THE MINDANAO TODAY JUNE 20-21, 2022

MINDANAO TODAY

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| Volume I | Number 198 | www.mindanaotoday.com | Mon-Tue, JUNE 20-21, 2022 | 12 pages | P15.00

AS PHILIPPINES’ 15TH VICE PRES.

Sara takes oath

Vice President-elect Sara Duterte takes her oath of office administered by Supreme court Justice Ramon Paul Hernando in Davao City on 19 June 2022. Sara Duterte is accompanied by her mother, Elizabeth Zimmerman, and father, outgoing Pres. Rodrigo Duterte. (Manman Dejeto | MindaNews)

By Jigger Jerusalem Associate Editor

O

UTGOING Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte took her oath as the country’s 15th vice president at the San Pedro Square in Davao City Sunday, June 19, 2022.

Duterte was sworn into office by Supreme Court As-

sociate Justice Ramon Paul Hernando ahead of her formal assumption as vice president noontime on June 30, 2022.

In attendance was President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his family.

Also present to witness the oath-taking was Duterte’s mother Elizabeth Zimmerman and father incumbent Pres.

Rodrigo Duterte.

In previous interviews, the younger Duterte said she had her swearing in ceremony be held on June 19 so she could attend Marcos’s oath-taking on June 30.

Both the teams of Duterte and outgoing Vice Pres. Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo have confirmed that the transition proceedings went smoothly.

Reports said Dutete will be holding office at the Quezon City Reception House, where Robredo also held office, and at the Department of Education Central Office in Pasig City.

In her inaugural speech, the incoming vice president said: “The voice of 32.2 million Filipino was loud and clear – with the message to

serve our motherland. And this message has been reiterated in my oath to consecrate myself to the service of the nation.”

“If we all take a moment to listen to the call to serve and decide to heed the call — in the same way that many are already devoting their lives as hardworking farmers and SARA, p11...

4 houses destroyed by fire in Iligan City

By Marivic Davis

Fire destroyed four houses in Purok 1B in Barangay Buru-un on Saturday morning, June 18, 2022. (Marivic Davis | MindaNews)

Zambo City cops nab 7, seize P1.4M shabu

By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Units under the Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) have arrested seven drug suspects and seized some P1.4 million worth of illegal drugs in sepa-

rate operations over the past week here in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

The latest drug haul happened Friday in Sitio Aticlan, Barangay Arena Blanco, here.

Col. Richard Verseles, operations chief of the Area

Police Command-Western Mindanao (APC-WM), said suspect Nasser Alih was arrested in possession of some 100 grams of suspected shabu worth P680,000 around 1:50 p.m. Friday by the Special Operations Unit-9 in Sitio

Aticlan.

Also seized from Alih were a cellular phone and PHP500 bill placed on top of a bundle of boodle money.

Another suspect, Almudzrin Atalad, 40, was arrested by ZAMBO, p11...

ILIGAN CITY – Four houses were destroyed by fire in Purok 1B in Barangay Buru-un on Saturday morning.

SFO3 Julian Tangob Jr. said the fire started in the house of Rose Mai Uyan at around 7:48 a.m. Uyan said they heard an explosion in one of the rooms.

The affected families are currently in the barangay gym of Buru-un with the assistance of the Department of Social FIRE, p11...

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AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

50 remote DavOr villages get vehicles for emergency response

By Che Palicte

Davao Oriental Gov. Nelson Dayanghirang (holding the key in a white shirt). (Photo courtesy of Davao Oriental PIO)

DAVAO CITY – The provincial government of Davao Oriental distributed one custom-built emergency rescue vehicle to each of the 50 isolated villages in the province, an official said Friday.

Karen Lou Deloso, provincial information officer, said vehicles were handed over to far-flung villages or geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA) to address the need for disaster preparedness and response.

Barangays Boston, Ca-

teel, Baganga, Caraga, Manay, Tarragona, Banaybanay, Lupon, Mati City, and Governor Generoso received the vehicles during the turnover ceremony at the Davao Oriental Tourism Complex on Wednesday.

“These vehicles were acquired through loan proceeds,” Deloso said.

Rizalda Mamilic, chairman of Barangay Dadong in Tarragona town, underscored the importance of the vehicles, considering that their area is far from the town center.

“The vehicle answers

the needs of our residents in times of emergencies, especially during the rainy season and calamities,” she said Each unit costs PHP348,500 and is equipped with a 4×4-wheel drive, midship mounted searchlight, fire extinguisher, a combat-type seat for direct emergency rescues, medical supplies, spine board, and other special features.

Deloso said a fleet of brand-new heavy equipment was also delivered to the provincial government on the same day. (PNA)

Gun attacks leave 4 dead in Cotabato City, Maguindanao town

By Edwin Fernandez COTABATO CITY – Security has been tightened after four persons were killed and six were hurt in separate

Army seizes 2 NPA IEDs

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – Government forces have recovered war matériel following a clash with New People’s Army guerrillas in the Surigao del Norte town of San Francisco, the military said Wednesday.

The Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion (IB) said government troops responded to a civilian report on the presence of an undetermined number of NPA rebels harassing the residents of remote Sitio Tigbao, Barangay Balite, Tuesday.

“As our troops were approaching Sitio Tigbao, the rebels opened fire that resulted in a 30-minute gunfight,” the 30IB said in a statement Wednesday.

Intelligence reports said the insurgents belong to the NPA’s Guerrilla Front 16, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee, led by a certain Pablo Logatiman.

(PNA)

gun attacks here and in the nearby Maguindanao town Datu Odin Sinsuat, police said Monday.

In a statement, Capt. Jetto Yang, city police station 3 chief, said a group of teenagers on board a black Toyota sedan was ambushed around 7 p.m. Sunday by still unidentified gunmen in Barangay Kalanganan 2 here.

The ambush left two teenagers killed and six of their companions injured.

Police said the two fatalities, whose identities were withheld pending investigation, were pronounced dead on arrival at a hospital. Likewise, the identities of those hurt in the incident were withheld for security reasons.

Edris Ayunan Pasawiran, village chairperson of Barangay Kalanganan 2, said the ambush was triggered by a quarrel among teenagers from two neighborhoods.

“We noticed that some of

those involved in the misunderstanding were carrying guns,” Pasawiran said.

“Through our mediation, both sides agreed to settle their dispute supposedly today, June 13 at our barangay hall,” he added.

Pasawiran said the village government is helping the police identify the perpetrators, even as he appealed to the parties involved not to put the law into their hands.

(PNA)

The bodies of a man and woman who were shot and left dead by still unidentified gunmen. (Photo courtesy of Datu Odin Sinsuat MPS)

By Edwin Fernandez

Monday.

Director Rogelito Daculla of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) identified the suspects as Tapia Malingco, 41; and Jhon Jickery Malingco Ayunan, 29; both of Paga-

lungan, Maguindanao.

Daculla said the two were arrested after they sold shabu to a PDEA agent disguised as a buyer at 5 p.m. Sunday in Barangay Poblacion, Pagalungan.

“Tapia, a former LGU employee, and Ayunan, both voluntarily surrendered to au-

thorities due to their involvement in illegal drugs some two years ago,” Daculla said.

Seized from them were P102,000 worth of shabu, the buy-bust money, identification cards, two mobile phones, a Tomahawk shotgun, a magazine assembly, three pieces of 12-gauge

shotgun ammunition, and a wallet.

The suspects were charged with the violation of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 200) and R.A. 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act). (PNA)

By Alexander Lopez

Personnel of the Butuan City Police Office seize some P432,500 worth of illegal logs. (Photo courtesy of Butuan City Police Office)

BUTUAN CITY – Illegally-cut logs amounting to some P432,500 were intercepted here inside a closedtype truck flagged down at a checkpoint, police said Thursday.

Arrested were Neil Bryan Batucan, 27, the truck driver,

and Arniel Batucan Jr. 25, the truck helper, both New Corella, Davao de Oro. “The suspects failed to present the necessary documents to transport the forest products,” Col. Excelso Lazaga Jr., city police director, said.

Another truck occupant, Erwin Dupalco, 35, of Sibag-

at, Agusan del Sur, escaped after noticing that police officers were stopping their vehicle.

Confiscated inside the truck were 366 pieces of forest products that have a total volume of 12,359.13 board feet.

Personnel from the Department COPS, p11...

“In partnership with the Department of Education in Davao (DepEd-Davao), our group has made it our mission to establish water filtration centers in schools here where learners have difficulty accessing clean drinking water,” Manabat said.

DepEd-Davao has recommended the schools of Antonio Pichon Elementary School, Mudiang Elementary

flung Barangay Gupitan, Davao del Norte—has been selected by their team as a priority beneficiary.

“Sitio Tapayanon is a small community in the highlands of Barangay Gupitan discovered by the military in one of their monitoring activities in the once rebelinfested area of this barangay,” she said. (Christine Cudis | PNA)

GiftingLife Philippines Country Manager Liezel SaleraManabat. (Contributed photo from GiftingLife)

Maguindanao ex-gov’t worker, pal nabbed in drug sting op COTABATO CITY – A former local government employee in Maguindanao and his companion, both former drug personalities who surrendered to authorities in 2019, were arrested during a drug sting, an official said

Cops intercept P432.5K ‘hot’ logs in Butuan

Group seeks wide access to clean water for Davao schools DAVAO CITY – An advocacy group on Wednesday assured wider access to clean and safe drinking water for students in Davao City.

Liezel Salera-Manabat, the GiftingLife Philippines country manager, said her group is initially sourcing funds to set up water filtration and refilling centers in six schools in the city and one in Davao del Norte.

School, Gatungan Elementary School, Pablo Piatos Integrated School, Dr. S. Dakudao National High School, and Cabantian National High School for the “Water For All” project.

While they have completed the first filtration center for the initial batch of schools here, Manabat said another school—Tapayanon Elementary School in far-

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DA-10, Army ink MOU to support Army Green Camp DALWANGAN, MALAYBALAY CITY – The Department of Agriculture-10 (DA-10) headed by Regional Executive Director Carlene Collado and the Mindanao Army Training Group (MATG), Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Philippine Army, Executive Officer Maj. Gerald Dennis J. Loneza (Infantry), Philippine Army (PA) signed a memorandum of undertaking (MOU) on May 30, 2022, at

the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex, this city.

As a convergence partner in the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), MATG requested from the department farm machinery and equipment and other agri-related interventions for their Army Green Camp Program.

Included in the P3.18 million worth of productionrelated assistance set aside for the group are 1 unit farm

as an opportunity for us to know if we are on the right track and if there were things that we need to improve on or pay attention to,” said Judith Miquiabas, Bacolod’s municipal mayor.

On behalf of the Municipal Agriculture Office, she expressed gratitude to the BFAR MMK monitoring team for playing a significant

role in identifying issues and lapses of the projects, especially in the “project-topaperwork” aspect.

The inspectors were provided a checklist on the implemented, distributed, and on-going MMK-funded fisheries livelihood projects commenced from 2016 to 2019.

During the field inspec-

By Rollin Dave Elloren

DA-10 and PA signs an MOU for the provision of various agri inputs for the implementation of the Army Green Camp program. (DA-10)

tractor with trailing harrow, disc plow, and trailer, one unit corn sheller, one unit hand tractor/multi-cultivator, and five heads of cattle as a source of livelihood to promote the culture of food sufficiency.

According to Collado, the signing is in support of the said program, which is essential to mitigate food shortage and hunger and to secure from the threats of insurgency.

The cited interventions were procured under the

Socio-Economic Component of the Normalization Process and Special Area for Agricultural Development programs as part of DA and the Armed Forces of the Philippines' collaborative efforts to bring government services closer to the communities, he added.

Also witnessing the MOU signing are DA-10 Field Operations Division Chief Luz I. Guzman, PhD and Provincial Operations Chief of Bukidnon Janet D. Lopez, DVM. (RDME | DA-10)

BFAR-10 MMK monitoring team commends Bacolod town

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – As national winners of the Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan (MMK) award, the local government unit (LGU) of the Bacolod, Lanao del Norte astonishes the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-10’s (BFAR-10) monitoring team for its efficiency in carrying out its P32 million-worth MMK projects

reward.

A two-day inspection was conducted by a special team from BFAR-10 consisting of experts from its inspectorate, accounting, administrative, planning, and technical personnel assigned to oversee the progress of MMK projects implemented by the said municipality.

“We take this inspection

tion, the LGU was praised for its production of highquality fiberglass reinforcement plastic (FRP) boats manufactured at a site in Baroy, Lanao del Norte.

With different specifications, over a hundred FRP boats produced from the MMK reward were distributed to registered fisherfolk beneficiaries throughout Ba-

colod as livelihood support, while some will be utilized to boost its aqua-tourism sector.

Simultaneously, two floating watch stations worth PhP500k each are currently assembled to further strengthen marine life security and protection, along with three flagship 15-meter diameter fish cages worth BFAR, p11...

Nurturing diversity, equality in workplace ensure no one’s left behind MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon – Diversity, inclusion, and workplace gender equality pervade throughout the Aboitiz Group of companies.

Consistent with its core values, the Aboitiz Group provides equal opportunity to all its team members. The organization ensures to nurture and create a workplace where all employees are treated with dignity and respect.

In Aboitiz, no one is left behind. Team members are given opportunities and are treated with fairness regardless of age, gender identity, or diverse preferences and backgrounds. Aboitiz’s nondiscrimination policies apply to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, talent management, and employee integration.

Workforce at the Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV), the holding company of the Aboitiz Group, perfectly illustrates it—with 50.18% of its employees being women and 49.82% men. About 42% of the executive-level positions are occupied by women holding strategic roles in various business units leading the Aboitiz Group.

When it comes to the health insurance policy of the company, AEV together with the Group’s business units adopted the inclusion of the LGBTQ+ and common-law partners as medical dependents of its team members. They are entitled to the same medical coverage as the spouse of a legally married team member.

Also, AEV has a standing policy on Anti-Sexual Harassment and Safe Space Act. Employees should be able to work in an environment that promotes equal employment opportunities and prohibits

discriminatory practices, including harassment.

Therefore, the company expects that all relationships among persons in the workplace will be professional and free of bias, harassment, or violence.

The Group’s energy arm AboitizPower (AP) is likewise an equal opportunity employer. As part of its Human Rights commitment, AP welcomes and celebrates diversity in its organization, ensures inclusivity, and has zero tolerance for any form of discrimination.

Like AEV, AboitizPower has publicly disclosed its anti-sexual harassment and safe spaces act in 2021.

Also, AP has seen an increase in the percentage of female employees in the organization from 2019, 2020 and 2021 at 27.60%, 27.93%, and 29.03% respectively.

AboitizPower’s diverse workforce shows that about 29.01% account for team members who are more than 30 years old, 57.82% are those within the 30 to 50-year-old range, while 13.16% account for employees more than 50 years old.

The Group’s infrastructure arm Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) is also serious in implementing its Business Code of Ethics for AntiSexual Harassment.

In addition, AIC together with AEV is committed to championing women empowerment as they joined the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment.

Through the partnership, the company held an Unconscious Bias webinar for team members and will soon undergo the Gender Equality Assessment, Results, and Strategies program.

It also ensures its Human

Resources (HR) initiatives are gender-neutral, such as its Mentoring Partnership, 360 Degree Feedback, and Talent Management Program.

Meantime in AboitizLand, fair treatment and psychological safety are highlighted to everyone. Team members are encouraged to express their true sentiments at work via pre-and onboarding experience surveys.

Thus, AboitizLand provides multiple channels where team members can freely express their concerns, sentiments, and inquiries.

Externally, the Group has also spearheaded several corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives that promote inclusion and equality through education programs.

(Hedcor-AboitizGroup | PIA10/Bukidnon)

Aboitiz Foundation engages in Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives that develop people’s skills and foster equality among all its beneficiaries. (Hedcor-AboitizGroup)

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A

FTER two months, I knew why villagers of Dunggoan, Tignapoloan near the border of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities had to flee for safety.

In Thursday’s Talakayan sa PIA forum at SM Cagayan de Oro Uptown Mall, Maj. Gen. Wilbur Mamawag, commander of the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, said they are running after “communist terrorist group” members hiding along the borders of Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur provinces.

Mamawag said they are among the “NPA remnants” from Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental which, due to relentless ELCAC (End Local Communist Armed Conflict) campaign, escaped to avoid encounters with government troops.

“We are not looking trouble, we are reaching out to them, convincing them that there is better life for them,” said the 4th ID commanding general, who grew up in Patag, Cagayan de Oro and finished his secondary education from Xavier University High School.

Just in January this year, 86 barangays of Lanao del Norte including Iligan and Lanao del Sur particularly Wao and Amai Manabilang towns were placed under the

area of responsibility of the Diamond Division.

The two Lanao provinces and Misamis Occidental (administratively part of region 10) used to be under the AOR of the Army’s First “Tabak” Infantry Division.

“But we have inter-operability coordination, even to the last unit, 24/7, with the 1st ID,” Mamawag said to avoid mis-encounters, misunderstanding, and ensure unified command and direction.

Last April 5, Facebook friend Norman Felisilda posted on his wall: “War is real between NPA ug sundalo, mismo sa among tugkaran.

Operasyon LAYAS” with a photo showing people and two motorbikes with riders on tandem about to leave.

Felisilda, who has been multi-tasking as school head and multi-grade teacher of Dunggoan Integrated School for months now, wrote on the FB post thread they had to take the road to Iligan to avoid being caught in a crossfire.

For educators like Felisilda and law-abiding residents of Dunggoan, they would be assured of safety and protection, but for those who resort to violence – with the use of arms to express their grievances – there is no place for them to hide.

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addiction to legal drugs.

Our healthcare system ought to promote prevention of diseases, a way of life from childhood to old age that will avoid drug dependency in securing our health and general wellbeing.

Nothing beats, for instance, proper diets and regular exercise in maintaining a well-functioning body.

In time past, people who ate the produce of their farm and enjoyed the bounty of a healthy environment and walk, rather than ride to their destination, generally lived long.

We may still live longer minus or with lesser aches if the body is regularly cleansed and maintained like a car engine. Of course, the pollution around us may factor in.

Suffice it to say that holistic health education is vital in securing a drug-free life. (MindaNews) (MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. William R. Adan, Ph.D., is retired professor and former chancellor of Mindanao State University at Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines.)

BTS calls for racial equality and moral values

Erne Beth L. Bautista MAHVIC C. NATIVIDAD RUBY M. AGUSTIN Account Executives

Noel Armodia Production Head

N

OW I understand why the meds the seniors take for their hypertension, arthritis, diabetes, asthma and other bodily aches and discomforts are called maintenance medication.

The drugs they are taking do not cure but simply manage the disease, if not sustain it.

The toll of long-term taking of maintenance drugs complicates body ailments.

The drugs have side effects – they damage the kidneys, the liver and some brain cells, or cause insomnia, nausea, swelling of arms and legs, constipation, diarrhea, and other bodily woes and mental issues like anxiety and life-threatening depression, that require more and more drugs to address them.

That is why the retirees among them exhaust their modicum pension in going back and forth to their doctors to secure the prescription for the previous and new additional drugs.

Thus, in the remaining years of their twilight years, they keep on going to the drugstores, enriching the big pharma in the process with their collective behavior – their forced slavery or

T

(2nd of 2 parts)

HE White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre. who presented the band to the media, is herself an example of a young person who overcame hardship and sexual abuse as a child as she said in her memoir and eventually graduated with a Master of Public Affairs from the School of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University (SIPA) in 2003.

She is a highly qualified black, gay woman that served under President Barack Obama and continued with President Joe Biden.

In the Philippines, the incoming administration would do well to select people for public office based on ability and qualification and not personal looks, political connections, and cronyism.

Sadly, there is much discrimination and racism in the Philippines where many people in the middle and upper class have been convinced that when it comes to skin color, white is right.

They spend lavishly on dangerous, mercury-laced skin whitening creams

promoted by cosmetic companies to emulate and imitate the sickly, bleached white-skinned celebrities and some movie stars.

They wrongly reject and despise their own natural skin color and “kayumanggi” heritage, considering it as inferior and unworthy of them. They fail to see and appreciate the natural beauty of their own heritage.

Worst of all, they are endangering their health with these racist products.

The dedicated Filipino EcoWaste Coalition is campaigning to end the sale of mercury-laced skin whiteners.

The World Health Organization (WHO) lists the damages: kidney damage, skin rashes, skin discoloration, scarring, reduction in the skin’s resistance to bacterial and fungal infections, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and peripheral neuropathy.

Racism is not only in skin whitening products but firstly in the culture.

Filipino indigenous peoples are treated as inferior people by an elite oligarchy composed of dynastic families that devour the indigenous ancestral lands to extract minerals causing environmental destruction and greater poverty and oppression.

They have ruled with disastrous

consequences for generations where one-third of the Philippine population survives at various levels of poverty.

Many thousands of neglected and forgotten Filipinos (until election time) survive on the garbage and recycled left-over food from the plates of restaurant diners.

The rich and wealthy live in a luxurious cocoon of ignorance and apathy while millions go hungry.

The ruling elite have no shame, no national pride to make the Philippines a nation of fully educated people and a prosperous, poverty-free nation in the world community.

They have allowed it to become a nation owned by a few, super rich in an ocean of beggars, slum dwellers, and uneducated poor and a heavily taxed, struggling middle class.

They don’t care that hundreds of thousands of children are sexually abused in their impoverished families and sold over the internet as sex slaves by human traffickers for the satisfaction of foreign sex tourists and pedophiles.

The new administration will need more than a Korean boy band to change this shocking reality and build a nation based on justice and equality.

(Editor’s note: This opinion piece, written by Irish Columban priest Shay Cullen, was first published in the LiCAS. news website on June 6, 2022. We are republishing it with permission from the LiCAS.news editors.)

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Sulu Army general to tourists: Be our guests

By Bong Sarmiento PATIKUL, Sulu – Be our guests.

A ranking military official in Sulu province is inviting tourists to visit this islandprovince, citing significantly improved peace and order situation in what used to be the stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf.

Brig. Gen. Benjamin Batara, commander of the 1103rd Infantry Brigade, issued the invitation Friday following the ceremonial groundbreaking rites of the reformatory center in Barangay Langhub intended for Abu Sayyaf members who have surrendered.

“Sulu is relatively peace-

ful. For quite a long time, there have been no violent clashes (between our troops and the Abu Sayyaf) … Ang laki ng pinagbago ng peace and order ng Sulu, ang last kidnapping was two years ago,” he told reporters.

He urged tourists to visit Sulu for them to feel the vibes, savor the culinary offerings, experience the district cultural heritage and frolic in the white sand beaches.

In the past two years under the Covid-19 pandemic, domestic tourism thrived in this island province as several beach resorts opened to accommodate fellow islanders who could not travel beyond Sulu.

The Tandang Mairan Rock Formation in Capual Island, Omar, Sulu on Saturday, June 11, 2022. The rock formation is among many potential tourist destinations in the island province.

(Bong Sarmiento | MindaNews)

Zambo City revives kite festival to boost tourism

By Teofilo Garcia, Jr. ZAMBOANGA CITY – The local government is holding a kite festival for the first time in two years to help revive the city's tourism industry.

Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said part of the festival is the kite flying competition slated at 3 p.m.

Sunday at the scenic Paseo del Mar. The annual kite festival was suspended in 2020 following the coronavirus disease-19 pandemic.

“We are inviting kite enthusiasts to join the competition and help promote tourism,” Salazar said Thursday.

There are two main categories in the competition: teen (13-17-years-old) and

adult (18-years-old and above). Special awards will be given according to the two kite categories: the traditional kite and the figure kite.

The traditional kite is the 2-D or two-faced kite that comes in any shape whereas the figure kite is the 3-D kite with a theme and comes in realistic shapes.

A participant may register only one kite as entry to the competition. Kites for each age category will be made to fly in groups and the participants will be assisted by marshals during the launch.

The kites will be given a five-minute launch period and a retry for failure to takeoff. Kites that fail to take off the second time are disqualified. (PNA)

The city government is holding for the first time in two years a kite festival, which was suspended in 2020 following the Covid-19 pandemic. (City Hall PIO file photo)

Aside from the beaches, the mountains of Sulu also beckon tourists.

During the pandemic, mountaineering became a fad along with airsoft team game, biking and motorcycling.

Batara noted that in the past five years, at least 400 Abu Sayyaf members in Sulu, have surrendered to the government, tired, according to him, of running away from sustained military operations against them.

In December 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte activated the 11th Infantry (Alakdan) Division in Jolo, Sulu at the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista headquarters.

Many of the surrenderers are in their communities but once the reformatory center or halfway house is completed, they will be brought there by batches to reorient them and provide them with livelihood trainings so they can integrate into mainstream society, Batara said.

He added that one of the livelihood opportunities

could be as tourist guides, should the tourism industry here thrive because of the relatively peaceful condition here.

The general said the Abu Sayyaf strength in Sulu has been significantly weakened but not yet defeated.

According to him, the military continues to go after Abu Sayyaf leaders Mundi Sawadjaan and Radulan Sahiron in Sulu.

But he noted that the Abu Sayyaf forces in Sulu now “are not that strong unlike in the last two years.”

Naguib Sinarimbo, Minister of the Interior and Local Government who led the ground breaking ceremony for the reformatory center, said the facility seeks to inculcate a culture of peace and a new law-abiding mindset among the Abu Sayyaf surrenderers, as well as to train them to become productive members of mainstream society.

“It is not sufficient that there is no war or conflict.

Tausug women show off giant crabs in Omar, Sulu on Saturday, June 11, 2022. (Bong Sarmiento | MindaNews)

There must be substantial changes in their lives that will give them a new hope for a brighter future,” he said.

Sinarimbo and Batara signed the memorandum of agreement for the construction of the reformatory center.

Batara noted that in the past five years, at least 400 Abu Sayyaf members in

Sulu, have surrendered to the government, tired, according to him, of running away from sustained military operations against them.

In December 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte activated the 11th Infantry (Alakdan) Division in Jolo, Sulu at the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista headquarters. (BSS | MindaNews)

6

Mon-Tue, JUNE 20-21, 2022

MINDANAO TODAY

GILBERT CHAO,

motoring

Motoring Editor

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

IPC celebrates Traviz 10,000-sales

ISUZU Philippines Corporation (IPC) announces its latest sales milestone, the 10,000-unit sales for the Isuzu TRAVIZ lightweight truck, achieved this June.

Launched towards the end of 2019, the Isuzu TRAVIZ quickly became a popular choice for business owners nationwide, as it provides the best solution for their last mile delivery operations.

Cornering 32% of the Cab & Chassis market in May 2022, the TRAVIZ highlights the brand’s well-known reputation for durability & reliability, while also meeting

customer’s need for big cargo capacity and fuel efficiency on top of its modern and ergonomic cabin design – making this truck perfect for large scale corporation and MSMEs alike.

Like thousands of Isuzu customers nationwide, the TRAVIZ caught the heart of business executive Sherrie Mae Pag-Ong, Purchasing Head of Microserver-8 Enterprises.

“Our business operates both in NCR and Mindanao region and the TRAVIZ has been our choice of truck due its big cargo capacity, easy serviceability and nationwide

parts availability. In our line of business, our vehicle uptime is very important, and with the TRAVIZ, we can be assured of its reliability on the road and durability that the truck will last a long time,” she said.

Mircroserver-8 Enterprises, which is one of the emerging office equipment and computer accessory supplier in the south, was given a special award by IPC for being its 10,000th customer for the TRAVIZ. Held at Isuzu Manila, IPC’s new President Noboru Murakami, Asst. Sales Division Head,

Hiroto Nakaguro, Asst. Division Head for Sales Robert Carlos, Department Head Mario Ojales, together with YGC’s Business Operations Head, Johnny Fetalvero and Isuzu Manila Branch Head Art Silvestre were all present to award additional P10,000 Cash and P10,000 worth of Parts & Service to Microserver-8 Enterprises.

“We are very happy to be recognized as the 10,000thcustomer for the Isuzu TRAVIZ. We have been using this truck since 2021 and have been receiving very good feedback from

our drivers nationwide – the TRAVIZ is truly one of best profit partner,” said Pag-Ong. Confident with the TRAVIZ’s exceptional capabilities, IPC President Murakami highlights the relevance and advantages of the truck to its customers, “Now that we are facing an all-time high on fuel prices, the TRAVIZ provides a viable solution, proven to be fuel efficient, the TRAVIZ can run more than 1,000 kilometers in just one full tank based on our recent fuel economy drive. It also can carry more cargo with its

1,660kgs payload capacity that would lessen your trips in operation,” he said.

On top of awarding its 10,000th customer, IPC also announced a series of promotions for existing and potential TRAVIZ customers.

From June 10 to August 31, IPC will be giving away 10,000 liters worth of fuel for raffle to 500 customers nationwide who will purchase or reserve a TRAVIZ unit.

Both existing and potential customers will receive additional P10,000 cash referral bonus on top of the existing P10,000 referral fee that the company already offers.

Existing customers are also entitled to avail of the following Parts & Service discount: • 10% discount on Labor for Any Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) and/or general job only • 10% discount on Parts for Any Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) and/or general job only • Free 1-liter Isuzu Genuine Motor Oil XTRM

a spacious aisle for standing passengers while maintaining generous legroom for those seated. This bus can carry up to 62 passengers, 36 seated and 26 standing.

Equipped with warm LED interior lighting and builtin 32-inch TV monitors, commuting can finally be enjoyable.

The bus’s powerful airconditioning by Denso comes

with SHARP Plasmacluster Ion Generator that purifies cabin air by disabling airborne contaminants.

This, along with its antibacterial and antiviral interior panels give commuters peace of mind as they utilize public transport.

A relaxing ride is only possible when the driver and passengers are at ease.

The Hino Low Floor Bus runs on a J08E common rail, direct injection Euro 4 engine, coupled with a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission.

This combination brings powerful performance at 280Ps output and 824Nm of torque while maintaining efficient fuel combustion for a smoother ride.

The HS8J is also equipped with front and rear auto adjusting disc brakes with ABS to ensure safe braking during emergency situations and through various road condi-

tions.

“Hino is proud to offer this new HS8J Low Floor City Bus. As the only commercial vehicle brand in the country offering complete One-Stop Shop advantage for customers, Hino is ready and committed to support the Filipino entrepreneur. From truck chassis supply, to rear body design and production, special utility requirements and all the way through aftersales, we offer maximized uptime while minimizing costs. That’s Hino’s Total Supportguarantee.” said Mr. Mitsuharu Tabata, President of Hino Motors Philippines.

Through the years, the Love Bus has become an icon that made its mark not just on the roads, but also in the Filipino commuters’ hearts.

Experience the modern Love Bus through the Hino HS8J Low Floor City Bus available at your nearest Hino dealership.

Hino introduces the modern Love Bus HINO Motors Philippines (HMP) reignites the Love Bus nostalgia with its newest people carrier, the HS8J Low Floor City Bus. Keeping true to its predecessor’s legacy, this modern Love Bus offers smooth and pleasurable commutes for urban passengers.

Designed for city operations, the HS8J Low Floor Bus features a ground clearance of 375 mm. This allows for a lower center of gravity, enhancing ride stability while reducing sway and roll inside the cabin.

This makes it the ideal ride, even for standing passengers.

Prioritizing passenger convenience, the new Hino Low Floor City Bus features a side kneeling function.

This provides ease of getting in and out of the vehicle as doors can be lowered to the standard gutter height.

This emphasis on convenience is also apparent in the

bus’s step-free design where passengers walk in to a fullflat floor.

With other low entry city buses, passengers need to tackle a level of stairs before reaching the aisle.

With the HS8J’s design, commuters have ready access to the aisle and seats right upon boarding.

In fact, this bus features a larger flat-floor area com-

pared with other low floor city buses plying our roads.

A folding ramp for boarding as well as a dedicated space for wheelchairs are integrated in the vehicle to accommodate priority passengers.

Adding on comfort, the HS8J optimizes cabin space with a combination of front and side-facing seats.

This configuration creates

MINDANAO TODAY

motoring

GILBERT CHAO, Motoring Editor

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

8 essential car care tips for the rainy season HONDA Cars Philippines, Inc. shares essential car care tips to keep you safe during the rainy season.

These points will also help ensure the pristine condition of your vehicle and help you have peace of mind come the heavy downpours.

Clean your car’s windshield properly Visibility is important, especially when driving in a heavy downpour. Aside from wading through floods and running the risk of hydroplaning, some accidents can be attributed to poor visibility.

Once rainwater dries up, it leaves mineral deposits behind which will accumulate and then turn into dirt if you do not clean immediately.

This is why it is critical

to properly clean your windshield.

Having clean windows is also as important to help you drive safely so you have a better view of your surroundings.

You could either invest in window detailing or have it cleaned on a regular basis to avoid the build-up of dirt and dust.

Inspect your windshield wipers Next to the windshield are your wipers, as they are responsible for keeping your windshield and rear windows free from water and other contaminants.

Part of their maintenance is checking the wiper blades and determining if they’re already due for replacement.

Windshield wiper blades can

last anywhere from 6months to a year on average, once the time has come, you’ll be needing to replace the blades in order to achieve a good view of the road even during challenging conditions.

Maintain your headlamps Heavy downpours can affect your on-road visibility, which is why having well-maintained headlights is a must, allowing you to achieve optimum visibility during rain showers.

Like your car’s windshield, headlampscan also get hazy or cloudy over time due to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays and built-up grime.

To avoid this, it is highly advised to have your headlamps regularly cleaned, not only for their sole appearance, but also to main-

Mon-Tue, JUNE 20-21, 2022 getting stranded in the middle of a heavy downpour.

Assess the quality of your tires Vehicle traction is important, and maximum gripping power during the rainy season is achieved by having well-maintained tires.

Admittedly, this rewards the driver and its passengers with better safety, as having adequate tread allows the vehicle to move the excess water away from the tires, which should reduce the risk of hy-

tain their proper function, allowing you to achieve a well-lit pathway during rainy chapters.

Make sure to check your headlight bulbs for damages or if they need replacement. Always use the correct bulb specification on your headlights.

Check your car’s battery A car battery’s lifespan could possibly be shortened due to the corrosion caused by humidity and potential droplets splashing about during the rainy season.

Difficulty in starting your car or not being able to turn on the lights are some of the symptoms of battery power shortage.

Once experienced, it is highly advised to have your car battery replaced immediately, allowing you to avoid

droplaning.

Therefore, ensure proper inflation about every two weeks because over or underinflated tires can lead to reduced traction and early wear.

You can find the recommended tire pressure listed near the driver’s door and on the owner’s manual.

Oh, and don’t forget to also check the tire pressure of your spare! Never let your tires go past their life, instead, have the urge to replace them immediately for safety.

Always do a brake check Brakes take longer to dry during rainy situations. That said, it’s important to have them checked from time to time in order to ensure optimal condition.

Obtain brake services according to vehicle manufacturer specifications. If you notice any squeaking or any grinding noises while braking, have your vehicle checked immediately as the brake pads might need a

onstrate function.

The oval taillight is easily recognizable thanks to the design, which showcases it in a timeless and polished manner.

The Mio Fazzio’s distinct design allows the rider to stand out and express themselves through each colorway, stressing simplicity and originality in a language akin to art, providing a minimalistic expression through the use of vertical color bands as

graphic motifs.

It provides convenient space for a smooth and comfortable ride with a spacious footboard wherever you travel.

Under-seat storage with a 17.8-liter capacity, double carabiner-type hooks, a lid, and open pockets for items that reflect your personal style.

With 12″ tires that delivers outstanding grip and balance for a secure ride. It also has Electric Power Sockets to keep your smart gadgets charged and selfie ready.

Accessory Ports provide a wide choice of modifica-

7

replacement.

Do take note that braking in the rain might not work as quickly as it would on a dry day, therefore, it’s best to drive slower than usual and set a further distance in between cars.

Wash and wax your car regularly Aside from giving your beloved Honda a good bath, applying wax also adds an additional layer of paint protection to its paint.

While it may seem a bit pointless to clean your car if it’s going to get dirty again, there are certain benefits that make it a rewarding practice.

Adding a protective layer of wax can help keep rain marks from forming, plus, it also makes it easier to clean the car after the rain.

Find the right car insurance for your Honda No doubt it is important to have the right vehicle insurance for your peace of mind.

Of course, prevention of anything dreadful is still the best, but better to be ready than sorry for unwanted situations such as a sudden downpour that becomes inescapable for your vehicle.

That said, consider the Honda SENSING Insurance available for Honda vehicles equipped with Honda SENSING such as the All-New HR-V, All-New Civic, CRV, Accord, and the Civic Type R. With AXA Philippines and BPI MS Insurance, the Honda SENSING Insurance Partnership Program offers improved preferential rates for comprehensive insurance to customers who will purchase models with Honda’s advanced safety technology, the Honda SENSING. The insurance partnership program provides preferential rates for as low as P2,119* per month and is offered until December 31, 2022.

Yamaha PH unveils the all-new Mio Fazzio THE Yamaha Mio Fazzio /fätsiō / the latest generation stylish (AT) was just launched by Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc. who saw the importance of how Gen Z individuals are making waves in the world of fashion.

There is no way to ignore their unique style and originality, and that’s where this product revolved around.

This model puts heavy importance on creativity and self-expression.

It was designed with three essential features in mind: Innovation, Aesthetics, and All-Around Function.

The Mio Fazzio is a machine designed for first-generation digital natives who are always up to date on the newest global technological trends.

The Blue Core Hybrid Engine makes its debut with the product, featuring a power assist function that activates for 3 seconds when the throttle is engaged, providing more torque and smooth acceleration when starting from a stop.

It also contains the YConnect system, which digi-

tally connects you to your motorcycle, as well as the Stop and Start System, which contributes to excellent fuel economy.

The design is based on the idea of “simplicity” defined as uninfluenced by short- term trends, having functionality and capacity of enjoying one’s lifestyle, and gives riders their own canvass where they can express their personality in unique fashion.

The LED Headlight and Position Lights’ oval pattern allows for an efficient design that provides outstanding forward illumination, including light reflection off the rims.

The instrument cluster button is organized in a universal style that allows you to utilize the Meter Panel with either hand.

The inverted LCD blends in with the blacked-out back panel, and the Power Assist indicator is animated to dem-

tion options for personal expression. In the pursuit of fashionable and practical usability, the styling fits in with a variety of uses while providing possibilities of customization.

These factors combine to create a motorcycle that fits every style and mood, allowing a generation to start Youniquness.

The Mio Fazzio has an SRP of 88,900 and comes in Ivory White, Cyan, and red.

Available in the Yamaha YZone, RevZones, and 3S Shops nationwide.

MINDANAO TODAY

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Mon-Tue, JUNE 20-21, 2022

ECONOMY AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

BARMM to require Muslim restos, eateries to secure halal certification MARAWI CITY – Member of Parliament Engr. Baintan Ampatuan has raised the need to require Muslim restaurants and food establishments in the Bangsamoro region to secure halal certification.

“Halal certification gives assurance to the consumers that the food products are produced according to Shariah Law, and that they are clean, hygienic, environmentally friendly, and respect animal welfare,” said Ampatuan as the proposed bill was filed on June 16 in the plenary.

Obtaining a halal certification, according to MP Ampatuan, will safeguard

the health and well-being of BARMM constituents, as halal food is now a growing business industry in the region, especially in the urban centers.

Under BTA Bill No. 189, or the Halal Food Certification Act of 2022, the Bangsamoro Government will require every Muslim restaurant and eatery business in the region to be halal food-certified by any accredited halal-certification body before January of every year ends.

Accredited halal-certification bodies refer to those that are recognized by the Department of Trade and Industry’s

Philippine Accreditation Bureau (DTI- PAB) such as: Islamic Da’wah Council of the Philippines, Halal Development Institute of the Philippines, Mindanao Halal Authority, Muslim Mindanao Halal Certification Board, Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industries in the Philippines, Islamic Advocate on Halal and Development, Philippine Ulama Congress Organization, Alliance for Halal Integrity in the Philippines, and Prime Certification and Inspection Asia Pacific.

In the proposed measure, a passed or failed certification will be valid for one

year.

It prohibits the posting of halal passed certification and false representation of any product to be halal without the required certification and will result in the cancellation of their business permits.

The proposed measure also requires the Bangsamoro government to adopt measures that will promote halal food and related products; prohibit misrepresentation and false claims in the preparation and sale of halal food products; and provide adequate remedies and means of redress for aggrieved halal consumers.

It also enumerates the

guidelines for preparing, handling, storing, and verifying halal products.

Co-authors of the proposed bill are Atty. Laisa Alamia, Amir Mawallil,

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Fifty-nine micro, small, and medium enter-

prises (MSMEs) officially graduated, June 9, 2022 from the Department of Trade

and Industry (DTI)-10’s first multi-sectoral batch of its Kapatid Mentor ME-Money Market Encounter (KMMEMME) program.

The program is an initiative of DTI and Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE). It optimizes weekly face-to-face interactions between the mentors and the mentees with the key goal of boosting the entrepreneurial capacity through improved access to Mentorship, Money & Market (i.e., the 3Ms).

Entrepreneurs from the youth, online, women, tourism, and other sectors in Northern Mindanao were

preselected to join the free 10-module program conducted virtually for 12 weeks.

In his message for the graduates, DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez assured the public of DTI’s commitment to help the entrepreneurs.

“Despite the new normal the Department of Trade and Industry remains committed in implementing the KMME program to help current and aspiring entrepreneurs to improve sa inyong mga business models, to improve access and mentorship sa money or micro financing, pati rin sa access to market.”

Secretary Lopez said.

“While having passion to do business is good, it is not enough without training.

That is why dito po sa DTI, and even ine-emphasize po ng ating Pangulong Rodrigo Roa Duterte, gusto po naming lahat na mabigyan, lahat po kayo na gustong pumasok ng negosyo, to have a proper entrepreneurial knowledge, mindset, and training.”

“DTI is always with you every step of your entrepreneurial journey.”

DTI-10 Regional Director Ermedio J. Abang applauded the graduates for completing the modules and passing their business improvement plans

Atty. Suharto Ambolodto, Atty. Rasol Mitmug Jr., Engr.

Don Loong, and Rasul Ismael. (BTA | PIA Lanao del Sur)

Halal certification gives assurance to the consumers that the food products are produced according to Shariah Law. (Photo supplied)

59 NorMin entrepreneurs graduate from DTI-10’s mentoring program

Fifty-nine MSMEs officially graduate on June 9, 2022 from the DTI-10’s first multi-sectoral batch of its KMME-MME program.

(DTI-10)

(BIPs) during his welcome address.

“We continue to look forward to what the KMMEMME online program can do to our MSMEs especially in navigating the reformed business operations in these extraordinary times,” Abang said.

“We hope to continue capacitating our MSMEs and help them make better decisions for their businesses.”

Another batch of the KMME-MME Online Program for the youth sector is set to be launched, July 2022.

(DTI-10 | PIA-10)

MINDANAO TODAY

CORPORATE AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

Mon-Tue, JUNE 20-21, 2022

9

Smart teams up with Tagum City for youth empowerment A STRONG advocate for youth empowerment, PLDT’s wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) teamed up with the city government of Tagum in Davao del Norte to celebrate the youth in a festival that highlighted their creativity and fostered camaraderie through the arts and sports.

“This year's Tagum City Youth Festival is a platform that promotes meaningful youth participation geared towards nation-building,” said Dennis Tumando, Partnership Focal of Tagum Youth Development Office.

“As our official event partner, Smart played an im-

mense role in implementing programs and activities for the youth, and this partnership helped us promote youth advocacies,” he added.

Young Tagumenyos livened up the Tagum City Youth Festival with outstanding performances during the month-long celebration.

Aspiring dancers competed in the Pasundayag HipHop Dance Moves and K-pop Convention, shaking the stage with their break moves and idol-esque choreography.

Theatre artists brought literature to life in Youth Reads, an inter-school readers theater competition aiming to improve reading pro-

ficiency.

At the Tagum Youth Fair and Food Expo, local artists entertained festival-goers with their original compositions as the audience sampled the city’s culinary treasures.

Gamers flaunted their battle skills as they sent their heroes to the Land of Dawn with one mission – to rule the Smart Play Mobile Legends Tournament.

The highlight of the festival is the Miss Paraluman Coronation Night where the city’s fairest and brightest not only captivated the audience with their wit and beauty but transformed the pageant into a platform to promote advo-

cacies for the youth and to call for the creation of a safer space for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Smart handed out special prizes for the ‘Tiktok For All Challenge Winner’ in various competitions. Smart Com-

LEADING Philippine ecommerce enabler Great Deals E-commerce Corporation announced that it has further enhanced the logistics efficiency of e-commerce giant Lazada with the launch of its fulfillment centers in the major cities of Cebu and Davao.

This joint partnership enables customers in Visayas and Mindanao to receive their parcels as fast as one to three days after placing an order.

Previously, the delivery would reach five to seven days, which has been one of the online shopping pain points along with costly shipping fees.

The building of fulfillment centers in Cebu and Davao showcases Lazada and Great Deals’ advanced logistics, warehousing and fulfillment capabilities, pioneering hyperlocalization in terms of using nationwide geomapping technology in the country’s online shopping industry.

“Lazada supercharged the way Filipinos shopped in Luzon, particularly in Metro Manila, even at the height of the pandemic in 2020. Now, we want to help replicate and bring that to Visayas and Mindanao to reach a bigger portion of our Filipino consumers,” said Steve Sy, Founder and CEO of Great Deals E-commerce Corp.

This hyperlocalized strategy helps brands set themselves up in major locations to reach customers in nearby areas faster and more efficiently.

It brings a better online shopping experience to Visayas and Mindanao by providing a seamless customer experience with a short delivery time and lower shipping

fee costs.

“Building these fulfillment centers is a testament to our commitment in providing a better customer experience.

We are always looking to help our kababayans experience online shopping not only in the major cities but also in key urban or rural areas,” Sy added.

‘Hyperlocalized’ online shopping experience With the pilot launch of Great Deals’ fulfillment center in Cebu, customers who placed an order through the Lazada app and website were able to receive their parcels in just one to three days and pay lower shipping fees.

Lazada will soon also bring Great Deals’ partner brands closer to their customers in Mindanao as a fulfillment center in Davao is set to open in July 2022.

These brands include Betadine, Alaska, Fonterra, the manufacturer of Anlene and Anchor, Bayer, Century, GSK, and Abbott.

Great Deals, an e-commerce enabler that offers end-to-end service, handling everything from digital content, web design, analytics, chat support, warehousing, and fulfillment to logistics, made headlines in 2019 for breaking its own record as it processed 233,038 orders in one day.

"We look forward to onboarding more brands in this new project, and we are grateful for the continued support of Lazada for making this happen as Great Deals is constantly looking for ways to improve customer experience with our brands and consumers and to be there to assist them to penetrate local markets nationwide, cut shipping cost in half, and shorten

delivery time,” Sy said.

Great Deals, a multi-million-dollar valued company, continues to develop its IT infrastructure, warehouse capabilities, technology research, and capital expenditures as it aggressively expands its presence in the country,

aiming to be the Philippines’ very own “Alibaba” and “Baozun.

Sy, who is also an Alibaba e-founder fellow, said, “Customer experience is our utmost priority, and through these fulfillment centers, we wish to reach more Filipinos

munity Development Officer Josh Dael said, “We thank the Tagum City government for welcoming our support, as we share the same objectives in enabling the youth to live their passions with purpose.”

Smart continues to sup-

port efforts that enable the youth to live smarter for a better world. Initiatives that promote youth development are aligned with Smart’s vision to lead and inspire Filipinos to create a better tomorrow. (PR)

The Tagum City Youth Festival highlighted the talents and skills of young Tagumenyos through the arts and sports. (Photo supplied)

Lazada and Great Deals’ partnership guarantees 1-3 days shipping time in VisMin

The Cebu warehouse. (Photo supplied)

and let them experience the power of online shopping.

We are at the forefront of the online shopping experience.

We are constantly looking for local solutions to our local problems.”

Following the success of Amazon and Alibaba in digi-

talizing the brick-and-mortar e-commerce, Great Deals has already started the development of its 70,000-square meters fulfillment center in San Rafael, Bulacan, where they will introduce the use of robots to scale up to a million orders in a day. (PR)

MINDANAO TODAY

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Mon-Tue, JUNE 20-21, 2022

FEATURES AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

PLDT boosts livelihood of Manobo Simuwawnon women

THE pandemic crippled the country’s economy in many ways, especially constricting the earning capacity of Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs).

To help jumpstart their road to economic recovery, PLDT partnered with the Philippine Eagle Foundation

(PEF), to provide the women of Manobo Simuwawnon in Linging, Surigao del Sur, with two sets of sewing machines, materials, and supplemental sewing training from TESDA. PEF also formally organized the Rajah Cabungsuan Manobo Simuwawnon

Sewmates for Environment Conservation Association (RCMS-SECA) to strengthen the program and foster partnerships among the community.

Finished products include reusable and washable cloth face masks and hand sewn bags that integrate and show-

case the culture and heritage of the Manobo Simuwawnon into the design.

These are bought back by PLDT and included in the hygiene kits they distribute to their partners or sold by the ICC as souvenirs within their communities.

"PLDT and Smart prioritize livelihood programs that promote not just sustainability but also inclusivity. Part of this is making sure t h a t e v e r yone, including ICCs and their women members have access to the same opportunities," said Kristine Joyce Magadia, Stakeholder Management Lead for Livelihood of PLDT and Smart.

The Manobo Simuwawnon women are part of a group of volunteer forest guards who protect and conserve the wildlife in the community, including the critically endangered Philippine Eagle.

“Indigenous women in

the uplands do not only care for their families. They are also competent and compassionate guardians of Philippine eagles and forests. Our PLDT-supported Conservation Sewmates program is our way of giving back and supporting their aspirations for livelihood support,” said Jayson C. Ibañez, PhD., PEF Director of Research and Conservation.

“I am delighted to be a female forest guard. I was able to join the monitoring of the eagle and I saw hope not only for its protection but also for our development as IP (Indigenous Peoples) women.

Through PEF and PLDT’s support during the CoVID

19 pandemic, our women's association RCMS-SECA has been able to start our face masks and bags livelihood.

We can now have extra income to send our children to school,” said Bebelinda Gayod Cotic of RCMS-SECA. RCMS-SECA, with the help of PLDT and PEF, already plans to expand its customer base and eventually offer its products online.

By supporting this program, PLDT emphasizes its commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly UNSDG 1 No Poverty, UNSDG 5 Gender Equality and UNSDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth. (PR)

Hard work in action with one of the sewing machines donated

by PLDT. (Photo supplied)

NAPC meets almost all targets despite reduced budget DESPITE a reduced budget, the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) has achieved almost all of its targets from 2016 until 2021.

In 2016, NAPC started with a budget of P286,852,263.33, followed by a 1.65% hike the following year. However, its budget decreased by 4.62% in 2018 and 10.53% in 2019.

For 2020 and 2021, it went up by less than a percentile.

“We are proud to announce that the NAPC averaged an 80% budget utilization rate during the five-year period. It is worth noting that the commission still managed to improve its utilization rate amid unprecedented incidents and complexities in the new normal,” said NAPC Secretary Noel K. Felangco.

The agency also received the highest audit rating by the Commission on Audit for three consecutive years 2018, 2019, and 2020.

This proved that the sub-

mitted financial statements adhered strictly to the Philippines Public Sector Standards.

Likewise, NAPC adopted the Quality Management System (QMS) to intensify public accountability, heighten transparency, strengthen fiscal discipline, and develop more efficient government processes.

The QMS is a support tool for state administrative agencies that promote administrative reform and ensure the quality of transactions of government institutions.

It is considered the primary standard to achieve International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Certification.

The agency continuously trains its staff and officers on QMS to standardize its fiscal and administrative processes.

During the pandemic, the NAPC also created a monitoring and evaluation framework to assess government measures to address

Covid-19 and its impact on the most vulnerable sectors of society.

The experiences of the basic sectors and the findings of the NAPC formed the recommendations to policy-makers.

It aims to improve government responses in crisis situations, particularly for the poorest sectors using an areabased and sectoral focused intervention.

NAPC serves as the oversight and advisory body for implementing the Social Reform Agenda (SRA), which embodied the government's response based on a series of consultations and summits on poverty alleviation.

It is committed to undertaking policy advocacy, overseeing anti-poverty efforts, and ensuring meaningful and inclusive people’s participation in governance and nationalist development.

It envisions a Philippine society free from poverty and inequality. (PR)

MINDANAO TODAY

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Mon-Tue, JUNE 20-21, 2022

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS FIRE,

from 1...

Welfare and Development.

The fire was put under control at 8:12 AM and “fire out” was declared eight minutes later.

Shiela Cantilan, 35, mother of two, said they were roused from sleep by a neighbor who frantically knocked on their door.

“Igo rakong nakanaug sa

amua, ang kalayo ni tabok na sa among balay. Wala koy nadala” (We had just left the house when the fire crossed over to our house. I wasn’t able to bring anything), Cantilan said.

Tangob Jr. said they are still investigating the cause of the fire. He estimated the damage caused by the fire at around 50,000 pesos. (MindaNews)

SARA, from 1...

fisherfolk that ensure there is food on our tables, dedicated health workers who help the sick, brave soldiers who fight for our country, honest and fair entrepreneurs who support our economy, patient school teachers that guide our children — I believe the country will be heading toward a future of hope, security, strength, stability, and progress,” Duterte said.

“Today, our children are facing a very complex future, one that is rife with conflict and uncertainties. Some of these challenges include the winding cycle of poverty, the trauma of broken families, the life-long baggage because ZAMBO, from 1...

the Regional Drug Enforcement Unit-9 (RDEU9) in a buy-bust operation around 11:04 a.m. Thursday in Barangay Baliwasan, also in this city.

The RDEU-9 reported that Atalad yielded some 50 grams of suspected shabu worth P340,000, a sling bag, and PHP1,000 marked money.

Maj. Shellamie Chang, DOT, from 12...

introducing the Cordilleran Culinary Food Circuit, ADAMS Inuwayan: Ilocos Norte’s Trunk for Agri-Tourism Industry, Sustainable AgriTourism: Stakeholders’ Responsibility & Accountability, and “A glimpse of the culinary treasures of Nueva Ecija.”

The National Capital Region and Southern Luzon will showcase Foodie Adventures in Metro Manila, and AgriCul-Tour: Farm-To-Table Adventure in CALABARZON. Western Visayas will highlight Negrense Heritage Cuisine and our close connection to the sugar industry followed by Kadto ‘ta! Kaon ‘ta! - A Food Trip Guide to

of irresponsible and bad parenting, the abandonment issues due to an absentee parent, the anguish of gender confusion and discrimination, the destruction brought about by drugs, the lure of easy money in criminality, cases of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, the failure to identify and speak up against different kinds of abuses, the life altering effects of teenage pregnancy, the detrimental effects of illiteracy, the emotional injury of bullying, unstable mental wellness, recruitment to support terrorism, misinformation in the internet — and the list could be endless,” she added.

Sara Duterte: 3rd Mindanawon vice president, 3rd

female VP Duterte, a MindaNews report said, is the third Mindanawon Vice President after Emmanuel Pelaez and Teofisto Guingona, both from Norhtern Mindanao, and the third woman Vice President after Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Leni Robredo.

The 44-year-old Sara is the youngest to have been elected to that office. She will take her oath of office on Sunday, June 19 but will assume her post on June 30.

Sara received the highest number of votes from all national candidates in the May 2022 election – 32.2 million votes — about twice the 16.6 milion votes cast for her father in the 2016 Presidential race.

Pelaez, running mate of Disosdado Macapagal, won as Vice President in 1961, at the age of 46. He served until 1965. Guingona was appointed Vice President in 2001 at the age of 73. He served until 2004.

Leni Robredo won as Vice President in 2016 at the age of 51. Her term ends on June 30.

Like Robredo, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who served as Vice President from 1998 to 2001 was elected to the second highest post of the land at the age of 51. She assumed the post of President after Joseph Estrada was booted out of Malacanang in January 2001. (with reports from Carolyn Arguillas | MindaNews)

PRO-9 information officer, said that Helen Atang, 34, and Abdul Aziz Kudarat, 25, were caught in possession of some P40,800 worth of suspected shabu in a buy-bust operation around 6:06 p.m.

Thursday in Barangay La Piedad, Isabela City, Basilan.

Chang said the arresting team also seized P500 marked money from the two suspects.

Col. Alexander Lorenzo, Zamboanga City Police Office director, reported that

two drug suspects, Erwin Manuel, 44, and Juli Harris Camlian, 29, were arrested in an anti-drug operation around 2 a.m. Wednesday in Mango Drive, Barangay Tumaga, here.

Lorenzo said the duo yielded some 50 grams of suspected shabu worth P340,000, boodle money consisting of 100 pieces of P1,000 bills topped with a P500 marked money.

Col. Albert Larubis, Zam-

boanga Sibugay police director, said suspect Muin Dunggan, 43, was arrested in a buy-bust operation around 7 p.m. Tuesday in Purok Sweet Rose, Barangay Kitabog, Titay town.

Larubis said recovered from Dunggan’s possession were some 10 grams of suspected shabu worth P68,000, a smartphone, 54 pieces of P1,000 bills as boodle money topped with a genuine P1,000 bill as marked money. (PNA)

Capiz.

Mindanao will then uncover Foodie Adventures: Come Ta! Mangan Ne! Kaon Ta! The Zamboanga City-Isabela de Basilan-Zamboanga Sibugay Food Crawl, Fusion of Filipino-Italian Flavors, and Farm to Table in the City.

Curated foodie adventure tour packages designed to re-introduce destinations and drive regional spending are also available onsite during the four-day food affair.

A Foodie Townhall session on Food Tourism and business-to-business sessions with the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), Food Tourism Consortium, and regional stakeholders were also set to enhance the festival.

This year’s KAIN NA!

mobilized close to 40 national and regional food and travel exhibitors on ground.

Other than the traditional cuisines normally found in different regions of the country, new non-traditional and indigenous delicacies are expected to be featured to tickle the taste buds.

These include: • Bagnet, empanada, and longganisa from the Ilocos Region; • Breakfast fare and

snacks such as tablea and tsokolate bars from MIMAROPA; • Durian, jackfruit, marang, artisanal chocolate, and Mindanao fruit jams and pastries from the Davao Region.

There will also be valuefor-money tour packages offering food, leisure, adventure, and special interest tours to the Cagayan Valley region, Bulacan, CALABARZON, Davao, Siargao and other popular foodie destinations.

COPS, from 2...

Lauan tree variety.

Lazaga said the two suspects were charged with violation of Presidential Decree No. 705, or the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines. (PNA)

P1.5 million each that are sof Environment and Natural Resources in the area identified the illegally transported forest products as that of the BFAR,

from 3...

P1.5 million each that are said to be the first-ever fiberglass fish cages in the region.

The monitoring team also inspect Bacolod’s materials recovery facility (MRF) which gave them the crowning glory for the MMK national title.

The municipality’s success in its Ecological Solid Waste Management enabled most barangays to be in charge of their solid waste.

Through proper segregation, recyclable plastic wastes were then shredded at the MRF and formed into hollow blocks that were used as construction materials alternatives.

Meanwhile, BFAR 10’s evaluators were amazed as the LGU took them for a tour at their marine-protected area called “Pa-si Taytayan - Bacolod Boardwalk,” an 840-meter wooden boardwalk encircling a lush fortress of mangrove trees thriving in crystal clear water where the school of fishes swam visibly through varieties of seagrass.

“This (marine life in Pa-si Taytayan) is concrete proof that LGU Bacolod really deserved the MMK award because they took the responsibility seriously and not just for the show,” commended Mary Rose Bagongon, BFAR-10’s MMK focal person.

Ibrahim Sanggoyod, BFAR-10’s Office of Special Concerns officer-in-charge, emphasized to the evaluators that the MMK-funded fisheries projects implemented

by LGU Bacolod were all anchored and covered by five criteria; (1) No Illegal Fishing, (2) Observance of off-fishing season, (3) Declaration of marine protected areas, (4) Clean, coastal waters without any garbage of industrial effluence flowing to the sea, and (5) Effective mangrove protection and rehabilitation program.

Furthermore, all MMK fisheries projects in the said Municipality are expected to be fully implemented, distributed, and operational up to December this year.

(CLViajante | BFAR10)

12

Mon-Tue, JUNE 20-21, 2022

MINDANAO TODAY

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

Candidates of this year’s Ms. Cagayan de Oro show their best during the public and press presentation held at Centrio Mall on May 30, 2022. (Photo supplied)

Ms. Cagayan de Oro back with more exciting surprises THE most awaited beauty-and-brain pageant, Miss Cagayan de Oro, is back this year with more exciting surprises, according to Mags Cue, the chairperson of Miss Cagayan de Oro 2022.

Although she did not elaborate on what those surprises are, Cue said this year’s pageant will be bigger and different.

At the recent press and public presentation, the organizers introduced 15 candidates from all over Cagayan de Oro. The list includes Choancy Rich Azucena, Andrea Mae Brito, Nicole Dominique Ramos, Cris Antonet Teano, Lensyl Anne Patricio, all from Barangay Carmen; Arriane Galenzoga, Julia Alessandra Bayang, and Lyle Justine Laid, from Barangay Balulang; Shirly Galupo and Blanche Nicole Villaluz, from Barangay Nazareth.

The other contestants are Kyleah Donaldson (Gusa), April Angelu Barro (Canitoan), Carla Mia Casinabe (Bonbon), Anna Marie Rebucas (Lapasan), and Luisa Merrey Bingtan (Iponan).

(Mindanao Today)

DOT’s KAIN NA! takes foodies to a multi-sensory adventure THE Department of Tourism (DOT) aims to satisfy the cravings of foodies, tourists, and non-tourists alike with the fourth hybrid serving of the

KAIN NA! Food and Travel Festival in partnership with Ayala Malls.

KAIN NA! with the theme “Foodie Adventures” continues

to serve its signature line-up of digital food tourism talks and discussions from June 9 to 11, while on-ground festivities of specially-curated foodie pop-

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) aims to satisfy the cravings of foodies, tourists, and non-tourists alike with the fourth hybrid serving of the KAIN NA! Food and Travel Festival in partnership with Ayala Malls. (Photos supplied)

ups of regional cuisines and delicacies are scheduled at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Parañaque City, Metro Manila from June 10 to 12, from 10AM to 10PM. The Global PROSPECTives webinar series livestreamed via the official DOT Facebook page, banners Filipino chefs and foodie personalities based overseas including Chef Nicole Ponseca of Jeepney NYC in Miami, Wynwood, Chef Peachy Juban and Chef Ewald Notter of Dote Coffee in Washington, Chef Francis Ang of Abacá in San Francisco, Chef Erica Paredes of Reyna Restaurant in Paris, France, Chef Rex De Guzman of TURO TURO in London, United Kingdom, and Chef Bulawan Callanta, Ayan Filipino Streetfood in Berlin, Germany.

The TED talks-inspired Food Tourism 101, also accessible free online, covered inspirational food tourism experiences from Theodore Day Salonga, Dino Datu, Gel Salonga-Datu of Teds Bed & Breakfast and Gerald Garigade, Ken Chan, Ryan Kolton of Café Claus Corp.

Meanwhile, the Food Tourism Exchange featured Northern Luzon, DOT, p11...