BusinessWeek Mindanao (January 17, 2014)

BusinessWeek MINDANAO

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Volume IV, No. 52

Market Indicators

As of 6:10 pm jan. 16, 2014 (Thursday)

FOREX

PHISIX

US$1 = P45.12

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X Briefly 24.12 points

Young inventors ANTI-THEFT devices, seawater-todrinkable water converter, automatic rain shield, solar power bank for cell phones and other gadgets were just some of the innovative products of young inventors from different schools in Region 10 showcased in the opening ceremony of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits (RICE) held January 15 at the SM Event Center in Cagayan de Oro City.

A total of seven schools (from secondary to tertiary levels) entered the contest particularly Misamis Occidental National High SchoolOroquieta, Philippine Science High School-Main, Philippine Science High School-Central Mindanao Campus, Gusa Regional Science School, Misamis Oriental General Comprehensive High School, Liceo de Cagayan University and Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan University.

One of the science products showcased in the contest-exhibit was PSHS-Central Mindanao Campus’ Desalinator Kit for Natural Disasters. It is a box-like device used to separate freshwater from saltwater in order to have drinkable water.

Relief efforts THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and local government units (LGUs) have stepped up relief efforts to assist some 29,885 families or 141,003 persons affected by the flooding in Mindanao.

As of Wednesday, close to P15 million worth of relief goods have been provided by the DSWD and LGUs to victims in Northern Mindanao, Davao Region and CARAGA.

DSWD has prepositioned more than P33 million worth of emergency relief resources readily available for augmentation to affected LGUs. There are still 282 evacuation centers open, serving 22,643 families or 106,194 persons. Those outside evacuation centers numbering to 5,086 families or 25,373 persons are also being served by DSWD.

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WB lowers PH growth target due to Yolanda

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YPHOON Yo l a n d a battered not only lives and properties in the Visayas region, but also the country’s economy as a whole.

On Wednesday, the World Bank announced it cut its economic growth forecast for the Philippines for 2013 and this year after the devastating typhoon struck the central part of the country.

In a new report, the Washington-based lender said the Philippines’ gross domestic product (GDP) likely grew 6.9 percent in 2013, a percentage lower than an earlier forecast of seven percent made last October.

GDP is the amount of final goods and services produced in the country and growth/PAGE 7

FLIGHTS RESUMED. Relatives of airline passengers at the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental attempt a last glimpse of their loved ones when flights resumed Thursday (16 January 2014) after several days of cancellations due to bad weather. Various sectors have been complaining about the ill-equipped newly opened airport, which reportedly does not have air navigation equipment and runway lighting facilities. mindanews photo by bobby timonera

Local govt’s help sought Camiguin posts high investments in search for RE projects

By JORIE C. VALCORZA, Contributor

THE Department of Energy (DOE) has called on local government units (LGUs) in Mindanao to identify potential renewable energy projects to help shore up power supply in the region.

Jesus Tamang, DOE Energy Policy and Planning Bureau director, said the department sought the support of Mindanao’s local leaders to achieve energy sufficiency by identifying renewable energ y sources within their respective areas. sought/PAGE 7

MAMBAJAO, Camiguin – Camiguin reported a 20 percent rise in investment, last year, with P586million worth of capital recorded.

The infrastructure and facilities sector brought in more than half of the pie or worth P286-million investments in the province, followed

by the services sector with P262million, trading at P38-million, and P.5-million from the manufacturing sector.

Data of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) showed that these investments, together with the camiguin/PAGE 7

Davao region employment rate slows down n 2013 DAVAO City -- Employment rate in Davao region remained above the 90-percent mark but dropped from 95.2 percent in October 2012 to 91.7

Mindanao Daily NEWS

percent in October 2013, as shown in the socio-economic performance data for last year. rate/PAGE 7

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Trading of Bloomberry shares suspended on shareholder’s stake sale

MANILA -- Bloomberry Resorts Corp., developer and operator of Solaire Resort & Casino, has gone on a five-day voluntary trading suspension of its shares starting Thursday, in light

of the sale by shareholder Global Gaming Philippines LLC (GGAM) of its entire stake.

GGAM’s shares comprised about 8.70 percent of the suspended/PAGE 6

Economy

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NGCP eyes filing for LMIP implementation before yearend MANILA -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines eyes to file an application for implementation of the Leyte-Mindanao Interconnection Plan (LMIP) with the Energy Regulation Commission (ERC) by the end of this year.

NGCP spokesperson Cynthia Alabanza said the agency also plans to file an update of the feasibility study of the project within the quarter.

“We intend to file it within

the year,” she said noting that the filing will be done along with those for other projects.

Earlier, NGCP President Henr y Sy. Jr. said some USD 500 million has been earmarked for LMIP.

The project is targeted to connect the country’s second largest island group to the power grid as it is the only island group not connected to the national grid.

NGCP is still conducting hydrographic survey and targets to finish this in the middle of this year.

It targets to start the construction of the estimated

400-kilometer transmission line by 2016 and finish it by 2018.

Data from the Manilabased Asian Development Bank (ADB) said the interconnection project will strengthen the “reliability of subsystems, reduced the needed reserve capacity and enables least cost generation expansion. (PNA)

SWS survey: Business climate in PHL still ‘good’ MANILA -- Business executives in the country remain optimistic in the local business climate, according to the latest result of Social Weather Station (SWS) Survey of Enterprises on Corruption.

The sur vey is based on i nt e r v i e w s am on g 9 5 1 companies; a mix from large enterprises and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Bulk of the enterprises or a total of 351 respondents were from Metro Manila while 100 respondents each from Angeles, Cavite-LagunaBatangas, Iloilo, Cebu, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro-Iligan.

The sur vey rated the business climate in the

countr y as “good” after respondents’ answers showed: (a) 70 percent satisfaction in the national government in promoting a good business climate in 2013 versus 2012’s 69 percent satisfaction rating; (b) 67 percent satisfaction in the city government in promoting a good business climate in 2013 versus 2012’s 67 p ercent satisfaction rating;and, (c) business expectations for the next two years are excellent or good has hit 76 percent in 2013 versus 2012’s record of 74 percent.

This is despite the same respondents said they are “seeing a lot of corruption sws/PAGE 7

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3 AirAsia is still Aboitiz book wins at 32nd National Book Awards www.businessweekmindanao.com

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Asia’s best managed firm

“SHADES of Majesty: 88 Philippine Native Trees,” a coffee-table book produced by the Aboitiz Group as an extension of its sustainability program was named the ‘Best LEADING international Book of Science” at the 32nd National Book magazine Euromoney has Awards held in November. once again named AirAsia Berhad as the winner of the ‘Best Managed company in Asia for the Airlines & Aviation sector’, for the Euromoney ‘Best Managed and Governed Companies – Asia Poll 2014’.

AirAsia was the winner of the same accolade in 2013, a tribute to the company’s focus on integration and expansion and excellent corporate foresight of the aviation industry.

The poll is based on replies received from a total of 93 of the leading equity analysts at the largest investment banks and research houses in the Asia Pacific region nominating a total of 214 different companies.

Analysts were asked to name which companies were the most impressive across a number of factors including; management accessibility, accounting transparency and corporate governance procedures amongst others.

Analysts praised AirAsia for its leading role in promoting transparent communication to investors, citing that “the company has a clear strategy and good airasia/PAGE 6

Under its sustainability program, the group has committed to plant three

million trees in various parts of the country by 2015. With the help of volunteers from its business units through the annual simultaneous tree planning, it completed planting of more than 2.9 million trees by the end of 2013.

The book, written by Pastor Malabrigo, Jr. and James LaFrankie, Jr. and published by Wide Angle Media and Project Brio Media House, features different tree species which are endemic to the Philippines, including the rare toog (Petersianthus quadrilatus) tree, said to be aboitiz/PAGE 6

LITERARY AND SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION. (2nd from left onwards) Dr. Isagani R. Cruz, Chair of The Manila Critics Cirle,“Shades of Majesty” authors James LaFrankie, Jr. and Pastor Malabrigo, Jr. together with Jon Ave, Project Brio Media House Executive Director and Judd Salas, AEV AVP-Corporate Branding & Communication at the 32nd National Book Awards in Edsa Shangri-La, Mandaluyong City.

RFM buys Unilever’s Royal pasta business RFM Corp is poised to cement its dominance in the pasta market as it acquires the Royal brand and the pasta business of the Unilever group.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, the Concepcion-owned manufacturer said the transaction was valued at $47.8 million, or over P2.1 billion, covering mainly the Royal trademarks,

goodwill and inventories.

The acquisition is subject t o c u s t om a r y c l o s i n g requirements.

RFM president and chief executive officer Jose A. Concepcion III said the purchase of the number two pasta brand Royal, which has a premium price point, would strengthen the company’s market leadership in the segment. The company owns

Fiesta, the dominant pasta brand in the country. “ The Royal brand brings a solid and enduring heritage value with decades of experience and around 58 years in the Philippines, k n ow n a n d l ov e d by generations of Filipino families,” RFM said.

RFM noted that the Fiesta and Royal brands lead other brands in offering spaghetti,

macaroni, and pasta-andsauce bundles. The company hopes to grow the pasta market by offering readyto-cook and affordable pasta meals to Filipino consumers.

Proceeds from a P1.6billion top-up offering in October and internally generated cash funded the acquisition.

“Moving for ward, RFM will continue to look

for acquisitions that will strengthen its position in the food and beverage categories,” the firm said.

The acquisition of the Royal brand is expected to drive RFM’s revenues and more than offset the lost revenues from the sale of its Swift meat business to the Century Pacific group in late 2012. rfm/PAGE 6

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Political will, farmer-involvement are crucial to biotech innovation

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No Place Like Home THINK

hink a minute…It’s true, “There’s no place like A Minute home.” In fact, our whole By Jhan Tiafau Hurst identity, who we are and how we see ourselves, and others, mainly comes from our family.

They say, “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” The kind of life we live is largely influenced by our family. From the time we’re born it’s our family’s example we naturally follow.

Home is where we learn about love, life, and laughter. As someone said: “Happiness is home-made.” It doesn’t matter if you’re rich or poor, because a small house will hold as much happiness as a big mansion.

But sadly, many homes are not loving and happy. As one sad guy said: “The first half of my life was ruined by my parents, and the second half by my children.” A bestselling book entitled, It Takes A Village, says that raising children is the job of the community. But the reason some people expect the government and community to raise their children is because their marriage and family has broken down. Millions of families are destroyed by divorce, adultery, greed for money, selfish parents who put themselves first before their own children, domestic violence, alcoholism, teenage pregnancies, drugs, and many other things.

The simple fact is there is no substitute for the family.

A child’s need for security, love, and acceptance from both parents will never change. God designed us all to grow up in a family with both a father and a mother who love each other and us without conditions, and who teach us right and wrong. This is the way our character is shaped and built so we become healthy, happy and successful.

But if you’re one of the millions who did not grow up in a happy, loving family, you can join a new family today by asking Jesus Christ to forgive you and take charge of your life. Jesus wants to make you a member of His family, where He’ll always love, forgive and accept you. He’ll also start healing your past hurts from your childhood and help you to forgive those who hurt you. Jesus is the one who can help you reach your potential to enjoy the success and happiness your heavenly Father wants to give you.

Just Think a Minute…

Political will and farmer involvement are crucial to direct research and innovation on biotechnologies that could cut poverty in rural areas of developing nations, says an editor of a report by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The report, ‘Biotechnologies at Work for Smallholders’, published on 29 October, outlines 19 examples from studies done in the developing world of biotechnology being used to boost yields and lower production costs in the small-scale farming of crops, livestock and fish.

Andrea Sonnino, chief of the FAO’s Research and Extension Unit and one of the report’s editors, tells SciDev.Net that the political determination to direct biotech efforts including research and innovation towards helping smallholders is crucial.

But, he adds, so is farmers’ involvement.

“This publication provides evidence that, when there is the political commitment, when there is the willingness to apply direct research and extension to meeting the needs of smallholders and when there is full participation of the smallholders themselves, important results can be achieved,” he says.

Involving farmers in innovation projects from the beginning helps to assure their success, Sonnino says.

“By being involved, they participate in the selection of the objectives and in the development of the research and innovation activities,” he says. “This results in an innovation which is targeted towards the real needs of the smallholders, with an adoption process that is much more rapid because of the farmers’ ownership.”

“When there is the political commitment, when there is the willingness to apply direct research and extension to meeting the needs of smallholders and when there is full participation of the smallholders themselves, important results can be

SPECIAL FEATURE achieved.”

Andrea Sonnino, FAO The report says that new science-based agricultural products and processes offer ways to help eliminate hunger and malnutrition, but the need for them to recognise the role of smallholder production and improve people’s lives is “now more pressing than ever”.

Sonnino tells SciDev.Net: “In developing countries, most food production comes from small or medium-sized farms — the family farm. So to meet the increasing demand for food, we need to focus on smallholders.”

The examples in the report come from Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Cameroon, China, Colombia, Cuba, Ghana, India, Nigeria, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and Thailand.

They include various small-scale applications of biotechnologies, but projects involving genetically modified organisms were excluded to prevent the debate about this contentious issue from distracting attention from other valuable biotechnologies, according to Sonnino.

The report describes DNA-based technologies such as marker-assisted selection, which uses genetic markers to select crop or animal varieties with particular traits for breeding, and polymerase chain reaction, a technique that was used last year to detect outbreaks of a viral disease in goats and sheep in Cameroon.

Yet the evidence of economic, health and environmental impacts — while obvious for a few studies — was lacking in most cases. Also, there was a lack of data on the number of farmers involved in taking up some of the innovations, the report says.

Biotechnologies showing the greatest impacts and uptake were found to have had robust support through national and state government policies, and were also supported by international funding.

These included Indian examples of the development of improved pearl millet hybrids that boosted the revenue of farmers in two states by US$13.5 million in 2011, and flood-tolerant rice that three million farmers were using in 2012. Both were supported by government programmes targeting crop improvement, poverty alleviation and climate change, and were funded by bodies including the UK’s Department for International Development and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the report says.

The FAO is calling for political commitments to improve smallholder productivity, and international investment in science and technology to overcome weak institutions and skills in the field of biotechnology.

“To help more smallholders benefit from biotechnology, we need to invest more in public goods, research and innovation, extension services and technical assistance to farmers,” Sonnino tells SciDev.Net. “It has been demonstrated that the returns on this kind of investment are much higher than investment in other sectors.”

Joanna Chataway, co-director of the Innogen Institute, a UK research centre that studies the social and economic impact of genomics innovation, tells SciDev.Net: “This research is a further contribution to important studies indicating that biotechnologies can have positive impacts for smallholder farmers. The case studies provide insight into how the technical, institutional and operational barriers and opportunities can be best overcome and exploited.”

PNoy Gov’t: Another Failed Regime

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IFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “… whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all…” (Jesus Christ, our God and Savior, in Mark 10:43-44, the Holy Bible).

-ooo PNOY GOV’T, ANOTHER FAILED REGIME: If the Aquino government failed to address corruption in its four years in office as the perception among business executives is that it increased all the more despite its “righteous path” program, what makes it think that it can still do something now that it has barely two years? Truth to tell, the second Aquino presidency is another failed regime, when it comes to curbing or eliminating corruption, among others.

-ooo CORRUPTION AS AN ISSUE OF SPIRITUALITY: Corruption is not a political issue. It is not also an economic issue. It is an issue of spirituality. A nation whose people no longer listen to God because they no longer read the Bible, and who no longer obey His commands, will be run by men and women who will not fear stealing from government money, who will not shirk abuses of power, who will not care about the welfare of the people.

-ooo CORRUPTION AN ISSUE FOR ALL PEOPLE: And corruption is not an issue pertaining only to politicians and government officials. It is an issue more properly pertaining

to the whole nation. When the people are themselves corrupt akampi Mo A ng Batas owing to their low or lack of

By Atty. Batas Mauricio spirituality or when they lack fear and love of God either out of deliberate intent or pure ignorance, they turn out to be corrupt likewise when they are eventually elected or appointed to government positions.

-ooo CORRUPT OFFICIALS PENALTY FOR CORRUPT PEOPLE: When people are not paying attention to what the Bible says as to who should be installed as officers in government, then even those who do not deserve to be in government for one reason or another will get a chance to be elected or appointed. Having rouge, corrupt, inexperienced, ungodly, and incompetent leaders seems to be the penalty that people who choose their leaders outside of the norms the Bible teaches will receive.

-ooo GODLY AND SPIRITUAL LEADERS: So, what does the Bible say about godly and spiritual leaders? First of all, in batas/PAGE 6

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Agriculture sector is top employer in Davao region AGRICULTURE remains the main employer in the Davao region, the 2013 Project JobsFit: DOLE 2020 Vision of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in the Davao region said.

Project JobsFit (PJF) is a labor market-signaling study the DOLE initiated in 2009 as part of its firm resolve to adopt coherent and innovative strategies toward efficient employment facilitation.

“The 2013 PJF update is the insightful report enumerating the summary of in demand and hard-

to-fill jobs. It has also comprehensively documented the recommendations identified by the various industries to respond to the prevailing skill mismatch underlying the issues of u n e mp l oy m e nt an d underemployment,” Regional Director Joffrey M. Suyao said.

He said the Davao region

Stakeholders’ Role in the Implementation of School-Based Management

is the first regional office in the country to update its industr y-laborskillsmatching projecting employment from 2010 to 2016.

The 2013 update was a product of the 13 focusedgroup discussions of the regional “captains of the industry” from March to April 2013. The industry partners identified in demand and hard-to-fill jobs, and provided recommendations to resolve the issue on skills mismatch.

The consultation with academe and t he lo cal government unit-based PESO became a venue from the supplier side to describe their efforts of aligning their curriculum to the skills needed in the industry. The

discussions brought out issues on how the industry side could further strengthen the industry-related experiences of the students by means of academe-industry linkage

for an improved On-the-Job Training programs.

The report noted there were about 1.86 million jobs in the labor market in 2013.

This figure is projected to

increase to 1.97 million in 2016, showing a 5.91-percent annual growth rate. “ T h e e c o n o my a n d employment opportunities davao/PAGE 6

By ETHELINDA P. SAURA School In-charge/Casilihon Elementary School

School and community are not in isolation but partners in the development of the institution. The school leader shall build a strong relationship with its community for support.

Indeed, the essence of SBM is to empower the school and community leaders in building a strong foundation for the institution to withstand in realizing its vision and mission.

With its limited resources it is then necessary for the school to interlink the community and establish strong networking and linkages for financial support in the different activities and programs thus to redound for better school performance. Nevertheless, school leaders shall manifest good rapport to its community in order to win the trust and confidence.

Moreover, it is always expected by the community

that the school shall be the agent of change and transformation in changing the school culture that is most acceptable to them.

Indeed, transparency and good governance create a healthy working environment between the school and community towards greater heights of academic success.

On the other hand, proper communication and respect will develop strong attachment between the institution and the community yet it would develop an atmosphere towards greater accomplishments.

Successful school program implementation lies in the whole heart support of its stakeholders’ though unity and collaboration are the best chemistry in sailing the institution towards reaching its goals for academic excellence.

MISAMIS ORIENTAL- Vice Governor Joey G. Pelaez donated a 2 Horse Power Electric Water Pump in Damayohan Elementary School, Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental. Present during the Turn-Over Ceremony were Mr. Florentino O. Ranara, Jr. (Head Teacher, 2nd from left), Hon. Metudio D. Tandugon (Brgy. Captain, 4th from left), Mrs. Adelaida P. Montejo (GPTA President, 4th from right) and former 1st District Provincial Board Member Jigjag G. Pelaez (2nd from right). The pump will help in providing enough water supply to the school which is located on top of a hill.

Ground Breaking of JR Borja Bridge Project Congressman Rufus B. Rodriguez (left photo) leads the laying of cement in the ground breaking ceremony of the JR Borja Bridge project along Burgos Street that cost P179,582,892. The project was started by former Congressman Constantino Jaraula and former Mayor Vicente Emano. The right photo shows Cong. Rodriguez pointing the location where the project traverses in the area. Also in photo are First District City Councilor Candy Darimbang, Barangay Chair Ronald Seriña and Engr. Lilibeth Aparicio, Project Head DPWH Region 10.

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Congressman Rufus B. Rodriguez recently participated in and spoke during the 6th Plenary Session of the Asian Parliamentarian Assembly held in Islamabad Pakistan last December 8-10, 2013. Cong. Rodriguez delivered his speech harping on the importance of Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction. His speech also brought out the complaint of the Philippines against the establishment of China of its Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) and informed the APA of the breakthrough in the peace talks between the Philippine government and the MILF which will eventually pave the way for lasting peace in Mindanao. With Cong Rodriguez in the photo are Aldwin Requejo from the Office of former Speaker Jose de Venecia and Consul Rady Demdem of the Philippine Embassy in Pakistan.

AirAsia... from page 3

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Davao... from page 5

in Davao region remains on an increasing track in the next three years, and we are committed to support our labor to maintain and strengthen a peaceful and harmonious industrial relations climate,” Suyao said.

“With the update of Project JobsFit, we also ensure that to address job-skills mismatch,” he said.

In the 2013-2016 projection update, there were 16 major industries in the Davao region that leads in employment generation.

Agriculture posted about 670,000 jobs for 2013 projected to reach 675,350 jobs in 2016 based on data from Regional and Social Economic Trends for Davao region by the National Statistical Coordination Board.

This is followed by the wholesale and retail industry offering 367,650 in 2013 seen

to increase by 9.45 percent in 2016 reaching as much as 402,280 jobs. Transportation and communication is seen to offer about 141,780 jobs until 2016; manufacturing with 126,680 jobs; and construction with 91,525 jobs.

The other employment generators for the region were the industries of mining, manufacturing, electricity, gas and water, hotel and restaurant, financial intermediation, real estate and renting, public administration, education, health and social work, social and personal activities, and household employment.

The 16 industries were based in the 2009 study. In 2013, however, PJF also noted increasing employment in new industries of Cyber Services and the Creative Industry, which included information technology and business- process outsourcing.

visibility”. Analysts also noted that “AirAsia senior m an a ge m e nt c ont i nu e s to demonstrate prudent g e a r i n g , t r a n s p a r e n c y, good governance and clear articulation of strategy.”

Tony Fernandes, AirAsia’s Group CEO commented, “It is great to be voted best managed company as it typifies our strength in ensuring cost is lowered and in the same time find innovative ways to increase revenues. Our focus is really to ensure analyst and investors fully understand the strength of the company in overcoming challenges by being innovative and cost discipline in our business.”

This is the 15th annual ranking of the Best Managed and Governed Companies in Asia that Euromoney has published and is seen as the benchmark survey of the opinions of equity analysts in the region.

Clive Horwood, Editor of Euromoney Magazine, s a i d , “ T h e c o nt i nu i n g prominence of Asia in global markets has created new growth opportunities for Asian companies. Through our annual survey, leading analysts covering Asia across all sectors have rewarded well governed institutions for sound financials and transparent relations with an increasingly wider investor pool.”

Aboitiz... from page 3

one of the world’s ten tallest trees with a height that could reach more than 90 meters.

“It is accurate, meticulous, thoroughly researched, and significant. [It is] both a rigorous scientific book and a good read for the general

public…” the citation for “Shades of Majesty” read.

Aside from the usual list of references, the book also features a historical list of persons who first published the names of the trees.

The 32nd National Book Awards, which recognize the best books written, designed, and published in the Philippines, was presented by the National Book Development Board and Manila Critics Circle in cooperation with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

RFM... from page 3

At end-September 2013, t he fo o d manufac turer posted a 19 percent growth in earnings to P525 million because of improved margins and better sales of higher margin products. However, sales dropped nine percent to P7.1 billion from P7.8 billion last year because of the sale of its meat business.

For 2014, RFM may grow by as much as 20 percent in earnings on strong consumer spending, especially with the weakening peso against the dollar.

Aside from pasta, RFM is also in a joint venture with Unilever for Selecta ice cream.

The former’s other products include White King cake and sauce mixes, baked bread, Selecta milk and Sunkist beverage.

Batas... from page 4

Genesis 41:38, a godly or spiritual leader is one who has the Spirit of God in him. What does “having the spirit of God” mean? It means that the leader knows God’s commands from the Scriptures, thinks about them day and night, and obeys them carefully all the time.

This leader will surely not be corrupt and plunderous.

-ooo MEN WHO FEAR GOD: In Exodus 18:21, godly and spiritual leaders are described as “men who fear God and hate dishonest gain”. What does this mean? It means that the leader knows that God is an awesome God who can kill not only the body but also the soul, by throwing it in the lake of eternal fire. It means also that the leader obeys God’s commands against helping himself to money not intended for him.

-ooo A LEADER IS SERVANT OF ALL: In Mark 10:43-44 of the Bible, Jesus Christ, our God and Savior, is telling us that the leader must first of all be the slave or servant of all. What does this mean? It means that the leader does not aspire to lead because he wants to benefit himself or his family. This leader knows that his leadership is intended to give service to all his constituents. This leader comes to serve, not to be served.

-ooo IS THERE A GODLY AND SPIRITUAL LEADER IN GOV’T? Gauged against these Biblical principles on who the godly and spiritual leader is, can we say that there is an official of the Aquino government who is godly and spiritual and who can therefore still stem the tide of corruption and plunder?

If we look at the responses of business executives who were surveyed by a reputable firm, we can safely say that nobody can fit the bill as a godly and spiritual leader.

-ooo A N O T H E R FA I L E D REGIME: hat being the case, it is safe to assume that the second Aquino presidency

will go down in history as another regime that miserably failed to do anything about corruption, and a regime where, despite its pretense to righteous governance, actually went the other way around.

This is highly unfortunate, because it merely squandered the hopes of many a Filipino for a really good and honest administration.

-ooo REACTIONS? Please call me at 0917 984 24 68, 0918 574 0193, 0922 833 43 96. Email: melaniolazomauriciojr@ outlook.com, batasmauricio@ yahoo.com and mmauriciojr111@gmail.com.

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total outstanding shares of Bloomberry.

The casino operator said such shares are the subject of the counter-claim of its subsidiaries Bloomberr y Resorts and Hotels Inc. (BRHI) and Sureste Properties Inc. against GGAM in the arbitration proceeding.

“We need to clarify the impact of the arbitration on the sale of the GGAM shares and confirm that the buyers of the GGAM shares will not be affected by the arbitration claim,” it told the local bourse.

Las Vegas-based GGAM had sought arbitration over a contract dispute. Bloomberry and subsidiar ies rais e d counter-claim.

Bloomberr y and its operating subsidiaries terminated in September last year their management ser vices contract for its Solaire casino resort with GGAM. With this, the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) approved its request for a voluntary trading suspension until Jan. 23. (PNA)

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Growth...

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as such measures economic performance.

The lender said Haiyan had a large humanitarian impact and cut deeply into activity in the Visayas, “but its impact on the overall economic growth is likely be limited.”

“Despite the damage caused by the natural disasters, output in the Philippines is estimated to expand at a 6.9 percent rate in 2013, reflecting an ongoing construction boom,” World Bank said, adding that the impact of the typhoon reflects about a 0.9 percent decline in growth in the fourth quarter of 2013.

Philippine GDP grew by 7.4 percent in the first nine month of 2013, exceeding the government’s target of 6-7 percent for the entire 2013.

For 2014, the World Bank expects growth of 6.5 percent, also lower than its earlier forecast of 6.7 percent. The government is aiming for a 6.5-7.5 percent growth this year.

In 2015, GDP growth is expected to pick up to 7.1 percent, higher than the earlier forecast of 6.8 percent, the lender said. By 2016, the Philippine economy will grow 6.5 percent.

G r owt h in deve lo pin g countries will pick up from 4.8 percent in 2013 to 5.3 percent this year, 5.5 percent in 2015 and 5.7 percent in 2016.

While the pace is about 2.2 percentage points lower than during the boom period of 2003-2007, the slower growth is not a cause for concern, the World Bank said.

For high-income countries, the drag on growth from fiscal consolidation and policy uncertainty will ease, helpin to boost economic growth from 1.3 percent in 2013 to 2.2 percent this year, stabilizing at 2.4 percent for each of 2015 and 2016.

Among high-income economies, the recovery is most advanced in the US, with GDP expanding for 10 quarters now.

The US economy is projected to grow by 2.8 percent this year (from 1.8 percent in 2013), firming to 2.9 and 3.0 percent in 2015 and 2016, respectively.

Growth in the Euro area, after two years of contraction, is projected to be 1.1 percent this year, and 1.4 and 1.5 percent in 2015 and 2016, respectively.

“Global economic indicators show improvement. But one does not have to be especially astute to see there are dangers that lurk beneath the surface.

The Euro area is out of recession but per capita incomes are still declining in several countries,” Kaushik Basu, senior vice president and chief economist at the World Bank said.

“We expect developing country growth to rise above 5 percent in 2014, with some countries doing considerably better, with Angola at 8 percent, China 7.7 percent, and India at 6.2 percent. But it is important to avoid policy stasis so that the green shoots don’t turn into brown stubble,” Basu added.

InterAksyon

Additional power supply, he said, will be needed in Mindanao to provide for the still growing requirements of transport and mobility in the region.

“We need to be ready for structural change. With the increase in power demand in Mindanao, we need to consider all possible sources of energy, preferably indigenous,” Tamang added.

The DOE and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) are drawing up a long-term energy plan for the island to support the blueprint for development called the Mindanao 2020 Peace and Development Framework Plan.

Based on the DOE’s recommendations, Mindanao 2020 needs to integrate an intermodal mass transport system, and additional or improvements in existing airports to increase mobility in the island and cater to the influx of visitors, all of which will require energy.

Romeo Montenegro, MinDA director for investment promotion and public affairs, said the organization supports the development of renewable energy sources, consistent with the Mindanao 2020 strategy on diversification of energy mix.

“We are pushing for more investments in renewable energy projects, particularly hydro, biomass and solar to keep our ideal 50-50 energy mix of (renewable energy) and fossilfuel power source by 2030,” he added.

Mindanao has been suffering from insufficient power generation as it relies heavily on hydropower sources for more than half of its electricity supply. The output of these facilities however depends on optimal weather and reservoir conditions.

MinDA is holding regional consultations on measures to help solve Mindanao’s power woes.--InterAksyon

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government’s employment program, generated more than 20,000 jobs last year.

Top investments in the province for the year 2013 include operations in the line with agriculture for new rising farms, tourism support services, commercial arcade, trade, and more.

The province is likewise intensifying its local products potential into the international market. Eyed to be supported under the Export Pathway Program (EPP) of the government are the items showcased in last year’s International Food Exhibition (IFEX), to include the Maestrado Tablea (Cacao Choco), Soling’s (Peanut Brittle) Food Products, and the Vjandep Bakeshop’s Pastel (milk bun) which will penetrate China and Hong Kong markets, this year.

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Unemployment rate also increased to 8.3 percent in October 2013 from 4.8 percent in October 2012.

Underemployment which refers to those who are only

House of Representatives Committee on Public Information Rep. Rufus B. Rodriguez listens to Rep. Marcelino Teodoro as he reacts to the sponsorship of Cong Rodriguez of his House Bill 1214. House Bill 1214, which Rep. Rodriguez authored, requires the use of sign language insets for local news programs for the benefit of fellow Filipinos who are hearing impaired. House Bill 1214 was eventually approved by the Committee on Public Information during the same meeting last November 26, 2013. Also in the photo are Committee Chairman Rep. Jorge Almonter and Rep. Emmeline Aglipay. KENDICHAVES

working part time or are not adequately employed however reduced from 16.1 percent in October 2012 to 14.6 percent in October 2013 or a decrease of 9 percent.

Maria Lourdes Lim, regional director of NEDA 11 and chair of the Regional Development Council (RDC) 11, in her presentation of Davao Region’s 2013 economic performance, said the decline in the underemployment rate can be attributed to the budding services sector.

She identified agriculture as the top employment generator in Davao region for employing about 670,000 people.

This is followed by the wholesale and retail industry that employed about 376,650, while transportation and communication and manufacturing sectors remain as the Region’s key employment generators, she said.

Based on the newly launched Updated Davao Regional Development Plan, 2014-2016 Davao Region’s economic planners has targeted to increase labor productivity and employment rate to hit 98.2 percent at the end of the plan period.

She, however, said that to achieve such target, there are major leaps to be made in 2014.

Among these interventions is to embark on the region’s industry clustering approach aimed at giving a major boost to spur economic activity and increase employment target levels.

Lim enumerated these jobrich industries as ICT, tourism, and construction sub-sectors.

(PNA)

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in the public sector” in 2013 reaching 56 percent from 2012’s 43 percent. ”Forty-two percent say ‘most (or) almost all’ companies in their own sector of business give bribes to win government contracts, practically the same as the record-low 41 percent in 2012,” the survey mentioned.

Moreover, the Office of the President remained its “excellent” net sincerity rating in fighting corruption.

The survey said the Office of the President got +77 in 2013, +80 in 2012, from 2009’s “bad” rating of -37.

Government departments

with “very good” net sincerity rating include: Trade and industry (+58), Health (+53), Social Security System (+52), Social Welfare and Development (+52).

Agencies with “good” net sincerity rating are: Department of Education (+49), Department of Labor and Employment (+43), Supreme Court (+36), and Department of Justice (+35).

Public offices with “moderate” net sincerity rating are: city government (+23), Office of the Ombudsman (+23), Commission on Audit (+22), Department of Interior and Local Government (+20), and Sandiganbayan (+15).

Agencies with “neutral” rating include: Trial courts (+9), Department of Budget and Management (+9), Department of Transportation and Communication (+8), Commission of Elections (+7), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (-4) and Senate (-8).

Offices that were given “poor” ratings are: Bureau of Internal Revenue (-10), Department of Public Works and Highways (-22), Philippine National Police (-24), and House of Representatives (-28).

Land Transportation Office got “bad” net sincerity in fighting against corruption with rating of -32. ”The sole agency with Very Bad net sincerity rating is the Bureau of Customs,” the survey said. The Customs posted -63 in 2013.

The Survey of Enterprises on Corruption of the SWS, which was supported by Australian Aid - The Asia Foundation Partnership in the Philippines, National Competitiveness Council, and Makati Business Club’s Integrity Initiative.

It was conducted from July 31 to November 29 last year.

(PNA)

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 10TH Judicial Region Branch 28 Mambajao, Camiguin IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR MISC. CASE NO. 130 RECONSTITUTION OF DECREE NO. 409267 LOT 5111; DECREE NO. 409268, LOT 5112; DECREE NO.409129, LOT 4967; DECREE NO. 409144 LOT NO. 4983; AND DECREE NO.409145, LOT NO.4984, OF THE LAND REGISTRATION AUTHORITY/ REGISTRY OF DEEDS OF CAMIGUIN, CESAR O. JACOT,

Petitioner,

ATTY. ALMA CONCEPCION M. PARREÑO, In her capacity as Ex-Officio Register of Deeds of Camiguin.

X------------------------------------------------------------------/// ORDER Let this case be set for hearing on March 4, 2014 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning, at this court. Persons interested in this petition are required to answer and appear before this court on the aforesaid date and make known their opposition thereto.

Let copy of this Order be published at petitioner’s expense once a week for three consecutive weeks prior to the date of hearing in any newspaper of general circulation in the Province of Camiguin.

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

For a period of fifteen (15) days prior to the date of hearing, at the expense of the petitioner,let a copy of this order and of the petition be posted at the bulletin boards the entrance door of this Court,DIVISORIA Hall of Justice, Mambajao, Camiguin, CDO of MAIN BRANCH BRANCH P & JMarket, Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., and Public Catarman, Camiguin; Municipal Hall, Catarman, Camiguin; Kalambagohan Sts., #61 Don A. Velez St., Provincial Capitol, Mambajao, Camiguin.Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (08822) 727-829 *

Telefax # (088) 856-1947

SO ORDERED.

CAMIGUIN BRANCH Mambajao, B. Aranas St., Camiguin, Poblacion,October Mambajao, Camiguin Tel. # (088) 387-0491

Tel. # (088) 857-3631 LAPASAN BRANCH

22, 2013.

Lapasan Hi-way,

Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-6739

CORRALES BRANCH CARMEN (Sgd.) JEOFFREBRANCH W. ACEBIDO Corrales Ave., Vamenta Blvd.,Cagayan de Oro City

Acting Judge Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # Presiding (088) 231-2011

BWM: Jan. 10, 17 & 24, 2014

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Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776 Editor: Shaun Uy

Kapuso Network’s opening salvo Visayas bound Celebrates Ati-Atihan, Sinulog, and Dinagyang Festivals this month GMA Network embraces all optimism as it gears to change the face of Philippine television viewing in 2014 with its intriguing line up of drama series set to conquer the airwaves this quarter.

And what better way to introduce its opening salvo than by bringing its lead stars, no less, closer to those who give them all the reasons to shine—their supporters.

Gracing three of the country’s major festivals in January— Kalibo’s Ati-Atihan, Cebu’s Sinulog, and Iloilo’s Dinagyang— are the brightest Kapuso artists from up and coming series The Borrowed Wife, Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw, Rhodora X, and Carmela: Ang Pinakamagandang Babae sa Mundong Ibabaw.

GMA, being the strategic media partner of the Municipality of Kalibo and Kalibo’s Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (KASAFI), mounts a week-long, colorful celebration of the Mother of All Philippine Festivals, dubbed “Ati-Atihan Festival: The Kapuso Ati-Atihan Festival Celebration, Fiesta Natin ‘to!”.

Last Friday, January 10, it was Carmela: Ang Pinakamagandang Babae sa Mundong Ibabaw lead actor Alden Richards together with Max Collins and hosts Mikael Daez and Bettina Carlos who

took part in the Mutya ag Lakan Grand Night at the ABL Sports Complex.

Yesterday, January 14, Kapuso Primetime King Dingdong Dantes went on his first regional tour for 2014 as he took the stage of Kalibo’s Pastrana Park for a Kapuso Night. A decade-after reunion it was for three of Starstruck’s finest stars—Jennylyn Mercado, Mark Herras, and Yasmien Kurdi, as they joined the said affair together with Rhodora X co-star Mark Anthony Fernandez.

Today, January 15, participating in the Pagdayaw kay Señor Sto. Niño “Sinaot sa Calle” Float Parade around the streets of Kalibo at 2PM are Kapuso homegrown talents Thea Tolentino and Jeric Gonzales, together with Isabelle Daza, Andrea Torres, JC Tiuseco,and Pancho Magno. A sizzling Kapuso Hala Bira Dance Showdown follows at Magsaysay Park starting at 7PM with Julian Trono.

And on January 19, Sunday, the Network airs a live coverage of the pilgrims’ mass at the Kalibo Cathedral titled “Señor Santo Niño de Kalibo Pilgrims’” Mass nationwide, via all GMA Regional TV Stations beginning at 6AM. Happening in Cebu meanwhile, is its grandest celebration in honor of the feast of the Child Jesus, the

Sinulog Festival. Kicking off the series of events are the back-to-back Kapuso Mall Shows on January 17, Friday, featuring the well-loved pair of Kristoffer Martin and Kim Rodriguez from Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw and The Borrowed Wife’s Pauleen Luna, TJ Trinidad, Rafael Rosell, and Camille Prats happening at the open parking of the Gaisano Grand Fiesta Mall Tabunok at 2PM and at The Terraces, Ayala Center at 5PM. Live portions of the latter air over local newscast Balitang Bisdak.

On January 18, Saturday, GMA’s primetime queen Marian Rivera fulfills her promise to the Cebuanos and comes back to celebrate with them once more in another back-to-back Kapuso Mall Show together with her Carmela: Ang Pinakamagandang Babae sa Mundong Ibabaw leading man Alden. Also with the pair are Rhodora X’s Jennylyn, Mark, Yasmien, and Mark Anthony who dominate SM City Cebu’s Event Centre first at 2PM, with live segments airing in Startalk.

At 4PM, the Car mela: Ang Pinakamagandang Babae sa Mundong Ibabaw and Rhodora X stars move to Gaisano Island Mall Mactan for another round of amusing show.

Marian rises the next day,

January 19, to board the Kapuso f loat with Alden and tour the major streets of Cebu City from 9AM, with live updates broadcast over Sunday All Stars. Also participating in the float parade are Jennylyn, Mark, Yasmien, and Mark Anthony.

GMA RTV’s News and Public Affairs, at the same time, delivers its live coverage Buena Mano Sinulog airing from 7AM to 12 noon and Pit Senyor! right after Sunday All Stars on the same day.

Over in Iloilo takes place the bright and lively hala-bira tradition called the Dinagyang Festival.

Adding vibrance to the annual fete is Dingdong, once again joined by the Rhodora X main cast Jennylyn, Mark, Yasmien, and Mark Anthony

staging a mall show at Robinson’s Iloilo on January 24 at 6PM. Set to to conquer the streets of Iloilo on January 25 at 2PM are stars from The Borrowed Wife. Miss Saigon-bound Rachelle Ann Go and Adarna lead star Geoff Eigenmann follow with another Kapuso Mall Show on January 26, 6PM at SM City Iloilo. On the same day, GMA offers a Kapuso Live Coverage of the annual Ati Tribe Competition hosted by Geoff and Isabelle.

“Our Kapuso in the Visayas region have been incredibly supporting and warm towards the Network and its stars, participating in all our activities whenever, wherever. In return, GMA would like to show its appreciation by bringing its powerhouse

opening salvo—stars from The Borrowed Wife, Paraiso Ko’y Ikaw, Rhodora X, and Carmela: Ang Pinakamagandang Babae sa Mundong Ibabaw —to be with them in three of the most important celebrations of their region,” shares Oliver Amoroso, AVP for Integrated Marketing Ser vices Division of GM A Regional TV. Highlights of the Network’s participation in the Ati-Atihan, Sinulog, and Dinagyang Festivals will be seen in Let’s Fiesta TV Special which airs on January 26, February 2, and February 9 respectively, via the Network’s regional stations in Bicol, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Dagupan, Ilocos, GenSan, Bacolod, and CDO.

From domestic violence to cannibalism,

Cinemagis films mirror on social horrors

By Stephen J. Pedroza

SM Foundation Now Accepts College Scholarship Applicants SM Foundation, Inc., through its College Scholarship Program, is now accepting applicants for school year 20142015.

Qualified graduating fourth year high school students from public schools in Cagayan de Oro City can avail themselves of this opportunity to apply for a college scholarship.

To apply, simply fill out the application form and attach a photocopy of the fourth year weighted average grade of at least 88% in the second or third grading period plus BIR Income Tax Return or Certificate of Non-filing of Income Tax. The college scholarship application forms are available at the Mall Administration Office, Second Floor, SM City Cagayan de Oro. Interview schedule will be on January

28, 2014 (Tuesday), 10:00am at the Atrium, Ground Floor of SM City Cagayan de Oro. The SM College Scholarship Program established in 1993 aims to help provide quality education to deserving but underprivileged public high school graduates. The program has over 1,300 college scholars nationwide.

The scholars are enrolled in 82 colleges and universities in National Capital Region, Baguio, Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Lucena, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Rizal, Tarlac, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, General Santos city.

To date, 1,700 scholars have graduated from the program and many of them are gainfully employed with the SM Group of Companies and other companies here and abroad.

Mindanao conflict. Violence against women.

Abduction. Incest. Religious prejudice.

Unrequited love. Gut-churning cannibalism.

T he se e l e m e nt s have c o nverg e d, assembling the captivating menu of digital short films for the sixth year of Cinemagis festival under the auspices of Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts (XCCA).

“This year’s festival has curated films that have social relevance and impact,” said Hobart Savior, XCCA director. “They reflect on social biases, peace issues, self-awareness and climate change.”

Since the establishment of Cinemagis in 2009, it has developed by leaps and numbers in terms of participating film makers and audience. Running on January 23-25 at the XU Little Theater and SM City Cinema 3, the event presents 5 professional entries, 8 student films, 3 special citation pictures and the critically acclaimed film, “Crossfire” by Arnel M. Mardoquio.

Cinemagis serves as the springboard for short films coming from Northern Mindanao to compete in the 6th Cinema Rehiyon, the national film festival organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

The winners of Cinemagis will be featured in Cinema Rehiyon on February 18-22, to be hosted also by XCCA. Provocative plots From the professional category, each entry has dealt with intriguing yet morally-baffling themes, enough to spark reality checks on various social matters.

Trauma and condemnation on the abuse of women unravel in the story of a battered wife, Estrella and how the exploitation has reshaped her definition of love and selfrespect. “Estrella” is a film directed by Mark Gio Amoguis.

Tat Soriano’s “Panamilit” takes the audience to a heart-wrenching story of letting go and moving on with a tinge of nostalgia and surrealism.

“Hello” by Kevin Nico Surposa shows the acquaintance of good old friends and an uninvited follower— a mysterious lurker the protagonist has to face. “The film is about conquering our past,” said Surposa.

Gray Em Erezo, whose past entry was screened during the 5th Cinema Rehiyon,

joins this year’s Cinemagis with “Lugdang”.

Erezo said his film was inspired by a girl he met at Divisoria last year.

“She was like mentally drowned,” Erezo emphasized. “I used the word ‘drowned’ because she was drowned physically, mentally and emotionally. She could not even talk. She lost her family during the flash flood brought about by [Typhoon] Sendong.”

A short film that reaped a rundown of nominations during the 2013Mindanao Film Festival in Davao City and Sala Mindanaw in General Santos City— “Ika-3 Putahi” by Joeromer Bacus will be competing once again in Cinemagis. As a psycho-thriller, the film underscores the consequences of an unrequited affection and tells a journey to the limitation of one’s sanity.

From human flesh obsession to fairytales On the other hand, the student films offer appealing story themes as much as the aforementioned entries.

Aimed at raising consciousness against incest crimes, “Lugos” (Rape) by Christine Pulgo takes us to the struggles of Juliet (the protagonist) and how she faces the aftermath of the most frustrating period of her life.

“The issue [of incest crimes] is very alarming. This story is made to raise awareness to the viewers. Thus, this film ought to lessen the crimes and immoralities in our society,” Pulgo said.

“A devil in human form,” that is how Angel Frances Borres describes Perla, a certain high school teacher lashing her ruthlessness to her students. However, the question remains: “What little hope shall the students cling on for Perla to change, not for the worse, but for the better?”

Inspired from a real cannibal from Japan, Richard Mar Caberte’s “Kaon Ta” chronicles the main character’s perversion over the human flesh and the appetite-stirring horror that comes with his uncanny obsession.

Krystel Hypa Magallanes’ “Unawa” deals with the religious divide and prejudice between Christians and Muslims. Her characters take on the struggles of stereotypes and the hope for a mutual understanding.

Recently, “Unawa” won the Best Film in the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao- Peace Film Festival with the theme,

"Mindanao: Lights. Camera. Peace."

On a related subject of sort, Jamela Bato’s film, “Ceasefire” exhibits the question of peace and the true price of war between the Moro and the government forces in Mindanao.

Cinemagis also offers films with a touch of enchantment, astrology and real-life fairytales with Janine Banday’s “The Perfect Girl,” Eastine Charles Taneo’s “Wa Ko Kakita” and JS Legara’s “Binibining Cancer” “‘Wa Ko Kakita’ was patterned after the legend of the pineapple but with some interesting twists,” Taneo said.

Cinemagis perks Cinemagis also features three films with special citation: “Backwash,” a Sendong aftermath documentary film by Jose Alfonso Sendaydiego, the award-winning film thesis of Glenn Mark Doromal, “Walang Katapusang Adlaw” (Infinite Sun) and a documentary film on Cagayan de Oro City's “Hapsay" governance, “Street Vendors” by Joi Gacayan .

In addition, the festival offers a free Guerilla Film Making Crash Course to interested film enthusiasts on Jan 24-25, 10:00 am to 12 noon at the XU Little Theater.

Over the years, the best student directors have been given scholarships on filmmaking at DLSU – College of St Benilde to hone their skills and pursue a career in the film industry.

The recipients of the said scholarship were Glenn Mark Doromal and Jenriel Pons Lagat, who started with Cinemagis during their high school years.

Dr.Steven Patrick “Tibo” Fernandez, Felimon B. Blanco and Rudolph Alama comprise the festival’s jury. The winners from the student and professional categories will be announced during the awards night on January 25 at SM City Event Center.

Supported by the NCCA through its National Committee on Cinema, Cinemagis is organized in collaboration with Xavier Science Foundation (XSF), Research Institute for Mindanao Culture (RIMCU), XU NSTP and SM City Cagayan de Oro. “Cinemagis has sustained the harvest and in nurturing the potentials of Northern Mindanao filmmakers,” said Savior, adding that the growing involvement of the Mindanaons, resulting to a higher level of cultural awareness, serves as the evidence to this statement.