Mindanao Times, August 14, 2020

OPINION This ‘House of Corruption’

BY VIC N. SUMALINOG

Scan me for digital copy

on PAGE 9 VOL. 74

NO. 223

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020

DAVAO CITY - PHILIPPINES

14 PAGES

P10.00

A MEMBER of the Malabog Paquibato Cooperative displays affordable and fresh vegetables to mall shoppers during the opening of the Farmers Produce at SM Lanang Premier Thursday. The event will run for two weekends, Aug. 13-16 and Aug. 2023. BING GONZALES

Local isolation

• Barangays urged to set up quarantine facilities

BY RHODA GRACE B. SARON

DAVAO CITY – Barangays here are encouraged to set up their own coronavirus disease isolation centers and strengthen their health emergency response teams to combat the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

“In every 1,000 population, there must be at least five beds available in the barangay as an isolation ment Secretary Eduardo Agency Task Force for the unit," Department of the Año said during a spe- Management of Emerging Interior and Local Govern- cial meeting of the Inter- Infectious Diseases (IATF-

w w w. m i n d a n a o t i m e s . c o m . p h

EID) here on Tuesday.

The isolation units will be used to house COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms and asymptomatic ones.

During the meeting,

Mindanao Times

governors in the Davao Region have expressed their concern on the limited resources of local government units (LGUs) in addressing the pandemic, especially with the recent

@mindanaotimes

spike in cases, mostly returning locally stranded individuals via the “Hatid Tulong” program.

The IATF recommended the mobilization (

/ LOCAL / 13)

mindanaotimes

2

News

MINDANAO TIMES

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020

WORKERS of the Department of Public Works and Highways clean and paint the newly completed six-lane Talomo Bridge in preparation for the inauguration ceremony set on Aug. 14. BING GONZALES

Councilor throws support for welfare, safety of journalists DOH warns of scammers posing as contact tracers

BY RHODA GRACE B. SARON

THE DEPARTMENT of Health in the region advised the public to avoid entertaining calls from individuals introducing themselves as members of

the "contact tracing team."

The DOH informed the public of a fraudulent scheme after receiving some complaints and inquiries about it.

Caraga COVID cases rise to 372; recoveries at 295 BUTUAN CITY – Cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infections in the Caraga Region increase to 372 with 20 more new cases recorded on Tuesday, the Department of Health 13 (DOH-13) said Wednesday.

DOH-13 director Jose Llacuna Jr. said the agency received 123 Reverse transcription-polymerase

Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) results from the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) molecular sub-national laboratory and Northern Mindanao Gene Expert TB Reference Laboratory.

Of the 123 results, 103 tested negative and 20 turned positive for the ( / CARAGA / 13)

The victims received calls or text messages asking for their personal information and some fees.

"We condemn the per( / MORE / 13)

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews) – As an expression of support for media workers, Davao City’s First District Councilor Pamela A. Librado reiterated calls for press freedom and protection of journalists against human rights violations, attacks, and unfair labor practices, amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in the country.

In her privilege speech delivered on Tuesday, Librado emphasized the crucial role of the journalists, as frontliners, in providing the public with credible and verified information despite the difficulties and threats that confront them, among

those being the pervasiveness of disinformation and the threats to press freedom and job security.

She said that media workers are likewise frontliners in the fight to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In this line, I sound the call to the national and local government to heed the workers’ call under the media industry – from mass testing to support in the frontlines, to job security and safety. It is apt to reit( / COUNCILOR / 13)

5 ASG ‘supporters’ nabbed in Sulu ZAMBOANGA CITY – Government troops apprehended five alleged supporters of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the province of Sulu, military officials said Wednesday.

Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said identified the suspects as Alsamer Kasim, 26; Kasmer Kasim, 18; Kerwin Asjada, 25; Denrasher Ahadan Avestruz, 18; and Sulmeser Kasim, 22.

They were apprehend-

ed by a team of military and police personnel around 1:09 a.m. Monday in Barangay Busbus, Jolo, Sulu.

“Troops were acting on a report received of the presence of Mundi Sawadjaan roaming around in Busbus accompanied by armed group,” Vinluan said.

He said the suspects yielded several firearms and ammunition.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom)

chief, attributed the arrest of the five suspects to the good coordination between the troops of Joint Task Force Sulu, Metro Jolo Inter-Agency Task Group, and the residents in the area.

“This is a clear manifestation that if we work together, we will surely reap better results. Rest assured that we will never stop supporting other law enforcement agencies in all their endeavors,” Sobejana said.

The suspects were turned over to Jolo municipal police station for filing of appropriate charges.

Former ASG bandits learn computer skills Meanwhile, the Army’s 64th Infantry Battalion (IB) launched a twomonth Basic Computer Literacy Program in Basilan province to draw away the youth from violent extremism, an official said Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Renante Besa, ( / 5 ASG / 13)

More News

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020

3

MINDANAO TIMES

Employers told: Provide face coverings for workers

MANILA – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Wednesday wearing of face shields apart from face masks in workplaces will be required beginning August 15, as it tapped employers to provide face shields for their workers.

"Effective August 15, face shield. So, that is the new he said, and could also affect hindi lang face mask ang gam- protocol today)," Labor Sec- the eyes. itin mo, kasama na ang face retary Silvestre Bello III told Bello said the Intershield. So, 'yun ang bagong the reporters in Antipolo City. Agency Task Force on Emergprotocol ngayon (you will not Covid-19 transmission is ing Infectious Disease (IATF) only use face masks, including not only limited to the nose, has proposed that employers

should purchase face shields for their employees.

"Ang proposal ng IATF is for the employer, tutal one time lang naman––minsan ka lang bibili baka hindi naman masyadong mabigat (The IATF's proposal is for the employes, after all, it's just

Investigate Clark Resort for prostitution: senator SENATOR Risa Hontiveros on Thursday demanded Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) conduct a full investigation on Fontana Leisure Parks and Casino’s liability in the alleged Chinese prostitution ring discovered in

its premises.

Hontiveros made the call after the police arrested seven Chinese men, six Chinese women, and two Vietnamese women who are alleged to be involved in prostitution and human trafficking inside resort facilities in Clark Freeport

Zone, Pampanga.

“Habang nahihirapan tayong mga Pilipino sa COVID-19 pandemic, may mga Chinese prostitution rings naman na patuloy pa rin ang operasyon,” said Hontiveros, who chairs the Committee on Women in the Senate. “Hindi

natin dapat hinahayaan na nagiging pugad tayo ng prostitusyon at iba pang krimen,” she added.

Hontiveros wants the owner and administration of the said leisure park investigated for possible liability.

(

/ INVESTIGATE / 13)

one time––you can only buy once, it's not too heavy for them)," Bello said, noting that employees who will not comply with the protocol will not be allowed to go to their workplaces.

Bello said employers are liable for non-observance

of the health measure in the workplace and might cause the closure of the establishment.

"Yung sa smoking area isang tao lang at a time, hindi puwedeng dalawa (those who will use the smoking area, one

(

/ EMPLOYERS / 5)

PH, SKor navies discuss Covid-19 defense - report MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN) and the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) discussed defense efforts against the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic while keeping op-

erational capabilities on track, in their first virtual "Navy to Navy Talks" (NTNT) on Wednesday.

"This year’s talks focused on the sharing of best prac-

(

/ PH / 13)

4

Business

MINDANAO TIMES

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020

Program launched to assist farmers

BY RHODA GRACE B. SARON

THE CITY government, through the City Agriculturist Office, has launched a program, with about P500,000 in initial funding, that would connect wholesale buyers to farmers.

City Agriculturist Leo tended to help farmers as give them better prices.

Brian Leuterio said the they grapple with the imLeuterio said the proConfirm, Locate, Engage, pact of the coronavirus gram aims to address the Address, and Resolve 2019 pandemic by linking situation of the farmers, (Clear), is a program in- up with the buyers who can many of them opting not to

LGU lauds firm, CSR arm for role in COVID-19 fight SAN City Mayor Renato Y. Gustilo delivers his State of the City Address (SOCA) during the 60th Charter Day celebration held at the San Carlos City Hall on July 1, 2020.

The San Carlos City Government in Negros Occidental lauded AboitizPower sub-

sidiary San Carlos Sun Power Inc. (SacaSun) and Aboitiz Foundation for their efforts to help mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the city’s 60th Charter Day celebration last July 1, San Carlos City Mayor Rene Gustilo presented

(

/ LGU / 5)

sell their produce because of low prices, so that they can slowly recover from the impact of the pandemic.

“Naay mga farmers na dili na nila ibaligya ang ilang harvest kay mubo kaayo ang palit. Some-

times, wala pud mamalit kay daghan supplies sa Bangkerohan market (Some farmers don’t sell their harvest anymore because it is bought at a very low price. Sometimes, there are no buyers because there

are a lot of supplies in Bangkerohan market),” he said.

Under the program, the city government will buy the produce, repack them and distribute them to com( / SEC / 5)

(UA&P) economist Dr. Victor Abola said he does not see an economic recovery this year, as people focus more on the number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases even as death rate remains low and bulk of the cases are mild.

He said the achievement of positive growth in the fourth quarter this year still depends on “how firms and people respond to the opening up of the economy”.

Abola said the speed of economic recovery hinges on

conquering coronavirus fears and firms revising business models and responding to the digitalization challenge amid the pandemic.

“But I expect a more serious recovery come 2021,” he added.

The country’s gross domestic product (GDP) declined at a record pace of 16.5 percent in the second quarter of 2020, bringing first-semester contraction by nine percent.

With the two consecutive

quarters of economic decline, the inter-agency Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) has revised downward this year’s growth figure to -5.5 percent from previous -2.0 to -3.4 percent.

During the same briefing, UA&P economist Dr. Bernardo Villegas said economic growth prospects in the next 12 to 18 months will be “pure guesses because everything depends on Covid-19.”

“Are we going to have a

Economic recovery seen next year

MANILA – First Metro Investment Corporation, the investment banking arm of the Metrobank Group, expects the Philippine economy to contract by eight to nine percent by year-end due to the pandemic, but will bounce back in 2021 and the longterm prospects look rosy on the back of strong macroeconomic fundamentals.

During the virtual FMIC economic and capital markets briefing Wednesday, University of Asia and the Pacific

(

/ ECONOMIC / 5)

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020

Business

MINDANAO TIMES

5

SEC... (from page 4)

munities and households on lockdown as well as security personnel serving the city.

“Right now we cannot sell it so we are giving it out to the community – to the lockdown communities, security personnel, and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) food distribution,” Leuterio said as 30 farmers have started to benefit the program since last week.

CAO also targets to launch the “Farm to Market Highway” on August 17 which aims to help farmers sell their harvests to the market through an agricultural cooperative.

Through the city's Agri-Biz Office, CAO will identify markets or buyers of vegetable harvests like the grocery stores, supermarkets, restaurants, caterers, and others.

CAO will get the buyers’ orders for the cooperatives which will then bring the products to the Davao Food Terminal Complex where it will be repacked for delivery to the buyers.

The program also eases the transactions between the buyers and the farmers because the latter are already connected directly to the market.

Leuterio said that a lot of cooperatives and wholesalers already showed support and willingness to help the farmers. He is also hopeful that the project will improve the farmgate prices of vegetables.

LGU...

INVESTIGATE...

(from page 4)

plaques of appreciation to SacaSun and Aboitiz Foundation.

“I thank SacaSaun and Aboitiz Foundation for their contributions amidst the present calamity, which has affected everyone. I hope you continue to assist our city as we heal as one,” he said.

SacaSun and Aboitiz Foundation have donated 50 washable masks for frontline workers manning barangay checkpoints as well as 40

ECONOMIC...

sacks of rice to the local social welfare office for distribution to city residents.

“They gave strength to the city in our time of struggle,” said Joe Alingasa, San Carlos City disaster risk reduction and management officer.

Meanwhile, SacaSun continues to support the city in its fight against COVID-19 through the donation of thermal scanners, alcohol disinfectant, and hands-free alco-

(from page 4)

second, third, fourth wave?

No one knows and when is the vaccine going to be ready,” he said.

Villegas thus underscored the need to focus on the strengths of the economy to help it grow amid the pandemic.

He said these sunrise industries include food and agriculture business, health and wellness, and digital sector comprising computers and smartphones, “Meaning products and services belonging to the socalled Industrial Revolution (or Industry) 4.0 will definitely be leading in the (economic) rebound. In fact, when you talk about a V-shape recovery, we cannot talk about the

whole economy, we have to talk about individual sectors.” he added.

Villegas further said he was optimistic about the Philippines becoming an upper middle-income country still in three to four years.

“I think that by 2023, we will resume our 6 to 7-percent growth and attain the 4,000 US dollars per capita that we were supposed to attain this year and by that time, we will be an upper middle income (society),” he said.

Villegas said the Philippines is about to achieve an upper middle-income status this year “but did not happen because of the pandemic.”

(PNA)

hol dispensers to three schools within its host community.

SacaSun, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AboitizPower, operates the 59-MW utilityscale solar photovoltaic power plant located in San Carlos, Negros Occidental. It is committed to co-creating safe, empowered, and sustainable communities through its various corporate social responsibility programs, community sponsorships, and ER 1-94 projects.

EMPLOYERS...

(from page 3)

“Hindi ito ang unang beses na may nadiskubreng illegal activity sa loob ng resort,” the senator declared. Hontiveros said that in May 2020, an illegal underground hospital for tenants and workers of a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) company was discovered on Fontana’s premises.

“Bakit parang nagiging pugad ng underground illegal activities itong Fontana?” the senator asked, also citing that

(from page 3)

person at a time. Two is not allowed)," he added.

Support to OFWs Meanwhile, Bello said the labor department continues to support overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) hard-hit by the health crisis.

"Isa sa responsibility ng DOLE yung ating mga OFW kaya nagdala ako dito ng konting pondo para sating mga OFW (One of the responsibilities of DOLE is our OFWs so I brought a little fund for our OFWs)," he said, referring to OFWs living in Rizal province.

Bello said they would help at least 20 OFWs in the area.

"Kami sa DOLE yan po ang ating tinututukan na ang ating mga mangagawa lalo na

dito sa lalawigan ng Rizal, sa lungsod ng Antipolo ay hindi mawalan ng trabaho (We at DOLE, we are focusing on our workers, especially here in Rizal province, in the city of Antipolo, that people don't lose their jobs)," he added.

Bello said the labor department has provided the livelihood program under the DOLE Starter Kit or NegosyosaKariton (Nego-Kart).

"Actually, hindi naman yan limited sa ating OFWs (it's not limited to our OFWs), that is given under the livelihood program. We are giving Negosyo-Kart and you will be given an investment amounting to PHP15,000 to start a street food business," Bello said. (PNA)

in December 2016, fifteen casino rooms in Fontana were ordered to temporarily close following the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) arrest of around 1,300 illegal Chinese workers inside the leisure park.

“Fontana’s license to operate can be suspended and eventually revoked if there’s negligence on their part in making sure that crimes do not thrive within their premises. Responsibilidad nilang

siguraduhin na sumusunod sa batas ang mga tenants nila,” Hontiveros said. Earlier this year, Hontiveros exposed the 'pastillas' scheme within BI, a system in which Chinese nationals, mostly POGO workers, are allowed seamless entry into the country for a 'service fee.'

The investigation also revealed how the POGO industry may contribute to the rise of prostitution and trafficking in the country. PR

6

MINDANAO TIMES

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020

Passing on Generational Values PARENTS, knowingly and unknowingly, pass on values, philosophy, habits, and mindset to their children through their daily interactions, life choices, and modeling. Parents cannot be unmindful considering the lifelong, generational impact they have. Rejoice Lagat-Supsup and her EVELYN PAJARON husband Genesis are making sure that the good things they have observed and learned from their parents are passed on as they raise their four boys aged 7, 5, 3, and 8 months.

Parenting is not for pansies, we would say. But what an honor to be drafted into this. And how fortunate we are to have ones who walked ahead of us—to model and inspire. We are both blessed to be raised in Christian homes; in fact, from families of ministers. But that didn’t guarantee that we would parent our children perfectly. We quickly realized that we cannot let our parents parent our children. Our parents may have modeled family life for us so well and are definitely seasoned in this aspect, but this is one task that we cannot delegate. We have to learn the ropes, plunge in and experience more of God’s grace.

TIME. When we were young, we saw how our parents firmly declined tempting opportunities that lessened time spent with us. This inspired us to choose a lifestyle that would allow us to have quality and quantity time with our children. We want to spend most of our children’s waking hours with us and use it to explore God’s Word, experience His faithfulness, establish values and have adventures at home or outside. We want to be present and accessible to them. Deuteronomy 11:18-21 has always resonated in our hearts, “ Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land the Lord swore to give your ancestors, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth.” We cannot follow this if we are absent and uninvolved. God granted these wants through a home-based business and homeschooling. (To be continued)

FAMILY LIFE

13.13 MISSING someone manifests in both good times and trying situations. In my case, while it has been thirteen years since she had left us, in that same amount of years, I still find myself asking, what would she have done whenever I encountered a problem. For our papa on the other hand, a happy occasion in the family would always trigger him to automatically say, 'if only she were here', as though sharing the moment with her. In both situations, she would always be that constant, like the sun from where we get our light and where our world revolves around.

On this thirteenth of August and the thirteenth year anniversary of her death, bittersweet, or sad and happy memories return like a migrating flock, back to their nesting grounds. After all, it is Kadayawan month and for the city, it is festival time once again.

I remember that after her untimely passing in 07, we in the family have all passed up on the month of August's revelry and celebration.

However, who can forget that when she was alive, the yearly Kadayawan used to be one of her busiest times, with dinners to attend, competitions to co-judge and awards to give or receive. One fond memory of mine involves mom parading before us one indigenous costume after another, so that we might suggest what she should wear for the evening.

All in August, all bittersweet and amusing at times,

Correspondents:

P ublished by M indanao T imes Corporation, with Editorial and B usiness O ffices at P onciano R e y e s c o r . P a l m a G i l S t ., Davao City. Telephone numbers (082)227-3252 or 227-9535 local 24 and 300-0854, Fax - (082)2250309.

Publisher:

JESUS G. DUREZA Editor-in-Chief:

AMALIA B. CABUSAO Managing Editor:

CARMELITO Q. FRANCISCO Associate Editor:

JOEL B. ESCOVILLA Sports Editor:

JON O. DEVELOS Copy Editor:

CHRIS T. FABIAN

RHODA GRACE B. SARON SAMANTHA BURGOS NICOLE BURLAS WARREN ELIJAH VALDEZ

but all definitely past us.

In light of the present quarantine and social distancing measures still placed in effect by both the national and city government, it had likewise been decided that the celebration of Kadayawan should be limited as digitally-based events, and therefore viewable only through either tv or online. At this, it confounds me to think, how would momsy cope under the conditions?

As only she could I reckon. The only dent 2020 might have in her love of work might probably be a full stop on her going out. She'd have more time online, and much more impact-ful presence at home, with some of us on alert for tech support.

For one, writer that she was, mom had not exactly been your modern and tech-y type, being naturally more comfortable with the old school's pen and typewriter. It had even been an inch short of a miracle that she finally learned to encode her stories and articles in a personal computer, despite not fully knowing all about the Word. Of course, during those early years of 2000s, we were all her technical support services.

I will definitely be glad once this month is finally over. For one, Jose Marie Chan's song would finally be back on the airwaves. Of course, I would still welcome the return of August next year, but the only reason for that would be because of my memories of mom.

Layout Artists:

MARK OLIVER G. GERONGAY ANA MARIE G. SILPAO Cartoonists:

Lifestyle:

ARLENE PASAJE

MICHAEL DAKUDAO MARILYN C. ROQUE IAN RAY GARCIA

MAY L. FACO

Columnists:

Editorial Assistant:

Operations Manager:

VIC N. SUMALINOG ATTY. CAESAR EUROPA LORETO D. TINITIGAN DR. ALAND MIZELL ED R. FERNANDEZ ADRIAN M. TAMAYO JOAN MAE S. BANTAYAN ICOY SAN PEDRO

B-ARR D. GUMANTASON

Photographer:

Account Executives:

BING GONZALES

DOMINIC T. CARPIO

Sales Manager:

JINGO CAMOMOT Traffic Controller:

LYNETTE VIDA

Philippine Press Institute member

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2020 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31,14, 2016

DAVAO 3 SURE PAWNSHOP, INC. NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All pawned items that expire during the month of MAY 2020 must be renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed it will be sold to public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00 a.m.

Gipahibalo ang tanan nga ang DAVAO 3 SURE PAWNSHOP, INC., maga-subasta sa tanan nga nag expire sa bulan sa MAYO 2020. Ang tanang prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE

TEL. NOS

SAN PEDRO BUHANGIN

JULY 07, 2020 JULY 14, 2020

225-0033 241-1071

Davao Ros-Ver Pawnshop, Incorporated Ilustre St., Davao City Tel # 224-1204; 222-6086

AUCTION SALE! The DAVAO ROS-VER PAWNSHOP, INC. and NEW PAG–ASA PAWNSHOP will be having its GRAND AUCTION SALE on all unredeemed pawned items left during the month of May 2020. The said items will be sold to the public on the following venue and date: DATE

PLACE

August 7, 2020 August 7-8, 2020 August 13-15, 2020

August 15, 2020 August 18-19 2020

TIME

DIGOS BRANCHES 9:30AM (Luna, Rizal, Magsaysay) TAGUM BRANCHES 9:30AM (Rizal, Pioneer, Roxas, Public Market) DAVAO BRANCHES 9:30AM (ALL BRANCHES) NABUNTURAN 9:30AM

PANABO BRANCH

9:30AM

August 21-22, 2020

SANTO TOMAS BRANCH

9:30AM

August 26, 2020

August 29, 2020

KIDAPAWAN BRANCH

9:30AM

MATI BRANCH

9:30AM

Gipahibalo ang publiko na ang DAVAO ROS-VER PAWNSHOP, INC. og ang NEW PAG-ASA PAWNSHOP; magsubasta sa tanang prenda nga naremata atong Mayo 2020. Ang tanang prenda dungan nga ibaligya sa publiko sa mga sumusunod nga dapit og petsa: DATE

PLACE

August 7, 2020 August 7-8, 2020 August 13-15, 2020

August 15, 2020 August 18-19 2020

TIME

DIGOS BRANCHES 9:30AM (Luna, Rizal, Magsaysay) TAGUM BRANCHES 9:30AM (Rizal, Pioneer, Roxas, Public Market) DAVAO BRANCHES 9:30AM (ALL BRANCHES) NABUNTURAN 9:30AM

PANABO BRANCH

9:30AM

August 21-22, 2020

SANTO TOMAS BRANCH

9:30AM

August 26, 2020

August 29, 2020

KIDAPAWAN BRANCH

9:30AM

MATI BRANCH

9:30AM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2020 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31,14, 2016

FEROCE PAWNSHOP & G-ROCE PAWNSHOP NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE

All Jewelry and other articles pawned at FEROCE PAWNSHOP & G-ROCE PAWNSHOP from NOVEMBER 01 2019 TO JANUARY 31, 2020 if not renewed or redeemed on or before SEPTEMBER 20, 2020 will be SOLD to Public Auction on SEPTEMBER 28, 2020 at 10:00am at our pawnshop premises.

Gipahibalo ang tanan na ang FEROCE PAWNSHOP ug G-ROCE PAWNSHOP magasubasta sa tanang prenda nga nagsugod NOBYEMBRE 01, 2019 hantud ENERO 31, 2020, Ang tanang Prenda ibaligya sa Publiko karong SETYEMBRE 28, 2020 sa alas 10:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES: Ø Ø Ø

SAN PEDRO ST. 227-0091 DUTERTE ST. 295-6332 TORIL PUBLIC MARKET 291-3944

G-ROCE PAWNSHOP DAMOSA BR. 282-3355

BILLBOARD FOR LEASE Strategic Location High -Traffic Visibility Along University Ave., Juna Subd.

Matina, Davao City

Call (0932) 372 7799

ORO DEL SUR PAWNSHOP, INC. 2006 Rizal Avenue, 8002 Digos City, Davao del Sur, Philippines Telefax: (6382) 553-2258; E-mail: ospimain@yahoo.com TIN: NV-272-089-502-0000

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All pawned items the redemption grace periods of which lapsed on or before July 31, 2020, which have not been redeemed or renewed as of the foregoing date will be sold at public auction at the offices shown below from 8:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. Auction Date

Telephone No.

August 29, 2020

(6382) 553-2258

August 29, 2020

(6382) 553-7169

August 29, 2020

(6382) 224-5616

THE MANAGEMENT

Opinion

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020

MINDANAO TIMES

9

This ‘House of Corruption’ OH, this “House of Corruption,” PhilHealth, seems to continue dominating the national news headlines these days, and even during the past years.

Now the undesirable stories about the agency have become even more unpleasant to the ears and eyes of the saner Filipinos. What with the alleged multi-billion pesos allegedly lost and transferred to the pockets of its corrupt executives in connivance with even more greedy public and private hospital and clinic officials.

Yes, about a year ago PhilHealth was rocked with the anomaly involving reimbursement claims by a dialysis center in Metro Manila. According to the whistle blower the dialysis center has been submitting to the government health insurance firm reimbursement requests with several patients repeatedly included in the list of beneficiaries. Worst, according to the whistle blower, many of the persons included as being served by the dialysis center were already dead. They were just “resurrected.”

We have no doubt that the perpetuation of the anomalous practices could not have happened had there been no connivance between some people inside PhilHealth and from those of the center. And we believe that their wrong doings were tolerated by their superiors or could have been done on their behest.

Meanwhile, in the ongoing Congressional inquiry into PhilHealth's alleged multi-billion money-making activities by its officials, several areas of the government firm’s operation have been tagged as the possible vehicles for syphoning the money to the corrupt officials’ pockets – greedy hospital executives’ pockets included.

Top in the list of sources of corruption is the Institutional Reimbursement System or the IRS. Here, according to the testimonies of PhilHealth executives who were invited as “resource persons” to the parallel hearings of the Senate and the House of Representatives, the accredited hospitals are given a menu of diseases covered

by PhilHealth policies with fixed maximum amounts that can be charged to the system.

On a cursory look, everything in this scheme looks good. But a deeper scrutiny would reveal why the seed of corruption thrives in this system. And why not, when the PhilHealth releases in advance certain funds to the authorized hospitals where the latter draw the amount that is chargeable on the reimbursement system?

Another area where corruption has long been prac-

ticed at or with PhilHealth is the “upgrading” of certain illnesses and cheating on the number of days of treatment and confinement. On this particular aspect in doing the corrupt act, the cheating lies mostly on the hospital management or the doctors themselves.

The participation of PhilHealth and some of its people may be very minimal as this can be attributed to the agency’s lack of manpower and/or system to effectively monitor and validate cases submitted by hospitals for payment.

One example of this mode of cheating on PhilHealth is when a patient is diagnosed with simple cough. But instead of honestly telling the patient of his/her actual illness the attending medical practitioner tells the patient that the illness is evolving into potential pneumonia and there may be need for confinement. Thus, the likelihood is that the patient may have to fork in more money for the hospital stay and for medicines. Then the doctor will give the patient some viable options like allowing him/her to go home provided this and that medicine is bought and taken as prescribed.

Normally the patient who often is short of money for confinement would prefer going home and just buy the drugs prescribed by the doctor.

And, as an additional “act of goodness” the doctor would request the patient to sign on certain PhilHealth forms and commits that he’ll/she’ll do the rest. Naturally the happy patient signs with no hesitation. What he/she does not know is that in the doctor’s report and request

for reimbursement to PhilHealth, the cough becomes pneumonia and the “go home and rest” becomes a two or even three days of confinement.

Converted into PhilHealth’s cash, how much would that amount to? And how many such patients have enjoyed that doctor’s “goodness”?

And here is another mode of cheating that may or may not have the connivance of the hospital management, the attending physicians and hospital-based PhilHealth personnel.

The attending physicians, mostly surgeons in surgical cases, advise the patient that he/she can give a discount on the professional fee provided the patient pays directly to the doctor. But the truth is that the amount discounted is still being reflected in the hospital bill and that a portion thereof is charged by the hospital to PhilHealth. Here the doctor does a dual cheating on the government. One is on the taxes payable to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR); and the other is on the hospital itself which supposedly gets a percentage of the doctor’s fee.

And it was only during the House hearing that it was disclosed the funds accumulated from the payment of hospitals and other medical facilities to get PhilHealth accreditation have been used for allowances of the agency’s top executives. And it has been going for years until it was discovered by the Commission on Audit only lately.

No wonder we have a former regional PhilHealth executive in Mindanao whom we have known is now happily retired enjoying a luxurious farm house complete with urban amenities including a large swimming pool.

No wonder a former Davao politician who once made a name and had gone to near oblivion after losing in a previous election, told us his only wish is from President Rodrigo Duterte is to give him a Davao-based post at PhilHealth.

And no wonder a nurse who works not in the emergency room or directly assisting physicians in attending to patients but instead in the administrative department in a large hospital in the Visayas, has been claiming that aside from a P30 thousand plus monthly salary he/she also enjoys an average of P10 thousand a month allegedly from PhilHealth money.

So, there might be truth to one joke saying that PhilHealth is getting a new name, The House of Corruption.

Not just axe, but jail these corrupt Philhealth execs IT was in 2013 when I first started to expose some of the irregularities and anomalies of this state run government agency, PhilHealth, which is reeking with corruption.

The top official I exposed in my story published in the Philippine Daily Inquirer, only got transferred to another region. The story is still archived in the PDI news portal, which you, dear readers, can google.

Now fast forward to this year, 2020, On August 8, the Senate conducted an investigation, following an audacious whistle blower’s exposure of the many well entrenched corruption by a mafia-like group operating inside the agency, siphoning undetermined huge amounts of public funds over the years. I once helped four disgruntled employees of the PhilHealth in southern Mindanao in reporting these irregularities, including falsification of the academic credentials of a top PhilHealth director, We went out of the way to even acquire the official confirmation from the state university which the director claimed he is a graduate of, which turned out not to be true. The university executive issued an official reply that the director was never an alumnae of their university. Despite the report coming from the media on the irregularities of the agency, the top official was only transferred to another assignment.

On Tuesday, apparently under pressure from the Senate inquiry, PhilHealth president Ricardo Morales finally made mention of the top two officials in his agency that were involved in rampant corruption. He named

TOPLIGHT

BY DENNIS JAY SANTOS

Masiding Alonto and Dennis Andre, PhilHealth Davao Region vice president, who were involved in various corrupt practices and dipped their hands in billions worth of public funds.

Now that the beleaguered state agency has been under intense scrutiny by the Senate and followed closely by the media and the public at large. The question begging to be answered is: What is the next bold step to undertake?

For once, I agree with Senate President Vicente Sotto to axe all the corrupt officials. I hope the corrupt officials in the agency will get what is due them.

Dear Senators who are reading this, take a hard look at the story written in 2013. This is backed by solid facts, which I diligently and exhaustively gathered as a crusading journalist. If I may add, the Senate should also file appropriate charges against them, too. In the many years they had enriched themselves like leeches that refuse to let go.

They have amassed untold wealth, funds that could have benefited many sick filipinos. This culture of corruption in our country must stop. In other countries like Japan, any whiff of embarrassment that causes officials to lose dignity or pride would remedy it by stepping down from their office to save face or redeem their honor. There ought to be a lesson learned from this.

I take pride in former PhilHealth executives Atty Jo Puzon, Florence Mananes, Lady Bee Go and Bernadith Ipanag, who were all arbitrarily terminated from their post in the PhilHealth under Andre for filing proper charges against him for various anomalies. These brave women were the first whistleblowers in their former agency. Their stories became the basis for the series of stories I have written. so kudos to their bravery and integrity.

I have witnessed their pain and the struggle they went through when they were unjustly fired and were hurled with false accusations. I thank them too for entrusting me to tell their stories. They have since moved on to another career path and are now successful career women who held their heads up with integrity intact. Something that they can proudly tell their children and grandchildren of the fight they courageously stood for.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2020 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31,14, 2016

DAVAO GEVIN PAWNSHOP, INC. All pawned items that expired during the month All pawned items that expired during the of JANUARY 2020, if not renewed or redeemed on month MAY, 2015will if be notsold renewed or reor beforeof JULY 15, 2020 to the public on deemed on or before JULY 14, 2015 will be JULY 16, 2020 at 9:00a.m. at our pawnshop premises.

sold to the public on JULY 16, 2015 at 9:00 Gipahibalo ang tanan na ang FIRST COLOR a.m. at our pawnshop premises.

PAWNSHOP magasubasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan sa ENERO 2020. Ang tanan prenda ibaligya Gipahibalo ang tanan na ang FIRST sa publiko karong HULYO 16, 2020 sa alas 9:00 sa COLOR PAWNSHOP magasubasta sa tanan buntag.

nga nag-expired sa bulan sa MAYO 2015.

Ang tanan prenda ibaligya sa publiko karong HULYO 16 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag.

DAVAO FIRST COLOR PAWNSHOP

#47 Lao St., Toril, Davao City Tel. No. 295-2460

Anino Bldg., Prk 28 Villafuerte Street, Calinan, Davao City

Tel. No. 295-0751

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE

All pawned items that expired during the month of MAY 2020, must renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed it will sold to the public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00am.

Gipahibalo ang tanan nga ang DAVAO GEVIN PAWNSHOP, INC., maga-subasta sa tanan nga nagexpired sa bulan sa MAYO 2020. Ang tanang prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE

TEL. NOS.

CALINAN, Villafuerte (Main) JULY 03, 2020

295-0751

MINTAL, Sampaguita St.

233-0712

JULY 03, 2020

All pawned items that expired during the month of MAY 2020, must renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed it will sold to the public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00am.

Gipahibalo ang tanan nga ang GOLDVALUE PAWNSHOP, INC., maga-subasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan sa MAYO 2020. Ang tanang prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES AUCTION DATE TEL. NOS. BAJADA JULY 03, 2020 321-8705 (Beside NBI Office) BABAK SAMAL JULY 21, 2020 301-4019 SAN PEDRO JULY 07, 2020 227-6772 CABAGUIO JULY 28, 2020 321-6223 TIBUNGCO JULY 29, 2020 222-2494 (OPENING)

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE

All pawned items that expired during the month of JUNE 2020, must renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior to the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed, it will be sold to the public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00 a.m.

Gipahibalo ang tanan nga ang NARDING PAWNSHOP, INC., maga-subasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan sa HUNYO 2020.

Ang tanan prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES Lapu-lapu, Agdao Matina Crossing Tibungco

AUCTION DATE AUG. 07, 2020 AUG. 19, 2020 AUG 14, 2020

TEL. NOS. (082) 327-2104 (082) 297-5786 (082) 296-4130

PANABO’S PAWNSHOP, INC. Panabo (Main) AUG 12, 2020 (084) 628-8418 Panabo (Branch) AUG 12, 2020 (084) 628-842

9GEMS Pawnshop Inc. Egger Bldg., Matina Crossing Davao City Tel. No. (082) 285-7069

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All pawned items expired on JULY 2020 and gadgets that expires on AUGUST 2020 will be displayed in a public auction on SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 at 9:00 A.M.

All pawned items that expired during the month of JANUARY 2020 must be renewed or redeemed two (2) days before the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed, it will be sold to public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00 A.M.

All pawned items that expired during the month of MAY 2020, if not renewed or redeemed on or before JULY 15, 2020 will be sold to the public on JULY 16, 2020 at 9:00a.m. at our pawnshop premises.

Gipahibalo ang tanan na ang AL-JOS PAWNSHOP magasubasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan sa MAYO 2020. Ang tanan prenda ibaligya sa publiko karong HULYO 16, 2020 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag.

Gipahibalo ang tanan na ang DIAGOLD PAWNSHOP INC., magasubasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan ENERO 2020. Ang tanang prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa na nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE TEL. NOS.

Agdao MARCH 12, 2020 (Toy Bldg., Lapu-lapu St.)

284-9017

ROSEGOLD PAWNSHOP & JEWELLER Main – San Pedro Cor. Anda Street Davao City Tel. Nos. (082) 221-1477; (082) 221-0355; (082)222-5039 Accepts: Jewelry, Appliances, Watches, CellPhones and Any Valuable Items Highest Appraisal and Low Interest Rates at 3% Wholesaler and Retailers on all kinds of jewelry Rosegold Pawnshop Lapu-lapu Street, Agdao Davao City Tel. No. (082) 225-3637

Rosegold Pawnshop Ilustre St., Davao City (Fronting Limso Hospital) Tel. No. (082) 222-2104

Rosegold Pawnshop Ilustre Street, Davao City (Beside NCCC Hardwaremaxx) Tel. No. (082) 295-6199

Rosegold Pawnshop KM6 Crossing Buhangin, Div. Road, Davao City Tel. No. (082) 241-2355

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All Jewelry and other articles pawned at Rosegold Pawnshop San Pedro-Main, Rosegold Pawnshop Ilustre, Rosegold Pawnshop Bolton, Rosegold Pawnshop, Agdao and Rosegold Pawnshop Buhangin from FEBRUARY 16, 2020 to MARCH 15, 2020. If not redeemed or renewed on or before AUGUST 14, 2020 will be sold to the Public Auction on AUGUST 17, 2020 at Rosegold Pawnshop San Pedro-Main from 9:00am to 6:00pm.

GOLDSTANDARD PAWNSHOP

San Pedro street, Davao City (Fronting Queen Bank) Tel. No. (082) 222-1561 ; (082) 321-0128 Accepts: Jewelry, Appliances, Watches, Cellphones and any valuable items Highest Appraisal and Low Interest Rates at 3% Wholesaler and Retailers on all Kinds of Jewelry

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE

All jewelry and other articles pawned at Goldstandard Pawnshop San Pedro, Goldstandard Pawnshop Ilustre from FEBRUARY 16, 2020 TO MARCH 15, 2020 if not redeemed or renewed on AUGUST 14, 2020 will be sold to the Public Auction on AUGUST 17, 2020 at our Pawnshop premises from 9:00am to 6:00pm.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All pawned items at METRO GOLDBRILL PAWNSHOP that expired during the month of JANUARY 2020, if not renewed or redeemed on or before MARCH 13, 2020 will be sold to the public on MARCH 17, 2020 at 9:00 A.M. Ginapahibalo ang tanan na ang METRO GOLDBRILL PAWNSHOP magasubasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan sa ENERO 2020. Ang tanan prenda ibaligya sa publiko karong MARSO 17, 2020 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag.

2nd Level, Gaisano Mall of Davao, J.P. Laurel Ave., Davao City Tel. No.: (082) 221-3355 • (082) 305-9496 2nd Level, SM Lanang Premier, J.P. Laurel Ave., Davao City Tel. No.: (082) 295-1505 • (082) 321-0525 email: jrosejewels@yahoo.com • www.jrosejewels.ph

PAWNS NOT REDEEMED/RENEWED WITHIN FIVE (5) DAYS AFTER EXPIRY DATES WILL BE AUCTIONED ON JULY 16, 2020 AT 10:00 A.M. AT THE RESPECTIVE PAWNSHOPS WHERE THE ITEMS WERE PAWNED.

DAVAO GOLDWIN PAWNSHOP, INC All pawned items of GOLDVISION PAWNSHOP, INC. that expired during the month of MAY 2020, if not renewed or redeemed it will be sold to the public on its respective auction schedule and premises at 9:00 a.m.

Gipahibalo ang tanan na ang GOLDVISION PAWNSHOP, INC. maga-subasta sa tanan nga nag-expire sa bulan sa MAYO 2020. Ang tanan prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE

General Lao, Toril

JULY JULY JULY JULY JULY JULY JULY

Agton. Toril Buhangin Magallanes Tagum Saavedra, Toril Agdao

16, 2020 16, 2020 14, 2020 09, 2020 24, 2020 16, 2020 17, 2020

TEL. NO. 291-2406 291-2952 241-0223 224-3138 216-3425 291-1349 327-2348

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All pawned items that expired during the month of JANUARY 2020 must be renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior to the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed, it will be sold to the public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00A.M. BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE

TEL. NO.

C.M. RECTO (MAIN) LANANG BRANCH 1 SAN PEDRO

MARCH 17, 2020 297-8081 MARCH 17, 2020 235-3473 MARCH 17, 2020 327-8832

GABBY’S BRILLIANT PAWNSHOP INC. / GABBY’S INFINITE PAWNSHOP INC. TEL NO.: 321-2185 / 234-4844

All pawned items that expire during the month of JANUARY 2020 must be renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed it will be sold to public on its respective auction schedule and premises @9:00a.m.

Gipahibalo ang tanan nga ang GABBY’S INFINITE PAWNSHOP INC. magasubasta sa tanan nga nag expire sa bulan sa ENERO 2020. Ang tanang prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE

TEL. NOS.

SAN PEDRO

MARCH 16, 2020

321-2185

ILUSTRE

MARCH 02, 2020

234-4844

JULY 10, 2020

All pawned items from MAY 2020 – JUNE 2020

12

MINDANAO TIMES Ad (8x5.5in).pdf 1 1/29/2020 3:06:14 PM

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

Initially accessible through PLDT landlines, Smart, Sun and Talk N’ Text subscriptions

CMY

K

For Globe and TM subscribers, call the following numbers:

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020

MINDANAO TIMES

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020

LOCAL...

(from front page)

of barangays to aid the LGUs in providing quarantine for patients in their respective areas so as to unload hospitals now overwhelmed with COVID-19 cases.

Meanwhile, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III commended the region's Temporary Treatment and Moni-

DOH...

(from page 2)

petrators of these acts who are taking advantage of this health crisis, " the statement reads.

"We assure the public that we are taking necessary steps to curb this and protect you from these scammers, " it said.

The contact tracing is primarily overseen by the Department of Interior and Local Government and conducted by the local government units.

PH...

toring Facilities (TTMFs) which he said is "three to five times better" than the national figures.

Currently, the region has 862 TTMFs with a total of 7,470 beds. Of this number, 50 TTMFs were certified and 16 have been accredited by PhilHealth. (PNA)

The public is urged to: 1. Refrain from giving out their personal information 2. Take note of the number and block it 3. Report the matter to the authorities They can also report the incident to DOH’s Call Center Hotline through telephone number (632) 8651-7800 local 5003-5004 or email callcenter@doh.gov.ph

(from page 3)

tices between the two navies

in defense against the dreaded Covid-19 global pandemic while maintaining maritime operational capability," PN public affairs officer, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, said in a media statement.

The PN side was headed

by Capt. Jempsun V. de Guzman, assistant chief of naval staff for operations, while the ROKN was represented by Capt. Lee Han Dong, head of the ROKN's international cooperation branch.

"Despite the current pandemic, both navies proceeded with the talks, albeit virtually,

taking it as an opportunity to explore technologies to continue and deepen their bilateral relationship and diplomatic ties," Roxas said.

This first-ever NTNT between the navies of the Philippines and South Korea was held under the Terms of Reference (TOR), which they signed in 2019. One of the specifics under the TOR is the conduct of biennial Navy talks, which would serve as a forum for regular dialogue and information exchange between the two navies to discuss matters of common importance and promote mutual interests. (PNA)

CARAGA...

(from page 2)

COVID-19, he said.

“Eleven of the new COVID-19 cases in Caraga Region are locally stranded individuals (LSIs), six are considered local transmissions from Butuan City, and three are returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs),” Llacuna said.

Nineteen of the new cases are considered asymptomatic with one showing mild symptoms. Eleven of the new cases are males while nine are females with ages ranging from 20 to 30 years old, he said.

The new COVID-19 cases are distributed in Butuan City (7); in Agusan del Sur, Bayugan City (1), Loreto (1), Prosperidad (1), Rosario (1), and Veruela (1); in Surigao del Norte, Surigao City (1), Mainit (1), and Malimono (1); in Surigao del Sur, Bislig City (4); and in Agusan del Norte, Nasipit (1).

“All cases are strictly

5 ASG...

monitored and managed in the designated quarantine facilities region-wide,” Llacuna said.

Meanwhile, Caraga registered a total number of 295 recoveries as of Wednesday evening, Llacuna said. The region has 76 active cases with one recorded death on the same day.

In a statement Wednesday, DOH-Caraga asked business establishments to implement policies for the health and safety of their workers and prevent the further spread of infection.

The policies should include the installation of physical protective barriers and regular monitoring of individual health practices such as wearing of facemask, respiratory hygiene or cough etiquette and the proper physical distancing when interacting with clients and co-workers, it said. (PNA)

(from page 2)

64IB commander, said the program that kicked-off Tuesday is being held in Barangay Tumahubong, Sumisip, Basilan.

Besa said 15 young people and five dependents of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) surrenderers joined the program.

The program is also in support of the government’s campaign in educating the youth under the “new normal,” Besa said, adding the participants will be taught on basic computer operations as well as hardware maintenance

and troubleshooting.

Besa said the program also prepares students for employment with computer literacy, as one of the competencies required, and insulate the youth from violent extremism.

“This action promotes and encourages the youths to enjoin us as catalysts of change and unity,” he said.

Meanwhile, the participants got fresh vegetables that were harvested from the 64IB’s Demo Farm in Barangay Tumahubong, Sum-

COUNCILOR...

13

(from page 2)

erate here the calls for press freedom and the protection of media personnel and journalists against all forms of human rights violations and attacks,” Librado said.

She backed the call of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) for the Department of Health and local government to test reporters and other media personnel for COVID-19, particularly those “who came in contact with some legislators in Congress, those who cover hospitals, and others in such similar high-risk situations.”

Librado added that several media workers have been affected by the outbreak in the country. She noted that many of them have lost their employment, particularly those from ABS-CBN, which was forced to migrate on digital platforms after the Congress struck down its application for franchise renewal.

“Many media workers are confronting lockdowns now without any job security or source of income. In the case of media giant ABS-CBN, thousands already lost their jobs. Those who retain their work face the possibility of salary cuts,” she added.

Citing University of the

Philippines professor Diosa Labiste, Librado said: “Sadly, journalists were not even considered ‘frontliners’ when, in fact, they are taking risks to inform the public, on a daily basis, about COVID-19.”

She said that many journalists have lost their jobs due to media closures and layoffs, leaving them without “employment to confront the pandemic’s impact and the subsequent lockdowns.”

“This dismal situation runs parallel to the state of media companies here where lay-offs and closures have become rampant. Sunstar CDO and Bandera, as cited by NUJP, have already stopped their printing operation. Even in Davao City, and many parts in Mindanao, several newspaper outfits have turned to online platforms,” Librado pointed out.

She added that those who have been removed from their jobs must be afforded the proper process, compensation, and benefits.

“Even in a crisis, it will never be justified for employers to simply disregard the welfare of their workers, whether in the media industry or otherwise,” she said. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

isip.

the battalion in partnership with the Sumisip CARES Program and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. (PNA)

Besa said they harvested Tuesday some 70 kilos of Bottle Gourd from the Demo Farm that was established by