suites in Ortigas.

A total of Php 5M will be granted to each institution in the Philippines that will cover 2-years’ worth of activities to develop the partnerships via curriculum and faculty development, preliminary research, workshops or seminars, teaching materials and equipment needed for the programmes.

This is under the Joint Development of Niche Programmes (JDNP), a 2-year institutional and grant support program offered through the partnership of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the British Council.

In her remarks, CHED Commissioner Minella Alarcon shared that the Commission and the British Council are working hand in hand for the success of the project.

“As you know, we are pursuing transnational education with care. We have selected a trustworthy partner in British Council, so that CHED and British Council are providing guidance to the chosen Phil-

ippine HEIs every step of the way, whenever possible. We appreciate very much the cooperation of all institutions from the Philippines and the United Kingdom. We are excited to hear your stories of partnership and friendship.

We look forward to definite steps of progress and moving onwards,” Comm. Alarcon said.

“It has been about 6 months since we started with this project. I hope this phase in time has provided enough opportunities to exchange information, and get to know each other better in our common desire to explore and build partnerships by collaborating in research and/or running joint programs in pursuit of transnational education,” she added.

During the event, Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) and Queen Mary University of London also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize their partnership to offer Master of Science in Big Data and Master of Science in Creative Media Technology.

“We would like to say a word of thanks to the Commission on Higher Education of the Philippines and also the British Council for this wonderful program. It is through this program that we were actually able to establish ties with Queen Mary University of London,” ADMU Assistant to the Vice President for University and Global Relations Teresa Santos said.

The following Philippines

and UK partner-universities will soon offer the following programs: 1. Ateneo de Manila University and Queen Mary University of London - MSc Big Data and MSc Creative Media Technology 2. Bicol University and Liverpool University - MSc Food System and MSc Climate Change 3. Central Luzon State University and Swansea University - MSc Aquaculture / with Liverpool University - Agriculture 4. De La Salle University and Liverpool Hope University - MSc Computer Science, MSc Sports Science, MSc Data Engineering, MSc Robotics Engineering 5. Miriam College and Goldsmith’s University of London - MA Design Education 6. Saint Louis University and University of Leeds - MSc Disaster Risk Reduction And Management 7. Silliman University and Newcastle University - Joint Research and MSc Tropical Biological Oceanography 8. University of San Carlos and Coventry University - PhD Engineering / with Cardiff Metropolitan University - Design-fashion 9. University of Santo Tomas and University of Reading - PhD Architecture / with University of Leeds - MSc Public Health 10. University of the Philippines and University of Reading - PhD Metereology, PhD Agriculture/Food Security (PNA)

The exhibit opening was held on Thursday at SM Lanang Premiere Atrium graced

by SM Lanang Premiere Officials headed by Karen Babia, Japanese Consul to Davao City Tomoko Dodo, Department of Tourism XI Regional Director Roberto Alabado III, Museo Dabawenyo director Orly Es-

carilla, visitors, students and media practitioners.

Art MADE Public is a travelling and retrospective exhibition and lecture series held in view of the celebration of Philippine Arts Month every February, With the theme “Past Meets Present”, MADE hails

Filipino artistry and creativity through its annual recognition program for the painters, sculptors, interior designers, and architects.

“Presented to you are artist from various generations back to back with contemporary artworks. This concept is

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PH’s tourist arrivals in Jan reach 600,000 F OREIGN tourist arrivals to the Philippines reached a new all-time high in January this year with over 600,000 visitors, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said Friday.

January arrivals totaled 631,639 which is a 16.48 percent growth from the 542,258 visitors acquired in the same period in 2016.

Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo welcomed this achievement and vowed to “keep the momentum going” with the implementation phase of the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) for 2016 to 2022.

The tourism plan, Teo said, is meant to “unleash the potentials of our tourism industry and make it more competitive.”

Korea remained the biggest visitor market with 154,367 visitors, followed by United States with 99,435 visitors, China with 85,948, Japan with 51,516 and Australia with 27,826 visitors.

Rounding up the top 10 visitor markets are Canada, 24,352; Taiwan, 21,926; United Kingdom, 15,747; Singapore, 12,000: and India, 11,805.

Korea is also the top spending market with visitor expenditure of almost P6.5 billion followed by the USA (P3.69 billion), Japan (P2.12 billion), Australia (P1.59 billion) and Canada (P1.09 billion).

Teo also noted a significant increase of arrivals from China, which posted a 76.46 percent growth from January last year.

She described this as one of the “fruits” of the efforts of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte to reach out to China.

“We are now seeing the fruits of President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s reaching out to China. Doors to more economic opportunities and people-to-people exchanges are opulently wide now more than ever that ties between Manila and Beijing have seen a new day,” she said. (PNA)

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PRO-POOR MOA. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo (2nd from left) and Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) chief Dr. Leopoldo J. Vega (2nd from right), together with DSWD 11 director Dr. Mercidita P. Jabagat (leftmost) and SPMC

chief administrative officer Rocardo SD. Justol, sign the memorandum of agreement (MOA) for ‘Lingap sa Masa’ Program during the 66th anniversary of DSWD Davao Field Office 11 held at Grand Menseng Hotel in Davao City on Friday. Lean Daval Jr.

Food Skyway program offers MICC okays guidelines new market for Zambo fishers on science-based review

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HE Mining Industry Coordinating Council (MICC) has approved the guidelines on the conduct of an “objective, fact-finding, science-based” review of mining operations nationwide, starting with those ordered shuttered or suspended last month by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Co-chaired by Secretaries Carlos Dominguez III of the Department of Finance (DOF) and Regina Lopez of the DENR, the MICC also decided in its Friday meeting to complete the review to be conducted by five interdisciplinary technical review teams (TRTs) within three months, with primary focus on the technical, legal, social, environmental and economic aspects of the affected mining

operations.

“The Council approved the guidelines for the conduct of an objective, fact-finding and science-based review of the operations of the mining companies, in accordance with specific mining contracts concerned and other pertinent laws rules and regulations,” said Dominguez after the meeting.

Lopez, who was not present at the meeting, was represented

by DENR Undersecretary for Legal Affairs Maria Paz Luna.

It was the MICC’s second meeting since Lopez ordered last Feb. 2 the closure of 23 mine sites and the suspension of five others on environmental grounds. The DENR secretary later cancelled on Feb. 14 75 Mineral Production Sharing

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ISHERMEN in Zamboanga Peninsula will soon have a larger market for their fish catch, especially during this month’s peak season, as the Department of Agriculture will launch the so-called Philippine Food Skyway program later this month, according to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.

BFAR Regional Director Isidro Velayo Jr. on Thursday said that they are currently preparing the mechanisms to collect the surplus catch that cannot be absorbed by the local market and the fish processing industries in the region.

“This will partly address the wastage or fish that were not processed or sold. We will transport them to areas that have deficiency of fresh fish such as Metro Manila and Ba-

guio,” Velayo said.

Velayo said the main objective of the PFS program is to reduce the bycatch and fishes being rotten away because of oversupply during the peak season, especially herring (Tamban) or sardines.

It is estimated that global by-catch amounts about 30 to 40 percent of the world’s catch.

Here in Zamboanga Peninsula, the figure is about 20 percent of the total catch that is being rotten or thrown away.

The oversupply of Tamban is expected within this month as the annual closed-fishing season and fishing ban for the fish species has been lifted on Wednesday, March 1.

The annual closed-fishing season, which is from December 1 to March 1, is to provide the Tamban fish to spawn.

Velayo said the program

year’s budget deficit “gives all the more reason for the Duterte administration to pursue the speedy congressional approval of its Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP) to raise enough revenues for the financial sustainability of its ambitious agenda to reverse years of official underspending, which has been responsible for the government’s failure to turn the economy into a truly inclusive one.”

He said the government’s deficit spending policy is in sync with the government’s 10-point socioeconomic agenda to keep the high-growth pace, attract more private investments from here and abroad, cut the poverty rate from 21.6 percent in 2015 to 14 percent by 2022, and to turn the economy by then into an upper middle-income econ-

omy with a per capita gross national income of at least $5,000, or close to where Thailand is today.”

Package One of the CTRP, which is anchored on sizable cuts in personal income tax rates along with revenue-compensating measures like adjusting excise tax rates on automobiles and petroleum products and expanding the value added tax (VAT) base, is contained in House Bill No. 4774 that is now being studied by the House ways and means committee.

It was authored by Quirino Rep. Dakila Carlo Cua, the chairperson of this committee who has expressed the hope that his panel could pass HB 4774 before the Congress takes its traditional Lenten break starting on March 17.

(PR)

NG’s deficit spending just enough

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INANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III stressed yesterday that although the budget deficit incurred by the national government (NG) hit P353.4 billion in 2016, or P231.7 billion higher than the year-ago figure, it was well within the Duterte administration’s target of 2.7 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), in keeping with its commitment to start spending big on three priority areas to sustain high growth, attract investments and create jobs, accelerate poverty reduction and transform the Philippines into an upper middle-income economy by 2022.

Dominguez pointed out that Malacañang’s decision to ramp up public spending on infrastructure, human capital and social protection at the onset of the Duterte presidency

had helped the economy sustain its growth momentum in 2016’s second semester, with the GDP expanding by 6.8 percent, from 5.9 percent the previous year, or in the high side of the government-set range of 6 to 7 percent for the full year.

“The Duterte administration’s decision to end years of public underinvestment and switch to higher deficit-spending mode has translated into more money spent on infrastructure; on education, health, skills training and other forms of human capital development, and on social protection for the poorest of the poor,” Dominguez said.

“This major policy shift, in turn, has allowed the NG to keep the domestic economy on the uptrend despite global market volatility,” he added.

Dominguez said that last

also aimed to address the food gaps of the country aside from helping the local fisher folks and industrial-scale commercial fishing industry to expand their market.

“This is an unprecedented move. We want to share the bounty of our seas. Other regions are having a problem due to lack of food supply, but other regions have the abundance, that is why the government comes in to address the gaps,” Velayo said.

“We are bringing this fresh fish catch in seafood-deficient areas. At the same, the one who will benefit here is the ordinary Juan de la Cruz. They can taste fresh seafood and yet affordable,” he said.

The PFS program, which was conceptualized by DA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol, aims to “connect the farmers and

fishermen in the distant islands of the country to the big markets using the Air Force cargo transport planes.”

“An Air Force C-130 Hercules plane will load about 15 tons of fresh fish to be placed in styrofoam boxes in Zamboanga City and bring these to the Loakan Airport in Baguio City where it will be sold to the consumers of the Cordillera in the Farmers Trading Center in La Trinidad, Benguet,” Piñol said in a statement.

He added that the C-130 cargo plane, which will unload the boxes of fish from Zamboanga, will then be loaded with vegetables and other agricultural products from Baguio City and the Cordillera provinces, which could be delivered to Iloilo City, Cebu City, Zamboanga City and even as far as the province of Tawi-Tawi.

DOLE launches search for 2017 top labor management set-up

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HE Department of Labor and Employment has opened the 2017 search for outstanding grievance machinery for industrial peace.

In a ceremony attended by stakeholder representatives, Labor Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III said the activity is part of DOLE’s awareness campaign on labor management cooperation among organized and non-unionized establishments.

Bello called on business and labor representatives to join hands in the undertaking to promote good labor relations that will result to better workplace productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness.

“President Duterte is keen on instilling good working environment that generates decent work, harmonious labor cooperation and sustainable

industrial peace. He also mandated us to ensure fair and expeditious resolution of labor disputes in the country,” Bello said.

The outstanding Labor-Management Cooperation for Industrial Peace Award is spearheaded by the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) of DOLE. It started in 1998 and is held every 2 years.

For the past awarding ceremonies, the labor department has reported that the numbers of entries and nominees have been increasing.

NCMB Executive Director Shirley Pascual encouraged the public to send nominees for the said awards and continue finding ways to enhance good working conditions and better employer-worker rela-

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7 COMPETITIVE EDGE

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Damosa Land leads planting of trees

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AMOSA Land Inc. and Anflocor partnered with the Antonio O. Floirendo Foundation (AOFF), the corporate social responsibility arm of the Anflo Group of Companies, in a tree planting activity last February 22, 2017. The volunteer employees did not mind getting their hands dirty as they worked the grounds with their shovels in planting hundreds of mahogany seedlings by the riverbank of Brgy.

Marapangi in Toril, Davao City.

It has been a tradition of Damosa Land to give back to the community by way of their variety of annual corporate social responsibility activities.

Through the years, DLI has also done a series of outreach programs, clean-up drive, and built concrete walls for a public school. They decided to plant trees again this year, as they did in the past.

“In a rapidly industrializing world, it is essential that we are reminded of the need to preserve our Mother Nature. This tree planting aims to initiate a deeper commitment in taking care of our environment,” said Danilo A. Manlangit, Assistant Vice President

for Damosa Land, when asked about the objective of the event.

“By planting trees, we are able to contribute to the sustainability of the ecosystem and we make up for the trees being cut every day. Damosa Land wants to be part of the global reforestation effort,” Manlangit further explained.

The participants were more than happy to support Damosa Land’s cause as well.

Gina Ola, an employee of Anflocor was enthusiastic. “When I heard that there will be tree planting in Toril, where I am residing for decades, I signed up right away. I know that the future generations will reap the benefits of the trees that we planted.” Ola also mentioned that her firsthand experience of flooding in their area pushed her to join and lend a hand.

Damosa Land Inc. is looking forward to more development programs towards the community and the environment this year.

Damosa Land Inc. is the real estate and property development arm of the Anflo Group of Companies.

RUBBER ENTERPRISE. With a better price for rubber cup lumps, rubber farmers in Agusan del Sur will soon expect better income opportunities with the approval of crumb rubber processing enterprise project in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur. (PRDP File Photo)

DA,PRDP approve expansion of Agusan rubber enterprise

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P20-MILLION crumb rubber enterprise expansion project aimed at increasing income of rubber farmers in this town has been given a go signal under DA’s Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP).

The project, funded under PRDP’s enterprise development component, was given a No Objection Letter (NOL) 1, which signals the project approval and procurement process.

“With the start of this project, we expect to incrementally increase the income of rubber farmers, both direct beneficiaries and in the neighboring towns,” PRDP Mindanao Cluster Director Ricardo Onate said.

He said that PRDP’s interventions would focus on the production, processing and marketing aspects of the enterprise specifically the production of quality rubber. Rubber is one of the priority commodities identified for Region 13 and for the Mindanao cluster.

The enterprise project will

be managed by the Bayugan Rubber Producers Cooperative (BARUPCO), the project’s lead proponent group, which also operates in the towns of La Paz, Esperanza, Talacogon and Prosperidad in Agusan del Sur. According to its business plan, rubber farmers can avail of a reasonable price for their cup lumps, “40-50 percent higher than the prevailing market price.”

The business plan also states that the project intends to establish model farms that will showcase “recommended technologies and practices” to ensure production of quality cup lumps and crumb rubber as well as the provision of extension services and capacity building activities to improve farming practices.

BARUPCO will also act as consolidator of rubber cup lumps buying from member-farmers to be processed into crumb rubber in the existing crumb rubber processing plants which are operated by the Farmers Alternative for

F DA, 11

Employees of Damosa Land, Anflocor, and the Antonio O. Floirendo Foundation gather for a group picture at this year’s tree planting activity

Danilo A. Manlangit, Assistant Vice President of Damosa Land (first from left) leads the planting of mahogany seedlings by a riverbank in Marapangi, Toril.

Davao Light rescues two‘pawikans’

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HE Cleanergy Park, which is biodiversity park is a project of Davao Light and Power Co. and the Aboitiz Foundation, located in Sitio Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City continues to be a home to various wildlife. The place has become even more special as it has been a nesting ground for Hawksbill turtles, an endangered species.

Being known to locals as a pawikan sanctuary, last February 24, residents from Brgy. Bucana turned over a Pawikan to the Cleanergy Park for proper handling through Davao Light Community Relations Manager Fermin Edillon.

The said pawikan, a Green Sea Turtle, was struggling to free itself from a fisherman’s net when it was found.

Meanwhile, in February 25, another Pawikan was found. The huge Pawikan weighing 65 kilograms was trapped at the Cleanergy Park’s mangrove area roughly 15 meters away from where another Pawikan nest was found.

The Pawikan is identified to be a Hawksbill turtle and believed to be the mother pawikan that has been laying eggs for four times already in the park since January 10.

After being rescued, the said Pawikan was placed in the

BACK TO THE SEA. Davao Light and Power Co.’s EVP and COO, Engr Rodger S. Velasco together with some Davao Light team leaders, Davao City Council Chairman on the Committee of Environment and Natural Resources, Councilor Diosdado Mahipus, Dr. Ken Lao, Dr. Criselda Lao, residents of Brgy. Matina Aplaya and Brgy. Bucana and employees from different Aboitiz business units

repository to recuperate from injuries that it got from being trapped in the mangrove roots.

Both turtles were assessed by Dr. Ken Lao of The Ark Veterinary Clinic and the team of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region XI. This was also witnessed by the Davao City Council Chairman on the Committee of Environment and Natural Resources, Councilor Diosdado Mahipus.

Finally, after ensuring the good condition and safety of the two Pawikans, the Pawikan rescued in Brgy. Bucana and the one found at the Cleanergy Park Mangrove area

were released back to the sea last February 28 and March 1, respectively.

“Davao Light commits for a better world by continuing on its efforts to help save endangered species such as the Hawksbill turtles.” said Edillon.

Davao Light is expecting for the last batch of Pawikan eggs in the next two weeks after the 4th nest was found last February 24. A female pawikan usually lays eggs three to five times in a two-week interval during its mating season.

Also, the eggs from the first nest are expected to hatch on either first or second week of March. (PR)

witnessed the releasing of the rescued Green Sea Turtle and Hawksbill turtle at the Cleanergy Park, Sitio Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City last February 28 and March 1, 2017. Before releasing, the two pawikans were tagged for monitoring and information gathering needed to protect these endangered species.

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

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Death as deterrent

HERE is a lot of furor over the reimposition of the death penalty in the country.

Over oral arguments made in several sessions of Congress, the death penalty bill finally made it to the final reading but whittled down to embrace just three crimes—all drug-related.

The crimes covered are possession of 500 grams of marijuana, or 10 grams of cocaine, heroin or ecstasy as would manufacturing and selling drugs.

People who commit serious crimes such as murder and rape while under the influence of drugs could also be executed.

However, committing those crimes without being under the influence of drugs would only be punishable with jail terms.

The bill allows for execution by hanging, firing squad or lethal injection.

The bill will have to pass on final reading and a counterpart version must be passed by Senate.

It’s still subject to some brain-wracking by our legislators but at this point, the growing unrest over the death penalty restoration is primar-

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ily anchored on its being biased against the poor who are usually the victims of the country’s justice system.

Although the capital punishment is not meted down just like that as it follows tedious due process, the anxiety over its reimposition is understandable.

On the other hand, there is also the belief that restoring death penalty could be a deterrent to crimes especially those drug-related ones.

The growing woes on illegal drugs—four million as of last count--weigh heavily on the decision to refile its imposition.

Reimposing execution will also be a challenge to our country’s courts as well as our prosecutors to do their jobs and let the wheels of justice roll.

Our lawmakers are making a decision that will change the course of our country’s problems on criminalities—it’s never popular and will be branded anti-poor. But something drastic has to be done. Let’s face it, the problem had gone worse. It’s time to say enough is enough.

Again, lest we forget, dura lex sed lex (the law is hard but it is still the law).

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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Long a Filipino discovery, the idea that larvae can process biodegradables has Sweden elated

N the process of sifting materials from several news agencies last week for Edge Davao’s inside pages, I stumbled on a story lifted by the Philippine News Agency about how one Sweden university discovered that larvae can process biodegradable waste at less cost and at no harm to the environment.

Although the story occurred from the other side of the globe, it has significance to this country where hundreds of LGUs are now in the hot seat for their inability to implement the mandate of Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. Hence, I decided to use the story in the hope of helping our LGUs to be able to think out of the box, to step out of their ivory towers and to try some ‘home cooking’ for once.

The story as lifted by the PNA tells of how Sweden’s Agricultural University in Uppsala (SLU) has discovered that food waste turned into animal feed using maggots can provide a series of advantages as compared to other methods of food waste disposal.

With the discovery, the university project has been given funding “to go ahead and build a pilot plant in the Swedish city of Es-

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 269 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 5 - 6, 2017

kilstuna, w h e r e REVERSED PUNCH (GYAKU ZUKI) millions of hungry maggots will eat at least one metric ton of food waste daily.”

S L U associate professor Bjorn VinJimmy K.Laking neras compared the discovery to “swatting two flies in one go, by replacing eco-unfriendly feed and as a bonus makes a profit on waste management.”

With the discovery, SLU has concluded that “maggot composting” will become an interesting option both for municipalities and industries.

Prof. Vinneras said it is technically much easier than building a biogas plant.

Well now, our LGUs need not go far and wide to avail themselves of this technology

in managing their biodegradable wastes.

For one such technology has long been in existence and is actually being implemented by some LGUs that its Filipino discoverer, Fred Fangonon, has managed to convince.

Fangonon’s down to earth but highly-effective technology in addressing biodegradables has been discussed extensively in his book, Eco Composting.

Fangonon, a former OFW who once served as punong barangay of Loakan in Baguio City, has invented what he called the eco-composting receptacle (ECR) to turn biodegradable wastes into high premium organic fertilizer.

The ECR, he said is very efficient because it can compost all biodegradable wastes without shredding, turning over or adding enzymes.

The first composters inside the ECRs, he said, are comprised of maggots left by the common housefly. These dwell most only on the top layer of the compost where fresh waste is thrown.

“They eat waste that normally produces a bad odor as it rots but the smell disappears as soon as the maggots do not becomes flies.”

And since they are preoccupied with eat-

ing garbage, they die as maggots becoming themselves a rich part of the compost.

Or more appropriately as Nat King Cole’s Mona Lisa song goes: “They just lie there and they die there.”

The second composters, according to Fangonon, are the native earthworms that dwell mostly below the surface of the waste heap. They process the garbage left by the maggots. They eat the garbage that is in advanced stage of decomposition.

The final composters are the microbes mostly invisible to the eyes that occur in all parts of the ECR and are active from the beginning of the composting process up to the harvest of the compost. When the compost stops receding, it is then ready for harvest.

As an organic farmer for 15 years in La Trinidad (Baguio City’s next door neighbor), I can attest to the ECR’s effectiveness and to the organic composts ability to enrich the soil and to sustain crops. With my own eyes, I observed that the ECR also served as a deterrent to pesky household flies because it offers a ready food resource without them having to invade households.

I will be more than willing to help LGUs implement the technology in their localities.

place on the FAST BACKWARD map, being an area of 4,360 square miles, a little matter of 2,780,365 acres, with 10 people to the square mile.”

W h a t surprised the goverAntonio V. Figueroa nor-general most was the utter neglect the natives suffered, which he called as the “blackest page in American history in the Philippines.” He promptly conveyed his observation to Ventura, commenting that the pursuit of a reservation plan would likely stop the Japanese from further intruding the internal regions, which was described as “international problem,” and save the lands belonging to the aborigines. The journal article further reported: “Davis, hiking through the Davao-Agusan wilderness, held nightly powwows with the tribes. They range from pygmies up; this region is a veritable laboratory for the ethnologist. One tribe is as modern as an army, it bestows sartorial insignia for every man one of its braves exterminates: the dress of one chief… attested a total bag of 134— evidently with no more observance of the game laws than a Christian army would exercise, when God got on its side, and with plenty of orthodox potting from cover.”

Using poison as a tool of vengeance, the natives usually potted Japanese poachers

by ambushing them with toxic arrows or spearing them from behind. Davis did not approve this kind of vendetta but understood the tribesmen’s quandary after their lands were grabbed and turned over to “strange immigrants.”

As a politician, Davis was not hesitant to accept the Manila assignment as 9th governor-general in the Philippines given his wife’s health then. Eventually, though, he had to accede to the wishes of US President Herbert Hoover. He arrived in Manila in July 1929 just as the national legislature was opening its sessions.

In one of his annual messages to the law-making assembly, he narrated the extent of the domestic issues affecting the colony and the problems confronting the collection of revenues. Aside from urging the legislature to enact laws that would raise taxes, he recommended the arrest in the rise of production of agriculture outputs with oversupply in the world market.

Davis’ grittiness underwent legislative test when the legislature held back by not approving his appointments. But he was unfazed and refused to yield to any compromise. To get out of the tight fix, he “waited until the legislature adjourned when he could give his nominees interim appointments.” He decently opposed also the use of his appointment as springboard to higher position given his long and illustrious career as diplomat and manager.

Like his early predecessor, Leonard Wood (1921-27), he supported the cause of returning the administration of the Philippines to Filipinos under the Jones Law and “was unconvinced that American interests

in the Philippines justified indefinite retention.”

Historically, as colonial administrator, Davis made one of the most extensive reconstructions of Malacañan, the presidential palace. He practically rebuilt it from a wooden Spanish colonial structure to a large concrete mansion. On Jan. 9, 1932, for personal and family reasons, he resigned from office. In tribute to his contributions, U.S. President Hoover declared: “Governor General Davis accepted the appointment to the Philippine Islands at great personal sacrifice. His resignation is based upon personal and family reasons, the force of which must, I feel, receive every consideration, particularly in view of the very generous sacrifices which he has already made in consenting to remain in the Philippine Islands much longer than his personal interests warranted. I have accepted his resignation with the greatest reluctance.

“His administration of the affairs of the Philippine Islands has been eminently able and successful and constitutes a fitting continuation of the distinguished service he previously rendered as Secretary of War. The two years during which he served in the Philippine Islands have been marked by exceptionally cordial and satisfactory relations between the American chief executive and the legislative and other local authorities.

“Governor General Davis relinquishes office with the deep regret of all concerned, and with a further claim upon the gratitude and affection of both the American and Filipino people.”

Abuse of natives as ‘blackest page in US history’

F the international tilt known as the Davis Cup sounds familiar to you, it’s because it was named after its founder, Dwight F. Davis, Sr., an American tennis player who was US assistant secretary of war (1923-25) and for four years the governor-general of the Philippines (1929-32).

Davis, in August 1930, visited Davao town and penetrated its jungles, finding two significant problems, which he identified as the “alien agrarian population acquiring the coastal hinterland and penetrating inland, the other of the [neglect of] primitive minorities.” His observation found space in the September 1930 issue of The American Chamber of Commerce Journal.

Along with his namesake and junior, Davis spent nearly a month crossing the Davao-Agusan territory “from the mouth of the Tagum on Davao gulf on the south, up the [Saug] to the divide and the headwaters of the Agusan, and down the Agusan to Butuan, the provincial capital and metropolis at the mouth of the Agusan on Butuan bay.”

On one occasion, his group had to negotiate a rough country trail for almost ten hours, and another four hours to climb the rock-strewn stream bed. The trip was the first for an American politician across the wilds in an area that now forms parts of the old Ventura reservation plan, so named after Honorio Ventura, who was then Philippine interior secretary (1925-33).

Davis, the article said, “discovered that Davao is something more than two fingers of coast around Davao gulf, that it is really an area of 7,574 square miles, 4,847,185 acres, with 16 people to the square mile; and that Agusan, too, is more than a yellow

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1st disaster training center to rise in ComVal Province

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TRIBAL CHIEFTAINS. Datu Edmund Pangilan (2nd from left), Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) and municipal tribal chieftain, leads a native-fashioned ritual during the installation of new municipal vice chieftains Datu Benedicto Angonia (Tagakaulo) and Datu Dario Lasib of the Blaan tribe that was graced by Mayor Tessa Constantino on February 10 at the ABC Hall in Malungon. Pangilan said the spear reminds newly-hailed

Tupi eyes treatment facility for surfacing drug personalities

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HE municipal government of Tupi in South Cotabato is pushing the establishment of a barracks-type rehabilitation facility to facilitate the treatment of surfacing drug personalities in the area.

Tupi Mayor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. said Friday they are presently studying such move as alternative to the Matrix Intensive Outpatient Treatment for People with Stimulant Disorder or MIOP program being introduced by the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC).

He said the proposed barracks-type facility will be used for the community-based treatment of the surfacing personalities involved on drugs or SPIDs. Citing their program, he said all involved personalities will be gathered at the facility and undergo uniform sessions on various modules instead of just keeping them in their respective barangays and attend sessions hosted by an assigned counselor.

Tupi town has listed 80 drug personalities classified at the moderate and low-risk levels and who need to undergo community-based treatment and rehabilitation.

Around 9,000 drug personalities surfaced and surrendered to local authorities last year in line with the national government’s campaign against illegal drugs.

Tamayo said that out of the town’s 15 barangays, only four have not yet submitted their list of personalities that require treat-

ment and rehabilitation.

“If this will push through, we will conduct the treatment in two batches,” the mayor said.

The official said the facility will be established in one of their far-flung barangays with just minimal structures.

He said it will have no walls or fences but fully guarded, and those who would try to escape will face punishment.

At the proposed facility, he said they are looking at providing the SPIDs with income-generating opportunities through farming.

Some of the income would be used by the local government to fund the treatment of the next batch of SPIDs, he said.

“The setup will be conducive to the clients and their families. They will have their treatment as if just having a vacation,” Tamayo said.

The mayor clarified that the treatment will not be forced on the drug personalities but on voluntary basis.

“If this will become successful, other towns can also avail of the facility for their SPIDs,” he said.

South Cotabato board member Agustin Dema-ala, PADAC action officer, said they are currently studying the proposed initiative of the Tupi municipal government.

He said they could also provide assistance to the program, especially in seeing support from other agencies and stakeholders.

(PNA)

leaders to place God above all, while the local government chief executive, who is also an IP, urged the tribes to always adhere not only to the rules that are defined under the tribal traits and culture, but also of those that are being stipulated by the courts of law. (Apple Gella and Von Dela Cuesta/ MALUNGON INFORMATION OFFICE)

ONE of a kind Fire, Emergency and Disaster (FED) Training Center, the first in the Philippines, will soon rise at the Compostela Valley Capitol grounds in Nabunturan town.

Provincial Fire Marshal, Senior Inspector Randolf Arbutante bared during a radio interview in the Kapihan sa Kahanginan aired over Aksyon ComVal Teleradyo that the FED training center will feature replicas on disaster and emergency scenarios for trainees to assimilate actual incidents.

“We will have a replica of different disaster scenarios including vehicular incident or a collapse structure scenario that will be placed within the center” Arbutante said.

The FED Center will have its groundbreaking and signing ceremony on March 5 during the province-wide Firefighting and Rescue Olym-

pics, which will be attended by Bureau of Fire and Protection Director Bobby Baruelo DSC, Compostela Valley Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy, provincial officials and municipal mayors.

Arbutante emphasized that the construction of the center, which will cost around P142-million, is a ‘Bayanihan’ effort of the provincial and municipal officials.

“This project is a convergence of resources as different national and local officials have committed to fund the project,” he said.

He disclosed that aside from the pledge of Governor Uy, Rep. Ruwell Peter Gonzaga and Rep. Maricar Zamora also committed to put up a Burn Building and Rapelling tower, which cost around P3-4 million each; while Rep. Karlo Nograles and Rep. Koko Nograles oathed to construct a P28-million dormitory.

(PIA11, Michael Uy)

part of the 5-in-1 Celebration of the city that includes the conduct of Tagumenyo Bisa’g Asa, the gathering of national and overseas migrants from Tagum; the 1st anniversary of the formal transfer of the government workforce to the New City Hall; the celebration of 19th Araw ng Tagum; and Mayor Rellon’s State of the City Address. The 5-in-1 Celebration will run until March 07.

Meanwhile, the Musikahan Festival is also tuned up with other big competitions such as Tunog Tagum Battle of the Bands, Himig Handog Chorale Competition, the Barangay Musikahan, and Kasikas sa Tagum: DBLC competition, among others.

Being the Mother of all Festivals in Tagum City, the city government is hopeful that this

Tagum’s Musikahan opening draws over 20,000 revelers T

HE grand opening of this year’s Tagum City Musikahan Festival proved that no amount of rain could dampen the crave of more than 20,000 Tagumenyos and revelers from nearby towns for a celebration that is eclectic and breathtaking.

Music lovers from all taste made a sea of crowd in the open arena of the New City Hall Atrium last February 28, 2017 as the Local Government of Tagum and the Tagum City Tourism Council kicked off the Musikahan Festival 2017 through a set of jam-packed productions, opening Davao Region’s first festival of the year in a high note.

Mayor Allan Rellon was amazed by the number of spectators that flocked the arena in spite of the drizzle. He also extended his gratitude to the crowd and sponsors who remained high-spirited amidst the weather and promised them to give a Musikahan Festival that is taken to the next level.

“This year, we in the City Government through our City Tourism Office, has made this festival even more cheerful with a wide array of events

slated in our weeklong celebration,” said the local chief executive.

A major highlight of the festival is the 3000 Voices where 3000 Tagumenyos from varying sectors including the persons with disabilities will sing in a chorale-like manner.

This is to accentuate Tagum City’s identity as the Music Capital of the South.

The Musikahan Festival is

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MUSIKAHAN. Mayor Allan Rellon hits the gong signifying the formal opening of this year’s Musikahan Festival. The musical revelry is part of the 5-in-1 Celebration of Tagum City that will run until March 07, 2017. (Leo Timogan/CIO Tagum)

DSWD 11 releases P2.2M to senior citizens in DavSur

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HE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) - Region 11 completed Friday the release of a total of P2,292,000 for 1,528 indigent senior citizens in the town of Magsaysay, Davao del Sur. The cash release was made this early even as it should cover the first quarter of 2017 or from January to March.

The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office

and the Municipal Treasurer’s Office here divided the 22 barangays (villages) into three for the three-day release of the pension starting last Wednesday.

Every indigent senior citizen aged 65 years old and above is entitled to receive P500 monthly pension. The age qualification eligible to receive a social pension was lowered from 77 years old to 65 years old. It was approved

under the General Appropriations Act for CY 2015.

With the lower age requirement, more economically disadvantaged senior citizens can have additional cash to spend for their basic needs such as medicines and nutritious food to support their well-being.

Those who will qualify to receive the P500 monthly stipend are senior citizens who are frail, sickly, or have disabil-

ities; are not receiving pension from Social Security System (SSS), Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), or Veterans Pension; and do not have a permanent source of income or regular support from relatives.

The pension is distributed every quarter through cash payment by DSWD Field Offices or city/municipal social welfare and development offices. (PNA)

INdulge!

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EVENT

5 Miss Camella Universe Finalists

Camella Night glitters O

NE of the most remarkable events held in the Davao Convention and Trade Center along F. Torres Street in Davao City a week ago was Camella’s annual awards night held to honor the housing company’s top sellers of the year 2016 in the South Mindanao area. The area includes Davao City, Tagum City, General Santos City and Koronadal City where Camella continues to create waves among housing clients.

The event was hosted by ABS-CBN’s Rovic Cuasito and Davao’s Vertical Marketing Head Lorelli Randa.

Honored during the glittering night were the following top performers: DAVAO TOP SELLERS: Top Business Directors - Davao Top: Rio Serranas 1st Runner-up: Teresita Gonzaga 2nd Runner-up: Mary Joy Sarmiento

Gensan & Koronadal Top Business Director Anna Marie Guatlo

Davao Top Business Directors

Top Sales Managers - Davao Top: Eric Martin Sarmiento 1st Runner-up: Roel Cañete 2nd Runner-up: Rosy Jorolan Special Recognition Property Executives – Davao: Carolyn Cordero TAGUM TOP SELLERS: Top Business Directors - Tagum Top: Amelita Bedrejo 1st Runner-up: Jasper Quilla Top Sales Managers - Tagum Top: Rushel Bedrejo 1st Runner-up: Kenneth Misoles Special Recognition: Rose Culon

Koronadal Top Business Directors

Tagum Top Business Directors

Gensan Top Property Executive Flocer Guerrero

Top Property Executives Tagum Top: Roel Bedrejo 1st Runner-up: Juliet Madarang Special Recognition: Michael Bala GENSAN TOP SELLERS: Top Business Directors - Gensan Top: Ana Marie Guatlo 1st Runner-up: Ivy Soliva 2nd Runner-up: Nol Valila

General Santos Top Sales Manager Marlon Guatlo Tagum Top Property Executives

Camella A3

Davao Top Business Director Rio Serranas

Koronadal Top Property Executives

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

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Globe and Mabuhay Miles give free sims to PAL passengers

THE INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS GROUP of Globe Telecom partnered with Mabuhay Miles to make it easier for balikbayans, OFWs, and travelers to get in touch with their loved ones when they reach the Philippines via free Traveler sim cards distributed to passengers on PAL’s international flights to Manila.

“We continuously strive to serve the needs of our dear OFWs, balikbayans and tourists. Through the partnership with Mabuhay Miles, we have created an avenue where our customers are able to enjoy their homecoming by means of instant communication as soon as they land,” said Nikko Acosta, Senior Vice President of the International Business Group of Globe Telecom.

Since December 14, 2016, the

Traveler sim has been distributed to passengers on PAL international flights for free. As a bonus, customers can avail of unlimited calls to Globe and TM mobiles, 20 all-net SMS and 15MB mobile data valid for one day.

“Through this partnership with Globe, we are very happy to give our Mabuhay Miles customers a more enriching in-flight experience by making them feel we are making their trip to the Phil-

ippines more rewarding,” said Kevin Hartigan-Go, PAL VP for Ancillary Business Unit. “As of today, we have supplied hundreds of thousands of PAL passengers with free sim cards and we cannot wait to give to more!” Hartigan-Go added.

Mabuhay Miles will give 500 bonus miles when Traveler Sim customers register or update their membership information.

New members need to enroll

at www.mabuhaymiles.com and text their Mabuhay Miles number using the Traveler sim to 3456. Existing members can update their profile by texting their Mabuhay Miles number, name and email address to 3456. Passengers can buy prepaid load at the Globe booths at NAIA 2 (PAL terminal), other international airports nationwide, and at over 800,000 Globe retailers around the country.

EDGE DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

VOL. 9 ISSUE 269 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 5 - 6, 2017

EVENT Camella A1

Top Sales Managers - Gensan Top: Marlon Guatlo 1st Runner-up: Francis Darwin Loyloy Special Recognition: Richard Briones Special Recognition: Rey Eugene Fuentes Top Property Executives - Gensan Top: Flocer Guerrero 1st Runner-up: Ralph Loyloy Special Recognition: Ernie Jamelarin KORONADAL TOP SELLERS: Top Business Directors - Koronadal Top: Ana Marie Guatlo 1st Runner-up: Rolando Rivera Top Sales Managers - Koronadal Top: Mark John Gonzales Top Property Executives - Koronadal Top: Richielo Barrida 1st Runner-up: Robert John Parian Special Recognition: Evelyn Castor House & Lot Raffe Winner: Elvira Arce More aggressive Camella in 2017 Camella’s officers and heads who rhapsodized the company’s splendid performance in 2016 included Ma. Pamela Gako,

Elvira Arce

EDGEDAVAO

Camella’s Visayas-Mindanao head, South Cotabato cluster head Sheilamae Lara, Davao Region cluster head Anna Mae dela Pena, Mindanao Business Development Officer Marlon Nino Escalicas, Davao Horizontal Marketing head Mary Stephanie Palanca, Davao Vertical Marketing head Lorelli Randa and Tagum Marketing head Carlo Refamonte.

Vis-Min head Ma. Pamela Gako, a lawyer, congratulated the winners for their achievements as she announced through live phone patch from Cebu that the company will be more aggressive this year as it opens new projects in Vis-Min. Aside from the awards-giving, participants of the event were entertained and thrilled by two highly anticipated contests – the Miss Camella Universe beauty pageant and the raffle draw whose top prize was house and lot!

Proclaimed Miss Camella Universe was stunning Flocer Guerrero from General Santos City.

The winner of the top raffle award is Elvira Arce of Davao. Ms Arce is a business director who has been with Camella for 18 years now.

Last year the company raffled off a brand new car.

Here are some photos of that memorable February 23 night in these two spreads:

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A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 269 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 5 - 6, 2017

EDGEDAVAO KORONADAL PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

Advertise with

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Tel No. 082.221.3601/224.1413 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com marketing@edgedavao.net

VOL. 9 ISSUE 269 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 5 - 6, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 11

Compostela... FROM 1

cal and foreign tourists to join and watch various events and presentations.

The “Bulawan” Festival or Festival of Gold is an annual celebration of Comvaleños of thanksgiving for unity, good governance and good harvests brought about by abundant resources.

The people in the province are also looking for a promise of golden future during the five-day revelry.

The opening day on Saturday was graced by Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa and National Youth Council (NYC) Commissioner Aiza Seguera.

A Youth Day Celebration that featured festival of talents was also witnessed by Commissioner Seguera during the opening ceremonies.

The activities for the youth in the province include a dance competition; debate; extemporaneous speech, handicraft making contest, the recyclo motion fashion walk contest; creative t-shirt printing contest; visual arts contest; and doodle making contest.

A “Job Fair One Stop Shop” activity will also be facilitated

during the five-day event that will be led by the Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Foreign Affairs, Philippine Overseas Employment Agency and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.

The job fair will also be joined by 11 POEA accredited overseas recruitment agencies that will offer 4,349 available jobs for the job seekers in Compostela Valley.

A free legal service was also commenced on Saturday that was facilitated by 15 volunteer lawyers from the province.

Residents who encounter problems in their birth certificates as well as those who are facing civil and criminal charges can access free legal consultations from the 15 volunteer lawyers.

Governor Uy also formally opened the 1st Governor’s Shootgest-Pistol and Practical Rimfire Shooting Competition at the Monkayo Firing Range in Monkayo town.

The governor assured the people of Compostela Valley, as well as the visitors of safety and security in the five-day celebration. Alexander D. Lopez

to showcase a meeting of the past representing the hopeful amateur and the present master visually narrating the journey and evolution of Filipino artist,” said Michelle Ang, Metrobank Senior Manager in Mindanao-Area 1.

Mallgoers will get to view art pieces by contemporary Filipino artists who are MADE awardees such as Jonathan Dangue, Mark Justiniani and Ferdinand Montemayor, to name a few.

Now on its 4th year, the “Art MADE Public” aims to heighten public appreciation for the arts at the same time promote MADE to young Fil-

ipino artists and designers to join its recognition programs.

The MADE painting recognition program is open to all Filipino artists age 18-35 years who have not held a solo exhibition while the sculptor competition is open to Filipino sculptors who have held a solo exhibition in sculpture.

True to its commitment to provide careers and opportunities for young Filipino artists and designers, MADE is one of the most prestigious art & design recognition programs in the country.

The exhibit ran from March 2 to 5, 2017 at SM Lanang Premiere Atrium.

Self-Reliance Multipurpose Cooperative (FASRMCO) based in Prosperidad.

The FASRMCO crumb rubber facility was funded under the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP), World Bank’s poverty-alleviation program that preceded PRDP. BARUPCO has also identified its primary target market, which has a demand of 21 metric tons of crumb rubber per month. They are also looking into secondary buyers.

Agusan del Sur is the fourth largest rubber-producing province in the country with a total area 10,139 hectares planted to rubber. The annual production is at 15,151 metric tons of raw rubber, which is approximately 94% of total production of the Caraga region, with around 4,000 farmers into the

commodity.

More than 70 percent of the area planted to rubber and producing cup lump come from the towns of Bayugan, Prosperidad, Rosario, Talacogon and Esperanza.

“The enterprises funded under PRDP have undergone a thorough review process which includes the conduct of Value Chain Analysis (VCA) and scientific-based approaches to ensure that these are potentially viable in uplifting farmers’ livelihood,” Onate added.

Beyond subsistence production to alleviate poverty, the I-REAP (Investments in Rural Enterprises and Agricultural Productivity) component aims to strengthen and develop viable agri-fishery products in targeted project areas. (Jay Rosas, PRDP Mindanao)

year’s Musikahan Festival will convince the thousand revelers from all around the country to witness the other festivals here.

On the other hand, the grand opening of Musikahan

2017 was made more iconic with the lighting of the Giant Musical Tree and the exhibition of colorful fireworks in the showery night sky. (Roy Banias/CIO Tagum)

Metrobank... FROM 5

DA... FROM 7

Tagum... FROM 10

DOING IT RIGHT. Workers assemble the metal structure which will be used in the upcoming Easter Sunday ‘Sugat’ at San Pedro Cathedral compound in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Inday... FROM 2

“As a dedicated public servant, she (Governor Sibala) knew all too well that to live is to love and to love is to serve.

Today, we begin to remember Governor Inday Sibala, a gentle and an intelligent woman of ultimate kindness. She is a gem of a public servant--- intelligent, competent, humble, and an honest public servant. She was a decent leader who let her many achievements speak for themselves. Governor Inday Sibala is the epitome of the servant leader of whom there are too few,” says Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang during a necrological rite at the Capitol.

“As a leader, she was a unifier who brought sectors of our society together by focusing on those things that unite us rather than on issues that divide us.

During her stint as governor of the province, she inspired our people to rally to a common vision, to confidently aspire for better lives. I take my hat off to her. She has integrity written all over her. We will not forget you, Madame Governor. We will remember and be glad that you lived among us. We begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived. And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget. You are among the best, brightest and noblest leaders of Davao Oriental. You did not shrink from the fire when the call to duty came,” the governor adds.

An educator by profession, Governor Sibala was one of the most influential figures in the political history of Davao Oriental. Before joining politics, she served as president of the Davao Oriental Girl Scout Council for twelve years. And she became the first female

member of the Davao Oriental provincial board.

“So, as we all set our sights towards the future, let us feel more confident that come what may, the great people behind the creation and growth of our province will always be part of our memories. Let me end by sharing with you this nugget of wisdom: If we have chosen the position in life which we can most of all work for mankind, no burdens can bow us down because they are sacrifices for the benefit of all, then we shall experience no petty, limited, selfish joy, but our happiness will belong to millions, our deeds will live on quietly but perpetually at work. And over our ashes will be shed the hot tears of noble people. As is a tale, so is life: not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters. So, permit me this one last time to bid our beloved Governor Josefina Inday Sibala. Go now, Madame Governor, with love and happiness, we bid you fare well and soar as angels do,” says Governor Dayanghirang in his moving eulogy.

Both incumbent and former local government officials, including personalities who belonged to the highly influential old-rich families in the province have took turns to deliver their eulogies for Sibala.

“Maam Inday, we will always commit to memory your name Inday, a legacy of compassion and toughness. Tough times never last, but tough people do. This is you, Maam Inday,” says Vice Governor Nino Uy. “As a public servant, she did not care who gets the credit and is willing to share the credit, share the power and share the glory,” adds Vice Governor Uy.

tions in their respective companies.

Pascual noted that any LMC of an organized or non-unionized company which has been in existence for at least three years and are implementing a Labor Management Cooperation program under its workplace mecha-

nism for communication and worker’s participation, may apply or be nominated.

A company, in order to be qualified for the award, should not be a party to pending labor standards case at any DOLE Regional offices and not a respondent to a pending case at NCMB. (PNA)

DOLE... FROM 6

PDEA... FROM 4

tion 11 Article II of Republic Act 9165 otherwise known as “The Comprehensive Danger-

ous Drugs Act of 2002” are being prepared against Rañises and Alcala.

ing benefits (RAEB) in several completed and ongoing projects,” PRDP Mindanao cluster project director Ricardo Oñate said.

He said that the RAEB will

serve as an intermediate mechanism that assesses whether the desired outcomes of the Project will likely be achieved or not. (Jay M. Rosas/PRDP Mindanao)

the economy’s strong export performance and inflows of remittances that have bolstered private consumption.”

Among those present at the prayer vigil rally were USRPCP Co-Convenors Elizabeth E. Babiera; Dan Jimenez, Philippine Military Academy alumnus; Conrad Martinez of The Lord is My Shepherd prayer group; and members of the United Filipino Workers of Metropolitan D.C., led by its president, Clarita Chan.

Babiera read the messages of President Duterte, Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, and Police Maj. Kimberly Molitas, spokesperson of the Philippine National Police National Capital Region.

Duterte, in his EDSA anniversary message, said: “My administration has always believed in the power of the people to chart their own destiny, and establish a government that will put the people’s interests, especially the welfare of the poor and underprivileged sectors, as its topmost priority.

More than a mere commemoration, now is the perfect time

for all of us to reflect and objectively assess what we have lost and what we have gained as a nation since that historic event.”

In his message, Lorenzana thanked USPRCP for its continued support for President Duterte.

Lorenzana said that with the majority of the Filipino people believing in the programs of President Duterte, the entire military supports him. “President Duterte alone has the experience, has the leadership that is truly dedicated to the nation. Let us not waste this opportunity. Let us fight in a peaceful way those who want to destroy our President,” he said.

On the other hand, Molitas said: “Our prayer is that in the observance of these important days, all Filipinos unite in reflecting on this anniversary’s lessons on our nation. If we want to see that today’s generation of young people are assured of a bright future, let us be a part of the change being implemented by the government.” (PNA)

Agreements (MPSAs) still in the pre-operation stage.

The review, which is mandated under Executive Order No. 79, “will initially cover the 28 mine sites that were recommended for closure and suspension,” according to the guidelines approved by the MICC. In the meeting attended by representatives of various government agencies, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) expressed concern over

the high costs of the emergency employment program that had to be immediately put in place to support workers who might be displaced should the DENR ‘s closure and suspension orders push through.

Joji Aragon, the DOLE’s Assistant Secretary for Legal, Legislative and International Affairs, said at the MICC meeting that the DOLE will assess and look at the impact of the mine closures on employment and job displacement. (PR)

Midterm... FROM 4 Filipinos... FROM 4

MICC... FROM 6

12 PROPERTY EDGEDAVAO

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Aeon Towers formally tops off

Photos by LEAN DAVAL JR.

F

TC Group of Companies formally topped off its iconic project Aeon Towers on Tuesday, February 28, at the 33rd floor of what is touted to be Mindanao’s tallest building.

FTC Group of Companies president and CEO Ian Y. Cruz chair led the simple ceremonies along with Francisco Cruz, Board of Director Nancy Cruz, and I.A. Campbell and Associates Inc. Ian Campbell.

The affair was highlighted with the ceremonial hoisting of the bucket and then the pouring of the concrete at the building’s summit.

In building construction, topping off is a builders’ rite traditionally held when the last beam (or its equivalent) is placed atop a structure during its construction.

The imposing Aeon Towers is now 70 percent complete and is being eyed to be completed by December this year or January next year.

Cruz said in an interview that the team is targeting to turn over the units in Decem-

ber this year. He added that Aeon Towers’ condo units are almost sold out.

Aeon Towers is a mix-use high-rise development of F.T.C Group of Companies with a total project cost of P3.1 Billion. Aeon Towers will also house world-class amenities and it’s strategically located at the Central Business District (CBD) of Davao City.

With a total land area of 4,574 square meters, Aeon Towers will house 473 units parking slots of 300 and commercial spaces will be located in the ground floor to 5th floor. The seventh floor to 10th floor will be allocated for the hotel component while the sky deck is at the 33rd floor.

Campbell said the building boasts of earthquake resistant features.

“After the earthquake last week we inspected the building and not one cracks this is a very safe building.

The building has stiffness and flexibility just like a palm tree,” Campbell said.

Tagged the most iconic structure not only in Davao but Mindanao as well Aeon Towers building features fiber optic ready on all units, wifi connections in common areas, four spacious, high speed passenger elevators exclusively for condominium rise; advance fire protection alarm and sprinkler system, provision of complete facilities for every condominium system, green building technology-use of UV protected glass, iconic building with LED lights, 24 hhour CCTV security camera, building management

by NYC Properties Management Corp, unit merging will be allowed with a fee and specified layouts for combined units, and floor to ceiling height is at 2.8 meters.

The building will also house amenities that include swimming pool, sky deck, spa, fitness gym, library, and meeting and conference room.

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NEWS 13

EDGEDAVAO

Taiwan offers scholarships for post-graduate studies

T

HE Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines has announced various scholarship programs that are now open to qualified Filipino students.

These scholarships are for Filipinos who would like to pursue post-graduate studies in Taiwan or

those who would like to learn the Mandarin language, TECO said in a news release.

As the Republic of China (Taiwan), under the leadership of Dr. Tsai Ing-wen, is pushing forward the “New Southbound Policy”, it has opened more slots and types of

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scholarship programs, giving more chances for Filipinos to study in Taiwan, learn the traditional Mandarin language, experience the rich and vibrant Taiwanese culture and broaden their international perspectives, TECO said in the release.

TECO in the Philippines has opened the application for the following scholarship programs: 1. Ministry of Education (MOE) Scholarship, which gives two years of scholarship for a master’s degree and four years for a doctorate.

MOE will shoulder 40,000 NTD of the tuition and the remaining costs will be shouldered by the scholar.

An additional 20,000 NTD will be given every month as scholar’s stipend. Application is until April 30. Check the website, https://taiwanscholarship.moe.gov.tw/web/ engb02-01.html for details.

2. Huayu (Mandarin) Enrichment Scholarship, which allows applicants to choose to pursue either two months or three months intensive Mandarin courses, subject to TECO’s approval. A monthly stipend of 25,000 NTD will be provided to cover all expenses. Application is until March 31. Check the website, https://taiwanscholarship.moe.gov.tw/web/engb02-03. html for details.

3. International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF), which covers full tuition fee, living expenses, economy class airfare tickets and textbook costs. Scholars pursuing a master’s degree will receive a monthly stipend of 15,000 NTD and those taking their doctorate, 20,000 NTD. Application is until March 31. For details, check website http://www.icdf. org.tw/ct.asp?xItem=39711&ctNode=29877&mp=2.

4. The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) will also offer scholarship programs providing two years for a master’s degree

and three years for a doctorate. A total of 30,000 NTD monthly will be given to the recipient(s), covering tuition fee, stipend and other expenses. Application is until March 31. Its website is https://taiwanscholarship.moe.gov.tw/web/ engb02-05.html.

Interested applicants can only choose one scholarship program among the offerings and must need to process first their university admission in their preferred university in Taiwan.

They also have to comply and submit necessary documents to TECO for review and recommendation based on the indicated deadlines of each program. Scholarship guidelines and additional requirements prescribed by TECO can be found at the official website of TECO in the Philippines at http://www.roc-taiwan.org/ph.

Since the introduction of these scholarship programs to the Philippines, Taiwan has partnered with Philippine institutions and universities to attract more young and capable talents to study in Taiwan, according to TECO. Dr. Gary Song-Huann Lin, representative of Taiwan/ROC to the Philippines, expressed hope that more Filipinos would seize these opportunities to study and experience Taiwan, as the two countries share a lot of commonalities and could really work together.

“Taiwan can offer the resources, knowledge and technology, while the Philippines can complement it through its young talents, who are willing to equip themselves and be trained”, said Lin. For further information, check the “STUDY IN TAIWAN” section found in the official website of TECO in the Philippines, http:// www.roc-taiwan.org/ph or contact TECO’s Press Division at teco.linkages@gmail.com. (PNA)

14

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 269 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 5 - 6, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

VOL. 9 ISSUE 269 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, MARCH 5 - 6, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS15

MEDIA EVENT. (Left) Davao’s Roland Jumawan, representing Mindanao Daily Mirror, won the 70th Philippine Airlines Interclub media golf tournament at the Apo and Rancho Palos Verdes ccourses in Davao. (Right) Members of the PAL Interclub media take another annual class pose.

Southwoods wins it by record 44 M

ANILA Southwoods put the finishing touches to the club’s first-ever “three-peat” in the Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub Men’s Championship yesterday, winning the tournament’s 70th edition by 44 points despite posting its worst score of the week.

The veteran Jun Jun Plana fired a three-over-par 75 worth 33 points at Apo Golf and anchored a closing 120 for the Carmona-based parbusters, who tallied an eye-popping 547 to win this one pulling away from archrival Canlubang.

Southwoods spiced up its franchise’s first hat trick with two bits of history in what is regarded as the country’s unofficial team golf championship, as the margin of victory was the biggest ever recorded.

The champions in 2015 in Cebu and last year in Pampanga also became the first team to have all five players cracking par in a single round, pulling out the feat on Friday with a 155-point effort.

“I have so much respect for Canlubang,” Southwoods non-playing skipper Thirdy Escano said, refusing to be drawn away by how much they dominated this year’s field. “It was just that we had

such a great third round (at Rancho Palos Verdes).”

Tom Kim fired 30 points, former Junior World champion Kristoffer Arevalo added 29 and Southwoods counted the 28 of Jets Sajulga before throwing away the 27 or Ira Alido in the final round.

Starting the day 38 points behind, the Sugar Barons were obviously out of the running.

But Cangolf still failed to put a dent on Southwoods as Ruper Zaragosa and Gido Mandanas fired 32s in a 114-point day.

“I’m sure Canlubang will bounce back next year from this one,” Escano said. “That’s why we will stay with our program and continue to train players worthy of seeing action here.”

Carlo Villaroman and Marco Olives shot 25s, and Cangolf discarded the 24 of Bambam Santos.

Del Monte, meanwhile, amassed a day-best 123 points and went on to steal third spot from Luisita, as Jelbert Gamolo matched par and Mel Cubillo contributed 32.

Former pro Raul Minoza fired 28 points and Rolando Bregente chipped in with 27 for the final Del Monte card and a 472 total, just six points behind the Sugar Barons.

Don Petil’s 29 led Luisita,

which closed out with a measly 106 and lost a grip of third spot, its realistic target for the tournament. Josh Jorge and Luis Bagtas fired 26 apiece while Senior standout Eddie Bagtas, after firing 36 points on Friday, slowed down considerably with 25.

The 70th PAL Interclub Platinum sponsors are Mareco Broadcasting Network, A&E Networks Asia, RMN Networks, The Manila Standard, Fox Networks Group, RollsRoyce, TV5, MasterCard, TFC and Business Mirror.

Major sponsors include Asian Air Safari, Airbus, Primax Broadcasting Network and Sabre Airline Solutions while Corporate sponsors are Baron Travel Corporation, Boeing, MX3, GE Aviation, Bombo Radyo Philippines, Asia Brewery, Tanduay Distillers, Sabre Airline Solutions and Tourism Promotions Board.

Donors are Shangri-La at The Fort, Trinity Insurance and Eton Properties.

Partial scores: Championship Manila Southwoods 547 (136-136-155-120), Canlubang 503 (125-133-131114), Del Monte 472 (111127-111-123), Luisita 467 (115-117-129-106)

T’S about time,” many may have said in the past week.

The boxing world learned that eight-division, global superstar Manny Pacquiao would not be facing the game yet virtually unknown Jeff Horn in Australia for his next contest.

Instead and in a welcomed fashion, Pacquiao (59-6-2, 38 KO’s) is now set to rumble with Amir “King” Khan (31-4, 19 KO’s) for the WBO world welterweight title on May 20.

Perhaps we as the sport’s most ardent supporters should

feel relieved that we won’t be subjected to yet another questionable, high dollar bout carrying an unwarranted price tag on pay TV. Although Pacquiao’s next fight will likely find itself as part of a pay-per-view telecast, the simple fact that a bout with Khan carries much more intrigue and significance than one against Jeff Horn makes our separation from fifty dollars or more a bit easier to accept.

More fighters should have the freedom to allow fans to

select their next opponents by way of a vote as Manny is said to have done a few weeks ago.

Imagine if Floyd Mayweather, Jr., for example, in the past fired out such a chance to the public via social media. Would we have waited for more than half a decade to see the dreadfully boring bout with Pacquiao that we saw almost two years ago? Who knows and frankly, who cares? This article is not to speculate what fans would like to see because many of us already have a good idea of the answer to such a query.

Mark Lopez and Kuresh Samanodi each fired 32 points while EJ Casintahan added 29 and Chris Tan 22. The 21 of Joseph Ng did not count.

Lanang Golf ad Country Club wound up a respectable 5th in the Friendship Division

with a 293 total.

The Lanang divot-diggers scored a 71 on final day built around Jonathan Cabreros’ 20, Elias Arriba’s 19, Robert Plana’s 17 and Bong Belen’s 15.

The 12 of Ned Sanchez did not count.

Meantime, Davao’s Roland Jumawan of the Mindanao Daily Mirror scored a breakthrough win in the media tournament besting runners up Rey Bancod of Tempo and Musong Castillo of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Pacquiao-Khan: Right time, wrong place?

“I

HANGING... FROM 16

SOUTHWOODS 3-PEAT. Skipper Thirdy Escano is raised by members of the victorious Manila Southwoods for achieving a three-peat at the close of the 70th PAL Men’s Interclub in Davao. PAL President Jaime J. Bautista (in jacket) joins the Southwoods team composed of Yuto Katsurugawa, Kristoffer Arevalo, Aidric Chan, Ira Alido, Liam Patrick Cully, Joo Hyung Kim, Carlos Corpus, Jets Sajulga, Jay Matthew Reyes and Nestor Plana.

Registration ongoing for 9th Phoenix-Pioneer Open

R

EGISTRATION is now open for the 9th Phoenix-Pioneer Open golf tournament which tees off on March 11 at the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club.

Registration is at the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club, Apo Golf and Country Club, Dencio’s SM Ecoland and the Phoenix Mega Station in Lanang. It is pegged at P5,000 per player which will entitle the registrant to compete in the team, partner and individual categories, maximum of one team and one partner.

The paid entry will also receive give-aways upon registration having a Rudy Project dri-fit golf shirt and cap, a Phoenix signature golf umbrella and a JBL Clip2 wa-

terproof Bluetooth speaker

by Harman Kardon. He or she will also be entitled to have one practice round on any day between March 7 to 10, 2017 at the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club.

The tournament will be open to male and female golfers competing in the Team Division (5 to play. 4 to count), Partner Division and the Individual category. Winners will then receive Royal Selangor pewter plates and Phoenix Petroleum Philippine Fuel Cards.

Champion teams will also be receiving a limited edition Phoenix signature golf bag.

A brand new Mercedez Benz A180 will be one of the hole-in-one prizes for the lucky player who scores a rare on a designated hole per par 3

fairway. Aside from the Mercedez Benz A180 sponsored

by Auto Nation Group Incorporated other hole-in-one prizes at stake as announced earlier are a Tata Xenon4x4 and one hundred thousand pesos worth of Fuel Cards.

No less than Phoenix Petroleum Philippines CEO Dennis Uy will welcome the participants in grand rites with the traditional ceremonial tee off.

The awarding ceremonies will be held on that evening at the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club which will also highlight the giving of tournament proceeds to the Phoenix Philippine Foundation for its educational, environment, health and other community programs.

Bay Hill Club in 2013.

Agent Mark Steinberg offered nothing new when contacted Friday, his last comments about the golfer coming on Feb. 15 when Woods skipped a scheduled news conference at the Genesis Open for “precautionary’’ reasons.

“He is just having a hard time getting these spasms to calm down,’’ Steinberg said at the time.

Woods was scheduled to play the Genesis Open and the Honda Classic, but he withdrew from both due to the

lingering back issues that have plagued him for the past three years. Woods has made no comments about his status since he tweeted on Feb. 10 about his withdrawal from the Genesis.

No timetable on Tiger Woods’return

T

IGER Woods’ agent offered no update on the status of the golfer Friday as the deadline passed for committing to next week’s Valspar Championship in Palm Harbor, Florida.

Although Woods was never certain to play the tournament, it was viewed as one of the places he might consider prior to withdrawing from the Omega Dubai Desert Classic last month with back spasms.

His next possible tournament would be the Arnold Palmer Invitational, with a commitment deadline of March 10. Woods has won the tournament eight times but has not played it since winning at the

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

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HANGING TOUGH

READING IT. Davao City Golf Club’s Ludwig Van Ledesma reads his line of putt. Boy Lim

Davao GC salvages 3rd, Apo 7th

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

T

njb@edgedavao.net

O the end, Davao City Golf and Country Club was in fighting mode.

The Matina-based swingers chased down the leaders and ended up finishing third in the Aviator Division at the close of the 70th Philippine Airlines Men’s Interclub on Saturday.

DCGC scored the day’s best round in its class with an aggregate 98 but fell short of catching up with eventual champion Sherwood which won the title with a four-day total 413. Umbia was second with a 382.

The Davao boys squeezed the best out of Elvie Naranjo who scored 28 points in the PAL Points System while Rodolfo Luna added a 26 and Edipolo Caturan 24. Mark Oropesa chipped in a 20 while Junjun Grandez’s own 20 did not count in the five-to-play-four-tocount team event.

In the tougher Founders Division, cohost Apo Golf and Country Club limped home to its worst round with 103 to finish 7th with a 455 total on earlier rounds

of 112, 120 and 120.

Unlike the exxplosive round at their homecourse on the third round, the Apo parbusters struggled at the rolling layout of Rancho Palos Verdes in Cabantian.

Vincent Gumapac was the highest pointer at 31 followed by Francis Tionko with a 25, Patrick Ryan Co with a 24, and Monchit Mackay with a 23.

The 20 of Chikoy Saavedra did not count.

Fellow co-host Rancho Palos Verdes rallied at home turf but was not enough to hold out for a Top 10 finish and went down to 11th place.

RPV totalled 422 points on rounds of 105, 103, 99 and 115.

F HANGING, 15

BLASTING OUT. Karloz Aba of Apo tries to get out of the sandtrap. Boy Lim