Edge Davao | Vol 11 Issue 229 | Thursday, February 7, 2019

VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

P 15.00 • 16 PAGES

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NO MAJOR THREATS BUT AFP NOT LETTING GUARDS DOWN P2 RICSPEED : AWAKENING OF TOMORROW’S VICTORS

EDGE DAVAO Serving a seamless society

SPORTS P12

BALANCING ACT. A worker of an establishment selling fresh chicken eggs carries a tall pile of egg trays on his shoulder while crossing a street near Bankerohan Public Market in Davao City on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr

ANOTHER BLAST But bombing not BOL - related, says AFP

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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IDSAYAP, North Cotabato -- The 6th Infantry Division (IF) assured that the explosion in Talayan, Maguindanao on Tuesday noon is not related with the ongoing plebiscite for the ratification Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) in North Cotabato.

6th ID spokesperson Maj. Arvin Encinas said that the explosion of improvised explosive device (IED) planted inside a U-Box compartment of a motorcycle in a highway

at in Sitio Nes, Barangay Tambunan 1 around 11:45 a.m. of February 5 was not intended to disrupt the plebiscite.

Encinas said the explosion could be considered as

isolated since only one person got injured that time.

He said there are no major threats in North Cotabato but they are all on high alert status to prevent any possible attacks from any groups.

Encinas said voting process all polling centers in the in the towns of Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pigcawayan, Pikit, and Tulunan done normally

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Bus firm to cooperate with LTFRB investigation

By RALPH LAWRENCE LLEMIT

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he management of local bus company Davao Metro Shuttle said it will cooperate with the investigation of the bus collision in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley on Monday which resulted in the company’s preventive suspension by the Land Transportation Franchis-

ing and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

In a statement, Metro Shuttle said that management is saddened by the incident involving one of their buses with plate number LXA-731 in an accident that killed seven people including their own driver.

“The entire Davao Metro Shuttle family is devastated and extend its deepest, heartfelt sympathy to the family members and friends and to our passengers affected by the tragic event,” said Davao Metro Shuttle statement on Tuesday.

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

PRRD IN CDO. President Rodrigo Duterte condoles with former Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Reuben Canoy as the President visited the wake of the former mayor’s wife Solona Canoy in Cagayan de Oro City on Tuesday night. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

city ordinance No major threats but AFP Drug-free to be enforced in 2022 not letting guards down I munity to participate in identifying suspicious persons and actions in the society.

“If there is something suspicious or someone suspicious, report it to the authorities right away,” the captain’s reminded the public.

The Agila Division, according to Lamosao, continues its investment for safety and protection, and provide basic services for the community it serves.

“Sufficient numbers of checkpoints, gathering and dissemination of information to the public, and the coordi-

nation with all the sectors are among the basic services being improved,” he added.

In related development, 38 New People’s Army (NPA) and another 38 Militia ng Bayan (MB) along with 13 Sangay sa Partido Lokalidad (SPL) and 22 supporters have surrendered as of February 06, 2019. It goes with the recovery of 21 high power firearms (HPFA), and 13 low power fire arms (LPFA). Lamosao also said there were 11 enemy camps discovered and dismantled within the 10th ID unit AOR.

n 2022, or three years from today, all establishments in Davao City that has more than 10 employees must have a drug free workplace policy and program.

That policy, according to Davao Anti-Drug Abuse Council (CADAC) technical adviser Ronaldo Rivera, is forged under the new city ordinance 0506-14 that implements a drug free workplace policy and program as requirement for renewal of business permits.

“It was passed on 2016 but implementing rules and regulation approved only December 2018 by virtue of Executive Order 32 series of 2018,” Rivera, who was among the guests of the AFP-PNP Presscorps Southern Mindanao press conference held at the

resident Rodrigo R. Duterte has met with families of the soldiers killed in two Sulu tragedies -- the twin bomb blasts in Jolo on January 27 and the encounter with Abu Sayyaf bandits in Patikul on February 2.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the private meeting with the families of the six soldiers killed in Jolo and Patikul took place at the

Matina Enclaves, Davao City.

Panelo noted that Duterte offered sympathies to the soldiers’ families, honored their heroism, and assured them of assistance on Monday.

“The President condoled with the bereaved families and honored the fallen soldiers for their heroism by awarding them the Order of Lapu Lapu (rank of Kalasag),” Panelo said in a statement.

“He comforted the grieving families and assured them of the government's assistance in terms of housing, livelihood, employment and educational assistance, among others,” he added.

Panelo said that the President was accompanied by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., and

Philippine National Police Director Oscar Albayalde.

Also present were Philippine Army Commander Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto and former Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go. The twin bomb attacks at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo, Sulu killed 22 people and injured more than

he Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has temporarily suspended the franchise of Metro Shuttle bus company for a month following Monday's deadly collision in Compostela Valley province that left seven people dead and 30 others wounded.

The Metro Shuttle Bus

company is also facing charges for multiple deaths, physical injuries, and damage to property, as well as breach of franchise condition in the aftermath of the road mishap in Nabunturan town.

LTFRB-11 (Davao) Director Cattleya Acaylar said Tuesday the bus company was also found operating outside

its franchise area as the unit involved in the accident was only allowed to ply the DavaoTagum route.

Acaylar said Metro Shuttle, which has 34 buses plying the Davao-Tagum route, will be required to train its drivers and conductors on road safety before its suspension could be lifted.

Chief Supt. Marcelo Morales, Police Regional Office 11 director, said they are investigating the cause of the accident.

“We cannot predict accident but we can also avoid it.

If its human error, or if there are lapses from the management due to poor maintenance

By ADAM B. MORRELL

D

espite the absence of major threats within the area of responsibility of the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division (ID), military authorities said they are not letting their guards down.

In Wednesday’s edition of the weekly AFP-PNP Press Corps Southern Mindanao press conference held at the Royal Mandaya Hotel, 10th ID spokesperson Capt.Jerry Lamosao said the areas of Davao Region, North Cotabato, Saranggani Province and South Cotabato which are covered by the Agila Division

is currently experiencing a relatively peaceful environment.

“Despite of no threats within our AOR (areas of responsibility), we will not let our guards down,” Lamosao said.

To maintain law and order within their jurisdiction, Lamosao also urged the com-

Royal Mandaya Hotel yesterday, said.

Furthermore, the new ordinance, which compliments the preventive program of CADAC, mandates all establishments to conduct random drug testing to its employees that goes with a three-year drug abuse program that has advocacy, education and training.

Apart from the private establishments, all government agencies must undergo the same procedures once the implementation is effective on 2022.

Rivera, meanwhile, said over 4,000 people enrolled for the treatment and rehab program since 2016 and about 800 people are now moving up to phase two which is the aftercare. Adam B. Morrell

'Sin tax' boosts tobacco Duterte meets kin of soldiers killed in Sulu production: Economist P T

By RALPH LAWRENCE LLEMIT

he “sin tax” reform signed by former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III did not kill but rather boosted the tobacco industry.

Action for Economic Reforms (AER) senior economist Jo-Ann L. Diosana said that prior to the enactment of the Republic Act 10351 aimed at increasing the prices of cigarettes and liquors, her economic team thought that tobacco production is turning into a “sunset industry” due to decrease in production as a spinoff to higher taxes on tobacco products.

However, they were surprised to find out that production even increased as these raw tobacco items found export markets to neighboring

countries such as Thailand, Vietnam and other nearby Asian countries.

“When we looked at the production between 20082012, these are the pre-Sin Tax Law implemented years, and 2013-2017, wherein the Sin Tax Law was implemented, the volume production ballooned,” Diosana said.

Revealing a data from the National Tobacco Administration (NTA), Diosana said an average of 34,616 metric tons of unmanufactured tobacco products were exported from 2008-2012. An increase of more than 5,000 metric tons were recorded from 20132017, years after the sin tax law was signed, with an aver-

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LTFRB suspends Davao bus franchise after accident T

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VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

EDGEDAVAO

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

SouthCot to expand economic enterprises

G

DMTS 2019. Davao Travel Agents Association (DTAA) president Joy Loyola (center), together with vice president Day Uyking (left) and marketing committee member Gian Caguiat, says the group is targeting P12 million to P15 million revenue for this year’s Davao Mega Travel Sale (DTAA) after it reached P10 million

last year. The DMTS officials also promoted this year’s DMTS slated at the activity center of Abreeza Mall on February 15 to 17 during Wednesdays @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Lean Daval Jr

DCIPC eyes another roadshow in Seoul

By RALPH LAWRENCE LLEMIT

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nother Davao City investment and tourism roadshow is in the works, this time in South Korea.

Lemuel Ortonio, Davao City Investment and Promotion Center (DCIPC) chief, revealed on Wednesday’s Habi at Kape media forum at the Abreeza Mall, that the city government is rolling out another roadshow to further promote the investment and tourism opportunities of the city to the South Korea capital of Seoul.

However, Ortonio said

that the international tour, tentatively slated this May, will be shortened to three days as compared to the previous road shows in Japan, Malaysia and Singapore, which all lasted one week.

“We shortened the roadshow, because we wanted to focus in one city, which is Seoul,” he said.

Ortonio said that the

78 guns seized since start of election ban in Ilocos

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AOAG CITY -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Region 1 has confiscated at least 78 assorted firearms and arrested 65 persons in the implementation of Commission on Elections (Comelec) gun ban and “Kontra Boga”, or intensified drive against loose firearms since January this year.

Chief Supt. Romulo Sapitula, Regional Director of the PNP Region 1, said 65 were classified as low-powered and 13 were high-powered firearms.

“These were seized during the checkpoint, service of search warrants, internal security and other police operations all over the region,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.

Pangasinan province tops the most number of confiscated firearms with 44, and arrested persons with 48 based on the latest police report.

This is followed by Ilocos Sur with 19 firearms confiscated and seven per-

sons arrested; La Union has eight firearms and six persons, while Ilocos Norte recorded four firearms and two persons.

In addition, the Regional Criminal Investigation and Detective Unit 1 has also seized three firearms and arrested two persons.

In an effort to prevent the proliferation of loose firearms in the region, Sapitula has ordered his men to intensify the conduct of police operations and establishment of checkpoints in strategic locations.

Since the start of election gun ban on January 13, police authorities reported a total of 17 firearms surrendered and 126 deposited firearms.

To date, at least 35 politicians, 40 political candidates, and 53 civilians deposited their firearms in their respective police stations for safekeeping in compliance with the election gun ban which will last until June 12 this year. (PNA)

main focus of the investment tour will be agriculture and the information and communications technology (ICT) industry.

He said that delegation in the investment tour will include representatives of the City Administrator’s Office, City Tourism Operation Office, Davao City council committees of trade and industry, and tourism. Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio has not yet confirmed if she will be joining the delegates but representatives of private

organizations and industry associations will be invited.

The DCIPC head said that they are still coordinating with the Philippine Embassy in South Korea, to fix the business meetings with the different investors. Ortonio said that the previous roadshows had been successful, and they planning to replicate them in South Korea and other possible are planning destinations.

“The previous ones created awareness, especially

FDCIPC, P9

REVISION OF INVESTMENT INCENTIVE CODE. Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DCIPC) head Lemuel Ortonio says DCIPC and partner Isla Lipana will be presenting the first draft of the revision of the city’s Investment Incentive

ENERAL SANTOS CITY – In a bid to generate more revenues, the provincial government of South Cotabato is pushing for the upgrading and expansion this year of its economic enterprises.

Edgar Prias, general manager of the South Cotabato economic enterprises office, said Wednesday the preparations are underway for the implementation of various projects for the improvement of the province’s four main income-generating facilities.

He said these are the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center, South Cotabato Sports Complex and the Productivity and Technology (Protech) Center in Koronadal City and the Seven Falls in Lake Sebu town.

In 2018, the four economic enterprises generated an income of around P22 million for the provincial government.

Prias said they are targeting to start this year the installation of cable cars at the famed seven waterfalls of Lake Sebu.

“A soil testing was already conducted in identified sites to determine the suitability for the project,” he said in a

media forum.

Aside from this, he said landscaping and development works are underway at the vicinity of the first waterfall.

Managed by the Seven Falls Project Management Unit, the site hosts a picnic area, canopy walk and zip line connecting three of the waterfalls.

Prias said a new air conditioning unit was already installed last month at the 5,000-capacity gymnasium.

He said its security and office personnel are set to undergo a training to equip them on managing crowds during high-density activities.

The official said they are pushing for the replacement within the year of the rubberized track oval at the sports complex.

“The governor (Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes) wants to put up exercises equipment along the sides of the oval and make it more accessible to the public,” Prias said.

For the Protech Center, he said they are currently negotiating with some private enterprises for the leasing of available spaces at the facility. (MindaNews)

ayor Sara Duterte on Monday handed over 12 motorcycles to the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) for its intensified anti-drunk driving and other traffic law enforcement campaign.

Sr. Supt. Alexander Tagum, DCPO director, who received the units from Mayor Sara, said the motorcycles will be distributed to the Traffic Management Group.

“These brand new motorcycles will be utilized for rapid response in traffic accidents, and security and safety patrols in the highways and streets,” Tagum said.

Tagum thanked Mayor Sara for the city govern-

ment’s continued support to the city police, ensuring that it remains an effective law enforcement organization.

Mayor Sara told the police to focus on the enforcement of the city’s anti-drunk driving campaign, a traffic violation that carries heavy penalties and hefty fines under Republic Act 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.

Anyone caught driving under the influence of alcohol faces a fine of PHP20,000 to PHP80,000 and face imprisonment for a minimum of three months; and PHP300,000 to PHP500,000 and a maximum of 20 years imprisonment for fatal accidents. (PNA)

City’s anti-drunk driving campaign gets boost M

Code to the Davao Investment Incentive Board this month during Wednesdays @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Lean Daval Jr

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

ENVIRONMENT

5

SAVING ECOLOGICALLYFRAGILE CORAL REEFS PART 2

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n July last year, Romina Lim posted in her Facebook account some photos of Tubipora and Heliopora corals that were “exported” from the Philippines in a gift shop in Long Beach, Washington.

“Labels say these were ‘rare’ and exported all the way from the Philippines.

These corals were extracted from our reefs then sold in the US for less than P2,000 [$37.50]),” wrote Lim in her social media account.

“Do not support this trade,” Lim urged in her post, which caught the attention of an online reporter for Interaksyon. “Philippine law specifically prohibits the collection and exportation of all corals (unless, of course, for scientific and educational purposes).

Corals are worth much more alive in coral reefs than dead displayed at your houses.”

According to her, she reported the incident to various Philippine agencies, but so far only the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), a line agency of the Department of Agriculture, responded.

“Heads will roll if perpetrators are from BFAR side. I will conduct investigation ASAP. The law is harsh, swift, and painful. And more harsh, more swift, more painful if perpetrators are from within the implementors of the law,” said BFAR Director Eduardo Gongona.

About 100 scientists have proclaimed the Philippines as the world’s “center of marine biodiversity” because of its immense number of species and marine and coastal resources. It has 27,000 square kilometers of coral reef area within a 15- to 30-meter depth, one of the largest in the world. Two-thirds of these are in Palawan and the Sulu Archipelago.

There are about 400 species of reefforming corals in the country, which can be compared with those found in Great

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

Barrier Reef of Australia.

“Almost 55% of the fish consumed by Filipinos depends on coral reefs; 1015% of the total marine fisheries production comes from the coral reefs,” reports Dr. Miguel D. Fortes, a professor at the Marine Science Institute of the University of the Philippines.

Fish, along with rice, is the staple food of Filipinos.

Every year, a Filipino consumes almost 30 kilograms of seafood, thus making the country one of the world’s biggest fish consumers.

One square kilometer of healthy coral reef can generate about US$50,000 annually from fishing and tourism. “As a whole, Philippine coral reefs contribute at least US$1.4 billion annually to the economy,” states the report, From Ridge to Reef: Sustaining Nature for Life.

But despite their contributions, coral reefs are destroyed at alarming rate. Nowhere else in the world are coral reefs abused as much as the reefs in the Philippines. In 2002, some of the top leading marine scientists ranked the country as the number one (according to the degree of threat) among the world’s top ten coral reef hotspots. The identified hotspots contain just 24% of the world’s coral reefs, or 0.017% of the oceans.

The World Atlas of Coral Reefs, compiled by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), reported that 97% of reefs in the Philippines are under threat from destructive fishing techniques, including cyanide poisoning, overfishing, or from deforestation and urbanization that result in harmful sediment spilling into the sea.

Rapid population growth and the increasing human pressure on coastal resources have also resulted in the massive degradation of the coral reefs. “If asked

what the major problem of coral reefs is, my reply would be, ‘The pressure of human populations,’” said marine scientist Dr. Edgardo D. Gomez, one of the country’s experts on coral reefs.

R o b e r t Ginsburg, a specialist on coral reefs working with the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science at the University of Miami, said human beings have a lot to do with the rapid destruction of reefs.

“In areas where people are using the reefs or where there is a large population, there are significant declines in coral reefs,” he pointed out.

As a result, fish catch in the open seas dwindles. “Fish catches have fallen well below the sustainable levels of healthy reefs,” said Dr. Alan T. White, who conducted various studies on coral reefs in the Philippines. “The economic losses to the coastal fishing population are considerable. Various programs have and are trying to counter coral reef decline by establishing sustainable management regimes. The economic benefits of such programs appear to exceed their investment costs.”

Aside from human activities, natural causes of destruction among coral reefs also occur.

These include extremely low tide, high temperature of surface water, predation, and the mechanical action of currents and waves.

In recent years, corals are also exhibiting a new kind degradation: massive bleaching. John C. Ryan, in a feature written for Worldwatch Institute, explained: “When subjected to extreme stress, they jettison the colorful algae they live in symbiosis with, exposing the white skeleton of dead coral beneath a single layer of clear living tissue. If the stress persists, the coral dies.”

The government is doing its best to save the country’s remaining coral reefs by

passing several laws.

Fisheries Administrative Order 163, Series of 1986, prohibits the operation of “muro ami” and “kayaks” – both destructive fishing practices that destroy coral reefs – in all Philippine waters.

Presidential D e c r e e 1219 prohibits person or corporation to “gather, possess, sell or export ordinary precious and semiprecious corals, whether raw or in processed form, except for scientific or research purposes.”

Violation of the said law would result in imprisonment from six months to two years and a fine from P2,000 to P20,000.

However, this law was amended through Republic Act 10654, or the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998. It states that no person or corporation shall “gather, possess, commercially transport, sell or export ordinary, semi-precious and precious corals, whether raw or in processed form, except for scientific or research purposes.

Once it is violated, there would be a corresponding “administrative fine equivalent to eight times the value of the corals gathered, possessed, commercially transported, sold, or exported, or the amount of P500,000 to P10 million, whichever is higher, and forfeiture of the subject corals.”

There are laws but imposing them is another

story.

“Stricter laws on environmental crimes must be imposed because exploiting marine resources is not a simple offense,” says Dr. Theresa Mundita Lim, executive director of ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity. “It may jeopardize the livelihood source of the millions of people who depend on these resources.”

Loren Legarda, an environment champion in the Senate, urged the local and national government to unite in addressing the problem of reef deterioration.

“It is imperative that local government units should take an active role in promoting environmentally sound practices especially those near the sea,” she said.

“The Philippine Coast Guard

and other law enforcement arm of the government should redouble their efforts to stop marine activities that harm the ecosystem.”

But the government cannot do it alone; help from individuals are also needed to save the coral reefs from total annihilation.

“We are the stewards of our nation’s resources,” said Rafael D. Guerrero III, former executive director of the Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development, “We should take care of our national heritage so that future generations can enjoy them. Let’s do our best to save our coral reefs. Our children’s children will thank us for the effort.” (To be concluded)

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

EDITORIAL In the guise of transparency

W

hoever said it is easier to get access to the Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALNs) of district and party-list representatives after the House of Representatives adopted House Resolution (HR) 2467 on January 30 is missing the bigger picture.

Look closely. Under the approved HR 2467, any request to gain access to a lawmaker’s SALN will have to get final approval from the plenary. Read, plenary. That means, a request has to wage battle against opposing sides which naturally becomes a numbers game. Likewise, legislators have the final say on whether or not a requesting party can access one of their colleagues’ SALNs. Even before legislators get to approve or deny access to their SALNs in the plenary, a committee on SALN review and compliance will vet the requests first.

And then there’s the requirements set forth under this new rules.

The requesting party will be required to sign the sworn undertaking and declaration portion of the SALN request form, which lists specific ways the information in the SALN may or may not be used.

The committee or the plenary has the authority to overrule the decision of a non-cooperative solon but not those who are willing to share their SALN.

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If the request is approved, the requesting party has to pay P300 for every copy thereof to cover the cost of reproduction and certification.

This fee does not include mailing costs and other related expenses.

Roughly, the cost a requesting party must cough up to gain access to the SALNs of all 291 lawmakers a massive total P87,300.

For a government official or employee, the failure to submit the SALN is a violation of Section 8 of Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. It is punishable by suspension of up to 6 months for the first offense, and dismissal from service for the second offense. The late Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona was impeached for failure to declare some of his assets in his SALN. What lawmakers are afraid of in the SALN requests is the potential misuse and possible blackmail, and without stringent safetynets, they are likely to oppose any requests even in the name of transparency.

These requests, in the minds of lawmakers, are but fishing expeditions and not really for a legitimate purpose.

So is that simple and easy? It does not look any simpler and easier. It just got even harder.

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 228 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2019

VANTAGE POINTS

7

Stem cell therapy: what’s that?

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hat do former President Joseph Estrada, former President and now Congresswoman Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile (who is again running for the Senate in the forthcoming May election) have one thing in common?

All three had reportedly undergone stem cell therapy, that’s what.

In Hollywood, some celebrities rumored to have done the same include American pop star Madonna (of “Like a Virgin” and “La Isla Bonita” distinction) and actresses Sharon Stone (who made a splash when she appeared in “Basic Instinct”) and Halle Berry (Oscared for her tour de force performance in 2002’s “Monster’s Ball”).

Stem cell treatment is considered to be the revolution of cellular medicine in the 21st century. Thousands of patients around the globe have already benefited from using stem cell delivered safely by skilled and certified physicians. Diseases once considered incurable are responding well to stem cell treatment and are restoring hope to patients who thought they had lost their lives forever.

Actually, stem cells are “precursor cells present in the embryo of any species, and they have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body during early life and growth,” explains an article which appeared

in Health and Lifestyle.

Scientists describe stem cells as “a sort of internal repair system,” which divides and multiplies itself almost without limit to replenish other cells provided the person or animal is still alive.

“Each new stem cell produced by the division of the original stem cells has the potential either to remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a cardiac, brain or nerve cell,” the H&L article explains.

“Stem cells can be classified as embryonic or adult, depending on their tissue of origin,” notes Professor Thomas P. Zwaka from the Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, and the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.

“The role of adult stem cells is to sustain an established repertoire of mature cell types in essentially steady-state numbers over the lifetime of the organism. Although adult tissues with a high turnover rate, such as blood, skin, and intestinal epithelium, are maintained by tissue-specific stem cells, the stem cells themselves rarely divide. However, in certain situations, such as during tissue repair after injury or following transplantation, stem cell divisions may become more frequent,” Prof. Zwaka explained.

From the medical standpoint, the potential is that

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

“stem cell therapy can literally replace old malfunctioning cells and make them like those of a young healthy person. They can be used to replace cells that are lost or damaged from disease, old age, or injury.”

For example, it may become possible to generate healthy heart muscle cells in the laboratory and then transplant those cells into patients with chronic heart disease. Preliminary research in mice and other animals indicates that bone marrow stromal cells, transplanted into a damaged heart, can have beneficial effects.

Researchers are looking forward to new technologies that will be able to treat a wide variety of debilitating conditions, such as spinal-cord injuries, cerebral palsy, multiple

sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and muscle damage.

“The tissue that scientists most associate with adult stem cell activity is the bone marrow,” wrote William Faloon in Life Extension Magazine.

“Each day, stem cells in the bone marrow evolve to produce red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. These mature cells are then released into the bloodstream where they perform their vital life-supporting functions.”

Aside from bone marrow, sources of stem cells that are currently being used are the umbilical cord, blood vessels, brain tissues, adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, skin and liver.

All these stem cells “have the potential to repair, restore, replace and regenerate cells.” And some studies have shown that “certain stem cells can grow into new tissue. “But do they provide a therapeutic effect?” asked Dr. David Siu, clinical associate professor at the cardiology division of Hong Kong’s Queen Mary Hospital, as quoted by Reuters. “We don’t have the evidence yet. Some are in clinical research.”

Currently, there are several international researches and studies being done on stem cell therapy. Mexico, South Korea, Ukraine, and China are some countries starting to carry out such treatments. In the Philippines, stem cell therapy was

only introduced some years ago and its focus at that time was its role in cancer treatment.

In the United States, the only stem cell-based products that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use consist of blood-forming stems cells derived from cord blood.

“Although stem cell therapy appears to be a very promising form of treatment for many types of degenerative diseases, there are also adverse effects which the public needs to be aware of,” cautions Dr. Reuben Ricallo in a report which appeared in “Vital Signs,” a publication for healthcare professionals.

In the United States, one patient reportedly became blind due to an injection of stem cells into the eye. Another patient received a spinal cord injection that caused the growth of a spinal tumor.

The US FDA, in its website, cites the other potential safety concerns for unproven treatments, which are: administration site reactions; the ability of cells to move from placement sites and change into inappropriate cell types or multiply; failure of cells to work as expected; and the growth of tumors.

“Even if stem cells are your own cells,” the FDA states, “there are still safety risks. In addition, if cells are manipulated after removal, there is a risk of contamination of the cells.

Honoring people thru taxonomy

T

axonomy is more than just a field of naming and classifying plants and animals; it is also a rich source of historical nuggets. Well-known personalities, for some reason, are honored by naming newly-discovered fauna and flora, including cultivars and hybrids, after them.

Dr. Jose P. Rizal, recognized as botanist and zoologist, has three scientific names to his credit. The animals, which he personally sent for classification to fellows in the scientific circles of Europe, are a beetle (Apogonia rizali), a frog (Rachophorus rizali), and a reptile (Draco rizali).

It was during the American occupation, though, when taxonomy became significant.

Thousands of unnamed plants and animals were given scientific labels chosen by eminent scientists that were enlisted by the colonial government.

Even the Bagobo, as a tribe, also got its share of credit. For instance, a common crane fly was entered the registry as L. bagobo Alexander, while a bird discovered in 1930 in the Bagobo territory was named Collocalia esculenta bagobo Hachisuka.

An insect was tagged as C. esculenta bagobo D. distinctus ssp., while the Bagobo rat of Davao del Sur is known as (Bullimus bagobus).

Even Davao district governor Edward Robert Bolton, murdered on June 6, 1906 in Lacaro, Malita, Davao Occidental, has been taxonomically honored.

The terrestrial fern Cheilanthes boltoni Copeland found on rocks along the sea at Malalag, Davao del Sur, has been named in his memory, and, similarly, the Mt. Apo sun-bird, called kapoya-poya among the Bagobos and was discovered at Tudaya, Santa Cruz, is now scientifically known as Aethopyga boltoni sp. nov.

House speaker and former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was honored with a new blight-resistant potato variety bred by the Benguet State University. It was named Gloria Kamaptengan and sourced from the Centro Internationale de la Papa (International Potato Center) in Lima, Peru. It was originally codenamed 13.1.1.

A new orchid variety bred by former justice secretary Hernando B. Perez was named after his boss, former president Corazon Aquino. It was registered as Blc Cory Aquino (Brassolaeliocattleya Cory Aquino) and was described as “a graceful but sturdy plant with yellow and green varieties that sport pink outer petals.”

2018 has had also its share of taxonomic developments.

A pitcher plant, one of four

FAST BACKWARD Antonio V. Figueroa found in Mount Hamiguitan in San Isidro, Davao Oriental, was named after its town mayor, Justina Yu. Scientifically, the new species is now known as Nepenthes justinae. The other endemic pitcher plants of the area are the Nepenthes peltata, Nepenthes micramphora, and Nepenthes hamiguitanensis.

Call it luck or the product of political achievements, the Duterte family has also been honored appropriately with three varieties or cultivars of Bromeliad.

Officially, the plants are registered as Neoregelia ‘Rody Duterte’, Neoregelia ‘Inday Sara,’ and Neoregelia ‘Elizabeth Duterte.’

The ‘Rody Duterte’ cultivar,

entered in the registry # 13584, is a “mature open rosette to 50 cm. diameter x 30 cm high” with “broad, black-spined, bronzegreen leaves with sepia black tips and reddish-brown concentric cross-banding; and a hot pink central cup at blooming.”

The ‘Inday Sara’ variety, on the other hand, is a “mature, open rosette to 34 cm diameter x 26 cm. high” with “broad, light green inner leaves with rosy red, random patches and partial concentric rings plus rounded, indented bright leaf tips.”

The Neoregelia ‘Elizabeth Duterte,’ meanwhile, is registered as No. 13967; it is a “mature, open rosette to 65 cm. diameter x 48 cm. high” and in “strong light, the plant turns fuchsia pink, and has glossy broad leaves with a deeper pink cup when blooming.”

But Sara has another feather on her cap. A team of biodiversityexperts from the University of Mindanao named a new Philippine hoya (a wax plant) species from Dinagat Province Hoya indaysarae (with pinkish color at its apex and measures 1.4 cm) in honor of the lady mayor.

The same team also honored the school’s president, Dr. Guillermo P. Torres Jr., with a newly-discovered beetle now scientifically known as Metapocyrtus willietorres. The insect can be found at an elevation of

1, 800 meters above sea level in the forests of Mindanao.

Balut Island, likewise, is proud of its Vexillum balutensis and Tegula balutensis, both marine mollusks. The island of Sarangani has lent its name to a land snail scientifically known as Calocochlia saranganica Hidalgo discovered in 1887. Other sea creatures named after Sarangani are the Hydropsyche saranganica Ulmer (1951), Scelotrichia saranganica Ulmer (1951), Helicostyla saranganica Moellendorff (1890), and Obba saranganica Hidalgo.

The rare conch alternately known as the bat volute (Cymbiola vespertilio matiensis) is named after Mati City. This shell, superbly colored in shades of red and discovered in 1903, is a large predatory sea snail and marine gastropod mollusk.

On the other hand, a magnolia from Samal carries the name Salvia samalensis, while an herb has been scientifically labeled as Montanoa samalensis J. M. Coulter. There is also a fungus called Graphis samalensis, and an insect known as the Metapocyrtus samalensis. Scientists have also identified a beetle that is endemic to the island-city under the genus Metapocyrtus Heller 1912, namely: the Artapocyrtus bifasciatus samalensis and Artapocyrtus falsoquadrulifer samalensis.

8 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

Phoenix Petroleum extends Syzygy Music Festival promo until February 9

M

ake your music festival experience come alive when you gas up at Phoenix Petroleum and get FREE tickets to the anticipated Syzygy Music Festival happening on February 9, 2019 at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds.

Starting January 28 to February 9, motorists and festival goers can gas up at select Phoenix fuel stations in the metro and have a chance to get FREE VIP or GOLD tickets to this year’s Syzygy Music Festival in exchange of their fuel

transaction receipts.

Exchange your Php 2,000 worth of single or accumulated fuel receipt/s with one (1) FREE GOLD ticket.

Upgrade your music festival experience further when you boost your fuel transactions and collect Php 5,000 worth of single or accumulated fuel receipt/s or Php 2,000 worth of single or accumulated fuel receipt/s using the Phoenix RCBC Bankard Mastercard to automatically get one (1) FREE VIP ticket.

You can collect and

combine Phoenix fuel receipts from your family and friends to get more FREE tickets to the music festival. Combination and accumulation of fuel receipts from several participating stations is also allowed. However, purchase orders, bulk purchases, and transactions from buses and trucks are excluded from this promo.

To redeem the tickets, customers shall present their single or accumulated fuel receipt/s, credit card charge slip/s (if RCBC card transactions), and at least one (1) val-

id ID at the redemption booth located in Phoenix MOA gas station from February 7 to 9, 2019, 9 AM to 5 PM. Fuel receipts accumulated only during the promo period will be accepted.

“Aside from providing a perfect fuel partner for their every drive, Phoenix Petroleum also wants to translate the enhanced experience we promised to bring to the lifestyle of the next generation adults, through our fuel additive, Phoenix PULSE Technology.

Our partnership with the Syzygy Music FesRepublic of the Philippines Department of Transportation LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

I

t was a great way to welcome the love month as Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. discovered the first pawikan nest for the year at the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park in Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City last February 3, 2019.

Fermin Edillon, Davao Light Community Relations Manager, was accompanying Mr. Antonio Aboitiz together with his friends for a tour in the Cleanergy Park when they found pawikan tracks on the shore, which headed them to the location of a Pawikan nest.

The discovery of this pawikan nest is very timely with the recent signing of Memorandum of Agreement among Davao Light, Aboitiz Foundation Inc. , Davao City Local Government Unit and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to establish a Pawikan Rescue Center at the Cleanergy Park. This collaboration will intensify conservation efforts for the marine turtles or pawikan particularly the critically endangered hawksbill turtle in Davao City.

In two weeks time, the

same mother pawikan is expected to come back and lay another set of eggs.

The Cleanergy Park has been a nesting ground of the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtles and the recently found nest is also believed to be of the same

species.

Davao Light is hoping for more pawikan eggs to be laid in the park for 2019 and for the coming years.

A total of 3,482 hatchlings were already released at the Cleanergy Park since it was established in 2014.

NOTICE OF AUCTION The VGM Pawnshop, Inc. will hold a Public Auction Sale to all unredeemed and unrenewed items on the following schedule listed below at 9:00 O’clock in the morning.

Ang VGM Pawnshop, Inc. magasubasta sa tanang prenda nga wala nalukat sa maong sumusunod nga mga petsa sa alas 9:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES

DATE PAWNED

DAVAO

Sasa Maa Panabo Main Panabo Branch

DAVAO

Sandawa Matina Ecoland Ulas

August 01-31,2018

August 01-31,2018

DATE & PLACE OF AUCTION Feb. 22, 2019 (Fri.) 9:00 AM VGMPawnshop, Inc, Sasa Branch RVS BLDG Km11 Sasa Davao City Feb. 27, 2019(Wed.) 9:00 AM VGM Pawnshop, Inc, Sasa Branch RVS BLDG Km. 11, Sasa Davao City

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

additive with advanced cleaning and protection properties for enhanced power and acceleration.

Music stages and performances from other homegrown artists such as Marc Marasigan, Jason Dewey, Ron Poe, Jennifer Lee, and Everyday People will also be featured in the festival.

Head on to any participating Phoenix Petroleum station near you and start collecting your fuel transaction receipts now. Visit www.phoenixfuels.ph/news to see the list of participating Phoenix gas stations.

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

Petition for Extension of Validity of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service.

Petition for Extension of Validity of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI Service.

Petition for Extension of Validity of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service.

CATHERINE C. NOVICIO, Petitioner.

ELMER M. NAMBATAC, Petitioner.

JULIETO S. TORMIS, Petitioner.

Case No. R11-EV-TX-2019-1-025 (2014-XI-00025)

Case No. R11-EV-PJ-2019-1-1428 (2016-XI-01428)

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

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

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

NOTICE OF HEARING

NOTICE OF HEARING

NOTICE OF HEARING

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ Dual Ordinary Regular service on the route: BUNAWAN VIA BUHANGIN and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on March 15, 2019. In the petition filed on January 24, 2019, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of the said Certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI service on the route: WITHIN DAVAO CITY AND FROM SAID PLACE TO ANY POINT IN REGION XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on December 31, 2019. In the petition filed on January 29, 2019, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of the said Certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ Dual Ordinary Regular service on the route: TALOMO and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of THREE (3) units, which Certificate will expire on March 22, 2019. In the petition filed on January 31, 2019, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of the said Certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Case No. R11-EV-PJ-2019-1-1747 (2016-XI-01747)

Pawikan nest found at the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park at the start of the love month

tival and this free ticket promo exclusive for our clients aim to give more people a chance to experience the lively and pulse-racing feeling that festivals offer to its audiences,” Phoenix Petroleum Chief Operating Officer Henry Albert Fadullon said.

Headlined by the most sought-after international musical duo and the Kings of Tomorrowland Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, the country’s third Syzygy Music Festival is powered by Phoenix PULSE Technology— Phoenix Petroleum’s fuel

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on FEBRUARY 19, 2019 at 8:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a newspaper of local circulation.

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

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

Davao City, Philippines, January 31, 2019.

Atty. CATTLEYA B. ACAYLAR OIC-Regional Director

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on FEBRUARY 19, 2019 at 8:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a newspaper of local circulation.

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

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

Davao City, Philippines, January 30, 2019.

Atty. CATTLEYA B. ACAYLAR OIC-Regional Director

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on FEBRUARY 27, 2019 at 8:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a newspaper of local circulation.

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

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

Davao City, Philippines, February 1, 2019.

Atty. CATTLEYA B. ACAYLAR OIC-Regional Director

(Feb. 7, 8 & 10, 2018) THE MANAGEMENT

Petitioner, Catherine C. Novicio Counsel, Atty. Napoleon F. Sango

Petitioner, Elmer M. Nambatac Counsel, Atty. Albert G. Yenco

Petitioner, Julieto S. Tormis Counsel, Atty. Marvin G. Camino

INdulge!

FOOD

VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

EDGEDAVAO

PURGE at the first instance SERENITY has always been a personal need.

From books to music to sleeping, we all have our knack for what peace and quiet is. It may not be as peaceful as the word, but of whatever mode, we wish to be in touch and be in sync with our inner self. A quest that, most often, leads us to discover something new about the self.

With the prevalence of quaint coffee shops and cafes in the metro, one can surely find a serene place that goes beyond being just a gustatory destination.

Nowadays, coffee shops exhibit a lifestyle – a place where one’s self is able to relax and recharge.

True, not all shops are the same – hence, with the choices, find one that not only satisfies the palate… but more so, the yearning for serenity.

Consider the hustling and booming streets of Tulip Drive over at the south side of the city — what was once a serene residential strip is now one of

Purge Roasters’ decadent Belgian Waffles.

the busiest. With more than a handful of foodie destinations available, getting lost with an appetite to curb is but normal.

Purge Coffee Roaster is not new. It has been serving cup after cup of lustfully aromatic variants of coffee that you won’t find elsewhere. The whiff alone

Pasta and Coffee -- match made in palate heaven.

of freshly brewed coffee will have you wanting to take a seat and waiting patiently.

Inside, you’d be greeted to a pacified and relaxing ambiance that’s very welcoming and of course, homey. The simplicity is what makes Purge perfect. And that’s just the ambiance. Not to mention, at Purge, they don’t have wificonnection – coffee and online detox under one roof? Just what we all need.

Menu wise, theirs is surprisingly addictive. It’s not as extensive as you’d expect but the minimal items will truly leave a lasting palate impression. As

they say -- one look and you’ll be hooked.

Their menu is mysteriously straightforward. What they have are caffeine fixes and bites that when eaten together, create another dimension of flavour. Who said pasta and coffee do not go together has truly not explored their dynamism. The savoury pasta preps and coats the palate of a plethora of perceptive taste while the coffee seals the deal.

And the same goes when you opt to pair a cup of freshly brewed coffee with a piece of sweetened carb – a piece (or two!) of Purge’s red velvet waffle

Every cup is guaranteed to make you fall in love with coffee all over again. topped with vanilla ice cream is but the perfect sin. This, right here, is just too much for the senses to fathom – the texture, the taste and the balance of sweetness lingers even after you pay the bill.

As a coffee shop, Purge’s selection includes a variety of hot and cold fixes, with or without caffeine, perfected to satisfy anyone’s craving. They also have bagged roasted coffee beans for sale if you want to elevate your caffeine fix on a daily basis.

Purge Coffee Roaster is located at Tulip drive, Matina, Davao City.

EDGED

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

Get exclusive entertainment perks with Globe At Home

THIS 2019, take your family on more wonderful adventures with Globe At Home and access the latest Disney flicks through the rich library of content from streaming partners DisneyLife! To top this off, you’ll also get exclusive world-class entertainment perks, like screening invites to this year’s hottest Disney films like The Lion King, Toy Story 4, and Frozen 2!

“The internet is an amazing gateway to the world, allowing us to learn, experience, interact and enjoy things that would have been impossible or unimaginable only a decade ago. And this is what Globe At Home is proud to be able to bring you, a way to support your family’s digital lifestyle. And through the [Disney’s] amazing new app called DisneyLife, you will not only get to enjoy your favorite Disney classics, but also your favorite Pixar, Marvel, and LucasFilm productions!”, says Fatima Javellana, Globe at Home’s Director and Head of Existing Customers and Loyalty.

Get free 6 months access to DisneyLife with your Globe At Home plan. Enjoy speeds of up to 100Mbps as you watch Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars films to your heart’s content without worrying about buffering or data caps. Together with Disney, Globe at Home can truly offer you the ultimate digital entertainment experience right in your living room and enjoy exclusive privileges at the same time.

Plus, continue the kid-friendly fun and learning without worries of online threats with the TP Link! It has parental control features that allow you to block specific websites and set surfing time limits to control children’s viewing and browsing habits. It’s easy to keep Internet usage at home safe and secure. Avail one to add to your Globe At Home Plan for only P150 per month and keep your home #RatedPC. For more information, visit https://www.globe.com. ph/broadband.html.

EVENT

Marco Polo Davao’s double

THE HEART OF DURIANBURG was once again the heart of Lunar New Year celebrations as it celebrated the eve of Chinese New Year with a bang last February 4. Staying true to its heritage, the Marco Polo Davao was decked in plum blossoms, red lanterns and gold to bring in prosperity for the new year.

The celebrations started in earnest as Marco Polo Davao’s General Manager James Bevans and Mr. Johnny Yap marched in with the traditional “Dotting of the Eye.” This was followed by a lively and festive Lion Dance performance by the Davao Lion Dancers Association which energised the guests.

An auspicious feast followed at the Cafe Marco where diners enjoyed a special Chinese New Year’s Eve buffet featuring Chinese favourites such as Hot and Sour Soup, Steamed Dimsum, Park Char Siew, Roast Pig and more.

The evening was actually a double celebration as the Marco Polo Davao’s Lotus Court was recently awarded as one of T Dining’s Best Restaurant for 2019.

The awarding ceremony which was held recently at the High Street Lounge of the Shangri-La at the Fort Manila, T Dining, Philippine Tatler’s new cross-platform lifestyle brand was well attended by restaurateurs, chefs, gourmands, hoteliers, foodies, oenophiles and the best of society.

“Lotus Court is Davao’s most elegant Chinese restaurant with its contemporary Asian patterns

and spacious interiors overlooking the Davao skyline” says the Tatler review. “At Lotus Court one can indulge in quality Cantonese fare and dim sum offerings. It must also to mention that the staffs here are among the most accommodating in the city.

Lotus Court won the prestigious award together with 173 culinary gems in the whole country and the only Cantonese restaurant that made it on the list from Davao region. The award is evaluated on the feedback of professional chefs and client feedback.

“Marco Polo Davao is indeed a destination for culinary adventure“ saidExecutive Chef Alex Destriza. RBE Manager Rene Gargallo, who was also present during the event, shared that Lotus Court’s desire is to be top notch in service and top notch in food. We are striving to be the best Chinese restaurant in Davao“.

Congratulations to the Marco Polo Davao team for an exciting Chinese New Year celebration, both on the exciting happening and on the plate.

EDAVAO

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e lucky affair

ENTERTAINMENT

WELCOME THE NEW YEAR WITH #ABSCBNLIFESTYLEINSPO LAUREEN UY BLOGGER and host Laureen Uy joins ABS-CBN Lifestyle and inspires Kapamilyas toward that muchneeded life upgrade this new year, being hailed as the site’s first guest editor or ABS-CBN Lifestyle Inspo for 2019.

From being just a style and lifestyle blogger to now an influencer in every sense of the word, Laureen is a master of recreating one’s brand.

Recently, she also hosted a thrift shopping-themed online show on iWant titled “Laureen On A Budget.”

As the first ABS-CBN Lifestyle Inspo this year, the “Break My Style” creator wrote helpful articles and produced videos on how Kapamilyas can work on not just their style but also their digital branding. She also went personal on the site by giving a peek of her relationships with her siblings, the equally stylish Liz and Vince Uy, and her boyfriend Miggy Cruz.

ABS-CBN Lifestyle also continues its “Operation: Upgrade” theme with a major feature on ageless celebs who do not seem to mind any calendar shifts. Alice Dixson. Ina

Raymundo, Raymond Bagatsing, Marc Nelson, Rachel Alejandro, and Christopher Roxas star in this sexy and inspiring series of articles and videos on being fit and fab no matter what age.

Check out the exciting reads and videos with Laureen, this year’s first

#ABSCBNLifestyleInspo. Catch more Inspiring Stellar Stories on ABS-CBN Lifestyle by logging on to Lifestyle.ABS-CBN.com and following the site through its social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter @abscbnlifestyle.

FALL IN LOVE WITH PRIYANKA CHOPRA THIS MONTH IN SKYCABLE’S ZEE SINE

BOLLYWOOD romance takes the spotlight this February on the Tagalized Indian channel, Zee Sine on SKY as it features the hit movie by Indian actress Priyanka Chopra.

Newly married Priyanka is back on the television screen as her 2012 film “Teri Meri Kahaani” airs this Valentine’s Day. After three years, Priyanka and Shahid Kapoor reunite in this romance film and portray three couples from three different eras. In 1910, they are two star-crossed lovers during the British Raj (British Rule); in 1960, a popular Bollywood actress and a struggling musician; and in 2012, two university students. Their love for each other is strong enough that even destiny keeps bringing them together.

Aside from the two films, also included in the line-up are the “Sanam Teri Kasam,” and “No Smoking.”

Craving for more Tagalized Bollywood masterpieces?

Discover them on ZEE Sine on SKYcable Select.

Watch this channel for free until April 14, 2019 on channel 112 for Metro Manila, channel 424 in Baguio, Cebu and Davao.

SKYcable Select allows SKY customers with cable subscription the option to add channels to their existing channel lineup for a customized TV viewing experience. For more details on ZEE Sine and other SKY products and services, visit mysky.com. ph, call the Sales hotline (02) 418 0000 or your local SKY office, or visit SKYzone or SKY office nearest you.

ZEE SINE takes us to a new magical world of 24/7 Bollywood entertainment brimming with spectacular production values, relatable plots, colorful costumes, amazing cinematography, breathtaking locations, casting coups and that distinct song and dance number, all curated and dubbed in Filipino.

Zee Sine has over 355 new titles, 3 new movies per day with repeats featuring the freshest global Bollywood stars.

A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

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ANOTHER... FROM 1

SIN... FROM 2

without major incidents.

Earlier, Police Regional Office - Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-ARMM) reported that a vendor identified as Sera Mangelen, 25, sustained wounds in her left arm after the explosion on Tuesday. The investigation report bared the IED placed in a motorcycle parked beside national highway by two unidentified suspects onboard on two different motorcycles bound to Isulan, Sultan Kudarat.

The suspects allegedly pretend to buy fruits in the area but the suspects fled the area riding only one motorcycle and left the other one with the bomb that exploded later on which caused the vendor sustained injury to her left hand.

They immediately speed off to the direction of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat. Investigators of Maguindanao Police Provincial Office has now conducted deeper probe on the incident.

age of 39,544.37 metric tons.

Diosana said that the domestic local manufacturers are those who are affected by the tax increase, due to the low domestic consumption.

Recently, a bill for the higher taxes on tabacco and alcohol was separately filled in both the House of Representatives and the Senate purposely to

fund the Universal Health Care (UHC) law passed in November last year.

The new excise tax on these products will fill in the P68-billion gap in the first year implementation of the UHC law worth more than P257 billion. The law also aims to gradually reduce the tobacco consumption of Filipinos.

However, the bus company also said that they did not lack in instilling “safety first” mindset to their drivers and conductors.

“They have LTFRB and in-house trainings. GPS (global positioning system) are installed in our buses and our GPS monitoring team immediately calls the attention of drivers who are driving past the speed limit and such drivers are sanctioned,” Metro Shuttle said.

The company also said that they are also ensuring the roadworthiness of their buses before they take the road.

Metro Shuttle said that they have 500 buses travelling daily, carrying 20,000 passengers to several destinations.

The company has yet to turn over their fleet of 34 bus units as ordered by

LTFRB on Tuesday in their issued preventive suspension.

LTFRB gave Metro Shuttle up to Tuesday to surrender their bus plates.

The accident also resulted in injuries to 30 others now being treated at the Compostela Valley Provincial Hospital in Montevista.

Investigations revealed that the Metro Shuttle Bus was traversing from Tagum City going to Veruela, Agusan del Sur, while a Bachelor Bus, driven by Cruz Daig was on the opposite lane from New Bataan, Compostela Valley Province going to Tagum City.

Upon reaching the aforesaid place of incident, Metro Shuttle right front wheel exploded and encroached to the lane of the Bachelor Express bus, resulting to its collision.

90 others on January 27.

Meanwhile, eight people were killed, including three Abu Sayyaf bandits, while 33 others were wounded in a firefight in Patikul, Sulu on February 2.

The encounter took place after Duterte, on January 29, ordered troops to pursue Abu Sayyaf bandits, convinced that they were behind the twin blasts.

"We are sure of that. No-

body can perpetuate that kind of terrorism thereabout (in the area). I have no doubt," Duterte said in a chance interview after the groundbreaking of the new site of the San Lorenzo Ruiz General Hospital in Malabon City.

"That is what the military told me and that is what the police relayed to me and I am guided by what the government workers would tell me," he added. (PNA)

of the vehicle, we will let the management answer and account for that," Morales said.

Initial investigation showed the incident occurred after the front tire of the Metro Shuttle bus exploded, causing it to swerve to the lane of an-

other passenger bus.

The Metro Shuttle was bound for Veruela, Agusan del Sur from Tagum City, while the Bachelor Bus was heading towards Tagum City from New Bataan, Compostela Valley. (PNA)

in Japan. We received inquiries from Malaysia and Singapore, a week after the roadshow (scheduled back in September last year),” he said.

He also said that the roadshows further strengthened the connection of the DCIPC with the local business sector in the city.

BUS... FROM 1

NEWS 9

EDGEDAVAO

DUTERTE... FROM 2

LTFRB... FROM 2 DCIPC... FROM 4

Youth vote for BOL assured in Lanao Norte, Nor Cot: group

S

eventy to 80 percent of the young voters in the February 6 Bangsamoro plebiscite will allow six Lanao del Norte towns and 67 North Cotabato barangays to be included in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), International Alert Philippines (IA) said.

Citing survey results released in December 2018 and January 2019, IA said 71% of the youth in Lanao del Norte are in favor of Bangsamoro and will vote for inclusion of the municipalities of Tangkal, Tagaloan, Munai, Pantar, Nunungan, and Baloi in the BARMM. “Similarly, 83% of the youth in the municipalities of Pikit, Kabacan, Carmen, Midsayap, Pigkawagan, and Aleosan in North Cotabato, mother units of barangays seeking inclusion in the new political entity, will vote to be included,” it added.

But IA country manager Nikki de la Rosa pointed out that in contrast to the 57% youth voting population in the ARMM, only 45% of the voting population in Lanao

del Norte and the six towns in North Cotabato are from the youth.

De la Rosa added Tulunan town was not included in the survey, as this was a follow-up to the study that the group conducted in 2018, before the Commission on Elections granted the petition of Barangay Galidan in the said municipality to be included in the plebiscite.

Officials of North Cotabato have declared support for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Law. In Lanao del Norte, however, Governor Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo, husband 2nd District Rep. Abdullah Dimaporo and son 2nd District Rep. Khalid Dimaporo are opposing the inclusion of the six towns in the Bangsamoro region.

The “yes” vote won in the first round of the plebiscite last January 21 in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and Cotabato City. Isabela City opted out of the measure.

Cotabato City Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi had said they will file a protest, citing “irregularities and threats.” (MindaNews)

10 EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

11 SPORTS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

PH-Mighty Sports sweeps elims

M

Irina Glenne Escandor (left photo) strung up 12 straight points to power Davao City past Sto. Tomas. Right, the Davao City girls team in a huddle. PSC photo

Escandor keys DC win

By ADAM B. MORRELL

I

rina Glenne Escandor dropped 12 straight markers in the second set as the Davao City shut down Sto. Tomas 25-18, 2522, Wednesday afternoon in girls volleyball of the 2019 Batang Pinoy Mindanao Finals held at the University of Mindanao (UM) Tagum Gym. After seizing the first set, Davao City was left be-

hind with a dozen points 9-21 as Sto. Tomas closed in on a possible sudden death.

Escandor, however, halted the opposition’s run with a 12-point rally made by service aces and big time blocks which secured Davao City’s one-point lead, 22-21.

Alexis Quilaton and Rika Sasaki along with Khey Aleck Pablo and Cahre Ishel

Pelicans.

The report said that Lakers president of basketball operations Magic Johnson informed Pelicans general manager Dell Demps that the organization had made its best and final offer and would not add anything else.

That offer is reported to have included Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, Ivica Zubac and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope as well as two first round draft picks.

However the Pelicans had requested between six and eight draft picks.

“They wanted more and more and more,” the Times

OUTRAGEOUS. The Pelicans reportedly are asking outrageous demands to let go of star center Anthony Davis to the Lakers.

knee during the block, but he stood up and walked to the bench as if nothing happened.

Despite his sitting out the remaining 1:31 of the game, Mighty Sports finished the job as the team eventually held Al Wahda, which still tried to pull a comeback, in the end.

Roosevelt Adams fired 21 points, including four triples, to lead Mighty Sports, which completed a 4-0 sweep of its assignments in Group B. In effect, Mighty Sports secured the top seed for the group in the quarterfinals without going to the dreaded quotient rule, which would have been in effect if Al Wahda beat Mighty Sports but lost to Homenetmen later Wednesday.

Mighty Sports will take on either AS Sale or Al Naft in the quarterfinals on Thursday.

AS Sale completed the quarterfinal cast in Group A after drubbing Jordan, 100-80, on Tuesday night.

AS Sale and Al Naft will face off later Wednesday to decide which team will finish third in Group A. The losing side will fall to the fourth seed and a quarterfinal date with Mighty Sports.

On the other hand, Al Wahda’s loss, which dropped the team to 2-1, means its showdown with Homenetmen, also at 2-1, will be for the second seed in Group B. The Al Wahda-Homenetmen winner will meet the AS Sale-Al Naft victor in the knockout stages. (PNA)

Nablea finished the business as Davao City secures an unblemished 3-0 slate.

The win came on the heels of blowing off Cagayan de Oro 25-14, 26-24, on late Tuesday afternoon.

On a different note, Davao City’s boys’ team absorbed defeat from General Santos City 24-26, 25-19, 10-15, while losing to Talisayan 25-18, 24-26, 13-15,

on the same day.

Over the Beach Velodrome, Davao City boys demolished Davao del Norte 21-15, 21-14, to keep its hopes alive while the girls encountered major setbacks, losing two games in a row on Tuesday.

The girls tandem bowed to Iligan City 22-20, 21-17, after losing to Cagayan de Oro City 17-21, 21-23.

quoted one source familiar with the negotiations as saying. “There was no more to give... the more they wanted the more it because outrageous and unrealistic.”

Davis, a 25-year-old forward who helped the United States capture 2012 London Olympic gold is the most prized player up for grabs as Thursday’s NBA trade deadline approaches.

Rich Paul, Davis’s agent and James’s agent, revealed the Davis trade demand a week ago, leading to a $50,000 fine for Davis from the NBA but forcing the Pelicans’ hand, lest he play out his contract next year and leave without any compensation.

ESPN reported Monday that Davis has given the Pelicans a list with a “handful” of clubs where he would sign a long-term deal after a trade, saying it includes Milwaukee and does not include Boston.

The Lakers, Milwaukee, New York Knicks and Los Angeles Clippers are on the list, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Bringing Davis to the Lakers to play alongside James would give the team another major two-man combination in their history of success with such duos as Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Magic Johnson and Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West.

Ryu Ampan of Davao City serves against Mati City in beach volleyball. Ampan of Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai and teammate Jayrad Adeva of Philippine Science High School won in straight sets. KOII CANARIAS

Lakers slam trade talk LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Lakers have withdrawn from negotiations with the New Orleans Pelicans over Anthony Davis after complaining of “outrageous” trade requests, the Los Angeles Times reported Tuesday.

The Times said the Lakers had “pulled out” of talks with the Pelicans aimed at acquiring Davis after offering multiple players and draft picks for the All-Star.

Davis, who announced his desire to leave New Orleans earlier this month, is reportedly keen to join the Lakers and form a partnership with LeBron James.

However, the Times, citing a person with knowledge of the negotiations, reported Tuesday that the Lakers had now ended discussions after growing increasingly frustrated with t h e

ighty Sports bucked an injury scare on Roosevelt Adams and Justin Brownlee and completed a huge comeback to beat Al Wahda, 85-81, in the Dubai International Basketball Championship at the Shahad Al Ahli Club in Dubai early Wednesday (Philippine time).

In an intense game of basketball with the top seed in Group B on the line, Mighty Sports found itself needing to pull a dominating fourth quarter performance to edge Al Wahda, which the Philippine squad did.

The Syrian side took advantage of a slowed down Adams, who suffered a groin injury before halftime, as the team torched from the outside in the third quarter to take a 6560 lead.

However, Adams and Brownlee converted backto-back triples to give Mighty Sports a 66-65 advantage at the start of the fourth.

After a seesaw battle, Al Wahda appeared to have restored order after going on a 7-0 run to mount a 7670 lead with 4:22 left.

But Mighty Sports went on a 14-0 run sparked and eventually capped by booming treys from Adams to steal the win.

Brownlee helped in the run on both ends, burying the go-ahead triple with 2:31 left and making a huge block on Jordan Adams’ layup attempt a minute later.

Brownlee tweaked his

12 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL.11 ISSUE 229 • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2019

SPLASH SISTERS Amoguis sisters capture 3 golds for Davao City

By ADAM B. MORRELL

T

AGUM CITY – Sisters Liaa Margarette and Lora Micah Amoguis turned the pool into their own playground as they collected a total of three gold medals in the swimming competition of the 2019 Batang Pinoy Mindanao leg Wednesday at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex here.

The younger Liaa dominated the girls’ 12-under 100-meter butterfly and 200m individual medley while Lora made waves in the girls’ 13-15 200m individual medley to jack up Davao City’s medal haul in this prestigious age-group tourney for young athletes 15-years old and below.

Liaa registered one minute and 11.2 seconds to grab the gold in the 100m butterfly before storming back to rule the 200m individual medley with a clocking of 2:39, a performance that is a fitting follow up to her golden haul of six mints in the Davao Regional Athletic Association last week.

Liaa still has a chance to match that feat as she sees action in four more events in the next couple of days of this tourney that is organized by the Philippine Sports Commission and Province of Davao del Norte with STI College-Tagum and Alfalink Total Solutions Corp. as backers.

Lora, on the other hand, clocked 2:35.06 to clinch the mint in the 200m individual medley before settling for silver medal with a time of 33.97 seconds in the girls’ 13-15 50m backstroke.

Gene Heart Quiambao of Bukidnon beat her for the gold with 33.69 seconds.

Still, the performance was such an impressive feat for the sisters, who are looking to test their mettle against prominent tankers from Manila in the national finals in October either in Tagbilaran City or Ormoc City.

“We motivate each other.

When she feels down, I motivate her. When I feel down, she motivates me as well.

That’s how close we are,” said 13-year old Lora, who still has four more events.

“I’m excited to play in the national finals and race against other swimmers.

Even though there are other swimmers from other regions, my goal is not to win medals. I just want to beat my time. That’s it.”

Liaa, for her part, is looking to scale a higher mountain.

“My dream is to beat the Palarong Pambansa record,” said Liaa, 11-year-old kid wonder from The Abba’s Orchard School who already represented the country in the recent BIMP-EAGA Friendship Games in Brunei.

Also emerging victorious in this centerpiece sport were Blu Cabilete of Davao, Yuan Taojo of Davao, Albren Dayapdapan of Dipolog and Rain Tumulac of Davao.

Cabilete clocked 29.91 to shine in the boys’ 13-15 50m backstroke while Taojo registered 40.85 in the boys’ 12-under 50m backstroke, Dayapdapan tallied 32.65 seconds in the boys’ 13-15 50m breaststroke and Tumu-

BATANG PINOY

MEDAL TALLY LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

Sisters Liaa Margarette and Lora Micah Amoguis captured three gold medals in swimming on Wednesday in the 2019 Batang Pinoy Mindanao leg at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex. PSC photo lac timed 1:14.68 in the boys’ 12-under 100m butterfly.

In archery, 15-year-old John Carlo Loreno harvested five gold medals for Koronadal City with victories in the cadet boys 30-meter, 40m, 50m, 60m and single FITA events.

“I hope to win more,” said Loreno, who is in his third Batang Pinoy appearance.

Precious Micah Basadre also shared the podium with victories in the cadet girls 30m, 40m, 50m and single FITA while younger brother Jeremiah Adrian ruled the cub boys 20m, 30m, 50m and

single FITA. Youngest sibling Justin Matthew reigned supreme in the bowman boys Olympic round and single FITA. In cadet boys taekwondo, Cagayan De Oro City snared three gold medals courtesy of Lee Young Hwan (welterweight), Carlos Pizana (heavy) and Von Xedric Faller (fin).

Kier Carlos Buico (middle) and Carl Andrew Cagas (light) won two golds for Butuan City while Davao City also went home with two golds from John Louis Zabal-

lero (bantam) and Arnold Alesna (feather).

In arnis, Tacurong City harvested 13 gold medals at the City Mall in Tagum courtesy of Maria Veronica Ilagan (cadet girls traditional individual 1 weapon), Althea Charmene Delos Santos (cadet girls traditional individual 2 weapons and non-traditional individual 1 weapon), Jeko Jan Heyres (junior boys traditional individual 1 weapon), Princes Sheryl Valdez (junior girls traditional individual 2 weapons and non-traditional individual 1 weapon), and

Cristian Dave Bucio (junior boys non-traditional individual 2 weapon).

Also delivering for Tacurong were teams of Andrei Alcarato, Jeko Jann Heyres and Jan Vincent Monserat (junior boys traditional team open weapon); Shena May Valdez, Joana Marie Julaya and Sthepane Mones (junior girls traditional team open weapon and non-traditional team open weapon); and Cristian Dave Bucio, Miguel Clavation and Samuel Clavation (junior boys traditional team open weapon).

AS OF 06 FEBRUARY 2019 6 PM

GOLD SILVER BRONZE TOTAL

1. DAVAO CITY

22

12

27

61

2. GENERAL SANTOS CITY

16

18

15

49

3. KORONADAL CITY

16

8

5

29

4. SOUTH COTABATO

15

19

16

50

5. TACURONG CITY

13

8

5

26

6. ZAMBOANGA CITY

10

10

8

28

7. DAVAO DEL NORTE

9

11

12

32

8. CAGAYAN DE ORO

9

7

28

44

9. BUTUAN CITY

7

7

11

25

10. NORTH COTABATO

6

6

3

15

11. TAGUM CITY

5

5

3

13

12. ILIGAN CITY

3

10

12

25

13. DATU ODIN SINSUAT

3

4

6

13

14. PANABO CITY

3

3

3

9

15. DIGOS CITY

3

2

6

11

16. DIPOLOG CITY

2

5

17. KIDAPAWAN CITY

2

3

2 3

9 8

18. BUKIDNON

2 2

2

1

5

19. PAGADIAN CITY

2

4

20. GUIPOS, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR

2

21. PIGCAWAYAN

2

22. CALAMBA, MISAMIS ORIENTAL

1

3

23. EL SALVADOR CITY

1

2

2

4 5

24. CABANGLASAN 25. ISLAND GARDEN OF SAMAL

1

1

2

4

1

1

1

3

26. VILLANUEVA, MISAMIS ORIENTAL

1

1

27. MATI CITY

1

3

4

28. MALAYBALAY CITY

1

1

2

29. SUMILAO, BUKIDNON

1

2 2

2

1

30. MACO, COMPOSTELA VALLEY

5

3

8

31. CARMEN, DAVAO DEL NORTE

2

32. MALITA, DAVAO OCCIDENTAL

2

1 1

3 3

33. COTABATO PROVINCE

1

1

34. KIAMBA, SARANGANI PROVINCE

1

1

35. LAGONGLONG

1

1

36. CABADBARAN CITY

3

3

37. PRES. M.A. ROXAS ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE

2

2

38. SURIGAO CITY

2

2

39. ANTIPAS

1

1

40. BANAYBANAY

1

1

41. GOV. GENEROSO

1

1

42. MLANG

1

1

EDGEDAVAO

Ricspeed : Awakening of Tomorrow’s Victors

E

ntering a battle unprepared is an awful experience but struggles are inevitable, all you can do is fight and believe. This is exactly what happened to Ricspeed Dragon Boat Team during their debut race last August in the Kadayawan Dragon Boat Festival.

Despite being steps behind other older teams, their perseverance and sportsmanship fueled them till the end.

Ricspeed was founded by Mr. Ricardo Floirendo on June 23, 2018. Witnessing the sport was what piqued his interest to create a team of his own. It was the adrenaline of watching every team race

to the finish line and the determined faces of every paddler while they surge through the untamed waters that made him want to join the Dragon Boat Community of Davao.

Finding Ricspeed’s paddlers was an easy task for Mr. Floirendo. He is part of a company that is composed of sports enthusiast. Knowing his own men and the potential they possess, he knew that they were also ready to take on the challenge of an extreme sport, Dragon Boat. In a blink of an eye, Ricspeed Dragon Boat Team was born.

At present, Ricspeed has

grown into more than 40 paddlers. It is composed of diverse individuals who had one drive—the experience of punching through the water and fighting head on with other teams, not just in Davao but until where their paddles could take them. They stand by one principle—Defeat is only when you stop trying, for victory is to those who seek it—which fuels them to keep on improving.

The second competition they joined was last December 1 to 2 in the first Davao International Dragon Boat Festival. This time they were more than ready to prove their strength and that they

can fight too, even alongside veterans. It was a worth-wile experience despite not grabbing a trophy because what matters most is that they did their best and that their hunger for victory is blazing more than ever.

Ricspeed continues to soar and is craving for more of these competitions. This coming February, they are to take on another battle in Manila, competing with national teams. Alike a child, they are stubborn to defeat and that alone will never make them falter and give up on triumph.

They may fail a hundred, but a hundred will they get back up again.