Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 35 | Friday, May 22, 2020

EDGEEDGE DAVAO DAVAO ARE WE NOW IN THE SECOND WAVE?

Serving a seamlessRAFA, society FEDERER MOVE ON TO THIRD ROUND

Serving a seamless society

HEALTH P5

SPORTSP11

SIGNSSIGNS OF BOOM OF BO

VOL.12ISSUE ISSUE 35 59 ••FRIDAY-SATURDAY, 2019 ISSUE 59 www.edgedavao.net edgedavao@gmail.com VOL.13 FRIDAY, MAY 22, MAY 202031-JUNE 1, f •@EdgeDavao VOL.12 FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MAY 31-JUNE 1, 2019 f @EdgeDavao

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P 15.00 • 16 2 PAGES www.edgedavao.net

Applications for building, for building, Applications zoning permitszoning increase permits increase

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he Office of the Davao City Planning and Development Coordinator is swarmed by applicants for locational clearance, zoning, building and other permits with at least 500 applications submitted on a weekly basis.

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he Office of the Davao City Planning and Development Coordinator is swarmed by applicants for locational clearance, zoning, building and other permits with at least 500 applications submitted on a weekly basis.

AND The increase in applications is an indication of Davao City’s booming construction industry and infrastructure development, the city noted.

Assistant City Planning and Development Coordinator Roy Ryan Rigor said the influx of permit applicants on a weekly basis is very high, causing delays in the issuances of permits.

Rigor said the issuance of some permits, such as for locational applications, needed actual surveys by their personnel and this contributed to the delay.

“There are really too

many applications that we receive and it is not only limited to the zoning permits, but there are also a lot more,” he said.

He also underscored submission of incomplete sets of requirements that further slows down the process of issuing the permits.

“There are some clients whose documents have discrepancies, and that causes the delay in the issuance of the permit. Another example is when the area needs to be reclassified and that needs the approval of the city council first,” Rigor said.

The increase in applications is an indication of Davao City’s booming construction industry and infrastructure development, the city noted.

Assistant City Planning and Development Coordinator Roy Ryan Rigor said the influx of permit applicants on a weekly basis is very high, causing delays in the issuances of permits.

Rigor said the issuance of some permits, such as for locational applications, needed actual surveys by their personnel and this contributed to the delay.

“There are really too

SEE FSIGNS, P10

MINDANAO HERITAGE THROUGH MODERN FASHION

No policy yet for home schooling: RAISING A MILLENNIAL FOREMOST IN DepEd 11FAMILY ESDEVCO’S MIND ►INDULGE A1

STORY ON P2

►PROPERTY P9

many applications that we receive and it is not only limited to the zoning permits, but there are also a lot more,” he said.

He also underscored submission of incomplete sets of requirements that further slows down the process of issuing the permits.

“There are some clients whose documents have discrepancies, and that causes the delay in the issuance of the permit. Another example is when the area needs to be reclassified and that needs the approval of the city council first,” Rigor said.

FSIGNS, P10

MINDANAO HERITAGE THROUGH MODERN FASHION ►INDULGE A1

RAISING A MILLENNIAL FAMILY FOREMOST IN ESDEVCO’S MIND

►PROPERTY P9

TOURISM.workers President unload Rodrigo slaughDuterte Grocery tered swine outside a supermarket responds to the discussions during the inmeeting Sasa, with Davao City ontourism Thursday. the Japanese partThe for Hotel porkin Tokyo, and other ners demand at the Imperial Japan meat products went up during the on Wednesday night.

PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO COVID-19 pandemic. Edge Davao

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

SEND OFF. Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go (front row, wearing a vest), Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea (front row, 2nd from right), Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte (right), Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista (left, in light blue), Communication Secretary Martin Andanar (in maroon), Agriculture Secretary William Dar (wearing a black jacket behind Go), and other gov-

VOL.13 ISSUE 35 • FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

ernment officials send off the beneficiaries of the “Balik Probinsya Bagong Pag-asa Program” at the Manila Seedlings NHA lot, Agham Street, Quezon City on Wednesday (May 20, 2020). A total of 121 beneficiaries make up the first batch who will return to Leyte province under the program. (PNA photo

by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler)

WAIT AND SEE S No policy yet for home schooling: DepEd 11

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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he regional office of the Department of Education (DepEd 11) clarified on Thursday that schools have not been given the green light to employ home schooling for the opening of classes on August 24, 2020.

Jenielito “Dodong” Atillo, spokesperson of DepEd 11, disclosed that there is no official policy yet from DepEd central office for home learning to be utilized as the “new normal” alternative for face-toface classes.

Atillo made this clear particularly to all

na’y namugna pero ipanaog pa ni sa central office sa regional office for our comment,” he said.

According to Atillo, DepEd 11 still needs to assess and give its comments for submission to DepEd central office before the agency comes up with an private schools in the official policy for home region. schooling.

“Gisulti nako ni “As of now we are daan at least klaro preparing for this and labi na sa mga private hopefully will not take schools na nag-pam- long because schools inaw na karon nga are waiting for this dili pa ni siya puwede kung unsa ang sistema i-employ as of the mo- for home schooling,” ment because there is he said. no policy yet nga gipaHome schooling is hiluna, although, naa among five modalities

cited as among the options for the delivery of learning approved by DepEd central office.

It can be used for are blended learning, distance learning, face to face, and apprenticeship.

Atillo said the preferred mode of learning depends on the capacity and access of the schools to certain platforms.

“In rural areas dili ta puwede ug mag-padagan ug online system of modality because majority of our rural areas do not have internet connections yet,” he said. ?WAIT, P9

‘Balik Probinsya’ sends off 1st batch ome 121 Leyteaños are among the first batch of beneficiaries returning to their province under the “Balik Probinsya, Balik Pag-asa program” of the government.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar joined Senator Lawrence Go, Executive Secretary Salvador Meldiadea, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Isidro Lapeña, 2nd District Quezon Rep. David Suarez, and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Wednesday to send off the “returnees” to Candahug in Palo, Leyte.

Once re-settled in Leyte, they will be given access to employment and livelihood opportunities, in various rural enterprises and agribusinesses.

“As part of the national strategy to boost rural development, they will be given training and technical support, so they

can be productive and self-sustaining,” Dar said.

Dar said the DA will also provide farm inputs and equipment to those who wish to venture into agriculture and fishery.

“In a way, this realizes our goal to make the countryside more industrialized and productive, and so we will continue to support and capacitate them to perform various agri-fishery activities,” he said.

Prior to their departure, the beneficiaries received “pabaon” from DA, which includes vegetable gardening starter kit composed of assorted vegetable seeds, seedling bags and tray, and garden soil among others. They also underwent medical check-up courtesy of the Department of Health.

They were also given transportation allowance and other entitlements. (PR)

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 35 • FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

House panel to shelve Cha-cha proposals

H

ouse committee on constitutional amendments chairman Rufus Rodriguez on Thursday said his panel will recommend that the Charter change (Cha-cha) proposals be shelved “indefinitely” as the country continues to battle the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Rodriguez, representative of Cagayan de Oro City, said the House of Representatives should instead prioritize working on Covid-19 related measures.

“I am inclined to recommend to the Speaker (Alan Peter Cayetano) that we shelve Cha-cha indefinitely so we can focus on measures to fight this pandemic, help our affected people and prepare the nation for post-lockdown and post-coronavirus disease, or the new-normal life,” Rodriguez said.

He said his committee has already suspended its consideration of any Cha-cha proposal.

Rodriguez made the statement amid reported attempts to revive the push for Cha-cha through a signature-gathering campaign led by local officials and other Chacha supporters.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año dismissed the reports as fake news, saying he never ordered anyone to do such a thing, especially amid a prevailing health crisis.

“This is not the time for the DILG and its allies to relaunch their signature drive and renew their push for Cha-cha. They should postpone it until this health crisis is over,” Rodriguez said.

“Cha-cha can wait. We will first have to attend to measures that will

NEWS

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Don't put milk inside relief packs: NNC 11

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By MAYA M. PADILLO

he National Nutrition Council 11 (NNC 11) has called out several groups and organizations engaged in food donations not to include milk in their packs.

Dr. Maria Teresa Ungson, regional nutrition program coordinator of NNC 11, said in a virtual presser on Wednesday that there is a tendency that milk put in relief packs will be administered to infants.

Ungson said giv-

ing of milk to infants during emergencies is a violation of the Executive Order (E.O) No. 51 or the Milk Code of the Philippines that aims to contribute to the provision of safe and adequate nutrition for infants by the protec-

tion and promotion of breast feeding and by ensuring the proper use of breastmilk substitutes and breastmilk supplements when necessary.

“Dapat walang gatas sa mga relief packs na pinamimigay sa pamilya. Some homes have infants at may tendency na mabigay ang gatas sa infants.

May batas po tayo,” she said.

Ungson reiterated that breastfeeding is still the best way to feed infants even

during the pandemic.

“We don’t mean anything bad but we just want to enforce the law. Yung mga good hearted people maganda ang kanilang hangarin pero sana huwag maglagay ng gatas sa food packs kasi labag sa batas. If you want to give the best to the future of the world and the Philippines then we have to give the best milk and that is breast milk. Sana maintinidihan ito ng mga do?DON’T PUT, P9

?HOUSE, P10

DOLE issues alien work permit rules for POGOs

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he Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Thursday issued guidelines for operators and employees of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) while the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) and general community quarantine (GCQ) are still in effect in the country.

Included in the Labor Advisory No. 19, series of 2020 are the requirements for the application and issuance of alien employment permit (AEPs) for the foreign workers.

“For Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and related establishments, in addition to the documentary requirements for the issuance of Alien Employment Permits (AEPs), the applicant shall also submit a copy of recent PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) Authorization to Operate, as proof that the POGO establishment is

authorized to resume operations,” it said.

The DOLE is leaving the decision to its regional offices (ROs) if they want to issue their own internal guidelines regarding the mode of accepting AEP applications and the release of AEP cards.

ROs may also utilize their existing online system or may accept applications via e-mail.

As for the issuance and release of the cards, it may be delivered through courier service or it will be released at the ROs. “For the issuance and release of AEP cards, use of courier services to deliver the AEP cards is highly encouraged at the expense of the applicants or their employers, otherwise, the social distancing requirement and safety measures shall be strictly observed,” the DOLE added.

The AEP is issued to foreign nationals for them to be able to legally work in the coun?DOLE, P10

Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go lauds the official launching of the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa (BP2) Program as a testament of President Rodrigo Duterte’s political will and his ad-

ministration’s commitment to help poor urban families return to their home provinces and start anew with new-found hope for a better life. Contributed Photo

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 35 • FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

SM net income down by 16% to P9B in Q1

T Shoppers watch their hands as part of the protocol of a store along San Pedro Street in Davao City on Thursday. Edge Davao

he country’s largest conglomerate SM Investments Corporation (SM) on Thursday reported its profit declined by 16 percent in the first quarter of 2020 due partially to effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic and enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).

In a statement, SM said net income stood at PHP9 billion in January to March from PHP10.7 billion during the same period last year.

Consolidated revenues rose to PHP111.2 billion from PHP109 billion.

Banks contributed 46 percent of net income, while property and retail added 44 percent and 10 percent, respectively.

“The ECQ and broader pandemic started to weigh on our performance during the first quarter. Our strong balance sheet, capabilities and partnerships provide us with the flexibility to anticipate and adapt to changes in

loans with principal and/or interest falling due during the ECQ period.

The initial 30-day grace period shall automatically be extended if the ECQ period is extended by the President pursuant to his emergency powers.

Accordingly, all financing companies, lending companies, and microfinance non-governmental organizations (NGOs) shall apply the mandatory grace period to

all loans with principal and/or interest falling due between 17 March 2020 and 31 May 2020.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases also issued Resolution No. 33, series of 2020, directing all banks, quasi-banks, financing companies, lending companies, and other financial institutions to count the grace period from the respective

?SM, P10

SEC reiterates mandatory grace period for loans

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he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has reiterated its directive for all financing and lending companies to provide borrowers more time to settle loans falling due within the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) and modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) period.

In a statement Thursday, the SEC said it is currently investigating financing and

lending firms that allegedly refuse to comply with the Bayanihan to Heal As One Act, its

Opportunities for digital biz after Covid-19 looms

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he global pandemic has provided the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) financial inclusion and digital transformation’s bid further boost opportunities now abound for financial technology (fintech) firms.

In his speech during the virtual forum on fintech’s role in pump-priming the economy hosted

by Fintech Alliance PH Wednesday, BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno said the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic raised the urgency for needed reforms on public health, social safety nets, disaster response, and countryside development.

“But what reinforces all these reforms is the digital imperative.

There is no arguing

that the new economy is digital,” he said.

Diokno said postCovid-19 digital transactions will be a key factor for a more inclusive economy that it is why it is vital for a robust digital infrastructure, digital skills, electronic government (e-government), digital identification, and an enabling legal and regulatory framework.

He said the BSP vows to increase to at least 50 percent the share of digital retail payment transactions, and to have 70 percent of the adult population having and using transaction accounts by the end of his term in 2023.

Diokno said the central bank has formulated a three-year digital payments transformation map, ?OPPORTUNITIES, P9

implementing rules and regulations (IRR), and other applicable laws, rules and regulations.

“Any violation or noncompliance shall be dealt with to the full extent of the law,” it warned.

The Commission, in an advisory issued on May 20, reminded financing and lending companies to strictly comply with these laws, rules and regulations.

Section 4(aa) of

Republic Act 11469, or the Bayanihan Act provides the President the power to implement a minimum 30-day grace period for the payment of all loans while the country battles the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

On April 1, the Department of Finance issued the IRR directing all lenders, including those under the supervision of the SEC, to apply an initial 30day grace period to all

?SEC, P10

The National Nutrition Council 11 (NNC 11) calls out several groups and organizations engaged in relief good donations not to include milk in the relief packs as there's a tendency that they will be given by families to infants. Edge Davao

5 HEALTH EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 35 • FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

Are we now in the second wave?

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By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

he last time the world faced a pandemic – called Spanish flu and caused by H1N1 influenza A virus – was in 1918 yet.

“Lasting more than 12 months from spring 1918 to early summer 1919, it infected 500 million people – about a third of the world’s population at the time,” Wikipedia reported.

“The death toll is estimated to have been anywhere from 17 million to 50 million, and possibly as high as 100 million, making it one of the deadliest pandemics in human history.”

History records showed there were four waves of the 1918 flu pandemic. The first wave had resembled typical flu epidemics; those most at risk were the sick and elderly, while younger, healthier people recovered easily.

The second started

by August and peaked

by October. More people died as the virus had mutated to a much more deadly form.

“The second wave was

far more deadly,” Wikipedia reported.

The third wave happened in January 1919. “It was less severe than the second wave but still much more deadly than the initial first wave,” Wikipedia noted. In spring 1920, fourth wave took pace but mortality rates were very low.

Now, the world is now facing another pandemic. Called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), it is caused

by SARS-CoV-2 as it is a distant cousin of the same virus that caused Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).

Last May 20, during the resumption of the Senate hearing on the government’s COVID-19 response, Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. asked Health Secretary Francisco Duque III about the government’s plan should the second wave of COVID-19 hit

the country.

“Actually, we’re on the second wave” now, Duque replied and went on to explain: “’Yung first wave natin nag-umpisa, batay po ito sa ating mga batikang epidemiologist, na ang first wave natin happened sometime in January.”

Netizens were totally puzzled. Dr. Maria Rosario Vergeire, undersecretary of health, explained that in technical or epidemiological terms, the Philippines is already in what is called second wave. “The first wave was a minor one, with only 3 cases at its peak, happened in January,” referring to the three Chinese nationals from Wuhan.

For most Filipinos, what counts are major waves. The peak was last March 31, where the country had 538 cases. “We have been flattening the curve, in this current major wave, with the cases averaging 220 in 5 weeks,” Dr. Vergeire said.

“What is most important now is that we all do our part in preventing a second major wave, by practicing

handwashing, physical distancing, proper cough etiquette, wearing of masks and regular disinfection,” the health official said.

Dr. Edsel Maurice T. Salvana, an internationally recognized infectious diseases specialist and molecular biologist at the University of the Philippines (UP) and the Philippine General Hospital, further explained in a feature that was published by Manila Bulletin.

“Most recently, there has been much debate about whether we are on our first or second ‘wave’ of cases,” wrote Dr. Salvana, who is the director of the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the National Institutes of Health at UP Manila. “From an epidemiologic perspective, a ‘wave’ has a ‘peak’ and so if you see multiple peaks on an epidemiologic curve, then that is a ‘wave.’”

Right now, the Philippines has two “peaks,” based on the current Philippine epidemiologic curve.

“There was a tiny peak from January rep-

resenting three cases from China, and there is the current wave which peaked 538 cases last March 31 and is still ongoing, but on the downtrend of about 200 to 300 cases per day,” Dr. Salvana explained.

“This needs to be seen also in the context of increasing testing capacity which has gone from 300 tests per day to 11,000 tests per day.

“So, we are really capturing more cases now but it hasn’t gone beyond the 538-case peak. This means the curve was flattened. By flattened, we mean that the daily case count is steady. If it were going down, then the curve would be ‘falling.’ Since the ECQ (enhanced community quarantine) is not a perfect lockdown, we still expect some transmission to occur, but the growth of cases is not exponential and our healthcare system is not overwhelmed.”

According to Dr. Salvana, there was a four-week gap between the tiny “first wave” and the current “second wave.” He asked: “How do we know that there wasn’t hidden community transmission that we just weren’t capturing with testing? Maybe the first and second waves are connected?”

Dr. Salvana admitted they’re not sure of

it “but there was active testing of PUIs (people under investigations) at that time.” “Anything is possible,” he pointed out. “We do have some whole genome data that suggests that while the ‘first wave’ was from travellers from Wuhan, the ‘second wave’ came at least partially by way of India.”

He, clarified, however that it doesn’t mean Indians brought the second wave to the country. “It only means someone travelled from India and most likely got infected by a virus circulating there and brought it to the Philippines,” he wrote.

“We don’t know if the person was Indian, Filipino, or another nationality, only that he or she travelled from India to the Philippines.”

Looking at the 12 whole genome sequences from the Philippines that were collected in March, “these viruses all trace back to an Indian progenitor virus, which came to India from an Australian progenitor virus, which can be traced to a progenitor virus from China.

“The analysis is by no means complete,” Dr. Salvana wrote, “and we probably did have multiple introductions from the second wave but this is the evidence ?SECOND WAVE, P9

6 VANTAGE VANTAGE EDGE EDGEDAVAO DAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE FRIDAY, MAY 22, VOL.13 ISSUE35 10•• FRIDAY, MARCH 20,2020 2020

“

ON HOME LEARNING MODALITY FOR THE NEW SCHOOL SEASON:

EDITORIAL

Gisulti nako ni daan at least klaro labi na sa mga private schools na nag-paminaw na karon nga dili pa ni siya puwede i-employ as of the moment because there is no policy yet nga gipahiluna, although, naa na’y namugna pero ipanaog pa ni sa central office sa regional office for Be significant our comment.

With the situation the Philippines is facing amidst the coronavirus threat, it takes everyone’s utmost patience, understanding and compassion to get the country through the hill.

Hence, businesses must first take consideration of their workers rather than their profits or losses. The reason why the community quarantine is not working 100 percent is that the lowly workers are forced to report to work under fear of losing their jobs and not earning their keep. The spectre of having no mey to feed their families is a far bigger threat than dying because of the virus.

In the minds of the ordinary folks: “We will die just the same.”

Only those who have enough food in their pantry, those who can afford to panic shop, and those who can afford to order online for deliveries will survive. But for the bigger chunk of the society, the equation remains “no work, no food.”

Thus, it is a welcome relief that there are initially 10 companies made the supreme sacrifice of to compensate their workers during the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine period. This will greatly help those in Metro Manila where people still go to work

EDGEDAVAO

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JENIELITO ATILLO

SPOKESPERSON OF DEPED 11

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

MAYA M. PADILLO Senior Reporter

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG ATHENA JILLIAN BRAVO NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN MEGHANN STA. INES FERINA SANTOS Lifestyle

LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. Photography

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

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

despite the order.

The 10 firms reported by the Department of Labor to have made the compensation package are Aboitiz, Asian Terminal/Solaire Resort Hotel, Ayala Group of Companies, JG Summit, Jollibee, Lucio Tan Group, Manny V. Pangilinan Group, San Miguel Corporation, SM and Udenna Group.These firms answered the call of President Rodrigo Duterte to take care of their workers and employees during this time of national emergency.

DOLE Secretary Silvestre Bello III lauded the companies and said their compassion and good example should inspire other enterprises whose source of wealth is the labor of their workforce.

While big companies can take some hit, it is a different story for smaller firms and this is where the government should come in. For sure, there are already some formulation to this effect being done.

For now, the best thing to do for everyone is to try to be significantly helpful instead of adding up to the problem and it all starts with following orders.

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE MANILA MARKETING OFFICE RICHARD C. EBONA LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-YacapinProduct Sts. Development officer Cagayan de Oro City Address: No. 18 Purok 4B, Madelo Street, Lower Bicutan, Taguig City Tel: (088) 852-4894 Mobile number: +63 947 265 2969(smart); +63 916 955 8559(globe)

VOL.13 ISSUE 35 • FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE POINTS

7

CONGRESS’ MEDIOCRITY AND INDOLENCE Realize this, folks.

While the US Congress, though much politically polarized because of the approaching presidential elections in November, has approved stimulus packages in trillions of dollars to combat the adverse effects of the Wuhan virus menace slashing through the four corners of the American continent, the Congress of the Philippines put its emphasis more on contentious debates to grant or not a new franchise to the media giant ABS CBN Broadcasting Corporation.

Between tackling a health hazard of pandemic proportions and the granting of a media franchise, any citizen would surely brush aside the latter in favor of the former.

But that did not happen because, amidst the brewing contagion, House Speaker Allan Peter Cayetano, by himself, railroaded his own sponsorship of a sixmonth provisional franchise that put the entire assembly in total disarray. Consequently, because of the hullabaloo and public furor, the House membership decided to recall the measure.

And so, it was back to square one in the House of Representathieves. Oops sorry for the typo…

Representatives, right?

At the same time, even the Senate that is supposed to courteously wait for the passage of the franchise bill emanating from the Lower Chamber, initiated rather improperly a hearing

by the Committee on Public Services as if time was running out.

Now, where are we now in the scheme of things?

Sadly, DOH Sec. Francisco Duque is like a parrot echoing

the highest standards of hygiene, washing our hands properly and frequently with soap and water because that is the surest way the Wuhan virus cannot succeed to attack our physical health.

activities, even resulting in the demoralization of the national mindset.

Tourism is one of the biggest losers. The millions of foreign tourists that have been the coun-

WHO pronouncements about a coming second wave which did not get positive response from his fellow Cabinet members.

Duque, instead of allaying the fears of Filipinos that the government is on top of things, has instilled fear among everyone that the Wuhan virus is indeed a super terror of a killer.

I can’t just imagine why doctors are advising us to observe

If washing our hands and observing hygiene can prevent the Wuhan virus from attacking us, then why should it be feared the way Duque wants us to fear it?

The continuing two and a half-month lockdown (March 15 to May 31) has adversely affected our national economy, disrupting the inflow and outflow of human and socio-economic

try’s usual clientele have ebbed like a dried river bed.

But the spotlight remains focused on both houses of Congress which have not been fulfilling their respective roles in getting this country and its people out of the mire.

There is again a sudden upsurge of the need to transform the bicameral legislative structure to a unicameral one that

might lead to much-needed constitutional amendments.

While both chambers of Congress deserve to get the blame for this national snafu, political enemies of the Duterte administration, with financial support from their American allies, are relentless in their focused attacks on the government.

I am hoping that the Wuhan virus has created not a negative impact on the Filipino citizenry but a more positive need to use its sovereign democratic mandate to dictate what the people want in terms of transparent governance and meaningful change.

Filipinos have long been depending too much on shrewd politicians who have forked tongues, mastering the art of political promise and deception.

This cannot go on forever.

No, it should not. It must not.

We must remember that the indolent and almost moronic attitude prevailing in both houses of Congress today should impel the vast majority of right thinking Filipinos to claim what they rightfully deserve from these public servants.

Wisdom is a virtue not so much displayed by those from whom we expect it.

Neither is integrity. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) 1John 5:12: “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.”

INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR BIODIVERSITY Today, May 22, the world commemorates the International Day for Biological Diversity (biodiversity for short).

The Philippines, with more than 7,000 islands (especially if it is high tide), is considered by respected scientists as one of the countries with the highest degree of biodiversity in the world.

Our country, if you care to know, is home to about 170,000 faunal species, most of which are insects and are mostly unidentified. That’s according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Twelve thousand plant species and 960 animal species are found in Philippine forests. Of the identified animal species, over 500 are birds and 167 are mammals.

Out of the 500 known coral species worldwide, about 488 coral species in 78 genera are found in the Philippines. There are only about 50 species of seagrasses in the world. A total of 16 species can be found in the country, and this is the second highest diversity that exist in one country; only Western Australia has more with 17 species. At least 2,000 fish species are found in the Philippines.

About 98 of mammal species are endemic to the Philippines. In the last seven years, experts have discovered 12 mammal species in the country seen nowhere else on the planet. “The number compares with other countries like Brazil,” says Philippine fauna specialist Dr. Lawrence Heaney of the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago. “But compare their sizes. For such a small area, the Philippine rockets ahead.”

For the uninformed, Brazil has a total land area of 3,286,488 square kilometers while the

Philippines has a total land area of 115,800 square kilometers.

The neighbor Indonesia, another biodiversity-rich country, has a total land area of 741,101 square kilometers.

While its biodiversity is among the highest, the Philippines’ ecosystems are among the most threatened. In fact, most

A species is considered extinct when it is no longer found in the past 50 years. Endangered species are those that have been reduced in number to a critical level or whose habitats have been damaged or altered or reduced.

Threatened is a general term used to describe the ani-

encroachment of human populations on several plant and animal species’ natural habitat has been a primary agent for the loss of biodiversity,” the Foundation of Philippine Environment (FPE) stressed. “Displacement from one’s habitat leaves species vulnerable to harsher new living conditions, predation from oth-

scientists included the entire Philippine archipelago as among the five biogeographical areas in the world considered the “hottest of the hotspots,” a hotspot being an area whose high biodiversity is gravely threatened.

Dr. Lee Talbot, director of Southeast Asia Project on Wildlife Conser­vation of Nature and Natural Resources, agreed: “A few decades ago, the wildlife of the Philippines was notable for its abundance; now, it is notable for its variety; if present trend of destruction continues, Philippine wildlife will be notable for its absence.”

mal or plant species which could be in the status of “endangered” and “insufficiently known.” In the Philippines, among those listed as endangered as the Philippine eagle, Philippine tarsier, tamaraw and waling-waling.

With 700 threatened species, the Philippines also make it as “one of the top global conservation areas,” according to Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). It added that the threats to biodiversity in the country “differ from one ecosystem to another.”

Habitat destruction is cited as the primary culprit. “The

er species, and scarcity or inaccessibility of resources required for survival.”

This is particularly true in the case of vanishing forests. By the definition of UN Food and Agriculture Organization, the country’s forest cover should be 24% of the country’s total land areas of 30 million hectares.

“Between 2000 and 2005, the Philippines lost 2.1% of its forest cover, representing the second fastest rate of deforestation in Southeast Asia and seventh in the world,” the CBD reported.

As one of the 17 mega-diversity countries in the world,

the Philippine government has identified biodiversity conservation as a major strategy for sustainable development. Its centerpiece response to protect and conserve our biodiversity resources is the establishment of an integrated protected areas system.

On June 1, 1992, Republic Act 7586, otherwise known as the National Integrated Protected Areas System or the NIPAS Law was enacted. “The law provides for the establishment and management of a comprehensive protected area system to protect and maintain biological diversity including natural and cultural resources,” explained Environment Secretary Roy A. Cimatu during the International Day of Biological Diversity two years ago.

Cimatu consider protected areas as “the last bastion of our endemic but threatened wildlife and habitats.” He added: “We are facing natural resource scarcity due to numerous factors, foremost is the degradation of our terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Once these ecosystems are protected under a legal instrument, we can facilitate swifter enforcement and allot more resources for conservation.”

In the Philippines, thousands of species may go extinct before they are discovered. And this is very alarming.

“The number of previously unknown species being discovered in the Philippine habitats is currently among the greatest in the world,” noted the Chicago-based The Field Museum.

“For a field biologist who studies biological diversity, the Philippines is, in many respects, a dream come true – a place where new discoveries lie around every corner.”

8 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 35 • FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

An immersive opportunity: Malayan Colleges Mindanao launches Digital Learning Bootcamp 2020

M

alayan Colleges Mindanao, a Mapúa School announced its first Digital Learning Bootcamp 2020, inviting all SHS and College students in Mindanao to experience the first fully integrated online learning system in the region — MCM Digital — and get the opportunity to use MCM’s powerful online learning tools for FREE! This Digital Learning Bootcamp will be held on June 1 to 13, 2020 and is described as an immersive experience inside MCM’s Online Learning System, aiming to demonstrate and give participants an opportunity to immerse them-

selves in the first fully integrated online learning system in Mindanao.

The participants will be given access to MCM’s online learning portal, “MCM Digital” where they can explore and get hands-on experience utilizing MCM’s online

learning tools such as Blackboard Learn, Blackboard Collaborate, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Panopto, Wiley Plus, and Cengage Learning to complete learning tasks designed for incoming Grade 11 and 1st Year College students.

These tasks will be delivered in either synchronous or asynchronous learning sessions to allow for participants to get a feel for the different modalities of remote learning provided by MCM. In order for participants to maximize the online learning experience, they will need a device such as a computer unit, laptop or a tablet; and internet connectivity of at least 1 Mbps for asynchronous sessions and at least 2 Mbps for synchronous sessions.

Familiarization with the online system and

tools will initiate the program, after which, participants will be allowed to select short learning modules on General Mathematics, Business, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Basic Education for incoming Grade 11 students; Basic Algebra, General Physics, Business and Management, and Programming and Coding for incoming college students. A full course on Math, Humanities, and Social Science will also be made available for demonstration during the bootcamp period.

To register for this activity

and get a chance to win amazing prizes, interested participants may proceed to this link: https:// bit.ly/MCMDIGITALBOOTCAMP and follow the subsequent instructions and link to the “MCM Digital” account that will be sent through the email address provided upon your registration.

For any additional inquiries about the MCM Digital Learning Bootcamp 2020, please feel free to email at admissions@mcm. edu.ph or contact +63918 918 1626, +63999 227 7493, or +63917 831 8048.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 35 • FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

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He explained “Dili necessary the that what is ideal for whole week sila magschools in the rural spend ug face to face areas is the distance in the school. A maxlearning system where imum of three hours schools will have mod- lang ug dili pa jud ular and face to face na muabot ug three mode of learning. hours. Mga usa o duha He added that ka adlaw lang,” he said.

Atillo said majority 51Talk turned over P5.25M worth of PPE’s to the Federation of Fil- face-to-face modality ipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII). will be implemented of the time of the stuFrom L-R are Brgy. 281 Z-26 Manila Chairman Jefferson Lau, FFCC- only to schools in ar- dents will be utilized CII External Affairs Committee Chairman Nelson Guevarra, 51Talk Country Head Jennifer Que, and Manila Overseas Chinese Service eas where there are no in their homes as they Center Vice Chairman Amado Chua. other ways to lean on will be given modules as a solution for learn- or kits. ing.

“Ang estudyante “Kung maka-on- tagaan namo ug learnline ang bata, puwede ing modules ug kits man mag-implement that they will bring ug blended learning home but prior to that because on blended there will be instruclearning naa ang on- tions that will be given line, face to face ug by the teachers kung anila, Philip- quarantine in the next modular,” he said. unsa ilang pagabuhapines – Three few weeks, many hosAtillo emphasized ton,” he said. hospitals in pitals are still experi- that in face-to-face Atillo said the Metro Manila received encing supply scarci- mode, teachers and number of students medical equipment ties, particularly with students do not neces- each classroom will be worth P5.25M do- PPEs. Beneficiaries of sarily mean that they limited from 15 to 20. nated by the online the PPEs are the Phil- will undergo the tra- He said those students English teaching plat- ippine General Hos- ditional in-classroom who have access to inform 51Talk (ww- pital-Department of set-up to secure the ternet can go online w.51Talk.ph) to the Pediatrics, St. Luke’s health and safety of the and no need to go to Federation of Filipino Medical Center-Insti- students. school.

Chinese Chambers of tute of Pediatrics and Commerce & Industry, Child Health and the from 3 Inc. (FFCCCII).

Metropolitan Medical nors natin who has oil, sugar, salt, coffee, During the brief Center Manila. turnover ceremony, “What we are expe- the good intention to canned food items and other processed FFCCCII External Af- riencing are extraordi- help,” she said.

The Department food products preffairs Committee Chair- nary circumstances. of Health (DOH)-NNC erably those which man Nelson Guevarra, As challenging as it nutrition cluster rechave been adequately representing FFCCCII seems for most of us, I ommends that famifortified with vitamin President Henry Lim admire the resolve and ly food packs should A, iron or iodine. A list Bon Liong, expressed the courage of the Filicontain ageand culof FDA-approved forhis gratitude to 51Talk pino front liners who, turally-appropriate, tified food items and for the generous dona- day in and day out, clean and diversified bearing the Sangkap tion. are tending to the sick nutritious food items Pinoy Seal.

“On behalf of FF- to keep the rest of the such as rice, beans, It also recomCCCII, I would like to population safe and eggs or other protein mends that local govthank 51Talk, its CEO healthy,” said 51Talk source food, cooking ernment units (LGUs) and Founder Jack Country Head Jennifer Huang and Country Que. “On behalf of our from 5 Head Jennifer Que. We 51Talk home-based have been working online English teach- that we have at this na alam ko ‘yung unang double time with our ers, we salute our front time.” nag-lockdown, ‘yong partner organizations liners!”

Although the analy- community quarantine locally and abroad to Home-based on- sis is not really exhaus- kasi ang doubling time aid our hospitals and line types of livelihood tive, due to the small nun mabilis,” he was medical front liners remained resilient number of available quoted as saying. in our fight against during this pandem- sequences, “it does give As of now, the PhilCOVID-19.

Only ic. 51Talk’s 20,000 us an idea that the virus ippines has not flatthrough helping each strong home-based can come from any- tened the curve yet. other will our nation online English teach- where,” he said. “We “We have not yet flatovercome this crisis,” ers continue to teach cannot let our guard tened the curve eh kasi said Mr. Guevarra. and earn while staying down and we need to ang second wave nangWhile the Phil- safe at home amid the limit transmission of yari after na mag-flatten ippine government on-going enhanced the virus as much as ka,” said Dr. Leachon, an prepares to lift the community quaran- possible.” internist who works enhanced community tine.

However, Dr. An- at the Manila Doctors thony Leachon, an ad- Hospital. “So parang viser to the Inter-Agen- ‘yan ay experience sa from 4 cy Task Force (IATF), Spanish influenza ng which includes open that will now tap told ABS-CBN Tel- 1918, nag-flat siya tabanking and the fin- e-commerce. eradyo the Philippines pos tsaka ka nagkaroon tech sector will find “The fintech com- is still in the first wave ng second wave.” great opportunities munity has a lot to look of the COVID-19 panBut whether we are under this goal. forward to and even demic. “Ang first wave still in “first wave” of He said fintech more to contribute in players can provide the shaping of the new from 11 solutions on loan origi- economy –one defined year change the entire ing the Games next year nation and underwrit- by shared and sustainsports schedule world- though it had to be preing platform for the able prosperity. With wide of all the major pared for various scegovernment’s direct our collective efforts, federations.

You can't narios including quarlending program, as may we be able to look have the athletes being antining athletes. well as provide digital back at this crisis with in uncertainty. " "What could this solutions for micro, no regrets for wasted Bach said the IOC mean for the life in an small and medium opportunities,” he addwas committed to holdOlympic Village?" he enterprises’ (MSMEs) ed. (PNA)

Online ESL platform 51Talk turns over P5.25M donation to FFCCCI

M

DON’T PUT

SECOND WAVE

OPPORTUNITIES

IOC

9

“Ug katong dili ma-cater sama sa mga eskwelahan nga naa sa bukid ug wala capacity na maka-online learning, mag face to face ang mga estudyante pero depende sa adlaw, like karong adlawa ang mu-report 20 kabuok estudyante while the rest will be waiting at their homes,” he said.

“We are very clear in stating that there will be no face to face on August 24 and we will ensure that the health protocols will be implemented on the opening of classes,” he added.

DepEd assured that it will be implementing policies and measures in line with the mandate of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Emerging Infectious Diseases from the conduct of the enrolment, which will cover from June 1 to 30, and the start of

classes.

“DepEd 11 has come up with an online system for enrolment and with the simple use of your mobile phone you can avail of the enrolment procedures, katong walay gadgets, they can go to the schools but we will be implementing health protocols and we will not really cater you if you are not wearing face masks, not adhering to social distancing in lining up,” he said.

Teachers are currently undergoing virtual training to equip them when classes resume.

“We really have to hone their skills because we are now in the new normal, in this new normal daghan nakalitan ani. Mura ni ug refresher course because they already undergone this for quite some time,” he said.

should consider that some recipients of the family food pack have young children, pregnant and lactating mothers as members and is encouraged that through the Barangay Nutrition Scholars and Barangay Health Workers, these families are located so that they can be continuously monitored, provided

low-cost, one dishmeal recipes and recipes utilizing relief goods.

The regional office of NNC strongly advised donors to stop sending milk donations to victims of recent earthquakes at evacuation centers to avoid potential risks of diarrhea among children in the evacuation centers.

said.

"All these different scenarios are under consideration and this is why I'm saying it's a mammoth task, because there are so many different options

that it's not easy to address them (now).

"When we have a clear view on how the world will look on July 23, 2021, then (we will) take the appropriate decisions."

the pandemic, or now in the “second wave,” it doesn’t really matter.

“Unless we get a vaccine, there will almost certain be another wave, and several more after that,” Dr. Salvana reminded. “The wave we have to deal with is the next one.

“Whether the peak will be higher or lower than 538 cases a day will be determined by our ability to trace, test, and treat properly.

We are in a much better position to handle the next wave, with increased testing capacity, expanded isolation facilities, and intensified contract tracing.

Let’s hope for a gentle ripple and not a tsunami,” concluded Dr. Salvana, who has spoken and written extensively on the COVID-19 outbreak.

Meanwhile, in his opening remarks at the media briefing on COVID-19 last May 20, World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: “The pandemic has taught and informed many lessons: health is not a cost; it’s an investment.

To live in a secure world, guaranteeing quality health for all is not just the right choice; it’s the smart choice.”

10

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 35 • FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

In Asinan, Pilar town in Siargao Island, the early morning sun spreads its glow over sky and river, and greets this boat with every shade of gold. Photo taken Wednesday (20 May 2020) by ROEL N. CATOTO / MindaNews

SM from 4

customer needs and behaviors. We are actively enhancing digital and delivery services across all our core businesses, while also working to support and protect our employees, customers, MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) and business partners,” SM President Frederic DyBuncio said.

During the crisis, SM implemented sanitation protocols in all its essential businesses.

It also supported the medical equipment and supplies

needs of hospitals nationwide and worked with the government and other partners to provide much needed quarantine and testing facilities.

BDO Unibank posted PHP8.8 billion in net income in the first quarter from PHP9.8 billion previously, as core lending and deposit-taking businesses sustained their growth despite the ECQ. China Bank saw its net income increase by 19 percent to PHP2.2 billion in the first quarter, driven by sustained growth of

ues to work actively in the planning and organization of the FIBA 3x3 World Tour,

Challengers, Wom- der of 2020 as well en's Series, Zone as in January 2021, if Cups, and World needed.

Cups in the remainThe World Tour

coast of the Adriatic Sea revolved around his son ‘Balbo’.

“It is a very, very big blessing for me.

It’s a silver lining situation,” the 31-yearold said.

“Basically since his birth I have missed only two weeks of his life. It’s been a beautiful time with him,

spending time with my family, seeing how he’s growing up and then feeling all the things that he is going through.

“It’s been, I have to say, one of the best moments and best periods of my life, of my tennis career.”

While Cilic is in a much better mental

FIBA from 11

US OPEN from 11

its core businesses.

SM Prime Holdings recorded a consolidated net income of PHP8.3 billion in the first quarter of 2020, down by 5 percent compared with PHP8.8 billion in the first quarter of 2019.

The mall business, which accounts for 47 percent of consolidated revenues, has temporarily closed operations since the implementation of ECQ, except for stores that offer essential products and services.

The residential group, led by SM Development Corpora-

state than some of his tennis colleagues, he says he might also have a physical advantage when the circuit finally resumes.

“I was really privileged as we moved to my wife’s hometown, which is quite a small place,” he said.

“I know a person that runs a couple of

tion (SMDC), which accounts for 44 percent of consolidated revenues, recorded a 23-percent increase in revenues to PHP11.4 billion from PHP9.3 billion in the same period last year.

Retail operations under SM Retail Inc., which consist of both food and non-food posted revenues of PHP81.0 billion, up 3 percent from PHP79.0 billion in the previous year.

Net income stood at PHP1.2 billion, down 56 percent from PHP2.7 billion the previous year. (PR)

HOUSE from 3

save lives and the livelihood of our people.”

He said both chambers of Congress are indisposed to act on Cha-cha at this time.

According to reports, DILG Undersecretary and spokesperson Jonathan Malaya, in a memorandum dated Jan. 28, said the collected signatures would be presented to

Congress to show the support for constitutional reform.

Another memo, dated March 27, extended the deadline for submission of the signatures from March 31 to April 30 but also asked directors to raise the number to at least 100,000 by May 29 to get two million signatures. (PNA)

try.

the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Only 30 percent of the total manpower of POGOs is allowed to physically report to work. (PNA)

DOLE from 3

The government earlier allowed POGOs to resume partial operations amid quarantine protocols implemented in some parts of the country to stop

SEC from 4

Manila Masters is still scheduled to push due dates of qualified through on August 15- loans or until such time that the commu16. nity quarantine is lifted, whichever is longer.

Under the IRR, all covered institutions tennis courts here and shall not impose inhe gave me keys to terest on interest, fees one. So we were able and other charges to to play on our own, future payments or me and my coach. amortizations.

“I believe, more Borrowers may or less, when things also pay the interest become calmer ev- accrued during the eryone is going to grace period on a staghave enough time to gered basis over the reprepare and train but maining life of the loan. hopefully I’m going to All covered institube just slightly better.” tions are further pro-

hibited from requiring their borrowers to waive the application of the mandatory grace period. Borrowers may still choose to pay their obligations during the ECQ. Under the Bayanihan Act, refusal to provide a 30-day grace period shall be punishable with imprisonment of two months or a fine of not less than PHP10,000 but not more than PHP1 million or both, at the discretion of the court.

(PR)

11 SPORTS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 35 • FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

US Open without fans would devalue title win

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arin Cilic thinks winning the U.S. Open in front of empty stands at Arthur Ashe Stadium would be forever remembered as a Grand Slam triumph with a very big asterisk, the former champion told Reuters.

The tennis season came to a halt in March due to the coronavirus pandemic and the shutdown will continue at least until the end of July with many countries in lockdown and air travel bans in place.

The U.S. Open is scheduled to take place from Aug. 31 and organisers are looking at a wide range of scenarios to get the show on, including keeping fans out.

Cilic, who held the silver trophy aloft at Flushing Meadows in 2014 in the biggest achievement of his career, felt a crowd-free environment would devalue the accomplishment.

“I just feel that it’s going to more or less feel like practice matches,” the former world number three said in an interview from Croatia.

“It’s always going to be ... in the years to come, ‘oh, you know that guy won a U.S. Open in 2020 without fans’. I don’t think it’s going to have that weight...

“It wouldn’t be the best scenario.”

Cilic thinks the international travel required to get professional tennis up and running again means the issue might end up being academic in any case.

“Tennis season is slightly different than football, than basketball,” he added.

“They have seasons to finish off, and the next season is depending on this season as well. For tennis, if we start in December or in January, it’s not going to change too much.

“I believe that there won’t be any tournaments without fans.

“Basically the whole tour is revolving a lot on sponsors Mo Tautuaa and CJ Perez will banner the Pilipinas Gilas 3X3 squad. and people coming to the tournaments.

Sponsors are investing money because people are coming to watch tennis and see the players.”

READ: The Terrific 12 can be first venue for PBA teams after COVID-19 SILVER LINING While many players have been left with a lot of spare time and IBA on Thursday anan empty schedule nounced that there will be during the shutdown, the break has proved no official FIBA 3x3 comtimely for Cilic, who became a parent for petitions before August 2020, the first time in Janu- as a result of the current situaary.

The 2017 Wim- tion with the novel coronavirus bledon and 2018 Aus- (COVID-19) pandemic. tralian Open finalist said his entire day As a result, some FIBA 3x3 Under-23 locked down on the events have been can- Nations League, the ?US OPEN, P10 celled, including the FIBA 3x3 Under-17

FIBA 3x3 Qualifiers moved to 2021

F

Zone Cups, and four World Tour events in Prague, Lausanne, Los Angeles, and Nanjing.

Meanwhile, the two Olympic qualifying tournaments (OQTs) have been moved to 2021, following the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics.

The OQTs were originally scheduled for March 18 to 22 in

?FIBA, P10

IOC: Hold Olympics in 2021 or cancel

I Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) attends an interview after the decision to postpone the Tokyo 2020 because of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Lausanne, Switzerland, March 25, 2020. File Photo. Denis Balibouse, Reuters

Bengaluru, India. The Philippines was set to send a star-studded team composed of topranked players Joshua Munzon and Alvin Pasaol, and Southeast Asian Games gold medalists CJ Perez and Moala Tautuaa.

FIBA remains committed to bring back 3x3 action, and contin-

nternational Olympic Committee (IOC) chief Thomas Bach says the Tokyo Games would have to be scrapped if the event cannot be held next year due to the COVID-19 crisis.

In March, the IOC and Japanese government took the unprecedented decision to delay the Games, which had been due to start in July, for a year due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

However, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has said the multi-

sports event cannot take place in 2021 unless the virus is contained and Bach said he understood his position.

The novel coronavirus has infected more than 17,100 people in Japan, causing 797 deaths.

"Quite frankly, I have some understanding for this, because you can't forever employ 3,000 or 5,000 people in an Organising Committee," Bach told the BBC. "You can't every ?IOC, P9

12 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO VOL.13 ISSUE 35 • FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

ONE VENUE

The NBA is thinking of taking the remainder of the season to a campus-type venue in Disney World.

NBA could resume in Florida’s Disney World

D

isney World has emerged as the front-runner to host NBA teams and games if the 2020 season resumes, The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported Wednesday.

Orlando has moved ahead of Las Vegas as the top neutral-site candidate, according to Charania ESPN reported Wednesday that the league is still weighing a return with action in both Orlando and Las Vegas.

Commissioner Adam Silver said on May 12 he wanted to decide within “two to four weeks” whether the NBA would attempt to resume the season halted on March 11 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

According to ESPN,

Silver and owners reached agreement on the preference of a “campus environment” for the health and safety of the players and teams, as well as the general public.

The league is set to issue protocols around June 1 regarding the return of out-of-town players to teams, ESPN reported Wednesday.

The same approximate time frame is when clubs are expected to be able to boost training from the current socially distanced structure.

Per ESPN, the NBA’s

plan calls for a two-week stretch for the return of players to allow for quarantine periods as needed per local regulations, one to two weeks of solo training at team sites and two to three weeks of a full training camp.

The end result could be the league giving the go-ahead in June for games to start in July, ESPN reported.

On the most recent Board of Governors call, owners and executives were encouraged about the league’s steps toward returning safely amid the coronavirus pandemic and about positive conversations with the National Basketball Players Association, per ESPN. The concept of a resort setting -- the type of location that would

allow all NBA teams to be housed in a controlled environment -was floated first in late March when Silver called upon teams to submit all ideas for an eventual return. The Bahamas was also mentioned as a possibility.

The report added that Silver emphasized that in order for a return to occur, all parties would need to accept that a single positive test for COVID-19 would not derail the season.

If a positive test would “shut us down, we probably shouldn’t go down this path,” Silver said, per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.

The league suspended play March 11 after Utah Jazz All-Star center Rudy Gobert tested positive for the virus.