Edge Davao Volume 12 issue 104 | Friday-Saturday, August 2-3, 2019

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BONGGACIOUS DAVAO

Pompous, lavish, awesome, colorful, spectacular words that describe 2019 Kadayawan

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Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO Bongga,” one of the few Filipinos words that were added into the Oxford Dictionary, means “extravagant or �lamboyant.”

This is exactly the word that describes this year’s Kadayawan sa Dabaw.

It’s pompous, lavish, awesome, colorful, and spectacular as Davao celebrates the festival not just for a week but during the whole month of August! From the �irst day up to the end of the month, spectators and tourists, foreigners and locals – all will have a grand time in the mother of all festivals in Mindanao.

But how did this most anticipated and awaited festival come to be?

It all started in the 1970’s when then Mayor Elias B. Lopez initiated tribal festivals featuring the lumad (native) and the Muslim tribes of the city where they could showcase their dances and rituals of thanksgiving. Lopez himself was from a Bagobo tribe.

In 1986, the local government initiated a program called “Unlad Proyekto Davao,” whose main objective was to unite the Dabawenyos after the turbulent Martial Law era of the Marcos regime. It was called “Apo Duwaling,” in honor of the three royalties for which Davao is famous for.

The word “apo” was taken from Mount Apo, the king of all mountains in the Philippines as it is the country’s highest peak at 10,311 feet above sea level.

“Du” came from durian, the king of tropical fruits which has been described as having a smell “like hell” but has a taste that can be compared to that of “heaven.”

The term “waling” was from waling-waling, the queen of orchids whose ethic term means “graceful movement of a butter�ly in �light.” They were once found only in the forests of Davao and Cotabato province. It was discovered in Davao around 1880 by Carl Roebellin, a German plant enthusiast for the Orchid House of Sanders.

At that time, “Apo Duwaling” was meant to showcase Davao City as a peaceful destination for other people from all over the country to visit and to do business. This was post-EDSA Revolution.

Two years later, then Mayor Rodrigo Duterte renamed the festival as “Kadayawan sa Dabaw.”

Kadayawan is derived

from the friendly greeting “Madayaw,” a term taken from a Dabawenyo word dayaw which means “good,” “valuable,” “superior” or “something that brings good fortune.”

Duterte, who is now the president of the Philippines, envisioned the festivity as a way to celebrate the bountiful harvest of Davao’s �lowers, fruits and other produce as well as the wealth of the city’s cultures.

Although the festivity has become grand in its celebration, Kadayawan continues to honor the city's richness and diverse artistic, cultural and historical heritage.

“I call on all Dabawenyos, lumads, Muslims and Christians to go out and not just enjoy the festivities but

to use Kadayawan as an opportunity to continue to learn about one another, about what makes our culture unique and similar,” said Mayor “Inday” Sara Duterte during the launching of the 34th Kadayawan Festival.

Let’s go back in time when the city was still in its infancy stage.

In those days, ethnic tribes lived together harmoniously, in peace and friendship. They were the ones who gave the province a name; Davao reportedly was derived from the word “daba-daba,” which means “�ire.”

Historical records showed that those Davao’s ethnic tribes who lived at the foot of Mount Apo would come together during a bountiful harvest. This ritual served as their thanks-

giving to the gods, particularly to the “Manama” (the Supreme Being).

Fruits, �lowers, vegetables, rice and corn grains, and various farming implements were displayed on mats as villagers give their respect and thanks for the year’s abundance.

Singing, dancing and offerings to their divine protectors were the highlights of the ritual.

In time, Davao was divided into three provinces (although there are �ive now) and the heart of all the gatherings and festivities became a chartered city.

Despite this fact, the practice of thanksgiving (pahinungod in local dialect) is still very much practiced by modern day Dabawenyos.

The tradition continued to �lourish and has

evolved into an annual festival of thanksgiving.

And that is how Kadayawan sa Dabaw came into existence.

Today, Kadayawan has transformed into a festival of festivals, with a number of spin-off festivals in the region.

The festival honors Davao’s artistic, cultural and historical heritage, its past personi�ied by the ancestral lumads, its people as they celebrate on the streets, and its �loral industry as each representative parade in full regalia in thanksgiving for the blessings granted on the city.

Actually, the celebration interfaces several aspects: tribal, industrial, sports, arts and entertainment. In the past, it is commemorated every third week

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31 DAYS OF KADAYAWAN: A MONTH-LONG CELEBRATION

Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

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nstead of one-week, Kadayawan sa Dabaw is now celebrated during the whole month of August!

This means that for 31 days, Davao – described as “city with a great soul” – will be in festive mood.

There’s something for everyone – locals, lumads, tourists, foreigners, spectators, adults and children.

After all, the festivity is structured as “the celebration of life, a thanksgiving for the gifts of nature, the wealth of culture, and bounties of harvest and serenity of living.”

That seems to sum up Kadayawan, which comes from the Mandaya word “madayaw,” meaning “good, valuable, superior, or beautiful.”

During the launching of the 34th Kadayawan Festival at Dusit Hotel, Mayor “Inday” Sara Duterte-Carpio said: “I call on all Dabawenyos, lumads, Muslims and Christians to go out and not just enjoy the festivities, but to use Kadayawan as an opportunity to continue to learn about one another, about what makes our culture unique and similar.”

On August 1 until the 31st, the Kadayawan Village at Magsaysay Park will open from 10 in the morning until 10 in the evening. Here, you get to know the culture of the 11 ethno-linguistic tribes in the region: Ata, Iranun, Kagan, Klata-Guiangan, Maguindanaon, Maranao, Matigsalug, Ovu Manuvu, Sama, Taga-bawa and Tausug.

In McArthur Highway, you get a glimpse of fresh harvest from the farms, taste of Davao food and delicacies, and some creative creations of the Floriculture Industry of Davao, Inc. Catch the Agri-Trade Fair from

8 in the morning till 6 in the evening from August 1 until August 31.

On August 2, join the opening mass, called Misa Pasasalamat, at Magsaysay Park. It will start at 3:30 in the afternoon. Thereafter, at 4:30 PM, the of�icial re-enactment of convergence and the of�icial opening ceremony will be held still in the same venue.

From there, you can proceed to the city hall since the Kadayawan sa Davao 3D Light Show will be lighted at 6 PM and will be turned off by 10 PM. If you miss the launching, don’t worry; the 3D light show will be displayed until August 25.

The Tabuan sa Kadayawan, a weekend market that features foods, plants, arts, dry good and Kadayawan-inspired products, is a must-go for everyone. This is at Santa Ana Wharf. It is not opened throughout the month but only on these dates: 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, and 2325. Opens at 6 PM until 11 PM. On August 3, at 8 AM, the Mugna Kadayawan, will be conducted. It is an on-the-spot wall art competition that narrates Davao community and will be held at Sta. Ana Wharf.

Bantawan Cultural Presentation have several dates: 3-4. 10, 17-18.

This is a celebration that showcase the artisanal, food and cultural performances of the 11 tribes.

The presentation will start at 5:30 PM. On August 9, two events will take place. At Rizal Park, from 8 AM to 9 PM, it’s a fun-�illed day for city government employees as they observe Araw ng mga Empleyado. At 3 PM in Abreeza Ayala Mall, the Habi Kadayawan – a fashion accessories and apparel design competition – will be held.

At RMC Petro Gazz

Arena, the Hiyas sa Kadayawan will be crowned. The program will start at 3 PM. On August 10-11, the Kadayawan Dragon Boat Festival will be held at Sta. Ana Wharf.

On August 16, the Dula Kadayawan – an experiential activity for tourists to interact with the tribes through their games – will commenced at 8 AM at People’s Park. By 2 PM, the Sayaw Kadayawan, an artistic fanfare of folklores, traditions and cultural practices inspired by the 11 tribes through dance – will start at SM City Davao.

On August 17, the much-awaited Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan – a street-dancing competition – will be held from Roxas Avenue to the Kadayawan Square in San Pedro Street. It will start at 7 AM. From August 21-25, the Kadayawan Farmer’s Market will be held at Magsaysay Park from 9 in the morning until 10 in the evening.

At Matina Town Square, the Tunog Kadayawan, a song writing competition that showcase the living heritage of the city, will be conducted on August 23 at 7 PM. On August 24, the highlights of abundance of Davao Region’s �lora and fauna presented with artistry interpreted in decorative �loats will be showcased through the Pamulak sa Kadayawan. Just like the street dancing, it will start at 7 AM from Roxas Avenue to Kadayawan Square.

Simultaneously with the �loral �loat parade is the Pitik Kadayawan, a drumbeating competition. The same venue with the parade.

At 6 PM on August 24, San Pedro Street will be again the venue of Tambayayong Kadayawan, where perfor-

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6 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 104 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, AUGUST 2-3, 2019

Kidapawan broadcaster slay considered 'case clear' - police

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President Rodrigo Duterte interacts with the guests during the Joint 69th National Security Council and 70th National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Founding Anniversary on Wednesday night. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

he police Special Investigation Task Group considered “case cleared” the killing of radio broadcaster on July 10, 2019, after the �iling of charges against the three of four suspects at the City Prosecutor’s Of�ice, a high-ranking PNP of�icial said Thursday.

Lieutenant Colonel Bernard Tayong, Cotabato Police Provincial Of�ice spokesperson in media interviews clari�ied that “case cleared” means suspects were identi�ied and charges against them were already �iled in court.

Not identifying the suspects, Tayong said that witnesses identi�ied them and footage captured by the CCTV camera point to the suspects.

Tayong disclosed that murder cases against the three suspects were �iled on July 22.

“We are still investigating and looking for evidences against the other suspect,” Tayong said.

The suspects according to Tayong remained

at large but still seen in Kidapawan City.

However, he did not mention the closest possible angle in killing of the radio broadcaster, but said it is very serious that it could possibly be job related.

Meanwhile, the special investigation task group assured the colleagues and the family of the radio broadcaster Eduardo “Ed” Dizon that the suspects are not fall guys since they are directly identi�ied pinpointed by the witness and seen on the CCTV footage while the crime was committed.

Tayong said they are now asking the Department of Justice to consider putting the witness in the Witness Protection Program, for their safety.

Dizon was murdered by the suspects while riding a white car on his way home in nearby Makilala town after his nighttime radio program for Brigada News-FM in the city.

He sustained �ive gun shot wounds in the body that caused his death.

Jordanian man who allegedly worked for the late Osama Bin Laden’s brother-in-law was arrested in Mindanao last month, the Bureau of Immigration said Thursday.

Mahmoud A�if Abdeljalil, 51, is set to be deported following his capture in Zamboanga City on July 4 for unlawfully staying in the country, according to Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente.

The bureau did not give a date for the suspect's deportation.

Authorities said it monitored Abdeljalil after he and an Algerian companion were stopped at a military checkpoint in Zamboanga in August 2018.

The suspect was arrested and deported in 2003 for

having an expired visa and "involvement in clandestine terrorist activities as a Palestinian under the name Mahmood A�if," the bureau said.

It said Abdeljalil served as the point man of Mohammed Jamal Khalifa, a Saudi businessman and Bin Laden’s brother-in-law, in managing several charity organizations that funneled money to Al Qaeda and the Abu Sayyaf group.

According to the bureau, authorities claimed that even after Khalifa was killed in 2007, Abdeljalil continued to extend �inancial support to the Abu Sayyaf using fronts such as mosques and Madrasah schools that he built in the southern Philippines that supposedly received funding from Al Qaeda.

3 nabbed over alleged A extort try on Go, Revilla T

Jordanian linked to Bin Laden's bro-in-law arrested in Mindanao

hree men who allegedly posed as a district representative and extorted money from a local government of�icial were arrested by operatives of the Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) in Malabon City.

Police on Thursday identi�ied the suspects as Dennis Jose Borbon, 24; Edgar Paulo Bularan, 30; and Menard Bassa, 20. Borbon and Bularan were nabbed on Wednesday while Bassa was arrested in a separate entrapment operation on Tuesday in Camarines Sur. According to author-

ities, the suspects posed as Camarines Sur 4th District Representative Arnulf Fuentebella and tried to extort money from Cavite Vice Governor Jolo Revilla.

Fuentebella and Revilla asked for assistance from the operatives of PNP-ACG. Police said one of the suspects called Revilla

More adults hit by dengue in SoCot

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ealth personnel in South Cotabato have raised concern over the rising incidence of the deadly dengue fever among adults.

Dr. Alah Baby Vingno, assistant head of the Integrated Provincial Health Of�ice (IPHO), said Wednesday their records showed that dengue cases among residents aged 21-years-old and above have continued to increase these past months.

As of July 30, she said they already recorded a total of 4,172 dengue cases, with 22 deaths, in the province’s 10 towns and lone city.

Such �igure, which remains above the epidemic threshold or at the outbreak level, is up by 177 percent compared to the 1,504 cases in the same period last year.

A total of 1,770 cases or 42.5 percent were aged 21-years-old and above, 1,231 or 29.5 percent for

ages 10 to 20-years-old and 1,171 or 28.1 percent for those aged 10-yearsold and below.

Of the 22 fatalities, with the latest reported last Friday, Vingno said at least 14 cases involved adults aged 21 to 70-years-old. Four deaths each were recorded among 10 to 20-years-old and 10-years-old and below.

“It seems that there is a misconception in our communities that dengue only affects children. Our records show that everyone is vulnerable and should take the necessary precaution,” she said in a brie�ing.

In the case of adults that were infected with dengue, Vingno said they only seek treatment after having symptoms for three days to even a week.

She said that in some cases, it was already too late when the patients

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and introduced himself as Fuentebella. Citing information from Revilla, police said the caller claimed that he lost his wallet while on a travel going to Palawan and asked for P25,000.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go was also supposed to be victimized by the suspects but the senator called Fuentebella to verify if he was really asking for money.

Seized from Borbon and Bularan were the following: one Oppo cellphone, one Starmobile cell-

phone, one micro sim card, 3 Globe prepaid load cards, one Metro Bank debit card, four GCash card, one Commission on Elections (Comelec) identi�ication card, one SM Advantage card, one Mineski In�inity card and one Happy Plus card.

The suspects will be facing charges for violating Section 4 (b) (3) of Republic Act 10175 (Identity Theft) and Article 315 Revised Penal Code (Estafa) in relation to Section 6 of RA 10175.

PROPOSED LIFTING OF MARTIAL LAW IN DAVAO CITY. Public Sadety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) head Benito De Leon bares that during the City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) meeting on Wednesday night security agencies of the city government of

Davao City unanimously approved to adapt joint Task Force Haribon’s recommendation to pass a resolution to request the President to lift the martial law in Davao City. De Leon made the disclosure during I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr

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NEWS

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Neophyte councilor to push for ‘pride lane’ ordinance

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VOTERS’ REGISTRATION. A pregnant woman has her biometrics taken during the first day of the two-month voters’ registrations at the Commission on Elections 11 (Comelec) inside Magsaysay Avenue in Davao City on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr

neophyte member of the City Council here said he will continue to push for the “Pride Lane” ordinance despite receiving negative feedback.

Councilor Augusto Javier Campos, vice chairman of the committee on tourism and beauti�ication, said in a media brie�ing Wednesday afternoon that despite the criticisms, he will still advocate for an ordinance that will legalize the painting of pride colors on selected pedestrian lanes.

“I do intend to push through because I believe establishing the pride lane would be a statement that Davao City is a city that is progressive and inclusive to all individuals,” Campos explained.

On July 21, members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community painted the pride colors on a pedestrian lane in Barangay Lapu-Lapu, Agdao

District here, following the passage of a barangay resolution establishing “LGBT Pride Pedestrian Lane.”

The resolution was passed by the Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay Lapu-Lapu.

However, the City Transport and Traf�ic Management Of�ice (CTTMO) questioned the painting of the pedestrian crossing, saying it needed approval by the Department of Public Works and Highways (PDWH).

DPWH-11 also called out the LGBT Pride Lane for supposedly violating the international standard colors of the pedestrian lane, which are yellow and white.

The pride lane also earned mixed reactions after it was posted on Facebook.

Campos said they are coordinating with the DPWH and local traf�ic authorities to �ind common ground on the issue, noting

Fate of Salugpungan Airport terminal fee in DepEd 11’s hands for students waived

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he decision to lift the suspension -- or even total revocation -- of the license to operate of the controversial Salugpungan Ta’Tanu Igkanogon Community Learning Centers Inc. (STICLCI) rests solely on the Department of Education-Region 11 (DepEd-11), an of�icial said Tuesday.

Education Assistant Secretary Alberto Escobarte said DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones has already granted the regional DepEd of�ice jurisdiction and authority to decide on the case.

Escobarte added that only DepEd-11 has the competence to decide on the case as it is the one handling the evidence and other pertinent documents relating to the issues

hounding STICLCI schools.

On July 22, the extended deadline for the show cause order was granted to the Salugpungan school administrators to answer the allegations made by National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon.

Based on the testimonies of former STICLCI students and teachers, Esperon said Salugpungan schools are being used

Public school teacher, 2 others nabbed in GenSan buy-busts

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olice arrested a public school teacher and two others in separate buy-bust operations here on Tuesday.

Maj. Tirso Pascual, chief of Police Station 6, said Wednesday two of the suspects were nabbed in an entrapment operation conducted at the Queen Tuna Park in coordination with the City Police Drug Enforcement Unit (CPDEU) and the city mobile force company.

Pascual said suspect Sarifa Dumama, 35, a resident of Purok 4 in Barangay Buayan, was arrested at around 4:20 p.m. after selling a sachet of suspected shabu worth PHP500 to a police of�icer who posed as a buyer.

Another suspected pusher identi�ied as Exequel Laurente Jr., 38, was cornered by police operatives around 6:30 p.m. following a buy-bust at an-

other portion of the Queen Tuna Park in Barangay Dadiangas South, he said.

Recovered from the suspect were 10 more sachets of suspected shabu and PHP1,000 marked money used in the entrapment.

Laurente, who is a resident of Rosario Subdivision in Barangay Lagao, is a teacher at the Fatima National High School here.

Pascual, the former chief of the CPDEU, said Laurente was included in the city police’s drug watch list.

“We’re already monitoring his movements when I was still with the CPDEU,” he told reporters.

In Barangay Lagao, elements from the city Police Station 3 arrested suspect Cris Cadiente in a buy-bust operation along Tiongson Street around 4 p.m.

Seized from the suspect was a sachet of suspected

PUBLIC SCHOOL, P13

by the communist New People’s Army (NPA) as training and recruitment centers. Esperon’s �indings prompted Dep-Ed 11 to suspend 55 Salugpungan schools in Region 11.

DepEd-11 earlier said STICLCI executive director Ma. Eugenia Nolasco managed to submit a response to the show cause order directing the school system to answer the allegations.

Nolasco, Escobarte said, “should rebut all the �indings of Secretary Esperon and a certain Loyod.”

He was referring to former Salugpungan teacher Melvin Loyod who executed an af�idavit claiming that Salugpungan learners were taught with rebellion tactics against the govern-

ment.

Loyod was assigned to a Salungponan school in Sitio Pongpong, Barangay Sto. Niño Talaingod, Davao del Norte, which has since been stopped operating following clamor from local authorities and tribal leaders who alleged that the school was teaching their learners NPA ideologies.

Escobarte assured that the evidence against STICLCI schools are being examined by a committee, whose �indings will become the basis for the DepEd-11 decision.

“If in case the result will not be favorable to these schools, they can immediately write a letter of ap-

FATE, P13

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tarting August, students are exempted from paying terminal fees in all airports operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

In a memorandum signed by CAAP Director-General Jim Sydiongco last July 26, he directed all airport managers to exempt students (from nursery to college, including those enrolled in Trade, Arts, and technical vocational schools) from paying terminal fee.

However, those enrolled in dancing, driving schools, culinary arts and seminar-type short term courses, and students taking up Medicine, Law, masters and doctorate degrees, could not avail of this priv-

NEOPHYTE, P13

ilege.

For those who have already paid the terminal fee at point of sale of airline ticket, they can seek for a refund at Malasakit Centers (Malasakit Help Desks) located inside the airport.

Students must �ill up the application form for Student Exemption Certi�icate. A photocopy of a student ID or current school registration card will also be required.

Once the student secures his or her Student Exemption Certi�icate, this shall be presented to the CAAP representative, along with his or her boarding pass and ticket itinerary receipt.

CAAP operates 42 commercial airports in the country. (PNA)

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 104 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, AUGUST 2-3, 2019

EDITORIAL

Hard decision to make

It must be a hard decision for President Rodrigo Duterte to order the closure of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Of�ice (PCSO) gaming operations last Sunday knowing these are the primary sources of funds for the government’s medical assistance to poor Filipinos.

On Tuesday night, the President has lifted only the suspension of lotto operations but not other gaming operations like Small Town Lottery and Peryahan ng Bayan.

In 2018 alone, over half a million Filipinos bene�ited from the medical assistance provided by the PCSO. Based on reports, the PCSO reportedly earned ₱63.56 billion from all its gaming activities that year, ₱18.69 billion or 30 percent of which was used for charity programs.

The funds are used for the con�inement, medicines, and chemotherapy and other medical procedures for indigent patients.

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BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO KENNETH IRVING K. ONG NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN MEGHANN STA. INES FERINA SANTOS Lifestyle

DAVE STEPHENN VILLAMORA Online Operations ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. CHA MONFORTE Correspondent

LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. CHRISTIAN JAY H. RAFAL DR. MAURO L. PUYOD Layout/Cartoons Photography Cartoonist 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

Based on its charter, 55 percent of net proceeds go to the payment of prizes, 15 percent to the operating fund of the agency, and the remaining 30 percent to the government’s health and charity programs.

But with massive corruption in the agency, there is no other recourse deemed best by the President than to apply police power as basis to shut down the operations of lotto, (before it was lifted), STL, and other PCSO games.

It sure was a dif�icult decision to make but ultimately, the protection of the general welfare must prevail.

The setback will be felt but it will be temporary and ultimately, some other options like the expanded sin taxes may compensate for the loss of the money for charity.

Ridding the government of corruption remains the more compelling reason to do stop even the most �inancially productive agency.

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE MANILA MARKETING OFFICE RICHARD C. EBONA LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager Product Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin 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)

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VOL.12 ISSUE 104 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, AUGUST 2-3, 2019

VANTAGE POINTS

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ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

FLYING LEMUR IN BAGOBO LORE The �lying lemur (Galeopithecus philippensis Waterhouse), kagwang in Bohol, is a signi�icant animal in indigenous lore. Known as tungaling in Bagobo, there’s a prevailing belief that it possesses mysterious qualities, especially therapeutic power or charmed virtue, especially its hair. The Bagobos equate the magical value of the animal with the crow and the monkey. But, more importantly, it is prized for its supposed medicinal properties.

Laura Estelle Watson Benedict, in A study of Bagobo ceremonial, magic and myth (1916), wrote about the importance of the �lying lemur in treating the karokung, described as a common illness that carries the symptoms of chills, fever, and tormenting cough. More imaginary than realistic, the sickness, which affects men mostly, is imposed by a fabled woman: “Karokung… is to be traced to a white woman who lives in rivers and is said to be very beautiful. Her hair is long and dark; her feet black, or blue and black, while her legs, too, are black to

a line half-way up to the knees.

The rest of her body is white. She is very amorous, desiring to embrace every man she sees, and it is this propensity of hers that throws men into burning fever.

When high fever is running, she is said to be putting the man into the �ire, but directly afterwards she plunges into the river, and forthwith the patient begins to shiver. Nobody has ever seen the Karokung woman, but many people have dreamed about her, and thus her characteristics are completely established.”

However, if the person affected is a Bagobo woman, tradition blames the illness on a white man with long hair who also lives in the river and acts like the karokung woman.

In curing the disease, the patient inhales the smoke of the burned turtledove nest or to smell the vapors coming from the burned wisps of hair taken from the coat of the �lying lemur.

In the absence of both nest and lemur hairs, a simple farm offering to the god will suf�ice. The use of smoke by burning vegetable secretions or the hair of the

kagwang is known in Bagobo as gubo.

In another instance, if a person is sick with sore mouth, courtesy of the left-hand soul, the Bagobo gimokud tebang, he can be treated “by tying in a rag a few hairs of the �lying lemur, and wearing the rag attached to the necklace.”

Flying lemurs in pre-American era were domesticated or bred. Their skin was used in making hats and employed to catch coconut beetles. Known as an insectivorous, the animal, as described in the Philippine Agricultural Review (1918), is between 60 to 70 cm long, mouse gray to golden brown in color, and has white markings on its undersides. It catches beetle and feeds on the leaves of a jackfruit or a breadfruit. Its meat is poisonous to dogs.

Mistaken as a mythical evil creature, the �lying lemur has been erroneously blamed for the shadowy death of livestock, does not bring bad luck and is not a bad omen. It does not feed on meat because it only eats plant, does not destroy crops, and does

not suck blood.

What is not fully valued is the mammal’s role in the food chain and in the diet of other wildlife, including the Philippine eagle. Worse, they are hunted for their meat.

Though wrongly called a �lying creature, the Philippine lemur glides and jumps. It is an animal that belongs to the order Dermoptera and is more accurately known as the Philippine colugo (Cynocephalus Volans Linn.) and is one of two species of �lying lemurs in the country, the other is Sunda �lying lemur (Galeopterus variegatus).

Wikipedia provides a clear and elaborate description about this rare and beautiful animal: “The Philippine �lying lemur is arboreal and nocturnal, and usually resides in primary and secondary forests. However, some wander into coconut, banana, and rubber plantations as deforestation for farming and industry is an increasingly prevalent problem. The colugo sleeps in hollow trees or clings onto branches in dense foliage during daytime. When they engage

in this hanging behavior from branches, they keep their heads upright, unlike bats.

“On the ground, colugos are slow and clumsy, and not able to stand erect, so they rarely leave the canopy level of the forest, where they glide from tree to tree to get to food or their nests which are also high in the trees.

“In the trees, though, colugos are quite effective climbers, though they are slow; they move in a series of lingering hops as they use their claws to move up the tree trunk. Foraging only at night, colugos on average forage for 9.4 minutes about 12 times per night. They typically leave their nests at dusk to begin their foraging activity.

“When foraging, returning to the nest, or just moving around, [it] uses its patagium to glide from tree to tree. The patagium is also used for cloaking the colugo when it is clinging to a tree trunk or branch, and sometimes it is even seen curled up in a ball, using its patagium again as a cloaking mechanism among palm fronds often in coconut plantations.”

MUJAHID NAVARRA UNDERSTANDING ISLAM

THE SPIRIT OF HAJJ Hajj season is on. Hajj is the yearly pilgrimage of Muslims towards the holy city of Mecca especially upon those who are physically and �inancially capable. During Hajj, millions of Muslims gather to perform acts of worship in one place and in one time and they come from many different nations of the world and many different social levels.

Hajj is the ultimate show of many of the virtues that are upheld by Islam and by mankind as a whole.

EQUALITY: Hajj is a display of equality. When people assemble for Hajj after arriving from their different destinations, they leave most of their material possessions at home and in Mecca, they take off all the clothes that signify their social status to wear simple white cloth for men and plainclothes for women.

When the Muslims enter the state of Ihram or state of devotion for the performance of Hajj, they are prohibited from wearing perfumes, sexual intercourse with their spouses, shaving of the head, cutting of nails, hunting and others.

They are now one with the international community of Muslims who do the same things they do, say the same things they say, all for the pleasure of their Lord.

REMEMBERING PROPHET ABRAHAM AND HIS FAMILY: We may say that much of the Hajj if not the whole of the Hajj is about remembering Prophet Abraham and his family. Prophet Abraham moved to Mecca with his wife Hajar and his �irst-born son Ishmael to obey the orders of Allah which was by that time an uninhabited desert with no people, food or shelter.

THE LOVE OF A MOTHER: Soon after their arrival in Mecca, Prophet Abraham immediately left his wife and child in this barren desert without fear and with full reliance on his Lord that his family shall be taken care of.

Abraham prayed to his Lord, ‘‘O our Lord! I have made some of my offspring to dwell in an uncultivatable valley by Your Sacred House so that they may perform prayers.

So �ill the hearts of men with love towards them, and provide them with fruits so that they may give thanks.’ Quran 14:37 He left his family with only a few provisions and these provisions soon ran out. Hajar, being alarmed, ran in between the two hills of Safa and Marwa to look for food and water. After the seventh time of climbing and going down in between the two

hills, she saw an angel that assured her of Allah’s promise and water from a well gushed forth. This is the well of Zamzam that �lows with water until today. Her running in between the two hills is reenacted every Hajj and during the minor pilgrimage which is known as Omrah in a ritual known as Sa’i.

THE FIRST PLACE OF WORSHIP BUILT FOR MANKIND: Abraham returned a few times to Mecca to visit his family and in one of those times, when his son Ishmael was already a grownup, they rebuilt the Ka’bah which was originally built by Adam but was lost during the �lood in the time of Noah. While Abraham was building the Ka’bah, an angel came and gave him the black stone which he laid on its eastern corner.

A GOD-CENTERED LIFE: One of the main acts of worship in Mecca is that which is done around the Ka’bah. This act is called the tawaf and it is the circumambulation of the Muslims around it seven times in a counterclockwise manner. This ritual walking around this shrine that is dedicated to the worship of God is a reminder that all Muslims should live a God-centered life where one’s existence is dedicated to the Him alone

which renders any material interests as secondary or even irrelevant.

REHEARSAL FOR JUDGEMENT DAY: Another important act of worship during Hajj happens on the 9th day on the month of Dhul Hijjah or the month of the Hajj. This day is called the Day of Arafah, where the Muslim pilgrims go the plains of Arafah to attend the rituals such as the Khutbah or sermon for Hajj and others.

It is a huge gathering in an open place where people from different nations, social status, and languages converge in a gathering that will be unmatched except by the gathering of people on Judgement Day. The pilgrims will be spending this day supplicating to their Lord the way they will be supplicating in Judgement Day. THE SACRIFICE: One of the trials that God gave Abraham was by ordering him to slaughter his �irst-born son Ishmael. This has been a very dif�icult trial for Abraham that he even consulted his child about it, who answered in the af�irmative that they must obey the commandments of their Lord. Abraham was already cutting the jugular vein of his son but his knife miraculously did not cut

his son’s throat. Allah then spoke to Abraham and told him that he has passed the trial and Ishmael was instead ransomed by a fat sheep to be sacri�iced in exchange.

This ritual of sacri�ice is also commemorated yearly during the culmination of the Hajj which is known as the Day or Feast of sacri�ice.

Muslims, among the pilgrims and those who are not in the pilgrimage slaughter camels, cows, goats, or sheep if they are �inancially capable. The meat that comes from this sacri�iced animal will then be distributed to the Muslims especially the poor.

DRIVING AWAY SATAN: One of the last rites of Hajj is the throwing of stones in the Jamarat. This throwing of stones is in commemoration of the time when Abraham was about to slaughter his son Ishmael in compliance with his Lord but Satan was following him and persuading him to disobey.

The great deceiver tried to talk to Abraham but he is pelted with stones by Abraham each time he even tried to approach. The throwing of stones in the Jamarah is a reminder to the Muslims about their relationship with Satan which is that of mutual animosity and distrust.

10 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 104 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, AUGUST 2-3, 2019

Implementation of safety nets under Rice Tariff law urged

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POSITIVE DEV’T. Davao Filipino-Chinese Cultural Foundation senior adviser Lucio Ong says the request for the lifting of Martial Law in Davao City is a positive development not only to the local Fil-Chinese investors

“We still have a long way to go, but with the continued support of government and everyone, we hope to get started working right away,” Ang said.

The Swiss challenge for the airport was concluded yesterday (July 31, 2019) and the notice of award is set to be given to SMHC after no other bidders sent a proposal to challenge the original proponent.

Designed to have a capacity of 100 million passengers per year, the NMIA can later be expanded to 200 million and is projected to have 240 aircraft movements per hour using its four parallel runways.

(PNA)

ice traders and manufacturers urged the government to implement safety measures under the Rice Tarif�ication Law to address a continued drop in prices of the country’s staple grain.

Philippine Chamber of Agricultural and Food Inc. (PCAFI) president Danilo Fausto, in a recent meeting with the media, said the government should protect local farmers who are being hit by the decline in rice prices due to liberalized importation, exportation, and trading of rice.

“In case of extreme and abrupt �luctuation of prices, the Department of Agriculture (DA) should recommend to the Department of Finance (DOF) the imposition of higher tariff,” Fausto said.

Under the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Rice Tarif�ication Law, a special safeguard duty on rice will be imposed to protect the rice industry from sudden or extreme price �luctuations.

Similarly, the IRR also sets the guidelines on the allocation of the tariff revenues in excess of PHP10 billion. This will be tapped to provide direct �inancial assistance to rice farmers adversely affected by the new rice import regime.

According to the data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), farmgate prices of palay dropped 16.4 percent in June to PHP17.88 per kilo.

Prices of well-milled rice also declined to PHP42.92 per kilo from the peak price of PHP49.36 in September 2018.

Retail prices of regular milled rice decreased

by PHP7.54 per kilo last month.

In the world market, rice is at USD 417.00 per metric ton (MT) for 5 percent broken rice and USD406 per MT for 25 percent broken.

However, upon enter-

ing the Philippines, Fausto said the price has been reported from USD270 per MT to USD350 per MT, therefore sparking allegations that imported rice is being undervalued as soon as it lands on Philippine shores.

To avoid this, it was suggested for the DA to set a reference price on all imported rice, regardless of whether whole rice or broken rice.

Meanwhile, Fausto also proposed for the �lexible use of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), which is a component of Republic Act No. 11203, or the Rice Tarif�ication Law. particularly for fertilizers and irrigation.

RCEF is funded by tariffs generated by rice imports. The fund hopes to make the domestic rice industry more competitive through farm mechanization, access to better seed, and more �inancing and extension services, among other measures.

It is allocated as follows: • 50 percent goes to PhilMech to provide farmers with rice farm machineries and equipment; • 30 percent to PhilRice to be used for the development, propagation, and promotion of inbred rice seeds to rice farmers and the organization of rice farmers into seed growers’ associations engaged in seed production and trade; • 10 percent to be made available in the form of credit facility with minimal interest rates and with minimum collateral requirements to rice farmers and cooperatives to be managed by the Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines; and • 10 percent to be set aside to fund the extension services by PhilMech, the Agricultural Training In-

Further increasing the taxes introduced by the previous Congress on e-cigarettes, such as heated tobacco and vapor (vaping) products will also augment the funding requirement for the UHC program.

“We will focus our efforts on passing the alcohol and e-cigarette tax package for UHC,” Lambino said.

Bridging the funding gap for the UHC program, he said, will enable the Department of Health (DOH) to push through with its plans to upgrade state medical facilities and establish more hospitals in remote areas, hire and train more doctors and nurses, and scale up non-communicable disease prevention services, especially for low-income families.

If the UHC Law or RA 11223 is fully implemented, PhilHealth would be able to widen its coverage to include free consultation fees, laboratory tests and other diagnostic ser-

vices. PhilHealth coverage for primary care will also be expanded to cover 120 drugs and there will be no limit to primary care treatment conditions.

In keeping with President Duterte’s goal of improving the living standards of the people, the UHC law he had signed automatically enrolled all Filipinos in the UHC program, entitling them to an essential health bene�it package that includes primary care, medicines, diagnostic, and laboratory tests.

The signing into law of RA 11346, which imposes higher taxes on cigarettes and introduced a new tax on e-cigarettes, will generate around PHP15.7 billion in revenues in 2020 and PHP129.9 billion over the �irst �ive years of implementation, Lambino said.

From 2020 to 2024, all current sources of government funding can cover UHC at around PHP200 billion annually. The cost of the program will start

at PHP257 billion in 2020 and grow at an average of around PHP11 billion to PHP12 billion per year, amounting to a �ive-year total of around PHP1.44 trillion by 2024.

The PCSO, whose gambling operations - except for lotto - remain suspended on orders of the President, accounts for around PHP3 billion or 1.2 percent of the PHP257 billion needed for UHC in 2020.

By 2024, the PCSO’s share will only be PHP3.6 billion or a little less than 1.2 percent of the PHP319 billion funding requirement for UHC. Over a �ive-year period from 2020 to 2024, its total contribution to UHC is estimated at PHP16.6 billion, still at only 1.2 percent of the PHP1.44 trillion funding needed for the program, Lambino said.

Under the UHC law, the PCSO’s contribution to the program is 40 percent of the Charity Fund, net of

but also to the whole business and tourism sectors of Davao City. Ong made the statement during I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr

Ang: Bulacan airport, SMC’s ‘biggest investment’ in PH

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he New Manila International Airport (NMIA) in Bulacan set to be built by San Miguel Holdings Corporation (SMHC) this year will be the company’s “single biggest investment” in the Philippines.

In a statement released on Wednesday, SMHC president and chief operating of�icer Ramon Ang said the NMIA, with a build-operate-maintain contract worth PHP735.6 billion, is a “landmark Filipino project” with all costs shouldered by the �irm.

“It is a landmark Filipino project that will be built at no cost to government and with no subsidies or guarantees of any kind,” Ang said.

The airport is seen as a long-term solution to the country’s air and land traf�ic woes.

“What we hope to build is a long-term solution—a sustainable and worldclass Philippine gateway with enough runways and facilities to meet current and future needs,” Ang said.

Part of the NMIA’s contract is an 8.4-kilometer tollway connecting the airport to the North Luzon Ex-

pressway (NLEX) in Marilao, Bulacan, which would link the airport to Metro Manila with ease.

Aside from providing thousands of jobs, the project was said to boost the local economies of Bulacan and neighboring provinces, as well as the country’s status as an investment and tourism destination.

“It will raise our country’s pro�ile and competitiveness as an investment and tourism destination, and help boost our local and export industries,” Ang said.

The NMIA is said to be operational within four to six years from the start of its construction this year.

IMPLEMENTATION, P13

Aboitiz Equity nets P9-B in H1 DOF to focus on enacting higher ‘sin’ taxes to fund UHC

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onglomerate Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) on Wednesday said its �irst-half pro�it declined by 11 percent, dragged mainly by lower-income share of power business.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, the AEV reported its net income reached PHP9 billion in January to June from PHP10.1 billion recorded last year.

Its core net income stood at PHP8.9 billion, down 16 percent from PHP10.6 billion last year, without one-off gains.

“While challenges to our bottom line continue to persist, we have seen recovery across our entire portfolio compared to the same period last year and compared to the previous quarter,” AEV president and chief executive of�icer Erramon Aboitiz said.

“We still feel we are well-positioned to reap the bene�its of our coun-

try’s ‘demographic dividend’ and to take advantage of opportunities to evolve and expand beyond our borders, as we deepen our role in building a better future for communities,” he said.

Aboitiz Power Corporation’s net income contribution to AEV for the �irst half of 2019 decreased by 5 percent from PHP7 billion to PHP6.7 billion due largely to higher volume and cost of purchased power.

Income contributions from the generation and retail electricity supply businesses accounted for 82 percent of total income contributions from AboitizPower’s business segments, which totaled PHP8.1 billion during the �irst six months of 2019, 5 percent lower year-onyear.

AboitizPower’s distribution business recorded an income share of

ABOITIZ, P13

T

he contribution of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Of�ice (PCSO) to the funds for Universal Health Care (UHC) would be minimal, accounting for only 1.2 percent of the total requirement of PHP257 billion next year.

This is why the Department of Finance (DOF) would devote its efforts instead to push for the swift congressional approval of higher taxes on alcohol products and e-cigarettes to �ill the program’s funding gap.

Finance Assistant Secretary Antonio Joselito Lambino II said in a statement on Thursday that passing higher taxes on alcoholic drinks is estimated to add at least PHP15.8 billion in the �irst year of implementation and PHP111.5 billion over the next �ive years, based on the version approved by the House of Representatives in the previous Congress.

DOF, P13

VOL.12 ISSUE 104 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, AUGUST 2-3, 2019

The professional Regulation Commission taps PayMaya for an online payment portal, allowing Filipino professionals to now conveniently pay fees online. In photo: PayMaya Business Head for Government Sector Marvin Santos; PayMaya Head for Enterprise Business Mar Lazaro; Voyager Innovations and PayMaya Founder and

11 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

Chief Executive Officer Orlando Vea; PRC Chairman Teofilo Pilando, Jr.; PRC Commissioner Yolando Reyes; PRC Commissioner Jose Cueto, Jr.

PayMaya powers PRC to go digital for easier transactions of gov’t

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uly 27, 2019 -- Filipino professionals can now conveniently pay fees to the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) wherever they are and anytime they want, as the commission now accepts online payments powered by digital �inancial services leader PayMaya Philippines.

PRC has tapped PayMaya to provide an online payment portal that is in line with the government’s thrust to simplify and make public services responsive to the needs of the Filipinos. Through PayMaya’s platform, Filipinos can now pay using their prepaid, credit, and debit cards as well as their mobile numbers linked to their PayMaya e-wallet account.

PayMaya is the only digital �inancial services company with an integrated suite of solutions for consumers and merchants complemented by the widest remittance partner agent network. It is the �intech arm of Voyager Innovations, the lead-

ing technology company in the country backed by PLDT, KKR, Tencent, World Bank’s IFC, and the IFC Emerging Asia Fund.

"This partnership with PayMaya attests to our commitment to make access to PRC services easier, more convenient, and faster for every professional," said PRC Chairman Teo�ilo S. Pilando Jr. PayMaya has powered PRC’s website with an online checkout page that will allow Filipinos to pay for their examination, initial license registration, renewal of Professional Identi�ication Card, and for certi�ications of board rating and passing electronically.

The portal accepts pay-

ment from any debit, credit, and prepaid card from schemes such as Visa, MasterCard, and JCB. PayMaya accountholders can also pay using only their mobile number linked to their e-wallet. Soon, payments for PRC transactions will also be accepted through the PayMaya mobile app, expanding the reach of the government agency.

For his part, Orlando B. Vea, PayMaya Philippines Founder and CEO said: “This is very timely as there is an increasing demand for digitalization in the public sector space as government agencies are now automating their processes. We’re proud to be the partner of the Professional Regulation Commission in enabling all kinds of digital payment acceptance that will bring ease to the Filipino people and will enhance operational ef�iciencies in the government.”

The tie-up between

PRC and PayMaya to digitalize payment acceptance for the commission is in line with the national government’s efforts. In his State of the Nation Address this month, President Rodrigo Duterte emphasized that government agencies need to make transactions for every Filipino simple and easy. Last year, he signed the Ease of Doing Business and Ef�icient Government Service Delivery Act aiming to �ight corruption and improve government services.

“With this in place, Filipinos no longer have to go to PRC’s physical of�icesto pay for their transaction.

It reduces their travel time and expenses as they can avail of PRC's services within the comforts of their home. This is the �irst of many partnerships to connect government institutions with millions of Filipinos through our all-inone payments platform for public service,” Vea added.

Maunlad at Malusog na Kinabukasan” stresses the bigger challenge of ensuring a better future for the symbolic children as she/ he will have to compete with the rest of the increasing population in securing basic goods and services.

As the symbolic children turn 5, a successful convergence of efforts by the respective Local Government Units (LGUs) and stakeholders from the National Government Agencies in providing the immediate and sustainable basic services to the children especially on health, nutrition and education was noted.

The children are enjoying school as Kindergarten 1 in public day care cen-

ters and care of barangay health workers and midwives for regular checkups. The lifetime membership with the PhilHealth ensures a hassle free hospital services. LGUs continue to provide sacks of rice for the family and Vitamin supplements for the symbolic babies.

Baganga Mayor Arturo Monday pledged for the LGU to shoulder the monthly school fees and other educational needs of Glaiza and to provide livelihood assistance to the Torcino Family. Mayor Monday also tasked his Child Development Of�icer to help facilitate any additional needs of the family.

The arrival of the Symbolic babies to their fam-

ilies has prompted the parents to practice family planning and mothers are currently using Pills as a choice of modern family planning method.

This demographic event highlighted the importance of maternal and neonatal health, as well as, the promotion of Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning. The 2017 National Demographic Survey (NDHS) conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) indicates that women in the poorest households have more than twice as many children as women in the wealthiest households.

Data also shows that fertility increases as household

100 millionth symbolic filipino babies turn 5

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uly 27, 2019 marks the 5th birthday celebration of the100 Millionth Symbolic Filipino Babies.

In Davao Region, �ive (5) of them include Glaiza T. Torcino of Barangay.

Lucod, Baganga, Davao Oriental; Jhon Kenneth O. Lamintao of Barangay New Sibonga, Nabunturan, Compostela Valley; Catherine Jane M. Fuentes of Purok 2, Barangay Urban Salvacion, Panabo City, Davao del Norte; Natsumi Kyle S. Magni�ico of Purok 13, Barangay San Vicente, Panabo City, Davao del Norte; and Harrisson Ford C. Butulan of Barangay 76-A Bucana, Davao City.

This year’s theme, “Sa Ikalimang taon ni baby, Pagtutulungan tungo sa

100, P13

JCI senators launch LEAD Davao search

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he Junior Chamber International (JCI) Senate Davao launched the Search for the 2019 Leaders and Achievers of Davao (LEAD Davao) during the Habi at Kape media forum in Abreeza last July 31. The event was attended by members of Davao media and members of Junior Chamber International Senate Davao (Davao Jaycee Senate).

LEAD Davao is one of Davao City’s most prestigious awards for outstanding citizens. LEAD seeks to recognize outstanding Dabawenyo leaders and achievers, 40 years old and above, who best exemplify the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Creed. These would include faith in God, brotherhood among men, economic justice through free enterprise, government of laws, human personality, and service to humanity. LEAD also gives recognition to Dabawenyos who have made outstanding contributions to the development and growth of Davao City,. They have brought pride and honor to the city by excelling in their business, professions, or advocacies.

LEAD is an annual �lagship project of Junior Chamber International Senate Davao (also known as Davao Jaycee Senate). It is the main organization of senior JCI members in Davao City who have been recognized as JCI Senators.

LEAD’s maiden year was in 2003, with the �irst batch of awardees namely Carolyn Arguillas, Joey Ayala, Joji Ilagan Bian, Margie Moran Floirendo, and Antonio Uy. The inaugural search was led

by Project Chairman Nilo Claudio and JCI Senate Davao President Manuel

Orig.

“This is the 6th year of the LEAD Awards, and we look forward to sharing the story of a new breed of leaders. ”, said Luciano Frederick Puyod III, 2019 President of JCI Senate Davao.

Mr. Manuel Orig, founder of LEAD and a former President of the Davao Jaycee Senate said that the award has started to gain some prestige. “Through the years, LEAD established a high sense of integrity due to the strong support of our board of judges and sponsors”, said Mr. Orig.

Last year’s honorees of LEAD Davao were came from categories of agriculture, health and wellness, and business entrepreneurship. These were Ireneo Dalayon (Chief Executive Of�icer, Federation of Cooperatives in Mindanao or FEDCO), Gina Marie Espejo (managing director of DMI Medical Supply Company Inc. and owner of the renowned health suppliment—MX3) and Dennis Uy (Chairman of Udenna Corporation).

Mr. Adriano Po Jr, this year’s Project Chairman of LEAD Davao, said “We hope to inspire the Dabawenyo youth with the LEAD awards. In this way, there is no need to look far for role models or heroes, because as it is they are just here in our city”.

Any individual or organization may nominate Dabawenyo citizens for this year’s awards. Nomination forms are available at the Lead Davao Facebook Page (@leadjcisenatedavao). Project Chairman Adriano Po Jr. may be contacted thru email lead@jcisenatedavao.org or thru mobile numbers (0922) 8882280.

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SPECIAL

DAVAO

Text by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

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VOL.12 ISSUE 104 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, AUGUST 2-3, 2019

efore it Kadayawan sa Dabaw, the festivity was then known as Apo Duwaling. It was named after the three icons for which Davao City is known for: Mount Apo, durian, and waling-waling.

Let’s take a closer look at each:

Mount Apo

Durian “If Davao City were a fruit, what kind of fruit would it be?” If you ask that question to someone who is not from Davao, the most possible answer you will get is: durian.

That’s what most people think of when they hear Davao. More often than not, people who visit the city always bring back home some durian as pasalubong – in various forms like candy bars, candy cubes, durian preserves, and durian cake.

Actually, durian is not a native fruit of Davao and no one knows who brought the fruit here.

But these days, durian is now associated with Davao because it is the place where most people can have it almost all year round. Foreigners and locals who come to the city should not miss eating the “excellent taste” of the fruit whose “�lavor surpasses all the other fruits in the world,” to quote the words of old traveler Linchott.

Those who despise the fruit say durian “smells like hell” or “rotten onion.”

But durian a�icionados describe “this fruit of a hot and humid nature” as something that “tastes like heaven.”

One foreign scribe wrote it aptly: “Love it or

With an altitude of 2,954 meters (9,692 feet), Mount Apo is a �lat-topped mountain with three peaks.

It is capped by a 500-meter-wide (1,600 feet) volcanic crater containing a small crater lake.

As the country’s highest peak, it is known as the grand father of all mountains and a dream mountain of every Filipino mountaineer. “Mount Apo is one of the must-sees and -experiences for every adventure tourist or backpacker who visits the country, especially in the Davao Province where it lies,” a blogger wrote.

“The �irst two attempts to reach Mount Apo’s sum-

hate it – there’s no emotion in between. People either swarm to it like bees to honey, or bolt from the room.

They faint with lusty joy, or they faint, period, with a handkerchief pressed to their nostrils.”

In his book Following the Equator, Mark Twain wrote about his durian experience in Southeast Asia: “It was a most strange fruit, and incomparably delicious to the taste, but not to the smell.”

By weight, the edible portion (or aril as experts call it) of durian fruit is only 26 percent on the average.

Sixty percent of it is the rind while the remaining 14 percent are seeds.

Walingwaling “The waling-waling’s beauty adorns our treetops, especially in Davao, Cotabato, and Zamboanga where it is endemic. But there are threats to its survival, as the �lowers that grow and thrive in the wild are harvested for commercial and decorative purposes, and their habitat is destroyed by deforestation,” said then Senator Loren Legarda, who pused for the declaration of waling-waling as the country’s national �lower.

Waling-waling “is one of the �inest orchid species endemic to the Philippines, desired by orchid growers

mit ended in failure: that of Jose Oyanguren (in 1852) and Señor Real (in 1870),” Wikipedia recorded.

On October 10, 1880, an expedition led by Don Joaquin Rajal made a successful scale of the mountain.

“Prior to the climb, Rajal had to secure the permission of the Bagobo chieftain, Datu Manig,” Wikipedia reported. “It is said that the Datu demanded that human sacri�ice be made to please the god Mandarangan. But the datu agreed to waive this demand, and the climb commenced on October 6, succeeding �ive days later. Since then, numerous expeditions followed.”

During the time of President Manuel L. Quezon, Mount Apo was declared a national park, which covers

an area of 80,864 hectares, according to Encyclopedia Britannica.

The Mount Apo National Park is one of only two Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Natural Heritage Parks in the country. In 2009, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) submitted the country’s highest peak to be included in the World Heritage List of United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization.

Mount Apo is the ancestral domain of six indigenous peoples: Manobos, Bagobo, Ubos, Atas, K’Iagans, and Tagacaolo. These tribes have lived around the mountain consider Mount Apo as a sacred ground,

their place of worship and burial ground of their great forefather. In fact, the term “Apo” was coined from the name of their great grandparent, Apo Sandawa.

Like most mountains in the country, Mount Apo is teeming with natural sources of water – from waterfalls to rivers, from springs to creeks. The Tudaya Falls, at 100 meters, is the tallest waterfall in Mount Apo National Park.

Mount Apo has four lakes: Lake Agco (used to be called “The Blue Lake”), Lake Venado (a stopover for mountaineers towards the peak), Lake Macadac and Lake Jordan, the last two of which are found in the summit grassland.

and breeders alike for its showy and attractive �lowers and ability to impart its vigor and �loral characteristics to its progeny,” wrote Dr. Helen Valmayor in her book, Orchidiana Philippiniana.

The waling-waling, named in “allusion to a moth in �light,” was discovered on Mindanao in 1882.

It used to grow on tree trunks in the rainforests of Davao, Sultan Kudarat and other parts of the island. It is worshipped as “diwata” (fairy) by the native Bagobos.

There’s an interesting on how the world came to know waling-waling. Valmayor, in her very informative book, shared this story: “One of the most successful and secretive collectors was Carl Roebelin, who was

i n

Cotabato. The place was described as “a very mountainous region on the western side of Mindanao.”

Roebelin took some plants. When the orchid �lowered in England in 1882, German taxonomist Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach named the plant after Sander, hence the name Vanda sanderiana, or Euanthe sanderiana, as another taxonomist preferred to call the plant.

After that, Sanders introduced waling-waling to orchid enthusiasts and lovers in London the following year. Since then, it has in�luenced another thousand or more colorful and attractive vandaceous hybrids that are now part of the world’s multibillion-dollar orchid and cut�lower industry. – ###

According to the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, the fruit is rich in vitamin C, phosphorus, calcium, and iron. It also contains fair amounts of thiamin, ribo�lavin, niacin.

It is also a good source of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

According to a website, “the fruit is made of soft, easily digestible �lesh made of simple sugars like fructose and sucrose that when eaten replenishes energy and revitalizes the body instantly. Though it contains a relatively higher amount of fats among the fruits, it is free from saturated fats and cholesterol.”

t h e employ of Frederick Sander of the Orchid House of Sanders at St. Albans, England.

“About 1879, the Spanish government of the Philippines initiated a regular mail service between Manila and Mindanao. This provided a satisfactory means of sending collected plant material from the southern island to Manila. Consequently, Sander commissioned Roebelin to explore Mindanao for spectacular and still undiscovered orchids.”

It was February or March of 1880 when Roebelin came to Mindanao in the Bay of Illana near

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KADAYAWAN... FROM4

mances of traditional dances and songs from different Ethno-linguistic groups will be done. It features

the grand winners of the various Kadayawan competitions.

See you there!

were brought to the hospital.

The of�icial cited the case of the most recent fatality, a 60-year-old patient from Barangay Silway 8 in Polomolok town who was admitted at the municipal hospital after

about a week of on and off fever.

The patient was referred to the South Cotabato provincial hospital in Koronadal City and eventually succumbed to dengue complications, she said. (MindaNews)

peal to Secretary Briones,” he added.

Asked on the timeline

of the STICLCI ruling, Escobarte said that it will come out “anytime soon.” (PNA)

wealth decreases.

On July 27, 2014 at 12:06 AM the Philippines turned 100 Million in pophis of�ice, Assistant Secretary Joseph Encabo of the Presidential Management Staff and PSC Executive Director Merlita Ibay. The group will report weekly to Medialdea.

In his meeting last week with Ramon Suzara and Tom Carrasco, Phisgoc COO and Executive Director respectively, Ramirez gave them PSC

FATE... FROM7

100... FROM11

SAFETY... FROM15

DAVAO

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IMPLEMENTATION... FROM10 ABOITIZ... FROM10

ulation. It was then that Davao Region welcomed the �ive (5) symbolic babies, #

stitute (ATI), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for teaching skills on rice crop production, modern rice farming techniques, seed production, farm mechanization, and knowledge/ technology transfer through farm schools nationwide.

Preliminary data show that the government has so far collected PHP5.9 billion in tariffs from some 1.43 million MT of rice stocks imported by private traders, following the enactment of a law in March.

Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero earlier revealed that the Bureau of Customs (BOC) collected the highest amount of rice import tariffs from the Subic Bay port at PHP1.37 billion.

The Port of Manila collected PHP978.51 million in tariffs, followed by the Manila International Container Port with

PHP942.76 million, Guerrero said during a recent DOF Executive Committee meeting.

The Port of Cagayan de Oro collected PHP754.13 million in tariffs from rice imports, while the Port of Davao collected PHP703.93 million, the data showed.

Since PHP27 billion is expected to be raised from tariff duties, PCAFI suggested that the excess of the PHP10 billion should be provided as support for the more essential inputs to rice farming, such as fertilizers and irrigation, as well as support to other farmers pushing for diversi�ication into other agricultural goods.

“This makes the excess of PHP10 billion very �lexible, therefore it was also suggested that there should be speci�ication as to how the excess of the RCEF must be utilized,” it said. (PNA)

commitment of cooperation encouraging them that “if there are problems, share them with us, ‘wag niyo solohiin, para magkasama tayo humanap ng solusyon.”

The agency truly embodies the purpose of government to serve as a steady and sold anchor for its public, in this case, for Philippine sports.

that international standards vary depending on the road classi�ication.

During his privilege speech last week, Campos said he will also propose the painting of pride colors on the pedestrian lanes on other streets such as around the Agdao �lyover covering a portion of streets of R. Castillo, Dacudao, Cabaguio, and Leon Garcia.

“Aside from showing our respect to the LGBTQ, the pride lane can be considered as a tourist spot for the city residents and visitors to enjoy,” he added.

On August 15, Campos said he will meet with the City Transport and Traf�ic Management Board (CTTMB) to discuss the matter.

“Rest assured that public safety is the highest priority,” he said. (PNA)

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PHP1.8 billion during the �irst semester, a 12-percent decrease.

Union Bank of the Philippines’ income share to the AEV rose by 3 percent to PHP2.4 billion from PHP2.3 billion, as the bank sustained the growth of earning assets despite lower margins and strategic investment in its digital transformation.

That of its non-listed food subsidiaries, Pilmico Foods Corporation, Pilmico Animal Nutrition Corporation, and AEV International Pte. Ltd., declined by 17

percent to PHP552 million from PHP662 million.

Republic Cement & Building Materials, Inc.’s income share increased a whopping 473 percent from PHP44 million to PHP249 million due to improved control on production costs, together with higher market prices and private sector demand.

Aboitiz Land Inc. reported a consolidated net income of PHP60 million for the �irst half this year, 79 percent lower than the PHP283 million recorded last year. (PNA)

documentary tax stamp (DSY) payments, and its mandatory contributions as provided under its charter.

The other sources of funding would be the taxes collected from ‘sin’ products, 50 percent of the national government share from the income of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor), the premium contributions of PhilHealth members, the DOH budget and the national government subsidy to PhilHealth.

Lambino said that in the �irst year, the total funding gap would amount to around PHP49 billion without the PCSO share of PHP3 billion. The contribution of new alcohol taxes based on old calculations from the version passed by the House in the 17th Congress would be PHP15.8 billion, leaving a funding gap of about PHP33 billion.

“We can aim for even higher in the alcohol and e-cig package since the previous version only included alcohol,” he said. (PR)

shabu and PHP500 marked bill.

The three suspects, who are detained at police stations 6 and 3, will be charged with violation of

sections 5 and 11 or selling and possession of dangerous drugs, under Article II of RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. (PNA)

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VOL.12 ISSUE 104 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, AUGUST 2-3, 2019 VOL.12 VOL.12 ISSUE ISSUE 9484 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JULY JULY 19-20, 5-6, 2019

Winning Palaro athletes hailed, get incentives

UP AND FURNITURE A1 ABOUT BONGGACIOUS...

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a silly method but for EJ and life. “It was quite silly and who were from Prattyear Institute a serious business. out-of-the-box,” EJ says. “But of August but this it has ex-his team, of theit’sdistinctively Mindanaoan ness establishments, community of New York. actually an acronymsomeone assemblies and peoples’ organiI wanted to showcase how an panded into a month-long cele-DAFT beat and iscostumes,” But furniture design wasn’t for Dependable design, Archiemotion can affect the shape of bration. quipped. “Several tourists come zations as they promenade on easyThe as most people think. is thetectural in form, Fun an object. Hence, the playful most anticipated to Davao toalways watcha hundreds of the streets symbolizing all the street dancing, called Indak-Inpeople dancing with vigor in the bounty sustainably enjoyed by Spa at Cebu, T2 Plaza Premi2nd Raffle - 3 winners MACTAN-CEBU InternaCommercial Advisorand of GMR “More than talent, it is a collecexperience, forever Timeapproach on theDraw process.” dak saexperiences Kadalanan, willless.streets, clad their native attire the city’s residents. um Lounge, and T2 Aerotel; Now of that 2 round trip tickets to afrom tional (MCIA),that thewhich MEGAWIDE Cebu tion ofAirport lets you “Th eseAirport valuesinhelp create EJ has created be held this on August 17.a painstaking and carrying extravagant props On why Kadayawan sa Dabaw or US$50 – from T2 Mactanname Cebu to Cagayan De Oroand Philippines’ friendliest Corporation (GMCAC), the on grow from youyear past resort beliefs,” EJ take each for himself in Davao It hasis two main components. that we would give Hollywood stu- is touted as the mother of all Travel Retail, T1 or T2 Dutyin other 3rdparts Raffle of Draw 3 winners airport, raffling off a 2019 concessionaire operatexplains.

“Obstacles are moreprivateproduct put,” he says. the-country, The �irst is the street parade, dios a serious run for their mon- festivals in Mindanao, here’s an Free Philippines shops he dreams of 2 round trip tickets to from Mercedes-Benz A-Class and ing MCIA.Like most arts, designing on logistics and production a of going global.

Still where performers groove it up ey.” explanation from an a�icionado: The Shop and Win Promo Cebu to Davao Royal Air roundtrip plane Launched todaytakes

by GMcapacity.

But hey, that’s a good furniture a lot of energy, wishing to be accomplish his while parading along selected This year, the �loral �loat pa- “Kadayawan is an art form in itGrand Draw 1 winner tickets toof travelers that shop CAC in partnership with path, right?” planning.

“I first love, heRaffle wanted to-break points the city.

The second isthinking, rade, and called Pamulak Kaday- self. A festival perfect �it for a lo- raffle draws are set on 31 July, of Mercedes-Benz Class at any of MCIA’s retail outlets.

Air,not Today, Design EJwhere Pasia theMercedes-Benz, withRoyal awill story andhappen the rest is in Hollywood, the filmA capital the showdown, verystartawan, after the cal government that tries to po- 30 August, and 30 September.

2019“My model; and 2iswin“Thispeople is our way of givandKaStandard Insurance, is synonymous with furnimagic,” EJ dancing. states.the“Even though world. dream to same perform at the street Instead, it will be sition itself as the cultural capi- The grand draw is set on 16of theA180 ners of in 2 round trip tickets to ing back andSquare, thanking all ‘Shop and raffle promo ture.

“We will soonwhich be availyouWin’ set out design parameters, a Hollywood dayawan has tradone on August 24. tal of the Philippines. This is the October 2019. All purchasebe featured receipts must be within from to Manila the passengers, will run 01Previous Julyyou 2019 abletravelers, worldwide through our Street. infrom the end, still trust your youngest among ve sib-the sights, of thethe most-oft en visited.

So themovie,” heCebu admits. ditionally been San Pedro Kadayawan of- best timethe toficatch The parade place �icials said the Pamulak lings: was hissounds, the colors scent promo period 01 July 2019 Talking Entries thatHollywood, fail to win durand stakeholders for MCIA’s 15instinct.”

October 2019. furniture line,normally and soontakes the until two brothers are alland in the much so that it won the of Best about in the morning, the showdown patterned the(he Pasadena all mixing together 15 October 2019. the if 1sthe draw will beaqualisuccessful operations and MCIA’sTh Shop and Win after company will be focusing e “menopausal child” the medical field while his twoto encapsuBooth. “Wetoweren’t really he saysingthat is given from the afternoon to evening.

Roses in the United late diversity a place raffle promo is open toofallhis minals 1 and 2 (T1 &are T2).

Tothe rich & Beverage (F&B)of shops, T1 with exhibit,” Lucky winners will receive fiedheforwould the next raffle draws. the continued support on sustainable land the developwasParade born when mother sisters accountancy graduformal he recalls. chance, like to design “The Indak-Indak Kada-wasand States, where fruits which was long ago described as the qualifyand for the raffle promo, Retail shops, or T2 WHwanted Moreover, all non-winning past years especially since thesathe domestic international ment to further streamline already 40 and �lowers pregnancy ates (but one pursued later toT1 “We tofollowing showcaseraffle ourprizes: a set for a Quentin Tarantino lanan isof wildly popular are setininat colorful �loats busigarden of the gods.”

–wild ### have athe Smith, T2 K2 Pharmacy, and during thefeatured 1st, 2nd, opening Terminal 2 (Inpassengers thatage arrive or dayspassengers approach to creative DAFTbecause at that those was bymust become amininurse). side.” 1st Raffle Draw - 3 winnersfioflm orentries see his pieces depart “high from Mactan-Cebu purchase T2 Park & Fly; PhP 1,000 – 2the round trip tickets and 3rd raffleHouse. draws are qualiternational) year ago,” said design,” itsawebsite stated. risk”)) has indeedmum gonesingle receipt During the Philbex Davao, Actually, concept was to fromin a Kardashian “Th at International Ter-He is worthPhP500 – from T1 Fooddisplays from were T2 F&B shops,about T2 Thethe warning Cebu to Puerto Princesa wouldfied the EJ grand draw.

Ravishankar Saravu, Chief may be The DAFT approach a long,Airport’s long way. the his furniture one signs in be for fun,” says.

MACTAN-CEBU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CELEBRATES SUCCESS WITH EXCITING RAFFLE PROMO

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Safety protocols in place to safeguard SEAG funds

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hilippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Butch Ramirez yesterday explained the 30th Southeast Asian Games budget’s process of disbursement assuring the public that safety protocols have been put in place to ensure judicious and proper use of public funds.

Ramirez said that all parties involved: the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) and the PSC are all working together on their roles in the country’s hosting of the biennial event, “we have the country’s best interest in mind” July saw a Philippine sports in turmoil, with leadership disputes and confusion all muddled in politics. One entity in the equation stood unwavering. The government through the PSC let its intentions come clear from the very beginning. “As instructed by the president, we shall shield the athletes to allow them to focus on their training, assist in the country’s hosting of the games by ensuring the proper and timely processing of funds, “said Ramirez.

In the present set-up, The Department of Budget and Management manages the disbursement of funds and, together with the Procurement Service, purchases

of equipment, �ixtures and other requirements for the Games.

The PSC receives a request from the PHISGOC, with supporting papers such as the board resolution of its of�icers approving the said request, in effect making the PSC an initial line of check and balance. It is the DBM that has the �inal say whether certain transactions pass its thorough evaluation, before it is given a go to process.

They will also be required to clear previous releases before new funding is released. This is the same policy the PSC applies to national sports associations to avoid unliquidated accounts.

Out of the three parties, the PSC being a government entity, has the burden of accountability. “This is why we are one of the most invested in ensuring that everything is above-board, it is our signatures on the documents. “ explained the sports chief adding that they have explained to PHISGOC that the PSC must work within the existing auditing and accounting rules in their transaction.

After the unity meeting held last July 24 at the Malacanang Palace, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea formed a monitoring group for the games, composed of Atty Kim Raissa Uy from

SAFETY, P13

“We don’t know … only time will tell”was what Floyd Mayweather remarked which triggered speculations a rematch could be a possibility.

Is Floyd hinting at rematch with Manny?

F

loyd Mayweather offered a telling response over the weekend when asked about returning to the ring amid talk of facing Manny Pacquiao again.

Floyd Mayweather Jr has seemingly opened the door to a rematch with Manny Pacquiao after refusing to rule out an in-ring return.

Mayweather retired from professional boxing with a 49-0 record after beating Andre Berto in September 2015, although he was tempted back into the ring for a money-spinning win over UFC star Conor McGregor in 2017 and an exhibition match with Japanese kickboxer Tenshin Nakamura in December.

He has previously ruled

out the chance of returning to the ring, with advisor Leonard Ellerbe claiming as recently as last week he has “zero interest” amid talk of a rematch with Pacquaio.

But the long-standing feud between the Filipino legend and unbeaten American has reignited after Pacquiao’s win over Keith Thurman earlier this month.

SMB import wants to be naturalized player

C

Chris McCollough of San Miguel Beer drives against ROS’import Carl Montgomery. PBA Images

Mayweather was interviewed in the ring after watching protege Gervonta Davis demolish Ricardo Nunez in Baltimore on Saturday night and asked if he plans to shine in the ring again.

“We don’t know … only time will tell,” he declared, with his cryptic response refusing the close the door entirely on a comeback.

hris McCullough rocked the Philippine basketball community late Tuesday night with a tweet apparently expressing his intent to join Gilas Pilipinas Men. The San Miguel import tweeted, "Naturalized player for Gilas...." while adding two emojis, a pair of eyes and a guy raising his hand, signaling that he wants to be naturalized.

But when asked by reporters the night later to explain the social media post, the former National Basketball Association player declined to discuss about it.

"Not now," he said.

However, the begging off was understandable as the San Miguel Beermen fell prey to the Rain Or Shine Elasto Painters in Game 3 of the PBA Commissioner's Cup semi�inals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

The loss, which prevented SMB from sweeping the best-of-�ive series, came despite a 51-point explosion from him.

"I played a tough and hard game.

We just didn't win," McCullough added.

Currently, another former NBA player, Andray Blatche, is the designated naturalized player for the national team.

However, a move to naturalize Ginebra's resident import Justin Brownlee is ongoing despite being at a slow pace.

There are also calls for another exNBA veteran, Terrence Jones, to give Gilas Men a try. (PNA)

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