Edge Davao 9 Issue 33

VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

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RAGING INFERNO AT THE

COUNTRY’S PEAK

2 COVER STORY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

RAGING INFERNO AT THE

COUNTRY’S PEAK

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

FROM THE PEAK. A portion of the country’s highest peak, Mt. Apo, shows that the fire started near the peak and cascaded down as shown by the dark patches in this photo taken yesterday by freelance photographer Tomas Inigo Jr.

A

T 2,954 meters above sea level, Mt, Apo towers majestically as the country’s highest peak.

Name any natural wonders in the country and Mt. Apo surely comes among the most prominent.

pahutan (Mangifera altissima), Shorea sp. like almon, mayapis, malaanonang, narig, and guijo.

According to Mt. Apo Natural Park - Biodiversity Management Bureau, the mountain is identified as one of the key biodiversity areas of the country.

cultural and medicinal importance. Most species are used for construction either light or heavy, these include Shorea sp. Like lauaan, guijo, apitong, and Bambusa sp. like buho and bagakay; as fibers like wild abaka (Musa sp.), for baskets and containers (rattan and pandan), food for wildlife like balite (Ficus sp.), kalingag (Cinnamommum mercadoii and mindanensis), ulayan (Lithocarpus sp.) etc; and other medicinal plants like wild betel nut (Areco caliso), saging bundok (Musa balbasiana), kalingag, hagimit (Ficus sp.), hamindang (Macaranga bicolor).

Previous studies have identified 272 species of birds, 40 percent of these or 111 are endemic to Mt. Apo. Of all species recorded, two are in the critical list such as Philippine Eagle (Pthecophaga jefferyi) and abukay (Cacatua heamatopygia).

There are 10 endangered species among these are: Mindanao scoops owl (Otus mirus), lesser eagle owl (Bobu philippensis), Mindanao lorikeet (Tricoglosus johnstoniae) and whritted hornbill (Aceros leucocephalus).

Also there ae 20 vulnerable and 20 are near threatened. 96 species were identified to have both cultural and economic importance to near-

FLORA AND FAUNA There are 37 species considered to have economic,

The mountain is identified as one of the key biodiversity areas of the country.

RICH BIODIVERSITY There are 800 estimated vascular and non vascular plant species found in Mt. Apo. Among Mt. Apo’s endemics collected between 300 masl and 1000 masl are members of the genera Pipturus, Sauravia and Poikilospermum.

Humalanthus populneus, Elephantopus spicatus, Piper apoanum and Vanda sanderiana maybe extinct in the wild.

Endemic at the mid altitudes include Agathis philippensis, Lithocarpus submonticolus (endangered), and Peperonia elmeri (endangered).

Upper montane endemics are Cypholopus microphyllus and Nepenthus copelandi.

Actual resource inventory collected data on five representative habitats indicated a total of 126 floral species recorded, 50 are considered endemic to Mt. Apo or the Mindanao Faunal Region. These are almaciga, almon, waling-waling,igem, kalantas,. mindanao kalingag, apo bubonan (Aglaia apoena) and other species; 18 species are considered to be at risk (e.g. waling-waling), kalantas including a rattan species (Plectocomia elmerii),

by communities or communities within it is the home of different species which includes the Philippine Eagle.

Mammalian diversity has a total of 53 species, 49 percent are endemic: tudaya giant rat (Bollimus bagobos), wild pig (Sus phillippinensis), tarsier (Tarsius syricta), (Acerodon jubatus); 3 are listed as threatened: tree shrew (Urogale Everetti), Acerodon jubatus, and Phil. Brown deer (Cervus marianus).

There were 26 found out to have economic and cultural values. Most are utilized for food as protein source, extracts from hoofs and toes are common remedy for stomachache, omens observed during rituals and farming practices and the dispersal of seeds as important ecological values.

CLIMBER’S ULTIMATE ADVENTURE No wonder, mountaineers and adventure seekers consider Mt. Apo as their ultimate destination because of its natural beauty. Thousands of climbers converge, especially during Holy Week and the whole Summer months just to experience the nature in Mt. Apo.

THE EL NINO EFFECT Due to the ill effects of dry spell in Mindanao, the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of Mt. Apo decided last February, to limit the trekking to Mt. Apo Natural Park during this year’s Holy Week to prevent forest fires from breaking out.

The PAMB members believed that fires can break out accidentally because of the garbage that can cause conflagration. This could be triggered by indiscriminately disposing cigarette butts or during cooking of campers.

For this year, only six entry points were opened to climb-

ers.

Authorities set a limitation of 1,000 climbers for all trails due to the on-going El Nino phenomenon and insufficient supply of water in Mt. Apo.

FOREST FIRES Despite the limitation set to prevent fire, the inevitable happened.

On March 26 which was Black Saturday, the fire ignited on the peak facing the Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur area.

39th Infantry BattalionCivil Military Operations (39th IB-CMO) commander Capt.

Ray Boy Ibanes said based on information from mountaineering group Kabalikat, the fire started in the summit near the Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur side and immediately spread going to Kidapawan City area.

The fire then spread to the North Cotabato side due to the strong wind going to northern area, he further explained.

He said the fire in the Kidapawan City area was put under control last March 27 around 9:45 p.m.

Ibanes said the Kidapawan City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (CDRRMC) immediately acted on the urgency by forming an Incident Command Post,

When the fire reached Sta. Cruz, the Davao Region Incident Management Team (IMT) was formed to manage the incident in the mountains.

Davao del Sur provincial disaster risk-reduction management officer Harry Camoro said many volunteers and other fire fighting units all over the region went to Barangay Kapatagan, Digos City to help the firemen of Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) 11 to suppress the fire.

Camoro, however, said the efforts on the ground were not enough that is why the help from Philippine Air Force (PAF) was needed.

On March 29, the PAF granted the request of the IMT by sending its Super Huey Helicopter to conduct aerial water suppression. The aircraft had conducted the pouring operations on a 600 liters bucket.

Days after, the fire was still not contained and this prompted IMT to use other recourse such as the pouring of crushed ice to the ground.

Camoro said the use of crushed ice was effective in suppressing the flame.

The IMT declared last April 11 that the fire was already controlled in some por-

smoke.

Jimenez said that last Thursday the fire was already manageable and the fire fighters now are just making the overhauling operations in the mountains.

“Our fire fighters now are checking all the portions of the mountain and they are suppressing the fire through the use of power spray,” he said.

For his part, DENR 11 assistant regional director Felix S. Alicer said there will be an assessment team to be sent on April 18 to determine the cost of damage and the cause.

Alicer is also asking the help of Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and PAF to conduct thermal mapping to see if there is still fire in some portions of Mt.Apo. “Their objective is to determine and map out the area on the extent of damage and to assess the affected area,” he said.

He said as of the moment, the damage portion of Mt. Apo is around 110 hectares.

IDENTIFYING THE POSSIBLE CULPRIT Alicer said after assessment, the BFP will investigate to find out the culprit that caused tha huge fire in Mt.

Camoro Jimenez Alicer which sent volunteers to tions of the mountain because Apo. make a fire line to prevent it to of the heavy rain pour last Some say the fire was spread.

April 9 and 10. caused by a camper that is yet Later on, the fire then BFP 11 spokesperson In- to be verified. spread going to the areas in spector Nestor Jimenez said For now, this majestic Davao del Sur. This fire existed that there were still portions of wonder needs some well-defor more than three weeks. the mountain which still have served respite.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

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4 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

BATANGAS SORTIE. Batangeños give leading presidential bet Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R.Duterte a rousing reception during his campaign sortie held at the Batangas Provincial Sports Center in Batangas City Thursday night. (Rody Duterte: The Real change photo)

DLPC: No blackout on E-day

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

HE Davao Light and Power Company Inc. (DLPC) assured the public that there will be no rotational blackout on election day.

DLPC executive vice president and chief operating officer Arturo M. Milan said his team has prepared a contingency plan to prevent any power outage during the May 9 national and local elections.

Milan denied information circulated over the social media that Davao City will have no sufficient power that might derail the conduct of election.

“We will exhaust all means

that power interruption on election day will not happen,” he said.

Since last year the DLPC made steps in finding other power sources that will supply the demand of the city especially on May 9, he said.

Milan said the DLPC will have an additional 50 mega watts (MW) contracted with Southern Philippines Power Corporation (SPPC) which is originally intended as backup supply for election day.

Aside from the additional contract, he said the DLPC also has standby generators

that can be used for additional supply.

He said even if one of the plants of their suppliers such as Therma South Inc. (TSI) will shut down on election day, the power supply in the city will still be sufficient.

“Kinahanglan lang gyud bantayan, although naay commitment ang mga planta (We should just monitor it, although the power plants are already committed),” he said.

“Pero, wala gyud tay mahimo kung mo-brownout kay igo lang man ta modawat (But, the DLPC cannot do anything if

there is really insufficiency of power supply because we just only receive what is given to us),” he added.

Milan said the rotational brownout will continue since the deficit is still an average of 100 Mega Watts (MW).

However, he said the power supply is projected to improve on April 21 once the unit of the TSI, which is currently offline, will be back online as scheduled.

Milan said starting May the additional power will come in to DLPC franchise with its

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DepEd reopens application for SHS Voucher Program

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HE Department of Education, through the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC), will be re-opening the application for the Senior High School (SHS) Voucher Program next week.

The voucher program is intended for completers of Grade 10 who would like to pursue SHS education this schoolyear in private schools, universities and colleges; local or state universities and colleges; and technical and vocational institutions.

It provides students with a subsidy that enables them to get a discount on the cost of tuition and other school fees for SHS. To date, more than 50,000 non-ESC (Education Service Contracting) private school grade 10 completers have been

awarded vouchers.

All public and private schools Grade 10 completers who are ESC grantees are automatically qualified voucher recipients. These students do not need to apply for vouchers.

All applications must be done strictly online by accessing PEAC’s Online Voucher Application Portal (OVAP) at http://ovap.deped.gov.ph Applications will be accepted from April 22 to May 6, 2016 only. The deadline is non-extendable. Results will be announced on or before May 20, 2016.

Concerns and queries regarding the ESC and SHS Voucher programs can be directed to gastpe@deped.gov.ph or to the DepEd Action Center at (02) 636-1663 or (02) 6331942.

DOLE-11 launches info strategy to boost advocacy vs child labor

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MINDANAO DEVELOPMENT. Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) director of Investment Promotion and Public Affairs Romeo Montenegro bares the efforts being undertaken by the government to help fuel the continued growth of Mindanao’s economy during the Philippine Chamber

of Commerce and Industry and MinDA’s Mindanao Policy Forum: Developing the agenda for an investment –Led inclusive growth at Grand Regal Hotel yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

HE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) here has launched Thursday a communication strategy that will push better advocacy against child labor and draw support from other stakeholders especially people at the community level.

The strategy called “HELP ME” will include the holding of orientation and information dissemination activities, social media and tri-media presence to address the low level of awareness in child labor and encourage support and involvement among stakeholders.

HELP ME, which is a compilation of messages and ma-

terials on child labor related laws, best practices of child labor free barangays, was created by DOLE-11 and will be implemented for a year targeting community members, barangay council down to the parents of child laborers. The plan was worked out during the communication and strategic planning of DOLE last April 6 and 7.

“HELP ME” stands for: H – for health services and medical assistance; E – for education and training; L – for livelihood opportunities to parents of child laborers; P – for prevention, protection and prosecution; M – for monitoring; and E – for evaluation.

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

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6 NEWS

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

‘Fire in Mt. Apo placed under control’- BFP

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IRE on the country’s highest peak, Mt. Apo, had not been completely put out as of Thursday evening but had been placed “under control,” an official said Friday.

In a press conference Friday at the office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-11, Bureau of Fire Protection-11 spokesperson Fire Insp. Nestor Jimenez said a reconnaissance on Friday morning saw no signs of active fire.

Jimenez, commander of the Mt. Apo fire Incident Management Team, said they might not need more ground volunteers and declare a “fire out” by next week.

He said the ground responders have been manually covering the minor smokes with soil since last week to prevent igniting another fire.

He said they saw smoke in

some areas last Wednesday but ground responders quickly put it out.

All areas were placed under control at 11:30 p.m. on Thursday, he added.

Jimenez said the rains on Friday and Saturday helped in subduing the remaining active fire heads.

“Had there been no rain, we would have been still on ground fighting the fire up to now on,” he said.

In his presentation, Rodrigo Narod Eco, researcher at the Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) of the Department of Science and Technology, showed aerial photos of the damaged parts of the mountain taken on April 7 and 15.

“There are no signs of active fire and it’s a good sign because aerial shots were complemented

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Comelec: Negative effects on ballot replacement for voters

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SENIOR official of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is apprehensive of the possible effects of allowing replacement ballots to voters on Election Day. With this, Commission Christian Robert Lim said that he did not agree with the provision of the amended General Instructions (GI) for BEIs, allowing replacement ballots but only if the ballot rejection was not the voters’ own doing.

“I’m against it kasi really on Election Day on the ground ‘yan hindi mo kayang each and every one makokontra mo ‘yan kaya sobrang delikado ‘yan,” he added.

According to Comelec Resolution No. 10088, “No replacement ballot shall be issued to a voter, whose ballot is rejected by the VCM, except if the rejection of the ballot is not due to the fault of the voter.

“I dont agree with that provision,” Lim said.

Asked if such ballot replacement might result in disenfranchisement, Lim said, “possible, hindi naman it will result.”

On the other hand, the poll body official said that he could not find in the law on the filing of frivolous complaint against a voter who would bring out voter receipts from the voting precincts.

“Wala ako mahanap e kaya nga disagree ako don, paano mo ipoprove na frivolus sya? he said.

Likewise, Lim was asked if the Comelec making another offense not provided under the statute and if it has the power to legislate, he said. “Basta ako hindi ko nahanap yun, wala sa Art. 6 ng Constitution, legislative power is in Congress.”

Lim added, “Basta legislative power is with the Congress, Sec. 1 of Art. 6 of the Constitution wala naman power ang Comelec magpromulgate ng batas. Basta tandaan nyo ito, (latin phrase), there is no crime when there is no law.”

Comelec Resolution No. 10088 also affirmed that filing of frivolous complaints, which shall be made under oath, concerning the voter receipts are considered also as election offense cases. (PNA)

ART SESSION. Local artists participate in an art session with Abreeza Mall marketing manager Ruby Ochoa as model during the opening of Visit Davao Art Fun Sale at Abreeza Corporate Center yesterday. Visit Davao Art

Fun Sale is a side event of this year’s Visit Davao Fun Sale, a program aims to boost Davao Region’s tourism industry. Lean Daval Jr.

Prices in ARMM island provinces rise due to closure of Malaysian border – official M ALAYSIA’S closure of its border with southern Philippines has caused a spike in prices of commodities in the island provinces of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, an official said.

Lawyer Laisa Alamia, ARMM regional executive secretary has expressed alarm on the plight of thousands of residents affected by the border closure as many of them are also facing the ill-effects of El Nino.

ARMM’s island provinces of

Tawi-Tawi, Basilan and Sulu are closer to Malaysia compared than to Cotabato City, seat of the regional government..

For example, a half-sack of rice costing only 650 pesos has price increased to 950 to 1,000 pesos at present in these areas.

Other goods, including fuel, have started to surge too, according to ground price monitoring reports.

Alamia said the Malaysian government closed its Sabah border this week in protest to the recent kidnapping of Malaysian nationals by the Abu

Sayyaf operating between the waters of Sabah and ARMM island- provinces in southern Philippines.

On April 2, bandits aboard a speedboat snatched four Malaysians from a ship off the east coast of Sabah and sped away towards Philippine waters.

The kidnap-for-ransom group has become notorious for kidnapping both foreign visitors and Filipino nationals in these areas.

For centuries, trade has flourished in the border between Sabah, Malaysia and

ARMM’s island provinces.

“There is an underground economy that we call smuggling, but for people there it’s the regular barter trading, there’s no taxes paid. They go to Sandakan, Sabah by boat and sell goods and the same time buy products at the lowest prices,” Alamia said.

“The ASG kidnapping activity is now a national issue that is why [ARMM] Governor Mujiv Hataman is currently in Manila to discuss about this Malacañang”, she added. (Ferdinandh Cabrera/MindaNews)

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103.9 FM (Radyo Kamagi) “Maayong Buntag Malitaños”, a radio program in Malita which promotes programs and services of its partner government agencies, Dir. Bellido explained the five (5) pillar programs of OWWA which are; social benefits, education & training assistance, workers welfare assis-

tance program, social services & family welfare services, and reintegration program.

The nature and functions of OWWA were likewise discussed

by Dir. Bellido. He also added that, per database, the municipality of Malita has around 544 OFWs who are members of OWWA. Of these number, 515

are landbased while 29 are seabased.

On the other hand, Mr. Carmelo T. Elaya, Welfare Case Officer, answered queries about the welfare cases handled by the office. He reported that, the Regional Welfare Office XI has provided various assistance to the OFW

Info program for OFWs up in Malita

N an effort to raise awareness on the various programs and services of OWWA, the Regional Welfare Office XI headed

by Regional Director Eduardo E. Bellido, visited the municipality of Malita last April 5, 2016 to promote its programs and services to OFWs and their families.

In an interview aired over

PRDP frontloads big-ticket infra projects in Mindanao

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SCRAMBLING TO SAVE. Desperate residents and traders scramble to save their belongings as huge fire continues eat up the fish ‘bagsakan’ in Pag-asa, Bankerohan on Thursday afternoon. Initial report by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) 11 stated that 500 houses and shanties were gutted by fire and two persons went missing. Lean Daval Jr.

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NVESTMENTS for big-ticket agricultural infrastructure projects from the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) have seen a surge in Mindanao.

As of March 2016, Mindanao has a total of 208 infrastructure subprojects mostly farm-to-market roads (FMRs), generated from various local government units (LGUs) amounting to P12.13 billion.

Of the figure, 117 are ongoing subprojects with a total cost of P6.06 billion and 91 are on the pipeline with a total cost of P6.07 billion.

“The Infrastructure development component (known as Intensified Building Up of Infrastructure and Logistics for Development or I-BUILD) has a total approved portfolio of P13.67 billion and Mindanao gets the biggest share with

Php6.06 billion (44%),” PRDP National Deputy Project Director Engr. Arnel De Mesa said during the second World Bank review mission in Davao City held this month.

Visayas got P2.18 billion (16%), South Luzon has P2.72 (20%), and North Luzon with P2.71 (20%).

The I-BUILD portfolio in Mindanao has increased by 30% from the last review of P9.91 billion in August 2015 to P12.87 billion in March 2016.

The total approved cost of the portfolio has also increased by 21% from P4.92 billion to P5.97 billion.

Region 11 cornered the biggest allocation with P2.76 billion (23%), Region 10 with P2.5 billion (21%), Region 12 has P2.15 billion (18%), Region 9 with P2.14 billion or (18%), Region 13 with P1.48

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EDGEDAVAO

7 ECONOMY

VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

Rice supply in DC still sufficient: NFA T

FAST FRIDAYS. John Erwin Añonuevo, owner of Annipie, walks reporters through the history and products of the company during this week’s Fast Fridays at the atrium of SM Lanang Premier. Lean Daval Jr.

OFs’cash remittances up 9.1% in Feb 2016

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EMITTANCES from overseas Filipinos (OFs) registered a 9.1 percent year-on-year growth in February 2015, highest since August 2015.

Data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Friday showed that cash inflows in the second month this year reached USD 2.11 billion, higher than month-ago’s USD 2.02 billion and year-ago’s USD 1.94 billion.

To date, cash remittances grew by 6.2 percent to USD 4.13 billion against year-ago’s USD 3.9 billion.

Remittances to the Philippines posted slower and even negative growth since the second half of last year due in part to decline of inflows from the Middle East following the drop of oil prices to record-low levels.

In a statement, BSP Deputy Governor and officer-in-charge Diwa Guinigundo traced the strong growth of cash remittances to inflows

from the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and Qatar.

Similarly, over-all remittances, which include in-kind transfers, “continued to draw strength from the steady rise in transfers from land-based OF workers with work contracts of one year or more, which reached USD 3.5 billion, as well as compensation of seabased workers and land-based workers with short-term contracts (excluding their expenditures abroad), which totaled USD 1 billion.”

Total remittances last February amounted to USD 2.33 billion, up nine percent yearon-year, bringing the two-year level to USD 4.57 billion, 6.1 percent higher compared to the USD 4.3 billion in end-February 2015.

The central bank has set a four percent full-year growth assumption for remittances this 2016. (PNA)

UCPB’s full-year 2015 net income hits P3.3B

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CPB posted a net income of P3.3 Bn in 2015, 5.1% higher than its 2014 income due to the robust growth of its consumer loans business, treasury-related non-interest income and the remarkable performance of its subsidiaries.

Total loans increased from P116.0 Bn to P127.7 Bn, resulting in overall loan growth of 10%. Consumer loans grew by 29% to P49.5 Bn while maintaining good loan quality.

This is reflected in the Bank’s overall Net Non-Performing Loan (NPL) ratio at 1.98%.

Consumer loan growth was supported by an increase in deposit of 8.4% to P239.1 Bn from year-ago levels. The Bank maintained a healthy 70:30 ratio in terms of its low-cost

and high-cost deposits which lowered its expenses by 3.7%.

There was a 6.5% growth in the Bank’s fee-based income to P1.0 Bn which was contributed by consumer loan, deposit and other product-related fees.

Trading income also grew by 16% from P174 Mn in 2014 to P201.9 Mn in 2015. Operating expenses remained relatively flat, with very minimal 0.3% increase from 2014.

UCPB subsidiaries posted an impressive growth in its net income. UCPB Savings Bank’s 2015 net income increased by 22.6% to P437.4 Mn while UCPB Leasing Finance Corporation’s net income also rose to P173.3 Mn from P149 Mn in 2014.

“We are very glad that we

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HE National Food Authority (NFA) assured Dabawenyos that Davao City has enough rice supply despite thousands of hectares of areas planted to rice in Davao region damaged by the long drought.

“We don’t have problems in rice inventory. In fact, we still have 560,000 bags of NFA rice which can last until November,” NFA- Davao City manager Virgilio B. Alerta told Edge Davao last Saturday.

Alerta said the city’s buffer stock of NFA rice was replenished last month with the arrival of shipment from Thailand and Vietnam.

He said the NFA-Davao City is releasing 50,000 NFA rice bags every month to 260

authorized NFA outlets in different barangays and public markets.

With only 10 to 15 percent market share, Alerta said, the NFA rice supply in the city is still sufficient. He said the price of NFA rice remains at P27 per kilo for regular milled and P32 for well-milled.

Alerta also said the 1,600 licensed commercial traders in the city have sufficient stock of commercial rice coming from Manila and Cebu.

“Rice supply from nearby rice-producing provinces in Mindanao is decreasing because of El Niño,” he added.

Department of Agriculture (DA) 11 regional director Remelyn Recoter said a total of

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IGaCoS circum road still biggest tourism project But new government might change plan: Alquiza

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HE circumferential road intended to circle around the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) remains the Davao Region’s biggest project leading to a tourist destination.

This was bared by Regional Director Mariano Alquiza of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Alquiza told business editors and reporters attending the Wednesdays at Habi at Kape media forum at Abrezza

Mall that the road falls under the so-called convergence project of the DPWH and the Department of Tourism (DOT) aimed at boosting the attractiveness of the island city as among the top tourist spots of the Philippines.

If no changes are made on the original plan, Alquiza said the circumferential road will cost a total of P4 billion, with construction done in phases starting with the first phase of the road costing P220 million in 2012. This was followed by

another P230 million in 2013, P300 million in 2014, P150 million in 2015 and finally P320 million for 2016.

“There could be changes in the original program, depending upon the priorities of the next national administration,” Alquiza said, adding that instead of pursuing the circumferential road, the next president might decide to make it a road traversing the entire length of IGaCoS. As government engineer

HE Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) sees an increase in trading activities between Mindanao and its counterpart regions in the Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines- East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) with the issuance of Executive Order No. 204, expanding the existing Road-Roll-on/Rolloff (Ro-Ro) service to include

container Chassis Ro-Ro (ChaRo).

“We welcome this development and consider this as a huge feat among Mindanao’s business players who have been seeking for this amendment,” said Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, chair of the MinDA. Antonino said the order will boost the competitiveness of the country’s export sector

by reducing the costs of logistics.

EO No. 204 amends EO No. 170 created to integrate the road network with nautical routes through the road Roll-On/Roll-Off Terminal System (RRTS). The amendment expands the Ro-Ro definition to include Cha-Ro service and lifts the restriction of the Ro-Ro to “self-driven” rolling cargoes.

headed by Regional Coordinator Romualdo Basilio signed a settlement agreement last April 15.

Under the agreement, the management and the union members agreed that “the 52 agency workers will be absorbed by Musahamat Farm 2 as regular employees subject to compliance of pre-employment requirements.”

The two sides also agreed to revoke all suspensions and

reinstate all suspended workers; and extend financial assistance to workers who already served their suspensions.

The banana workers were dismissed last March 1 allegedly after refusing to sign new contracts under a labor agency.

After having filed a “notice of strike” on March 22 and establishing a workers’ camp in anticipation of a strike, the workers lifted the strike notice and declared victory in their

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Alquiza

Cha-Ro EO to reduce handling cost: MinDA T F CHA-RO, 10

Antonino

Management, labor agree to reinstate 52 workers

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HE management of Musahat Farms, Inc. (Farm 2) in the municipality of Pantukan in Compostella Valley reinstated last Friday 52 banana farmers after a monthlong suspension from work.

This was after the union, Musahamat management, and representatives of Musahamat Farm 2 Workers Labor Union-National Federation of Labor Unions-Kilusang Mayo Uno (MWLU-II-NAFLU-KMU)

call for reinstatement and regularization, a statement read.

“This victory we obtained now is due to the unified resoluteness and courage of the workers who have long been experiencing injustices under Musahamat Farms. This triumph really exemplifies the adage, “one for all, all for one.”

As a union, we did not discriminate on who we will fight for.

We stood together, regular

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EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

Traffic woes

ABAWENYOS wish in exasperation that the worsening traffic situation in our beloved city of Davao gets priority attention of the incoming local administration to be headed by come-backing former mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio.

The city’s traffic woes are caused by many factors, among them, the ever-increasing number of new private and passenger vehicles added to the road system each passing day, the lack of discipline among motorists and commuters alike, lack of traffic law enforcers, and increasing number of passengers occasioned by the runaway population of the city.

The city’s worsening traffic congestion is even cited as argument by Dabawenyos strongly opposed to the construction of the controversial P19-billion Sasa port modernization. The opponents have criticized proponents of the public private partnership (PPP) modernization for failing to include the improvement of the long stretch of national road in barangay Sasa, despite the huge project amount involved. This aspect of the controverted project has been decried by the business leaders who are horrified at the prospects of a traffic standstill like the daily gridlock debilitating movement of goods and people in the roads leading to and from the Manila harbors. The loudest sound bites about this shortcoming come from business leaders Bonifacio Tan, president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., Ferdinand Maranon of

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the Phil-Export Federation, Pastor Lozada Jr. of the Samal City Resort Owners Association, and politicians Diosdado Mahipus, Danilo Dayanghirang, Peter Lavina and Pilar Braga.

But, of course, being a motorist and former city mayor, Inday Sara knows only too well about traffic as a monstrous problem which is also haunting the other large cities in the country. She is expected to include traffic in the short list of priorities in her first 100 days as the next mayor. She will not be alone in tackling this big challenge though, as there are many national agencies empowered to do their share in enforcing law and order in the streets. One of her biggest allies is expectedly the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) which is spending billions of taxpayers money in building new roads and improving (read expanding and concreting) old ones only to be illegally appropriated by motorists as parking areas, by public utility vehicles as terminals, and worse, by commercial mechanics as their instant repair shops.

Another big help in solving this nagging problem is the massive education of drivers of both passenger vehicles and private cars who utterly lack discipline, a major reason behind many road accidents. We heard that there is such a multi-agency initiative now in the city. The men and women in these different agencies are worth mustering by the new city government.

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9

Just what is biotechnology?

B

Y 2020, the world will be home to around 7.5 billion people. And by that year, the 30-million hectares of the Philippines will be occupied by 122 million Filipinos, according to demographers.

Every second, three people are born, the United Nations Population Fund reports. Every 7.67 seconds, one hectare of productive land is lost, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

“Unless we are ready to accept starvation, or place parks and the Amazon basin under the plow, there really is only one good alternative: Discover ways to increase food production from existing resources,” points out Martina Newell-McGloughlin, director of the Biotechnology Research and Education Program of the University of California Systemwide.

Dr. Norman Borlaug, Nobel Peace Prize winner in 1970, shared the same view. “Global food security will not disappear without the effective application of new technology,” he said.

“To ignore this reality will make future solutions to food security all the more difficult to achieve.”

Biotechnology (which comes from the two combined words: “bio,” which stands for biology or the science of life; and “technology,” the tools and techniques used to achieve a particular purpose) has been seen as one possible solution to the forthcoming world hunger.

As defined, biotechnology is the manipulation of biological organisms to make products that benefit human beings. Its definition evolved through times and so its context and scope. Over 10,000 years ago, humans produced wine, beer, vinegar and bread using microorganism through the process now known as fermentation. Using advanced fermentation process, Egyptians were able to create 50 varieties of bread.

In recent years, with the advances in cell and molecular biology, biotechnology emerged from classical or traditional to modern or advanced biotechnology. Today, biotechnology is closely associated with genetic engineering, a high-end science seen by many as having tremendous potential to increase agricultural

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productivity. “Bio- THINK ON THESE! technology is by default our best and, maybe, only way to increase production to meet future food needs,” says Dr. McGloughlin.

Modern biotechnology, when Henrylito D. Tacio used among crops, henrytacio@gmail.com allows a scientist to choose and move the single characteristic he wants -- it’s streamlined, efficient, and produces superior results. “The techniques used in modern plant biotechnology provide plant breeders with precise tools that permit them to introduce desirable characteristics into a plant,” explains a fact sheet published by the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA).

“They do so without having unwanted or extra traits that occur with traditional plant breeding,” the ISAAA fact sheet adds. “Because of the control that’s afforded with plant biotechnology, scientists can examine introduced traits in great detail.”

In 1994, Calgene’s delayed-ripening tomato became the first genetically modified (GM) food crop to be produced and consumed in an industrialized country. Since then, several GM food crops are introduced or currently being studied.

In the near future, the following crops will be available: rice enriched with iron, vitamin A and E, and lysine; potatoes with higher starch content and inulin; edible vaccines in corn, banana, and potatoes; corn varieties with low phytic acid and increased essential amino acids; healthier oils from soybean and canola; and allergen-free nuts.

As early as the mid-1970s, the Philippine government has recognized the potential role of biotechnology in achieving sustained economic development and food security. In 1979, the National Institutes of Microbiology and

Biotechnology (BIOTECH) was set up at the University of the Philippines at Los Baños.

During her term, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo issued a memorandum on July 16, 2001 stipulating the promotion of “the safe and responsive use of modern biotechnology and its products as one of the several means to achieve and sustain food security, sustainable and safe environment…”

But biotechnology is not only applied in food production -- even in medicine and industrial processes. Erythropoietin is one of the first biotechnological drugs; it triggers the production of new red blood cells. In industrial processes, there’s laundry detergents whose new enzymes could help remove oily and protein-based stains.

“The principal challenge in biotechnology research is how to realize the promise of benefits and advantages from this cutting-edge technology for developing countries,” said Dr. Estrella F. Alabastro, when she was still the head of the Department of Science and Technology.

But all is not rosy, however. “I believe that this kind of genetic modification takes mankind into realms that belong to God, and to God alone,” commented Philip Arthur George Charles -- more popularly known as Prince Charles -- in 1998.

“By transferring genes across species barriers which have existed for eons,” said Dr. Peter Wills, a theoretical biologist at Auckland University, “we risk breaching natural thresholds against unexpected biological processes.”

One potential risks of biotechnology is out-crossing, the unintentional breeding of domestic crop with a related plant. In 1999, it was also reported that pollen from biotech corn had a negative impact on Monarch butterfly larvae.

Another concern is that biotech crops may lead to the development of insect resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a common soil bacterium.

Then, there’s that question about allergen (a protein that causes an allergic reaction) from GM foods which could be accidentally introduced into a food product.

Some GM crops contain genes for a trait called antibiotic resistance. Scientists use this

trait as a market to identify cells into which the desired gene has been successfully introduced.

Concerns have been raised that these marker genes could move from GM crops to microorganisms that normally reside in a person’s gut and lead to an increase in antibiotic resistance.

Prof. Vincent Titanji, a Cameroonian biotechnologist and vice chancellor of the Cameroon Christian University, contends that the benefits of GM crops are greater than any negative effects they might have in the future.

“Remember that (when) fire was discovered, it was both useful and harmful,” Prof. Titanji was quoted as saying by Inter Press Service.

“I have been in the domain of bioengineering for over 30 years and none of the predicted effects have materialized. It was predicted that weeds will invade the entire ecosystems of countries like Brazil, the United States, South Africa, and China, which produce GMOs massively. Even the toxic substances predicted have not materialized.”

On the potential risks of biotech crops on the environment, ISAAA has this answer: “The environmental and ecological concerns potentially associated with GM crops are evaluated prior to their release. In addition, post-approval monitoring and good agricultural systems need to be in place to detect and minimize potential risks, as well as to ensure GM crops continue to be safe after their release.”

As to the health issues, the Geneva-based World Health Organization gives this assurance: “The potential direct health effects of GM foods are generally comparable to the known risks associated with conventional foods, and include, for example, the potential of allergenicity and toxicity of components present, and the nutritional quality and microbiological safety of the food.”

“Despite the current uncertainty over GM crops, one thing remains clear,” the ISAAA fact sheet claims. “This technology, with its potential to create economically important crop varieties, is simply too valuable to ignore. There are, however, some valid concerns. If these issues are to be resolved, decisions must be based on credible, science-based information.”

or happiness MY TWO CENTS’ as migrants in the manicured gardens of a new country far from this place.

This probably will tell you that we see things no differently from the way John Tria others in the ecisouth@gmail.com country do.

Nonetheless, living in Mindanao and not part of Manila’s decision making circles and away from the resources needed to solve these problems, we are mixed into the problem, but detached from how they can be resolved. We have always watched, and hoped that our “enlightened”, well educated and disente peers in Manila would provide the inspiring, avant garde solutions to many of these ills. Thus, we

have been admonished no end by our Manila friends to vote for them and their candidates who represent an impressive image of our nation, who are more fluent in Tagalog than we are and can articulate complex ideas that they agree with, because they know better and have every right to impose this on us. Then again, think of the solutions they have designed for us like peace agreements often violated, imagine the need to buckle up and face higher power rates, remember the failed Zamboanga siege, the disgusting Mamasapano debacle and its equally infamous aftermath, of the Kidapawan massacre of hungry famers who were then accused of creating violence.

Many of these outcomes were the result of ill informed responses smacking of a long standing insensitivity for Mindanao. Solutions to these concerns rarely involve us.

But lets take it a little deeper.

While you feel the brunt of secessionist violence and daily brownouts, how can you not be at least incensed or disgusted at the rig-

marole between and among the political elite running across the corridors of Malacanang, the Senate and the House of Representatives?

How can you be inspired by the administration standard bearer criticizing opponents for his manner of speech, and not be disappointed that a hundred other Kidapawans are about to erupt from a drought that has actually been here since the end of the New year celebrations? It does not help that he and his lieutenants accuse them of rebel sympathy in the political maelstrom that followed. For the victims of a calamity to be brutalized the way the Kidapawan farmers were is the flashpoint that encapsulates our disgust with Manilas politics, of the inaction, insensitivity and facetiousness. It is clear that in the past 60 years, Mindanao is a problem to many of them that only needs to be kept at bay, with bullets if necessary, like a nagging child that needs to be kept quiet. They in Manila are just too far to feel our pain, and are bothered by having to solve our problems.

The Philippines from the eyes of a Mindanaoan

IVING among the poorest provinces in the country, with the ability to watch national political discussions from a distance affords a perspective markedly different from the Manila resident. This is how we see it: A trillion is lost to corruption yearly according to many sources, 92% of Philippine barangays are infested with drugs according to PDEA, a third of our countrymen can not eat a decent daily meal (SWS), with 5,000 of them leaving daily to work abroad, secessionist and rebel groups active in the countryside for almost half a century, foreign powers like china can visibly and palpably bully the country’s leadership by building a base on our territory, and another foreign power gaining access to use many of our own military installations. This, in one sentence, sums up our sraits, that have sadly descended into a cycle that has barely changed in more than 50 years. This is older than Marcos and Aquino, and has calcified a culture of despair among many who see their hopes spring as workers in foreign shores,

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by the results of the works on the ground that there are no more active fire,” he said.

The Philippine Air Force and BFP-11 will assist Project Noah in conducting a thermal scanning next week to spot active fires on

the ground.

Last March 31, the Mt. Apo Natural Park Protected Area Management Board approved a resolution indefinitely closing the mountain to trekkers. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)

contract with the SPPC. Also, generating capacity of the major hydro power plants in Mindanao are projected to improve as the rainy season will commence based on the PAG-ASA

forecast.

He said, additional power supply from San Miguel that Davao Light has contracted with is said to operate in August 2016.

DOLE-11 Regional Director Joffrey M. Suyao is hopeful that the communication plan will be able to raise awareness to everyone about child labor.

Melanie Jadulang, DOLE11 Child-labor Prevention and Elimination Program focal person, said the workshops will really help in addressing child labor in the region.

“This communication plan on child labor prevention and elimination is really a big step for us to strengthen our advocacy,” she added.

The communication planning lecture was given by Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Assistant Secretary and Region-11 Director Efren Elbanbuena.

The HELP ME convergence program was created pursuant to Republic Act No. 9231 (An Act Providing For The Elimination Of The Worst Forms Of Child Labor And Affording Stronger Protection For The Working Child, Amending For This Purpose Republic Act No. 7610, As Amended, Otherwise Known As The “Special Protection Of

Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation And Discrimination Act”), Republic Act No. 9208 (“Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003”), and other related laws.

Members of the convergence other than the DOLE as its head and the PIA include: Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Justice (DOJ), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), Local Government Units and Non-Government Organizations.

As of the 1st quarter of 2016, there was a total of 10 child-labor free establishment and 3 child labor-free barangays recorded in Davao Region. (PNA)

and development planner of long standing, Alquiza said he sees nothing wrong with changing the plan to better serve the ends of tourism and economic development, which is the huge project’s original intention.

If asked his opinion, the DPWH regional director said he would advise the new government that it might be better to give priority to developing a port on the side of the island city facing Davao Oriental.

He said the port will be improve commercial navigation with the Davao Gulf which had enhanced commerce and trade in the region’s coastal areas with Davao City as center as early as the Spanish times.

With the planned construction of a multi-billion peso bridge to span Samal and Davao City, cargo and passenger shipping in his proposed port at the back of Samal port will enhance water transportation within the towns of Davao Oriental and other

coastal areas in other provinces within the gulf, Alquiza said.

He said it will also provide an alternate route for the ferry boats to be displaced by the construction of the Davao City-IGaCoS bridge.

Alquiza said taking the ferry boat from Samal to Lupon would cut land transportation time by 45 minutes to one hour.

The DPWH official said government had set aside billions of pesos for convergence projects leading to tourist destinations in the Davao Region.

These include roads to Dahican Beach, Mt. Hamiguitan, Aliwagwag Falls, Cape San Agustin and other natural wonders of Davao Oriental, the Bacaca Road leading to and from the Davao International Airport which is serving as the alternative road to Buhangin, and roads and bridges leading to mountain resorts in the hinterland districts of Calinan, Marilog, Tugbok, Toril, Baguio and Paquibato in Davao City.

employees and “overstaying” job-order workers to campaign for the victory of the genuine union and we won the certification election last February 22. When Musahamat Farms sacked them for supporting us, we united with them and fought for their right to regular employment,” Esperidion Cabaltera, president of the MWLU-II-NAFLU-KMU, said in a statement.

Cabaltera said that despite this victory, the workers remain steadfast in their principles and their ranks will ensure that all the provisions in the settlement agreement be implemented by the company.

“We have been attacked several times over by Management and our fight for rights does not end here. The fight for regularization and benefits for all workers is just beginning.

Now we are preparing to nego-

tiate for a much-improved collective bargaining agreement that will ensure economic and non-economic benefits for all,” Cabaltera added.

Meanwhile, the labor center Kilusang Mayo Uno Southern Mindanao applauded the victory and congratulated the banana workers for yet another inspiring victory.

“Once again, the banana workers in Pantukan have shown us the power possessed by the workers when they unite and act collectively and militantly. They have braved militarization, vilification, and attempted murder in order to win these hard-earned rights.

This is a historical triumph which will undoubtedly be replicated by workers in the region and in the country,” Carlo Olalo, KMU Southern Mindanao secretary general, expressed. CHENEEN R. CAPON

1,183 hectares of rice production areas are affected by the dry spell, of which 14 hectares are totally damaged.

Damage to the rice sector in value reached P12 million. A total of 1,390 rice farmers have been affected.

“Farmer’s yield dropped from 180 sacks to only 80 sacks per hectare as a result of the El Niño,” she added.

Aside from the rice sector, the corn sector was adversely affected.

Damage to the region’s corn industry reached to a total of 25 million, she said.

“A total of 1,320 hectares of corn production areas are affected by El Niño, of which 977 hectares are totally damaged,” Recoter added.

Total damage due to El Nino, she said, has reached a total of 2,503 combined hectares of rice and corn production areas, affecting 2,

564 farmers.

The director said the department also recorded damage due to the dry season in the high value crop (HVC) sector.

“Among the crops damaged under the HVC are coffee, cacao, and banana,” she said, adding a total of 1,544 hectares of areas planted to HVC were destroyed by El Niño.

However, she said the data is still being validated by a team of agriculturists.

Meanwhile, she said, the municipal councils of Kapalong and Sto. Tomas and Panabo City in the province of Davao del Norte; Mati City and Tarragona, Lupon and San Isidro towns in Davao Oriental; Montevista in Compostela Valley, as well as Hagonoy in Davao del Sur recently passed resolutions declaring a state of calamity in their respective areas. CHENEEN R. CAPON

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EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT SOLE HEIR WITH DEED OF SALE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ANNILYN N. ADLAON ESPINOSA has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT SOLE HEIR WITH DEED OF SALE executed among her heirs per Doc. No. 284; Page No. 57; Book No. 115; Series of 2016, of the NOTARY PUBLIC FATIMA IRENE T. ADIN 4/4.11.18

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EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH RATIFICATION OF SALE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late LEONARDO BUISAN has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH RATIFICATION OF SALE executed among his heirs per Doc. No. 239; Page No. 48; Book No. XXV; Series of 2015, of the NOTARY PUBLIC RICHARD D. TUMANDA 4/11,18,25

Info... FROM 6

residents of Malita. The OFW families with welfare concerns were assisted by Family Welfare Officer, Herman C. Sab thru the PESO office of the said municipality.

Malita is a first class municipality that serves as the capital of

the newly established province of Davao Occidental. Giving the right information and updates on the agency’s programs and services, especially to far-flung municipalities can make the OFWs and their families aware of the interventions and benefits.

She said MinDA actively pushed for the amendment of EO 170, as the change was seen to reduce cargo-handling cost by as much as 78 percent and strengthen connectivity within the BIMP-EAGA sub-regional economic cooperation.

“Now that Cha-Ro is enjoying similar incentives with the regular Ro-Ro, we can expect the transport costs to be further cut down and for trading activities to increase in Mindanao and its counterparts in the BIMP-EAGA sub-region,” said Antonino.

The Cha-Ro is a mode of Ro-Ro shipping where the container mounted on a chassis is loaded on and off the cargo belly of Ro-Ro ships by a prime mover or a tractor.

Unlike the regular Ro-Ro mode, however, the containermounted chassis is disengaged from the prime mover, transported by the Ro-Ro ship, and will be later picked up by another prime mover at its port of destination.

“Cha-Ro eliminated the need for cargo handling as the prime mover does half of the work, while the other half is done by shipping lines,” explained Antonino, adding that “this means Cha-Ro services will no longer have to pay cargo handling and wharfage fees.”

With Cha-Ro cargoes reclassified as Ro-Ro cargoes, Cha-Ro operators for instance will only pay P516, as opposed to P1, 161 per Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU)

of container for a Cagayan de Oro to Manila shipment.

“We strongly advocated for this amendment especially that Char-Ro is one of the widely adopted shipping services among the major ports in Mindanao,” she added.

In 2014 alone, the total volume of Cha-Ro cargoes recorded in the port of Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, Nasipit, Davao, and General Santos amounted to 3.74 million metric tons, which is equivalent to 88 percent of the total cargo of the said Mindanao ports.

“The inclusion of Cha-Ro as Ro-Ro service also supports the ASEAN Masterplan on Connectivity and promotes the development objectives of Mindanao as it will maximize the economic impact of maritime transport in the country and our connectivity with the neighboring economies,” said Antonino.

Cha-Ro services is seen to address the left-hand, right-hand drive issue among ASEAN countries since prime movers from either side of the route would be used in extracting and moving the container-mounted chassis from the Ro-Ro ships.

“It also complements the country’s initiative to establish an ASEAN Ro-Ro shipping network as one of the key strategies to enhance physical connectivity in the nation, especially that ASEAN Ro-Ro operations primarily use Cha-Ro services,” she said. CHENEEN R. CAPON

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Cholesterol: Is it bad or is it good?

11 HEALTH

Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

I

S cholesterol really bad for your health?

Before answering that question, let’s talk first things first. “Cholesterol,” explains a booklet produced as an information service by Bristol-Myers Squibb (Philippines), Inc., “is a type of fat mainly produced by the liver and which is essential for your normal body functioning.”

Without cholesterol, a person ceases to live. “You need it for hormones, DNA, and cell membranes,” Dr. Ian Graham, professor of cardiovascular medicine at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, toldReader’s Digest.

If not for cholesterol, you won’t be able to read this as your brain couldn’t function.

“Cholesterol is a normal and essential component of your body, and you need a certain amount of cholesterol in order for the body to make bile acids which aid in digestion, important hormones and vitamin D, and for the structure of cell membranes,” the booklet points out.

Important hormones refer to estrogen, testosterone and cortisol. Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone and is responsible for development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. On the other hand, testosterone is a male sex hormone that is important for sexual and reproductive development.

Meanwhile, cortisol influences, regulates

or modulates many of the changes that occur in the body in response to stress.

It was François Poulletier de la Salle who first identified cholesterol in solid form in gallstones in 1769. However, it was not until 1815 that chemist Michel Eugène Chevreul named the compound “cholesterine.” Actually, the word comes from the Ancient Greek chole- (bile) and stereos (solid) followed by the chemical suffix -ol for

when you block the end of a garden hose with your fingers -- less water comes out and the pressure builds up.

But wait, when your doctor tells you about your cholesterol levels, what does he actually means?

Anita Bartholomew, in an article which appeared in Reader’s Digest, said the doctor is referring to the levels of several different types of particles of which cholesterol is just a part.

an alcohol.

“Cholesterol is both our friend and foe,” an article published by Medical News Today states. “At normal levels, it is an essential substance for the body’s normal functioning, but if levels in the blood get too high, it becomes a silent danger that puts us at risk of a heart attack.”

Here’s the reason why, according to the booklet: “Excess cholesterol can build up in the walls of your arteries.

Arteries supply blood to all organs, including the heart, and a significant build-up of cholesterol in an artery can cause a blockage, and your blood cannot flow properly.”

Imagine what happens

“These tiny particles are called lipoproteins, because their exteriors are made up of proteins, while the interior contains the lipid cholesterol and a second lipid called triglyceride,” Bartholomew explained. Triglycerides make up most of the fat in the body.

The Merck Manual of Medical Information says there are different types of lipoproteins.

“Each type has a different purpose and is broken down and excreted in a slight different way,” it explains. “Lipoproteins include chylomicrons, very low density lipoproteins (LVDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL).”

LDL is considered the

“bad” cholesterol as it increases the risk of atherosclerosis and thus the risk of heart attack and stroke. HDL is touted the “good” cholesterol as it help remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries. VLDL is downright ugly cholesterol as it greatly increases heart health risks.

In general, a blood cholesterol level of lower than 5.5 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) is considered desirable. A level between 5.5 and 6.5 mmol/L is a moderate risk, particularly if associated with other “risk factors” such as smoking and high blood pressure (hypertension).

adds cholesterol to the body.

Trans fats, too, which are found in some fried and processed foods.

“Cut back on the cholesterol and total fat — especially saturated and trans fats — that you eat,” the Mayo Clinic

tor, which may be aggravated by high-cholesterol foods and saturated fats, causes the level of cholesterol in the blood to increase markedly,” the booklet says.

“If you have a genetic predisposition to, it is even more

However, these ranges should only be taken as a guide, and there is an ideal range for your age and sex. Older people tend to have higher levels than younger people, so a level that is normal for one person may be high for another.

For most people, eating healthier foods is one of the first best step in getting cholesterol under control. Meat, cheese and egg yolks are sources of cholesterol. You also get cholesterol from animal foods, such as egg yolks, meat and cheese. Saturated fat (found in some meats, dairy products, chocolate, baked goods, and deep-fried and processed foods) also

suggests. “Saturated fats, like those in meat, full-fat dairy products and some oils, raise your total cholesterol. Trans fats, which are sometimes found in margarines and store-bought cookies, crackers and cakes, are particularly bad for your cholesterol levels.”

According to several studies, being overweight or obese can also lead to higher blood LDL levels. To manage this risk factor, experts recommend regular exercise and watching what goes into the tummy.

But the primary cause of high cholesterol is genetic in origin. “This hereditary fac-

important for you to pay more attention to the risk factors for heart disease such as eating habits, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking and high blood pressure,” it adds.

It should be pointed out that heart problems are not always related to high cholesterol, although the Geneva-based World Health Organization estimates that cholesterol is responsible for a third of coronary heart disease cases.

“That’s significant, because cardiovascular disease is the number-one cause of death globally, accounting for more than 17.5 million deaths a year,” wrote Bartholomew.

“Cholesterol is both our friend and foe”

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EDGEDAVAO EVENT

A colorful celebration

THREE TIMES IS ALWAYS A CHARM AS THE MARCO POLO DAVAO CLAIMED ITS THIRD HOTEL OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM MARCO POLO HOTELS dubbed the 2015 Hotel of the Year, Bold Leadership Award, and to celebrate this milestone, a thanksgiving event was held last April 12 at the Marco Polo Ballroom.

A “Celebration of Colors”, the event was attended by the hotel’s VIPs, the consular corps, media friends, and associates and ably led by Marco Polo Davao GM Dottie V. Würgler-Cronin and the hotel’s owning company, Halifax Davao Hotel,Inc. (the hotel’s owning company), represented by its Senior Vice-President, Francis R. Ledesma.

“We are very honoured to achieve this prestigious milestone, as this is a manifestation of our team’s hard-work, commitment and dedication to provide the best service quality and accommodation to our guests. This event is also our way of expressing our heartfelt gratitude to the people

behind our success; which are clients, guests, associates, our owning company HDHI, and our management company, Marco Polo Hotels. Without their support, this achievement won’t be made possible” says GM Dottie V. Würgler-Cronin.

Mr. Francis R. Ledesma also expressed his gratitude on behalf of Halifax Davao Hotel,Inc. to

the MPD Team and their honoured guests. “Thank you Dottie for being steadfast and consistently at the helm of things.

Thank you to all the officers and associates for the hard work and dedication. Thank you to all our valued guests and friends from the media who are truly part of the Marco Polo Davao family”.

The colourful celebration also included the awarding of the 2015 Associate-of-the Year Award

to the hotel’s Executive Secretary, Ms. Regina Francia Cueva; who is also fondly called as “Boodie” by her associates. “Boodie has been a great asset to the team, and she should serve as an inspiration to the younger generation of associates” says GM Dottie.

The evening was filled with great food, live music, raffle prizes and the much-awaited dance number by the hotel’s Associates of the Month who were also acknowledged during the celebration. The hotel’s Director of Sales and Marketing, Pearl Peralta- Maclang, also surprised the guests with a short video clip of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte’s well-wishes to Marco Polo Davao.

A big congratulations to the associates of the Marco Polo Davao. What a way to start your 18th year celebration!

EDGEDAVAO

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PEOPLE

Cool summer bonding

YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW. Young father and agriculturist, Roberto Charles “Yong” Sebastian, 39, believes that good strong bonds can be harvested from well nurtured relationships.

Seedlings should be fed with love, care and respect. To date, he is witnessing the fruits of his labor through his fast-growing kids.

Yong is taking every opportunity to grow with his two boys, Nikko, 12, and Franco, 7, and the summer school break is the ideal time. This is when father and sons can bond the longest.

The Sebastians admit to loving the sun and the sea and it’s not surprising that the annual summer vacation will take them to a destination where both will be enjoyed.

As to choosing where to head to this year, Yong said, “We always discuss and decide as a family.”

And “family” extends beyond their unit. “We will spend some quality time with my in-laws in Manila then go on a cruise to the Caribbean to celebrate my mom’s birthday. We’re leaving this coming May for a two-week vacation.”

Once back in Davao, more father-son bonding will fill the calendar.

“The boys and I will definitely be engaging in sports this summer. Boxing and basketball are two of our favorites which we can play together.”

Beyond sports, Yong shares, “I sometimes take them with me to work and walk the farms. I jog around the village while the boys are on their scooters. At home, we play on the game console at times as well.”

He admits that the outdoors, especially the farms, is the best place to take the kids this summer season.

“My place of work, a banana plantation, will expose the kids to what I do for work, and at the family’s fruit farms is where they can hangout and relax. It’s cooler among the green and wide expanse.”

And part of staying cool is making sure the boys are kept well groomed. Dad sees no reason why good grooming should take a back seat during school break.

It applies to himself as well.

“In my line of work it is important to be well groomed because I represent the company in dealing directly with banana growers and government agencies,” said Yong.

“If there’s a good time to keep

the hair short, it’s during this hot spell.”

Rocky’s is Sebastian’s go-to place for their hair care. They discovered the barbershop back in 2011 when the Abreeza Mall branch opened.

“Eldest child, Nikko, was seven when he had his first haircut at Rocky’s and said he was satisfied with his new look,” said Yong, and added, “Franco, who was two years old then, was a

crier. Only Tata or Gary could try to cheer him up. They’re very patient with him.”

Rocky’s had them at the first haircut, so to speak.

Since then, the Sebastians visit Rocky’s very three weeks.

Yong for his sleek, polished look; Nikko, the more meticulous client, for a cut he picks from the style menu; and Franco for his “usual” styling, free candies and chat with his favorite barber.

Although location, cleanliness and good service account for their loyalty to Rocky’s, Yong and his kids particularly like how the barbers are easy to follow instructions on their desired styles, referring to Gary and Jun, who became their “suki” barbers from day one.

“If they move to another branch, we will follow them,” quipped Yong.

On Rocky’s 20th year anniversary, here’s what the Sebastians have to say, “Rocky’s has consistently proven its commitment to its customers with your impressive quality of service.

Congratulations on a job well done. Mabuhay!”

As they age together, Yong is steadfast in keeping the father and sons bond strong, and Rocky’s is glad to have been part of this family undertaking since 2011 and the coming years.

Rocky’s Barbershop is the first barbershop to open in a mall in Davao City in 1986. All its five branches today are conveniently located in malls- Victoria Plaza, Abreeza Mall, GMall, SM City & SM Lanang Premier. 2016 marks its 20th year in the business.

Yong, Nikko and Franco Sebastian are the featured Father and Sons personalities in the 2016 Traditions calendar of Rocky’s.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Pia Wurtzbach talks about her lovelife IT SEEMED AN INTERVIEW ON THE HOT SEAT with showbiz reporter Nelson Canlas appeared a bit tougher than the Question-andAnswer segment of a beauty pageant for the reigning Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach.

In the report on 24 Oras, Nelson began his interview asking details about Pia’s love life. He started, “Do you have a boyfriend now?”

Though still composed, Pia didn’t immediately find the words to make a reply.

The beauty queen said, “I didn’t expect that

A hero’s welcome for Kapuso Manny Pacquiao

question at all.”

Pia also kept mum about her rumored relationship with Dr. Mike Varshavski. However, she took the opportunity to clarify that she is allowed to be in a romantic relationship during her reign.

It was also confirmed in the same interview that Pia used to go out with Kapuso hunk Benjamin Alves.

“Oo, nagdate kami ni Benjamin Alves,” she admitted.

The reigning Miss Universe also gave her opinion on gay marriage, the upcoming national elections, and on this year’s installment of Miss Universe.

It was a homecoming fit for the People’s Champ as GMA Network joined the nation in welcoming its Kapuso, Manny Pacquiao, upon his arrival in the Philippines on Thursday, April 14.

Fresh from his momentous victory in the boxing ring against Timothy “Desert Storm” Bradley in the US last April 9 (April 10 in Manila), the boxing legend was congratulated by GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon (leftmost), President and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr. (second from right) and Executive Vice President and CFO Felipe S. Yalong (rightmost), along with other Network officers and distinguished guests.

The Pambansang Kamao arrived to enthusiastic applause from his countrymen as he sat down to a breakfast of champions, followed by a welcome parade that took him from Makati to Quezon City to see his many supporters.

Kapuso hunk Enzo Pineda achieves fitness ENZO PINEDA HAS NEVER BEEN THIS RIPPED and according to him, it isn’t as easy as it looks. He shared in his Instagram post that it entailed discipline in his food intake and intense training.

“Two months of blood, sweat, and pain, eating bland lean meat with leafy greens, and intense training sessions for five to six times a week. I can finally see what I envisioned fitness-wise,” he said.

According to Enzo, he is already achieving his fitness goals and thanked his trainer

for pushing him to the next level.

The Kapuso hunk also gave some advice to those who are trying to be fit.

He said, “If I can do it, so can you! You reap what you sow. From the moment you wake up, you must be driven and motivated. Don’t let the struggle of life beat you down. You have to fight a lot of bad days to earn your best days. So stay strong and treat everyday like a mission.”

His fitness coach, Lester Luczon also posted pictures of Enzo’s accomplishment and congratulated him for this reaching their goal.

‘Fight For Love’ premieres this Sunday on GMA AFTER WINNING THE HEARTS OF CAMBODIAN AUDIENCE THROUGH THEIR HIT TV SERIES SANA AY IKAW NA NGA AND WITH A SMILE, Mikael Daez and Andrea Torres continue to make waves internationally via their film Fight For Love.

Catch its two-part Philippine free TV premiere on GMA 7’s Sunday Night Box Office (SNBO) as it introduces Marco (Mikael Daez), a well-off Filipino Muay Thai champion, who tests his fate in Cambodia and learns Bokator, the traditional martial arts of Cambodia.

Marco leaves behind the love of his life Angela (Andrea Torres) to fulfil his dream, but a woman’s love knows no boundaries. Angela braves her way to Cambodia and lands on a volunteering job, which helps her find Marco and support his

April 17 – 19, 2016

THE CRIMINAL / *MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING 2 Kevin Costner, Ryan Reynolds, Gal Gadot / * Nia Vardalos, John Corbett R13/*PG

dream. Also in search for Marco is his long-lost father Mr. Suko, played by veteran Cambodian actor Tep Rindaro.

As Marco gets the hang of Bokator, he aims to fight the impoverished Sokeat (Khat Vaihang), a professional Bokator fighter whose only source of support is his childhood friend Sonita (Maes Thorn Sreynai).

They finally meet and set for the ring. Who will win the fight?

Don’t miss the action-packed premiere of Fight For Love, a joint project of GMA Network and Cambodian Television Network (CTN) and under the helm of acclaimed director Ken Simpson, this Sunday (April 17) after Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho only on GMA.

11:35 | 1:50 | 4:05 LFS / *6:20 | 8:10 | 10:00 LFS

THE JUNGLE BOOK Scarlett Johansson, Idris Elba, Bill Murray PG

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

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

1:00 | 4:00 | 7:00 | 10:00 LFS

THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER'S WAR Chris Hemsworth, Charlize Theron, Emily Blunt PG

12:00 | 2:30 | 5:00 | 7:30 | 10:00 LFS

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

UP AND ABOUT

MYOH turns Japanese

THERE ARE MANY THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN APRIL. Sure, it may be one of the hottest months of the year but it is when summer activities are in full swing. In Japan, cherry blossoms are in bloom, and this year, it is when the biggest flip-flops customization event in the country, Make Your Own Havaianas, will happen.

This year’s Make Your Own Havaianas goes back to its roots. We all know that our favorite flip flop brand was born in Brazil in 1962 but what most people do not know is that the very first flip flop was inspired by the Zori – flat, thonged Japanese Sandals made of fabric straps and rice straw soles. Havaianas flip-flops as we know now still show marks of these

iconic rice patterns!— which truly makes it a child of eastern Zen and western joy.

Now on its 11th year, MYOH goes Japanese with an experience that

will take Havaianaticos to the land of the rising sun as they customize their own flip-flops by mixing and matching colorful soles, straps and pins. To make your

own Havaianas in Davao, check out MYOH at the 2nd level of SM Lanang Premier (beside Starbucks) from April 22 to May 1.

Here is a first look at

this year’s Shibori-inspired limited edition commemorative pair available in top and slim soles.

Shibori is a Japa neseinspired fabric-dyeing technique. The design goes perfect ly with a selection of kawaii pins - zori, empress, ramen and more!

To further add more “cool” to the summer season, we at Havaianas are thrilled to announce our partnership with Starbucks SM Lanang Premier. For every purchase of any of the Starbucks 2016 Sum-

mer drinks, customers will be given a voucher which will entitle them to a FREE Limited Edition pin as they customize their pair during MYOH. Havaianaticos can also get a chance to Make their Own Starbucks beverage! For every purchase of the Havaianas Commemorative Shibori sole at MYOH, customers are given a “Make Your Own Frappucino” voucher which will allow them to two (2) free add-ons of their choice on their drink.

This promo will run from April 22 to May 1, 2016 only.

Don’t miss out out as we celebrate Japan with Havaianas this year.

Only at SM Lanang Premiere.

For more details, check out Havaianas Philippines on Facebook and @Havaianasphils on Instagram and Twitter. Use the hashtag #MYOH2016 to join the fun!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

13

PRDP... FROM 6 We are now hiring for the ff. job vacancies:

1. CUSTOMER SERVICE OFFICER (C.S.O.) Scope of Work: • Handling of customer services (e.g. inquiries, complaints, scheduling of services) • Preparation of quotation for clients • STARTING SALARY: P12, 000 (BASED ON PRIOR EXPERIENCE)

2. TECHNICAL ENGINEER (T.E.) Scope of Work: • Installation/Programming/Configuration for the ff. products *CCTV, PABX, PABGM, INTERCOM, BIOMETRICS, ACCESS CONTROL, FIRE ALARM • STARTING SALARY: P13, 000 (BASED ON PRIOR EXPERIENCE) 3.ACCOUNTS MANAGER (A.M.) Scope of Work: • Sales & Marketing for New Clients • STARTING SALARY: P15, 000 UP (BASED ON PRIOR EXPERIENCE)

4. STORE SUPERVISOR Scope of Work: • Responsible for daily store operation • Handling of manpower

Please email your resume to: sales@vmtech.com.ph or marcxtian@yahoo.com For walk in applicants, you may call the ff. branches: Cebu Office: (032) 2380912 Globe: 09173293471 • Sun: 09255014723 Davao Office: (082) 2212789 Globe: 09177952469 • Sun: 09322448030

billion (12%), and ARMM got P1.09 billion (9%).

As of this report, Mindanao cluster completed four subprojects. Three are in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat: rehabilitation of Purok-2-San Martin FMR with a length of 1.82 km. worth P18.67 billion; rehabilitation of Tayugo-Paladon FMR with a length of 1.81 km. worth P17.83 million and; rehabilitation of Baul-Talitay farm-to-market road with 1.43 km. amounting P16.21 million.

(Eva Mae Baculio-Intern/ PRDP Mindanao)

UCPB... FROM 7

exceeded our P2.7 Bn full-year net income projection. This is a concerted effort among the UCPB Group composed of the parent bank and its subsidiaries UCPB Savings Bank, UCPB Leasing and Finance Corporation, and UCPB Securities, Inc. We are confident that we can sustain this upward trajectory even as we continue to look for a government-approved alternative to our suspended recapitalization program,” President and CEO Jeronimo U. Kilayko said.

UCPB has a diversified range of financial services provided by the Bank and its subsidiaries to its various clients.

UCPB Savings Bank provides commercial financing and consumer loan financing to teacher and LGU employees. UCPB Leasing Finance Corporation provides leasing and commercial financing to medium-sized companies.

14 CLASSIFIEDS

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO

KORONADAL PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS

VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT

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SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

Lakers eyeing big ticket free agents

M

BACK TO BACK. More pressure now as Steph Curry and the 13-win Warriors go for back-to-back titles. AP

73 done, 16 more for the title S

TEPHEN Curry and the Golden State Warriors had their chance to celebrate their record-setting regular season before turning their focus to even bigger goals.

The 73 wins that put the Warriors in the record books and left the rest of the NBA chasing them all season are meaningless right now. When the Warriors take the court Saturday to open their firstround series against the Houston Rockets, they will be on even footing with the other 15 playoff teams.

“The regular season doesn’t mean anything at this point,” Curry said on Friday (Saturday, Manila time). “We have two months to play our best basketball and compete and get it done.”

Having successfully completed their chase for 73 wins to break the previous mark of 72 set by Chicago 20 years ago, the Warriors have targeted a new number.

With 16 postseason victories, the Warriors will have a second straight championship to go along with their single-season wins record and a case for having the most successful season in NBA history.

Anything short of that will make the regular season re-

cord somewhat meaningless, adding another level of pressure for the postseason run.

“That just goes with the territory,” coach Steve Kerr said. “We’re defending champs.

When you’re the favorite, it’s a little different dynamic. Last year even though we won 67 games and were the one seed, people still wondered if we could get it done. It’s a different feel, a different dynamic.

We still have to win 16 games.”

The chase for the record has provided the Warriors have been dealing with a playoff-style environment the past few weeks. There’s been increased media scrutiny, the knowledge that any slipup could derail their chances and opponents playing their best in hopes of knocking off the league’s top team.

Golden State has survived that gauntlet well with the exception of losing home games to Boston and Minnesota in a span of five days early in April.

But the Warriors rebounded to win their final four games to break Chicago’s record.

“Really all year we got everybody’s best shot,” Curry said. “Whether the atmosphere was there or not, on the court it felt like playoff intensity for the majority of our games. We feel confident we’re

ready for the moment.”

Houston had to play it out until the end too, needing a win in the regular season finale just to clinch the playoffs.

The Rockets’ reward is a rematch with the Warriors, who knocked out Houston in five games last year in the Western Conference finals.

“You have to face them anyway, either its first round or the Western Conference finals,” star James Harden said.

“We have a great opportunity.

A lot of people are counting us out.”

Here are some things to watch in the series: RAINING 3S: The analytics-driven Rockets took the second most 3-pointers in the NBA this season with 2,533.

But the Warriors are in a different league when it comes to long-range shooting. Despite taking only 59 more 3-pointers than Houston, the Warriors made 199 more on the way to a record 1,077 for the season.

Leading the way is Curry, who shattered his single-season mark of 286 by hitting 402.

Klay Thompson hit 276 of his own — more than any player in NBA history other than Curry.

HANDLING HARDEN: Harden averaged 33 points, 10.5 rebounds and nine assists

in losing the first two games of last year’s series in Oakland.

He struggled after that as the Warriors mixed in the bigger Andre Iguodala and Harrison Barnes defensively. Harden shot 3 for 16 in a Game Three loss and then went 2 for 11 with 12 turnovers in the elimination fifth game.

BEVERLEY THE PEST: The Rockets played last year’s series without point guard Patrick Beverley, a defensive specialist known to irritate opponents. Teammate Jason Terry says Beverley can even pester his own teammates.

“Even on the bus, It doesn’t even matter,” Terry said. “It’s Patrick. He’s always going to get under people’s skin.”

QUICK TURNAROUND: The Warriors had been hoping to get the prime Sunday afternoon slot for their series opener and the extra day off that comes with it. Instead, they will have to play Game One on Saturday afternoon for the second straight year. That leaves both teams with only one real day of practice and no shootaround before the opener.

“I’m not annoyed. I’m just kind of surprised. But it shouldn’t make any difference,” said Kerr, who pointed out it was tougher on the Rockets because they had to travel.

that send the Aussie down but Burner ruled no knockdown.

Burner’s wife Samantha, one of the three judges also scored the fight 115-112 in favor of Kimweri.

The other judge also saw it 115-112 for Kimweri while the third judge gave it to Petalcorin at 114-113.

Petalcorin’s corner was shocked and disgusted on the result of the title-fight promoted by Kimweri’s own manager.

Petalcorin’s co-managers, Jim Claude Manangquil of Sanman Promotions of Gen.Santos City and Peter Maniatis of Australia will be filing a formal protest to WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman today.

“Randy knocked down Kimweri 4 times. The ref didn’t even bother to count. Very disgraceful this is horrible for the sport,” said Manangquil in a text message after the fight.

He said that “Petalcorin is

discouraged and is very upset.”

In his Facebook account, Petalcorin said: “That’ how the fights are here. If you can’t kill your opponent, you can’t win”.

“I hope someone does something to correct this because it’s killing the sport and the boxers. The referee (Malcolm Bulner) was clearly biased,” Manangquil said.

He said that “everybody can see the replay and watch all of those knockdowns. Clearly bad officiating from the judges and referee.”

“We’re both shocked and disgusted about the decision.

Horrible for boxing. We will protest about this.”

It was Petalcorin’s first bout since stopping Ma Yi Ming in one round in Beijing last April 24, 2015 to defend his WBA Interim world light flyweight title.

A short video posted on social media clearly showed the knockdowns that were either

ruled a slip or were not ruled as knockdowns.

Burner and Kimweri are both naturalized Australians.

The title-fight was supervised by Frank Quill. pr

Davao boxer loses title fight despite dropping foe 4 times

D

AVAO’S Randy “Razor” Petalcorin knocked down Omari “Lion Boy” Kimweri of Australia four times but still dropped a controversial split decision in their championship fight for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver flyweight title last Friday at the Melbourne Pavilion in Australia.

Petalcorin first decked Kimweri with a left cross in the 6th round but referee Malcom Burner called it only as a slip. The second knockdown was when Kimweri helplessly sat on the ropes as Petalcorin bombarded him with left-right combinations.

Burner again did not rule a knockdown. After a few seconds, Kimweri was again downed at the ropes. But still no knockdown according to the referee.

In the 12th and final round, Petalcorin landed another left

ITCH Kupchak writes the Los Angeles Lakers’ roster with a marker on a white board in his office. On Friday morning (Saturday, Manila time), the general manager decided it was time to formally erase Kobe Bryant.

Kupchak took an eraser to Bryant’s name. It didn’t move.

“I guess at some point, the marker just stays,” Kupchak said with a laugh.

The Lakers are trying to begin life after Bryant, but nothing about the process is easy. Kobe carried this franchise to remarkable heights, but he left it at the bottom.

“It is hard to close the book on this chapter, but it has come to the point that we have to do it,” Kupchak said. “It’s something I don’t think we’ll ever see again, if you put it all together. One player, 20 years.”

Bryant dominated the Lakers’ payroll, offense and public image for much of the past two decades, including a $25 million salary and a ravenous shot selection in his final season. The third-leading scorer in NBA history scored 60 points on 50 shots in his last game Wednesday, but the electric victory ended the Lakers’ worst season ever at 17-65.

An iconic franchise must redefine itself after Bryant’s retirement. For the first time together, Kupchak and owner Jim Buss must figure out how to build a contender while working under the Hollywood spotlight that constantly shines on this team — and without the shade provided by Kobe.

“We’ve never had this many young players on the team at the same time, and there’s a price to pay for that,” Kupchak said. “The only way to move on after a player has played 20 years is to hope you can get some young players to build around.”

Indeed, the Lakers have a core of youthful talent after drafting D’Angelo Russell, Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance Jr. over the past two years. If they finish the May 17 draft lottery in the top three, they will keep their pick and add another major talent in June.

Kupchak realizes the remaining Lakers wouldn’t b e

an immediate playoff contender in the fall, and he intends to supplement the youngsters with free-agent talent. The Lakers could sign two free agents to maximum contracts after the removal of the combined $40.5 million paid to Bryant and Roy Hibbert this season.

But the Lakers don’t have much to offer veterans outside of that money, a decent young core and this franchise’s high profile — which repelled more big names than it attracted while Bryant still was in town.

Dwight Howard spurned the Lakers in 2013, Pau Gasol followed him out the door in 2014, and no high-profile names signed up last summer. Kupchak chooses to be optimistic, hoping a couple of big-ticket free agents could be attracted to the Lakers’ mystique and promise without having to cede so much to Bryant.

“This offseason in some ways will be more difficult, and in some ways will be easier,” Kupchak said. “We do feel this year we have a lot more assets on our team than we did last year, the last two years.”

Coach Byron Scott expects to return to the Lakers next season despite presiding over the two worst years in their history. The former Lakers guard is 38-126, and the fans’ considerable displeasure has been focused largely on him.

“That’s fine,” he said. “I roll with the punches. (Fans) are not in there every day. They’re not in there in practice. They have no clue. To be honest, I’m much smarter than all of them when it comes to basketball.”

Kupchak plans to meet with Scott and Buss for lunch in a few days to discuss their options. Kupchak made no guarantees, but he clearly looks favorably on Scott’s willingness to accept a daunting job two years ago.

“I think Byron has done an excellent job under the circumstances that he’s had to deal with,” Kupchak said. “This year in particular was a difficult year for a coach to wade his way through.”

No matter how jarring this summer might be, the Lakers must move on. Even in Kupchak’s office.

When the eraser failed to remove Bryant’s name, he laughed — but then got out a spray cleaner and a cloth. “ T h e name is off the board,” Kupchak said.

WHAT LIES AHEAD. Los Angeles is confident the team featuring young stars Julius Randle and D’Angelo Russell would be boosted by a couple of big-name free agents. AP

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports Matina Enclaves Summer Taekwondo Clinic May 3-19

VOL. 9 ISSUE 33 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, APRIL 17 - 18, 2016

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

S

UMMERTIME is the time for that long break kids take away from school. Instead of becoming couch potatoes, make them develop their character and competitive juices by indulging in worthwhile activities.

The Matina Enclaves is up to something action-packed for the long break with an activity that’s designed for kids. And with the Matina Enclaves Clubhouse as venue, your kids are safe and zoned out for

the action.

That’s what you can expect from the Matina Enclaves Tae Kwon Do Summer Clinic 2016.

Matina Enclaves, in partnership with JT-Tae Kwon Do and Fitness Center, is

offering programs for children and adults, designed to build confidence, self-esteem, physical fitness and self defense.

Enrollment fee is pegged at P3,000 for an 8-session program. Schedule of classes

is 1:30 to 3pm during Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from May 3-19, 2016.

JT-Tae Kwon Do and Fitness Center is accredited by the Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) Region 11.

For inquiries, call Matina Enclaves at 082 285 7059 or 09177250028 or visit Matina Enclaves Showroom and Marketing Center located at Unit 11 Genesis 88 Arcade Bldg, Ecowest Drive Ecoland, Davao City.