Edge Davao Volume 12 Issue 95 | Sunday-Monday, July 21-20, 2019

PRESIDENT TO INAUGURATE SEAG VENUE IN NOVEMBER

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

FULL ALERT ►SPORTS P11

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

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PRO 11 also on SONA alert status

By ADAM B. MORRELL

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he Police Regional Of�ice (PRO) 11 is on a full alert status to ‘reinforce’ the State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, July 22.

PRO 11 spokesperson Police Major Jason, in an interview with Edge Davao, said the full alert mandate began on Saturday, July 20, and will last right after the president's fourth annual address.

"Starting today (pertaining to Saturday, July 20) full alert kami until sa d-day ng SONA kasi bukas �ight din ni Senator Manny Pacquiao so amin doon full alert ang personnel, 100 percent attendance," Baria said.

The PRO 11 spokesperson said that they are monitoring threat groups opposing the Duterte administration to possibly conduct rallies within Davao City

EYE-CATCHING. A visually challenged person walks by a graffiti wall along Jacinto extension in Davao City over the weekend. The graffiti wall in the area is becoming a popular background for pre-debut and pre-wedding shoots among local photographers due to its eye-catching graphics and vivid colors. Lean Daval Jr

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during the SONA. "Wala kaming deployment sa areas but naka standby ang mga personnel natin for any possible rally ng mga threat groups," he said, adding that they will strictly check if these threat groups hosting rallies have secured their respective permits, otherwise, these groups will be forced to leave the designated rally areas of Davao City that includes the Freedom Park.

Baria also said PRO 11's intelligence division is currently checking on possible convergence of these various threat groups from afar areas. Thus,

FULL ALERT, P9

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

1 of 2 missing Filipino tourists in Phuket found

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OTABATO CITY – The remains of one of two Filipinos who were reported missing in Phuket, Thailand on Wednesday was found Friday afternoon, the family here con�irmed.

The lifeless body of Noah “Twitt” Ibay II was found by Thai rescue workers not far from the site where he was last seen.

Family members and friends in this city con�irmed the recovery of the body of the 40-year-old

Ibay.

His companion, Angelo Bien Rafael Cortez, 29, remained missing as of posting.

The two and 11 others, including Lito Cortez, Angelo’s father, were in Phuket for a weeklong vacation.

Cortez, a nurse, and Ibay were not swimming but whiling away beside the beach when hit by big waves. Search and rescue operations were ongoing as of this posting. (PNA)

Pass FOI bill: Andanar

ANTI-DENGUE. The City Health Office conducts fogging operation as an anti-dengue measure in Roseville Subdvision, Brgy. Angliongto, Davao City on July 18. The Department of Health has declared a nationwide alert following the spike of deaths due to dengue. Mindanews Photo

DOH 11 to conduct measles immunization in schools

By DAVE STEPHENN VILLAMORA

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he Department of Health (DOH) XI and the City Health Of�ice will conduct an intensi�ied school-based immunization program amidst rapid increase of measles cases in the region.

The program aims to vaccinate 250,217 pupils in the city from Kindergarten to Grade 7 within the year. Grade 1 and Grade 7 will be given Measles-Rubella and Tatanus-Diphteria while Kinder and Grades 2 to 6 will be given Measles-Rubella only.

Although the number of cases may have increased, DOH National Immunization manager Dr. Janice Olavides said

although there is still no reason to declare a measles outbreak as the numbers are 13-percent lower than the previous year.

“Taas kayo ang refusal [rate] last year. Ang amoang accomplishment lang sa Davao City kay almost 40-percent compared to previous years, 2016, 2017. Last 2016, 80-percent ang among nabukanahan.

2017, 60-percent na lang. Last year, 39-percent, almost

Establishments breaking rules in Boracay removed

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LOILO CITY -- The Boracay Inter-Agency Rehabilitation Management Group (BIARMG) on Friday began the demolition of establishments violating the 25+5 coastal easement in Bulabog Beach in Barangay Balabag, Malay, Aklan.

Natividad Bernardino, general manager of BIARMG, said the group targets to take down eight erring establishments “within the week.”

“We have started with one establishment on Friday and we hope to �inish all eight within the week,” Bernardino said in a phone interview Friday afternoon.

Two establishments were scheduled to be removed on Saturday.

The establishments that will face demolition include hotels, restaurants, bars, and kite surfing schools.

She said in October

2018, Aklan Mayor Ceciron Cawaling already issued the violators an ultimatum to self-demolish.

Last March 25, Aklan Mayor Abram Sualog also issued the same to the erring establishments.

“They were already given (a) demolition order.

We just implemented the order,” Bernardino said.

Last year, the rehab group already put markings on the structures that need to be removed.

The establishments have to be demolished because they obstruct the drainage system being built by the Department of Public Works and Highways, she added.

Business owners did not show any violent reaction to the demolition because they know they have to face the consequence since they refused to self-demolish, she said.

(PNA)

40-perent. That’s why dili ma likayan na magka outbreak ta kung ingana man lang gani atung status. Daku ug possibility na magka outbreak. Last year nag outbreak ang Davao city,” said City Health Of�ice (CHO) National Immunization Program coordinator Eldy B. Sombilon.

Olavides revealed that Talomo Central, Talomo North, Buhangin and Agdao districts are among measles hotspots in Davao City.

The Health Department and LGUs have conducted orientations to parent-teacher association (PTA) in various pub-

lic schools in the region to address issues behind the immunization stigma. Olavides said that based on the feedback of the LGUs, there are a lot of parents who allowed their children to be vaccinated.

“Due to the recent measles outbreak [in] the Philippines, daghan na kaayog mama ang nagpa bakuna sa ilang mga bata age less than 50 months old during the March campaign. As of now, we are expecting also na daghan na pud mama na musugot pabakunahan ang ilang mga bata for this school based campaign,” Olivades

DOH, P9

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ommunication Secretary Martin Andanar on Friday urged Congress to prioritize the passage of the proposed Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, which mandates full disclosure of public records.

“Kailangan po natin ng katuwang nito sa Kongreso at Senado. So, tayo po’y nagdarasal na sila po ay umaksyon din para gawing ganap na batas ito (We need a partner at the House of Representatives and the Senate. We are praying that they would act and pass the FOI bill into law),” Andanar said.

The bill seeks to strengthen the practice of transparency by giving the public access to government transactions and documents. It also aims to eliminate the incidence of corruption in government of�ices.

In a radio interview, Andanar said once passed, the FOI law will grant access to public records, not only in the executive branch but in the legislative and judiciary branches as well.

He also cited Executive Order 2 that was signed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte prior to his �irst State of the Nation Address

(SONA) in 2016, requiring all of�ices in the executive branch to disclose public records.

“Itong Executive Order na ito ay napakahalaga dahil ginawa po nitong very transparent yung ating national government at ang ating executive branch (This EO is really signi�icant because it made the national government and the executive branch very transparent),” Andanar said.

“Patuloy po ang kampanya laban sa kurapsyon at ito pong EO No. 2, ito po ay isa sa mga polisiya para mawala ang kurapsyon (We continue our campaign against corruption and EO 2 is one of the policies to eliminate corruption),” he added.

The FOI bill is one of the priority measures of the administration that was approved by the House but failed to hurdle the Senate in the 17th Congress due to lack of time.

Presidential Communications Operations Of�ice Assistant Secretary and FOI-Program Management Of�ice Director Kristian Ablan has said that he hopes the FOI bill will be enacted into law by 2020.

PASS, P9

TRADITIONAL HOUSE. Carpenters work on rebuilding one of the traditional houses of the 11 tribes of Davao City at the Kadayawan village inside Magsaysay Park in Davao City on Saturday in preparation for the 2019 Kadayawan sa Davao festival. Lean Daval Jr

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 3

Indonesia eyes more investments in PH

By LEEBAI SINSUAT AMBOLODTO

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he Indonesian government has stressed that its presence in the country goes beyond mere prioritising inbound investments but also places a great emphasis on Indonesians expanding their businesses in host countries like the Philippines.

The Indonesian Consulate in Davao City conducted a business

seminar focused on local businesses doing business in Indonesia

on Friday, July 19, at the House of Indonesia.

The seminar highlighted Indonesia’s booming economic potential and the upcoming Trade Expo Indonesia 2019 on October 1620, 2019 at Taggerang, Indonesia.

Indonesian Consul General in Davao City Dicky Fabrian meets with Fajar Usman, Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board Director of Foreign Investments Corporation, (left) and Arturo Milan, Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII) President (right). The

Consul General Dicky Fabrian said the event offers bountiful opportunities for the Philippine market and vice versa.

Trade Expo Indonesia 2019 highlights numerous products ranging from manufactur-

Indonesian Consulate in Davao City organized the business seminar focused on local businesses doing business in Indonesia last Friday, July 19, at the House of Indonesia at Juna Subd., Matina, Davao City.

ing, strategic industry, creative products and services, furniture, food and beverage, crafts and lifestyle and local champion products.

“Both Indonesia and the Philippines exhibit a unique Asian trait when it comes to business,” Fabrian said.

According to a data presented during the seminar, the economic relations between Indonesia and Philippines is expected to �lourish with a projected Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of 5.2% in 2019 for Indonesia and 6.5% for the Philippines.

With these promising numbers and concurrent efforts undertaken by both governments, Fabrian is positive of the potentials for trade opportunities and partnerships.

“Foreign businesses that come to Indonesia with a clear vision have a higher chance of blending in and forging a stronger ties with the Indonesian business community,” Fabrian said.

Davao City Chamber of Commerce and

Industry Inc. (DCCCII) president Arturo Milan, who was present during the seminar, encouraged the revival of the Davao-Manado �light. Milan believes this will cut the travel time and expenses on the part of business executives bringing their products and services to Indonesia.

Along with Fabrian and Milan were Davao City Investment and Promotion Center (DCIPC) chief April Marie Dayap, Consul for Information, Socio-Culture Affairs Endah R. Yuliarti, Universal Islamic Center president Malou Ampuan, Vice Consul for Economic Affairs Ely Sya�itri Handayani and Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board director of Foreign Investments Corporation BPK. Fajar Usman.

Handayani and Usman also shared their expertise on the matter.

In the 2019 World Bank’s report on Ease in Doing Business, Indonesia ranked 73rd among 190 countries in the world.

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

TESDA continues to reach out to regions

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he Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has been reaching more clients and regions through the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Con�lict (NTF-ELCAC) that it heads.

The NTF-ELCAC was established through Executive Order 70 series of 2018, assembling national government agencies (NGAs) and the private sector to aid communities in need of assistance and social development.

In a statement issued on Friday, TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña said the PRLEC is working on a proposal for the 2020 budget, amounting to

PHP1.457 billion. This budget, he said, will cover 17 regions and 46 provinces, 63 Mobile Training Laboratories, 63 units of motor vehicles, and operating expenses for 63 priority areas.

The PRLEC is now focused on creating regional action plans and implementing pilot convergence projects using value chain models that address the identi�ied

areas of concern of communities.

Lapeña earlier told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) that TESDA's new tagline, "Abot Lahat", really aims to reach everyone, particularly its special clients.

The TESDA has been prioritizing its special clients, such as former rebels, drug surrenderers, and indigenous peoples (IPs), and conducts on-site training and assessment to reach more people.

As of July 5, a total of 1,482 former rebels, 35,864 IPs have graduated from TESDA's skills training programs.

TESDA, P9

ICONIC. The iconic Aeon Towers stand majestically along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City as construction workers finish up final stages of the 33-level building. Inside the building, the swimming pool on the sixth level is also shaping up.

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

EDGEDAVAO

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6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

EDITORIAL More than what to expect The legacy of the Duterte administration could be the most anticipated subject of the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 22.

The fourth report to the country of President Duterte could give us a preview of what to expect in the next three years of his remaining tenure in the Palace. But is that enough for the country to stop where the current leadership also comes to the end of its term? Do we expect to just stop in 2023 and begin another journey?

The Philippines have been in that road in every single time that an administration ends and another begins. That explains the stagnancy by which we progressed or to be exact, regressed.

The change that was promised by the Duterte campaign in 2016 was the fuel that catapulted it to power and by going true to its promise, to be fair with it, the question now is whether that change will continue or do change the ‘change’ again?

As Senator Sonny Angara sees it, there must be continuity in the current juggernaut that country is experiencing. Thus, he hopes to hear more about President Duterte’s plans not only for the next three years but for the next

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

decade. In a report published by the Philippine News Agency, the lawmaker contends that the 2020 national budget should lay down the framework for the 10-year development plan for the country.

By laying down the framework for the country’s policy directions in the next decade, Angara believes that it will result in the next administration building on what President Duterte has achieved and what he started during his term. This opinion makes sense. In past administrations, the successors traditionally go after the predecessors especially if they come from rival political parties. This culture of vindictiveness have pulled the country down.

Excessive political vendetta has done much damage to the country--causing stagnation in economy and further political division.

The chain that grinds the Philippines to progress, and this is notwithstanding the continued criticisms and non-cooperation from the antiDuterte parties and personalities, must not be broken. It can only be done with the President laying down his long-term plans for the country for his successor, regardless of political af�iliation, to be ‘guided ‘ on the directions he had set forth this early.

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 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

VANTAGE POINTS

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ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

OSAKA BAZAR, THE BEER IMPORTER Regarded as one of the iconic merchant stores in prewar Davao, Osaka Bazar, which had its main of�ice in Echague, Santa Cruz, Manila, was not just a commodity depot; it introduced numerous articles of trade, chie�ly Japanese brands, that have become part of Davao’s history.

Published accounts consider the bazaar as the forerunner of present-day malls in the city given the array of products displayed inside the store.

Apart from the �inest Japanese silk, linen, wool and cotton kimonos that carried bird, butter�ly, dragon and �lower designs, it also sold Satsuma vases, wares and tea sets imported directly from Japan. It was, at the time, the largest Japanese store anywhere in the islands.

Known only to a few frothy beverage connoisseurs, trading house Osaka Bazar, renamed in January as Osaka Boeki Kaisha Ltd., with main of�icer at 332-346 Echague, Santa Cruz, Manila, was the �irst to import the Japanese beer brands Asahi (launched in 1892) and Sakura.

The credit of introducing

imported beer to the country belongs to the Americans. As of 1901, bottled beer from the United States already amounted to $619,825, roughly P18 billion in today’s currency. At the time the only brewery operating with a Spanish franchise was San Miguel Brewery (SMB), established in 1890.

Over the years, American beer supply drastically declined partly due to the competition SMB posed and the import of German malt which made the local beer better in taste and in price. Another factor was the return of American servicemen after the burden to address the insurgency in the country was passed to Filipino law enforcers.

In Harold M. Pitt’s ‘Reciprocity and the Philippine Islands’ (1911), SMB, in 1910, was already producing 3,837,000 liters, which the government taxed at four centavos per liter.

In its newspaper and magazine adverts, the bazaar introduced the Sakura beer, which was sold in Manila at 35 centavos, as the “beer that was able to compete with the best German beer before the war.” Curiously,

the beer was �irst introduced in the US before the Prohibition era.

The bazaar, relaunched as a Japanese department store, also brought to Davao the American safety matches, The Hammer, the much-sought Japanese pearls, Haori and Coolie coats and jackets, paper umbrellas, Fuji silk (gold medal winner in the 1926 Philippine Carnival), and cottons.

In agreement with Azumi & Co. of Japan, the store became the sole agents for Katol, the mosquito repellant advertised as “the best mosquito destroyer.” It also introduced in the old town of Davao the double soled Marubi canvas rubber shoes in khaki and black colors.

Interestingly, it also introduced the vertical radio brand National, advertised as follows: “This �irst compact table model presents the last word in radio receiving sets: both in beauty and durability. Built for long life and reception ef�iciency, it will provide you with economical entertainment. Its decorative hardwood cabinet will add charm to your home. Moderate-

ly priced, our model Z-2, four tube sets, sells for only P28.50.”

In another notice teasing customers for the Christmas holidays, the store, with over a dozen well thought of adverts, presented its Japanese kimonos as “made to order, from dainty wool and challis or all—silk crepes—beautiful patterns— are gifts which will certainly bring joy.”

The opening of Osaka Bazar in Davao can be attributed to a number of factors, such as the growth of Japanese population; the newfound preference of local residents, chie�ly af�luent families, for foreign goods; the strong demand for unique Japanese products; and the patronage of Japanese migrants towards everything Japanese.

The Osaka Bazar, which closed shop when war broke out and its iconic building heavily damaged by American aerial bombings when the con�lict escalated, was situated at the corner of Anda and San Pedro streets, an area now occupied by a jewelry store. It stood just across the present-day Indian Palace.

There still exists today in Binondo, Manila, a Osaka Boeki Kaisha Ltd. It’s unclear if the establishment is the same old Osaka Bazar that pioneered in Japanese superstore concept in the country. Prewar records also show a company known as Osaka Boeki Kaisha, Inc., which was involved in the export of lumber.

In Philippine jurisprudence, the company was mentioned as plaintiff and appellant in a case (G.R. No. 47467) decided by Supreme Court on March 14, 1941, linking Leonardo Guison, as principal debtor, and Luzon Surety Co. Inc., as guarantor, to the acquisition of a semi-diesel 70 HP Kinoshita engine installed in a boat owned by Philippine Fish Company, which was sold by the original owners to the Japanese out�it.

The �irm wanted the defendants to pay jointly the amount of P3,540, plus legal interests, from the date the claim was decided on March 31, 1937, in the Court of First Instance. The engine was the subject of a writ of execution issued in Civil Case No. 50186.

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

DOING THE RIGHT THING “Who you are in public is a test of your conviction; who you are in private, integrity.” – Criss Jami, Healolo *** While searching for a story on integrity, I came across the story of sports hero Reuben Gonzalez that was shared by speaker and career coach Shravan Shetty. It happened during the �inal match of his �irst professional racquetball tournament.

“Gonzales surprised the racquetball world with his sportsmanship,” Shetty wrote. “In 1985, still looking for his �irst pro tour win, he and Marty Hogan, the sport’s perennial champ and pit bull, were locked in a give-game battle in Arlington, Virginia.

“It was tied at two games apiece, with Hogan serving and up 10-8 in an 11-point �inal, when Gonzales ended a furious rally with a forehand kill. The referee called the shot good. Gonzales regained the serve, momentum and the opportunity for a tremendous upset.”

What happened next astonished the spectators, according to pro Jerry Hilecher. “Rueben overruled the ref and called a skip (the ball touched the �loor before hitting the front wall) on himself, handing the match to Hogan,” Hilecher was quoted as saying.

“No one could believe it,” Hilecher continued. “It was unheard of. It gave Rueben lasting respect from the other players and the fans.”

According to a report, when Gonzalez walked off the court, everyone was stunned. So much so that the next issue of a leading racquetball magazine featured Gonzolas on its cover. The lead editorial searched and questioned for an explanation for the �irst ever occurrence on the professional racquetball circuit.

“Who could ever imagine it in any sport or endeavor?” the editorial inquired. “Here was a player with everything of�icially in his favor, with victory in his grasp, who disquali�ies himself at match point and loses.”

When asked by news reporters why he did it, Gonzalez replied without much ado: “It was the only thing I could do to maintain my integrity.”

Cheryl Hughes said it well: “When people cheat in any arena, they diminish themselves – they threaten their own self-esteem and their relationships with others by undermining the trust they have in their ability to succeed and in their ability to be true.”

According to Wikipedia, the word “integrity” stems from the Latin adjective integer (whole, complete). In this context, integrity is the inner sense of “wholeness” deriving from qualities such as honesty and consistency of character. As such, one may judge that others “have integrity” to the extent that they act according to the values, beliefs and principles they claim to hold.

Wikipedia de�ines integrity

as “a concept of consistency of actions, values, methods, measures, principles, expectations, and outcomes.” In ethics, integrity is regarded as the honesty and truthfulness or accuracy of one’s actions.

“Integrity,” Wikipedia surmises, “can be regarded as the opposite of hypocrisy, in that integrity regards internal consistency as a virtue, and suggests that parties holding apparently con�licting values should account for the discrepancy or alter their beliefs.”

“Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody’s going to know whether you did it or not,” says American television host Oprah Winfrey (who, as an actress, received an Oscar nomination for Steven Spielberg’s The Color Purple).

“Integrity is not a conditional word,” states John D. MacDonald. “It doesn’t blow in the wind or change with the weather. It is your inner image of yourself, and if you look in there and see a man who won’t cheat, then you know he never will.

“Integrity,” he continues, “is not a search for the rewards of integrity. Maybe all you ever get for it is the largest lick in the ass the world can provide. IT is not supposed to be a productive asset.”

When someone says he lives with integrity, what does he mean by it? Barbara De Angelis has this answer: “Not settling for less than what you know you de-

serve in your relationship. Asking for what you want and need from others. Speaking your truth, even though it might create con�lict or tension. Behaving in ways that are in harmony with your personal values. Making choices based on what you believe, and not what others believe.”

“To be or not to be” is the opening phrase of a soliloquy in William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet. It is perhaps the most famous of all literary quotations. Whether you like it or not, there will come a time that you have to choose: to go abroad or stay in the country, to get married or stay single, to become a doctor or to become an engineer.

“We are all faced with con�licting desires,” Maxwell wrote in Developing the Leader Within You. “No one, no matter how ‘spiritual,’ can avoid this battle.

Integrity is the factor that determines which desire will prevail.

We struggle daily with situations that demand decisions between what we want to do and what we ought to do. Integrity establishes the ground rules for resolving these tensions. It determines who we are and how we will respond before the con�lict even appears. Integrity welds what we say, think, and do into a whole person so that permission is never granted for one of those to be out of sync.”

If what you say and what you do are the same, then you are a man of integrity. Such attribute

was apparent in the life of American novelist John Grisham. The author was once described as “a straight arrow making his way along a very crooked path.”

In an interview with an American magazine, Grisham said he would rather be a nice guy than resort to �illing his books with sex and gore. He refused to write anything that would offend or embarrass either his mother or his children.

Contrary to many in the publishing world might have predicted, his approach paid off big. Fan mail and sales from The Firm and The Pelican Brief were proofs.

Films made from his novels were all box of�ice hits!

“Integrity binds our person together and fosters a spirit of contentment within us,” Maxwell reminded. “It will not allow our lips to violate our hearts. When integrity is the referee, we will be consistent; our beliefs will be mirrored by our conduct. There will be no discrepancy between what we appear to be and what our family knows we are, whether in times of prosperity or adversity.”

To end, allow me to quote the words of Billy Graham. “Integrity is the glue that holds our way of life together,” he said. “We must constantly strive to keep our integrity intact.” Another old saying should remind us well enough: When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character (integrity) is lost, all is lost.” – ###

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

SUBURBIA RISING

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AGUM CITY –A total of 34 individuals, who are the �irst batch of housing bene�iciaries in the country’s �irst resettlement program intended for former rebels, are now beginning to enjoy the liberties and privileges of a civilian life – one that they long craved for, as they formally received the certi�icate of entitlement to their new homes in a turnover ceremony held on Tuesday, July 16, here.

No less than President Rodrigo R. Duterte awarded the certi�icates to the former rebels who were processed and rehabilitated in Davao Oriental’s Happy Home through the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“I also enjoin the former rebels – kamo ba (you) – who are here with us today to maximize the opportunity to return into mainstream of society by being responsible, productive, peaceful and law-abiding citizens,” President Duterte told the former rebels at the ceremony.

Freedom Residences

Aptly called “Freedom Residences”, the resettlement project signals the beginning of a new chapter in the former rebels’ lives – one that is free from violence, trauma, and radical ideologies caused by their “dreadful” experiences inside the communist movement.

Situated in the sprawling three-hectare land in Barangay Cuambogan, Tagum City, Davao del Norte, the resettlement project is set to bene�it around 375 former rebels.

To date, 60 housing units have been completed and ready for occupancy, including the initial 34 housing units that the Presi-

dent formally turned over on Tuesday.

The resettlement program, which is spearheaded by the National Housing Authority (NHA), one of the leading agencies included in the Task Force Balik-Loob, is the government’s response to the

urgent need of providing former rebels a home that will enable them to have a true sense of security and a stable future.

The resettlement project was originally intended for military and police personnel who later waived their rights in favor of the former rebels. As per data from the NHA, the house and lot package costs P450,000 each which the Government is giving away for free.

Task Force Balik-Loob Chairperson Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu said that while the former rebels have already undergone various skills training including automotive mechanical, welding, and carpentry, they will be tapped to �inish the remaining units at the site, thus, ensuring them of employment. “They will be trained by TESDA, they will do the un�inished houses, and they will earn at the same time,” he said.

As part of the E-CLIP bene�it package, Mapagu said that housing is basically one of the most crucial components of the program since “shelter is one of the basic necessities for a family”. “Binibigay na lahat ng E-CLIP (The

E-CLIP already provides everything they need),” he added.

Task Force Balik-Loob is the inter-agency task force that oversees the implementation of the E– CLIP and other interventions for former rebels.

A Fresh Start For the former rebels, the houses given to them signal a fresh start and a new hope for them and their families.

34-year-old Jeffrey (not his real name), who is originally from Pantukan, Compostela Valley, said that the government’s housing program means so much to him and his family. He bared that there is a stark difference between his life now and his life before he surrendered to the government. “Now I am able to spend a lot of time with my family. I feel so free now unlike before when I was always running and hiding,” he said in vernacular. He further called on his former comrades to lay down their arms and take advantage of the government’s bene�its for insurgents. “Let’s give peace a chance,” he added.

Mother of three, 43-year-old Gina (not her real name), who used to be a leader and organizer of the leftist movement, said she is now given the opportunity to make her family whole again. “When I was still in the movement, my children would not see

me because they were afraid of me. The movement was reason why my family fell apart. When I decided to surrender, my children were very happy, especially now that I have a job and able to support them �inancially,” she said.

“Family is the only thing that truly matters and I am very thankful to the government for all the help it has extended me,” she added.

Prior to the awarding of houses, these former rebels underwent the three-month rehabilitation program at Davao Oriental’s Happy Home– the country’s �irst halfway house for former rebels.

There, they were able to receive scores of cash and livelihood bene�its as well as comprehensive services that include education and skills training through the E-CLIP. Ending Insurgency

President Duterte, who is determined to end the long-running Communist insurgency, called on to those who are still inside the Communist movement to come down.

“Mao na. So naa man tay gwapong programa, ang military na gani nagsige'g nangunay anang E-CLIP. Mao nay akong ginasuportahan og kanang mga balay. At least ang kwarta ninyo, ibuhos pud nako diha. Hinaot unta nga magkasinabot ta. (That’s it. We have a nice program.

The military themselves pushed for the E-CLIP. I supported that and the housing program as well.

At least your money will be allocated there. I hope that we will understand each other.),” said President Duterte, who also promised to put up a school at the site so their children don’t have to travel far. By Karen Lou Deloso/Photos by Rhea Shane

Comval Gov. Uy supports Salugpungan suspension

N

ABUNTURAN, Compostela Valley, July 19 (PIA) - - Compostela Valley Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy is supporting the order from the Department of Education XI (Deped) suspending schools operated by Salugpungan Ta Tanu Igkanogon.

According to the Deped Compostela Valley, 15 out of the 55 schools suspended are located in the province.

In a statement, Governor Uy stressed that for ten years of existence in Compostela Valley, the administration of the Salugpungan schools had not consulted the local government in the province.

“As Governor and former Chair of the Regional Peace and Order Council XI, we also received complaints on the failure of these schools to secure free, prior and informed consents (FPIC) from the communities where they operate, as mandated by the Indigenous People’s Rights Act,” the governor said.

Governor Uy hoped that the issues surrounding the suspension will be cleared up, following a free and unbiased inquiry.

Last July 12, Deped XI Regional Director Evelyn Fetalvero issued a suspension order to the Salugpungan schools and gave them until July 17 to submit to explain why the permit to operate and recognition granted to the school be fully revoked.

The deadline was later extended to July

22 upon the request of Salugpungan Executive Director Eugenia Nolasco.

Governor Uy also underscored that the provincial government will exert its efforts to ensure that the indigenous peoples (IP) communities have access to quality education.

In a Bayanihan concept, two schools serving IP children opened last June 3 at sitios Side 4, Barangay Mangayon and Puting Bato, Barangay Ngan, all in Compostela town.

With a vision of keeping every child in school, the provincial government with the help of public and private stakeholders will construct another �ive schools in geographically isolated and depressed areas.

Aside from the governor, the province’s Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Board Member Datu Felipe Masambo also disclosed that the Provincial Tribal Council has received reports that lessons in the Salugpungan schools include ideologies of the communist group.

The tribal chieftain also said that parents have expressed concerns that their children will be utilized to �ight against government forces.

“Ang gusto lamang sa mga ginikanan na pagkahuman ug eskwela, makatabang sa ilang panginabuhian; dili kay makig gira na hinuon,” he said. (What

COMVAL, P9

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VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

EDGEDAVAO

ARTS AND CULTURE

ARCADIA FITNESS GYM TURNS ONE ARCADIA Fitness Gym, Davao’s fitness mecca lo- By NEILWIN JOSEPH cated inside the Arcadia BRAVO Active Lifestyle Center, explodes into madness and get a real feel of the best as it puts to sleep its first available gym equipment in the 365 days of calorie-burn- city. Non-members only have ing existence. to find a member to take them With a bevy of exciting membership deals, freebies and a brand new fitness competition to boot, Arcadia’s first year milestone is just about to fire up the adrenalin.

Beginning with the gym membership anniversary special rates offering, workout sessions at the Arcadia Fitness Gym has become more enticing. There is no excuse for not signing up as all membership applications from July 16 to August 4 will be slashed down from P3,000 monthly membership to P2,400, quarterly from P7,650 to P6,700, and annual from P27,540 to P24,000.

And then there’s the expanded “buddy workout” called Buddy Weekend.

From Buddy Thursday, Arcadia now offers a free workout for a non-member friend every Saturdays and Sundays.

Buddy Weekend, which officially started this month, enables non-members to do their workout at the Arcadia

along to a workout every weekend from 6 am to 10 pm. Just that and they’re good to go.

For gym members, there’s the FitFest 2019 Gym Challenge. Members may take on this fitness challenge composed of 10-kilometer treadmill, 500-meter skillrow, 20 minutes burpee, push up and rope battle. The competition runs from July 17-28. Exciting prizes await winners plus the bragging rights of owning the FitFest title.

Finally, non-members can experience Arcadia by availing of the free 3-day gym pass by simply registering on July 18-19 at bit.ly/2Ggcgsl using the promo code: ARCADIAONE. Arcadia Fitness Gym is the epitome of every fitness buff’s dream facility. It is equipped wth the best gym equipment in the market today in Technogym, tagged by fitness gurus as the Rolls Royce of gym equipment. The fitness gym is designed to suit group and indi-

vidual workouts. Its basketball center is located at the third level and is also fitted with FIBA-standard goal system and has a 1,000-seat bleachers for spectators of corporate and club tournaments. To complement these facilities, it also has a 25-meter 4-lane lapping pool,

a kiddie pool and playground.

Arcadia is not just fitness.

It is also about food and function. Arcadia features function rooms ideal for the meetings, incentives, conference and exhibitions (MICE) market.

Realizing how to reward a good workout, Arcadia offers feel-

good, healthy food prepared in its restaurant and The Lobby Cafe. Arcadia’s menu is a collection of the finest Asian and international cuisine.

For inquiries on memberships and other offers, interested parties may contact (0917) 146 4304 or (082) 327 8471.

EDGED

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

PLDT-Smart Synergeia Seal of Good Education Governance School-in-a-Bag.

BOOSTING ALS THROUGH INDEPENDENT LEARNING, DIGITAL TOOLS

BALIGUIAN Island, the farthest paradise off the coast of Concepcion in Iloilo, boasts of a pristine beach with clear waters.

The island is home to fisherfolk who dream of having a good education and a better life for themselves and their children.

However, because the island is hard to reach, the eager learners have no access to formal education. That is why Alternative Learning System (ALS) facilitator Ma. Lourdes Obillos braves the winds and waves for three hours onboard a small boat from Concepcion to reach Baliguian, then treks to get to the community center to conduct informal classes.

Traveling to the island is just part of the challenge though, as the ALS set-up is never easy. Unlike in formal education, the ALS teacher is the one who goes to the community where the learners are to hold weekly multigrade classes — a single class where students are of different ages and competencies. Obillos’ ALS class is composed of three groups of students — basic education for those who are unable to read and write, elementary, and secondary — with all of them needing her attention at the same time.

Improving lives through education A program of the Department of Education (DepEd), ALS is non-formal education that provides a learning path for learners to have a second chance of finishing either primary or secondary education. Classes are

conducted once or twice a week in either schools, community centers, or anywhere the learners and ALS teacher can find a space to gather and do their work.

Despite the hardships that they experience while traveling by sea or trekking the mountains and managing three groups of students in one class, Obillos said they persevere because they know the extent of help the community needs. “Parents would confide to us that they have nothing to offer to their children in terms of education because they themselves did not have the opportunity to go to school,” the educator emotionally shared.

“In spite of all the hurdles, I truly believe that education will improve their lives, so that motivates us to keep doing what we do,” she explained.

Learning independently When Obillos was informed by the local government unit (LGU) of Concepcion that she will be attending a workshop on the Central Visayas Institute Foundation - Dynamic Learning Program (CVIF-DLP), she immediately Googled the program.

Developed by Ramon Magsaysay laureates and world-renowned Theoretical Physicists, Dr. Christopher Bernido and Dr. Ma. Victoria Carpio-Bernido, CVIF-DLP promotes independent learning in students to improve academic performance particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering,

Arts, and Mathematics (STEM).

First implemented in the Central Visayan Institute Foundation (CVIF) in Jagna, Bohol, CVIF-DLP is as a disaster-resilient form of education that can be implemented on a shoestring budget. It uses parallel learning groups, activity-based multi-domain learning, in-school comprehensive student portfolio, and strategic study and rest periods to improve student academic performance as well as support teachers’ needs.

“I recognized the positive impact that the training will have on our ALS facilitators and students and realized that this will address the problems in remote communities where young and adult learners are deprived of education,” Obillos detailed.

Addressing ALS challenges A CVIF-DLP workshop was recently held at the Iloilo Business Hotel for ALS facilitators from the towns of Concepcion, Cabatuan, Lambunao, Leon and Mina. The participants learned how create and make use of Learning Activity Sheets (LAS) designed for each level — basic, elementary, and secondary — to help them manage their multigrade classes better and enable their learners to work on activities independently.

Workshop attendees saw how the method is suited for ALS. “One major challenge faced by instructors is poor attendance from ALS learners, who are mostly breadwinners who still need to work,” said Dane Jeselle Ca-

ALS instructors from Iloilo province gathered for the DLP training.

daydayon, ALS facilitator from Leon Elementary School.

“Through this strategy, students can bring the learning activity sheets home and catch up with the help of their ALS teachers,” she pointed out.

“If I were an ALS learner, the CVIFDLP will definitely help me pass the A&E,” Cadaydayon added, referring to the DepEd’s Accreditation & Equivalency Test for ALS. The competency exam is required for ALS students who wish to enroll in secondary and post-secondary schools.

Dr. Ray Butch Mahinay, DepEd’s Focal Person for ALS in Region 10, said that the CVIF-DLP methodology has a huge impact on mobile ALS teachers. “CVIF-DLP gives ALS students more flexibility considering that most of them are working or have limitations – some are confined in jail, or are single parents balancing informal school with work and raising their children, or are located in far-flung areas with no electricity,” he listed.

“CVIF-DLP c ALS learners, w after only a quar said Cherry Qui facilitator and D La Salette, Dagu

Engaging the co There is an Af says “it takes a v and that “village the parents and but even the Loc (LGU) and the p The training o formed part of t

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by Synergeia Fou port of USAID P in recognition o championing th their provinces,

EDAVAO

can definitely empower ith results evident even rter grading period,” illopas, workshop DLP Ambassador from upan City.

ommunity frican proverb that village to raise a child” e” includes not just teachers in school, cal Government Unit private sector. of ALS implementors the incentive provided mart Communications o LGUs of Concep, Lambunao, Leon and e conferred with the ducation Governance undation with the supPhilippines. The Seal is of the work of LGUs in he cause of education in cities, and municipali-

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VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

ABS-CBN CONTINUES TO MAKE WAVES ABROAD AS LIZQUEN’S “FOREVERMORE” HITS THAI TV ABS-CBN continues to make waves abroad this 2019 as its wildly successful teleserye “Forevermore” starred by Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil has captivated Thai viewers via the GMM channel, a leading TV network in Thailand, since it started airing in the Southeast Asian country in June.

The show’s airing in another foreign territory further strengthens ABS-CBN’s international presence and fortifies the Kapamilya network’s reputation as a trusted producer of exceptional content for international audiences.

The airing of “Forevermore” in Thailand follows ABS-CBN string of successes in securing deals in international markets this 2019, with “Pangako Sa’Yo” airing in the Dominican Republic, “Halik” in Tanzania, “Hanggang Saan” in Turkey, and “The Blood Sisters” in Kazakhstan.

In 2014, “Forevermore”

reigned supreme as the most watched teleserye nationwide that ultimately spawned the love team of Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil. The series also consistently trended on Twitter as it captured the hearts of many viewers who religiously watched the show daily.

Because of the series’ popularity, the La Presa

strawberry farm in Benguet also attracted thousands of tourists who aspire to relive the love story of Xander and Agnes.

ABS-CBN’s content, popular for its heartfelt Filipino stories, are available across other territories through ABS-CBN International Distribution, recognized in the global arena as a reliable foreign content provider. It

has been a premier source of high quality Filipino programming in over 50 territories all over the world and has sold over 50,000 hours of content worldwide. Living up to this recognition, ABSCBN International Distribution commits to add to its first line-up of high-caliber programs and movies with cast and storylines that appeal to various cultures.

KIANA RENEWS PARTNERSHIP WITH TARSIER RECORDS ALS facilitator for Concepcion Ma Lourdes Obillos says that the DLP training is a gift. ties.

On top of the CVIF-DLP training, PLDT and Smart and PayMaya Philippines provided each LGU with two Smart School-in-a-Bag packages.

The School-in-a-Bag is a portable digital laboratory that provides public schools, even in remote areas without electricity, with access to digital technologies and interactive educational content.

Housed in a backpack, the contents include a solar panel and battery charging unit, an LED TV, a laptop, tablet and a Smart LTE pocket WiFi for the teacher, tablets for the students, and learning apps in the mother tongue.

Providing access to innovative technologies The CVIF-DLP Training, SchoolIn-A-Bag, and the suite of mobile literacy apps in the mother tongue are among the initiatives of Smart under its education advocacy, #LearnSmart.

“We remain committed to helping provide access to education by promoting innovative 21st century pedagogies, developing and making available community-developed learning apps, and providing access to digital technologies,” said Stephanie Orlino, Head of Education Programs at Smart Public Affairs.

For more information on different #LearnSmart programs, visit www. facebook.com/SmartCommunities or send an email tolearnsmart@smart. com.ph.

KIANA Valenciano is concocting an exciting international pursuit as she renews her contract with ABSCBN Music’s newest global label, Tarsier Records, as one of its tentpole artists.

The label’s sights are set on leveling up with having Kiana on internationallyproduced tracks and border-crossing promotions and events—not only to expand her reach, but to let her music take Filipino talent to heights it has never been before.

The R&B singer-songwriter has been with Tarsier since 2017 and has since released playlist-worthy tracks from her “Grey” EP, and more recently, her de-

but album “See Me,” which bagged “Most Promising Female Recording Artist of the Year” at the 8th McMillan Woods Global Awards held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last April.

Kiana also recently did a show with fellow Tarsier Records artist Inigo Pascual for international media network Viacom’s Asian Pacific American Heritage Month held in New York.

Both are also featured in “The Crossover,” coming soon on MyxTV, in which they talk about immersing into the local culture to understand how music can be universal and meaningful.

Meanwhile, Kiana is set to share the stage

with English R&B singersongwriter Mahalia, for her Manila tour on August 20 at Whitespace Manila.

Tarsier Records and ABS-CBN Music affirm their commitment to being the home of championing Filipino talent on the global

stage. With Kiana only being the first female artist to take on the big move, exciting things await for Filipino artistry.

Stream Kiana’s “See Me” album and watch out for more of her music on digital stores.

A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO DAVAO EDGE

VOL.12 VOL.12 VOL.12 ISSUE ISSUE ISSUE 94 9584 ••FRIDAY-SATURDAY, SUNDAY-MONDAY, • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JULY JULY 21-22, 19-20, 5-6, 2019

UP AND FURNITURE A1 ABOUTa silly method but for EJ and

life. “It was quite silly and who were from Pratt Institute his team, it’s a serious business. out-of-the-box,” EJ says. “But of New York.

DAFT actually is an acronym I wanted to showcase how an But furniture design wasn’t for Dependable design, Archiemotion can affect the shape of easy as most people think. tectural in form, always a Fun an object. Hence, the playful Spa at Cebu, T2 Plaza Premi2nd Raffle - 3 winners MACTAN-CEBU InternaCommercial Advisorand of GMR “More than talent, it is a collecexperience, forever Timeapproach on theDraw process.” um Lounge, and T2 Aerotel; of 2 round trip tickets to afrom tional Airport (MCIA), the MEGAWIDE Cebu Airport tion of experiences that lets you less. “These values help create Now that EJ has created or US$50 – from T2 Mactan Cebu to Cagayan De Oro Philippines’ friendliest resort Corporation (GMCAC), the grow from you past beliefs,” EJ a painstaking take on each name for himself in Davao and Travel Retail, T1 or T2 Dutyin other 3rdparts Raffle of Draw 3 winners airport, is raffling off a 2019 concessionaire operatexplains.

“Obstacles are moreprivateproduct we put,” he says. the-country, Free Philippines shops of 2 round trip tickets to from Mercedes-Benz A-Class and ing MCIA. on logistics and production Like most arts, designing a he dreams of going global.

Still The Shop and Win Promo Cebu to Davao Royal Air roundtrip plane Launched today by GMThe BER months nearing capacity.

But hey, are that’s a goodand furniture cookie at Savoy’s premier coworking from a roster of talented artists. takes a lot of energy, wishing to be accomplish his Grand Draw 1 winner tickets to travelers that shop theCAC inthinking, partnership with Savoyright?”

Hotel is welcoming drizpath, space, The Squares,“Ito remedy the As a special treat, guests availing raffle draws are set on 31 July, and planning. first love, heRaffle wanted to-break 30 August, and 30 September. of Mercedes-Benz A Class at any of MCIA’s retail outlets.

Mercedes-Benz, Royal Air, zling season withEJa rainy Today, Design Pasia day promo cold aseason.

Thethe Squares this promo are entitled to a 20% start with story and rest isis located in Hollywood, the film capital 2019“My model; and 2iswin“This isfor ourfamilies waywith of givand Standard Insurance, the“Even perfect and individuals is synonymous furniin several floors of the hotel discount on selected Resorts WorldThe grand draw is set on 16of theA180 magic,” EJ states.guest though world. dream to October 2019.

All purchase ners of 2 round trip tickets to ing back and thanking all ‘Shop and Win’ raffle promo who plan gosoon on a be staycation ture.

“Weto will avail- in you set and a convenient coworking space Manila entertainment. outisdesign parameters, be featured in a Hollywood must be within from to Manila the travelers, passengers, 01 July 2019 Newport City. able worldwide through our will runinfrom guests whotrust wantyour to do business Savoy to most-oft the receipts thefor end, you still youngest among theHotel’s five sib-proximity of the en visited.

So themovie,” heCebu admits. promo period of 01 July 2019 Entries that fail to win durand stakeholders for MCIA’s until 15 October 2019.

From July to September furniture line,15and soon the 30, instinct.” transactions and productive lings: col- his two airport makes respite brothers are itallan inideal much so that it won the Best Talking about Hollywood, to 15 October 2019. ing the 1st draw will beaqualisuccessful operations and MCIA’s Shop and Win guests who book at Savoy Hotel can Thelaborations company will be focusing regardless of the the lazymedicalfor tourists business travellers “menopausal child” (he field while and his two Booth.

“We weren’t really he says that if he is given raffle promo is open to all minals 1 and 2 (T1 & T2).

To & Beverage (F&B) shops, T1 Lucky winners will receive fied for the next raffle draws. the continued support the enjoy rates as low Php5,500 per was born on sustainable landasdevelopweather. alike. Enjoy graduworld classformal amenities when his mother sisters are accountancy withofexhibit,” he recalls. chance, he would like to design qualify for the raffle promo, Retail shops, T1 or T2 WH the following raffle prizes: Moreover, all non-winning past years especially since the domestic and international night to at further an essential room with ment streamline the a was already The 40 rainy is also the Resorts World all while con-to showcase our andseason pregnancy ates (but one pursued laterManila to “We wanted a set for a Quentin Tarantino passengers must have aaminiSmith, T2 K2 Pharmacy, and 1st Raffle Draw - 3 winnersfioflm orentries during thefeatured 1st, 2nd, opening of Terminal 2 (Inthat arrive at or to complimentary breakfast two. at that approach to creative DAFTforpassengers perfect appreciate and enjoy veniently being a stone’s throw away age in time those days was become nurse). wild side.” see his pieces depart from Mactan-Cebu mum single receipt purchase T2 Park & Fly; PhP 1,000 – 2 round trip tickets to from and 3rd raffle draws qualiternational) a year ago,” said Guestsitswill also get a compli- “highindoor design,” website stated.

Newport City from the Ninoy Aquino Internationrisk”)) activities has indeedingone During the Philbex Davao, Actually, the concept was in a Kardashian House.are “Th at International Airport’s TerworthPhP500 – from T1 Food from T2 F&B shops, T2 The Cebu to Puerto Princesa fied for the grand draw.

Ravishankar Saravu, Chief mentary cup of hot chocolate The DAFT approach may beand a long,such shows performances al displays Airport were (NAIA) longasway.

Heand is the his furniture oneTerminal about 3. the warning signs in would be fun,” EJ says.

HAVE A RAINY DAY STAYCATION WITH SAVOY HOTEL’S RAINY DAY PROMO

MACTAN-CEBU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CELEBRATES SUCCESS WITH EXCITING RAFFLE PROMO

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

FULL ALERT... FROM1

the agency will put additional checkpoints to ensure a peaceful observance of SONA in Davao City and the entire region.

Meantime, Presidential Spokesperson lawyer Salvador Panelo, in a recent television interview, bared that Duterte's 2019 SONA is more of educating his critics on the issues thrown against him throughout the year including the issue on the West Philippine Sea. "(This) is to educate the critics and detractors of the falsity and the

DOH... FROM2

said.

Olivades also mentioned that they won’t allow the child to be immunized without the requisite of a written parent’s consent and if the child has already completed two doses of Measles-Rubella.

DOH has recorded 1,069 measles cases in Davao region alone, 65 percent of which has no vaccination history.

The department has re-

wrongness of their stand," Panelo said.

Presidential Communications Operations Of�ice (PCOO) secretary Martin Andanar, on the other hand, said the president is expected to cite what will be doing in the remaining years of his term.

Andanar divulged that the president will address poverty alleviation, continue infrastructure projects and underscore peace and order highlighting the national task force to end local communist armed con�lict. corded 15 deaths due to measles since the start of 2019.

Davao City has the highest recorded measles cases with 444 infected individuals.

The school-based immunization program will take off on August 2 at the Sta. Ana Elementary School, Davao City. Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III is expected to witness the launching.

EDGE DAVAO

PRESIDENT... FROM11

Commission (PSC) for the renovation of old sports facilities to be used for the hosting of the 30th SEA Games.

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

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, which the country will host for the fourth time.

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

(PNA)

Currently, all national government agencies are

100 percent FOI-compliant. (PR)

Other priority bene�iciaries include soldiers wounded in action and

their families, and soldiers who died while on-duty, and their kin. (PNA)

the parents wanted is after schooling, their children will help them in their livelihood; instead of them, going to war.)

Datu Masambo noted that the tribal council’s

submitted a resolution to the Provincial Peace and Order Council in a meeting last January 25, 2019 for the closure of the Salugpungan schools. (PIA11, Michael L. Uy)

PASS... FROM2

TESDA... FROM3

COMVAL... FROM8

NOW HIRING!!!

• ACCOUNTING CLERKS • REPORTERS • LAYOUT ARTISTS • DRIVER

9

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11th Judicial Region Branch 12 – Family Court Davao City R-DVO-19-02864-SP IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR ADOPTION OF CHARICE BERDIN BALUNTONG WITH PRAYER TO CHANGE NAME TO AIYANAH CHARISSE PAMAN ALEON, FOR: ADOPTION SPOUSES ARVIN BIYO ALEON and LORENA PAMAN ALEON, Petitioners, X----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------x

ORDER

Petitioners filed a verified petition praying that they be allowed to adopt as their own child, CHARICE BERDIN BALUNTONG minor, who was born on May 20, 2014 in Davao City ; that the biological parents of the proposed adoptee, Spouses Ariel Sonio Baluntong and Maribel Berdin Baluntong are distant relatives of petitioners/spouses ARVIN BIYO ALEON and LORENA PAMAN ALEON; that the proposed adoptee was entrusted to the care and custody of herein petitioners/spouses when she was still eleven (11) months old; that the DSWD declared the adoptee as Legally Available for Adoption on October 6, 2016 and subsequently issued an Affidavit of Consent to Adoption of the proposed adoptee in favor of the Petitioners-Spouses; that CHARICE BERDIN BALUNTONG be declared for all legal intents and purposes the legitimate child of herein petitioners and her name be changed to AIYANAH CHARISSE PAMAN ALEON; In the Child and Home Study Reports previously filed by Social Welfare Officer Sheryl Ann R. Dumalogdog of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Davao City, she favorably recommended the adoption of the said child by the Petitioners.

WHEREFORE, let the petition be set for hearing on November 4, 2019 at 8:30 in the morning at which time and date, all persons concerned may appear to show cause, if any, why the prayer in the petition shall not be granted.

The Preliminary Conference for the marking of exhibits is on September 18, 2019 at 2:30 in the afternoon before the Branch Clerk of Court.

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

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

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

SO ORDERED. Davao City, Philippines, July 8, 2019 July 22, 29, and August 5, 2019

(sgd.) DANTE A. BAGUIO Presiding Judge

ELLA P. TINGZON | 0918 383 1511 For additional inquiries, please email us at: zion.davao@gmail.com

10 HEALTH EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

WHY RISING HIV INFECTION MATTERS

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

J

OHN grew up in the province and didn’t know if he should come out in the open. Knowing that his parents are very conservative, he decided to keep his being a homosexual a secret. For how long, he would never know.

After graduating from high school, John told his parents he wanted to go to Davao City to pursue his dream of becoming an engineer. His parents didn’t object to his plan. In fact, they supported him.

He was already in his junior year in college when he met Mike, another closeted gay. They soon became lovers. He moved to Mike’s apartment to be with him. John did not learn, until later, that Mike already had several lovers prior to meeting him.

Months later, John observed that his lover was getting sickly – frequently having fever, weight loss and cough that would not go away. Mike dismissed his observation, saying he was only stressed out from work. But when Mike’s condition did not improve, John decided to bring him to the hospital.

At �irst, Mike protested. But John insisted and said he would go with him to the hospital.

Initially, the doctor could not �ind anything wrong with John’s lover.

But when he learned that Mike had many sexual conquests before, the doctor tried to con�irm from the laboratory what he had been suspecting.

Laboratory �indings showed that Mike had human immunode�iciency virus (HIV), the virus that destroys the immune system and causes Acquired Immune De�iciency Syndrome or AIDS.

From one per day in 2008, the number of diagnosed HIV cases in the Philippines goes up to 38 per day in 2019, according to the Department of Health in its May report.

In Davao, there are now 3 cases per day, the latest report showed.

“We cannot change nor deny the fact that HIV and AIDS cases continue to rise,” said Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III. A patient infected with HIV can have the virus for many years without having any physical symptoms. When the immune system is destroyed by the virus, a person is considered to have AIDS and the weak immune system places him or her at risk of various infections and even cancer. “Between HIV and AIDS, there is a window period of as much as �ive years,” Dr. Jordana P. Ramiterre, chief of the Reproductive Health and Wellness Center of the Davao City Health Of�ice, was quoted as saying by Davao media.

“However, the speed HIV progresses will vary depending on age, health and background,” the website of Avert (www. avert.org) points out.

HIV is spread through the exchange of body �luids with high concentration of the virus (viral load) such as cerebral �luid, amniotic �luid, blood, semen, cervical and vaginal secretions, and breastmilk. It can be transmitted through sexual intercourse, blood and blood products, shared needles, and mother-tochild.

Being infected with HIV is no longer a death sentence these days. “HIV is not and should not be a death sentence anymore,” points out Dr. Louie Mar Gangcuangco, who has worked as a researcher at the Hawaii Center for AIDS. “If HIV is detected early and if the patient

FIRST OF TWO PARTS

takes antiretrovirals early, the virus can be controlled.”

However, in order to be treated, you need to know if you have HIV. And you will only �ind out if you undergo HIV testing. “Testing for HIV and other sexually-transmitted infections is strongly advised for all people exposed to any of the risk factors,” the World Health Organization (WHO) said in its website. “This way people learn of their own infection status and access necessary prevention and treatment services without delay.”

However, all HIV testing services must follow the 5 principles recommended by WHO: consent (informed), con�identiality, counselling, correct test results, and connection (linkage to care, treatment and other services).

Recently, I went to a private hospital in Davao City to get tested. I was referred to go to where bloods are tested – for drug testing, blood samples for those who are sick or admitted to the hospital.

There were so many people inside the room. I took a number and waited for my number to be called. When my number came, I went to receptionist and told her my reason.

When she heard about it, she wrote something and said I had to pay �irst to the cashier. She also gave a paper where I wrote my name and had it signed.

After paying to the

cashier, I returned back to the receptionist, who called someone to accompany me. “Sir, you have to undergo counselling �irst before we will take your blood sample,” she said.

When I entered the room, I was greeted with a smile. Then, she explained to me the process. There are only two results, she said. “If the test says you are reactive, this means you may have HIV. If the test says you are non-reactive, this means you don’t have HIV.” If the result is non-reactive, the person is immediately given the paper stating so. However, the HIV counselor emphasizes the importance of the ‘window period.’ This is the time when the test result reveals that you do not have HIV when in fact you are a carrier of the virus. If a person gets infected with HIV today, it takes about 2 week up to 6 months before the HIV screening can test positive, this is called the ‘window period.’ This is why persons who had recent exposure are encouraged to come back for a repeat HIV testing.

For those who are reactive, they have to wait about 2 to 4 weeks before they get the result.

“Generally, if the blood has been found to be positive, it is sent to the San Lazaro Hospital in Manila for con�irmation,” she said.

The counselor also inquired if a doctor referred me to the hospital. I replied that there was none and I was doing it on my own. This is a requirement of Philippine Law (Republic Act No. 8504). Under the law, the privacy rights of those seeking to get tested need to be respected.

After that,

she went on asking some questions which are private matters like the �irst time to have sex, sexual preferences, acts done during sexual encounter, the last time I had sex, and anything pertaining to sexual life.

“Once I start questions people about these things,” the counselor said, “they are immediately turned off. But it’s part of the process. There are those who want to skip this question and answer portion and just proceed with blood testing.”

After that, I went back to where I started. I went to the receptionist and told me to wait. When my number was called again, I went to a cubicle where a blood sample was taken.

After that, I was asked to return that same day to get the result.

When the time came, I returned to the counselor to get the result. She asked my name again and when she found it in her computer, she printed a copy. She placed it in a white envelope and handed it to me.

I was adamant to open it. But after a few moments, I �inally opened it.

It reads: “Non-Reactive.”

I told the counselor, who said: “Congratulations!”

She gave me some words of advice. I thanked her profusely and left.

In Davao City, there are three facilities where people can go to be tested for HIV: Southern Philippine Medical Center in Bajada, Davao Doctors Hospital in Quirino Street, and Davao Reproductive Health and Wellness Center in Emilio Jacinto Street.

In Tagum City, they can go to Davao Regional Medical Center in Apokon.

There’s also one in General Santos City – at General Santos City Social Hygiene Clinic of the City Health Of�ice in Lagao.

“Knowing your HIV status is not just a right but also a responsibility.

People with HIV can live normal and productive lives as long as they take their medications and follow-up regularly with your doctor. Getting tested is not only for yourself, but also for your loved ones,” says Dr. Gangcuangco, an international HIV researcher and a Balik-Scientist of the Department of Science and Technology.

To be concluded Photos taken from the net

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

11

The 20,000-seater Athletic Stadium of the New Clark City sports complex is expected to be finished by the end of August, officials of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority tell the media during a familiarization tour on Friday (July 19, 2019). The modern sports complex facility will serve as the hub of the 30th Southeast Asian Games slated to be held on November 30 to December 11.

The 2,000-seater Aquatic Center

Athletes’Village

The 1.4-km River Park

Obiena plucks another gold

M

ILAN, Italy - Pole vaulter EJ Obiena once again ruled a European athletics event in Italy days after his triumph in the World Universiade in Naples.

Obiena leaped to victory with a jump of 5.55 meters, putting behind his Greek and German competitors, who reached only 5.30 meters, at the annual Citta Padova Atletica Mondiale held in Santa Euganeo in Padua, Italy on July 16.

His jump was behind his Universiade record of 5.76 meters but is still higher than the Southeast Asian Games standard.

‘Against the odds’: Pole vaulter EJ Obiena

sets new PH record “It feels good. It gives me con�idence going into the next one. Wasn’t really the height that I was aiming for but a win is a win,” said Obiena.

The pole vaulter is set to next compete in events in Germany: in Mossingen on July 20 and Leverkusen on July 24.

“I need to prepare and train hard again for the second half of the season,” added Obiena.

He is next set to compete in the IAAF Diamond League Finals in Zurich, Switzerland and Brussels, Belgium in August and the September World Championship in Doha, Qatar.

President to inaugurate SEAG venue in November

O

f�icials of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said Friday the world-class New Clark City sports complex will be �inished in 43 days with no less than President Rodrigo R. Duterte to lead the inauguration of the hub of the 30th Southeast Asian Games slated from November 30 to December 11.

“There is no de�inite time yet but the President will lead the inauguration in the �irst week of November,” BCDA president and CEO Vivencio Dizon told the media after a familiarization tour of the sports venues here.

He assured that the construction of the modern sports complex, particularly the Athletic Stadium and Aquatic Center, would be completed way ahead of the biennial meet.

“We can tell you with utmost certainty that all these facilities will be �inished way ahead of schedule,” Dizon said.

He noted that once the construction of the 20,000-seater Athletic Stadium and the 2,000-seater Aquatic Center is complet-

C EJ Obiena of the Philippines clears the bar in this file photo.

ed by end of next month, “our athletes can start using them as early as mid of August.”

“We want our athletes acclimatized,” Dizon said.

Patrick Nicholas David, president of MTD Philippines, which was tasked to build the New Clark City Phase 1A, said August 31 was their self-imposed deadline to give them enough time to test new sports facilities before the SEA Games.

“It’s now over 90 percent complete and we will �inish these in the next 43 days, which is our self-imposed deadline and have all �inishing touches done by mid of October,” David said in media interview.

The Aquatic Center has an Olympic-size pool similar to what was used during the 2012 Olympic Games. Aside from the 10-lane competition pool, it also has an eight-lane training pool and a diving pool with a �ive-meter maximum depth and meets the global standards of the Federation Internationale de Natation (FINA).

The Aquatic Center’s design drew inspiration

from the “baklad” or woven �ish nets of local �ishermen, as well as Capiz shells used in traditional Filipino architecture.

On the other hand, architect Royal Pineda said the Athletic Stadium was inspired by the crater of Mt. Pinatubo, the contours of the surrounding Sierra Madre ranges, and the festive details of the “parols” (Christmas lanterns) of Pampanga.

“These are the authentic expression of the modern Filipino sensibility,” said Pineda, who designed the New Clark City Phase 1A. Aside from the Aquatic Center and Athletic Stadium, the New Clark City sports complex also has two track ovals for warmup for running and throwing events, an Athletes’ Village that has 2,100 beds, the 1.4-km. Riverpark, and government buildings.

“Our hardworking athletes deserve training facilities that are worldclass. We hope the New Clark City sports complex will inspire and motivate our athletes in the upcoming SEA Games,” Dizon said.

He said the facilities of the 200-hectare New Clark City will be the �irst major sports hub constructed by the government since the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) was built in 1934.

David said over 8,500 workers are currently working 24 hours a day, seven days a week just to �inish the construction of the PHP13-billion sports complex ahead of the Oct. 15 deadline. The construction started on March 15, 2018.

“We have to �inish this in time for the holding of the 30th SEA Games without compromising the quality of the sports facilities,” he said.Dizon said the SEA Games closing ceremonies would be held at the New Clark City’s Athletic Stadium while the 50-seater indoor Philippine Arena in Bulacan would host the opening rites.

To assure the success of the hosting of the SEA Games, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) earlier donated PHP842.5 million to the Philippine Sports

said, reasoning that the players are focused on the PBA Commissioner's Cup playoffs, which has already begun.

"It's really dif�icult getting them to focus on the job at hand," Guiao added.

He then bared the possibility of starting the daily Gilas practice sooner than planned.

"We'll talk about it," Guiao said, noting that he was looking into requiring also-ran teams to release players selected to the pool as soon as possible.

"We'll see by next week kung sino yung mga teams

na nabakante na. Obligahin na namin ang mga players na dumating (We'll see by next week which teams have become available so we can obligate their players to come to practice)," Guiao said.

This means that Kiefer Ravena, Poy Erram, and CJ Perez's presence in practice is now expected since NLEX and Columbian had been eliminated.

Raymond Almazan is also expected to show up more often as Meralco was defeated by Alaska, 103108, in their play-in for the last quarter�inal spot at the

Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on Friday night.

The quarter�inals begin Saturday night with Blackwater taking on Rain Or Shine and Ginebra battling Magnolia, also at the MOA Arena, as they begin their respective best-of-three series.

Meanwhile, the Aces battle the TNT KaTropa while the San Miguel Beermen take on NorthPort Batang Pier at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on Sunday night. The KaTropa and the Batang Pier only need one win to advance to the semi�inals. (PNA)

Guiao eyes more Gilas practices

oach Yeng Guiao has expressed his intent to hold more practice sessions for the Gilas Pilipinas Men, saying the team’s twice-a-week practice has become too short for being together.

"We're going to need more than twice a week to be able to make the players run the system by heart and instinctively," Guiao said at the Meralco Gym on Thursday.

"What we practice (on) Monday, we start all over again on a Thursday, kasi nakakalimutan (because they tend to forget)," he

PRESIDENT, P9

12 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 95 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JULY 21-22, 2019

WITH A CLASS

PH girls team stamp class, show sportsmanship

By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

T

he Philippines girls volleyball team overcame an opening-set loss to stun Indonesia, 23-25, 25-13, 2520, 25-20, in the 11th Asean School Games in Semarang, Indonesia on Saturday, July 20.

According to Philippine Sports Commissioner

Charles Raymond Maxey, in a post on social media, the PH spikers

shrugged off a wildly-cheering hometown crowd to assure themselves of a podium �inish in this

year’s edition of the Games for student athletes.

The Dabawenyo Commissioner described the Pinay volleybelles’ triumph as done w i t h sportsmanship in

their hearts.

“The girls highlighted their huge triumph with a show of respect to their opponents, going over to the Indonesian bench after match point to give the home team members warm embraces,” Maxey said.

The team then celebrated the victory with Philippine delegation of�icials and a handful of �lag-waving supporters, and offered prayers before leaving the court.

The annual ASEAN School Games (ASG) multisport event opened on Wednesday, July 17, in Semarang, capital of Central Java province, with local media reporting at least 1,600 student athletes from all 10 ASEAN nations taking part.

Running until July 25, this year’s event features badminton, swim-

ming, table tennis, lawn tennis, volleyball, athletics, sepak takraw and pencak silat martial arts.

Speaking in his remarks to address the event, Indonesia’s Youth and Sports Minister Imam Nahrawi said Indonesian athletes are capable of achieving the nation’s target of winning the event this year.

“We have to give our utmost, and be con�ident that we can win this year with respect to the ASEAN student brotherhood,” the minister said.

Indonesia won the 2015 ASG in Brunei, and has secured second position in every ASG since then.

The �irst ASG took place in 2009 in Thailand. Indonesia currently ranks second in the all-time ASG medal count. (With a report from wires)

The Philippine girls volleyball team pose with Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey (standing, back row, fourth from right).