Edge Davao Volume 12 Issue 29 | Thursday-Saturday, April 18-20, 2019

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Tight security checks at Davao City bus terminal

By ADAM B. MORRELL LENTEN FAVORITE. Wary of the high demand for Holy Week favorite snack food ‘binignit’, a vendor sells colorful sago pearls at a roadside makeshift stall at Bankerohan Public Market in Davao City on Wednesday. Sago pearl is one of the main ingredients of the traditional taro-based dish. Lean Daval Jr

WANDER IN HANOI WITH PAL ►INDULGE A1

ATTY. ANTONIO B. PARTOZA JR: CREATING A NAME FOR DAVAO

►GAME CHANGER P8

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Davao City mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio leads the

Ng Pagbabago Grand Rally in Tagum City xpect tight security checksHugpong when travelling during which drew a massive crowd of 65,000. CIO the Holy Week break.

Strict security be implemented at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) with the expected high volume of bus passengers. This was announced by DCOTT head Aisa Usop on Wednesday, April 17 during the AFP-PNP Press Corps Media Brie�ing held at the Royal Mandaya Hotel.

Usop said normally there are 650 to 700 bus trips a day which is equivalent to 35,000 to 40,000 passengers. However, during peak seasons such as Lent, the number of bus passengers usually bloats to almost a hundred percent.

“Pag peak season, we recorded around 1,000 to 1,200 bus trips

which is equivalent to over 75,000 passengers. But based on our experience, naga increase jud ang pasahero each year so we expect around 1,500 bus trips starting on Thursday,” Usop said.

Thus, Usop appealed to all bus passengers of DCOTT to cooperate with the security measures they have implemented together with the Task Force (TF) Davao and Davao City Police Of�ice (DCPO).

“Hangyo lang unta namo na kung mahimo dili lang mag high-blood, kay expect jud mo ug tight inspection gikan sa atoang mga TF Davao.

Ang mga bagahe, naay times na gina

HIGH, P9

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

Sara fails to mention Koko in Davao Sur rally

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CALVARY HILL. A young boy curiously checks out the statue of Jesus Christ on the cross at St. Francis Xavier Parish’s Calvary Hill in Barangay Tibungco, Davao City on Holy Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr.

DPWH 11 to ease traffic in Ulas area W

ith the repair of Talomo Bridge and the on-going construction of the Davao City Coastal Road, the Department of Public Works and Highways Region XI (DPWH-XI) is looking at decongesting traf�ic in Davao City’s Ulas area with the completion of these projects.

DPWH-XI Chief information of�icer Dean Ortiz said that the Talomo Bridge II rehabilitation will pave the way for the expansion of the bridge into six lanes.

“Currently we would just be replacing girders then put new pavement, but the good thing is, the project would be a preparation for the eventual widening of the bridge into six lanes with separate funding,” Ortiz said.

He said, originally the bridge widening project was to be implemented in 2016 but was deferred as they are still preparing al-

ternative detour routes like the Talomo-Puan bypass road.

“However in 2018 we noticed de�lections in the bridge, where the girders were slightly bent, we decided to proceed with the repairs,” Ortiz said.

Aside from the Talomo-Puan bypass road, they also put bailey bridges, one beside the repaired bridge while the other one located along Taal Road, which bisects a residential community parallel to the Talomo Bridge.

The Taal Road bailey bridge opens another al-

ternative route for vehicles which will bypass the congested section of MacArthur Highway in Ulas.

Ortiz said with DPWH securing the road rightof-way (RROW) which enabled the construction of the Taal Road bailey bridge, they are proposing for the construction of a permanent bridge to replace the bailey.

“Since we acquired the RROW, why not make the most of it, which would be another option for motorists to take,” Ortiz said.

Aside from bridge expansion and new alternative routes, the DPWH-XI is anticipating that the Davao City Coastal Road will decongest the traf�ic in the area once the Punta Dumalag section is opened.

For the �ive packages in the 2017 project they are already at 90% comple-

tion, while 2018 projects are at 35%. This include the esplanade and seven road packages being implemented.

Ortiz said there are plans to open the coastal road once it reaches the end of the Talomo section along Talomo Beach and this would be complemented by the bridge along Taal Road.

“We will really appreciate the coastal road once it crosses Punta Dumalag, maybe by 2020 we would be able to reach Punta Dumalag and there it would really decongest the traf�ic along the southern part of Davao City,” Ortiz said.

He said the projects is in line with the direction of DPWH-XI to create more access for people going to different destinations in the city and the region.

(PIA/RG Alama)

Public safety 'top priority' this Lenten season: Palace

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alacañang on Tuesday said public safety will be government's top priority this Lenten season.

"Concerned government agencies have been placed on a heightened alert status to ensure the safety and security of all.

Public safety continues to be our top priority.

These include additional security deployments in different areas of convergence, such as bus terminals, airports, seaports, vital government and private installations, churches, malls, and other public recreation areas," said Presidential

Spokesperson Salvador Panelo in a statement.

Panelo said the Philippine National Police already deployed 11,600 policemen in Metro Manila and set up more than 4,500 assistance desks across the country.

He added the Department of Transportation already launched its Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa 2019 "to provide a convenient and safe commuting experience for all passengers".

He added the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority deployed around 1,500

traf�ic personnel to assist travelers during the week-long break.

Panelo called on the public for cooperation in the conduct of safety checks and security checkpoints, compliance with traf�ic regulations and continued maintenance of complete situational awareness of their surroundings.

"We also urge the public to immediately report suspicious characters and unattended materials such as packages, bags and other objects that are out of place to proper authorities," he said.

Panelo hoped for a "solemn, peaceful, and renewing break" and "divinely cleansing and spiritually ful�illing days" this Holy Week.

"Let us also remember that Lent is a time for re�lection. It is a genuine message of solidarity to everyone regardless of the differences in our af�iliation or denomination. May the life of sacri�ice and humility that Jesus Christ had lived serve as an inspiration to us all so that we may continue to help each other especially in times of need and adversity," he said. (PNA)

avao City’s Mayor Sara Duterte endorsed the senatorial bets of Hupong ng Pagbabago (HNP) party during the provincial rally at Rizal Park here but failed to mention former Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, the President of the Partido ng Demokratikong Pilipino (PDP) who is seeking a second term.

“Apparently nakalimtan na” (apparently she forgot), Jefry Tupas, Davao City Information Of�icer told MindaNews. He said sometimes the names of candidates are inadvertently not mentioned, especially when they are not in the sorties.

Pimentel was not in the sortie and did not send a representative.

The HNP, a regional party founded by Mayor Duterte is endorsing 13 candidates, including Pimentel, for the 12 Senate seats up for election on May 13.

In her 31-minute speech, the Presidential daughter endorsed 12 senatorial candidates in this order: former Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, former Philippine National Police Director-General Ronald dela Rosa, former Presidential Adviser Francis Tolentino, reelectionist senator Sonny Angara, returning senator Pia Cayetano, reelectionist senator JV Ejercito, returning Senator Jinggoy Estra-

da, Maguindanao 2nd district Rep. Zajid “Dong” Mangudadatu, Ilocos Norte Governor Imee Marcos, journalist Jiggy Manicad, returning senator Bong Revilla and reelectionist senator Cynthia Villar.

Only Revilla and Manicad were present at the afternoon rally attended by candidates for the provincial, city and municipal posts, and their supporters from the Digos City and nine towns. Tolentino, Estrada, Mangudadatu sent representatives. Angara’s and Dela Rosa’s representatives arrived late, after Mayor Duterte had delivered her speech.

In endorsing her senatorial candidates, Mayor Duterte gave a brief description of each followed by their proposed “balaod para kay President Duterte” (law for President Duterte) although in some instances the laws previously passed by the former senators she mentioned as “balaod para kay President Duterte” like Estrada’s Kasambahay law.

Mayor Duterte added, after endorsing Villar that the President has another candidate – Inday Sara (the mayor’s nickname).

The incumbent Davao City mayor is seeking reelection in the May polls.

She served as Vice Mayor to her father from 2007 to 2010 and was mayor from 2010 to 2013 with her father as vice mayor. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

Samal visitors urged: dispose waste properly

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ourists visiting Samal Island for the Holy Week have been reminded to observe proper waste disposal to avoid harming marine life, the island city’s tourism of�icer Jennifer Carriaga said on Tuesday.

In an interview, Carriaga said the number of visitors would normally spike during the Holy Week as most of them would want to spend their long vacation with families in the island’s beaches since April 18 (Maundy Thursday) and April 19 (Good Friday) are regular holidays.

The Holy Week started with the celebration of Palm Sunday last April 14 and will culminate on Easter Sunday.

“We appeal to the tourists to bring their garbage with them, most especially single-use plastics. Please do not throw your wastes into the sea,” she said.

Plenty of wastes were recovered from Samal, one of Davao Region’s top tourism destinations, during the Holy Week in 2018, according to Carriaga.

Plastic wastes thrown into the sea were blamed for the deaths of the whales recovered on the shores of the Davao Region.

The most recent was a juvenile Cuvier’s beaked whale that died on

March 16, 2019, a day after beaching in Barangay Cadunan, Mabini town in Compostela Valley province.

American marine biologist Darrel Blatchley, who is also president of D’ Bone Collector Museum Inc., said at least 40 kilos of assorted plastics were recovered from the stomach of the 15.4-foot whale.

Carriaga said the tourism of�ice of Samal recorded a total of 1.3 million visitors last year.

She said the local government anticipated at least 6,000 daily tourists to visit the island starting Wednesday, prompting the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, Air Force, local police and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Of�ice to devise a security plan called “Oplan Semana Santa” to ensure the safety of tourists.

She said the local government had already set up tourist assistance desks to attend to the concerns of the visitors.

Samal has a total of 85 resorts, which are fully booked during the Holy Week, she said.

“Many of the walkin visitors would �ind it hard to look for available rooms as the resorts are already fully booked,” she said. (Antonio L. Colina IV/ MindaNews)

VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

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VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

Davao City, DOH open 2 more Botika ng Bayan

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CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY. Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Civil-Military Operations Major General Antonio Parlade Jr calls on the militant bloc in the House of Representatives to participate in the ongoing Congressional inquiry on Salugpungan schools in Surigao and Davao Region as the group is persistently

denying that the schools are being ran by the Communist Party of the Philippines and New People’s Army (CPP-NPA). Parlade has made the call during AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr

he Davao City government in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) XI, opened two new Botika ng Bayan outlets to accommodate the medicine needs of more Dabawenyos.

The new Botika ng Bayan outlets are located in the District Health Centers of Toril and Bunawan, providing free and accesible medicines for indigent residents.

The establishment of the two outlets had brought to seven the number of Botika ng Bayan in the city.

The previous ones were put up in the Lingap Center at the Southern Philippines Medical Center, the City Health Of�ice, and Calinan, Toril and Bunawan District Health Centers.

Dr. Josephine Villafuerte, the head of the City Health Of�ice (CHO), said the city government

is aiming more Botika ng Bayan outlets in the other districts.

“We are looking forward to have this in every district to accommodate the needs of Dabawenyos in terms of medicines,” Villafuerte said.

She said the patients could just go to the Botika ng Bayan, present their prescriptions and get their medicines without paying a single centavo.

“If it is for maintenance they can have medicines good for a month. If it’s antibiotics we can give them a supply that will be good for a week,” she added.

In agreement with the city, the DOH will take care of the stocks of the Botika ng Bayan for three years.

After the said period, the city government will be responsible on replenishing the stocks of medicines.

Health is one of the 10 priority agenda of Mayor Inday Sara Duterte. CIO

mmigration of�icers will remain on heightened alert until April 23 as passenger surge is expected, especially at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) by Wednesday and Thursday.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Tuesday, Immigration Port Operations Division chief, Grifton Medina, said immigration of�icers are urged to be more vigilant and prepared for the high volume of passengers this Holy Week.

"We do not want persons of interest or terrorists to take advantage of the season. We urged our of�icers to be more vigi-

lant both at the arrival and departure areas. Also, the volume of passengers that we're having this season is more than usual," he said.

Medina said the Bureau of Immigration (BI) has ensured that there would always be an of�icer to man the immigration counters.

"We call this the 'rapid response mechanism'.

There is always somebody to man the counters if ever the need arises," he noted.

He said that last Sunday and Monday, the immigration counters at NAIA had to deal with around 8,900 passengers in about two hours.

"We are expecting this

still on heightened alert; Return to Marawi ground zero BIprojects surge of passengers set between July and Nov 2019 I

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esidents displaced from Marawi’s Ground Zero since the 2017 siege will be able to return to their villages, in batches between July and November, to repair or rebuild their homes or shops, Housing Secretary and Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) chair Eduardo del Rosario said.

Del Rosario announced what he descried as the “�inal timetable’’ for the rehabilitation of Ground Zero or the Most Affected Area (MAA) during a press conference morning of April 12 in Marawi City.

A video recording of the press brie�ing can be found in the TFBM’s FB page.

Last month, Del Rosa-

rio gave a different timetable. At the consultation and public hearing of the House Sub-Committee on Marawi Rehabiliation on March 18-19 and March 20, respectively, he announced that Ground Zero residents can return to their villages by September 2019 as the clearing of unexploded ordnance

(UXOs) and demolition of structurally unsound buildings would be completed by August 30 but those in the “least affected areas” of the MAA can start returning by July.

On April 12, Del Rosario said the clearing of UXOs will be done by August 30 and the demolition of damaged structures completed by November 30.

At the end of November 30, “naka-map na po ang lahat ng mga lote at lahat ng owners ng buildings dito sa MAA,” he said.

He said the rehabilitation they are doing is “slow

Fire incidents in ComVal double in First Quarter N ABUNTURAN, Compostela Valley, April 17 (PIA) - Fire incidents in Compostela Valley province were more than twice the number for the �irst period of 2019 as compared to the same period last year.

Report from Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) shows that there are a total of 36 �ire incidents in the province from January to March 2019; while only 16 were noted at the same period last year.

The report also stated that most of the incidents happened on the month of March with 25 cases, while the months of January and February

have only 4 and 7, respectively.

Fire Chief Inspector Randolf Arbutante attributed the incidents to electrical short circuits, overloading of electrical system and spontaneous combustion caused by the dry season.

He said that heat brought by the Summer Season and El Nino phenomenon contributed also to the increase as �ive grass �ires incidents occured in Compostela and Nabunturan, just for the month of March only.

The highest �ire incidents for the quarter was recorded in the town of Mabini with 7

cases, followed by Maco with 6, and Compostela and Nabunturan, both with 5 cases.

The report also noted that no lives were spared during the incidents, however a total of more than PhP 7-million were damaged.

Chief Inspector Arbutante said that �ire incidents occur even though the BFP are constantly conducting �ire safety awareness campaign across the province.

Among the activities in the �ire-prevention campaign were fora, seminars and rekoreda in the municipalities. (PIA 11 DabaweNEWS, Michael Uy)

but sure,” emphasizing that the safety of all residents must be ensured.

“I assure you by November 30, andito na and tapos na ang ating debris management (debris management will be completed),” he said.

He appealed to residents for “patience, understanding and support” to hasten the rehabilitation.

Sked for return Ground Zero, the former main battle area between government forces and the Islamic State-inspired Maute Group and its allies, comprises 24 ba-

RETURN, P9

BI, P9

Firemen from Pantukan Fire Station responded to a fire incident in a motorshop at Barangay Bongabong, Pantukan last March 19. (Photo courtesy of Pantukab Fire Station)

VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

National budget enactment to spur economic growth

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inance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III hailed the signing into law of the PHP3.7-trillion 2019 national budget, citing its importance towards attaining sustained growth of the Philippine economy.

“We fully support the President in his desire to focus national expenditure on projects and activities that redound to the bene�it of all Filipinos and stimulate the growth of the economy providing job and income opportunity for the least advantaged,” he said in a message to journalists Monday night.

President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed the 2019 General Appropriations Act (GAA) Monday but vetoed PHP95.3 billion under the budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo told Palace reporters the signing of the GAA clearly shows the priorities of the current government.

“The 2019 GAA is the

re�lection of the Administration’s vision of genuine change for the Philippines, where effective and ef�icient delivery of programs, projects and public services for our people will be its hallmark,” he said.

Relatively, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea said the President vetoed PHP95.3-billion worth of appropriations because these are “not part of the President’s priority projects.”

“The President, among others, vetoed 95.3 billion pesos items of appropriations in the Details of DPWH Programs/Projects, which are not within the programmed priorities,” he added.

Earlier, Finance of�icials said the delay in the approval of this year’s national budget resulted in the non-disbursement of about PHP43.7 billion intended for public goods and services as of last February.

Amid the reenact-

2019, P8

DBP launches LINIS program

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he Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) has launched a new �inancing facility aimed at assisting private �irms and public entities including local government units (LGUs) and water districts in the development of water treatment and sanitation facilities to comply with existing environmental regulations, a senior of�icial said.

DBP president and chief executive of�icer Emmanuel G. Herbosa said DBP’s Lending Initiatives for Sanitation (LINIS) program is the bank’s contribution to the government’s efforts to achieve universal access to sanitation by increasing the compliance of establish-

ments with relevant laws such as Republic Act No. 9275 or the Clean Water Act of 2004 and Presidential Directive No. 2018-0081.

“The DBP LINIS program is intended to help private companies, water districts, cooperatives, and LGUs comply with environmental rules particularly in the establishment of waste water treatment facilities,” Herbosa said. “We are one with government in ensuring water quality in all parts of the country.”

DBP is the eighth largest bank in the country and provides loans to strategic sectors of the economy including the environment.

The bank �inanced sever-

DBP, P8

5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

HOLY WEEK EXODUS. Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) head Aisa Usop says the number of province bound passengers has increased by 100 percent this Lenten Season, from the usual 6,000 to 12,000 a day. Usop has advised the passengers during AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday to come to DCOTT early, be patient and stay alert. Lean Daval Jr

Labor Day jobs, business fair set

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obs and business opportunities await everyone on May 1-2, 2019 at the Gaisano Mall of Davao. With the theme, “Pagpupugay sa Manggagawang Pilipino”, the conduct of “Trabaho, Negosyo at Kabuhayan (TNK) Job and Business Fair” will be facilitated by the partnership of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) XI, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) XI, Gaisano Mall of Davao, ABSCBN Broadcasting Corp., People’s Television Network (PTV) and Interface Computer College, and the Public Employment Service Of�ice (PESO) of Davao City.

Partial data from the employment unit of DOLE XI showed that there are 59 (Local) and

20 (Overseas) employers that will participate in the job fair which will offer 3,045 local job va-

cancies and 3,563 overseas job vacancies.

Of the 6,608 total job vacancies, Top 10 for overseas are Nurses (ICU, NICU, PICU, General Nurses & Clinic Nurses), Cleaners, Teacher Assistants, Waiters/ Waitresses, Female OnCall Cleaners, Sales Associates, Welders, Service Crew, Household Service Workers and Manicurists/Pedicurists while Top 10 for local are Carpenters, Masons, Production Crew, Customer Service Rep-

Lopez sees improvement in PH's ease of doing business ranking

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For Davao City’s next source of water. Various initiatives are currently being done to protect and conserve the Panigan-Tamugan Watershed where Davao City’s water will be sourced through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP).

One initiative led by the project’s engineering, procurement, and construction contractor, J.V. Angeles Construction Corporation (JVACC) is the Tamugan River Clean-Up Drive participated by 59 volunteers from JVACC, Apo Agua Infrastructura,

Inc. and the barangay. Cans, bottles, cellophanes, clothes, and plastic wrappers were collected during the activity held in Brgy. Tawantawan during the World Water Day last March 22. Apo Agua and its project partners, JVACC and the Davao City Water District, as well as the City Government of Davao and the Watershed Management Council, are committed to protect and conserve the city’s next source of drinking water. The DCBWSP’s start of operations is targeted on the first half of 2021.

resentatives, Service Crew, Sales Associates/ Clerks/Promo, Field Collection Of�icers, Mechanics, Drivers and Electricians.

Marlito D. Ayala, DOLE XI Regional Focal on Employment said, “Aside from the May 1-2 job fair and business opportunities schedule, there is a mini job fair on April 26 to 30 at the same venue for jobseekers who want to apply earlier.” /By Eduardo P. Monreal, DOLE RO XI LCO-Designate.

rade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez expressed optimism that the country’s ease of doing business score will show marked improvement this year since 33 out of the 43 speci�ied areas needing reforms have already been achieved.

In an interview with journalists on Tuesday, Lopez identi�ied some of these areas as the faster release of business permits; facilitation with utility companies, such as the Manila Electric Company (Meralco), Manila Water, and Maynilad Water; amendment of the Corporation Code to remove the minimum paid-in capital; and institutionalization of the Personal Property Security law.

These measures are seen to help improve the country’s ranking to between 89 and 94, based on the simulation activities, he said.

Lopez said the Philippine government will sub-

mit to the World Bank (WB) a report on the country's progress during the Ease of Doing Business survey validation early next month.

“Now, as to whether these will be credited, we’re con�ident that over 20 will be credited since this means that these are being implemented for a long time now,” he said.

Lopez explained that local government units (LGUs) have agreed to release the necessary permits requested by businessmen within three days after the �iling of application.

Some LGUs, such as Quezon City and the cities of Valenzuela, Batangas, and San Fernando, as well as in Ormoc, are able to do this procedure within 30 minutes since they have automated their processes, he said.

The trade chief said they have challenged LGU of�icials around the country to streamline their processes,

LOPEZ, P8

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

EDITORIAL What censorship?

Yet again, groups outside this country are acting as if they know better what the country’s situation is.

The latest of this irritating intrusion is the pronouncement of groups of foreign journalists who think they know better about press freedom in the Philippines.

The report by representatives of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) from the US and Alliance for Journalists Freedom (AJF) from Australia is saying that there is “increasing levels of intimidation” against Filipino journalists and “shrinking space for the free press in the country.” Obviously, this report is based predominantly on the case of a particular entity whose nature of existence or business is con�licting. According to the group, the cases against online news site Rappler and its chief editor, Maria Ressa, were a form of “formal and informal pressure on journalists... that appear to be politically

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NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO Social Media Manager/Lifestyle KENNETH IRVING K. ONG MEGHANN STA. INES NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN Lifestyle

ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. CHA MONFORTE Correspondent

LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. DR. MAURO L. PUYOD ADAM B. MORRELL Photography Cartoonist Reporter Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. BORBONHENRYLITO • MARY ANN “ADI”• GREGORIO C. QUISIDO LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NIKKI ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY Columnists: D. TACIO G.•DELIGERO • JOHN CARLO TRIA • VIDAGOTIANSE-TAN MIA S. VALVERDE•• NICASIO FRED C. LUMBA • ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO• DENNIS “GICO” R. G.GORECHO DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ MUJAHID NAVARRA • HAROLD CAVITE

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

motivated” and which “created a sense of fear throughout the media industry, leading to self-censorship.”

Ressa’s case is one involving a violation of our Securities Code and such other cases such as tax evasion and anti-dummy charges while her cyber libel case was initiated by a private individual, not by the government.

Branding the country’s media situation as being harassed either formally or informally cannot and should not be solely based on a particular personality and entity. Ressa’s case should not be singled out. It cannot be overemphasized here that cases against journalists are part of the risks of the trade.

As in any profession, there are limits to one’s practice particulary existing laws on libel aside from the enshrined ethics that come with media practice.

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

GENERALDE SANTOS MANILA MARKETING OFFICE CAGAYAN OROCITY MARKETING OFFICE MARKETING OFFICE RICHARD C. EBONA LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager EDMUND D. RENDON Product Development officer Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Marketing Specialist Address: No. 18 Purok 4B, Madelo Street, Lower Bicutan, Taguig City General Santos Cagayan de Oro CityCity Mobile number: +63 947 265 2969(smart); +63 916 955 8559(globe) (Smart) 09382022120 Tel: Mobile: (088) 852-4894

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VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

VANTAGE POINTS

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JOHN CARLO B. TRIA MY TWO CENTS’

REMITTANCES UP BUT FOR HOW LONG? Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Remittances, along with Business Process Outsourcing income represent a direct injection of foreign exchange into the country. Taken together they represent almost 50 billion dollars or a fourth of our total GDP over the last few years.

This is signi�icant because they represent incomes that are made outside the country, with minimal �inancial cost or input from local sources, generatina clear net income.

This tap of direct foreign money is the envy of

many countries, since it can continue providing the incone despite calamities, unrest or similar turmoil in the home country. Imagine offshore investments that keep generating revenue even when your local economy is down.

Of course there are social costs especially for families. Thankfully, nowadays technology provides a platform for constant family communication that was bsent in previous years.

That said, data from the Bangko Sentral shows that remittances from overseas Filipinos (OFs)

amounted to USD2.56 billion in February 2019, higher by 1.2 percent from USD2.53 billion in February 2018.This brings cumulative remittances for the �irst two months of the year to USD5.30 billion, representing a 2.3 percent year-on-year growth.

At the same time, cash remittances coursed through banks posted a 1.5 percent growth to USD2.30 billion in February 2019 from USD2.27 billion last year. This generates i cone for local banks.

For the �irst two months of 2019, cash remittances amounted to

USD4.78 billion, an increase of 3.0 percent compared to the USD4.65 billion level in the same period last year.

By country source, the United States registered the highest share of overall remittances for the period at 35.5 percent. It was followed by Saudi Arabia, Singapore, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Japan, Canada, Qatar, Hong Kong, and Germany.

The combined remittances from these countries accounted for 77.3 percent of total cash remittances for January to February 2019.

The continued uptick in these �igures bode well for the economy that keeps growing at the 6% level. This bouys the banking sector and keeps our foreign exchange rates balanced as we take in more foreign direct investments and debt to fund the ambitious build build build program.

Naturally, the increase in local opportunities as the economy grows will absorb some OFWs but not all. In the coming years, will we see a decrease in overseas deployments and a reduction on OFW remittances?

DENNIS R. GORECHO PINOY MARINO RIGHTS

ANGKLA’S BILL IN DELAYING PAYMENT OF AWARD RESURRECTED IN MAGNA CARTA “Aanhin pa ang damo kung patay na ang kabayo.”

The manning agencies resurrected in the proposed Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers a bill earlier �iled by ANGKLA Partylist wherein the proceeds of execution shall be deposited in an escrow account with an escrow agent designated by the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) and the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB).

Earlier �iled as House Bill No. 5430 on February 2015 during the 16th Congress, the proposed provision in essence aimed to amend the labor code that will have signi�icant impact on labor claims governing the immediately “�inal and executory” nature of decisions issued by NLRC / NCMB. The seafarer will wait for longer years before they receive the NLRC/ NCMB award, mostly for cases involving monetary claims for disability and death bene�its, illegal dismissal as well as unpaid or underpayment of salaries and wages.

Because of the POEA contract’s work-related clause applied to claiming bene�its for deaths, illnesses and injuries, the claims process has become more litigious, allowing employers to question how the seafarers’ fate and misfortunes are work-related.

As the claims process has become more litigious, it also implies that seafarers and their families will have to spend a lot of money pursuing their claims and will have to wait for a long period of time given the speed of case decisions in the country.

When the seafarers’ claims get approved at the arbiter level of the NLRC, employers are more inclined to bring the cases up to the Commission level, and even all the way to the Court of Appeals or Supreme Court rather than to submit to the decision given at the arbiter level.

The manning agencies echoed ANGKLA’s rationale for the earlier Bill allegedly to ensure the restitution of monetary awards in case the appropriate

appellate court annuls or partially or totally reverses the monetary judgment award.

The manning agencies pointed out that the provision is proper as the problem of the immediately “�inal and executory” nature of decisions gains greater relevance considering the following factors: (a) the complainant will insist on the execution of the NLRC/ NCMB decision despite the appeal; (b) even if the appellate courts overturn or modify the NLRC / NCMB decision, there is little hope of recovering anything through restitution; (c) more legal costs and expenses will be incurred in pursuing the case through the appellate courts and in applying for restitution of the judgment award.

However, the manning agencies disregarded the fact that in cases of seafarers with medical conditions, some incur huge debts to sustain their medication while others die before the decision by the Supreme Court is released forcing the seafarers into

accepting an ex-gratia, miniscule amount. Companies have the legal remedies to recover the amount, but one cannot reclaim the life of the deceased claimant.

If passed into law with said provision, the Magna Carta will partake of the nature of class legislation because it singles out seafarer claims from other labor claims, both local and overseas.

The requirement that classi�ication must be based on substantial distinctions has not been complied with. There lies no substantial distinction between the claims a seafarer and any other laborers.

The provision makes a rash generalization that cases �iled by seafarers’ lawyers are merely after �inancial gain, and not to protect the seafarer’s rights, all based on an unsubstantiated and likewise unfair generalization to the effect that they are ambulance chasers.

The proposed provision is unduly oppressive, unreasonable, and is re-

pugnant to the Constitution. It undermines the mandate of the Constitution to protect the rights of overseas workers and to promote their welfare when it deprive such seafarers an avenue to receive the fruits of his legal battle.

The proposed provision is the reverse of the constitutional mandate and the declared policies of RA No. 8042, as amended by R.A. 100022 as it unreasonably downplays the seafarers’ rights guaranteed by the constitution instead of protecting the rights and promoting their welfare.

In what appears to be a virtuous objective of protecting Filipino seafarers, the inclusion of said escrow provision will go beyond such benevolent objective at the expense of curtailing their rights.

(Atty. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law of�ices. For comments, email info@ sapalovelez.com, or call 09175025808 or 09088665786)

8

EDGEDAVAO

GAME CHANGER

VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

ATTY. ANTONIO B. PARTOZA JR:

CREATING A NAME

FOR DAVAO W

Atty Partoza receiving the Datu Bago award

2019... FROM 5

ed budget, Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) data show that expenditures grew by seven percent in the �irst two months this year to PHP490.7 billion from year-ago’s PHP458.9 billion. Revenues, in turn, totaled PHP458.8 billion, up 10 percent compared

to the PHP417.4 billion in end-February 2018.

The budget de�icit contracted by 23 percent to PHP31.8 billion from PHP41.5 billion in the �irst two months this year.

Delay in the approval of the budget is seen to hit domestic growth, with sever-

al institutions deciding to cut their growth forecasts for the economy this year.

Some economists, however, remain optimistic of a six-percent level growth for the domestic economy given the government’s massive infrastructure program. (PNA)

al water sanitation projects including the Boracay waste water treatment facility of Boracay Island Water Company, Inc., as well as the Paranaque sewerage treatment plant (STP) of Maynilad Water Services, Inc. Under the program, eligible entities can borrow from DBP to �inance septage and sewerage system projects as well as waste water collection, transport, treatment and disposal of target borrowers such as LGUs, water districts, hospitals, service providers, participating �inancial insti-

tutions, cooperatives, and associations.

Herbosa said the program features a cost sharing scheme for septage and sewerage projects of LGUs under the National Sewerage and Septage Management Program (NSSMP), where DBP could �inance up to 100% of the validated total project cost of the LGU counterpart, subject to certain conditionalities.

He said target bene�iciaries for the cost sharing scheme are the 17 highly urbanized cities (HUCs) outside Metro Manila, all non-HUCs, and �irst-class

municipalities.

“For LGUs and water district projects not covered by the NSSMP, the maximum loan amount shall be up to 100% of the validated total project cost,” Herbosa said.

Herbosa said DBP is calling on all of its LGU partners to invest in septage and sewerage projects to bring the project to full fruition.

For more details about the DBP LINIS program, interested entities may visit the DBP website at www. dbp.ph or inquire with the nearest DBP lending center in their area.

with some having already established one-stop shops for this purpose.

“What is critical is getting the �ire inspection safety clearance. If you can fast-track this or require this post registration, then you can really do 30 minutes registration of business permit,” he said.

In 2018, the country’s

ranking fell to 124 out of 190 countries, a slip from its 113th position in the previous year.

However, economic managers questioned the ranking last year after noting that WB used a different scoring system compared to surveys in the past.

Relatively, Lopez said that even if not all the re-

forms are credited by the WB in this year’s survey, “the reforms and the momentum should continue even after the survey, the cut-off.”

“We have to continue the momentum of these reforms so that by the end of the year, moving into next year, we can feel the improvements,” he added. (PNA)

the new Cocolife chief on June 28 last year, or when the MPBL season was already underway.

Davao Occidental won

the said game, with everyone teasing Loon as the "lucky charm".

Loon later assured that he will be back in atten-

dance on Tuesday night, when the best-of-�ive national �inals will shift to the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan City. (PNA)

DBP... FROM 5

LOPEZ... FROM 5

SAN JUAN... FROM 11

hen it was announced that Atty.

Antonio B. Partoza, Jr. – Ony to his friends and peers – was one of the “Datu Bago” awardees this year, no one howl a protest. In fact, most people agree that he was a good choice. “Very deserving,” someone commented.

Currently a trustee of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Atty.

Partoza “is a well-rounded leader who have exempli�ied the Davaoeño values through his various successful engagements as a successful entrepreneur, pioneer agriculturist, civic and religious advocate,” said information form, which the Davao Jaycee Senate submitted to the awards committee.

“He has dedicated his life and times to the propagation and development of Davao City, primarily through his involvement in various levels and sectors of the Davao community,” added the form, which this author obtained.

But that’s going ahead of the story. Perhaps one of the reasons why people approved of his being a Datu Bago awardee is because of his involvement – for 30 years! – in Balay Pasilungan, a private-funded homeless shelter for street children of Davao City.

“These (street children) boys are housed, fed, clothed, sent to school and mentored until they reach a certain age,” the form stated. “After a thorough evaluation and having undergone the value formation program, they are released back to society with minimum to no supervision depending on the result of the post release report.”

This coming May 4, the shelter will celebrate its 30th year, despite all the challenges it has encountered including regular funding. Thanks to the initiatives of Atty. Partoza as its foundation chairman, it is able to secure the much-needed �inancial support from like-minded private individuals, local benefactors, donors and friends.

Thanks to Balay Pasilungan, some of the former “housemates” have become successful individuals. Several of them have graduated from college, others have taken vocational courses. One is now an engineer and another one is a Master Baker who is currently working at Annipie, “These countless success stories have inspired Ony to remain an active citizen of the community and do more in creating genuine positive changes to make Davao City a much better place to live in,” the form said.

Aside from Balay Pasilungan, Atty. Partoza is also

associated with durian, the king of tropical fruits. In fact, he appeared in the cover of the prestigious Agriculture Magazine, which is edited by no less than Zac Sarian, a recipient of Ramon Magsaysay Award (touted to be the Nobel Prize of Asia).

He never thought the fruit that smells like hell but tastes like heaven will bring him some clout and prestige when he ventured into durian farming in 1987. Being the fruit basket of the Philippines, he thought of durian – particularly the “arancillo” variety – as a way of promoting Davao into the world.

“His perseverance to showcase Davao’s pride through the continued production of homegrown Durian has gained the recognition of the agricultural industry,” the form stated. Aside from Agriculture magazine, he was featured in various local and national papers and even the in�light magazine of SilkAir. As the Partoza Durian Farm became a byword among durian connoisseurs of Davao City, he also became the toast of television. He was featured in TV programs such as Living Asia and Balitang Europe.

What makes his durian fruits unique is that they are taken from trees that are grown organically. As one of the pioneering advocates of natural farming, he uses indigenous materials from the farm as fertilizer instead of relying on expensive commercial chemical fertilizer. The success of his venture made him to earn the sobriquet, Durian King of Davao.

Being a farmer and entrepreneur, he gets involved in some organizations. He was elected as president of Mindanao Fruit Industry Development Council, which he served for 12 years. During his leadership, several conferences on transferring technologies to farmers and market-matching activities for farmers in different provinces in Mindanao were conducted.

The fruit council has a membership of 35 farmers associations and cooperatives all over Mindanao. “Ony’s unwavering commitment to promote Davao City thru the continued propagation of Durian and establishment of his other homegrown businesses are prime exempli�ications of the value he shares as a true Davaoeño by heart and by deed,” the form said.

As the durian farm zoomed, he and his equally hardworking wife Nelia established Annipie Bakery Café at the entrance of Nova Tierra Subdivision in Lanang. (Later on, they establish another branch in Tagum City.) Today, An-

nipie – with the “Cinnamon Destination Tagline” – has become one of the more frequented coffee shops in Davao City with several branches located in Quimpo Boulevard, Malvar Extension and selected malls.

Atty. Partoza’s civic mindedness has driven him to become an established leader of the various organizations that he joined in. He was involved in Davao Jaycees (President, 1982), Davao Jaycee Senate (President, 1997), Philippine Jaycee Senate Foundation (President, 2002), Rotary Club of South Davao (President, 1993), Davao YMCA (President, 20112013), Ambassadors Club Davao (President, 2017) and Ambassadors Club Philippines (President, 2018). He was also a Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 5831 and District Deputy of Knights of Columbus District XI. Atty. Partoza was not born in Davao; he is originally from Pagadian City. He came to Davao in 1973 as a young bachelor and neophyte licensed attorney-at-law.

It wasn’t until he met and tied the nuptial knot with the former Nelia Domingo that he decided to settle in Davao City. (The union is blessed with four children, who are all based in Davao and currently handling their own businesses.)

He started his law career as assistant city legal of�icer in 1976. After 4 years of service, he decided to venture in newspaper distribution in 1983. Later on, he widened its network that stretched through 8 provinces in Mindanao, amidst the uncertainties caused by Martial Law. Through his business, the Davao Print Distributors, he was able to keep a well-informed Davao public attuned to the changing times in the last 35 years.

Born an optimist, Atty.

Partoza believes “the print media industry will continue to play a huge role in developing a more informed public where people of all classes are provided.” Currently, he serves as chairman of Mindanao Print Media Dealers Association.

He has gone a long, long way since he �irst arrived in Davao City; he has seen the good times and bad times of the city, which he calls now his home. “(He) has considered the beautiful City of Davao his home for the last 45 years and counting” the form said. “His unceasing thirst for active citizenship in the community has produced multiple positive effects that have greatly contributed to the advancement of Davao City.” – ### Photo courtesy of Atty.

Antonio B. Partoza, Jr.

INdulge!

VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

WANDER IN HANOI WITH PAL

By ATHENA JILLIAN BRAVO PHILIPPINE AIRLINES, the only 4-star global airline and the country’s flag-carrier, expanded the operations of their Manila Hub to new Asian destinations as it launched its latest route to Hanoi, Vietnam.

This marks another milestone for Philippine Airlines which now has two gateways to Vietnam---Saigon, and now the capital city Hanoi. The new route is expected to strengthen tourism, trade and cultural ties between Philippines and Vietnam.

A formal inaugural and send-off ceremony was done for their maiden flight together with the PAL executives, Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy guest passengers at the Gate 1 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 on March 31, 2019.

The ceremony started off with the welcoming of the passengers by PAL President Jaime Bautista and the Vietnamese Ambassador for Philippines Ly Quoc Tuan followed by the presentation of the aircraft model, cake slicing and ribbon cutting.

Flight PR595 from Manila to Hanoi cruised for 3 hours where every passenger is comfortably seated in an Airbus

A320 aircraft with Flight Deck Crew in-charge Capt. Enrico E. Zamora, First Officer Juan Raphael Mabale and Flight Purser Ramon Munoz.

The executives handed over Vietnamese inspired fans to passengers as their way of saying gratitude for flying with them in this inaugural flight.

Go on a Vietnamese escapade in Hanoi with PAL’s world-class full-service flights for as low as USD98 roundtrip economy class base fare or go for a business class experience for as low as USD578!

Book now at http://www. philippineairlines.com. Booking dates are extended until April 30, 2019. Travel from April 16 to December 31, 2019.

HANOI-MANILA delicious Inflight main course .

RIBBON CUTTING: PAL VP CorpComms Josen Perez de Tagle, PAL VP Marketing Ria C. Domingo, PAL SVP Operations Capt. Stanley Ng, PAL Manager - Airport Operations Rey Garcia, PAL VP - Airport Operations Sonny Pascual, PAL AVP Airport Operations Audie Villanueva and PAL SVP Nicky Gozon.

Cake-slicing with PR595 flight crew.

PAL President and COO Jaime J. Bautista presenting Airbus A320 aircraft model to Vietnamese Ambassador Ly Quoc Tuan during the Manila-Hanoi Send-Off Ceremony at NAIA Terminal 1 Gate 1 on March 31 2019.

A line-up of the boat tours docked at the Southwest part of Ha Long Bay for the HANOI-MANILA Inflight meal Vietnamese-inspired Heavenly Cave Tour. appetizer.

The writer at Business Class section with PAL Pres Jaime Bautista.

EDGED

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

Complete the mission in style with the 0917 x Marvel Studios’

Avengers: Endgame collection!

ARE YOU READY for the big finale? Show your love for all things Marvel with the latest apparel and accessories collection from 0917 - 0917 x Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame!

In partnership with Disney and Marvel, 0917 Lifestyle has released its latest collection for the biggest blockbuster event this year. Marvel fans can feel like part of the team with the Avengers Suit Windbreaker Jacket, patterned after the Quantum Realm suits of the heroes as shown in the trailer. They can also show their Marvel pride with unique tees such as the Endgame statement tee, Thanos shirts, and classic Marvel tees. Other collection apparel such as sweaters, hoodies, caps, and pouches are available for superfans. Techies can also join in on the fun as the collection features premium iPhone cases, a 3-in-1 charger, and phone grips featuring their favorite Marvel heroes.

As a treat to Marvel fans, 0917 Lifestyle made sure to release the collection before the blockbuster film’s cinematic release this month.

The 0917 x Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame collection is already available at the Globe Online Shop, most of the Globe Stores nation-

wide, and the new 0917 Booth at Glorietta 4 Cinema when it opens on April 22, 2019. So come decked out in 0917 stylish apparel and nifty accessories and go look your absolute best come showtime for Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame on April 24!

Since its launch in August 2016, 0917 Lifestyle has transformed into an integrated lifestyle brand spanning originally designed 0917 col-

lections alongside special editions in collaboration with Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Infinity War, Star Wars, Netflix’s Stranger Things, 0917 x New Balance 574 Collab, and more. The collections include both apparel and digital accessories such as powerbanks, phone cases, speakers, and more.

Watch out for more 0917 Lifestyle collections by following 0917 on Instagram and Facebook.

Irresistible staycation deals this Holy Week THE HOLY WEEK is a special time for Filipinos. For devout Catholics, it’s a longstanding tradition to take part in different rites and rituals that commemorate one’s faith.

While for others, the extended break is always a good opportunity to slow down from the hustle and bustle of daily life, reflect, and relax with loved ones. Either way people choose to spend their vacation, it’s good to know that there are awesome places – within or just a few hours away from metro – where one can go to for some quick (or lengthy!) respite.

For those who want an easy but equally memorable escape this Holy Week, here’s a round-up of the best accommodations that won’t require a plane ticket nor a long drive.

Apo View Hotel Dabawenyos need not go far just to enjoy the long break. Situated in the heart of the city, the Apo View Hotel offers guests with modern accommodations and luxurious service that has since been the hallmark of the heritage hotel. Dubbed as the second oldest hotel in the country, Apo View Hotel has main-

tained its grandeur and continues to be a primer choice for the most discerning staycationers.

This summer, Apo View Hotel offers promos that make it much more irresistible to overlook. These include a 50% off promo on all its Superior and Deluxe rooms with breakfast buffet which runs until May 30, 2019. Meanwhile, its Weekend Getaway promo offers Superior and Deluxe Rooms with breakfast buffet at 50% year-round.

Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar For those who don’t mind a couple of hours’ worth of driving, a gem of a resort lies 125km north-

west of Manila in Bagac, Bataan.

More than just a Filipino heritage site to behold, Las Casas Fipinas De Acuzar is a world-class resort that pays homage to the grandeur of Spanish-Filipino architecture amidst the backdrop of a sprawling beach and a grandiose natural landscape.

Las Casas takes pride in being the only Philippine hotel to have received several international acclaims which include being recognized as part of the Historic Hotels Worldwide, being awarded as Asia’s Most Excellent Destination in 2017, and being included in Conde Nast Johansens Luxury Global Collec-

tion and Peninsula Hotels Pencities Luxe Guide.

Go ahead and indulge this Easter break by booking a stay in any of its Deluxe Rooms that come with various inclusions such as breakfast as well as free heritage and workshop tours. During weekends, Deluxe Rooms for two are available for P5,000 and comes with a heritage and workshop tour while the rate of P5,500 includes breakfast as well as a heritage and workshop tour.

On Weekdays, Deluxe Rooms are available at P4,600 and comes with breakfast as well as a heritage and workshop tour.

Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila The idea of enjoying the peace and serenity of the city during the Holy Week is also very inviting.

Without having to go so far, one can easily unwind and relax in any of the city’s best hotels. One of which is the Golden Phoenix Hotel.

Located less than a mile away from SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City, the hotel offers contemporary and elegant accommodations, a great view of the cityscape, and an array of premium features such as free WiFi access throughout the

property, en suite bathroom wit shower, hairdryer, bathrobes, an free toiletries, as well as an iPod dock, a personal safe, electric ke minibar, and a flat-screen TV w cable and satellite channels.

This summer, the hotel is offe ing a special rate of P6,800 nett until June 30 for an accommoda tion for two which comes with f buffet breakfast, Phoenix Welln Lounge credits, unlimited hot a cold chocolate at Ground Up co fee, and food and beverage cred worth P1,000 or choice of house wine.

Interested to book a stay in an of these hotels and resort even a the Holy Week? These hotels wi also be offering exclusive discou and promos at the upcoming Tr and Leisure Expo Davao 2019.

Organized by Worldbex Service International, TLEX Davao 2019 will be held simultaneously with PHILBEX Davao 2019 on May 9 12 at the SMX Convention Cent Davao in SM Lanang Premier. F more information, call (02) 65639, email inquire@worldbexeven com, visit www.tlex.ph, or follow @tlex.ph on Facebook and Insta gram.

EDAVAO

ENTERTAINMENT

NBA PREMIUM ON SKY:

SUBSCRIBE FOR 2 MONTHS, GET 1 MONTH FREE IT’S PLAYOFF TIME in the NBA and SKYcable Select’s NBA Premium TV 2+1 Promo offers the best value-for-money entertainment, as it gives fans an extra month of free access to the hottest on- and off-court action just as the chase for the Larry O’Brien trophy heats up.

Fans only need to avail of two consecutive months subscription to get one month free and get their fill of everything about the NBA. NBA Premium TV features live games daily, analysis programs, basketball magazine shows, news, and other specials. It also offersprograms that feature the lives of individual basketball players, documentaries focusing on a particular NBA team during the season and archived broadcasts of well-known games There’s no more fear of missing out when the next big Stephen Curry or Kevin Durant scoring binge propels the Golden State Warriors over their first round opponent, which is a selection between Los Angeles Clippers in the bloody Western Conference wars.

Other teams fans should look out

for include the Denver Nuggets with their All-Star center Nikola Jokic, the Oklahoma City Thunder of Paul George and Russell Westbrook, the Portland Trailblazers with Damian Lillard, and the Utah Jazz anchored

by Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert.

In the East, fans can expect fresh faces since Lebron left to join the Los Angeles Lakers who are now out of contention. See if potential MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo can keep his team, the Milwaukee Bucks on the winning column and if the struggling Celtics have a sudden

resurgence that can push them to the playoffs.

Don’t miss out on the most important time of the NBA Regular Season. Subscribe now and enjoy the ultimate NBA action coverage and updates, from Playoffs all the way to the Finals. The offer runs from April 3-30, 2019. Existing NBA Premium TV subscribers can also avail this promo by calling the hotline.

NBA Premium TV is available in SD for P200/month, and in HD for P350/month. Visit mysky.com. ph/nbapromo or call 305 5456 to subscribe.

SM Cinema opens 333 screens across 64 branches nationwide for Avengers: Endgame!

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es 19 h 9 to ter For -92nts. w a-

INdulge! A3

VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

Arcadia’s Republique holds brunch buffet every Sunday from 11am-2pm for as low as PP550/head. Republique is located at the second level of the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Escandor Street, Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Republique also serves Tuesdays to Sundays Lunch: 11am-2pm | Dinner: 5pm-10pm and Sunday Lunch Buffet: 10:30am-2pm.

Make your reservations online bit.ly/2Qp2cQa or contact (0917) 146 4304 or (082) 327 8471.

THE COMING of the most anticipated movie of the year is fast-approaching and SM Cinema is gearing up for the massive battle about to come! After more than a decade, everyone is anxious to watch the epic finale to this story that we have been following since 2008. This is why from April 24 to 28, SM Cinema will be showing Avengers: Endgame in all SM Cinema branches – and by “all” we literally mean all schedules of the 333 screens in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao!

You can catch the exciting comeback of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes as they take solo spotlight in all Digital 2D, 3D, SM Cinema IMAX, Director’s Club Cinema, Event Cinema, and Megascreen Large Format cinemas in any of the 64 SM Cinema branches across the country.

No time to watch it during the day? We’ve got you covered as SM Aura Premier and SM Mall of Asia host 24 hour, non-stop screenings of Avengers: Endgame from April 24 to 28!

Avengers: Endgame starts right after the grave course of events set in motion by Thanos that wiped out half the universe and left the Avengers ranks in fractures. The remaining Avengers are then compelled to take one final stand to attempt to save the world and defeat their greatest nemesis once and for all.

Is the excitement over Avengers getting you hyped?

Well we have more good news for you because ticket pre-selling has already started; so, book your tickets now and be among the first in the world to see the movie! Skip the lines, get the best seats in the house, and save as much as P20 by getting your tickets via www.smcinema.com or the SM Cinema App. Make sure to also subscribe to SM Cinema on facebook.com/ SMCinema, twitter.com/SM_Cinema, and Instagram. com/SM_Cinema so that you don’t miss the latest digital promos and online activities.

Avengers: Endgame is produced by Kevin Feige and directed by Anthony and Joe Russo. Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Michael Grillo, Trinh Tran, Jon Favreau and Stan Lee are the executive producers, and Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely wrote the screenplay.

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

Sippin’ Summer FOOD

IT LITERALLY takes just one sip to convert a mood -- for me, that is. Most days, I find myself yearning (more than craving!) for a robust dark potion of a drink to fuel my day. Some days, I opt for a milder taste of flowers and fields to help me relax and appreciate the beauty of the world even more. Of whatever mood I would like my day to indulge in, depends -- greatly -on the kind of drink I allow my taste buds to savour.

A drink, be it hot or cold, has been our way of expressing ourselves. With the prevalence of coffeeshops in the city, no wonder Dabawenyos and the world over, has seriously fallen in love with -- yes -- coffee. And for Starbucks, summer ticking in is just but a beautiful reason to roll out new menu choices that are ultimately green mermaid approved.

Last April 9, Starbucks in-

troduced the newest addition to their growing list of delectable drink choices -- the Triple Mocha Frappuccino®, the Dark Caramel Coffee Frappuccino®, and the Red Velvet Cake Cream Frappuccino®. Three new drinks perfect for dessert lovers.

The triple mocha frappuccino is one you’d surely fall in love with if you are into the more indulgent of flavours. Take a sip of dark mocha sauce layered between cold-brew infused whipped cream, white choco-

VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

Indulge at Starbuck’s this summer. not your cup of tea, Starbucks has a tropical drink to sooth your beach yearning soul. Their limited-time beverage just for the season of sun – the Mixed Berry Frappuccino® comes with pomegranate pearls. The smooth Botanical Card. and fruity beverage is made with mixed berry sauce blended with milk and topped with cream to balance its tart berry flavor.

Aside from the drinks, they also have apple butterscotch cheesecake, banana chocolate chia cookie (loaded with oats, NEVER SAY NEVER -- cheese danish and sausage Popsicle Card. banana, dark Belgian chocolate mushroom puff. late, and dark caramel, now basking time under the summer and chia seeds), cheese danish, that’s what a luxurious palate sun. sausage mushroom puff and indulgent is. Word of caution: On the other hand, the red chicken parmigiana. indulge in moderation. velvet cake cream frappuccino is Carry with you the perfect For those who cannot get a confectionery-inspired blend complement for the balmy enough of caramel, then the of chocolate chips, mocha sauce, weather - the Botanical and dark caramel coffee frappuccino raspberry and vanilla syrup in Popsicle card Starbucks Card is your new best friend. Rich drink form. The best part? The which features island scenes and buttery dark caramel sauce drink is topped with whipped and tropical plants, available for in between layers of caffeine cream. Oh yes! an initial activation amount of is like spending some quality If cream based drinks are Php300.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.12 ISSUE 29 • THURSDAY-SATURDAY, APRIL 18-20, 2019

HIGH... FROM 1

open jud na labi na pag naka tape na mga bagahe,” she said, adding that this is for the welfare of all passengers.

Usop also assured that bomb snif�ing dogs and security personnel will be visible all areas of the terminal. They also installed nine closed circuit television cameras (CCTV) for wider visual coverage.

In fact, the Police Regional Of�ice (PRO) 11 led by regional director BGen Marcelo Morales conducted an inspection to DCOTT and all other vital installations of Davao City Wednesday afternoon.

During the preparation for the Holy Week, Usop

said the TF Davao conducted a bomb awareness orientation seminar to the stakeholders of DCOTT, demonstrating how to identify Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and how to react on the situation.

Aside from that, DCOTT coordinated with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Davao City in conducting surprise drug tests to drivers and conductors recently.

The DCOTT head, meanwhile, said some buses plying to South like Cotabato City among others, will observe cut-off hours while others will operate 24/7.

RETURN... FROM 4

rangays spread across 250 hectares. The area has been classi�ied into nine sectors.

Del Rosario said residents in Sector 1 can return by July provided they secure a permit from the city government to rebuild or repair their homes or stores.

He said residents in Sectors 2 and 3 can return in August; Sectors 4 and 5 in September; Sectors 6 and 7 in October and Sectors 8 and 9 in November.

The primary challenge facing the TFBM, he said, is the clearing of UXOs. He said there are still 49 unexploded “powerful bombs” that have yet to be retrieved from Ground Zero.

These are 110-pounder, 260-pounder and 500-pounder bombs.

The House sub-committee was told last month that the city government had issued 610 demolition permits. (Carolyn O. Arguillas /MindaNews)

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BI... FROM 4 number to increase to 10,000 by Wednesday or Thursday, when people would usually go to their hometown or go on vacation," Medina said.

"We (might be dealing with) 10,000 passengers per shift, or maybe per two hours. We don't know yet because the airlines have yet to submit data," he said.

He added that they are ready in case the manpower in an airport terminal is not enough.

"In case additional manpower would be needed, our secondary inspectors or the TCEU (Travel Control and Enforcement Unit) would sit in the counters. In case it's still not enough, we would

9

For additional inquiries, please email us at: zion.davao@gmail.com

AFFIDAVIT OF SELF-ADJUDICATION have our admin of�icers and intel of�icers man the counters," he said.

Medina said that an augmentation force from the main of�ice is ready to man the counters.

While the bulk of passengers are in NAIA, Medina said the BI also applies the rapid response mechanism in other airports in Clark, Cebu and Davao.

He said they also expect a surge of passengers on Sunday when people return from their vacation.

"The challenge is to process each passenger within 45 seconds. We need to be alert and be meticulous in inspecting the documents within that 45 seconds," Medina said. (PNA)

James Paul R. Amorado married to Emeliza R. Amorado hereby adjudicate unto himself being the only legal force heir of the parcel of land described as Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-36749 under the name of the late spouses Teodosio F. Amorado who died on October 4, 2008 at Home at DDF, Mandug , Davao City and Esperanza R. Amorado who died on January 24, 1994 at East Avenue Hospital, Quezon City, Philippines, both without any known obligations will or any debt. The real property is solely owned by the same persons mentioned and is the subject of the AFFIDAVIT OF SELFADJUDICATION per Doc. No. 86 ; Page No. 19; Book No. 162 Series of 2019, of the NOTARY PUBLIC SALVADOR M. BIJIS.

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DeMarcus Cousins is expected to miss the rest of the postseason with a significant quadriceps injury sustained in the Warriors’ loss Monday night, Yahoo Sports reported Tuesday.

Cousins out of playoffs

G

olden State center DeMarcus Cousins is expected to miss the rest of the postseason with a signi�icant quadriceps injury sustained in the Warriors’ loss Monday night, Yahoo Sports reported Tuesday.

The report, however, comes before the results of an MRI Cousins is scheduled to undergo Tuesday morning. Yahoo reports team of�icials

are holding out hope that Cousins, who went down with the non-contact in the �irst quarter of Game 2 against the Los Angeles Clippers, could return for the NBA Finals, provided the Warriors make it that far.

The Warriors blew a 31-point lead against the Clippers, evening their �irst-round series at 1-1.

Cousins was injured while trying to run

down a loose ball 3 1/2 minutes into the team’s eventual 135-131 loss to the Clippers. With the Warriors leading 11-9 and the Clippers possessing the ball just past the half-court line, Cousins de�lected a pass and sent it down the court toward the Warriors’ bench.

Trying to run down the ball before it went out of bounds, Cousins stumbled and went

down without being touched, and immediately grabbed his left quad. He walked off and to the locker room on his own power.

“There’s a pretty signi�icant quad injury,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said after the game.

“We’ll get an MRI. But he’s going to be out for ... I’ll just say a while because I think it’s unclear right now how long he’ll be out. It’s signi�icant.”

2019 Asian BMX Championships gold medalist Patrick Coo (Jr. Men's) and silver medalist Daniel Caluag (Men's) holds courtesy visit to PSC Chairman William Ramirez on Monday at the PSC Administrative Bldg., Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Manila.

San Juan moved a win away from the MPBL Datu Cup title after taking Game 3 6762 against the Davao Occidental Tigers.

San Juan stops Davao Occ 67-62 in Game 3

T

he San Juan Knights took a commanding 2-1 lead in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Finals against the Davao Occidental Tigers with a 67-62 Game 3 win at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan City on Tuesday night.

The Knights held the Tigers to just nine points in the �inal quarter to move to within a victory from claiming the championship.

Mike Ayonayon led San Juan, which can close out the series on Monday night back at home, with 15 points, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals, while Jhonard Clarito and John Wilson each chipped in 12 markers.

Bogs Raymundo made 15 points, �ive boards, one dime, and one steal for Davao Occ, which now has a daunting task of winning Game 4 to force a Game 5 back in Davao City on April

25.

Meantime, Cocolife has renewed its alliance with Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League team, Davao Occidental.

In a press conference on Monday in its of�ice in Makati City, the largest Filipino-owned life insurance company renewed its ties with the newly-crowned Southern Division champion as its primary sponsor.

"We will continue our support for the team and the players so we can further increase our stature and accomplishments as we go on in this league," Cocolife president and chief executive of�icer, Jose Martin Loon, said.

Loon was actually in Davao City when the Tigers hosted the San Juan Knights in Game 2 of the national �inals on Saturday.

"It's my �irst time to watch your game," continued Loon, who was named

SAN JUAN, P8

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NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

SPORTS

VIEW FROM THE OUTFIELD

HOW RABID CAN RABID BE? H

ow much must fans be involved in a game?

In a regional basketball league like the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) where teams are identi�ied with their respective communities, fan intensity could be as rabid as it can get.

A video post on social media circulated after Tuesday's Game 3 where San Juan Knights thwarted Davao Occidental 67-62 to take a 2-1 lead in the Best-of-Five championship series. It showed young fans �lashing dirty �ingers on camera and a caption that says bottles were hurled at the visiting side.

That's just too much disrespect.

Fan behavior is understandable. In the heat of the game, the atmosphere can be very emotional.

But there are some limits too.

The beauty in a regional bas-

ketball concept should not be clouded by fanaticism. Rather, it must be the avenue where home teams showcase the city, province or town it represents. Home teams must use this opportunity to promote not only sports tourism but also promote the cultural diversity and character of its people.

Pinoy hospitality should not be lost on sports fans even in the midst of intense rivalry and competition.

Zealotry must ultimately give way to neighbourliness. This is the concept of regionalism in sports.

San Juan can wrap up the title on Monday and that's their chance to show their guests a different treatment. If they lose and go to Game 5 in Davao and in here, there will be something to learn from the warmth of Dabawenyos.

San Juan fans let it out in Game 3 against the visiting Davao Occidental Tigers.