Edge Davao Volume 12 Issue 183 | Friday-Saturday, November 22-23, 2019

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Police personnel walk by the colorful Christmas tree at Quezon Park along City Hall Drive in Davao City on Thursday. The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) will augment police force and force multiplier for the city’s month-long Pasko Fiesta celebration which will be officially opened today. Lean Daval Jr

TOURIST VANS Solution to ‘colorum’ tourist transport sought

By MAYA M. PADILLO win-win solution is now being sought to legalize colorum tourist vehicles which service tourists in Davao City.

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‘Colorum’ tourist vehicles refer to those which operate without a Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) tour-

ist transport franchise.

City Tourism Operations Of�ice (CTOO) head Generose Tecson told media in I-Speak that she wrote Councilor Conrado

Baluran, head of the City Council’s committee on transportation and communications, requesting for a meeting to discuss the problem with the tourist transport sector.

“For him (Baluran) to come up with solution with regards to the problems because we won’t be able to help with the col-

orum tourists transports but of course we cannot go against the local law and the national law also.

So we will explore avenues with Baluran,” Tecson said.

Since last year, the LTFRB is studying the possibility of legalizing the operation of all colorum vans in several of

the country’s top destinations to ensure the safety of both local and foreign tourists who rely on their services.

The LTFRB is coordinating with the Department of Tourism in its effort to issue franchises to tourist van operators in various destinations.

“In the LTFRB be-

fore you will get a tourist transport franchise masyadong mataas yung requirements , You need 10 brand new on year units meaning next year if you want to be a tourist transport provider you need 10 brand new vehicles na 2020 ang date niya. Parang ang hirap.

TOURIST, P9

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 183 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22-23, 2019

President Rodrigo Duterte holds a press conference at the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday night. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

DCPO to implement ‘One Entry, One Exit’ in churches T

CHO gets ready for 2nd phase of anti-polio drive

By MAYA M. PADILLO he Davao City Police Of�ice (DCPO) gears up for the Christmas activities with heightened security measures.

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Among the measures to be implemented is the “One Entry, One Exit” policy in churches in anticipation of crowd buildup during the traditional Misa de Gallo or early morning masses over nine days prior to Christmas.

DCPO director Police Colonel Kirby John Kraft said he wrote a letter to Archbishop Romulo Valles two weeks ago for the implementation of the one entry, one exit policy in various churches in the city to

ensure the safety of churchgoers.

“It means lahat ng simbahan, isang gate lang ang gagamitin, doon lang papasok at doon lang lalabas while all other gates will be closed. Pero after the activities (in the church) we will open the other gates,” Kraft told media in I-Speak.

DCPO personnel are currently helping security guards in checking the bags including vehicles of churchgoers.

On his part, retired Po-

lice Lt. Colonel Angel Sumagaysay, head of Davao City Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSCCC), assured all churches that the center is willing to help in the installation of their CCTV cameras.

“Yung simbahan mismo ang nag-request seeking our help in installing the CCTVs . May mga simbahan na nagcomply. San Pedro Cathedral has CCTV cameras already. Tan-awon nato kung tanan simbahan ba naay CCTV. Kahit anong simbahan pag nag- request ng tulong lalo na sa technical aspects, the PSCC is ready to help them,” he added.

Sumagaysay said Misa

in this once communist stronghold, Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte shifts gear for Peace 911 to bring more economic activities in Paquibato District.

Sara created the Peace 911 as the city government's development initiative to bring government services and infrastructure support to far-�lung villages. The program is largely seen as a counterweight against the communist insurgency which has stalled economic development in many areas such as Paquibato.

Paquibato, the pilot area for peace and develop-

911 initiative, is gearing up to address poverty through Peace Economy.

Sara, who led the launch of the Peace Economy on Wednesday, said the Peace Economy is another move by the city government to sustain the gains of peace in Paquibato District.

Irene Santiago, the Peace Adviser of Mayor Sara, said Peace Economy aims to address poverty the root cause of the insurgency.

"Peace economy is an initiative of Peace 911. In 9 months the violence has been stopped in Paquibato so now after the violence,

go to the roots of the problem," she said.

Santiago said Peace Economy will address the inequality in the economy.

"Para yung mga nandoon hindi na madehado (So that the people there will not be put in an unfavorable position)," she added.

Among the �irst activity is helping the farmers �ind the market for their products.

Santiago said that through Peace Economy, the producers will get a high price for their products because they will directly bring these to suppliers such as NCCC Supermarket through Helen's

de Gallo is included in the city’s security preparations for “Panaygon sa Davao” one of the events of Pasko Fiesta.

“But then again we will maintain our security postures in various churches kasi this is a place for convergence pati na rin yung mga non-catholic churches,” Sumagaysay said.

Installations of CCTV cameras in churches was encouraged following the bombing in Jolo, Sulu in January this year by then PSSCC chief Benito De Leon. He encouraged churches in Davao City to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to monitor security threats.

Village leaders in Paquibato lauded the launch of the Peace Economy.

Malabog barangay captain Jeselito Areja said the Peace Economy would be a big help to the residents in their area, who mostly rely on agriculture. He said 90 percent of Paquibato population are farmers.

"Before, we sell our tomatoes for only P10 but now, we are selling it for P25. That is already a big help to our farmers," he said.

NCCC LTS Retail Specialist, Tjader Regis said NCCC will have a collab-

he Davao City government has called on residents in gated communities to open their doors for the city health team to give anti-polio vaccine during the second phase of the Sabayang Patak Kontra Polio from November 25 to December 2.

Dr. Julinda Acosta, the Chief of the City Health Of�ice (CHO) Technical Division, said the second phase of the anti-polio campaign is very vital to ensure that no child will get affected by the poliovirus in the city.

Just like the �irst phase, the CHO also targets 100 percent coverage of children quali�ied to receive the vaccine.

“We had a 99.48-percent or 185,901 children covered during the �irst phase of the polio vaccination. We hope to replicate this one, so we call for the

cooperation of the public, especially the gated subdivision homeowners since we have problems accessing them,” Acosta said.

Acosta said the CHO team will also set up booths in the malls so that the Oral Polio Vaccine will become more accessible to the public.

The City Council is also eyeing to pass a legislative measure requiring all parents to submit their children enrolling in the elementary for anti-polio vaccination.

City Council Committee Chair on Health, Councilor Mary Joselle Villafuerte said, “This will be a requirement (to make sure that) the parents (have their children) vaccinated children before enrolling.

If a child does not have complete vaccination, the school will refer him or

CHO, P9

Peace 911 shifts gear to increase economic activities in Paquibato PRRD: Gov’t contracts must fter restoring peace ment of Mayor Sara's Peace what should we do? You farm.

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PEACE, P9

be settled by December 15

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resident Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday ordered all government of�ices and agencies to decide on pending transactions next month.

“Even the Cabinet members, they have one month to decide. I must have your decision (on) the papers before you.

And I said last night, it has to be Dec. 15,” he said in a speech during the 80th anniversary of the Department of National Defense.

“It’s been so many months now. Papers that are on your table must be out with a decision. If it’s

for approval, good; if it is for denial, �ine. But let it out.”

The President said military of�icials and government employees who are sluggish with their work should see their way out of their posts.

“If you think that you are not up to the mandate of being hurried up, and then you go out and tell your commander to replace you. In the Civil Service, it’s more . . . Even the directors, I saw some contracts there,” he said.

“It seems that things

PRRD, P9

VOL.12 ISSUE 183 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22-23, 2019

EDGEDAVAO

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4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 183 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22-23, 2019

4 Mindanawons featured in Budayaw Festival visual arts exhibit in Kuching

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our Mindanawons are representing the Philippines in the ongoing BIMP-EAGA Budayaw Festival in Kuching, Malaysia on November 19 to 23.

Visual artists Abraham Ambo Garcia Jr. of Davao City, Al-Nezzar Buday Ali of General Santos City and Mariano Amar Catague of Butuan and Davao, and photojournalist Froilan Osabel Gallardo of Cagayan de Oro City (also of MindaNews) are the country’s representatives to “Under One Sky (EAGA Visual Arts Exhibition)” at the Merdeka Plaza Atrium.

They are representing various categories in the exhibit: Gallardo for Photography, Garcia for Photography and Expanded Practice, Ali for Digital Art, and Catague for Painting.

Budayaw (from Bahasa ‘budaya’ meaning culture and the Filipino ‘dayaw’ which means

good or beautiful), aims to strengthen the ties within the East Asean Growth Area (EAGA) through a celebration of its cultural diversity and heritage.

EAGA comprises Brunei Darussalam , East Indonesia, East Malaysia and Mindanao and Palawan in the Philippines.

Collectively it is kwown as BIMP-EAGA. Budayaw Festival is held every two years, the �irst in 2017 in General Santos City in celebration of the 50th Anniversary o the ASEAN, which the Philippines hosted.

Budayaw speci�ically aims to “showcase the diversity of creative expressions of the region; raise public awareness and appreciation on the landscapes and aspirations of the peoples of the region; foster understanding and solidarity among the multi-cultural populations; and mobilize collab-

4 MINDANAWONS, P9

Davao City Police Office (DCPO) director Police Colonel John Kirby Kraft says during I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday that based on the reports and routine monitoring Davao City’s security situation

assessment is generally peaceful and there is no eminent threat ahead of this year’s Pasko Fiesta celebration. Lean Daval Jr

NorCot ‘officially’ turns over 63 brgys to BARMM

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ixty-three villages in six North Cotabato towns that voted yes to inclusion in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in the February 2019 plebiscite were formally turned over Wednesday by Acting North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Talino-Mendoza to Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Balawag Ebrahim.

Mendoza together with Acting Vice-Governor Shirlyn Macasarte-Villanueva of�icially handed the key of responsibility to the Bangsamoro of�icials led

by Ebrahim, concurrent chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The 63 barangays were part of the towns of Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pikit and

Pigcawayan. Four other barangays voted no to inclusion in the Bangsamoro region.

The Provincial Board of North Cotabato last month passed Resolution 838 informing Ebrahim that the Provincial Government is “ready to turn over the 63 BARMM barangays in Cotabato province” on November 20, 2019.

The 63 barangays turned over to BARMM are: Dunguan and Tapodoc in Aleosan; Manarapan, Nasapian, Kibayao, Ktulaan, Langogan, Pebpoloan and Tupig in Carmen; Nanga-an, Simbuhay, Sanggadong, Buluan, Pedtad, Simone and Tamped in Kabacan; Damatulan, Kadigasan, Kadingilan, Kapinpilan, Kudarangan, Central Labas, Malingao, Mudseng, Nabalawag, Olandang, Sambulawan, Tugal and Tumbras in Midsayap; Lower Baguer, Balacayon, Buricain, Datu Binasing, Kadingilan, Matilac, Patot, Lower Pangangkalan, Datu Mantil, Libungan Torreta, Upper Pangangkalan and Simsiman in Pigkawayan; and Bagoinged, S. Balong, S. Balongis, Batulaawan, Buliok, Gokotan, Kabasalan, Lagunde, Macabual,

Macasendeg, Barungis, Bualan, Bulol, Fort Pikit, Gli-gli, Manaulanan, Nabundas, Nalapaan, Nunguan, Pamalian, Panicupan and Rajah Muda.

“Reunited” Minister Naguib Sinarimbo of the Interior and Local Government said the 63 barangays will be constituted into a special geographic area under an administrator and will continue to receive Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA).

In his speech, Sinarimbo said the handover does not mean a separation but instead a reuni�ication from the former Cotabato empire.

The Cotabato Empire, established in 1914 was dissolved in 1973 through Presidential Decree 341 issued by then President Ferdinand Marcos, who,

using his martial law powers, divided it into the provinces of Maguindanao, North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat. Earlier in 1966, several towns of the Cotabato province were carved out to constitute South Cotabato. In 1992, several towns were carved out of South Cotabato to form Sarangani province.

“This an opportunity not just to connect with the new Bangsamoro region but more importantly to see yourself as a connector to your neighbors in North Cotabato. This is the very reason why during the recent earthquake in North Cotabato we did not have second thoughts to immediately (deploy) our rescue team there,” Sinarimbo told said.

Mendoza ssaid they are “honored to be part of this

measures for Pasko Fiesta activites and Misa De Gallo are already in place. Lean Daval Jr

NORCOT, P9

Another SC town gets drug-cleared status

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Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) deputy head Angel Sumagaysay assures the public during this week’s I-Speak media forum at City Hall that personnel and preparation for the traffic and security

history, to partake with you our common struggle for everlasting peace.

This event is a continuing reminder of our uni�ied cooperation and love for Mindanao.”

Ebrahim warmly welcomed the 63 barangays, addressing their mayors and barangay chairs who were present.

He thanked them for the unwavering support and trust.

“Aasahan nyo po na gagawin namin ang lahat upang hindi mapabayaan ang inyong mga constituents at maipakita sa kanila ang serbisyong inyong naipamahagi, ang inyong Serbisyong Totoo at ang aming Moral governance,”Ebrahim assured in his acceptance speech.

Cotabato City, which

uthorities are set to declare the municipality of Surallah in South Cotabato as drugcleared, the second locality in the province to make the list this year.

Naravy Duquiatan, director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 12 (Soccsksargen), said on Wednesday that all 17 barangays of Surallah have passed the assessment of the Regional Oversight Committee on the Barangay Drug Clearing Program.

Duquiatan said the committee of�icially declared Tantangan town on November 8 as the �irst municipality in the province to achieve a drugcleared status.

“We already declared the town of Tantangan as drug-cleared and in the next few days, PDEA and the PNP (Philippine Na-

tional Police) team will also declare Surallah as a drugcleared town,” she told reporters.

Duquiatan said the two municipalities have complied with the requirements set under Dangerous Drugs Board Regulation 3 series of 2017, which strengthened the implementation of the barangay drug-clearing program.

These are the “non-availability of drug supply; absence of drug-dependent, pusher, user, absence of clandestine drug laboratory; active involvement of barangay of�icials in anti-drug activities; existence of drug awareness, preventive education and information programs; and existence of voluntary and compulsory drug treatment and rehabilitation processing desks.”

Duquiatan noted that

ANOTHER, P9

VOL.12 ISSUE 183 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22-23, 2019

Inflation rate safe amid halt in rice importation

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n�lation is not expected to be affected by President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s directive to stop rice importation during the harvest season.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno said the President’s directive is not expected to have any effect on the rate of price increases since rice supply will not be constrained because there are still rice imports that have yet to be delivered into the country.

“That’s only temporary,” he said referring to the President’s instruction to purchase harvests of local farmers to address their plight vis-à-vis the impact of the rice tarif�ication law implementation.

Farmers have complained about the big drop in farm-gate price of rice, which has declined to just about PHP15 per kilo from about PHP20 per kilo previously since the imple-

mentation of the tarif�ication law last March.

The government pushed for rice tarif�ication to ensure adequate rice supply, a staple food in the country, especially after the supply issue in 2018 that resulted in big jumps of domestic in�lation rate.

After peaking at 6.7 percent in September and October 2018, in�lation rate decelerated to 0.8 percent last October due to the implementation of monetary and �iscal measures.

In�lation rate in the �irst 10 months this year averaged at 2.6 percent, at the lower half of the government’s 2-4 percent target.

Last week, BSP’s policy-making Monetary Board slashed the central bank’s average in�lation forecast for this year to 2.4 percent from 2.5 percent previously, but expects upticks starting November as base effect dissipates.

(PNA)

BSP targets 30% in value of e-payments by 2020

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he Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) adjusted the target for electronic payments (e-payments) in the country, with value of transactions now aimed to account for 30 percent of the total by 2020 from previous goal of 20 percent, including volume of transactions.

In a brie�ing Wednesday, BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno said the target to increase e-payments needs to take into account the number of the unbanked Filipinos, as well as the internet connection speed.

Diokno said he has seen the result of a new study on e-payments in the country that it is why he places the latest value of e-payment transactions to be around about 20 percent of the total.

Among the factors for the revised target for the value of e-payments include the increase in the number of government of�ices that will accept payments for fees and other services through digital means, as well as better coordination between the central bank and its stakeholders.

Diokno said the aim is to enable all government of�ices to have a digital payment transaction option by 2023 to increase e-payment transactions.

This, he said, will result to cash-lite payment environment in the country.

“We need a faster internet system but with the third telco (telecommunications) player, the broadband capacity will quadruple in a few months so I’m con�ident that by 2023, we’ll all work together, so we’ll have 100 percent (digital-enabled transactions in government of�ices). That’s a promise,” he added.

In an interview after the brie�ing, BSP Financial Technology Sub-sector

managing director Vicente de Villa III said the previous target, which was based on the result of an earlier study by Better Than Cash Alliance (BTCA), did not have speci�ic aim for the value of e-payments.

“We’re just improving the study to include the peso value but the volume is still there,” he said.

“The more transactions would be the count but if the volume along with the value is increasing, (it indicates) more con�idence and trust,” he added.

The �irst government agency tapped to pilot the EGov Pay facility is the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), which started to use the system last August for tax payments.

Payments were coursed through Land Bank of the Philippines’ (Landbank) Link.Biz portal.

During the launch of the EGov Pay in a ceremony at the BSP Manila on Wednesday, it was announced the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the cities of General Santos, Manila, Valenzuela, San Pedro , Quezon City, the LGU of Baler in Quezon will also be part of the system.

Meanwhile, the BSP and several payments industry players also launched on Wednesday a program called QR Ph, which is eyed not only to increase e-payments, but also to secure payment transactions.

Diokno said the use of QR (Quick Response) Code is targeted to primarily help the micro-merchants who transact in small amount compared to other businesses.

“We hope that through the help of our industry players, we can not only achieve our goal of a cash-lite economy but also enable more Filipinos to reap the bene�its of a growing economy,” he added.

(PNA)

5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

Davao City Tourism Operations Office head Generose Tecson bares during I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday that the agency is expecting at least 200,00 visitors will arrive for the month-long Pasko Fiesta 2019 and will spend Christmas holidays in the city. Lean Daval Jr

Malaysia plans to import raw agri materials, minerals from Mindanao

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alaysia plans to import raw agricultural materials and minerals from Mindanao to support the massive expansion of its manufacturing sector, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE)-Manila commissioner Siti Azlina said on Wednesday at the Malaysia-Philippines Business Forum at the Marco Polo Hotel Davao.

Azlina said the manufacturing �irms are looking at sourcing raw materials, particularly raw agricultural products and minerals, from Mindanao, following the massive expansion of the industry there.

She said manufacturing propelled the country’s economy, the second largest after Singapore in Southeast Asia.

The trade of�icial added that Malaysia has made great strides in transforming its economy from being an agricultural nation back in the 1970’s to an economy built upon services, industry, and manufacturing at present.

“Basically, the Malaysian economy has transformed from agriculture and manufacturing now. One of the areas we can do business with the Philippines or Mindanao is basically to �ind raw materials, be it agricultural produce or minerals that we can process through our manufacturing back in Malaysia,” Azlina said.

She added Malaysia and the Philippines have built a strong trade partnership for several years. This time, she said Malaysia looks to Visayas and Mindanao for business opportunities, as most of the existing economic activities between the two nations are concen-

trated in Luzon.

In a press briefer, Malaysia’s total trade with the Philippines last year reached $6.45 billion, an increase of 2.1% from $5.93 recorded in 2017.

Malaysia’s export to the Philippines consisted largely of electrical & electronic products, palm oil and palm-based agricultural products, chemicals and chemical products, petroleum products and machinery, equipment and parts, while Malaysia’s import from the Philippines comprised electrical and electronic products, machinery, equipment and parts, processed food, natural rubber and chemical and chemical products.

“We have been doing business with Philippines.

We have concentrated in Luzon area. It is very timely now that we will also look into Visayas and Mindanao, what more with Mindanao which is in close proximity to Sabah and Serawak,” she added.

Mindanao is an important area for its proximity to Sabah and Serawak in Ma-

nother investment has earned the nod of Bangsamoro of�icials that aims to establish a fully mechanized abaca processing plant in the region.

The PHP100-million investment is set to open in Lanao del Sur after the Regional Board of Investments of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (RBOI-BARMM) approved Tuesday the registration of Hong Kong Feng Seng Heritage Philippines, Inc. (HK FSH) for the business partnership.

The �irm will put up an abaca �iber processing plant in Barangay Calilangan, Balabagan, Lanao del

Sur where the Hofer Hacienda is located.

In a statement, lawyer Ishak Mastura, RBOI chair, said the new investment is the �irst-ever fully mechanized abaca processing plant to be set up in the BARMM. The joint venture between HK HFS and Hofer Hacienda is seen as a big boost to existing and potential abaca farmers to maximize their produce since there is now an organized export market.

“As the year closes, BARMM has shown the bene�its of peace in terms of more willing investors in the region,” Mastura

said, adding the con�idence shown by business leaders was viewed as a vote of con�idence on the leadership of BARMM Chief Minister Ahod “Murad” Ebrahim.

Manolito Hofer, HK FHS Chief Executive Of�icer, said the project forms part of his advocacy to help end the armed struggle and push development in his home province, Lanao del Sur. “I am optimistic that with the start of this facility, more opportunities will come to BARMM,” he added.

HK FHS plans to establish additional 10,000 hectares of abaca plantations through contract growing

laysia and a strategic area within the Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), a 25-year old sub-regional economic cooperation initiative in Southeast Asia designed to spur economic development.

Founded in 1994 in Davao City, the focus areas of BIMP-EAGA include the entire sultanate of Brunei Darussalam; the provinces of Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku, West Papua and Papua in Indonesia; the states of Sabah and Sarawak and the federal territory of Labuan in Malaysia; and Mindanao and the province of Palawan in the Philippines.

Azlina said there should be more activities in the BIMP-EAGA. The one-day business mission in Davao intends to explore opportunities in food and beverages, cosmetic, information communications technology (ICT), construction, and logistics, according to Azlina. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

all over the region including the Zamboanga Peninsula to generate around 20,000 or more workers in the next few years.

The �irm will also set up an abaca tissue culture laboratory and nursery to supply its plantation needs.

Initially, the nursery targets at 2,000 plantlets for 1,000 hectares in its �irst year of operations and increases as the project expands in the years to come.

The plant, which initially employs 107 workers, has a starting capacity of 12,000 metric tons of abaca �iber at a 10 percent increase annually.

BARMM approves P100-million abaca fiber processing investment

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BARMM, P9

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 183 • FRIDAY-SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22-23, 2019

EDITORIAL No compromise The vaping ban comes at the heels of the Department of Health (DOH) report con�irming that a 16-year-old girl from Central Visayas who has been using e-cigarettes for six months is allegedly suffering from electronic cigarettes or vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI). The girl, who allegedly complained of “sudden-onset severe shortness of breath,” met the case criteria of EVALI upon evaluation, based on the guidelines of the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The ban on vaping will affect some 1 million vapers all over the country. Most vapers took to the habit as a “healthier” alternative for smoking tobacco.

President Duterte, being a staunch proponent of regulations especially on matters of health and environment that he is known for, did the right thing just in time. Unlike his US counterpart President Trump who backtracked from an earlier pronouncement to ban �lavored vaping, President Duterte is �irm on his stand with vaping.

Running the risk of possibly losing 1 million supporters not to mention the supply chain, the President knows there is no compromise when it comes to health risks.

The end of vaping has come.

President Rodrigo Duterte didn’t waste time after the �irst reported case of lung injury due to vaping in the country. He gave the curtain call on vaping or the use of electronic cigarettes on Tuesday acknowledging that vapes are “not good for humans” An executive order (EO) that would formalize the directive to stop the use of vaping devices nationwide will be signed soon but the President said he can already order the arrest of those who continue using e-cigarettes. The vaping ban follows a previous directive EO 26, which provides for the establishment of smoke-free environments in public and enclosed places back in 2017. EO 26 requires the establishment of designated smoking areas that may either be an open space or an enclosed area with proper ventilation to guarantee the right of every Filipino to “breathe clean air.”

In clari�ication, the Philippine National Police has made it clear that EO 26 and local ordinances can be used to run after vapers since it is similar to smoking in public. The e-cigarettes shall also be con�iscated from those who would be caught using them in public places.

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NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

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

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VANTAGE POINTS

7

JOHN CARLO B. TRIA MY TWO CENTS’

IS THE US INTERFERING IN THE HONGKONG ISSUE? With the passage of laws and pressure from both Democratic and Republican parties forcing a review of Hongkong’s special economic status with the US, confrontational pressure is put on the Central government of the Peoples Republic of China to adhere to particular conditions America wants to set.

This often involves the way China will govern Hongkong. It is political pressure, plain and simple, using american legislation and a global media offensive.

While some may be supportive of these moves, the problem is that this may derail current talks to end the so called Trade War between the US and China which has posed challenges to asian economies and lowered growth forecasts across the region.

That said, Resolving this war will be good for the world and asia as a whole. Early gains in these talks last month are already re�lected in asian markets, as the hope of resolving it will put global, and asian growth back on track.

Likewise, now that Chinese investments are spreading across asia, expect this transfer of capacities to spread and boost growth further once the trade war is resolved. Vietnam and Singapore are leading bene�iciaries followed by the Thailand and the Philippines.

Vietnam, and Thailand enjoy proximity and easy land logistics from China. The Philippines bene�its from maritime proximity and a strategic location to trade with several countries. This is perhaps why a major US cargo airline will soon

start using the Clark International Airport as its hub. It probably foresees an uptick in trade, for which its aircrafts capacity will be utilized.

A wider production platform has thus been created across ASEAN economies, including the Philippines, which will host several manufacturing facilities that transferred to avoid the tarriffs. These are not only Chinese �irms, but third country companies that once had facilities in China, like a Japanese printer manufacturer.

As these newly established engines of growth start churning, expect our growth to pick up even more next year.

Thankfully, we as a country are still maintaining a 6% growth trajectory despite the global slowdown caused by the “war”. This puts us among good

economic performers in the region snd retains con�idence in the economy and local business.

Various economists from both private and government sectors all predict this sustained number as public spending picks up and consumption improved in the last two quarters.

At the same time, this con�idence manifests in the decision of manor Philippine companies to invest in Asia, like the Ayala group in Myanmar, and Jolibee with its global acquisitions, and even the Aboitiz groups foray into power generation in a few countries in ASEAN. The challenge now is improving our export capability with more high value products.

Its time to look at innovation and network with foreign suppliers and buyers.

Hopefully, the various visits

this week from various companies from Malaysia, India and Russia will bolster our trade capabilities. Likewise, the trade missions of the Davao Chamber to Japan early this month will boost interest in the Philippine and Mindanao economy.

Ironically though, this new legislation on Hobgkong comes as the US, a country vocal about Human Rights abroad, grapples with its own Human Rights issues concerning its immigrants, many of whom are undocumented Filipinos, who have lived in the US for decades who will be denied citizenship or at least a legitimization of their stay.

Perhaps it is good for us to remind them that values at home re�lect values outside the home. How you value your own people should mirror the way you do unto others.

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

THE SUBJECT IS WOMEN At a panel discussion conducted last October 9 by the Australian-Philippines Business Council in Sydney, Vice President Leni Robredo was quoted as saying: “My being a woman… has paved the way for a lot of malicious… malicious and undeserved criticisms on my person, and that does not… it’s not the same for men.”

A woman (in the person of Eve) was God’s second creation – after man (Adam). Eve wasn’t alone when it comes to Biblical women. Among those who made a name for themselves include Sarah (the wife of Abraham who delivered a healthy baby boy when she was already old), Delilah (the cause of the fall of Samson), Jezebel (the wicked woman who was portrayed by Bette Davis, earning her an Oscar award), Ruth (the widow), Virgin Mary (the mother of Jesus Christ), and Mary Magdalene (who tried to seduce the Son but failed to do so).

History is replete with famous women, too. There was Margaret Thatcher (who was played superbly in a movie by Meryl Streep, the only woman in Hollywood history who received more than a dozen Oscar nominations).

Another was Nobel Peace Laureate Mother Teresa (who was also awarded a Ramon Magsaysay Award for international understanding); she died on the same day Princess

Di �igured in a vehicular accident.

The Philippines has produced two lady presidents.

The �irst one was Corazon C. Aquino, who toppled down the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos. After two more presidents – Fidel V. Ramos and Joseph Estrada – Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo took the role as the country’s highest of�icial.

But being a woman is not an easy job. “Being a woman is a terribly dif�icult trade since it consists principally of dealings with men,” Joseph Conrad in Chance wrote. In her case, Robredo has to deal with President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

But blessed is she if she �inds a man who supports her all the way. Anais Nin said it well: “I, with deeper instinct, choose a man who compels my strength, who makes enormous demands on me, who does not doubt my courage or my toughness, who does not believe me naïve or innocent, who has the courage to treat me like a woman.”

There is indeed a big difference between man and woman – even when it comes to education. “You educate a man, you educate man. You educate a woman, you educate a generation,” said American religious leader Brigham Young.

British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher went further: “If you want something said, ask a man; if you want

something done, ask a woman.”

Bette Davis, the Hollywood actress who won two Oscars for leading roles, also gives a contrasting view about the two opposing sexes.

“When a man gives his opinion, he’s a man. When a woman gives her opinion, she’s a bitch.”

For every success of a man, there’s a woman behind.

That’s a popular saying. But British singer John Lennon puts it in another perspective. “As usual, there is a great woman behind every idiot.”

George Carlin, in When Will Jesus Bring the Pork Chops?, has written this timely yet insightful observation: “Here’s all you have to know about men and women: women are crazy, men are stupid.

And the main reason women are crazy is that men are stupid.”

Steve Maraboli, author of Unapologetically You: Re�lections on Life and the Human Experience, has a very interesting suggestion to make your woman love you more.

“When in a relationship,” he wrote, “a real man doesn’t make his woman jealous of others, he makes others jealous of his woman.”

And there are some men who �ight back to get even with women. “There are two theories to arguing a woman. Neither one works,” said American stage and movie

actor Will Rogers.

Someone also stated, “There are two kinds of women in the world: those who take a man’s strength and those who give a man strength.”

Now, talking about two types of women, a psychoanalyst shares this opinion: “My women patients can be divided into two categories: the ones who work and the ones who stay at home. The former suffer from a guilt complex, the latter from frustration.”

Women, whether sexy or not, are always hot. “You see, women are like �ires, like �lames,” wrote Patrick Rothfuss in The Name of the Wind. “Some women are like candles, bright and friendly.

Some are like single sparks, or embers, like �ire�lies for chasing on summer nights. Some are like camp�ires, all light and heat for a night and willing to be left after. Some women are like heart�ires, not much to look at but underneath they are all warm red coal that burns a long, long while.”

Women should not be called “the weaker sex.” Here’s an explanation from Mahatma Gandhi: “To call woman the weaker sex is a libel; it is man’s injustice to woman. If by strength is meant brute strength, then, indeed, woman is less brute than men. If by strength is meant moral power, then woman is immeasurably man’s superior. Has she not greater intuition, is she

not more self-sacri�icing, has she not greater powers of endurance, has she not greater courage?

“Without her, man could not be. If nonviolence is the law of our being, the future is with woman,” Gandhi continued. “Who can make a more effective appeal to the heart than woman?”

So, men, you better watch out. American First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt reminds: “A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong it is until it’s in hot water.” Mark Twain may never meet her but he once wrote: “What would mean be without women?

Scare, sir… mighty scarce.

Since time immemorial, women are �ighting for equal rights. “Feminism isn’t about making women stronger,” said Feminist and activist G.D. Anderson. “Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.”

American author and social activist Letty Cottin Pogrebin has the same thought: “When men are oppressed, it’s a tragedy. When women are oppressed, it’s tradition.”

“The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights,” American feminist and journalist Gloria Steinem points out.

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DepEd Davao Oriental is now ISO-Certified

D

AVAO ORIENTAL – Strongly pushing for quality customer service and standard management system that is at par with the international standards, the Department of Education Davao Oriental Division is now set to receive its ISO certi�ication.

Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Lorenzo Mendoza con�irmed on Tuesday, November 19, 2019, that the DepEd Davao Oriental Division has been recommended to receive the ISO 9001:2015 Certi�ication after successfully passing the parameters set according to internationally recognized benchmarks under the Quality Management Systems.

“I am elated with the result because this means a lot for DepEd Davao Oriental to be certi�ied which means that our systems and processes are at par with the international standards,” said Dr. Mendoza.

TÜV SÜD, an internationally-recognized auditing �irm and a leading provider of management systems solutions, will issue the Interna-

tional Certi�ication to DepEd Davao Oriental 30 to 45 days upon the recommendation, thus, cementing DepEd Davao Oriental’s compliance with the international benchmark.

Undergoing a rigid and detailed auditing process that looked on various “clauses”, the main parameters assessed under the Quality Management Systems are those that basically deal with the institution’s management strategies on enhancing customer satisfaction by meeting customer requirements.

“We undergo with this ISO process to align our practices and systems with international standards with

the end view of full customers’ satisfaction,” said Dr. Mendoza, adding that undergoing the ISO Certi�ication process “helps and guides the Division in the provision of Education Management Services, particularly on Governance and Operation and Curriculum Implementation, to schools and learning centers offering Kindergarten to Grade 12 Basic Education Program.”

With the ISO Certi�ication, DepEd Davao Oriental Division has become the fourth division out of the 11 divisions in the Davao Region to be recognized as ISO Certi�ied. The other three ISO

Mati as drug-free barangays. The four remaining barangays however are the most populated namely Sainz, Matiao, Central and Dahican.

Authorities have so far conducted drug test in three of the four remaining barangays — Sainz, Matiao, and Central.

A total of 525 drug surrenderers and barangay functionaries have already been tested for illegal drugs in the three barangays of Sainz, Matiao, and Central.

One tested positive in Matiao, another one in Sainz, and one more in Central. All are drug surrenderers.

City of Mati LGU through its City Anti-Drug Abuse Council has been conducting a Drug Free Workplace Campaign this month. According to CADAC the activity is in implementation of the Dangerous Drug Board Resolution No. 13 or the “Establishment and Institutionalization of Drug Free Workplace”.

The drug testing campaign in the workplace is part of the City of Mati commitment in reducing drug demand and criminality in the community.

The activity was spearheaded by the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council in partnership with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Philippine National Police, City Health Of�ice and the barangays.

Last stop would be Barangay Dahican. (CIO MATI)

DEPED, P9

1 drug surrenderer tests positive for illegal drugs in Brgy. Central

O

ne drug surrenderer tested positive for illegal drugs on Wednesday’s drug test in Barangay Central.

A total of 151 barangay functionaries and 32 surrenderers enrolled in the Community-Based Rehabilitation and After-Care Program (CBRAP) underwent the drug test on November 20.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency has already declared 22 out of 26 barangays in the City of

DepEd Davao Oriental Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Lorenzo Mendoza

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE LATE HECTOR S. QUIAMBAO AND EVANGELINA A. QUIAMBAO AND VICTOR ABELLERA QUIAMBAO, SR. Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late HECTOR S. QUIAMBAO and EVANGELINA A. QUIAMBAO and VICTOR ABELLERA QUIAMBAO who died inestate on June 19, 1972 and November 29, 2006, and December 5, 2010, respectively leaving several parcels of land which has been the subject of EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE executed among their heirs, per Doc. No.422; Page No.86; Book No.XXVI, Series of 2019, of the NOTARY PUBLIC ATTY. MARVIN G. CAMINO. Nov. 22, 29 and Dec. 6, 2019

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STYLE

NINE WEST Dressing Davao’s empowered women

MORE than producing one of the most soughtafter bags and footwear, global brand Nine West’s other mission is to empower modern women through style and to give them the confidence to take on their nineto-nine lifestyles in the fiercest fashion.

Upscale retail store Chimes Specialty Boutiques, in partnership with Rustan Marketing Corporation, recently launched Nine West’s Fall 2019 collection entitled “Groundbreakers” that honors women who break conventions, constructs, and ceilings.

A global campaign, Davao is the only city in the Philippines wherein Nine West’s Groundbreakers campaign was launched.

The launch featured Davao’s empowered fierce and stylish women namely Mary Ann “Baby” Montemayor, Dr. Joan Fabiosa- Reyes, Malita Vice Mayor Estefanie “Eshma” Bautista, and Carmaela Alcantara.

A respected leader in the hospitality and tourism industry and the Honorary Consul of Hungary in Davao, Montemayor has done volunteer work with the T’boli and Bagobo

indigenous people’s groups by giving them trainings to help them set up their livelihood through their brand “Kaayo”.

Reyes is a breast surgeon, active associate consultant at the Davao Doctors Hospital and a visiting consultant in almost all the hospitals in Davao City.

She is a medical specialist of the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) and a pioneer of one of the biggest cancer awareness groups in the city.

Confidently fashionable, Alcantara is a proponent of positive contribution to the society by showcasing Mindanao’s beauty through fashionable products with her brand Crystal Seas handwoven and handcrafted products. This Davao City-based entrepreneur has represented Philippines through exhibits in New York,

Paris, Hong Kong and Tokyo.

As a political figure in Davao and Malita community, Bautista is a businesswoman and doting mom who never compromises style despite her busy schedule.

“With these women we are creating awareness to empower more women. Along with empowering women Nine West do it in style from head to toe, woman have to be fierce with the shoes that they are wearing and with the bag that they are carrying and also the watch,” said Alexandria Caryl Cerezo brand associate of Rustan in an interview.

Nine West signed up super model turned powerhouse business mogul Tyra Banks as its global ambassador for the campaign. She elevates the brand’s mission and campaign acting as a beacon for the female spirit.

“With Tyra Banks fierceness, determination and being an icon in the fashion industry makes her the perfect muse for Nine West brand. The efforts of these three women is all about helping and empowering women,” Cerezo said.

With all these fierce women whose works continue to make a difference, Nine West’s

Groundbreakers campaign aims to inspire women to make their own significant strides in style.

Nine West’s Fall 2019 Collection is perfect for the modern women to wear from boardrooms to brunch and from coffee to cocktails. The dressy flats come in understated prints and rich jewel tones and the sandals come in different heel styles and heights from kitten heels and platform slides to wedges and stilettos that feature rhinestone details and materials such as leather and suede. There’s a pair to fit any woman’s taste.

Currently, Chimes is the exclusive store carrying Nine West brand in Davao City.

“Before, the brand was only available in boutiques but now it is available in Chimes. The brand is performing very good in the Davao market,” said Cindy Yap, chief executive officer of Chimes.

Under the Felcris Group of Companies, Chimes was conceived to cater to the high-end market offering a host of prestigious local and international brands to exude exclusivity, impeccable customer service and luxurious shopping experience.

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UP AND ABOUT

EVENT

THE BOOK HUNTER’S GUIDE TO BOOK SALES

READING is a past time that many Filipinos enjoy.

From children to grownups, the love for a good old printed book still remains. Unfortunately, not everyone has the luxury to buy new books all the time.

The good news is that Filipinos can now score brand-new books at an extremely affordable price at the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale Davao 2019. Book sales have become the haven for bookworms who want to purchase titles at heavily discounted titles.

Attending the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale for the first time? Here are a few tips on how you can navigate your way through the crowd of book hunters to get the best and most affordable books in town.

MAKE A BOOK SHOPPING LIST Arriving at the book sale venue can overwhelm first-time shoppers, especially after seeing the massive display of books everywhere. Before you go, make a list of the book titles or genres that you want to get. The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale usually highlights new and interesting titles and hot picks on their social media pages that are in stock, follow them and you’ll have an idea of what to get. This will help you avoid flitting from one section of The Sale to another without knowing what to buy.

Avoid the rush hour The best time to visit a book sale is during 3.00 am to 9.00 am during weekdays. This is recognized as the off-peak period when most of the shoppers have gone home. Visit during off peak hours and shop when there are less people so that you can shop with ease at your own pace. With book sales like the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale Davao 2019, book shopping at odd hours are made possible - as they’re open for 24 hours during the duration of The Sale!

SCOUT FOR VIP PASSES Get first dibs on the freshest

stock of books even before The Sale starts by getting your hands on a VIP pass. The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale holds an exclusive VIP day where lucky shoppers can enter The Sale before everyone else.

Keep your eyes peeled through their social media platforms on how you can score VIP passes.

You might even be one of the lucky shoppers to take home the boxed editions from your favorite authors and book series!

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNTS On top off the slashed retail price, The Sale also offer additional discounts to their members. Sign up at the cashier counter before making your purchases to enjoy the members’ discounts.

DRESS COMFORTABLY The hall will be massive and browsing through each island scouting for your favorite book will require a lot of walking. It’s advisable to dress comfortably and to wear sports shoes. If you’re planning on taking home enough books to last you the whole year (and trust us, you will), bring along several eco-friendly bags to store your treasures upon purchase. There will be snacks and drinks outside the venue as well, so fill yourselves up before you go in.

Discover the joy of affordable and accessible reading by attending the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale Davao 2019. The World’s Biggest Book Sale is back to the king city of the south with 1 million brand-new books on sale. From children’s books, fiction, nonfiction, and premium titles, you’ll surely find something that will satisfy the bookworm in you. The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale Davao 2019 will be open to the public for 24 hours, starting November 22 to December 2, 2019. Bring your friends and family with you at the Enderun Tent, Azuela Cove and get ready to score books from 50% to 90% off recommended retail price. For more information, like @bbwbooksphilippines on Facebook and follow @bbwbooksph on Instagram.

MORE TO GIVE WITH COFFEE BEAN & TEA L THIS HOLIDAY SEASON As with every coming holiday season, comes the new year, and every new year demands requires one to plan each new day right to go for their goals right at the get-go. And if you are looking to begin 2020 with a clear and right mindset, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s latest Giving Journal may be the right planner for you.

In a simple event held at The

Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf SM Lanang, CBTL introduced theirmuch anticipated 2020 edition of the Giving Journal.

Since 2011, The Coffee Bean & Tea Lead and the Real LIFE Foundation have been collaborating towards nation-building through empowering underprivileged youths. Every year, proceeds from the CBTL’s Giving Journal are given to Real LIFE Foundation, providing avenues for educational assistance, character

format opmen In fa LIFE F CBTL scholar Minda

GI As wit traditio sleek a the use person

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tion, and leadership develnt. act, through the years, Real Foundation together with were able to support 643 rs, 65 of whom are from anao.

IVING WITH STYLE th CBTL’s Giving Journal on, each year’s planner is and compact and empower er to always be a better n by setting goals. Also part

ENTERTAINMENT

of each year’s journal are treats and discounts journal owners can avail throughout the year.

This year’s Giving Journal also departs from weekly grinds, giving more space for journal owners to express themselves.

Even better, the journal includes a monthly feature on modern day stories about courage, with themes delving into the courage to take risks, courage to stand up for the truth, and more.

SUPPORTING A SUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE Another key feature of the 2020 Giving Journal is its recyclability.

After the year ends, the cover of the Giving Journal can be reused, saving much needed resources.

Of course, taking the sustainable lifestyle one step further, CBTL gives customers to choose to collect stamps for either the 2020 Giving Journal or The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s limited edition holiday tumblers.

The CBTL 2020 Giving Journal just takes 12 stamps while the limited edition tumblers can be redeemed for just 18 stamps.

Visit your nearest CBTL store today to start collecting to start the new year right.

INIGO LAUNCHES ‘CATCHING FEELINGS’ MUSIC VIDEO IN THE US

INIGO PASCUAL proves to be unstoppable in his career as he just launched the music video for his hit single “Catching Feelings” in the United States, where he performed during the Los Angeles Clippers’ Filipino Heritage Night.

The pop star premiered the music video at the LA Clippers vs. Oklahoma City Thunders game held at the legendary Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, where he sang the summery island pop track that has become of his fastest rising songs to date.

The new “Catching Feelings” music video was entirely shot in the Philippines and highlights the 21-year-old singer-songwriter’s interpretation of

the uncertain journey of going to and fro between the frustrations of falling in love, before finally giving in to the feeling.

Jabbawockeez member and Bruno Mars’ choreographer and dancer Phil Tayag arranged and completed the dance routine for the song, complementing the already-established moves of Inigo that can be seen on the “Catching Feelings” dance challenge.

The track, which features music producer Moophs, has been heard in radio stations from Manila all the way to California and has also accumulated almost 1.5 million streams

THE SM STORE HOLDS BRANDED WATCHES< EYEWEAR & JEWELRY SALE. Sneak in some retail therapy before the Christmas rush kicks in. Shop at #TheSMStore’s Branded Watches, Eyewear, and Jewelry Sale this November 21 to 24, 2019! Get up to 30% OFF on selected brands! PLUS 20% OFF when you use your SMAC! Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB 17072, Series of 2019.

on Spotify. Meanwhile, the “Catching Feelings” dance challenge, which Inigo himself started, has now amassed a total combined entries of 35,000 on video-sharing app Tiktok and other social networking sites.

The hit single is produced under Tarsier Records, an underground music label which has been driving for the breakthrough of Filipino talents like Inigo to the international music stage, in line with ABS-CBN’s commitment to introduce the exceptional artistry of Filipinos to global audiences.

Watch out for the “Catching Feelings” music video premiere in the

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UP AND ABOUT

EDGEDAVAO

HONOR 20 LITE SOON TO ARRIVE IN PH WITH HONOR 9X HONOR Mobile is on a roll this year: Just weeks after announcing the expected arrival of 9X in the Philippines, the company confirms another gadget to debut this month—the HONOR 20 Lite. The newest smartphone from HONOR boasts of AI support to capture photos in outstanding detail and clarity at any time of day, through features like Ultra-Wide Photography, Super Night Shot, and 32MP Beauty Selfie.

The “32MP Selfie Master” gives photo enthusiasts full control over the lighting and vibrancy of images and over 500+ AIrecognized scenarios to help achieve that professional-grade film. The shots below show what portraits look like when

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captured with the new HONOR 20 Lite.

HONOR 20 Lite uses AI Backlighting Imaging Technology and 32MP ISOenhanced lens to recreate the natural look and keep your frame focused on your composition, despite disruptive lights. The phone also has a 17mm ultra wide-angle lens that allows for full body portraits and aweinspiring landscape shots.

Packaged in a 3D color gradient body that gleams as it moves,

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next few days. Stay tuned for updates on the HONOR’s website (http://www. hihonor.com) and pages on Facebook (http://www.

pines) Instagram (http://www. instagram/com/honorph), and Twitter (https://twitter.com/ honorph).

this new phone will draw your eyes to the its vibrant offerings that are soon to hit the market.

Watch out for the price and availability of HONOR 20 Lite to be posted online over the

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UP AND FURNITURE A1 ABOUTa silly method but for EJ and

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TOURIST... FROM1

Hindi naman sila puwedeng mag-fall under car rentals,” Tecson said.

Under LTFRB amended Memorandum Circular Number 2019-003, in order to obviate the confusion as to the type of car rental services and or private vehicles which are exempt from securing franchise, the Board limits the application of MC 2011008 only to those private vehicles catering long

term lease and exclude private vehicles classi�ied as tourist transport services, shuttle service, trucks for hire and schools services which are explicitly required to secure franchise from the Board.

“Ibig sabihin yung mga colorum natin there is now way for them to be legalized when a lot of them want to be legal. That is one we need to explore.

We want to be able to

come up with a “win-win” solution because we also have security concerns at parang lahat na lang kung may activities and conventions here in Davao various vans converge in Davao and they come from other places outside the city,” she said.

Tecson added that there are also some van owners who already act as tour operators and their drivers as tour guides.

her to the health center.”

Villafuerte, however, clari�ied that no child, who had not completed vacci-

nation, will be barred from enrolling.

“They will be allowed to enroll, they will just be

referred to the health centers to comply with the missing vaccines,” she said.

CIO

orative relationship with the producers through a signed deal.

"We are happy that we have �inally break the idea that we are already doing something (to bridge the gap between farmers and retails). We are allocating budget for this one," he

said.

Regis said NCCC is investing in many things on this partnership such the cold storage.

"The ideal situation for us is that the farmers will package their products onsite and we will go there to get the products," Regis

added.

Peace 911 is a transformation of the local peace body that Sara created in 2018 to initiate local peace negotiations with the New People's Army (NPA) armed wing of the Maoist Communist Party of the Philippines. CIO

are moving very slow.

And that is why it is still a source of corruption. The

longer you sit on the paper or nothing at all — either you are not working, you

are a... I don’t know what you’d do with government.”

oration and convergence of multi-stakeholders, public and private.”

The Festival has 10 components: Colloqium, Intertwining Dreams (Ikat weavers), Jewels of the EAGA: Performance Showcase, Voices Rising

(Choral Concert), Earth Music, Under One Sky (EAGA Visual Arts Exhibition), Community Outreach, Trade and Travel Fair, Culinary Showcase and Fashion Show.

In the “Under One Sky” component, aside from

featuring works of visual artists at the Merdeka Plaza Atrium, interactive arts workshops are also conducted “to engage the public into creative processes as well as learn the signi�icance of the artwork.” (MindaNews)

also voted yes to inclusion in the Bangsamoro region, has yet to be turned over.

Based on the plebiscite results, BARMM compris-

es �ive provinces (Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-tawi, Lanao del Sur and Maguinanao), three cities (Marawi, Lamitan and Cotabato) and the

63 villages in six North Cotabato towns. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera / MindaNews with a report by Carolyn O. Arguillas)

as of November, 142 of the province’s 199 barangays are drug-cleared and continually undergo monitoring and evaluation by the regional oversight committee, which is headed by PDEA-12.

Of�icials of the concerned barangays should make sure that the anti-il-

legal drug campaigns in their areas are sustained, she said.

“The drug-cleared status of a barangay will be revoked if illegal drug supplies and users will be discovered again,” she added.

South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. assured that the local gov-

ernment would continue to work with PDEA and other law enforcement units to make all its barangays drug-cleared.

“There’s no deadline for that but we are working it out. We have seen how our police and the PDEA are doing to address the illegal drug trade,” he said. (PNA)

Certi�ied divisions are Davao City, Compostela Valley, and Davao del Norte.

An Inspiring Legacy While the Schools Division’s journey in the ISO auditing process was �illed with a lot of birth pains which include several months of sleepless nights and nerve-racking preparations among DepEd personnel, all the sacri�ices have been worth it, says Dr. Mendoza, whose impending transfer to another Division sends bittersweet feelings for him and his colleagues.

Dr. Mendoza, who aggressively pushed for the Division to undergo the ISO processing, is now leaving an inspiring legacy to the Davao Oriental Division. “This is not only my legacy to the Division but at the same time a worthy gift by DepEd Davao Oriental family for my birthday and transfer to another division,” he said.

After �inishing his al-

most three-year stint as the Davao Oriental Schools Division Superintendent, Dr. Mendoza, who is bound to be reassigned to the neighboring Province of Compostela Valley (soon-to-be Davao de Oro) or in Davao Occidental, said he is proud to leave a legacy that his beloved Division will remember him by.

“This is our way of giving back to the support given to us by the Provincial Government as well as the two Congressional of�ices who have been really helpful in all of our undertakings,” he added.

Aside from pushing for international and corporate standards that enhanced the image of the Division, Dr. Mendoza also fostered a culture of positivity and integrity on workplace management.

Dr. Mendoza has facilitated the conversion of a number of elementary schools to integrated schools in order to cater to students in far-�lung

areas with no secondary schools. Also, he facilitated numerous appointment and promotion of deserving DepEd personnel by opening vacancies for various plantilla positions.

Under Dr. Lorenzo’s watch, the Division has not only been practicing good housekeeping but it has also stepped up security measures by installing CCTVs as well as beefed up disaster preparedness and also fasttracked �inancial transactions. “Before, the principals from far-�lung schools process their liquidation for how many days but with our current processing, it only takes one day. It is one of our best practices that we have here,” he said.

He always sees to it that he empowers people and set a good example while executing �irmness and fairness in managing his subordinates.

By Karen Lou Deloso/ Photos

by Rhea Shane Laureano

CHO... FROM2

PEACE... FROM2

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ANOTHER... FROM4

DEPED... FROM8

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

is in need of

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

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

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

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All products will be exported to China for pulp making through Bloom�ield (Xingtai) Specialty Paper Co. Ltd. that supplies pulps to paper mills in China and other parts of the world.

Minister Abuamri Taddik of the Ministry of Trade, Investments and Trade (MTIT-BARMM) said the region has developed an abaca industry roadmap focused on Lanao del Sur envisioned to maximize the potential of the areas, empower the labor force through good agricultural practices and alleviate the

lives of its constituents.

Abaca is known worldwide as the “Manila Hemp”, with the Philippines as top producer and exporter.

The abaca �iber is considered the strongest of natural �ibers. It is three times stronger than cotton.

Based on the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority 2018 data, BARMM is among the top �ive abaca producing regions in the Philippines contributing 10.07 percent of the country’s total abaca production. Lanao del Sur is second to Sulu in abaca

production in BARMM and ranks eighth in the country.

The province has an approximate 5,621 hectares with an average yield of 0.69 metric tons per hectare of abaca production.

As a new investment, HK FSH is quali�ied to avail of �iscal and non-�iscal incentives from the regional government such as income tax holidays (ITH), duty-free importation on capital equipment and other applicable incentives upon the start of the project’s commercial operation.

(PNA)

cia, whose wards emerged with two gold and two silver medals the last time the country hosted the Games in 2005.

“We had a training camp and we hired foreign coaches. We had a good preparation for the SEA Games and the athletes are ready. We just have to keep our �ingers crossed and hope for the best.”

Garcia said the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) and the Philippine Sports

Commission (PSC) had been helping them in their preparation.

Although she refused to divulge the extent of the support, she said that it’s already enough to help them in their quest for glory.

“We’re thankful to Pagcor and PSC for supporting our training and preparation,” she said. “They have been very supportive.”

Leading the charge will be Sean Micha Aranar and Ana Leonila in standard and Michael Angelo Mar-

quez and Stephanie Sabalo for Latin.

Cebu-based dancers Wibert Aunzo and Pearl Marie Caneda will also vie in Latin event while Mark Jayson Gayon and Marie Joy Renigen (standard) and Yer Lord Ilyum Gabriel and Alyanna Talam (breakdancing) round up the team.

They will compete in three dance events while the supporting tandem dances in two events in the competition that starts on 30 November in Clark.

and shot 39.4 percent from the �ield, including 12 of 45 (26.7 percent) from 3-point range. Daniel Theis collected 14 rebounds, six assists and three steals for the Celtics.

An acrobatic driving hoop by Smart gave Boston a 94-87 lead with 2:21

remaining in regulation before the Clippers rattled off 10 straight points.

Beverley buried a corner 3-pointer, and Montrezl Harrell scored on the inside to bring Los Angeles within two with 1:37 left.

Williams connected on a go-ahead 3-pointer with

31.7 seconds left and added two free throws 11 seconds later to give the Clippers a 97-94 lead.

Tatum answered by draining a 3-pointer to tie it with 13.1 seconds remaining. Leonard missed a potential winning 3-pointer as time expired.

PH... FROM11

KAHWI... FROM11

NOT DONE YET A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO ogy (MCT) Navigators at International School of 6:00 pm.

Aeronautics and TechnolAt 7:00pm, the un- ogy (AISAT) (1-1), Atebeaten University of Min- neo de Davao University danao (UM) Wildcats Knights (1-2), Mannywill Pacquiao(Addu) says evenBlue at 40, he is not finished yet. stake its clean slate against BCD (0-1), UM Penaplata DMMA College of South- (0-1), and Rizal Memoern Philippines (DMMAC- rial Colleges (RMC) SP) Mariners to wrap up Bulldogs (0-2).

Saturday's quadruple header sponsored by The

EDGE EDGEDAVAO DAVAO 14 12 10 EDGEDAVAO

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(CSL) Escandor Cup resumes at the Davao City Recreation Center. Escandor Cup/CSL photo VOL.11 VOL.12 ISSUE 241 ISSUE • SUNDAY-MONDAY, 6VOL.12 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, MARCH 24-25, 17-18, ISSUE 51 •FEBRUARY TUESDAY, 21,2019 2019 VOL.12 ISSUE 45 • SUNDAYMONDAY, MAYMAY 12 -13,

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BIKE WEDNESDAY. Arcadia Fitness Gym holds its weekly Group Cycle class on Wednesdays. Handled by its battery of expert coaches, the bike class uses the state-of-the-art Technogym trainer cycles.

PSC vows to purge NSAs

By ADAM B. MORRELL

T

he Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) plans to cleanse the National Sports Association (NSA)s and will improve its services for the coaches and athletes by January 2020.

“Naay nag report sa akoang of�ice na naay sexual abuse, naay pangayuan ug kwarta ilahang allowance ug award, ug naay (threatened) na tanggalon, all of these are in place with the PSC, and I will hold the NSAs responsible for this,” PSC Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez himself told Davao media on Wednesday at the Yellow

Fin Tuna Ecoland Branch.

The PSC’s move in cleansing the NSAs was urged by reports that there are abuse in a form of sexual harassment, extortion and threat from the coaches in various sports governing bodies.

Amid this unfortunate events, Ramirez vowed to stand by the athletes. “The existence of my of�ice is to stand by the athletes.”

Ramirez stressed that

by January 2020, the PSC will be �irm in scrutinizing misconducts and disputes in the NSAs. “If dili maayo ang conduct sa NSA dili makad-

awat ug budget, if no liquidation no reimbursement, and if there’s NSA disputes, no funding,” Ramirez emphasized.

In a different note, Ramirez vowed to hire Filipino full time coaches who will be regularly compensated with USD1,500 to USD2,000 a month also by January 2020.

The chairman also promised to increase the meal allowance of the athletes from P5,000 to P25,000 a month.

He said they also rehabilitated sports facilities in Philsports Complex in Pasig, and Rizal Memorial

Stadium.

“By January murag brand new nana sila. We installed three �loors of Medical Scienti�ic Services in Ultra and in Rizal, and rehabilitated the track oval, and the Olympic standard swimming pool,” Ramirez shared.

The Philipine Sports Institute (PSI), which was established by the commission to cover the grassroots development program, is continuously working in different provinces.

“Pag mahuman ang Duterte administration klaro ang grassroots sports,” he added.

PH dancesports aims 13 gold medal sweep in SEAG

E

xpect dancesport to turn into a gold mine when the country competes in the 30th Southeast Asian Games.

Dancesport Council of the Philippines president Becky Garcia said their goal is to sweep all 13 events in a bid to help Team Philippines reclaim its glory in the prestigious biennial meet set from 30 November to 11 December.

Garcia said they hired two foreign coaches to help them polish their skills.

Alina Novak of Poland and Alexander Melnikov of Russia were in the country three weeks ago to train Filipino dancers in the Latin and Standard events, respectively.

L

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William "Butch" Ramirez holds the schedule of games for the 32nd SEA Games during a news conference in Davao City on Wednesday where he discussed the details

of the Senate budget hearing and the update on the preparation for the biggest sporting event in Southeast Asia which will be hosted by the Philippines. Lean Daval Jr

ou Williams scored 27 points, and Paul George added 25 points and eight assists to help the Los Angeles Clippers notch an intense 107-104 overtime victory over the visiting Boston Celtics on Wednesday night.

Kawhi Leonard returned from a three-game absence caused by a knee injury to score 17 points on 7-of-20 shooting. Patrick Beverley corralled a career-best 16 rebounds to go along with 14 points and seven assists, and JaMychal Green added 10 points as Los Angeles won its third straight game.

Jayson Tatum scored a season-best 30 points for Boston. Marcus Smart recorded 15 points and eight assists, Brad Wanamaker added 14 points, and Kemba Walker had 13 points and nine rebounds, shooting just 4-for-17 from the �ield.

Nowak is a veteran dancer who won the Adult Latin Division of the World Championship while Melnikov is a seasoned mentor who preaches the ideals of balance, coordination and movement.

Aside from learning at the feet of foreign coaches, the Filipino dancers also trained in Italy last month, where they attended a dance camp.

Garcia said she’s not making any promises, but they are looking for a sweep in the biggest, most prestigious multi-sport tourney in the region.

“I don’t want to predict but if we can go for a sweep, we’ll do it,” said Gar-

PH, P9

The contest marked the �irst time George and Leonard played together since both joined the Clippers in the offseason. Wednesday's game was George's fourth of the campaign.

The Clippers led by �ive points nearly two minutes into the overtime before Boston pulled within two.

Beverley drilled a 3-pointer to make it 107-102 with 43.9 seconds remaining before Tatum's dunk pulled Boston within three with 34.7 seconds left.

Tatum missed a tying 3-point attempt with 2.6 seconds left, and Leonard blocked Walker's last-gasp 3-point attempt just before time expired.

Los Angeles shot 41.9 percent from the �ield and was 17 of 45 (37.8 percent) from 3-point range while committing 23 turnovers.

Boston had 18 miscues

KAHWI, P9

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