Edge Davao 9 Issue 96

VOL. 9 ISSUE 96 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JULY 10 - 11, 2016

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A BITE THAT KILLS! TEXT AND PHOTOS

BY HENRYLITO D. TACIO

R

abies may be a disease of the past (it is known since around 2000 B.C.) but still it continues to take a toll among Filipinos.

“It is responsible for the deaths of an average of around 200 to 250 people per year,” bares Dr. Rubina O. Cresencio, a veterinarian and acting director of the Bureau of Animal

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COVER p.1 Industry (BAI), a line agency of the Department of Agriculture.

Rabies, an infectious viral disease, can be passed from animals, whether wild or domesticated, to humans. “Rabies has 100% case fatality rate in both animals and humans,” Dr. Cresencio says. “Globally, around 50,000 to 70,000 people die of rabies every year.”

More than 95% of human deaths occur in Asia and Africa, according to the Geneva-based World Health Organization.

“Rabies is a neglected disease of poor and vulnerable populations whose deaths are rarely reported and where human vaccines and immunoglobulin are not readily available or accessible,” the UN health agency reports.

In Davao City, EDGE Davao reported that infection cases of rabies increased by 22% -- from 1,553 cases reported in the first quarter of 2015 to 1,906 cases during the same period this year.

“The rise in number of cases could be a positive indication that more people bitten by dogs or cats are already aware that they should seek immediate medical attention to prevent any person from dying due to rabies,” Dr. Annaliza Malubay, head of the Anti-Rabies Section of the City Health Office, was quoted as saying.

Last year, the BAI ranked Davao City (18 reported cases)

The rise in number of cases could be a positive indication that more people bitten by dogs or cats are already aware that they should seek immediate medical attention to prevent any person from dying due to rabies” -- Dr. Annaliza Malubay, head of the AntiRabies Section of the City Health Office was ranked fourth among cities with the highest number of animal rabies cases. On top were San Jose Del Monte (25), Quezon (24), and Cagayan de Oro (20). Rounding up the top ten

were Lapu-Lapu (16), General Santos (15), Angeles (14), Zamboanga (14), Taguig (11) and Butuan (10).

Among the provinces with the highest number of human rabies cases, Davao City was ranked fifth along with Albay, Iloilo and Lanao del Norte.

Davao del Norte -- together with Tarlac, Quezon, and Capiz -- was ranked third.

Rabies comes from the Latin word which means “madness.” The term may be related to the Sanskrit “rabhas” (to do violence). The first written record of rabies is in the Mesopotamian Codex of Eshnunna (circa 1930 BC), which dictates that the owner of a dog showing symptoms of rabies should take preventive measure against bites. If another person were bitten by a rabid dog and later died, the owner was heavily fined.

There are several reasons why rabies remains a health threat in the country, although the Philippines has an anti-rabies law. Republic Act No. 9482 provides for the control and elimination of human and animal rabies, prescribing penalties for violation.

According to Dr. Cresencio, the reason why rabies still thrives in the country is that most Filipinos don’t know the dangers of rabies. In fact, some people even refused to have their animals, particularly dogs, to be injected by rabies vaccine.

“They have this wrong notion that dogs will be less aggressive once vaccinated,” points out Dr. Cresencio. “In addition, they don’t want their dogs to be

vaccinated because these are to be butchered for some special events like fiesta and birthdays.”

Other reasons on why rabies is still exist in the country include the following: ineffective ordinance in the province, city, and town of the implementation of the rabies prevention and control program, poor vaccination coverage by the province, numerous stray dogs, lack of funding, limited/lack of personnel, and lack of vaccinators and dog catchers.

Health experts say that a virus that is in the saliva of infected animals causes rabies, and it is usually transmitted by bites from infected animals. About 95% of rabies are from dog bites while the rest are from food such as animal liver and brain.

To “azucena” lovers – people who love to eat dog meat – here is a warning. Medical experts say cooking does not kill the rabies. “Since rabies is a nerve-lover, it is concentrated in the brain. So, don’t eat the (dog’s) brain,” physicians caution.

A person can also get rabies by kissing a rabid person and by using his or her utensils.

Because of this, the Department of Health (DOH) discourages members of the family dying of rabies from giving a farewell kiss as it could mean a “kiss of death.” The victim is a reservoir of rabies virus.

While dogs are the primary rabies virus carriers, people should not disregard cats. Last year, a school teacher died of rabies because he tried to save a cat which bit him. He was ad-

vised to get an anti-rabies injection but because he was too busy with the examinations of his students, he failed to do so. His negligence caused his life.

In man, the time interval between the bite of an infected dog and the appearance of the symptoms may last anywhere from 10 days to two years, depending on the virulence of the virus, the place of the bite and other factors.

“Early signs are the tingling or twitching sensation around the area of the animal bite, accompanied with fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, loss of appetite, and fatigue,” says Dr. Cresencio. “As the disease progresses, the victim may eventually develop these symptoms: irritability, excessive movements of agitation, confusion, hallucinations, bizarre or abnormal thoughts, aggressiveness, muscle spasms, seizures/convulsions, sore throat, depression, weakness or paralysis, extreme sensitivity to bright light/sounds/ touch, and increased production of saliva/tears.”

“Hydrophobia (the fear of water) is experienced by 1718% of rabies patients,” says former health secretary Alberto Romualdez, Jr. “In this stage, the victim experiences forceful, painful muscle spasms of the throat, which expel any liquids administered orally.” Hydrophobic episodes last from one to five minutes.

Coma is the terminal phase.

“After the patient has become comatose, hydrophobia is replaced by an irregular pattern of respiration-cluster breathing

with long apneic periods,” explains Dr. Dey G. Brato, an infectious diseases specialist. “This is soon followed by progressive paralysis until the patient dies.”

Actually, a person dies of rabies because of the overwhelming viral infection of the brain or central nervous system.

If other countries were able to become free from rabies, why the Philippines can’t? To think, the Philippines has passed a law -- Republic Act No. 9482 -- in 2007 -- which aims to control and eliminate rabies. Second 4 of the law stated: “It is hereby mandated that there shall be a National Rabies Prevention and Control Program to be implemented by a multi-agency/multi-sectoral committee chaired by the Bureau of Animal Industry of the Department of Agriculture.”

Aside from the agriculture department, three other government agencies are given the task to implement the program. The Department of Health (DOH), for instance, coordinates with DA in the development of appropriate health education strategy to inform the public on rabies prevention and control and responsible of pet ownership.

The Department of Education (DepEd), on the other hand, should strengthen the rabies education program through school health teaching and curriculum.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), through its respective localities, ensures that all dogs are properly immunized, registered and issued a corresponding dog tag for every immunized and registered dog. It is also given the duty to regulate the treatment locally known as “tandok.”

According to Dr. Cresencio, control and elimination of rabies in the Philippines is not an impossible task. “We are gaining grounds in the control of rabies by declaring additional rabies free zones in the country,” he says. “So far, we have declared 35 rabies-free zones.

“As I always say, we at the Bureau of Animal Industry cannot do this alone. We need the cooperation of all sectors and by every Filipinos who value life.

Let’s educate and share knowledge about rabies. Let’s not waste another life of who knows, perhaps your loved ones. Let’s end rabies in the Philippines and the time is now!”

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Army heightens security measures vs. LAGs

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Philippine Army is tightening its security measures and called on the other law enforcement units in Davao region to be on alert against the assassinations being conducted by the Lawless Armed Group (LAG) New People’s Army (NPA).

The measure was implemented following the killing of Datu Ruben Labawan, an Ata-Manobo tribal leader and his aide last Wednesday, July 6 in Panabo City.

Labawan was on the way home from a meeting with other tribal leaders and representatives of government agencies when waylaid by six armed men in Barangay Credu, Panabo City, Davao del Norte.

Labawan died on the spot while his aide, Romeo Tanio was proclaimed dead on arrival at a medical facility in the area.

“The LAGs are into killing spree. They spare no one even those people who are involved in development works to help their communities,” said Captain Rhyan Batchar, chief information officer of the 10th Infantry Division of the army in an interview on Saturday morning.

Batchar said Labawan was innocent of the charges hurled against him by the NPA rebels.

On Friday, Rogoberto San-

chez, the spokesperson of the Southern Mindanao Region Operations Command of the NPA (NPA-SMROC) claimed responsibility of the killing of Labawan and his aide.

“The New People’s Army in Southern Mindanao and the Lumad and peasant masses in the region commend the NPA1st Pulang Bagani Battalion in successfully carrying out the standing order of the People’s Revolutionary Court in dispensing justice against Ruben Labawan last June 6 in Panabo City,” Sanchez said in a statement emailed to the media on Friday afternoon.

The rebels accused Labawan of “guilty of blood debts and thereby meted with the death penalty for serious crimes against the people, especially the Lumads and peasant settlers of Davao City and North Cotabato.”

Sanchez added that Labawan was also guilty of grave acts of collusion in the reactionary regime’s campaign of duplicity and disunity among Lumads.

But Batchar negated the NPA claims, stating that Labawan was involved in activities aimed to uplift the conditions of the lumads in his area in Paquibato District, Davao City.

In fact, he added, the victim just came from a meeting

CLOSING PRAYER. President Rodrigo R. Duterte participates in offering the Dua or the closing prayer with Muslim attendees of Mindanao Hariraya Eid’l Fitr held at SMX Convention Center in Davao City on Friday night. Lean Daval Jr. with other tribal leaders and government agencies that discussed the implementation of programs and projects designed to provide socio-economic programs and projects for the lumads, not only in Davao City but also for the en-

tire Davao region.

“They killed an innocent man. Now that they accepted responsibility over the killing of Labawan it also showed that they committed another criminal act against innocent people,” Batchar added.

He also doubted if the NPAs and their leadership are really willing to come to the negotiating table to talk peace.

“The killing showed their insincerity to talk peace with the government,” Batchar said.

The killing of Labawan

also gained condemnation from top officers of the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the region.

Major General Rafael Valencia, commander of the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division, in an

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EDGEDAVAO

WITH LEADERS OF MILF AND MNLF. President Rodrigo R. Duterte appears to be in a serious conversation with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) vice chair for political affairs Gadzhali Jaafar (5th from right) and chief negotiator of

8 die in NorCot illegal drug raid

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RMED men believed to be engaged in illegal drug activities were killed during police raid early Saturday, July 9.

Superintendent Maximo Sebastian, head of Police Regional Office 12 (PRO 12) special unit, said the slain suspects traded shots with lawmen as police operatives entered Sitio Quiapo, Barangay Poblacion, Matalam, North Cotabato at 2 a.m.

“We were forced to return fire because we were met by bullets as we slowly entered the community known for illegal drug activities,” Sebastian told reporters.

Killed were Lamping Mamakan, Taingko Lamping, Haron Lamping Mamakan,

Abuzaid Runas, Tahir Kasan Salipuddin, Mustapha Tausi Mangapan, Mama Musha and Jobaina Lumantag, all residents of the area and believed to be involved in illegal drug activities in North Cotabato.

Police arrested Aratok Iba Balabagan, one of the suspects whose name was in the search warrant the police was to serve. He denied the charges.

Police operatives seized two fragmentation grenades, two hand guns and suspected shabu from slain suspects. The fatalities were also linked to carnapping group operating in the province.

The shootout erupted when one of the suspects who remained awake opened fire

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Paolo denies using influence in SP election

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AVAO City Vice Mayor Paolo “Pulong” Duterte defended himself from rumors that he influenced the selection of councilors who will head different committees in the 18th City Council.

Duterte, who is the acting mayor, said the process was independent and democratic, stressing that he had no absolute hand or influence over it.

The local lawmakers held an election last Tuesday to choose who will hold committee chairpersonships and their members.

“I was not there,” he said.

“And I would also not dare get involved or attempt to influence the choices or the de-

cision of the members of the council.”

Councilor Bernard Alag, the elected majority floor leader and currently acting as vice mayor, said Paolo only wanted the selection and the inaugural session to be in order.

“The instruction from the Vice Mayor (Paolo) is to make the first session and election to be in order,” he said.

He supported Duterte’s assertion that the process “went through the regular democratic process.”

All members of the city council, including the new ones, were given their own committees. (CIO)

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Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) peace panel lawyer Randolp Parcasio (4th from right) after the celebration of Mindanao Hariraya Eid’l Fitr held at SMX Convention Center in Davao City on Friday night. Lean Daval Jr.

Dayanghirang to strengthen programs for Davao Oriental

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

N

adlopez0920@gmail.com

EWLY installed Davao Oriental Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang said he will sustain and strengthen the already established programs and services of the province that were already strengthened by the previous administration.

The governor, during his first few days in the office already sat down with the heads of the different departments of the province and gave them an opportunity to present their plans and existing programs as well as voice out their concerns to the new administration.

He also listed the priorities of his administration which include the focus on infrastructure, health, peace and development.

Dayanghirang tasked the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) “to scout for more funding agencies to aid the province in

building more useful public infrastructures and ordered to pursue projects that are for implementation under the Philippine Rural Development

Program (PRDP) of the Department of Agriculture (DA).

The governor also wanted to fast track the repairs and

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Duterte ready to concede to BBL if Federalism not possible

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RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte said Friday he is ready to concede to the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) if a Federal government is not possible during his term.

But the President assured the Moro people that his administration is working on a framework acceptable to both the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

Speaking to more than 500 Moro people from different regions in Mindanao, including MILF vice chair for

political affairs Ghazali Jaafar and MNLF Chair Bong Parcasio during the First Mindanao Hariraya Eid’l Fit’r at SMX Convention Center on Friday evening, Mr. Duterte revealed that part of the plan is a reconfiguration of a territory for Nur Misuari-led MNLF. The President, however, said the reconfiguration is not intended to separate or delineate territories. “It should not keep us apart being Mindanaoans,” he stressed.

But he noted that most Christians are supporting Federalism and BBL.

“Let us build a nation that is founded on peace,” he emphasized.

Duterte, however, reminded everybody that the task is not easy but assured he would be able to do it under his administration.

“It will not come overnight...not next year. It will be something in two to three years. I assure something will change before the end of my term,” he said.

He said he is set to travel to Jolo to meet with Misuari and probably ask the military to allow the MNLF leader to

move around Mindanao for simultaneous talks with the Moro people.

Mr. Duterte revealed that his team is working overtime on plans for the MILF and MNLF. For the MILF, the President said he values word of honor. “A promise is a promise,” he said. He, however, did not elaborate what he had promised to the MILF. “What you give to MILF you give to MNLF. I hope there will be peace in our land,” he said.

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EDGEDAVAO

BEIBEN MOTORS. Proprietors Nelson (8th from right) and wife Jennifer Chua lead the cutting of ribbon with Councilors Diosdado Mahipus (6th from right), Al Ryan Alejandre (5th from right) and Melchor Quitain Jr. (4th

from right) and other specials guests during the grand opening of Beiben Motors along Km. 7 Lanang in Davao City on Friday. Lean Daval Jr.

500 farmers participate grand harvest festival

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T least 500 farmers from various parts of South Cotabato joined on Friday the grand harvest festival and farmers’ field day held at the provincial demonstration farm in Barangay Pedregosa in Banga town.

Justina Navarrete, chief of the South Cotabato Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG) said the activity is among the initial events of the province’s 50th foundation anniversary celebration and 17th Tnalak Festival slated

July 10 to 18, 2016.

She said the grand harvest festival and farmers’ field day was mainly dedicated to the local farming sector, which is considered as the backbone of the province’s economy.

“It was highlighted by showcases of various agricultural technologies and varieties of a range of farm crops,” she said.

Navarrete said they treated the participants to a tour of the five-hectare demonstration farm and technology

updating.

She said several seed companies conducted their own product displays and promotional activities.

During the activity, she said the province’s organic producers and practitioners displayed and marketed their products.

“The participants also enjoyed various fruits like mangosteen, rambutan and lanzones that we produced at the demo farm through the

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STANDING GUARD. Philippine National Police and Task Force Davao personnel stand guard in Sta. Ana wharf, the main gateway of Davao City to the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) and other provinces in Davao del Sur, where a large number of beach goers bound for IGaCoS gather. Lean Daval Jr.

ePLDT: Phl enterprises seek stronger IT security

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OCAL companies have become more proactive in seeking ways to strengthen their organization’s cyber security following the recent highly publicized security-related incidents. ePLDT, the digital enterprise enabler of PLDT Inc., however noted that organizations also face implementation issues such as technology complexity, lack of technical expertise, and high cost.

“IT Security in general, and lately with special focus on Cyber security, has become a very big concern among organizations because of the recent data breaches and hacking incidents. Many seek to implement some form of IT security solution or strengthen their existing IT Security framework but at some point, are held back by a number of challenges,” stated Nerisse Ramos, ePLDT Group COO. Data from the Global State of Information Security® Survey 2016 published by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) states that ninety-one percent of organizations worldwide have adopted a risk-based cyber security framework. Moreover, fifty-eight percent of businesses said that they make every effort to ensure they are kept abreast on IT security information.

Applied to the local landscape, Nico Alcoseba, Head of PLDT’s Disruptive Business Group, said that ePLDT noticed that organizations are now more interested in security solutions but at the same time, also have a number of concerns. “First, the complexity of executing IT, particularly cyber security solutions on both the hardware and software levels for an entire network is a big headache on its own. Paired with lack of technical expertise and budgetary constraints, some companies become hesitant in carrying out their plans.” ePLDT’s Managed Security

Solutions addresses the aforementioned challenges by offering security options as a monthly subscription and as a fully managed service which includes the devices, systems, processes, and expertise. This OPEX model creates more options for organizations to grow their businesses without having to worry about CAPEX spending, as well as data and network security issues slowing down innovation. All of these are guided by a security framework based on the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) model, which serves as a guide to identifying risks, and assists enterprises in both assessing their security standing and setting priorities towards improved cyber security practices.

As part of its best practices, ePLDT does vulnerability assessment on the client’s infrastructure to uncover vulnerable applications, malware infected machines, exploitable weak points, and easily identifiable sensitive data. This, according to ePLDT, will serve as basis for their recommended security solution for that specific organization. A sample solution might include multiple layers of security such as intrusion prevention systems, firewalls, antivirus, and anti-spam. Alternatively, a customer premise based security solution managed by ePLDT can also be deployed.

“The threat of cyber attacks risks enterprises from actualizing their potential growth. We do think that everyone is very much aware of the need to secure their enterprises; the education comes in finding and implementing the best practices tailored for the organization’s needs,” noted Alcoseba.

Interestingly enough, the same PwC survey revealed that companies are now embracing more collaborative and strategic initiatives to address security and

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Foreign investors interested to build railway in Mindanao

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

WO foreign investors from US and Korea expressed interest in constructing the long-proposed Mindanao-wide Railway System (MRS), with Davao City as the focal point because of the existing market opportunity here.

“Marami ang interested sa railway because of the pronouncement of the president,” said Davao City Investment Promotions Center (DCIPC) chief Ivan C. Cortez at the sidelines opening of the weeklong Pinoy MSME Week exhibition at Abreeza Mall last Friday.

President Rodrigo R. Duterte said during his campaign sorties that he will prioritize the implementation of the long-dreamt railway system for the Mindanao.

Duterte, along with the business sectors in Davao City believed that the railway system will be the engine for growth in other key areas in Mindanao as it will improve the transportation of goods and agricultural products.

Aside from Mindanao, Cortez said one the two foreign companies is keen in developing the proposed railway system in Northern Luzon which is seen to be the solution to the traffic problems in Metro Manila.

Duterte said in one of press conferences that he plans to build a railway system which will connect Manila to three other points: Nueva Vizcaya in Central Luzon, Sorsogon and Batangas in southern Luzon.

“These companies are

very positive for the project and they are just waiting for the national government to announce it as one of its priority projects,” Cortez said.

Cortez believed that the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center will have a marching order on how to manage the proposed railway system project in Mindanao and Northern Luzon.

By then, the national government, through the DOTC, will be compelled to make its own feasibility study for the proposed project which will be the basis on the set of requirements for bidders.

Cortez added that one of these companies, which he chose not to disclose, is en-

gaged in production of train coach.

He said partnering with such company will help the government to save cost.

Meanwhile, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) already extended assistance to various government agencies and development councils for the approval of the feasibility study of the MRS. MinDA said the proposed MRS project will consist of six segments that will span the entire Mindanao with a total length of approximately 1,672 kilometers.

MinDA believed that the project for Mindanao will provide “a dramatic bid to boost the economic development of the resources-rich but underdeveloped region.”

HE National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC) plans to extend housing finance to the Filipino Muslim Community as it aims to introduce a new program for Islamic Housing Finance.

Being the country’s Secondary Mortgage Institution (SMI), NHMFC is continuously developing and intro-

ducing new products to cater to the underserved market, which has no access to financing under traditional housing finance programs offered by other institutions.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data of 2000, around 5.06 percent of the total Filipino population are Muslims. As of 2015, NHMFC es-

timates that there are about 5.8 million Muslims living in the country, with the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) having the largest population of 3.4 million, followed by Region 12 with 1.2 million.

This is a great opportunity for the Philippines to tap the Muslim market, as the World Bank reported in

2015 that the Global Islamic finance market is worth USD 3 trillion.

The program will further benefit the Muslim community which is having difficulty in accessing housing finance under the conventional method, because traditional financing does not offer Shariah compliant housing loans. (PNA)

NHMFC eyes Islamic Housing Finance T

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EDGEDAVAO

Aboitiz shelves plan to expand coal plant

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HE management of the Aboitiz-owned Therma South Inc. (TSI) will temporarily put on hold the expansion of the capacity of the 300 megawatt (MW) coal-fired power plant.

“For now, it’s there. But we will not the pull the trigger on that yet,” TSI president and COO Sebastian Lacson said in a recent interview.

Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) earlier announced the expansion of another 345-MW unit to satiate the increasing power require-

ment of Mindanao.

The announcement was made during the inauguration of the TSI 300-MW power facility last January of this year that was graced by former president Benigno S. Aquino III. However, Lacson said, the board of the power giant company decided to halt temporarily the planned increase of the plant’s intalled capacity following the entry of other baseload plants in the island.

Lacson said Aboitiz started its venture in Davao City because of the increasing power

requirement, but through the years “the energy sector has responded very well by constructing other power plants in Mindanao.”

“So, for now, there is really no need to expand because of the projected over-supply of power next year,” he added.

Lacson also pointed out that the power firm will study the market as there is no assurance when the project will commence.

“We will just look on the pulse of the market. Then, once we see that there is an oppor-

tunity we will pull the trigger on that. But, for now, hindi pa sure kung kelan,” he added.

With all the attention Mindanao is getting from investors after the election of a Mindanaoan president, Lacson said the opportunity to expand the plant’s capacity may come three years from now.

The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) also announced that the Mindanao power situation will improve starting this year with the commissioning of three more units of coal-fired power plants in

the island.

Aside from the on-lining of the 150-MW Unit of TSI last January, the 105-MW unit of the 210MW coal-fired plant of Sarangani Energy Corporation in Maasim, Sarangani Province will also start its operation this year.

One of the two units, each having a capacity of 150 MW of the San Miguel Power Corporation in Malita, Davao Occidental and the first of the three 135-MW coal power plant of the FDC Utilities, Inc. will also start their commercial opera-

AirAsia announces leadership change T

DPWH XI Construction Division Chief Elias P. Bermejo (2nd from left) together with Project Engineer Anacleto V. Calamba Jr. and representatives from R.A. Pahati Construction and Supply Inc., inspect the ongoing Construction/Improvement /Widening of Bacaca Road incl. Bacaca Circumferential Road leading to Davao City Airport, Fr. Selga section in

Davao City. The Php 73.7M Regional Office-implemented project includes widening of existing pavement, construction of sidewalk curb and gutter and drainage improvement. Started in March 2016, the project is expected to be completed by October this year. DPWH XI - RPAIO

CDRRMO to check hazardous chemicals of firms

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HE Davao City Disaster and Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) will conduct an inventory on the companies in the city that are using hazardous chemicals on their operations which can harm the public during flooding, as the La Niña phenomenon is already forecasted to hit the country, including Davao region in the coming months.

“One of our projects is to identify what are the types and kinds of chemicals under the possession of different industries here,” CDRRMO chief Emmanuel Jaldon said in a recent

press conference in Davao City.

Jaldon said the research will allow the CDRRMO to “know the corresponding preparations on what to do”, while the hazardous material team is being organized.

There are companies in the city, like ice plants that are using harmful chemicals like ammonia in its operation and can be hazardous when exposed to water.

Jaldon said management of hazardous chemical require specific handling, containment and even transportation.

He said the Central 911 Unit l, the disaster response

team in the city is prioritizing the acquisition of new equipment which will respond to the growing needs of the city.

“The emergencies that we are experiencing now are more complex,” he pointed out.

The CDRRMO is also closely coordinating with barangay officials in areas identified as critical zone for flooding.

These areas include barangays of Maa, Waan, portions of 19-B, Matina Pangi, Matina Aplaya and Matina Crossing.

He said these barangays have their own respective designated evacuation areas depending on the kind of disaster.

“We encourage these barangays along the riverbanks and coastlines to have their own disaster risk reduction measures and equipment as part of their preparedness because they are the most vulnerable to disasters,” Jaldon asserted.

All the 182 barangays in Davao City are also required to make their own localized hazard maps, he added.

Jaldon said all officials in the city should be experts of disaster response, given the vast area of Davao City consisting of 244,000 hectares. CHENEEN R. CAPON

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inflows reached USD 8.05 billion, higher than the USD 7.71 billion outflows during the same period.

However, the net inflow to date is lower than the USD 643.67 million in the week ending June 26, 2015.

Hot money to the Philippines continues to be on the

positive amidst volatilities in the global financial market.

Monetary officials are confident that hot money to the Philippines will end the year with net inflows despite the negative developments overseas since domestic fundamentals con-

tinue to improve.

In 2015, the country posted a net hot money outflow of USD 599.7 million, with withdrawals in the latter part of last year traced to anticipation for a hike in the Federal Reserve rates, which materialized on Dec. 16, 2015. (PNA)

PHL posts $344.23-M hot money inflow in first half OREIGN portfolio investments, otherwise known as hot money due to the speed it comes in and out of the economy, posted a net inflow of USD 344.23 million as of June 26, 2016, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data show.

This came after total

tion by the second half of 2015.

Mindanao will have a power surplus of around 100 to 200MW which will be the first time for the island to have an oversupply since it faced a power crisis years ago.

Meanwhile, Lacson said the commissioning of the TSI’s Unit Number 2 will take place this month after undergoing a four-week shutdown.

The maintenance shutdown of the second unit started last June 18, while the first 150-MW Unit Number 1 is scheduled later this year.

HE Board of Directors of Philippines AirAsia Inc. announced on Friday that Captain Dexter Comendador has been named interim Chief Executive Officer effective July 30. He replaces Joy Cañeba who has resigned after three years of service in the company.

Captain Comendador has over 34 years of experience in the aviation industry as officer of Philippine Air Force and commercial pilot for various airlines. He joined Philippines’ AirAsia in 2011 as Director of Flight Operations and was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in 2015.

“The Board would like to thank Joy for her significant contribution to AirAsia. It was under her dynamic leadership that we successfully integrated and merged two airline companies in the Philippines, leading to the launching of Philippines AirAsia. We understand and fully support her decision to leave and wish her all the best in her legal career,” Philippines AirAsia chair Maan Hontiveros said.

Hontiveros added that the company is pleased that Captain Dexter has agreed to step into the interim CEO role and excited about the important change and strategic direction that Philippines AirAsia is committed to bring for its guests and travelers in the country and abroad.

“We remain focused on

driving solid growth with emphasis on quality and innovation,” Hontiveros pointed out.

Philippines AirAsia was able to embark on its turnaround phase with revenue and passenger load improving yearon-year. The number of guests carried in 2015 increased significantly which enabled the airline to boost its passenger load, from 70% in 2014 to 81%.

The airline has recently expanded its network in China with the addition of Manila Shanghai route last June 10.

AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes said, “We would like to thank Joy for her valuable contributions over the past years. Her leadership has driven Philippines AirAsia to grow and expand from strength to strength. We are fortunate to have Captain Dexter serve as interim CEO as we continue to build our presence in the market. I am confident that together with our passionate and dedicated team, Captain Dexter will bring Philippines AirAsia to new heights.”

Joy Cañeba for her part said, “I enjoyed working with the strong team in the Philippines, it’s been a great honor to lead and work with them. I have no doubt that under Captain Dexter’s leadership, the team will continue to succeed. I am thankful for the support of the stockholders.”

Peso ends weaker vs. USD ahead of US non-farm payrolls report

T

HE Philippine peso ended the week weaker against the greenback on Federal Reserve’s dovish stance and ahead of the release of US’ June non-farm payrolls report later in the day.

It shed Php 0.12 to close at 47.12 from 47.00 Thursday.

A trader said investors were on the look-out for the payrolls report after only 38,000 new jobs were added in the US last May. The dovish stance of the Fed, as shown in the minutes of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting last June that was released

this week, was also a factor since investors would have an idea on the path of the Fed rates, a trader said.

Concerns on Fed rates along with global economic developments resulted in the weaker opening of the local currency at 47.10 from the 47.03 a day ago.

It traded between a close range of 47.13 and 47.06 resulting to an average of 47.09.

Volume of trade reached USD 354.5 million, lower than the USD 570.9 million Thursday.

The currency pair is seen to trade between 47.00 and 47.30 next week. (PNA)

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

A

Bring on the FOI

FTER his shocking disclosure of the five police generals involved in the illegal drugs trade in the country, President Rodrigo Duterte, takes government transparency to a new level. The President is set to sign today the executive order to implement the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill.

The President’s men worked on the measure even on a public holiday to meet the deadline.

The draft of President Rodrigo Duterte’s executive order (EO) to implement the FOI was reportedly readied by Thursday night and hopefully will be signed today.

The executive order was fine-tuned by Communications Secretary Martin Andanar and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea with advocates of the FOI bill that included Malou Mangahas of the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), lawyers Nepoo Malaluan, Ryan Acosta, Kris Ablan and Mara Querol.

With the FOI executive order in place, government agencies are expected to comply with the demands of transparency and provide the public of the information that they ought to know under the constitutional mandate of the people’s right to information of all maters of general concern.

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According to the Center for Media Reform and Responsibility (CMFR), the right to information is enshrined in the 1987 Philippine Constitution. The desire for more transparency and accountability, the recognition of the power of information and the valued participation of citizens in public affairs are well justified by the experience with dictatorship (1972-1986) when the press was used an instrument of official deception.

However, the CMFR said that 27 years since the first freedom of information (FOI) bill in Congress was filed, the Philippine Congress has yet to pass an FOI Act. “The failure to pass a Philippine FOI law is in contrast with the global surge in FOI laws. It reflects long embedded contradictions in Philippine society, including laws that are at cross-purposes with democratic values,” CMFR said in its website.

Duterte, who himself declared he abhors secrecy and advocates transparency, is considering the refiling of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill in the 17th Congress.

With the changes in governance happening thereabouts, we wonder how these can be done now and cannot be done in the past?

ANTONIO M. AJERO NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Editor in Chief Managing Editor ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ Associate Editor

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO CHENEEN R. CAPON MEGHANN STA. INES Reporters NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA Lifestyle LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. CHA MONFORTE ARLENE D. PASAJE Photography Correspondents Cartoons Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. Columnists: • HENRYLITO D. TACIO • EDCER C.B. ESCUDERO • ATTY. EMILY ZEN CHUA • GREGORIO G. DELIGERO JOHN CARLO TRIA • BORBONCARLOS • MARYMUNDA ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO DAVAL SR., • NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN • NICASIO ANGELO•AGUSTIN • EMILY VIDA S. VALVERDE C. LUMBA • HENRY J. SCHUMACHER • VANESSA KATE MADRAZO• JONALLIER Economic Analysts: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG ZENMIA CHUA • CARLOS• FRED MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG M. PEREZ

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 96 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JULY 10 - 11, 2016

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Quest for the elusive first Olympic gold

HIS corner is happily comforted by the fact that William “Butch” Ramirez, erstwhile head of the Philippines Sports Commission, is back at the helm. With the confidence reposed on him by President Digong, anyone in his shoes would definitely walk tall and proud.

After all, his closeness to the appointing authority is not merely measured by arm’s length or physical distance because Butch – as everyone now knows - is among the few in the inner sanctum of His Excellency.

Without doubt, Philippine sports is back in good hands. Oops, did I just sideswipe somebody?

I read what Butch laid down as among his programs under the Duterte regime, among which were the resurrection of the Philippine Sports Institute and the talent identification mechanism in the grassroots.

(These twin concepts jibe well with my own as I espoused them myself long before Ramirez came into the PSC scene.)

Butch, who knows me well, authored the 2005 SEA Games championship victory for the Philippines when the country hosted the biennial competitions in Manila. This accom-

plishment SPECKS OF LIFE cannot be erased from our sports history and it is his to savor and cherish for as long as he lives.

I hope I do not unFred C. Lumba necessarily intrude into Butch’ innermost thoughts but I will, anyway. He and I go a long way.

For the record, the country – save for near 2 gold finishes in the 1964 Tokyo and 1996 Atlanta Summer Games – has been mired in a long, exasperating drought as the quest for the first Olympic gold medal remains a dream.

So, I was rather mildly surprised that my good friend did not include in his calendar the aspiration of every Filipino: to snatch that elusive Olympic gold medallion.

Just like Jason of the Argonauts legend, Ramirez, regardless of the costs, must un-

ceasingly search for the Olympic “golden fleece.”

I am pretty sure Pres. Duterte would be delighted to know that Ramirez and the PSC are targeting such. Regardless of the unknown and intangibles, the elusive first Olympic gold should be THE FIRST major item in the sports timetable.

WITHOUT MINCING WORDS, IT SHOULD HAPPEN DURING THE INCUMBENCY OF PRES. DIGONG DUTERTE. There are four more years to the next Olympics which will be staged in nearby Tokyo in 2020. Backed by the presidential confidence I mentioned above, four years are enough time for the PSC boss to boldly draw the path that he envisions can lead us to secure that elusive gold trophy.

I strongly encouraged Butch to start it ASAP. He can begin by defining the objectives, followed by the mechanics, strategies and logistics.

Butch has only to choose which particular sports event can successfully haul in the gold. There is boxing, of course. Individual sports where there is a level playing field -

where height and heft do not matter - like gymnastics, archery, shooting, weightlifting, judo, diving and wrestling are areas where the Filipino athlete can capably compete.

Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Vietnam have done it. Even the tiny island-nation of Surinam with a population of less than half a million has already won a gold.

With presidential imprimatur, Butch can gather together the stakeholders in this national endeavour like the National Sports Associations, in their individual roles as autonomous groups and the Philippine Olympic Committee as the policy-making body.

Butch should not entertain negative options. None of us know what the future holds. But armed with positive ammunitions, we know how to react and control our actions.

The great Hindu leader, Mahatma Gandhi said these immortal words: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

Change has come.

Let’s go and get that gold, Butch! (Email your feedback to fredlumbayahoo.com.) God bless the Philippines!

“A pineapple is a compilation of berries that grow and fuse together. When joined, they create a single fruit. And within each eyelet, contains a location where a flower may grow.

I see the Creator of all existence as the crown on a pineapple, and all religions of the world as the spiky eyelets, where each eyelet symbolizes a different religion or race under the same crown. Each garden of faith may have different perspectives of God, yet every garden belongs to the same God.” ― Suzy Kassem in “Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem” ***

It is only THINK ON THESE! when we are united, when we are one that we become a force to subdue whatever opponents we are facing. In “Rise Up and Salute the Sun: Henrylito D. Tacio The Writings henrytacio@gmail.com of Suzy Kassem, the author wrote: “Unity is a beast in itself. If a wolf sees two little boys playing in the woods on one side, and a big strong man on the other, he will go to the one who stands alone.”

Once upon a time, a mother and her son were lost in the forest. They were trying to get out from the forest but the more they tried the more they were lost. While walking, the little boy stepped into a sharp twig and pierced his left foot. It was good that the wound was not that bad. So, they continued walking.

That night, they found a cave where they slept. But in the middle of the night, the boy was shaking. He was having a fever. “He must have infection as a result of the wound,” his mother thought. She hugged him but the shivering continued.

The mother could no longer hold her tears. “Is there someone out there?” she cried out lout. “My son needs help.” It was at this moment that she saw the animals around her.

“What happened?” the monkey inquired.

The mother explained to them what oc-

curred. “I need my son to be brought to the nearest hospital,” she begged them. “Otherwise, he will die soon.”

“Okay, but we need to change his shirt first,” the lion said. “Of course,” the tiger seconded. “I think the color yellow is good for him.” The zebra opposed, “No, the color red looks fine with the little boy.” The giraffe resisted, “But I am sure he will look wonderful in the color orange.”

Soon, thereafter, there was a big debate among the animals. Since they could not agree on which color of shirt the boy would wear, the lion declared, “Fine with me. You can go ahead with whatever you want but count me out.” Then the tiger followed and said, “I have to go now. You don’t listen to my ideas.” The other animals likewise did the same.

In the same vein, when people are gathered together and discussed some issues, there is always a struggle between the pros and cons. One idea is better than the other. As a result, there is a debate among them. Unity is out of question.

“We are more inclined to hate one another for points on which we differ, than to love one another for points on which we agree,” observes Charles Caleb Colton. “The reason perhaps is this: when we find others that agree with us, we seldom trouble ourselves to confirm that agreement; but when we chance on those who differ from us, we are zealous both to convince and to convert them. Our pride is hurt by the failure, and disappointed pride engenders hatred.”

An aged dying father called his seven sons around him. He gave each one a stick and told

them, “Break it.” Each son easily broke his separate stick. The old father then bound seven sticks into a bundle, gave it to his eldest son and said, “Break it.”

The eldest could not break it, nor could any of the rest. “So,” said the father, “it should be with you. Alone you are weak. But when you and your brothers are together, then you are strong.” Again, in union, there is strength.

In the story I mentioned in the beginning of this article, I am sure you are disappointed with what the animals have done. They should have settled all their differences. Instead of focusing on what color of shirt the little boy should wear, they should concentrate on the goal that brought them together: to help and bring the little boy to the nearest hospital.

Sure, each of the animals could contribute something to the cause. The lion and tiger, for instance, could provide the easiest and fastest possible route out of the forest. The elephants could clear the path from obstacles. The birds could tell if there are some dangers and obstacles ahead (cliffs, rivers, and mountains, among others).

Again, here’s a thought-provoking statement from Suzy Kassem: “Eliminate the concept of division by class, skills, race, income, and nationality. We are all equals with a common pulse to survive. Every human requires food and water. Every human has a dream and desire to be happy. Every human responds to love, suffering and pain. Every human bleeds the same color and occupies the same world.

Let us recognize that we are all part of each other. We are all human. We are all one.”

“F

OR united we stand, divided we fall…”

That line, which was from a song I used to sing when I was still in college, came to mind when I read the recent headline of EDGE Davao recently: “Unity to Defeat Drug Menace.”

“The president has called for us to unify and fight against the drug menace,” Chief Supt.

Manuel Gaerlan said during an interview over Radyo ng Bayan in Davao City. “The PNP (Philippine National Police) is exerting its efforts to fight illegal drugs.”

“We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided,” J.K. Rowling wrote in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.” In “The Three Musketeers,” the famous credo was: “All for one and one for all.”

And T.H. White wrote in “The Once and Future King”: “The Destiny of Man is to unite, not to divide. If you keep on dividing you end up as a collection of monkeys throwing nuts at each other out of separate trees.”

In unity, there is strength

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 96 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JULY 10 - 11, 2016

Army... FROM 3

earlier statement expressed sorrow on the death of Labawan.

Valencia described the tribal leader as active worker and partner of the govern-

ment in identifying and implementation of programs and projects to alleviate the socio-economic condition of Indigenous People (IP) in Davao City and the whole region.

rehabilitation of provincial and barangay roads particularly those affected by the heavy downpours brought about by the rainy season.

He also ordered for the full operation of the already-established eco-tourism sites and facilities in Davao Oriental.

In terms of health, the governor said he will sustain and further improve Davao Oriental’s health services, particularly at the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center, saying that he wanted to fully maximize and operationalize the medical facilities already established by the previous administration in said hospital.

Dayanghirang emphasized that the former Governor and now the province’s 1st district representative Corazon Malanyaon specifically asked him to sustain, further improve and expand the “Health for All” programs and projects and give priority to the development of basic health infrastructure at the community levels.

The governor also assured his constituents that he will sustain Davao Oriental’s gains in being a ‘development-ready’

province.

Together with Congresswoman Malanyaon, he expressed his desire to continue the peace and development efforts in the province through the successful implementation of the Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP).

“While the previous administration had already laid the foundations the peace and development foundation in Davao Oriental, it is the duty of the current leadership to further develop and sustain the gains that has been so far achieved,” Dayanghirang said.

The governor also emphasized that his administration will be open and transparent as he called on all the employees to work with him as one team.

“Let us build a harmonious working relationship. I ask you to carry out your duties and responsibilities for the common cause of providing services to the people of Davao Oriental,” Dayanghirang said.

He added that he will also listen and attend to the concerns and suggestions of the employees of the provincial government.

on approaching lawmen, Sebastian said.

“We have no recourse but to fire back and we fired hard,” he said in Filipino.

Sitio Quiapo also served as illegal drug den in Barangay Poblacion Matalam where drug users come and go, police said.

Sebastian’s unit was based in Gen. Santos City and pro-

ceeded to North Cotabato Friday night.

He said the operation was coordinated with the Regional Public Safety Battalion and North Cotabato police office.

Nobody was hurt on the government side.

Balabagan is still in police custody in an undisclosed area undergoing tactical interrogation, Sebastian said. (PNA)

pick, weigh and pay scheme,” she said.

As prelude to the activity, the OPAG earlier launched a free training series for farmers at the demonstration farm.

Around 100 farmers joined training, aimed to increase their capabilities on farm management.

It covered modules on soil sampling and analysis, cereal production technology, vegetable production technology, integrated pest management, and plant propagation.

Navarrete said special sessions on organic farming, with

focus on the preparation of organic concoction and extracts as well as mushroom production, were also held.

She they offered a special module on herbal processing and root crops utilization that focused on polvoron-making and processing of various herbal products from mangosteen, malunggay and other crops.

As incentive for joining the trainings, she added that the participants received various planting materials like vegetable seeds and seedlings of fruit-bearing trees. (PNA)

do away with the threats and risks.

Sixty-nine percent of companies use cloud-based security services while fifty-nine percent leverage on big data for cyber security.

This, according to ePLDT, is an encouraging insight, but these numbers might not yet be as high in the Philippine enterprise setting. Given the rapid growth in today’s economy and business environment, a robust network and data security solution should be given the utmost priority.

“ePLDT is very serious about protecting your data. Although there is no silver bullet solution that will prevent every determined hacker from targeting your data, we are continuously upgrading both the security technologies and skills. Beefing up our personnel with training, certifications, and expertise ensure that, as more and more customers come in, we have not only the right people, but the right number of people to do the job,” affirmed Alcoseba.

Dayanghirang... FROM 4

SALVAGING. A young boy braves the filthy waters to salvage scrap items and plastic bottles at the beach front of Magsaysay Park in Davao City yesterday.

Lean Daval Jr.

4,000 IDPs surrender in Tagum M

ORE than 4,000 self-acknowledged illegal drug personalities (IDPs) voluntarily turned themselves to Tagum City civilian and police authorities led by Mayor Allan Rellon on Thursday following series of intensive police-led Oplan TokHang activities.

They filled up to the raf-

ters of the Atrium activity venue of the New City Hall building to cap the formal launching of the Intensified Anti-Illegal Drugs Campaign in the city in support of President Duterte’s total war on illegal drugs nationwide.

“Everyone deserves a second chance to clean up their mistakes. My salute for

these people for being brave and for their willingness to embrace change that would lead them to a better life and greener future,” said Mayor Rellon in his message.

He added: “But still I believe there are still few left undecided, I would like to challenge you to decide now and be listed. A very good life ahead is waiting for you.

God bless Tagum.”

Tagum City United Civilian Force Multipliers president Robert Balat reported that there are 4,064 users and pushers from 23 barangays in the city who surrendered to Tagum City Police force and to Tagum City Drug Abuse Council chaired

by Mayor Rellon. (Cha Monforte, Correspondent)

P25-M projects handed to NC villages 8 die...

P

ROGRAMS and projects worth millions of peso were formally handed over to various barangays in the province of Cotabato signifying the strong executive and legislative partnership of the province’s leadership.

The projects, with estimated worth of P25 million were recently received by villages, most especially those considered as remote and far flung areas in the province.

The formal turn-over was part of the provincial government’s efforts to ensure that development does not only come in the mainstream society but even in rural communities.

The handed projects include post-harvest facilities and farm inputs, water systems, covered court, road concreting and multi-purpose building.

The projects were received by barangay officials and their constituents in a series of turn-over activities conducted by the leadership of Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza in June 16 to 26.

Assistance for drought victims Months after the onset of drought, susceptible farmer-victims continue to receive aid as 200 bags of palay seeds and 20 bags of corn seeds were given in Barangay Balogo, Pigcawayan and Barangay Bialong, M’lang in which 90 beneficiaries were from the previous and 110

from the latter.

On-farm losses can now be decreased as post-harvest facilities particularly solar driers were also distributed in Barangay Molok and New Igbaras both in Pigcawayan and in Barangay Bual in Tulunan. The facilities amounted to P500,000 each for Pigcawayan while P600,000 for Tulunan to include board and ring stage.

Health and sanitation projects Meanwhile, some 300 households from barangay Katalicanan, Aleosan and barangays Bitoka and Lower Glad in Midsayap were already assured of safe and accessible drinking water after the provincial government has turned over the P600,000 worth of water system project for each of the villages.

Pastor Ariel Caluyo from Barangay Bitoka recalled how hard it was for them to secure water for their families especially on rainy days aside from the fact that the source was quite far from their houses.

“Our source of water back then was primarily from deep-well which is 1 kilometer away. It was hard for us especially during rainy season.”

A multi-purpose building amounting to P600,000 which will be used as barangay health center was also turned over to Lower Paatan in Kabacan town.

Education-related projects As the provincial government also continues to implement covered court projects in various barangays and schools, local residents and some 5,000 students from different academic institutions are the primary beneficiaries of the said projects turned over last month.

Eleven covered courts all amounted to P 17.6 million were also turned over to various municipalities in the province, eight of which were directly handed over to schools that will benefit more than 5,000 students.

Recipients of the covered courts include the Macebolig Integrated School in Kidapawan City; the South Manuangan Elementary School (ES) in Pigcawayan; Malanduage ES and Aringay High School (HS) in Kabacan; Bagontapay ES in Mlang; Central Katinggawan ES in Midsayap; Salasang ES and Greenfield High School in Arakan; and Tulunan HS which was funded by the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP).

“This covered court project is such a great help to us especially in holding our graduation and recognition day since our students and guests since we do not have to worry of the rain or heat of the sun,” said Elinosa Susa, Master Teacher 2 of South ManuanganElementary School.

Honorio Buymen, a member of Bagontapay, Mlang council also expressed grati-

tude to the provincial leadership, stating that the project they received is a long time dream of residents in the area.

The covered court, Buyment added will allow people to converge in a decent venue during important barangay affairs, school activities of students and sports events.

Road Projects Villagers of Sitio Waterfalls, a far flung community in Cabpangi, Libungan also witnessed the formal opening and turn-over of the 268-meter stretch concrete road amounting to P3 million.

Governor Taliño-Mendoza led the formal opening of the road that was witnessed by the local officials and residents in the area.

As part of the intensified road rehabilitation program of the provincial government, the governor also conducted series of inspections to some P20 million worth of completed road projects in Kidapawan City and the towns of Magpet and Mlang.

Governor Taliño-Mendoza assured barangay residents and local officials that she will continue to seek the general welfare of the people in the province and implement programs and projects that will uplift the lives of the people.

Governor Taliño-Mendoza is now serving his third and final term as the highest official of the province.

(PGO/Cotabato)

FROM 4

500 farmers... FROM 5

ePLDT... FROM 6

INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 96 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JULY 10 - 11, 2016

EDGEDAVAO EVENT

Beiben Motors Davao opens new showroom

China’s producer of premium heavy trucks and other products now in Mindanao

By Kenneth Irving Ong

RECOGNIZING DAVAO AND MINDANAO’S UNPRECEDENTED ECONOMIC GROWTH AND BUSINESS POTENTIALS, Beiben Motors Davao Philippines Inc. opened its showroom in Lanang along J.P. Laurel Avenue last July 8.

Beiben Motors Davao Philippines, Inc. is the sole distributor of China’s Beiben Truck, producer of heavy-duty prime movers, dump trucks and tractor head trucks. A joint venture between China’s North Industries and Germany’s Mercedes Benz, Beiben Truck uses Mercedes Benz licensed axels mated with North Industries’ engines.

“This is why Beiben heavy duty trucks are sturdy and durable, yet very

cost effective,” says Beiben Motors Davao’s general manager Charles Peña.

“We see Beiben Truck products as satisfying the need of fast growing Davao and Mindanao markets for haulers as well as construction and land movers trucks.”

In her opening speech, Beiben Motors Davao Philippines Inc. secretary Jennifer M. Chua thanked guests who attended the grand opening. “Today, our company marks a sig-

nificant milestone with the introduction of another truck brand” she said, adding that “Beiben is a brand that denotes durability and

Jennifer M. Chua

efficiency.”

Aside from the Philippines, Beiben Truck products are also sold in Malaysia, Indonesia, South

America, South Africa and many other countries and is known for its robustness, high-loading capacity, and durability, Charles added.

Aside from sales, the Beiben Davao showroom also provides after-sales service and parts for all Beiben truck models.

GRACING BEIBEN OPENING. Kisan Lu Lands, Inc. president Kristin Lu (2nd from left) and husband Ram (2nd from right), Jenson Land’s Sol Lagmay (leftmost) and Subdivision and Housing Development Authority (SHDA) secretary Miriam Belarmino grace the grand opening of Beiben Motors along Km. 7 Lanang in Davao City on Friday. Lean Daval Jr.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 96 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JULY 10 - 11, 2016

UP AND ABOUT

Like father, like son THE FRUIT DOES NOT FALL FAR FROM THE TREE. This is the perfect way to describe the Arcenas boys. Nineyear old Lucas can pass off as a carbon copy of his dad, Vince, in more ways than one.

Vince Arcenas, 39, identifies himself as a farmer, and probably has been all his life.

“Being a farmer entails constant monitoring not just about the operations and the crops but most importantly the people.

Happy workers mean better production,” he said.

Vince does not only monitors the daily operation of the farm in Makilala, North Cotabato, which grows bananas, rubber and mahogany trees (he admits walking through all the areas and check on the plants), he also looks after the finances, the staff’s work schedule and payroll.

Regularly, he takes his son along to show him how the farm runs and to meet the workers.

“Lucas gets along with them,” shared Vince, “Just like me, he is a people person. Lucas loves people in general and he takes interest in them. His being sociable he takes from his mom.”

It’s not a surprise that the young man has his own “farm” at home, a garden plot, plus a complete set of farming implements— shovels, picks, watering cans. He learns about farming thru play.

“I don’t know if he will be interested in the business, but that’s fine with me. He should pursue his passion wherever that takes him. I will encourage and support him all the way,” he said.

Farming is just of one of the boys’ bonding moments. Vince admits that he bonds with Lucas on a daily basis through conversations, doing his homework and sports, which include wrestling.

“My son has so much energy which he releases through sports, games and dance, too.

That energetic trait of him he takes from me, but I’ve chilled out since I was his age.”

“We do regular outings as well. Car rides give an opportunity for conversations sans distractions. These are moments to learn about each other’s day.”

Growing up in homes with rules, Vince and his wife have their own set of rules in their own home: pack away after playing, greet each other and the guests, no screen time during school days, prayers at night and at meal time, and do minor chores.

Good grooming is also on of the list, and getting a haircut is another bonding time for the boys.

“We go to Rocky’s Barbershop in SM Lanang Premier

URBANISSIMO A4

mayor.

The DuArts Pista started in the afternoon with the opening of a visual arts exhibit at the MTS Pavilion featuring works by Davao City’s known visual artists together with works by students of University of Mindanao’s School of Fine Arts.

This was later followed by street performances at the MTS rotunda as well as acoustic performances at the Kanto Bar. As the afternoon turned to evening, performers took to the stage of the Taboan and the MTS Pavilion simultaneously for a back-to-

and Lucas and I pretty much sport the same hairstyle.”

It’s been four years now since Vince chanced upon Rocky’s at the mall close to home. He liked the location, that the place is simple, nice, and clean, and gave it a try.

It was love at first haircut, of which he said, “It was very good and I like the post service.” He was pertaining to the complimentary massage that comes after every haircut at any of the Rocky’s barbershops.

Vince likes the professionalism of his “suki” barber, Jerry, and and that he delivers every time. “I like his cutting style and personality.”

back concert. Davao artists who participated included, Duchess in Throne, Tingog Mindanaw, Tank Kwank Community, Kaliwat, Kalumon, Madayaw, Kathara Dancetheatre, Kuntaw Mindanaw, Davao Chirls Chior, USEP Chorale, Davao Drumbeaters, Allan Nawal, Wadab Production, Samadhi Davao, Angel 101, Mebuyan, Masang Himig, Eric Dalisay and the Blues Drivers, Seaventh Heaven, Popong Landero, and Jimmy Cabrera.

Manila artists Joey Ayala, Lolita Carbon, Moymoy Palaboy, Chad Borja, Wency Cornejo and Arnel Ignacio also joined the unforgettable celebration.

Lucas joined his dad as a regular client of Rocky’s a year after. The boy doesn’t have a barber of choice, but even if he is the more meticulous client, the barbers deliver good service because he is vocal with his praises after his haircut.

This is one of the moments when Lucas’ positive upbringing shows.

“My wife and I always tell our children to treat others the way they want to be treated, appreciate what they have and enjoy themselves at whatever they do.”

It’s all about family support and proper guidance when raising kids to become responsible and well-mannered individuals.

Good manners and proper grooming are traditions that Vince can pass on to his son. On the latter, Rocky’s Barbershop is glad to be a part of.

On Rocky’s 20th year in the men’s grooming business, Vince and Lucas say, “Good job guys! Keep on cutting.”

Rocky’s Barbershop is the first barbershop to open in a mall in Davao City in 1986.

All its five branches today are conveniently located in mallsVictoria Plaza, Abreeza Mall, GMall, SM City & SM Lanang Premier in Davao City, and Centrio Ayala Mall in Cagayan de Oro City. 2016 marks its 20th year in the business.

Vince and Lucas Arcenas are the featured Father and Son personalities for July in the 2016 Traditions calendar of Rocky’s.

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ENTERTAINMENT

GMA’ adaptation of ‘Sinungaling Mong Puso’ premieres this July

IN LOVE, WHAT WILL YOU CHOOSE: the love that is right or the love that is real?

Beginning July 18, GMA Afternoon Prime offers the TV adaptation of the 1992 blockbuster movie, Sinungaling Mong Puso.

Now considered a classic, the Maryo J. Delos Reyes masterpiece makes a big comeback with a modernized version that shows a woman’s discovery of her selfworth and the sacrifices she makes in her relentless pursuit of true love.

Notably portrayed in the film

by Ms. Vilma Santos, Gabby Concepcion, Aga Muhlach, Aiko Melendez, the television remake of Sinungaling Mong Puso has been given an equally compelling cast led by Rhian Ramos, Rafael Rosell, Kiko Estrada, Jazz Ocampo.

The story revolves around Clara (Rhian), the abused wife of the womanizer Roman Aguirre (Rafael) who came from an influential political clan. Instead of giving in to the agony of her plight, she chooses to hope and remain resilient for the sake of her family. Until she accidentally meets Jason (Kiko), a man who will love her for real. However, he is ten years younger than her. He, like Clara, is unhappily married to Hannah (Jazz) who is pregnant with their child.

In spite their efforts to keep their rapport amicable, friendship draws them closer together resulting into a romance that then turns into a passionate love affair. But when their secret is discovered, it becomes the greatest threat to their lives.

Rhian, who will portray the challenging role of Clara first played by Ms. Vilma Santos, said she feels challenged to portray The Star for All Seasons’ former character. “Pressured ako since it’s Ms. Vilma, pero kasi the advice given to me is do it on my own way and hopefully people will find appreciation in the kind of labor I’ll be doing on it.”

On the other hand, Rafael said playing the role of Roman, originally played by Gabby, makes him anxious and thrilled at the same time. “I am very excited and nervous kasi hindi ko alam ang magiging take ko, may pagka-sociopath kasi si Roman, so dun ko lalaruin ang character.”

Portraying his most mature role to date as Jason, Kiko admits feeling the pressure for his latest TV assignment. “I watched clips pero I don’t want to copy Sir Aga’s performance kasi I want to bring myself into it, parang ako, yung character ko rito marami siyang gusto i-prove. Nandoon siya dun sa age na eager to prove something.”

‘Conan My Beautician’ goes to the Big City

CONAN MY BEAUTICIAN flees to the city of Manila this Sunday.

After his father left them for another woman, Conan Barbers (Mark Herras) has to face another problem: how to escape the evil plans of Chika La Chaka (Cacai Bautista).

Once in Manila, Conan tries various jobs to support his family: from septic tank cleaner to stand-in actor, to becoming a dancer and a billboard installer along EDSA. Mounting outdoor ads leads to Conan’s first glimpse of Ava (Megan Young), the beautiful model of Ava Cosmetics.

But Conan seems to be attracting one disaster after another. While his mother Perla (Lotlot De Leon) is helping him work, a hearse accidentally hits her, leaving her to a comatose stage.

Now Conan has to work harder to tend to the hospital bills and take care of his brother Connor (Balang).

The country’s latest Sunday family treat, watch For Jazz, she looks at playing the role of Hannah as an eye- Conan My Beautician after GMA Blockbusters on opener for her career growth. GMA 7.

“Masaya ako na malaki ang binibigay na improvement sa akin ng show kasi dito, I learned how to open myself to my coactors since kailangan all-out ako dito.”

Completing the cast are Michael de Mesa as Mayor Moises Aguirre, Roman’s corrupt father who wants him to keep his political power within their family; Glydel Mercado as Raquel, the perfect trophy wife of Mayor Moises; Cheska Diaz as Helen, Jason’s understanding mother, Sherilyn Reyes as Liza, Hannah’s controlling mother; Stephanie Sol as Camilla, Roman’s mistress; Gee Canlas as Jillian, Clara’s confidante and best friend; JC Tiuseco as Jolo who does everything to please Roman; Gab de Leon as Vin, the right hand man of Roman.

Sinungaling Mong Puso premieres on July 18 and will air Mondays to Fridays after Magkaibang Mundo on GMA Afternoon Prime.

MARS celebrates 4th anniversary this week JULY MARKS THE FOURTH ANNIVERSARY of GMA News TV’s MARS, and hosts Camille Prats and Suzi Abrera-Entrata are treating viewers to a week-long of fun-filled episodes.

On Monday (July 11), Chynna Ortaleza and Cogie Domingo drop by the show to share what they have been up to lately. Fresh from giving birth, Chynna shows how to make bibs from baby’s old clothes.

Cogie, meanwhile, is set to make a comeback to showbiz. Upon his request, he will be taught how to cook Asian pork stew.

It will be a big Tuesday on July 12 as MARS celebrate its fourth anniversary. Stand-up comedians Tetay and Pepay add fun to the show with their crazy antics. Camille and Suzi will also pick the winners for the Wacky Face-Off contest and will even try to imitate the wacky expressions by the show’s Facebook followers. And since it’s a special

July 9-12, 2016

day, a mysterious chef will give instructions to the guests as they cook a new dish.

The stars of GMA’s latest Afternoon Prime series, Sinungaling Mong Puso, join the show on Wednesday.

Sherilyn Reyes-Tan, JC Tiuseco, and Stephanie Sol talk about the TV adaptation of the 1992 blockbuster movie.

On throwback Thursday, Camille goes back to the character that propelled her to stardom: Princess

Sarah. See how Camille looks 20 years after her iconic movie role. As a bonus, Sarah will be joined by Ms. Minchin, which will be brought to life by Suzi.

Kapuso actor Dion Ignacio, meanwhile, shows off his handyman skills as he makes a chicken wire magazine rack. Another Kapuso hunk, Juancho Triviño, will prepare veggies and beef packets.

Catch all these on MARS this week, 7 p.m. on GMA News TV.

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EVENT

A celebration of creativity and thanksgiving at the DuArts Pista DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT

IT WAS AN EVENING OF VISUAL ARTS AND BEAUTIFUL MUSIC as Musicians and Artists for Duterte (MAD) held an arts festival titled DuArts Pista at the Matina Town Square (MTS) last July 1. held right after the inauguration of President Duterte, the DuArts Pista also served as MAD’s thanksgiving party which campaigned for the former Davao City

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SM City Davao University Fair opened last July 7 at the Annex Event Center. Leading the ribbon cutting ceremony was mall manager Lynette Angala-Lopez. Also in the photo, along with the representatives from exhibitor schools, is assistant mall manager Engr. Nick Santos. The fair is on its fourth year of bringing together academic institutions from around the country into one roof. This year, the event highlights K-12 programs as well as alternative learning opportunities. The fair runs until July 9.

ACCRALAW DAVAO to turn 20

T

HE Davao Branch of the country’s premier law firm, ANGARA ABELLO CONCEPCION REGALA AND CRUZ (ACCRALAW), will be celebrating its 20th founding anniversary.

ACCRALAW pioneered in establishing branch offices outside of Metro Manila, with the first branch opened in Cebu City in 1980, followed by the establishment of its Davao City Branch Office in 1996.

Since inception, the ACCRALAW Davao Branch has been paving inroads in the Mindanao Region with an unparalleled practice in the fields of labor and employ-

ment, litigation and dispute resolution, corporate/ mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, banking and finance, telecommunications, intellectual property, immigration, among others.

The ACCRALAW Davao Branch has been consistently cited for its track record in service excellence by leading international publication, Legal 500 Asia Pacific.

The Firm’s Davao Branch is a full service branch and has a core of legal experts headed by Supervising Senior Partner Ma. Iolanda B. Abella, and Resident Partner Myra Montecalvo-Qui-

latan, servicing the requirements of multinational and local corporations operating in Mindanao.

Highlights of this 20th Anniversary milestone event are a Legal Forum and a Cocktail Reception for clients and friends. Both activities will be held at the Marco Polo Hotel in Davao City.

The ACCRALAW Davao Branch Legal Forum will be conducted from 1:00 to 5:00pm. at theBorminsulRoom, Ground Floor, Marco Polo Hotel, Davao City. Relevant topics will be presented by ACCRALAW Partners from the Head Office: Atty.

Patricia Ann T. Prodigalidad,

Partner of the Firm’s Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department, will speak on the Topic “Privacy and Bank Secrecy Laws”; Atty. Eric R. Recalde, Partner and Monitor of the Firm’s Tax Department will handle “Tax Minimization/Avoidance Schemes”; Atty. Erwin Jay V. Filio, Partner of the Labor and Employment Department, will discuss “Contracting and Subcontracting (Employer Liability/Pros/ Cons)”.

The Cocktail Reception will follow at 5:30 to 9:00pm at the Jade Room, Third Floor, Marco Polo Hotel, Davao City.

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EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO GENSAN PARTNERS Serving a seamless society

VOL. 9 ISSUE 96 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, JULY 10 - 11, 2016

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Duterte... FROM 4

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He also asked all groups including the communist movement to refrain from activities that will derail peace plans. He cited the MILF for not taking moves despite the failed BBL while Misuari is in a

stand-down position.

“Give me a chance to perfect (everything),” said Duterte, urging everybody to respect each other and to talk before doing anything that will spin trouble in Mindanao. (PNA)

ready expressed that he will no longer suit up in international play after this year.

Nevertheless, Parker is wishing Diaw all the best

with his new NBA team in the Jazz.

“I wish Boris luck in Utah.

They have a great team too,” said Parker.

win number two today when they take on Rael Diaz’s Davao Jones Academy at 9:30 a.m. following the Ford Academy of the Arts-Jose Maria Colleges tussle at 8 a.m.

Assumption College of Davao of headcoach Rolly Sancho plays Holy Child School of Davao led by veteran mentor Tating Sorrosa to gain the upper hand in the standings at 11 a.m.

Teams play in a single round-robin series with the

top four teams moving on to the playoff round.

The Royal Mandaya Hotel president Glen Escandor along with general manager Benjie Banzon and ESDEVCO Realty project director Gerald Garces welcomed the participating teams in grand rites highlighting the traditional ceremonial toss.

Cash prizes and trophies are at stake in the tournament which is under the supervision of the SBP-XI chapter.

Parker... FROM 15 ADDU... FROM 15

NOTICE OF LOSS

Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) under LOYOLA PLAN issued to the following planholders, to wit; NAME

CFP #

ROSITA SANTOS

10004468

ANGELINA BONGHANOY

1003763

NICOLASA M. NINO were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

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EDGEDAVAO KORONADAL PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

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Still a good run by Huey

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HE Philippines’ Treat Huey’s semifinals advance in Wimbledon is already an achievement of sorts for the Fil-American Davis Cupper.

Huey and Max Mirnyi succumbed to top-seed Frenchmen Pierre-Hugues Herbert and Nicolas Mahut, 6-4, 3-6, 6-7, 6-4, 6-4, on Friday in the semifinals of the men’s doubles at Wimbledon.

It was a heartbreaking defeat for Huey and Mirnyi, who appeared on their way to an upset after taking the third set before dropping the final two.

The Filipino/Belarussian pair had a stellar run, making the semifinals after a 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 win over Oliver Marach of Austria and Fabrice Martin of France.

Herbert and Mahut will face compatriots Julien Benneteau and Edouard Roger-Vasselin in the final.

Huey is a standout of the Philippiines’ Davis Cup teams in recent years.

NEAR FINAL. Treat Huey (right) with partner Max Mirnyi.

NZ hopes Pinoy fans will understand haka 2016 RMH Invit’l. hoop

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EW Zealand made it clear it isn’t holding any grudge against Filipino basketball fans who booed while the Tall Blacks performed the haka before their match against Gilas Pilipinas.

Tall Blacks team manager Andrew Dewhurst said he nonetheless hopes the incident will serve as an eye-opener for fans on what the traditional war dance truly means to their country and its Maori heritage.

In a bid to calm the backlash over Wednesday’s incident, Dewhurst said it’s understandable that some of the Filipino fans have no idea about the significance of the war dance performed by New Zealand’s sports teams, notably its world champion All Blacks in rugby union.

“The team bears no ill will toward fans who might not understand the significance of the haka and realizes that we are in a foreign country where

people may not appreciate what it means,” said Dewhurst in an e-mail to sports online organization SPIN.ph.

“However, it is hoped that fans in the Philippines and around the world appreciate it for what it is, a challenge to the opposition borne of our Maori culture and ancestry.”

The booing incident of the Haka dance by some Filipino basketball fans came under criticism, and was even picked up by New Zealand news outlets including the New Zealand Herald Tribune.

In the same e-mail, Dewhurst related a brief background of the haka, which SPIN.ph is posting in its entirety to inform the readers of its history and why the New Zealand teams do it. Here’s the full transcript: “‘Tu Kaha O Pango’ is a haka written specifically for and performed by the Tall Blacks. It calls upon the Tall Blacks to honour ‘the past, the

present and the future’ and is a rallying cry for the team before going into battle. It is a challenge for the opposition, who traditionally would face the haka from the other side of the court – however that is up to the opposing team to decide how they will react to the haka.

“This is a reflection of who we are as a team and who we are as a people from New Zealand. It is not ‘entertainment’ as such for the fans, but something that we as players and staff hold up as being an important part of our culture and values in the team. It is something that honours our past players, our present players and those who will wear the black singlet in the future.

“It is over to the crowd to react as they wish on the night, but the boys are not doing it for them, it is very much for themselves.”

On the other hand, Dewhurst lauded Gilas Pilipinas squad for being ‘hugely re-

spectful’ when the haka was performed before the game, crediting head coach Tab Baldwin, an American-New Zealander and a former head coach of the Tall Blacks, for how the team acted.

Dewhurst also noted the France team, which they faced on Thursday, also had the same response as Gilas.

“We must note that the Philippines team was hugely respectful of the haka (as were the French), perhaps helped by Coach Baldwin’s understanding of what it is all about and the importance to New Zealanders,” said Dewhurst.

Dewhurst ended the e-mail by thanking those Filipino fans who showed their support to the Tall Blacks following the incident.

“We have also seen a great deal of understanding and support online from the Filipino fans, all of whom are appreciative of the haka and what it means,” said Dewhurst.

HAKA. New Zealand team manager Andrew Dewhurst says it’s understandable that some of the Filipino fans have no idea about the significance of the war dance performed by New Zealand’s sports teams, notably its world champion All Blacks in rugby union. Spin.ph photo

ADDU, HCSD and ACD win in opener Games today (July 10) – Davao City Recreation Center 8 a.m. – Ford vs. JMC 9:30 a.m. – ADDU vs. DJA 11 a.m. – HCSD vs. ACD

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ITLE-FAVORITES Ateneo de Davao University, Holy Child School of Davao and Assumption College of Davao opened their title campaign on high notes after beating respective foes at the start of the 2016 The Royal Mandaya Hotel Cup Invitational basketball tournament, yesterday at the Davao City Recreation Center (Almendras Gym).

Ateneo de Davao took and early 21-7 lead and never looked back to beat Ford Academy of the Arts, 75-66 leaning

on Axel Doromal who finished with 14 points. Doromal was backed by the pair of Vandee Alagao and Francis Escandor who had 11 and seven points, respectively as they held on a hard-fighting Ford Academy which banked on forward/ center John Amora who wound-up with 22 baskets on a losing effort.

Holy Child School of Davao duplicated that feat on a stunning 85-64 victory over Jose Maria Colleges while Assumption College of Davao tripped Davao Jones Academy 97-90 to complete the opening day winners.

Ateneo de Davao University led by coaches Miguel Solitaria and Mark Bonifacio eye

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Parker sad to see Diaw go, welcomes Gasol to Spurs

T

ONY Parker on Friday expressed sadness over the trade of his fellow Frenchman and longtime Spurs teammate Boris Diaw from the San Antonio Spurs to the Utah Jazz.

While the two were in the middle of France’s campaign in the Fiba Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Manila, Diaw was traded to the Jazz for Olivier Hanlan, ending his five-year partnership with Parker with the Spurs.

“I’m very sad that he is traded,” said Parker, when asked by a reporter during the media availability day on a break from play for the sixteam tournament. “But it’s a business.”

While he was sad over the Diaw move, Parker looks for-

ward to playing with Pau Gasol, who signed as a free agent with the Spurs following his stint with the Chicago Bulls.

But the French guard admitted that he would have loved to play with both Gasol and Diaw in San Antonio.

“I understand what the Spurs are trying to do bringing in Pau Gasol, one of the best players in the world. I was hoping that we can keep both. But it happened,” said Parker.

Diaw has been with Parker and Spurs since 2011, winning one NBA title in 2014.

They have also been playing for the national team for several years, but their team-up with Les Bleus will also come to an end as Parker had al-

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Go fires 49 but DC loses T

EAM IBP snapped its losing skid with a nail-bitting 108107 victory over Team DC in Game 4 of their basketball friendly series at the Davao City Recreation Center on Friday.

The lawyers team relied on its more balanced

offensive attack to clinch its first win in four games.

IBP now improve its record in the series to 1 win, 2 loss and 1 draw.

Chok Cadiogan led the charge with 26 points as Armand Dioso had 20 for the IBP. Secretary Christopher

“ Bong” Go, the special assistant to President Rodrigo Duterte, paced his team with 49 points.

Go shot seven triples and 10 baskets within the arc in a great display of offensive arsenal.

IBP also got plenty of support from Gil Ciu-

dadano, Ongkiko and Baguio who chipped in 16, 15 and 10 baskets in that order.

Joel Abarilla had 18 points for Team DC. DC and IBP’s first encounter ended to a draw before the former won two straight games.

MANDAYA CUP. The Royal Mandaya Hotel president Glenn Y. Escandor makes the ceremonial jump during the opening of the Royal Mandaya Hotel Cup Inter-School Basketball Tournament onn Saaturday at the DCRC Almendrras Gym. Also in photo are TRMH general manager Benjie Banzon and Matia Enclaves projectt head Gerald Garces. Lean Daval Jr.

BARRELLING. Ateneo forwardcenter Francis Gabriel Escandor barrels his way inside against defenders from Ford Academy duuring the opening of the Royal Manddaya Hotel Cup last Saturday at the DCRC Almendras Gym. Lean Daval Jr.