Edge Davao Volume 12 Issue 153 | Thursday, October 10, 2019

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DRUG-FREE

VOL.12 ISSUE 153 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

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COMPANIES 979 firms comply with drug-free workplace assessment: CADAC

By ADAM B. MORRELL

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he City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (CADAC) has recorded total of 979 companies which have undergone drug-free workplace assessment training program which started in July this year.

This was bared by CADAC technical adviser Ronald Rivera, who was among the guests during the AFPPNP Press Corps media brie�ing held on Wednesday at the Royal Mandaya Hotel.

"Apart from the 979, we are still anticipating latecomers to avail of the training," Rivera said.

Out of 979 companies, Rivera divulged that a total of 62 �irms were able to conduct random drug testings to their employees.

Rivera said they are urging companies with 10 or more employees to comply with the nec-

essary trainings before December 15 as the speakers will not be available for the holidays. He, however, said the training will resume on January next year.

"Companies which fails to comply this requirement, their business permits will not be renewed," he said.

This program said Rivera is pursuant to city ordinance 050613 commonly known as the the drug free workplace ordinance.

"This is anchored with preventive anti-drug abuse education to help people with

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Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol, through the request of President Duterte and Senator Christopher 'Bong' Go, intervenes to resolve the conflict between Floirendo-owned Tagum Agricultural Development Co. Inc. (Tadeco) and Governor Edwin Jubahib of Davao del Norte stemming from the planned demolition of three biosecurity facilities of Tadeco’s plantation along El Canto road in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte on Wednesday. Photo by Mayette Tudlas/MinDA OC

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 153 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

Water service interruptions in some riverside, Toril areas

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Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 11 (PDEA 11) director Antonio Rivera says during this week's AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel that whatever the so-called ninja cops did will not happen in Davao City because there are strict procedures being followed

by PDEA 11 personnel when conducting an anti-illegal drug operations.

Also in photo is Davao City Anti Drug Abuse Council (CADAC) operations head Ronaldo Rivera. Lean Daval Jr

avao City Water District advises the public of two separate sets of water service interruptions.

First set is on October 10, 2019 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM affecting some areas served by Riverside Water Supply System (WSS), speci�ically, some Tacunan areas (Deca Homes Subd., Purok 1 to 10, Purok 18 Upper Mintal, Sta. Cecilia Homes, Sitio Biatilisan, Tierra Nueva, and Bagong Pag-asa HOA) and some Catalunan Grande areas (Sta. Martha, Sitio Felomina, Sitio Sto. Niño Ilihan, Apo Highlands Subd., Santiago Villas Subd., Alejandra National HOA, San Miguel HOA, Sitio San Pedro, and South Point Homes).

DCWD needs to temporarily shut off water supply to give way to the installation of a Pressure Regulating Valve along Old Davao-Bukidnon Road in Brgy. Ula. The project is among DCWD’s non-reve-

nue water reduction strategies.

For Purok 10 and Purok 18 Upper Mintal, simultaneous to said installation work, DCWD will also tap a newly installed pipeline to an existing pipeline for the mainline improvement at Purok 10. Once completed, the project will allow for the accommodation of additional service connections.

Second set is on October 11, 2019 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM affecting some areas served by Toril WSS, particularly, some Toril areas (Purok Pagkaka-isa, Concordo Compound, Toril Executive Village, Manggahan, and Kalye Pogi in Descuatan Street) and some Lower Lubogan areas (Purok 6 ICC, Purok 9 Sto. Niño, Purok 11, Purok 13 GTH, and Purok 15 Saha).

Water supply has to be temporarily shut off in the affected areas to give way to the tapping and looping of a newly installed pipeline

he Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is launching a new campaign in October to push for "surgical" amendments to the 1987 Constitution.

Coined as Constitutional Reform (CORE), this new approach aims to introduce reforms in order to spur countryside development instead of overhauling the constitution, said Interior Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya.

"Sa tingin po namin, ganitong klaseng approach, mga surgical amendments ay mas madaling maipasa sa Senado kaysa sa revision ng Saligang Batas," he said.

Among their proposed amendments is increasing the internal revenue allotment (IRA) of local government units (LGUs), which

will include tax collections of other government agencies aside from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

"Gusto po natin na ilagay ito sa constitution para sigurado tayo na 'yong mga rehiyon ay magkakaroon ng mas maraming pondo," said Malaya, also DILG spokesperson.

The DILG also wants to give authority to Regional Development Council (RDC) instead of being a mere recommendatory body.

"Ang gusto po sana namin maging Regional Development Authority na siya para magkaroon siya ng pondo at magkaroon ng authority na mag-implement ng proyekto sa rehiyon," he said, adding it will address a gap in the gover-

PRRD, Sen. Go intervene in TADECO-DavNor row T

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DILG switches focus to constitutional reforms

By MAYA M. PADILLO resident Rodrigo Duterte and Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go through Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol have intervened and resolved the con�lict between Tagum Agricultural Development Company Inc (TADECO) and Davao del Norte governor Edwin Jubahib.

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Piñol personally relayed the request of Duterte and Go to settle the problem amicably to Jubahib, who planned to demolish the three biosecurity facilities of TADECO plantation along El Canto Road in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte yes-

terday.

In the Facebook account, TADECO posted that Gov. Jubahib planned to demolish the three bio-security facilities of TADECO Inc. claiming that it is a public domain and that should be opened and made

500 Marawi families to get housing units

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total of 500 families from the most affected area here will receive permanent shelter units from the United Nations Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat).

Groundbreaking for the P500-million project funded by the Japanese government took place Monday.

Bernhard Barth, UN-Habitat’s human settlements of�icer of its regional of�ice for Asia and the Paci�ic, said the housing project is their “contribution to achieving durable solutions for Marawi’s displaced population.”

He expressed thanks to the National Housing Authority (NHA) for providing the land for the project.

“We are grateful to NHA for granting this patch of land, where in a few months we will see a new community breathe with life,” Barth

said.

Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM), meantime, is helping out in identifying the bene�iciaries.

Roderick Ibañez, head of the NHA’s Marawi Project Management Of�ice, said the NHA acquired and developed 39 hectares of land in the city. Ten hectares is intended for the UN-Habitat’s permanent housing development.

The NHA, he said, is targetting 1,500 units to be completed in March 2020.

Each shelter unit, which will stand on a 90-square-meter lot, will be a one-story structure made of concrete with a total �loor area of 46 square meters.

It will include a toilet and a kitchen, as well as an electrical and plumbing system.

Housing Secretary Eduardo D. del Rosario, who

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accessible to the public. It is also to conform the directive coming from the President with regards to his directive of public road reclaiming.

The demolition was reportedly being pushed by the provincial government as part of supposed road clearing operations following the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) 60-day order to local government units (LGUs) to reclaim public roads.

Other posts and videos presented accounts of the situation: “We cry for justice for dismantling our steel gates by the DavNor gov team.”

“THERE GOES THE DIS-

MANTLING OF THE OPEN GATE Why dismantle the gate?

Gates are established by BuCor for security reasons. THIS area is a farm access road, owned by BuCor, in JVA with TADECO.” “Tanglaw Gate Backdoor has always been open, like any other gates in the plantation, it has tire dip and footbath --all for Fusarium control. But, the Governor wants it open.

The question is: how do you open an open gate? Well, this is the way the DDN provincial government does it... SLAP IT WITH A GOVERNMENT BACKHOE!” “Walay kasing-kasing lang ang pwede mobuhat ani.

PRRD, P9

Personnel from the City Environment and Natural Resources Office’s (Cenro’s) Anti-Smoke Belching Unit apprehend a driver of a public utility jeepney after violating the Anti-Smoke Belching ordinance of Davao

DILG, P9

City during an operation along R. Magsaysay Avenue in Davao City on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr

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NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

Palace says next PNP chief must be honest, competent

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resident Rodrigo Duterte wants the next Philippine National Police (PNP) chief to be honest, competent, and free from irregularities amid reports of cops recycling illegal drugs, Malacañang said on Tuesday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte is selecting from four candidates but will keep it to himself for the meantime.

“He (Duterte) will decide on the basis of competence and honesty,” Panelo said in a Palace brie�ing.

“If you are honest, di ibig sabihin wala kang kaso (that means you have no cases) relative to any irregularity. Pag competent ka, di ibig sabihin magaling ka sa trabaho mo (If you’re competent, that means you’re good at your job),” he added.

Asked if Duterte would consider appointing someone he does not personally

know, Panelo said it would depend on the President.

“Sometimes siguro (perhaps) he appoints on the basis of reputation preceding the appointee,” Panelo said.

Duterte earlier said he would be more careful in selecting the next PNP to avoid “stumbling” again.

Panelo said he did not know if Duterte was referring to PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde, who is accused of involvement in the illegal drug trade. but said he would ask the President to clarify what he meant.

“Mahirap mag-interpret sa sinabi niya dahil hindi… hindi… Hindi, kasi hindi masyadong klaro kung kanino niya nire-refer o whatever (It’s hard to interpret what he said.

It wasn’t clear who he was referring to),” Panelo said.

Albayalde earlier said since an investigation is

PALACE, P10

Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11) spokesperson Police Major Jason Baria discusses during this week’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel the concept of the recently launched“Brother’s

Keeper” campaign which aims at cleansing the ranks from erring cops and police scalawags particularly those engaged in illegal activities.

Lean Daval Jr

Stakeholders optimistic on Davao’s MICE Con bid

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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takeholders in Davao’s tourism sector are hopeful the city will bag the Philippine MICE (Meetings Incentives Conventions Events) Conference 2020 or MICE Con hosting.

The MICE Con is the biggest gathering of Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) professionals. It is a highly anticipated educational event for travel and tourism and MICE practitioners because of its range of topics, quality speakers and themed events.

Ken Kapulong, co-chair of Davao MICE Execom and general manager of Seda Abreeza, expressed optimism saying Davao City has a good chance of getting the bid. He is also

expecting a very tight competition with Iloilo City and Clark that are also bidding for MICe Con 2020.

“But now we are really trying our best to make our presentation very attractive. But I think our best gauge is the preparedness and the capacity of the city,” Kapulong said in an interview.

In an interview, City Tourism Operations Of�icer Generose Tecson said they’re working with the Davao MICE Board with regards to the presentations.

“We have Iloilo and Clark who are also going to bid for MICE Con 2020 but we are very hopeful that we’d be able to do this kasi compared to the other areas sa atin ay maganda ang partnership with the private sector. It’s really a private sector and city government partnership,” Tecson said.

The city government has submitted the MICE bid books to the Philippine Tourism Promotions Board (PTPB) of the Department of Tourism (DOT). The result will be announced on October 23 this year.

“Sa MICE books doon nakalagay ano yung MICE facilities in Davao City.

How are we going to do the activities for the MICE, sino yung tutulong in order to

put together the convention here in Davao which lahat nagawa na namin at yung pag- present na lang ang inaayos naming right now,” Tecson explained.

Kapulong said currently their preparations are focus on the overall capacity and capability of the city to host big events like MICE Con. “First is the convention venue and next the accommodations. For now based on the requirements that we got ang nakalagay the accredited hotels should provide special rates for MICE Con attendees,” he said.

About 500 attendees composed of stakeholders in travel industry concerning convention and tourism are expected in MICE

Con 2020.

“Normally we call them buyers, the ones who will participate aside from the tourism of�icers and other organizations meron din po international component ito sila yung titingin kung ano nga ba ang mga ginagawa here in Davao para masabing convention place tayo,” Tecson added.

Kapulong also said the MICE Con will be a good venue to launch Davao City as a convention hub in the country since Davao City is positioning as the convention capital of the Philippines and the ASEAN region.

“We are optimistic because we’ve gone to other conventions in other parts of the country and we can say that we are very much

implementation of the closure order against Salugpongan schools by providing security to the personnel of the Department of Education and barangay officials. Lean Daval Jr

STAKEHOLDERS, P9

Jet for PRRD, top gov't officials ‘a necessity’

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Captain Jerry Lamosao, spokesperson of Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division, assures during the AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday that the troops will help in the

at par if not some of our activities are better than how they are presented in other places,” Tecson said.

Tecson said if ever the MICE Con will be held here, they are proposing to hold it in September 2020. She also cited facilities such as SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang Premier, Dusit Thani and some of other hotels can also host smaller activities as potential venues for the MICE Con. “There are some areas na puwede nating i-suggest na kung papano puwede nilang i-improve pa ang kanilang mga facilities like the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP) can be improved –these are potential conventions facilities while

alacañang defended the contract signed by the Philippines to buy a luxury jet from the US for President Rodrigo Duterte and senior government of�icials to use in “crisis situations.”

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo denied that it was meant to serve comfort, saying it was necessary for times of crisis.

“Hindi naman comfort iyon. Komportable ba iyon? (It’s not for comfort.

Is it comfortable?)” Panelo said in a Palace brie�ing on Tuesday.

“In times of crisis, eh 'di kailangan mo iyon. Kaya nga crisis eh (If there are times of crisis then you need it. That’s why it’s a crisis) then there is necessity. Kung necessity, papano naman magwawaldas ka? (If it’s a necessity, how could you not spend for it?),” he added.

Panelo pointed out that Duterte, known as a frugal man, will not allow the government to spend for anything “unless necessary.”

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation recently announced on its website that the Philippine Air Force has signed a contract to buy a Gulfstream G280 aircraft for “command and control” duties.

Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) Secretary-General Renato Reyes criticized the aircraft purchase questioning how the government could spend for comfort when commuters suffer from transport woes.

Meanwhile, Panelo expressed hope that the aircraft purchase could be the start of “fairer deals” between the Philippines and the US. On Monday, Panelo said

JET, P9

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

IRST INTEGRATED ABOITIZ CSR PROJECT IN MINDANAO. (From left) Ones Almario, Apo Agua General Manager; Lyndon Cayog, AFAMULCO Chairman; Maribeth L. Marasigan, Aboitiz Foundation Chief Operating Officer; and Fermin Edillon, Davao Light Community Relations Manager at the signing of a memorandum of agreement granting AFAMULCO members training on correct cacao farming methodologies, financing, and market linkage

VOL.12 ISSUE 153 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

group. This is the Aboitiz Group’s first “Integrated CSR” initiative in Mindanao, calling for a collective approach to achieving a more sustainable and inclusive impact. Contributed photo

Davao Lumad cacao G farmers get a boost C

GSK recalls popular heartburn drug Zantac globally after cancer scare

acao farmer members of the Bagobo Klata Indigenous People (IP) group are poised to soon participate in the cacao value chain of the Davao Region following the establishment of a cacao agri-business project that will boost their productivity.

The Aboitiz Group, through its social development arm Aboitiz Foundation, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Apo Farmers Multi-purpose Cooperative (AFAMULCO) in Barangay Wines, Baguio District, Davao City to educate the farmers on correct cacao farming methodologies and provide linkage to market and �inancing.

AFAMULCO farmer-members are mainly cacao and fruit farmers who earn by selling their fresh harvest to the local market.

If successful, the project

will enable them to earn more and reap additional production value by learning how to ferment, dry, and process cacao beans into tablea (chocolate tablets) and other products.

“Ang among mga damgo natubag na gyud. Dako kaayo ko ug pasalamat niini nga proyekto. Dugay na namo nga mga pangandoy isip usa ka mag-uuma, nga dili na ‘mi mag baligya ug wet beans, gusto namo mag process ug mga tsokolate para ang among mga produkto dili na moadto sa mga trader. Kami na jud ang magdisplay sa among mga

tsokolate. Kini nga mga proyekto dili ni panglantaw para lang gyud sa among pamilya, kundi matabangan pud namo ang among kumunidad kay daghan pud dinhi sa among kumunidad nga walay trabaho, (Our dreams have come true. (We are very thankful for this project. It has been our dream as farmers that we will no longer just sell wet cacao beans to traders. We want to process our own chocolates and to display our own products.

This project will not only help our families but also the community, as many of us in our community have no work or are underemployed.)” said AFAMULCO Chairman Lyndon Cayog.

This MOA was signed

by Cayog and Maribeth L. Marasigan, Aboitiz Foundation First Vice President and Chief Operating Of�icer.

Also present were AFAMULCO board members and

representatives of Barangay Wines, the National Commission for Indigenous People, and Aboitiz business units Davao Light and Apo Agua.

The Aboitiz Foundation implements the Integrated CSR (iCSR) strategy, which transitions the Aboitiz Group’s CSR toward a collective approach to achieve a more sustainable and inclusive impact. This highlights the cooperation of various BUs in an area or region and operationalizes Aboitiz regional councils in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

“Our transition to the iCSR strategy will enable us to maximize resources, expertise, and technologies towards a common agenda, and promote a meaningful collaboration among various Aboitiz business units in various regions,” Marasigan said.

here to the highest standards of meat quality and handling,” the �lag carrier said.

An organized disposal system for its food wastes are in place and that these are not being used as swill feed, in line with a memorandum order released by the Bureau of Animal Industry which prohibits such practice.

“After each �light, food waste is collected by PAL’s solid waste service-provider for proper handling,” the airline said.

“Food wastes are subjected to fermentation and the fermented waste is used as feeds for worm culture. This is followed by a process of creating compost which is used as plant fertilizers,” it added.

As of September, over 20,000 hogs in various parts of the country have been culled to control the ASF virus from spreading, according to the Department of Agriculture.

On Monday, a meat vendor was nabbed in Quezon City for allegedly selling ASF-infected pork.

The Department of

DAVAO, P9

PAL assures passengers its in-flight meals are ASF-free

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mid the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in some parts of the country, Philippine Airlines (PAL) on Tuesday assured passengers that in-�light meals safety should be the least concern of its customers.

“PAL’s catering service providers purchase meat from professional meat suppliers who ad-

PAL, P10

laxoSmithKline on Tuesday said it was recalling the popular heartburn medicine Zantac in all markets as a "precaution", days after the US Food and Drug Administration found "unacceptable" levels of probable cancer-causing impurity in the drug.

Zantac, also sold generically as ranitidine, is the latest drug in which cancer-causing impurities have been found. Regulators have been recalling some blood pressure and heart failure medicines since last year.

Britain's medicines watchdog said GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) was recalling four prescription-only Zantac medicines: a syrup, an injection and tablets of 150 and 300 milligram (mg) dosages.

Over-the-counter 75 mg dosage Zantac products are produced by a different company and are not affected by the recall, it added.

"GSK informed the MHRA of our decision to suspend the release, distribution and supply of all dose forms of Zantac products," a company spokesman con�irmed to Reuters.

"GSK is continuing with investigations into the potential source of the NDMA," he said, adding that the investigations include continued engagement with its suppliers and with external laboratories to conduct tests on �inished product batches of Zantac.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said healthcare professionals were told on Monday to

"stop supplying the products immediately, quarantine all remaining stock and return it to their supplier".

"We are advising that patients should not to stop taking their medication, and do not need to see their doctor until their next routine appointment but should seek their doctor's advice if they have any concerns," the MHRA said.

GLOBAL STOPPAGE US and European health regulators said last month they were reviewing the safety of ranitidine, after online pharmacy Valisure �lagged the impurities.

The FDA said Valisure's higher-temperature testing method generated very high levels of NDMA from the ranitidine drugs.

NDMA had previously been found in some blood pressure medicines from a class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor blockers, or ARBs. After checking the overthe-counter drugs using a low-heat method of testing, the FDA said it found much lower levels of NDMA than was discovered with a higher temperature test employed by Valisure.

The US regulator has asked ranitidine makers to conduct their own testing to assess levels of the impurity and to send samples of their products for testing by the agency.

Swiss drugmaker Novartis halted global distribution of its ranitidine drugs last month.

Last week, Walmart Inc joined pharmacy chains CVS Health Corp, Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc and Rite Aid Corp in sus-

GSK, P9

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 153 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

ECONOMY 5

No more BSP rate cuts for 2019 but possibly for RRR

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hilippine monetary of�icials are done with policy rate easing this 2019 but may possibly slash banks’ reserve requirement ratio (RRR) if in�lation decelerates further.

In an interview Tuesday with journalists after his speech at The Asset forum in Taguig City, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno said the 75 basis points cut in the central bank’s key rates will be “all” for this year.

However, Diokno said they will consider incoming economic data on in�lation and gross domestic product (GDP) vis-à-vis the RRR. Last September, rate of price increases decelerated to 0.9 percent from 1.7 percent in the previous month due to slower rate of the heavily-weighted food and non-alcoholic beverages index, as well as the transport index, due to drop in

oil prices.

In the �irst nine months this year, in�lation averaged at 2.8 percent, which was at the lower half of the government’s 2 percent to 4-percent target band until 2021.

Except for the uptick to 3.2 percent last May from 3 percent last April, in�lation has been decelerating after it peaked at 6.7 percent in September and October last year.

This allowed the BSP’s policy-making Monetary Board (MB) to reduce key rates following the 175 basis points increase last year to help reign in the supply-side affected in�lation rate.

Diokno said he hopes to reduce banks’ RRR to single-digit by the end of his term in 2023.

“We are looking at the data. Kung pwede pa bakit hindi? (If we can slash it (the RRR) more, why not?),” he added. (PNA)

BOC says it will cooperate in PACC probe into its personnel

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ureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero on Tuesday said that the bureau will cooperate in an investigation by the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) into some Customs personnel.

Guerrero also welcomed House Bill 379, �iled by the House of Representatives Committee on Trade and Industry, which investigates the alleged smuggling and proliferation of substandard steel products, supposedly through collusion between between big steelmakers and Customs, of�icials.

The investigation is also led by the lower chamber, initiated by Agusan Del Norte 1st District Representative Lemuel Fortun.

Guerrero urged the public to provide information regarding these irregular activities allegedly committed by unscrupulous importers or brokers "in connivance with some BOC employees."

“For its part, the BOC

shall continue with its efforts to weed out mis�its in the agency and has already �iled cases against erring BOC employees with the Of�ice of the Ombudsman (OMB),” the bureau said in a statement.

Show cause orders have been issued to personnel suspected to have committed such illegal activities, it added.

“Also, the assistance of industry experts was sought by the Bureau to ascertain the auditing of industry imports coming into the country,” it said.

Post Clearance Audit Group (PCAG) head Assistant Commissioner Vincent Philip Maronilla said that four to �ive big steel companies are under post clearance audit in light of the issue.

“The PCAG head also explained that errant importers may be held liable to pay penalties and charges ranging from 125%-600% of the revenue loss arising from negligent or fraudulent declarations,” BOC said.

The Philippine peso rebounded against the US dollar on Tuesday, as the market anticipated trade talks between the world's biggest economies later this week.

The Philippine peso gained 9 centavos to close at P51.77:$1 versus Monday's P51.86:$1.

"USD/PhP today was initially trading with some optimism on the upcoming trade negotiations between the US and China as we generally saw stronger Asian currencies against the USD," JR Ladaban, senior trader at the Philippine Bank of Communications (PBCOM), said in an email interview.

Representatives from the United States and Chi-

na are scheduled to meet and discuss possible trade agreements starting Thursday.

"Tariff concessions from the United States and China last month fanned hopes of a dissolution to a prolonged trade war, but market participants have grown nervous about the outcome of high-level negotiations," Reuters said in areport.

According to Ladaban, the market will be closely monitoring developments on the trade talks, which will likely affect trading in the coming days.

"The market will likely monitor related developments for the rest of the week and take its cue from there," he said.

Peso rebounds ahead of US-China trade talks

High-rise buildings tower over the central business district of Davao City. The tourism sector in Davao City is optimistic it will bag the Philippine MICE (meetings incentives conventions or events) Conference 2020 hosting. Lean Daval Jr

Pork demand down as hog raisers move to contain ASF

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ork demand has gone down by “more or less” 30 percent since the outbreak of African swine fever in the country, an umbrella group of hog growers said Wednesday, as he assured the public of enough supply during the Christmas holidays.

The reduction is felt most in Luzon, where there are con�irmed cases

of the disease and “very minimal” in the Visayas, Mindanao and Mimaropa

region, said Chester Tan, president of the National Federation of Hog Farmers.

Filipinos are pork lovers, with annual consumption at 14 to 15 kilos per capita, Tan told ANC’s Early Edition.

Some 20,000 pigs have been culled to avoid the spread of African swine fever, representing less than 1 percent of the total

12.7 million population, he said.

Of the total culled pigs, roughly a third were “affected” by the disease while the rest were killed since they were located within the 1 kilometer area of the con�irmed cases, he said.

Tan said his group was adopting a color-coding scheme to help stop the spread of the disease.

said.

Department of Finance (DOF) of�icials have been pushing for tax incentives reforms after noting that incentives that have been given to companies in the past have become disadvantageous to the government.

The proposed reform, dubbed as the Corporate Income Tax and Incentives Rationalization Act (CITIRA) bill, aims to correct the current system that incentivizes more than onethirds of the economy since covered companies are considered as part of priority industries.

Under this measure, incentives will only be given to industries that deserve it since it will be performance-based, targeted, time-bound and transparent.

Tax holidays are also proposed to be given to de-

serving companies at maximum of up to �ive years for those located in the National Capital Region (NCR); up to seven years for those located in Rizal, Laguna, Cavite and Bulacan; and up to 10 years for those located in other parts of the country.

DOF, in a statement earlier, said that in 2017 alone, the government extended PHP441 billion worth of incentives to 3,150 companies. This amount accounts for about 2.8 percent of domestic output.

CITIRA also aims to reduce corporate income tax (CIT) from 30 percent to 20 percent gradually for a period of 10 years.

Asked by forum delegates if authorities can shorten the period of CIT reduction, Dominguez said they cannot fast track this because it will result in

bloating of the budget de�icit.

“I agree that it’s a long period but we have a choice here. I mean governance and management is always (about) making choice. If we drop the rates too quickly, we are going to balloon our de�icit and ballooning our de�icit is going to probably mean a credit downgrade,” he added.

He said a credit downgrade will be detrimental to interest rates, and will have an overall impact on the economy.

“The ideal situation is to keep our de�icit in check to around 3.2 percent (of gross domestic product) and we will do it as fast as we can -- reducing taxes if we can, offset it against other bene�its, other exemptions, other tax exemptions that we are giving,” he added. (PNA)

clined to indicate �igures.

“You have to remember that we don’t have a big relationship with Russia and I think that the trip of the President opened the avenues for increased contact with Russians like tourism investments here. They’re very interested in looking at our infrastructure projects, particularly in power,” he said.

Dominguez said pos-

sible investments in the power sector include those for power distribution and generation, as well as for renewable energy (RE).

“In fact, we spoke to one of their energy companies.

I forget the name but they have extensive wind power.

Russia is a big country so there’s a lot of opportunity,” he added.

Possible power sector investments are a plus for

the Philippines especially after the President, in his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July, pushed for the fast-tracking of RE resources in a bid to lessen the country’s dependence on traditional sources like coal.

The Department of Energy (DOE) targets to increase the share of RE on total power source to about

Dominguez says CITIRA won't lessen investments from China

F

inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has discounted �light of investments from China visà-vis the proposed reform on �iscal incentives.

In an interview after his speech at The Asset forum in Taguig City Tuesday, the Finance chief said foreign investors do not consider incentives as the primary factor in their decision to locate to a certain country.

On top of the list is stability of policy while other factors include fairness of the legal system, safety of personnel, improvements in infrastructure, lower cost, and incentives.

“This is substantiated by a lot of studies that have been made by World Bank (and) ADB (Asian Development Bank) that incentives play a role but they are not the only role that will determine the investments,” he

Energy, tourism sectors to reap benefits from PRRD's Russia trip

T

he Philippines power and tourism sectors are among those that will bene�it from the trip of President Rodrigo R. Duterte in Russia last October 1 to 5.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III told journalists Tuesday that potential investments from the recent foreign trip of the Chief Executive “is quite signi�icant”, although he de-

ENERGY, P10

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 153 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

EDITORIAL Keeping affairs internal China’s hardline stance against intervention of its internal affairs by foreign states is very much admirable and should be emulated by Filipinos.

China came back again with a scathing editorial in an English newspaper China Daily on Tuesday entitled: “NBA’s injudicious words compound injury”.

It read in part: “The furor (Houston Rockets general manager Daryl) Morey’s tweet has sparked in China is an expression of Chinese people’s anger at such displays of thoughtless prejudice. As the NBA directly bene�its from the rule of law, robust growth and stability of China, Silver’s about face, which will de�initely give a shot to the arms of the rioters in Hong Kong, shows his organization is willing to be another handy tool for US interference in the special administrative region ... Silver’s knee-jerk response to the political pressure at home shows that despite his claims to the opposite, he doesn’t realize how complex and emotional the issue is, and how careful the league needs to be.”

China’s policy against foreign intervention of its internal affairs is crystal clear and foreign states must not dare try. It is supported by its state-run media and millions of its people who understand the issue better than anyone

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

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outside of the country.

This is hardly the same in the case of the Philippines where political division and self-interest would allow for foreign parties to intervene. In fact, some opposition politicians and anti-Duterte groups practically solicit that intervention by foreign states and entities. At one point, you have a militant lawmaker who has been deploring foreign intervention as an activist in Senator Risa Hontiveros who suddenly glorify and �ind heroic a resolution passed by an American Senator banning Philippine lawmakers and of�icials responsible for the incarceration of Senator Leila De Lima. Leaving the affairs of the republic to foreign states as if they personally know and understand the real issues of domestic affairs is an act tantamount to treason. You allow it once, you allow it forever.

The thing is, whichever political side one is in, the stand must be consistent when it comes to internal affairs.

Perhaps China had the clout before any bargaining table as to keep a de�iant stand against foreign intervention unlike the Philippines but it all starts with the conviction that what happens within, must stay and be decided within.

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

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

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 153 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

VANTAGE POINTS

7

JOHN CARLO B. TRIA MY TWO CENTS’

OVER THE “SPEED BUMPS” AND INTO SIX PERCENT GROWTH In an article in the Philippine Star last October 7, ING Bank Manila senior economist Nicholas Mapa said the recent rate cuts implemented by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the low in�lation environment (.9%) and acceleration of government spending in the second half of 2019 would push the Philippines economy the six percent full-year growth rate.

This roughly equals last years growth and is within the average growth of the last ten years, beating expectations of a tough slowdown similar to those experienced by the European Union, Japan and other industrialized countries that have reduced their growth rate projections due to the US China trade war.

Earlier this year, many economists predicted a slower growth below 6%, similar to Indonesia’s 5.5%.

Later in the year, ratings agencies such as Fitch adjusted their forecast upward.

Even local banks point to a 6% growth so long as in�lation goes down. And of course, it did, due mainly to a reduction in the retail price of the most purchased and consuned item: rice.

This, according to the ING economist, will result in the country getting over the “speed bumps” that slowed down growth in the �irst semester of the year, most noteworthy of which was the delay in the congressional approval of the 2019 national budget and the Trump China Trade war.

A six percent growth rate will also mean hovering within asia’s top performing economies along with China, India and Vietnam.

Likewise headlining last week was the announce-

ment of new possible trade with the large and well performing Russian economy, i to which increased exports of bananas and new customers for �ishery products like Tuna and new markets for tourists.

This comes on top of increased exports of bananas to Japan and Korea, and new exports of durian and young coconuts to China.

China and Russia combine for a large market.

For reference, Russia’s per capita income is about 10,000 dollars per year and its 144 million people can make for great demand for our products.

The attention the country is getting serves our products well.

What else needs to be done? What can we do as businesspeople?

For starters, government and the private sector needs to join hands to pro-

mote Philippine products abroad in new markets like Russia and other cities in China that can import our tropical fruits and other products.

Trade missions and similar activities need to be launched so that awareness of the Philippines and its products goes up in many target countries. Local chambers can take the initiative to organize along with foreign partners with the help of the Department of Trade and industry.

Market awareness and business matching activities are the best means to attract investments. Successful Businessmen and enterprises tend to attract others, lending credence to the old adage that success attracts success.

Apart from this, product awareness activities such as fruit tasting and food shows can create a desire for our

food products in many markets hungry for new tastes and textures. The popularity of food shows and their feature of Filipino food recipes push awareness of Pinoy food products.

These and other activities need to be launched to take advantage of the increased awareness about the Philippines and its products, particularly those we can produce well and can sell well in these countries.

Likewise, it is time to think of expanding given the lower interest rates to be offered by many banks in response to the BSP rate cut. Take a look at credit options with your banks and credit cooperatives to expand your business.

The time to promote your products or expand your business is now. Ride the continuous growth.

For reactions: facebook. com/johntriapage

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

THE SAMALS OF DAVAO GULF If we take a hard look at the administrative territories of Davao region, two of the places are named after indigenous tribes, namely Talaingod, a town north of Davao City, and Samal, an island-city.

Both are part of the province of Davao del Norte.

The islanders of Samal (also known as Sama), unlike the other Islamized tribe with the same name that inhabits some parts of the Sulu archipelago, caught the attention of early foreign visitors who were captivated by their features.

Arnold Henry Savage Landor (1865-1924), an English anthropologist who visited Davao in the early part of the 20th century, had exciting comments about the tribe.

In his book, The Gems of the East Sixteen Thousand Miles of Research Travel Among Wild and Tame Tribes of Enchanting Islands (1904), they reminded him of the foreigners he met in his southeast Asian travels.

Landor described the Samals as “very handsome people, of Indonesian origin— not of Malay extraction like

the other Samals; and their features are so regular that they might be taken for Spaniards or southern Italians.”

This concurs with the observations of French anthropologist and naturalist Joseph Montano who suggested the Samals, along with the Bagobos, Giangas, Atis, Tagakaolos, Manobos, and Mandayas “are pure Indonesians whose origin cannot be explained otherwise than by supposing them to be the indigenes of all the islands included under the term Indonesia.”

Dr. Montano, who did scienti�ic survey in Davao region, explained that the Samals are a mix of Polynesian, Malay-Bisaya, and Negrito strain and trace their Bisaya element to “the increase of transverse diameter of the cranium” and the Negrito element to “the waviness of the hair, the height and prominence of the forehead, and the darker color of the skin,” adding their anatomical features have something to do with their bigger stature, muscular physiognomy, and distinctive occipital lobe that

is dissimilar to that of the Malays.

On his visit to the island, Landor observed up close the physiognomic features of the Samals, describing them as having curly hair, with fairsized moustache, very large eyes, long eyelashes, and drooping eyelids at the outer bends which he compared to Caucasians. He wrote: “Their lips are thin and �irm, and their ears have detached lobes quite unlike most other tribes I had examined. The forehead was wide, but the back portion of the cranium lacked width.

The skull was also abnormally �lattened above. The cheekbones were very high, and the lower jawbone much enlarged but tapering into a small chin. The nose was well formed, the nostrils only slightly expanded, and the bridge of the nose quite raised. The upper lip projected over the lower.

“The skin of the Samals is of a darkish brown color.

They �ile their teeth horizontally, leaving a concave outward surface, and they blacken them. These people

seem to have an extraordinary development of chestsome men having breasts almost like women-arms, and legs. Their feet were coarse, with high instep and abnormally developed toes, and their hands suggested a brutal nature, the square topped �ingers stumpy, with heavy knuckles and short, pointed thumbs, making their hands, indeed, most repulsive to look at. But the wrists and ankles were comparatively small and well formed. Their pulse-beat was extraordinarily feeble and slow.”

In his notes, Landor also described the Samals as builders of good boats made of nipa leaves, bamboo strips, and sturdy hulls, complete with outriggers, square sail, and split-bamboo deck that serves as cooking platform.

As a separate tribe, the Sama (or Samals) were animists who believed in anito (spirits), balyan (tribal priest), and panawatawag (prayers). They also believed in bird sounds, the import of tides in relation to planting crops, and other traditions with similarities in other in-

digenous peoples.

Music is an important facet of Sama culture. They have songs of thanksgiving, the estiharo, and the pangayo, performed when the man askes for the hand of a woman in wedding. For narratives and sagas rendered in songs, they have the tuganuwan. Their musical arsenal includes instruments such as the agong and gumba for dancing; and koglong, kubing, patawali and kulintang for special occasions.

Samal dances are also allied with sounds. When the tribal priest dances, his accessories include kongkong, a small gong on the belt; kuyab, a hand fan; lampayon, a red kerchief; pawtina, a breast plate; and balyog, a necklace made of tiny seeds. He hops the sagumbata (dance of happiness), tagonggo (accompanied by a set of agong and a gimba), and lindog sayawan (warding off bad spirits).

When doing the pagbana ritual outside the house, he uses the bagaybay, a chicken with black or white feathers, and other added features strictly not aboriginal in character.

8

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VOL.12 ISSUE 153 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

ENVIRONMENT

WHERE HAVE ALL OUR FORESTS GONE?

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

(First of Two Parts)

T

he year was 1960.

Primitivo Besenan, from Cebu, had decided to migrate to Kialeg, then a far-�lung barangay of Bansalan, Davao del Sur. At the time of his arrival, food was not a problem; rice was in abundant supply, vegetables and fruits were aplenty and the environment was most ideal.

Rainfall was constant and the town had a thick forest cover.

Raising livestock, like pigs, was a pro�itable venture. People never spent more than a few hundred pesos because “feeds” could be had for the taking in the nearby verdant forest cover. “When I started my own livestock project,” Besenan recalled, “I had no problem whatsoever. I simply went into the forest and harvested what I needed from it.”

Dionisio Geronda, also a farmer like Besenan, agreed. Born just �ive ki-

lometers away from the town proper, he admitted: “We didn’t have any problem as to what we would eat in those times."

In his own farm, Geronda never used pesticide to get rid of insects and pests attacking his crops. “We didn’t use pesticides then but our harvests produced plenty,” he said. In fact, he also had no need for fertilizers. He used livestock manure to give the much-needed nutrients to his still fertile lot.

A decade later, the scenario has completely changed. Fewer animals were raised. More farmers had to rely on pesticides and commercial fertilizers.

Because of this, income went down compared with that of the 1960s.

This is now a common reality in Magsaysay, as it has now become a town and separated from Bansalan. A lot of farmers are now living in harsher

conditions as drought becomes a way of life during the summer months.

The usual culprit: deforestation. The wanton felling of forest cover has resulted in making what used to be forest land into barren, rock-covered and unproductive farm lots. It is happening not only in this town but in other parts of the country as well.

“Most of the “Philippines’) once rich forest are gone,” said a study, Sustainable Forest Management, done by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). “’Forest recovery, through natural and arti�icial means, never coped with the destruction rate.”

“Where have all our forests gone?” asked Jethro P. Adang, the new director of the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) Foundation, Inc. American President Theodore Roosevelt lamented that a person without a child fac-

es a hopeless future; in the same manner, “a country without trees is almost as helpless.”

The Philippine Statistics Authority de�ines forest as a “land with an area of more than half hectare and tree crown cover of more than 10%.” Those young natural stands and all plantations established for forestry purposes are included under forest.

Every year, the Philippines is losing approximately 47,000 hectares of forest cover each year, according to the data provided by the Forest Management Bureau (FMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

In 2003, the country had about 7.2 million hectares of forest cover. But in 2010, the �igure went down by 4.6% or about 6.8 million hectares. About 4.5 million hectares (67.18%) were classi�ied as open

forest and 1.9 million hectares (28.28%) as closed forest; the remaining 310,593 hectares (4.54%) were categorized under mangroves.

Open forest refers to all lands with tree cover canopy density between 10% and 40% while closed forest denotes those areas with tree canopy coverage of 60% to 100%. Mangroves are those group of trees and shrubs that live in coastal intertidal zone.

In terms of land area, Palawan and Isabela have the biggest forest cover with 693,931 hectares and 378,637 hectares, respectively. Also included in the top ten provinces with biggest forest cover are Cagayan (342,994 ha), Agusan del Sur (342,736 ha), Surigao del Sur (226,805 ha), Quezon (226,193 ha), Apayao (223,121 ha), Aurora (218,588 ha), Bukidnon (202,322 ha), and Nueva Vizcaya (193,708 ha).

The island province of Guimaras, with only 776 ha, has the least forest cover.

Also in the bottom list are Siquijor (903 ha), Batanes (1,819 ha), Metro Manila (2,120 ha), Cavite (2,540 ha), Batangas (4,256 ha), Camiguin (5,718 ha), La Union (5,880 ha), Masbate (6,778 ha), and Pampanga (7,465 ha).

When Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan “rediscovered” the Philippines in 1521, forests blanketed 95% of the country. When the Ormoc City, Leyte tragedy happened in 1991 – which left 8,000 people dead – timber cover was only 18%.

From 1934 to 1988, the FMB says the country lost around 10 million hectares of forest cover. That’s equivalent to 227 million basketball courts.

Logging – whether le-

gal or illegal – is one of the primary culprits of the fast disappearance of the country’s forest cover.

“Logging is most ecologically destructive in the mountains,” wrote multi-awarded science journalist Alan Robles in an article circulated by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ). “It is next to impossible to replant trees on rocky mountainsides once their thin skin of topsoil has been washed away.”

The tragedy that happened in the cities of Iligan and Cagayan de Oro a few years back was a proof of the havoc caused by excessive mountain logging.

Floods and landslides buried more than 1,000 people and a thousand more missing.

Cutting and processing of the logs cut from the forest constitute a big industry. But it creates an environmental hazard in areas where it is done. “The destructive of logging stems from its unsustainable nature,” Robles explained.

“It is an extractive industry that destroys forest resources at a much faster pace than they can be replaced by nature’s regenerative capacity.”

In his article, Robles further wrote: “Even reforestation (which most loggers don’t bother to do after they have mowed down their concessions) doesn’t restore the ecological balance and diversity because the process of logging itself destroys so much. Loggers bulldoze roads by cutting a swath through the jungles.

And when the trees are cut, they are dragged across the fragile undergrowth, destroying saplings and other vegetation.”

Singaporean author

WHERE HAVE ALL, P10

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VOL.12 ISSUE 153 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

EDGEDAVAO

STYLE

LEE CELEBRATES 130TH ANNIVERSARY: REIGNITES ITS GROCERY HERITAGE

THIS year, Lee celebrates the 130th year of the brand’s spirit of never stop moving - turning imagination to reality by crafting well structured, fashionable yet versatile classic pieces.

To make it an occasion to remember, Lee brings the fans a year’s worth of special drops and promotions. The anniversary celebration brings back its iconic cowboy mascot Buddy Lee, collaborates with trendsetting fashion brands, including Readymade, Neighborhood & N.Hoolywood, etc at popup stores with collectibles and exclusive anniversary merchandise, excites our consumers with endless surprises.

You would not want to miss this opportunity for photos and coming close to these Buddy Lees. The 130th anniversary pop-up store tour will kick off in Manila, Philippines and make its way through China, Japan, Thailand and the Hong Kong to make it a remarkable one.

REFRESHING THE GROCERY LEGACY You probably not aware that the H.D Lee Mercantile company was a sourced grocery back in 1889. As a wholesale distributor from around the world, the H.D. Lee Mercantile Company was later transformed to a master of denim wear. The pop-up store concept for the 130th anniversary reminds fans of Lee’s roots and pays tribute to the legacy. The concept of the pop-up store was built to allow visitors to immerse themselves into the past and feel the vibes of Lee as an innovative company that moves with time and style.

To celebrate this significant milestone of Lee, upon any purchase, customers will receive a well-crafted gift which replicated from actual items sold in Lee grocery shops. They are specially made for the anniversary and

are not for sale. These limited edition products include mugs, foldable chairs, tin bottles and tote bags all stored and displayed in Lee’s grocery storage.

BUDDY LEE X SEVEN THRILLING COLLABORATIONS Aside from the special anniversary merchandise, Lee proudly announces its exhibition of Buddy Lee that will be collaborating with seven of some of the hottest fashion labels today: READYMADE, NEIGHBORHOOD, N.HOOLYWOOD, MADNESS, GrowthRing & Supply, WIND AND SEA, and FDMTL. Each label tailor designed outfits for Buddy Lee by applying their own killer signature brand style.

The first Buddy Lee dressed in a Lee overall was created in 1920 and displayed as an advertising mascot at the window of the Dayton Company Department store on Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Buddy Lee quickly caught the public’s attention and became a hugely successful collector’s item that was hard to collect during the 1920s-60s. Bringing back Buddy Lee through this collaboration with seven different fashion brands at once demonstrates again Lee’s enthusiastic spirit of never stops evolving with style and dares for new challenges.

Every crossover brings a strong element of style which boldly combines its personal touch to the classic Buddy Lee mascot. From vintage to military, cowboy look to streetwear, Lee is beyond excited to launch this showcase and took the chance to sit down with each of the designers to discuss their concept for this upcoming collaboration.

Each Buddy Lee will be displayed in their own special window cabinet for fans to get the closest view of each designer’s work of art.

The Lee 130th anniversary pop-up store and exhibition will be held from

October 1, 2019 to October 13, 2019 at SM Makati, Level 1 & 2. Make sure to not miss the chance to witness many of the special first times Lee is putting on.

To wrap up the event, a lineup of Lee’s newest Fall/Winter 2019 collection featuring iconic designs and patterns will be available on display.

LEE – OVER 130 YEARS OF DENIM CRAFTSMANSHIP SINCE 1889 Lee is one of the world’s most iconic signatures of quality, innovation and denim craftsmanship. Following the establishment of the H.D. Lee Mercantile Company by Henry David Lee in Kansas, U.S., in 1889, Lee starts on its journey to becoming a legendary denim brand. Over the years, Lee has made history with its many product innovations such as the world’s first-ever zip

fly jeans – the 101Z in 1926, the iconic Hair-on- hide leather label and the Lazy S back pocket stitching. From the launch of the 1st Lee bib overalls to the 13oz 101 cowboy jeans, Lee has demonstrated an undying passion for innovation, and has transformed itself from a practical and durable work-wear maker to a contemporary and trend setting fashion giant.

EDGED

A2 INdulge!

EVENT

FIDA HOLDS 6TH GRAD SHOW

THE Fashion Institute of Design and Arts (FIDA) held its sixth graduation fashion show at The Atrium of SM Lanang Premier at 5pm on Sunday, September 29, 2019.

The show is entitled, “GAYAK” which means “to dress, or to decorate” in Tagalog refers to the passion of the artist to deliver the finest pieces one can muster.

The fashion show featured the works of this year’s fifteen graduates of the Fashion Design course offered at FIDA Davao. The collections are inspired by Philippine folklore with which the student-graduates weave their personal stories to form their debut offering.

FIDA aims to be the best provider of fashion education in the Philippines. It now has two campuses: the first is in the heart of Davao City, the economic and educational center for Mindanao; and the second is in the Capitol district of Cebu City, one of the country’s leading hubs for design.

FIDA is committed to mold each of our students into well-rounded fashion designers grounded in the basics of design, fabric and illustration; skilled in the globally-accepted technical models of sewing, draping and patternmaking; and entrenched in the evolving concepts of corporate merchandising, trending and fashion entrepreneurship.

FIDA provides each student complete materials and equipment required to learn the trade. PR

UP AND ABOUT

GLOBE MAKES WAVES AT SIARGAO CLOUD 9 S

IF you’ve ever wanted to experience the sport of surfing, Siargao is the place to go, and this October, the surfing capital of the Philippines is holding the 25th run of Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup. As a World Surf League (WSL) official event, surfers from all over the world are coming together to show their skills from October 4-9, 2019.

This year, Globe, through its micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) arm Globe myBusiness, is working with the Siargao International Surfing Organizing Committee composed of the office of Rep. Francisco “Bingo” Matugas II, 1st District, Surigao del Norte; Surigao del Norte Provincial Government headed

by Gov. Francisco “Lalo” Matugas; and General Luna local government unit led

by Mayor Cecilia “Yayang” Rusillon, in an effort to push sustainable tourism and highlight Siargao as one of the best surfing destinations in the world.

The competition is especially important because surfing is now part of the 2020 Olympics. “The event will give our local surfers much-needed exposure and will help them earn points to qualify for the

quadrennial event. Surfing is a sport in which our locals have excelled in. With the proper training and funding, our surfers can help us clinch an Olympic medal,” said Rep. Matugas.

He added: “Considering that this year is the 25th anniversary of the Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup, we would like to make the event more grand and memorable. We recognize that we cannot do it alone. Globe’s valuable support will surely ensure the competition’s success.”

Ernest Cu, Globe President and CEO, on the other hand, sees Siargao as having a lot of potential to become one of the major tourist destinations in South East Asia, thus, the decision to help the growth of Siargao through digitalization and sustainability efforts.

Globe entered into a strategic partnership with the Department of Tourism recently for the promotion and digital transformation of the Philippine Tourism industry with Siargao as a showcase.

“We came in with a very long-term view for Siargao. We started with bringing connectivity to General Luna just in time to support this major surfing competition

and we hope that the world stage will see this. Connectivity starts the transformation in many communities. For tourism, our guests from other countries and even local tourists can now instantly share their experience via social media. We know that people love to document their travels around the island and talk positively about their experience through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms,” he said.

At the same time, Globe set up an Ecobooth at Cloud 9 that serves as a hub for environmental awareness conversation and sharing of best practices on how to protect and preserve the environment, particularly marine biodiversity. Anyone can visit the Ecobooth to exchange their plastic bags and plastic bottles with an eco-bag. They can also get exciting freebies like water tumbler and metal straw if they avail of GoSakto promos. Those

who signed up as 5 Siargao Beach C Globe Eco-Kit. Thousands of to every year to expe According to the D in the island of Sia increased in the p Siargao has bee in the World for 2 Traveler for its pri

EDAVAO

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VOL.12 ISSUE 153 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

JENNYLYN MERCADO WILL PLAY BEAUTY ON ADAPTATION OF ‘DESCENDANTS OF THE SUN’

AFTER months of speculation, it is now official: Ultimate Star Jennylyn Mercado is Dr. Maxine dela Cruz a.k.a.

Beauty on GMA Network’s highlyanticipated remake of the hit Korean drama series ‘Descendants of the Sun’.

Since the announcement of the Philippine version, Jennylyn has been the top choice of Kapuso fans for the coveted role. The award-winning actress couldn’t help but share her excitement to reprise the immensely popular character of Beauty.

“I am super happy to portray Dr. Maxine De La Cruz of Descendants of The Sun The Philippine Adaptation. When I heard they started taping already and preparing for the soap, ako din na-curious kung sino nga ang napili para sa role. When I learned that it was me, I was overwhelmed with gratitude for GMA’s trust and also pressured since I know how big this project is. I promise I would do everything to give justice to the role. I won’t let you all down. Pangako,” she said.

Dr. Maxine is a skilled cardiothoracic surgeon. While often noticed

for her pretty face, she is headstrong, principled, and most of all, willing to do everything in her power, even put herself at risk, for her patients.

Jennylyn will be working for the first time with Kapuso Primetime King

Dingdong Dantes who is reporting for duty as alpha team leader Captain Lucas Manalo or ‘Big Boss’. With Rocco Nacino as Diego Ramos or ‘Wolf’ and Jasmine Curtis Smith as Moira Defensor.

Joining them is the powerhouse cast composed of the Soldiers Team: Lucho Ayala, Jon Lucas, Paul Salas, Prince Clemente, Ricardo Cepeda, and Antonio Aquitania.

And the Doctors and Nurses Team: Andre Paras, Chariz Solomon, Nicole Donesa, Jenzel Angeles, Reese Tuazon, and Renz Fernandez.

Also starring Bobby Andrews, Neil Ryan Sese, Ian Ignacio, Rich Asuncion, Marina Benipayo, Hailey Mendes, and Roi Vinzon.

Esteemed director Dominic Zapata is at the helm of this much-awaited project.

Last August, GMA’s Entertainment Group inked a partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to rightfully represent the country’s military forces for this very important flagship project of the Network.

JAMES REID, NANCY OF MOMOLAND TEAM UP FOR A TELESERYE ON ABS-CBN

SURFING CUP From L-R: Mynt President and CEO Anthony Thomas, Globe Chief Commercial Officer Albert de Larrazabal, Siargao Tourism Operators Association President Ian Sermonia, Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu, Surigao del Norte 1st District Rep. Francisco “Bingo” Matugas II, Surigao del Norte Governor Francisco “Lalo” Matugas, and Globe SVP for Globe Business Peter Maquera.

volunteers for the Oct Clean Up also received a

ourists flock to Siargao erience the surf and sand.

DOT, tourism industries argao have significantly past five years. en named the Best Island 2019 by Condé Nast istine waters, white sandy

beaches, mangrove forests and authentic island vibe. Siargao, however, became famous first for its unbelievable waves and was already dubbed as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines and the 5th Best Surfing Spot in the world even before being acknowledged by Condé Nast Traveler.

For the past 24 years, the island has hosted the Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup, a tour sanctioned by the World Surf League – the governing body for professional surfers. Last year, the event attracted 128 competitors from 20 countries, all battling for a spot on the Championship Tour. The event was broadcasted in over 40 countries and WSL’s passionate fan base tuned in across various platforms to watch the event. A total of more than 8.5 Million people were reached in both local and global press coverage.

The impact of the event on local tourism was also significant. Majority of the competitors brought a partner, parent or friend. It was estimated that the local economy gained approximately US$242,400 from the event.

For more about Globe Telecom, visit www.globe.com.ph.

ABS-CBN brings together two of the most sought-after stars today as Kapamilya matinee idol James Reid and lead vocalist of Momoland and international star Nancy Jewel Mcdonie team up for the first time in a teleserye, which will air soon on the Kapamilya network.

The announcement happened during Momoland’s contract signing with ABSCBN on Friday (October 4).

The upcoming series titled “The Soulmate Project” is under the production of Dreamscape Entertainment and Proj 8.

This is the first time the Momoland member will dabble into acting in a TV series and is excited to star in a Filipino teleserye.

“I’m very excited, and also I’m very nervous. It’s my first time to come to the Philippines to do a project.

I’ve never been in a big drama before, so I guess I can say it’s my first time,” said the Korean star.

James, on the other hand, is thankful for the opportunity to work with Nancy in his teleserye comeback.

“I have to be honest, I’m a little star struck of course. I’m super excited to work with her. It’s my first time to work with an international artist. It will be the first of its kind in the Philippines,” the Kapamilya heartthrob shared.

The show will start rolling in 2020 and will be shot in the Philippines and South Korea. It is under the direction of the box-office director Antoinette Jadaone, who also directed hit teleserye “On The Wings of Love.”

Nancy rose to fame as one of the members of the

famous Korean all-girl group Momoland, which popularized the dance crazes “Bboom Bboom” and “Bbam” that took the world by storm. On the other hand, James was last

seen as judge in “Search for the Idol Philippines” and is currently busy with his own record label Careless Manila, which produced his hit album “Palm Dreams” released in 2017.

A4 INdulge!

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A4 INdulge!

A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO DAVAO EDGE

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

UP AND FURNITURE A1 ABOUTa silly method but for EJ and

EDGEDAVAO

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DRUG-FREE...

FROM 1 addiction get treatment and become functional again and will help establishments to have more productive manpower," he explained.

The city government's drug-free environs campaign includes state universities and colleges, GOCCs, regional agencies and private establishments.

Davao City Local Ordi-

PRRD... FROM2

Naningkamot ang TADECO ug ang mga trabahante nga ma sustain ang sagingan unya ingon ani lang ka dali inyong pag-guba? Abli ang dalan pero inyong giguba. Tama na! Husto na! Tungod sa ilahang pagtanggal ug pag-guba sa steel gates, giputlan pud nila ug kuryente ang Barangay Tanglaw. Naputol ang linya nila sa kuryente nga hangtod karon wala pa nabalik.”

As of 11 a.m Pinol on his Facebook account posted: “problem has been resolved.

Provincial equipment sent to demolish the barricades had been withdrawn. Gov. Edwin Jubahib agreed to diffuse the situation by heeding the request of President Rodrigo Duterte and Senator Bong Go to settle the problem amicably.

Also local court issued a TRO but even before the TRO was issued the Governor already

WATER...

FROM 2 to DCWD’s existing pipeline along Vergara St., Descuatan St., Vergen Delos Remedios St., and the road from corner Davao-Cotabato Road to San Miguel Proper in Toril. Once completed, the project will increase water pressure in the affected areas.

On behalf of the DCWD management, General Manager Edwin V. Regalado asks for the understanding and cooperation of would-be affected customers and advises them to store enough water prior to the sched-

DILG...

FROM 2 nance structure.

Malaya, however, said they are still not giving up its push to change the country’s form of government to federalism, which is President Rodrigo Duterte's major campaign prom-

500...

FROM 2 also chairs the TFBM, said

the housing project is in line with government efforts to fast-tracking Marawi’s rehabilitation, which remains on track for completion by December 2021.

He expressed con�idence in meeting the deadline in rebuilding Marawi in coordination with the 56 member agencies of TFBM. The bene�iciaries of the shelter units to be built in the NHA’s Pamayanding sa Ranaw Residences are among those who can no longer rebuild their homes along the six-meter easement along Agus River, as well as the reclaimed area

PALACE...

FROM 2 ongoing, the public should “move on” from the issue.

However, Panelo said Palace could not simply move on since the results of the investigation have yet to be released.

“As far as Malacañang is concerned, there is an ongoing investigation as instructed by the Presi-

nance No. 0506-13 mandates all establishments to craft a Drug-Free workplace policy and program, to include PDEA supervised random drug testing and the implementation of a 3-year plan for Drug prevention and control in their respective workplaces as part of the requirements for the renewal of business permits effective

relented.”

Former First District Representative of Davao del Norte Antonio “Tony Boy” Floirendo issued a statement saying politics was behind the demolition.

“Pulitika lamang at wala ng iba ang aking nakikitang dahilan upang gawin ito ng gobernador na inyong hinalal. Ang Laban ng TADECO at laban ng mga taong masasagasaan ng problemang ginagawa nila ay laban ko din,” he said.

Floirendo also called for unity and to protect the company that made the country one of the largest producers of banana and the industry that his father, the late Don Antonio Floreindo Sr., has started.

“Kaisa po ninyo ako sa laban na ito at dahil hindi po nila gusto ng peace and unity di po ako papayag na dungisan nila ang pangalan ng aking pam-

2020.

Earlier, the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (CADAC) created a Technical Working Group to conduct a series of Training of Trainers for the Assessment Team of all establishments in Davao City employing 10 or more workers to prepare them in the renewal of business permits in 2020. ilya at ang pangalang pinagpaguran ng aking ama na si Don Antonio Floirendo Sr. na walang hangarin kung hindi mag bigay ng kaginhawaan, kabuhayan at palaguin ang kalupaang walang pakinabang ng panahong kanyang pinagyaman ang mga ito. Ang no.

1 na Pride ng Mindanao ay ang industriya ng saging na syang pinagyaman ng akong ama. Huwag nating hayaan na sirain ng iisang tao lamang ang industriya ng saging na ating itinayo at inalagaan ng iilang dekada. Ito ay paglapastangan di lamang sa aking ama, kundi sa lahat ng mga taong naging bahagi ng kompanyang Tadeco at maging ng buong Davao del Norte. Umpisa pa lang ito at ang inumpisahan ng inyong gobernador ay maaring maging dahilan ng katapusan ng industriya ng saging sa Davao del Norte,” Floirendo said.

ules. Water supply may be restored earlier if works go smoothly or later if unforeseen problems arise.

DCWD conducts �lushing after service works are completed. However, once water is restored, customers are advised to open all faucets and allow water to run for at least two minutes.

Do not drink tap water immediately but if needed, boil water beforehand as safety precaution.

The general public may visit DCWD website (www.

davao-water.gov.ph) and of�icial Facebook page (www. facebook.com/davaowater) for the latest water service updates. They may also call the Central Information Unit / Call Center through the 24-hour hotline 235DCWD (3293) and press “4” on their phone dial for the latest daily water updates or contact 0927-7988966, 0925-5113293, and 09084410653 for any matters pertaining to DCWD services. (Katrina Belen M. Roble)

ise.

"We are giving our senators and the President himself, we are giving him all the options available para piliiin niya kung ano 'yong naaangkop sa panahon kasi we only have 3

years in the President's term," he said.

Duterte has pitched the federal form of government as an antidote to the country’s problems by spreading more wealth and political power to the regions.

in front of Lake Lanao.

Skilled internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been initially identi�ied and will be employed in the construction of the permanent shelters through a cash-forwork modality under the livelihood component of the UN-Habitat project.

Construction is expected to be �inished in November 2019.

The Rebuilding Marawi Project has adopted a community-based approach that places the community at the center of their recovery process.

“At the heart of this Project is our partner commu-

nities who actively engage with other communities and stakeholders in the rehabilitation work. We believe that people have the inherent capabilities to cope with extreme dif�iculties once their potential are harnessed. The Project is designed that way to support the rebuilding of their lives and their physical assets,” said Barth.

Del Rosario said that in the housing site will also rise a public market, a plaza, mosque, school building, and a sports dome worth P200 million in a 5,000sq.m. lot. (Richel V. Umel / MindaNews)

dent,” Panelo said.

“In the �irst place, you can’t stop the public from talking about it,” he added.

Meanwhile, Panelo said the irregularities hounding the PNP should not affect the President’s campaign against illegal drugs.

“The fact is the Presi-

dent has dismantled many drug apparatus in this country and jailed many police scalawags involved in the drug operation and arrested many people involved in pushing the illegal drugs and many have surrendered, many have been rehabilitated,” Panelo said. (PNA)

9

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

is in need of

Accounting Clerks Qualifications: • BS Accountancy / Accounting Technology Graduate or any business related courses • Male/Female • Can work with minimum supervision • With or without experience

Account Executives Qualifications: • BS Marketing Graduate or any related courses • Male/Female • With pleasing personality • With or without experience and willing to be trained

Social Media Lead Qualifications: • Candidate must be creative and enjoys social media • Experience in creating social media post for news, business and organization • Good command of English • Experience in graphic design is a plus Send your application letter and resume to: Ella P. Tingzon HR/Admin Supervisor Edge Davao Review Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., E. Quirino Avenue, Davao City or email at edgedavao@gmail.com or ella_tingzon@yahoo.com

STAKEHOLDERS... FROM3 we are awaiting for the completion of others na gumagawa ng convention facilities,” she said.

Davao City boasts of a MICE program, which has been in place since 2014 and driven by the private sector. Tecson said its just a matter of re-inventing the incentives of the city’s MICE program in order to get ready for next year.

However, with the MICE Con or not, Davao City is going to push through with the “Lets Meet Davao” program of the MICE Board.

“We are going to strengthen our incentives that we are offering to those organizers who will hold their conventions here in Davao. With regards to MICE, there should be an incentive for various sectors of the tourism industry na kumuha na ng business permits lalo na dito sa ating accommodation sector,” she said.

Tecson also urged owners of vacation-home rentals or self-styled accommodations to register and get license from the

tourism of�ice.

Organized by the Philippine Department of Tourism (PDOT) through its marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, MICECON serves as a platform by which the MICE stakeholders learn from global experts new trends, approaches, methods and insights as well as draw inspiration and energy from their message to reach and ful�ill new heights for the Philippine MICE and Tourism Industry.

the US may feel “a little insecure” about its relationship with its only military ally due to deepening ties between the Philippines and Russia.

Duterte’s second visit to Russia last week secured PHP620 million worth of

business deals.

Panelo said partnerships with other countries, such as Russia, would likely prompt the US to give more importance to the Philippines including “fair deals”. “(US) should be more

open into giving us fair deals. Like the complaint of the President, he wanted to buy arms from them and choppers, but they refused, because they placed condition, colatillas,” Panelo said in an interview over a cable television program. (PNA)

Recognizing agricultural productivity as a potent solution to address poverty amid the potential growth of Mindanao’s cacao industry, the Aboitiz Mindanao

Regional Council aims to intensify cacao production toward livelihood and job generation in Davao. The cacao agri-business project is the �irst integrated

CSR (iCSR) project of the Aboitiz Mindanao Regional Council and will be implemented by the collective efforts of 10 Aboitiz BUs in Mindanao.

ers of the drugs to halt distribution as they gather more information. Last month, regulators in Hong Kong pulled four products, while in Ireland 13 prod-

ucts containing ranitidine were recalled.

The impurity was believed to have been introduced by changes in the manufacturing process.

JET... FROM3

DAVAO... FROM4

GSK...

FROM 4 pending the sale of overthe-counter heartburn drugs containing ranitidine.

Canada's health authorities have asked mak-

10 EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 153 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

WHERE HAVE ALL... FROM8 Ooi Jin Bee pointed out kaingineros (swidden or slash-and-burn farmers) as the primary culprit of the fast disappearance of the country’s forest cover.

When he computed the rate of annual deforestation of both virgin and secondary growth forest due to kaingin from 1980 to 1985, he found out that kaingin accounted for at least 50% of the forest destruction in the country.

But there are several other causes: mining, forest �ires, volcanic eruptions, geothermal explorations, dam construction and operations, fuelwood collection, and land development projects (construction of subdivision, industrial estates, and commercial sites).

The country’s surging population has likewise contributed to the problem. At least a fourth of the total population lives in the upland areas, where most trees are located. Most of them practiced slashand-burning agriculture (kaingin farming). “These migrant farmers attack virgin forest lands to cultivate the rich soil, which they quickly deplete,” Adang observed Watson. “Then, they move on, looking for more. One day, there is no more.”

More often than not, deforestation is often equated with calamities like landslides and �lash �loods. In its editorial, Philippine Daily Inquirer deplored: “In just one decade,

2000 to 2010, 27 �loods and 17 landslides occurred, affecting about 1.6 million people each year and destroying crops and infrastructure worth tens of million pesos a year. In all these �loods and landslides, deforestation was a major factor. Bald mountains, depleted forests and barren watersheds caused rainwater to �low down and �lood the plains.”

But there’s more to deforestation than just �lash �loods and landslides. Deforestation also results to declining crop yields, loss of vital soil nutrients, and degradation of surrounding ecosystems.

“Trees serve as barriers to soil erosion and ensure that vital nutrients are naturally returned to the soil,” explains Jonathan Nash in a brie�ing paper. “In many tropical areas, valuable soil erodes and crop yields can quickly decline when trees are cleared to make way for agriculture or livestock.

Eroded soil often ends up in streams and rivers, leading to siltation, contamination, and stagnation. These processes, in turn, disrupt aquatic ecosystems, often killing �ish and other aquatic organisms.”

In their collaborative book, Soil Erosion: Quiet Crisis in the World Economy, authors Lester R. Brown and Edward C. Wolf contend: “The loss of topsoil affects the ability to grow food in two ways.

It reduces the inherent productivity of land, both

through the loss of nutrients and degradation of the physical structure. It also increases the costs of food production.”

If forests are continued to be cut, sources of future medicine would be in jeopardy. “As forests are destroyed, degraded, or fragmented, many of the valuable species of plants and animals – any number of which contain precious genetic resources that could lead to new pharmaceuticals or provide important traditional medicine – are threatened or lost forever,” Nash claims.

Deforestation also means spreading of tropical diseases and reduced quantities of safe water.

The spread of some potentially fatal tropical diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and cholera often follows paths of deforestation. As some forest animal species such as birds and bats disappear, insect populations swell, facilitating the transmission of disease.

Watersheds that are deforested lose their ability to provide adequate amounts of water consistently. “If the forest perishes, so will the life of people,” said Diomedes Demit, one of the farmers from Bukidnon who joined the so-called ‘Fast for the Forests’ in Manila some decades ago. “The trees are our source of life. Without trees, there will be no water. If there is no water, there will be no life.” (To be included)

PALACE...

FROM 4 Health previously clari�ied that the ASF virus is not transferable to humans.

“We want to allay the fears of the public by saying that, as long as pork

ENERGY...

FROM 5 35 percent by 2030.

This, as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 pro-

PSC... FROM11

appreciation for the PSC’s support assuring them that he will give his all to perform at his best.

Ramirez, a long-time basketball coach, reminded Obiena to play without pressure and not forget to

is bought from reliable sources and it is cooked thoroughly, pork is safe to eat,” Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said.

Many hog raisers in the country, however, are

concern as the disease threatens to weaken the swine industry.

The DA, on the other hand, vowed to provide �inancial assistance to small backyard raisers.

vides for the harmonization of policies for development of technologies that would

bene�it wind, hydropower, solar, ocean, and biomass energy. (PNA)

have fun. “When you like what you are doing and you are happy, you perform better.” explained Ramirez who is also Team Philippines’ Chef de Mission.

Presently only one other national athlete enjoys

the privilege of having her own team, Olympic Silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz, a 2020 Olympic shoo-in.

Ramirez informed that they will also sit down with Yulo to discuss building his own team.

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11

Escandor Cup Collegiate Sponsors League opens Sunday

By ADAM B. MORRELL

B

race for the biggest men’s collegiate basketball tournament in Davao City this year as Escandor Cup stages the Collegiate Sponsors League (CSL) which tips off on Sunday, October 13, at the Davao City Recreation Center.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Davao executive program of�icer and league chairman Ronel Leuterio said the hoopfest was intentionally organized to provide avenue for the collegiate teams in Davao Region as the organization believe that the road for aspiring hoopsters towards their dreams begins in pocket tournaments like this.

He also announced that the top tertiary basketball teams are up for the crown that comes with an outright slot to the Philippine Collegiate Champions League (PCCL) Mindanao Finals slated most likely in

Heated collegiate action such as this one between Ateneo de Davao University and Holy Cross of Davao College last year will be back in the 2019 Escandor

January in Davao City.

“The champion in this league will represent Davao Region in the Mindanao Finals enroute the National Finals that will be hosted here in Davao City in February next year,” Leuterio said.

The PCCL Regional Finals defending champion Holy Cross of Davao College will lead the bracket A composed of Agro Industrial Foundation College of the Philippines, Davao Merchant Marine Academy, University of Mindanao main, Mindanao Aeronautical Technical School, San Pedro College, Cor Jesu College of Digos City,

and St. John Paul College of Davao.

Newly-crowned Davao Association of Catholic Schools collegiate men’s basketball champion Philippine Women’s College, on the other hand, will lead bracket B that includes Jose Maria College, University of Mindanao Peñaplata, Brokenshire College, Rizal Memorial College, Holy Cross of Sasa, Ateneo de Davao University and Asian Institute of Science and Technology.

Leuterio said the league will run until December.

The executive of�icer also announces that the opening games as well as the championship will be streamed live on Collegiate Sponsors League Escandor Cup Facebook page.

The hoopfest is sponsored by The Royal Mandaya Hotel, Davies Paints and Mandarin SPC Branch.

Cup Collegiate Sponsors League which gets going on Sunday. (Escandor Cup photo)

PSC tries new template for Olympic gold bid

S

till high over already having two Olympic 2020 quali�iers in EJ Obiena of athletics and Carlos Yulo of gymnastics, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) announced they are increasing their support, tailor-�itted to the requirements of the said athletes.

PSC also assured support to those in the elite list of possible Tokyo Olympians in the country’s bid to �inally bring home its �irst Olympic gold.

Obiena, accompanied by his mother Jeanette and father-coach Emerson, a former athlete himself, visited PSC Chairman William Ramirez on Tuesday, and thanked the PSC Chief for the support that the agency has extended to him.

Ramirez congratulated Obiena for qualifying to the

Olympics and assured him that the agency will back him on his Tokyo 2020 campaign.

“If this works, then we will adapt this in the next cycles,” said Ramirez adding jokingly that it can be called the “Obiena template”.

The pole vault champ will now have his own team composed of a physiotherapist, sports nutritionist and sports psychologist.

The PSC will also provide him support to cover his housing and nutrition requirements.

He is being trained by celebrated coach Petrov Vitaly, while the elder Obiena assists during his overseas training and ensures continuity while they are in Manila.

Obiena expressed his

PSC, P10

PSC Chairman William Ramirez enjoys a light moment with EJ Obiena during the Olympic qualifier's courtesy visit last Tuesday at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila.

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