Edge Davao Volume 12 Issue 79 | Friday-Saturday, June 28-29, 2019

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24/7 BUS SYSTEM

VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

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CTTMO converting PHABS into 24/7 operations

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By ADAM B. MORRELL

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he experimental Peak Hours Augmentation Bus Service (PHABS) could be a 24-hour thing and will be part of the Davao Integrated Bus System (DIBS).

This after Davao City Transport and Traf�ic Management Of�ice (CTTMO) chief Dionisio Abude said on Thursday, June 27, that they are only waiting for the recommendation to be submitted to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to make PHABS operate 24 hours. Once this bus augmentation will be implemented, Abude said they will recommend PHABS to be incorporated with the soon-to-rise Davao Integrated Bus System (DIBS) since it won't only operate during the peak hours anymore but 24/7.

Abude bared that two surveys were conducted on June 7

and June 21 in Catalunan Grande and Toril to ask residents and commuters if are they in favor of making the bus augmentation operate not only during peak hours.

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

The traf�ic chief said they already submitted the survey results to assistant city administrator lawyer Dwight Dominggo who will be referring the recommendation to the LTFRB for approval.

"Kung mapasa na tong survey ug recommendation, basig

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SINGLE USE PLASTIC. A plastic bottle lies on the beachfront at Sta. Ana Port in Davao City on Thursday where a government billboard written with a reminder to dispose garbage properly is prominently placed. Lean Daval Jr

A CASUAL WINE AFFAIR

MARCO POLO DAVAO’S ‘NOT SO SERIOUS WINE DINNER’ ►INDULGE A1

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

City gov’t offers free dengue NS1 rapid test

By ADAM B. MORRELL

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PSG ANNIVERSARY. President Rodrigo Duterte receives a token from Presidential Security Group (PSG) Commander Brigadier General Jose Niembra during the 122nd PSG anniversary at the PSG Compound on Wednesday night. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

he City Government of Davao through the City Health Office (CHO) is providing free dengue NS1 rapid test to easily determine dengue fever cases.

CHO pest control worker Melodina Babante made the announcement during the I-Speak Forum held at the City Hall of Davao on Thursday, June 27.

Babante said acquiring this free dengue indicator kit was made possible by Davao City mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio.

“Kaning rapid test kay ma-indicate dayun nimo if naa bay dengue ang fever na nag last na for 2 to 3 days within 15 minutes.

Libre ni siya sa tanan taga Davao City kay kung paliton siya sa mga hospital kay muabot ni siya ug tag P2,000,” Babante said, adding that the dengue NS1 rapid test is available

at the CHO main laboratory and other rural health units of the agency.

This move came after an alarming increase in dengue cases recorded aggravated by the changing of climate.

From January to June 2019, a total of 937 dengue cases were reported with five dengue-related deaths.

“As of January to June, naa na tay five kabook dengue related deaths nga nag gikan ang duha sa Toril, isa sa Bunawan, sa SIR, ug sa Talomo particularly sa Baliok,” she added.

Comparatively, there were only 665 dengue cases during the same period in 2018.

Babante, meanwhile, cited 12 dengue prone areas which includes Cabantian, Buhangin, Catalunan Grande, Mati-

he Visayas-Mindanao leg of the Report-back Forum on the United Nations (UN) Commission on the Status of Women (UN CSW63) was held June 21 at the Ateneo de Davao University campus, here and gathered some 120 women from key sectors of the government alongside private and civil society partners.

Organized by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU), the forum covered discussion on Beijing Platform for Action 25th Anniversary (BPfA +25) Philippine Progress

Report.

In presenting the rationale of the activity, DSWD Undersecretary Luzviminda C. Ilagan said that the event was aimed at sharing the highlights of the Philippine Delegation from national government agencies , civil society organizations and other relevant stakeholders.

The forum also presented the major outcome of the UN CSW63 and gathered support for the implementation of agreed conclusions of CSW63 as well as discussed preparations for the UN CSW64 in 2020 that would focus on review and appraisal of the implementation of the Beijing Declaration

City gov’t urges firms to secure PDEA cert T

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Report-back forum on status of women held

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his early, the Davao City government urged business establishment owners to secure a Drug-Free Workplace Certificate from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) before renewing their business permits next year.

The PDEA certification is now part of the business permit requirements as specified by City Ordinance No. 0506-13 and Executive Order No. 32, mandating establishments to craft a drugfree workplace program.

A drug-free work plan is also mandated by the Department of Labor and Employment.

Before certification is

issued, service-oriented establishments employing 10 personnel or more are required to send their assessment team, composed of the Human Resource Manager; Employer’s Representative; Safety Officer; Health Officer; and Worker’s Representative, to undergo training under the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (CADAC).

The companies will

PRRD dares Western countries to help PH claim its territories

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resident Rodrigo R. Duterte on Wednesday night challenged three Western countries to help the Philippines make a stand against China and claim its territories in the disputed South China Sea. Duterte posed this challenge to the United States, Great Britain, and France after clearly being frustrated by criticism that he has failed to confront China over its aggression in the contested waters.

He has also been criticized for seemingly lacking empathy for the 22 fishermen whose boat sunk after allegedly being rammed and abandoned by a Chinese vessel at the Recto Bank (Reed Bank) in the West Philippine Sea. “Ito ang hamon ko, ang hamon ko sa America, Britain, France, mag-assemble tayo dito sa Palawan tapos diretso na tayo doon sa Spratly. Agawin na natin kung maagaw natin (This is

my challenge, my challenge to America, Great Britain, France is that we assemble in Palawan and go straight to Spratly. Let’s claim it if we can),” Duterte said in his speech during the 122nd founding anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at Malacañang Park.

Duterte, however, said he did not want to endanger the lives of millions of Filipinos by going to war against China.

“Ah kung maubos tayo lahat… Sabihin nila (If we all perish…They’ll say), ‘Duterte is not protecting the interest of the Filipino.’

You’re a g****** s***. You want me to put the lives of 110 million Filipinos by going into trouble?” Duterte said.

“My God, I am not willing to sacrifice any soldier or policeman to die na walang kalaban-laban (without standing a

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be required to create a three-year treatment and prevention plan and their workers will also undergo drug tests to ensure that the workplace is free from drugs users and pushers.

Connie Domag, the Technical Adviser on Drug Prevention and Rehabilitation of the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council, said the training will prepare business owners in adopting the ordinance and craft a program of their own.

“This will prepare them to comply with the requirements, which are the conduct of random

drug-testing for the employees and to formulate a drug-free workplace plan for prevention, rehabilitation, and treatment of employees – in case that during the drug testing, there will be confirmed positive (cases),” Domag said.

Earlier, the city government urged owners to enrol soonest in accredited schools conduct the orientations are the Ateneo de Davao University, Holy Cross of Davao College, University of Mindanao-Matina Campus, and the University of the Immaculate Conception. CIO

UTILIZE TECHNOLOGY. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez urges young entrepreneurs to utilize technology as source of livelihood as majority of the youth today are technology savvy in his speech during the Youth

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Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) Mindanao Roadshow at SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr

VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

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‘Speculative’ to say Chinese were fishing within PH EEZ: Palace

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GMEA. Globe Telecom editorial head and media relations affair Krisca Tadena presents before members of the media and bloggers the mechanics for the 2018-2019 Globe Media Excellence Awards (GMEA) during a news conference and media gathering held at Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr

Cops facing admin charges up by 36% T

he number of policemen charged with administrative complaints went up in the first five months of this year, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Thursday.

Data from the PNP Internal Affairs Service (IAS) showed the number of complaints against police officers from January to May increased by 36 percent to 2,291, compared to 1,683 in the same period last year.

Meanwhile, the average number of cases on a monthly basis also increased to 458, from 337 last year.

Lawyer Alfegar Triambulo, IAS Inspector General, said most of the

cops are with the rank of patrolman and are either involved in illegal drug activities, violations in police operational procedure, indiscriminate firing of their firearms, and vote-buying in the recent elections.

Despite the increase in the number of complaints, Triambulo said IAS's 'resolved cases' remained high with 1,454 from January to May this year, compared to 1,136 in the same period last year.

The same goes for the

Del Rosario has no business using diplomatic passport: President

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ormer Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario has “no business” using a diplomatic passport now that he no longer works for the government, President Rodrigo R. Duterte said on Wednesday night.

Duterte made this remark after del Rosario was denied entry at the Hong Kong International Airport and held and questioned for six hours last June 21.

“It was Albert representing ‘yung nahuli sa Hong Kong,idinetain.

Naggamit-gamit ng passport na hindi naman dapat(when he was detained in Hong Kong. He was using a passport that he should not have used),” Duterte said in his speech during the 122nd founding anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at Malacañang Park.

“When you are no longer an employee of

government, you have no business using a government diplomatic passport,” he added.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo earlier maintained that del Rosario “created his own problem” by using his courtesy diplomatic passport for his recent personal trip to Hong Kong.

“He (del Rosario) created his own problem so why blame the government for what happened to him,” Panelo said in a Palace briefing on Tuesday (June 25).

“In other words, when you file a case dapat alam mo ang magiging (you should know that) consequence (is) adverse,” Panelo said.

Del Rosario experienced the same ordeal as former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales when she traveled to Hong Kong on May 21.

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average number of resolved cases monthly at 291, compared to 227 last year.

Earlier, PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde reminded all police personnel that he would never tolerate illegal acts or wrongdoings committed by anyone within their ranks.

"When a recruit takes his oath as a professional police officer, he automatically loses or waives some of his rights in favor of organizational discipline, duties and responsibilities. So, being scolded, reprimanded, bawled out, or dressed down for misdemeanor, misconduct or

commission of crime is just part and parcel of his life being in the uniformed service," Albayalde said in a statement.

He also reiterated that the PNP is serious in its aim to enforce culture change and character transformation among police officers.

“We continue to ask for the media's help because this way, we can emphasize that we are true and serious in our drive in wiping out scalawags within our ranks," Albayalde said in Filipino.

"This is a stern warning to all PNP personnel.

FCOPS, P8

t is “speculative” to assume that Chinese nationals were fishing within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) when it allegedly rammed and abandoned a Filipino fishing boat at the Recto Bank (Reed Bank) in the West Philippine Sea, Malacañang said on Thursday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo clarified an earlier statement he made saying Philippines is not granting access to Chinese nationals to fish within EEZ but was “tolerating” it in the spirit of their close friendship.

“The fact is - we do not know if Chinese nationals were fishing there at the time of the maritime incident,” Panelo said in a statement.

“Everything is purely speculative at this stage.

Even during the allision, facts remain unclear if the Chinese vessel was fishing or only exercising their right of innocent passage,” he added.

Panelo stressed that it was "prudent” to wait for the results of the formal investigation conducted by both Philippine and Chinese authorities.

He also clarified Duterte’s statement that it is part of the agreement between the Philippines and China that Filipino fishermen are allowed to fish in the disputed waters in which they both claim ownership of.

The Presidential Spokesperson said he asked Duterte about his statement on Wednesday evening and that he confirmed that indeed that was what he meant.

“He (Duterte) explained that his first visit to China resulted into a modus vivendi where China which claims ownership of Reed Bank, by virtue of historical right, would allow our fishermen to catch fish there, a place declared to be within our EEZ,” Panelo said.

According to Panelo, Duterte also said that Chi-

na would not permit their nationals from fishing within Philippine EEZ. “It appears that what the President meant was China would not allow their nationals from fishing in our EEZ since they treat us as their friends, knowing that permitting their fishermen to fish in our EEZ would only result in an unwanted hostility leading to an armed confrontation,” Panelo said.

Panelo described as “unfortunate” the confusion made by some media outlets that Duterte was allowing Chinese fishermen in Philippine-owned territories.

He, meanwhile, reiterated that the Philippine government will continue to assert sovereign rights over its EEZ. “We stress assertively that the President will not relinquish, as he is not relinquishing or waiving our sovereign rights over our country’s EEZ in the West Philippine Sea,” Panelo said.

“The Filipinos can rest assured that the President’s actions are all in accord with his Constitutional mandate to serve and protect the Filipino people,” he added.

Panelo noted that avoiding “reckless undertakings” in the disputed area and “maintaining peace and accord among all nations: are only two of the “carefully studied moves of the President.”

“The settlement of bilateral conflicts, and for that matter multinational disputes, can be best resolved through well-tested diplomatic negotiations rather than saber-rattling diplomacy as espoused by inveterate manic nationalists and other war freak partisans,” Panelo said.

In order to advance Philippine sovereign rights over its EEZ, Panelo said that Duterte has already publicly urged China to join in the finalization of a Code

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TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE. City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) head Dionisio Abude provides details on the temporary road closure that will be implemented for the upcoming Penong’s 5150 Triathlon slated on July 7 during I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr

5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

Beijing firm to set up environment-friendly bikes, motorcycles, scooters in Davao City

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Aeon Luxe expands sales to Northeast Min A

eon Luxe Properties, a Davao-based property developer, continues its sales expansion by promoting its projects to brokers and clients in the Northeast Mindanao region.

Aeon Luxe aims to be a market leader in a fast-growing and trailblazing pace as it builds the biggest, tallest and most high profile building in the history of Mindanao. Aeon Luxe takes Pride of its 32-storey iconic Aeon Towers project which sits at the heart of the Central Business District of Davao City.

Aeon Towers is the first tallest and grandest structure in the city. It is also the first all-in single structure that will house

a market leading hotel, an international standard serviced apartments, luxurious and high technology condominium living, modernized offices and will be the next event destinations crowned with the country’s finest rooftop experience.

The path to its achievement and completion may have not been easy to Aeon Luxe, but the truth is, creating transformative and iconic developments never is.

With this confidence,

Nickel Industry ups regreening efforts with 5.3 million trees

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he Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA), through its seven (7) member-companies, has once again boosted greening efforts as part of ongoing rehabilitation and reforestation at their respective mining areas.

Ensuring environmental and ecological sustainability in areas where nickel is mined, members of the Philippine nickel industry have planted an estimated 5.3 million trees to date in the Caraga region and in Palawan as part of its Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (EPEP). The number of trees planted has risen 27% since June 2018, when PNIA reported planting 4.2 million trees.

On top of current reforestation efforts, mining companies are mandated to implement the Temporary Revegetation Program. PNIA member companies have planted over 284 hectares of various vegetation and spent P45 million.

Furthermore, PNlA’s bamboo reforestation also serves as a strategic complement to ongoing refor-

estation and rehabilitation programs. To date, more than 22,000 seedlings have been planted by PWA member companies.

“The nickel mining industry has real and continuing accomplishments in caring not only for our Communities, but also of the Environment. We contribute at least 3-5% of our Operating Cost to Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programs (EPEP) programs. No other industry is mandated to do this,” said PNIA Executive Director Charmaine Olea-Capili.

“We are required to plant 100 trees for every 1 tree we cut down. Our industry has made continued efforts to rehabilitate the areas where we mine since we started operations.

With the ongoing TRP, we can provide short term vegetation growth that can control soil erosion and assist communities during natural calamities,” Ms. Capili added.

Indigenous and endemic tree and grass species have been successfully planted since the start

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Aeon Luxe’s trailblazing sales team introduced this project to brokerage firms from Butuan City, Agusan del Sur, Surigao City and General Santos City this June. The company has enlisted accredited brokers who are now excited to sell Aeon Towers and announce its second project Aeon Bleu to interested prospects in their areas.

A series of Product Knowledge Seminars commenced for brokers and Open House events in every destination.

“It is heartwarming how the brokers and agents we met in these regions are so dedicated

and motivated to produce sales. This is our way of giving back and helping out Aeon Luxe Properties achieve their goal— transforming Davao City through its projects,” Michael Avedaño, Aeon Luxe Business Unit Head.

The team is now eyeing to expand to Cagayan de Oro City as their next roadshow plan where it will also have the same activities for brokers and clients.

Follow Aeon Luxe Properties for more news and updates on Facebook: Aeon Luxe Properties, Instagram: @aeonluxedvo, Twitter: @AeonLuxeDavao.

Beijing-based multinational manufacturing firm is planning to build a light manufacturing plant here for environment-friendly electric bicycles, motorcycles, and scooters that will be sold to the market within the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).

Art Milan, president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII), said in an interview at the sidelines of “Wednesdays’ at Habi at Kape” that members of the Davao chamber had met with representatives of the Chinese company on Tuesday to do an initial discussion on their possible entry to the region as its manufacturing hub.

He said a 20-member Chinese delegation would return to Davao City in August to do a market study since electricity-run public transportation vehicles are something new to the Philippines.

“They don’t have a timeline…. They are planning to meet with local businessmen in August during the general membership meeting of DCCCII. They want to get market data, they wanted to get the pulse,” he said.

Milan recalled telling the Chinese executives that the domestic market of the motorcycles is dominated

by Japanese brands.

He said the Chinese wanted to enter Davao because of it is strategically located within BIMP-EAGA, covering the entire sultanate of Brunei Darussalam; provinces of Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku, West Papua and Papua in Indonesia; states of Sabah and Sarawak and the federal territory of Labuan in Ma-

laysia; and Mindanao and the province of Palawan in the Philippines.

Once the plant is established, he believes the Chinese firm would be exporting products from Davao to the BIMP-EAGA. “Export probably. That’s their plan, that’s why they want to set up their manufacturing plant in Davao,” he said.

“They look at it as a launching pad to enter BIMP countries. According to the Chinese, aside from Mindanao, with Davao as the center, you can access the market of east Indonesia, east Malaysia, and Brunei,” he said.

Due to the lack of industrial park in the city, Milan said he would bring the Chinese to the Floreindo-owned Aflo Industrial Estate in Panabo City and to Sta. Cruz town in Davao del Sur as potential areas to host their plants.

He surmised that some Chinese firms wanted to expand their operations outside China as the labor cost there is shooting up because the standard of living there is starting to get costly.

During the recent Davao Investment Conference (Davao Icon), there were around 40 Chinese business executives who joined, the most number of foreign delegates who joined the conference.

Milan said delegates from Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, and European countries graced the Davao Icon, which aimed to encourage investors to invest in Mindanao and Davao’s tourism, infrastructure, real estate, information and communication technology, and Halal trade industries.

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POTENTIALS. Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) president Arturo Milan talks about the potentials of youth as entrepreneurs during the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) Mindanao Roadshow at SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

EDITORIAL Cleansing the PNP Policemen charged with administrative charges have gone up by 36 percent in the first five months of 2019 based on the records of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

The increase of the number of administrative complaints does not necessarily mean there are more erring policemen but it significantly reflects the PNP is not tolerating wrongful acts and abuses by men in uniform. It also meant a consistent cleansing of its ranks against the so called “bad eggs.

Based on the data of the PNP Internal Affairs Service (IAS), the number of complaints against police officers from January to May increased by 36 percent to 2,291,

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compared to 1,683 in the same period last year while the average number of cases on a monthly basis also increased to 458, from 337 last year.

The cases range from illegal drug activities, violations in police operational procedure, indiscriminate firing of their firearms, and vote-buying in the recent elections.

It is also worth commending that a good percentage of cases handled by the IAS have been resolved.

By all indications, it is good to note that the PNP is dead serious in its aim to purge its ranks and develop a culture of transformation. Something that will give it a better image than those days of ‘pulis patola’ and ‘kotong cops.’

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO Social Media Manager/Lifestyle PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

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VANTAGE POINTS

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JOHN CARLO B. TRIA MY TWO CENTS’

THE GROWTH CONTINUES DESPITE THE HEADWINDS AND NOISE A lot has been said about the growth of the Philippine economy. What is most inspiring is that the World Bank itself sees that the growth momentum will be sustained. this, according to them, may happen throughout the remaining years of the Duterte presidency, all despite external headwinds such as the US-China “trade war”.

In a statement, Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran said the World Bank’s projections are anchored on the Philippines’ solid external stance and “highly domestically driven” economy, which provides it “ample cushion” against external headwinds that are generally foreseen to slow down global growth this year.

Beltran said World Bank forecasts show that the

Philippines’ gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to grow by 6.4 percent this year, second only to Vietnam’s 6.6 percent, and higher than China’s 6.2 percent, Indonesia’s 5.2 percent and Malaysia’s 4.6 percent.

In 2020 and 2021, the Philippines’ GDP growth of 6.5 percent for both these periods will equal Vietnam’s 6.5 percent, also for both periods, and surpassChina’s 6.1 and 6.0 percent, respectively. The Indonesian economy is projected to expand 5.3 percent for 2020 and 2021, while Malaysia will maintain its growth at 4.6 percent in both these years.

What remains a stumbling block that has allowed our neghbors to keep pace with us is the more liberal

company ownership rules that may need to change to allow more foreign equity, which the department of finance is pushing for.

For us in Davao, it means that we should be ready for an influx of more investment.

We need to improve our airport facilities to cater to the growing number of international flights and the higher number of tourist arrivals we are expecting.

We also hope that the upgrade of the Sasa port will start soon to allow the large gantry cranes to load and unload containerized cargo. this lowers shipping costs for traders and makes discharge move faster, reducing the possibility of port congestion.

We also need to prepare ourselves for the possibility of partnerships with foreign

companies such as what we are seeing in the new hotels coming up. We are still 2,000 rooms shy of the 12,000 hotel rooms we need to take in the influx. We hope that a long mothballed hotel in Bajada will start renovations to allow itself to be used as a hotel once more.

With the recent Davao Investment Conference, attention on Davao as an investment destination has increased. these investors affirm the World banks observations about the country being a huge market for their own products, and possibly therefore, a strong location for their investments to cater to the growing population that is increasingly becoming affluent when you consider the record lower self rated poverty numbers in the SWS

(38%), the lower poverty statistics in 2018 (21%), and the lower unemployment rate at 5.1%.

Moreover, with positive developments such as the BBB+ rating of Standard and Poor’s and the Balance of Payments Surplus and the continued lowering of our debt to GDP ratio, we are confident that investor interest will be sustained since these financial developments have placed the country on the map of the finance community as a viable destination for investments that can give good and sustained returns.

These, among others are what we need to sustain our growth.

These have developed despite the political noise being made by some quarters in Manila.

MUJAHID NAVARRA UNDERSTANDING ISLAM

WORKERS’ RIGHTS IN ISLAM Humans are social beings and we interact daily in dealings that shall end up in the fulfillment of our needs. Transactions are being made daily where services and products are being exchanged for a legal tender or money that is more or less equivalent to the value of the product or service offered.

Fair dealings are expected in each and every one of these transactions to secure a society that is orderly where no one’s rights in his sale or purchase shall be violated.

For products, it is quite easy to understand how people must pay money up front or on agreed upon terms as these items are being procured by the buyer from the seller due to his need that must be fulfilled or the utility that it provides. It is therefore quite easy to justify paying high prices for a smartphone that satisfies your needs because its physical nature is easily quantifiable.

But for services, often, it is a different ball game altogether. People often do not know the value of services rendered to them by others that they undervalue or devalue it by paying less or not even paying. Being satisfied in any service is subjective depending upon the level of gratitude of the customer or client. This leads to the sad

reality of workers’ rights being trampled upon, not only among Muslims but among mankind as a whole.

JUSTICE AND FAIR DEALINGS Allah said in the Quran, “O you who believe, stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be against rich or poor: for Allah can best protect both.

Follow not the lusts of your hearts, lest you swerve, and if you distort justice or decline to do justice, verily Allah is well acquainted with all that you do. Quran 4:135 Prophet Muhammad said, “O people, indeed your Lord is one and your father is one. Behold, there is no superiority for an Arab over a non-Arab, nor for a non-Arab over an Arab, nor for a white person over a black person, nor for a black person over a white person, except through piety.” Narrated by Imam Ahmad.

Selfishness, greed or even plain disregard could make any person step on other people’s rights and defraud them by not giving them is due to them. Fortunately, Islam has enacted laws that shall protect the rights of laborers and workers through Quranic and prophetic injunctions that

protect the mutual rights of people.

Islam shuns selfishness through Prophet Muhammad’s saying, “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother that which he loves for himself.” Narrated

by Imam Al Bukhari.

Allah made a clear warning in the Quran against greed, “Woe to those who give less than due, Who, when they take a measure from people, take in full. But if they give by measure or by weight to them, they cause loss. Do they not think that they will be resurrected?”

Quran 83:1-4 And Allah made another warning against being unwary of good deeds and bad deeds by reminding us that every little thing we say and do shall be rewarded and punished, “So whoever does an atom's weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.” Quran 99:7-8.

HOW TO SAFEGUARD WORKER’S RIGHTS FURTHER Other than the general Islamic laws that are mentioned above, the following are some of the things that could you to be just to your workers. These will also ensure that your employer or client is being just to you.

1. Agreements and con-

tracts: Agreements and contracts should be made before any sale or work is done in order to protect both parties from being taken advantage of. And if ever any discrepancy occurs, they could both look at this agreement as a reference in order to arrive at a peaceful settlement of their dispute. Contracts and agreements must be clear and unambiguous. It must contain the services to be given and must contain all the conditions that must be met. After these, terms of payment must be mentioned too. You may even consult a labor expert in making these.

Allah said in the Quran, “O believers, fulfill your contracts.” Quran 5:1.

2. Protection: In Islam, any contract should be made to secure not only the money or property but to secure everything that Islam protects: the religion, life, intellect, money, and dignity of workers. Fair dealings with employees are not only about paying their labor but also by securing that they work in an environment that they are physically safe from job site hazards and they are not abused physically or verbally by anyone. Allah said, “Serve Allah and make not any partners with Him in His divinity. Do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, those in need,

neighbors who are near, neighbors who are strangers, the companion by your side, the wayfarer you meet and your workers: for Allah loves not the arrogant, the vainglorious. Nor those who are stingy, or enjoin stinginess on others, or hide the bounties which Allah has bestowed on them; for We have prepared, for those who are ungrateful, a humiliating punishment.”

Quran 4:36-37. A client or employee must be kind to his employees.

3. Wages: Wages should be given in proper amounts to the labor or service provider according to the standard in your area or even better and what has been agreed upon. Allah said, “O my people, worship Allah; you have no other god but Him. Now has come unto you a Clear Signs from your Lord. Give just measure and weight, nor withhold from the people the things that are their due, and do no mischief on the earth after it has been set in order: that will be best for you if you have Faith.” Quran 7:85 Prophet Muhammad said, ““Give the worker his wages before his sweat dries.” Narrated by Ibn Maja.

This is an injunction that wages should be given in a timely manner.

8 EDGEDAVAO

SPECULATIVE... FROM 4

of Conduct in the contested waters, most recently during the recently-concluded 34th Asean Summit.

“In the ASEAN Summit, he articulated on the dangers of China's vague

demarcation line claim even as we filed diplomatic protests against its activities in our EEZ through the Department of Foreign Affairs,” Panelo said. (PNA)

its principal partner for the conference and awards, and in part by Kusog Bikolandia and Hanns Seidel Foundation as major sponsors, SM Investments Corporation as minor sponsor, Smart Communications, PAGCOR, Ayala Corporation, Land Bank of the Philippines, San Miguel Corporation, PAGLAS Group, McDonald’s, PCSO, and Hotel Jen. PPI’s current program partners, led by Nickel Asia Corporation will take center stage in the Industry Forum as they talk about “engaging communities” in relation to their programs and advocacies in the communities they serve.

The Civic Journalism Community Press Awards, now on its 23nd season will highlight the two-day event.

There are six dailies and 7

weeklies vying for five major categories, namely: best in photojournalism, best in environmental reporting, best in business and economic reporting, best editorial page, and best edited paper.

The finalists are: Baguio Chronicle, MetroPost, The Mindanao Cross, The Bohol Chronicle, BusinessWeek Mindanao, Herald Express, and Northern Forum for the weekly category; and Sun.Star Baguio, Cebu Daily News, Sun.Star Davao, Sun. Star Pampanga, Sun.Star Cebu, and Edge Davao for the daily category.

The awards program, the only one of its kind by far, is being managed by the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication (AIJC) and supported by Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC).

PPI... FROM 10

EDGE DAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

NICKEL... FROM 5

of rehabilitation efforts.

These include fruit-bearing trees, cash crops, among others.

The nickel companies’ reforestation and revegetation programs not only facilitate ecological rehabilitation of mined-out areas.

It provides employment to residents and to the indigenous community, and creates livelihood programs that are vital to strengthening the local economy.

These projects range from sponsoring Backyard Nursery Projects; to plantations of coffee, rubber, cacao, and bamboo; and even to the development of areas for productive use.

The program also allows the companies to help their respective host communities as seedlings can be donated to the community in support of various greening initiatives.

Companies also regularly distribute seedlings and fertilizers to farmers in the community which increase their crop production and yield.

These continued efforts demonstrate PNIA members’ commitment

and contributions to the government’s “Enhanced National Greening Program” or the ENGP, which targets the reforestation of 1.2 million hectares between 2017-2022.

PNIA members also focus on other environmental presevation programs such as biodiversity marine protection programs, mangrove plantations, coral transplantation, fish production, and other activities that improve the environment.

Organized in 2012 as non-stock non-profit organization, the PNIA is composed of seven (7) nickel mining companies, namely, Platinum Group Metals Corporation, CTP Construction and Mining Corporation, Citinickel Mines and Development Corporation, Carascal Nickel Corporation, DMCI Mining Corporation, Marcventures Mining and Development Corporation, and Agata Mining Ventures Incorporated.

Recently, it also included thirteen (13) contractors providing ancillary services as new members.

COPS... FROM 4

We will be adding more teeth to our campaign against those rogues and scalawags among our ranks. We will not hesitate to relieve any official from their posts should any incident like this extortion

and robbery case would happen again," he added.

Albayalde previously said newly-recruited police officers would undergo Special Action Forces (SAF) training as a way of disciplining them. (PNA)

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH ADDITION/ADDENDUM and WITH SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY

Notice is hereby given,this is in reference to the document entitled and dominated as Extra- Judicial Settlement of the Estate with Special Power of Attorney of the late RODOLFO J. CORPUS executed on April 17, 2017 has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH ADDITION/ADDENDUM and SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY executed among his heirs, per Doc. No.348; PageNo.71; Book No.XXV, Series of 2019, of the NOTARY PUBLIC LEOPOLDO D. ESPAÑOLA JR., REB, REA 6/21,28,7/05

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PRRD... FROM 2 chance),” he added.

He shrugged off critics who claimed going to war against China was too farfetched, warning that conflict was bound to arise if the Philippines continued to push.

“Bakit giyera lang ano?

Talagang giyera ‘yan (Why do I assume there will be war? It’s because it will really be a war),” Duterte said.

“Anything that is -- that would force anybody to act contrary to his will is always offensive. As a matter of fact sa (in) law, that is what’s called compelling anybody is a crime. Why will I go there and prohibit them na (when) the only way to stop them is talagang gamitan mo ng ngipin ‘yan (really showing some teeth)?”

Not afraid Duterte dismissed claims he was afraid, but pointed out that the three Western countries should also be able to face China if they were sincere in helping.

“Hindi ako sa hindi natatakot. Kung gusto nila, sabi ko nga, mag-imbita sila kay hindi naman talaga natin kaya ‘yang --- p*** karami ng armas diyan ngayon (It’s not that

I’m scared. If they want, I said, they can invite others because we really don’t stand a chance--they have lots of weapons),” Duterte said.

Amid calls for him to ban China from fishing within the Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone, Duterte said he could not enforce it even if he wants to, noting that even a powerful country like the US does not want to confront China.

“Kung i-prohibit ko (If I prohibit them), how do I enforce my desire? Takot nga ang America. Ayaw nga mag-confront, tapos ako pa ang ipusta nila (America is even afraid. They don’t want to confront, then they want me to take the risk)?”

Duterte said.

Duterte, meanwhile, reiterated that he has no way of stopping China from fishing within the EEZ because the latter has insisted its claims on the area despite the arbitral ruling in favor of the Philippines.

“We cannot drive them away because they have insisted na kanila (that is theirs). Tayo, idinemanda natin ang China panahon ni Aquino, which was

right. Nanalo tayo, sabi ng arbitral court, ‘sa Pilipinas ‘yan’ (We filed a case against China during the time of Aquino, which was right. We won and the arbitral court ruled ‘that belongs to the Philippines’),” Duterte said.

Despite the arbitral ruling, Duterte said that the Philippines was not given sovereignty and that “no country in the world has sovereignty over their EEZ. “Hindi ibinigay sa atin ‘yung (We were not given) sovereignty. Our sovereignty is only 12 miles. Ang (The) economic zone, wala tayong (we don’t have) sovereignty.

No country in the world has sovereignty sa kanyang (within its) economic zone --- exclusive. It is not a question of sovereignty,” Duterte said.

Mutual agreement According to Duterte, another reason why the Philippines could not stop China from fishing within the Philippine EEZ is because of their previous agreement to allow both Chinese and Filipinos to fish in the area.

“Kasi nagtanong sila (Because they asked), ‘Will you allow the Chinese

to fish? Sabi ko (I said) ‘Of course, ‘yan ang pinag-usapan namin noon (that was what we agreed upon),” Duterte said. “‘Yan ang pinag-usapan namin noon, kaya tayo naguusap eh (That’s what we agreed on before, that’s why we are talking).

And that was we were allowed to fish again. It was a mutual agreement,” he added.

Moreover, Duterte said that several infrastructure agreements between the Philippines and China have also been signed after the two countries decided to delay talks on the arbitral ruling.

“Ang usapan natin, huwag na muna ngayon pagusapan, mag-kaibigan lang muna tayo. Pagbigyan ko kayo ng armas, ano pang gusto ninyo(The deal is, let’s not talk about this issue now, let’s be friends first. I’ll give you arms, what else do you want)?”

Duterte said.

“Ang mga projects ngayon. Kita mo naman (The projects now, as you can see). You from Luzon. Kita mo ‘yung highway ngayon? Kita mo ‘yung mga… Tapos gusto mo lang na pilitin na umalis sila doon (Do you see

the highways now? Then you just want to force them to leave the area)?” he added.

Sideswiped Duterte also raised the possibility that the Filipino fishing vessel, which sank off Recto Bank, may not have been rammed but “sideswiped” by the Chinese vessel last June 9.

“Halos kami ngayon are agreed na-sideswipe. Hindi talaga yung binunggo. Kung binunggo, nasa ilalim na ‘yun (Almost all of us are somewhat convinced that it was sideswiped. That the boat was not really rammed. If it was rammed, it might have gone underneath),” Duterte said.

He pointed out that critics who insist that the Chinese vessel “intentionally” rammed the Filipino fishing boat should await the results of the investigation.

“Na-sideswipe. ‘Yun ang tawag diyan. Ngayon sabihin mo sinadya (That’s what it’s called. Now, if you say it was done intentionally) then let us have an investigation,” Duterte said.

Duterte said he still has cards up his sleeves-findings from the Bureau of Customs and Philippine

Navy--but withholding them until Chinese authorities release their own report on the incident.

“Tinatago ko ‘yung aking baraha. Meron nang Customs, meron nang Navy. Tinatago ko for the final report kasi gusto ko tingnan yung ano sa China (I’m saving my cards. There are findings from Customs, from Navy.

I’m withholding them for the final report because I want to see the results of China first),” Duterte said.

The President further said that whether or not the Philippine government was contented with China’s explanation that the Chinese fishermen were “afraid of being besieged by other Filipino fishing boats”, it was something they could not do anything about.

“Whether that is a good answer or not, that is their answer. Wala tayong magawa (We cannot do anything about it). You cannot force another answer kung ayaw niya (if China doesn’t want to),” Duterte said.

At present, Chinese authorities have yet to release the results of their investigation on the maritime incident. (PNA)

INdulge!

A CASUAL WINE AFFAIR VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

EDGEDAVAO

EVENT

MARCO POLO DAVAO’S ‘NOT SO SERIOUS WINE DINNER’

Dining out is a social thing for Dabawenyos.

We go out to have lunch with friends to catch up on the latest gossip, have dinner with colleagues for updates on the latest projects, have brunch with family to see where the latest family travel destination is.

While the idea of dining out is recognised as a casual affair, many urbanites however, still view wine events as a gathering of snooty people showing off while swirling their glasses of expensive wine.

In the desire to de-mystify and make wine appreciation a more casual affair, the Marco Polo Davao, in partnership with Wine Warehouse, held their first “Not So Serious Wine Dinner” at the Polo Bistro last June 25. “We wanted to show to the people of Davao that appreciating wine is fun and should not be a serious affair,” shared Marco Polo Davao General Manager Collin Healey. Instead of having a sit-down formal affair, guests were encouraged to walk around, mingle and socialise.

The Not So Serious Wine Dinner featured four beautiful wines from Napa Valley’s Rutherford Wines which were easy to drink with their bright fruity flavours and elegant finish. I personally loved the Rutherford Ranch Chardon-

Than Yu, Arvin Costan, Ian Cruz, Benjie Malazarte, Alice Fong, Nerysha Lo, Roland Avante

Sommelier Daniel Blais introduces the different wines of Rutherford Ranch.

Rutherford Ranch Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

Marco Polo Davao General Manager Collin Healey (left) together with Wine Warehouse representatives Brett Tolhuro and Hazel Tolhurot.

Dusit Davao’s hotel manager Laurent Casteret and general manager Christopher Wichlan.

nay 2016 with its rich nose and flavours of peaches and apples with a crisp and buttery finish.

It also helped that sommelier Daniel Blais was also present to share more intimate details of the wines.

Aside from the beautiful

Napa Valley wines, the event also showcased the expertise of the Marco Polo Davao’s culinary team lead by executive chef Alex Destriza who produced a wonderful dinner spread featuring dishes that compliment the wines.

Bondi & Bourke’s Chefs Patrick McCarthy and Wade Watson.

Rutherford Ranch Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Frank Jaeckel and Marco Polo Davao restaurant, bars and events manager Rene Gargallo.

EDGED

A2 INdulge!

FOOD

FOOD AND BEER COLDER THAN YOUR EX

Ochado whipped up a number fo their best sellers.

Crispy dinuguan from Bababoy.

WHAT used to be an open area reserved as a parking space is now a delectable tambayan for those who opt to enjoy food minus the hustle and bustle of the city.

Away from the traffic and noise, Lanang Business Park has established itself as an emerging business, leisure and entertainment go-to place in the city’s northern area.

Aside from the typical seat down restaurants and business offices surrounding the park, it now has a roller skating park, an archery area and yes, Eskina -- the park’s answer to anyone’s growling tummy.

Eskina Bizpark at the Lanang Business Park (Bizpark) can be likened to a food park minus the trailer vans. Conceptualised to offer a number of food varieties to hungry and craving palates, it has become home to some of Davao’s best kept dining stalls. And the best part? Everything’s swak sa budget!

“We have a variety...an option for everyone,” John Irene del Campo, Property Management & Administrative Services Manager said during a recent food sampling. True enough, Eskina offers choices after choices of dishes perfect

for an anyday craving.

Kuya’s Kambingan has a number of goat dishes on their repertoire. Many rave of their sinampalukang kambing, papaitan na kambing, adobong kambing, sizzling kambing and of course, the kilawing kambing. Aside from those, they also have the usual Filipino faves -- chicken adobo and pork menudo to name a few.

Tatay Ige’s is Eskina’s resident barbeque stall. Though still new to the dining game, Tatay Ige’s has their bbq game on fleek. Their chicken bbq (pecho and paa) is something I would not mind munching on a daily. They also have pork bbq and other delectable grilled products available at an affordable price.

If sisig is your cup of tea, then Romeo’s sisigan ng Davao is your best bet. Partnership between Jheo Taleon and Dennis Roflo, Romeo’s began small and has since taken the

Chili Garlic Chicken from Bababoy. palates of Davao by storm. On their menu are sisig faves that’s packed with flavours and texture. More so, budget friendly.

Available are pork, chicken and beef sisig.

As one of Davao’s hole-inthe-wall dining places, Bababoy has continually offered

some of the best tasting Filipino comfort foods on this side of the city. The best part? The dishes on their menu were all passed down from generation to generation -- fried dinakdakan, crispy dinuguan, fried binagoongan, chili garlic chicken and fried squid salted egg that

tastes like buttery cotton candy on the palate.

Milk tea, anyone? Ochado over at Eskina, started in Singapore and has bought their brews in Malaysia, Philippines and other parts of Asia.

Focused on brewing the best quality tea, Ochado marries a variety of flavour in one cup thus resulting to a more swabe milk tea experience. Must try includes honey lemonade, taro milk tea with pearls, chocolate mousse, mocha rock salt and Okinawa milk tea with pearls.

Any dining experience won’t be complete without an ice-cold beer, right? BeerZone makes sure that the beers are on point and served at the right temperature to complement, not only the palate, but more the dishes. Their beers, accordingly, are served as cold as your EX’s heart! Totoo naman!

EDAVAO

INdulge! A3

VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

GMA Network seals partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines GMA Network’s Entertainment Group inked a partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for the highly-anticipated Philippine adaptation of the hit Korean drama series, Descendants of the Sun.

Dishes from Kuya’s Kambingan will have you hungry in an instant.

Fried Dinakdakan from Bababoy.

Eskina BizPark tenants with John Irene Del Campo.

Tatay Ige’s has some of the city’s juiciest bbq.

Present during the MOA signing last June 20 at the GMA Network Center were Major General Bienvenido R. Datuin, Jr., Commander of Civil Relations Service, Armed Forces of the Philippines (CRSAFP); GMA Senior Vice President for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable; GMA Vice President for Drama Productions Redgie A. Magno; GMA Assistant Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy; and Senior Program Manager Ali Nokom Dedicatoria.

Also present were Major Gene R. Orense PA – C3, CRSAFP; Major Rommel Panganiban PA; Major Louzel Lara PA – Media and Civil Affairs Group; Major Elmar Salvador PA – Deputy C3 / Project Manager; and Staff Sergeant Efren Eugenio PA. The lead stars of Descendants of the Sun –Kapuso Primetime King Dingdong Dantes, sought-after actor Rocco Nacino, and awardwinning actress Jasmine Curtis-Smith– also came in full force.

Major General Datuin is looking forward to working with the Network for the Pinoy version of the series.

“The pleasure and the honor are ours. As I always say, this is an AFP that you can trust. We have evolved into your partners in the civilian community. This is an opportunity for us para maipakita ang aming core values which are patriotism, honor, and service, which I know that our actors and actresses here will be able to portray.

Maraming salamat and we look forward to this partnership,” he said.

Rasonable, in turn, is grateful to the AFP for partnering with GMA. “First of all, we are so honored and very thankful that the AFP has agreed to help us and partner with GMA for this project. This is a

much-awaited and very important flagship project of the Network and we cannot have it any other way than with the AFP helping us out,” she shared.

Magno is equally indebted to AFP for extending their services to the Network. “We are very excited to work with the AFP, in the same way that they are excited to work with us. We just want to always be guided on how to do things correctly and right. That is why we want to partner with them and we are so privileged that they agreed to work with us.”

For Dingdong, who is set to play the iconic role of “Big Boss” or Captain Lucas Manalo in the series, the partnership solidifies the Network’s commitment to rightfully represent the country’s military forces. “Thank you po sa ating Armed Forces of the Philippines represented today by General Datuin and of course our GMA bosses. Bukod sa pagsasabuhay ng mga karakter sa Descendants of the Sun, today shows that we are committed in bringing to life and representing properly and well with honor and pride our Armed Forces and we are very excited to start this show already,” Dingdong shared.

Jasmine, on the other hand, is set to play the role of Lieutenant Moira Defensor. “Thank you so much to GMA and AFP for trusting us to portray incredible roles that represent not just the characters from the original story, but also the military men in our country. I look forward to this and I’m very excited to portray the role of Moira,” Jasmine said.

Playing opposite her is Rocco who will portray the role of Sergeant Diego Ramos. “I’ve been looking

forward to this for a long time. I’m just really excited to give my all sa mga training and rest assured po that you will receive the cooperation from all actors para maisagawa nang maayos ang lahat ng techniques at tamang proseso na ginagawa ng mga sundalo. We are excited to make the Philippines proud through this show,” Rocco expressed.

Joining the starstudded cast of the

Philippine adaptation of Descendants of the Sun are Andre Paras as Dr. Ralph Vergara, Chariz Solomon as Nurse Emma Perez, Renz Fernandez as Dr. Earl Jimeno, Lucho Ayala as Staff Sergeant Alen Eugenio, Paul Salas as Marty Talledo, Prince Clemente as Sergeant First Class Randy Katipunan, Jon Lucas as Staff Sergeant Benjo Tamayo, and Hailey Mendes as Judith Manalo.

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

UP AND ABOUT

15th GSIS art competition winners bared

STATE pension fund Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) announced the winners of its 15th national art competition in the awarding rites held at the GSIS Theater on 7 June 2019.

Three top winners and five honorable mentions were selected under each of the three open-themed categories of the competition.

In the mixed media category, Manuel Lotsu Q. Manes won first prize for his entry Lumad. Alfredo Baluyot’s Through Ups and Downs and Demetrio L. de la Cruz’s Fragile (After Amorsolo, Fernando) placed second and third, respec-

tively.

Ariosto Dale Bagtas grabbed the top prize in the nonrepresentational category for his work Happiest Place. The second and third prizes went to Rodel G. Rillera and Jovel M. Ruivivar for their entries

Insekto sa Lipunan and Women on Top, respectively.

The top three winners in both categories each received Php400,000, Php300,000, and Php200,000. Honorable mentions were each given P100,000.

Winning the highest award in the sculpture category was Gilbert A. Miraflor’s Untitled. Felix Baldemor (Rise of the Enchantress) and Geofrey Ranchez (Battle) bagged second and third places, respectively. The three went home

with Php300,000, Php200,000, and Php100,000, respectively. Honorable mentions each received Php50,000.

All winning art works and honorable mentions have now become part of the GSIS art collection.

They are on display at the GSIS Museo ng Sining in Pasay City until 2 August 2019.

The viewing schedule in the GSIS Museo ng Sining is from Tuesday to Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

It is closed on holidays and specified days. For inquiries, clients may call (02)479-3588 or (02)859-0395, or email museum@gsis.gov.ph.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

24/7... FROM 1 usabon sa LTFRB ang permits nila na instead nga 6:30am to 9:00am lang sa buntag ug 5:00pm to 8:00pm lang sa hapon, mahimo nag 24 hours," Abude said.

LTFRB issued a Memorandum Circular No. 2019-009 in February allowing city buses plying Catalunan Grande and Toril to operate during peak hours.

and Platforms for action on its 25th Anniversary.

In presenting the overview of the UN CSW63, PCW Executive Director Emmeline L. Versoza said that such New York Conference centered on theme regarding social protection systems, access to public services and sustainable infrastructure for gender equality and empowerment of women and girls.

Among the topics tackled during the report-back forum was on Inclusive Quality Education and Lifelong Learning—Key for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women and Promotion Universal Social Protection for Women and Girls that was discussed by Atty.

Carmelita Yadao-Sison, officer-in-charge of the Office of the Executive Director of UniFAST of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Anita E. Baleda, chief of GAD Specialist, Policy Development, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Division (PDPMED) of PCW shared thoughts on a discussion called the “Silver Lining” that

dealt on Social Protection and Empowerment of Aging Women while DSWD Usec Luzviminda Ilagan shared the successes of 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) implementation in discussing Gender-Responsive Social Protection in ASEAN: Regional Action for equality, sustainability and inclusive growth.

There werw also topics on Advancing Gender Equality and Sexual and reproductive health rights: The Role of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) that was discussed by Atty Leah C. Tanodra-Armamento, commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights.

As the Philippines ranks among the signatory of the Beijing Platform for Action, organizers of today’s Report-Back forum on UN women conference integrated the highlights of the BPfA +25 Philippine Progress Report 2014-2019 and the priorities for Strengthening National Gender Statistics in 2020-2025 together with top 5 priorities BPfA implementation. (PIA XI/ JMDA)

REPORT-BACK... FROM 2

CITY... FROM 2

na Crossing, Lapu-Lapu Street, Calinan, Marilog, Talomo, Toril, Barangay 19-B and District A. “Ang mga hotspots area kay kanang mga daghan ug tao or congested areas,” she explained.

With the increase of dengue related numbers, CHO urged the public to avail of the service provided by the government to prevent dengue related deaths.

Babante, however, re-

mind the public to apply the 4S dengue prevention method which means search and destroy mosquito breeding places, self-protection measures, seek early medical consultation and support indoor and outdoor fogging to eliminate mosquito eggs and larvae.

She also advised parents to avoiding dark-colored clothing for their children as it attracts mosquitoes.

very simple, said Birmingham. "It's been the rest factor. He's rejuvenated his body and mind, he got married and as I said before, he has someone to fight for."

Thurman's over twoyear recovery have allowed him to fully heal and its made for a powerful training camp. The undefeated, two-time world champion is operating at his very best - showing glimpses on his Instagram channel (@ KeithOneTimeThurman) of his high intensity workouts.

"I am back on the big stage, I have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase my talent and skill with a legend in the sport. It's a big 'get back' year for me," said Thurman. "I tried to tell everyone that and this is what it's like when champions get back to performing like world class champions.

No excuses. I want to be the best Keith Thurman I can be, and we set up a camp

where we can bring out the best in me, for myself, for the fight and for the fight fans."

"He has a renewed vigor - more energy - and he's anxious to fight and anxious to train," said Birmingham.

"His power, ferociousness and tenacity will be a problem for Manny. We've only escalated that in this camp.

He has two strength and conditioning coaches - NFL great Yo Murphy and leading strength coach Kimberly Doehnert. The core team includes post-workout trainer Eric Wilson for stretching and recovery in addition to myself and Chris Getty for strategy and training.

"We've mixed up sparring with some guys who emulate Manny but are tougher, stronger fighters who can take a punch.

You've got to be tough to box with Keith.

"We're going to win this fight."

THURMAN’S... FROM 11

DEL ROSARIO... FROM 4

9

However, the difference is that Carpio-Morales did not use a diplomatic passport.

On March 13 this year, del Rosario and Morales filed a complaint before the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Chinese President Xi Jinping for alleged crimes against humanity in the disputed South China Sea. A day after del Rosario was denied entry at Hong Kong, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) canceled the issuance of courtesy diplomatic passports to all former Philippine

ambassadors and DFA secretaries.

“The DFA Office of Consular Affairs (OCA) will be issuing an order shortly, canceling all courtesy diplomatic passports, and requiring their surrender for physical cancellation,” the DFA, through Assistant Secretary Emmanuel Fernandez, said in a statement.

“The practice of issuing courtesy diplomatic passports to former DFA Secretaries and ambassadors shall henceforth be discontinued,” it added. (PNA)

Approved Chinese investments in the country in 2018 reached P50.692 billion or higher by more than 2,000 percent compared to the P2.333 billion recorded in 2017, according to a data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on February 28.

Investments from China comprised 28.3 percent, the highest, of the P179 billion in total foreign investments approved last year.

Singapore came in second with approved investment pledges worth P21.181 billion. Japan pledged P19.727 billion in investments; British Virgin Islands, P16.165 billion; Malaysia, P14.652 billion; United States of America, P12.858 billion; Taiwan, P4.2 billion; United Kingdom, P3.81 billion; France,

P2.561 billion; and Australia, P2.410 billion.

These figures were based on the pledges approved by the Board of Investments, Clark Development Corporation, Philippine Economic Zone Authority, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan, BOI-Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, and Cagayan Economic Zone Authority.

Manufacturing emerged as the most preferred investment area with P85.124 billion or 47.6 percent of the total foreign investments. Electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply came in second most preferred with P30.048 billion. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

BEIJING... FROM 5

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VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

PPI at 55: building better communities T his year marks the 55th anniversary of the Philippine Press Institute (PPI), also known as the national association of newspapers. This milestone serves as a testament to the enduring two-pronged vision of PPI: 1) To defend press freedom; and 2) to promote ethical standards within the ranks of its member-publications.

“We do not only celebrate its longevity but remind ourselves of its relevance and mandate,” said Alfonso Pedroche, outgoing PPI chairman-president and retired former editor-in-chief of Pilipino Star Ngayon.

As in previous years, PPI is holding yet another edition of the National Press Forum on July 4 and 5 in Manila, not only in celebration of its founding but, more importantly, to bring together the members in a once-a-year opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion on an issue that matters to the public and all of the Philippine media. The publishers and editors from the member-newspapers will be joined by guests from the academe, government, embassies, and civil society organizations.

The theme for this year is “Governance, Media, and Democracy: Building Better Communities”, around which the PPI aims to have a discussion that, among others, will highlight the role of media in both local and national affairs as the fourth estate and watchdog.

“Building Better Communities” is the slogan for PPI’s flagship program which is civic journalism.

“We couldn’t stress enough the role of the print media. PPI in fact has been a witness and participant in the evolving media landscapes which also saw the growth of community press since the

inception of the organization fifty-five years ago,” said PPI executive director Ariel Sebellino. He also attested that newspapers have survived the tests of time.

Alex Pal, a publisher of a Dumaguete-based community newspaper and PPI vice-chairman said that it is even more challenging for a small paper to sustain its operations despite difficult times. “The last time they said print was dying, we’re still here, active in our role as catalysts for change and a platform for civic engagement.” His weekly newspaper MetroPost is a finalist in this year’s Civic Journalism Community Press Awards.

The PPI Board took note of this year’s conference theme as timely and relevant “as we also try to have an insightful look at a new system of government that has been a subject of discourse for the longest time”.

Senator Aquilino ‘Nene’ Pimentel, Jr., considered as the father of local government code and a staunch advocate of federalism will share his take on it.

Atty. Christian Monsod will discuss the (proposed) Puno Federalism in relation to preserving democracy and promoting press freedom. “Social justice and economy are just two of the major shortcomings of the Puno Constitution,” said Monsod in response to the PPI invitation. Atty. Erwin Caliba will talk about autonomy as a mechanism to address exclusion of minorities. Atty. Cheryl Daytec-Yañgot, a staunch advocate of IP issues, will react to all three presentations.

This year’s event is being supported again by Nickel Asia Corporation as

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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,

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BOXING WORKOUT. Davao's fitness aficionados can avail of one-on-one boxing training with pro boxing coaches at the Arcadia Fitness Gym inside the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Ecoland, Davao City across Matina Enclaves. Boxing hours are from 6am to 9pm daily.

Thurman’s trainer: We’ll beat Pacquiao

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T. PETERSBURG, FL — Keith Thurman's head trainer Dan Birmingham is typically a man of few words who likes to keep his focus on his job; which is training, coaching and creating world champion boxers. So when Dan speaks, people listen. His Mr. Miyagi-style message ahead of Keith's blockbuster PBC on FOX Sports pay-per-view showdown versus Manny Pacquiao?

"Freddie Roach is going to lose a lot of money," said Birmingham. "When the fight is over Keith 'One Time' Thurman's hands will be raised. Keith is going to win this fight and win it in

fine fashion."

"Dan and I have worked together since I was an amateur, he was my mitt-man when my trainer Ben Getty couldn't take my power," said Thurman. "Ben would be on the sidelines and tell me what to throw and Dan would be there to catch it.

The day I turned pro, Dan was in my corner and I felt blessed to have Dan become my coach and first corner when Ben passed away.

Dan knows my strengths and he's worked with other world champions. We're not rookies. We're prepared to be on the big stage.

"He's a man of few words but his actions and

words that he picks are always right on point. He sees what is going on even when I can't or don't see it. He isn't hype. He is honest. He is giving me technique, criticism and whether or not we won the round; I know I can trust him."

Trained by Birmingham since his original coach Ben Getty passed away ten years ago, Thurman continues to hone and develop his boxing prowess at Birmingham's St Pete Boxing Club gym in St. Petersburg, FL. The Florida Boxing Hall of Famer knows what is needed for his pupil to win this historic fight on Saturday, July 20 at the MGM Grand

Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

"This is a very important fight for Florida boxing and for our gym," said Birmingham "From Winky to Jeff Lacy and all the guys who train and fight for titles, we have a lot of pride in Keith. This fight and holding this title means everything to our gym.

"Manny knows Keith's a puncher, and that he brings youth and experience like Manny does. But Keith wants to fight, he's anxious to fight and he's got someone to fight for besides himself."

One of the keys to Thurman's impending victory is

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Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant has declined his $31.5 million player option and will become an unrestricted free agent.

KD opts for free agency

G Keith Thurman and Trainer Dan Birmingham in Florida.

olden State Warriors star Kevin Durant has declined his $31.5 million player option and will become an unrestricted free agent, league sources told ESPN. Durant's business manager, Rich Kleiman, informed Warriors general manager Bob Myers of the decision in recent days.

Durant and Kleiman are together in New York, where they've been mulling Durant's free-agency options. So far, it has been a fairly clandestine process.

Durant is still considering a number of scenarios in free agency, including a return to Golden State, league

sources tell ESPN. The New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets and LA Clippers are also believed to be considerations, sources said.

Durant, 30, can sign a four-year, $164 million deal with another team, and remains eligible to sign a fiveyear, $221 million deal with the Warriors.

Durant, a two-time NBA Finals MVP with the Warriors, suffered a torn Achilles tendon in Game 5 of the Finals on June 10 and is expected to need the 2019-20 season to fully rehabilitate the injury.

Every team pursuing him is expected to still offer him a full max contract.

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VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019 VOL.12 ISSUE 79 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JUNE 28-29, 2019

FOR SEA GAMES. Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) chairperson Andrea Domingo (third from right) and Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William Ramirez (third from left) pose with other officials during the turnover of the P842.5-million check to renovate sports venues for the 30th SEA Games at the PAGCOR office in Manila on Wednesday (June 26, 2019). The Philippines will host for the fourth time the SEA Games from Nov. 30 to Dec. 11 this year.

(Photo courtesy of PSC)

PAGCOR AID

Pagcor turns over P842-M for SEAG venues T

he Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) on Wednesday turned over a check worth P842.5 million to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) for the renovation of facilities to be used for the hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games later this year.

Pagcor chairman and chief executive officer Andrea Domingo, together with president and chief operating officer Alfredo Lim and directors Reynaldo Concordia and Gabriel Claudio, led the turnover of the check to PSC chairman William Ramirez and executive director Merlita Ibay at the Pagcor Executive Office in Manila.

Among the facilities to be refurbished using Pagcor funds are track and football field and indoor Ninoy Aquino Stadium, both inside the 85-yearold Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) in Manila and the Multi-Purpose Arena at the Philsports Complex in Pasig City.

“We are trying to give you as much (help) as we can,” Domingo said.

Ramirez, for his part, lauded Pagcor for helping in the renovation of the sports facilities for the SEA Games which the country will host for the fourth time from November 30 to December 11 this year.

“This is a good legacy of Pagcor that under your watch all three facilities will be rehabilitated at this level,” said Ramirez, who will serve as chef de mission for Team Philippines in the SEA Games.

Ramirez said the PHP842.5 million assistance is “very sentimental for PSC because those structure has never been

rehabilitated in this way”.

“The aid given to us by Pagcor is priceless. The rehabilitation of the facilities for the SEA Games is an important contribution to Philippine sports as it will help improve the performance of our athletes and change the picture of local athletics,” he added.

The PHP842.5 million is separate from the monthly remittance of Pagcor to the PSC. Pagcor is mandated by law to remit 5 percent of its income to the PSC to finance the country’s sports development programs. It also funds the Sports Benefits and Incentives Act, which provides monetary incentives to the athletes and coaches who win in international sports competitions.

Aside from RMSC and Philsports Complex, the world-class New Clark City sports complex in Capas, Tarlac will serve as venue of the SEA Games.

According to the Bases Conversion and Development Authority, the New Clark City sports complex is almost ready as the main venue of SEA Games.

It has the 20,000-seater Athletics Stadium, 2,000-seater Aquatics Center, 1.4-kilometer Riverpark and athletes’ village.

At least 10,000 athletes from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam will compete in the 30th SEA Games.

The Philippines won the overall championship the last time it hosted SEA Games in 2005. The event was also held in the country in 1981 and 1991.

(PNA)