Edge Davao Volume 12 Issue 261 | Friday, March 6, 2020

MR. AND MRS. B

FOOD THAT EXCITES THE TRAVELLING SOUL INDULGE A1

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

DIRECTIVE VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

f

@EdgeDavao

www.edgedavao.net

Brgy captains given 75 days to clear road obstructions

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio accompanies then Hugpong Ng Pagbabago (HNP) 3rd Congressional District candidate Isidro Ungab in filing his Certificate of Candidacy (COC) at the Commission on Elections 11 (Comelec-11) regional office inside Magsaysay Park in Davao City.

Sara Duterte-Carpio's HNP regional political party on Wednesday said the removal of Rep. Ungab from the leadership of the House Committee on Appropriations was an insult and affront to President Rodrigo Duterte.

Lean Daval Jr

edgedavao@gmail.com

T

P 15.00 • 16 PAGES

he City Transport and Traf�ic Management Of�ice (CTTMO) is giving barangay captains 75 days to clear streets and roads of obstructions and illegal constructed structures.

CTTMO head Dionisio Abude Jr told Edge Davao that as of March 5 clearing operation will focus in the areas of Lapu-Lapu, Agdao; Ponciano Bangoy, Toril (Don Lorenzo Homes and Lubogan), and Sandawa Ecoland.

“Daghan-daghan na nga mga barangay ang gina-clearing ug nagapadayon mi ug clearing operations ug ginatagaan lang

ang matag barangay captain hangtod 75 days paggawas ani Memorandum Circular,” Abude said.

Memorandum Circular No. 2020-027 of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) dated February 2020 mandated the continued implementation of President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive during his 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA) to clear roads of illegal obstruc-

DIRECTIVE, P9

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

President Rodrigo Duterte fits the cap on newly-promoted Brigadier General George Blanco during the donning of ranks ceremony at the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday evening. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Sid thanks HNP for support

By MAYA M. PADILLO avao City 3rd Congressional District Representative Isidro Ungab expressed thanks for the support given to him by the Hugpong Ng Pagbabago (HNP).

D

And it looks like the Davao-based political alliance has no plans of withdrawing from the brewing word war against House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano.

On Wednesday night, HNP, which was formed

by Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, released a

statement anew against Cayetano’s comments against the party while reiterating its support to the embattled Dabawenyo lawmaker.

“I truly appreciate the support given by HNP led by our Mayor Sara Duterte. This just re-af�irms that my decision and

HNP: Ungab ouster an 'affront' to PRRD

T

he Sara Duterte-led Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP) on Wednesday said the removal of Davao City Rep. Isidro Ungab from the leadership of the House Committee on Appropriations was an affront to President Rodrigo Duterte, whom HNP claimed handpicked Ungab for the job.

In in response to House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano’s statement that Ungab’s removal is not an attack to HNP, HNP said President Duterte never ordered the removal of Ungab.

“He was speci�ically chosen by President Duterte as chairman of the committee and the last time we checked, the President never ordered the removal of Ungab. If anything, the removal was an insult and affront to the President — and not the party," HNP

said in a statement.

HNP maintained it does not want to spar with Cayetano.

“We want to sit and watch his show," it added.

HNP also clari�ied that that it never claimed that the removal of Ungab was an affront to the the party.

"Nowhere in our �irst statement did we say that the removal of Cong. Isidro Ungab as chairperson of the Committee on Appropriations was an attack on HNP. The party emphasized our support for the credibility and honor of our member.

We are loyal to those who are loyal to the President," it said.

In his own statement, Ungab con�irmed there were insertions in the 2020 national budget made during the proceedings of the bicameral conference

HNP, P9

actions as chair of the House of the appropriation committee are correct and do well for the Filipinos,” said Ungab in a text message.

Ungab said he held his position as chair of the appropriations committee knowing fully well to whom he is accountable.

“I remain faithful to the Filipinos and to this administration’s great plans and vision for our nation and to President Rodrigo Duterte, whom I have also served as local legislator back when he

was the mayor of Davao City,” he said.

Cayetano is reportedly �irm on his decision to replace Ungab as chairperson of the powerful appropriations panel, saying working with him has become “untenable.”

He also stressed that Ungab’s replacement was not an affront to the HNP. In a statement, HNP defended that nowhere in its �irst statement did the party say that the removal of Ungab was an attack on HNP saying it was just an expression of support

and acknowledgment of the credibility and honor of its member.

The party emphasized that it is loyal to those who are loyal to the President like Ungab who was speci�ically chosen

by President Duterte as chairman of the committee.

“The last time we checked, the President never ordered the removal of Ungab. If anything, the removal was an insult and affront to the President — and not the party,” the convenors of HNP

said.

The statement also read that HNP does not want to spar with Cayetano but just want to “sit and watch his show.”

Last Tuesday, the convenors of HNP released their �irst statement strongly condemning the removal of Ungab from his post. The party believes that the ouster of Ungab was grossly unacceptable as it is disadvantageous to the Duterte administration’s reform agenda for the Filipino people and the country.

ay of the Cross “to draw attention to care for the Earth” and a Lenten re�lection on Holy Monday “to deepen our commitment to care for the Earth” will be held at the Redemptorist Church on March 13 and April 5, respectively.

The Way of the Cross at 5:45 p.m. on Friday, March 13 will be held inside the church along Bajada, for parishioners to re�lect on the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines’ theme on the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Christianity on March 16, 2021: “Dialogue Towards Harmony, Integrating Inter-Religious Dialogue (Dialogue with Other Faith Traditions), Indigenous Peoples (Dialogue with Other Cultures) and Ecumenism (Dialogue with other Christians).

March 16, 2020 is the 499th years after the �irst indigenous Filipinos embraced Catholicism. It is

also the 83rd Araw ng Dabaw but the activities in the city have been cancelled due to the COVID-19.

In its advisory, the Redemptorist Church said the CBCP theme “is further interfaced with Care for the Earth, the subject of Pope Francis apostolic exhortation Laudato Si and which he also tackled in the most recent Synod document Querida Amazona,” the Redemptorists said in an advisory.

Instead of the usual Way of the Cross format, the Redemptorist Church is appropriating the same format – with the 14 stations of the Cross – “in a manner that will re�lect our desire to seek God’s forgiveness for all the transgressions we have committed against promoting dialogue as well as care for our common home – the planet.”

“Apart from asking God’s forgiveness for the usual personal and private sins we commit, during this

Way of the Cross we seek God’s pardon for sins we have committed against our neighbors of different religions and cultures, as well as the sins we have committed against Mother Nature,” the advisory said.

The parishioners of the Mother of Perpetual Help Parish, the churchgoers to the Redemptorist church and the general public are invited to join the Way of the Cross as well as the Lenten re�lection “as part of their entering into the spirit of the Holy Week.”

On Holy Monday, April 5, several speakers have been invited to talk inside the church from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on the theme “Deepening our Commitment to Care for the Earth considering the Climate Emergency the World is Facing Today.”

The Lenten talk will integrate songs, poetry, video clips and dramatizations.

Seminarian Marty Sculdito, CSsR will talk on “Global and National Eco-

logical Situationer;” environmentalists Norma Javellana, a Datu Bago awardee, and her husband Arnold Vandenbroeck – founders of Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability or IDIS – will speak on “The looming Water Crisis of Davao City.

Redemptorist Brother Karl Gaspar, CSsR, also a Datu Bago awardee and co-founder of IDIS, will talk on the “Urgent Call of the Church to Respond to the Climate Emergency;” while Deacon Joey Trillo, CSsR and Ms Hannie Santillan, staff of the Redemptorist Center for Social and Ecological Concern, will discuss “Concrete Responses that Davao Citizens can engage in vis-à-vis Ecological Advocacy.”

The singer-songwriters who will render songs include Dabawenyos Popong Landero, Maan Chua and Sheila Labos. They will sing their own compositions re-

Davao City church prepares events ‘to care for the Earth’

W

DAVAO CITY, P9

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

Mati's BPLO issues 68 notices of non-renewal to establishments

A

total of 68 notices of non-renewal of business permits and licenses were issued to establishments in the City of Mati by the Business Permit and Licensing Of�ice.

BPLO created joint inspection teams (JIT) early February to check on establishments that have not renewed their permits.

Teams A and B are composed of Business Permits and Licensing Of�ice, City Tourism and Promotions Of�ice, City Treasurer’s Of�ice, City Planning and Development Of�ice, City Health Of�ice-Sanitary Inspection Section, City Administrator’s Of�ice, Bureau of Fire Protection, and City Engineering Of�ice.

For the team A they have issued 50 notices of non-renewal wherein 1

establishment complied, 9 are on process and 4 have already closed shop.

For team B they have issued 18 notices of non-renewal wherein 4 have complied and renewed.

The team have also issued 10 notices of violation mostly coming from beach resorts, but 3 of them are now under process. The violations are mostly lack of certi�icate of non-compliance from the DENR and zoning certi�icate.

According to Salve Castro, BPLO of�icer-in-charge, they will still continue to conduct inspection on illegal businesses in the city.

The second round of the inspection will continue this month covering Barangay Central and Dahican. (CIO MATI)

PNP Chief Gamboa safe, two generals in critical condition

P

hilippine National Police (PNP) PGen Archie Gamboa, his spokesperson Bernard Banac, and four others are safe after their chopper crashed in a residential area in Laguna on Thursday morning. Meanwhile, two PNP generals on board the aircraft are in critical condition, acting PNP spokesperson M/Gen Bong Durana said.

He said PNP comptrollership chief M/Gen. Jovic Ramos and PNP intelligence director M/Gen. Mariel Magaway will be transferred to a different hospital once their conditions stabilize.

"We were informed that they are in critical condition, but they are being well attended to by our doctors and medical personnel," he said in a media brie�ing.

The Bell 429 chopper carrying the four PNP of�icials, Gamboa's aide PCapt.

Gayramara, pilot PLTCol Zalatar, co-pilot PLTCol Macawili, and technician

PSMS Estona crashed in San Pedro, Laguna minutes after they took off past 8 a.m. after attending an event.

Durana said Gamboa sustained wounds on his arm, while Durana has wounds on his face. He adds he was able to talk to the chopper crew and Gamboa's aide-de-camp.

The acting spokesperson said Gamboa, who is being observed in St. Luke's Medical Center in Taguig City, told him he is worried about his co-passengers.

"Ang concern ni Chief PNP ngayon ay 'yung safety and complete recovery ng iba pa niyang kasamahan," he said.

Based on police's initial information, the newly-acquired Bell 429 chopper got caught on a high-tension wire due to limited visibility because of the dust in the area. "'Yung �ield na helipad namin medyo pag-�light niya, nag-zero visibility.

PNP, P9

Dr. Ashley Lopez, head of City Mayor’s Office’s Vices Regulation Unit (VRU), bares during I-Speak at City Hall on Thursday that 56 smokers availed of the city government of Davao’s Nicotine Replacement Ther-

apy (NRT). NRT comes in a pastille form to help nicotine dependents to quit smoking. Lean Daval Jr

Vape shops’ number in Davao dwindling W

By MAYA M. PADILLO ith the strict enforcement of the city government’s policiy against the use and selling of vapes and e-cigarettes, the number of vape outlets in Davao City is reportedly dwindling.

“Ang balaod sa Davao City unique kay sa 2000 comprehensive ordinance na include na jud nato ang prohibition of the use of vapes as part of the electronic cigarettes. Isa na sa mga hinungdan ngano wala kaayo ni take-off ang vaping sa Davao City. Because of the strict implementation of

laws murag maglisod na sila ug distribute ug sell sa vapes even the users are already hesitant to use vape,” Dr. Ashley Lopez, of�icer-in-charge of the Vices Regulation Unit (VRU) told media in I-Speak media forum.

Lopez said based on their regular inspections

on vape shops in Davao City, they found out that several stores have already closed.

“Mas gamay na lang sila karon, even in the malls the number of stores selling vapes has reduced. Reason of the closure kay wala na sila customers ug wala nay mamalit,” he said.

Lopez said previously there were about 60 vape outlets in Davao City and there were about six outlets that stopped operating already including a stall at SM Annex.

“In Gaisano Mall of Davao, when I checked

of Ecumenism, Interreligious Dialogue, and IPs. Photo by FR. RAYMOND AMBRAY

VAPE, P9

Lowest rice prices since 2013 attributed to RTL

T

Catholic Bishops celebrate with Lumad leaders during a Higaonon ritual called Panampulot early morning of March 3, 2020 in Butuan City to open the day-long Bishops-IP (Indigenous Peoples) Dialogue in the Year

the stall it used to sell cigarettes and lighters, and vapes but now the stall stopped selling vapes. Ang reason nila ngano niundang sila kay wala na daw mamalit ug vape,” he said.

President Rodrigo Duterte recently signed an executive order which prohibits vaping or the use of e-cigarettes in public places in an expansion of his earlier nationwide smoking ban. The Executive Order No. 106 also prohibits the sale of e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and novel tobac-

he average price of regular milled rice has slid to its lowest since 2013 after implementation of the Rice Tarif�ication Law, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Assistant Secretary Mercy Sombilla said on Tuesday.

Sombilla said the average retail price of regular milled rice has gone down to PHP36.33 per kilo in January 2020, which is PHP4.40 lower compared to the same month last year.

“This price level has also been the lowest since 2013,” she said during the weekly economic brie�ing in Malacañang, noting that average retail price continued to increase over time until January 2020.

She said the NEDA also observed greater market segmentation in rice as more provinces are now selling at a price ranging

from PHP24 to PHP36 per kilo which is signi�icantly lower compared to last year’s PHP37 to PHP44 per kilo.

“Clearly, this shows that the law not only made rice cheaper for consumers, but also gave them more options on type of rice they would purchase,” she said.

Sombilla said she was hopeful to see a much lower average retail prices in the near future ranging from PHP34 to PHP35 per kilo.

With the decline in prices of rice, Sombilla said rice in�lation rate has also gone down.

“The low in�lation rate is not only bene�icial to the consumers but also to the economy as a whole as it encourages people to invest or spend which would then fuel overall growth of the economy,” she said.

LOWEST, P9

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

Bizman: PH food industry abuzz

S

A trader sorts out squid at the bagsakan area in Bankerohan, Davao City. Consumer prices rose 2.6 percent in February, slowing from the previous month and missing economists’ forecasts. Lean Daval Jr

ome business players in the Philippines have had a “push and pull” experience with luck as the Department of Finance implements the tax reform.

But the food and beverage (F&B) industry in the country proves unshaken with its business expansion foresight.

In an interview, Hubert Young of Tokyo Coffee Holdings, the entrepreneur who brought the UCC chain of food and coffee concepts here, said while other businesses may be affected, it is not the same with the F&B sector.

“Filipinos, everybody loves to eat. We talk about business, we get together over food,” he told the Philippine News Agency.

Young said he does not think that the government will “kill businesses”.

“As a taxpayer, we should be paying, and it will also be good that we can see the taxes be put to good use, more infrastructure, better roads,” he said.

In three months, Young

said another UCC franchise will be opened in Davao City, and soon in Bacolod and Cebu.

The business expansions will also open at least a hundred opportunities for job seekers.

“Filipinos like to drink coffee now, (It is a prime time to build more), we have our own coffee roasting facility in the Philippines,” he added.

UCC supplies coffee for Japanese convenience store franchise chain Family mart, Philippine Airlines business class lounge, among others.

Young, who also heads the MOS Burger Philippines, launched last week the �irst of many stores in Robinsons Galleria, Ortigas Avenue.

They are slated to open branches in SM Megamall, Robinsons Magnolia, Greenhills, Midtown and Eastwood in a few months.

A breakfast feature of the burger-chain is also in the pipeline highlighting classic Pinoy silogs-- the “MOSilog”. (PNA)

n of�icial of the Ayala-led Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) said he is optimistic about the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) in the country, noting that among the main goals of Filipinos is to have a real estate investment.

In a brie�ing on Wednesday, BPI Corporate Banking Strategy, Products, and Solutions head Reginaldo Cariaso said Filipino investors are “very well aware” of the investment, citing that the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 9856, or the REIT Act, was released about a decade after the law’s enactment.

Cariaso said REITs are “designed to be a fairly conservative instrument” that people who are afraid to put their money in risky assets, such as equities, have various options.

Other prospective investors are people who have invested in equities but are looking for less volatile investments, and those who want high yields.

Citing data from Hong Kong Exchanges (KHEX), which has a REIT market, he said REITs have superior price performance compared to Hong Kong’s property index.

The Stock Exchange of Thailand’s (SET) REITs are also less volatile compared to the country’s property

index, Cariaso said.

REITs are private entities invested in income-generating real estates, such as of�ice spaces, malls, service apartments, hotels, hospitals, and warehouses.

The REIT law’s IRR requires companies to list with the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), with a minimum public �loat of 33 percent but must be increased to 67 percent within three years.

REIT companies are also required to reinvest their earnings in the local real estate sector to help boost the government’s infrastructure program.

With the current low-interest rate environment and global volatility, Cariaso said REITs have lots of potential in the Philippines, with capitalization projected to be at par with that of Malaysia’s estimated USD7 billion and Thailand’s USD11 billion.

He further said that since the investment is on real property, Filipinos are “very familiar” with it.

“Of course, it’s important that the �irst few REIT sponsors are well-recognized names with strong reputation to give investor comfort that they’ve been able to deliver shareholder value over time and that they have the expertise to execute,” Cariaso added.

(PNA)

onsumer prices rose 2.6 percent in February, slowing from the previous month and missing economists' forecasts, with the world's monetary authorities under pressure to address economic fallout from the coronavirus outbreak.

February in�lation was slower than the median forecast of 3 percent in a Bloomberg poll of economists and the 2.9 percent recorded in January.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is targeting an av-

erage 2 to 4 percent for the full year.

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday slashed its benchmark interest rate by half a percentage point, citing "new risks to the economic outlook." The emergency cut was the �irst policy decision in between the Fed's regular meetings since the 2008 Lehman Brothers collapse.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno signaled a deeper reduction in the overnight

PH, WB executives in talks for loan aid, Covid-19 measures A

BPI executive cites PH's REIT potential

By MAYA M. PADILLO hilippine �inance of�icials are now in discussions for possible loan assistance from multilateral agencies for measures targeted to address any coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) emergencies.

P

“(The) announcement by the WB (World Bank) is certainly welcomed,” Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said in a Viber message to journalists Wednesday.

On Tuesday, the World Bank Group announced the allocation of up to USD12 billion immediate support to countries affected by Covid-19 to help address any economic and health impact of the epidemic.

In a statement, the multilateral lender said the fast-track package “will help developing countries strengthen health systems, including better access to health services to safeguard people from the epidemic, strengthen disease surveillance, bolster public health interventions, and work with the private sector to reduce the impact on economies.”

Speci�ically, USD8 bil-

lion of the support package will be available “on a fast track basis” and this will come from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), USD2.7 billion; and the International Development Association (IDA), USD1.3 billion.

The Bank said it will also source USD2 billion from reprioritization of its existing portfolio while USD6 billion will come from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), including USD2 billion from existing trade facilities.

Dominguez said the loan assistance will be earmarked for the Department of Health (DOH) “with emphasis of quick reactions

to Covid-19 and similar events.”

The DOH has asked Congress for a PHP2-billion supplemental budget for the measures against Covid-19.

Dominguez said the loan package from WB will still be tapped even if Congress approves the supplemental budget that DOH has requested.

He added that while the government is implementing measures to address any increase of Covid-19 cases in the country and its impact on the economy, of�icials “have yet to determine the expected impact” as well as the appropriate response on the epidemic.

(PNA)

to conditions such as a minimum level of investment of 1 billion baht (or around USD32.7 million) and investment commencement in 2021. Relocating companies to Thailand will face a 10 percent tax on net income, instead of the regular 20 percent tax,” he said.

Chua said aside from the Philippines’ talented English-speaking workforce and young robust market, which are the main attractions to investors, the competitive tax incentive system under CITIRA will help draw in investments that are coming out of China as a result of the US-China trade war.

He added that under the Senate version of CITIRA, there are two options for companies seeking to apply for incentives.

“The �irst option is to avail of an income tax holiday (ITH) for two to four years, followed by a special tax rate on gross income for three to four years. The spe-

cial rate will be increased from the current 5 percent of gross income to 8 percent in 2020, 9 percent in 2021, and 10 percent in 2022,” he said.

Chua said enjoyment of the ITH and special rate will initially be granted for �ive to eight years, and can be extended by up to 12 years total, which is longer than the �ive-year period offered

by Thailand.

This special tax regime will still be in lieu of all national and local taxes, allowing investors to push down overall business costs and meet bottom line commitments, he said.

“In fact, the 8 percent tax on gross income is almost an 8 percent tax on net income as many �irms no longer report indirect cost to take advantage of the incentives system to lower their tax due,” he added.

To promote ease of doing business, Chua further said investment promotion

agencies (IPAs) shall remain as one-stop-shops for investors.

“The second option for investors is to avail of the regular corporate income tax (CIT) rate with generous enhanced deductions for �ive to eight years, which may be extended by three or four years at a time for a total duration of 12 years,” Chua said.

He said the enhanced deductions under SB 1357 include up to 50-percent additional deduction on power expense, which is a new provision not found in earlier versions of the bill; up to 50-percent additional deduction on labor expense to promote job creation; up to 100-percent additional deduction on research and development (R&D) to promote innovation; and up to 50 percent additional deduction on domestic input expense to promote domestic supply chains.

Also included in the

CITIRA to keep PH highly competitive in Asean

T

he Department of Finance (DOF) said the proposed incentives regime under Senate Bill (SB) No. 1357, or the Corporate Income Tax and Incentives Reform Act (CITIRA), once approved by the Congress, will keep the Philippines highly competitive compared with other countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) region that also offer tax perks to investors.

In response to recent news that Thailand is offering its tax incentives to high-tech �irms relocating from China, Finance Undersecretary Karl Kendrick Chua said the Philippines’ incentive offerings under CITIRA are “at the very least at par with, if not more generous and competitive compared to, those of Thailand.”

“There is a recent report that Thailand is offering a 50-percent income tax discount for �ive years to quali�ied high-tech �irms, subject

CITIRA, P9

Inflation rate slows to 2.6% in February

C

INFLATION, P9

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

ECONOMY 5

AI, digital transformation to enhance Pinoy productivity: Microsoft PH chief

A

rti�icial intelligence and digital transformation can enhance the productivity of Filipino workers and help boost the economy despite posing a threat to low-skilled jobs, Microsoft country general manager Andres Ortola said Wednesday.

“If you think historically how the industrial revolution presented a threat to rural workers, those jobs were changed into industrial works and higher value type of work," Ortola said.

Ortola added he foresees a similar effect with the transition to digital technologies.

The Microsoft Philippines chief cited as an example the �irst Filipino speech-to-text translation machine powered by arti�icial intelligence. He said this can help boost “human capabilities” especially in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO).

Ortola said the challenge for businesses and policymakers is to do digital transformation at the right pace and to keep innovating.

Aside from businesses, Philippine government agencies “have taken a remarkable” understanding of digital transformation, he said.

Microsoft Philippines has been working with the public sector such as the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) and

the Department of Education to create an innovation-friendly environment, he said.

COVID-19 IMPACT Companies, however, may “defer” some projects due to the coronavirus outbreak, Ortola said.

“We foresee that at some levels, some companies might choose to defer some projects in the short term. but that does not mean they will not actually pursue that transformation. And in times of uncertainty, our experience is that technology is the one factor that keeps companies moving forward,” Ortola said.

Tourism, hotels and aviation are some of the industries that have reported losses due to the global spread of COVID-19. Local tourism has lost around P14 billion in February due to the outbreak, of�icials have said.

But technology can help keep businesses running in times of disasters, Ortola said.

Microsoft in China, where Wuhan, the epicenter of the outbreak is located, uses digital means to keep the business running and to help other countries, he said.

The DepEd was also able to conduct cloudbased classes for students displaced by the Taal Volcano eruption last January, with the help of a platform it created with Microsoft, Ortola said.

DBM exec cites budget proposal challenges ahead of 2022 polls

A

Department of Budget and Management (DBM) executive said formulating the proposed 2021 national budget will be challenging because 2022 is an election year, but said they will do everything to avert any problem.

DBM Undersecretary Janet Abuel told journalists Tuesday afternoon that of�icials of the various government agencies have been informed to prepare their budget proposals since January and were told to meet the deadlines.

She said of�icials were also asked to ensure that all concerned units will be consulted, including regional development councils (RDCs), “to be able to come up with the overall department budget proposal”.

She added there would be two-tiered approach on the budget evaluation, with the �irst one to cover the recurring expenses like the personnel services (PS) and the maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE).

Tier 2 would involve the more important ones like the projects or programs that will need higher budgets, or will be new features in next year’s budget, she said.

With the commitment to meet the dead-

lines, Abuel is con�ident they will be able to submit the budget proposal on time.

She said priority programs for next year will remain those that focus on human capital development and the Build, Build, Build program.

“We also know that 2021 is the budget before the election (year) so we see also some challenges that we might face,” she added. “Hopefully, we'll be able to try to prevent them…but it's more on the part where we have already submitted the budget to Congress.”

Abuel said the executive level is hopeful that it will not see any problem or constraints.

She considers the change of leadership in House of Representatives’ Appropriation Committee as among the challenges in the future budget proposals, but said DBM Secretary Wendel Avisado is expected to meet the new leaders “very soon”.

“From the end of the DBM, what is important to us is we're able to re�lect the President's budget, the true President's budget. Because if you have the backing or the support of the President then, it would be it would be easier to defend (the budget proposal) in Congress,” she added. (PNA)

City Tourism Operations Office head Generose Tecson says during I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday the City Tourism Office, together with the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.

(DCCCII), will come up with plans and programs to lure back visitors to the city when the Covid-19 outbreak is contained. Lean Daval Jr

PH maintains positive growth in exports despite Covid-19 threat

D

espite the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) global outbreak, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez on Wednesday said the Philippines is still expected to maintain a positive export performance this year.

In a press brie�ing in Malacañang, Lopez said exports covering goods and services would likely grow by more or less 1 percent despite a slowdown brought about by the deadly disease.

“Magkakaroon ng slowdown pero hopefully positive pa rin ang growth (There will be a slowdown but hopefully growth will still be positive).

He explained that the country’s export performance might not grow as much as the expected 1.5 to 2 percent, but could maintain close to 1 percent growth rate.

“We’re just hoping na

maliit pa lang yung tama (that the effect would be minimal),” he said.

He also pointed out that Hubei province, the epicenter of the outbreak, only accounts for 1 percent of the Philippines’ total trade with China.

Meanwhile, he expressed con�idence that the Philippine economy remained resilient. Philippine exports reached record high USD70.3 billion in 2019, from USD69.3 billion in 2018, Lopez earlier said.

He said only the Philippines and Vietnam reported positive export performance among Southeast

Asian countries.

“Yung iba nagde-decline na po pati sa kanilang mga outputs tsaka exports fortunately sa atin po malakas pa din (Output and exports of other countries are declining. Fortunately, ours’ still strong),” he said.

Citing the estimates of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Lopez said if the Covid-19 outbreak will extend for the entire year, it will cut gross domestic product (GDP) growth by up to 1 percentage point (ppt) this year.

Possible new supplier Lopez said the Covid-19 epidemic prompted the manufacturers to rethink their overdependence on suppliers from China and explore other countries.

He said the shift in the manufacturing supply chains amid the outbreak could bene�it the Philip-

pines.

“Nagkakaroon sila ng reconsideration ng Pilipinas as a site na maging supplier din tayo at nagkakaroon ng interes na willing magbukas dito (Countries are reconsidering the Philippines as a new supplier and they have expressed interest to open here),” he said.

Experts have said the Covid-19 outbreak puts China’s role as the world’s leading manufacturer at risk.

“If they are really thinking of diversifying (their) resources nila, Philippines is next na tinitiginan. Maaring hindi tayo nasa top of mind nila pero de�initely nandun na tayo sa mga susunod na nasa isip nila pagdating sa expansion (We might not on top of their minds but de�initely we are next in line when it comes to expansion),” he said. (PNA)

epidemic have been to the nations with the strongest trade linkages to China,” he said.

According to the Asean Integration Report 2019, China is Asean’s largest trading partner since 2009.

Between 2010 and 2018, Asean’s total trade with China has more than doubled from USD235.5 billion to USD483.1 billion.

China’s share to Asean’s total trade also increased from 11.8 percent in 2010 to 17.2 percent in 2018.

Asean’s export to China over eight years grew by 7.4 percent to USD198.7 billion, increasing China’s share to Ase-

an’s export revenue from 10.7 percent in 2010 to 13.9 percent in 2018.

But Asean’s import from China grew faster than its outbound shipment to the economic giant.

The region’s import from China rose 11.1 percent between 2010 and 2018 to USD284.5 billion. China’s share to the bloc’s inbound shipment expanded to 20.5 percent in 2018 from 12.9 percent in 2010.

Moreover, Asean’s tourism sector is likewise hit by the coronavirus outbreak as most member-states implemented a temporary ban of �lights from China.

Some countries have

suspended issuing visa to Chinese nationals and not allowing their citizens to travel China.

“The slump in international travel has hit many parts of Asean’s tourism-related economy, including hotels, restaurants, retail stores and airlines. With the epidemic now also spreading to other countries worldwide, including South Korea and Italy, the negative impact to Asean’s tourism sector is widening as tourism and business travel globally is slumping on coronavirus fears,” the economist said.

In 2015, tourism shared 12 percent of Asean’s gross domestic product. (PNA)

Coronavirus slowing down Asean-China trade, tourism

T

he coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) is slowing down trade and tourism between Asean and China, IHS Markit Chief Economist for Asia Pacific Rajiv Biswas said in an e-mail.

Biswas said the manufacturing output of Asean countries particularly Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, slowed down due to the large-scale disruption in factories in China.

The world’s second largest economy is also a key export market to these Asean member states.

“The biggest economic shocks to the Asean region from the Covid-19

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

Fall of China?

There used to be a sarcastic joke slash saying among streetsmarts: “In the end, China will win.”

That doesn’t seem to be going in the wake of what is happening to China and the rest of the world. China, which is undoubtedly the global source for anything consumable and functional within the purview of “from toothpick to battleship”, is in danger of being the manufacturing hub of the world. The template of a manufacturing hub as China is, is said to be coming to and end.

According to an article on Forbes Magazine website, the new coronavirus Covid-19 will end up being the �inal curtain on China’s nearly 30 year role as the world’s leading manufacturer. China’s economy is getting hit much harder by the coronavirus outbreak than markets currently recognize. Wall Street appeared to be the last to realize this last week. The S&P 500 fell over 8%, the worst performing market of all the big coronavirus infected nations. Even Italy, which has over a thousand cases now, did better last week than the U.S. On January 23, Beijing ordered the extension of the Lunar New Year holiday, postponing a return to work. The coronavirus was spreading fast in the epicenter province of Hubei and the last thing China wanted was for that to be repeated elsewhere. Travel restrictions and quarantines of nearly 60 million people drove business activity to a standstill. According to Shehzad H. Qazi, the managing director of China Beige Book, the most frightening aspect of this crisis is not the short-term economic damage it is causing, but the potential long-lasting disruption to supply chains. Chinese auto manufacturers and chemical plants have reported more closures

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

the national association of newspapers

Printed by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Building, Quirino Avenue, 8000, Davao City, Philippines Tel: (082) 224-1413 301-6235 Telefax: (082) 221-3601 www.edgedavao.net editorial@edgedavao.net marketing@edgedavao.net edgedavao@gmail.com

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

MAYA M. PADILLO Senior Reporter

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

LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. Photography

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

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

than other sectors, Qazi wrote. IT workers have not returned to most �irms as of last week. Shipping and logistics companies have reported higher closure rates than the national average. The ripple effects of this severe disruption will be felt through the global auto parts, electronics, and pharmaceutical supply chains for months to come.

In Australia, a day after the �irst reported coronavirus death in Perth was recorded, Australians went into a buying frenzy of, among all things, toilet papers.

That consumer good may not have a direct relation to �ighting the virus but the fear of running out of stock of toilet papers which are imported from China caused the panic buying. It took the Australian government to explain that only 40 percent of toilet paper supply is actually imported from China. The rest are locally-produced.

However, the prices of China-made products and Australian products vary heftily in price.

In the Philippines, most consumer goods are sourced from China. So in the event of a manufacturing lockdown, the country will have to grapple to produce its own or import elsewhere at the expense of a higher cost.

With the mysterious coronavirus, which is believed to have come from a species of bat in Wuhan, the world may have to face the fact of a looming end to dependence on China, who in turn will have to accept that the coronavirus is its swan song.

In the end, China will not always win afterall.

And now, it’s time for the rest of the world--the Philippines included--to emerge as a possible alternative. The search begins with the country having low labor costs and available logistics.

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

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

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

VANTAGE POINTS

7

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

SAVING QUEENS, THE THEATRE One of two movie houses that used to grace Bonifacio Street, Davao City, was Queens.

During its heyday, it was advertised as the largest cinema in the Visayas and Mindanao.

When its popularity grew, establishments started to sprout across, adjacent, or near the theatre.

Queens theatre, opened in the 1970s, was built on a property �irst owned by the Guinoo family. It was, however, swapped for a Limso property just across the cinema, in a space that is now occupied by eateries.

As was the trend in the 1980s, Queens had ‘double program,’ which means a ticket holder can view two B—rated movies for the price of one. Most of the �ilms shown then were Hollywood produced �licks.

Except in movie houses where X-rated Tagalog �licks or ‘bomba’ �ilms were offered, cinemas in the same category as Queens presented war and love stuffs.

Movies at the time was advertised as a form of relaxation.

At a time when families treated movie-viewing as a time for bonding, Queens was in the

company of other cinemas, such as Galaxy, Garnet, Golden, Garmon, Lawaan, Odeon, Eagle, Crest, Tagumpay, New Life, Ideal, Lyric, and Landmark 1 & 2, to name a few.

Historically, the Queen’s lot, prior to its acquisition by the Limso family, hosted a postwar, single-story apartment. Antonio O. Floirendo, the banana mogul, his wife Nenita, and the growing brood occupied a door.

One of his neighbors there was Federico Melocoton, who became chief of police of Davao City. Later, when the business �lourished, the Floirendo family moved to Juna Subdivision, the city’s �irst millionaire’s village, in Matina.

The late Floirendo, acknowledged as the country’s top banana exporter, was also known as a political kingmaker in Davao region in the 1970s.

Though he did not run for public of�ice, some members of his family eventually joined the political bandwagon.

After the swap, Ricardo Limso, a Mason, promptly constructed an edi�ice in the former Guinoo property to house the

cinema, which he called Queens.

Accordingly, the name was a takeoff from the trendy British rock group Queen. The theatre, with an upper-section veranda, was famed for its iconic grand staircase and rail pegs that led moviegoers to the loge section.

(As personal hunch, the name Queens could have been inspired by a borough in New York, which shares border with Manhattan and the Bronx. It is also home of the Unisphere, a metal globe replicated outside the Mall of Asia in Manila. It hosts the world’s busiest airports, namely the John F. Kennedy International Airport, and La Guardia Airport, and the area has a diversi�ied economy.)

Limso, a successful logger and landowner, was the same guy who helped build the Masonic Temple outside Santa Ana wharf. He principally donated lumber, nails, and cash to construct the �irst postwar home of Freemasonry in Davao, which started in 1918. The structure has since been demolished after a permanent edi�ice was built along V. Mapa Street. A hospital along Ilustre Street was named

in his memory.

Affected by the entry of Betamax, laser discs, and digital video discs and the opening of cinemas in mall, Limso decided to close the scarlet curtain and thereafter leased the building to a certain Chua who eventually bought the property in the late 1980s.

On the dark side, the cinema was the scene of the January 14, 1992, grenade-throwing that resulted in the death of two moviegoers and the injury to six others due to the stampede that ensued. The incident, according to probers, was predicated by a lovers’ quarrel. The authorities did not say how the bomb was squirreled inside.

For nearly two decades, the curtain fell on the movie house. It was rented by a sect which used the building for its religious activities but had to pack up after the building was sold and set for renovation and retro�itting. After an extended lull, the property opened as a commercial edi�ice under a new owner and management, the Davao DDBP Resources, Inc. To the credit of the new

owner, the old name Queens was retained for nostalgic reasons, but its structure is now infused with modern layout that stands out among the buildings along the Bonifacio thoroughfare. On July 10, 2016, the renovated edi�ice was greeted gleefully.

“People cheered with the pulsing music and strobe lights,” local paper Sun-Star Davao reported, “as the three-colored lights go up and nestled in the old Queens marquee, the burst of light brightened one of the city’s best-known buildings in Davao. Amid showers of snow-like confetti, joyous energy spread through the crowd, people jumped and cheered as a handful of coins and treats �lipped in the air to attract prosperity and good luck.”

Housed there today is Focusinc, a New York-based business process outsourcing (BPO) �irm and 7-Eleven, a Japanese-owned, US-based convenience store. The BPO �irm introduces itself as “catering to small-scale business owners in the [US] particularly in the New York Tristate area.”

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

SAYING THANK YOU “In normal life, we hardly realize how much more we receive than we give, and life cannot be rich without such gratitude. It is so easy to overestimate the importance of our own achievements compared with what we owe to the help of others.” – Dietrich Bonhoeffer in Letters and Papers from Prison *** Laughter, says the Reader’s Digest, is “the best medicine.” Unknowingly, saying thank you may also do the same trick.

I was reading a back issue of Reader’s Digest when I came across a feature written

by Fred Bauer. “If you’re feeling left out, unloved or unappreciated, try reaching out to others. It may be just the medicine you need,” he wrote.

A.J. Cronin was a Scottish novelist who became famous for his literary works which included The Citadel, The Stars Look Down, and The Minstrel Boy. Before he became a bestselling author, he was a medical doctor.

“Once, he told of a colleague who gave an unusual prescription to patients af�licted with worry, fear, discouragement, or self-doubt,” Bauer wrote. “The doctor called it his ‘thank-you cure.’”

“For six weeks, I want you to say thank you whenever anyone does you a favour,” he was told. “And to show you mean it emphasize the words with a smile.” Within six weeks, most of the doctor’s patients reportedly showed great improvement.

There was this young man who told Norman Vincent Peale, one of America’s most beloved inspirational authors, about his secret of having a good life. “Every morning of the world, I give thanks for all the wonderful things in my life,” he said.

“And do you know something?” the young man continued. “It’s strange indeed, but the more I give thanks, the more I have reason to be thankful. For, you see, blessings just pile up on me one after another like nobody’s business.”

In his book of collections of tales of courage and con�idence, Peale wrote: “This exultant expression interested me, for I well-remembered this young fellow and the long way he had come in achieving this attitude. In his remarks, he had stated a basic law: the more you practice the art of thankfulness, the more you have to be thankful for.”

This, of course, is a fact!

“Thankfulness does tend to reproduce in kind,” Peale wrote.

“It reverses the �low of life’s good away from you and sets �lowing in your direction bene�its and opportunities.”

Even how busy we are, how hectic our schedules are, there is always a time to say those two words: Thank you.

In his book, Peale quoted a long statement taken from the wisdom of a certain David Dunn: “None of us is ever too busy to pay his way. It takes only a few seconds to say a heart-warming ‘Than you.’

Probably no American of modern times lived a more hurried or hectic life than (President) Theodore Roosevelt. Yet, even on political campaign trips, when in the hustle and bustle, he might have been excused from thinking of other people, it was his custom as he left his private train to stop and thank the engineer and �ireman for a safe and comfortable trip. It took but a fraction of a minute of his time, but he had two more friends for the rest of his life. “‘Good politics,’ you may say. But good living too – for, after all, isn’t having friends the basis of happy living, as well as of successful politics?”

Ah, to be grateful. There is

no time nor place where you can say thanks. In his book, Dr. Louis Cady – who was trained in psychiatry at the world-famous Mayo Clinic, made his observation: “Thanks for nothing.

Whether or not one believes in a Supreme Being, the notion that there is nothing to be grateful for outside of the self is, in my professional opinion, the �irst step down a very slippery slope to nihilism, despair, self-pity, isolation of the self, depression, and death.

“If we have nothing to feel grateful for, let us abandon gratitude for the miracle of new life which emerges every season as the trees and �lowers bloom, and the cries of every newborn baby. If we have nothing to feel grateful for, let us abandon all love, respect, admiration and devotion to our parents who did the very best they could for us.

“If we have nothing to feel grateful for, let us state unequivocally that we care nothing for our marvellous bodies which, for most of us, carry us wherever we want to go and are capable of athletic mastery. Let us forget that with a moderate amount of exercise we can stay in �inely-tuned shape and live a minimum of our three-score and ten years

on this planet, enjoying our ‘holiday on earth.’”

American essayist and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson offered this advice: “Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”

It’s never too late to give thanks, to appreciate what others have done for you, and to be grateful for the things you have. “Everyone enjoys being acknowledged and appreciated. Sometimes even the simple act of gratitude can change someone’s entire day. Take the time to recognize and value the people around you and appreciate those who make a difference in your lives,” suggests Roy T. Bennet, author of The Light in the Heart.

Again, here’s Bauer, who inspired me to write this piece: “Thankfulness sets in motion a chain reaction that transforms people all around us – including ourselves. For no-one ever misunderstands the melody of a grateful heart. Its message is universal; its lyrics transcend all earthy barriers; its music touches the heaven.”

8

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

SUBURBIA RISING

In full force to show support, three Davao Governors -- Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang, Davao de Oro Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy, and Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib together with other VIPs and other high-ranking government officials grace the change of command ceremony at the 701st Kagitingan Brigade. Also present is DSWD Secretary Rolando Bautista and 7th Infantry Division Commander Major General Lenard Agustin.

3 Davao Governors, DSWD Secretary, whole PSG grace change of command ceremony

D

AVAO ORIENTAL – A rare “show of force” among top government executives was a spectacle to behold as they graced the historic change of command ceremony at the 701st “Kagitingan” Brigade in the City of Mati on Wednesday.

Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang, Davao de Oro Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy, and Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib – who are known for their huge contributions in gaining peace and order in the region – have come in full force to show their support to their peace and development partners from the military. The DSWD Secretary, Rolando Bautista, who is a former chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and a huge number of personnel from the Presidential Security Group also graced the event as the former chief of the PSG, Brigadier General Jose Eriel Niembra, was set to take over the command of the Philippine Army’s 701st Brigade whose area of responsibility covers the provinces of Davao Oriental and some parts of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur, and Davao de Oro provinces.

The change of command ceremony on March 4, marked the beginning of outgoing Commander Brigadier General Manuel Sequitin’s new journey as he now sets off to assume a bigger role in the military organization. Relinquishing his duties, Brig.

Gen. Sequitin turned over the command of the Brigade to its newly-installed commander, Brig. Gen. Jose Eriel Niembra.

As he welcomed the new commander, vowing to extend the same support the province has always been affording its military counterparts, Gov. Dayanghirang of the host province also took the opportunity to applaud the “sterling leadership” of outgoing commander Brig. Gen. Sequitin, who he says “has always been our province’s strong constant and reliable partner in all our peace and development initiatives.”

“Thank you, Brig. Gen. Sequitin, for giving your best by sharing much of your passion and genius with us. It has been a privilege and joy having you here in Davao Oriental. We will miss your ever warm and brilliant presence. With your

worthy leadership, you have become a signi�icant instrument not only in paving the way for change in the province but also in ensuring that the people are co-owners of that change,” said Governor Dayanghirang.

Noteworthy Accomplishments

After �ifteen months of serving as the commanding of�icer of the 701st Brigade, Brigadier General Manuel Sequitin bid farewell to the Kagitingan Brigade, leaving behind a long list of accomplishments, for which he is being lauded by the top local government of�icials in the Davao region.

Among his many accomplishments is the dismantling of weakened guerilla fronts 15 and 25 and Pulang Bagani companies 6 and 8, the dismantling of eight mass organizations af�iliated with the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army, and the surrender of a total of 119 NPA members to the government. Moreover, 19 more barangays in Davao Oriental were added to the list of areas declared as insurgency-cleared. Also, under his command, a total of 110 high-powered and low-powered �irearms and 53 improvised explosive devices were recovered.

These accomplishments helped the Brigade gain two Kapayapaan Awards and other accolades from no less than the President Rodrigo Duterte, elevating the 701st Brigade to a Pro�icient Status in the Army Governance Pathway and getting the Gold Trailblazer Award.

Aside from these feats, the Brigade’s camp is continuously expanding through scores of infrastructure projects being funded by the provincial government of Davao Oriental. These include a high-end tactical operation center, of�icers’ clubhouse, multipurpose building, �ive-bay �iring range, and a 14-bay motorpool, among others. Set for construction are new administrative building, two-story multipurpose buildings, reception center, new barracks, and ecumenical chapel, among many others.

The presiding general, 7th Infantry Division Commander Major General Lenard Agustin lauded the performance and developments of the Brigade under the leadership of Brig.

Gen. Sequitin. “The bearing of your work is most felt and valued not only by the Philippine Army but the Armed Forces of the Philippines as a whole.

You have accomplished substantial feats,” said Maj. Gen. Agustin.

For his part, Brig. Gen. Sequitin attributed the success of his unit not only to his military personnel but more importantly to the strong support of the provincial government and its counterparts at the municipal level and other peace and development stakeholders.

He cited the immense role of the provincial government under the leadership of Governor Dayanghirang whose strong vision and clear direction effectively channeled government services to where it should be heading which is in the grassroots.

“Davao Oriental is a province not like other areas. It is like an ideal benchmark of a province that is well led and ef�icient in every way possible. I have, time and again,

expressed so much appreciation for the leadership of Honorable Governor Nelson “Sir Boy” Dayanghirang. He has been an inspirational leader not just for me, but for all residents of Davao Oriental. I sincerely thank Sir Boy for all the developments you now see inside our Brigade,” said Brig.

Gen. Sequitin.

He, likewise, lauded Davao de Oro Governor Uy for his equally strong leadership and huge support to the brigade’s units.

New Leadership, Same Strong Vision Amid the transition, the new commander vows his full commitment to continue carrying out the Brigade’s mission and programs “for the people we are sworn to protect.”

Replacing Brig. Gen. Sequitin is equally competent newly installed commander Brig. Gen. Niembra whose previous assignments include being the Commander of the Presidential Security Group, Commander of the 58th Infantry Battalion, Executive Of�icer of 401st Infantry Brigade, and Deputy Commander of the Task Force Davao.

“I am con�ident that with the support of our stakehold-

ers from the government and private sectors, we will achieve our goals as a team. There may be some operational adjustments in the coming days as we review our campaign plan, but for now, continue your efforts in providing security and development to our communities,” said Brig. Gen. Niembra.

Journey Towards Sustainable Peace

Gov. Dayanghirang, being the Chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), along with other governors in the region, is determined to meet President Rodrigo Duterte’s target to end the local communist armed con�lict the soonest time possible.

Davao Region is known for its steadfast efforts in pushing for peace and development through the implementation of the President’s Executive Order 70 or the Whole-ofNation Approach to Attain Sustainable Peace and End the Local Communist Armed Con�lict.

Since last year, numerous interventions have been implemented on the ground which are aligned to the President’s program. Among

them are the provision of basic services, livelihood and infrastructure programs, and capacity-building, most especially in con�lict-stricken communities.

“When the people’s basic needs are met, there will be no reason for them to support and join the rebel group to rise against the government. That is why, we are truly grateful to President Rodrigo Duterte for crafting the comprehensive program for pursuing peace in the whole country. We are now doing it by fostering community dialogues, introducing community-owned projects, and creating communities of peace. This current program aims to promote and preserve a peaceful and livable communities where the people enjoy basic services and are actively involved in planning development and exercising governance,” said Gov. Dayanghirang.

Aside from the three Governors and the secretary of the DSWD, also gracing the occasion were 10th Infantry Division Commander Major General Reuben Basiao, and Davao de Oro Vice Governor Maricar Zamora. By Karen Lou Deloso/Photos by Rhea Shane Laureano

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE With WAIVER OF RIGHTS

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late CONRADO C. AMPON who died on March 20, 2014 at Davao Medical School Foundation Davao City, Philippines has been the subject of EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE With WAIVER OF RIGHTS executed among his heirs, per Doc. No.395; PageNo.80; Book No.183 Series of 2020, of the NOTARY PUBLIC ATTY.FATIMA IRENE T. ADIN.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ROMEO A. JOVELLANOS who died on August 19, 2017 at San Pedro Hospital Inc. C. Guzman St., Davao City, Philippines has been the subject of EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE executed among his heirs, per Doc. No.124; PageNo.26; Book No.181 Series of 2019, of the NOTARY PUBLIC ATTY.FATIMA IRENE T. ADIN.

3/6,13,20,2020

3/6,13,20,2020

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

EDGEDAVAO FOOD

Roasted Half Herb-Chicken

MR. & MRS. B

Tuna Ceviche.

FOOD THAT EXCITES THE TRAVELLING SOUL AS A PERSON WHO LOVES FOOD AND TRAVEL, there are times when I get to taste something so good during a food trip, that I wish I can replicate it when I come home to Durianburg. This was also the same thought Chef Pauline “Pau” BenedictoMalilin, the creative brain behind modern-Filipino restaurant Rekado, had while traveling around the world together with her family. The idea and desire to bring the best dishes together under one roof lead to the creation of Chef Pau’s latest culinary gem, Mr. & Mrs. B or MMB for short.

Located just behind Patok sa Manok in Sasa, MMB’s building is modern yet exudes a laid-back tropical vibe.

Entering the restaurant actually feels like one is setting foot onto a well-curated patio complete with its menagerie of exotic tropical bird and wild animal prints. “We wanted to have a friendly tropical vibe with a bit of the plantation feel with comfortable furniture and a well-lit dining area,” shared Pau. While many restaurants in Durianburg take the comfort food route with rich and flavourful dishes and big plates, thumbing through Mr. and Mrs. B’s menu reveals dishes from all-over the world that are comforting yet refined, giving diners a taste of dishes that familiar but new.

Everyone is familiar with kinilaw but at MMB, tuna is transformed into Tuna Carpaccio. Thin slices of tuna cured with lemon juice, and flavoured with olive oil, garlic, and a basil-caper dressing.

Arugula leaves add a peppery punch to complete the dish.

If you want to be indulgent to start a meal, then try the rich and decadent Bone

The culinary team behind Mr. & Mrs. B.

Chef Pauline Benedicto-Malilin.

Marrow Butter. Served with crostini, a sprinkling of Himalayan salt and a bright herb salsa lift the flavours of the Bone Marrow Butter.

Mr. & Mrs. B has a tropical patio vibe.

Chef Pau gives salad a new spin with the MMB Salad, giving romaine lettuce a quick

URBANISSIMO A4

EDGED

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

ROAD TO 8TH ANNUAL PROPERTYGURU PHILIPPINES PROPERTY AWARDS 2020 PAVED AHEAD OF GALA EVENT

A NEW BATCH OF ACCOLADES FOR THE MOST ILLUSTRIOUS PROPERTIES AND DEVELOPERS FROM MEGA MANILA TO LUZON, VISAYAS & MINDANAO THE SEARCH for the most exemplary developers and projects in the Philippines continues as Asia’s most prestigious real estate honours programme opens the 8th Annual PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, presented by global brand Kohler, the platinum sponsor.

The 2020 edition of the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards is currently accepting nominations from the general public until Friday, 24 April.

Categories for this year’s competition include Best Condo Development (Metro Manila), Best Condo Development (Greater Manila), Best Condo Development (Cebu), Best Condo Development (Davao), Best Township Development, Best Co-Working Space, Best BPO Office Development, and Best Green Development. Nominations can be submitted online via: https://www.asiapropertyawards.com/nominations/.

Following rigorous deliberations, meetings and site inspections by experts supervised

by BDO Roxas, Cruz, Tagle & Co., finalists will converge in a black-tie gala dinner and awards presentation on Friday, 26 June, at the Fairmont Makati ballroom.

Key dates for the 2020 edition are: 14 January 2020 – Nominations and Entries Open 24 April 2020 – Nominations Close 30 April 2020 – Entries Close 18-29 May 2020 – Site Inspections 1 June 2020 – Final Judging 15 June 2020 – Leaders Luncheon 26 June 2020 – Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony in Manila, Philippines

20 November 2020 – Grand Final Gala Ceremony in Bangkok, Thailand Last year’s PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards was one of the most successful and diverse yet, drawing 20 percent more entries over 2018, reflecting a strong and vibrant local property sector. More than 250 guests from all over the archipelago attended the sumptuous gala dinner where they witnessed 45 developers and projects take the property sector’s highest prizes.

These included the posthumous presentation of the 2019 Philippines Real Estate Personality of the Year award to Henry Sy, Sr and the entire Sy Family, representing SM Investments Corporation. Henry’s grandson, Hans Sy, Jr, president of SM Engineering Design and Development Corp (SMEDD), and other Sy family members took the stage to accept the award on behalf of their ‘Tatang’.

Last year was also a momentous one for developers and properties based outside

Manila. Besting established industry names, Visayan firm Cebu Landmasters gained the top prize of Best Developer, whilst Dusit Thani Residence Davao was awarded Best Housing Development (Philippines), marking the first “Best of the Philippines” win from Mindanao.

Main winners from the 2019 PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards congregated last November for the 14th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final in Bangkok, Thailand where they clinched the region’s most coveted honours. The Philippines was one of the night’s most decorated countries, representing wins for Best CBD Development in Asia; Best Township

Mas Com men mer al D L. T and Esta win ever uru on t C Hea retu Prop Prop like who lifts in p coun A

EDAVAO

INdulge! A3

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

sterplan Design in Asia; Best mmercial Green Developnt in Asia; and Best Comrcial Landscape ArchitecturDesign in Asia. Dr Andrew Tan, founder of Megaworld d a previous Philippines Real ate Personality of the Year nner, was chosen as the firstr recipient of the PropertyG Icon Award, also presented the same night.

Christophe Vicic, Country ad, JLL Philippines and urning chairperson of the pertyGuru Philippines perty Awards, said: “Awards this not only honour those o are deserving but also ups the standard of excellence property development in this ntry.”

Alongside an independent

ENTERTAINMENT

GRACENOTE TO HOLD LAUNCH FOR OUT OF THIS WORLD NEW ALBUM “SMALL WORLD”

PREPARE TO EXPLORE a a whole new world of music as Gracenote launches their newest album ‘Small World.’

The four-piece band is excited to put their latest album out into the world, as they aim to prove that music makes the world smaller, as they aim to introduce their music to the OPM scene. The album was produced by one of the promising young music producers today, Nick Lazaro of La Balls studio, who also happens to share musical history with the band.

In celebration of the album’s release, the band held the Small World Album Launch last February 29, 2020, 6PM at Eton Centris.

Gracians and OPM fans alike were excited to hear the brand new album along with the band’s

hits during the launch. Gracenote was joined by opening acts We Got, Moonwlk, Better Days, and Kurei.

Prior to the album launch, the band has released limited edition album bundles consisting of the CD with an exclusive shirt and poster. While this exclusive bun-

dle has already sold out, fans can expect to buy the CD, more merch to be sold, and other surprises during the event.

The “Small World” album is not available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and all digital streaming platforms under Universal Records.

IANNA DELA TORRE ROLLS OUT DEBUT ALBUM

panel of industry experts, Vicic will be diligently reviewing entries and carefully selecting the Awards finalists, qualified by way of conducting supervised site visits and deliberations.

BDO Roxas, Cruz, Tagle & Co., CPAs will oversee every step of the visits and in-depth meetings.

Vicic said: “The process for qualifying for these awards is stringent – it is no easy feat to be amongst the finalists. A significant part of the selection process are site visits which are very important to us, as we want to see what the projects are like in actual reality, not just on paper. We ourselves conduct inspections to see the state of the projects to ensure that our final voting is based on ‘concrete’ evidences.”

The 8th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards 2020 is supported by platinum sponsor Kohler; gold sponsors Hitachi Elevators and Escalators, and Boysen; official magazine PropertyGuru Property Report; official PR partner FleishmanHillard Manila; official charity partner Right To Play; and official supervisor BDO Roxas, Cruz, Tagle & Co. For more information, email awards@propertyguru. com or visit the official website: AsiaPropertyAwards.com.

PROMISING VOCALIST Ianna Dela Torre has launched her 11-track debut album under Star Music, less than a year after she inked her contract under the music label.

The 17-year-old singer showed off her singing talent to the world when she joined the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in 2013, where she bagged the Junior Grand Champion performer and Champion Vocalist of the World honors.

Her debut album, dubbed as “IANNA,” is produced by Joel Mendoza and features collaborations with some of the best composers and producers in the OPM industry. The songs have also been carefully selected to tell the story of a young girl transitioning into a woman.

The newest single from the album, “Walang Kang Kapalit,” is a modern classic ballad about one’s unending love for someone and the regret that comes after the relationship’s inevitable end.

Other tracks include the carrier single “Pinapa,” more originals such as “Always You,” “Love is Spelled Y-O-U,” “Kahit sa Panag-

inip Lang,” “Alam Kong Nandyan Ka,” and “Ang Sabi Mo,” plus a revival of Maestro Ryan Cayabyab’s “Kailan,” and Rico J. Puno’s “Together Forever,” and a cover of David Foster’s “Through The Fire.”

Ianna is one of the talents to watch out for under ABS-CBN Music, which houses some of the best OPM music of today from the country’s leading media and entertainment company ABS-CBN. Listen to Ianna’s eponymous debut album, available now on various digital streaming platforms, and watch the music video of “Wala Kang Kapalit” starring Karina Bautista and Aljon Mendoza on ABSCBN Star Music’s YouTube channel.

For updates, like Star Music on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ starmusicph, and follow it on Twitter and Instagram (@StarMusicPH).

NEW SEASON OF “BEACHED” PREMIERES IN MAY

Metro Channel’s travel show “Beached” is coming back for its third season, officially welcoming summer with hosts Marc Nelson and Rachel Peters.

The show will also take a lucky, beach-loving couple to one of the top tourist destinations in the country—Davao— through its Get Beached!

Davao Flyaway Promo.

The winners will get to enjoy a three-day stay in Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort and join the “Beached” hosts as they

explore the lush greens and blue waters of Davao.

“We look forward to you guys tagging along as we explore some of the best beaches the Philippines has to offer,” shared Marc in his Instagram post.

The show’s advocacy to promote environment conservation sets it apart from other usual travel shows. It previously toured Camarines Sur, Camiguin, Eastern Samar, Palawan, Romblon, and other mustsee beach spots around the Philippines.

Don’t miss the outdoor fun in the “Beached” season 2 marathon starting March 28 (Saturday), 10:30am on Metro Channel (SKYcable ch. 52 and ch. 174 on HD).

The Get Beached! Davao Flyaway Promo runs until March 15. Visit bit.ly/ beachedpromo to join. For more details, like @metrochannelph on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

A4 INdulge!

ARTS TRAVEL TECH EVENTAND CULTURE

EDGE DAVAO EDGE DAVAO EDGE DAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE VOL.12 223 ISSUE •216 WEDNESDAY, 261 • FRIDAY, JANUARY MARCH17, 22, 6, 2020 VOL.12 VOL.12 ISSUE ISSUE 219 • TUESDAY, • FRIDAY, JANUARY 14,

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINENEW ELIMINATES SINGLESONY INTRODUCES GP-VPT2BT USE PLASTIC BEVERAGE BOTTLES ACROSS FLEET WIRELESS SHOOTING GRIP MAYA ON THE BLOCK A1

ka weaver naga-himo,” he said.

URBANISSIMO A1 the reaThis is also among

grill and it with eggsons why serving Limon will go to Sitio plant puree, smokedthe fishcotton aioli, Sangab to introduce parmesanHe cheese andthat cured weaving. believes using egg yolk.

The char the as cotton threads into on Dagmay lettuce creates a light smoky well as their embroidery will tastesustain while complimenting help their livelihood.the eggplant puree andpud smoked “Mas mudaghan ang NORWEGIAN Cruise fish aioli.

The salad tastes order sathe Dagmay if they will Line, innovator filling and threads,” meaty use cotton he said.any in global cruise travel BUILDING onwithout the meat on the dish.

Limon also seeshistory the to with a 53-year growing lineup ofneed camcourse if boundaries, itinisthis meat you tapOf theand artisans endeavof breaking eras accessories want, then order the MMB or to give their clients fresh is now single-use plasdeveloped for modern Grilled Chop.

Weighing and newPork designs. tic beverage bottle free creators, Sony today in “We at announced a massive 400tograms, really need tap new thethe across its fleet. has the thick-cut, T-bone steak-lookartisans directly before man GP-VPT2BT wireless The brand announced last ing MMB Pork Chop gud ga-agi pa ko saIdeal middle shooting grip. for year that it Grilled partnered with is every carnivore’s dream. man since wala’y sa many different types JUST Goods, Inc.,access which enThecontent meat of the pork chop community,” he Line said. to of creation abled the Cruise replace is tender and juicy while the Limon wants tovlogs show ranging from to all single-use plastic wateroff picked onions hintasfleet, of the beauty of Dagmay travel photography /heacid bottles across itsadd 17-ship to elevate has clientsthe whodish. are looking for videography tomost simple beginning with its recent Those who would clothes and accessories made everyday use, therather new ship, Norwegian Encore. have instead will truly by thefish Mandayas.

He said they grip offers optimum The achievement is one of the fall insustainable love with MMB’s 40ºC noticed thatand some Pasalubong stability comfort latest steps forward Salmon.

Cooked in a Line. sous centers including Davao City’s combined with cablefor Norwegian Cruise In vide, the salmon is eliminated buttery free connectivity and a 2018, Company and just about toand flake, its reliable dust moissingle-use plastic straws across rich buttery flavour balanced ture resistant design. its fleet and private destinaCompatible with aofvariety tions, and as a result this of Sony’s latest digitalitcamermost recent initiative, will as, the GP-VPT2BT connects replace over six million singleeasily via Bluetooth, allowing use plastic water bottles every creators to simplythe aim and is year.

In addition, brand shoot without interfering working to eliminate single-use cables or exposedand inputs.

The plastic shampoo condinew grip includes useful tioner bottles later athis year.tilt featureefforts that allows for flexible These are driven by vertical angle adjustment as the Company’s Sail & Sustain well as the ability to switch Environmental Program, which from normal to self-shooting is its commitment to minimize mode to with ease. Additionalwaste landfills, reduce its

A4 INdulge!

actor and activist Jaden Smith and family, JUST takes an innovative approach to sourcing and packaging the world’s most valued resource - water. The revolutionary company focuses on an impact model, taking into consideration both how the water is sourced and packaged.

JUST is 100% spring water in a plant-based carton. The carton is made of 82% renewable materials – the paper carton is made from trees grown in responsibly-managed forests and the cap and shoulder are made from a sugarcane-based plastic.

It is refillable andInside recyclable.

Mr. & Mrs. B. JUST has a global presence and we take a vote on which dish to befacilities tweaked with had bottling inand Glenn dish should be included or improved and given an unaniFalls, NY; Ballymena, Northern taken out,” shared Pau “Each mous sign approval.”

Ireland; andofBallarat, Australia, “Even the Grilled Corn had thus allowing the company to to undergo many tweaks and meet demand around the world improvements before can a without shipping wateritfrom finally match the source. one meJUST and single production my hadthe while a to our Sail & Sustain program takeshusband care to use mostoneffitrip Bali,” Chef Pauavailable. jested. and believe wholeheartedly in cientinshipping options There is truly a worldabout of the importance of preserving For more information flavours outCruise there Line and not evour natural resources. We will Norwegian ships can travel allor the continue to strive towards mak- eryone and their itineraries, totime, book but at least we can all rest easy ing environmentally conscious a cruise, please contact a travel and be confident that at least decisions to benefit our earth.” professional, call 888-NCLwe can broaden ourorculinary Envisioned and founded by CRUISE (625-2784) visit horizon a little bit more at Mr. American rapper, songwriter, www.ncl.com. & Mrs. B. VOL.12 VOL.12 VOL.12 ISSUE ISSUE ISSUE 94 100 84 • Chop.

FRIDAY-SATURDAY, • SUNDAY-MONDAY, • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JULY JULY 19-20, 28-29, 5-6, 2019 MMB Grilled Pork

A4 INdulge!

Aldevinco do not carry Dagmay cloth. out with lemon, caper cream, spinach puree and an herb salad.

“Wala man gud kaayo Mandaya na pieces and mostly “Meproducts and my family tasted T’boli ang sa Aleach andSa every dishT’boli during devinco.

Manila lang the development of the menu mostly makita nako na ginahimo accent ug Yakan, beads sa Bagobo, balud from Lanao and Inaul. Walay something from the Mandaya community,” hetosaid.

CO2 emissions rate, increase thrilled make such an impact cotton Dagmay design sustainable sourcing and invest by The eliminating single-use beverclothing not yetchanged available ly,initemerging has an adjustment wheel and can beisquickly technologies. age bottles across our fleet. in theajust market as Limon can“This be loosened tightened into tripod simply exis a veryorspecial and It’s one by of the waysand wehis are group are in the immertovery allow for seamless operapanding the bottom portion, proud moment for us,” working tostill preserve our oceans sion the stage ofstable, the project. tion cameras of different easy handssaidwith Harry Sommer, president enabling and destinations we visit.

“Wethis willisevaluate their sizes gripof free shooting. and and chiefweights. executiveThe officer While just the pa beginning capacity and kung willing sila also includesCruise a flip button, inThe GP-VPT2BT Wireless Norwegian Line. “As of what we and others can do, makipag-collaborate,” he said. dicator light and line, lock we switch, Shooting Grip will committed be availa leading cruise are we are incredibly 40ºC Tuna.

EDGEDAVAO DAVAO EDGE Sous Vide Duck with Orange Sauce.

UP AND LAUNDRY FURNITURE A2A1 ABOUTa silly method but for EJ and

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

DIRECTIVE... FROM1

tions.

“Gitagaan ug 75 days from the issuance of the memorandum circular ug dapat nga dunay signi�icant result nga clear ang mga barangays from constructions and obstructions,” Abude said.

DILG issued Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 2019-121 dated July 29, 2019 and DILG MC No. 2019-167 dated October 4, 2019, which mandate all provincial governors, city, and municipal mayors, punong barangays including local engineering department heads to clear roads of illegal structures and constructions/obstructions and to reclaim all public roads that are being used for private ends.

DILG MC No.2019-167 provides for the transfer of the responsibility to continue the maintenance and sustainability of cleared roads to the concerned barangays.

The order directed all regional directors and �ield of�icers to inform all punong barangays and the Sangguniang Barangay members within their respective jurisdiction to perform their roles such as revisit approved ordinances and make them consistent with existing city/municipal ordinance and other related laws and policies pertaining to road clearing operations; collaborate with the city or municipal mayor concerned for harmonization of the efforts in the clearing of roads of illegal structures and obstructions; undertake strategies to ensure a peaceful, smooth, orderly and continuous implementation of the road clearing

operations within their respective jurisdiction. Such strategies may include the conduct of information dissemination campaign, fora or assembly to inform the community of the President’s directive on road clearing.

The of�icials were also mandated to mobilize the barangay tanods to conduct monitoring/ronda to ensure that public roads are rid of illegal structure and constructions; and to ensure to maintain and sustain the cleanliness of all cleared roads within their respective jurisdiction.

For purposes of monitoring, the directive requires all DILG �ield of�icers to conduct information dissemination or advocacy campaign on road clearing operations, immediately inform the concerned city or municipal mayor or punong barangay upon receipt of any complaint or information in relation to the conduct of road clearing operations, and monitor compliance of all barangay captains on matters pertaining to the conduct of road clearing operations within their respective jurisdiction.

Last year, CTTMO cleared 19 out of 41 identi�ied roads in the city of obstructions in the areas Quirino Avenue, Roxas Boulevard, Bankerohan, Matina, Ulas to Talomo, Buhangin, Quezon Boulevard, Jacinto Extension, Guerrero Street of Brgy 24-C, Dacudao Avenue in Agdao, Kilometer (Km) 7 Bangkal to Balusong in Matina, Bago Aplaya, Araullo Street of Jacinto Extension, Jacinto Street, Bangoy Street, and Angliongto Street.

lated to the environment.

Other performers will sing songs composed by ASIN, Gary Granada, Nars Fernandez and Bishop Manny Cabajar CSsR. The

Parish Redemptorist Youth Ministry will perform the dramatizations to be directed by Deacon Lemuel Ladora, CSsR. (MindaNews)

On the other hand, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said prices of National Food Authority (NFA) rice have dropped to as low as PHP27 per kilo.

Lopez said a year after the law’s implementation, rice in�lation rate dropped to negative 9.7 percent.

Farmers’ gains As the rice prices have gone down to its lowest in six years, palay (rice grain) prices have also slipped, putting farmers at the disadvantage.

However, Agriculture Secretary William Dar said the law, which created the Rice Competitive Enhancement Fund (RCEF), has helped enhance farmers’ productivity and competitiveness through mechanization, seed distribution and credit extension services.

Dar explained that the law is designed to help the farmers’ lower production but at the same time increase their farm income.

As of February 21, Dar said a total of 156,033 rice farmers have received PHP15,000 worth of loan

assistance per farmer with zero interest and payable in eight years.

Dar also denied the Federation of Free Farmers’ claims that farmers incurred losses amounting PHP68 billion due to lower prices of the grain during the law’s �irst year of implementation in 2019.

He said there were several government efforts in place to assist farmers such as PHP2.5-billion Survival and Recovery Assistance (SURE) aid, the PHP3-billion unconditional cash assistance, and the PHP10-billion RCEF which should also be taken into consideration.

Last year, around PHP12.3 billion worth of tariffs were collected from the implementation of the law. From January to February 14 this year, he said PHP1.7 billion tariff has been collected.

Enacted in 2019, the Rice Tarif�ication Law (Republic Act 11203) lifted existing quantitative import restrictions on rice to make the domestic rice industry more competitive. (PNA)

DAVAO CITY... FROM2

LOWEST... FROM3

HNP... FROM2

committee on the general appropriations bill.

“Yes I con�irm there were insertions that did not pass through the process of the committee on Appropriations. These were projects inserted during the bicameral conference committee," Ungab said.

Ungab, however, stood by the Budget Department Memorandum circular that classi�ied Congress-initiated expenditures as for later release.

"I believe however, that the Af�irmation Message of the President as well as National Budget Circular 578 is a good remedy that addressed those insertions, considering that projects or increases inserted by congress will undergo further evaluation or justi�ication by the agencies concerned before these projects will be released," he said.

Ungab explained that the memo would have only allowed release of funds upon the ful�illment of certain conditions.

“I held my position as chair of the Appropriations committee, knowing fully

well to whom I am accountable, and that is to the Filipino people. With the President's Af�irmation Message and DBM's Budget Citcular 578, specifying the requirements needed for these bicam insertions plus the expertise of the DBM personnel in the budget process, I know that these set conditions for implementation will safeguard public funds, ensure accountability of the project implementors and guarantee that the projects are aligned with the priorities of the national government," he said.

Cayetano has admitted that the DBM memo played into Ungab’s removal from his powerful position.

Ungab was a long-time Davao City councilor prior to becoming congressman.

He chaired the same panel during the last half of the Noynoy Aquino administration.

According to Cayetano, the DBM memo went into the working relationship the leadership had with Ungab, which he cited as mainly the reason for Ungab’s exit.

'Yung chopper talagang sobrang alikabok, tumama po sa wires. 'Yun ang reason kaya bumagsak ang ating chopper ," PNP-Highway Patrol Group (HPG) Chief Col. Wilson Doromal said.

[Translation: In the area of the helipad, they

suddenly couldn't see much. The chopper was too dusty, it hit the wires that led to the crash.]

Gamboa and the other PNP of�icials attended an event to turnover recovered impounded vehicles in the Laperal Compound in San Pedro.

co products to those below the age of 21, and requires the registration of such products and its components with the Food and Drug Administration. The establishments that manufacture, import, and sell e-cigarettes meanwhile are required to secure a license to operate from the FDA. Lopez said prior to the signing of the EO 106, they have been enforcing the prohibition of the use and selling of vapes and e-cigarettes in Davao City.

“In the span of time we have been implementing and enforcing already the prohibition of the use of vapes sa mga public places.

Sauna pa nga enforcement sa atoa dili na bag-o ang EO 106. When I started working in VRU three years ago, we already regulated

the use of vapes or e-cigarettes,” Lopez said.

He said what is allowed now is the importation and selling of imported vapes as long as it is Bureau of Food and Drug (BFAD) registered. He also said they are monitoring unregistered and adulterated (fake) vapes or e-cigarettes.

“Ang puwede lang makabaligya ug vapes karon and the gadgets are those imported ones. Unregistered and adulterated (copycat) or locally manufactured vapes are banned already by BFAD. Kung dili sila registred by BFAD they will be persecuted,” Lopez added.

Lopez said they are still conducting monitoring on various vape outlets in Davao City.

borrowing rate, up to 75 basis points this year instead of 50, in response to the virus.

Diokno �ired the �irst

25-basis point reduction in the benchmark last Feb. 6.

The next Monetary Board meeting is scheduled on March 16.

North semis series against Manila Stars with a 75-59 shock blowout.

The Skyscrapers held the Stars to just eight points in the �irst quarter.

Despite Manila crawling back in the second half, Makati broke loose again late in the fourth quarter to secure the rout.

Josh Torralba led the Skyscrapers with 23 points on 9-of-14 shooting with

5-of-8 on triples, three rebounds, one steal, and two blocks.

Jong Baloria added 15 points, �ive rebounds, one steal, and one block.

Mark Dyke and Marvin Hayes each scored 11 points for the Stars.

Game 3 between Makati and Manila is set on Friday night back at the San Andres Sports Complex.

(PNA)

PNP... FROM3

VAPE... FROM3

INFLATION... FROM4

SAN JUAN... FROM11

CITIRA... FROM3

9

Senate version of CITIRA, he said, are the deduction for reinvestment allowance to the manufacturing industry (up to 50 percent of reinvestment) to promote quicker expansion and job creation; depreciation allowance of the assets acquired for the entity’s production of goods and services (additional 10 percent for buildings and 20 percent for machinery); and enhanced net operating loss carry over (NOLCO).

“Many of these additional deductions are not present in the current incentive system in the Philippines and in other countries. CITIRA precisely includes them to directly address some of the constraints in doing business in the Philippines while making our proposed incentive system under CITIRA more competitive than our neighbors,” he said.

Chua said CITIRA also includes a provision where the President can approve special incentives if the current package is not suf�icient to attract the largest investors.

“That is how we aim to attract them when CITIRA is passed,” he added.

Chua also noted the recent news that foreign direct investment (FDI) pledges in the Philippines more than doubled last year, compared to 2018.

Based on the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), PHP390 billion in FDI pledges were approved in 2019, versus the PHP183

billion recorded in 2018.

This was mainly because of the performance of the Board of Investments (BOI), which despite offering only time-bound incentives, accounted for 86.1 percent of the pledges last year.

“The strong performance of FDI pledges in 2019 is a positive signal that the international community continues to regard the Philippines as one of the prime investment destinations in Asia. The sooner CITIRA is passed, the sooner these investments will materialize,” he said.

Senate ways and means committee chairperson, Sen. Pia Cayetano had earlier sponsored the measure in the Senate plenary.

She described CITIRA as “a fair deal for all” and “the best deal for Filipinos” in her sponsorship speech.

The measure seeks to reduce the CIT rate in the country, which is currently the highest in the Asean region, and reform the �iscal incentives system to make it more fair, ef�icient, and accountable.

CITIRA was among the priority bills endorsed by President Rodrigo Duterte in his 4th State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA) last July 2019.

In his SONA speech, President Duterte said, “It will energize our MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) and encourage them to expand their business. The MSMEs hold the promise of raising a lot of Filipinos (from poverty).”

(PR)

numbers from an opposing guard.

Russell Westbrook scored 41 points against the Celtics on Saturday, and Caris LeVert scored 37 of his 51 points in the fourth quarter and overtime on Tuesday.

Sexton's 41 points marked the �irst 40-pluspoint game from a Cavalier since Jordan Clarkson in February 2019.

Cleveland also got double-doubles from Kevin Love, with 26 points and

14 rebounds, and Larry Nance Jr., who �inished with 19 points and tied a career-high with 15 rebounds.

A Cavaliers side also riddled with injuries failed to get much scoring production from their bench, however. The Cleveland reserves totaled just seven points.

Cleveland played without Andre Drummond, Darius Garland, Alfonzo McKinnie and Tristan Thompson.

to address concerns raised on the �loor such as travel tax exemptions and medical provisions.

“This is good that we are here and discussing this because we can see how we call all work together,” explained Ramirez.

There will be subsequent consultative hearings to continue discussing the feasibility of said bill.

In congress, the PSC was represented by Marc Velasco, Sr. Executive Assistant and National Training Director in the discussion of House Bill 4594, with Leyte 4th District Representative Lucy Torres-Gomez as proponent.

The said bill, which is a proposal to institutionalize a comprehensive national grassroots sports development program centered in the Philippine National Games, seeks to deepen the provisions of the existing

law of the PNG (Executive Order #163, 1994) and make it a more effective tool to discover new sports talents for the country.

Another bill proposing to further commendations for our athletes in competitions like the Southeast Asian Games was discussed.

“Change is not always easy, but as public servants let us put in extra effort to study well and weigh effects and consequences of everything,” said the sports agency chief, adding “be an agent of change for as long as you also make every effort to ensure that those changes are for the better.”

Ramirez also took the opportunity to meet with Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Minority Leader Senator Franklin Drilon to discover various issues in sports and possible collaborations.

TATUM... FROM11

AGENT... FROM12

10 MOTORING EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

Dongfeng Trucks now available in Cagayan De Oro

A

utokid Truck Solutions, the premier importer and distributor of Dongfeng Trucks in the Philippines, is bringing its award-winning and world-class services to business communities in Northern Mindanao.

From Left to Right: Jefferson Rolida, Managing Director of Autokid North Mindanao Corp.; Adrian Anthony Olizon, CEO at Yorman Automotive Inc.; Mavin Tiu Lim, President of Autokid Truck Solutions; Eddie Rolida, President

Through its partnership with Yorman Automotive Inc., Autokid has established a new Dongfeng Trucks dealership, operated by Autokid

of Yorman Automotive Inc..; Eric Darryl Lim, Vice President of Autokid Truck Solutions; Kevin McHale Yao, CEO of Autokid Truck Solutions; Rico Macalintal, Vice President - Sales of Autokid Truck Solutions.

North Mindanao Corporation, to supply Dongfeng’s wide array of products and services in Cagayan De Oro. The new Dongfeng dealership is a 3,868-square-meter space along Diversion Road, Barra Opol, Misamis Oriental. It features a large showroom and selling area for Dongfeng’s world-class trucks and truck parts. Aside from distributorship, Autokid also offers quality truck repair services including mechanical, electrical, and fabrication services.

“Having reliable products and services is important for businesses, that is why we aim to establish Dongfeng in Cagayan De Oro in order to provide more businesses with truck solutions they can trust. Businesses in CDO won’t need to get their trucks and parts from another region, Autokid aims to bring accessibility to them,” said Autokid CEO Kevin McHale Yao. Autokid is doubling its efforts to provide

Dongfeng trucks to more businesses around the country. As the Philippine distributor of Dongfeng Trucks, Autokid distributes the full-range of light-, medium-, and heavy-duty trucks for businesses that need capable trucks in today’s work environment. Autokid has also partnered with like-minded companies and experts to better drive businesses in the local market.

“Our aim is to put the Autokid and Dongfeng brands as the ‘top of mind’ brand for every truck and business operators in Mindanao. We will optimize our automotive expertise to bring every available business solution to all our potential clients. After all, we are in business with the only purpose to serve and support clients. To God be all the glory,” said Jefferson Rolida, renowned businessman and automotive industry veteran at Yorman Automotive Inc. and Managing Director at Autokid North Mindanao Corporation.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 261 • FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

11

In her Facebook post, Nesthy Petecio said:“One down, three to go.”From the Facebook account of Nesthy Petecio

Petecio wins first bout in Olympic qualifiers

D

abawenya Nesthy Petecio, the Philippines’ top bet for a spot in Olympic boxing, got past her opening assignment in the Asia-Oceania Boxing Quali�ication Tournament for the 2020 Olympics in Amman, Jordan on Wednesday.

Petecio, the reigning women’s world featherweight champion, dominated Krismi Lankapuravalage of Sri Lanka for a 5-0 victory in the round-

of-16 to advance.

Despite the win, the Filipina was far from satis�ied with her performance.

“I feel heavy today. My

Tatum returns, leads Celtics over Cavs

J

ayson Tatum scored 32 points, Semi Ojeleye added a career-high 22 points and the injury-depleted Boston Celtics outlasted the host Cleveland Cavaliers, 112-106, on Wednesday night.

Playing on the second leg of a back-to-back, Boston came into Wednesday's matchup without Kemba Walker, Gordon Hayward and Jaylen Brown -- all of whom played in Tuesday's 129-120, overtime loss to Brooklyn.

But Walker missed the trip to Cleveland to rest a sore knee, Hayward was scratched Wednesday after coming out of Tuesday's game, and Brown was out with a tweaked hamstring.

Boston started a makeshift lineup with Brad Wanamaker and Grant Wil-

liams joining Daniel Theis and Marcus Smart. Tatum returned from illness, however, and powered the Celtics with 5-of-10 shooting from the 3-point line, nine rebounds and six assists.

The Celtics bench also came up big behind Ojeleye's career night. Enes Kanter added 10 points and grabbed a team-high 11 rebounds playing reserve minutes.

Cleveland kept pace with Boston all night behind a career-high 41 points from Collin Sexton, marking the third time this week that Sexton set a career scoring mark.

His eruption also marked the third consecutive game in which a typically stingy Boston defense gave up big scoring

TATUM, P9

coaches said just box normally, don’t be nervous and stick to the game plan,” Petecio said in the tournament’s of�icial website.

“So I just took it easy, didn’t go for the hard punches and just collected points.”

She moved to the quarter�inals where she will face Sena Irie of Japan Petecio also won gold in the same weight class in the 2019 Southeast

Asian Games.

Ian Clark Bautista opened the Philippine campaign with a tight 3-2 decision win against Hayato Tsutsumi of Japan in a men’s featherweight bout on Tuesday.

Other boxers campaigning in the quali�ier include world middleweight silver medalist Eumir Marcial, Carlo Paalam (�lyweight), James Palicte (light welterweight), Irish Magno (�lyweight) and Riza Pasuit (lightweight).

San Juan clinches spot in MPBL North Finals

S

an Juan Knights earned a place in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Northern Division Finals after edging Pampanga Giant Lanterns, 91-83, in Game 2 of their North semi�inal series at the San Andres Sports Complex here on Wednesday night.

The Knights, who barely escaped from the Giant Lanterns in Game 1 on Saturday night on a game-winning �loater from Mike Ayonayon, turned the tides in the third quarter of Game 2, holding their opponents to just 14 points before keeping them from pulling off a comeback in the

end.

"Yung experience namin last year, dala dala namin 'yung experience na 'yun dito lalo 'yung composure namin (We brought along our experience and composure last year) heading into the end game," said John Wilson, who led San Juan with 26 points, �ive rebounds, six assists, and �ive steals.

Jhonard Clarito added 14 points, 14 rebounds, four steals, and one block off the bench.

However, the team will have to wait a bit longer before getting back into action as Makati Skyscrapers tied its own

TATUM, P9

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers forward Larry Nance Jr. (22) at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.

Reuters

12 SPORTS EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS BRACE FOR BATTLE EDGE EDGE DAVAO DAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 164VOL.12 •VOL.12 FRIDAY-SATURDAY, ISSUE ISSUE78 261 • THURSDAY, • FRIDAY, OCTOBER MARCH JUNE 25-26, 27, 6,2019 2020

AGENT OF

CHANGE

4 games up as Escandor Cup Collegiate Sponsors League resumes Saturday

PSC Chairman William Ramirez together with Senate Committee on Sports Chairman Sen. Bong Go and Sen. Manny Pacquiao in the senate hearings today at the House of Representatives, Manila.

By ADAM B. MORRELL

A

PSC pursues more policies, laws to improve plight of athletes

heavy four-game bill Royal Mandaya Hotel, Dais on its way as ac- vies Paints, Mandarin SPC tion in the Collegiate Branch, Max's Fried ChickSponsors League (CSL) en and PTT Lubricants.

Escandor Cup resumes on Meantime, the Saturday, October 26, at Agro-Industrial Foundathe Davao Recreation tion College ofComthe PhilipheCityPhilippine Sports Center. pines (AIFCP) Sailors and agency The mission curtain raiserwas will athebusy UM Wildcats shared feature a "David versus the top spot in bracket A both therecord Con-each, Goliath"Wednesday match up as odds- aswith a 2-0 on favorite Jose Senate Maria Col- called followedhearings by the CJC Red gress and lege (JMC) Kings takes on Lions with 1-0. The MCT on proposed bills onNavigators sports. landed on the struggling Brokenshire College of Davao (BCD) the fourth spot with 1-1, The Senate Commit- were dribblers at 3:00pm. trailed both by thepart defending tee on headed by the resource TheSports clash between the ofchampion Holy Cross of Senator BongCollege Go called a group, with (HCDC) San Pedro (SPC) Davao along College hearing thethecreation Stallionson and visiting representatives Crusaders with 1-2, DMofCor the Jesu Philippine CollegeBoxing (CJC) from MACSP different Mariners 0-1, and Combat Sports entities of Digos City Red ComLions private SPCD Saints 0-1, and SPC mission, as atproposed government will go after 4:30 pm, and Stallions with 0-2. followed

by Manny the exciting The bracket B, meanby Senators Pac- agencies like the battleand between tradition- Department while, is currently quiao Bong Revilla. of led by al Senate powerhouse teams St. Budget the Holy Bills 193 and andCross Man-College John submitted Paul II College of Sasa (HCCS) Spartans 805, for ap-of agement, Social Davao by (SPCD) Saintsand and Security with 3-0 card, followed proval Pacquiao System, Mats College of Technolby JMC Kings (2-0), Revilla respectively, both PhilHealth, PAGIBIG Asian ogy (MCT) Navigators at International School of seek to Department of 6:00 pm. create a sepa- Fund, Aeronautics and Technolrate At government body to Health, Governance 7:00pm, the un- ogy (AISAT) (1-1), Ateoversee the concerns of Commission forUniversity GObeaten University of Minneo de Davao professional CCs. Elorde Promodanao (UM) boxing.

Wildcats will (Addu) Blue Knights (1-2), Manny Pacquiao says even at 40, represenhe is not finished yet.

PSCits clean Chairman Wiltions and stake slate against BCD (0-1), UM Penaplata liam PSC tatives from Muaythai DMMA Ramirez, College of South(0-1), and Rizal Memoern Philippines (DMMACrial Colleges (RMC) Commissioner Charles associations.

SP) Mariners to wrap up Bulldogs (0-2).

Maxey, and Games and Ramirez proposed Saturday's quadruple Amusement Board several possible ways header sponsored The Chairman Baham by Mitra AGENT, P9

T

EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO

NOT DONE YET A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

14 12

EDGE EDGEDAVAO DAVAO

SEE STORY ON P11

University of Mindanao will tryo to make it three in a row on Saturday as action in the Collegiate Sponsors League (CSL) Escandor Cup resumes at the Davao City Recreation Center. Escandor Cup/CSL photo VOL.11 VOL.12 ISSUE 241 ISSUE • SUNDAY-MONDAY, 6VOL.12 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, MARCH 24-25, 17-18, ISSUE 51 •FEBRUARY TUESDAY, 21,2019 2019 VOL.12 ISSUE 45 • SUNDAYMONDAY, MAYMAY 12 -13,

VOL.12ISSUE ISSUE55 21• SUNDAY-MONDAY, • SUNDAY-MONDAY,MAY APRIL 7-8, 2019 VOL.12 26-27,