Edge Davao Volume 12 Issue 58 |Thursday, May 30, 2019

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VOL.12 ISSUE 58 • THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2019

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DEAD SERIOUS

PRO 11 bares agency probe on investments schemes

By LEEBAI S. AMBOLODTO

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he Police Regional Office 11 is serious in stopping the proliferation of different illegal investment schemes in the region.

This was made clear by PRO XI Director General Marcelo Morales on Wednesday, during the AFPPNP Press Corps media briefing in the city.

“Ang PRO XI ay nagpatawag po ng series of c o n f e r e n c e s ”, Morales said. Of those discussed is the creation of an inter-agency task force, he said, that would help them look into these business and personalities involved.

Morales added, “I have instructed to conduct an investigation on these different investment schemes

na nag-ooperate within their respective area of responsibility”.

Further, he said that the chief of police, though the different provincial directors, needs to be in close coordination with their respective local government units and agencies that regulate the same.

“Kung mag-apply ng business permit, dapat complete ang supporting documents”, Morales emphasized.

He further added that those personalities involved in the business should possess the

TAKING STEPS. Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11) director Police Brigadier General Marcelo Morales warns police officers not to get involved in investment schemes either as protector or investor during AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 58 • THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2019

WARM WELCOME. President Rodrigo Duterte receives a warm welcome from Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda upon his arrival at the Haneda International Airport in Tokyo, Japan on Tuesday. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

PAL renews pledge E to protect PH eagle

Cabinet members to work with trade missions in Japan trip

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our-Star Carrier Philippine Airlines recently renewed its commitment to protect the Philippine eagle by providing support for the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF), a non-profit environmental conservation organization committed to ensure the survival of the endangered species.

Through the airline’s ‘Mabuhay Miles with a Mission’ program, a joint project of its corporate social responsibility arm PAL Foundation and frequent flier program Mabuhay Miles, PAL donated an additional one million miles to PEF for the foundation’s travel needs.

The new miles will also help PEF carry out its mis-

sion to spread awareness on the importance of preserving this endangered specie and their equally important forest-habitat.

Generous PAL passengers have donated their unused flight miles to support the Foundation, for which the airline management is immensely grateful.

“We are gratified that our loyal customers have

unselfishly shown the genuine heart of the Filipino”, said PAL President and COO Jaime J. Bautista, a longtime true believer in the cause of protecting the eagles.

“This is a critical time for our national bird and support is needed now more than ever. PAL’s donation of a million Mabuhay Miles will benefit efforts that work to protect the Philippine eagle.

We thank PAL and all of its loyal patrons for their generous support to the mission by helping us reach out to more people, specially the Filipino youth, and encourage them to participate in the

protection of our national bird and our forests,” says Dennis J. I. Salvador, PEF Executive Director: In 2016, Philippine Airlines and the Philippine Eagle Foundation entered into an agreement to help preserve the national bird as part of the airline’s commitment to environmental conservation. PEF was then under the chairmanship of Carlos G. Dominguez, who is now the country’s Finance Secretary.

As its initial gesture of support, PAL donated one million miles for PEF to carry out its programs and adopted baby eagle

The OBE, which runs from May 27 - June 7, is DepEd’s annual initiative to engage agencies, organizations and other stakeholders in preparation for the incoming school year.

It aims to address problems, queries, and other concerns commonly encountered by the public at the start of the school year and ensure that learners are properly enrolled and able to attend school on the first day of classes on June 3.

Through DILG Memorandum Circular 2019 78, the DILG Secretary also encouraged LCEs to con-

vene their Peace and Order Councils (POC), Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC), and Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (LDRRMC) in preparation for the opening of the classes.

LCEs are also urged to assist in providing information and quick response, mobilize barangays to clean/mark signage road networks leading to schools, and assist DepEd in preparing school facilities.

Año also directed the LCEs to deploy their local police and barangay force

multipliers to be stationed near the school gates and along roads leading to schools to ensure the safety of students going to and from their schools.

“Dapat maging mapagbantay ang kapulisan at mga barangay tanod para bantayan at protektahan ang mga istudyante laban sa mga kriminal at mga mapagsamantala (The police and village watchmen should always be on the lookout to protect students against criminals and other lawless elements),” he said.

Meanwhile, the Philip-

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DILG to LGUs: Support ‘Oplan Balik Eskwela’

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he Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Wednesday urged local chief executives (LCEs) to support the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Oplan Balik Eskwela (OBE) campaign for the opening of classes on June 3.

“Local (executives) are expected to work closely with DepEd to ensure that the school opening is as smooth and orderly as possible so that both students and teachers will be inspired to embark on this new learning journey,” said DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año in a statement.

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xecutive Secretary Salvador Medialdea on Tuesday said Cabinet officials joining President Rodrigo R. Duterte's attendance to the 25th Nikkei Conference on the Future of Asia in Tokyo will work with various trade missions in Japan.

In a message to reporters, Medialdea said Cabinet members have their own trade missions and denied that the trip is a reward for a successful 2019 midterm election results.

"May mga kanya-kanyang trade missions ang mga kasamang kabinete. Hindi po sila dekorasyon sa summit. Trabaho lang yan(Each Cabinet member has their own trade missions. They are not mere decorations in the summit. They are there solely for work)," he said.

Medialdea noted that most Cabinet members have not been active in the 2019 election campaign.

"Puro halos wala sa kampanya ang mga kasamang opisyal(Officials in the delegation were not in the campaign)," he said.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez also dismissed such claims.

"We have never seen this as ‘pabuya’ (reward) when we are working day and night just to prepare for all these activities," Lopez said in his text message to reporters.

Lopez said government officials maximize the President's attendance every time there is a foreign trip.

"Every time we travel with the President, we maximize his presence and have him speak to several investments fora, and we conduct deal signing,

business matching and networking, round table meetings with PRRD and investors and Secretaries do join as an opportunity to dialogue with the foreign business community," he said.

Malacañang released a list of the official delegation as of Tuesday morning, which include: -Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Department of Foreign Affairs -Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Department of Finance -Secretary Emmanuel Piñol, Department of Agriculture -Secretary Mark Villar, Department of Public Works and Highways -Secretary Karlo Nograles, Secretary to the Cabinet -Secretary Ramon Lopez, Department of Trade and Industry -Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Department of Tourism -Secretary Arthur Tugade, Department of Transportation -Secretary Fortunato Dela Peña, Department of Science and Technology -Secretary Alfonso Cusi, Department of Energy -Secretary Eliseo Rio Jr., Department of Information and Communications Technology -Secretary Ernesto Pernia, Director-General of the National Economic and Development Authority -Secretary Jose Ruperto Martin Andanar, Presidential Communications Operations Office -Secretary Hermogenes Esperon, Jr., National Security Adviser and Director-General of the National Security Council -Secretary Salvador Pan-

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VOL.12 ISSUE 58 • THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2019

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

MMDA to inspect schools for cigarettes, tobacco products

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he Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will inspect the selling and promoting of cigarettes and other tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, within the 100-meter perimeter of public and private schools.

Violators will receive verbal warnings if they were found to be smoking within the said distance from the schools, according to the agency.

The initiative, which is part of the MMDA’s preparations for the opening of the school year next month, aims to raise awareness on tobacco control and promoting a safer and healthier environment.

“Health and sanitation, urban protection and pollution control are among the seven mandates of the MMDA. We are tasked to promote and safeguard the health and sanitation

of Metropolitan Manila especially the youth who will become our future leaders," MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim said in a statement on Tuesday.

The agency will be distributing leaflets to store owners, students, teachers, and public utility vehicle drivers containing the provisions of the law on access restriction and effects of smoking and cigarette smoke and conduct orientation on the dangers of smoking to high school students in public secondary schools.

“Our health environmental officers will be posting signage in public facilities to supplement these efforts,” Lim said.

The MMDA will likewise enhance pedestrian lanes near the school to protect children crossing and to increase visibility to drivers. (PNA)

'BALIK ESKWELA.' Department of Education 11 (DepEd 11) spokesperson Jenielito Atillo provides updates and preparation on the upcoming school opening on June 3 during AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr

Mayor Sara hands over P new school buildings

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epartment of Education (DepEd)-run elementary and high schools in Toril will have additional classrooms after Mayor Inday Sara Duterte handed over newly-constructed school buildings on Tuesday.

Mayor Sara handed over a two-storey school building with four classrooms to Bayabas Elementary School and a one-story building with two classrooms Crossing Bayabas National High School, which are both in Toril district.

Following the handover of the new class-

rooms, there are now 81 classrooms that the city government has given to public schools in the city over the last three years.

Mayor Sara said the construction of school buildings is a partnership between the city government and DepEd-11 to address classroom shortage each year.

PRRD reappoints Mon Tulfo as Special Envoy to China

“These classrooms were specifically requested by the DepEd. Since the city government is the one who collects the Special Education Funds, we financed the construction of the classrooms while the site is owned by the DepEd,” she said.

Mayor Sara said it is the mandate of the Local School Board to ensure that the bulk of the funds of the Special Education Funds is allocated for the construction of classrooms.

She noted there is still

a shortage of classrooms in the city but not due to the implementation of the K to 12 program.

“We already have a shortage of classrooms even before the implementation of the K-12, it just worsened since we will be needing classrooms for Kindergarten, Grade 7 and Senior High School,” she said.

Mayor Sara said the city is fast-tracking the construction of more classrooms to ensure that the students' education will not be hampered. CIO

resident Rodrigo Duterte has reappointed broadcaster and newspaper columnist Ramon Tulfo Jr. as Special Envoy for Public Diplomacy of the President to China.

Tulfo was first appointed as special envoy in October 2018. His reappointment paper was signed on May 27, 2019 with the copy released to reporters on Tuesday (May 28).

Tulfo will hold the post for another six months.

Duterte also appointed Claire Dennis Sioson Mapa as National Statistician of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) at the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

Her appointment paper was also signed on May 27, 2019 that was also released

walls of Grades 7, 8 and 9 last Saturday, May 25. Kanacan High School is one of the school- beneficiaries of Apo Agua in this year’s Brigada Eskwela. Apo Agua is Davao City Water District’s partner in the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project where the former will construct and operate a water treatment facility in Brgy. Gumalang, Baguio District. The project’s three-year construction phase began with engineering design works in 2018 and is targeted to commence operations by the first half of 2021.

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36 poll protest cases filed so far: Comelec

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Used Tires for School Landscaping. Kanacan High School in Brgy. Tamugan, Marilog District will breathe new life to six (6) used tires from Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. in time for the school opening this June. The tires will be painted and used as planters for the school’s landscaping project. The tires were turned over last May 20

by Apo Agua Community Relations Officer Jade Gamas-Chiu (left) and Stakeholder Relations Officer Aldwin Dumago (right) to Teachers Dolores Baratas and Glydell Pertos (second and third from left, respectively). Aside from donating used tires, the Apo Agua team also donated maintenance materials and painted the classroom

on Tuesday. She will serve for a term of five years.

Meanwhile, Malacañang also released the appointment paper of new Supreme Court (SC) Associate Justice Henri Jean Paul Balinghasay Inting.

Duterte signed Inting’s appointment paper on February 22, 2019 and a copy the document was released on Tuesday.

Inting replaces Associate Justice Lucas Bersamin, who was appointed Chief Justice in November 2018.

Inting served as corporate attorney in the National Housing Authority (NHA); public attorney at the Public Attorney's Office (PAO); and assistant Quezon City public prosecutor, before being appointed as

he Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday reported that it has received over 30 electoral protest cases, more than two weeks after the holding of the May 13 midterm polls.

"As per ECAD (Electoral Contests Adjudication Department), 36 cases as of 3 p.m. today, May 28," said the poll body in a statement.

Earlier, Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said that the cases involving local positions were submitted before the poll body’s main office in Intramuros, Manila.

Among the cases are from the cities of Taguig and San Juan; and provinces of Leyte, Kalinga and Negros.

However, the poll body official did not reveal those involved in the protest cases.

Jimenez explained that protest cases involving city and provincial

elective positions are under the jurisdiction of Comelec head office.

As for poll protests of municipal elective positions, he said these should be filed before the Regional Trial Courts (RTCs).

On the other hand, the Comelec official added that protest cases involving senators are presented before the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET) while the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal (HRET) handles cases involving congressmen.

"We invite anyone with complaints to approach us in official channels so we could act on your complaints at soonest," Jimenez said.

Under existing rules, Comelec, through one of its two Divisions, shall handle all election protests involving regional, provincial, and city officials. (PNA)

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 58 • THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2019

BSP urges public to keep eye on bogus banknotes

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onetary authorities called on the public to be wary of counterfeit banknotes, urging them to become familiar with the various security features of Philippine currency.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) advised the public to "carefully feel, look, tilt their banknotes to check the identifiable security features" and even provided a detailed illustration to distinguish real currency from well-made fakes.

"One easy way to determine if banknotes are

genuine and not altered is by checking the watermark by viewing the banknote against the light from either side. The watermark in the blank space should be the same image as the portrait on the banknote and denominational value," the BSP said.

The BSP further called on the public to report any information on currency counterfeiting to the nearest police station or law enforcement agency, for appropriate action, or contact the Currency Management Sector for assistance at Tel. Nos. 988-4833 and 926-5092. (PR)

Extended TIEZA tax perks to create 160K jobs, P222B in investments

'HABAK.' A pedestrian curiously checks out the 'habak' that are being sold by lumads at the sidewalk along City Hall drive in Davao City on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr

Accelerated spending needed to achieve 2019 growth target

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n Monday’s committee hearing on the status of implementation of the 2018 budget and the effect of the four-month re-enacted budget on the 2019 projected economic growth, Senator Loren Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, said that accelerated spending and implementation of government programs are needed to achieve its growth target for 2019.

Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Carlos Dominguez said that the growth target for the first quarter of 2019 is between 6.6 and 7.2 percent, however, the impasse on the 2019 budget, among other factors, caused the government to reach an amount of P1 billion underspending per day, decelerated GDP

growth by 5.6 percent, and affected the implementation of programs for the first quarter of the year.

Among the sectors affected in the delayed passage of the 2019 budget is the education sector because 18,575 classrooms were not repaired and 4,110 classrooms were not constructed. It also caused

NFA assures enough funds to buy palay

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he National Food Authority (NFA) assured farmers nationwide that the agency has enough funds and ready to buy palay through the rest of the year.

NFA OIC Administrator Tomas Escarez gave this assurance even as the summer harvest is about to end, to encourage farmers to take advantage of the higher buying price the agency offers versus the private traders.

The food agency’s provincial offices have been overshooting procurement targets, sometimes resulting in slight delay in payment, as more farmers are enticed by the maximum of PHP20.70/kilogram buying price for clean and dry palay, while farmgate prices continue to dip.

But the NFA management assured those isolated instances are being addressed at the soonest possible time.

Escarez advised NFA field offices to request for procurement funds in ad-

vance to continuously accommodate palay deliveries from farmers.

As of May 20, NFA had already bought a total of 4.1 million bags of palay worth PHP4.2 billion, out of the PHP4.4 billion remitted to NFA field offices for palay procurement.

Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) records show that palay farmgate prices dropped by 0.5 percent, from PHP18.45/kg to PHP18.35/kg in the first two weeks of May this year, and 12.6 percent compared to last year’s farmgate price of PHP21/kg during the same period.

The NFA’s maximum palay buying price of PHP20.70/kg is composed of the PHP17/kg support price and additional PHP3/ kg as buffer stocking incentive, based on Equivalent Net Weight standard of NFA; PHP0.20/kg as drying incentive; PHP0.20/kg as delivery incentive; and PHP0.30/kg as cooperative development incentive fee. (NFA PR)

delay in the implementation of the new school dental health program and in the awarding of grants to 328,889 Senior High School students.

Legarda said that the concerned agencies could have utilized the re-enacted budget of 2018 or an amount not exceeding the 2019 National Expenditure Program (NEP) and should not have waited for the President to sign the General Appropriations Act of 2019.

Moving forward, Legarda agreed with Dominguez that accelerated spending can still allow the government to reach its growth

targets.

The DOF guaranteed that the spending commitment of the two main infrastructure agencies, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Department of Transportation (DOTr), will cover its target disbursement for the rest of 2019 and assured that the implementation of its priority socioeconomic programs, including the Pantawid Pasada, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), National ID System, Fuel Marking, and Social Pension, will boost spending and growth.

Dominguez also report-

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he 10-year extension of tax perks for tourism enterprise zones (TEZs) is seen to generate more than 160,000 jobs and at least PHP222 billion in capital investments, following the signing into law of Republic Act 11262.

“Now that the sunset provision has been finally extended until 2029, TEZ operators and locators no longer need to worry about matters related to the availment of TIEZA’s incentives," Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) Chief Operating Officer Pocholo Paragas said in a statement Tuesday.

"This is also great news for TIEZA as the incentives we offer are more than necessary to continuously attract investments, generate employment, and promote inclusive growth for our country,” he added.

The new law, which amends RA 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009 and signed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte on April 10,

2019, extends the grant of incentives to TEZs for another 10 years or until December 31, 2029.

Through the extension, TEZ operators and Registered Tourism Enterprises (RTEs) can continue to avail of fiscal incentives such as the Income Tax Holiday (ITH), 5 percent Gross Income Taxation (GIT) Rate, and 100 percent exemption on all taxes and customs duties on importations of capital investment and equipment, and transportation and spare parts.

According to TIEZA, this extension "is projected to generate PHP222 billion in capital investments and 160,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities in the next 10 years."

The new law is a consolidation of House Bill 8861 and Senate Bill 1616 or “An Act Extending The Period For The Grant Of Incentives To Tourism Enterprise Zones And Registered Tourism Enterprises" passed in February 2019. (PNA)

Passage of pro-investments economic measures pushed

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conomists are pushing for the immediate passage of economic reform measures, particularly those that stimulate investment and create new jobs in the country, in the coming 18th Congress.

“The objective is to pass the priority bills of LEDAC (Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council), the ones that the President has already given a blessing,” Astro del Castillo, managing director at First Grade Finance Inc., said in an interview with Philippine News Agency.

Del Castillo said among these priority measures are the National Land Use Act, as well as amendments to the Charter that will attract more investments, especially foreign, into the country.

He pointed out that the National Land Use Act, which can prevent the loss of agricultural

lands because of unabated development, is “very critical” to food security.

The economist also cited the Tax Reform for Attracting Better and High-Quality Opportunities (TRABAHO) Bill, which seeks to lower the corporate income tax in the country.

“It will lower the corporate tax but will level the playing field in the business sector which hopefully will encourage more investments. Yan inaantay ng karamihan na mga foreign investors (Many foreign investors are waiting for that),” he said.

Apart from economic reform measures, del Castillo also expressed hope that pending bills meant to address problems in traffic and transportation would be passed.

“We’re excited that hopefully, these will be passed. It’s not really that bad that you have a very cooperative Senate

and House of Representatives which happens in any developed country. And remember these are elected by the people, fair and square. Ang masama (What is bad is) if there are abuses,” he added.

For her part, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon cited reforms, particularly the amendments to the Public Service Act, to bring down operating costs, especially of telecommunication companies.

Edillon also underscored the need to amend the Foreign Investment Act and the Retail Trade Liberalization Act to attract foreign investments into the country and create jobs.

“It’s really about expanding the economic opportunities,” she said in a separate interview.

Edillon said the NEDA Bill is also imperative in providing

coherence in economic planning within all government agencies up to provincial planners.

Two separate bills expanding and strengthening the powers of NEDA are pending in both houses of Congress.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia earlier said “the enactment of this proposed legislation will give NEDA the teeth and strategic vision in planning and implementing reform initiatives that will be sustained beyond an administration’s term.”

“At its core, the measure seeks to address fragmented, uncoordinated, and even often interrupted planning, policy-making, programming, and budgeting process of the government.

There will be continuity of plans, programs, and policies that should outlive a President’s term for them to become effective,” he added. (PNA)

VOL.12 ISSUE 58 • THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2019

EDGEDAVAO

ECONOMY 5 Finance magazine names BPI best bank in the Philippines

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TRADITIONAL METHOD. A printer applies acrylic paint on a student’s uniform as he uses traditional method but more affordable way of printing school monograms for P40 per uniform in front of Kapitan Tomas Monteverde Sr. Elementary School along Ponciano Reyes Street in Davao City on Wednesday, five days before the opening of classes. Lean Daval Jr

Food Terminal opens in Toril

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he P74.8 million worth Davao City Food Terminal in Daliao, Toril where smallscale farmers can cash in on their products without the intervention of middlemen finally opened on Monday.

Mayor Inday Sara Duterte said the biggest advantage of the Food Terminal is that farmers, including those from outside the city, will have a say on the price of their

products.

“This Food Terminal is not exclusive for Davao City farmers only. It's useless if Davao City farmers will be the only ones to grow. Our growth should

extend to our neighboring places,” she said.

Mayor Sara said the city has no intention of turning the Food Terminal into a revenue-generating facility because farmers can only pay minimal charges for the use of the facility. She said it is important for farmers to earn a bigger income.

“The main goal of this food terminal is helping

our small-scale farmers than making a profit,” she said.

The construction of the food terminal is covered by a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) entered by the city government with the National Development Council for the use of the 5-hectare site and the Department of Agriculture (DA) which fully funded the project. CIO

orporateTreasurer (CT), one of Asia’s leading publications for senior finance professionals, has recognized Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) as the “Best Bank” in the country. This is the first time CT winners were chosen by the top corporate treasurers and chief finance officers of top companies in Asia.

BPI was also given two other major awards—Best FX House and Best Trade & Supply Chain House in the Philippines—at the recently concluded CorporateTreasurer Awards 2018 held at the Swissôtel Merchant Court in Singapore.

To establish winners for the prestigious house awards, CT surveyed corporate treasurers and CFOs within the top 100 companies by revenues in each of the 13 major economies across Asia-Pacific, including India, to create a first-of-itstype census of the region, combining market penetration and satisfaction rating.

“We are honored to have been named as the best bank in the Philippines and one of the best banks in Asia Pacific. We are focused on digitalizing the bank. This will reduce the cost to serve and allow us to be more financially inclusive. We believe that growth must

be accompanied by financial inclusion,” said Cezar Consing, President and CEO of BPI. Since 2012, the CorporateTreasurer (CT) Awards have honored institutions and individuals that show proven vision and have broadened the treasury knowledge base within the Asia Pacific.

In December 2018, CT announced an exciting change to the awards, broadening the scope of its methodology to drill deeper into what exactly it is that makes for Asia Pacific’s best financial institutions and service providers.

The best bank in each country was determined by combining the market share and satisfaction ratings of three core transaction services: Cash Management, Trade and Supply Chain, and FX Services.

Launched in April 2012, the CorporateTreasurer is the only independent print publication in Asia dedicated to serving treasury teams and chief financial officers.

Published by Haymarket Financial Media, the CorporateTreasurer was born out of FinanceAsia’s Corporate Treasury News and has become a forum for daily market intelligence and longterm strategic insight for senior finance professionals across Asia.

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 58 • THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2019

EDITORIAL Are we so helpless?

A lot has been said but nothing seems to be done concretely to regulate, contain or stop the proliferating investment scams in the region.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has made it clear the investment schemes that are sweeping the region are illegal, them being unauthorised to sell securities that are unregistered with the SEC. Other than the advisory it released and the revocation of permit, not one of those behind the Ponzi-like investment scheme have been slapped with charges so far. The hot-selling scheme continues to lure people from all walks of life and it looks like it

EDGEDAVAO

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won’t stop unless there is someone from the operators is charged in court.

At this point, there is a need for a concerted effort from the various agencies of government from law enforcement to regulatory bodies to act as one, perhaps a multi-agency task force, in order to come up with more concrete legal action to address the situation.

From the looks of it, there could be some big fish behind these investment schemes and it now lies upon the government’s political will to truly enforce the law.

Otherwise, if it plans to let these schemes continue, then at least legalize the same with strict regulations.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO Social Media Manager/Lifestyle

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 58 • THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2019

VANTAGE POINTS

7

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

THE BANNING OF IMPORTED PORK PRODUCTS “MA LING ALERT.” That was the headline of EDGE Davao last Wednesday.

“Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel ‘Manny’ Piñol has urged the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to remove from the shelves of retailers such pork products as Ma Ling that were manufactured August 2018 onwards as these may be contaminated with African swine fever (ASF),” the news report said.

But it’s not only Ma Ling though. Any other pork and pork products “shipped in after (the effectivity of the ban) should be recalled from the market,” the state-owned Philippine News Agency (PNA) pointed out.

In another news report carried by the website of CNN Philippines, Piñol explained the necessity and urgency of the banning. “While we consider Ma Ling and other processed pork products as minimal risk products, we still would like to pursue the banning of these products because we cannot take chances because according to experts the ASF virus can survive the processing and even heat used in the processing,” he said.

The ban is actually part of measures that the Department of Agriculture is implementing

to ensure our country free of ASF. In an advisory, the FDA listed 16 countries covered by the temporary ban; these are: China, Hungary, Latvia, Poland, Romania, Russia, Ukraine, Vietnam, Zambia, South Africa, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Moldova, and Belgium.

It is expected that the prices of pork and pork products will increase. In a news report carried by Rappler, Piñol asked: “What should be prioritize: the P1 to P2 increase in the price of pork or the destruction of an industry worth P200 billion?”

Earlier this year, Julio Sobrepena, the enforcement head section of the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) in Davao region, said that all pork and pork products being sold in the market in Davao City are guaranteed free from ASF. The NMIS regional office is closely coordinating with other government agencies – Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Animal Industry-National Veterinary Service, and the City Veterinarian’s Office – to ensure that no pork and pork products coming from ASF-affected countries will enter the local market.

“Our office here will continuously monitor all meats being sold in Davao markets and see to it that meat products will

have a Meat and Meat Products Inspection Certificate,” Sobrepena was quoted as saying.

ASF, a viral disease of pigs and wild boar that is usually deadly, is endemic in sub–Saharan Africa. In Europe, it has been endemic in Sardinia for several decades. In 2007, outbreaks occurred in Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and the European part of Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. Late last year, outbreaks of ASF was reported in China.

“The threat is real and it could affect an industry which benefits millions of families, mostly small backyard farmers, who raises 15-million heads of hogs every year,” wrote Piñol in his Facebook account.

As such, he urged Filipinos to buy locally produced pork over imported products. “In the face of the threat of a baffling hog disease which has killed millions of pigs all over the world and whose effect on human health is still unknown, I am appealing to consumers to buy pork and pork-based products produced by local farmers,” he wrote.

Better still,” he added, “source your requirements locally, that way you not only protect our local hog industry but you also help lower poverty in

the countryside.”

According to Piñol, the Philippines stands out as one of the few countries in the world which is free from animal diseases like the foot-and-mouth disease and ASF. He feared the once ASF enter the country, the pig industry will greatly be affected.

ASF is caused by a unique virus which is distinct from that of classical swine fever and which infects only domestic and wild pigs and a variety of soft bodied ticks. The virus, endemic in Africa, circulates between warthogs and the soft bodied ticks which inhabit their burrows, according to the website, thepigsite.com.

The ticks transmit it through all stages of their life cycle and perpetuate it.

“ASF virus is relatively tough and can survive in the environment and in pig carcasses for a long time,” thepigsite.com states. “Curing and smoking pork products does not destroy it. Its main method of spread from country to country is via waste uncooked pork products fed to pigs.

It adds: “Its spread between herds within a country is by direct and, to a lesser extent, indirect contact between pigs. Indirect contact usually

involves contamination from dead pig tissues and secretions.”

Humans are not susceptible to the disease. “The typical signs of African swine fever are similar to classical swine fever, and the two diseases normally have to be distinguished by laboratory diagnosis,” the website of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) explains.

Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, lack of energy, abortions, internal bleeding, with hemorrhages visible on the ears and flanks. Sudden death may occur. Severe strains of the virus are generally fatal (death occurs within 10 days).

Animals infected with mild strains of African swine fever virus may not show typical clinical signs.

The agriculture department said ASF is not a zoonotic disease. But still, it urged Filipino swine raisers to strengthen and strictly implement farm biosecurity measures.

“The public is enjoined to support the government’s efforts by reporting to veterinary authorities any unusual pig mortalities, pork smuggling activities or meat items hand-carried by travelers from affected countries,” the DA technical advisory said.

FRED C. LUMBA SPECKS OF LIFE

ARE FILIPINOS GULLIBLE? The Merriam -Webster’s Dictionary and Thesaurus defines “gullible” as “easily duped, deceived or cheated.”

If you stretch this meaning, “naïve, unsophisticated, uneducated, unschooled” etc. or any such nouns will help one understand more and grasp the definition of what a gullible person is like.

At any rate, I am asking this question in the light of past and present circumstances leading me to believe that indeed Filipinos are gullible.

Oh, pardon me if I am stepping on many toes.

Despite the huge warnings of government authorities about illegal recruitment and the perils it entails, some naïve (?) and idle Filipinos seeking work abroad continue to “patronize” - and allow themselves to be duped by - glib-tongued agents masquerading as legitimate representatives of recruitment agencies accredited by OWWA and the POEA. How many hundreds (if not

thousands) of OFWs have gone to the Middle East, Africa and nearby countries without proper accreditation from the POEA and were discovered to have been illegally recruited or went on their own because a relative already stationed abroad has induced them to come without the proper documents?

Many Filipinos arrive there as tourists and are emboldened to seek employment even at the risk of violating the strict immigration laws of that country because they were either starving or just needed to find work even without contracts that should protect them from abusive employers.

Tales of woe and stories of grief flooded the country as one OFW after another narrated his/her slave-like working conditions in news dispatches, asking the government for help and crying “ibalik nyo ako sa Pilipinas!”

Several other types of deception have emerged since then.

One scam that magnetizes Filipinos to bite the bait hook, line and sinker is the “get-richquick schemes” (GQRS) that accurately compare them to ants that frenziedly rush to gather teeny weeny bits of crumbs to store in their “warehouses” under the ground because it is there for the taking.

This tempting offer – to get a huge 35 percent return (and even higher) for your investment after a certain lock-in period – behooves the mind and destroys the basic principle of logical thinking.

Ask any right-thinking economist and legit businessman if these GRQS are not a form of economic sabotage and he will tell you that they are harmful to the economic circumstances of a nation.

If this is allowed by government – the SEC in particular - to go on and on without it ever probing into the “mystery,” people may no longer go to the banks where their money is safe and insured by the government.

Nine out of ten people I have asked did not say anything contrary and were curiously quiet on the matter.

This is because they did not want to rock the boat, so to speak, because they have themselves – I later on discovered invested a small sum and have also quietly received a return for their investment, a simple gesture (and message) that the people behind the GRQS are sincere and legally operating within the country’s business system.

But then, you ask: how can these GRQS guys give so much huge interest and do not mind if they are engaged in a losing business proposition? Where is the bulk of their money coming from?

Only multi-billionaires who have gone out of their minds and are willing to part with their wealth because of their philanthropic objectives, I would surmise, will do this.

Or, may be this is a case of money laundering, plain and

simple.

In Metro Manila, many networking companies literally sprung up like mushrooms when a company flaunted a member via a well-organized media promotion to have amassed so much moolah, buying himself a multi-million property, a luxury car, millions of earnings saved in the bank and acknowledged leadership in the business.

Thereafter, huge throngs of people – mostly the ordinary wage earners – queued in kilometric lines because these gullible folks thought the fortunes of the guy might also befall on them.

THEYE WERE WRONG. TOTALLY WRONG! Okay. One day, this QRQS will stop because the money will soon run out. Believe me, nothing in this earthly life is forever. Woe to those who have invested big and did not get back their money. ##### (Email your feedback to fredlumba@ yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES.

8

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COMPETITIVE EDGE

The 24-meter Ongon Steel Bridge, connecting the sitios of Cantalina-Panusuan and In Photo (L-R) : DAR 7 Program Beneficiaries Development Division Chief Ferdinand Yu, DAR Negros Oriental Beneficiaries Development and Coordinating Division (BDCD) Tuybo in Barangay Silab.

Chief Grace Mapili, DAR 7 Regional Director Engr. Marion Y. Abella, DAR Negros Oriental Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Atty. Louie L. Naranjo, Infra Coordinators Engr. Rita Ann S. Ambrose and Engr. Aristole Bernal.

DAR turns over bridge in Amlan town, NegOr

T

he Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) last April turned over a bridge project in Amlan, Negros Oriental.

The 24-meter Ongon Steel Bridge now connects the sitios of Cantalina-Panusuan and Tuybo in Barangay Silab.

The project, worth P28 million, was funded through the Tulay ng Pangulo Para sa Kaunlarang Pang-Agraryo Program of the DAR which provided P24 million under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. The remaining P4 million was completed by the local

government unit of Amlan.

Around 300 agrarian reform beneficiaries in the area are expected to benefit from the project through easier transportation of their products.

The turn-over ceremony, held April 30, 2019, was attended by

DAR Regional Director Engr. Marion Y. Abella, CESO V, Assistant Regional Directors Engr. Eliasem Castillo and Atty. Josephus Baterna, Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Atty. Louie L. Naranjo, and Municipal Mayor Bentham P. Dela Cruz.

The Ascott Ltd. Philippines top guns love Cebu beach

T

op Philippine officials of The Ascott Limited can talk endlessly about the reasons why the global company partnered with Cebu Landmasters Inc. They built the first Ascott property outside Metro Manila here at the heart of Cebu City – Citadines Cebu City.

Country general manager of The Ascott Limited Philippines Daniel Wee brightened when he gushed about the local beaches and Cebu’s lechon.

A Singaporean, Wee has been mainly based in Shanghai, China and Makati since he joined Ascott. But Cebu offers something different.

World class beaches are just an hour away from Cebu City. The island is also home to lechon – the roasted pig that the late chef Anthony Bourdain described as “the best ever.”

“I’m looking forward for my first beach vacation in the country. And of course, more Cebu lechon,” Wee said.

As the first serviced residence in Cebu, the 180-unit Citadines Cebu City will provide curated and personalized service

that will be tailor-made for guests. It will also incorporate Cebu’s culture to make it distinct from other Ascott properties.

According to Wee, international serviced residences are complete with a living room, fully-equipped kitchen, washing machine with dryer, and home entertainment system. In addition, expect a function room with a majestic view of the city, a fitness center, business corner, and a swimming pool for adults and kids.

“Above all, there’s a team of professionals and seasoned hoteliers who will serve its guests” he added.

Susan Salcedo, Ascott’s head for Visayas and Mindanao, also considers Cebu as an ideal location as a venue for its first project in Cebu.

“Obviously, Cebu is next to Metro Manila. The potential of the city is promising most especially with its tourism standing,” Salcedo said.

Salcedo joined The Ascott Limited in 2008 as Lifestyle Manager for Ascott Makati and was promoted to Residence Manager for Citadines Salcedo

Daniel Wee

Makati in 2014, and eventually got appointed to General Manager adding Somerset Olympia Makati under her wing.

Her experience in Ascott made her understand the business and ready to run the Visayas-Mindanao cluster.

“It’s very gratifying working here. I’ve probably worked the same long hours abroad but here, I’m happy. It feels like a home” Salcedo said.

At the moment, Sal-

Susan Salcedo

cedo added, “our preparations include incorporating Ascott and local culture”.

Citadines Cebu City, for instance, will be using local furniture made by local designers.

Asked about her life outside being the Ascott head for VisMin, she mused: “It’s all about Game of Thrones! When the season ends, life will end too.

But there’s Star Wars to look forward to.”

MAGIC... FROM 11

own people at the beginning. The one thing I didn’t get to do was hire everybody that I wanted. Rob and I got put together. I inherited Luke Walton. (If I had a chance) to hire my own people, then you can judge me. You can judge me by trades I made. You can judge me by, I didn’t have enough shooters.”

Johnson added, “Did I do some things wrong?

Of course. And I admitted those things. I’m not a guy who’s going to run from the truth. I’m going to tell you the truth. And you can talk bad about me if I did something wrong. I don’t mind that. I learn from my mistakes.

“I’ll also tell you what I didn’t do. Nobody’s ever called me and said, ‘Magic mistreated an employee.’

Ever.”

“Now a lot of Laker employees didn’t like that I held them accountable.

That’s what my job was.

Did I have to fire some people? Yes, because we had to bring about change and get better. I think we got a great staff. I’ll say this right now: The Lakers got a great staff. What’s gotta happen now is we gotta get out the news. I’m really upset that I’m here talking about that.”

Johnson said earlier this month that he knew it was time for him to resign his post as team president when authority to make personnel decisions, including firing Walton, was instead put to a collective front-office vote and Walton stayed.

Paul denied the report from ESPN, which included details of how he attended practice to “scout” players and coaches he might not want around.

“I understand my position,” Paul said. “I respect all those in our industry.

At the end of the day, all I can do is continue to do a job for my client. That’s it.

I can’t worry about what

somebody thinks, the perception. All I can do is work hard and continue down the path that I’m on.”

Lue interviewed for the job following Walton’s dismissal, but wound up passing on a three-year offer.

Johnson helped lure and sign James to a $154-million contract last July. But beyond the landmark signing, the team largely fell short in bids to bring in a second star to pair with James.

Paul George re-signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder, and overtures geared toward landing Pelicans center Anthony Davis were rebuffed by New Orleans.

Johnson and Pelinka wound up reeling in known pariah Rajon Rondo, Lance Stephenson and JaVale McGee to round out a roster that featured mostly young talent.

“We all had the same reaction that the basketball world did, like what the f-- are we doing? Not only are we not getting shooting, but we’re also getting every basket case left on the market,” one Lakers assistant coach was quoted as saying of the roster-building confusion.

Pelinka, with input from the Buss Family and adviser Kurt Rambis, is at the controls entering the 2019 offseason, but James is reportedly leading the recruitment of free agents.

Jeanie Buss, the principal owner since Dr. Jerry Buss died in 2013, said she did not expect to hire a replacement for Johnson after he resigned without informing her first.

“I feel like everyone that’s no longer there, as sad as it is that they’re no longer there, it’s a blessing,” one former staffer told ESPN. “It’s not a good place to be. It’s not what Dr. Buss wanted it to be.”

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EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

Blue Post Group’s Kluang Seaafood Medley.

Top One’s Balut Shanghai.

Of food and culture:

FLAVOURS OF MINDANAO

TO SAY they we, Filipinos, love to shop is truly an understatement.

Even on special days, we consider malls to be epitome of happiness — from morning until night. And SM Supermalls had made malling and shopping for us Filipinos more fun 365 days.

“Malls in the Philippines have a different kind of magic as they bring friends and families together. With that, SM continues to serve as venue for meaningful experiences in shopping, dining, leisure and entertainment. Our campaign ups the fun, food and festivities in all our malls.

We are excited for more fun malling experiences to unfold in the coming months,” SM Lanang Premier mall manager Lester Tantoco said during the launching of Malling is More Fun in the Philippines campaign last Friday, 25 May

Malagos Cheese Board.

2019, at the SM Lanang Premier.

Launching last 17 May at the SM Megamall Fashion Hall (Mandaluyong City), Malling is More Fun in the Philippines aims to encourage patrons, locals and visitors to explore the many shopping malls we have in the country.

Malling Is More Fun In The Philippines is SM Supermalls’ partnership campaign with the Department of Tourism (DOT).

DOT Asec. Roberto Alabado III further emphasized our love for the malls and shop-

Fat Cow’s Adlai Champorado with Candied Dilis.

Marco Polo Davao’s Kagikit. ping “Shopping is also a tourism product”, he said. “SM’s 72 malls around the country have become destinations,” he added.

Aside from DOT Asec.

RBG’s Durian Curry Empanada.

Alabado, also present during the event were DOT Region XI Director Tanya Rabat-Tan, Chef Myrna Dizon Segismundo, officers and members of the Davao Tourism Associa-

tion, VISIT DAVAO Summer Festival executive committee, SM officers and staff, friends from the media and the community.

“We are happy with SM Supermalls support in our campaign in spreading fun and excitement across different experiences in their malls.

Today, we are proud to showcase the culinary heritage of Mindanao that highlights our culture, tradition, uniqueness and ancestry”, said DOT Xl regional director Tanya RabatTan. The event kicked off with the Flavors of Mindanao -- a delicious week-long exhibit

ROYAL CHEF A4

EDGED

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

KINDERMUSIK IS COMING TO D

The world’s leading music and movement program for kids to open FOR 40 YEARS, Kindermusik International has been leading the field of music education for children, reaching millions of families in over 60 countries worldwide through their award-winning curricula for children age 0 to 7 years old. This July 2019, it will be opening its doors for the first time here in Davao, ready to share the powerful benefits of musical learning with local children and families.

Jeannie Castillo, Owner and Master Franchisor of Kindermusik in the Philippines, shares, “We are excited to be expanding our operations in the country, with Davao being our first provincial location outside of Metro Manila. Even more exciting is our partnership with our franchisee here in Davao ~ Vanessa Claudio-Pascua. Teacher Vanette first discovered Kindermusik as an enrolled parent with us in Manila, and eventually came to love the program so much, that she and her entrepreneurial family inquired about bringing it to her hometown of Davao City, where she is now based.

Teacher Vanette and her team are true champions of Kindermusik, and I am thrilled that they will have this opportunity to bring the magic of Kindermusik to families and their children locally.”

Teacher Vanette and her team of educators have gone through an extensive process of certified training to become licensed Kindermusik practitioners, under the guidance

Kindermusik’s Manila-based Master Franchisor and Master Trainer, Jeannie Castillo Is coming to Davao City to give a free parenting talk on the benefits of music in early childhood on Sunday, June 23. of Teacher Jeannie, who also acts as Kindermusik International’s Master Trainer and Developer for Asia. “I am encouraged and confident in the passion and skills that our team in Davao will bring to new Kindermusik families in the community.

Our teachers in Davao are all wonderful, bright ambassadors of our Kindermusik spirit, and will surely represent the true heart and philosophy of our well-loved program, as more children and families come to benefit from Kindermusik’s longproven curricula.”

In Kindermusik studios, licensed educators joyfully lead developmen-

tally-appropriate classes for families with children ages newborn to seven

Kindermusik is set to share the joy and magic of musical learning with families in Davao City. years old, featuring engaging music and movement activities that pro-

mote school rea development in young brain. Th musik’s well-re children’s overa and coordinatio cognitive funct critical and crea enhanced, and social-emotiona ened.

The Kinderm educators, child alike with resou strong foundati of learning.

Kindermusik

EVENT

Friends tender party for Bong Go at Ar ARCADIA LIFESTYLE CENTER played host to the By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO thanksgiving party of newlyelected Senator Christopher tended the intimate gathering and Lawrence “Bong” Go orgawas personally ushered in by Arcanized by his supporters and dia owner Glenn Escandor, also the friends on Thursday, May 23. Presidential Adviser on Sports and a The senator-elect extended his utmost gratitude to the people behind his success, and for landing on the third spot in the 2019 senatorial race.

“Sa mga kapatid kong Pilipino, maraming maraming salamat po sa suporta at tiwala. Ngayon, balik serbisyo na po ako. Tuloy lang po ang pagtrabaho. Handa akong mas makapagserbisyo pa sa mga kapatid natin (Thank you very much for your trust and support, my fellow Filipinos. Back to public service. I just have to continue my work and I’m ready to be of service to our fellow Filipinos),” Go said in his speech.

President Rodrigo Duterte at-

close friend of Go, personally welcomed the President.

In Davao region, Go ranked first and garnered more than a million votes in the region.

Go said the Davao region should get a fair share in the infrastructure projects to spur economic development, create jobs and uplift the lives of the people.

“Pagbibigay ng trabaho sa ating mga kapatid (ang aking prayoridad).

Suportado natin ito, para dito sa Davao Region. Marami akong plano para sa kabutihan ng lahat. Kung ano man ang magagawa natin para sa ikakaunlad ng ating lugar (Job

creation is my priority, I support this, especially for Davao Region. I have many plans for the welfare of everybody... whatever we can do for our region),” Go added.

In President Duterte’s message, he said he trusts the senator most especially because he has been the President’s long-time aide. The President is convinced that Go will be able to

uphold the inte “Magtulunga ganda ang ating natin ang iligal at kriminalidad na po ako, patu si Pangulong D ong ibang hang

EDAVAO

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VOL.12 ISSUE 58 • THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

DAVAO

Sharon Cuneta, John Arcilla, stars of hit thriller Kuwaresma urge audience to #PlayItRight SINCE the latest horror movie Kuwaresma premiered, Globe Studios and Reality Entertainment has given the Filipino audience a new take on thriller narratives. Top-billed by the country’s own megastar Sharon Cuneta and multiawarded actor John Arcilla, under the direction of critically-acclaimed filmmaker Erik Matti, Kuwaresma has garnered praise and recommendation with people flocking to the cinemas to get in on the surprising twists and turns of the movie.

n doors this July

adiness and stimulate n every area of the Through Kinderesearched activities, all physical health on is improved, their tioning including ative thinking are their language and nal skills are strength-

musik brand provides dren and families urces to help build a ion for a lifetime love

k in Davao is located

Licensed Educators ready to jam with families in the new Kindermusik studio in Davao (from left): Teachers Eliza Uy, Vanette Pascua, and Reg Golosino. at 3/F Lenel Bldg., Robinsons Highlands, C.P. Garcia Highway, Davao City. There will be an Open House on Sunday, June 23 from 1:30 to 4:30 pm, where Teacher Jeannie Castillo will give a free parenting talk, focusing on the benefits of music in early childhood, followed by free demo classes. Slots are limited. To register, call Kindermusik at 082-324-7084 or email them at info-dv@kindermusik.com.ph.

For more information on Kindermusik, please visit kindermusik. com.ph or like the Kindermusik Philippines facebook page for news and announcements.

rcadia

erests of the people. an po tayo para mapag bansa. Labanan po na droga, korapsyon d. Kahit nasa Senado uloy nating tulungan Duterte. Wala po taygarin kundi ang kabu-

tihan ng kapwa nating Pilipino (Let’s help one another for the good of our country. Let’s fight illegal drugs, corruption and criminality. Even if I’m already in Senate, I will continue helping President Duterte. We have no other agenda but the welfare of our fellow Filipinos),” Go said.

Her first horror movie in a 41year career run, Cuneta reminds movie goers to “be sure to #PlayItRight and stop piracy”. Similarly Arcilla also urges fans to say no to piracy and only watch films through legitimate means.

The whole cast and crew of Kuwaresma lauded #PlayItRight, the anti-piracy advocacy of Globe encouraging everyone to support the local entertainment industry by watching local films from legitimate sources only. Matti invites horror fans and moviegoers to go to movie houses with their friends and family.

The film revolves around the family of husband and wife Arturo (Arcilla) and Rebecca Fajardo (Cuneta). Their son Luis, portrayed by newcomer Kent Gonzales returns to their old house with a dark past to unravel the true reason behind the death of his twin Manuela (played by Kent’s real-life sister Pam) who mysteriously died on the second week of Lent. The cast also includes former child actress

Guila Alvarez who plays Salve, the medium who warns Luis about him returning back to their old house.

Kuwaresma is now showing at cinemas nationwide and moviegoers can easily catch the movie by easily booking in advance via the GMovies app.

To learn more about the antipiracy advocacy visit www.globe. com.ph/play-it-right and follow GlobeICON on Facebook.

BATIT, TAN, ASHLEY AND YEN COMPLETE BATCH THREE BIG FOUR Ashley Del Mundo, Tan Rocal, Batit Espiritu, and Yen Quirante complete the batch three big four of “PBB Otso” last Saturday.

Batit and Tan already secured the first two slots after winning the Big Jump challenges of Kuya.

Meanwhile, the fate of the last two housemates making it to the big four was in the hands of the viewers. Ashley got the highest number of votes with 56.45% followed by Yen with 22.7% of the votes.

As Ashley and Yen secured their spots in the

big four, the “PBB Otso” journey of Angela Tungol (13%) and Lance Carr (7.86%) ended.

Shortly after the batch three big four went out of house, six new adult housemates: Sky Quizon, the “Summa Cum Lau Bae ng Tarlac,” Hasna Cabral, the “Ukay Nanay ng Cavite,” Franki Russel, the Wandering Stunner ng New Zealand, Wealand Ferrer, the Kwelamazing Kuya ng Nueva Ecija, Argel Baisanon, the Prodigal Probinsyano ng Negros Oriental, and Jamie Salenga, the Responsible Rampanganay ng

Quezon City entered the house of Kuya last Sunday (May 26).

Four more adult housemates will be introduced in the coming

days as Kiara Takahashi and Gino Roque IV were already interviewed by Boy Abunda last week in “Tonight with Boy Abunda.”

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FOOD ROYAL CHEF A1

of sumptuous gastronomic regional cuisines featuring delectable samplers from Top One, Blue Post Group, Fat Cow and Asian Cow, Park Inn

by Radisson Davao, Marco Polo Davao, Malagos Farmhouse, Kultura and SM Supermarket.

Top One showcased the versatility of durian with their mini durian curd tart and the intriguing balut shanghai that had everyone yearning for a bite.

Over at the Blue Post Group area, they rolled out their newest menu addition -- Kluang Seafood Medley that highlighted a spicy Asian sauce.

SM Supermalls Mindanao marketing AVP Russel Alaba, DOT Region XI director Tanya Rabat-Tan, and DOT Asec. Roberto Alabado III. Their smoked fish croquetas was also divine.

The most delish cow in the city -- Fat Cow and Asian Cow -- rolled out a mean version of Adlai Champorado with

candied dilis and the refreshing Pomelo and Arugula with latik. Malagos Farm House provided a most fascinatingly indulging selection of cheese that had everyone smiling.

Chef Patrick Co and his kitchen brigade during the Flavours of Mindanao.

Park Inn by Radisson Davao whipped up some cream puff with native durian and white chocolate mousse filling and the yummy durian curry empanada while Marco

Polo Davao has plates of beef landang and Kagikit to the delight of everyone.

The week-long activity also featured a Chefs Showdown and a Regional Food Fair.

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GAME CHANGER

9

BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS I

n the past, it took a month or so to send a letter to your loved ones to the United States. The fastest way to communicate in those days was through telegram (a technology which most people don’t know now). Sending money was also a big problem; most of the old folks rely on postal money order.

Paying your bills – water, electricity, and credits – was a big hassle. You had to join a long queue before you can finally settle your accounts. The same thing happened when you withdraw money from the bank.

Most of these “rituals,” if you call them that way, will soon become obsolete. We totally live in “a whole new world” these days. Take about information highway and everything seems possible now.

In fact, you can pay your bills now without using any cash. You don’t have to go to the bank to withdraw money anymore. As long as you have your mobile phone with you, you can do business without hassles.

WITHOUT HASSLE Text and Photos by Henrylito D. Tacio

Farfetched? No, it’s already a reality. Thanks to Cromwell Bonghanoy, the chief executive officer of TagumPay Network Solutions Corporation. Dr. Asterio Ramiscal serves as the chief operating officer with King Paul Bryan Auditor is the chairman.

“TagumPay is a mobile-based payment platform where you can do cashless transactions using your mobile phone,” Cromwell explains. “Actually, it is a payment center that offers non-bank financial services.”

Instead of bringing cash when you travel or pay your credits, you can now rely on TagumPay. There’s nothing to worry about. “It is fast and hassle-free because it provides an enhanced security system that ensure all of your transactions are safe,” he points out.

Cromwell wants to emphasize that TagumPay is only a payment platform and not a bank thing nor an investment scheme. “It is a mobile application that uses a software system with seamless features,” he

says. “It has the capacity to accept top-up or loading of funds through TagumPay outlets and registered dealers.”

TagumPay was launched in Tagum City, Davao del Norte last May 27. It will also be brought to the business district in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, and then in Cebu. “I do strongly pledge that we gonna bring TagumPay app all over the country,” says Cromwell in his speech during the launching.

In an exclusive interview before the program, he says that he and his team are also thinking of having branches in Singapore and Hong Kong (where many Overseas Filipino Workers are living).

“TagumPay app is our payment gateway business that deserves recognition in the corporate world,” he says. “We need not stay only in Tagum because we strictly follow our local business bureau. We strictly adhere to the policies of the Securities and Exchange Commission. More importantly,

we strictly comply to the requirements of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for our all-access, visa, debit cards.”

The idea of TagumPay was born out from his travels in foreign countries. “The drive that we have right now comes from our travel abroad where we personally experienced the Octopus Card,” he says. “(It’s) a universal card that can be used in bus, taxi, and convenience store.”

It was also from one of his trips to Guangzhou, China that he witnessed how WeChat works. He was amazed on how his Chinese friends paid their bills and transferred funds to their peers through a QR code.

Cromwell thought the Philippines is far behind in this kind of technology but it could be introduced in a different manner. “If I have some credits from you, I could send my payments to

you from my funds in real time wherever you are,” he says. “Who else here have no internet connection or mobile data?

“ W e h a v e imagined the future that even if we go to our night market, we could pay our vendors for every single centavo we owe from them through my cellphone,” he adds.

But this dream should not be in this part of the country only but it should be shared to other cities and even to the whole world. “It maybe ambitious yet it is very realis-

tic,” Cromwell says. “How can we not bring TagumPay app to other countries when the debit card attached is a Visa/Master Card. Definitely, its all-access feature will link our fund to other banks which would be easy for us to make fund transfers.”

He says that the team is not in a hurry to do all these. They want to do it little by little but surely.

“To avoid glitches,” he says, “we gonna do it phase by phase. Even if TagumPay app is still a beta version, our path is heading towards in partnership with WeChat, AliPay, and Dragon Pay.” In his speech, Cromwell also corrects the impression that this digital innovation is gearing towards a competition with such kind of businesses. “We see ourselves in complementary with GCash, PayMaya or even Coins.Ph in the future,” he says, adding that to prove this claim, he invited Streetby app during the launching.

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back and represent the country again. At tsaka ang daming nanonood lagi (Many Filipinos will be watching), so parang (it’s like) everybody is cheering for you. Masaya, masarap (It’s exciting),” said Yeo, who was also at the session presented by San Miguel Beer, Braska Restaurant, Amelie Hotel, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

Mighty Sports is also not taking chances as it tapped former

Gilas Pilipinas mentor Rajko Toroman as part of the coaching staff.

It was Tiu who invited the Serbian coach to come over and help him handle the team.

Tiu served as one of Toroman’s deputies during his stint with the original Gilas Pilipinas national squad.

“He’s a very experienced coach,” said Angchonghoo of Toroman, who Mighty Sports plans to bring in here around June 25 when the team begins to practice together. (PR)

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capability to handle an investment business or, he said, has background in investment or banking and finance activity.

The police is limited in imposing actions agianst these invidividuals and businesses.

“We are limited in imposing certain preventive actions becasue there are no complainant yet”, Morales explained.

No warrant of arrest has been issued in so far as complainants are concerned.

Nonetheless, Morales was very stern -- “Check the personalities involved if they have a previous similar activity”.

This, according to him, will help them enforce the law and put a stop to the proliferation of these different illegal schemes.

Based on initial investigations by various government agencies, there are personalities who were able to hide through the application of a different business.

“This shows inconsistency sa business permit and actual activity nila”, Morales said. “And this should be looked into.”

Morales said he has issued a thorough warning against all personnel of the Philippine National Police.

“I discourage all PNP personnel to be involved”, he said. Either as an in-

vestor or a member, Morales stressed PNP personnel should not be involved.

The Director emphasized that when a PNP personnel is caught involved, he will be answerable outright.

“They will be charged administratively. Charged in violation of ethical standards and subordination sa regulation ng PNP”, he said.

In cases wherein the PNP personnel is the victim of such an untoward scheme, Morales sternly said that they cannot avail of any support from the PRO. “In the first place, pinabawalan na silang sumali. They cannot, in any way, use their position to take advantage of the situation”, he said.

Morales further warned that the preemptive action is only trying to prevent the emergence of crimes when these investment schemes collapses.

In the Davao Region, police have identified about ten (10) operating companies offering investment schemes to the general public.

“We are in constant monitoring -- based on evidence and facts gathered. For now, what we can do, is be at the frontline and protect the people from these illegal activities”, Morales said.

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“Sinag”. For three years now, the PAL Family provided for Sinag’s needs by extending financial

support and tender loving care in line with the flag carrier’s “Buong Pusong Alaga” service.

pine National Police (PNP) ensured police presence and security patrols in schools and transportation hubs; deployment of road safety marshals; and information drive through quad media and distribution of safety tips and anti-criminality leaflets.

“The PNP is prepared to assist OBE. We will be establishing Police Assistance Desks in school campuses in coordination with concerned school authorities, Parents-Teachers Association, and security force managers, LGUs and respective barangay force multiplier, among others,” said PNP Spokesperson Colonel Bernard Banac.

The PNP will also organize Non-Government Organizations and Civilian Volunteer Organizations to assist in providing security, traffic assistance, and other public safety services in coordination with DepEd and the LGU. Coordination with school authorities and other agencies for the installation of CCTVs in strategic locations is also a priority of the PNP The PNP will field a total of 120,000 personnel in accordance with the security and safety plans for the opening of classes on

June 3.

PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde, said the PNP’s guidelines for ‘Ligtas Balik-Eskwela 2019’ is to ensure the operational readiness of police units in responding to peace and order concerns including threats from criminal elements that may take advantage of the situation.

“Along these efforts, we set our plans with enough number of police force to be deployed to launch mobile and foot patrols along major routes and highways for the 2019 Balik Eskwela leading to all schools and other learning institutions,” Albayalde said.

Other police efforts are establishing task units to address bullying in schools, intelligence and information gathering against kidnappings in schools, presence of improvised explosive devices, and other efforts against threats as feared by the public.

Around 29 million students across the country in various grade levels are expected to troop to schools for the simultaneous opening of classes in both public and private learning institutions. (PNA)

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elo, Presidential Spokesperson and Chief Presidential Legal Counsel -Carlito Galvez Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Duterte is expected to assert Asia's role in charting its own future when he delivers his speech in the event on the second day of

the conference set on May 30-31.

The Nikkei Conference on the Future of Asia is an annual meeting where government and business leaders share their respective assessment of Asia’s prospects and their ideas as to the direction Asia should chart for itself. (PNA)

Metropolitan Trial Court and subsequently Regional Trial Court judge.

He was appointed to the CA in October 2012. (PNA)

ed that the growing population of the country requires double efforts from the agriculture sector to expand by at least two percent annually.

Legarda suggested that there should be sustained efforts in improving the environment and conditions for farmers, particularly in providing fertilizer and access to roads and addressing irrigation, climate change, and other land issues. She agreed with Dominguez that agricultural research must be improved and convergence among agencies in rural and agricultural areas must be strengthened.

Legarda will also conduct a hearing with other government agencies, especially the Department of Agriculture, to discuss strategy on how to meet

the two percent growth target because in 2018, the agriculture sector only grew by 0.1 percent.

“May this be a lesson for the government and for all of us. The underspending of P1 billion per day could have gone to education, health care, and social services. It resulted in the delay of programs and greatly affected the lives of our constituents,” said Legarda.

“However, we are confident with the commitment of the DOF and of the government to drive our economy to the growth we aim for, as well as to ensure that the government continues to deliver quality services and programs to the people. We must not only meet our growth targets, but also ensure that the lives of Filipinos are improved,” Legarda concluded. (OSLL)

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Young boys and girls take part in intense competition in the ongoing PSC Sports For Peace Children’s Games in Aklan. PSC photos

Halep, Osaka survive scare

S

imona Halep overcame a second-set blip as she kicked off her French Open title defense with a 6-2 3-6 6-1 win over Australian Ajla Tomljanovic to reach the second round on Tuesday.

The Romanian third seed played some neat and tidy tennis in the opening set, lost the plot in the second and then wrapped up the victory to set up a meeting with Magda Linette of Poland.

Halep seized control with an early break and tightened her grip in a one-sided first set, containing her opponent’s power.

But Tomljanovic started to hit the ball harder and by the time Halep had started to figure out how to deal with her pace the Australian had taken the second set.

Experience, however, prevailed in the decider as Halep won six of the seven remaining games.

Japan’s Naomi Osaka battled back from a set and a break down to defeat Slovakia’s Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 0-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 on Tuesday to reach the Roland Garros second round.

Osaka, bidding to add

t h e French Open to her US and Australian Open titles, was within a whisker of becoming just the second top seed to lose in the first round in Paris in the modern era after Angelique Kerber in 2017.

World No. 90 Schmeidlova, who hadn’t won a match at the tournament since 2014, twice served for the tie in the 10th and 12th games of the second set.

At one stage, she was just two points away from a famous victory.

Romania's Simona Halep in action during her first round match against Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic. Reuters

But Osaka, who had arrived in Paris still feeling the effects of a hand injury

suffered in Rome, battled back to set-up a second round duel with former

Magic denies mistreating LA Lakers employees

R Renaldo Balkman, Jeremiah Gray, Roosevelt Adams, and Jason Brickman will reinforce Mighty Sports.

Mighty Sports to play in Jones Cup

M

ighty Sports could be in for a tough competition this time when it represents the country anew in this year’s Jones Cup. The club team will be facing national teams of different countries in the July 12-21 cagefest, which is annually being held in Taipei.

National teams of Iran, Japan, South Korea, Jordan, and Tunisia are confirmed to see action in the meet, which they

are using as part of their preparation for the coming FIBA World Cup in China this August.

Their presence will have Mighty Sports hard-pressed to duplicate the same feat the team had in the 2017 edition of the Jones Cup, when it won the championship being an impressive eight-game sweep.

“The participating teams right now are all strong, national teams lahat (all). So it’s much more competitive and

stronger,” bared Mighty Sports assistant team manager Jessie Angchonghoo at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the Amelie Hotel-Manila on Tuesday.

“But we’re ready.

We have all the tools to compete with them,” he added.

Charles Tiu will call the shots again for Mighty Sports, which will be reinforced by former PBA imports Renaldo Balkman, Zacha-

ry Graham, and Eugene Phelps while the local sides are led by Fil-Ams Jason Brickman, Jason Gray, Roosevelt Adams, Mikey Williams, Aaron Black, Gab Banal, and Joseph Yeo. For the 35-year-old Yeo, the stint will be the second time he’ll be playing in the Jones Cup after previously suiting up for the national team under then coach Chot Reyes.

“Very excited to be

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world number one and two-time major winner Victoria Azarenka.

eacting to an ESPN report earlier Tuesday that described a toxic culture in the Los Angeles Lakers’ front office, Magic Johnson denied mistreating any employees during his stint as team president that ended last month.

“I’ve been in business 35 years,” Johnson said in an ESPN television interview with Stephen A. Smith and Michael Wilbon.

“I’ve had partnerships with some of the biggest companies, Fortune 500 companies, in the country.

Now, I’ve never sat in (a human resources) person’s office in 35 years. Two years with the Lakers, no HR appearance.”

“Do you think Jeanie Buss would allow me to abuse the employees?

If that was the case, she would have called me in.

(Chief financial officer) Joe McCormack would have called me in, the lawyer for the Lakers. It never happened.”

“I’m a person who brings everybody together, uplift the employees. I’ve never abused an employee, and I never will. That’s not what I’m about.”

The ESPN report in-

cluded a claim that Rich Paul, the agent of Lakers star LeBron James, went directly to NBA commissioner Adam Silver to lobby for head coach Luke Walton to be fired early in the season.

Walton was fired at the end of the 2018-19 regular season.

Paul told Silver, per the report, that Tyronn Lue would be the ideal coach.

Johnson admitted letting Paul fly on one trip with the team from New York to Los Angeles, but he also expressed frustration that he wasn’t given full authority to hire his own employees when he joined the Lakers’ front office in February 2017. Instead, he was hired alongside new general manager Rob Pelinka.

The ESPN report claimed Johnson and Pelinka were often working unilaterally, including on potential trades and in free agency.

“Rob and I, when we were there, we worked well together,” Johnson said.

“But, the little things that were going on behind the scenes, that bothered me.”

“I would have hired my

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BUTCH ACCEPTS Ramirez takes PH chef de mission post in SEA Games

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

P

hilippine Sports Commission (PSC) William “Butch” Ramirez responded to the call to become the Philippines’ chef de mission in the Southeast Asian Games a day after declining the same offer.

In a press conference at the PSC on Wednesday which was aired live on PSC’s social media page, Ramirez announced he is accepting the challenge of heading the country’s stint in the SEA Games which the country will host late this year.

“I humbly accept the chef de mission post for Team Philippines in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games,” Ramirez said. “Last night I received a firm order to carry out, knowing that national interest is primary of any government and should be of all.”

His change of heart, Ramirez said, came after he talked to superiors from Malacañang on Tuersday night hours after he declined the offer of Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) chairman Bambol Tolenti-

no to head the delegation as CDM. POC president Ricky Vargas, who was also present in the presscon, was elated and relieved with the decision. “I thank PSC Chairman Ramirez for accepting the CDM position and making a supreme sacrifice and in coming to a difficult decision of reconsidering his decision,” Vargas said.

Earlier, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo on Tuesday called on sports officials to end the heated row amid the controversy hounding the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).

In a statement, Panelo expressed support for current POC president Ricky Vargas and chairman Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and called for an end to the self-serving drama at this time.

“We call on everyone to insulate sports from politics,” he said.

“We should be together rallying behind and supporting all the Filipino athletes who are set to com-

pete in the games as we extend our world-famous warmth and hospitality to our brothers and sisters in the region who are coming to Manila either to participate and represent or cheer their nations,” he added.

The debacle within the POC reached a different level when Vargas shook up some crucial positions, including the firing of former President Jose “Peping” Cojuangco as constitutional amendments committee chairman, and Makati representative Monsour del Rosario as the Philippine SEA Games team’s chef de mission.

Vargas also called for an early POC general election in January next year, a month after the SEA Games.

(With report from PNA)

PSC Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez has accepted the challenge to lead the country’s stint in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.