BusinessWeek Mindanao (January 15, 2018)

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Briefly Armm legacy COTABATO City -- A lot has changed for the better over the past six years in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), a top regional executive said Friday. “(I think) we have achieved good performance and a functioning regional government through good governance in recent years,” ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman told reporters here when queried about his utmost contribution to ARMM. “When we started here, we said that the most essential thing we should do is to make the government functional,” the governor said.

IN-DEPTH

Monday | January 15, 2018

Lapasan Highway, Cagayan de Oro City

P15.00

HE Board of Investments (BOI) aims to give incentives to businesses investing in Marawi City by listing the former war-torn zone under the Less Developed Areas (LDA) of the Investment Priorities Plan (IPP).

BOI on Friday said that the inclusion of Marawi City in the LDA will help in rehabilitation of the

city, which became the battleground for government troops and terror group investing/PAGE 11

LTFRB-10: E-jeepneys to arrive in Oro this month

By JIGGER JERUSALEM, PNA

PROTOTYPE models of the electric version of public utility jeepneys (PUJs) are expected to arrive in Cagayan de Oro City and will be roadtested for public use, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-10

( LT F R B - 1 0 ) R e g i o n a l Director Aminoden Guro said.

The electric or solarpowered jeepneys, more commonly known as “e-jeepneys,” will showcase e-jeepneys/PAGE 11

GETAWAY. Non-surfers may enjoy the white sand beach of Guyam Islet in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, the country’s surfing capital. This islet has become one of the favorite getaways for beachgoers and island hoppers. mindanews photo by roel n . catoto

DTI chief says TRAIN won’t cause drastic rise in prices

Half rice DAVAO City -- Consumers in Davao City will soon have a choice in their rice consumption in restaurants and famous fast-food chains with the passage of the Half Rice Ordinance, now up for signature by Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio.

The Davao City Rice Conservation Ordinance or the Half Rice Ordinance was finally approved by the City Council. It requires all business establishments serving food to include a half-cup of rice in their menu with its price also set at half of the one-cup order.

Councilor Marissa Abella, chair of the City Council’s committee on agriculture and author of the ordinance, said the main goal of the law is to reduce rice wastage in the city since there are people who could hardly consume a cup of rice.

Cagayan de Oro

More perks eyed for biz investing in Marawi City T www.businessweekmindanao.com

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YOUR Mindanao-wide BUSINESS paper

By ANTONIO L. COLINA IV, MindaNews

FLOATING HOUSES. The floating houses in the predominantly Manobo village of Sabang Gibong, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur where villagers are already resilient to yearly flooding occurrences. photo by chris panganiban

DAVAO City – The Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) will not significantly impact on the prices of basic commodities, Trade secretary Ramon M. Lopez said.

Lopez led the price monitoring at supermarkets of Victoria Plaza and Gaisano Mall of Davao on Friday to see if TRAIN has any effect on the movement of prices of basic

7-Eleven opens new store in Agusan del Sur town

By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN, Contributing Editor

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur--- Popular global 24/7 convenience store chain giant 7-Eleven opened on Friday its local branch here adding another feat to the inevitable booming progress of this premiere town in this province.

The local 7-Eleven store located along the national highway adjacent to the Municipal Police Office i s f r an c h i s e d by l o c a l businessman Gerry Bleza who also operated the Caltex gas station where the grocery is also located. It is the second of

only two branches in Caraga region. The other one is in Butuan City near Butuan Doctors’ Hospital.

The opening of the new 7-Eleven branch here could be an envy to nearby cities in Caraga like Surigao City, Bayugan City, Tandag City and Bislig City and boosting 7-eleven/PAGE 11

commodities.

He allayed fears that prices will shoot up with the implementation of the tax reform program due to the P2.50 per liter excise tax on petroleum which is expected to cause an increase in transport cost.

He said the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will continue to prices/PAGE 11

7-ELEVEN. The newly-opened 7-Eleven convenience store in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, one of the of only two outlets in the Caraga region. The other one is in Butuan City, the region’s capital. photo by chris panganiban

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Economy 2 Japanese investors seek DENR TFBM to spend P10-B for policy on Bio Mass Energy Marawi rehab in 2018 A Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

monday|january 15, 2018

S Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) continues to move forward in rehabilitating Marawi City and restoring the lives of its residents, its member agencies started to list down priority interventions for the year 2018.

Eighty representatives from various government agencies took part in a TFBM programming workshop, organized by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), at the National

Housing Authority (NHA) Main Office in Quezon City.

This workshop aimed to facilitate the prioritization of shortterm programs, projects and activities (PPAs) for the rehabilitation and recovery of Marawi City and other affected localities.

“In a short period of time, the Task Force Bangon Marawi has accomplished a lot.

This 2018, we will be more organized and more holistic in the implementation of our PPAs,” said TFBM Chair

Eduardo Del Rosario.

The participants were grouped into infrastructure, housing, social, cross-sectoral and productive sectors.

A breakout session was then held for them to discuss which interventions should be programmed under the P10 billion budget allocated for 2018.

Agencies grouped under the productive sector discuss their priority interventions for Marawi this 2018.

Through these efforts, TFBM aimed to speed up the bidding

process, issuance of clearances and licenses in order to fast-track the rehabilitation of the war-torn city and the delivery of services to its people.

Aside from these, TFBM is looking for other possible funding source to mobilize.

“These PPAs are important for the recovery of Marawi City and other affected localities that’s why we are really finding ways on how to fund them,” NEDA Undersecretary Adoracion Navarro said.

Strengthening the involvement of local stakeholders in the implementation process is also one of their targets. (PIA ICCC)

BUTUAN City – Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga officer-in-charge (OIC) regional director Charlie E. Fabre met with a group of Japanese consultants from the CHODAI Company Ltd. on January 10.

The group called on him to seek DENR policy guidelines about a proposed project of the city government of Butuan to put up a 2-Mega-Watt (MW) Bio Mass Energy Project.

The consultants were accompanied by Reynante B. Desiata, Executive Assistant of city mayor Ronievic Lagnada who informed the DENR top official that the bio mass energy project is one of the 12 major projects of the city government lined up under the Integrated Regional Economic

Development in Caraga, approved by President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

The group headed

by Masyaki Oura was composed of Odette M. Duban; Deok Soo Lee, Yusuke Fukimura, coordinator of Busineness Development Section; Jun Kaisuka, Social Environment Division; and Aya Asai, Chief Engineer of the Social Environment Division. The group was particular about pollution including noise pollution.

The details of the bio mass project shall be the result of the feasibility study to be done by the Chodai Co. Ltd consultants and services and its operation is expected in 2020. The City Government wants to develop a sustainable power supply from rice husks, coconut husk and policy/PAGE 11

The Art of Questioning

By Helen E. Alfanta

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Questioning is always part of a class discussion. It serves a variety of purposes: from imposing classroom rules to generating ideas from the students. Quality questions enhance students’ learning. Having the art of questioning also helps create a classroom atmosphere that is conducive for learning.

Thus, how and what the teacher asks affect the quality of thinking in the classroom. Part of the role of the teacher is to have the art of questioning. How can this art be done?

Teachers should know the principles of questioning and the levels of questioning.

Questions should not be limited to low level but rather a variety of questions is encouraged to challenge higher order thinking skills of the students. Moreover, simple questions can be asked so that those slow learners can participate.

Questions should be distributed evenly including t ho s e non - volu nte e rs .

Questions should be given first before calling a student to answer. Allow students

to think. Giving enough time avoids guessing and leads to quality answers of the students. When the class finds the question difficult, rephrase it within the vocabulary level of the students.

Teachers ask questions to promote and develop critical thinking skills, reasoning, problem solving, and to reinforce student understanding. Yet, questions are asked not only to assess the students but also to check if students are still with us.

CAGAYAN DE ORO MAIN BRANCH P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers Kalambagohan Sts., Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Telefax # (088) 856-1947 CAMIGUIN BRANCH B. Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin Tel. # (088) 387-0491 CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro City DIVISORIA BRANCH Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 857-3631 LAPASAN BRANCH Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-6739 CARMEN BRANCH Vamenta Blvd., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-2011

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Klaus Doring:

Extraordinaire German Expat in Mindanao, Philippines

By Joe Palabao

Extraordinaire Expat Klaus Doring

Klaus Doring playing Mozzart Beautiful pieces

A Great Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany for Mindanao, best opinion writer and trusted columnist of Mindanao Daily News and Business Week Mindanao, well loved and respected by the German expats in Mindanao, dedicated German transcript translator, a good German Language instructor and has a good business and working relationship in the industry thus catapulting Professor Klaus Doring as an extraordinaire German expat in Mindanao today.

Klaus Doring was born August 3, 1953, a

significant Year of the Snake coupled with the month of August which connotes infinite month of successful foundation in his life.

From 1959 to 1968 he spent his elementary and high school days at Spenge, West Germany and at a very tender age had side trips in The Netherlands as youth representative of National YMCA. He has his degree in Journalism & Publishing House Management at Herford West Germany.

He had his on-the-job training at Chamber of Commerce Herford

Companies Herforder Kriesblan Daily NewsWestdertsche Verlagsantalt (magazines and books with main topics and leisure time Bussesche Verlagshandlung books with main topics in nautical sailing in foreign countries.

Extraordinaire Expat Klaus Doring is indeed Musically gifted for at the age of four (4) years old he already plays the church organ/ piano up to age 10 when they go to church up to his tender age of ten.

He is religiously raised by his parents along with the Pastor of his church and he grew up religiously.

Klaus Doring has practically travelled around the world. Japan, Africa, Europe, Northern Hemisphere and the USA and in Asia. And in one of his travels in the Philippines in 1982 at the Davao International Airport he found the ‘love’ of his life. He met one the lovely lady Ms. Rossana Balcom, a former beauty Mutya Ng Davao 1974. At age 29 then he found the love of his life.

In 1983 they got married and the couple went to Germany to settle. But since both of them love

Davao so much, they came back in mid 1990s and permanently live in the Davao, Mindanao, Philippines since 1999.

Even if they have not been gifted with offspring but serving Humanity is great and thus they cater the needs of the German Communities of Mindanao.

In an interview in his verbatim statement he said “I am Klaus Doring, German Honorary Consul for Mindanao Philippines, journalist and businessman by trade, an expatriate living in the Philippines for good since 1999 and for thirty five years is happily married to a beautiful Rossana Balcom-Doring. A radio host in the Philippines (before together with radio rebroadcast partner.

Deuctsce Welle Radio with shows such as the Passion for Music and Classic at Night. Professor for German Language at the University of Southeastern Philippines, General Manager at Yonnex Inc. Consultancy Services for Philippine and German Translator/Interpreter at the Trial Court of Mindanao. Kudos Klaus Doring!!!

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Opinion

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Haste makes waste

HOTLINE Businessweek Mindanao Corporation Publisher DANTE M. SUDARIA President/CEO

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New Location think a minute

jhan tiafau hurst Think a minute…A Bank in New York City had some flowers sent to another bank that had moved to a new building. But there was a mixup at the flower shop, and the card that was sent read: “With our deepest sympathy.” The florist was so embarrassed and apologized for her mixup. But she felt even worse when she realized that the card to the bank was sent instead to a funeral. This card read: “Congratulations on your new location!” You can imagine the surprise of the dead person’s family when they read that card! All joking aside. You know that’s actually an accurate way to describe what happens when we die. While we’re alive on this earth, our body is just our temporary house. Doctors say that after we reach the age of about 20 years old, our body

begins to deteriorate and slowly die. Our hair turning gray and thin, wrinkles in our skin, and many other changes in our body are all signs that our aging house is falling down. No one escapes this fact of life!

All joking aside. You know that’s actually an accurate way to describe what happens when we die. While we’re alive on this earth, our body is just our temporary house.

Doctors say that after we reach the age of about 20 years old, our body begins to deteriorate and slowly die.

Our hair turning gray and thin, wrinkles in our skin, and many other changes in our body are all signs that our aging house is falling down. No one escapes this fact of life!

However, we have a soul that never dies, so when our body dies we just change locations. And our next location is not just for 70 years, it’s our permanent home—forever. Jesus Christ said that there are only 2 locations that we can live in after we die: heaven or hell.

Fortunately, the choice is ours to make now while we’re still in this temporary location.

If we choose heaven, then all we need to do is ask Jesus location/PAGE 11

Ruffy magbanua Mann e r s re qu i re t i m e , and nothing is more vulgar than haste--Ralph Waldo Emerson HASTE and rashness are synonymous to being negative and destructive.

They break relationships, they wreck credibility.

Un r e a s o n a b l e h a s t e leads directly to the road of error and comes with a load of pitfalls.

Such classic case is the c ont i nu i ng u s e of f a ke news on social media particularly on Face Book.

Sadly and awfully disgusting, it runs aground against the tenets of responsible journalism.

Deliberate or not, the use of fake news in this era of digital gadgets is a fine example of ‘haste makes waste‘ kind of journalism blunder.

And so, what is fake news in this troubled times? Simply, the term fake news has become widely used. Too wildly as well because it is being abused to the max.

But u n d e rs t an d ably, there is a lingering confusion when some news is only a bit fake, or fake for an arguably legitimate, or illegitimate reason.

C an we st i l l ma ke a useful definition of fake news? And should we even be worried about it at all?

This could b e e asi ly t race d dow n on b eing impulsive and headstrong.

In fact, fake news is a by-product of haste and therefore if haste is at all to be made, it should be made slowly but surely.

In haste, one fails to consider all the sides to the problem, issue or concern.

As a Russian proverb goes: hurr y is only good for catching flies.

Rapidity therefore does not necessarily lead t o s om e t h i n g g o o d , or something worth keeping.

Haste interferes with peace of mind. It may be a symptom of emotional ner vousness, as in the

case of fake news bloggers.

An unbalanced p ers onality, most of ten than not, always displays haste. Haste in itself, is a sor t of morbidity – a disease. The pretense of haste signifies the absence of sanity and self-control.

In this era of uncertainty where peace in Mindanao hangs on the balance, an d e v e r y on e w ant s t o help out, it’s simply best to step back and let go credible news authorities handle the situation especially on information dissemination.

Post ing or shar ing information online is a basic right, but take note of this: when in doubt, do not write, or post.

Think twice before you click. Simple as that. (ruffy44_ph2000@yahoo. com)

Handle your credit card as if it were cash

Speaking out

ignacio bunye This week, an acquaintance asked via text to see me after work . He sounded very urgent so I told him to see me after dinner.

As it turned out, a credit card company is breathing down his neck . He initially bought, on credit, appliances worth P30,000. A few months later, after missing successive installments, he started receiving text messages from the credit company’s collection agent billing him for over P100,000.

A worse case happened to an executive and his young wife. The wife, unknown to her husband, started buying miscellaneous items using

their joint credit card. The husband was later surprised to receive a bill for more than P600,000. The buying spree habit of the wife eventually led to their separation.

These are just two trueto-life stories on how not to use your credit cards.

Credit cards are a popular alternative to make purchases.

There are a lot of advantages to owning credit cards, such as not having to carry excessive cash or even earning points in exchange for products, such as appliances, air miles, gas, and “free” meals.

While credit cards have their many advantages, the lack of knowledge in using them has become a bane to many consumers who find themselves deep in debt after a season of uncontrolled spending.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ Economic Financial Learning Center (EFLC), headed by Director Antonio B. Cintura, has repeatedly disseminated reminders on how to use credit cards wisely, to wit: * Familiarize yourself

with credit card terms such as credit limit, total amount due, minimum amount due, and finance charges. Remember, your lack of understanding of the language, credit card offers and statements could lead you deep in debt. Read and understand the credit card’s “terms and conditions” before you use it. * Spend as you earn.

It is only sensible to avoid spending more than you are earning. Overspending could lead to financial quagmires for you and your family. * Keep track of your spending and do not exceed your credit limit.

It is important to make a list of your expenses so you could set aside money come payment date. Always retain receipts and check them against your billing statement.

Immediately report any discrepancies to the card issuer. * Distinguish what you want from what you really need. Impulse buying has a lot of consequences: You end up with a lot of useless stuff that you still have to pay for.

* Pay your bills in full and on time. If you fail to pay at least the minimum amount due on or before the payment due date, a late payment fee will be charged to your next billing statement.

Some issuers charge a fixed amount while others charge a percentage of the minimum payment (e.g. 3 percent to 5 percent). * Pay more than the minimum amount due. Your credit card can be a very expensive form of credit if you pay just the minimum amount due every billing cycle. Card issuers usually require a minimum payment of 5 percent of the outstanding balance billing cycle such that a P5,000 balance could mean that you can choose to pay only P250. But once you do so, the remaining balance of your outstanding credit card obligation will then be charged a “financing fee.”

Assuming that the fee is 3.5 percent a month, this translates to a whopping 42 percent annual interest rate! * Make sure your payment credit/PAGE 11

Chaos in the Black Nazarene procession Kakampi mo ang batas

Batas Mauricio LIFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “…

The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron…”

(1 Timothy 4:1-2, the Holy Bible).

-ooo CHAOS IN THE BLACK

NAZARENE PROCESSION: Comments are now flying thick and thin against a big number of those who joined the procession for the image of the Black Nazarene of Quiapo, and who allegedly forced their way into a house along the route of the procession, shamelessly partaking of food and drinks intended for people who were having a private party inside that house.

The most vile comment given by those who already watched the video of the g at e c r a s h i n g d e v o t e e s centered on the lack of true faith and lack of sincere obedience to the commands of Jesus, the Nazarene, by the devotees. What came out from the video was that, while the gatecrashers claimed they were devotees of the Nazarene, their faith and

their status as Christians were nauseatingly spurious and fraudulent and were in fact devilish.

Please watch that video here: https://www.dailypedia. net/…/26711173_164408460 8981335_2397…, this makes the Biblical prophecy, to the effect that many would still claim to be believers of God but in reality their minds are already controlled by the devil, true. The question among many was: how many of the supposedly 19 million devotees of the Nazarene truly obey Him? -ooo WHO WAS PUT TO SHAME WITH WHAT THE NAZARENE DEVOTEES DID? With this kind of a behavior by people who claim they have faith in, or are believers and devotees of, God or of some other saints,

shame could not have come only upon themselves. The object of a bigger shame here, as a consequence of the scandalous conduct of the supposed devotees of the Black Nazarene, are the ones they call their gods, and also their church, and their leaders.

The reason is that, these people showed they have not been taught good manners and right conduct by those they call their gods, by their church, and by their leaders.

Instead, they proved what the Bible had been prophesying all along: that, beyond the shadow of doubt, people will become truly devilish as the end of the world draws nearer.

This is the reason why many of God’s curses have descended ruthlessly on chaos/PAGE 11

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CorporateWorld

AboitizPower subsidiary streamlines ownership in two Bataan projects A BOITIZ POWER Corp. is transferring the ownership of two power generation projects from offshore units to a subsidiary that houses the company’s coal-fired plants, the listed company told the stock exchange on Tuesday.

It said Therma Power, Inc. (TPI) is streamlining its share ownership structure in GNPower Mariveles Coal Plant Ltd. Co. and GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co., the project companies behind two big power projects in Bataan.

“The restructuring involves the transfer of direct ownership of GNPower-Mariveles and GNPower-Dinginin from the offshore subsidiaries of TPI to TPI and the eventual dissolution and liquidation of the offshore intermediary subsidiaries that own the GNPowerMariveles and GNPowerDinginin shares,” it said.

“As a result TPI will directly own 66.01% partnership interest in GNPower-Mariveles and 50% partnership interest in GNPower-Dinginin,” it added.

GNPower-Mariveles

is a partnership among Therma Mariveles Holdings, Inc., and Therma Mariveles Camaya B.V., both AboitizPower subsidiaries, with Mariveles Coal Project GP Corp., Power Partners Ltd. Co., and AC Energy Holdings, Inc.’s affiliates Arlington Mariveles Philippines GP Corporation, and Arlington Mariveles Netherlands Holdings B.V. GNPower-Mariveles owns a subcritical coal-fired power plant, including associated and auxiliary assets. The plant has two units each with a

capacity of 345 megawatts (MW).

The unit is one of two plants acquired by TPI in late 2016 in line with AboitizPower’s target to increase its “attributable” capacity — or its corresponding share in the power facilities it built with partner companies — to 4,000 MW by 2020.

The other acquired plant, GNPower-Dinginin, is developing supercritical coal-fired power plant with two identical units each with a net capacity of 668 MW. It is expected to start commercial operations in 2019.

Big Boss Cement to spend P2-B for expansion

By Leslie Gatpolintan

MANILA -- New local cement player, Big Boss Cement Inc. (BBCI), targets to spend around PHP2 billion for expansion of its manufacturing plant in Porac, Pampanga in its bid to increase production capacity to meet the country’s growing demand for cement.

BBCI President Engr. Gilbert Cruz told reporters its Porac cement plant will start in March producing 1.5 million bags of cement per month, generating PHP3.6 billion in revenues a year.

Cruz noted the

production capacity of the plant can still be increased five times.

“Since we were able to acquire more land in the area, we decided to increase the capacity,” he said.

He said the company will also build a third plant in Luzon probably in six months, as it rides on the government’s “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program.

Citing data from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Cruz said all the existing manufacturing plants in the country cannot cope

up with the rising demand for cement estimated at 40 million metric tons over the next five years.

He stressed there is an artificial oversupply because of importations.

“If you go down to the bottom of it, there’s still a huge demand for the lack of cement. The company—Big Boss—we believe that we should be able to help the country to fill in this demand instead of relying on imports,” he added.

Meanwhile, BBCI, a 100-percent Filipinoowned company, has invented a revolutionary cement manufacturing process that results in

stronger structures and the most environmentfriendly cement in the world today.

Its patent-pending manufacturing process makes use of readily available raw materials, such as lahar and does not require excessive heat in order to produce high quality products.

“We are excited at the prospect of making a positive impact not only in the local construction industry but also in terms of decreasing air pollution and damage to the environment,” Cruz added.

Its first product will be available in the market in March 2018. (PNA)

Study: mainstreaming in GVCs must be ultimate agenda of SME dev’t policy Mainstreaming of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in value chains, has become even more urgent in light of global trends to integrate trade and de-integrate production, according to a new study from a state think tank.

The Philippines’ development policy on MSMEs should focus on mainstreaming not only to engender inclusive growth but also to enable MSMEs to become drivers of growth, said the report entitled “Mainstreaming SMEs: Promoting Inclusive Growth in APEC,” published last month by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS).

In pursuing SME development as a major domestic policy objective, the global and regional environment can no longer be ignored, noted

the report.

“A more global perspective has become increasingly important with the ‘integration of trade’ and ‘de-integration of production’ arising from globalization forces and technological development,” the paper stressed.

“A more immediate goal for government is to mainstream MSMEs in the value chains, whether local or global.”

In the meantime, the government can aim for the higher goal of mainstreaming SMEs into global value chains (GVC).

The study authors explained that when SMEs are able to mainstream in GVCs, “the prospects and benefits are magnified, as these benefits redound to a larger economic system.”

SMEs that are mainstreamed in the

international market generally perform better in productivity, competitiveness, innovation and sustainable growth, compared to those dealing only with the domestic market, they added.

However, the paper said studies show low SME participation not just in the Philippines but in the Asian region overall. Within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), most SMEs are still minor players in production networks as only 22% of them participate.

The report said that crucial to the ease with which SMEs are able to mainstream depends on “a good regulatory framework that is SME-friendly.” This should promote quality infrastructure, trade facilitation, and overall general connectivity.

“Unfortunately, the Philippines has not been faring well in many of these factors, especially in the area of logistics and infrastructure. Hopefully, the past reforms, which saw the Philippines improving in the global rankings could lead to better mainstreaming of Philippine SMEs.” The discussion paper said the government needs to address bottlenecks and constraints and provide a more conducive regulatory regime for SME participation in both the local and the global market and the GVCs. “The ultimate objective is to provide SMEs access and the opportunities and means to grow, and to encourage those SMEs with potential to eventually become major players, whether in the domestic or the international market.”

5 When you’re in Davao City, Read:

HOTELS & RESORTS DIRECTORIES

VILLA MARGARITA HOTEL J. P Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City, Philippines Tel. No.: (082) 221-5674 / Fax No. (082) 226-2968 MICROTEL

By Wyndham Davao Damosa Gateway Complex Angliongto Rd., Lanang Davao City 8000, Philippines Tel +63 82 233 2333 / Mobile +63 917 795 3548 www.microtelphilippines.com PINNACLE HOTEL Sta. Ana Avenue, Davao City.

No. (082) 300-5885 Telefax: 300-1881/ 221-3025 Website: www.thepinnaclehotel.com ALU HOTEL M. Roxas Avenue corner Padre Faura Street, Davao City.

Tel No (63 82) 221-5232 / Mobile (O943) 652 3927 Email: aluhoteldavao@yahoo.com info@alu-hotel.com / www.alu-hotel.com GRAND REGAL Km 7 Lanang, Davao City, Philippines Tel. 235-0888 / Fax 235-2335 email: grandregalhotelegmail.com

VIAJEROS ECONOMY HOTEL Patnubay St., Sandawa, Matina, D.C Tel. No. 297-5710 / Telefax (6382) 298-5134 Mobile: 0922.-8268425 Website: www.viajeroseconomyinn.com

ROYAL MANDAYA HOTEL J.Palma Gil St., Davao City 8000 Phils.

Tel. No. (082) 225-8888 / fax No. (082) 225-1885 info@theroyalrmandayahotel.com www.theroyalmandayahotel.com HOMITORI Bangoy Street corner Santa Ana Avenue, Davao City Tel. No. (082) 295-2969 & 295-2471 / Mobile: (0922) 8994646 Email: homitoridvo@gmail.com or Like us on www.facebook.com/pages/Homitori-Davao BIG APPLE HOTEL Brgy. Angliongto, Lanang, D.C. Hotline Nos.: (082) 234-8459 Facebook account: bigapplehotel@ymail.com Email: bigapple_hotel@ymail.com

THE PERIDOT SUITES Carmelite Drive, Lanang, Davao City Tel. no.: (082) 305-6530 / Fax no.: (082) 305-38I2 Email: theperidotsuiles@gmail.com AZIENDA MEO APARTELLE 11 Corner Pioneer and Doña Vicenta Village, Phase 1, Davao City Telefax. No: (082) 227-4119 & 284-6689 Cell Phone No. 09256652626 Website: www.aziendameo.com Email Add: aziendameo@yahoo.com.ph Big 8 Corporate Hotel Visayan Village, National Highway, Tagum City Mobile nos. 09173029063 & 09328539372 Tel. No.: (084)216-0888 Email: info@big8corporatehotel.com www.facebook.com/big8corporatehotel.com www.big8corporatehotel.com HOTEL ELENA Avenida Santos Ave., Nova Tierra Vill, Lanang, D.C Tel. Nos. (082) 233-1941 & 305.8799 / fax No. (082) 233-1887 PARADISE ISLAND Tel. No. (082) 233-0251 & 300-2343 / CP No.: 09209546780 E-mail: paradiseislanddavao@gmail.com MARCO POLO DAVAO C.M Recto St., Davao City davao@marcopolohotels.com www.marcopolohotels.com (63 82) 221-0888 HOTEL ESSE Brgy. 9-A F Torres Street, Davao City Hotline: No: 227-37-73 / Fax: 295-34-85 Website: www.hotelessedavao.com.ph Email Add: hotel_esse_davao@yahoo.com RUEMANGO APARTELLE & SUITES 516 Mangga St., Juna Subd., Matina, Davao City ruemangoapartelleandsuites@gmail.com www.ruemango.com Tel. Nos.: (082) 295-7175/ 295-7180

6

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monday|january 15, 2018

Growing with CDO Green Developer (Part 3)

I

t’s fulfilling to see a company growing with the people that believe in its advocacy and ambitions. This is what Jecris Salon, an accounting supervisor of Italpinas Development Corporation, said after receiving a recognition of quality service from the company.

IDC believes that the workforce itself is one of the powers in moving the business that has been on for several years already. As the first green developer that invested in Cagayan de Oro, IDC is proud of its hard

working Kagayanon workforce. “IDC’s successful entry to the international market is powered not only by the company’s partner organizations but also by the workforce itself,” explained Architect Romolo Nati, IDC’s Chairman/Chief Executive Officer.

There are only a few companies in the country that could recognize and give value to the efforts of their employees.

Michelle Bacus said, “I am thankful of all the blessings I have while working at IDC. I used to work in a bakery before landing a job at Italpinas.

They hired me first

as their messengerial until I got promoted as liaison officer. It’s a great opportunity to be working in this organization that recognizes their employees’ potential.”

IDC started from small, thanks to the people who believe in its advocacy, it is able to overcome challenges and continue to grow.

Salon recalled the time when Italpinas was still on its fresh years, and the important of employees that have been closed to her for so long. “I have been here for almost five years. Five years of exhaustion and of course, five years of happy memories. What

I like much about IDC is its resilience no matter how many challenges that get through. We are able to smile and waive the negative vibes because we have co-workers that are optimistic.

I am happy also that growing with IDC is also seeing the growth of the company. When I started working here at IDC, we were small in number, but now we can really prove that in a short span of years, Italpinas has become what it deserves to be.”

“I have been working for Italpinas for almost five years.

I developed my whole career in here, and I am grateful for the honor

that the company has given to me,” exclaimed Giselle Mantilla, Customer Service Officer.

At IDC, it’s not about the workload or getting a good position, but it is also working with a family.

“What I like about working at Italpinas is the companionship I experience with other employees. Our relationship here is even beyond that, we are more like family here,” said Rey Reyes.

“I have been working as a driver since I was a bachelor. It never crossed my mind to get a work in a company until Italpinas offered me a

job. I feel happy that there is an organization that can appreciate our hardwork and dedication,” he added.

Last December, Italpinas recognized their employees for quality service in time for the Primavera City Tower A’s topping off celebration held at SM City Atrium in this city.

Recipients of the award are Gladys Echano, Michelle Bacus, Jecris Salon, Giselle Mantilla and Rey Reyes.

Italpinas is the developer of two award-winning projects, namely Primavera Residences and Primavera City in Uptown Cagayan de Oro.

BusinessWeek mOTORING

MINDANAO CREDIBLE

RELIABLE

Editor: GILBERT Y. CHAO

Moving to a new beat

IN-DEPTH

Monday | January 15, 2018

7

Honda BeAT (ISS)

Most people I know are intrigued why a relatively tall guy like me (I am 5' 11”) has an affinity to small bikes, specifically scooters. A fair observation, I suppose, because of all the bikes in my garage, it is my 2013 Honda BeAT that gets most usage.

Well, my primary purpose for riding motorcycles is to “beat” traffic as most of my time on the saddle is

spent navigating through congested urban areas. Honda has since updated this entry-level scooter, targeting a new generation of riders, tall or otherwise.

The all-new BeAT still has a modest 110 cc aircooled engine but is now equipped with Honda's PGM-Fi system.

This enables it to produce 6.36 kw @ 7500 rpm and 9.01

nm @ 6000 rpm while achieving a claimed fuel efficiency of 63 kilometers to a liter. What is immediately noticeable though, is the excellent throttle response. From stop lights, the all-new BeAT accelerates like a 125 cc. Speaking of stop lights, little scooter is fitted with Idling-stop System (ISS). The ISS automatically shuts off the engine after idling for three seconds. This is particularly useful at junctions where it takes a while for the light to turn green. There's no point burning fuel if you are not going anywhere.

When it's time to go, just blip the throttle and the engine fires up without delay. No need to press the starter button. If you happen to be uncomfortable with this feature, you can just flip a switch to disable it.

Aside from the technological

advancements, the all-new BeAT offers some practical features as well. It now comes with a 11.2 liter underseat compartment.

While it won't fit any type of helmet, it is still a good place to safely store some personal items or electronic gadgets. The floor board is also wider and longer so it can also double as cargo bed for other items like a bag or a small box.

To accomplish Honda stretched the wheelbase from 1240 mm to 1256 mm. Because of this, I find it easier to make tight turns on the older version. The battery was also relocated from under the seat to under the floor board, raising it a bit, to give way to the underseat compartment. This won't be an issue unless you have very long legs as your feet rest a little higher.

Honda did not scrimp on safety

as this scooter is equipped with a combi-brake system, wherein you can use just the left lever to apply both front and rear brakes.

This is quite handy when riding in congested areas.

The front disc and rear drum brake configuration works per fectly.

It still uses the same 14 inch tires but they are now tubeless. In case of a puncture, you will still be

able to stir safely until you reach a tire shop. It still has a front fork and a rear monoshock and I found the ride more comfortable with a passenger.

Intended for a younger demographic, the all-new BeAT is available in several vibrant colors at an affordable price of P 69,900 for the ISS variant and P 63,900 for the standard variant.

8

BSP addressing BDO card fraud cases THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has allayed fears of some BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO) clients who reported loss of money from online transactions they allegedly did not conduct personally.

BSP Deputy Governor Chuchi Fonacier said officials of BDO have reported to the central bank about the unauthorized withdrawals.

“We requested some more information based on what was earlier reported. But, it looks like there was skimming of cards,” she told PNA in a phone message.

Skimming is an illegal activity wherein information stored in an automated teller machine (ATM) card is stolen using a skimming device placed on top of the ATM

card slot.

People would not notice the skimming device because it looks like the ATM card slot, and the stolen information is then stored in an illegally made ATM card to withdraw the account holder’s funds.

“This is being addressed by existing regulations of the BSP which is the liability shift framework,” she said, adding that the fraud incidents would not be another blow to the domestic banking industry.

“The bank should shoulder the loss incurred by the depositor due to skimming after its investigation finding NO fault on the part of the depositor,” she added.

BDO has earlier fraud/PAGE 11

Banking&Finance

monday|january 15, 2018

SSS sees investment income hitting P60-B with infra foray

S

TATE-run Social Security System (SSS) expects investment income to reach P60 billion, in three years, or double the P30 billion last year, following its participation in the infrastructure sector with the purchase of minority stake in diversified and infrastructure conglomerate Megawide Construction Corp.

During the commemoration rites for the share sale Friday, SSS said it acquired 5.17-percent stake in Megawide equivalent to 110.53 million shares for P2.001 billion.

SSS Chairman Amado Valdez, in an interview, said the pension fund recorded an investment

income of P30 billion in 2017 with a return of investments of only 7 percent. It has investments in equities.

Valdez expects return of investments to increase to 15 to 17 percent or up to P60 billion in three years with its entry into the infrastructure sector given the government’s focus on “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program.

“Our entry into Megawide is highly strategic,” he said. “We see investments in the infrastructure sector as viable, given the level of funding being poured by the public and private sectors into the infrastructure drive and the volume of projects

FROM GREEN TO GOLD: Limketkai Luxe Hotel awarded LEED Gold Certification

LEED certification is one of the world’s most prestigious programs for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings.

Limketkai Luxe Hotel has set a new standard in the future of green tourism in the City of Cagayan de Oro. Recently, the hotel was awarded Gold certification by the United States Green Building Council (US GBC) from the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Building Design and Construction for the New Construction rating system.

The hotel features 218 guests rooms and sustainable design facilities and amenities, was built with the vision of bringing a new level of sustainable consciousness to a luxury guests experience. It is owned and jointly developed

by Limketkai Sons, Inc., one of Cagayan de Oro's largest company. ecoSolutions, the Building Engineering Designer and LEED Consultant closely coordinated with Limketkai Sons Inc. to implement practical and measurable strategies and solution.

A premier choice among hotels in the heart of Cagayan de Oro, Limketkai Luxe Hotel operates a high-performance building responsible as anefficient place to live, for vacation and work.

The energy-efficient hotel is conveniently located at Cagayan de Oro's prime transit-oriented area to support green vehicles.

Its improved environmental and human health performance appeal

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to eco-conscious hotel guests.

Throughout the building process, ecoSolutions has overseen the project to ascertain that the hotel meets the requirements of USBGC. For many reasons, Limketkai Luxe Hotel earned enough points to achieve LEED Gold - its location, energy and water efficiency, attention to indoor air quality, use of sustainable materials, enhanced commissioning and overall design.

Limketkai Sons and ecoSolutions partnership in this project led to a significant reduction in operating costs of the building by limiting resource use.

For example, the hotel is designed to collect rain water and process it onsite so that it is filtered and sent directly to the ground. It is envisaged that the rainwater in the building enters the aquifer and not the storm water management system.

The hotel adopted innovative lighting and appliances, making It highly energy efficient to significantly reduce its carbon footprint from operations. By using LED lighting, it's estimated that the hotel's extra cost has been reduced by approximately 54%. Energy management system determines that heating and cooling system is also powered down when guests are not in

their rooms. Another method for reducing heat gain in the building is the use of reflective materials on the exteriors to minimize heat absorption.

The building was also designed to save water use by approximately 38% through the use of water conserving fixtures such as low flow toilets on restroom sinks. The hotel has the capacity to collect rain water and process it onsite so that It Is filtered and sent directly to the ground without entering the city storm system where It could drag in pollutants.

The hotel also boasts a special accomplishment for its sustainable construction. ecoSolutions helped set up a system to recycle waste materials while the project was under construction.

Amazingly, the hotel developers were able to recycle about 75% of construction waste which has been diverted from recycling plants. The building's material selection are also based on optimizing indoor quality. In addition to building design and construction, waste at the hotel is sorted and segregated to divert landfill bound trash.

Most Importantly, Limketkai Luxe Hotel helps nearby communities in social and economic growth through conservation and recycling processes.

across the country.”

Listed Megawide is among the country’s leading contractors for residential, commercial, hotel and mixed-use projects. It has assets in construction, airport and property development.

“It is encouraging that the SSS, the country’s biggest pension fund, is willing to invest in Megawide. It is an outstanding vote of confidence in the country’s vision, and we are motivated to work even harder so that we can

deliver positive returns for all our stakeholders,” said Megawide Chairman Edgar Saavedra.

Meanwhile, the SSS and Megawide are partnering to bid for a contract to rehabilitate and operate the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

“You don’t put (people’s) money just in paper asset. You can put them in stones, bridges which are beneficial,” Valdez said. “We will make the pension fund rich.”

(PNA)

BPI-AMTC official expects inflation within 2018 goal AN official of BPI Asset Management and Trust Corp. discounts breaching of the government’s two to four percent inflation target this year even with the impact of the tax reform.

In an interview, Carlos Jalandoni, BPI Asset Management and Trust Corp. vice president and head of Equities and Fixed Income Research, said the first package of the tax reform program is expected to add about 0.6-0.8 basis points on the rate of domestic price increases.

He traced this inflationary impact to higher prices of oil as a result on the increase of excise taxes on this product, among others.

He, however, noted that food prices are seen to remain manageable amid higher fuel prices.

“The food agencies in the Philippines have been quite pro-active in making sure that we have enough stocks, particularly rice. And the global prices for rice are not as volatile and so we remain fairly confident despite the fact that fuel prices are increasing. Food prices are stable, inflation will not breach four percent,” he said.

Jalandoni said impact of any weather disturbances will provide inflationary pressure but stressed that “it won’t mean sustained increases in inflation such that the average will be above four percent.

He projects inflation to go up to as high as 3.8 percent this year in the second or early third quarter because of higher demand for electricity and fuel during the summer months.

In 2017, inflation averaged at 3.2 percent, within the government’s

two to four percent target for 2017 until 2019.

It peaked at 3.5 percent last October but declined to 3.3 percent in the last two months of the year.

With inflation seen to remain manageable, Jalandoni said this bodes well for their projection for a seven to 7.2 percent Gross Domestic Product (GDP) output for the economy this year.

These factors, Jalandoni said, are what make the local equities market attractive compared to the fixed income market.

Thus, the projection that the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) will hit the 9,300-9,400-level this year.

This week, the main gauge ended flat with a 0.02 percent, or 1.37 percent, uptick to 8,814.62 points.

It ended 2017 at record-high of 8,558.42 points, up 23.33 points or 0.3 percent in the last trading day of the year.

Last year, it registered 14 times of record-highs and grew by 25.1 percent year-onyear.

Jalandoni said volatility is expected in the next five years given the evolving developments overseas, with some banks keeping their interest rates at negative levels.

He, thus, expects high risk-on appetite this year as investors look for more opportunities to book gains.

He said placement in equities is really a risky undertaking but ensures sufficient long-term returns.

He also advised prospective investors to place their funds in passive funds or index trackers to ensure good returns. (PNA)

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9

Billboard RESORTS, HOTEL & RESTAURANTS DIRECTORIES

A PUBLIC SERVICE BY:

Algen’s Dive Resort (088) 3872015

Pryce Plaza Hotel 8583131 Fax: 726687

Apple Tree Resort & Hotel 735411 / 754525 Fax: 754497 0917-7144040 / 0923-3269366 / 0939-9076948

Prawn House (088) 3095992 Fax: 8519219 Ridge View Chalet 8588946 / 8587946 Fax: 8588946

Bahay Bakasyunan sa Camiguin (088) 3871057 / 3870131 Fax: 3870278 Basamanggas Resort 08822-760564 Fax: 760565 Cagayan Riverview Inn 8584245 / 729039 Fax: 8584245 Casa Crystalla 8561704 / 722465 Fax: 722480 Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones (center) is all smiles following a report made by Globe Telecom, represented by Globe Director for Citizenship and Advocacy Marketing Maricel Gray (2nd from left) on the telecommunication provider’s commitment to bring all 17 regions in the country under its Global Filipino School program. They are joined, from left, by Globe Manager for Citizenship Miguel Bermudo, DepEd Undersecretary Tonisito Umali and DepEd Director Margarita Ballesteros.

Globe expands Global Filipino Schools (GFS) program to 15 regions nationwide Globe Telecom, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), is expanding the Global Filipino Schools (GFS) program to realize presence in 15 regions nationwide. The GFS program is a long-term and modern approach to education that allows 21st century learning methods to be introduced and implemented in public schools nationwide.

Around 60 schools were added to the program this year, bringing to 142 schools the total number under its fold. The program now covers 15 out of 17 regions around the country. This was revealed during the presentation and turnover ceremony conducted recently between Globe and DepEd. Globe has committed in bringing the

program to all 17 regions in the Philippines by the year 2020.

From current indications, though, that target may be achieved as early as next year.

“Education is one area where Globe continues to focus its strength and capabilities in order to help build a more digitally savvy generation of both teachers and learners.

Soon enough, more teachers and learners will benefit from Globe Telecom’s advocacy of a digital-centric lifestyle for everyone, which we believe is the catalyst for growth and nation building,” said Globe Senior Vice President for Corporate Communications Yoly Crisanto.

For her part, Education Secretary Leonor Briones, in her keynote speech, lauded supporters

of the public education sector.

“If you are truly seeking truth, if you are truly seeking life, if you are truly seeking the meaning of Christmas, find it among the children whom you are serving,” she said.

Under the GFS program, every school beneficiary will serve as a training hub for teachers in the DepEd Division the school belongs to.

The school is also equipped with the knowledge and skills to facilitate workshops regarding 21st century learning skills, and the integration of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in the classroom.

The schools also receive free internet connectivity that teachers and students can use, free ICT equipment support such as projectors, tablets, pocket

WiFi dongles, Virtual Reality (VR) goggles, plus teacher training on Digital Literacy, Digital Responsibility, ICT integration in the classroom, and 21st century teaching concepts and methodologies.

To assess its success upon its implementation, a study released

by Taylor Nelson Sofres in 2015 showed the GFS program helped improve digital skills among teachers and students (specifically on usage of mobile technology and computer software), enabled 21st century learning outcomes that involve creativity, communication, collaboration and creativity, increased student engagement in classroom activities, and helped enhance school culture through readiness in ICT integration.

Casa Isabella (088) 8564065

Casa Azucena 8563402 / 09236593973

Chali Beach Resort 732840 / 8552108 Fax: 8555941 Chananthon Bed & Breakfast 8568189 / 3093095 Country Village Hotel 8583004-06 Fax: 8583006 D’Budgetel 8564200/726643 Fax: 8564300 Dahilayan Forest Park 8568562 to 63

De Luxe Hotel 8572144 / 724548 Fax: 724563 Discovery Hotel 727814 / 8563896 Fax: 8563897 Duka Bay Resort (088) 3312290 Fax: 725265 Dynasty Court Hotel 8574802 Fax: 857900 Grand City Hotel 8571900 / 728469 Fax: 723718 Hotel Conchita 8563856 / 727355 Fax: 8563857 Hotel Koresco 8589749-50 Fax: 8589748 Hotel Sogo 8520383

Kingston Lodge 8585696 Fax: 8585696

Seda Centrio Hotel 3238888 / 0917-577-5910 Southwinds Hotel 724803 / 8562036 Fax: 8562036 Stargate Dream Vacation Resort 8515003 / 8509999 The VIP Hotel 726080 / 8562505 Fax: 726441 RED PLANET 8800888/8801306 Travelers Pod 8518988 Uptown Condotel 8511800 Villa Paraiso Apartelle 3870419 Fax: 3870429 HONORARY MEMBERS:

Dept. of Tourism 723696/726394 / 8564048 Fax: 723696

RESTAURANTS:

Bigby’s Café 72-1071/857-5511/8575836 Fax: 711843 Café Laguna 8582999 Fax: 8567001 DM Villaruy Restaurant 733790

Golden Ajirang I 856-5271 Fax: 727876 Grand Caprice Restaurant 72-6955/856-2302 Fax: 72-4986 Kagay-anon Restaurant 728958 / 8563688 Fax: 8563843 / 729003 La Ilongga Restaurant 72-6183 / 857-3652 Fax: 72-4605 Missy Bon Bon 8566852 / 09228606442 Fax: 8566852 SLERS Ham & Café 8551438

Mapawa Natures Park 8584402 Fax: 725265

Thai Me Up 738424/3108424 Fax: 738424

Mallberry Suites 8541999 / 7249999 Fax: 8544999

Barkadahan Grill 8551234

Maxandrea Hotel 8572244/729943 Fax: 724090

La Tegola Cucina Italiana 8585959

Miami Inn 8581901 to 02 Fax: 725279/728486 N Hotel (088) 8801924 Paras Beach Resort 8568563 Fax: 8568563 Philtown Hotel 726295 / 8564402 Fax: 723104

limketkai luxe hotel 8800000 Dear manok 8564914 / 8573413 LIMKETKAI LUXE HOTEL Landline: (088) 880-0000, Mobile: 0917-312-4563 Email: info@limketkailuxe.com

10

Environment

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monday|january 15, 2018

Cimatu orders probe of all forest management licenses

E

nvironment and Natural Resources Secretary Roy Cimatu on Wednesday ordered a review of all the 104 companies that were granted Integrated Forest Management Agreements (IFMAs) with the DENR to prevent any recurrence of the environmental degradation similar to flash floods and mudslides that occurred in Zamboanga Peninsula last December.

Under the IFMA, companies are allowed to establish industrial tree plantations in the area but are restricted to cut residual trees unless authorized by the DENR Secretary.

Secretary Cimatu especially cited

0935 161 3398

856-3344 / 74-53-80

need for compliance and performance evaluation of the IFMA sites, which included Dacon Group of Companies, which was ordered to stop operations of its two companies, the South Davao Development C. Inc, (SODACO) and the Sirawai Plywood & Lumber Corp (SPLC) in Sibuco town.

The DENR’s order came after President Duterte blamed these companies for the flash floods and mudslides that killed dozens of people in Zamboanga Del Norte at the height of Typhoon Vinta.

Cimatu said that while several companies have stopped operating, there are reports of illegal poaching in

these IFMA sites.

“We will make them (the IFMA holders) accountable if we find that there were violations in what are supposed to be their obligation to help manage the forest, and not to be the culprit behind such environmental degradation,” Cimatu said.

Of the 104 IFMAs across the country, the DENR said that 40 were in Luzon, 13 in Visayas and 51 in Mindanao. It was also gathered that there 10 IFMAs were issued in Region 9 where the flash floods occurred.

Meanwhile, Cimatu gave the 12-member DENR probe team until Friday (Jan. 12)to complete its investigation of the Dacon areas that were

cited as deforested portion of the Zamboanga mountain range that was shown to President Duterte.

According to initial reports from the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Zamboanga, the frontline unit of DENR, the video of the deforested portion was believed to be the site preparation of SODACO, one of the two firms suspended by the Environment chief.

Under the IFMA, the DACON companies were allowed to establish industrial tree plantations in the area, but restricted to cut residual trees unless authorized by the DENR Secretary.

DENR suspends operations of two IFMAs blamed for killer floods in Zamboanga The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Tuesday suspended the operations of two big companies for alleged violation of their Industrial Forest Management Agreements (IFMAs) after President Deterte blamed them for the f lash f loods and mudslides which killed dozens of people in Zamboanga Del Norte at the height of Typhoon Vinta.

DENR Region director Felix Mirasol Jr. confirmed that they have issued the suspension order on Dacon Group

of Companies (DGC), which is operating in the province through its companies, the South Davao Development Co., Inc (SODACO) and the Sirawai Plywood o & Lumber Corp. (SPLC) in Sibuco town.

Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Roy Cimatu said that DENR investigators have been deployed in the province so that “an exhaustive probe can be conducted to see if there have been violations in their permits.”

President Duterte issued the closure order

to Cimatu during the Cabinet meeting on Monday after watching a five-minute video of the deforested portion of the Zamboanga mountain range where f lash f loods brought down logs that rampaged through the coastal communities.

The environment chief said a 12-member team consisting of local DENR officers from the forestry, mines and environment bureaus has been created to look into the operations of SODACO and SPLC for violations of their Integrated Forest Management Agreements.

Under their IFMA terms, SPLC and SODACO is allowed to establish industrial tree plantations which they can harvest, but are not allowed to cut residual trees unless authorized by the Office of the DENR Secretary under very strict conditions such as for site development and plantation establishment.

The DENR has issued five IFMAS to the two firms with a combined area of 70,709 hectares, covering 12 towns traversing the boundaries of Zamboanga Del Norte and Del Sur.

11

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monday|january 15, 2018

Investing... from page 1

Maute for months.

This is part of DTI’s initiative being part of the Task Force Bangon Marawi, where it is mandated to bring back economic activities in the area.

B OI Managing Head C e fe r i n o R o d ol fo s ai d providing incentives to businesses locating in Marawi will facilitate in attracting i nvestors and promote economic activities in the area.

This would also mean creating more jobs an d prov i d i ng i n c om e opportunities for the people of Marawi City and help internally displaced persons (IDPs) to make their lives back to normalcy.

“Listing these areas as LDAs will encourage more investors, both local and foreign, to seriously look into investment opportunities in the said areas,” said Rodolfo, who is also a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) undersecretary.

In 2016, the BOI listed 134 LDAs in the IPP. Most of these areas were calamity-stricken cities and municipalities.

This initiative of the BOI targets to accelerate rehabilitation in areas affected

by Typhoon Yolanda in 2013.

Those investors locating in LDAs are entitled to incentives such as 100-percent deduction from taxable income of necessary and major infrastructure works.

As of October 2017, there the BOI approved a total of 92 projects in LDAs. These projects amounted t o P H P 1 4 1 . 3 6 bi l l i on , generating 12,622 jobs at full operation.

Bulk or 83 percent of the BOI-approved projects in LDAs are in power sector, and the rest are in areas of transportation and storage, manufacturing, real estate, and accommodation and food services.

Meanwhile, DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez reassured that the administration is prioritizing the restoration of peace and order in the country to safeguard its citizens as well as local and foreign investments.

“We wish to reassure our investors that the peace and order climate in the country remains stable and sound,” Lopez noted. (PNA)

E-Jeepneys... from page 1

how the vehicles operate for the appreciation of the riding public, as well asPUJ operators and drivers, Guro said. “ The mo der nizat ion program is now a reality.

People will see for themselves how efficient and convenience these e-jeeps are,” Guro said.

He said One Team, the private entity that acquired the e-jeepneys, is already operating on initial stages in Marikina City, with Cagayan de Oro as one of its pilot areas in the country.

Each unit costs more than a million peso and can be acquired through a loan

scheme at Land Bank.

Guro said One Team will bring in 15 e-jeepneys, which are equipped with global positioning system (GPS), air conditioning system, wi-fi connection, dashcams, and payment terminals. Each unit is also furnished with a ramp for persons with disabilities.

The proposed route for the e-jeepneys, which can accommodate more than 20 passengers, starits from Barangay Puerto, this city, to Barangay Igpit, in Opol town, passing through the newly opened coastal road.

Guro said the e-jeepney route proposal is now pending at the city council of Cagayan de Oro, and is incorporated into the comprehensive route plan of the city’s Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA).

He said the LTFRB-10 has also conducted information campaign to notify operators and drivers of dilapidated jeepneys, especially those that are operating for 15 years or more, that they will be facing legal sanctions if fail to comply with the government’s PUV modernization program.

(Jigger J. Jerusalem/PNA)

Prices...

from page 1 monitor the supermarkets across the country to ensure they won’t sell goods beyond the suggested retail price.

He said the manufacturers promised not to increase prices of commodities since the hike brought about by the new tax rates is negligible and will increase prices only by 5 centavos.

He said the 5-centavo incre as e wou ld not b e felt by consumers since manufacturers and supermarkets would lower their prices due to competition.

“Wala talaga syang effect.

Ang impact on gasoline hindi ganun ka laki, napakaliit lang (There’s really no effect. The impact of gasoline is not really big. It has very little effect),” he said.

DTI 11 director Maria Belenda Ambi said prices of basic commodities should not exceed 10 percent of the SRP, otherwise they will issue storeowners a show cause order to explain the excessive hike.

She said the hike in prices will be evident on cola drinks since these are not basic and prime commodities.

“We can opt not to consume cola,” she said.

Meanwhile, Mindanao Business C ouncil chair Vicente Lao said the tax reform program will allow the government to benable the Philippines to keep pace with its ASEAN neighbors.

MBC chair Vicente T. Lao said TRAIN will allow the government to boost the budget for its “Build, Build, Build” program and social services, and enable the country to keep pace with its ASEAN neighbors.

Lao, new chair of the B I M P- E AG A B u s i n e s s Council, is pushing for the immediate implementation of the 1,500-km Mindanao Railway System to bring down the logistics cost

because “that will be a big boost to the agricultural productivity of the island, mining, construction and many others.”

Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. president Arturo Milan said he believes the tax reform program is good not only for businesses but also for the public in general.

“While there are some flaws in the program but generally it is good especially to the low income earners because they will get more take home pay with the reduction of tax rate,” he said.

He said it would “promote healthy lifestyle,” apparently pertaining to the slight increase in the prices of sugar and other sweetened products, including beverages.

“Besides, taxes are needed for government to be able to deliver social services and build infrastructure for the country’s development. As long as every peso of tax is well spent, it will always be good for the people,” he said.

7-Eleven...

from page 1 further the progress of this town after two global fast food chains , Jollibee and McDonalds, which has drivethrough services were opened last month.

This town also hosts popular shopping malls including Gaisano Grand, Gaisano Capital and Davao Central Warehouse which had drawn hundreds of employment opportunities to residents here in and in nearby towns.

L o c a l of f ici a ls were apparently caught by a big surprise with the sudden advent of investments in this once sleepy farming town when three decades back was marred by terror and violence during the reign of the dreaded Lost Command paramilitary group led by Constabulary Colonel Carlos Lademora.

Apart from malls, fast food chains and convenience stores, this town saw the sudden opening of top banks in the country in the likes of Banco De Oro, Security Bank and BPI Family Savings Bank adding the existing banks including Metrobank, Land Bank of the Philippines and Philippine National Bank.

Bleza said 7-Eleven chose San Francisco town as one of the two pioneer branches in the region because of its strategic location having been the center of trade and commerce that even draw businesses from the nearby cities of Bislig and Tandag.

He said the opening of the new 7 Eleven branches is just a start as the American –Japanese Multinational company is bent on extending in other urban areas of Caraga region.

“7-Eleven has already spread in highly urbanized areas such as Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao and it is bent on widening its branches throughout the country,” Bleza said.

Bleza added the aggressive expansion campaign of the company which targeted at

least 412 new stores across the country had given him the opportunity to easily get a franchise apart from the privilege of a standing partnership between Caltex and 7 Eleven.

The convenience store chain is set to open a total of 262 stores in Luzon this year, 138 of which will be in Metro Manila and 124 outlets in the provincial areas. Another 150 stores will be opened in Visayas and Mindanao.

Policy... from page 2

other materials from waste to produce a two-megawatt power to augment the power requirement in the city.

Fabre lauded Lagnada’s vision to transform Butuan into a mega city in the next five years. He said that waste management is an important component in economic development, which the city government has considered to prioritize.

He likewise announced the DENR is working on the final preparation of constructing a modern sanitary landfill in Siargao in the wake of the booming tourism industry in that area, which is considered the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. He said DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu was able to secure the help of a donor country which will finance the construction of the state-of-the- art dumpsite.

The other major projects approve d by Pre s i d e nt Duterte being implemented in Butuan City are the Asiga River Hydro Power, which is under construction and will be operational in 2018; Taguibo River Hydro Power which is scheduled to begin operations in 2019; Wawa River Hydro Power Plant to begin operations in 2020, Wind Power plant project to begin operation in 2022, and the Development of an industrial park in Taguibo, Butuan City T he ot he r on - goi ng projects in the city and in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte are the Bulk Water Supply project, which began operations in 2016; Eel Farming and Processing plant, Rice farming and milling project, Taguibo, Masao, Nasipit Industrial Project and the Masao and Nasipit Por t expansion project. (HFGallego, DENRCaraga/PIA-Caraga)

Location... from page 4

for His gift of forgiveness for living our own way. Then, ask Him to take charge of our new life so we can start living His right way every day for the rest of our life in this location, as well as forever with Him in our permanent location. So if your life ended today, do you know where you would relocate? Just Think a Minute…

Credit... from page 4

arrives on time. When paying, provide allowance for posting of payment to ensure that your payment is recorded on time. * Guard against credit

card fraud. Ensure that the transaction on your credit card is done in your presence.

Also check your card upon return by the cashier to ensure that it is yours and that it has not been tampered with in any way.

On a personal note, let me add: Handle your credit card as if it were cash.

Years ago, my wife Mira was surprised to receive a statement for a dinner at a restaurant in Kuala Lumpur.

Immediately, she wrote the credit card company to dispute the bill for the simple reason that she did not go to Kuala Lumpur.

After several calls, the credit card company sent her the record of purchase.

The restaurant bill showed a signature which I immediately recognized. It was mine!

As it turned out, I still had my wife’s extention card in my wallet when I travelled to Kuala Lumpur that year. I absent-mindedly presented my wife’s card at the restaurant. The restaurant, without checking the identity of the card holder, simply swiped my wife’s card.

I could just imagine what would have happened if my wife’s card had fallen in the wrong hands.

Not to over-emphasize: Handle your credit card as if it were cash.

Note: You may email us at totingbunye2000@gmail. com. You may also “like” us on Facebook at “Speaking Out”.

Chaos... from page 4

our country and our people.

Although many of us are constantly fed the Word of God because we regularly attend masses or gatherings oin our spiritual groups, there is no sincere interest in the hearts and minds of many to obey God’s Word which they hear every week.

-ooo B E L I E V E R S F O L L O W I N G FA L S E TEACHINGS: Indeed, what many Filipino believers are upholding at present are false teachings and false doctrines.

For example, they know it is bad---as it is a grievous sin--to steal from, or defraud, their fellowmen, yet steal and defraud others they continue to do, just to appropriate a measly sum for themselves.

What is more, they know that they need to be true and sincere with respect to their faith in God, as it is the only way by which they can obtain His blessings, guidance, and protection. However, many scale great heights, just to find a way to avoid listening to His Word, even to the point of executing maneuvers so as to avoid obeying His commands.

Many of these people also know the certainty of their being punished with death, in this life, and in the life hereafter as well, if they fail to obey the commands of God as enshrined in the Bible. Yet, they persist in their foolish thinking that death will not swallow them up because God will be compelled to save them anyway. Truly,

when will Filipino believers start making a turn for a true and sincere change in faith?

-ooo WATCH ANG TANGING DAAN” AT FACEBOOK: “Ang Tanging Daan” is a Bible exposition and prayer session for everyone, in English and Filipino, 24/7, worldwide, that can be viewed at www.facebook. com/angtangingdaan.

Please see the video section.

Reactions: 0917 984 24 68, 0918 574 0193, 0977 805 9058. Email:batasmauricio@ yahoo.com

Fraud... from page 8

released a statement saying it has noticed an industrywide “extraordinary rise” of fraudulent bank account transactions done without the account holders’ knowledge, especially in the last quarter of 2017.

It said the transactions took place in other countries.

“We are currently running a thorough investigation process that involves tracing individual transactions, che ck ing any ir regu lar activities and identifying signals of fraud from millions of valid transactions everyday.

This challenging task is done to ensure that all cases are addressed accordingly, and that a resolution is served for all valid cases,” it said.

The bank also asked affected clients to formally file a report with the bank, through callcenter@bdo.com. ph, international tollfree number IAC +800-8-6318000, and domestic hotline number 631-8000, for proper facilitation. (PNA) EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE INTESTATE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED ALICIA LAGROSAS CHUA Notice is hereby given that the intestate estate legitimate heirs of the late ALICIA LAGROSAS CHUA, who died on August 30, 2016 at Naawan, Misamis Oriental, and that her legitimate compulsory heirs are the above-named legitimate children, respectively; without leaving a will; That at the time of her death, the above-deceased left real property consisting of a parcel of land; A PARCEL OF LAND (Lot 1230, Cad-529, Case 2, situated at Barrio of Poblacion,Municipality of Naawan, Province of Misamis Oriental, Island of Mindanao; containing an area of THREE THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED NINETEEN (3,419) SQUARE METERS, more or less. ALICIA LAGROSAS CHUA is the subject of EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE INTESTATE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED ALICIA LAGROSAS CHUA; is made and entered ESTERLITA CHUA BACALA, of legal age, Filipino, married and a resident of Poblacion, Naawan, Misamis Oriental and JESSIELINDO L. CHUA (dec.), represented by his son, HARRIS D. CHUA, of legal age, Filipino, single and a resident of Poblacion, Naawan, Misamis Oriental; That in the event that any other property of the decedents should later be found which is/are not included herein above, the parties hereto further agree to distribute, divide and adjudicate, as they do hereby distribute, divide and adjudicate the same in like manner; Under Notary Public of Atty. JOHN BRYAN S. ABRAGAN; Doc. No. 81; Page No. 17; Book No. X; Series of 2017.

BWM: January 8, 15 & 22, 2018

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monday|january 15, 2018

Board of directors of Italpinas Development Corporation (IDC) participated in the corporate governance training hosted by the Philippine Corporate Enhancement and Governance, Inc.

IDC Joins Corporate Governance Training

To further reinforce the Philippines’ anti-money laundering, the Philippine Corporate Enhancement and Governance, Inc. hosted a training on corporate governance and Anti-Money Laundering Act to an audience of banks and companies, last December 20, 2017 held at Dusit Thani Hotel, Ayala Center, Makati City, Philippines.

One of the registrants is Italpinas Development Corporation represented by its Chairman and CEO, Architect Romolo Nati, and Board of Directors, namely, Atty. Christine Base, Atty.

Jose Fidel Acuna, Mr. Jose Araullo , and Atty Richard David Funk II, one of the

speakers of the event.

Topics discussed during the training include updates on corporate governance regulatory developments in 2016, pointers to ensure effective practice, corporate risk management, and compliance with the AntiMoney Laundering Law (AMLA).

Speakers are Catherine N. Saplala, former Director of Investments and Research Department Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mercedes B. Suleik, former Deputy Director, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and Atty. Richard David C. Funk II, former Deputy Director/Head Compliance & Investigation Group

Anti-Money Laundering Secretariat, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

“Every company must participate in a seminar like this one. As a listed company, IDC is committed to high standards of corporate governance.

Just like other companies in the Philippines, it’s always our obligations to be knowledgeable of regulations and to promulgate a good practice in corporate governance for public interest,” said Nati.

Italpinas is an ItalianFilipino company that specializes in sustainable buildings across emerging cities in the Philippines.

For more information, visit www.italpinas.com.