Edge Davao | Vol 11 Issue 250 | Friday-Saturday, March 8-9, 2019

VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

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PRRD TO WORK ‘TO PROTECT AND PRESERVE THE NATION’

EDGE DAVAO

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GETTING READY. Personnel from the city government of Davao’s Ancillary Services Unit clean and clear the road of debris outside the premises of Azuela Cove in Lanang, Davao City on Thursday in preparation for the upcoming Alveo Ironman 70.3 where 2,800 athletes from 38 countries are expected to participate. Lean Daval Jr

WTE OPPOSITION Critics explain why they’re against waste-to-energy project

By ANTONIO M. AJERO

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coalition of a dozen organizations advocating environmental protection and ecological balance has formally declared its opposition to the proposed waste-to-energy project of the Davao City Government in a four-page position paper submitted to Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte and Assistant Administrator Tristan Dwight Domingo, head of the project team.

The paper, titled “Waste Incineration in Davao – Burning our Present: Wasting Our Future,” is authored

by No Burn Pilipinas-Mindanao and joined by 12 other groups of advocates.

It was �irst publicly discussed by Lorenzo de Vera of IDIS (Interface Develop-

ment Interventions) in last week’s Kapehan sa Dabaw media forum at the SM Annex at Ecoland. The paper calls for the discontinuation of all waste-to-energy projects in Davao City.

The document zeroed in on a public-private partnership venture to set up a

waste incinerator plant by 2022 at the Gatillo-Manundang property in Brgy. Biao Escuela, Tugbok District, with technology provider Nippon Steel and Sumikin Engineering Co., Ltd. (NSENGI) and with funding from the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and other local and foreign investors.

The paper claimed that the project “will jeopardize our common mission of creating a green, sustainable and waste-free Davao, and become a precedent for the establishment of similar facilities throughout Mindanao. “

“The plans for additional WtE plants from the results of the “Davao City Infrastructure Development Plan and Capacity Building Project” (IM4Davao) will extend into the 2040s the far-reaching health, environmental and economic risks of waste incineration as well,” according to the paper.

The coalition cited four reasons why it is calling for the discontinuation of the WtE projects, particularly the 2022 JICA-funded plant.

The coalition alleged that the WtE project is illegal.

It said the project will employ an NSENGI-provid-

ed grate stoker furnace— a mass-burn technology that directly combusts municipal solid waste (MSW), producing toxic ash, heavy metals and carcinogenic air pollutants as by-products. Section 20 of the Clean Air Act of 1999 (RA 8749) explicitly forbids any form of waste incineration which, to wit: “emits poisonous and toxic fumes.” Despite all efforts at pollution control, �lue gas scrubbing, ash disposal and �iltering technologies, it is a fact that incinerators of the type NSENGI proposes cannot completely and consistently eliminate toxic by-products such as mercu-

ry, dioxins and furans, and therefore implementation thereof violates our country’s laws. It said the project “is irreconcilable with the Philippine’s commitment to eliminate Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) under the 2001 Stockholm Convention, to which the country is a signatory, and the non-POPs projects being undertaken by the DENR-EMB with the help of the Global Environment Facility at UNIDO.” The New Carmen Sanitary Land�ill’s (SLF) lifespan has shortened supposedly because of Davao’s increasing municipal solid waste

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VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

CABINET PRAYER. President Rodrigo Duterte joins the members of his cabinet in prayer as the 35th Cabinet Meeting begins at the Malacañan Palace on Monday evening. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Misuari will not escape: Duterte

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resident Rodrigo Roa Duterte con�irmed that he “made arrangements” for the court to allow Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari to travel abroad, granting that the latter would return home to discuss the new deal the government is crafting in order to attain lasting peace in Mindanao.

The Chief Executive made remarks about Misuari during his participation in the campaign rally of Partido Demokratiko Pilipino – Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) in Tetuan.

“Now, Misuari came to me sa opisina ko the other night because he wanted to go out. He was not allowed, tapos may kaso siya. Kinausap ko ang police pati military pati ang korte na palabasin muna siya. Ako ang nag-guarantee that he will come back,” the President explained.

“Misuari, a true Tausug, would never allow that he be buried in a foreign land.

Sigurado ako niyan. That’s why he will come back and help us build a nation,” he added.

Before proceeding to Zamboanga, President Duterte already made a statement in Basilan where he ensured Misuari’s return.

“I called, of course, the authority and I said allow him [to travel]. He will not escape. Nur Misuari will

never abandon his country and I’m sure that he would only prepare to die in this native land,” he emphasized.

President Duterte and Nur Misuari had a brief meeting in Malacañang last week, February 25, where they have decided to continue talks and create a new deal with the MNLF, which would be spearheaded by Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, Defense Secretary Del�in Lorenzana, and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Carlito Galvez Jr. According to the President, Misuari will attend the 46th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC), and as soon as Misuari comes back, they will resume discussions about the deal.

“Si Nur umalis. Sabi ko hindi man ‘yan makalabas…sabi ko palabasin lang ninyo. Sabi niya, ‘Mag-usap tayo pagbalik ko.’ Sabi ko, ‘Sige Nur. Maghanap tayo ng solusyon na ‘yung hindi nasali sa Bangsamoro,” he said.

The Chief Executive also narrated the three problems Mindanao is enduring, which the administration is trying to �ix. First, “the revolution that is a quest for [the] homeland.”

Second, MNLF’s “dream of de�inite territorial integri-

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Agriculturist to discuss drought with officials

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n of�icial of the City Agricultural Of�ice bared that he will meet representatives of all food agencies this week to discuss the impact of the dry spell to the city.

Acting City Agriculturist Leo Brian Leuterio said Davao area is experiencing a dry spell due to the absence of rain in the past few days.

He said it will be a supply-demand issue that will impact on the prices of vegetables. “ In fact, the mayor has

called a meeting through the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to convene all concerned food of�ices like the City Social Services, City Veterinarian’s Of�ice, City Agriculture, City Disaster Of�ice and the barangay affairs to discuss the possible means to addressed

the problem,” Leuterio said.

He said earlier that CAO is working to mitigate this problem through the Gulayan sa Barangay, an urban agriculture activities through container gardening.

Leuterio said they have introduced these serious mitigating activities to the people.

He clari�ied that Davao City is not directly affected by the dry spell even with

as it is one of the most acutely fatal infection responsible for the deaths of at least 200 Filipinos each year.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 99 percent of all rabies transmissions are from dogs.

The DOH and the Department of Agriculture (DA) renewed their commitment to end the rabies disease through a campaign, dubbed as “Makiisa sa barangayan kontra rabies, maging responsableng pet owner”, to increase awareness about rabies prevention.

It focuses on responsible pet ownership and vaccine availability in established Animal Bite Treatment Centers to avoid unnecessary deaths due to rabies.

“We have made great

ocial Security System (SSS) Chief Emmanuel F. Dooc submitted his resignation letter yesterday to President Rodrigo Duterte as President and Chief Executive Of�icer (PCEO) of the pension fund at the same time Republic Act 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018 took effect.

In his letter to President Duterte, Dooc "voluntarily and irrevocably stepped down to provide him the opportunity to name a new President and CEO of SSS." As the 17th chief of the pension fund, Dooc leaves a legacy in SSS of significant accomplishments highlighted by the new SS law that has long-term impact on the viability of the pension fund and critical in providing more relevant bene�its to its members

the reports that the dry spell is gradually taking toll on the farms in Barangay Kapatagan, Digos City.

Leuterio expressed hope that the dry spell will not affect Bukidnon which is one source of vegetables in the city.

“Any threat to our production areas will also threaten the city’s demand for fruits and vegetables,” he said. (PIA XI-Joey Sem Dalumpines)

DOH reminds public to be Dooc resigns as SSS chief responsible pet owners S

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he Department of Health (DOH) has reminded the public about responsible pet ownership with the launch of its anti-rabies campaign, in celebration of the Rabies Awareness Month.

“Prevention is key in eliminating the rabies disease, 99% of all rabies transmissions to humans are from dogs. Be a responsible pet owner and vaccinate your pets. This is the most cost-effective strategy to prevent rabies,” Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III said in a statement on Tuesday.

Rabies is vaccine preventable viral disease, yet more than 59,000 people die from this disease annually, he said.

Duque said it is considered a public health problem

DOH, P9

and pensioners.

Dooc joined the pension fund in November 2016 after serving as Insurance Commissioner in 2011 until his appointment in SSS. During his stint with the Insurance Commission, Dooc also led the enactment of the Revised Insurance Code of 2012 which paved the way for the unprecedented growth of the insurance industry.

In SSS, with just a little over two years in his post, Dooc’s management posted the highest members' contribution collection in the history of the pension fund with a remarkable P181 billion in 2018 from P132 billion in 2015.

Innovations in collection introduced during Dooc’s term include the Run After Contribution

DOOC, P9

VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

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VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

10 NPA rebels yield in Maguindanao

By BONG S. SARMIENTO

T PRESIDENT DUTERTE’S CANDIDATES. President Rodrigo R. Duterte raises the arms of his candidates in Davao del Norte --Anthony G. Del Rosario for representative in the First District, Rodolfo “Rodney”G. Del Rosario Jr. for provincial

governor, and Antonio “Tonyboy” R. Floirendo Jr for representative of the Second District. CONTRIBUTED

PRRD to work‘to protect and preserve the nation’

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resident Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Tuesday, March 5, expressed his commitment to protect the Filipinos, reiterating his resolve to �ight illegal drugs.

“My gift to you is that I will work. One, to preserve the nation; and two, to protect the people,” the President said in a speech during a Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) campaign rally here.

The Chief Executive also issued a stern warning against individuals who are involved in illegal drugs.

“Droga…‘wag talaga kayong pumasok diyan,” he said.

“Basta ako mag-warning, hindi ko na ulitin. ‘Yung durugista pati na ‘yung on the side, mag-holdup kayo…

ganun pati ‘yung durugista, bitawan ninyo ang droga ninyo. Hindi na ako mag-ulit.

Bitawan ninyo…umalis kayo diyan,” the President added.

President Duterte stated that illegal drugs are “destructive to the people and there are millions already contaminated.”

While talking to the people of Abra, President Duterte consistently admitted that his measures are unconventional compared to a traditional statesman, and Abra having a “conservative” culture might �ind his man-

Bets with no SOCE may be barred from assuming posts

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inning candidates in the May 13 elections, who will fail to submit their Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE), may be permanently barred from assuming of�ice, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said Wednesday.

According to Comelec Resolution 10505, which amended several provisions of the Omnibus Rules on Campaign Finance, the failure of the candidate to submit SOCEs within six months from proclamation will stop him/her from assuming the duties of the post he/she had won.

“The of�ice of an elected candidate, who failed to �ile SOCE, shall be considered vacant pursuant to Section 11 of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC) until he has complied and submitted his SOCE within six months from proclamation,” it said.

“After the lapse of the

said period and the candidate failed to assume of�ice, a permanent vacancy occurs for which said of�ice shall be �illed up in accordance with the law,” it added.

Section 11 of the OEC states that “the of�ice of any of�icial elected who fails or refuses to take his oath of of�ice within six months from his proclamation shall be considered vacant”.

The deadline for all candidates and parties in the forthcoming elections to submit their SOCEs is on June 12, a month after Election Day. For late �iling, the Comelec also imposed lower administrative �ines with the amount depending on the posts.

National political parties, party-list organizations, and senators will be charged PHP10,000, instead of the previous

BETS, P8

ner controversial. He, however, took the opportunity to introduce himself to them humbly as he seldom visits the province.

“I know that you are not familiar with me. And what you might probably hear is the constant criticism or attack on me about my mouth and about my behavior,” said the President.

“Well, that is good because people realized that I never transitioned from being mayor to president. Kaya gusto ko tawagin lang ako ‘mayor.’ I do not want that title ‘Mr. President’ because that is… It seems to be a distant star to me until now,” he continued.

During his speech, Pres-

ident Duterte also hit candidates who are attacking their rivals in order to appear virtuous.

“Kaya ‘yung opposition, mautak man sana but their penchant to be just at the other side, lulubugin mo lang eh. Their victory next year hinges on the way how they attack people and the propensity to paint you in another dimension,” he said.

“Itong mga kandidato na ito…they want to appear white. ‘Kami puti, malinis’. So ‘yung kalaban niya, pinturahan niya ng itim. You’ll just paint your opponent black and you appear white. Ganon talaga. And sadly, sayang ‘yung utak nila. At ‘yung iba

PRRD, P9

CLEANEST AIR. A top view of Davao City shows sprouting high-rise buildings towering over the downtown area of the city. Davao City was chosen as one of the

en New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have surrendered to the government due to the ongoing military pressure against the group in the remote borders of Sultan Kudarat and Maguindanao provinces, military of�icials said on Thursday.

Lt. Col. Oliver Baylon, commander of the 1st Marine Battalion Landing Team-7 (MBLT-7), said the communist rebels returned to the folds of the law on Tuesday with the help of of�icials in Barangay Rifao, Upi town in Maguindanao.

He said the surrenderees belong to the Squad Primera led by Cesar Marcos Manguda, alias Commander Amina/Alas of the Cherry Mobile Platoon under Guer-

rilla Front 73, which is operating in the municipalities of Lebak and Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat province.

Since last month, 15 NPA rebels have surrendered to the MBLT-7 due to the continuous military operations in the area, Baylon said.

The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, is classi�ied as a terrorist organization by the Philippine and the United States governments.

The latest batch of NPA surrenderees was presented to Brigadier General Eugenio Hernandez, commander of the 1st Marine Brigade, North Upi Mayor Ramon Piang and Mayor Reynalbert Insular of South

10, P9

Duterte names new SC associate justice P resident Rodrigo R. Duterte has named Court of Appeals (CA) Justice Amy Lazaro-Javier as the newest Supreme Court (SC) Associate Justice, Malacañang said on Wednesday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo welcomed the appointment of Javier, who was appointed to the CA as one of its associate justices in 2007.

“Associate Justice Javier is a welcome addition to the High Court with her vast legal experience in the government which spans for more than three decades,” Panelo said in a statement.

“We are con�ident that Associate Justice Javier, as a new guardian of the

rule of law, would display a high degree of competence, integrity and independence during her stint at the Supreme Court,” he added.

He said a copy of Javier’s appointment paper would be furnished to the media once it becomes available.

Javier is a magna cum laude education graduate of the Philippine Normal University (PNU). She obtained her law degree at the University of Santo Tomas (UST).

She began her career in public service as a trial attorney in the Of�ice of the Solicitor General (OSG) in 1983 and later became Assistant Solicitor-General thereat in 1994. (PNA)

11 cities in Southeast Asia with cleanest air in the country according Switzerlandbased IQ Airvisual and Greenpeace’s 2018 Air Quality Report. Lean Daval Jr

5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

PCSO: Lotto sales drop by 39.19%, sees growth pickup

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AFFORDABLE SNACK. A college student buys affordable Pinoy snack from a budget-friendly street food stall along Bonifacio Street in Davao City on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr

GenSan fish landings up, reach 10-year record high

By EDWIN G. ESPEJO

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otal �ish landings at the country’s second largest �ishing port complex grew by 17 percent, although local �ish production slightly fell by 0.01 per cent last year, according to the latest statistics provided by the Philippine Fishing Development Authority here.

A record total of 247,637.20 metric tons were landed at the �ishing port complex in General Santos City last year, up from 210,760.85 metric tons in 2017.

The 2018 �igures saw the largest spike in frozen �ish landings since local tuna manufacturers and processors began importing frozen tuna more than a decade ago.

Last year’s frozen �ish landings were up by 38,279.53 MT from 2017 of which 31,577.56 MT were brought in by foreign vessels.

Of the frozen �ish landings, 6,701.97MT were

landed by Manila-based �ishing companies.

Frozen imports rose by 37 percent during the same period.

Total �ish landings in General Santos City however continue its upward trend over the last 10 years.

In 2010, total �ish landings were just 143,139.17 metric tons compared to the 2018 �igure of 247,637.20 MT. But local �ish landing was marginally down last year, from 107,368.86 MT in 2017 to just 105,965.68 MT last year after a decade of continued growth.

Rosanna Contreras of

the Socsksargen Federation of Fishing and Allied Industry (SFFAI) said the spike in frozen imports was driven by increased demands from local canning plants.

“We see this as a positive sign and maximizing the capacities of our canning plants,” Contreras said.

She said local productions are no longer meeting the high volume of fresh tuna landings needed to sustain the operations of local canning plant.

More than 85 percent of total �ish landings at the General Santos City �ishing port complex are yellow �in and tuna-like species, earning the city the moniker as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines.

Six of the country’s eight tuna canning plants are located in this southern port city where more

13 Minda SMEs to join Malaysia halal showcase

By ANTONIO L. COLINA IV

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t least 13 small, micro, and medium enterprises in Mindanao will join the three-day 16th Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) from April 3 to 6 in Kuala Lumpur, an of�icial from the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said.

Amhed Jeoffrey J. Datukan, development manager of�icer III at MinDA, said in an interview on Wednesday that they want to promote the growing halal industry players who are also bene�iciaries of the Department of Agriculture and Department of Trade and Industry in Mindanao through the annual MIHAS. There are 17 other SMEs from Luzon and Visayas that will join the expo at the Malaysia Interna-

tional Trade and Exhibition Centre, he said.

Organized by Ministry of International Trade and Industry and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), the MIHAS is a premier event featuring other countries across the globe.

Last year, MIHAS attracted around 21,000 trade visitors and resulted in total immediate and negotiated trade value worth RM1.52 billion or P19.4 billion.

“Primarily, we want to help our SMEs to tap the export market and present potential investment areas in the Philippines for Malaysian investors,” Datukan said.

Among the 13 SMEs from Mindanao, he add-

ed two are tour operators from Davao City in hopes to re-establish AirAsia’s Davao City-Kuala Lumpur direct �lights, which stopped December last year or a year after it was launched due to lack of load factor.

Datukan said tourism players are trying to develop the halal industry in Mindanao to entice Malaysians to visit different tourism destinations in the island.

“We are trying to develop halal tourism in Mindanao in partnership with the Department of Tourism to encourage at least establishments to be Muslim-friendly – no pork in kitchen, or identify areas that serve no pork,” he said.

Datukan added they

13, P8

than 80 percent of the tuna landings are canned and processed for export.

The SFFAI executive director said conservation measures have helped

GENSAN, P8

hilippine Charity Sweepstakes Of�ice (PCSO) General Manager Alexander Balutan on Thursday said the February sales of Lotto products have dropped by 39.19 percent, but he clari�ied that this is only temporary since the lottery products are “jackpot-driven.”

“Sales for the month of February declined by 39.19 percent, registering only P1,587,785,710 sales compared to the same period last year with P2,611,320,180. Of all Lotto products, Ultra Lotto 6/58 had the highest drop by 60.11 percent with only P166,254,440 sales, compared with P416,886,040 sales last year,” said Balutan.

Lotto 6/42 followed by -32.08 percent to P141,526,380 from P208,376,100 sales last year; Mega Lotto 6/45 by -29.03 percent to P151,347,480 from P213,281,080; Super Lotto by -28.32 percent to P146,748,500 from P204,748,760; and Grand Lotto 6/55 by -17.22 percent to P166,990,240 from P201,736,720. “’Yung Lotto games kasi natin are jackpot-driven sales. Ina-associate kasi natin ‘yan sa jackpot prize natin. Kapag mataas ang jackpot natin, malaki din ‘yung nagiging sales. But we are

expecting sales to pick up in the succeeding months,” added Balutan.

As for digit games, 3 Digits registered the highest decline by 51.97 percent to P342,821,210 from P713,824,280; followed by EZ2 by -28.36 percent to P421,705,720 from P588,685,380; 4-Digits by -22.74 percent to P32,463,880 from P42,022,850; and 6-Digits by 17.60 percent to P17,927,860 from P21,759,320.

Keno sales also declined by 50.37 percent to P219,643,880 from P442,580,610.

Last January, Balutan reported a P1,930,393,950 overall sales for Lotto and digit games, which is 30 percent lower compared to the same period last year.

“As I said earlier, we won’t be expecting much, much higher revenues this year. Hindi na gaanong tataas. Baka nga mag-plateau na ang sales natin.

Ma-maintain lang natin ‘yung P63.55 billion o umangat lang ng konti eh matindi na ‘yun. There is no possibility na ma-i-angat pa natin ang kakayahan natin, but sales will de�initely pick up in the coming months kapag tumaas ang ating jackpot prize.

Hindi naman kasi pwedeng walang manalo,” said Balu-

PCSO, P9

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL I

VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

Party-list dynasties

s the party-list system still relevant?

The country’s electorate votes for party-list representatives anew for the next Congress. By the looks of it, the party-list system that was legislated to increase representation in the House of Representatives is falling painfully to scheming politicians and parties.

Founded on Republic Act 7941 which was signed into law on March 3, 1995, the party-list system was crafted to make the signi�icant move towards programbased politics focused on legitimate parties representing a marginalized sector with comprehensive programs. Considered a political leap of faith, the system veers away from personality politics littered by ‘trapos.’

A quick look at its history, the Filipino electorate was �irst introduced to this system during the May 1998 elections. 123 party-list organizations originally registered. Out of this number, only 13 received 2% of total votes. The �irst party-list polls saw 14 representatives making it to the lower house after only 26% cast their party-list vote. This resulted to 38 party-list seats in Congress left un�illed.

Times have changed since the �irst party-list elections. Apparently, many have discovered this route to extend political power and for political dynasties to further grow instead of being clipped.

A close scrutiny of those nominated by party-list groups would show members of political families on the list. These political families push their power through the system by nominating family members. It is a different mode of winning an electoral

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BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO Social Media Manager/Lifestyle KENNETH IRVING K. ONG MEGHANN STA. INES NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN Lifestyle

ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. JAN MIKKO CANARIAS CHA MONFORTE Correspondent

DR. MAURO L. PUYOD LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. Cartoonist Photography Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. BORBONHENRYLITO • MARY ANN “ADI”• GREGORIO C. QUISIDO LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NIKKI ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY Columnists: D. TACIO G.•DELIGERO • JOHN CARLO TRIA • VIDAGOTIANSE-TAN MIA S. VALVERDE•• NICASIO FRED C. LUMBA • ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO• DENNIS “GICO” R. G.GORECHO DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ MUJAHID NAVARRA • HAROLD CAVITE

OLIVIA D. VELASCO D. MARATAS RICHARD C. EBONA OLIVIA D. VELASCO JASPERSOLANI V. BACSAL General Manager Finance Advertising Specialist VP Operations General Manager JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

seat which, in the past, may have not been noticed as interest in the party-list system wasn’t that high. Hardly do some of these nominees represent a marginalized sector in utter de�iance to the wisdom behind this system.

It has been said that a party-list system can help create a healthy democracy by providing a citizens’ voice in Congress and in local government. It aims to increase the representation, particularly of “marginalized and underrepresented” sectors and enhance transparency and accountability. This system promotes program and platform-based politics and is aimed at replacing patronage politics that breed corruption.

Not until some bright minds saw an opportunity in the system. And because politics is addition, political lords think: why not add a family member via the partylist? For those without an access to a party-list, reports have it that the ploy is to buy in into a registered party-list to get the nomination.

For the record, there are 49 party-list nominees in this May 13 elections political families and those that have produced more than one elected or appointed of�icial have �ielded 49 party-list nominees. That means, if these nominees make it in the polls, they are bound to occupy 83% of the 59 party-list seats in the House of Representatives.

Now, so much for representing the marginalized and underrepresented. That’s how perverse opportunists are treating a system that was created with noble intentions.

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE MANILA MARKETING OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE Richard C. Ebona | Product Development officer LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager EDMUND D. RENDON Unit 6, SouthbankMarketing Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts.Address: 04 Orilla St. Purok 4B Lower Bicutan, Taguig City Specialist Cellphone number: 09472652969 General Santos City Cagayan de Oro City Email Address: edgedavao@gmail.com Mobile: (Smart) 09382022120 Tel: (088) 852-4894

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VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

VANTAGE POINTS

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“Boundary” ends here

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s a former PUV operator, i know that running such a business requires you to understand the “boundary” system. It entails a �ixed fee per day as rental that the driver needs to hand in at the end of the agreed upon route.

Unfortunately for drivers, this negates the possibility of other bene�its since the jeepney operator contributes his SSS contributions as a self employed individual. Not all operators do that, especially for the “extrador” or substitute drivers.

Of course, we all know that this practice has forced many drivers to linger to �ill up passengers at certain destinations, �illing up the bus or jeepney,

causing traf�ic and creating bias for certain stops, which prevent them from taking passenger further down their routes. We often hear of drivers using illegal drugs to stay awake to keep driving.

That said, the recent DOLE order disallowing such a practice is a welcome one. The Philippine Star report explains it well: “the new compensation scheme, bus drivers and conductors are entitled to a salary not lower than the minimum wage in their respective regions as well as wage-related bene�its, such as night shift differential, service incentive leave, 13th month pay, holiday and overtime pay and premium pay.

Bello said bus drivers

MY TWO CENTS’ John Carlo B. Tria should also receive performance incentives based on revenue, ridership, safety, speci�ic conditions of routes and other relevant parameters.

The National Wages and Productivity Com-

mission recently issued the guidelines in the implementation of the pay scheme” This order requires compliance or else operators fsce the cancellation of their franchise. With that, it strengthens the reality of franchises as certi�icates of public convenience and necessity, a privilege and not a “right” given to certain favored individuals.

What happens now?

Well, we will need to monitor whether bus companies truly comply with such an order.

We will eventually need to ask drivers whether they receive the right salary and bene�its. Operators will need to be aware of their duties as franchi-

sees and as employers.

What this means is that thousands of drivers will now be contributors to the Social Security System, the Philhealth snd Pag Ibig Fund, all pooled funds meant to serve the eventual needs of its members.

As more social legislation such as Universal Health Care and free state education, VAT discounts and other bene�its have been enacted, the additional contributions will help keep these funds strong.

The possible rami�ications also include the possibility that the use of bus and jeepney stops can be better enforced, and hopefully, traf�ic can be reduced.

Discovering God

W

e live in an era where God is most challenged by almost everyone who thinks that they are smart enough to know that really is no God. People think that worshipping God, is somehow a form of dementia in witnessing non-existent things or immaturity the same way children have their imaginary friends. People think that humans have advanced so much in science and technology, that to believe in a superstitious being that created everything is archaic, meaning, people are in no such need for a miracle doer as science have pretty much explained everything. Or so they thought.

There is a story about a conversation that transpired between a believer in God and an atheist. It is between Sheikh Wahiduddin Khan, an Islamic scholar from India and an unnamed atheist who was a medical doctor who is only known as a fan of Bertrand Russel, an atheist philosopher. This conversation happened in 1965 where much of recent scienti�ic discoveries have already been made. This conversation will change your perception, whether you believe in God or an absolute atheist or an agnostic. People who believe in God tend to avoid such conversations thinking that there is no use to argue with someone who does not believe in God to make him believe. Others

feel that they do not need to put themselves under any situation where they might be ridiculed, because atheists, as believed by some people, could ridicule God, so, they are more than capable to ridicule a human being, whose intellect, emotions or patience may be limited. We all know how tenacious an atheist could be in any religious discourse. They are over�lowing with con�idence which comes from their belief that they could exist without a God. The conversation went like this, the atheist started the conversation, as usually is the case as they believe that it is their moral obligation to cure the world of the madness they call as the belief in God. The atheist asked the Muslim Scholar, ‘What is your proof that God exists?’

This is the common question you’d hear from any atheist, a sort of a knockout blow to anyone that they wish to challenge in the subject. As you may already guess, many of us may fumble for words trying to answer such a question because most of us do not even know that such a question exists. We all naturally believe in God and hearing such a question could seriously affect our thinking, making our brains shut down like a computer after a program crashes and stops responding.

But the Muslim scholar, Sheikh Wahiduddin, was not to be intimidated.

UNDERSTANDING ISLAM

Mujahid Navarra

He knew the answer. He intelligently said, ‘I believe in God using the same arguments you have for His non-existence.’ The atheist, as the Muslim scholar said, did not say anything further. He did not even reply. But why?

Well, you may have heard of an argument, that people should not believe in God because to see is to believe and this argument is often depicted in jokes and anecdotes about conversations between atheists and believers. This argument itself is illogical, as God’s may not be seen but His existence could be proved at is it manifested by the glory of His creations.

The greatness of the creation re�lects the greatness of the Creator. Just like how we do not see Leonardo da Vinci now, we believe that he is a great painter, because we could still see that Mona Lisa and all his other works of art. This is the scien-

ti�ic methodology of the pre-atomic era where scientists regard observation as the main evidence of something’s existence. If a phenomenon, an idea or event is existent, it should be observable – to see is to believe so to speak. This pre-atomic era of reasoning revolves around direct argument. Gravity, heat and other physical phenomenon have been discovered, measured and studied this way.

The conversation between the Muslim scholar and the atheist ended abruptly because we live in the atomic era – the atheist knows that too. We live in an era where something may exist even without being observed by everyone. Subatomic particles have been discovered.

Waves, plasma, and others have been discovered but not everyone gets to observe these. In fact, not every scientist or physicist is fortunate enough to see these in person – but they still believe in it even if these are things that they did not observe themselves. In this time period, to see is to believe means nothing as not everything that exists could be seen simply by anyone.

Nowadays, it is enough to say that having a probability is enough proof that something exists or is happening. Things don’t have to be absolute. That is why we have theoretical cosmology, a science that Stephen Hawking, an atheist, is known for. If we could

believe that an atheist who could not even walk, could talk about space as if he sees it – then we have enough reason to believe in anyone may believe in God even if he does not see Him. Inferential argument nowadays is just as valid as direct argument way back before we discovered electrons, x-rays etc. Inferential argument nowadays is even more vital as we delve deeper now about relativity, quantum physics, and others.

It is easy to discover God behind all the rudeness that atheists show towards the people who believe in God whether they are Christians, Muslim, Jews or anyone. God exists, and in fact, the question is not about whether or not God exists, the question is about whether there is a God or there is nothing at all. As God is the supreme-being, He also is the supreme expert in anything mathematical, scienti�ic, and logical.

Going back to the atheist doctor who spoke to the Muslim scholar, he did not reply because he knew that he is about to get into an endless debate with an intelligent believer in God. As the answer given by the Muslim scholar implied that belief in God is not mere superstition, as every piece of logical and scienti�ic evidence against it could be used to prove it too. Believing in God or discovering Him is never contrary to science, logic or common sense.

8

EDGEDAVAO

COMPETITIVE EDGE

LANDBANK Executive Vice President Julio D. Climaco, Jr. receives the LEED v4 Gold Certificate for the LANDBANK Plaza from Ecosolutions President and CEO Engr. Felipe Agustin (second from right).They are joined by (from right) LANDBANKVice President for Facilities and Procurement Services Dina Melanie Madrid, Accredited Professional

VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

of LEED for BO+M Arch. Kristina Samantha Pobre, Ecosolutions LEED Green Associate Arch. John Paul Efe, LANDBANK Facilities Management Department Head Ramil Remillano and Architect Christine Joy Laroza.

LANDBANK head office is first in the country to earn LEED v4 Gold Rating

T

he LANDBANK Plaza in Malate, Manila was recently conferred with the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) v4 Gold Certi�ication. This makes the Bank the �irst in the country to receive the latest version of the certi�ication under the “Building Operations and Maintenance (BO+M): Existing Buildings” classi�ication.

LANDBANK is also the �irst government-owned and-controlled corporation with a facility awarded an LEED certi�ication for Existing Buildings, while its head of�ice remains one of the country’s top seven pioneering projects that have been successfully certi�ied.

Designed by the US

Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED is the most widely used green building rating system to assess environmental compliance in terms of sustainability, energy conservation, water reduction, air quality and materials, and resources.

“LANDBANK has remained consistent in incorporating environmental management practices in all aspects of our operations, services, and decisions.

This LEED v4 Gold Certi�ication is thus a welcome recognition of our continuing commitment to implement green practices and to lower our environmental impact,” said LANDBANK Executive Vice President Julio D. Climaco, Jr. Improvements imple-

mented by the Bank include: (1) reuse of treated water from Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) for cleaning/ washing of pavements and exterior areas of the building; (2) replacement of existing water meters and sub metering to improve water consumption monitoring and quick resolution of leakage or misuse; (3) installation of energy-ef�icient lighting �ixtures in all work areas; (4) replacement of defective air condensing units to more energy-ef�icient equipment; and (5) provision of alternative transportation for employees through e-jeepney service vehicles.

Since the implementation of these and other innovations, the LANDBANK

Plaza saw substantial decrease in water and electricity consumption, while cost savings increased.

The Bank also implements building exterior and hardscape management, environmentally preferred purchasing policy, integrated pest control management, solid waste management, and green cleaning programs, among other policies and practices.

Since 2004, LANDBANK has maintained an Environmental Management System (EMS) at par with global standards, with its head of�ice and 39 of its branches now ISO 14001:2004-certi�ied while EMS good practices are consistently implemented across all of its branches and �ield units.

Ateneo de Davao opens Interactive Art Exhibition

by Languages, Literature, & Art Faculty

T

he Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) opened an interactive art exhibition titled “Gama, Dula, Tingog,” in the afternoon of Wednesday, 27 February 2019, at the Rodriguez Hall of the Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto campus. The exhibition featured a selection of art pieces by Mr. Norman “Noy” F. Narciso, a faculty member of the AdDU Languages, Literature, and Art Department. These art pieces comprised a collection of musical instruments created

by Mr. Narciso out of found objects, or objet trouve, which are resourced from industrial, commercial, and domestic spaces, and then subjected to assemblage and craft.

A short program launched the exhibition, wherein the artist demonstrated to the assembled crowd the way to play the showcased instruments.

Mr. Narciso showcases creativity and an inventive spirit in his collection of re-

imagined indigenous and contemporary instruments made out of mundane materials like bottles, coil springs, trinkets, and a variety of metals and wood. The exhibition is designed to be interactive—audiences are invited to touch and explore the instruments, discovering through this tactile process how to tease out sounds and, eventually, music from them. In the words of the curator, Abraham A. Garcia, Jr., also a member of the AdDU Languages, Literature, and Art Department, the exhibit inspires “a performative action [that] comes to the fore as the viewer is absorbed further when sound is generated. The whole experience is immersive as others generate spontaneous bars of notes, which may be dissonant at �irst. It can even be infectious as everyone tries to play together in harmony.”

The exhibit remains open to the public until 25 March 2019, at the same venue, Ateneo de Davao University, Jacinto campus.

BETS... FROM 4 amount of PHP30,000.

For provincial political parties, they would have to pay PHP8,500, down from PHP22,500, while for provincial governors and vice governors, the amount is now at PHP8,000, down from PHP25,000.

A total of PHP7,000 from PHP20,000 will be paid by provincial board members, congressmen, local political parties, mayors, and vice mayors while councilors will need

to pay PHP6,000 from PHP15,000.

On the other hand, the resolution said that for losing candidates and party-list groups, the deadline shall be “�inal and non-extendible”. It said that SOCEs submitted beyond the deadline shall no longer be accepted.

Under the law, every candidate and political party is required to submit their SOCEs within 30 days after elections. (PNA)

boost local tuna landings.

The country, in compliance to the conservation measures instituted by the 26-nation member Western and Central Paci�ic Fisheries Commission, has been closing its �ishing grounds for tuna �ishing from July to October each year to allow high-migratory tuna �ish species to replenish their stocks.

In addition, Philippine tuna �ishing �leets have long ago discarded �ine mesh tuna �ishing nets.

The Department of Agriculture, through its line agency Bureau of Fish and Aquatic Resources, has also closed several �ishing grounds for sardine and round scad (galunggong) �ishing such as the straits in Basilan and Iloilo during spawning seasons.

Over 200,000 of the city’s population of 750,000 are dependent on the tuna industry, which directly employs more than 25,000 workers. (Edwin Espejo/MindaNews Contributor)

want to position Davao Region as the gateway for halal activities in Mindanao and prepare the local establishments to be-

come Muslim-friendly to entice more Malaysians to visit the city. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

245 (124-121), The Orchard 231 (121-110), Riviera Golf 227 (112115), Valley Golf 225 (108117), Forest Hills 223 (110-113), Apo Golf and Country Club 218 (101117), Sherwood Hills 206 (101-105), Negros Occidental 197 (106-91), Southern California Redhawks 193 (93-100), Fil Am Golf Tour 1 171 (87-84), Par 2000 151 (58-93) SPORTSWRITERS – Mactan Island 172 (92-89), Camp John Hay 170 (81-89), Fil Am Fair�ield 165 (7986), Guinhalaran 159 (77-

82), Camp Evangelista 155 (81-74), Bacolod 152 (70-82), Up Yee Jots 161 (72-79), Bay Area 149 (77-72), Sarangani 146 (75-71), Fil Am Hawaii 144 (61-83), Filipino Golfers in the Middle East Dubai 143 (68-75), PGA British Columbia 135 (66-69), Cotabato 125 (47-78), Lanang 123 (5667), Seattle 123 (60-63), Fil Am Golf Tour 2 113 (56-57), Cattle Creek 108 (59-49), Green Tee Club Riyadh 93 (44-49), Geen Hills West 78 (35-43), Greater Vancouver Golf Assoc 57 (18-39)

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EDGEDAVAO

ARTS AND CULTURE

DUELO A healthy battle of skill between master and protégé “ONE repays a teacher badly if one remains only a pupil. And why, then, should you not pluck at my laurels? You respect me; but how if one day your respect should tumble? Take care that a falling statue does not strike you dead! You had not yet sought yourselves when you found me. Thus, do all believers — Now I bid you lose me and find yourselves; and only when you have all denied me will I return to you.”

That splendid quote by Friedrich Nietzsche in his work “Thus Spoke Zarathustra”, was mentioned by Carl Jung in one of his 1912 correspondence letters to his mentor and peer, Sigmund Freud. Unfortunately, the Fathers of Psychoanalysis’ camaraderie ended in a breakup and never returned to being “friends”.

When I heard about Art Portal for Contemporary Art gallery opening a new exhibit called “DUELo”, a two-man exhibit by Dominick Pilapil and Rey Bollozos, this immediately reminded me of Jung and Freud; but hopefully, these two bril-

liant local artists’ relationship won’t end up the same, ill-fated way. I was assured during my interview with Dominick Pilapil that DUELo’s concept is coming from a healthy perspective between a mentor and his protégé “battling it out” on canvas with the artistic techniques and skills as their weapons in the composition and style in the discipline of realism.

The exhibit features two artists coming from different generations—Rey Bollozos is an established and more seasoned artist and teacher, while Dominick Pilapil is one of Rey’s students and an emerging artist that have garnered a well-deserved following and admiration for his works in his own right. DUELo aims to promote the essence of healthy competition amongst art practitioners and to solidify the presence of the classical techniques of realism especially in its application in the contemporary art scene.

Whilst viewing the curated artworks in the exhibit space, (although given that they were only through photos sent to me

by Alfred Galvez) I was nevertheless having a hard time distinguishing the artist from por-

trait to portrait because, indeed, the similarity in execution and style is a bit uncanny. Therefore, I asked Dom: “So where is the “duel” that is happening here, when it would seem like it is more of an amalgamation?” He responded: “Well, it is inevitable that Sir Rey and I would have a similar palette because I am quite under his tutelage as of the moment, but I guess I am growing into an artist in my own way, and I am grateful because what is healthy for me is that I feel I have nothing to lose since I know that I am on the right track given that you could hardly distinguish our works, so it is a testament that my

technical skills have very much progressed. It’s always an honor for me to be a challenge towards Rey’s level and it would be more arrogant if I didn’t do my best; because what matters most is the opportunity, and I am very much grateful to Art Portal and Sir Alfred as well because of his generous critic and support during this exhibit.”

Well thus spoken, Dom, and how well you have repaid your maestro by making him so proud, I’m sure! Please support and visit the “DUELo” exhibit at Art Portal Gallery for Contemporary Art at 1-A Paseo De Legaspi, 115 Pelayo St., Davao City.

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EVENT

A FEEL GOOD FUN RUN AT PARK INN BY RADISSON DAVAO PARK INN by Radisson Davao held its 6th Anniversary Fun Run event dubbed as “Feel Good in Every Run” last March 03, 2019.

One of the 3k Track Finisher.

Sunday morning was started early with eager runners that were joined in by local residents, in-house guests of the hotel, corporate clients, friends from the media, participants from different running groups and pet owners in the city. The runners had an energizing morning run and a fun vibe as they run about in their respective categories. Our furry pet runners joined the event together with their owners added a friendly atmosphere to the race.

“We came up with the Fun Run to celebrate our 6th Year Anniversary with a touch of a healthy lifestyle that would align with our new brand approach which is to drive a “Feel Good” experiences to our guests.

We wanted to give our guests a fun and a stress-free vibe when they think of Park Inn by Radisson Davao” shares General Manager, Ms. Emelyn Rosales There were three tracks for the hotel’s 2nd Fun Run event with one winner each track who brought home with them trophies and cash prizes. Mr. Melvier Dando and his dog, Princess won the Best Owner and Dog Tandem, Mr. Jimboy Lugay was the 1st finisher for the 5KM track and Mr. Ychon Agustin for won best runner for the 10KM track.

Indeed the Park Inn experience is not limited to the confines of the Hotel but extends out to the community it belongs to. Park Inn by Radisson Davao continues to create and deliver memorable moments to its guest by giving a personal connection through upbeat events.

GM Emelyn Rosales with 3k Track Finisher, Mr. Melvier Dando with his Super Dog, Princess.

UP AND ABOUT

DRINK AND DINE LOCAL

Park Inn by Radisson Davao general manager Emelyn Rosales with 10k Track Finisher, Mr. Ychon Agustin.

Park Inn by Radisson Davao general manager Emelyn Rosales and Izza Cadiente with Ms. Marilyn Roque and Ms. Lovely Boiser.

WATERFRONT INSULAR HOTEL’S La Parilla embraces locality and offers a bounty of fresh seafood and locally crafted beers to celebrate the 82nd Araw ng Davao.

Dive into the flavors of the sea with a tempting selection of mains, such as Baked Mussles, Sweet and Sour Fish, Steamed Pampano and Nilasing na Hipon. Continue the feast with succulent Squid, Catfish, Tuna Panga, Malasugue Belly and more from the Grill Station.

Guests may indulge on platters of mixed greens complemented with assorted Sushi, Tuna and Salmon Sashimi and a Salad Bar. And for dessert, nibble on some Durian Yema, assorted mini cakes and tarts or make your own Halo-Halo.

To cap off a delectable experience for the Davaoeño, the Hotel wraps up the spread with drinks included.

Mt. Apo Brewery and Co. brings in a fine selection of beers produced and manufactured only in the Davao City.

Drink and Dine Local Seafood

Buffet and Unlimited Beer promotion is available at La Parilla every day from 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm starting March 11 until March 17, 2019 at Php1,250 nett.

La Parilla offers nightly al fresco dining where lovers of grilled seafood can have their fill. Located near the hotel’s expansive gardens, the restaurant provides fresh seafood caught from Davao’s seas. For inquiries or reservations, you may call +6382 233 2881 to 87 local 8701 or e-mail wihd@waterfronthotels. net.

EDAVAO

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ENTERTAINMENT

JANELLA, POKWANG, DENISE TOPBILL NEW iWANT ORIGINAL “TOUCH SCREEN” AFTER producing three original anthology series for the streaming service iWant, ABS-CBN’s digital content production unit Indigital Productions delves into the effects of technology and the need for real human connection in its newest original “Touch Screen.”

Warm Up “Touch Screen,” which before the run. streams on March 6 on iWant, is a three-part anthology headlined by Janella Salvador, Pokwang, and Denise Laurel and tackles how people interact on and beyond their screens and how it affects relationships.

In the episode “Wittyrella,” teen fan girl Mandy (Janella) uses Twitter to get her celebrity crush to notice her, but finds herself in a feud with a famous three-word tweet account, only to realize that the person behind the account is someone close to her.

Pokwang, meanwhile, plays an old-school househelp who has been with a family for many years in “Vixee vs. Inday,” then finds herself neglected and undervalued when the father brings home a fully functional smart gadget named Vixee.

Online dating also takes centerstage in “It’s Park Inn by A Match,” where an app Radisson developer (Joseph Marco) Davao Employees. uses a dating app for hook-ups, encounters one of his conservative managers (Denise Laurel) on the app, then makes a bet with his officemates to make his boss fall in love with him.

“Touch Screen” is the Park Inn by Radisson fourth offering of InDavao’s digital following the short Head of Departments film anthology series with General “The End,” the feel-good comedy anthology series Manager, Miss Emelyn “Alamat ng Ano,” and Rosales. the erotic-drama anthol-

ogy series “Hush” – all currently streaming on iWant.

With original shows that go beyond telling traditional stories, Indigital Productions aims to provide quality Filipino entertainment made by independent film directors and content creators such as Gino Santos, Jon Red, JP Habac, Mark Meily, Mikhail Red, Lem Lorca, Dondon Santos, Noel Teehankee, Richard Somes, Ronnie Velasco, Topel Lee, and Victor Villanueva.

“The End” chronicles simple yet powerful everyday stories and highlights the last 24 hours of a person’s life to show lessons on love, acceptance, hope, and forgiveness. It stars Denise Laurel, Aljur Abrenica, Carmi Martin, Luis Hontiveros, Mark Neumann, Kazel Kinouchi, Sunshine Dizon, Vandolph, and Joey Marquez.

The laugh-out-loud show “Alamat ng Ano,” which makes fun of ordinary things by humorously exploring and formulat-

ing their origin with each episode, also features an ensemble of Kapamilya stars, including Maymay Entrata, Kisses Delavin, Donny Pangilinan, Melai Cantiveros, Ejay Falcon, Jake Cuenca, Donna Cariaga, AC Bonifacio, BoybandPH, Nico Antonio, Denise Joaquin, Ketchup Eusebio, and Dominic Ochoa. Narrating each episode are the comedy duo of Jobert Austria and Nonong Balinan, who play a talky barangay tanod and his sidekick.

iWant and Indigital also went the edgy route when they dropped “Hush,” which features erotic drama stories and three sexy icons namely Mica Javier from “It’s Showtime’s” GirlTrends, Gwen Soriano, and Haiza Madrid.

Also included in Indigital’s roster of upcoming original shows are “Crimes of Passion,” “Six Feet Diner,” “Adam & Ed,” “Papa App,” “Trip to Quiapo,” and “Little Big Trio.” iWant is one of the digital initiatives of ABSCBN, the Philippines’ leading media and entertainment company, which is rapidly transitioning into an agile digital company with the biggest online presence among all media companies, and a growing list of digital properties.

Watch these shows and more on the new iWant app on iOS and Android or access iWant through the web (iwant. ph) and register for free.

For updates, like www. facebook.com/iWant and www.facebook.com/IndigitalProduction, follow @iwant on Twitter and @iwantofficial and @ indigitalproduction on Instagram, and subscribe to www.youtube.com/ iWantPH.

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WTE... FROM 1 (MSW) generation and disposal at the SLF. The project seeks to reverse this by diverting MSW into the incinerator plant instead.

However, it is clear that WtE does not address the problem at its root— it does not reduce MSW generation at the source. To take increased MSW generation as the primary cause of the SLF’s shortened is lifespan is misleading because the majority of MSW being disposed therein has not been limited to residual waste as should be intended.

The paper also claimed “the calori�ic content of Davao City’s MSW is too low. The WtE project contract stipulates a requirement for the city to deliver 600 tons/day of MSW that is of 1800 kcal/kg in calorific value to the plant. Waste Analysis and Characterization Studies (WACSs) led by NSENGI do not conclusively show that Davao City’s MSW will consistently meet the calori�ic content.”

The coalition claimed that the chlorine content of Davao City’s MSW is too high. According to the Best Available Techniques and Best Environmental Practices (BAT/BEPs) of the 2001 Stockholm Convention on POPs, when the chlorine content exceeds 1% of the MSW material, waste incineration must operate at temperatures of 11001200°C, to prevent excessive production of dioxins.

NSENGI’s proposed technology has allegedly compromised dioxin and furans elimination for reduced costs.

The members of the coalition attached the logos of the 13 coalition members.

Mayor Sara and the committee on environmental protection of the Davao City Council are expected to call for the dialogue with the coalition to tackle the project, an of�icial of IDIS told Edge Davao in a text message. ANTONIO M. AJERO

MISUARI... FROM 2

ty in Mindanao.” Third, the violent extremism caused by Abu Sayyaf.

Among the three challenges, the President ordered a more drastic approach in dealing with the Abu Sayyaf Group.

“Dito sa Abu Sayyaf, hindi talaga tayo magkaintindihan.

I cannot for the life of me imagine me talking to them after what they have done.

Decapitating everyone. My soldiers were Moro. Wala… walang pili-pili ‘yan. They have no ideology except to kill and destroy,” he said.

President Duterte reiterated that the administration is doing its best to ensure that in the remaining years of his term, he would ful�ill all his commitments to the Filipino people, especially in Mindanao. (PND)

DOOC... FROM 2

strides in eliminating rabies particularly in the Visayas region where a number of provinces were declared rabies-free. Let us continue this positive trend and work together towards completely eradicating this deadly disease. It is my hope

to declare Philippines a rabies-free country by 2030,” Duque said.

The DA, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, local government units, and the private sector will take part in the campaign. (PNA)

Upi at the headquarters of MBLT-7 in Sitio Plateau, Barangay Mirab in Upi town along with their high-powered �irearms.

They surrendered, among others, two AK-47 ri�les, an M-16 ri�le, a hand grenade and assorted ammunition, a report from the 6th Infantry Division said.

The �ive earlier NPA surrenderees, who belong to the Dulangan-Manobo tribe, have received �inancial assistance under the Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), it added.

Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana, commander of the 6th Infantry Division

and Joint Task Force Central, said the latest surrenderees can also avail of the E-CLIP after validation that they were indeed NPA members.

“Our intensi�ied efforts through combat operations and information disseminations against terrorist group with the support of all local chief executives and other stakeholders encouraged more the rebels to surrender,” Sobejana said in a statement.

The of�icial urged active NPA rebels to return to the folds of the law for them to start a new life and live peacefully with their families. (Bong S. Sarmiento/ MindaNews)

tan.

Arnel Casas, Assistant General Manager for Gaming Sector, identi�ied two factors why sales declined this month: Jackpot prize and tax.

“One of the reasons for such low sales for the �irst

two months in 2019 was we currently do not have high jackpot amount up for grabs and its really mind blowing that in a span of two months, there were 16 winners that hit the jackpot for various lotto games,” said Casas.

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Evaders (RACE) campaign which posted show-cause orders in establishments that violate the SS Law. Under the SSS version of Oplan Tokhang, warrants of arrest were issued against court convicted delinquent employers in coordination with the Philippine National Police. The Warrant of Distraint, Levy and Garnishment (WDLG) was also implemented under his term.

Alongside record-breaking collections, bene�it disbursements were also highest during Dooc’s term with P180 billion in 2018 from P112 billion in 2015. The P1,000 additional bene�it for pensioners was implemented in January 2017.

Dooc also pushed for member-friendly programs such as the Loan Restructuring Program with penalty condonation to allow members to settle their delinquent loans with easy

payment terms minus the penalty. The Calamity Loan Assistance Package was also introduced under his administration.

Further, he also initiated a Pension Loan Program in response to the clamor of retirees who were forced to borrow from loan sharks due to �inancial contingencies.

The Real-Time Processing of Contributions (RTPC) was also launched under his watch. This program prevents delays in processing of bene�it claims as contributions are posted immediately upon payment.

Dooc expressed his gratitude to the Social Security Commission for their support and to the SSS management team for their cooperation during his stint.

In his letter to President Duterte, Dooc thanked him for his support and for the opportunity to serve in his administration. (SSS)

naman walang ginawa,” the President explained.

President Duterte then trumpeted the feats of the administration, narrating each to the people of Abra.

Aside from infrastructure projects like roads in Luzon and airports in Iloilo and Cebu, the President also mentioned the recently signed law instituting universal healthcare for all Filipinos, as well as the government’s program for

free education and free irrigation.

Moreover, he encouraged the public to support candidates that would reinforce the advocacies and projects of the administration.

Toward the end of his remarks, President Duterte reaf�irmed his strong devotion to the Filipinos and said, “If it’s just a matter of loving my country, hindi ninyo ako matalo. I am here to die for you.” (PND)

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VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

11 SPORTS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

Bogut rejoins Warriors A ustralian veteran Andrew Bogut rejoined the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday as the NBA champions bolster their roster with the postseason looming, the team announced.

The 34-year-old center was given the green light to return to the NBA after completing the 2018-2019 season with the Sydney Kings in Australia's National Basketball League.

Bogut told a press conference in Sydney he had few illusions his NBA return would mean serious playing time, saying he'd be happy "if it's waving the towel for 20odd games and being a good teammate".

"For me it's an honor to play there and go and sign there and not play a minute.

Anything more than that is a bonus," he said.

Bogut returns to Oakland after four successful seasons with the team between 2012 and 2016. He was a key member of the team's NBA championship-winning roster in 2015.

Terms of Bogut's contract with the Warriors were not revealed.

As well as helping the Warriors to their 2015 title, Bogut was also part of the team which set a record 73 wins in 2015-2016.

Bogut averaged 6.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.71 blocks in 23.7 minutes over 236 games (230 starts) for the Warriors.

A lengthy NBA career also included stints with the Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers.

Bogut, the �irst overall pick in the 2005 draft, last played in the NBA on January 1, 2018 while with the Lakers.

The San Jose Mercury News reported that the Warriors moved for Bogut after scouting his form in Australia with Sydney.

Bogut was the league's MVP and Defensive Player of the Year after averaging 11.4 points, a league-high 11.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.7 blocks in 29.7 minutes over 30 games.

Rancho Palos Verdes-2 mainstay Ludwig Van Ledesma watches his drive.

Cebu takes overall lead 1,500 to join basketball

coaches convention A round 1,500 coaches from 105 cities all over the country are joining the Go for Gold National Coaches Convention organized by the National Basketball Training Center (NBTC).

Current Ateneo de Manila University and former Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tab Baldwin and former Australian national team head coach Rob Beveridge are the main speakers of the convention which will be held from March 22 to 24 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Veteran coach Nash Racela, leadership team coach Ardy Abello and Singapore Youth Sports Institute head Vincent Ong lead the �ield of instructors while Dr. George Canlas, along with his sports science team, will discuss proper hydration techniques during the convention, which is now on its eighth year.

"This is the �irst time that we are holding the coaches’ convention at the same time as the Chooks to Go NBTC National Finals. We usually hold the convention in October but for this year, we wanted the participants to watch the national �inals as well," said Altamirano

during a press conference at Capitol Commons in Pasig City on Monday afternoon.

"We came up with the convention because we believe that it's important to mentor the coaches," he added.

Altamirano said that the NBTC has tied up with the Department of Education (DepEd) so that teachers can also attend the three-day convention.

Also present were NBTC training director Alex Compton, Gold for Gold's Jeremy Go and Gatorade's Ton Gatmaitan.

Go said he is happy to support the country's biggest grassroots basketball program.

"We are happy to partner with NBTC to bring proper basketball knowledge throughout the country because we believe in grassroots development for athletes,” Go said.

“We need to start them young so they learn about responsibility and discipline at an early age, and coaches are the key to their development," he added.

Aside from basketball, Go’s company also supports cycling, sepak takraw, triathlon and skateboarding. (PNA)

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EBU— Jovencio Lusterio �ired a one-underpar 71 for 37 points yesterday as Del Monte grabbed a two-point lead over Manila Southwoods in the Championship bracket even as the 72nd playing of the PAL Interclub here took on a new twist with Founders Division campaigner Cebu Country Club taking the overall lead.

Del Monte tallied 121 on a demanding day at Mactan Island Golf Club, opening the door for Cebu CC, which is playing in the lower division, to grab the overall lead after also compiling 121 at Mactan for a 245 aggregate, a point ahead of the Bukidnon-based squad.

Of�icially, this was pulled out just once before, when an Aguinaldo team made up of former Asian Games gold medalist Ramon Brobio, Bong Lopez and Thirdy Escano won the 1988 edition, also here in Cebu, while playing in the Founders Division and eventually beating Canlubang.

This development will now have Cebu CC and Orchard, which is running second in the Founders with 231 points, joining the Nos.

Philippine Southeast Asian Games (PHISGOC) Chairman Alan Peter Cayetano together with Ajinomoto Southeast Asia Regional Headquarters President Mr. Kaoru Kurashima at the 30th SEA Games Sponsorship Signing Ceremony at SM Aura, Taguig.

1 and 2 teams in the Championship in the pairings in the third round today also at Mactan.

Southwoods got a level 36 from Aidric Chan and missed grabbing a share of the Championship lead after Jae Hyun-jung was penalized two points for holing out for double bogey. The Carmona-based squad, seeking to win this event for the �ifth straight year, was held down to 118 for 241.

Tagaytay Highlands, the surprise �irst round leader, stumbled to third spot after a measly second round 109 despite getting a tournament best 40 points from Jolo Magcalayo.

Luisita continued to bring up the rear of the compact Championship �ield after a 114, 11 points off the pace.

“Things like this happen,” Escano, Southwoods’ non-playing skipper said of the second bad round of his charges. “We are now due for two good rounds. I’m not worried.”

Noel Langamin accounted for 34, Joel Bernaldez 27 and Crispin Aparilla 23 to complete scoring for Del Monte, which threw away

the 20 of Julius Langamin.

Masaichi Otake matched Jung’s 28 and the veteran Jun Jun Plana contributed 26 for Southwoods, which discarded the 25 of Sean Ramos.

Highland’s undoing was failing to get anyone to solidly back up Magcalayo, with the next best score being the 24 of Lisandro Opulencia.

This year’s Interclub is sponsored by Radio Mindanao Network, Asian Air Safari, and Vanguard Radio Network. Also extending support are ABS-CBN Global Ltd. (The Filipino Channel), Rolls Royce, Primax Broadcasting Network, UM Broadcasting Network (Mindanao), Fox Sports, Cignal TV, GECAS, Boeing, Lufthansa Technik AG, Manila Standard, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, Dusit Thani Manila, and Casino Filipino. Of�icial hotel is Quest Hotel Conference Center Cebu.

The partial results after two rounds: CHAMPIONSHIP – Del Monte 243 (122121), Manila Soutwoods 241 (125-116), Tagaytay Highlands 233 (124-109), Luisita 232 (118-114) FOUNDERS – Cebu Country

he Philippine South East Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) recently received a commitment of support from Ajinomoto for the hosting of the 30th South East Asian Games Philippines 2019.

PHISGOC Chairperson Alan Peter Cayetano said the partnership with Ajinomoto adds to the growing list of private corporations which are partnering with PHISGOC to ensure Philippines’ successful hosting of the Games.

“The outpouring of

support from multinational companies encourages the organizers to work harder every day,” Cayetano said.

The entry of Ajinomoto, represented by its CEO Takaaki Nishii, further boosts the preparations for the biggest hosting for 30th SEA Games.

In a simple signing ceremony held Wednesday, Cayetano thanked Ajinomoto for the opportunity to partner with the Philippines and other companies for the successful hosting of this year's SEA Games.

Dabawenyo national amateur champion Rupert Zaragosa hits his bunker shot in the first round for Luisita in the 72nd PAL Interclub Men's Championships.

Club 245 (124-121), The Orchard 231 (121-110), Riviera Golf 227 (112115), Valley Golf 225 (108117), Forest Hills 223 (110-113), Apo Golf and Country Club 218 (101117), Sherwood Hills 206 (101-105), Negros Occidental 197 (106-91), Southern California Redhawks 193 (93-100), Fil Am Golf Tour 1 171 (87-84), Par 2000 151 (58-93) SPORTSWRITERS – Mactan Island 172 (92-89), Camp John Hay 170 (81-89), Fil Am Fair�ield 165 (7986), Guinhalaran 159 (7782), Camp Evangelista 155 (81-74), Bacolod 152 (70-82), Up Yee Jots 161 (72-79), Bay Area 149 (77-72), Sarangani 146 (75-71), Fil Am Hawaii 144 (61-83), Filipino Golfers in the Middle East Dubai 143 (68-75), PGA British Columbia 135 (66-69), Cotabato 125 (47-78), Lanang 123 (5667), Seattle 123 (60-63), Fil Am Golf Tour 2 113 (56-57), Cattle Creek 108 (59-49), Green Tee Club Riyadh 93 (44-49), Geen Hills West 78 (35-43), Greater Vancouver Golf Assoc 57 (18-39)

Ajinomoto backs Manila SEAG T Corporate Vice President Kaoru Kurashima signed the MOA on behalf of Ajinomoto.

Long supporting nutritious eating, the Ajinomoto brand, with its campaign “Eat well, Live well.” hopes to contribute to more wellness by being part of the group delivering the SEAG. “They see the value of the Games, not only as a stage for high-level competition but also an opportunity to reach out and connect deeper to their Asian market,” said Tats Suzara, PHISGOC COO.

12 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL.11 ISSUE 250 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 8-9, 2019

HIGH-SCORING

Apo moves to 6th in high-scoring Founders

By ADAM B. MORRELL

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Jolo Magcalayo of Tagaytay Highlands lines up his putt in Thursday’s second round of the PAL Men’s Interclub.

EBU CITY -- This is not the Championship division but the high scores have placed Founder division leader Cebu Country Club vaulting to the top of the �ield.

In a day of twists, the 72d Philippine Airlines Men’s Interclub saw a lower-rung Founders division rattle high scores as Davao’s Apo Golf and Country Club squad got it on with binge to �ind itself in sixth spot.

On Thursday’s PGA Tour-like ‘anything’s possible’ round, Apo scored the second best score of 117 points, next only to surprise overall leader Cebu Country Club which �ired a 121 total for the day to seize the tournament lead with 245 points. In sum, Apo has 218 points after a 101 in the �irst round.

Kuresh Samanodi led the way for the Apo parbusters with 35 points on a one over par 73 scorecard highlighted with an eagle 3 on the par 5 13th. Jing Gavino and Vince Gumapac had 29 each while Miguel Fusilero had 24. Rena Diago’s 17 did not count.

Lanang was way back in the Sportswriters division at 14th spot with a twoday total of 123. The Lanang boys scored 67 in the second round built around the 20 of Paul Dakudao, 19 of Abu Mata, 15 of Danny Nagayo, and 13 of Bok Mata. Danny Gotera’s 10 did not count.

Over Mactan Isaland Golf Club, the Rancho Palos Verdes (RPV) Team 1 unfortunately slumped to spot where they �inish last year.

Sitting at a comfortable second place on Wednesday with just three points behind

the aviator division leader Club Filipino, Inc. De Cebu (CFIDC), RPV was most likely expected to lead yesterday but it turns out the other way around.

Jaime Tan Jr., Christopher Tan, Jorge Martinez and JP Marfori amassed a total of 92 points as RPV has 193 to end day 2 of the tournament sponsored by Radio Mindanao Network, Asian Air Safari, and Vanguard Radio Network. Also extending support are ABS-CBN Global Ltd. (The Filipino Channel), Rolls Royce, Primax Broadcasting Network, UM Broadcasting Network (Mindanao), Fox Sports, Cignal TV, GECAS, Boeing, Lufthansa Technik AG, Manila Standard, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, Dusit Thani Manila, and Casino Filipino. Of�icial hotel is Quest Hotel Conference Center Cebu.

Jaime Tan paced the Cabantian-based parbusters with 25 points as Christian Tan, Martinez and Marfori scored 24, 24 and 20 points, respectively. Magno’s 18 didn’t count.

CFIDC continues to lead with 204, closely followed by Eagle Ridge at second with 203.

Alta Vista was in third with 200.

RPV Team 2, meanwhile, scored a total of 92 points yesterday and strode to the 10th place from 16th on Wednesday.

Team Captain Jerico Bajo literally led the charge with 31 points highlighted by two birdies. Brian Davila had 24 points while Alejandro So and Wendel Adalao had 23 and 18 as RPV Team 2 �inished with 176, sharing an identical output with ninth placer Iloilo Golf and Country Club.

FOUNDERS – Cebu Country Club

HIGHSCORING, P8