Edge Davao 9 Issue 23

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

PAPAL LETTER. Archdiocese of Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles confirms in a press briefing at the Bishops Palace yesterday that Pope Francis has sent a letter-response to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte where His Holiness has given His divine blessings to the mayor and has included him in His prayers. Lean Daval Jr.

FORGIVEN Davao Archbishop confirms Pope’s response to Duterte apology

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

RCHDIOCESE of Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles DD. confirmed yesterday the positive response of Pope Francis on the letter sent by Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte asking for forgiveness.

This after Duterte said last Sunday during his visit to Sto. Niño Parish in Ubay, Bohol that the Pope gave him positive response in his letter that he had sent on January 21, 2016.

In an interview yesterday, Valles said at the Archbishop’s Residence that he personally verified Duterte’s statement and he showed a letter from Vatican’s Substitute of the Secretariat of State Monsignor

Giovanni Angelo Becciu dated February 24, 2016.

Valles read the two-paragraph letter from the Vatican saying “His Holiness Pope Francis received your letter of 21 January 2016 and he asked me to respond on his behalf.”

“He appreciates the sentiments which you expressed,” Becciu said in the letter.

Reporters pressed for clarification to Valles if the statement of Becciu from Pope Francis is related to the cursing Pope Francis during his proclamation last year in Manila.

“In my memory murag ingon ana jud… Nagpadala siya’g sulat kang Holy Father (In my memory, it is. He sent a letter to

the Holy Father,),” Valles said.

Valles said Duterte might have expressed his sentiments on his letter to the Pope that is why the Holy Father gave his positive response.

Duterte, earlier, explained last December that he was not cursing the Pope but government’s incompetence in not handling the traffic jams during the papal visit in Metro Manila in January.

He said his office received the letter last March 12 but because of the busy schedule of the Catholic Church for Lenten season, he forgot to see the letters sent to him.

Valles said he just found the letter last week and he im-

mediately sent a text message to Duterte’s executive assistant Christopher Lawrence Go. The Archbishop said that in the last part of the letter Pope Francis offers the assurance of prayers for Duterte.

“As he invokes upon you (Duterte) the divine blessings of wisdom and peace,” Valles read the statement of Becciu.

Duterte told reporters last Sunday in Bohol but he refused to show the letter from the Vatican because he did not want to be accused again.

“Si Mayor siguro pud kanang delicadeza lang iya na mo ingon na naa na (Maybe the Mayor just observed del-

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EDGEDAVAO Sports Warriors stretch record to 69 wins this season P16

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

CSSDO: Rice donations for NorCot farmers to proceed

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City Social Service and Development Office (CSSDO) will proceed with the city’s rice donations to the social welfare office of North Cotabato intended for protesting farmers.

This despite of the statement of North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza’s warning to politicians not to make the province “as a staging ground for their political agenda.”

This was clarified by CSSDO head Malou Bermudo in an interview yesterday.

Bermudo said the city government decided to give the donation to North Cotabato provincial government and not directly to the protesting famers because the city wants to avoid any issues that donation is not intended for polit-

ical advancement of Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte who is running for president.

“Mag turn-over lang ta didto dili kita ang mag-distribute didto. (We will just turnover it there and we will not be the one to distribute it),” she said.

“Siyempre, dili pud kita ang makipag-dialogue didto (Of course, we will not also make a dialogue there),” she added.

She said the city consulted the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on what to do in sending the sacks of rice and the polling body told the city officials to give it to the counterpart local government.

“The city asked clearance from the Comelec that is why the donations will be given to their local government,” she

said.

The video of Taliño-Mendoza went viral in the social media sites after she hit the politicians who are planning to give donations to protesting farmers.

“Sa lahat ng kandidato sino man ang pumunta dito, huwag niyong gawing staging ground ang North Cotabato sa propaganda (To all candidates, anyone who will come here, do not make North Cotabato a staging ground for your propaganda),” Taliño-Mendoza said.

Meanwhile, Bermudo said the city has already sent 200 sacks of rice to Kidapawan City and the city is still receiving donations for the protesting farmers in North Cotabato.

The governor has since been the subject of negative

reactons of netizens on social media.

Bermudo said the CSSDO along with other city government officials will appear today during the City Council’s regular session for the approval of the donation that will be sent to North Cotabato.

Earlier, City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte vowed assistance to the farmers who mounted a barricade in the highway of Kidapawan City which resulted to a bloody dispersal on Friday.

Duterte said on Firday night that the city has done this before when it also extended assistance to areas affected by typhoon Yolanda and other calamities. He said it is the only thing that he can immediately do for now as a local chief executive.

One Cebu working on Duterte alliance after ditching Binay

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THE POPE’S LETTER. Archdiocese of Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles DD. shows the letter of Pope Francis to Davao reporters yesterday as positive response to the apology letter of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte after his cursing to the high pontiff of the Roman

Catholic. Valles told reporters that the statement was made through Vatican’s Substitute of the Secretariat of State Monsignor Giovanni Angelo Becciu saying that Pope appreciates the sentiments which Duterte expressed. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

PHL storm free in next 3 days

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HE Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on Sunday the country will remain storm-free in the next three days.

In its weekly outlook, PAGASA said the agency has not

seen any weather disturbance near the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) that may develop into tropical cyclone.

The state weather bureau expect zero to one tropical cyclone to affect the country this month.

For the rest of the outlook

period (April 4-8), the ridge of high pressure area (HPA) will bring warm and fair weather over Luzon while the rest of the country will be partly cloudy to at times cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms mostly over

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ANOTHER JAMPACKED CROWD. Presidential candidate Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte speaks before a huge crowd inside the Siaton Gym during his campaign rally in the Municipality of Siaton, Negros Oriental yesterday. CRAM

RESIDENTIAL candidate and Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and One Cebu are working on an alliance after One Cebu severed its alliance with the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) of Vice President Jejomar Binay.

“Nothing is final but we are working on an alliance,” Duterte said in a joint press conference Saturday night with Cebu gubernatorial candidate Winston Garcia, One Cebu president.

“It has to be decided first by some people who are not here,” Duterte said.

Garcia said he approached

Duterte as president of One Cebu and after declining a request for a meeting Saturday from the camp of presidential candidate Senator Grace Poe. One Cebu ended its alliance with Binay’s UNA about two weeks ago.

“I think we are one in having adverse views of Imperial Manila,” Garcia said of Duterte.

“I am comfortable with a president who will give full autonomy to local government units all over the country,” Garcia said.

With 2.7 million registered voters, Cebu is the most vote-rich province in the coun-

try.

ITH less than a week to go before the start of the Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV), the web application of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), created to assist registered voters abroad find the places where they must cast their votes, is still under maintenance.

At present, the Post Finder feature at the Comelec website (http://www.comelec.gov. ph/?r=OverseasVoting/PostFinder) is being repaired.

The said feature is an application for overseas voters and seafarers in finding the Philippine posts abroad, where they are assigned to cast votes. To be able to see their Posts on the screen, Filipinos abroad are required to enter the necessary personal details.

“If their registration as an overseas voter has been approved by the RERB (Resident Election Registration Board), their record shall be displayed

after entering their details that are required,” the poll body said.

With this, the commission said the voters may send an e-mail to info@comelec.gov.ph for their concerns.

Last week, the official Comelec website was defaced by hackers group Anonymous Philippines which affected some web applications in the website such as the Precinct Finder, Video Demonstrations, and the Search Function.

Several hours after the unauthorized access, some of the functionalities of the website had been restored by the Comelec–Information Technology Department (ITD) and the Comelec Web Development Team. They also continue working to make the website accessible.

There are a total of 1,376,067 registered overseas absentee voters -- 1,326,728 representing land-based and 49,339 sea-based.

Three systems will be used in the OAV -- the automated election system (AES), personal manual voting system, or the manual casting of votes in the designated polling precincts, and the postal manual voting system, wherein the ballots will be mailed directly to the registered voter, who will then mail it back to the polling center after accomplishing it.

A total of 85 Philippine posts overseas will be using the AES while 26 posts are participating through the personal manual voting system and another 26 posts overseas will adopt the postal manual voting system.

Three Philippine posts will not be conducting any elections due to prevailing uncertainty in the host countries.

The voting for the OAV will begin on Saturday, April 9 (8 a.m., host country time), to Monday, May 9 (7 p.m., Philippine time). (PNA)

Before his engagement and the meeting with Garcia at the Sugbutel in Cebu City, Mayor Duterte also visited Toledo City Mayor John Henry “Sonny” Osmeña at his office.

In their press conference, Osmeña said he will continue to support Binay for the presidency, but will not stop his political leaders from supporting Duterte, if they want to do so.

In One Cebu’s case, reelectionist Rep. Gwen Garcia earlier said she would also continue to support Binay, despite her party’s decision to end the alliance with UNA. (PNA)

Overseas absentee voting to start April 9 --Comelec W

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Magnitude 5.0 quake jolts Quezon province

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MAGNITUDE 5.0 earthquake struck the province of Quezon on Monday morning, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvocs).

In its bulletin, Phivolcs said the tremor occurred at 3:09 a.m. with its epicenter traced

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

67 kilometers northeast of Jomalig in Quezon.

The agency noted that the quake, which was tectonic in origin, had a depth of 10 kilometers.

Philvocs said there was no casualty or damage reported from the temblor but aftershocks are expected. (PNA)

Kidnaping of 4 Malaysians

by ASG confirmed by AFP

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HE Western Mindanao Command (WMC) on Saturday confirmed that it has received reports that four Malaysian nationals have been kidnapped again by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Eastern Sabah waters last Friday.

“We confirm receiving reports of this incident but our information remains sketchy,” Major Filemon Tan, WMC spokesperson, said in a message to the PNA. Initial reports claimed that the four Malaysians were taken off passing ship.

Efforts are now being exerted to ascertain all details on the incident, he added.

“We have also coordinated with our Malaysian counterparts but details of which we are not at liberty to divulge,” Tan stressed.

“And in the meantime, WMC forces remain on alert and have taken appropriate actions/operations to address the situation,” he added.

Early this week, 10 Indonesian aboard a tugboat were snatched by the bandits while passing off Tawi-Tawi waters.

(PNA)

2 Comelec commissioners ask for review of decision

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WO top officials of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) want a review of the decision to acquire uniforms for employees and Board of Election Inspectors (BEI) members on Election Day. In an Urgent Memorandum, Comelec Commissioners Christian Robert Lim and Luie Tito Guia asked the commission en banc to reassess its earlier ruling.

“In this regard, undersigned respectfully recommend that the commission en banc revisits, reassess and/ or reconsider its decision to procure the singlets and the T-shirts. It is believed that there will be no harm done if the decision be reconsidered,” the poll body officials said.

They added, “When the procurement became public, the Comelec decision was

generally met with negative reactions. Initially, the criticism was heavy in the social media.

Thereafter, even the mainstream media came out with its critique of the procurement.”

Lim and Guia also noted that the response of the poll body over the criticisms was unsatisfactory.

“Undersigned expect that this will add to the recent public relation challenges that the Commission have been enduring. Thus, instead of enhancing credibility in the process, the decision may end up eroding public confidence to the same,” they said.

The Comelec will be procuring 354,053 bib vests (singlets) for the BEI members and support staff, amounting to Php26,553,975.

Likewise, the poll body is conducting a public bid-

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NO TAXI FARE ROLLBACK. Members of transport groups Piston and Transmision stage a protest rally to express their opposition against the taxi fare rollback outside the Land Transportation Office (LTO) 11 yesterday. The rally was cut short as other members didn’t show up due to alleged miscommunication. Lean Daval Jr.

Arcbishop Valles asks priests: Stay neutral

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

HE Archdiocese of Davao warned all the priests to remain non-partisan during the election period and not endorse any candidate during mass otherwise face disciplinary action.

Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles DD. issued the strong statement yesterday as he told reporters that priests who will be reported campaigning will be dealt with accordingly because the Roman Catholic congregation wants

to maintain as an apolitical entity.

“Dili kay sa maot ang mangampanya (It is not bad to campaign), political exercise is good but we should put it in a right place,” he said.

Valles said this stand of the church just want to avoid that its leaders will be divided because they have leanings to any candidates.

The Archbishop said he also issued a Memorandum Circular calling all the leaders

in the Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC), church workers and employees are encouraged not to openly campaign any candidates running for public office.

Valles singled out church workers and employees, priests and BEC leaders who will organize a campaign for the politicians.

“Kanang mo-apil na sa team og mo saka na sa stage og kanang organized campaigning, tanan mo involved

ni ana… mo resign of mo leave of absence siya (Those church people who will be involved in the political teams, will speak in the stage in an organized campaigning, all who will be involved in this activity should resign or file a leave of absence),” he said.

Valles also said that the parish priests should also prohibit posting of campaign materials in the parishes so that the church will not be tainted with political colors.

DOH Secretary Janette L. Garin said that while they are set to use the Dengvaxia vaccine of Sanofi Pasteur in the free dengue vaccination program that will be carried out in the next 20 months in pre-targeted areas, the government is

not “locked” in using such vaccine alone as one of the strategies in the continuous fight versus dengue.

“If in four or five years’ time, there will be additional vaccines, that will be a good addition and a good competition in the market,” she said.

She also said that the DOH is not interested in fanning the looming word “war” between pharmaceutical companies looking to develop dengue vaccines.

“The DOH is a government institution. We don’t want to be locked in a quarrel among the industry players. It is a natural occurrence to have competition among them whenever a new vaccine is under development. We have decided, and it is our obligation, to shy away from industry-to-industry quarrel,” she stressed.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are approximately five additional dengue vaccine candidates that are already in clinical development, with those of Instituto Butantan (Brazil) and Takeda Pharmaceutical Company (Japan) expected to begin the Phase III trials in early 2016.

Secretary Garin said that what the DOH is concerned at present is to make sure that the vaccines will be made available to the public, especially to the vulnerable sectors who cannot afford the costs, in the immediate possible time that can be beneficial to them.

“Immunization is one good program that actually saves lives. What we only want is a program that is beneficial to our children,” the Health Chief explained.

Dengvaxia is the first dengue vaccine in the world. It was able to secure a license from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last December 2015.

The vaccine was a product of more than 20-year studies and research and passed the required clinical trials involving people aged nine to 45 years old.

The breakthrough for the first dengue vaccine in the world also involved many Filipino scientists and researchers.

Currently being given in some private clinics in the country, Dengvaxia is included in the DOH’s school-based immunization program for

No problem with other brands of dengue vaccine

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HE Department of Health (DOH) is not totally closing the doors for the possibility of using other brands of dengue vaccine in the agency’s future immunization programs should they also be licensed in the country.

BRAVING THE HEAT. A “taho” seller braves the scorching heat and the heavy traffic to peddle his product around Davao City’s downtown area yesterday.

Lean Daval Jr.

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

DOJ: P300-M PSE investment scam declared submitted for resolution

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AWARD FOR DAVAO CITY. Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Davao president lawyer Samuel Matunog (left) proudly announces Davao City’s new achievement as Center of Excellence for ICT-BPM and recognized again for its efforts to continually improve the business environment as the leading destination for ICT-BPM companies by the

Department of Science and Technology-Information and Communications Technology Office (DOST-ICTO) and Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP). Matunog was joined by Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DCIPC) head Ivan Cortez during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

HE Department of Justice (DOJ) has declared as “submitted for resolution” the Php10-million estafa case filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the victims led by Joyce Lim Haw against the suspects Jose Cecilio Penaflor and his brother Angelo.

According to Assistant State Prosecutor Rodan Parocha, who is handling the case, he declared the case as “submitted for resolution” after the Penaflor brothers submitted their counter-affidavit during the last hearing last week and the complainants have no more plans of filing a rejoinder-affidavit.

Jose Cecilio Penaflor, a former employee of the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), is suspected to be involved in the alleged Php300-million investment scam.

He and his brother, Angelo, together with their legal

counsel, have appeared before DOJ Assistant State Prosecutor Rodan Parocha for the conduct of the preliminary investigation on the complaint for estafa filed against them by Haw. However, Parocha clarified that only Haw filed the complaint at the DOJ for his Php10-million investment, where the Penaflor brothers allegedly promised him to invest in the stock market.

The other complainants in the so-called Php300-million PSE investment scam of the Penaflor brothers, Parocha said, who earlier appeared at the NBI, had already filed their complaint before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.

Jose Cecilio Penaflor was released for further investigation after he was arrested by the NBI last February.

He was a former assistant head of the market education section of the PSE. (PNA)

ABOR and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz Monday said it is mandatory for all establishments to adopt drugfree workplace policies and programs to ensure a safe and healthy workforce.

Baldoz issued this reminder to private sector companies after receiving the report on compliance of establishments to drug-free workplace policies from Bureau of Working Conditions Director Alvin B. Curada.

“Of all the establishments assessed last year under the Labor Laws Compliance System (LLCS), 78 percent were found to have drug-free workplace policies in place,” Director Curada said in his report.

Establishments with the highest compliance rates are those engaged in the following industries: services – 87.5 percent; security agencies – 87 percent; and administrative support – 86 percent.

On the other hand, establishments engaged in education, mining, and manufacturing recorded the following compliance rates – 66 percent; 62.5 percent; and 61 percent, respectively.

“Although we recognize that many establishments have drug-free workplace policies and programs in place, we vow to step up this campaign through the Labor Laws Compliance System,”

the DOLE chief said.

“Our regional offices and their respective Labor Laws Compliance Officers (LLCOs) are trained to assist and provide free technical assistance.

Companies that are yet to comply with the policy can request for assistance from the LLCOs in crafting the program guidelines as mandated

by DO 53-03,” she added.

Department Order No. 53-03, which applies to all establishments in the private sector, including their contractors and concessionaires, states that it shall be mandatory for all private establishments employing 10 or more workers to formulate and implement drug abuse prevention and control program in the workplace, including the formulation and adoption of company policies against dangerous drug use.

“Establishments with less than 10 workers are also encouraged to formulate and adopt drug-free policies and programs,” said Secretary Baldoz.

Workplace policies and programs on drug abuse prevention and control to be adopted by companies shall include, among others, advocacy, education, and training; drug testing program for officers and employees; treatment, rehabilitation, and referral; and monitoring and evaluation.

The Department Order likewise states the roles, rights, and responsibilities of both employers and employees; as well as the enforcement and the consequences, in case of policy violations.

“The DOLE remains committed to cover more establishments for assessment this year, and embark into a more vigorous campaign to urge all companies to promote drug-free workplaces, and ultimately to ensure that the country’s labor force is protected from the harms of illegal drugs,” the DOLE chief said. (PNA)

City feted for BPM L sustained growth

Baldoz vows to heighten DOLE’s campaign on drug-free workplaces

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

FTER six years of being on top of the Next Wave Cities, Davao City was awarded yesterday with the Center of Excellence for Information and Technology- Business Processing Management (IT-BPM) award for the industry’s sustained growth here.

The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Davao, a private organization of ICT stakeholders and players here, received the award in behalf of the city government.

ICT-Davao president lawyer Samuel Matunog said the award was given by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in partnership with IT- Business Process Management Association of the Philippines (IT-BPAP).

“This would mean that the city will not be included in next year’s ranking of the top 10 Next Wave Cities in the Philippines,” Matunog told reporters during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at Sm City Annex.

Iloilo City was also awarded with the same recognition by the DOST and IT-BPAP. From being dubbed as Next Wave Cities, Matunog said, Davao City as well as Iloilo City will be on the same rank as Cebu City, Metro Clark, and Metro Bacolod as preferred destination.

“This will encourage investors in the ICT-BPM industry to expand their operation here,” Matunog added.

He also said the growing

workforce of the ICT industry here which already reach an estimated of 33,000 also allowed the city to get the award.

“These employees are either working as home based or employed in a firm for an average of 8 hours daily,” he said.

The group projected that the volume of labor force working on the ICT-BPM industry will double in the next five years as investment continued to pour in the sector.

“We have been talking to top colleges and universities in the city to ensure that they will able to supply our projected demand,” he said. Among the effort of the group is the assessment of each school’s

curriculum to ensure that it is aligned with the requirement of the industry.

Considered as city prime employment provider, Matunog said the home based ICT employees recorded a P124 million in revenue from 2010 to 2014, while the whole industry in the city is pegged at around P8 billion already as of this year.

Meanwhile, Davao City Investment Promotion Center officer-in-charge Ivan C. Cortez said the “overdue” award means that the city is not hard to sell to investors as their preferred destination.

Cortez said the ICT-BPM industry is still considered as one of the city’s economic growth drivers.

IVERSIFIED engineering conglomerate DMCI Holdings Inc. (DMC) is more than doubling its capital expenditure (capex) to over Php40 billion this year, mainly to support the growth of its real estate and power generation businesses.

“This is our biggest annual capex program to date. There is still considerable room for growth in the property market and power industry so we are focusing our resources on these areas,” said DMCI Holdings Chairman and President Isidro A. Consunji.

Consunji told reporters that the conglomerate is increasing capital spending as part of its overall goal “to go for another level of growth in the next five years” or up to 2020.

“One of the options is to go

abroad or to expand into other industry,” he said. “Six to seven percent (growth) a year is a lot of opportunity. Infrastructure will still be big, that’s my opinion.”

Consunji believes that infrastructure has significant effects on the growth of other sectors.

With this, he is optimistic the contribution of construction to the conglomerate’s income will again increase after five years.

Power and coal mining now comprise the biggest share of its income, while construction accounts for only five percent.

Meanwhile, real estate subsidiary DMCI Homes will account for the biggest chunk of the capital spending at Php32.5 billion in 2016.

Of this amount, Php27.5 billion pertains to total development cost of new projects to be launched this year while the remaining Php5 billion will fund land acquisitions.

Among the big projects of DMCI Homes for this year is a high-end condominium located in Asia World, Paranaque City, which will be the company’s first luxury residential development. It will also begin developing its first mixed-use building in Makati City.

Plans are also underway for the mid-segment developer to expand outside Metro Manila and enter the low-cost housing market.

The DMCI group is also spending around Php7.2 billion for its energy projects under Semirara Mining and Power Corporation (SMPC) and DMCI

Power Corporation (DPC).

Integrated energy company SMPC is setting aside Php5 billion for equipment acquisition and facilities improvement.

Off-grid power supplier DPC plans to spend over Php2.2 billion for power plant construction and equipment acquisition.

D.M. Consunji Inc. (DMCI) and DMCI Mining Corporation are setting aside around Php700 million for the acquisition of additional equipment and machineries to support their operations.

DMCI is participating in a number of infrastructure projects this year, either as a bidder or contractor.

Meanwhile, DMCI Mining plans to increase its nickel output to help weather the slump in commodity prices. (PNA)

DMCI Group sets record P40-B capex for 2016 D

Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

ABFP: Sale of ‘bottled gasoline’illegal

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HE Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has urged the barangay officials to adopt an ordinance that would prohibit the sale of “bottled gasoline” in their respective areas.

Chief Insp. Clint Cha, local fire marshal, made the call following observations that the sale of gasoline in bottles is rampant in the barangays in this city.

Cha is tapping the assistance of the barangay officials since the BFP do not have the authority to prevent the sale and confiscate the gasoline in bottles being sold in the barangays.

Cha said it is the Department of Energy (DOE) that has regulatory control over flammable substances such as

gasoline.

Cha said it is hazardous to sell gasoline in bottles since it is highly combustible liquid and may cause fire by mere spark or “if there is an open flame.”

He said the sale of gasoline in bottles is definitely illegal since the Office of the City Mayor don’t issue permit to such kind of business.

“It is also prohibited under the fire code,” he added.

The reason why the business of bottled gasoline flourish in the barangays it is because they are far from gasoline station.

The main customers of bottled gasoline sellers are drivers of motorcycles for hire locally known as “habal-habal.”

(PNA)

Rotating power outages to continue until April 17

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BOITIZ-OWNED Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC) will be implementing a two-hour rotating power interruption in its franchise area until April 17 due to the derated capacity of major hydropower plants in Mindanao.

“The rotating power interruptions are still being implemented as the major hydro power plants in Mindanao continue to decrease due to the impact of the El Nino Phenomenon,” the DLPC said in a statement yesterday.

The distribution utility said the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) advised that “the water level in the hydro power plants is now below the critical level.”

As of yesterday, the NGCP reported that the Mindanao-grid deficit was at 110MW, the DLPC statement read.

However, the power situation outlook posted by NGCP on its website revealed that the Mindanao Grid has an 8 MW reserve and a total system capacity of 1,458MW. Yesterday’s system peak was at 1,450MW According to DLPC, this will result in implementation of a maximum of two hours of

rotating power outages in its franchise areas which include Davao City, Panabo City and other municipalities of Davao del Norte.

The situation is projected to worsen as we enter the summer months starting April 2016, the DLPC said.

“As a rule of thumb, a 20 MW deficit within our franchise is equivalent to 30 mins. to 1 hour of rotating power interruptions. Yesterday (April 1), our deficit is at an average of 41 MW (Mindanao-grid deficit is still at 80 MW). Hence, we have implemented 1.5 hours of rotating power interruptions but some areas experienced more than the indicated duration due to very low supply allocation starting the afternoon,” the DLPC added.

New generating plants, which the power firm have contracted additional power supply, are said to operate in May and August 2016, the statement read.

“Thus, between now and May, outages will still be experienced,” DLPC said “With this, we are encouraging everyone to be prudent in your use of electricity at home or at the workplace.”. CHENEEN R. CAPON

HEALTH HOTLINE. Business development head Vinch Syquioa introduces KonsultaMD, a 24/7 health hotline service manned by licensed Filipino doctors who will provide medical assessment and information, including

basic healthcare and permissible medication over the phone, to the members of local media. Syquioa was among the guests in yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

DIPC seeks reevaluation of Sasa Port project

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DIPC) is hoping that the city council will allow the reevaluation of the P39-billion reclamation project stalled in the council for more than 3 months.

“If the city government is really serious on this project it should be classified as urgent,” DCIPC officer-in-charge Ivan C. Cortez told reporters at the sidelines of the Kapehans a Dabaw at SM City Davao Annex.

Cortez said the consent will give the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), an agency under the Office of the President, for the reevaluation of the unsolicited proposal from the Manila-based Mega Harbour Port Development Corp.

Under the Executive Order 146, “reclamation projects initiated by the private sector or entity through PRA, LGUs (local government units), GOCCs (government-owned or

–controlled corporations) or NGAs (National Government Agencies) authorized to reclaim land” shall be subjected to reevaluation of the PRA. The order says that the “PRA shall initiate the processing, review and evaluation of the reclamation project proposal and shall accordingly submit to the PRA Board for acceptance and endorsement to the NEDA Board for approval.”

Once approved by the board, Cortez said the proposal will undergo a Swiss challenge, a public procurement mechanism which requires the government after receiving an unsolicited proposal for the development of public infrastructure such as port, railways or roads to public the bid document and invite third parties to match or exceed it.

“The Mega Harbour is willing to participate the Swiss Challenge again,” he said, adding that a separate procurement was conducted

December last year. The Swiss challenge in December enticed no other bidders aside from the original proponent.

At present, the council is still reviewing the project because there are still components of the project that remained unclear like the plans on the relocation of affected communities.

The council is also set to give authorization to Mayor Rodrigo Duterte to sign a joint venture agreement with Mega Harbour for the implementation of the project which will be undertaken as a public-private partnership scheme.

The Mega Harbour proposed for the development of a 200-hectare mixed-used reclamation project which will be stretching on the coastline of Agdao all the way to Ecoland area.

Cortez earlier said the project, comprised of four islands, has already attracted interest from foreign inves-

tors aside from the original project proponent.

Once the project is awarded to the winning bidder the construction will commence with 75.01 hectares (has) Island 1 stretching from Agadao to Sta. Ana which has a port operation and a five-hectare government center component.

At completion, the port operation of the first island will have a berthing capacity of 2.5 kilometers, twice the current capacity of the Davao Sasa Port.

The 39.24 hectare- second island is seen as the central business district and shopping center.

The third island that will be allocated for tourist centers and residential resorts will have a total area of 59.47 has.

The 40.89-hectare fourth island, facing Sandawa area, will be connected to the road leading to Quimpo Boulevard, will be devoted for township development.

HE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)11 and the Davao City Public Employment Service Office (PESO) together with local employers signed on Monday at Pinnacle Hotel, the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the first implementation of JobStart Philippines in the region.

The MoA signing was headed by DOLE XI Regional Director Joffrey M. Suyao and Davao PESO manager Philip Nidea.

Jobstart Philippines is a DOLE implemented project through its local PESO offices that aims to offers trainings

and internship programs for fresh graduates in the region.

Those who will be selected will undergo ten days of life skills training, up to three months of JobStart-funded technical training and another three months of work experience with a “matched” employer/establishment. The interns in return will be receiving at least 75% of the minimum wage in the relevant city/municipality.

The project is a project jointly funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the government of Canada.

After a year of preparation for the pilot cities in the region

namely Davao City and Tagum City, Director Suyao, in his message, said that the Department is “very excited” for the actual implementation of the said project.

“We are very hopeful that this full cycle of employment facilitation here in Davao Region through the JobStart Philippines will be very successful such that by succeeding years we will be expanding our implementation not only in Davao and Tagum but in all other cities and municipalities in the region,” he said adding his words of thanks to the local employers for their participation and commitment to the

program.

Davao City companies who participated the JobStart Project include: ALU Hotel, BPI, RDL Group of companies (Total of 3 establishments: Resort, Pharmaceutical, LDL), Sky Cable, HKR Equipment, LYR Marketing, Pizza Hut, Chevrolet, 6/11 Global Services, Jollibee, Asia Brewery, Toyota, and JWM Eggs.

Registration will start on April 11 to 13 at NCCC Mall and the life skills training will be on April 18 to 29.

Another JobStart Project MoA signing will be held in Tagum City on Wednesday, April 6, 2016.

No acquisition talks Davao City JobStart Project implementation inked with RCBC, says BPI T A YALA-LED Bank of the Philippine Island (BPI) on Monday denied a news report that it is in talks to acquire a majority stake in the Yunchengco-led Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC).

In a statement, BPI said it “is not in talks or discussion with RCBC regarding the acquisition of a majority stake in the latter.”

“Information in the aforementioned news item is purely speculative. BPI does not comment on articles on such nature,” it added.

On Monday, a story published in a major daily, The Philippine Star, quoted sources as saying that BPI was considering

to purchase majority stakes in RCBC, which is now in the middle of controversy after USD 81 million stolen from the account of Bangladesh Bank with the Federal Reserve of New York ended at RCBC’s Jupiter-Makati branch in February 2016.

The heist is now under investigation of the Philippines’ Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), which has filed money laundering cases against Jupiter Makati branch Manager Maia Santos-Deguito and several others.

RCBC has also filed charges against Deguito and senior customer relation officer Angela

F NO, 10

EDGEDAVAO

7 SCIENCE

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

Seaweeds:

Their multiple uses Text and photos by Henrylito D. Tacio

(Second of Two Parts) HE PHILIPPINES, with a total coastline of 36,289 kilometers, has marine resources that provide food to millions of Filipinos and livelihood to a great number of rural families. One of these is seaweeds, those marine plants that grow abundantly in shallow reef flats and in lagoons with a water depth of less than two meters at high tide.

“Over the years, the

tified as having economic value as food, animal feeds, fertilizers, diet supplement, medicines, and raw materials for industrial products.

Among the 60 varieties found in the Philippines which are reportedly edible are gulamang dagat, gamet, pocpoclo, culot, lato, guso, barls-barls, bulaklak bato, and balbalolang. Some of these varieties can be processed into jams, jellies, candies, pickles, baby’s food, and gula-

economic contribution of seaweed resources to the country’s economy has been recognized and interest in their development has been growing particularly with the increasing demand in the foreign trade for these resources as raw materials for many industries,” said the primer on the status of seaweed industry in the Philippines.

So far, over 9,000 species of seaweed have been identified around the world. These are divided into three major types: green, brown and red. Red is the most species-rich group (6,000) followed by brown (2,000) and finally green (1,200).

The Philippines is home to various kinds of seaweeds of which 390 species have been iden-

man bars.

In Tiwi, Albay, some residents have discovered a pansit (noodles) made from seaweed, which has health benefits.

The seaweed noodle is rich in calcium and magnesium and can be cooked into pansit canton, pansit luglug, spaghetti and carbonara.

As food, seaweed contains several vitamins.

Red and brown algae are rich in carotenes and are used, in fact, as a source of natural mixed carotenes for dietary supplements.

The content ranges from 20-170 parts per million.

The vitamin C in red and brown algae is also notable, with contents ranging from 500-3000 parts per million. Other vitamins are also present, including B12, which is not found in

T

“Over the years, the economic contribution of seaweed resources to the country’s economy has been recognized and interest in their development has been growing particularly with the increasing demand in the foreign trade for these resources as raw materials for many industries,”

most land plants.

Dr. Subhuti Dharmananda, director of the Institute for Traditional Medicine at Portland, Oregon, claims seaweed has very little fat, ranging from 1-5% of dry matter, “although seaweed lipids have a higher proportion of essential fatty acids than land plants.” Green algae, whose fatty acid make-up is the closest to higher plants, have a much higher oleic and alpha-linoleic acid content.

Seaweed has high fiber content, making up 32% to 50% of dry matter. The soluble fiber fraction accounts for 51-56% of total fibers in green and red algae and for 67-87% in brown algae. Soluble fibers are generally associated with having cholesterol-lowering and hypoglycemic effects.

Commercially, seaweeds are valued for their colloids or gluey substance, particularly agar, carrageenan, and alginate. Both agar and carrageenan are extracted from red seaweeds, while alginate is extracted from brown seaweeds.

Agar is used in making jellied desserts, as stabilizer in pie fillings, piping gels, icings, cookies, cream shells, and as thickening and gelling agent in poultry, fish and meat canning. In the medical and pharmaceutical industries, agar serves as a laxative, suspending agent for barium sulfate in radiology, ingredient for slow-release capsules and in suppositories and surgical lubricants, and as a disintegrating agent in tablets. It is also used as impression materials to make accurate casts in prosthetic dentistry, criminology and tool manufacturing.

Carrageenan, on the other hand, is used in making ointments, as emulsifying agent in water-insoluble drugs and herbicides, and as texturing agent in toothpaste and powder. It is also used in salad dressings and sauces, dietetic foods, and as a preservative in meat and fish products, dairy items and baked goods.

Alginates enjoy many of the same uses as carrageenan, but are also used in production of industrial products such as paper coatings, adhesives, dyes, gels,

explosives and in processes such as paper sizing, textile printing, hydro-mulching and drilling. In the biomedicine and pharmaceutical industries, alginates are used in wound dressings, and production of dental moulds and have a host of other applications.

Ordinary seaweed or carrageenan, when subjected to irradiation, has been found to increase rice yield by more than 65%.

That’s what scientists from the National Crop Protection Center at the University of the Philippines Los Baños have found out.

Some studies showed that when the indigestible carbohydrate (polysaccharide) is degraded or reduced to tiny sizes, it can be an effective growth promoter and makes rice resistant to major pests.

As a growth enhances, carrageenan offers an array of benefits that result in improved productivity. Used properly as prescribed, it makes the rice stem stronger thus improving rice resistance to lodging. It also promotes resistance to rice ‘tungro’ virus and bacterial leaf blight therefore giving farmers increased harvest.

What is good in this seaweed

additive is that it is compatible with the traditional practice on fertilizer application, thereby allowing easy acceptance and less resistance from farmers. It also promotes sustainable agriculture since it is environment-friendly and enhances the presence of natural enemies that fight major pests in rice fields. Lastly, it promotes more efficient absorption of plant nutrients that enables improved growth.

In a field trial conducted in Bulacan by the team led by Dr. Gil L. Magsino of the UPLB National Crop Protection Center (UPLB-NCPC), the application of 200 ppm (or 20 milliliter per liter) carrageenan in combination with 3-6 bags per hectare (ha) of fertilizer significantly increased the grain weight by 63.6 to 65.4%, the productive tillers by 83-102%, and panicle length by 3.5-12.5% over that of the farmers’ practice, which uses 9 bags/ ha of fertilizer.

Productive tillers are the rice stems that bear the panicles (rice inflorescence) with fertilized grains, while longer rice panicle is associated with producing more rice grains. █

Applied with seaweed extracts

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

M

Pope’s forgiveness

AYOR Rodrigo Duterte received a most cherished gift on the feast of the Divine Mercy on Sunday—the forgiveness of Pope Francis.

The Vatican has replied to the letter of apology by presidential hopeful Rodrigo Duterte for hurling invectives at the Holy Father during his proclamation rally last year.

Duterte was widely criticized for cursing Pope Francis for the monstrous traffic jam in the metropolis during the papal visit in early 2015.

The tough-talking Mayor has since made clarifications on his statement saying it was not directed to the Pope but to the ineptness of the government to handle the situation.

Duterte revealed receiving a letter from the Vatican but decided not to elaborate on its details and wait after the elections to divulge the whole content of the Papal letter.

Duterte said he will only reveal and release copies of the Vatican letter when the election is over – win or lose. He did not even say whether his apology was accepted.

Duterte said he does not want his opponents to accuse him of “using

EDGEDAVAO

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the letter for politicking.”

Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles, DD. did confirm the letter.

Valles verified Duterte’s statement and he showed a letter from Vatican’s Substitute of the Secretariat of State Monsignor Giovanni Angelo Becciu dated February 24, 2016.

Valles said the letter contained two paragraphs “His Holiness Pope Francis received your letter of 21 January 2016 and he asked me to respond on his behalf.”

“He appreciates the sentiments which you expressed,” Becciu said in the letter. “As he invokes upon you (Duterte) the divine blessings of wisdom and peace.”

The ‘blessing of forgiveness’ Duterte received from the Pope came all too timely after the Lenten observation and the feast of the Divine Mercy.

The gesture by the Mayor only speaks well of his humility to accept a grievous fault committed—whether or not that was his intention to direct the invectives at the Holy Father or elsewhere.

Tough as he may seem on the outside, this humane persona reveals only the soft side of the charismatic leader.

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EDGEDAVAO

D

ID you know that birth control pills and other access are today being widely used by ISIS fighters on women who they capture and kidnap as sex slaves?

It’s like this: According to a rather obscure Islamic rule cited by Islamic State leaders, a man must ensure that any woman he takes as slave is not pregnant before having intercourse with her.

These ISIS fighters believe and follow what was said to have been practiced during Prophet Muhammad’s time. This was also a part of its strategy to keep the slavery trade running.

In a recent news report, Yazidi women in Iraq described how their captors forced them to take birth

D

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

9

Potpourri control pills to ensure that they do not get pregnant when they are forced to have intercourse or raped.

More than three dozen young women who recently escaped said these methods inflicted on them by IS captors enable the former to resell them.

Abortion is likewise widely resorted to make the slave woman available for sex. Teen-agers, 18 and below, are preferred for enslaving because they had higher re-sell prices.

In Cuba, the recent visit of US Pres. Barack Obama, just after the restoration of diplomatic relations, has triggered speculations that freedom of speech in this tiny island nation is slowly being

URING the tandem’s “Ronda Serye” listening tour in Legaspi, Albay, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and Senate Majority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano assured coconut farmers that should they win in the forthcoming election, the farmers will finally benefit from the P71-billion coco levy fund.

According to the president and vice-president aspirants, they can do this as they are not beholden to any political backer who has an interest on the fund unlike other some candidates.

“Hindi kami hawak sa leeg nino man. Walang makakahadlang sa amin ni Mayor Duterte upang bigyang katarungan ang ating maliliit na magniniyog at mapakinabangan na nila ang kanilang coco levy fund,” Cayetano was quoted as saying.

Before probing deeper, let’s take a closer look at our coconut industry. We are the world’s second largest producer of coconut products, after Indonesia. But we are the top exporter of coconut products (about 64% of the world’s copra and coconut oil comes from the Philippines). About 25% of cultivated land is planted to coconut trees, and it is estimated that between 25% and 33% of the population is partly dependent on coconuts for their livelihood.

The legal beginnings of the coco levy could be found in the Republic Act 6260 of June 19, 1971. Also known as the Coconut Investment Act, it called for the creation of a Coconut Investment Fund and a Coconut Investment Company (CIC).

The CIC had four objectives. First, it wanted “to fully tap the potential of the coconut planters in order to maximize

SPECKS OF LIFE

Fred C. Lumba countenanced by the Castro regime.

Several state-run regional media outlets lamented the recent state of baseball affairs after two brothers who are major league stars, escaped to the US. Though this was not an isolated case, the prominent media mention indicated that the culture of fear has

somewhat diminished since the state has long used it. For many years, those who criticized the government have paid a high price and were branded as traitors.

Today Cubans from a wide cross section are speaking out with less fear.

Last October, one state run newspaper ran an article that made references to extravagant overseas trips of Antonio Castro, a son of Fidel Castro, to the US and Turkey.

The government responded meekly by censoring the news item but which was already shared widely.

In New Delhi, India, air pollution is so grave that the DelHi High Court has asked the government to take action to improve the environ-

ment, calling life in the city as like “living in a gas chamber.”

Doesn’t this sound like Metro Manila?

Air purifiers, priced from $50 to $1,000, are selling like hotcakes. Even designer air masks are now in the market as creative entrepreneurs try to outdo each other.

A marathon runner, Mr. Gupka, suffered a respiratory illness while training. He recovered after using an air filtration mask and made brisk business by becoming the distributor in India, making sales of from 500 to 700 masks a day from his own retail store and from his website.

The masks, with the brand Vogsmask, are manufactured in South Korea.

The P71-Billion Coco Levy fund

their produc- THINK ON THESE! tion and give them greater responsibility in directing and developing the coconut industry.”

Another reason: “to acHenrylito D. Tacio celerate the henrytacio@gmail.com growth of the coconut industry and other related coconut products from the raw material stage to the semi-finished and finally, the finished product stage.” Also “to improve, develop and expand the marketing system.” And the fourth objective: “to ensure stable and better incomes for coconut farmers.”

Two years later, on June 30, 1973, the President Ferdinand E. Marcos created the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) through Presidential Decree 232. Its mandate was “to promote accelerated growth and development of the coconut and other palm oils industry so that the benefits of such growth shall accrue to the greatest number, and to provide continued leadership and support in the integrated development of the industry.”

One document obtained by this author noted: “The PCA was established to stabilize the price of coconut products for the benefit of the farmers. To fund PCA, it was authorized to collect fifty-five centavos levy for every 100 kilos of copra produced. This levy was increased to P20 in 1974.

“By the 1980s, the already huge levy

fund and practically the whole coconut industry was monopolized by PCA, its bank (the United Coconut Planters Bank) and United Coconut Oil Mills, and the Coconut Producers Federation...”

“The prices of coconut products declined in early 80’s and upon the insistence of the International Monetary Fund, the United Coconut Oil Mills was dismantled.

After the 1986 EDSA Revolution, the new government of President Cory Aquino, sequestered the coconut levy fund and all the other corporations associated with the fund. The following years saw a succession of court litigations. The funds remain frozen and the cases unresolved. All told, the coconut farmers benefited little from the coconut levy.”

In a letter to the editor, which appeared in Philippine Daily Inquirer, Joey T. Faustino, executive director of the Coconut Industry Reform Movement, Inc. appealed: “The coco levy fund must benefit all stakeholders specifically the coconut farmers who have long been denied of what is due them.

Unfortunately, only an estimated 20% of the 3.4 million coconut farmers are organized. Most of them remain unaware of the issues surrounding the coconut industry.”

“The coconut farmers have already waited far, far too long,” said Congressman Lorenzo ‘Erin” R. Tañada III when he filed House Bill 5070 (Creating the Coconut Farmers’ Trust Fund). “They cannot wait anymore and neither can the industry.

Hectares of coconut farms have already been wasted by pests, and they have already missed the opportunity of high copra prices. Who will tell the farmers to wait some more?”

They filter out 99 percent of airborne particles and are reusable. They retail for about $35.

What has been earmarked to become a necessity has become a fashion trend. A mother said she was pleaded on by her daughters to buy because all the other kids have them.

The Red Cross office in New Delhi is making sure it does not lag behind the times. It bought masks for all its employees last winter.

In GenSan, once labeled as “Dust-diangas” because of its dusty roads and terrain, the shouldn’t the LGU people set the way? (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com). God bless the Philippines!

During their “Ronda Serye” in Albay, the Duterte-Cayetano tandem presented their signed three-point manifesto entitled, “Panata para sa Maliliit na Magniniyog,” The two pledged “to break the ‘cycle of abuse’ that coconut farmers have suffered from.”

Duterte and Cayetano vowed before the farmers to implement the following “bold solutions” if they get elected this coming May: • The distribution of the coco levy fund for the benefit of small coconut farmers and in consultation with legitimate farmers’ groups in their first 100 days in office • Additional budget, over and above the coco levy funds, for the development and modernization of the coconut industry; and • Help pursue the remaining part of the fund.

The Coconut Industry Reform (COIR) Movement Inc. welcomed the duo’s proposals.

“Mabibigat ang mga iniwang salita ni Mayor Duterte at Sen. Cayetano sa mga magniniyog na in the first 100 days (of their term), may matitikman na agad ang mga magniniyog (mula sa coco levy funds). Pinakamahalaga, bukas sila doon sa hindi pa nababawi na bahagi ng coco levy funds at ito’y kanilang aasikasuhin,” pointed out Joey Faustino, COIR spokesperson.

Coconuts are referred to as “Man’s most useful tree,” “King of the tropical flora,” “Tree of abundance,” “Tree of heaven,” and “Tree of life.” Known in the science world as Cocos nucifera, it is the most important of cultivated palms and the most widely distributed of all palms.

10 NEWS FORGIVEN... FROM 1 icadeza on his part and he do not want to say that the letter is already in his hand but he just want the proper person to show it),”Valles said.

Valles said that on his part, he will not lie telling the people that the letter of Pope Francis is already in his hands.

“I appreciate of doing the job of saying that it is true that response letter of the Pope pass through my office,” he said.

He said he was also asked by the Apostolic Nunciature to the Philippines to deliver the letter to Duterte.

the eastern portion.

Warm and humid weather will continues in most parts of the country due to the presence of ridge of high pressure area (HPA) extending over northern Luzon while easterlies affecting the eastern section of central and southern Luzon, of Visayas and of Mindanao.

For Sunday’s forecast, partly cloudy to cloudy skies will prevail over Metro Manila and the rest of the country with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms mostly over the eastern section.

Light to moderate winds blowing from the east to southeast will prevail over northern Luzon and coming from the east to northeast over the rest of the country.

The coastal waters throughout the archipelago will be slight to moderate.

The state weather bureau also not issued gale warning

as the fisherfolks is safe to venture into seas.

With the presence of easterlies and rdige of HPA will bring high temperatures and good weather conditions in the coming days as the state weather bureau advised people to wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and drink plenty of water.

PAGASA advised residents of places directly hit by the heat of the sun, without trees, and surrounded by concrete roads would feel much hotter.

Despite a warmer weather, the occurrence of isolated rains will still prevail due to localized thunderstorms mostly in the afternoon or evening.

The state weather bureau explained that the convective activity brought about by intense heat triggers the formation of more cumulonimbus clouds or dark clouds associated with thunderstorms that brings rains. (PNA)

Torres for falsification of commercial documents after they allegedly opened accounts for businessman William Go with-

out this knowledge. The alleged Go account is where the stolen -money was consolidated.

(PNA)

PHL... FROM 2

No... FROM 6

PROPERTY... FROM 12 slowdown in the next two years, coming in 9% higher than “normal” levels at the end of 2017.

8. LASER SCANNING TECHNOLOGY WILL GAIN POPULARITY Although BIM tends to dominate the construction technology narrative, experts pointed to another emerging technology that is having a significant impact on the industry: laser scanning. 3-D laser scanners can create a digital reproduction of the dimensions and positions of objects in a certain space, and then turn that information into a point cloud image.

“Laser scanning I think has a lot of room to run. Not as many people are using it, but it’s a great tool to measure more precisely than most conventional ways,” LaRosa said. “What the laser scanner allows you to do is get millions of data points and put that into a building information model and provide much more information about conditions you couldn’t get previously. Look for that to continue to grow certainly next year and for another five years.”

Taylor added that laser technology allows contractors to precisely “define to the client where we had issues with the existing floor,” and then make the necessary changes.

9. REMODELING WILL HAVE A STRONG YEAR, ESPECIALLY IN THE LUXURY MARKET Along with strength in the single-family market this year, experts also predict the remodeling sector will have a banner year in 2016.

“We’re encouraged by recent data that shows consumers have a strong desire to invest in

their homes. In fact, survey respondents are indicating that growth in their home improvement spending is outpacing increases in their overall spending,” Mike Horn, vice president of Lowe’s ProServices, told Construction Dive. “The number of homeowners indicating that their home improvement spending increased has doubled since 2012.

This trend underscores the great opportunity our professional contractors have to meet the needs of 75 million homeowners, in addition to the 5 million who relocate or move into a new home each year, across the country increasingly willing to engage in home improvement in 2016.”

Bob Ernst, president of the Building & Remodeling Association of Greater Boston, said he projects significant growth in the remodeling sector this year.

“Through all of the ups and downs, this is the first time I feel very comfortable,” he told Construction Dive.

Ernst emphasized the luxury market in particular as offering the most opportunity for remodelers. “At that market level, they’re spending money,” he said. He noted, however, that the middle and lower markets haven’t reached the demand level exhibited in luxury markets, as people in those markets are still struggling to save up enough money for their homes. “People serving primarily those markets might not have as rosy of an outlook,” he said.

10. HOMEBUYERS WILL SEEK OUT SIMPLE, WALKABLE COMMUNITIES

Last month, the American Institute of Architects released the

EDGEDAVAO

No problem... FROM 4 nine-year-old students in public elementary schools in three regions of the country starting on Monday.

Immunization of children is one of the programs of the DOH for the poorest sectors in the Philippine society as part of the government’s investment on the health of Filipino children, wherein they will be given the protection to be “immune” or fight the illnesses that can “obstruct” their continuous search for the road of “overcoming” the inter-generational cycle of poverty.

The DOH has partnered with the Department of Education (DedEd) and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in the conduct of the immunization activities which give protection to children from vaccine–preventable illnesses.

If children are receiving the immunization shots or vaccines for preventable illnesses, they will be able to attain holistic developments wherein they will not be sick and be absent from school and miss the learning that can enrich their knowledge which will give them a better “fighting chance” versus poverty.

Moreover, if children are healthy, the nation can be assured that its future citizens will be able to contribute to the economic development of the country because there is a saying that health itself is the country’s wealth as how can the country move forward if it has sickly population?

The immunization program, in effect, helps protect the children as well as the people around them wherein they will not be able to become the “source” for the spread of denresults of its third-quarter Home Design Trends Survey and found that design elements such as access to public transportation, multi-generational housing, walkable neighborhoods and mixeduse facilities dominate homeowner preferences. “There has been a pronounced shift in driving habits over the last few years, with increasing numbers of people being far more interested walking and utilizing public transit options,” AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker said in a release. “With that is a desire for proximity to employment and commercial activities.”

The AIA survey coincided with a National Association of Realtors survey over the summer that found walkable communities are growing in popularity among Americans of all ages, particularly millennials. Based on the results of the survey, the NAR advised developers aiming to reach the millennial demographic to consider building attached homes within walking distance of shops and restaurants and nearby public transportation. Baby boomers have reportedly expressed similar desires for their homes, as a Washington Post report in October found retiring baby boomers are downsizing and buying smaller homes in urban areas at twice the rate of millennials.

Jerry James, president of Edward R. James Homes, said he predicts baby boomers will continue to drive the new-home construction market this year. He agreed with the NAR and AIA predictions and said he believes boomers want “simplification” driven by a desire to live in locations that allow them to walk to nearby restaurants and shops.

gue.

This is because dengue can be transmitted from one person to another if a mosquito bites a person with dengue.

If the children are vaccinated versus dengue, chances of transmission is being reduced which therefore gives protection to others in the process.

DOH said that just like any other vaccine given to children, some common side effects of Dengvaxia would be rashes, pain and swelling on injection site, fever, and headache.

Most parents who have experienced bringing their children to the health centers or clinics are aware of these common side effects.

The DOH also assured that medical societies who fully support the immunization program of the DOH as well as the WHO will be side by side with them in monitoring and ensuring that there will be proper, successful and safe conduct of the vaccination.

From Jan. 1 to Feb. 20, 2016, the DOH had recorded a total of 18,790 dengue cases nationwide. (PNA) Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

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

Case No. 2001-XI-02633 MICHAEL VINCENT T. LOO, Petitioner x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUB Ordinary Regular service on the route: MONKAYO (COMVAL PROVINCE)-DAVAO CITY AND VISE VERSA with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on October 10, 2016. In the petition filed on March 22, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MAY 2, 2016 at 09:40 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

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

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 23rd day of March 2016 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

2 Comele... FROM 4 ding for the purchase of 6,158 T-shirts for its employees, with an approved budget of Php1,231,600.

For its part, the Comelec said that the decision to acquire uniforms is aimed at enhancing the credibility of the forthcoming elections.

On the other hand, an accredited poll watchdog for the May 9 national and local polls is hoping that the Comelec will not get distracted with its plan to promote itself.

“We just hope that with 36 days to elections, Comelec won’t get too distracted with externals and non-essential image boosters,” Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) national chairperson Ambassador Henrietta de Villa said.

She noted that the poll body should be busy in ensuring that timelines are met, including schedule on procurements of election materials, among others.

“What should be insured are the vote count machines

(VCMs) are all working and deployed on time, ballots printed packed and ready for shipment, the same for all consumables, transmission 100%, polling precincts ready, security, especially in hot spots, in place...,” De Villa said.

She added, “We pray and pray a lot that CHAMP (Credible, Honest, Accountable, Meaningful and Peaceful) elections will dawn upon us. That Comelec is ready. That PPCRV is ready. That the voters vote wisely. God help us all.”

Meanwhile, Vice presidential candidate Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has called for an investigation on the alleged non-payment of wages and substandard working conditions of workers at the poll body warehouse in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

“We’ve received word that workers in Comelec have been poorly treated. This should be investigated immediately, and if proven true, should be resolved the soonest possible time,” he said. (PNA)

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

Petition for Approval of Sale and Transfer of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service.

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

Case No. 2001-XI-00867 MATINA APLAYA TRANSPORT SERVICE COOPERATIVE (MATRANSCO), Petitioner x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ-DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: MATINA APLAYA and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on July 26,2016.

In the petition filed on March 21, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MAY 2, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

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

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 22nd day of March 2016 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

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

Case No. 2016-XI-00414 (2009-XI-00438)

MARIETTA M. DE JESUS, Petitioner-Vendor REY I. SOLON, Petitioner-Vendee

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

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioners request authority for the Approval of Sale and Transfer executed by MARIETTA M. DE JESUS in favor of REY I. SOLON of a Certificate of Public Convenience with Equipment issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: MA-A-AGDAO and for cargoes as dual service from said route place to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate is still valid and subsisting up to October 29, 2019.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MAY 2, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

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

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 28th day of March 2016 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

11 COMMUNITY SENSE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

Choosing happiness, and chasing dreams

I The new set of Board of Directors led by the newly-elected Chairperson Monica L. Salido (second from left) and Vice-Chairperson Fe J. Adlawan (third from left) took their oath of office

Tagum Coop inducts new chairperson, other officers

D

IRECTOR Monica L. Salido now sits as the new chairperson of Tagum Cooperative after being elected by the majority of the Board of Directors (BOD) on March 27, 2016.

In the Oath taking and turn-over ceremony held at the function hall of Tagum Coop Main Office, Salido along with the new Vice-chairperson Fe J. Adlawan, members of the BOD, and elected officers swore to perform to the best of their abilities as officials.

The new chairperson gladly accepted the responsibility passed to her by the immediate past chairperson Norma R. Pereyras who expressed her warmest congratulations to all “transformative leaders” chosen to serve the Coop.

“I am overjoyed that the new chairperson (Monica L. Salido) is someone who shares my passion and vision for Tagum Cooperative, someone who has the true heart for the Coop” Pereyras expressed in her message.

In her acceptance speech, Salido recalled her experiences in Tagum Coop way back in 1990s when she, along with Pereyras and other leaders, was misinterpreted for their drive to defend the Coop from the verge of bankruptcy.

Started as an employee in 1979, Salido served for 35 years in Tagum Coop. She cited that she was offered the highest position in the Coop five times but declined for several considerations.

Before finally accepting the position, the new chairperson said she first consulted with her family who fully supported her chairpersonship.

“I believe now is the right time for me to serve as the chair”, Salido expressed. “I have to abide by His (God’s) leading and guidance” she added as she recalled how she got inspired by the story of Moses in the movie Ten Commandments where Moses obeyed God’s will.

Leading Tagum Coop is a big responsibility according to Salido but “with you around,

I know I can do the job”, she and Brendo B. Bayocot (Secresaid looking up to the com- tary); and Election Committee position of the management composed of Flordeliza L. Aleas factor that makes the Coop garbes (elected) and the two, survive. still to be appointed members.

“All of us will be one in Atty. Marilda J. Boja, Tagum taking Tagum Cooperative to Coop legal counsel, administhe greatest heights, soaring tered the induction. (Tagum high with the graces and lov- Cooperative) ing kindness of God”.

Salido wrapped up the final string of her speech.

All present personalities congratulated the new chairperson, vice-chairperson and other elected officers including the other members of the BOD who were inducted namely: Miriam R. Baloyo, Eduard C. Amoguis (newly-elected), Evelia R. Sator, Edgardo T. Silagan, and Nenita R. Malbas.

Also inducted were Audit Committee composed of Gertrudes L. Yap (Chairperson), MONICA L. SALIDO is the newly-elected Mark Louie D. Mahinay Chairperson of Tagum Cooperative (Vice-chairperson), Board of Directors

is more than 25 percent, or P 2.89 billion, higher compared to the P 11.35 billion declared last year. Since 2010, Pag-IBIG has declared more than P 61.33 billion in dividends.

“Remember that the members’ monthly contributions are the members’ savings, and their savings earn dividends each year. The dividend rate this year is 4.83 percent, which is much higher compared to interest rates on other savings instruments. The best part is that Pag-IBIG dividends are not subject to withholding tax kaya walang kaltas kahit isang sentimo,” said Pag-IBIG President and CEO Atty. Darlene Marie B. Berberabe.

She also reminded members aged 65 and above to claim their matured Pag-IBIG savings, otherwise known as their Total Accumulated Value (TAV). The TAV comprises of the member’s contributions, the employer counterpart share, and Pag-IBIG dividends earned throughout the years of one’s membership.

In December 2014, the agency launched its BalikSavings65 program which simplified the savings withdrawal process for elderly Pag-IBIG members. About 7,662 members who are 65ers have received their TAV as of December 31, 2015. Their savings total to more than P 301 million

Pag-IBIG declares highest ever P 14-B dividends

S

TATE-OWNED Pag-IBIG Fund has declared more than P 14 billion in dividends, the highest payout in the 35-year history of the agency.

“This year, we declared dividends worth P 14.24 billion. This is the highest amount that Pag-IBIG has ever declared since it opened its doors three and half decades ago. This will be credited directly to the accounts of our members within the first quarter of 2016,” said PagIBIG Chairman Atty. Chito M. Cruz.

Every year, Pag-IBIG Fund credits dividends to members’ accounts. This year’s dividend

pesos that were claimed.

“There are still many 65er-members who have yet to withdraw their TAV. Their TAV is money which they saved and now is the time to reap the benefits. The TAV usually ranges from P40,000 to P70,000 but some members upgrade their monthly contribution so they can have a much bigger TAV. Some of the biggest TAVs I’ve seen ranged from P 532,000 to more than P 733,000. I’m calling our retired members to claim their matured savings to help with their finances. It’s time for them to enjoy their hard-earned savings,” said Berberabe.

N my 26 years of existence, I have had enough adventures and misadventures to last me a lifetime. My name is Christy Marie Edaño. I am what others may deem as different – a non-conformist. They say that a person’s choices in life define one’s own character. I say, that this choice, however, is the deciding point that can either make or break you.

Living in the remote barangay of Kipalili, San isidro, Davao del Norte with my parents Saranie, 47; and Julito, 49; I thought that life would be plain and simple. I was mistaken.

Being the next to the eldest and one of the most responsible siblings, I had to work in a farm to help sustain the needs of my family and for me to afford going to high school. My parents were not able to finish elementary, thus, it does not matter to them if we finish or not.

After finishing high school, I had to stop schooling for three years so that my younger siblings can go to school. I took care of my other younger siblings. My mother had to take laundry services in our neighborhood and my father tended the farm so that we can put food on our table.

In 2010, I took up a twoyear Computer Programming course at St. John Learning Center in Tagum City. To support my studies, I worked as a house help. I do other people’s laundry, I babysit and accepted tutorial services. I allotted my P 1,800 monthly salary for my school and family’s needs.

It was in November of 2012 when I got accepted as a Students’ Grant-in-Aid Program for Poverty Alleviation (SGP-PA) student grantee at Davao del Norte State College in Panabo City. I enrolled in

Bachelor of Science in Fisheries majoring in Aquaculture.

I thought that being in college would change how other people view me. I was wrong.

I struggled hard for acceptance and respect. I am scared being with people for fear of being judged.

I have always been different from as far as I can remember. I am a lesbian. I was used to being judged, discriminated and bullied. Even my own father once cannot accept the choice I have made. But it did not dampen my spirits. I worked hard. I want to prove them wrong. I want to show them that one’s personal choices can be his or her motivation to excel in life.

My hard work paid off when I was identified by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as one of the top five SGP-PA National Academic Awardees with the Highest General Point Average in 2014.

It is amazing how people’s opinion of you changes when you have achieved something commendable. It amazes me and saddens me all at the same time. I hope people would just respect each other regardless of their decisions in life.

I am now a graduating student. I am one of the 526 SGP-PA grantees in Region XI who will graduate this April. I am forever grateful to Pantawid Pamilya and to SGP-PA for these programs paved the way for me to gradually achieve my dreams for my family. Others may have judged me but these programs served as my strength to pursue and push through.

Few years from now I will be looking back to all the adventures and misadventures and I will have a warm smile in my heart for I know I made the right choice. (DSWD)

Pastor Apollo Quiboloy to launch children’s book

E

VER wonder why Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy call himself the Appointed Son of God. Ever wonder what it took him to be called and chosen for that position.

Ever wonder about the real story behind these claims.

In his new children’s book “APOLLO, THE SERPENT SLAYER,” experience the magical tale of Pastor Quiboloy’s tough early days in his ministry and his genuine service to God. His story was portrayed by the character Apollo, the serpent slayer; together with Munting, the lamb; and Leo, the lion.

This book was created primarily for children to teach them the value of obedience, commitment, and bravery in doing the will of God. This inspiring story will make you read until the last page in just one siting, and then reread the whole book over again.

The stories’ main characters will be shown to public during the Media Night of

11th National Children’s Day on April 23, 2016 at Jose Maria College, Davao City.

Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy in an international evangelist and the major benefactor of the Children’s Joy Foundation, Inc. that feeds, sends to school and gives shelter to 3 million children worldwide.

To know more about the schedule of upcoming events, you may visit the official National Children’s Day Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/SonshineLand.

Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy

EDGEDAVAO

12 PROPERTY

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

STATE OF THE ART CONSTRUCTION. The 33-level Aeon Towers of the FTC Groupf of Companies at JP Laurel Avenue is one of the new developments in Davao City using state-of-the-art technology. Photos show the arrival of elevator hoists and other high-tech materials to be used in the future tallest skyscraper in the South.

The residential units of the tower will be equipped with Cisco-powered Smarthome technology. The Aeon Towers is expected to have a turnover by December 2016.

SPECIAL FEATURE

10 construction industry trends to watch in 2016

C

ONSTRUCTION professionals are focusing attention on the latest trends in 2016.

Analysts predict 2016 will be a strong year for the industry, as Dodge Data & Analytics’ 2016 Construction Outlook report predicted 6% growth, with the value of construction starts reaching an estimated $712 billion.

We talked with experts from various sectors of the construction industry to find out their predictions for 2016. Their answers varied from new technology trends, to workforce concerns, to homebuyer preferences. But one common thread connected all of the experts: They have high hopes that 2016 will bring strong demand and booming business.

“I don’t think I could be any more optimistic for 2016,” Bud LaRosa, chief business performance officer and chief financial officer for Tocci Building Companies, told Construction Dive. “These are truly the good times.”

Here are the top 10 trends to watch in 2016, according to the experts:

1. SKILLED LABOR SHORTAGE WILL CONTINUE TO PLAGUE CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES The most commonly mentioned trend for 2016 was the continued effects of the skilled worker shortage. A significant portion of employees who left the industry during the recession never returned, and companies are still struggling to find workers at all levels to properly staff their teams.

“The overwhelming, number one issue is access to skilled labor,” Dominic Thasarathar, Autodesk’s senior industry program manager for construction and natural resources, told Construction Dive. “So many people left the industry or were laid off, and now there’s a real struggle to find the right people to staff the projects that are now coming online.”

The labor crisis is not a new issue, and most experts predict it will continue well into 2016 and beyond, as the talent deficit will require multiple years to fill up again.

“Not only has the construction industry struggled to appeal to a younger, more technologically savvy workforce, but during

the economic downturn, many companies opted not to bring in younger, newer talent,” said Tom Menk, an assurance partner with BDO’s national real estate and construction practice. “Now, that’s causing struggles to fill that gap in the workforce, which is coupled with the need across industries for companies to replace retiring baby boomers.”

Another significant concern: The slowdown in immigration has contributed to the already existing labor shortage, as reports have found many workers who returned to Mexico during the recession have not come back to the U.S. due to increased immigration controls and more job opportunities in Mexico.

“I think politically, the environment against immigration has changed some of the workforce dynamics and made it difficult to staff a lot of the trades,” LaRosa said. “I think that trend continues.

I don’t see that easing anytime in the next two to three years.”

2. PREFAB/OFFSITE CONSTRUCTION METHODS WILL BECOME MORE POPULAR Offsite — also known as modular or prefabricated — construction has been gaining ground as an alternative building method that offers the benefits of reduced construction time, less waste and possible cost savings. As companies struggle to staff job sites and stick to difficult schedules, many have started to turn to prefab as an option that offers more certainty.

“A lot of use of things like prefabrication, we expect that to be an accelerating trend next year,” Thasarathar said.

Ron Antevy, president and CEO of e-Builder, told Construction Dive he has seen a growing use of prefab methods, especially in the healthcare sector. “(Prefab) is up-and-coming.

That’s a way to save costs and speed up the time,” he said. “Some of the larger owners out there are starting to realize there are efficiencies there, but you have to be doing a certain amount of volume for these kinds of strategies to pay off.”

Wider implementation of offsite construction has been somewhat hindered by the design and construction culture, according to

experts at the Offsite Construction Expo in September. They also cited the change in the traditional building process that comes with offsite methods as a deterrent for implementing the approach, as contractors and owners struggle to adapt to the varied timeline of decisions and building. Still, the additional certainty that comes with prefab could catalyze the growing trend in 2016.

3. CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES WILL BE MORE CAUTIOUS ABOUT PROJECT SELECTION The crippling recession and lingering labor shortage have spurred another trend among construction industry decision makers: Many are now being more cautious about the amount of new work they can handle, and about growing their companies. “(Companies) are not going to overeat. They’re only taking the work they can handle,” Chris Kennedy, vice president of Suffolk Construction, told Construction Dive. “It’s different from the last boom, when people were signing up for work. Everybody still has those recent wounds.

They’re going to be a lot more cautious about growing a firm bigger than they can handle.”

The labor shortage has left employers at all levels forced to take a closer look at the number and size of projects they can handle at once.

“We as general contractors have become a lot more selective of the projects we pursue,” Chuck Taylor, director of operations for Englewood Construction, told Construction Dive. “I think the subcontractors are going to be in a very similar position.”

4. BIM WILL BECOME A NECESSITY, AND OWNER INTEREST IN THE TECHNOLOGY WILL GROW Building Information Modeling has been a growing trend for years, as it is no longer relegated to just the largest firms. Experts have said BIM provides tangible business benefits, no matter the level of implementation. Many have cited BIM’s ability to provide more consistent, more accurate and less time-consuming project document generation. In addition, BIM users can expect better collaboration and coordi-

nation among the different parties involved in a project, according to industry users.

“It used to be a nice thing to have, and now it’s a necessity,” LaRosa said.

Jay Dacey, president of Integrated Builders, added, “In the bigger jobs, BIM is pretty much a staple right now.”

Antevy said he has seen owner interest in BIM grow, as many are now requiring their contractors to utilize the technology.

“The owners have been hands-off as it relates to BIM. It has been for the contractors and designers, so we’re seeing owners start to get more interested in that,” he said. “They’re interested because there’s data there that they can capture and capitalize on.”

5. GREEN BUILDING WILL GROW IN COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL SECTORS Commercial construction has typically led the pack in green adoption, but the residential sector is starting to catch up. The growing trend in both sectors is driven not just by a desire to produce environmentally friendly structures, but by consumer demand, higher-quality results and lifecycle cost savings, according to experts at Greenbuild 2015.

Thasarathar said that with larger construction projects, companies are aiming for LEED certification, “even if it’s not prescribed.”

Dacey added that although developments outside of city centers tend to not prioritize LEED as much, “almost every building design incorporates green principles.” He said he expects green building and LEED certification to continue growing in the coming years.

In the residential sector, green building currently accounts for 26-33% of the total residential market and has helped contribute to the industry’s recovery after the recession, according to Dodge Data & Analytics.

“I do think (green building) is a growing trend in response to demand,” Robert Dietz, an economist with the National Association of Home Builders, told Construction Dive. He pointed to the aging in place movement as a driving force for that demand, as baby

boomers are remodeling their current homes and seeking out ways to increase energy efficiency and reduce utility bills.

6. JOBSITE ACCIDENTS AND CRIMINAL INDICTMENTS ON THE RISE Last year, authorities across the U.S. pumped up efforts to seek out contractor misconduct and dish out severe punishment, including criminal charges, for violations and offenses from worker safety issues to corruption. Manhattan even launched the Construction Fraud Task Force in August to investigate “wrongdoing and unsafe practices” in construction, including fraud, bribery, extortion, money laundering, bid rigging, larceny and safety violations. A New York Times report in November also found that construction worker deaths are on the rise in New York City, and safety measures were inadequate on many of the construction sites where deaths occurred and that immigrantsrepresented a disproportionate percentage of those killed.

Experts predict this heightened focus on industry wrongdoing will continue into 2016, especially as OSHA will increase its fines this year for the first time since 1990.

Raymond T. Mellon, a senior partner at Zetlin & De Chiara, said he believes construction accidents will increase in New York City this year due to “a dilution of the trained and experienced work force as a result of the continuing red hot construction market.” He added, “This will lead to more entry level, unseasoned construction workers not appropriately trained as to the work itself, as well as safety features, on worksites. Combine this with the entry of ‘novice developers’ who have a tendency to cut corners, and you have the potential for more accidents.”

David Pfeffer, chair of the Construction Practice Group at

Tarter Krinsky & Drogin, said he predicts there will be more criminal indictments in 2016 because officials “want to make an example.” He added that although indictments this year with be the result of past practices, he believes the influx of cases will “help in the long-term future. It definitely has an effect... We have a very good construction industry here. They do listen. The bad contractors generally don’t stick around.”

7. BOOMING MULTIFAMILY SECTOR WILL SLOW DOWN AS SINGLE-FAMILY SECTOR PICKS UP STEAM Industry analysts have largely agreed that the multifamily sector’s hot streak willinevitably cool down, and that slowdown will likely occur in 2016. On the positive side, the single-family sector is expected to pick up steam and see a strong year. In its 2016 Construction Outlook, Dodge Data predicted single-family construction will see a 20% increase in starts this year, while multifamily is expected to post a 7% gain after several years of double-digit increases.

“I expect the homebuilding sector will continue to show improvement. If anything happens on the multifamily side, I think it will probably level off. The upward slope for multifamily won’t be as strong as for single-family,” Alex Carrick, CMD’s chief economist, told Construction Dive.

Still, single-family housing has a long way to go to return to pre-recession, “normal” levels.

During a webinar in November, NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe said single-family construction is currently 53% back to what is considered “normal” levels, and should be 91% of the way there by the end of 2017.

Multifamily, on the other hand, is already significantly higher than “normal” levels, currently 32% above the mark. Crowe said the multifamily sector is expected to

F PROPERTY, 10

INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

EDGEDAVAO EVENT

All aboard the fun ship VDFS THE SUMMER TRAVEL SEASON IN DAVAO JUST GOT HOTTER with the official launch of Visit Davao Fun Sale (VDFS) 2016. Now on its second year, the VDFS brings together Davao Region’s tourism players; from malls, hotels, restaurants, airlines, tour operators, artists, and local government units; for a two-month long travel sale, offering discounts on hotel rooms, plane tickets, and tours.

Organised by the Department of Tourism XI, the launch party happened onboard the Venue Party Boat which took guests on a sunset cruise in the middle of Davao Gulf. In attendance were the energetic members of Durianburg’s travel and tour community, the dynamic committee heads and members of the VDFS working groups, the various tourism officers of the local governments involved, airline representatives, as well as members of the local press. Also in

attendance was the Malaysian familiarisation tour group organised by Air Asia.

The party formally kicked off after a touch-

ing welcome statement by DOT XI regional director Roberto “Robby” Alabado III who formally announced the cancellation of the Mt. Apo Boulderface Challenge due to the fires that recently hit the mountain. “But instead of sitting back, the VDFS committee has decided to make a stand by turning the Samal Half-Marathon into a fund-raising event.” said Robby, “We all know the ones fighting the fires on Mt. Apo need help and supplies and all the pro-

ceeds of the Samal HalfMarathon will go to the purchasing of much-needed supplies to help our national treasure.”

After a quick dinner, the launch party shifted into high gear with new wave and disco favourites spun by the Venue Party Boat’s resident DJ with everyone hitting the dance floor of the boat with smiles and gusto, showing that Davao Region’s tourism players are all onboard to give travellers more fun this 2016.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

UP AND ABOUT

MX3 says ‘Ni Hao Taiwan’ THE QUIET CITY OF TAICHUNG IN TAIWAN WAS RECENT STOP OF THE MX3 TEAM together with top FM station as it embarked on MOR Live in Taiwan.

Taichung is an industrial city about 2 hours away from Taichung. The charming city has a rich cultural influences amidst the contrast of busy factories and the towering skyscrapers.

MX3 partnered with MOR to bring a sense of home to our Kapamilyas in Taiwan. Proud of its beginnings in the Philippines, MX3 is happy to be with our fellow country-

men as the trusted brand in natural supplement is currently treading on going global.

The weather was gloomy and it was raining but all of these were transformed

into burst of laughter and cheers as people packed the TADA to meet Enchong Dee and Morisette Amon. The powerful voice

of Morisette filled the theater with wonderful renditions of Filipino songs; it certainly felt like home.

This was followed by the

energizing game “MX3 Hooray”. Almost everyone wanted to participate in the game. Contestants in their eye catching MX3 shirts showcased their agility and quick mindedness as the game was played. The hosts DJ Cha Cha and DJ Jai-ho made it all more fun. The segment was a joy to watch on stage.

The smiles of the audiences exuded with happiness even their eyes reflect the emotion. Winners were given gift packs with generous amounts of MX3 Products. Enchong Dee brought the house down with his singing and dancing. The audiences, which were mostly composed of the young group, could not hold in their shrieks

and the applauses were thunderous.

Whether in the Philippines or in other countries elsewhere, MX3 is generous in sharing their products in order to allow more people to savor the goodness of natural products that are packed with alpha, beta and gamma mangostin. These are necessary anti oxidants to keep our immune system up and running and on guard against diseases.

For indeed a grateful heart is a joyful heart, we are just glad to give back to our patrons the love and support that they have given our products throughout these years.

MX3 salutes our modern day heroes, our OFWs.

Marco Polo Davao features The Sapphire Road

MARCO POLO DAVAO, TOGETHER WITH ITS SISTER PROPERTIES IN THE PHILIPPINES, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila and Marco Polo Plaza Cebu; is holding a cross-property promotion highlighting their respective signature drinks, dishes and their city’s featured fruit. The cross-promotion aims to invite guests and tourists to explore, discover and experience the distinct fruity flavors of Marco Polo Hotels ’cocktails in the Philippines.

For this month’s culinary highlights, Marco Polo Davao will feature The Sapphire Road,

the signature drink of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila named that is named after its locale. This drink is a refreshing mixture of brandy, calamansi, mint leaves, Palawan honey, and beer, strained into a glass filled with crushed ice and calamansi spiral.

“Marco Polo Davao is featuring The Sapphire Road in all of our dining outlets for the entire month of April. We are inviting Davaoeños and our guests to taste Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s famous signature drink which is best enjoyed during this hot summer month, says Dottie Würgler-Cronin, General Manager of Marco Polo Davao.

HEY MOMS AND DADS! All roads lead to Baby Company’s April Baby Sale! Enjoy up to 50% off on your favorite brands like Nuby, Enfant, Playsmart, Giant Carrier and many more! Plus, get a free Pet Pal Popup Storage Seat for a minimum single receipt purchase of only P3,000 exclusive to Mom Card Members! So hurry and shop at Baby Company for great deals and big savings now until May 1, 2016. Use you Mom Card to earn points when shopping!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

GMA Network champions education Wynwyn Marquez on ‘Tunay na Buhay’

GMA NETWORK AFFIRMED ITS COMMITMENT TO FOSTERING A CULTURE OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE along with its partner institutions at the signing of a memorandum of agreement for the GMA Network Excellence Award held at the GMA Network Center last March 29.

The Network renewed ties with the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication, Don Bosco Technical College, Angeles University Foundation, YesPinoy Foundation, and Airfreight 2100, Inc. Present at the contract signing were GMA Network Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, GMA Vice President for Corporate Communications Angela Javier Cruz, GMA Assistant Vice President for Corporate Affairs Teresa Pacis, UP College of Mass Communication Foundation, Inc. President and Dean of the UP College of Mass Communication Dr. Elena Pernia, Institutional Affairs Director and Vice Rector of Don Bosco Technical College Fr. Demetrio Carmona, Angeles University Foundation President Dr. Joseph El Angeles, YesPinoy Foundation Chairman Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III, Airfreight 2100, Inc. President Rudy Fulo and GMA Network Excellence Award lead advocate Benjamin Alves.

“In GMA Network, we are driven by our passion for excellence,” says Gozon. “This is one of our core values which I strongly believe is an important attribute that we continue to impart to future generations and potential media practitioners through the GMA Network Excellence Award.”

With the Excellence Award, GMA endeavors to promote excellence as a way of life. “We encourage the students to make excellence a habit – to excel, lead, and get the very best out of their lives,” says GMA Manager for Corporate Relations Unis M. Loleng.

THIS WEDNESDAY, Kapuso young actress Wynwyn Marquez shares her life story on Tunay na Buhay.

YesPinoy Foundation Chairman Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III, UP College of Mass Communication Foundation, Inc. President and Dean of the UP College of Mass Communication Dr. Elena Pernia, GMA Network Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, Institutional Affairs Director and Vice Rector of Don Bosco Technical College Fr. Demetrio Carmona, Angeles University Foundation President Dr. Joseph El Angeles, and GMA Network Excellence Award lead advocate Benjamin Alves.

GMA Network Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon is flanked by Kapuso Primetime King and YesPinoy Foundation Chairman Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III and Angeles University Foundation President Dr. Joseph El Angeles at the signing of the memorandum of agreement.

Furthermore, GMA’s lead advocate for this project, Kapuso actor Benjamin Alves, who graduated summa cum laude with a degree in English Literature from the University of Guam, has been actively promoting the Excellence Award in various universities.

He is looking forward to reaching more students through campus visits, as well as through the search proper. “That’s what I’m really excited about – to reach this generation’s future writers and, hopefully, future employees of GMA as well. I’m looking forward to our applicants, their interviews, and their very unique stories,” says Alves.

Now on its 15th year, the GMA Network Excellence Award lauds outstanding graduating students who have shown exemplary leadership, stellar academic performance, and proactive

As the daughter of celebrity-politicians Joey Marquez and Alma Moreno, Wynwyn would soon make her own name in showbiz industry as an effective antagonist and a graceful dancer. She also tried her luck in beauty pageant and was one of the sought-after candidates during last year’s Binibining Pilipinas.

Together with Rhea Santos, discover more about Wynwyn Marquez this Wednesday in New York Festivals’ Gold World Medal Awardee Tunay na Buhay, after Saksi on GMA.

social responsibility.

The Network has since conferred the Excellence Award to a total of 39 graduates from UP Diliman, UP Cebu, UP Mindanao, Don Bosco Technical School, and Angeles University Foundation.

This year’s search is open to any bona fide Filipino graduating student for the school year 2015-2016 taking up Mass Communication, Multimedia Arts, Advertising, Electronics and Communication Engineering, or any equivalent course. The aspirant must be graduating with honors and active in socio-civic activities.

The Awardee will receive P50,000 and a plaque, while six finalists will each receive P5,000 and a plaque.

For more details on the GMA Network Excellence Award, visit the website www.gmanetwork. com/ExcellenceAward.

Is Alden Richards opening a restaurant?

IT SEEMS LIKE KAPUSO ACTOR ALDEN RICHARDS IS PREPARING FOR HIS FUTURE as early as now. The Pambansang Bae posted a sneak peek of his new business venture in Tagaytay on Facebook today, April 3.

Concha’s Garden Café is a garden restaurant that offers excellent and delicious Filipino dishes, one of their signature

dishes is Spicy Adobo.

It was founded

by Gemma EscuetaSembrano, an insurance agent from Biñan, Laguna.

Gemma inherited her cooking skills from her lola whose maiden name is Concha.

The restaurant’s official Facebook page already started its countdown to the opening of Alden’s new restaurant last Friday, April 1.

Someone’s excited to open his own business.

April 1 – 5, 2016

BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill PG

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BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE 3D Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill PG

12:00 | 3:00 | 6:00 | 9:00 LFS

LONDON HAS FALLEN/ *KUNG FU PANDA 3 Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman/ *Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman R13/*G

11:30 | 1:40 | 3:50 LFS / * 6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS

BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill PG

11:00 | 2:00 | 5:00 | 8:00 LFS

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

EVENT

Tales over tipple

By Kenneth Irving Ong THE WATERFRONT INSULAR HOTEL DAVAO OPENS THE SECOND QUARTER OF THE YEAR with an intimate social affair last April 1 at the vinta bar. A truly intimate affair, clients and partners of hotel were invited to sit back, relax, and shake off the work week over some wine, cocktails and the music of the 80’s as the hotel hosts their first GM’s Cocktail Night dubbed Cocktails and Conversations.

The evening also saw the introduction of a new set of food and beverage items for the second quarter masterfully done by Executive Chef Victor Barangan together with WIHD’s new Food & Beverage Manager, Ronald Labtang. The new dishes feature flavours of the islands such as Boracay’s Chori Burger, Salmon Ceviche,

and Chicken Cheese Empanada as well as a wide selection of wines and cocktails including famed Davao Punch - a combination of vodka, blended pomelo juice, guava juice and pomelo pulp garnished with Calachuchi flower.

Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao’s General Manager, Brian Lasala sees the social function as a way to strengthen relationships and promote camaraderie among friends and partners in the media, business, and conventions and events sector.

DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 13

‘Nat’l ID System’ pushed to combat money laundering V ALENZUELA City Rep. Win Gatchalian, one of the senatorial candidates of the Partido Galing at Puso (PGP) of presidential frontrunner Grace Poe and leading vice presidential bet Francise ‘Chiz’ Escudero, is in favor of having a national identification system.

Gatchalian, a member of the Nationalist Peoples Coalition (NPC) which endorsed the Poe-Escudero tandem, said the national ID system is an important tool to combat money laundering in the banking system and improve delivery of services by the government.

Gatchalian maintained that having strict bank practices, such as the know-yourclient rule, coupled with a biometrics-based national ID system, could be used as an additional safeguard to prevent money laundering in banks and other financial institutions.

“A national ID system which is biometrics-based would prevent money launderers from creating fictitious bank accounts as what had happened to the case of the recent USD81-million money laundering case involving the Jupiter branch of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp,” Gatchalian said.

Although the Commission

on Elections (Comelec) has adopted a biometrics-based ID system, the country has yet to institutionalize a national ID system which has been endorsed by the Philippine National Police (PNP) as an effective tool against organized crime groups such as drug syndicates, kidnap-for-ransom gangs and bank robbery syndicates.

Human rights advocates and militant groups have been opposing a national ID system for fear that such scheme would violate a citizen’s right to privacy and would be prone to abuse by the state.

Gatchalian said what he has in mind is a “personal reference number” or PRN that will be generated by the Philippine Statistics Authority for every individual registered in the National Database System (NDS) which will be created under a proposed bill that he will immediately file if he wins a Senate seat.

“My proposed bill seeks to establish a modern, comprehensive and secure national data base system that will streamline the process of obtaining common official documents and facilitate succeeding transactions of the public while keeping the integrity of government records or documents and promoting good governance,” explained

Gatchalian.

Gatchalian pointed out that his proposed measure aims to minimize, if not entirely to do away, with the need to travel and go to different offices every time one needs to obtain a copy of certain government document or record.

“The advantages of the NDS include having a reliable identification reference system of citizens and other individuals residing in the Philippines and enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of government agencies in the management and delivery of services,” said the Valenzuela City lawmaker.

Among the agencies prioritised for inclusion in the NDS are the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA); Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (Philhealth); Home Development Mutual Fund or PagIBIG Fund (PagIBIG); Social Security System (SSS); Government Service Insurance System (GSIS); National Bureau of Investigation (NBI); Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the Office of Consular Affairs of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

Gatchalian said the unique PRN will be the primary key identifier of each individual registered in the NDS, which will be under the National Database Administration. (PNA)

14 CLASSIFIEDS

EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO GENSAN PARTNERS Serving a seamless society

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

I LAST DANCE WITH BOSTON Celtics survive Kobe’s 34 points, beat Lakers to clinch playoff berth

SPORTS 15

SAIAH Thomas scored 26 points and the Boston Celtics clinched a playoff berth while besting Kobe Bryant for the final time with a 107-100 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday night (Monday, Manila time).

Jae Crowder added 22 points for the Celtics, who blew an early 17-point lead and survived a tense fourth quarter in their first game since snapping the Golden State Warriors’ NBA-record 54-game home winning streak.

Bryant scored 34 points in his final showdown with the Lakers’ historic rivals, putting up the second highest-scoring performance of his farewell season.

FINAL MATCH WITH BOSTON. Retiring Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant makes his move against Boston’s Evan Tuner.

AP

He hit a jumper with 56 seconds left, and Julius Randle’s three-point play moments later trimmed Boston’s lead to four points. But Bryant missed two late jumpers, and the Celtics secured their eighth playoff berth in nine years.

Randle had 20 points and 10 rebounds, and Jordan Clarkson added 17 points in the Western Conference-worst Lakers’ 60th loss of the season.

Evan Turner scored eight of his 17 points in the fourth quarter, while Amir Johnson had 10 points and 13 rebounds for the Celtics. They also moved a half-game ahead of Miami and Charlotte for fourth place in the tight Eastern Conference standings.

Tab on leave, but practices continue for Gilas

G

ILAS Pilipinas coach Tab Baldwin is headed to Florida to attend to family matters but team practice will go on as scheduled on Monday.

Baldwin tweeted on Saturday he will leave for Florida to be with his brother Terry, not providing much detail but asking his followers for prayers.

“Heading to Florida to be by my brother’s side. Prayers please #ForTerry,” wrote Bald-

win on his @iHob1111 Twitter account.

Gilas Pilipinas team manager Butch Antonio said Baldwin didn’t state when he will return, but the training schedule will be followed.

“It’s a family emergency,” Antonio said. “No specific date given when (will) he comes back.”

The team is preparing for the Fiba Olympic Qualifying Tournament in July.

Volume puncher Pacquaio Alert up in Koronadal City for 2016 PRISAA national games can do well in Olympics

P

OLICE have tightened security here in connection with its hosting of the 2016 Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) National Games that will formally open on Sunday.

Supt. Barney Condes, city police chief, said they have placed all their units under heightened alert to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the games, which will be participated in by around 4,000 athletes from the country’s 17 regions.

He said they have assigned police teams to secure the billeting quarters of the regional delegates as well as the identified playing venues.

The city police has also established assistance centers to properly attend to the needs of the athletes and other delegates, he said.

“All security arrangements are now in place based on the

comprehensive security plan that we prepared,” Condes said.

Aside from city police personnel, he said the security operations will be backed by elements from the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion and Lambat-Sibat volunteers of various barangays.

The PRISAA national meet, which is the biggest sports event of private schools, colleges and universities in the country, is scheduled from April 2 to 9 at the provincial South Cotabato Sports Complex here.

Tony Aguilar, city sports coordinator, said the event will formally open with a parade of the regional delegations along Alunan Avenue here at 4 p.m. on Sunday.

He said the opening program will follow at the provincial sports complex that will be highlighted by cultural performances and a grand fireworks

display.

The official said the city government will also host a “Mayor’s Night” for the participating delegations.

As to their preparations, Aguilar said all activities and necessary preparations assigned to the city government have already been set.

He specifically cited the preparation of the billeting quarters and playing venues as well as the provision of bed rolls for the participants.

As of Saturday morning, he said all but two regional delegations have already arrived and settled into their assigned billeting areas.

“So far, so good. We’re all excited and waiting for the start of the games,” he told reporters.

Aguilar said most of the major games and activities, which will start on April 3, Monday, will be held at the

sports complex and the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center.

He said the baseball and softball events will be held at the city’s sports grounds in Barangay San Roque here.

In line with the event, the city government has opened a trade fair at the old city hall compound here.

The provincial government has also prepared bazaars, souvenir shops and entertainment at the South Cotabato Productivity and Technology Center (Protech).

The Protech Center management said exhibits, processed food and products, arts and crafts, refreshments and other souvenir items will be available at the bazaar area.

It said photo booths and carnival rides will also be installed and will be open to everyone from April 1 to 10.

(PNA)

Monday after the Tar Heels downed Syracuse in Saturday’s other semi-final.

The presence of US Vice-President Joe Biden, a noted Syracuse alumni, was not enough to inspire the Orange as North Carolina advanced 83-66.

The cavernous retractable-roofed home of the NFL’s Houston Texans is host to the final stages of the hugely popular 68-team National Collegiate Athletic Association tournament known as March Madness.

The tournament was still in the offing when Oklahoma

notched a 23-point early season victory over Villanova in December.

But the Wildcats, now back in the final for the first time since they beat Georgetown for the title in 1985, avenged that defeat when it counted.

Not only were the Sooners unable to get defensive stops, they shot just 32 percent from the floor.

Villanova held national player of the year Hield, a surefire first-round pick in the next NBA draft -- to nine points on four-of-12 shooting, including one-of-eight

from three-point range.

Hield, in the last year of his college career, entered the contest averaging 25.4 points this season. He had scored 25 or more points in 18 games with a high of 46.

Oklahoma coach Lon Kruger said the one-sided nature of his team’s defeat had hurt.

“It becomes embarrassing right there,” Kruger said.

“You know, we lost our composure there obviously and things came apart. You never like handling things like that.

We’d liked to have handled their run a little bit better.”

Villanova enters NCAA Finals with record rout of Oklahoma

T

HE Villanova Wildcats turned the tables on the Oklahoma Sooners and Bahamian star Buddy Hield with an historic 91-51 rout to reach the prestigious US collegiate basketball championship game.

Guard Josh Hart scored 23 points and the Wildcats connected on 71 percent of their shots as Villanova won by the biggest margin of victory in the history of the national tournament semi-finals dubbed the “Final Four.”

Villanova will the University of North Carolina in the title game at NRG Stadium on

A

FORMER world champion and Olympic medalist sees Manny Pacquiao capable of being a hit in the Summer Games.

Regilio Benito Tuur said the boxing great from General Santos City can easily adapt to Olympic-style boxing if ever professionals are finally allowed to compete in the quadrennial event, starting in Rio De Janeiro this July.

“Manny is a pro, but he punches as an amateur,” said the 48-year-old Tuur, a native of The Netherlands but is now based in New York during his first ever visittot the Wild Card gym here on Friday (Saturday, Manila time) to personally see Pacquiao train under good friend Freddie Roach.

“That’s why for Manny, he would do well (in the Olympics).”

Referred to as ‘Turbo Tuur’ for his fast moves inside the ring,

the Dutchman won a silver medal in the 1988 Seoul Olympics, losing to Daniel Dumitrrescu in the featherweight final.

He later won the World Boxing Organization (WBO) super-featherweight title by beating American Eugene Speed in 1994.

Just like in the amateur ranks, Tuur said pros start fighting in four-round bouts, sometimes even three rounders.

“The only difference is that as an amateur, you have to throw a lot of punches. As a pro, we don’t do that, but Manny does.”

Tuur was having animated talks with Pacquiao while the Filipino boxing legend was doing shadow boxing inside the ring.

“You’re next man (in the Olympics), “ Tuur told Pacquiao, to which the Pacman replied in jest, “They didn’t want me (national team). I’m not good for the Olympics.”

four wins shy of passing the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls for the best regular season record in NBA history.

The Blazers (41-37) snapped a four-game winning streak with the loss, but remain just a half game behind the Memphis Grizzlies for the fifth seed in the Western Conference after Memphis lost in Orlando on Sunday.

a half away from catching Sidney Wicks and cracking the top 10 on the scoring list.

Warriors... FROM 16

Passing Mighty Mouse Lillard continued his season-long climb up the Blazers scoring record books, passing Damon Stoudamire (6,745) to move into 12th on the franchise’s all-time scoring list. Lillard now has 6,771 points in his career. He will finish the season alone in 12th, but should pass Kevin Duckworth early next season. Lillard is likely a season and

Hitting 1,000 The Warriors became the first team in NBA history to make 1,000 three-pointers in a season when Curry connected on a top of the key triple in the second quarter. Golden State hit 18 threes to give them 1,013 on the season. The Blazers have the second most three-pointers in the league with 817.

Next up The Blazers have Monday off before their final road game of the regular season against the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday. Portland wraps up a four games in five nights stretch at home against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

WIN NO. 69 Warriors stretch record to 69 wins this season D AMIAN Lillard did everything he could and it still wasn’t enough.

The Portland Trail Blazers went into Oracle Arena on Sunday night, facing a Warriors team coming off its first home loss in 54 regular season games and came up short despite a huge night from their star point guard.

For most of three quarters, Portland had the defending champions on the ropes, answering Stephen Curry haymakers and threatening to hand Golden State an unthinkable second consecutive home loss.

The Warriors showed why they are closing in on the best record in NBA history late in the third quarter, turning a few minutes of subpar execution from the Blazers into a 136-111 blowout win.

Lillard matched Curry nearly shot for shot in a back and fourth third quarter duel. Each time Curry splashed a deep three-point-

er, Lillard seemingly had an answer, either putting his head down and getting to the rim or adding a deep jumper of his own.

But when the Blazers’ point guard went to the bench for a short rest to close the quarter the Warriors pulled away. Golden State outscored Portland 12-4 in the final 2:44 of the third quarter, turning a fourpoint game into a 101-89 lead heading into the fourth.

That stretched illustrated how slim the margin for error is for opponents in Oakland. Three minutes of lackluster basketball turned a manageable deficit into an insurmountable one. The Warriors have now won 101 consecutive games when they have held a 15-point lead at any point during a game. When Warriors forward Harrison Barnes connected on a three-pointer early in the fourth to put the Warriors up 106-91 he had all but sealed the Blazers’

fate with 1 0 minutes left in the game.

Lillard finished with 38 points and four assists, just shy of Curry’s 39-point, seven-assist effort. But the Warriors also got big games from Draymond Green (22 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists) and Klay Thompson (21 points) while Lillard’s supporting cast wasn’t as sharp.

CJ McCollum finished with 18 points on just 6-for14 from the floor and Moe Harkless added 15 points, but scored just six points after an explosive first quarter.

The Warriors are now

F WARRIORS, 15

VOL. 9 ISSUE 23 • TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016 WIN NO. 69. The Golden State Warriors are now the 4th team in NBA history to reach 69 wins in a single season. The Warriors beat the Portland Trail Blazers 136-111. Stephen Curry: 39 Pts, 7 Ast, 6 Reb.