Edge Davao 9 Issue 276

VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

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BEST FRIEND. A dog owner holds his pet while Michelle Galo of the City Veterinarian Office injects anti-rabies vaccine during a free vaccination for dogs and cats in Barangay 28-C, Juan Luna Street, Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Bugsay Festival in Davao Or P15

LGUs rallied to back drive for federalism

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TOP government official rallied local government executives to the eventual systemic shift of Mindanao to federalism which will lead to a federal form of government in the Philippines.

“It’s now or never,” said Secretary Datu HJ. Abdul Khayr Alonto, chair of the Mindanao Development Authority while addressing the 10th Philippine Councilors’ League in Manila.

“This is the most opportune time and we intend to bolster the push for Federalism by laying the foundations of a self-reliant, self-sufficient and progressive Mindanao, so that our experience could cascade to the rest of the country,” said the Secretary, adding that the Mindanao’s shift to federalism will enable the island region to help in nation-building.

Secretary Datu HJ. Abul Khayr Alonto, chairman of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) at the recently concluded 10th Philippine Councilors League (PCL) National Congress here said Mindanao’s shift to federalism will enable the island-region to help in nation building.

“As the centrepiece of President Rodrigo Duterte’s campaign, Federalism becomes the soul of his administration and the backbone of his vision for a truly united, progressive, and economically developed Philippines,” he said.

Secretary Alonto, who is the event’s guest speaker added that Mindanao is currently experiencing an unprecedented economic improvement coupled with significant investment interests from both local and international businesses which heightened during the Duterte presidency.

GREEN HOSPITAL P2.5-billion Lanang Doctors facility, to be environment-friendly

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

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HE P2.5Billion Lanang Premiere Doctors Hospital, Inc. the hospital component of Megaworld Corporation’s Davao Park District township project, is seen to be an environment-friendly hospital according to its princiFLGUS, 10 pal designer.

Architect Rafael O. Tayactac said during the LPDHI groundbreaking ceremony at Lanang, Davao City on Tuesday that the medical facility will be constructed as a “green building” as willed by LPDHI chairman of the board and PNS Land Development, Inc. president Lemuel R. Podador.

Tayactac explained resources will be used efficient-

ly to equitably meet the developmental and environmental needs of the present and future generations.

Eyed to be a high-end medical resort-type of facility, occupants of LPDHI will benefit from improved indoor environmental quality, which promises higher productivity and better comfort.

“Kasi ang target ni sir (Podador) is to squeeze ang

cost para barato mahatag sa tao. Mao na iyahang goal (The chair wanted to squeeze the cost so that it will be affordable to the people. That is his goal.)”, said Tayactac.

He identified some features of LPDHI which will qualify it as a green building such as positioning the rooms in such ways that it will not be directly hit by sunlight, constructing windows that

will enable natural ventilation, utilization of solar panels for power, using recycling sewage treatment plants that will utilize wastewater in restrooms, and installation of chilled water system for cooling the whole facility.

“The equipment is costly but lower operational cost in the long run,” said Tayactac.

The Green Building Code,

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DARK SIDE. President Rodrigo Duterte expresses disappointment while showing photos of forests and bodies of water that have been destroyed by illegal mining companies during a press conference at the Rizal Hall at Malacañan Palace on Monday evening. RENE LUMAWAG/Presidential Photo

Duterte orders Panelo DCIPC to craft special incentive to review Mighty case

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RESIDENTIAL chief legal counsel Salvador Panelo on Tuesday bared that he had been directed by President Rodrigo Duterte to study the legal issues against the owners of cigarette firm Mighty Corporation and to prepare any appropriate charges to be filed.

“I’ve been instructed to study and to prepare the case against the Mighty cigarette.

This will be the first case that I will study, if there is enough evidence to file the appropriate case against the owners of Mighty,” Panelo said during a press briefing in Malacañang.

The Palace official said the government could file both civil and criminal cases against the cigarette firm, depending on the outcome of the review.

“Civil liability will be based

on the computation of the BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue) and the BOC (Bureau of Customs) on the liabilities of Mighty cigarettes. They are supposed to pay some taxes and they avoided that then we can prosecute them with that,” he said.

“Discovery of false stamps, then that is another case. If it reaches PHP1 billion and above then it is economic sabotage,” Panelo said.

Pressed on the possible settlement of the case based on President Rodrigo Duterte’s earlier pronouncements on the issue, Panelo pointed out that the President always bases his statements on the provisions of the law.

Earlier, President Duterte said that his administration

FDUTERTE, 10

package for parking buildings

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

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S part of the measures to reduce the traffic congestion in the city, the Davao City Investment Promotions Center will create a special incentive package for parking buildings.

In an interview on Tuesday, DCIPC Head Lemuel Ortonio said the agency together with City Legal Counsel, City Engineers Office and City Assessor’s Office, is still in the stage of consultation and formulation of the incentive.

He stressed that parking buildings and parking lots will be a requirement for all incoming locators in the city.

“This will be a preparation for the implementation of No Parking Policy of Mayor Inday,” said Ortonio.

He said DCIPC is still looking at providing incentives such as business tax and real property tax exemptions.

“We are also looking at the possibility of long-term incentive period,” Ortonio added.

Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DCIPC) is the lead agency of the City Government of Davao in promoting Davao as a viable investment site through organization or participation in

business missions, fairs, exhibits, conferences, and fora.

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

M e a n while, Davao City Acting City Engineer and City Building Official Joseph Dominic Felizarta, a task force was formed

by the city government to conduct a study on the building height requirement in the city which will be the basis for formulating policies in the city.

“Usually it is CAAP (Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines) that sets the building requirement but Mayor wants to have a city-based policy for that,” he said.

The limiting of building height requirement is also seen to prevent worsening the city’s traffic situation as lower building height in traffic-prone areas will also mean lower occupancy rate and lesser congestion.

TOP government official rallied local government executives to the eventual systemic shift of Mindanao to federalism which will lead to a federal form of government in the Philippines.

Secretary Datu HJ. Abul Khayr Alonto, chairman of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) at the recently concluded 10th Philippine Councilors League (PCL) National Congress here said Mindanao’s shift to federalism will enable the island-region to help in nation building.

“As the centrepiece of President Rodrigo Duterte’s cam-

paign, Federalism becomes the soul of his administration and the backbone of his vision for a truly united, progressive, and economically developed Philippines,” he said.

Secretary Alonto, who is the event’s guest speaker added that Mindanao is currently experiencing an unprecedented economic improvement coupled with significant investment interests from both local and international businesses which heightened during the Duterte presidency.

“This is the most opportune time and we intend to bolster the push for Federalism

by laying the foundations of a self-reliant, self-sufficient and progressive Mindanao, so that our experience could cascade to the rest of the country,” said the Secretary.

In January this year, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzō Abe pledged US$8.7 billion worth of business opportunities and private investments in the Philippines during his state visit in Davao City.

The Prime Minister brought with him more than 20 key Japanese government officials and private sector representatives at a forum aimed to showcase Mindanao as the next invest-

ment destination in the Philippines.

Several interests in the implementation of Mindanao power and energy projects were also secured during a forum organized by the Japanese Government and MinDA in February this year.

Also in February, a delegation from Mindanao joined the Philippine three-country mission to the United Arab Emirates to present business incentives and explore investment prospects to key business organizations in the Middle East.

About 70 Emirati business-

Abu Sayyaf frees public Alonto rallies LGU execs to support federalism bid school teacher in Sulu A

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BU Sayyaf bandits have released the public school teacher they seized a few days ago in Sulu province, a top military official in Zamboanga City announced Tuesday.

Col. Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said the teacher, Ibrahim Potong, was freed on Monday in an undisclosed place in Sulu province.

Sobejana said Potong, after his release, was reunited

with his family in Barangay Latih, Patikul town.

Potong was driving his motorcycle in Maimbung town when waylaid and seized by the Abu Sayyaf bandits on March 10.

Potong is a teacher of the Jolo National High School.

With his release, the number of hostages that are in the hands of the Abu Sayyaf bandits is reduced to 31, including 26 foreigners.

(PNA)

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

DA, UNDP hold forum on weather index-based insurance in Davao

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

GOOD NEWS. A pump attendant refills a customer’s vehicle at a gasoline station along E. Quirino Avenue in Davao City yesterday. Oil firms announced another

round of rollbacks in pump prices of petroleum products as a result of lower cost of crude in world markets. Lean Daval Jr.

Davao City cites need for 3 more overpasses

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HE City Transport and Traffic Management Office wants three more overpasses in areas where there are heavy volume of pedestrians.

Although they identified more than three areas, CTTOMO chief Dionisio Abude said they are only considering two of the areas in the north and one in the south as top priorities.

“We have proposed several new overpasses especially along the Ateneo-Matina area, where there is an increased volume of people crossing the streets,” Abude said.

Abude said pedestrian traffic along Ateneo-Matina has increased over the years, adding that pedestrian traffic would worsen once the Mapua Institute

of Technology, which is still constructing its building, starts its operation.

He said they have already submitted their proposal for the new pedestrian overpasses to the CTTMO technical working group (TWG) for approval.

Abude said he was informed that the construction of overpasses along Ateneo-Matina, Abreeza Mall and Panacan will be prioritized.

In the last 10 years, these areas are also considered vehicle chokepoints during peak hours because of the presence of schools and markets.

Abude said that funding for the the new pedestrian overpasses will be sourced from the Department of Public Works and Highways. (PNA)

300 families flee as troops pursue BIFF in Maguindanao

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BOUT 300 families have fled three adjoining villages in Datu Salibo town, Maguindanao for fear of getting caught in the crossfire between government forces and the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a military spokesperson said on Tuesday.

Capt. Arvin Encinas, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, said troops have launched pursuit operations against the BIFF after their renewed harassment against government forces and installations in the province.

The latest attempt was a strafing incident Tuesday dawn, he said.

Encinas said the BIFF also planted four improvised explosive devices along the road in the village of Gawang, Datu Salibo on Monday.

Encinas said the recovered improvised bombs “have the signatures” of the BIFF and the same ordnance they have been using against government forces.

Of the four IEDs, one was safely defused while three others were detonated using igniters.

Since last week, the BIFF have been launching “hit and run” attacks on soldiers manning checkpoints and government forces travelling to and from Army bases.

The atrocities commit-

F300 FAMILIES, 10

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

ORE than 100 farmer leaders from various provinces in regions 10 and 11 in Mindanao gathered for a two-day National Stakeholder Forum at the Marco Polo Hotel in Davao City.

The gathering, dubbed as “Scaling-up Risk Transfer Mechanisms for Climate Vulnerable Agriculture-based Communities in Mindanao”, commenced Tuesday, March

14 and will discuss the impacts of Weather Index-Based Insurance (WIBI) project implementation in the island-region.

The forum was graced by Bohol Congressman Arthur Yap, who is also a former secretary of Department of Agriculture and top officials of the United Nations Development Programme.

WIBI implementation in Mindanao is a joint effort and

cooperation of the UNDP and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) of DA. It is aimed to reduce poverty by strengthening the resilience of vulnerable agriculture-based rural communities in Mindanao through climate risk transfer mechanisms and productivity enhancement measures.

WIBI is a form of insur-

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

Lawmakers urged: Pass full maternity leave bill P ROPONENTS of the expanded maternity leave bill have called for a great push for the “full birth” of the bill that would benefit the country’s working women and their children.

In a press conference held in Max’s Restaurant in Barangay Commonwealth, Quezon City on Tuesday, Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros said that while the bill was successfully passed during the third and final reading at the Senate, it now has to hurdle the House of Representatives for it to turn into a law.

“Nais po naming uliting muli ang aming panawagan para ipasa na po ng ating kongreso ang Expanded Maternity Leave Bill (We want to repeat our call for the passage of the Expanded Maternity Leave Bill at the House),” said Hontiveros.

Last week, the Senate passed the bill that grants all female workers, regardless of civil status or the

legitimacy of their children, 120 days maternity leave with pay, granting them ample time for recovery and bonding with their babies.

The passage of the bill coincides with the celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s Month every March.

“The physical demand of pregnancy alone is challenging. A ninemonth pregnant woman carries an average weight of 15 kg. This is as heavy as a regular hollow block or mid-sized microwave oven. Yet, this is but a small fraction of the multiple burden of pregnancy,” Hontiveros said, referring to physical, mental and economic burdens.

To illustrate her point, the senator and Atty. Joy Anne Lai, chief of staff of Diwa Partylist Representative Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, each carried a 15-kg. sack of sand that represented the burden that the Expanded Maternity Leave Bill would

N0-HOLDS BARRED. Employees of the city government of Davao compete in a traditional game known as ‘karang’ during the Employees Day, which is among the activities of the 80th Araw ng Davao, at Rizal Park yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Lanao town rejects P Bangsamoro set up O

N the same day the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front signed the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro , on 27 March 2014, residents of Wao town in Lanao del Sur staged a rally to express their desire to be excluded from the proposed political entity that seeks to end decades of armed conflict in Mindanao.

The month before the signing of CAB, the municipal government had submitted a manifesto to Congress, President Benigno Aquino III and the peace panels to exclude Wao from the Bangsamoro. On 9 June 2014, the Sangguniang Bayan passed a resolution expressing the same sentiment. And on 16 October of the same year, the municipal government submitted a position paper further elaborating its position.

The position paper said Wao’s vote in the event of a plebiscite on the Bangsamoro should be counted separately from Lanao del Sur’s. It said doing other-

FLAWMAKERS, 10

wise “will result to injustice on our basic rights,” adding it was time to heed Wao’s voice which has been “suppressed by political boundaries”. It further cited that the manner of the plebiscites on the ARMM in 1989 and 2001 was “oppressive”, as the result was based on how the province voted as a whole and the “No” vote of the town was ignored.

Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, chair of the government peace panel during the Aquino III administration, offered a different argument, in a forum in Malaybalay City on 22 May 2014 attended by Bukidnon’s Catholic clergy.

(Wao belongs to the Diocese of Malaybalay.) Citing Moro residents of Wao, Ferrer said [excluding the town from the Bangsamoro] would be an injustice to the hospitality of native inhabitants who welcomed the settlers to their place.

Resettlement site Wao, although part of Lanao

Duterte bares plans to fulfill electoral campaign promises

del Sur, is inhabited predominantly by Christian settlers who now comprise at least 80 percent of the population. It became part of the ARMM by virtue of Republic Act 6374 of 1990 and RA 9054 of 2001 which expanded and strengthened the autonomous region. The rest of Lanao del Sur’s 39 municipalities are Muslim-dominated.

Lying next to Kalilangan in Bukidnon and Alamada and Banisilan in North Cotabato, Wao became a resettlement site during the Quirino and Magsaysay administrations. To entice settlers from various parts of the country, the government provided them lands, farm tools and supplies and other incentives. Thanks to the industry of the settlers, Wao parish priest Fr. Floredelito Nazareno said in an interview on 6 January 2017, the place and its people prospered, in stark contrast to the status of Lanao del Sur as one of the most impoverished provinces of the country.

Settlers, Fr. Nazareno said, would emphasize their contribution to Wao’s development as a reason for their rejection of the Bangsamoro. He added the settlers are also questioning why the law carried an “opt in” section but not an “opt out” provision.

Absence of government In a separate position paper dated 16 August 2014 and written in Cebuano, Catholic lay leaders in Wao voiced their stand for the town’s exclusion from the Bangsamoro. They said that while they appreciate the determination and sincerity of the government and the MILF to pursue peace, they believe the Mindanao problem cannot be resolved by the aggressive effort of then President Benigno Aquino III to implement the CAB. Signed by 210 lay leaders, the position paper argued that if the ARMM which the Bangsamoro shall replace, is indeed a “failed experiment,” it is not for

FLANAO, 13

resident Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, March 13, laid out the direction of his administration in a bid to realize its campaign pledges during the last election tackling issues such as federalism, criminality, corruption and illegal drugs.

“Magpatawag kami ng partido, because we would like to announce the policies that could be adopted by PDP and to be implemented sa gobyerno where -- it’s the ruling group,” President Duterte said during a joint press conference with Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III and House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez in Malacañan.

President Duterte said federalism is the centerpiece of their campaign during the last elections and it remains to be the priority of the administration, believing it is the only way to bring peace to Mindanao.

Duterte explained that the current unitary type of government has not solved the country’s problems and this has to

Benham Rise belongs to Filipinos – Palace

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OVERDUE. A P10 fare increase for walk-in passengers of the roll-on-roll-off vessel to Island Garden City of Samal will take effect starting March 22. The fare will increase from P10 to P20. Lean Daval Jr.

be corrected.

He added that Mindanao’s security situation was also discussed, particularly the Abu Sayyaf Group and the widespread drug trade that fuels extremism in the south.

As federalism is becoming a major issue, the President warned about bogus federalism movement sprouting everywhere that just collects money from people who want to join.

He told the public not to believe them.

Also during the same press conference, the President reiterated his support to Environment Secretary Gina Lopez as he showed photos of destroyed mountains and forests as a result of mining operations.

He said the PHP70 billion a year in taxes contributed by the mining industry is not worth it, considering the destruction it brought to the country. The President also said he wants an explanation from mining companies regarding the destruction that they did. (PNA)

ALACAÑANG on Tuesday asserted that Benham Rise belongs to the Filipino people even as it cited the need for improved capabilities to protect Philippine sovereignty over its territories.

“First and foremost, the Benham Rise belongs to the Filipino people. The Philippine government is duty-bound to defend and protect our sovereign and territorial rights over this region,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella stressed during a Palace briefing.

He pointed out that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas supports the Philippines’ claim on the maritime feature east of Luzon.

Benham Rise was awarded to the Philippines by the United Nations in 2012.

“The Philippines has the

responsibility to oversee and regulate the sailing ships of other countries that passes the waters of Benham Rise,” he said.

Thus, the Palace official said that other countries were only allowed to pass through Benham Rise.

“Other countries can exercise innocent passage and territorial navigation. But they are disallowed to stay and establish any structure in the area,” Abella said.

The Palace official issued the statements following reports from the Department of National Defense that several Chinese vessels were monitored in the region last year.

But Beijing claimed that its vessels were only exercising its right of innocent passage, a claim being disputed by the DND. (PNA)

5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

Foreigners flock to Mati beaches T

HE beaches of Mati City, Davao Oriental have become a favorite weekend destination for foreign visitors mostly from the United States, Europe and Japan.

This was disclosed by Tan-

ya Virginia Rabat-Tan, head of the Mati City Local Economic Investments Promotion Office, attributing the influx of tourists to the province’s natural beauty.

She said features or stories

Promotion of hybrid rice intensified to hit DA goal

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HE Department of Agriculture (DA) is intensifying its rice hybridization promotion activities in line to meet its rice self-sufficiency target by 2020.

Secretary Manny F. Piñol said his department will launch a rice derby contest to determine which variety produces more yield per hectare.

He said the contest result will serve as the government’s guide as to what variety to distribute to farmers.

In line with this initiative, the DA has forged partnership with private seed companies to assist in technology transfer.

Piñol also laid other strategies to attain the rice sufficiency goal, including access to credit/loans, access to right marketing, and provision of post-harvest facilities.

The DA has proposed to

Congress the enactment of a Quick Credit Facility (QCF) wherein farmers and fishers may avail themselves of a P25,000 per hectare financial assistance.

Through the Agricultural Credit and Policy Council, the department has also launched the Survival and Recovery (SURE) Assistance Program for calamity-stricken farmers and fishers. SURE does not require collateral, has zero interest and is payable in three years.

To give producers access to market, the DA will organize rice farmers into highly-functioning organizations and assist them in setting-up farmer-owned rice outlets in key areas.

Through this strategy, the DA aims to eliminate unnecessary layers in the market system. (PNA)

about Mati and Davao Oriental attracted the attention of people looking for exciting sites.

Although Tan could not provide statistics yet to back her claims, she said the city had been receiving foreign and

domestic tourists since 2013, with the number increasing lately.

This city has become a favorite destination for people interested in skimboarding, which is famous in the beaches

PILLARS OF AEON TOWERS. FTC Group of Companies officers: (l-r) Ian Y. Cruz-FTC Group of Companies (president), Lesley Ann Cruz-Arquiza-FTC Group of Companies (Finance Director), Francisco T. Cruz-FTC Group of

of Dahican.

There will be a National Skimboarding Competition and a Frisbee International Tournament on April 21 to 23 in Dahican.

Also part of the Davao

Oriental eco-adventure destination is Mt. Hamiguitan, a UNESCO Heritage Park in San Isidro, Davao Oriental.

Tan encouraged tourists to help them maintain and preserve the environment. (PNA)

Companies (Chairman), and Alvin Y. Cruz-FTC Group of Companies Corp.

(Corporate Secretary), during the Topping Off Ceremonies of the 33-level high-rise development Aeon Towers.

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New look Mister Donut to re-launch in Davao

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ISTER Donut will be launching its new face in Davao on March 17.

Operations Manager Sherlin Kenneth Caagbay announced at the Kapehan sa Dabaw on Monday, that all Mister Donut outlets in Davao have been renovated to their new look, all for the satisfaction and better service to provide their customers.

Mister Donut will also launch the newest addition

WINNER. NCCC Group of Companies public relations manager Thea Padua (rightmost) receives the plaque in behalf of company after being recognized as one of the top real property tax payers by the city government of Davao

during the 80th Araw ng Davao’s Pasidungog: Garbo sa Dabaw held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

Pasidungog awards given to top taxpayers of 2016

By JECIA ANNE OPIANA

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HE City Government of Davao, thru the Davao City Investment and Promotion Center held the Pasidungog: Garbo sa Dabaw, an appreciation and awarding program for the top business and real estate tax Payers of 2016 and individuals and organizations that contributed to the development of Davao City, on Tuesday, at the Royal Mandaya Hotel.

Topping the list of business tax payers was Davao Light & Power Company, Inc, followed by Mindanao Shopping Destination Corp., Holcim Philippines, Inc., Coca-cola FEMS Philippines, Inc., LTS Retail Specialists, Inc, Mindanao, Mindanao

Shoppers Daily Destination, Corp., DSG & Sons Group, Inc., Samsung Electronics Phils., Corp., Mindanao Corrugated Fiberboard, Inc., and Supervalue Incorporated.

Therma South Inc. topped the list of the real estate business tax payers, followed by Davao Union Cement Corp., Accendo Commercial Corp., Southernpoint Properties Corp., SM Prime Holdings Inc., Halifax Davao Hotels, Davao Sunrise Investment & Development Corp., New City Commercial Center, Mindanao Corrugated Fiberboard., Inc. and Supervalue Incorporated.

According to Mr. Lemuel Ortonio, DCIPC chairper-

son, the list of awardees was based on the records coming from the City Treasurer’s Office and City Assessor’s Office.

“There is no better time to stand tall, united and resilient than now, when the city is getting so much attention.

This is where the collective effort of everyone is a must if we want our city to grow and progress. May this recognition serve as inspiration for every Dabawenyo to take an active part in making our city a peaceful, progressive and livable place,” said Arturo Milan, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer for DLPC as he spoke in behalf of the awardees.

The event was attend-

ed by key personnel of the different city government agencies namely, the newly appointed national chairman of the Philippine Councilors League (PCL) City Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang, City Administrator Atty. Zuleika T. Lopez, City Mayor’s Chiefof-Staff Atty. Raul Nadela, Jr., OIC of the Cooperative Development Office Julius Adrian Oxales, Leo Brian Leuterio of the City Agriculturist’s Office, Col. Erwin Neri of the Task Force Davao, Psupt. Dionesio Abude of the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) and Engr. Eliza Madrazo of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office.

HE Philippines has begun implementing an initiative aimed at abolishing certain regulations and laws that make starting and doing business difficult, in an effort to further its good regulatory practice agenda.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said that under the National Competitiveness Council’s (NCC) Project Repeal, a to-

tal of 22,599 rules and regulations have already been submitted for review, 3,765 of which have already been acted on.

He said government agencies, organizations and individuals are called to submit specific laws or rules that people find burdensome and unnecessary. These are reviewed by a technical working group and returned to the agencies for proper action.

Pernia, also director-general of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), added that the project is one of several initiatives to further the good regulatory practice (GRP) agenda in the country.

“I hope we take our time to share common challenges and best practices on how we can foster regulatory excellence in the ASEAN region,” he said Tuesday at the open-

ing of the three-day ASEAN and Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) network meeting on GRP in Iloilo City.

The NEDA chief said the meeting will provide a platform for ASEAN and OECD countries to discuss how they can promote connectivity across countries, strengthen foreign direct investments and encourage businesses to innovate and export. (PNA)

vast bodies of water to mitigate poverty.”

She noted that the autonomous Muslim region has the distinction of having a high poverty incidence in the country brought about by its problems on peace and order.

Alih said that ARMM needs the support of the national government, particularly in developing the

region’s fisheries sector, to alleviate poverty in the area.

She said that ARMM has vast oceans, making the region the leading producer of seaweeds in the country.

Alih also said the backbone of the Sardines industry in Zamboanga peninsula is the Sulu archipelago, where the fishes are mostly caught.

Alih is one of the partic-

ipants in the ongoing Mindanao Regional Scientific Meeting that kicked off on Monday at the SMX Convention Center.

The meeting of scientists and researchers aims to come up with a recommendation for the development of the fisheries and aquatic resources sector in the southern Philippines. (PNA)

DOF exec still banking on CTRP approval

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RANKING official of the Department of Finance (DOF) is hopeful that Congress will approve the agency’s proposed Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP) despite the challenges raised against it by some sectors.

Finance Undersecretary Karl Kendrick Chua said there is still over three months until July, or the start of the new Congress, for lawmakers to study and give its thumbs up on the CTRP. ”Our target (of getting the approval) is hopefully by the middle of the year because once we exceed the middle of the year the budget cycle starts,” he said.

Rep. Dakila Carlo Cua has filed House Bill 4774, which is a tame version of the CTRP. It is now being deliberated by the House’s Ways and Means Committee and various groups have announced their support on the bill.

Chua traced his optimism on the eventual approval of the house bill that mirrors the tax reform proposal to what happened to the reform on the

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N official of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has pushed for “blue economy” as a program to help alleviate poverty in the region.

Myra M. Alih, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) - ARMM secretary, said that “blue economy includes the utilization of the potentials of the ocean or

value added tax (VAT) in 2005. ”The VAT reform in 2005 took five months (before it was approved). That’s the benchmark,” he said.

The first package of the tax reform program calls for the cut in the personal income tax, and revenue loss from this measure is proposed to be countered by the increase in the VAT and the excise taxes on fuel and vehicle.

On the other hand, the second package will tackle the cut of corporate income tax from a high of 30 percent to around 25 percent and the rationalization of fiscal incentives.

Chua said they did not include the cut in corporate income tax in the first package because the DOF is still awaiting for the report on the Tax Incentives Management and Transparency Act of TIMTA, which aims to evaluate the fiscal incentives granted to investment promotionagencies (IPAs) “Once we have the data we will analyze the cost and benefit of these objectives and then decide how we will proceed,” he said. (PNA)

DTI urges Indian manufacturing firms to invest in the country

PH furthers good regulatory practice agenda T T ARMM official pushes‘blue economy’for poverty reduction

to their menu—wicked puffs, their new pastry product, and Boozies, an ice-cold coffee-based beverage.

On their re-launching day, there will be a motorcade from Victoria Plaza to SM City Davao. P2,000 worth of coupons will be given away to the lucky customers.

Mister Donut already has more than 2,000 outlets all over the Philippines, 18 of which are in Davao City. JECIA ANNE OPIANA

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has encouraged Indian manufacturing companies to explore opportunities in the Philippines.

During the first Philippines-India Investment Forum in Makati City Tuesday, DTI Undersecretary Nora Terrado said there are vast opportunities in the country for Indian manufacturing firms, given its market of more than 100 million people, robust economic growth, and trade deals benefiting the Philippines.

Terrado mentioned that the country has 345 economic zones that can host the production facilities of Indian companies.

Indian firms setting up businesses here can utilize the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement, in which imported machinery entering the Philippines enjoy up to zero duty, while Philippine-manufactured products exported to ASEAN countries also benefit from the

same tariff rate, she pointed out.

The official noted that the Philippines is also an attractive market for Indian firms eyeing to export to the European Union (EU) market with the EU Generalized Preference Scheme Plus (GSP+) granted to the country in 2014.

Terrado stressed that the Philippines is the only country in the ASEAN with EU GSP+.

Aside from manufacturing, she said Indian firms can also boost their investments in areas of information technology and business process management (IT-BPM), pharmaceutical, and public-private partnership (PPP) projects.

India ranked 16th among the country’s top trading partners and was its 20th largest export market in 2015.

In the same year, Philippine exports to India rose 27 percent to USD381 million.

India is also the 13th major source of foreign investments for the Philippines in the past two years. (PNA)

7 COMPETITIVE EDGE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

Ayala nets P26 B in 2016

P

HILIPPINE conglomerate Ayala Corp. booked a 17-percent increase in profit in 2016 on the back of its real estate and banking units, and emerging businesses in power and industrial technologies.

Its net income reached P26 billion last year from P22.3 billion in 2015.

Last year’s higher profit gave the conglomerate hope of reaching its target to double its net income to P50 billion by 2020 anchored on strong growth projections both in its core and emerging businesses.

“I think we are on track…

You are building the businesses that will contribute 20 percent in 2020. We are looking at AC Energy, AC Industrials to deliver bulk of that,” Ayala Corp. chief finance officer Jose Teodoro Limcaoco said in a press briefing.

Limcaoco said Ayala aimed to also increase the contribution of its international business to overall earnings to 10 percent this year from three percent in 2016.

Ayala last year set up AC Industrials to house the group’s investments in industrial technologies, namely Integrated Micro-Electronics and AC Automotive, to take advantage of opportunities in emerging trends in the global manufacturing.

The conglomerate’s industrial technologies portfolio reached a net income of P1.8 billion during the year, 29 percent higher than a year ago. Its automotive business shared significant profit growth on robust vehicle sales across all brands and higher contribution from its distribution businesses.

In electronics manufacturing, Integrated Micro-Electronics Inc. (IMI)posted a net income of USD 28.1 million (P1.3 billion), two percent lower than its year-ago level, owing

to transaction and financing costs related to strategic acquisitions and foreign exchange headwinds from the Chinese Renminbi.

AC Energy recorded a 25-percent expansion in net earnings during the year to P2.7 billion, driven by strong equity earnings contribution from its operating assets on gains from value realization from its partial sale of shares in South Luzon Thermal Energy Corporation.

Equity earnings from AC Energy’s investee companies climbed 67 percent to P1.8 billion on higher operating efficiency of GNPower Mariveles and the successful start of operations of South Luzon Thermal Energy Corporation’s second unit.

Ayala Land recorded a net income of P20.9 billion, growing 19 percent from a year ago, boosted by strong improvements in its property development and commercial leasing businesses.

Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) sustained its earnings trajectory throughout the year, with net profits soaring 21 percent from the previous year to P22.1 billion.

This was largely driven by solid gains from the bank’s core banking, transactional, and bancassurance businesses, boosted by significant securities trading gains.

Despite sustained topline growth, the impact of non-operating and depreciation expenses from its recent strategic acquisitions weighed down on Globe’s net profits in 2016, which declined 4 percent to P15.9 billion.

Manila Water’s net income reached P6.1 billion, up 2 percent from the previous year on the improved performance of the Manila Concession combined with higher contributions from its businesses outside Metro Manila. (PNA)

Group wants Rody to be firm vs firms for a smoke-free PH

Petroleum vice president for external affairs.

“That is why the Foundation tried its best to reach out to teachers who have the desire to continue teaching Filipino kids.”

And there are still those whose passion exceeds the economic challenges of being a public school educator, like teacher Adelfa Bachanicha.

“A teacher’s greatest achievement – for us who attend to pre-school kids – is when kids learn how to read.

That means, somehow, they are equipped with the most basic knowledge,” she said.

For almost a decade now, Phoenix Foundation has adopted the Vicente Hizon Elementary School in Davao City and has sponsored three teachers since then.

Aside from sponsoring teachers, the Foundation has also donated books, fit for use of children in elementary school, for the library.

“Now, a lot of students use the library because aside from it is air-conditioned, the books are new, colorful, and interactive,” Bachanicha said.

According to Bachanicha, the Foundation has not only helped kids in school but also the adopted teachers.

“I was able to send my kids through college because Phoenix Foundation sponsored my salary,” she said.

Bachanicha said not only the student-to-teacher ratio has improved but also the reading and comprehension skills of the students.

“In the previous years, one teacher is to handle more than fifty students. Now, it’s one teacher to 45 or 47 students,” she said.

To date, the Department of Education hopes to complete all the infrastructure lags in terms of building classrooms as well as filling in teacher posts in public schools. (PR)

INVESTMENT INTEREST. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon M. Lopez (4th from top R) and Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade (4th from top L) recently met with senior executives of Japan’s seven major trading houses in Tokyo to discuss President Rodrigo Duterte’s trade investment of infrastructure programs. The Sogo Shoshas or Japanese companies with a broad range

T

HE New Vois Association of the Philippines (NVAP) has expressed hope that President Rodrigo Duterte would not be affected by the meddling of giant tobacco companies in signing the Executive Order for a smoke-free Philippines.

“We are hoping that President Duterte would not be deterred by the incessant meddling and interference from industry giants and maintain his strong political will in saving the lives of Filipinos from smoking addiction,” engineer Emer Rojas, president of NVAP, said Monday.

Rojas warned that a smokefree EO watered down by the strong influence of the tobacco industry would be unaccept-

Adopt a school program helps bridge gap between student to teacher ratio

I

N line with the Department of Education’s efforts to increase the number of public school teachers this year, Phoenix Philippines Foundation (Phoenix Foundation), the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, continues to help ease the student-to-teacher ratio in the country by adopting public school teachers.

Earlier this month, DepEd announced that it will hire 40,000 more teachers to be deployed in public schools nationwide.

The student-to-teacher ratio in public schools has always been high because many teachers are now going abroad.

“The salary abroad is much higher, definitely. We cannot blame our teachers for leaving because they also have families they need to look after,” said Atty. Raymond T. Zorrilla, Phoenix

able and would not conform with the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) Treaty.

The FCTC Treaty is a legally binding international treaty that was ratified by the Philippines in 2005, and is considered part of Philippine laws.

The cancer-survivor-turned-advocate said a

of business activities discussed investment interests in the Philippines’ economic development, conservatively valued at Php198.5B. Also present at the meeting were PH Ambassador-Designate Jose Laurel V. (3rd from top L), and representatives from Mitsubishi Corporation, Mitsui and Co., Ltd., Sumitomo Corporation, Itochu Corporation, Marubeni Corporation, Toyota Tsusho, and Sojitz. (DTI Photo)

strong EO would mean mandating a stricter enforcement of smoking bans within 100 meters of schools and places frequented by youths.

“We are also looking forward to an EO that would strictly implement standards for designated smoking areas,” he said.

Rojas further said that limiting the places for smoking

will greatly reduce the number of sickness and death due to smoking.

The EO on the ban against smoking in public places was drafted by the health department in October last year. Last week, President Duterte was expected to sign the order. He however sought more time to review the draft EO. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

EDITORIAL

D

Tapping tourism potentials

AVAO City is growing with its neighbors.

Not resting on its newfound tourism and investment growth, the city expanded its coverage of the annual Visit Davao Fun Sale to include the Province of Davao Oriental.

It’s a good thing to be growing and helping others to grow with you at the same time.

With a Davao Oriental tourism component embedded in the VDFS package, Davao City is towing along the Davao Oriental local government’s initiatives to draw in more tourists this part of the country.

Now, if tourism does well, all of Davao does well.

Tourism generates business and jobs. It caters to the extreme ends of enterprise--from small-scale retail and

EDGEDAVAO

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ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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services to major tourism ventures.

It starts from the simple things like selling local food, hand-crafting souvenirs and even services like tour guiding and portering.

Davao Oriental was one of the two provinces in the country declared as “Tourism Development Area” (TDA) under Republic Act 10560 along with Kalinga. And while provinces declared as TDA can expect the government and private sectors to develop the tourism industry, it can stand on its own by strengthening infrastructure, creating tour packages, and identifying investment opportunities.

It only needs a push, and sometimes, a big brother to walk with stride by stride.

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE

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

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

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

EDGEDAVAO

O

VANTAGE POINTS

9

1916: the year Davao town was under water

N June 29, 2011, Davao City, due to deforestation of forests in Marilog District, suffered 30 deaths after the headwaters of Matina-Pangi River swelled after only an hour and half of heavy downpour. The state agency Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration measured the abnormal rainfall at about 20 millimeters per hour, or 393 cubic meters per second.

In some areas like Bago Oshiro, Puan, Tamayong, Calinan, Bangkal, and Matina Pangi, rain gauges recorded 60 millimeters of rain in just three hours, which caused soil erosion and river siltation. As a result, close to 15,000 families, mostly living near riverbanks, were displaced.

Two years later, on January 19, 2013, floodwaters caused by the Davao River overflow forced around 40,000 residents to evacuate to higher grounds. The Central 911 dubbed the calamity as “one of the worst floods [to hit the city] in terms of magnitude or volume of water.”

Hard hit by the deluge were the areas of Maa, Matina Gravahan and Bankerohan, in the first district, and Bacaca and Tigatto, in the second district. The inundation also affected the towns of Santo Tomas, Kapalong and Asuncion, in the province of Davao del Norte.

Jade Subdivision, situated along the bank of Davao River, was submerged in water.

D

VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

AVAO City, touted to be the largest city in the country, is known not only for its fine beaches and the endangered Philippine eagle, but also for its durian.

Tagged as one of the world’s most exotic fruits, durian is now a byword not only in the Philippines but also in other countries.

Travelers, both local and foreign, who come for a visit in Davao City usually bring with them durian delicacies -- candy bars, sticks, cubes and preserves -- when they go home as a pasalubong.

Southern Mindanao, where Davao City is a part of, is considered durian republic. In fact, most foreigners who come to the city are surprised to know that durian thrives well in this part of the world.

The place in which the durian is indigenous has not been determined with certainty. The species is generally believed to be native to Borneo and other islands of the Malay archipelago.

Durian is common throughout Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia. In the Philippines, durian grows only in Mindanao while in the rest of the

Four years later, in 2017, another destructive flooding occurred, submerging agricultural lands after the five major rivers in Davao del Norte overflowed, affecting over 4,000 families. As a result, the province activated its Incident Command System and suspended classes.

Affected by the deluge were the towns of Braulio E. Dujali, Kapalong, New Corella, Asuncion and Carmen, including the more than 15,000 people from the six barangays in Kapalong. The flood initially placed under water the towns after the Libuganon River spilled over.

But the disaster was no comparison to the two destructive prewar floods that devastated Davao region a century earlier, one in 1912 and another in 1916.

The most destructive ever to sink the town of Davao, destroying Davao Bridge (now Gov. Generoso), and leveling the roads and abaca plantations of Lapanday and Tigatto, which are situated close to the Davao River banks, took place in 1916. A report in the Philippine Weather Bureau Bulletin described this tragic event in detail: “In the morning of January 22 the Davao River began to rise above its ordinary level, and in the afternoon the waters had overflowed its banks and reached this town.

“On the 23d the waters rose to their maximum height, and in the evening began to recede. On the 24th

FAST BACKWARD Antonio V. Figueroa the river resumed its normal conditions.

“The rushing waters had destroyed everything they found on their way, while many trees were uprooted and washed away to the gulf. All the plantations situated within the flooded area were completely or seriously damaged; and it can be surely stated that the losses in such an extended region were very great.

“This flood is the most destructive ever experienced in this town. It is known that in 1912 there was a great flood here, but it was scarcely half as bad as this one.

“It is said that at Moncayo, one of the municipal districts situated to the north of the province, as well

as at Tagum and Macgum, the water rose to a height of about 35 feet above its ordinary level. The town of Moncayo it is said to have been practically destroyed.

“Some of the roads leading to Tigatto Estate were completely destroyed. The wooden bridge over the Davao River, recently constructed, was destroyed and washed away to the sea.

“The total losses in the province can be estimated at P50,000.”

Calculated against inflation, P50,000 in 1916, then the equivalent of US$25,000, is worth US$586,000.00 or P29.3 million in 2017!

But the greatest damage in any great flood affects not the human population, but the animals.

British-Australian historian Greg Bankoff, in his 2007 article titled ‘Bodies on the Beach: Domesticates and Disasters in the Spanish Philippines 1750–1898,’ wrote, citing José García, the commander of a schooner assigned with military governor of Mindanao in 1891: ʻWith respect to the animals… the greater part of them have been killed some drowned by the waters, and the others by the multitude of fallen treesʼ. Animals were literally dragged off their feet by the force of water and ʻthrown into the seaʼ.

So strong was the flow that a horse and rider found it impossible to negotiate a passage through even

quite shallow waters.

Statistically, floods kills animals as they sweep across inundated communities, at times totally destroying poultry, livestock, beasts of burden (carabao, horse, and cattle) and domesticated animals. Bankoff said a flood in Baganga, Davao Oriental, which occurred near the end of the 19th century, resulted in “the loss of pigs, ducks and chickens… was apparently total.”

Beyond climatic disturbances that result in the overflow of rivers and the inundation of communities, a flood has also a significant ethnocultural impact among the tribes of Davao region, a story of inundation that curiously replicates the biblical flood that caused the construction of Noah’s Ark. This first appeared in the February 3, 1909 edition of The Mindanao Herald, a American-owned daily newspaper based in Zamboanga: “They [the Manobo tribe] tell of a great flood that covered the whole earth when all the people were drowned, save two men and one woman who were carried away.

A large eagle came by looking for men one day and offered to carry them back. One man refused to go but the other man and the woman were carried home on the back of the eagle.”

Flood, as a natural disaster, is something man can only mitigate in terms of destruction.

Old traveler Linchott wrote: “This fruit is of a hot and humid nature. It smells like rotten onion, but once tasted, everybody will like it.”

In the 1912 issue of the Philippine Journal of Science, O.W. Barrett noted: “The chemical body which is responsible for the very pronounced odor is probably one of the sulfur compounds with some base perhaps related to that in butyric acid; it is not an oil nor a sugar, not a true starch but a substance new to the organic chemist.”

In the science world, durian is known as Durio zibethinus. The name “durian,” however, comes from the Malay word “duri” (which means “thorn”) together with the suffix “–an.”

There are several varieties of durian grown in the Philippines.

The most important ones, commercial-wise, according to the Laguna-based Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development, are Chanee, Mon Thong, Alcon Fancy, Arancillo, Atabrine, Duyaya, GD 69, Lacson Uno, Mamer, and Puyat.

Unlike mango, durian is a sea-

sonal fruit and generally it is eaten fresh. These days, durian is in season in Davao City. Since it’s the beginning yet, a kilogram costs P60.

The price will go down when more durian fruits are delivered from the neighboring areas.

When ripe, the aril (usually referred to as the “flesh” or “pulp” and only accounts for about 15-30% of the mass of the entire fruit) is usually eaten fresh. The ripe pulp can also be made into jam, preserve (often packed like long sausages), candies, and other sweets.

Here’s a timely tip to people visiting Davao and who would like to eat durian. After eating, put some water into the empty durian shell and wash your hands in it. This technique reportedly removed the smell of the durian in your fingers.

Try anything else -- detergents, deodorants or whatever, but all these will be useless-- the smell will remain just as pungent.

In the Malay Archipelago, about 150 years ago, famed Victorian naturalist and evolutionary theorist Alfred Russel Wallace wrote, “To eat durian is a new sensation worth a voyage to the East to experience.”

A taste of heaven

country the trees are few and far between. It is also an important crop in Vietnam and Burma (Myanmar).

The fruit is famous (or infamous) for its odor. Most people said that durian stinks. It has a repugnant aroma. But to some, its fragrance can be compared to a perfume. “It smells like hell but tastes like heaven,” described one foreign scribe.

Most airlines would not allow it on board. Singapore, so orderly that it bans chewing gum, bans durians from its subway stations and trains.

British novelist Anthony Burgess told of “the fetid exciting reek like eating a sweet raspberry blancmange in the lavatory.”

Among Filipinos, durian is the second most favorite fruit – after mango. In survey conducted by this author, 40 percent of the respondents singled out durian as their fruit of all seasons.

“Durian, of course,” replied Dr. HIlario Lapeña, a Filipino physician who now works in Canada, when asked what is his most favorite fruit.

“Nothing beats it. I have tasted lots of exotic fruits but I still go back to my all-time favorite -- durian.

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

Friends who used to say that they hated it are now converts.”

Another physician, who describes herself as a fruit lover, likes to eat all kinds of fruits, tropical or otherwise. But durian is the best, according to her. “My first encounter (with durian) was not very pleasant due to its odor. But once you have tried to taste its soft creamy pulp, you’ll learn to love it. My husband is from Laguna and it took so many prodding before he tasted it. Today, durian is his favorite fruit.”

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

LGUs... FROM 1

MEDICAL ICON. PNS Land Development, Inc. president and Lanang Premiere Doctors Hospital, Inc. (LPDHI) chair of the board Lemuel R. Podador (middle) lead the groundbreaking of the medical institution at Lanang, Davao City on

Tuesday. LPDHI is eyed to become the high-end medical resort component of Davao Park District township project of Megaworld Corp. (Jermaine Dela Cruz)

a Referral Code of the National Building Code (Presidential Decree No. 1096), was launched on June 25, 2015 by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), with the assistance of the World Bank-IFC, and the technical support of the Philippine Green Building Initiative (PGBI).

The general provisions of the Code provide for the protection of the people from the harmful effects of climate change. The Code seeks to im-

prove the efficiency of building performance through a framework of standards that will enhance sound environmental and resource management to counter harmful gases, throughout the building’s life cycle, including efficient use of materials, site selection, planning, design, construction, use, occupancy, operation and maintenance, without significant increase in cost.

Meanwhile, aside from the hospital, the developer

also eyes constructing a medical residence which will serve as temporary home for patients from distant provinces who will undergo long-time treatment.

According to Podador, construction of LPDHI will kick off at 2018 which will take one and a half year to two years to be completed.

“It will have a spa and other wellness programs,” said Podador who added that the facility will also include a pool and helipad.

Pioneering LIVE-WORKPLAY-LEARN township concept, Megaworld has allocated P15-billion in the next five to seven years to build and develop Davao Park District located at S.P. Dakudao Loop in Lanang, Davao City which used to be the Lanang Golf and Country Club. Davao Park District is envisioned to be a Davao City central business district (CBD) and a major center for information technology and business process outsourcing (IT-BPO) in Mindanao.

persons met with the mission and expressed interest in investing in the Philippines and Mindanao. The trade mission also gathered more than 15 “serious” business inquiries ranging from specifics of putting up businesses to conducting trading with Philippine counterparts. A Dubai-based company expressed interest in establishing a processing plant for the production of coco peat in Mindanao.

Secretary Alonto explained that beyond the concept of decentralization, Federalism entails the strengthening of local government units by actually providing substantial political power to the locality.

“Federalism is about bringing the government down to the people where they can call it their own,” he said while adding “with Federalism in place, the participation of the local government in the decision making process is ensured.”

He said that local government units may craft programs that are more responsive to their needs as they assume larger roles in shaping the direction of the Federal government.

“Through federalism, Mindanao’s vision as the gateway to our ASEAN neighbors and the rest of the world will soon become a reality as we work on strengthening the connectivity in this part of the country.”

He added that initiatives to strengthen connectivity within Mindanao will be complement-

ed with concrete socioeconomic development programs that are attuned to the needs of the local communities.

Through its Mindanao Development Corridors program, MinDA aims to fully integrate Mindanao with the implementation of a more efficient public transport system, the development of state-of-the-art trans-shipment hub, the establishment of the Trans Mindanao High-Speed Railway System, and the creation of agro-industrial cooperatives free economic zones, among others.

Secretary Alonto said that in a federal system, relationships are guided by the core principles of subsidiarity and parity of esteem, ensuring that every constituent unit or federal state will get a fair share of responsibility.

“Unlike in a unitary system where everything is dictated by the national government, a federal republic will facilitate highly diversified units as means to transform synergy towards unity and reconciliation,” he added.

The Secretary said that Federalism is also a means for the people of Mindanao to finally exercise their right to self-determination and address persisting social issues such as injustice, divisiveness, peace, and poverty.

“Our vision for Mindanao is to be at the forefront of economic development of the country and I truly believe that we can maximize our full potentials should we slowly shift towards federalism,” he added. #

ance that is linked to weather-index such as rainfall rather than a possible consequence of weather such as crop failure.

The project was launched in Davao City last June 1, 2015.

From its launching until March of this year, a total of 2,413 farmers in regions 10 and 11 are already insured in WIBI – of which, 1,120 are female farmers while 1,293 are male farmers.

The total amount covered in the same period already reached up to P1,483,833.36 or USD29,700.00 with 2,743 hectares of farm areas insured.

Lorenzo Tomas is among those who benefited from WIBI last year in Davao City.

Lorenzo serves as the chairperson of Sitio Balite Farmers and Irrigators Association in Calinan with 93 members.

“Almost 50 percent of our members were insured in WIBI last year,” Lorenzo told reporters in an interview, adding that the program provides security to farmers especially in times when weather is not favorable to their production.

He said he insured onehalf hectare of his rice farm last year and based on the assessment of technical people from

the DA and PCIC, his farm was among those affected by excessive rainfall last year.

He received an insurance payout of P9,075.00.

The amounts of payout, he said, vary depending on the number of hectares insured and the extent of damage as assessed by the technical people.

Another farmer, Roberto Ruiz, president of Biao Dianga Farmers Association in Tugbok District, Davao City said almost half of their 48 members were also insured in WIBI last year.

Not all were able to receive payouts last year – only those that were assessed as affected areas were able to get their insurance payouts.

Ruiz said most of their members are already insured in WIBI this year.

The WIBI product include a coverage amount of P20,000 per hectare and the risks insured include excess rainfall and low rainfall.

Premiums indicated in WIBI insurance include P1,390 per hectare for low and excess rainfall in rainfed areas and P694 per hectare for excess rainfall in irrigated areas.

Farmers in regions 10 and 11 hoped for the continuing coverage of WIBI in their areas.

help ease when it is passed into a law.

“The existing maternity law does not give enough paid maternity leave for working mothers to

fully recover from childbirth, properly care for their child and establish a stronger mother-child bond through breastfeeding,” said Hontiveros. (PNA)

GREEN... FROM 1

Alonto... FROM 3

DA... FROM 3

Lawmakers... FROM 4

“In January this year, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzō Abe pledged US$8.7 billion worth of business opportunities and private investments in the Philippines during his state visit in Davao City.

The Prime Minister brought with him more than 20 key Japanese government officials and private sector representatives at a forum aimed to showcase Mindanao as the next investment destination in the Philippines.

Several interests in the implementation of Mindanao power and energy projects were also secured during a forum organized by the Japanese Government and MinDA in February this year.

Also in February, a delegation from Mindanao joined the Philippine three-country mission to the United Arab Emirates to present business incentives and explore investment prospects to key business organizations in the Middle East.

About 70 Emirati businesspersons met with the mission and expressed interest in investing in the Philippines and Mindanao. The trade mission also gathered more than 15 “serious” business inquiries ranging from specifics of putting up businesses to conducting trading with Philippine counterparts. A Dubaibased company expressed interest in establishing a processing plant for the production of coco peat in Mindanao.

Secretary Alonto explained that beyond the concept of decentralization, Federalism entails the strengthening of local government units by actually providing substantial political power to the locality.

“Federalism is about bringing the government down to the people where they can call it their own,” he said while adding “with Federalism in place, the participation of the local government in the decision making process is ensured.”

He said that local government units may craft programs that are more respon-

sive to their needs as they assume larger roles in shaping the direction of the Federal government.

“Through federalism, Mindanao’s vision as the gateway to our ASEAN neighbors and the rest of the world will soon become a reality as we work on strengthening the connectivity in this part of the country.”

He added that initiatives to strengthen connectivity within Mindanao will be complemented with concrete socioeconomic development programs that are attuned to the needs of the local communities.

Through its Mindanao Development Corridors program, MinDA aims to fully integrate Mindanao with the implementation of a more efficient public transport system, the development of stateof-the-art trans-shipment hub, the establishment of the Trans Mindanao High-Speed Railway System, and the creation of agro-industrial cooperatives free economic zones, among others.

Secretary Alonto said that in a federal system, relationships are guided by the core principles of subsidiarity and parity of esteem, ensuring that every constituent unit or federal state will get a fair share of responsibility.

“Unlike in a unitary system where everything is dictated by the national government, a federal republic will facilitate highly diversified units as means to transform synergy towards unity and reconciliation,” he added.

The Secretary said that Federalism is also a means for the people of Mindanao to finally exercise their right to self-determination and address persisting social issues such as injustice, divisiveness, peace, and poverty.

“Our vision for Mindanao is to be at the forefront of economic development of the country and I truly believe that we can maximize our full potentials should we slowly shift towards federalism,” he added.

is open to settlement with Mighty Corp.

“When the President makes his statements, it is based on what the law says. So any imposition or conditions imposed by law will be followed by the President. Under the law, civil liability can be settled, criminal prosecution is left to proceed,” Panelo said.

He added that there are also certain conditions by which one can settle a case.

“One, if there is no fraud;

second there is reasonable doubt as to the existence of probable cause; and that the respondent cannot afford to pay. That’s when the settlement comes in, otherwise you cannot compromise,” Panelo explained.

In the meantime, the chief Presidential lawyer took a dig on the previous administration for ignoring to file a case against Mighty even if it had allegedly enough evidence in its hands. (PNA)

ted by the BIFF, according to Encinas, left two soldiers slightly injured.

Due to massing of BIFF forces in the so called “SPMS box” or the adjoining towns of Shariff Aguak, Pagatin (Datu Saudi), Mamasapano and Datu Salibo, the military conducted aerial assaults as ground troops scour the inte-

rior of Datu Salibo town.

Encinas said reports from village officials and residents showed that “several foreign looking individuals were seen in the company of the BIFF.” Encinas assured the public that the Army will continue its manhunt against the BIFF members as directed by higher headquarters. (PNA)

Duterte... FROM 2

300 families... FROM 3

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EVENT

MX3 in full bloom at Panagbenga IT’S THAT FLORAL TIME OF THE YEAR ONCE AGAIN! Baguio City just celebrated the most blooming festival – the Panagbenga Festival. The word Panagbenga is a Kankanaey word which means ‘season of blooming’. As always, they have again successfully showcased how the Baguio streets bloom with colorful and dazzling flowers, exceptional rythmic dances, sensational music and of course, buffet of local and international cuisine. A mustattend celebration of nature’s beauty. They have gone beyond this year’s theme: Inspired By Beauty, Nurtured By Nature. For 22 years now, more than showcasing the nature’s beauty, this festival has come again to inspire everyone to nurture it.

As the festival comes to an end, with honor and respect, MX3 was overwhelmed with the atmosphere that this festival has brought about until the very last day of the fete. Matching the blooming picturesque is the lovely weather that Baguio is known for hav-

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UP AND ABOUT

VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

WOMEN

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Redefining today’s

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO Photos courtesy of REXOR AMANCIO MARCH is a memorable month for Dabawenyos since it was on March 16 that it became a city.

All over the country, March is the Fire Prevention Month and Rabies Awareness Month. In the United States, March is Colon Awareness Month.

But all over the world, March is considered as Women’s Month. The reason: Every March 8, people from all over the globe celebrates International Women’s Day. It commemorates the movement for women’s rights.

The words of Clare Boothe Luce comes to mind. “Because I am a woman,” she said, “I must make unusual efforts to succeed. If I fail, no one will say, “She doesn’t have what it takes.”

They will say, “Women don’t have what it takes.”

Susan B. Anthony has this to say: “The day will come when men will recognize woman as his peer, not only at the fireside, but in councils of the nation.

Then, and not until then, will there be the perfect comradeship, the ideal union between the sexes that shall result in the highest development of the race.”

During the recent celebration, Point Blue – a group of fourth year Mass Communication students from the Ateneo de Davao University headed by its project manager, Rexor Amancio – in partnership with SM City Davao and Ateneo Public Interest and Legal Advocacy – organized Miss Heard: Redefining the Modern-Day Miss.

“It is an honor to be sharing a day of celebration with you, a day where we all look past the time where women were con-

sidered second only to men as we look forward for more glorious moments where we not only lead but we lead each other, other women, and even men, to great victories,” said Ms. Cathy Binag, who is described as “a chef, an image consultant and a mom.”

Binag, owner of The White House, a fine-dining restaurant in the city, talked on gender roles, which basically revolve on women juggling different roles.

“Over the past decades, women have seen and experienced various forms of inequalities that resulted from gender stereotypes and social and cultural norms or standards that clipped or limited the chances and opportunities for women to realize their full potentials,” she said.

Oftentimes, she said, men are regarded as strong while women are the exact opposite.

“If we are not considered weak, we get the less offensive perception of being soft, shy, slow, or reserved,” Binag pointed out.

More often than not, women are not the boss. “We are seen as the secondary game changers. Our roles are supportive of the aggressive, strong, and dominant roles played by men,” she said.

But such in her case. “In my experience, I have challenged and confronted these stereotypes and gender roles and injustices head on. I refused to be placed in the box of the conventional perception of what women are and should be. In my experience and current profession, I am my own boss. With great passion and determination, I was able to establish my company,” she stressed.

The two other speakers were Ms. Jill Palarca, a media literacy teacher at the Ateneo de Davao

WOMEN Senior High School who studied filmmaking at the famed New York Film Academy, and Atty. Geraldine QuimosingTiu, a professor at the Ateneo de Davao Law School.

Palarca talked about the essence of the real women’s beauty that “comes from within.” She shared about her struggles of living in a country which pays attention too much on beauty with perfection.

“You have a good brand, because you have great manufacturer,” said Palarca, who used to write, direct and produce for MYV Asia, TV 5 and Channel [V] Philippines. “God made you for a reason however dif-

ferent you are, there’s a reason for that weirdness or difference or uniqueness in you and God will use you and allow God to use you.”

For her part, Atty. Quimosing-Tiu shared her own experience on what is it to work in a profession ruled by men. During her talk, she gave highlights on the challenges she faced as a lady lawyer and the struggle she had to undergo to become a woman that she is today.

By the way, the lady lawyer also used to be a co-host of the then Mayor, now President Rodrigo Duterte in the Sunday’s “Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa.”

Those who attended the

event really had something to bring with them. After all, it is considered as “women empowerment event where empowered women empower women.”

“Nag-enjoy ako kasi nakakainspire especially upon hearing the personal experiences of the speakers, and on how they had themselves empowered,” said Genevieve Elorpe, a second yearBachelor Science of Marine Technology student from DMMA College of Southern Philippines. “Kasi, for us, since BSMT students kami, ‘yung trabaho namin is dominated ng mga lalaki, so based sa talks na narinig namin, mas namotivate kami na pasukin ang career na ‘to, kasi alam naming na mag-grow din kami sa career na ‘to, and that hindi lang kami basta pang-kitchen.”

Her classmate, Katrina Gabales echoed the same opinion.

“I also learned… na huwag mo masyadong i-down ‘yung sarili mo because of your looks, o kung ano man, kasi alam mo dapat na kaya mo,” she said.

Again, the words of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher come handy. “If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman,” she said.

According to Amancio, the recent event was co-presented

by Petron, Eufloria PH, Happy Farmers, Maligaya Taxi, Tupperware Brands Philippines, Laysas BBQ, Flyover Ihaw-ihaw, Wynward Garden and Bistro, and Airsoft Games Club, Inc. (Davao Chapter).

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ing. It was too perfect for us to come along with the festive spirit and giveaway some MX3 products which included MX3 Coffee, MX3 Tea, MX3 Plus and t-shirts.

MX3 kicked off the festival tour last February 25 with Kapuso’s Aldub at Baguio’s Sunshine Park. It was a perfect combination, MX3 Hooray Game and the fun spirited tandem of

Alden and Maine.

Kapamilya Karavan followed a week after and the event took place in the evening of March 4, MX3 did the on-stage game “Sakit mo, Arte mo” where there were 20 participants who enjoyed showcasing their acting abilities as they portray the manifestations of common illnesses that has become common nowadays.

Kapamilya stars Jason Abalos, Yessa Camile, Zanjoe Marudo,

VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

Nayomi Ramos, Ronnie Alonte, Julia Barretto, Enchong Dee, and Maja Salvador entertained the crowd.

Meanwhile, MX3 also caught the attention of the people roaming around the streets of Baguio by handing out envelopes containing MX3 products but the most important thing that these envelopes contained were the Christian tracks as MX3 has always embodied its mission to not only promote health and wellness but to also reach out to the world by sharing the word of God. MX3 has embarked on another colorful festival enveloped with the aim to spread the gospel, ultimate calling and purpose. Meaning has now been additioned to the color of the festival.

EDGE DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

11 SUBURBIA

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

Tagum is PH’s marching showband capital A

NOTHER source of pride is added to the profile of Tagum City as two national institutions declared the City of Palms as the Marching Showband Capital of the Philippines.

The recognition was announced and given by the Pambansang Samahan ng mga Banda sa Pilipinas (PASAMBAP) and the Philippine Alliance of Marching Showbands Incorporated (PAMSBI) during the Avenida Musika Brass Band Showdown Competition, one of the featured events of the Musikahan Festival.

Said organizations, which lead in helping marching bands in the country to develop and expand through the implementation of their many programs, bestowed the title to Tagum City, having acknowledged the importance

given by the city government to the continued execution of programs that help marching bands find a place in the progress of the city.

They also commended the local government for having the Musikahan Festival’s Avenida Musika as it is considered one of the few remaining avenues for brass bands in the country to present and share their talent and music.

Arnel Feliciano, president of PASAMBAP and PAMSBI, said that Tagum City has been successful in the promotion of the brass band community here as evidenced by the growth this community has gone through in the last three (3) years.

“Mangiyak-ngiyak nga ako sa tuwa ng masaksihan ko ang impressive na development ng brass bands dito

(sa Tagum),” Feliciano said.

A resolution was finished drafting by PASAMBAP and PAMSBI which needs only few more data so as to make the proclamation of Tagum City

as the Marching Showband Capital formal.

Mayor Allan Rellon said in an interview that he is thankful for the recognition given by the two national institutions.

He also vowed to sustain the programs anchored on assisting the brass band community here as well as in making next year’s Musikahan Festival an international event.

Gov saves workers’jobs

T

PROJECT CONNECTS SEASIDE VILLAGES. KIAMBA, Sarangani (March 9, 2017) – Photo shows the recent ground breaking ceremony of the double barrel reinforced concrete box culvert in Barangay Lomuyon, Kiamba, Sarangani Province, a joint project between the Lomuyon Barangay

Council, BSPMC, and Kalahi-CIDSS. Present in the ceremony were members of Lomuyon Barangay Council and BSPMC members. Once completed, the new bridge will connect vital routes along the barangay seaside. (Avery Rotciv Valois Camposano/KIAMBA INFORMATION OFFICE)

ARMM athletes gear up for Palarong Pambansa‘17

A

THLETES from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) are now ready for the national competition after they were chosen to represent the region to the Palarong Pambansa later next month, officials said.

Dr. John Magno, regional secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd-ARMM) said that athletes with their trainers and coaches immediately embarked on rigid training a day after the ARMM regional meet ended last Friday, March 10.

“We want to send a message that ARMM too can produce athletes of national caliber,” Magno said.

Host Maguindanao Schools Division I captured the championship crown for this year’s ARMM Athletic Association Meet (ARMAA) elementary level while Lamitan City Schools Division ruled the secondary

level as the five-day sports meet held in Upi town.

Maguindanao Division I hauled 28 gold medals as it dominated seven other schools division in elementary level.

Basilan’s Lamitan City collected a total of 49 gold medals at the secondary level.

Coming second overall at the elementary level was Maguindanao Division II for garnering 20 gold medals while Tawi-Tawi Division had 14 gold and Sulu has 11.

At the secondary level, coming next to Lamitan City was Maguindanao Division II with its 40 gold medals, Maguindanao I with 25 and Tawi-Tawi with 20 gold medals.

Magno said this year’s special awards went to Maguindanao I for being the most disciplined delegation while Maguindanao II was awarded for having the cleanest billeting station.

Magno said “Palarong ARMMAA” was his department’s way of promoting physical education and sports as integral part of the Basic Education Curriculum.

“No untoward incident has happened during the sports intense competition, an indication athletes and school officials have matured that sports is not about winning but about how they played and developing camaraderie,” Magno told reporters after the closing programs.

Torrential rains hounded the weeklong sports events held in Maguindanao’s “summer capital.”

But Magno said the cold weather and drizzles proved athletes’ resilience.

“Bad weather did not stop our best young athletes in the region from pushing this intense week of games,” Sec. Magno said.

Saudi Dalu, Lamitan City

division superintendent, said after its dismal performance in last year’s ARMAA, also held in Maguindanao’s town of Parang, the Lamitan division started preparations and rigid training and it paid off.

“We really prepared for this year’s Palarong ARMMAA, daily practice and team efforts are the reasons why our division got the title,” Dalu said, adding he was not happy with the delegation’s performance last year.

In 2015, Lamitan City bagged the championship crown for secondary level.

Dalu vowed to retain the title for next year’s ARMAA even as he expressed gratitude to the host town, Upi municipality.

“It was great spending here a week of sportsmanship, thrill, and excitement. The municipality of Upi is a very peaceful place and the people are very accommodating,” Dalu added.

(PNA)

Meanwhile, the result of Avenida Musika declared Tagum City Unified Marching Band as this year’s champion, garnering the highest prize of P100,000. Tagum City Cluster Band won the second spot with the equivalent cash prize of P70,000, while Digos City National High School Marching Band ranked third, pocketing the 50,000-peso prize.

Other champions declared during the Musikahan Festival were Footwear Band for Tunog Tagum Songwriting Battle of the Bands, Magugpo Pilot Central Elementary School Blue Pigeons for Drumline Battle (Elementary Category) and Baton Twirling (Elementary) and Davao Eagles Scout Marching Band for the Color Guards Competition and Drumline Battle (Open Category). (Roy Banias/ CIO Tagum)

WENTY-EIGHT maintenance workers who are currently assigned at the different departments of the provincial government in Davao Oriental were overjoyed after Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang committed to absorb them as job order employees.

MINSAS or the Mati Investigation Security and Allied Services, Inc., a local private employment agency, is on the verge of closing down prompting Governor Dayanghirang to absorb the workers who are threatened to lose their jobs when agency stops its operation by March of this year.

For the workers who are rendering janitorial services to the provincial government mainly in its hospitals and at the Capitol, being hired as job order employees in the province brings positive prospect.

“I am overwhelmed and relieved that I am still going to have a job after our agency closes down. I am truly awed of the Governor’s kindness as it has saved our means of income. It’s difficult to find job these days,” said one worker.

Jesus Y. Pang, manager of the MINSAS who is set to retire abroad, said that the provincial government’s intervention will have a big advantage for the workers.

“Unlike before when their salary of P6,000 per month had to be cut down in order to pay for the agency’s expenses such as cleaning supplies and

office operation, this time, the workers will take home full salary,” Pang said, noting that the provincial government will shoulder the cleaning supplies and other expenses.

“I am relieved and thankful for the governor’s kind response after I personally asked his help as our management only wish to protect the interest and welfare of our workers,” he said, adding that with no successor to manage the agency, he opted to ask the governor to take the workers under his wings.

Governor Dayanghirang who sprang into action to save the employees from losing their jobs told the workers to continually do their job diligently and take pride of what they do.

“I really hope that this intervention helps you,” he said.

Aside from having a full pay, the workers will also be entitled to avail PhilHealth among other benefits and privileges for job order employees.

For the past years, the provincial government has been tapping the MINSAS employment agency for janitorial and maintenance services.

As they would join the official workforce of the provincial government, the employees will be deployed to the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center, Lupon Provincial Hospital and at the Provincial Capitol. (Karen Lou Deloso/PIO DavOr)

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

Birds-eye view of Davao City. Photo by Lean Daval Jr.

Davao City, a blooming, booming octogenarian

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO 80 years -- That’s 8 decades, 960 months, 4,174 weeks, 29,220 days, 701,280 hours, 42,076,800 minutes and 2,524,608,000 seconds. -Quoted

I

****

N Davao City, orchids -- particularly waling-waling - bloom. And so do many, many other flowers.

But it’s not only ornamental flowers that bloom. Even the flowers of fruits bloom anytime of the year.

Name it, Davao City has it: durian, mangosteen, pomelo, mango, papaya, guava, lanzones, rambutan, and yes, banana. Not to be forgotten are the flowers of coffee and cacao.

On March 16, Davao City will turn 80. Yes, it has been eight decades now since Davao became a city.

From being a laid back city, it is now a bustling premier city. Many Dabawenyos, so enamored with this city, cannot help but call it the current “center of the universe,” on account of the fact that it has recently produced a President of the Republic.. its former mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte.

From being tagged as Asia’s “murder city” largely by political detractors, it is now one of the safest cities in the region, if not the world.

This year’s celebration theme is: “Stand Tall. United. Resilient.”

“Our celebration is a celebration of our unity as a

people -- united in the face of challenges and adversities and determination to survive and overcome every trial that comes our way,” explained Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio.

Today, Davao City does not only bloom; it also booms. Take the case of its population. Based on the 2015 Census done by the Philippine Statistics Authority, Davao City will soon hit the 1.9-million population mark. That’s 300,000 more people added to the population reported in 2010.

The population may swell to 2 million as more people from nearby provinces and other parts of the country migrate to the country’s largest city in land area.

A few years back, the City Mayors Foundation ranked Davao as the 87th fastest growing city in the world, and it has been listed by the United Kingdom-based Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Magazine as the 10th “Asian City of the Future” together with two other Philippine cities – Quezon City (ranked 7th) and Cebu City (8th place).

Davao City serves as the regional center for the Davao Region (which is composed of the provinces of Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley and Davao Occidental).

“The increase in population was the result of migration, among others, of people from other regions because Davao City offers many opportunities as a hub of government, business, and industries,”

observed the Philippine Statistical Authority.

In the Philippines, most of the largest cities -- Metro Manila in Luzon, Cebu in the Visayas, and Davao in Mindanao -- are considered as the economic engines of the country. Davao City, for instance, is on the verge of turning into a bustling metropolis and with the influx of foreign and local business investors, the numbers are on its side.

Despite of the proliferation of top companies operating in the city, Davao is pictured as one of the best places in the country where oldies can retire.

Zipporah Antonio, who works as a content writer of Housing Interactive, Inc., wrote: “Modern meets the old.

Indeed, this dynamic province is a perfect marriage of traditional culture and cosmopolitan living. It may have the usual hustle and bustle of city life, but it is able to retain that ‘small town’ feel. Signs of Davao’s progress and success are seen through the rise of developments throughout the area. This is mainly to accommodate the burgeoning number of expat and local communities.”

Antonio further wrote: “Its rich history, picturesque landscapes, breathtaking islands, exciting water-related activities, and remarkable tourist destinations are few of the main reasons that make the province an interesting place for retirement.

Likewise, the cost of living is definitely more affordable than Metro Manila and Cebu.”

In 2006, Davao City hosted the tourism forum of the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. “Davao is slow compared to Hong Kong, Bangkok, Manila, and Cebu,” wrote Ernie Abella, editor of Madayaw, a magazine that was released in conjunction with the event.

“But you can get from sea to mountain by the time you finish the juice of a fresh coconut.”

There are several reasons why Davao is now one of the tourist destinations in the country. In a website called toptens.com, people give some reasons on why the city is such a good place to visit: “With its unique emergency response system, you can call 911 in whatever situation you are in.

The city is known for its tight security and strict implementation of the law,” wrote one visitor. “It is also known to be the ‘fruit basket of the Philippines;’ from the exotic durian and mangosteen to one of the most exported product of the Philippines, banana, you will find all of them here.”

Another one commented: “Davao City is one of the most livable cities in Asia.

It has a very low percentage of crime. It is not only typhoon-free but so far has not been visited by a huge typhoon or any great disaster. But one this is sure: Davao City has very delicious and very cold clean water.”

If there are good news, there are also bad news.

Take the case of sea-level rise, a direct result of climate change, which may wreak havoc within the city. The Business Risk Assessment and the Management of Climate Change Impacts,” published by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), said the most likely to be affected are the city’s seaports.

“Located along the rel-

‘Many Dabawenyos, so enamored with this city, cannot help but call it the current “center of the universe,” on account of the fact that it has recently produced a President of the Republic.. its former mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte.’ atively shallow channel between the city and Samal Island, these port facilities are a nerve center for Davao City’s economy, and serve a variety of ships handling both cargo and passengers,” the risk assessment said.

Another problem the city needs to address is water. Davao has traditionally tapped groundwater as its main water source, the WWF/BPI report said. “It prides itself in the relatively high quality of its drinking water. However, salt intrusion has already been reported in city districts to shore, especially in portions of the city where groundwater extraction continues.

Sea-level rise may aggravate this situation.”

But despite all these problems, Davao City has gone a long, long way.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

EXTRA JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF STATE WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late FLORENCIA LIGTAS CAULIN has been the subject of an Extra Judicial Settlement of Estate With Waiver of Rights executed among her heirs, per 233; Page No.47; Book No. CCXV; Series of 2017, of the NOTARY PUBLIC LEO J. CORDOVA 3/15,22,29

DEED OF EXTRA JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE INTESTATE STATE WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late FLORENCIA LIGTAS CAULIN has been the subject of an Extra Judicial Settlement of Estate With Waiver of Rights leaving motor vehicles executed among her heirs, per Doc. No.232; Page No.47; Book No. CCXV; Series of 2017, of the NOTARY PUBLIC LEO J. CORDOVA 3/15,22,29

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lack of resources but for “dysfunctional or nonexistent” local government units. It said the national government has done no concrete moves to rectify the alleged anomalies. “This is why government money has been drained but services are wanting and sometimes nothing reaches the people,” it added.

But the lay leaders pointed out that Wao’s experience in governance differs from that of other municipalities of Lanao del Sur “as can be seen from the progress the town has achieved.”

Fr. Nazareno echoed a similar observation. “The DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government) should mentor the LGUs of Lanao del Sur. The national government is not aware how the IRA (internal revenue allotment) is being spent…

If only the money goes to the people.”

“Audit, dili ma-audit kay hadlokon lang, wala na (Audit can’t be done because of threats). Why not bring a battalion of Marines during audit?” Nazareno, who had served as priest in Malabang, Lanao del Sur, suggested.

“The national government just relies on the word of the politicians. The reports, development plans and all about Wao have been copied many times by other municipalities of Lanao del Sur,” he said.

“Cultural divide” Randy Wagas, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Council cited [1] cultural differences and [2] fears that properties owned

by Christian settlers would be divested in favor of Wao’s Moro inhabitants as among the reasons for their opposition to the Bangsamoro. (H. Marcos C. Mordeno/ MindaNews)

NEWS 13

BARANGAY VISIT. Vice Governor Elmer “Dok Vice” de Peralta, MD, discusses the importance of barangay legislation to capacitate the barangay officials during the recent Evaluation and Observation of Barangay Session at Barangay Nagpan, Malungon, Sarangani province. (Quenny D. Dandan/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Water delivery schedule in Deca Homes and Emily Homes, Cabantian

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HE Davao City Water District (DCWD) will deploy four additional water tankers for Deca Homes and Emily Homes in Cabantian starting March 15, 2017.

For DECA Homes, two tankers will be deployed which will make a total of eight trips per day delivering around 160 cubic meters (800 drums) of treated water. The daily drop off point will be at Block 1 and 2 Main Road. Another drop off point will alternate daily at Block 2 and 21 Main Road and at Block 20 Main Road. In addition, six DCWD L300 vehicles will facilitate the deliveries in the interior areas that will alternate daily at Blocks 22 to 41 and Blocks 3 to 9 & Blocks 14 to 19.

For Emily Homes, two tankers will be deployed which will make a total of five trips per day

delivering around 100 cubic meters (500 drums) of treated water. The daily drop off point will be at Revelation St. Main Road with two DCWD L300 vehicles assisting for the interior areas, particularly at these streets: King, Number, Deuteronomy, Jude, Peter, Matthew, Luke, and John.

Delivery time is between 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM to 12:00 midnight. There will be no delivery between 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM due to Davao City’s truck ban.

Even with this daily water delivery schedule, the 24-hour rotational water supply scheme in Cabantian Water Supply System remains in effect.

However, the DCWD management assures that all efforts are being exerted to address

the water supply situation in Cabantian particularly through the immediate solutions DCWD has earlier committed to undertake. Among these are the leasing of ten additional water tankers, which is now under procurement, implementation of valve management scheme, and rehabilitation of the three production wells serving Cabantian Water Supply System.

For clarifications and other water updates, the general public is advised to visit DCWD website (www.davao-water.gov. ph) and official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/davaowater) or call the Central Information Unit / Call Center through the 24-hour hotline 297-DCWD (3293), 0927-7988966, 09255113293 and 0908-4410653.

(Jamae G. Dela Cruz)

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 276 • WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017

WAITING

BARRELING BLUE KNIGHT. Ion Angeles of Ateneo de Davao University drives through heavy traffic in ths sequence during tje 4th Escandr Cup Inter-Secondary Basketball Tournament. The Blue Knights, currently playing in the 2017 SM NBTC National Finals Division 2, moved just a win away from the semifinals after beating St. Benilde-Laguna 6235 on Monday night. Lean Daval Jr

FOR TIGERS Blue Eagles out, UST could be sixth team in Araw hoops

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

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njb@edgedavao.net

HERE will be no Ateneo-La Salle rivalry Davao edition.

Instead, UAAP Season 78 runner up University of Sto. Tomas could be the sixth team in the forthcoming 80th Araw ng Dabaw Invitational basketball tournament set March 23-26 at the Davao City Recreation Center.

Tournament director Cholo Elegino on Tuesday said they are awaiting final word from the UST Growling Tigers to confirm their participation.

“We are just awaiting UST’s decision,” Elegino told

Go powers Team Duterte to 7- 0 series lead vs IBP

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EC. Christopher “Bong” Go’s stellar performance continues.

Go scored 42 points to once again lead Team Duterte with a 88-83 decision over IBP in Game 7 of in their basketball friendly series over the weekend at the Genesis 88 Gym in Ecoland.

The Special Assistant to the President, who average 42.8 points per game in the series, shot eight triples on top of laudable effort of involving his teammates in the offensive fray.

The win stretched Team Duterte’s winning streak to seven games and kept IBP

O

NE afternoon, accompanied by Philippine Sports Commission(PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez’s long, long time and reliable aide, JB, we visited the Timburana Wood Capitol in Matina, which from 1998 to 2016 has served as regional office of the Basketball Association of the Philippines-XI, later on renamed Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas-XI. I checked on the table of the SBP-XI director. It was clean and no yellow pad and paper at the desk. Look at the huge calendar on the left side, there were no more scribbled notes and X’s on the dates. I smelled the air of the room, no trace of scent of Hav-A-Tampa cigars or lights.

A quick visit to his nearby home, the chair at the head of

winless.

The national IBP champions dropped another close game.

IBP appeared playing with heightened sense of urgency to end the slump.

But the effort remained futile as Team Duterte once again played much better in the end game.

Adrian Paguican scored 25 points as Baguio and Cadiogan made 17 and 14 resprectively for IBP which is now trailing 0-7 in the series.

JR Rosal and John Flores contributed 15 and 12 for Team Duterte.

the table, has remained unoccupied. Oh, the half-full Johnnie Walker Swing whisky bottle was still there but where is the gracious host?

I could not help but feel a deep sadness. Davao Region’s godfather of amateur basketball development, Regino “Boy” Cua, is no longer there.

My relationship with the late Boy Cua started when we both decided to stop the abuse and corruption of basketball referees in Davao. The unending complaints of BAP-XI badges, paid but not delivered, the referees’ rule books, paid for by the referees and again not delivered. Then complaints of local school-based tournaments requiring spectators to pay an entrance fee. Boy decided it has

T

Edge Davao.

Five teams have already confirmed in the official Araw ng Dabaw sports event now stretched to six teams from the traditional four.

Defending champion The Royal Mandaya Hotel-CMO/De La Salle University is back to try to retain the title although it will have its hands full in the face of a souped up field.

Former UAAP champion National University Bulldogs and University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons are around to give the cagefest a touch of UAAP rivalry while commercial

squads Montana Pawnshop-Davao and Pacman Warriors-Gen. Santos provide the challenge from the commercial side.

With fiery Cameroonian Ben Mbala back in the fold, the reigning UAAP Season 79 champion De La Salle Green Archers are all set to defend its title undr the TRMHCMO outfit.

Save for UAAP Finals MVP Jeron Teng and Thomas Torres who have both graduated, Coach Aldin Ayo will be steering practically the same Green Archers squad that won this year’s UAAP title.

Former Ateneo de Davao coach Miggy Solitaria has

also joined the bench and will officially serve as one of Ayo’s regular assistants.

The other members of the squad are Justine Baltazar, Andrei Caracut, Mark Dyke, Jollo Go, Andrew Langston, Aljun Melecio, Kib Monalbo, Brent Paraiso, Jason Perkins, Prince Rivero, Ricci Rivero and Abu Tratter.

Elegino said the tournament will have two groups playing single round robin. The top teams after the eliminations square off for the championship.

The tournament is sanctioned by the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas 11.

Bugsay Festival in Davao Or

HE Bugsay Dabaw and the Municipal Government of San Isidro is staging a 3-day boat paddling event dubbed as the 1st Mayor Tina Yu Invitational Bugsay Festival on June 23 to 25 in San Isidro town in Davao Oriental.

Race director Danilo “Jun” Bacus, president of Bugsay Dabaw, said there will be competition for recreational kayaks, Bangka and Vinta boats.

The kayaking will have categories in the Male Single, Female Single, All-Male Tandem, All-Female Tandem and Mixed Tandem.

The banka race is exclusively for residents of San Isidro only. It will have a Tandem for Couple, Male Single and Female Single.

“The Lawig Vinta is open to all,” said Bacus.

The champion will win P5,000 while the second and

third placers will earn P4,000 and P3,000, respectively.

The cash prizes in the kayak’s singles are P3,000, P2,000 and P1,000 in that order while in the Tandem for all-male and all-female are P5,000, P4,000 and P3,000. The top three winners in KAYAK. Kayak enthusiasts are expected to join the first Bugsay Festival in Davao Oriental. PR the Mixed Tandem will pocket P7,500, Search for Ginoong and Binib- one free bottle of beer,” said P5,000 and P2,500. ining Bugsayan.

Bacus.

The Bugsayan for locals Registration fee is P200 The event is powered by will have P3,000, P2,000 and per head with entitles already the Mindanao Mountaineering P1,000 in the Tandem Couple. the participant to join in all cat- Community (MMC), MountainThe singles will get P2,000, egories and competitions. eering Federation of Southern P1,500 and P1,000.

The entry fee includes a Mindanao (MFSM) and the HaMeanwhile, there will also singlet, activity ID, one meal miguitan Mountaineering Club be the Lutong Baybayon (open and snack on June 24 and 25.

(Hamocs) of San Isidro. cooking contest), Kite Flying “We will also have a live “We’re still open for spon(Tabanog ni Sidro) and the band during the socials with sorship,” said Bacus. PR

I remember the Boy

CLEAN SLATE

By MOSES P. BILLACURA to stop. And it stopped indeed.

What happened next was a 360-degree turn of what amateur basketball development should be. Boy initiated a basketball clinic for the youth and giving them balls for free, school-based and church-based

leagues have started to receive funding assistance out of his pocket, Manila-based coaches fly to Davao to meet and discuss with him basketball developments, organize leagues and consulted him on player development and the Davao City Mayor’s Office has closely coordinated with him in the conduct of the Duterte Basketball League(DBL), helping in making it sure that basketball rules are followed.

During his watch, Ateneo de Davao High School, for the first time in history, represented the country to three international tournaments (Thailand, Singapore and Australia), with funding coming from the parents and assistance from the PSC. The SBP-XI has lost a re-

spectable leader but you see, death is like a thief in the night.

Yet, we know that he was ready for it. “Die today, die tomorrow, same die lang na Mo. Okay na pamilya ko Mo, tsaka basketball,” he usually tells me.

When his eldest son Rainier of JonRain Realty Development made a financial review, he was in awe by how much money his late father has set aside for basketball development. It’s not the money Rainier, it’s the love.

That reminds me that there is one collectible that has not been paid yet. Hmmmm, if he happens to read this(the guy from the North), Rainier or Milton, the former team captain of the BEST national champion Ateneo de Davao, are just at the Timburano Wood office, willing

to accept the check.

Ahhh, such love for basketball development. Crazy love.

I’m pretty sure, Boy has started sponsoring leagues up in Heaven. You simply can’t stop that guy from doing what he loves the most, basketball.

*** Royal Mandaya Hotel President Glen Escandor has taken over the noble cause of serving the SBP-XI after Boy’s death and we wish him all the best in serving the basketball community. *** Happy birthdays to University of Mindanao baseball coach Ryan Sarabia, former chess regional director Alex Sempio Baruis and dear Edeley Tarrazona.

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