Edge Davao Volume 12 Issue 126 | Tuesday, September 3, 2019

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

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HISTORIC. Judge Emmanuel Carpio presides over the arraignment and pre-trial of inmates via videoconferencing technology at Regional Trial Court branch 16 of Benigno S. Aquino Hall of Justice in Ecoland, Davao City on Monday. The historic hearing was the country's first ever court trial conducted through videoconferencing. Lean Daval Jr

TELE-HEARING

Davao court pilots videoconferencing for trial of PDLs

By MAYA M. PADILLO

A

Davao City court became the venue of sidered to be high-risks or room at the BJMP comthe �irst ever trial through videoconfer- in�licted with contagious pound. disease.

The arraignment and encing technology on Monday.

Judge Emmanuel pre-trial lasted in less than

The new remote videoconferencing technology is on test run specifically for cases involving Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). The pilot testing involved detained inmates at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Maa, Davao City and was conducted under the ap-

proved guidelines of the Supreme Court on the use of videoconferencing technology for inmates to allow the remote appearance and testimonies of those facing charges and detained in jail.

The videoconferencing aims to eliminate safety, security, and health risks of PDLs con-

Carpio presided the �irst ever hearing using videoconferencing technology at the Davao City Regional Trial Court, Branch 16 for the arrangement of Leonilo Sumampong Gonzales for attempted multiple murder and pre-trial of Romart Mandi Uy for frustrated murder, who were at the Davao City jail court

15 minutes.

"This is a very momentous day for the courts because this is an initial project with BJMP who found the need for this videoconferencing trial with end purpose of securing the concerns not only on the part of the accused but also on the part of the judges, prosecution

not to mention the savings on time and transportation in coming from the jail to the court back and forth, " Carpio said in an interview.

He said the teleconference initially covers high pro�ile cases but there are instances also where the accused suffering from communicable diseases or special request on the accused with the recommendation of the jail warden, they can conduct trial

by videoconference.

"You can just imagine you have to travel from MA-a especially now we have a problem. In Davao City this current �looding it may take so much time among the court employees and also the lawyers, judges and public in general," Carpio said.

The Tele-hearing was proposed by the management of BJMP 11 on November 28, 2017 due

TELE-HEARING, P9

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

PRRD has accepted PIA chief's decision to leave government

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A Peak Hours Augmentation Bus Service (PHABS) plying the Toril-Roxas route traverses along E. Quirino Avenue in Davao City on Monday. The City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) said the problem

of underserved commuters in Catalunan Grande and Toril has finally addressed after the PHABS started operating 24 hours last week. Lean Daval Jr

CTTMO implements 24-hour PHABS in Cata. Grande, Toril

By ADAM B. MORRELL

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he Davao City Transport and Traf�ic Management Of�ice (CTTMO) said it has �inally addressed the primary concerns of the underserved commuters in Catalunan Grande and Toril District after the Peak Hours Augmentation Bus Service (PHABS) started operating for 24-hours last week.

CTTMO chief Dionisio Abude, in an interview, said the new extended service of PHABS was of�icially implemented the last week of August after the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) 11 issued a new memorandum circular, granting permits to bus operators plying Catalunan Grande and Toril District, to operate 24/7.

It was recalled that Abude’s of�ice submitted on June 27 the recommen-

dation to LTFRB to make PHABS operate 24 hours which will serve as a pilot test for the soon-to-rise Davao Integrated Bus System (DIBS).

Abude, meanwhile, said the initiative to make PHABS operate overtime came from the sentiments of underserved commuters in the chosen areas.

CTTMO in coordination with the City Administrators Of�ice conducted series of surveys last June to ask residents and commuters if are they in

Inday Sara to Palace: Ask Faeldon to explain

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ayor Sara Z. Duterte on Sunday said Malacañang should make Bureau of Corrections chief Nicanor Faeldon explain the controversial release of nearly 2,000 convicts – including those who had been serving jail terms for illegal drugs trade and other heinous crimes.

Sara told Philippine News Agency that the Of�ice of the President can exercise its power to review if it �inds the releases had no basis in law.

“I think the OP should ask him to explain and then exercise the power to review. Thereafter, they can �ire or ask him to resign if they think he had no basis in law for all the releases made,” she said.

Among those allegedly freed on the basis of good conduct were 48 drug lords – including Chinese nationalities.

Sara said in her view, the application of the good conduct time allowance law (GCTA) “should exclude heinous crimes mainly on the basis of the unspeakable evil of the crime they committed.”

“They may reform inside the prison but they should be made to pay for life of the depravity of the crime they have committed. That is the price they pay,” she said.

Sara said the GCTA might have not become an issue if “the death penalty is in place.”

In reaf�irming her support to death penalty, the Presidential daughter said: (There is) no point in using government money in keeping them alive. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth for heinous crimes convicts is reasonable.”

She said the release of drug convicts was sadden-

INDAY, P9

favor of making the bus augmentation operate not only during peak hours.

“Nakita sa survey nga majority sa mga commuters gusto sa bus as transportation ug gusto sila mag operate 24 hours,” said Abude.

Initially, the implementation of PHABS in Davao City was supposedly until the end of March this year.

The special permit issued by the LTFRB was only designed until March but the public’s demand for additional transport caused to extend the bus augmentation until it was fully implemented to operate 24-hours.

Just recently, a post from a concerned commuter in Catalunan Grande circulated on social media which was addressed to the Public Utility Jeepneys

drivers in the area for being “inconsiderate.”

“Stranded diri sa Catalunan Grande Terminal.

Shout out lang po, sa mga drivers sa jeep. Palihog hatagi pud mig konsiderasyon ang mga pasahero pa downtown. Almost 2 hours na me nag hulat, daghan kaayo jeep muagi sa terminal pero ang byahe pa Bangkal lang ug pasaka kay ulan ug traf�ic daw.

Hatag sad mog kaluoy sa amoa nga naa diri sa terminal. Kabalo man me na kamoy mag buot kung mubyahe pa mo o dili tungod sa panahon pero hatagi sad me ninyog gamay nga kaluoy,” the post stated.

Some commuters, however, believe that the extended service of PHABS will somehow reduce the hassle in waiting for public transport.

resident Rodrigo Duterte has accepted the decision of Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director General Harold Clavite to leave government, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea said Monday.

Medialdea said Clavite manifested in a July 17 letter his intention to submit his “irrevocable resignation to the President citing personal reasons.”

“He also said that he already gave three years to the country and it’s time for him to go back to his family. This was elevated to the President and thereafter accepted,” the Palace of�icial said.

“We recognize the service Mr. Clavite has rendered and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

No resignation letter?

However, Clavite appeared to have a different account of events leading to his departure from the PIA. Clavite said he did not submit a resignation letter to Duterte even as he insisted that he was not holding on to the position.

“I have been wanting to resign. I thought it would be fair to let me know in advance so I can facilitate proper transition. At the same time, I was �ighting PCOO’s departmental interference on daily operations in PIA which they’re not supposed to be doing according to the Administrative Code of 1987,” he said.

Clavite said he had relayed to Medialdea his intention to resign but “we both agreed in our meeting that he reviews �irst my letter” on the issues hounding him and the PIA. “He speci�ically asked me not to resign. I merely reiterated in the letter our conversation and I said it will be sent to the President. My July 17 letter was addressed to ES, not the President,” he said.

“If they used that statement to make such decision, then I’ll accept that. I just think it’s not fair that

after hearing my side and asking me to write all the details, they would do such without even talking to me.”

Clavite revealed that he was initially asked to resign during his July 15 meeting with Medialdea over a Commission on Audit notice of disallowance that was allegedly reported to the Of�ice of the President by the Presidential Communications Operations Of�ice (PCOO), which supervises the PIA. “I argued and informed Mr. Medialdea that I was preparing an appeal on the disallowance and that I was con�ident of my response as we were able to establish what caused it,” he said.

He said he told Medialdea that he had met with COA of�icials on the matter and looked into “more questionable transactions.”

“I was closely working with COA on a fraud audit and a special audit because I really believed certain transactions had to be fully reviewed. And that’s the primary reason why I created a fact-�inding committee in 2018,” he said.

Clavite also informed Medialdea of his policy differences with PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar and alleged demolition efforts against him by PIA Senior Director for Communication Strategy Benjamin Felipe and a few personnel, “which was clearly supported by the PCOO Secretary.”

“I indicated to him that I will clear my name and �ile appropriate cases against some people including the PCOO Secretary, after which, I will send my resignation letter to the President as I could no longer work with the organization,” Clavite said.

“I told him that, in the end, I will still resign. But Mr. Medialdea told me not to resign and committed that he will work with me on these issues. He asked me to put in writing all the details.”

Clavite then sent a let-

PRRD, P9

President Rodrigo Duterte is welcomed by a military officer upon his arrival at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on Sunday following his successful official visit to the People’s Republic of China. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

3

PH trusts China on deals with caution: DND chief

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efense Secretary Del�in Lorenzana on Sunday said the Philippines can trust China to honor the agreements it entered with the country but must also be cautious amid tensions over claims in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

“Of course we trust China on their words. It is a regional power and I have no reason to believe that it will renege on any agreements,” he said in a message to reporters.

“The devil, as they say, are in the details later on when we go on joint development of the resources in the WPS. Let us trust but we must also be cautious,”

Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) president Arturo Milan says the recently-concluded month-long Kadayawan sa Davao Festival was a success based on the data of tourist arrivals. Milan

made the disclosure during this week’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr

BAYANIHAN SPIRIT

Vice Mayor Baste cites Dabawenyos’ readiness to help in times of disaster

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cting Mayor Sebastian Duterte cited Dabawenyos for helping each other especially in times of emergency, proving that the spirit of bayanihan is still alive especially in times of emergency.

Dabawenyos showed their readiness to help each other during the this week’s �looding that hit many areas in Davao City.

Acting Mayor Baste said the spirit of Kadayawan was extended during the calamity since everyone showed their compassion towards their fellow Dabawenyos who were affected by the calamity.

“Two days ago nag

baha didto sa taas sa Tugbok padulong didto sa Bangkal, and then I went there, nakit-an pud nako ang mga tao pati gobyerno, ana ko Kadayawan lang man gihapon ni,” he said.

“Our values were there, we cooperated, hapit ta mabagsak sa patience pero okay lang pasar gihapon. Manageable man ang mga tao. Naa

Three-day bootcamp for business women, innovators set in Davao City

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rganizers of a three-day entrepreneurship boot camp in Davao City will gather women entrepreneurs and innovators to discuss issues and come up with solutions to the problems confronting the cacao industry in the region and Mindanao.

“The objective is to help in coming up with tech ideas for the cacao/chocolate industry and help the ‘idea owners’ create a business model around these ideas through the entrepreneurship boot camp at the Startup Weekend,” Mary Rose O�ianga, organizer of the Startup Weekend Women Davao 2019, said on Sunday.

She said the boot camp will gather female students, developers, engineers, and entrepreneurs from September 20 to 22 at the TechHub Corporation here to connect, formulate, create a team, and pitch ideas for solutions to the pressing challenges faced by the cacao industry players of Mindanao.

“We encourage the women to get out of their usual

comfort zone and discover their potentials and to do business and to create solutions,” she said.

O�ianga said organizers created an entrepreneurship boot camp designed specifically for women to inspire them to ideate, create, and innovate solutions because “women can do more with technology.”

Among the industry stakeholders who will participate in the program are farmers, producers, processors, consolidators, and of�icials from Rural Agro-Industrial Partnership for Inclusive Development and Growth-Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade, Department of Science and Technology, City Agriculturist of�ice, Mindanao Development Authority, and City Gender and Development Of�ice.

“This year, Startup Weekend Women Davao focuses on creating solutions for the Cacao industry in Davao Region and Mindanao. The Cacao industry has been ranked to

THREE-DAY, P10

didto tanan present, so we thought united gihapon ta,” he added.

Baste said that the spirit of compassion and the good values of Dabawenyos were seen not only during the good times but also during the bad times.

“What I want to tell you is there will always be good times and bad times and the values that we learned, we carried that with us - in good times and in bad times, in our everyday lives as we exist as Dabawenyos in this city we called Davao,” he said.

On Wednesday night, the Talomo River swelled

and over�lowed to several barangays, sending at least 3,000 families to the streets and temporary shelters.

Badly affected were barangays Tugbok Proper, Talomo, Los Amigos and Wangan. Several residents downstream were also hit.

The city government was, however, quick to respond to the immediate needs and sent relief assistance to the affected families.

The City Council also held an emergency session to approve the P50-million assistance for the affected families. CIO

Davao Tourism Association (DATA) president Gatchi Gatchalian promotes the upcoming One Davao Culinary Night slated at Marco Polo Davao on September 28 in time for the 45th anniversary of the association.

Lorenzana added.

Earlier, the Philippines and China have agreed to form groups that would �inalize agreements on joint oil and gas explorations in the WPS. “But at this stage, our governments have agreed to disagree civilly on the WPS issue while we manage our differences. Our relationship with China is not circumscribed by the WPS issue alone,” Lorenzana said.

He said there are other bigger issues that the Philippines and China can agree on, which are mutually bene�icial, such as trade, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. (PNA)

Prosecutor confident no bail for Davao bombing suspects

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hree years after the Sept. 2, 2016 bombing at the Roxas night market here that killed 15 and injured 69 others, Taguig City prosecutor Vincent Villena is con�ident that the Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Taguig City will deny the motion to bail �iled by the seven suspects who are allegedly members of a terror group.

Villena told reporters after the mass at the blast site on Sunday that the evidence and the statements of the witnesses, including that of a state witness who was part of the group that plotted the incident, were strong for the trial court to dismiss the motion.

“We are very con�ident that it would be denied because we presented a witness who was part of that group who actually witnessed everything, almost everything, so we �iled a motion to discharge him as one of the accused,” he said.

He said the RTC in Taguig might come out with a decision whether to grant or deny the bail in

October this year.

The seven alleged members of the Maute Group behind the bombing are Wendel A. Facturan, Musali U. Mustapha, TJ T. Macabalang, Zack Jaron V. Lopez, Jessy Vincent G. Original, Jackson M. Usi and Alisa A. Mamasapano.

All seven were transferred from the City Jail in Maa, Davao City to Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig City in February 2018 after the Supreme Court approved the requests of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology-Davao, City Peace and Order Council, City Prosecutor’s Of�ice and Defense Secretary Del�in Lorenzana for the transfer of detention and venue of trial for the “high-risk inmates”.

He said the RTC in Taguig might come out with a decision whether to grant or deny the bail in October this year.

“All of the accused will be given the opportunity to defend themselves in court,” he said.

He added the RTC in Taguig is determined to

PROSECUTOR, P10

Gatchalian made the announcement during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao on Monday. Lean Daval Jr

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

AirAsia PH names new chairperson

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irAsia Philippines has named Joseph Omar Castillo as new chairman of the board, effective September 1.

Castillo, a lawyer, joined the board earlier this year.

He has over a decade of experience in corporate matters, contact support, immigration, among others.

In an e-mail on Sunday, AirAsia clari�ied that as the new chairman Castillo would oversee the company's strategies, and ensure that the board, management and shareholders are on the same page with regard to vision and execution of these strategies.

The carrier further con�irmed that Catillo's predecessor, Maan Hontiveros, is no longer part of

the board.

Hontiveros has been AirAsia Philippines chairperson since 2014.

Meanwhile, in a statement, AirAsia Group executive chairman Datuk Kamarudin Meranun said the group is con�ident that the company would continue to grow under Castillo's leadership, given his experience and strategic vision in the airline business.

Kamarudin likewise thanked Hontiveros for her contribution in AirAsia.

He noted that Hontiveros started as CEO in 2011 with only two aircraft, and has provided the foundation for what AirAsia Philippines is today, growing an initial of 200 employees to more than 2,000. (PR)

Landbank of the Philippines-Davao account officer and media relations focal person Christian Harvey N. Wong provides details on the bank’s program’s such as the fulfillment of the order of President Duterte to

extend its support to the small farmers affected by the Rice Tariffication Law during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao on Monday. Lean Daval Jr

Landbank Davao extends T Sure Aid to rice farmers

Budget bill withdrawal from plenary risks passage timeline: House leader

By MAYA M. PADILLO

L

andbank of the Philippines (Landbank) is extending assistance through cash cards to rice farmers in Davao Region who are affected with the Rice Tarif�ication Law through its Expanded Survival and Recovery Assistance program or SURE Aid. The SURE Aid program targets rice farmers affected by the drop of palay farmgate prices. The program allows a one-time zero-interest loan of P15,000 for farmers tilling one hectare.

"SURE Aid more simpli�ied not a typical lending program based on the records of the Department of Agriculture once you are identi�ied as most affected by the rice tarif�ication law they will just enrol you and

credit the account no more documentary requirements release the fund," Christian Harvey Wong, account of�icer of Landbank Davao, told media in Monday’s Kapehan sa Davao.

Wong said currently they are targeting around 16,000 farmers in Davao Region to be enrolled in the said program. He said what they have right now is the records of farmers from DA.

"This Sure Aid will be processing initially those with DA. We will continue with our collaboration with DA once we submit the other names of the farmers they will processed it include them in their Sure Aid," Wong said.

For the mechanics, Wong said the assistance from Landbank for Sure Aid will be through cash card.

"Its P15,000 direct immediate assistance for one hectare limit to soften the impact of rice tarif�ication law which is to be paid eight years with zero interest," he said.

Wong said Landbank will issue the farmers with cash cards, which is

a one- time use card. He said these cards are Buffer cards intended for other programs.

"It can be use for 4Ps but because of the urgency of this concerned of the palay farmers we have decided to use for the meantime this buffer cards to be used for farmer bene�iciaries," he said.

President Rodrigo Duterte signed February this year into law the Rice Tarif�ication Law an act that will lift import restrictions on rice. After the implementation of the Rice Tarif�ication Law on March 2019, domestic farmgate prices have dropped due to competition from cheaper imported rice.

he withdrawal of the 2020 national budget from plenary deliberations at the House of Representatives could “derail” the timeline for its approval, the head of the chamber's tax-writing body said Monday.

House Appropriations Committee chairman Isidro Ungab said he formally relayed his "objection," after Deputy Speaker L-Ray Villafuerte on Sunday said he withdrew the proposed General Appropriations Act for next year from plenary debates due to "premature" �iling.

"Your proposal to withdraw and amend the General Appropriations Bill for FY2020 will de�initely derail the schedule and approval of the budget," Ungab said in a statement.

"To prepare another set of General Appropriations Bill will require enormous

POGO's workforce can grow as big as BPO, says analyst

O

'EATS MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES'. Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat (3rd from left) together with Jollibee Food Corporation officials lead by its CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong (2nd from left) indulge in the Filipino boodle feast during the DOT and Jollibee launch of "Eats.

More Fun in the Philippines" at the Islas Pinas Food & Heritage Village, Double Dragon Plaza in Pasay City on Saturday (August 31, 2019). The campaign highlights the top dishes the country has to offer. (PNA photo

by Gil Calinga)

time, efforts and resources that will surely affect or delay the passage of the 2020 budget," said the representative of Davao City's third district.

The delayed passage of the 2019 national budget due to alleged "insertions" slowed economic growth in the �irst 6 months of the year.

Any alterations to the National Expenditure Program could also cast doubts on the proceedings of the House of Representatives, Ungab said.

The bill was withdrawn from the plenary deliberations after Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano was made co-author of the measure without his knowledge, Villafuerte said, adding that it was just a "procedural matter."

The House is still committed to pass the budget on time, he said.

ffshore gaming could grow as big as the business process outsourcing in terms of employment, notwithstanding a crackdown on the illegal recruitment of Chinese nationals that fuel the sector.

Demand for of�ice space from offshore gaming remains even as Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations or POGOs are "prudent, Leechiu Property Consultants co-founder and CEO David Leechiu.

"It could be potentially as big as the BPO sector employment to roughly a little over 1 million people," he said. The country's BPO sectors employs over 1.2 million people.

"The gap between the BPO [of�ice space] takeup and POGO [of�ice space] takeup is so negligible it’s almost the same today

and from what I see in the pipeline of our business there’s still a lot of transactions happening in the POGO business," Leechiu said.

"I think they will stay as long as they can here because the reason why they’re here in the Philippines is it’s truly a much better place to work in and attract labor from the region," he said.

Offshore gaming employs 60 to 70 percent of foreign nationals with Filipinos bene�iting from the remaining 30 percent of jobs, Leechiu said. Entry level POGO workers, local or foreign, get about P70,000 to P80,000 monthly salary, he said.

If POGOs decide to halt operations, BPOs can pickup “viable” of�ice space locations in Makati, Bay Area, Alabang and Ortigas, Leechiu said.

5 SUBURBIA RISING EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

Lumad pupils of Sitio Kamunuan in Brgy. Gupitan, Kapalong Davao, del Norte receive their school bags stuffed with school supplies distributed by the Beato Gioco Lottery Inc. (BGLI) last August 28. Contributed photo

BGLI turns over 2 school buildings in Kapalong

By ADAM B. MORRELL

T

he Beato Gioco Lottery Inc. (BGLI) turned over two school buildings for the lumad community of Sitio Kamunuan in Brgy.

Gupitan, Kapalong Davao, del Norte last August 28.

BGLI, an Authorized Agent Corporation (AAC) of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Of�ice (PCSO)

Small Town Lottery (STL), �inanced the construction of the learning establishment for the Indigenous

People (IP) pupils last May to supplement its �irst Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program.

Davao del Norte Department of Education assistant schools division superintendent Rommel Jandayan of�icially received the donation on behalf of the agency.

be given special awards for their participation in the exhibit.

Some of these entries include inventions/research works on waste management and recycling, such as the “Garbage into Fuel”, The Potential of Empty Shell as an Ingredient for a Homemade White Chalk, Recycled Used Cooking Oil Stove: An Alternative Equipment in Cooking, Plastic Bottles as Window Glass Replacement, among others.

Other exhibited works are: Portable Indoor/Outdoor UV-C LED Water Disinfectant, A Compact Water Filtration and Puri�ication System, Sci-Quiz App: A Mobile Game Application in Science for Android, Anti-Epileptic Seizure Effect of Gotu Kola in Lothium-Pilocarpine-Induce Albino Mice Model, Rice Seed Bug Killer Fermented Mushroom Juice, Biodiesel from Algae: A Possible Source of Renewable Energy, and Evaluation on Plastic Flower Pot Made of Bottle Bricks.

Among the inventions from guest exhibitors are “A Vehicle Immobilization and Tracking System” which can easily track, notify vehi-

cle owners of unauthorized possession of their vehicles, and can forcibly stop an operating engine of a vehicle.

It was invented by Engr.

Glenn D. Sison and Engr.

Jonathan M. Grayda; and the “Electronic Mosquito Repellant Bracelet” by Kenny Walter Diolola from the Notre Dame of Kidapawan College.

The expo's categories were Guest Exhibitor, Open / Professional, College, High School, and Elementary.

Three winners, who will be announced soon, shall be selected from each category, except under Guest Exhibitor, and will be given PHP5,000.00, PHP3,000.00, and PHP2,000.00 for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd placers, respectively.

Non-winners will also receive consolation prizes each. The �irst-ever North Cotabato Inventors Expo is spearheaded by the Provincial Government of Cotabato – Public Affairs Assistance, Tourism, and Sports Development Division in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology and Department of Education. (PR)

The CSR vision of BGLI is to contribute in nation-building, foremost by being a good corporate citizen in its area of operation, Davao del Norte.

"Our mission is to assist in establishing much needed Department of Education (DepEd)-led education to our IP communi-

ties in far-�lung mountains to pave the way for peace in our countryside," a BGLI representative said.

Together with PCSO, BGLI hopes to participate in bringing inclusive progress to the IP communities.

Apart from the classrooms, BGLI also turned over a total of 80 school

bags with schools supplies including pencils, ball pens, crayons, sharpeners, papers, and notebooks to equip the pupils as they start on a new journey in a new study place.

This community approach from the private sectors marks a huge im-

BGLI, P9

Spotlight shines on inventors Mindanao mine engineers to hold in NoCot's Kalivungan Festival 26th annual mining symposium

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side from the province’s agricultural bounty, local inventions are also one of the highlights in this year’s 105th Founding Anniversary celebration of Cotabato province dubbed as Kalivungan Festival 2019.

The provincial government has launched the North Cotabato Inventors Expo during the opening last Monday (August 26, 2019) of the weeklong festivity at The Basket-Pavilion, showcasing the intellectual work of local inventors and researchers.

The expo ended on Sunday (September 1, 2019).

A total of 27 professionals and students from the province participated in the said innovation expo, which awed visitors and celebrators alike.

Outstanding inventions will be given due recognition, support for future exposures and patenting and will be judged based on originality, creativity/ methodology, market potential or usefulness, and presentation, North Cotabato Gov. Nancy Catamco said.

Guest exhibitors who already have patents will

T

he Mindanao Association of Mining Engineers (MAEM) will hold its 26th Annual Mining Symposium on September 5-7, 2019 with the theme “IT TAKES A MINE TO BUILD A ROAD” at the Malayan Colleges Mindanao (MCM) Campus in Davao City.

This year’s event will bring together the closely knitted community of mining professionals working in the different sectors of the society such as energy, academe, NGO’s, LGUs, environment, construction and minerals development to discuss and ensure its active role in nation building particularly the “Build, Build, Build” program of the government.

The mining engineers are mostly working in providing the raw materials in the construction, steel making and energy industries which is considered

as the backbone of the country’s economy. They are continuously updated with the latest innovations through the conferences hosted by MAEM, one of the oldest and dynamic organizations of mining engineers in the country.

The three-day event will include the symposium proper and technical paper presentations for the Continuing Program for Development (CPD), renewal of the PRC licenses, the oath taking of the newly passed mining engineers, induction of the MAEM Members and new Competent Person (CP) – Mining Engineering Category, exhibits, and sports tournaments such as golf and basketball.

For more information about the symposium, please get in touch with MAEM President Engr. Alexis Baligod at (0917) 711 4252.

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

EDITORIAL

Where are our sports officials?

Davao City’s young athletes aged 15 years old and under recorded a smashing performance in the recent Batang Pinoy National Championships held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

The Davao delegation �inished third overall with 31 golds, 30 silvers and 41 bronze medals behind only back-to-back overall champion Baguio City and Cebu City.

The accomplishment made by these young athletes only proved that Davao City has come a long way from being middle-rung performers in the annual competitions organized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to being a top contender for the overall championship. Davao City was in second place after Day 2 before plunging to 4th and eventually �inishing third. This is by far, the best �inish by the city in the history of the Batang Pinoy National Championships.

The Batang Pinoy is the competition for athletes considered as ‘entry level’ class before they graduate to the junior elite and elite class. This is the stage where the future members of the country’s national teams are beginning to shape and with a few more years of training and coaching,

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ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO KENNETH IRVING K. ONG the national association of newspapers NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN MEGHANN STA. INES DAVE STEPHENN VILLAMORA FERINA SANTOS Online Operations Lifestyle PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor MAYA M. PADILLO Senior Correspondent CHA MONFORTE Correspondent

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

should be ready for the junior level competitions prior to becoming elite athletes in the national team. Hence, Davao City has produced athletes who are among the top tier developmental athletes the country can tap for future international competitions.

The third place �inish gave Davao City a P2 million incentive from the PSC in the form of sports equipment--something that the next generation of Davao athletes can utilize.

Therefore, the Batang Pinoy despite being classi�ied as entry-level for young athletes is a very important competition which the city’s sports of�icials must give signi�icant attention.

However, the recent competitions in Palawan did not attract the presence of the city government’s sports of�icials as only the staff of the City Sports Development Of�ice were there.

Unfortunately, unlike other events like the Arafura Games in Darwin, Australia, and the locally-held Ironman Triathlon, the Batang Pinoy for kids may have been regarded ‘small-time.’

With minors as participants in the Batang Pinoy, there is an even more compelling reason for the city’s of�icials to be present to ensure the welfare of our children athletes.

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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VANTAGE POINTS

7

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

A MATTER OF TRANSPORT FRANCHISE Owning vehicles for public transport, then and now, has always been covered by certain limitations, especially in the matter of ownership. Under American rule, a certi�icate of public conveyance, the equivalent of a franchise, was granted to a foreigner, subject to conditions.

An interesting case involving a Japanese resident of Davao reached Supreme Court (SC).

On December 18, 1929, under Case No. 21268, the Public Service Commission, forerunner of the Land Transport Franchising and Regulatory Board, issued a franchise to Genanichi Ishi, a Japanese, allowing him to operate a single Ford automobile to be used in the transport of passengers within Davao Province. The franchise carried the following proviso: “And without authorization… this commission previously had, the applicant shall not alter the manner of operating his car as prescribed herein, increase or decrease the number thereof, substitute them with others, change the form

of the carriage with a different one, or in any case send them on a trip outside the zone of operation of the service herein authorized…

“The certi�icate of public convenience to be issued to him… shall take effect on the date the [franchise] is issued and shall continue [to be] in force until further order to the contrary [is released] from this commission.”

Prior to the effectivity of the Commonwealth charter on November 15, 1935, Genanichi �iled on October 23, 1935, an application to add another unit to his solo transport, citing as reason the lack of public utility vehicles to address the demand for transport among inhabitants.

The commission, however, denied the application on February 14, 1936, citing the constitutional provision which states that “no franchise, certi�icate, or any other form of authorization for the operation of a public utility shall be granted except to citizens of the Philippines or to corporations or other entities organized under the laws of the

Philippines, sixty per centum of the capital of which is owned by citizens of the Philippines.”

As a remedy, the Japanese �iled a petition for a writ of certiorari against the commission’s order. Given that the SC had the authority to review the PSC order, the issue was elevated to the high court where it was docketed as G. R. No. 45134.

In its decision issued on September 10, 1936, the SC said the petition did not state that the commission exceeded its authority by issuing the order under Case No. 21268. Under Act No. 3108, as amended, the allegations in the petition failed to justify the issuance of a writ, pointing out that the right remedy was to review the order based on the same statute.

Section 35 of Act No. 3108, as amended, states: “Any order made by the Commission may be reviewed on the application of any person or public utility affected thereby, by certiorari in appropriate cases, or by petition, to the Supreme Court, within thirty days from the date upon which

such order becomes effective, as herein provided; said petition shall be �iled with the clerk of that Supreme Court and a copy thereof served upon the secretary of the Commission either personally or by leaving same at the of�ice of said Commission in the City of Manila.

“The Supreme Court is hereby given jurisdiction to review said order of the Commission, and to modify or set aside such order when it clearly appears that there was no evidence before the Commission to support reasonably such order, or that the same was without the jurisdiction of the Commission.

The evidence presented to the Commission, together with the �inding of the Commission and any order issued thereon, shall be certi�ied by the secretary of the Commission to the Supreme Court. The procedure for review, except as herein provided, shall be prescribed by rules of the Supreme Court.”

On the matter of constitutional question raised, the SC ruled that Genanichi’s application for an increase in equip-

ment falls within the prohibition of Article XIII, Section 8, of the 1935 Constitution despite that the franchise was issued before the same charter took effect.

The court also made it clear that the petitioner is not a Filipino or a corporation with 60% of its capital owned by citizens of the Philippines, adding there was no need to issue a new franchise but an authorization limited to Filipinos or corporations held in majority by Filipinos.

“The Constitution,” the high court argued, “provides for the nationalization not only of the natural resources and of all forces of potential energy, but also of all public services or utilities, except only those rights that might have been acquired prior to [its] adoption…

This court cannot agree to the suggestion that, as the petitioner is the lawful holder of a certi�icate of public convenience… he has a vested right to be authorized to increase his equipment by the addition of one or more cars thereto.”

In short, Genanichi’s new application was denied.

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

SO, YOU’RE FACING RETIREMENT? “We work all our lives so we can retire – so we can do what we want with our time – and the way we de�ine or spend our time de�ines who we are and what we value.” – Bruce Linton, Fatherhood *** In his book, Retirement: Different by Design, Dr. Rick Steiner wrote: “Please remember that retirement is a different way of life, with new challenges and opportunities.

You need to adapt and adjust to this new lifestyle, and that takes time, effort, and creativity.”

Whether we like it or not, time will come that we will �inally retire from our work – the job we are doing now.

To some people, retirement is the time they can �inally be free from the hassles of waking up early in the morning and staying late at night at the of�ice.

Most people fear retirement because it means they are facing “their �inal curtain.” But that should not be the case. Adrian J. Williams, author of Retirement: The Ultimate Retirement Planning Guide, offers this advice: “People can’t do anything about growing old because it’s one of the most natural things in the world, but one thing you can control, though, is how you’ll live your life once you’re

old enough to retire.”

To some people, retirement is not actually a retirement from work. In fact, it is going into a new chapter in one’s life. “On the positive side, retirement can be an opportunity to enjoy life in a new way, the right to stop work and to do the 1,001 things you’ve always wanted to do but never had time for, and a chance to give yourself over to new challenges and adventures.” That is what Sara Yogev wrote in A Couple’s Guide to Happy Retirement.

Book author Kelly Crawford once shared this anecdote: A man approaching retirement called the retirement of�ice to inquire about his pension. Afterward, he was asked if his wife worked.

“She’s worked all her life making me happy,” he replied.

“Yes, sir, but has she earned money to receive her pension?” the retirement of�icer asked.

“When we got married, we agreed on an arrangement,” the man replied, “I would earn the living, and she would make the living worthwhile.”

Crawford went to explain the meaning of her short tale: “Make the living worthwhile…

Have we forgotten the very essence of that? Have we

forgotten to live for someone else, that doing so IS what makes a living worthwhile?”

Critically-acclaimed novelist Martha Sherill often thinks about dogs when she thinks about work and retirement. “There are many breeds of dog that just need to be working, and useful, or have a job of some kind, in order to be happy,” she explained. “Otherwise, they are neurotically barking, scratching, or tearing up the sofa. A working dog needs to work.

And I am a working dog.”

In other words, plan out your retirement. “I believe the biggest mistake that most people make when it comes to their retirement is they do not plan for it,” pointed out Mark Singer in his book, The Changing Landscape of Retirement: What You Don’t Know Could Hurt You. “They take the same route as Alice in the story from Alice in Wonderland, in which the cat tells Alice that surely she will get somewhere as long as she walks long enough. It may not be exactly where you wanted to go, but you certainly get somewhere.”

The Diversi�ied Investment Plan shared eight tips on how to make your life easier and comfortable when you are already facing “the longest holiday of your life”:

1. Time will come that you will retire. You won’t be going to work. You won’t have of�ice power any more. No in�luence or at best, a reduced in�luence. Your cash �low will also reduce. Check retirement date on your payslip.

2. Always go for your 15to 30-day annual leave. Whatever you do during your leave, is what you will be doing when you retire. If all you do is to sleep or watch television, then that’s what you are likely to do in your retirement.

Instead, learn a trade or skill during your leave. Make the productive.

3. Invest your retirement.

Don’t bank on your children’s support or from friends and relatives. That’s a big risk. It may not happen. Be ready to take care of yourself. Everyone has his own responsibilities. They won’t be able to help you that much.

4. Start a hobby early in your working days to take you along when you retire. Rearing chicken, farming or own a shop. Acquire marketable skills.

5. Build yourself a home.

Don’t retire and start to rent a house or refuse to vacate government house. You will be at the mercy of your landlord at a time when your cash �low is not only reduced but unpredictable.

6. Don’t retire and stay in a big city unless you can truly afford it. You can’t continue living in a big city after 60 with limited �inancial resources.

The language and the hustle will be hard for you. Where possible, relocate to a less expensive town where your reduced take home (pension) can go further.

7. Have property which can be rented or converted into cash. Have shares that pay good dividends. Plant cash trees. Rear goats, cultivate vegetables, etc. These activities will not only give you income but will also keep you healthy.

8. Live a simple life. If you never built a house at your rural home, don’t use your retirement package to build. It is unwise unless you plan to live there on a permanent basis or you are super rich. The choice is yours.

To end this piece, allow me to quote the words of Sid Miramontes. “As your life changes, it takes time to recalibrate, to �ind your values again,” he wrote in Retirement: Your New Beginning.

“You might also �ind that retirement is the time when you stretch out and �ind your potential.”

That’s why when I retire soon, I may write the book I really want to write.

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HEALTH

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

T

here was this warning circulated online that a kindergarten pupil died of the deadly meningococcemia in one of the big hospitals in Davao.

“Unfortunately, we were exposed at the emergency room (ER) at the hospital as we were together with the kid who was diagnosed late of having meningococcemia,” the warning said. “The boy died and the doctors were still having a meeting as to what they would do with us who were exposed of this airborne disease.”

When someone asked if it is true, the person who posted the warning said, “It’s con�irmed.” Another joiner cautioned: “Please, don’t make con�irmation unless stated by

Photos taken from the net

the hospital or the city government. My friend, who is a nurse at the ER, told me the hospital is not lockdown. The patient was just transferred. They were just cleaning and the ER is now open.”

But the person who posted the warning insisted that it was true – and that the disease is airborne and even shared an information from a website. The joiner replied: “I get what you mean. But in nursing perspective, post like this can spread more fear and a lot of people might misinterpret the situation.

Unless (the warning comes) from the hospital itself and the city government, (it’s another story); their post is more reliable which can

be shared.”

The Davao Center for Health Development of the Department of Health urged those who shared the posts in their social media account to be responsible. “Let us not cause alarm nor panic to the public with unveri�ied information,” it urged Contrary to what the posts claim, meningococcemia’s mode of transmission is through droplet and not airborne, the health department pointed out.

Dr. Richard T. Mata, in a video posted on his Facebook account, explained that meningococcemia is not as highly contagious like chicken pox or measles. “But if you are hit by it, you will die within 24 hours,” he warned.

“Ganun kagrabe ang sakit na iyan,” Dr. Mata said.

“When someone has the disease, the bacteria enter the bloodstream and multiply, damaging the walls of the blood vessels.

This causes bleeding into the skin and organs,” the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

“Meningococcemia is a disease caused by the dissemination of meningococci bacteria, Neisseria meningitidis, into the bloodstream,” explains the website, emedicinehealth.com.

“Meningococcal septicemia is another term for meningococcemia.”

The World Health Organization calls it “a bacterial form of meningitis, a serious infection of the thin lining that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.”

Actually, there are three types of meningococcemia: meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitidis, meningitis with Neisseria meningitidis bacteremia, and meningococcemia (Neisseria meningitidis in the blood).

Meningococcemia is contagious and it can be transmitted from person to person. The Department of Health (DOH) said it can spread via direct contact with discharges from the nose and throat that contain the bacteria.

“The bacteria are transmitted from person-to-person through droplets of respiratory or throat secretions from carriers,” WHO said. “Smoking, close and prolonged contact – such as kissing, sneezing or coughing on someone, or living in close

quarters with a carrier – facilitates the spread of the disease.”

According to the United Nations health agency, the bacteria can be carried in the throat and sometimes overwhelms the body’s defenses allowing the bacteria to spread through the bloodstream to the brain. “It is believed that 1% to 10% of the population carries Neisseria meningitidis in their throat at any given time,” it says. “However, the carriage rate may be higher (10% to 25%) in epidemic situations.”

A news report from the website of ABS-CBN said meningococcemia is very much endemic in Asian countries, including the Philippines.

“Its contamination is seasonal occurring most of the time in colder months,” it said. “A person testing positive to this disease must be incubated for 2 to 10 days.”

The �igure cited by the news report is the range, but the average incubation period is four days, according to WHO. “The most common symptoms are a stiff neck, high fever, sensitivity to light, confusion, headaches and vomiting,” the WHO says.

“In addition in infants, bulging fontanelle and ragdoll appearance are commonly found.

“A less common but even more severe (often fatal) form of meningococcal disease is meningococcal septicemia, which is characterized by a hemorrhagic rash and rapid circulatory collapse.”

Meningococcemia may not be highly contagious but it is deadly.

“Even when the disease

is diagnosed early and adequate treatment is started, 8% to 15% of patients die, often within 24 to 48 hours after the onset of symptoms,” the WHO states. “If untreated, meningococcal meningitis is fatal in 50% of cases and may result in brain damage, hearing loss or disability in 10% to 20% of survivors.”

Most of those who are most likely to be infected with it are children. “Mahina kasi ang resistinsiya ng mga bata,” Dr. Mata said. But adults are not spared.

“It is most common in young children,” wrote Jose Antonio Plaza and Victor Prieto, authors of Modern Surgical Pathology. “It occurs rarely in adults.”

As meningococcemia is fatal, it should always be viewed as a medical emergency. A range of antibiotics can treat the infection, including penicillin, ampicillin and ceftriaxone.

“Admission to the hospital or health center is necessary,” the WHO advises. “Isolation of the patient is not necessary.

Appropriate antibiotic treatment must be started as soon as possible, ideally after the lumbar puncture has been carried out if such a puncture can be performed immediately.

“If treatment is started prior to the lumbar puncture it may be dif�icult to grow the bacteria from the spinal �luid and con�irm the diagnosis.

However, con�irmation of the diagnosis should not delay treatment.”

By the way, there are vaccines available to prevent infection by Neisseria meningitidis.

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EVENT

WATERFRONT DAVAO’S NIGHT OF WONDERS

IT was a night of wonder with everything that is shining, shimmering, and splendid at the Aguila Ballroom of the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao as they held Client’s Appreciation Party last August 28.

Invited guests arrived to a whole new world inspired by the tale of Aladdin. Nothing was left to chance as the ballroom was filled with flowers and Moroccan lanterns.

There were even low tables where guests can lay back, lounge and truly take in the feelings dining “1001 Arabian Nights” style.

Even the menu of the evening, masterfully prepared by the hotel’s culinary team headed by Group Executive Chef Giovanni Sias, was a wonder to taste.

The buffet tables were laid out much like a Middle Eastern souk filled with exotic spices and wonderful savoury treats like Beef Stew with Moroccan Spice, Beef Kebab with Yoghurt Sauce,

and sweet treats like dried dates and various cakes and pastries. There was even a carving station with a whole roast lamb complete with necessary condiments and sauces.

After dinner, the hotel awarded its top accounts for the year 2018 by category. Among its top producing accounts were Top Travel Agencies (Fastpass Tours, ARS Dream Travel and Tours, Go Dream Tours and Uni-Orient Travel Inc.), Top Government Accounts (DILG Davao, Southern Philippines Medical Center, Province of Davao Occidental and Philippine Information Agency XI and TESDA Region XI), Top Nongovernment Accounts (UNDP Philippines, Institute for Autonomy and Governance and Palladiun) and Top Corporate Accounts (Philippine Chi-

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TRAVEL

I watched more sunsets than I ever did in the city when I lost my phone.

Photo by Wander Fleur.

THE DISCONNECTION NOTICE

I to

“Turn off the light now, Turn off the lights now, Turn off the lights now.”

This story isn’t about the catchy Pupil song which my grade school classmates and I rocked to back in the day.

I remember getting my very first mobile phone back in third grade. I pulled out a Nokia 3310 out of my skirt pocket and instantly felt like the coolest girl in the classroom.

I wasn’t one of those from a wealthy family that gave their kids whatever the latest model was though I did manage to have my phone at the time where your grade school confidence needed the image boost.

From that day on, I could never remember a day where I didn’t have a mobile phone with me. I did have times that I would instead leave it and be disconnected, but as technology improved, so did my need to feel connected all the time.

I remember it was around the fourth quarter of last year; my usual gang was surfing in Dahican. I vividly remember how awesome the waves were that day. I convinced the group to move to Poseidon’s spot to have fewer crowds and more pumping waves.

Five hours and a smile full of stoke later, I was paddling back to shore. It was one of those memorable surf sessions that you’d want to remember forever. The tide was going out, and we could already see the

sandbar that used to be under I ran to the little hut where we placed our stuff. I couldn’t seem to find my phone anywhere. I checked all our bags and scoured the possible places I could have left it, but it wasn’t there.

Do you know that sinking feeling at the pit of your stomach that you’ve done something irreversible? I felt it. I denied it and thought maybe I just misplaced it. We looked for it the whole day. Retraced our steps and tried calling until my phone couldn’t be reachable anymore.

Like the end of any relationship, we have to move on. I never thought I’d say it, but I relished the feeling of not having to be connected. I decided to get a replacement phone four days after losing it.

Gadgets that turnto be necessities in this day and age. Photo by Ben Kolde.

Living by the sea, I felt the disconnection. While my reacfreedom of disconnection. It tion to losing it in Dahican was was one I much needed but welcome, this time, it wasn’t. I couldn’t do because of work was thrown off-guard. I never and societal demands. This realized how dependent I was disconnection was precisely on my phone for everything! what I needed.

From banking to getting Though I did find my phone around (because I didn’t know eight months later, over a year how to commute), to getting and into the present, I lost my food and everything that my phone again — this time in the life more convenient, I lost. big city, Manila.

A week into losing my For sure, losing something phone, I couldn’t get a replacein the big city is different from ment still because every branch your home break where every- I went to didn’t have stock so body knows everybody. RealI had to wait for two weeks to izing I lost it a couple of weeks get the phone I wanted and back took me to the first time I that was within my budget. lost my phone, only the sinking I didn’t want to get a cheap feeling I had was more proreplacement phone just for the nounced that I was never going sake of having a phone because to find my phone again. that would require spending Losing my phone in Manila, again. while living independently, Now that I’ve got a new brought a different side to phone and had it much sooner

than expected, I realized a lot of things I wouldn’t have if I weren’t forced to be disconnected again. I needed to be forced to disconnect to learn the value of being connected.

Losing the phone was a wakeup call to tell me that I wasn’t really in control — that I wasn’t the boss of my own life. I was a slave. I was forced to do what I thought I should be doing, not what I needed to do, not what my soul needed to feel.

The disconnection allowed me to feel the hardship of life without technology, and it also allowed to me remember how much simpler life was without it. Though I won’t say, I’d go phoneless forever because my work needs it, but from time to time, it’s great to disconnect and recharge your inner self.

I hope none of you ever get a disconnection notice in the guise of a lost phone but trust me; there’s always a lesson learned in every mishap.

Check out the continuation of this story in my Instagram: @ferinasantos.

The ultim

Oth

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VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

ook a lot of trips to the beach in the span of the two weeks I lost my phone. It’s a good relaxing strategy. Photo by Christopher Sardegna.

mate disconnection for me is living on an island with weak to none network service.

Photo by Toa Heftiba.

her things to do aside from being on the phone is reading a good book by the beach.

Photo by Alexandru Stavrica.

ENTERTAINMENT

IWANT JOINS COMMITMENT TO PRODUCE RESPONSIBLE CONTENT IWANT is the first Filipino streaming service to sign the ASEAN Subscription Video-on-Demand Industry Content Code, joining other platforms in the region such as Netflix, HOOQ, iflix, Malaysia’s tonton, Astro, and dimsum, and Thailand’s DOONEE. By signing the Content Code, iWant, the first streaming platform made by Filipinos for Filipinos, reinforces its commitment to keeping its content authentic, free from hate speech, hate crimes, pornography, and other forms of inappropriate content.

According to iWant head Elaine Uy-Casipit, “We are honored and thrilled to unite with other distinguished streaming platforms in the region in this pledge to create and produce socially responsible content, which has always been the top priority of iWant as the Philippines’ first local streaming platform. Aside from providing high-quality entertainment that resonates with Filipinos, we want to make sure that our users are able to access and watch video content that matches the viewing preferences of every member of the family.”

The Content Code, developed in 2017 and officially released in June 2018, is a self-regulatory framework that aims to ensure the commitment of online streaming services in the ASEAN region to uphold the interests of their users by providing content that does not infringe copyright and does not promote pornography, violence, terrorism, and hate crimes.

It also aims to protect minors from accessing age-inappropriate and sensitive content, empowers users and their families to choose video content that suits their needs, interests, passions, and values, and serves to distinguish legitimate services from pirate sites.

Louis Boswell, CEO of the Asia Video Industry Association (AVIA), the trade association for the video industry and ecosystem in Asia Pacific, also said, “We are delighted to welcome another Online Curated Content (OCC) provider signing up to the code. Self-regulation of this industry was first discussed in September 2017 at the ASEAN Telecom Regulators Council dialogue, as a way to create pan-ASEAN solutions. Putting in place a code which distinguishes legitimate, responsible content providers from pirated and user-generated-content platforms gives regulators confidence and consumers control. We are glad

to see the momentum of adoption across the region and look forward to seeing more companies join us in this commitment.”

The signing of the Content Code between iWant and AVIA was held on Wednesday (August 28) and was witnessed by partners from Netflix, Alex Long, public policy manager, Asia Pacific; iflix, Sherwin Dela Cruz, country manager; HOOQ, Sheila Paul, country manager and Jeff Remigio, director of content and programming; and AVIA policy and research director Clare Bloomfield.

Since its launch in November 2018, iWant, which boasts the biggest library of Filipino video content, has produced original movies and series month after month – setting itself apart from other streaming platforms and changing the landscape of Filipino entertainment and digital content. It now has 3.8 million app downloads and 13 million subscribers.

GMA NETWORK AIRS KOREAN PERIOD DRAMA GMA Heart of Asia proudly brings to Kapuso viewers the multi-awarded Korean period drama ‘Mr. Sunshine.’

This drama series is another masterpiece from the creators of Korean hits ‘Descendants of the Sun’ and ‘Secret Garden.’

‘Mr. Sunshine’ follows the story of a young boy, Eugene Choi (Lee Byung-hun), who was born into slavery yet he survived the traumatic U.S. expedition to Korea. After his success in America, he comes back to his hometown as a United States Marine Corps officer where he will meet and fall in love with the aristocrat’s daughter, Go Ae-sin (Kim Tae-ri).

As the story progresses, Eugene will discover the plot of foreign forces to colonize Korea. He then will lead an inspiring revolution that will free his beloved nation and the woman he loves.

Completing the powerhouse cast are Byun Yo-han as Kim Hee-sung, Kim Min jung as Kudo Hina, and Yoo Yeon-seok as Goo Dong-mae.

Don’t miss the journey of ‘Mr. Sunshine’ starting September 2 after ‘The Better Woman’ on GMA Telebabad.

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URBANISSIMO A1 nese Chamber of Commerce Inc., Dole Philippines, San Miguel Foods Inc., Eastwest Rural Bank and Soldelsur Development Corporation).

Specially cited for their recognizable support were the Department of Tourism XI and City Tourism Operations Office Davao.

Top Event Planners included El Bonita Events, Pinktouche Events, Dazzle Events and Weddings and Events by Liz while the Top Event Stylists were Golden Touch, Cameo, Floral Pink Designs and Pachadas Event Styling. Cocktails and Dreamsz was awarded Top Event Provider of the Year for her contribution in hotel-initiated events.

“In the many speeches that I’ve given in the last five years, I’ve learned that there are no right words to use in a welcome speech except ones that are said with gratitude... Times have changed, yet Waterfront remains to be at the forefront of the hospitality industry because of you, your unwavering confidence and loyalty to the company and the people that

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EDGEDAVAO DAVAO EDGE

make it. Tonight, we celebrate the story of us as we end one chapter and begin with another,” Hotel Manager Bryan Yves Lasala addressed at the onset of the program.

EDGEDAVAO DAVAO EDGE

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It was a truly magical night VOL.12 VOL.12 ISSUE ISSUE 9484 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JULY JULY 19-20, 5-6, 2019 made memorable by a stellar production and a mass dance that had all of the Waterfront management team and guests dancing on their feet.

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

EDGEDAVAO DAVAO EDGE

UP AND FURNITURE A1 ABOUTa silly method but for EJ and

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

TELE-HEARING... FROM1

to the number of seriously high valued targets such as Maute, Abu Sayaff, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and New People's Army (NPA) detained in the three jails in the city: Davao City Jail Main, Davao City Jail Annex, and Davao City Female Jail pose considerable threat to the security of the facility and community. One of the serious risks is the transport of the accused to trial. Also included are the number of PDLs who are sick with contagious diseases like tuberculosis and skin diseases that may spread inside the con�ines of the courts.

The BJMP management added that inmates who cannot travel to courts due to their illness affect their chances to be heard on their schedules.

The Tele-hearing cut back risks and decrease opportunities to escape or bring rescued along the way while also reducing the threat to health, lives, and limbs of all presence around these high valued targets.

On January 29, 2019 the Court en banc of the Supreme Court issued a resolution allowing the implementation and pilot-testing of the 'Tele-hearing' project between the three Davao City jails and the Hall of

Justice in Davao City as well as the installation of necessary infrastructure and structured cabling inside the Hall of Justice.

The Tele-hearing will be implemented in all stages of active and pending criminal proceedings such as Arraignment, bail hearing, trial proper, until the promulgation of judgment involving terrorism and terrorism-related cases where the accused is diagnosed with a serious or grave medical condition as attested by satisfactory medical record.

On June 25, 2019 the Court en banc of the Supreme Court issued a resolution on the proposed guidelines on the use of videoconferencing.

Based on the resolution in-court appearance of PDLs considered to be high-risk or af�licted with highly contagious diseases has posed serious risks to the safety, security, lives and health of not only the accused and those charged with transporting them between the jail and court, but of changes, court personnel and the general public as well.

The guidelines on the use of videoconferencing technology for the remote appearance and testimony of certain PDL in jails and

national penitentiaries include the rights of the accused to be present and defend in person at every stage of the proceedings, to testify as a witness in his or her own half, and to confront and cross-examine the witnesses against him or her at trial are deemed satis�ied when such appearance and testimony are made remotely through videoconferencing.

Also the remote appearance and testimony of an accused in a videoconference proceeding shall closely resemble his or her otherwise in-person courtroom testimony and experience.

The project is part of Davao Justice Zone program that is also supported

by GoJust, which provides the equipment and refurbishes the rooms.

"Right now we are still awaiting for the equipment and refurbishment of the rooms as it still a temporary set up," said Ingrid Gorre, key expert case management specialist of GoJust, in an interview.

Gorre said they have three courts to be set up and BJMP will be a counterpart that will also have three cubicles of similar set up for them to able to conduct three simultaneous hearings at the same time.

pact in shaping young lumad towards a better future despite the unresolved con�lict in their areas.

Meantime, PCSO general manager Royina Gar-

ma personally announced through a Facebook live the resumption of the Small Town Lottery operation in the country starting September 1, 2019.

The PCSO head distin-

guished the authorized operators who are allowed to continue operations including Davao City operator, Ginansya Incorporated, and BGLI for Davao del Norte.

ter to Medialdea on July 17 which contained, among other matters, his intention to submit his resignation to Duterte “as I needed to go back to my family.”

“While awaiting response, no resignation letter was transmitted to the Of�ice of the President,” he said.

Clavite announced his separation from the PIA last Friday, the same day he received a letter from Medialdea’s of�ice informing him that the President had accepted his resignation effective immediately.

“I did nothing wrong.

Nonetheless, I accepted the directive from the Of�ice of the Executive Secretary despite the questionable decision-making process behind it,” he said.

He added the letter asking him to leave on the same day “was too harsh not only for me but the organization which was deprived of proper transition and handover.”

“They owe it to the country and the people.

They have to ensure PIA is properly managed and for

it to continue to be a strong force that empowers people through timely, accurate and relevant information— free from political interference and biases,” Clavite said.

PCOO investigation At the time of his departure, Clavite was facing an investigation by PCOO over allegations of splitting contracts, misusing funds for hotel accommodations, and irregularities in the production of information materials.

Clavite has denied the allegations which he linked to efforts by some people in the agency to discredit him after he initiated a probe on supposed irregularities in the PIA, the government’s development communications arm.

“Numerous allegations have been hurled against me and all were unfounded.

They’re a mix of perverted data and outright lies concocted to disinform many, including key members of the President’s of�ice,” he said.

“What happened was a triumph for those who

initiated demolition efforts against me— so successful that they have in�luenced the highest of�ice in government. But in this case, the measure of success is not up to their own design. I believe PCOO was at the core of the demolition efforts.”

Clavite also took pride in his accomplishments as PIA chief for three years.

“I led the PIA to its best form and it's a new agency now as compared from previous years. I �ixed business operations and �inancial processes and, most importantly under my guidance, PIA for the �irst time developed and executed a �iveyear strategic roadmap,” he said.

He said while “some were hurt in the reforms, I have lifted the morale of majority of the employees especially those in the lower ranks.”

“Now it is up to the new leadership and organic personnel of PIA, the �inest of civil servants in government, to continue the transformation I have started during my term,” Clavite said.

ing.

dom and they will party,” she added.

Sara said the release of drug suspects was a blow to the government's war on drugs and is infuriating.

“It even encourages EJK,” she added.

Sara also supported the calls to make the names of

those freed based on GCTA public.

“The list should be made public. It is laced with public interest because they are convicts. Chances are high they will commit crimes again. That is our reality. The possibility of reform is low in humans,” she added. (PNA)

BGLI... FROM5

PRRD... FROM2

INDAY... FROM2

“Ang hirap ng magpakulong tapos makalaya lang (It's already dif�icult to send somebody to jail and then they would only be released). There is really good behavior inside the jail because their freedom is restricted. Give them free-

9

Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod 18th City Council 10th Regular Session Series of 2019 PRESENT: Vice Mayor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor

Bernard E. Al-ag - Presiding Officer Nilo M. Abellera Jr. Maria Belen S. Acosta Victorio U. Advincula Jr. Al Ryan S. Alejandre Dante L. Apostol Sr. Conrado C. Baluran Joanne M. Bonguyan-Quilos Ma. Cherry Ann M. Bonguyan Pilar C. Braga Carmelo J. Clarion April Marie C. Dayap Edgar P. Ibuyan Jr. Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Leah A. Librado-Yap Rene Elias C. Lopez Diosdado Angelo A. Mahipus Jaffar U. Marohomsalic Bonifacio E. Militar Avegayle Dalodo Ortiz Antoinette G. Principe-Castrodes J. Melchor B. Quitain Jr. Marissa P. Salvador-Abella Halila Y. Sudagar Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte Jesus Joseph P. Zozobrado IIII

ABSENT:

Councilor Councilor

Danilo C. Dayanghirang Jimmy G. Dureza

- OB - Officer-in-Charge, City Mayor’s Office - On Domestic Emergency Leave

ORDINANCE NO. 0719-19 Series of 2019 AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE PRICING SCHEME OF MARAPANGI HOMES RESET TLEMENT PROJECT AS ENDORSED

BY THE CITY PRICING COMMIT TEE, OFFICE OF THE CITY MAYOR, AS THE MOST APPROPRIATE AND RESPONSIVE TO THE BENEFICIARIES OF MARAPANGI HOMES RESET TLEMENT PROJECT, THROUGH ITS RESOLUTION NO. 2, SERIES OF 2017 AS AMENDED BY RESOLUTION NO. 3, SERIES OF 2018 Be it ordained by the Honorable Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City in session assembled that: SECTION 1. TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE PRICING SCHEME OF MARAPANGI HOMES RESETTLEMENT PROJECT AS ENDORSED BY THE CITY PRICING COMMITTEE, OFFICE OF THE CITY MAYOR, AS THE MOST APPROPRIATE AND RESPONSIVE TO THE BENEFICIARIES OF MARAPANGI HOMES RESETTLEMENT PROJECT, THROUGH ITS RESOLUTION NO. 2, SERIES OF 2017 AS AMENDED BY RESOLUTION NO. 3, SERIES OF 2018”.

SECTION 2. DECLARATION OF POLICY – Section 2 of Executive Order No. 45, Series of 2013, entitled “Reconstituting the Membership of Pricing Committee for the Slum Improvement and Resettlement (SIR) Project and Urban Land Reform Program (ULRP) of the City”, states that the committee shall have the power to determine the fair market value/cost, interest and surcharges, payment scheme of residential and commercial lots under the housing program of the City of Davao such as, but not limited to, Slum Improvement and Resettlement Program, Urban Land Reform Program, Relocation Sites, for sale and resale to the awardees/qualified buyers”, as amended.

SECTION 3. COVERAGE – This Ordinance shall cover the approval of the Pricing Scheme for the Marapangi Homes Resettlement Project.

SECTION 4. PRICING SCHEME – The Pricing Scheme for Marapangi Homes Resettlement Project shall be implemented based on the following computation, viz.: Pricing/Lot No. of Years Price P67,554.40 P67,554.40

P67,554.40

3

4

5

Total Interest Rate (6% per annum)

Monthly Amortization Factor

Total Installment Price

P10,428.32

P1,624.64

P77,982.72

P8,263.76

P12,631.40

P2,106.06

P1,336.43

P75,818.16

P80,185.80

SECTION 5. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE – If, for any reason, any section or provision of this Ordinance is declared unconstitutional or invalid, other sections or provisions hereof not affected by such declaration shall continue to be in full force and effect.

SECTION 6. EFFECTIVITY- This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon approval.

ENACTED, on the 12th day of March, 2019, by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum.

CERTIFIED CORRECT:

ATTESTED:

(sgd.)CHARITO N. SANTOS Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Government Department Head II)

(sgd.)BERNARD E. AL-AG Vice Mayor Presiding Officer cns/kjtq APPROVED: ______________, 2019

ATTESTED: (sgd.)ATTY. ZULEIKA T. LOPEZ City Administrator

(sgd.)SARA Z. DUTERTE City Mayor

10 EDGEDAVAO PROSECUTOR... FROM3

come out with a decision this year.

He said the prosecutor handling the case was instructed to hasten the proceedings.

Villena added he is con�ident evidence against the

accused “would sustain a verdict of conviction.”

“Meaning to say talagang mapapatunayan namin beyond reasonable doubt, kasi maganda yung pagkakapresenta namin sa state witness (We can prove beyond rea-

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11TH JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT-SHERIFF Davao City

VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

sonable doubt, the manner we presented the state witness was good),” he said.

He said the survivors and the families of the slain victims are determined to seek justice. All of them testi�ied seeing the accused entering

the massage area at the night market to leave a backpack containing the bombing that evening.

Seven of the 15 slain victims were massage therapists. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11TH JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT-SHERIFF Davao City

BDO UNIBANK, INC., Mortgagee, - versus EJF-REM CASE NO. 17,442-19 SPS. RAMIL AZARCON PRADO and JONALYN BAQUIANO PRADO, /Debtors/Mortgagors.

SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM (SSS), Mortgagee, - versus EJF-REM CASE NO. 17,437-19 HELEN C. NAD, married to VICENTE P. NAD, Mortgagor/s.

NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

X---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------X

X---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------X

Upon extra-judicial petition sale under Act 3135, as amended, filed by the above-mentioned mortgagee against SPOUSES RAMIL AZARCON PRADO AND JONALYN BAQUIANO PRADO with postal address at: 1.) UNIT 523 BUILDING 1, VERDON PARC, ECOLAND DRIVE COR. PEACOCK STREET, ECOLAND, BARANGAY MATINA, DAVAO CITY, DAVAO DEL SUR & 2.) LOT NOS. 3 & 28, BLOCK 4, BARANGAY CENTRAL, MATI CITY, DAVAO ORIENTAL and 3.) DON LUIS VILLAGE, POBLACION MATI, DAVAO ORIENTAL, to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness as of July 15, 2019, the Subject Obligation has amounted to PESOS: THREE MILLION EIGHT HUNDRED SEVENTY NINE THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY SIX and 01/100 (Php3,879,456.01), Philippine Currency, including interests and penalties and plus other legal expenses incident of foreclosure and sale; the undersigned Sheriff IV of the Regional Trial Court, Davao City, will sell at public auction on SEPTEMBER 26, 2019 at 10:00 A.M., or soon thereafter, at the main entrance of Hall of Justice, Ecoland, Davao City, to the highest bidder to CASH and/or Manager’s Check and in Philippine Currency, the following real property with all its improvements found thereon particularly described below, to wit: TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. 146-2018001498

Upon extra-judicial petition for foreclosure and sale under Act 3135, as amended, filed by the mortgagee Social Security System against HELEN C. NAD, married to VICENTE P. NAD, with postal address at LOT 21, BLK. 9, #5921 CASOY ST, STO. DOMINGO VILLAGE II, PAMPANGA, DAVAO CITY, to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of May 31, 2019 amounts to Php=2,392,132.68, Philippine Currency, including interest thereon, penalties and other charges and plus other legal expenses incident of foreclosure and sale, the undersigned Sheriff IV of the Regional Trial Court, Davao City, will sell at public auction on SEPTEMBER 26, 2019 at 10:00 A.M., or soon thereafter, at the main entrance of Hall of Justice, Ecoland, Davao City, to the highest bidder to CASH and/or MANAGER’S CHECK and in Philippine Currency, the following real property/ies mentioned and described below together with all its improvements found thereon, to wit: TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-124478 “A parcel of land (Lot 21, Blk. 9, xxx, Psd-11-019040), situated in the Barrio of Pampanga, City of Davao, Island of Mindanao. xxx Containing an area of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY (150) SQUARE METERS, more or less xxx.”

All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above-stated time and date.

UNIT DESCRIPTION UNIT NO. UNIT AREA BALCONY/GARDEN AREA/LEDGE SERVICE AREA TOTAL AREA OWNER ADDRESS

:UNIT B - 2BR INNER UNIT : 523 : 52.63 : 4.37 : 3.60 : 60.60 : SPS. RAMIL AZARCON PRADO AND JONALYN BAQUIANO PRADO : UNIT 523, MARTEL BUILDING, VERDON PARC, ECOLAND DRIVE CORNER PEACOCK ST., ECOLAND SUBD., DAVAO CITY

All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above-stated time and date.

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date, it shall be held on OCTOBER 24, 2019 without further notice.

Prospective buyers are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the title of the herein above-described and encumbrances thereon, if any there be.

Davao City, Philippines, August 19, 2019.

That in the event the public auction should not take place on the said date, it shall be held on October 24, 2019 without further notice.

Prospective buyers are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the title of the above-described real property and encumbrances thereon, if any there be.

Davao City, Philippines, August 19, 2019.

For ATTY. FRANCISCO M. CAMPANER – the OIC Clerk of Court & Ex-Officio Prov’l Sheriff

For ATTY. FRANCISCO M. CAMPANER – the OIC Clerk of Court & Ex-Officio Prov’l Sheriff

(sgd.) JULITO J. ANGGOT Sheriff IV

(sgd.) NICOLAS L. SUMAPIG Sheriff IV

THREE-DAY... FROM3

be one of the hottest �ields of agriculture in Davao City,” she said.

During the boot camp, participants will generate and polish ideas that will bene�it the agriculture sector either of the city or the Philippines,

she said.

“Their ideas will be validated and solidi�ied on Day 2 where the participants will receive mentorship coming from people who are experts in business and technology,” she said.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11th Judicial Region Branch 54, Davao City

IN RE: PETITION FOR ADOPTION OF MINOR CHILD DANIEL ROSARIAL a.k.a ANTONIO SEBASTIAN BASAN, ANTONIO FLORES BASAN, Petitioner,

R-DVO-19-02534-SP

FOR: PETITION FOR ADOPTION OF MINOR CHILD etc.

X------------------------------------------/

ORDER Petitioner filed a verified petition praying that he be allowed to adopt as his own son, DANIEL ROSARIAL also known as ANTONIO SEBASTIAN BASAN, minor, who was born on April 17, 2008 in Digos, Davao del Sur, that the proposed adoptee was living with the Petitioner since the former was eleven (11) months old; In the Case and Home Study Report previously filed by Regional Director Mercedita P. Jabagat/Grace Marie R. Canoy – Social Welfare Assistant dated August 7, 2019, she favorably recommended the adoption of the said child by the petitioners.

WHEREFORE, let the petition be set for hearing on November 18, 2019 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning at which date and time, all persons concerned may appear to show cause, if any, why the prayer in the petition shall not be granted.

The Preliminary Conference for the marking of exhibits is on October 23, 2019 at 2:30 in the afternoon before the Branch Clerk of Court.

Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioner in a newspaper of general circulation in the City and three (3) provinces of Davao, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks.

The Petitioners are further directed to furnish the Solicitor General with a copy of the petition and the latter is directed to appear for the State.

Notify all parties concerned and the Solicitor General through this Order.

SO ORDERED. Davao City, Philippines, August 7, 2019. (sgd.) DANTE A. BAGUIO Presiding Judge

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

Injury forces Djokovic ouster N EW YORK -- (UPDATED) Novak Djokovic's US Open title defense came unstuck on Sunday when a nagging shoulder injury forced the world No. 1 to retire from his fourthround match against Stan Wawrinka, prompting a chorus of boos from the crowd at Flushing Meadows.

Wawrinka was leading, 6-4 7-5 2-1, when Djokovic decided he could not continue, the pair embracing at the side of the court before the Serb walked off with his head down low but his left thumb stuck high in the air.

"The pain was constant for weeks now. Some days higher, some days with less intensity, and obviously taking different stuff to kill the pain instantly," said Djokovic, who has won the US Open three times.

"Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.

"You just know when you know, I guess, when you feel like you're not able to hit the shot anymore."

After dropping the second set, Djokovic immediately called for medical attention and sat courtside without his shirt on while the trainer gave him a massage.

He returned to the court but the 16-times Grand Slam winner was still clearly hampered by the issue and after being broken to

love following a double fault decided he could not go on.

The shoulder injury nearly saw Djokovic retire from his second-round match on Wednesday but the 32-year-old seemed to have recovered by Friday, saying he was almost pain-free after winning in straight sets to reach the last 16.

While frustrated in his bid to inch closer to Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 career Grand Slam titles, Djokovic was con�ident there would be plenty more chances to add to his collection.

"It's a long road ahead hopefully for me," he said.

"I hope I can play for many more years. I'm planning to.

I mean, I don't see an end behind the corner at all.

"Now it's a matter of keeping my body and mind in shape and trying to still peak at these kind of events that are majors and that are the most signi�icant in our sport."

Djokovic was off the pace in a lackluster �irst set against three-times Grand Slam champion Wawrinka but seemed to right the ship in the second when he took a 4-1 lead.

But a determined Wawrinka, with his serve clicking, fought his way back and twice held to love en route to taking the set for a 2-0 lead.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia winces in between points against Stan Wawrinka of Switzerland (not pictured) in the fourth round of the 2019 US Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Reuters

11

Gilas Pilipinas guard Kiefer Ravena goes to the basket against Italy on Saturday.

Is Kiefer singled out?

F

OSHAN, China -- Is FIBA picking on Gilas Pilipinas guard Kiefer Ravena?

The NLEX star who just completed an 18-month suspension after testing positive for banned substances went through two random drug tests on Thursday and Sunday prompting Gilas Pilipinas coach Yeng Guiao to doubt whether the selection process for the procedure is indeed random.

Ravena was already selected to do the drug test on Thursday, August 29, shortly after the Philippines’ �irst practice at the Foshan International Sports and Cultural Center. He had shrugged it off afterward, insisting that he was not surprised to have been randomly picked.

But for Ravena to be selected again just two days

later led Guiao to wonder if the process was not so random after all.

“Parang hindi na random. Hindi random ‘yun.

I think, medyo hindi accurate ‘yung word na random.

Maybe they’re really picking on him,” the coach said.

“Kaka-drug test lang niya, kaka-blood test lang niya, inulit.”

Still, Guiao said the team has nothing to be afraid of, no matter how many times Ravena is selected for drug testing.

“Wala naman tayong tinatago, so OK lang sa atin.

Wala naman tayong kailangang hindi ipaalam sa kanila,” he said.

“Kung gusto nilang tatlong beses isang araw siya dina-drug test, pwede rin ‘yun. Wala namang problema sa atin ‘yun.”

Ravena, for his part, maintained that does not

MOSES BILLACURA

feel in any way targeted.

“I’m not taking it personally,” he insisted.

“It’s part of the tournament, I guess. They told us that anytime within the tournament, you can get called. So it was just in consecutive days that I was a little bit surprised, but my name being there, not at all,” he added.

There is something Ravena takes exception to, however.

“May mga nagrereklamo kasi doon sa iba na sinabi ko daw na peace of mind ko, pero dapat daw peace of mind ng kalaban daw, para daw mapatunayan daw na hindi ako nandadaya, ‘di ba,” he said.

“That’s just a wrong way of thinking about it,” he added. “In the �irst place, I never really tried to take advantage of anything or anyone within the game.”

Rather than his second drug test, Ravena said the focus must be on the Philippines’ game against Serbia on Monday night -- a mustwin affair for Gilas Pilipinas.

They lost to Italy, 108-62, in their tournament opener last Saturday, and another defeat will kill their chances of progressing to the second round.

Ravena, who scored 5 points in their massive loss to the Italians, said he expects the Philippine team to play much better against Serbia, the fourth-ranked team in the world by FIBA. “We can’t get any lower than that,” he said of the 46-point blowout defeat.

“I’m really excited about the way we practiced tonight and the way we’re about to play against Serbia.”

“So no matter what happens, we’re just gonna give it our best.”

CLEAN SLATE

UNITY IN SPORTS? SURE, WHY NOT? Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William “Butch” Ramirez has been calling for unity in sports as we prepare for the hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games this coming November 30 to December 11.

This has been also the position of Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) chairman and House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano and Philippine Olympic Committee

(POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.

However, you cannot deny that there are still ongoing squabbles among leaders in the POC. Just follow the Facebook posts of former PSC chairman Perry Mequi and you’ll know.

For sure our three sports leaders have been bothered but what can we do? There has always been in�ighting in and out of the POC.

I just wish that the sports leaders in Manila will declare a “cease�ire” because the SEA Games is fast approaching.

A lot of beautiful things have already happened these past few months like the building of a new and world-class sports complex in New Clark City where you can �ind a 20,000-seater Athletics Stadium, 2,000-seater Aquatics Center, and a 525-bedroom Athletes’ Village.

Another beautiful thing is that Filipino-American rapper Allan Pineda Lindo, popularly known as apl.de.ap and the Black Eyed Peas are coming to perform during the opening and closing ceremonies of the Games.

I’m reminded of the statement of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Secretary, Atty.Bingbong Medialdea to the national athletes, telling them to give their best shot and win for the honor of

the country.

The stars of the SEA Games are the national athletes and because of that the Executive Secretary has relayed the message of the President that he is 100 percent supportive of them.

Unity in sports? Sure, why not?

National athletes are united for sure.

Our sports leaders in the POC? “Cease�ire” muna kayo.

12 SPORTS

VOL.12 ISSUE 126 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

TEST RUN Track athletes, swimmers sample SEAG venue

SEA GAMES PREPARATION. Athletes test the new Athletics Stadium and Aquatics Center at the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac on Saturday in preparation for the upcoming Southeast Asian Games.

In photo (inset from left) are Capas Mayor Reynaldo Catacutan, Bases Conversion and Development Authority President and CEO Vivencio Dizon, Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association, Inc. (PATAFA) chairman Congressman Rufus Rodriguez; PATAFA President Dr. Philip Ella Juico; Deputy Director General For Athletes Village Arrey Perez; PATAFA Secretary-General Agapito Capistrano. (PNA photos by Jess M. Escaros Jr.)

T

he �inal leg of the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association weekly relay series which began Sunday at the 20,000-seater Athlete Stadium served as the pilot test for the new sports facilities for the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

Some of the sports events are the 10,000-meter run for men and women, 100-meter hurdles, high jump, long jump,

hammer throw, javelin throw, and steeplechase. The event serve as one of the pre-qualifying races for athletes taking part in the SEAG for the Philippines.

Array Perez, deputy director-general of the Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee, said this will serve as a sports rehearsal for the SEA Games and will also test the facilities if they are up to the

standards of the athletes.

BCDA president and CEO Vivencio Dizon said that after the SEA Games, the facilities would be used by Filipino athletes and serve as a venue for concerts and other sports events.

The 1st National Open Swimming Championships, meanwhile, began Saturday at the Aquatic Center and will last until Tuesday.

Meantime, Philippine Swimming Inc. (PSI) president Lani Velasco said not only local but foreign swimmers can use the modern Aquatic Center of the newly-�inished New Clark City sports complex in their preparation for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.

"Because it's a FINA-accredited pool, it can be the training ground for all European and US-based swim-

mers who are preparing for the Tokyo Olympics," Velasco said during the press conference for the Philippine National Open Swimming Championship on Saturday (Aug. 31).

He said the proximity of the Philippines from Japan makes the world-class venue a good place for swimmers who want to gear up for Tokyo Olympiad.

At present, the PSI is holding the �irst National Open Swimming Championships at the NCC’s 2000-seater Aquatics Center.

The NCC sports complex will serve as the main venue of the 30th Southeast Asian Games and the Asean Para Games which the country will host for the fourth time later this year. (With a report from PNA)