BusinessWeek Mindanao (March 3, 2015)

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2013 ppi’S Best in Business and Economic Reporting

Volume V, No. 113

Market Indicators

As of 6:01 pm Mar. 2, 2015 (monday)

FOREX

PHISIX

US$1 = P44.09

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Briefly Renewable power DAVAO City -- Key power players from the government and the private sector are mapping steps to provide Mindanao with a greener and renewable power supply in the next five years. During the 5th principals meeting of the Mindanao Power Monitoring Committee (MPMC) held last week at the National Power Corporation Board Room, top officials from the power industry underscored the importance of advocating renewable energy (RE) as a prominent source of electricity for the island-region. “There are good things coming in for Mindanao and power is one of them,” said Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, chair of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) in her opening statement.

Tourism promotion TAGUM City -- Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon has opened the Musikahan Festival with his call for aggressive promotion of the city’s tourism industry as the country opens its doors to ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nation) Integration. He called on local primemovers of the city’s tourism industry to move ahead and not wait for the national government to promote “our place and (our) festivals as tourism destination.” “We must initiate aggressive campaign to forefront our local tourism industry especially to international market,” he said in his Musikahan Festival opening remarks Saturday, during which he unveiled the musical note marker to signal the start of the trio-event to unfold this week in Tagum City.

P15.00

Mindanao shrugs off coal-plant shutdown www.businessweekmindanao.com

Tuesday | March 3, 2015

Steag completes repair of Unit 2 generator, brings back 105-MW to Mindanao grid By MIKE BAÑOS, Editor-at-Large

IT pays to be ready. Un l i ke l a s t s u m m e r when crippling rotational brownouts left large swaths of Mindanao without electricity for up to eight hours or more daily, the l atest shutdow n of t he same power plant did not have a similar effect on the Mindanao economy. In a text message to BusinessWeek Mindanao, Romeo M. Montenegro, Investment Relations and Public Affairs Director of Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), said this was revealed by the Association of Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperatives (AMRECO) in its report rendered during the February 24 meeting in Davao City of the Mindanao Power

Monitor ing C ommitte e (MPMC). “Based on the report of AMRECO, rotational brownouts affected 10 out of 28 electric cooperatives and one of four private distribution utilities in Mindanao, averaging 1-2 hours except for Sukelco, Zamcelco and Zamsureco with 4-5 hours. Several electric coops have been able to mitigate with embedded capacity such as modular gensets,” Montenegro said. The MPMC is a multisectoral body created by President Aquino to monitor the p ower situation in Mindanao under the aegis of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA). Earlier, Mr. Montenegro shutdown/PAGE 11

POWER UPDATES. Secretary Luwalhati Antonino (left), chair of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) listens as Dir. Romeo Montenegro of MinDA Investment Promotions and Public Affairs reports on the status of renewable energy projects under the One-Stop Facilitation and Monitoring Center Web Portal at the 5th Mindanao Power Monitoring Committee Principals’ Meeting held recently at the National Power Corporation in Quezon City. The meeting also discussed the status of measures designed to improve the power situation in Mindanao. (photo courtesy of MinDA)

Proposed renewable energy projects in M’nao rise to 231 By CARMELITO Q. FRANCISCO, Correspondent

LIFE GOES ON. A resident of Barangay Tukanalipao, Mamasapano town in Maguindanao prepares the fish he caught on the river by the wooden bridge where 44 Special Action Forces were killed in a clash with Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters. Eighteen from MILF and five civilians also perished on that day. MindaNews photo by Froilan Gallardo

DAVAO City -- Proposed renewable energy projects in Mindanao have increased to 231 as of February f rom 159 at t he end of 2014, according to data from the one-stop facilitation center of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA). Tudaya 1 and 2 hydropower plants, newest additions to He d c or’s op e r at i ng p or t fol i o, re c e nt l y re a c h e d t h e i r 1 0 0 t h op e rat iona l d ay. The s e hyd ro plants contribute 14 MW of clean

energy to the Mindanao grid. -www.aboitizpower.com All these green projects, if implemented, will deliver a combined power output of 2,419 megawatts (MW) by 2025. Among the submitted projects are the 200-MW geothermal plant by Aboitiz Power Renewables, Inc.; 60-MW by Eoil and Gas Co., Inc. (geothermal); 12-MW by Manolo Fortich Renewable Energy Corp. projects/PAGE 11

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CDO officials want more benefits for retirees CAGAYAN de Oro City officials in this port capital are working to grant more benefits to retirees of the c i t y g o v e r n m e nt , C i t y C ou n c i l or P re x y E l ip e said Monday. Elipe said that the City Council has recently

approve d an ordinance granting one grade salary increase from Grade 24 to Grade 25 to a health official who would retire in May this year. City Councilor Ramon Ta b o r s a i d t h a t t h e granting of the “one step

salary grade higher,” is in compliance with Section 2 of Republic Act 7305, also known as the Magna Carta of Public Health Workers. Ta b o r, c h a i r o f t h e city counci l committe e on police, fire, and public s afet y, s aid t hat

City C ouncilor Dante Pajo, chair of the city’s health and sanitation, has re c o m m e n d e d t h e o n e grade salary increase for the retiring health workers. He said that the city council has approved an i n c re a s e i n t h e bu d ge t

Sarangani MSMEs to benefit from DTI’s enhanced biz dev’t program GENERAL Santos C i t y - - F i f t e e n m i c r o, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Sarangani Province are s et to b enef it f rom an i n nov at ive bus i ne ss development program of the Department of Trade and Industr y (DTI). Nenita Barroso, DTISarangani provincial director, said Monday they will sign a memorandum of understanding next week with 15 MSMEs in province for the rollout s t a r t i n g t h i s m ont h of i t s I nt e g r at e d P r o d u c t and Market Development Projec t (i-PMDP). She said the initiative will mainly involve selected MSMEs in

t h e prov i n c e u n d e r it s pro cess ed fo o d cluster. The processed food cluster is one of the prioritized subsectors under the DTI’s industry clustering strateg y. Barroso said the i-PMDP mainly aims to increase and sustain the supply of export-quality processed products in the province. “ We will be identifying common products and harmonize market development inter ventions for diverse sectors of our processed food industr y,” she said. The of f icial said the project is one of the provincial initiatives of the DTI to help local

0935-160-0668 HERMILINO VILLALON

22nd/31st Naza reth, Cagayan de O ro Cit y

entrepreneurs prepare for the integration of the economies the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) memb er-states. She said Sarangani was among the areas that was s een to b enef it largely from the regional economic cooperation due to its strategic lo cation. The province is among the provinces in Mind anao t hat have active engagements with areas within the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines-East ASEAN Growt h Are a or BIMPEAGA. Barroso said that since processed food products f rom the province have so much potential in the ASEAN market, local MSMEs should have proper compliance with standards on fo o d pre p a r at i on , h a n d l i n g , manufacturing and other necessar y requirements for exp or tation. Throug h t he program, she said they will help prepare

l o c a l e nt r e p r e n e u r s i n p os it ion ing t he ms elve s and their business es to m ove up to t h e h i g h e r stages or levels of the exp or tation pro cess. One of the strategies of the projec t is to refer the submitted pro ducts of project enrollees to a certified food technologist for business a n d p ro d u c t d i a g n o s i s a n d c ap a c i t y t r a i n i n g , she said. Barroso said the process also includes the submission of the products for nutrient fact study by Food an d Nut r i e nt R e s e arc h Institute (FNRI) of the D e p ar t me nt of S c i e nc e and Technolog y. She said they will also prepare MSMEs for Food and Drug Administration (FDA) e va lu at ion as prov i d e d f or u n d e r it s New Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) for FDA-LTO (Licensed-toop erate) accreditation. “ The project involves five phases that will run f o r s i x m o n t h s ,” s h e added. (PNA)

for ret irement b enef its of city workers from P 8 million in 2014 to P 10 million under the General Appropriation Ordinance for 2015. Elipe, chair of the city council’s committee on finance, ways and means,

said that the city council also increased from P 17. 1 m i l l i on i n 2 0 1 4 to P 37.7 million in 2015 the terminal leave benefits to make sure that the retiring city workers could receive t he b e ne f it s due t he m. (PNA)

Budget for ‘demo farms’ in Misamis Oriental gets nod MISAMIS Oriental -- The province of Misamis Oriental has appropriated P3.6 million for the development of “demonstration farms” in the province, a provincial board member said Monday. Provincial Board Member Benefict Lagbas, chair of the provincial board’s committee on agriculture, said each of the province’s 22 towns and the component cities of El Salvador and Gingoog will have “demo farm.” Except for Gingoog City which allocated a four-hectare farm site, a two-hectare farm lot would be developed in each of the municipal towns as propagation site of various plant seedlings for

the farmers, Lagbas said. At present, the demo farms would propagate the cavandish bananas (Lakatan) since the province could not cope with the demands of bananas of “Lakatan” variety, Lagbas said. The demo farms would also serve as a tissue culture center in the propagation of the Lakatan seedlings to enable farmers to plant the variety in their private lots, he said. Lagbas said the farmers would undergo training at the Department of Agriculture’s research center in Bukidnon prior to the start of the demo farm project in June this year. (PNA)

Veggie gardening pushed In a move to advocate livelihood and wellbeing among Cotabateños, the provincial government recently launched the ‘Gulayang Pangkabuhayan ng Cotabato.’ It is a venture entered into by the provincial government, the Harbest Agribusiness Corporation, Southern Christian College of Midsayap, Balindog Research and Experimental Center and the 602nd Brigade of the Philippine

Army based in the town of Carmen. Governor Emmylou Mendoza said that the undertaking will give further opportunity to mitigate hunger and malnutrition especially in some depressed areas in the province as well as give chance to earn and save money. “Simple and does not require a large amount of work and capital, the ‘Gulayang Pangkabuhayan ng Cotabato’ is designed to promote gardening among the people and make this as part of livelihood, just like the old times when people grew lots of vegetables in their own homes. Launched in Camp Lucero, Carmen, Mendoza believes that the venture will be replicated not only in different villages in the town but also to other areas. On the other hand, Harbest Agribusiness Corporation for their part, helps by providing vegetable seeds and technical assistance and training for plant growers in the near future. (SJDuermePIA12/N.Cot. Media Bureau)

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PH airliners seek add’l flights to Singapore THE Philippines’ budget airlines are seeking more flights to Singapore. In separate filings with the Civil Aeronautics Board, AirAsia Zest, Tiger Airways Philippines and Cebu Pacific Air have requested for 1,260 weekly seats each. T h e t h r e e c a r r i e r s’ request for the allocation of additional entitlements to Singapore is in line with the Air Services Agreement (ASA) that the governments of the Philippines and Singapore signed last month. Under the amended ASA, the Philippines and Singapore increased capacity to 18,888

seats a week for each country from the existing 17,627. The two countries also added Iloilo and Bacolod as co-terminal points for Singaporean carriers, in addition to Cebu, Davao and Puerto Princesa. This means that Singaporean carriers can fly to Cebu for example and then proceed to Davao. Both countries also agreed to increase the limit on the frequencies for fifth freedom, from 8 per week to 10. This means that a Singaporean carrier, for example, can operate a route that starts from Singapore flies to Manila and proceeds to Osaka, 10

times a week. The Philippines and Singapore also agreed to third country code sharing, which allows airlines from the two countries to collaborate with airlines from third countries in marketing services between the Philippines and Singapore. Data from the Department of Tou r i s m s h ow t h at Singaporean visitors to the Philippines reached 146,996 in the first 10 months of 2014. T h e Aq u i n o administration is pursuing more air talks as part of its open skies policy, which aims to double tourist arrivals to 10 million by 2016.

Globe sees increase in data roaming business Court affirms decision that orders GLOBE Telecom has seen a boost in its data roaming business in 2014 as more postpaid customers have availed of its flat rate for unlimited data roaming service which comes with free travel insurance. The number of data roaming customers increased by 40% in 2014 as the appetite for internet connectivity while abroad has grown. With the P599 flat rate per day, Globe postpaid customers get access to unlimited mobile surfing without the fear of bill shock, giving them a worry-free experience anytime, anywhere. In order to reach more c ustome rs and exp and coverage worldwide, Globe has also forged tie-ups with operators in 10 more countries, allowing postpaid customers to enjoy its flat rate for unlimited data roaming service in popular international destinations such as Canada, New Zealand, Turkey, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea, bringing overall countries covered to over 80

worldwide. “We are delighted to see that more and more Globe postpaid customers are enjoying our unlimited data roaming service as they stay connected while abroad without the need for Wi-Fi connection. With the P599 flat rate valid for 24 hours from the time data roaming is activated, customers can enjoy value for money and a worry-free mobile surfing experience so they can browse, send e-mails, post on social networks, upload photos, and use apps all they want – without the fear of billshock,” said Coco Domingo, Vice President for Roaming Business at Globe. Domingo adds, “With this innovative ser vice, customers need not worry about the sites they visit and apps they use, and be mindful of corresponding data roaming charges. Our P599 per day unlimited data roaming offer gives them access to everything they need, whether they travel for work or for leisure.”

The P599 flat rate for unlimited data roaming service per day protects users from bill shock, allowing them to surf worry-free. With the offer following a 24-hour cycle, users can st ay connec ted all day without needing to worry about extra charges. It also promotes a hassle-f re e experience without the need to memorize registration keywords, take note of multiple data roaming rates, or track different time zones to avail of the best offers. With the simple activation of the data roaming switch on smartphones, customers can already avail of the flat data roaming rate. By subscribing to the offer, users are also given an

added bonus of free travel insurance with TravelCare to protect them from flight delays or cancellations, loss of baggage, and medical emergencies worth up to P200,000 for 30 days. For t h o s e t r av e l i n g within the Globe list of partner countries, postpaid c ustome rs w i l l re ce ive a welcome message that includes the partner carrier in the selected country once they land. Upon activating their mobile data and data roaming in their country of destination, customers will automatically be connected to the partner carrier of that country. They can start using the service upon receiving a confirmation text for the P599 per day offer.

Napocor to pay Sarangani facility

THE COURT of Appeals affirmed an Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) ruling ordering the National Power Corp. (Napocor) to pay for a Sarangani power plant’s additional electricity capacity the state-run agency said it did not contract. In an 11-page decision, the appeals court’s Third Division nixed Napocor’s argument that its contract with Southern Philippines Power Corp. (SPPC) allowed for only five units to meet a 100%-110% capacity of 50-55 megawatts (MW). Instead, the division through Associate Justice Rosmari D. C arandang said the Energy Conversion Agreement (ECA) Napocor

entered into with SPPC in 1996 allowed the power consortium to “put up the required number of units capable of generating a minimum net capacity of 50,000 kW (kilowatts) [or 50 MW].” This ruling by the appellate court upheld the ERC’s April 2013 order for Napocor and SPPC to reconcile their accounts and submit a proposed payment scheme for the contracted capacity for 2005 to 2010. It also upheld ERC’s decision to junk Napocor’s motion for reconsideration for being filed out of time. SPPC added a sixth unit to its power plant Pay/PAGE 11

Now available in over 80 countries worldwide

Globe Telecom sees hike in data roaming business with daily flat rate offer Globe Telecom has seen a boost in its data roaming business in 2014 as more postpaid customers have availed of its flat rate for unlimited data roaming service which comes with free travel insurance. The number of data roaming customers increased by 40% in 2014 as the appetite for internet connectivity while abroad has grown. With the P599 flat rate per day, Globe postpaid customers get access to unlimited mobile surfing without the fear of bill shock, giving them a worry-free experience anytime, anywhere. In order to reach more customers and expand coverage worldwide, Globe has also forged tie-ups with operators in 10 more countries, allowing postpaid customers to enjoy its flat rate for unlimited data roaming service in popular international destinations such as Canada, New Zealand, Turkey, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea, bringing overall countries covered to over 80 worldwide. “We are delighted to see that more and more Globe postpaid customers are enjoying our unlimited data roaming service as they stay connected while

abroad without the need for WiFi connection. With the P599 flat rate valid for 24 hours from the time data roaming is activated, customers can enjoy value for money and a worry-free mobile surfing experience so they can browse, send e-mails, post on social networks, upload photos, and use apps all they want – without the fear of billshock,” said Coco Domingo, Vice President for Roaming Business at Globe. Domingo adds, “With this innovative service, customers need not worry about the sites they visit and apps they use, and be mindful of corresponding data roaming charges. Our P599 per day unlimited data roaming offer gives them access to everything they need, whether they travel for work or for leisure.” The P599 flat rate for unlimited data roaming service per day protects users from bill shock, allowing them to surf worry-free. With the offer following a 24-hour cycle, users can stay connected all day without needing to worry about extra charges. It also promotes a hassle-free experience without the need to memorize registration keywords, take note

of multiple data roaming rates, or track different time zones to avail of the best offers. With the simple activation of the data roaming switch on smartphones, customers can already avail of the flat data roaming rate. By subscribing to the offer, users are also given an added bonus of free travel insurance with TravelCare to protect them from flight delays or cancellations, loss of baggage, and medical emergencies worth up to P200,000 for 30 days. For those traveling within the Globe list of partner countries, postpaid customers will receive a welcome message that includes the partner carrier in the selected country once they land. Upon activating their mobile data and data roaming in their country of destination, customers will automatically be connected to the partner carrier of that country. They can start using the service upon receiving a confirmation text for the P599 per day offer. Visit www.globe.com.ph/ roaming to know more about the P599 flat rate for unlimited surfing abroad or call the Globe Roaming Hotline at +6327301212 toll-free even while abroad.

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Establishment of a Collective Investment Schemes Act

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Marriage in Debt

hink a minute… Remember the wonderful promises you made on your we dding day? “I promise to a l w ay s l ov e y o u , c a r e for you, respect and cherish you through e ve r y t h i ng we f a c e i n life. Whether we’re rich or poor, sick or healthy.” But s i nc e ou r we d d i ng d a y, w e’v e f o u n d o u t those promises are much e as i e r s ai d t h an d one ! If w e’re c omp l e t e l y honest, most of the time what we really mean by those beautiful promises is: “I want to b e h appy i n l i fe, and I b el i e ve you’re t he one w h o’s g o i n g t o m a k e me happy.” Mo st of u s actually get married more for w h at we c an get than for what we can give. S o when you have 2 p e opl e i n a mar r i age who are taking more t han t he y’re g iving, no one’s happy. Many of us a c t l i ke ou r mate owe s us a debt to make us h appy. T hat’s w h at we expected from them w he n we got mar r i e d. When the honeymoon was over, you probably l e ar ne d t h at you r w i fe or husband is not quite p e r f e c t . T h e y a r e n’ t a l w ay s m e e t i n g u p t o

THINK

A Minute

By Jhan Tiafau Hurst

you r e x p e c t at i ons and m a k i n g y o u h a p p y. Of course, we should a lways b e t r ying to put each other’s needs first. We s h o u l d a l w a y s b e improving and becoming more sensitive, kind and quicker to forgive each other. But none of us has w h at it t a ke s to tot a l ly s at is f y a l l of ou r w i fe’s or husband’s needs and desires. So we can never pay this impossible debt that we might expect f r o m e a c h o t h e r. We h u m a n s s i m p l y d o n’ t h ave t h at k i nd of l ove t h at n e v e r f a i l s . L ov e t h at a l w ay s put s y ou r wife’s or husband’s needs f i rst . L ove t h at a lw ay s forgives and accepts them no matter how mu ch t he y w rong and d is app oi nt you. Just think a Minute…

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he est ablishment of a comprehensive regulatory and tax framework for all forms of collective investment schemes (CIS) that w i l l e l i m i n ate e x i s t i ng differences in regulatory treatment is being mulled by lawmakers. The measure seeks to promote investor protection by applying high governance standards in the establishment, management and operation of collective investment schemes and the registration and sale of CIS securities. If it b e come s a l aw, this would prevent abuse and instead protect the interests of the investing public, including but not limited to, the setting of standards for the eligibility of persons who establish, manage or operate collective investment schemes and register and sell CIS

securities. The measure also aims to promote the prevention, disclosure and elimination of all conflicts of interest, which may prejudice the investing public and the provision of independent third party supervision over the operations of collective investment schemes. A number of countries, i n c l u d i n g t h e Un i t e d Kingdom, Japan, Australia, Ko r e a a n d S i n g a p o r e , h av e a d o p t e d a s i n g l e law to regulate all types of collective investment schemes. In our country, various laws govern i nv e s t m e nt c o mp a n i e s (mutual funds), unit invest ment t r ust f unds (UITFs) and separate account funds (the units

of which are sold as part of var i able unit lin ke d insurance products). As such, there are differences in regulatory requirements and taxation among the different forms of CIS, even though the investment products they offer to the public are essentially the same. This regulatory arbitrage gives rise to an uneven playing field which will prove unfavorable to the growth of the industr y and will result in uneven levels of protection to the investing public. A law is needed to eliminate existing differences in regulatory treatment and balance the interests of the investors, by incorporating mechanisms

The forgotten illness?

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n a bid to reduce new Ebola infections to zero by April 15, Sierra Leone has embarked on a door-to-door search of suspected cases. But there are questions on missing Ebola funds. Sierra Leone on Wednesday launched a doorto-door search for “hidden” Ebola patients. Dozens of healthcare workers were deployed in remote parts of Port Loko district, east of the capital Freetown. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, an activist with the Society for Democratic Initiatives (SDI) in Sierra Leone voiced out in an international television interview the increase in new cases of infection could be attributed to non-compliance of safety regulations on Ebola. These include unsafe burials and patients being hidden from the authorities. “My hope is that the authorities would be able

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editorial

that would safeguard the public interest. The bill also recognizes the interest of the other parties in the CIS industry, by giving them flexibility to expand their CIS businesses. The appropriate regulatory agencies, with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as the lead agency, shall adopt all other appropriate measures as may be necessary for the effective implementation of this once it becomes a law. With the passage of this bill, it is anticipated that even middle to low income individuals will explore more investment opportunities in CIS. Gaining access to the capital markets has its benefits including diversification an d b e tt e r re tu r n s f or investments. The economy, in tur n, is exp e c te d to benefit greatly from an expanded capital base.

to enforce the regulations and ensure that the numbers don’t go up as they did recently, the activist said. The campaign which will last for two weeks follows a larger operation last December in which hundreds of volunteers knocked on doors across the west of the country in a campaign dubbed “The Western Area surge”. According to Abdulai, a lot of people are scared and don’t want to let their loved ones who are sick go to Ebola treatment centers – this has caused a lot of spreading around. “It’s an issue of misperception and continual education and awareness.” Sierra Leone has seen more than 11,000 Ebola cases and 3,400 deaths during the epidemic which has ravaged West Africa. Rush to reach zero cases?

I guess, this remains as a dream. Reducing the number of new Ebola infections to zero in the three worst affected countries; Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone is possible, the UN Ebola coordinator David Nabarro told the General Assembly on Wednesday (18.02.2015) Nabarro however stressed that the zero goal can only be achieved “if local communities stop unsafe burials and healing practices that involve human contact”. He said that while each week there are 10 times fewer cases of Ebola in West Africa than last September, preventing the final 10 percent of infections, about 120 to 130 new cases may well be the hardest part of the response because “it’s like looking for a needle in haystack”. According to the World Health Organization, there

H ave M y Say

By Klaus Doring

were 128 new confirmed cases of Ebola in t Guinea reported 52 new confirmed cases; Sierra Leone had 74 new cases, 45 of them in the capital Freetown while Liberia reported 2 new confirmed cases. More than 9,300 people have so far succumbed to the deadly virus which has infected over 23,200 people since the outbreak began more than a year ago. doring/PAGE 8

Compromising RP’s future further

IFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “… The foreigners who reside among you will rise above you higher and higher, but you will sink lower and lower. They will lend to you, but you will not lend to them. They will be the head, but you will be the tail…” (Deuteronomy 28:43-44, the Holy Bible). -ooo WHY PNOY IS NOT RESIGNING: OK, so let us assume that, by some sheer luck or miracle, it can be proved that President Aquino was the one who masterminded, the one who ordered its execution, and the one who should therefore be held liable for the police operation against terrorist Marwan in Mamasapano, Maguindanao where 44

Special Action Force officers and men were brutally killed. So what next? Will any Filipino have the courage to file criminal, civil, and administrative cases against Aquino? Will a sufficient number of our countrymen be appropriately moved to hold him liable even if he is still in office? Is he not still too popular among, and still too greatly idolized by, many Filipinos so that it would be futile mounting moves to either compel him to resign or force him out of office? I s n’ t t h i s w h a t i s happening now? Is he not refusing to resign or to at least apologize, despite the clear calls for him to step down because of his mishandling of Mamasapano, because he

believes the Filipino people are still with him and would still support him, in much the same way that lawmakers and media, particularly the mainstream media, are still supporting him no matter what? -ooo COMPROMISING THE C OU N T RY ’ S F U T U R E FURTHER: Indeed, the only thing that is preventing Aquino from resigning or stepping down now is his perception, shared evidently by those close around him, that he continues to enjoy popular support, the growing discontent about his perceived ineptness and incompetence notwithstanding. In fact, his spokesmen have been openly saying that Aquino will not heed

K akampi

Mo A ng Batas By Atty. Batas Mauricio

the calls for his resignation because not many Filipinos would really want him to resign or to step down, or because there are still millions out there who believe he must be allowed to go on, notwithstanding the obvious and evident blunders in his batas/PAGE 8

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Ayala Group Allots P185 Billion Capex for 2015 The Ayala group has earmarked P185 billion in capital expenditures this year as it continues to support the massive expansion plans of its core businesses, particularly its real estate and telecom units, while continuing to ramp up its investments in power generation and transport infrastructure. A bulk of this amount is allotted to Ayala Land, Inc., which has set aside a record P100 billion to bankroll its aggressive expansion program in line with its “2020 Vision” business plan. The plan will

support Ayala Land’s target to post an average growth of 20 percent annually with an end goal of reaching P40 billion in net income by 2020 from P11.7 billion in 2013. In addition, a large portion

Central fish port eyed in Davao City DAVAO CITY -- The city council has asked the City Agriculture Of f ice and t he Cit y Planning and Development Office to study the feasibility of operating a central fish port to help the fisherfolk in different parts of the gulf. C ounci lor L e onardo Avila III, committee on environment chair, said the proposal is an offshoot of the Comprehensive Fisheries Code of Davao City, which provides for rules governing the creation of port complexes in the city. “I know that it is something our fishermen in Davao City

want: a place where they can sell their catch at fair price, in transparent manner,” Avila said. “I think if we build something like that and provide facilities to support the trading of fish and seafood, it even has the potential to help the 43,525 fisherfolk in Davao Region,” he said. Rule XII of the implementing rules and regulations of the Fisheries Code states that the city may have a center that would “facilitate the direct marketing of fish catch of port/PAGE 11

of the conglomerate’s capital spending this year will be via Globe Telecom, Inc., which has programmed ? around P29 billion in 2015 primarily for data-related initiatives and LTE network infrastructure upgrades. ?With P8 billion from its planned capital expenditures in 2014 slid?ing into the first half of this year largely due to timing issues?, Globe’s total capital spending ?will be ?a?bou?t P37 billion in 2015. At the parent le vel, Ayala Corp. will deploy P21 billion primarily to support investment programs in power generation and transport infrastructure. The rest of the amount will be deployed to fund the growth initiatives of the other business units, including Manila Water Company, Inc., Bank of the Philippine Islands, and Integrated Micro-Electronics, Inc. “We started an aggressive growth strategy a few years back and we continue to undertake value enhancing opportunities amidst this sustained momentum in our economy. Each of our business units are seizing investment opportunities within their

Fast-tracking dev’t through infra and social services is gov’t formula to rebuild war-torn Mindanao BY fast-tracking development in the war-torn Bangsamoro t h roug h inf rast r uc ture build-up and intensified delivery of social services, the government sees faster and more effective way to rebuild the region from the damages of repeated conflicts that have made it and its people the poorest in the country, a basic objective of the peace process which the government pursued in Mindanao. Fa c e d by a p ove r t y incidence rate of 48.7 percent in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) as of 2012, the government sought to fast-track development in the region by proposing a P17-billion Special Development Fund (SDF) in the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), according to government peace panel member Senen Bacani. The BBL, the charter for a new Bangsamoro regional government to replace the ARMM, is pending review a n d ap p r ov a l i n b o t h chambers of Congress. Official data from the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) showed that among the provinces in the ARMM, Lanao del Sur posted the highest poverty incidence rate with 68.9% with Maguindanao scoring the second highest poverty incidence rate at

57.8%. The island provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawitawi have slightly lower poverty incidence rates, but are among the highest also in the entire Philippines. Bacani said the government proposes to remove poverty as one of the causes of recruitment into extremist armed groups in the South by creating more economic opportunities and boosting incomes of the people in the region through the infrastructure build-up and intensified delivery of social services. He noted that Congress has been in the forefront of pushing development in the entire country to lessen the incidence of poverty among many Filipinos, and the provision of these funds to the Bangsamoro is along the same principle. “Areas in the proposed Bangsamoro, which are mostly composed of provinces under the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, have lagged behind in terms of economic growth for years due to armed hostilities,” he said. The SDF is proposed to be broken down into an initial tranche of P7-billion for the first year of existence of the BBL, with P2 billion a year to be released for five years. To ensure there would be no repeat of past sad

experience in the utilization of public funds, the government will implement strict audit and transparency rules in its use, first through the Bangsamoro audit agency proposed to be created also under the BBL, and also through the Commission on Audit, Bacani said. Civil society and other institutions are also expected and would be encouraged to participate actively in monitoring the utilization of funds and the implementation of the projects under the SDF, he added. To e n s u r e t h at t h e Bangsamoro regional government would have adequate funds, the government also proposed under the BBL to give the Bangsamoro government a 4% share out of the 60% revenue allotment budget of the national government estimated to reach P27 billion at current budget figures. If approved by Congress, this block grant from the IRA would replace the annual subsidy given by the national government to the ARMM, which amounts to P24.3 billion under the 2015 General Appropriations Act (GAA). The 40% revenue allotment is for local government units. This block grant is not a special allocation only for the Bangsamoro, as it would Services/PAGE 11

individual spaces under this positive environment,” Ayala Corporation Chairman and CEO Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala said. “In particular, we continue to strengthen our positions in power and transport infrastructure—two sectors that are presenting opportunities for investments with potential to become new growth platforms for Ayala,” Mr. Zobel added. “We have seen robust growth in our earnings in the first three quarters of 2014 and we are optimistic that our fourth quarter growth will be at an even faster pace. We remain positive about the country’s overall macroeconomic environment this year as reflected in the aggressive capital spending we have planned out,” Ayala Corporation Chief Finance Officer Delfin Gonzalez noted. The company will release its full year financial and operating results next month. For the first nine months of 2014, Ayala registered a net income of P14.1 billion, a 35 percent growth from the previous year primarily driven by the robust performance of its real estate, telecom and water units.

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Is poverty in PH really decreasing? –PIDS study The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), in its official estimated poverty figures for the first half of 2013, reported that 24.9 percent of Filipinos were poor in the first semester of 2013 based on the 2013 Annual Poverty Indicator Survey (APIS). Using these official poverty estimates, government officials suggested that the welfare conditions in the country are improving, and even attributed the reduction in poverty to the impact of the government’s version of the conditional cash transfer program, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. Even the World Bank, in its August 2014 issue of the Philippine Economic Update, similarly described improving poverty conditions. However, in a policy note released by state think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), its authors argued that while these descriptions of poverty are based on official statistics released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the April 2014 press release of the PSA did not actually report a “drop” in poverty incidence from 2012 to 2013.

“PSA mentioned that 24.9 percent of Filipinos were poor in the first semester of 2013, and that in the same period in 2012, poverty incidence among Filipinos based on the 2012 Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES), was recorded at 27.9 percent,” explained PIDS Senior Research Fellow Jose Ramon Albert and co-author Arturo Martinez in “Is poverty really decreasing? And if not, Why not?” But isn’t 24.9 percent a decline from 27.9 percent? “ S e e m i n g l y, y e s , but in this case, no. To compare statistics, their methodologies should be equivalent,” Albert explained. The PSA’s technical notes stated that the source of poverty data on the first half of 2013 is the 2013 Annual Poverty Indicator Survey (APIS), a nationwide sample survey designed to provide information on the different indicators related to poverty and uses a different questionnaire from that of the 2012 FIES. Albert and Martinez explained that although the 2013 APIS used more questions on income (than poverty/PAGE 8

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Gensan extends aid to families displaced by coastal erosion

MISOR VICE GOVERNOR IN CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY SCHOOLS – VICE GOVERNOR JOEY G. PELAEZ continues to distribute footballs which were donated by Children International Philippines, Inc. (CIPI) to Pedro “Oloy” N. Roa, Sr. High School (PONRSHS) in Calaanan, Canitoan, Cagayan de Oro City. The simple turn-over ceremony of 10 footballs was witnessed by School Head Ms. Brenda Galarpe (upper photo, 2nd from left) and Team Coach Ms. Christina Simbajon (upper photo, extreme right), among others. This was the first turn-over of footballs in a Cagayan de Oro City school and Vice Governor Pelaez plans to distribute more in the city.

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The city government here has extended assistance to the 38 families who were relocated from their residence in Purok Tinago, Barangay South here due to coastal subsidence. City Mayor Ronnel Rivera, accompanied by officials from the City Housing and Land Management Office, City Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Office, and City Social Welfare and Development Office, went to Promise Land, a relocation site in Barangay Mabuhay on February 25 and distributed aid to the affected families, a report from the City Information Office said. The assistance from City Hall came in the form of “family packs” consisting of basic commodities such as 10-kilos of rice, canned goods, basin, kitchen utensils, and clothes. Arsenia Agraviador, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her delight for “rescuing them” from imminent danger and providing for their basic needs. “We were so afraid when the soil underwater was devoured. I thought first that it was a sinkhole, but it was even more dangerous. I really thank the local government for caring for

us,” Agraviador said. The same sentiment was also expressed by other residents who were relocated from Tinago, now a no-build zone. The city government has been coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development so that these affected families can avail of the Core Shelter Assistance Project. Gawad Kalinga also indicated willingness to help these families build more decent homes. The said 38 families were relocated first because they were living closest to the shoreline. About 1,000 families more will be relocated in a threehectare relocation site in Lanton, Barangay Apopong. “I want everyone to be safe that is why I ordered a forced evacuation. If some will not heed our warnings, then we will give a waiver that the local government will not be responsible if something will happen to them,” Mayor Rivera explained. “But of course, I am not heartless that is why I still plead for them to voluntarily evacuate.” (IJMLagare-Gensan CPIO/DEDoguiles-PIA 12)

MARAMAG, Bukidnon — Public market buyers in Maramag lauded the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) drive on “Timbangan ng Bayan (weighing scale)” utilization. This, after Maramag town mayor Jose Obedencio received the “Timbangan ng Bayan” from DTI and immediately instructed the Municipal Economic Enterprise Development Officer Engr. Fermin Sinet to install the equipment; take charge of its safekeeping; and to make sure that it is always available for public use during designated market hours. DTI provincial director Ermedio Abang said the “Timbangan” is a hanging open type with 15 kilogram x 50 gram dial. The steel cage has 610 millimeter (mm) x 610 mm x 1,829 mm dimension. “In a random interview at Maramag public market conducted by Eriberto Taban-ud,

Jr. and Christopher Diaz of DTI’s Consumer Welfare and Business Regulation Division, at least 15 consumers said they have proven that products sold in wet market section of Agro-Commercial Complex (Agro-site) in South Poblacion, Maramag town, have accurate and honest weights. This, after comparing weight results using DTI’s “Timbangan” and vendors’ privately-owned weighing scales,” Abang said. The “Timbangan ng Bayan” is a mandate under Republic Act 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, which provides consumers with an effective measuring device consisting of the weighing scale, installed at the public market with which to counter check the accuracy of the weight of goods they buy from the market. (Eriberto A. Taban-ud, Jr. CTIDS-DTI/RLRB, PIA 10 Bukidnon)

AFP, PNP forge pact on revitalization of peace, Public lauds DTI’s drive on ‘Timbangan ng Bayan’ security coordinating center in Lanao Norte TUBOD, Lanao del Norte — A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was entered into on the establishment of the AFP-PNP Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC) in Lanao del Norte. This was signed in the presence of governor Khalid Q. Dimaporo of Lanao del Norte and members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council. The parties include the 2nd Mechanized Infantry (Magbalantay) Brigade, Mechanized Infantr y Division, Philippine Army with headquarters located at barangay Maria Cristina, Iligan City, represented by its brigade commander, colonel Gilbert I Gapay, and Lanao del Norte Police Provincial O f f i c e, C amp G a l l e go, Pigcarangan, Tubod, Lanao del Norte represented by police senior superintendent

Madid M Paitao, provincial director. Both parties agree to revitalize and strengthen the existing AFP–PNP JPSCC in accordance with the current PNP and AFP Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This is in line with the Internal Peace and Security ( I P SP ) “B ay an i h an” of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Operational Pl an “Sama han” w hich re quires mu lt i-s e c tora l approach and close coordination in battling the Internal Peace and Security Operations and promotes public safety and order. PSCC will be co-chaired

by the commander, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade and the Provincial Director, LDNPPO with battalion commanders, municipal chiefs of police, company commander PPSC in Lanao del Norte and respective Triad Staff and Quad staff as members. Joint Letter Directive No 07-2010 dated March 17, 2011 mandates the establishment of the AFP-PNP Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center at national, regional, down to provincial, city and municipal level that will provide the mechanism, structure, and procedures for the integrated planning, coordination, monitoring, assessing of the security situation, and implementing of necessary measures aimed at enhancing the internal security of the area and its interests. Executive Order 546 d i re c t s t h e P h i l ippi n e National Police (PNP) to undertake active support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Internal Security Operations for the suppression of insurgency and other serious threats to national security. While the 2nd Mechanized In f ant r y Br i g a d e ( 2 n d Mech) has the province of Lanao del Norte as its area of responsibility with units operationally controlled and organic to it are strategically deployed to address internal security threat groups and protect the people and the communities from terrorist

activities in the province. JPSCC shall be composed of five sub-committees, namely: Operations C ommittee, Intelligence Committee, Civil Military Operations – Police Community Relations Committee, Legal Committee, and Logistics and Support Committee. General provision states that the 2nd Mech Bde and LDN PPO deploys the services of personnel who shall undertake guarding, maintenance of peace and order, and protecting the people and properties of the Province of Lanao del Norte and such other places that may be agreed upon by both parties from various threat groups such as CNN, Terrorist Groups, Auxiliary Threat Groups, Private Armed Groups, Groups of Special Concern such as MILF and MNLF and other lawless elements. As to membership, the JPSCC, within its committees, may be expanded to include Local Government Units (LGUs), line government agencies, non-government organizations, civil society organizations and other stakeholders, depending on the focus of the Joint AFPPNP efforts. T h i s M OA s i g n i n g highlighted the Provincial Peace and Order Council Meeting held at the Macapagal Tr a i n i n g C e nt e r Ha l l , provincial capitol, Tubod, Lanao del Norte, on February 11, 2015. (LVG/PIA-10 LDN)

DTI Bukidnon intensifies drive on “Timbangan ng Bayan (weighing scale)”utilization. DTI’s Trade and Industry Development Specialist Eriberto Taban-ud Jr. conducted a random interview with the buying public at Maramag Agro-Commercial Complex (Agro-site) wet market section to monitor consumers’ utilization of the “Timbangan ng Bayan” and counter check the accuracy of the weight of goods they buy from the market. (Zenaida D. Jagudilla/ RLRB, PIA 10, Bukidnon)

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Badjau pre-schoolers avail free birth registration ILIGAN CIT Y — Fifty seven Bajau pre-schoolers enrolled at Eugene Caps Day Care Center called ‘Balay sa Paglaum’ and Kumon, this city, were recipients to the mobile late birth registration conducted by the City Civil Registrar’s Office (CCRO) of Iligan. City civil registrar Maria Pura C. Mascari?as said they registered the Bajaus free of charge, and appreciated the efforts made by the Spiritan Sisters of purok 4, Tambacan and barangay Pala-o, Iligan City, who cater these children to be at the Day Care Center. The first batch of 10 registrants whose birth certificates were released on September 16, 2014, had a formal turn-over ceremony of their birth certificates held at the multi-purpose hall in Tambacan, with

witnesses/representatives from the barangay/purok, the Philipppine Statistics Authority, Archdio ces e of Iligan representative, Spiritan Sisters/Fathers, Bajau tribal leaders, religious ministers and the registrants/ document owners. The second batch reached 47 registrants and birth certificates were released and formally turned over to the Spiritan Sisters during the Februar y 16 CCRO flag ceremony hosting in obser vance of the 2015 Civil Registration Month in February. This endeavor entitles the beneficiaries to bear a name and nationality, enhanced their education for higher l e ar n i ng s and re du c e d visibility of mendicant Bajau children in the streets. (MMu?ez/CCRO/PIA-10 LDN)

Good hygiene practices can prevent MERS-CoV: DOH The Department of Health (DOH) advised the public to strictly practice hygiene including proper washing of hands to prevent the spread of the deadly Middle East Respirator y Sy n d rom e C oron av i r u s (MERS-CoV). According to D OH health advisor y, MERSCoV can spread through close contact with an infected person or through his/her body fluids. MERS-CoV is a virus that affects the respiratory systems particularly the lungs and the breathing tubes. The D OH said that pre v e nt i v e a c t i on s c a n be done to keep one’s self free from the illness. It is important to wash the hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds and help young children do the same. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

When coughing or s n e e z i n g , c o v e r o n e’s nose and mouth with a tissue and throw the tissue properly. One can boost his/ her immune system and build body resistance by hav i ng pl e nt y of sl e e p, drinking plenty of fluids, e at i ng nut r it i ou s fo o d, an d pr a c t i c i ng h e a lt hy lifestyle. The public is also reminded to avoid touching one’s nose, eyes, and mouth with unwashed hands and to refrain personal contact such as kissing, or sharing cups or eating utensils, with sick people. L i ke w is e, t he publ i c is advis ed to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as toys and doorknobs. The DOH also advised travelers coming from a country where MERS-CoV c as e s have o c c u r re d to monitor their health for 14 days. (PIA)

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MisOr turns over computers, printers to regional trial courts By Aida Raut

MISAMIS ORIENTAL -The province of Misamis Oriental has turned over 14 sets of computers worth P 6 million to the Regional Trial Courts (RTCs) here Monday morning. During the turn over c e r e m o n y, P r o v i n c i a l governor Yevgeny Vincente Emano, said that he hopes that the computer sets would be of great help to the RTC courts. A fire of unknown origin gobbled up the entire Hall of Justice building in Cagayan De Oro City last Feb. 6, 2015

and burned all court records of the 22 offices of the RTC courts here, including the Regional, Provincial, and City Prosecution Offices. Emano said that the RTC courts here still lack necessar y equipment, particularly computers and printers to expidite cases at their temporary offices in Cagayan De Oro City. “The donation is just the beginning of our promise to help the RTC courts here,” Emano said. In a short message, Emano said, that he is “donating” the

computer sets in order “to ask favors” from the judges of the RTC courts here. “I have to put it on record that I have no case in any RTC court here. Thus, my initiative to donate the computers should not be construed that I am asking a favor from the regional trial courts,” Emano said. RTC Executive Judge Dennis Alcantar said that all the regional trial courts are now holding the “court salas” in the Tourism Hall building in Cagayan De Oro City. He said that the businesses at the RTC are

back to normal although the reconstruction of the burned documents of the cases are being complied by private lawyers. According to Alcantar, the reconstruction of the new Hall of Justice building here, including the provision of office furnitures and equipment, would amount to more than P 200 million. He said that the Supreme Court has already asked Congress to appropriate the necessary amount for the construction of the new Hall of Justice building here. (PNA) CTB/CD/AR/EBP

Iligan Youth Affairs Office accepts SPES applicants ILIGAN CITY -- The Youth Affairs Office is now accepting applicants under the Special Program for the Employment of Student or SPES this summer. This office which is under the City Mayor’s Office (CMO) is tasked to call on interested youth aged 15-25 years old to avail of this program, in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the city’s Public Employment Service Office (PESO), said Sorilie Christine R. Bacsarpa, head, Youth Affairs-CMO. Applicants may get the forms at its office located at Seminary Drive, barangay Palao (near City Engineers Of f ice). Submission of appl i c at i on for ms and screening of applicants is set on March 5 to 10, 2015. Qualif ied applicants should have a passing grade and without failing grades; submit recommendation signed by the school registrar or principal; last school year/ semester attended (for the out-of-school youth); birth certificate/baptismal (security paper-SECPA); two pieces 2x2 picture; four pieces 1x1 picture; ITR-Income Tax Return with barangay certification of

Women from different sectors in Iligan give a One-Sign which signifies support to the global observance of One Billion Rising-Revolution to end Violence Against Women (VAW) after an early execution of the global 1 Billion Rising dance at the city public plaza, 5:30AM on February 14. (ADologmandin/PIA-10 LDN)

the family income (Annual Regional Poverty Threshold level amounting P116,000.00). The SPES aims to assist poor, but deserving, students pursue their education by encouraging employment of those in high school during summer and Christmas vacations, and those in college, technical, or vocational level at any time of the year. Under the SPES, the DOLE shoulders the 40 percent of the salaries of beneficiaries, while their employers--

government agencies, such as local government units, and private companies and other sponsor-institutions--pay the 60 percent. As a s c h o o l - t o - j o b bridging program, the SPES helps beneficiaries prepare for the world of work. SPES ‘babies’ as beneficiaries are popularly called, use their income to defray expenses for their tuition and other school expenses. Under this program, the qualifying applicant may

receive a daily wage of P306.00 for 20 working days, and we have limited slots only, we accept applicants on a first come, first served basis, said Bacsarpa. Applicants are advised to bring the original documents needed with a photo copy each and place it in a brown envelope and submit it at the Youth Affairs. Youth Affairs Office can be reached at telephone number (063) 221-2920. (LVG/YAO-CMO/ PIA-10 LDN)

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EcoWaste Coalition pushes Filipinos to recycle more to save energy, climate WITH the expected rise in electricity consumption during the hot summer months, an environmental group urged the public to waste less and recycle even more to conserve energy. In a press statement, the EcoWaste Coalition gave recycling the thumbs up for its proven capacity to conserve energy, while avoiding environmental and financial costs when discards are reduced, reused, recycled or composted (3Rs + C) instead of incinerated or landfilled. “The practice of 3Rs + C can help ease the anticipated power demand during the summer period, while offering many other benefits for the climate and the society,” said zero waste advocate Sonia Mendoza, president of EcoWaste Coalition. “Recycling preserves our increasingly depleted natural resources, reduces greenhouse gases and other pollutants, conserves energy, instills environmental awareness and

responsibility, and creates decent employment and livelihood for many,” she added. Zeroing on the energy benefits, Mendoza said that recycling can actually trim electricity use, citing the following examples from the US Environmental Protection Agency: -- Recycling 1 aluminum soda can saves enough energy to run a 14-watt compact fluorescent lamp for 20 hours, a computer for 3 hours, or a TV for 2 hours; -- Rec ycling 1 glass container saves enough energy to light a 100-watt bulb for 4 hours; and -- Recycling 1 ton of office paper saves up to 17 trees and between 3,000 and 4,000 kilowatt hours of electricity over the same ton of paper

made with virgin wood products. Producing new plastic from recycled material uses only two-thirds of the energy required to manufacture it from raw materials. “The potential for energy saving from recycling is t remendous,” Mendoza said, noting the composition of waste generated by the National Capital Region (NCR) which, according to the National Solid Waste Management Commission, consists 52 percent biodegradable, 41 percent recyclable, and 7 percent residual wastes. NCR’s projected waste generation in 2015 as shown in the Commission’s website is 9,060 tons per day. “Recycling glass, metal, paper, plastic and other recyclables and turning the biodegradables into compost will not only save energy and prevent pollution, but also hugely cut disposal

costs for residuals requiring env ironment a l ly-s ound storage and treatment,” she said. To further show the advantage of 3Rs + C, Mendoza cited a paper on “ The Economics of Zero Waste” by US-based economist Jeffrey Morris as published in the book “Zero Waste Solution.” Morris stated that “the major environmental benefit from 3Rs + C is that fewer raw materials need to be extracted from ecosystems and refined into materials suitable for manufacturing products and packaging.” “With reduction measures less-raw-material and energyintensive goods and services are chosen by consumers, reused objects displace newly manufactured items, recycled materials displace newly extracted raw materials, and compost replaces synthetic fertilizers and pesticides,” he said. (PNA)

DENR XI bans 17 firms IGaCoS holds anti-smoking forum to supply, import cyanide ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF Order No. 2009-0010 and DAVAO DEL NORTE -- The Department of Environment and Natura l Res ources (DENR) XI has cancelled the certificates of distributorship of 17 cyanide suppliers. Regional Executive Director Joselin Marcus E. Fragada, Monday, disclosed that he had taken action on the recommendation of Regional Director Metodiio Turbella of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) XI. Tu r b e l l a o n Fe b. 9 submitted to Fragada the list of cancelled Chemical C o nt r o l O rd e r ( C C O ) for Cyanide Registration Certificates, identifying 17 firms and noting only two

firms as legal or registered. Six of the 17 cyanide suppliers whose certificates have been cancelled are based in Tagum City; four are based in Davao City; one in Panabo; four in Mt. Diwata, Monkayo, Compostela Valley; and two in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley. T h e t w o re m a i n i n g legal/registered suppliers of cyanide identified as Pacific Underground Innovative Solutions and Mindanamics Corp. are based in Tagum City. Cyanide is essential in gold extraction but Fragada points out that the distribution has to be controlled because Bans/PAGE 11

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SAMAL - The strong desire to end smoking and promote healthy lifestyle and healthy environment, Davao Del Norte Hospital (DDNH)– IGaCoS Zone called a Forum with Stakeholders on Smoke Cessation Program at the Conference Room of the Administrative Building, Penaplata, Samal Dostrict on February 20. About 50 establishment owners and managers within 100 meters from the hospital were invited for the forum aimed to enhance awareness on the Smoke Cessation Program of the hospital pursuant to Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular no. 17, Department of Health Administrative

A pair of students explain how planting trees, waste segregation, recycling and other things children can do to help reduce the impact of climate change during the recent Climate Change Advocacy Campaign Campus tour at the Don Luis Hidalgo Memorial School in Marinduque. Watching the students are Department of Environment and Natural Resource (DENR) Regional Executive Director Oscar Dominguez (left), PIA-Mimaropa Regional Director Cristina V. Castillo, District Supervisor Rodora Yambao and Regional Technical Director Marilyn Limpiada of the DENR-Mimaropa- Ecosystems Research and Development Service. (Mayda Lagran)

IGaCoS City Ordinance no. 2013-223 also known as “An Ordinance Approving the Comprehensive AntiSmoking of the Island Garden City of Samal. During the consultation– forum, the owners of the establishments were requested to prohibit selling cigarette or e cigarette and or allow tobacco promotional a dve r t is e me nt s arou nd the hospital vicinity as the hospital aimed a smoke free hospital compound. Committee on Health and Sanitation Chairman C i t y C o u n c i l l o r Ho n . Na p o l e o n R o b e r t o C . Villarica appreciated the initiative made by Davao Del Norte Hospital-Samal Zone especially upholding healthy lifestyle through the Smoking Cessation Program in accordance to the City Ordinance on Anti-Smoking which he sponsored. Villarica explained the City Ordinance on AntiSmoking specifically section 7 on the Total Ban of selling all kinds of cigarettes products within 100 meters from all government premises; prohibition of promotional advertisements within all government premises and prohibition on accepting sponsorships. He, however, said any person can smoke only in area/room duly designated by the management as smoking area of the establishment but not violating the ordinance. DDNH-IGaCoS Zone Smoking Cessation Program In-Charge Frank C. Supangan presented the established Smoke Cessation Clinic as the hospital’s initiative in support to help curb smoking habit. He said the clinic forum/PAGE 11

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Have been Ebola funds misuse? If yes, shame on those who did! The United Nations will publish a report this week on how it has spent funds for the Ebola response mission (UNMEER). This will be the first time the UN is accounting for the money according to a top official. “This week we are going to show you how transparent the operations of this fund have been. We will publish a report about what is being done with all the contributions,” Nabarro said. Sierra Leone is struggling to explain 2.6 million euros which had been donated to fight the epidemic. The discrepancy was revealed in a report presented by Laura TaylorPearce, Sierra Leone’s auditor general in Freetown last week. It said Sierra Leonean ministers had lost track of the emergency funds and there was no paperwork to support the contracts. “The loss of funds could result in a reduction of the quality of service delivery in the health sector,” the auditor warned. The missing funds were reportedly given by institutions and individuals, not from the United Nations. Civic activist Abdulai described the scandal which has been trending on Twitter under the hashtag “Ebolagate”, as a disagreement between parliament and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). “It clearly undermines the credibility on the fight against corruption,” Abdulai said. He said Ebola was a national issue that had killed many people and for funds set aside to fight the virus to disappear without a trace showed the “insensitiveness of the political elite”. +++ Email: doringklaus@gmail.com or follow me in Facebook or Twitter or visit www.germanexpatinthephilippines.blogspot.com.

Batas... from page 4

five years in office which can be attributed to no other but to him alone. So, the question is, what is going to happen next? We will simply allow Aquino to continue ruling this country until the end of his term in 2016? And, perhaps, allow him and his government to commit more blunders that could compromise the future of this country further? -ooo RP NOW CONTROLLED BY FOREIGNERS: If Aquino and his officials are not aware yet, it is clear that there is an on-going invasion and actual occupation and control of the Philippines now by foreign interests. Who can deny that all the profitable businesses and economic activities in the country at this point, even those which are Constitutionally-mandated to be reserved only for Filipinos, have already been taken away by foreigners? Who can deny that even political positions which grant political power have been similarly grabbed away from Filipinos and are already in the hands of foreigners? Why, even a big part of the West Philippine Sea is no longer controlled by Filipinos, but by China, where Aquino’s roots came from. In all these, we have not seen any attempt by Aquino and his cabal to uphold and protect the interests of native Filipinos. On the contrary, it is even clear that these intrusions by foreigners into the country’s economic, political, and social fabrics, have the permission and consent of the highest echelons of power in the country. This is the reason why the best that the Philippines has to offer are now being enjoyed by

foreigners alone, while Filipinos fight one another for the crumbs, in their own land. -ooo PLEASE LISTEN: DZEC1062 kHz Manila, 1080 kHz Dagupan City, 711 kHz Naga City, 1260 kHz Lucena City, 1224 kHz Davao City, and www.eaglenews.ph Mondays to Fridays, 6 a.m.; DYKA 801 kHz Panay Island, Yes Radio 88.3 FM, Barobo City, Surigao del Sur, Yes Radio 93.9 FM, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur, Mondays to Fridays, 10 a.m.; 92.7 Smile FM, San Francisco, Agusan Del Sur, Kiss 101.1 FM, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, Mondays to Fridays, 12 noon; 107.5 Win 107.5 FM, Roxas, Isabela, Saturday, 5:30 a.m., Sunday, 7 a.m. -30-

Poverty... from page 5

it used to) with its 19-page questionnaire, the 2012 FIES income module used 24 pages of questions. And even if APIS 2013 made use of the 24-page income module of FIES 2012, this would still not make poverty data from the APIS and FIES comparable since FIES also asks households detailed information on their expenditures before income questions are asked using a total of 78 pages of questions. The FIES interview could take an average interview time of five hours. The APIS 2013 questionnaire had six pages of questions on expenditure, aside from 19 pages of income questions, and several pages of other questions, which, overall, took three hours to accomplish. “We therefore do not have clear evidence to suggest a reduction in poverty from the first half of 2012 to the first semester of 2013. To get definitive recent trends on income poverty, we have to await the results of the 2014 APIS,” Albert and Martinez contended. Historically, however, poverty rates have been unchanged. Based on the latest available figures from FIES, the researchers observed three clear trends on poverty conditions. First, poverty rates have been unchanged in the first semester periods from 2006 to 2012, since minute differences in estimates are within margins of error. Secondly, poverty rates also have been unchanged in the full year periods from 2006 to 2012, and thirdly, estimates of the proportion of Filipinos who are poor are lower in the full year, compared with firstsemester figures, on account of extra income received from thirteenth month wages and bonuses, and other income received in the second semester. “Since poverty rates are unchanged, the number of poor Filipinos is increasing on account of population growth,” the researchers noted. Furthermore, they pointed out a barely changing income inequality, a pattern that could mean that the new opportunities created by economic growth do not allow the income of the poor to catch up with the rest. They also pointed out that although poor Filipinos were more likely to experience higher income growth, some nonpoor also have been vulnerable to slide into poverty. Thus, they noted that the government should not only be concerned with the poor, but also with the nonpoor who are plagued by economic risks, in designing the country’s social protection infrastructure. “Policymakers should need to develop policies for risk management such as adequate social insurance and social protection coverage. It is also important to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these programs because if left unaddressed, income shocks may hamper the thrust for inclusive growth and for sustained prospects of the country’s development,” they concluded.

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Pag-IBIG posts P30B gross income, declares P11.3B in dividends in 2014 Vice President Jejomar C. Binay meets the Pag-IBIG Fund stakeholders for the second time today (February 26) since he took over as Chairman of the Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees in July 2010 to report on PagIBIG’s accomplishments in 2014. “Pag-IBIG Fund continues to be bigger, offers better services and more benefits to its members through faster and more efficient operations, all without increasing its monthly contribution which remains at P100 since the 1980s. The record-breaking achievements in 2014 reinforce Pag-IBIG’s solid and robust financial standing that resulted from the reforms and innovations that Pag-IBIG put into action in the past four years,” said Vice President Binay. All-time high financial accomplishments In his report to PagIBIG stakeholders, Vice President Binay announced the record-breaking financial accomplishments of PagIBIG in 2014. “Total assets have now reached P376.09 billion, higher by 9.12% from the 2013 level of

T

P344.67 billion. Total assets grew at an average growth rate of 7.88% from 2011 to 2014. Gross and net income for 2014 were the highest in Pag-IBIG’s 34-year history, at P30.68 billion and P16.22 billion, respectively. These are 4.18% and 12.33% higher than the 2013 gross and net income of P29.45 billion and P14.44 billion, respectively. Average growth rates of gross and net income from 2011 to 2014 were 8.34% and 9.96%, respectively,” he reported. The Pag-IBIG Board recently declared P11.34 billion in dividends in 2014, at a dividend rate of 4.18 percent, much higher than the interest rate of 0.5% to 1% offered by banking institutions. Savers under the Modified Pag-IBIG 2 (MP2) Program earned dividends at a higher dividend rate of 4.68%. Pag-IBIG has credited a total of P80.73 billion to members’ accounts in the past decade, 58 percent of which, or P47.1 billion, was declared from 2010 to 2014. Improved housing loan portfolio “In 2014, Pag-IBIG recorded an impressive

housing loan portfolio, a feat propelled by the reforms implemented by the Fund such as the creation of a department focused on marketing the housing business, the execution of strengthened underwriting guidelines, and an efficient collection mechanism, which resulted to high loan takeouts and the best performing loans ratio (PLR) Pag-IBIG has ever attained in its 34-year history,” he added. Housing loan takeout in 2014 set a new record at P40.6 billion for 54,026 units, up by 19% and 14% from P33.96 billion for 47,562 units in 2013, respectively. PLR also went up to 87% in 2014, from 83% in 2013. This is the highest PLR attained by Pag-IBIG from a low 79% in 2008. Outsourcing of collections for housing loans in arrears led to the conversion of 47% of non-performing loans, or 189,498 accounts, into active accounts or performing loans. In 2014 alone, Pag-IBIG, through the collection agencies, was able to collect P2.7 billion.

PCW, GSIS launch photo contest for 2015 Women’s Month

he Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), in partnership with the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), launched a nationwide photo contest as part of its calendar activities for the upcoming National Women's Month Celebration. The 2015 Women's Month Photo Contest aims to capture the essential representation and role being played by Filipino women in leadership, power and decision making, in consonance to this year's NWMC theme "Juana, Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw Na!" Open to all Filipino amateur photo enthusiasts, the contest also intends to get the public perception on women’s roles in politics or decision-making process. The deadline of submission of entries is on March 12, 2015. Top 12 entries will receive P10,000 cash prize and certificate of appreciation. The awarding ceremony is set on March 26, 2015, 5PM at the GSIS Theater, Pasay City. For the full mechanics of the contest, kindly visit http://pcw.gov. ph/event/2015-womens-monthphoto-contest.

Increased membership level and savings Pag-IBIG also partnered with other government agencies, like the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Land Registration Authority, and Philippine Overseas Employment Administration for speedier and more efficient servicing of clients. It also utilized modern technology like e-payments and web-based systems, and enlisted more payment channels, for greater convenience to members. “The enhanced processes in loan applications and membership registration, as well as the increased payment channels for amortizations and monthly savings led to more Filipino workers registering with Pag-IBIG. Pag-IBIG membership grew by 6.6 million in the past four years, and total membership grew by 9% from 13.49 million in 2013 to 14.76 million in 2014. Voluntary members increased most by 27% from 75,933 in 2013 to 96,694 in 2014. The number of overseas Filipino workers rose next by 20% from 3,337,925 in 2013 to 3,999,663 in 2014,” said Atty. Darlene Marie B.

Berberabe, President and Chief Executive Officer of Pag-IBIG Fund. Pag-IBIG collected P28.07 billion in members’ savings (MS) in 2014 alone, including P3.8 billion worth of voluntary upgraded savings, or beyond the monthly savings mandated by law, demonstrating that members trust Pag-IBIG with their hard-earned money. MS increased by 7% from P26.13 billion in 2013. In 2014, MP2 savers reached 25,017 and entrusted their P362 million to Pag-IBIG, up by 36% compared to MP2 savings collected in 2013. Around 96,694 voluntary members further added P463 million to Pag-IBIG’s MS collection, higher by 22.5% than in 2013. “The increased voluntary savings from our regular members, MP2 savers, and voluntary members show how much trust is given to us by our members,” Atty. Berberabe noted. “As we practice excellent performance and good governance in Pag-IBIG, we gain the confidence and support of our partners PAG-IBIG | Page 11

Now available in over 80 countries worldwide

Globe Telecom sees hike in data roaming business with daily flat rate offer Globe Telecom has seen a boost in its data roaming business in 2014 as more postpaid customers have availed of its flat rate for unlimited data roaming service which comes with free travel insurance. The number of data roaming customers increased by 40% in 2014 as the appetite for internet connectivity while abroad has grown. With the P599 flat rate per day, Globe postpaid customers get access to unlimited mobile surfing without the fear of bill shock, giving them a worry-free experience anytime, anywhere. In order to reach more customers and expand coverage worldwide, Globe has also forged tie-ups with operators in 10 more countries, allowing postpaid customers to enjoy its flat rate for unlimited data roaming service in popular international destinations such as Canada, New Zealand, Turkey, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea, bringing overall countries covered to over 80 worldwide. “We are delighted to see that more and more Globe postpaid customers are enjoying our unlimited data roaming service as they stay connected while abroad without the need for Wi-Fi connection. With the P599 flat rate valid for 24 hours from the time data roaming is activated, customers can enjoy value for money and a worry-free mobile surfing experience so they can browse, send e-mails, post on social networks, upload photos, and use apps all they want – without the fear of billshock,” said Coco Domingo, Vice President for Roaming Business at Globe. Domingo adds, “With this innovative service, customers need not worry about the sites they visit and apps they use, and be mindful of

corresponding data roaming charges. Our P599 per day unlimited data roaming offer gives them access to everything they need, whether they travel for work or for leisure.” The P599 flat rate for unlimited data roaming service per day protects users from bill shock, allowing them to surf worry-free. With the offer following a 24-hour cycle, users can stay connected all day without needing to worry about extra charges. It also promotes a hasslefree experience without the need to memorize registration keywords, take note of multiple data roaming rates, or track different time zones to avail of the best offers. With the simple activation of the data roaming switch on smartphones, customers can already avail of the flat data roaming rate. By subscribing to the offer, users are also given an added bonus of free travel insurance with TravelCare to protect them from flight delays or cancellations, loss of baggage, and medical emergencies worth up to P200,000 for 30 days. For those traveling within the Globe list of partner countries, postpaid customers will receive a welcome message that includes the partner carrier in the selected country once they land. Upon activating their mobile data and data roaming in their country of destination, customers will automatically be connected to the partner carrier of that country. They can start using the service upon receiving a confirmation text for the P599 per day offer.

Visit www.globe.com.ph/roaming to know more about the P599 flat rate for unlimited surfing abroad or call the Globe Roaming Hotline at +6327301212 toll-free even while abroad.

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Formalizing the partnership are (from left) executives from Gate Distribution Corporate Secretary George Gonzalez, General Manager and Sales Director Ma. Patricia Pascual, and ECPay President Raymond Jude Aguilar, together with GXI President and CEO Xavier Marzan, Marketing Director Franchette Chingcuanco-Cardona, and Issuing Sales Director Sales Issuance Director Albert Antig. (supplied photo)

GCash expands presence, partners with Gate Distribution, Inc. and ECPay for more cash-in outlets nationwide Missy Bon Bon, The SM Store Treat this March Great news to Missy Bon Bon customers! Dine at Missy Bon Bon and get exclusive discount at The SM Store Cagayan de Oro. Simply present tape receipt of dine-in purchase together with your SM Advantage, SM Prestige, BDO Rewards or Mom Card and get 10% discount for a minimum P1,500

single-receipt purchase on regularpriced items. Date of dine-in tape receipt should be within promo period. So Dine and Shop Now! Promo runs until March 31, 2015. For inquiries, please call The SM Store Marketing Department through 859-1188.

G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a whollyowned subsidiary of Globe Telecom and operator of GCash, continues to expand its nationwide footprint as part of its commitment to grow its customer base with its recent partnership with Gate Distribution, Inc., and ECPay. Gate Distribution, Inc. is the largest prepaid distributor of cards for phone, gaming, and internet, while ECPay is the leading electronic payment system provider in the country operating as a secure e-warehouse and e-payments data center for prepaid products, bills payments, airline ticket payments, and online shopping transaction payments. With the partnership, GCash cash-in outlets will be available in over 4,000 Gate Distribution outlets nationwide, 1,300 of which are in 7-Eleven, ECPay’s biggest client. Cash-in is the term used for converting cash to GCash. Service fee for cash-in to self and others via ECPay is waived. Meanwhile, Gate Distribution, Inc. will also be an authorized Globe Charge reseller. “We are excited to bring GCash closer to more users so they can experience the convenience of a safe, secure, and hassle-free platform of money transfers with our partnership

with Gate Distribution and ECPay. We look forward to further expanding our customer base by leveraging on the nationwide presence of our new partners and be able to introduce to their own customers the benefits of using GCash,” said GXI President and CEO Xavier Marzan. Meanwhile, ECPay president Raymund Jude Aguilar is optimistic on the impact of the partnership to the company’s business: “The partnership between GCash and ECPay will expand the consumer base, making our services accessible to more consumers. With this partnership, cash-in points for GCash will be practically everywhere. Aside from that, they can go to any of the 4,000 outlets nationwide and they can reload their GCash accounts 24/7.” On top of making cash-in/cashout transactions in accredited GCash outlets and partners nationwide, GCash customers can visit any Globe store. Cashing in to a GCash wallet is free, while cash-in to others or cash-out has a P20 service fee for any amount P1,000 and below and any amount in excess of P1,000. To know more about GCash, visit www.globe.com.ph/GCash.

Young Moro women record on their phones a pro-Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) rally in Tantawan Park in Cotabato City 25 Feb 2015. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

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Shutdown... from page 1

said the planned power outage by Mindanao’s first coal-fired power plant which started two weeks ago would not have a significant impact on the island provided no other power generating plants cease operating during the shutdown period. STEAG State Power Inc. (SPI), owner and operator of Mindanao’s first coal-fired power plant, has started its annual preventive maintenance of the company’s two generating units with a total capacity of 210 megawatts (MW): from February 19 to March 2, 2015 for Unit 2 and February 21 –March 16, 2015 for Unit 1. The critical period for the Mindanao Grid was expected to be from February 21 to March 2 when both units would be shut down, taking 210MW off the island’s available power supply. In a press statement released yesterday (March 2), SPI Plant Manager Dr. Carsten Evers said the maintenance repair of its Unit 2 had been completed and the generator was put back in operation and officially synchronized to the Mindanao grid at around 6:08 am. “We have successfully completed the preventive maintenance works for our Unit 2 and 105MW is now made available to the Mindanao grid,” Dr. Evers announced. With the completion of maintenance of Steag’s 105MW Unit 2 generator, MPMC expects further improvements in areas affected. Meanwhile, the AMRECO report was affirmed by the two private electric distribution utilities in Mindanao to BusinessWeek Mindanao. Jaime Rafael U. Paguio, Senior Vice President of the Cagayan de Oro Power and Light Co. (CEPALCO) serving Cagayan de Oro and the Misamis Oriental municipalities of Tagoloan, Villanueva, Jasaan and the Phivedec Industrial Estate, admitted there was an instance when one of the generators of its Independent Power Producer (IPP) Mindanao Energy Systems, Inc. (Minergy) had to undergo minor repairs and CEPALCO was unable to source non-firm supply from IPPs and had to resort to a short interruption in the morning of February 26, 2015 so it would not exceed its Load to Maintain (LTM). However, Mr. Paguio said except for that instance, CEPALCO was able to manage the power deficit and avoid rotational brownouts in its franchise area with the help of their embedded IPP Minergy and other IPPs to cover any shortfall. Minergy’s diesel power plants, two mini hydro-electric plants and the CEPALCO operated PV power plant can jointly generate an additional 50 MW. Mr. Paguio said CEPALCO also made it through with the help of its Interruptible Load Program (ILP) which can harness over 23 MW during peak hours from 2:00 to 8:00PM from its industrial partners enrolled in the ILP which calls for them to run their standby gensets during the period to allow CEPALCO to distribute their allocated loads elsewhere in its franchise area. The 13 companies enrolled in the ILP include Limketkai Sons, Inc., Limketkai Manufacturing Corp., Gaisano, Inc., Del Monte Phils., Mindanao Timber Company Inc., Centrio Mall, Alwana Business

Park, Cagayan Corn Products, RI Chemical Corporation, Pilipinas Kao, Inc., SM City Cagayan de Oro, Nestle Philippines, and Coca Cola Bottlers Co. Thus, CEPALCO managed to generate power within its franchise area that can provide up to 52 percent of its peak power demand of 140MW. This proved sufficient to offset any power shortfall within its franchise area even if its power allocation from the state run Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM) was slashed due to the SPI shutdown. Similarly, Rolando J. Linaac, Chief Operations Officer of Iligan Light and Power Inc. (ILPI) said the utility managed to avoid rotational brownouts due to its adequate preparations and diversified power portfolio which included allocations from the Mapalad Power Corporation (formerly NPC’s Iligan Diesel Plant) and its embedded 15-MW bunker fuel-fired power plant operated by its affiliate Mapalad Energy Generating Corporation and the energy assignment from shuttered Treasure Steelworks Corporation (formerly National Steel Corp) secured thru the efforts of the Iligan city government. “The combined output of these sources could cover two-thirds of our requirements,” Mr. Linaac said. Even electric cooperatives which were formerly subject to nine hours of rotating brownouts last summer managed to keep this to a minimum this past month by diversifying their sources of energy supply. In an exclusive interview with BusinessWeek Mindanao, Adelmo P. Laput, general manager of the Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ZANECO) said despite the STEAG shutdown, they had minimal brownouts and only during peak hours. In addition to its shrinking allocation from PSALM, Mr. Laput said ZANECO has contracted additional capacities from thermal power plants for peaking purposes on top of baseload contracts from cheaper coal plants. “We made sure we had enough electricity for 2015 with five megawatts from Therma South Incorporated’s coal plant under construction in Davao area and 25 megawatts from PSAGCor’s coal plant under construction in Kauswagan in Lanao del Norte,” Mr. Laput said. By the end of 2015, ZANECO expects its run-of- river mini-hydro electric power plant in Bergado, Mutia, to be operational with approximately eight megawatts. “We are confident that we will be energy sufficient by that time, and less expensive because coal plants are a lot cheaper than generators using liquid fuel, which we are using as of the moment,” Laput said.

Projects...

from page 1 (biomass); and 6-MW by Adnama Power Resources, Inc. (ocean power). Most of the other projects are small solar and hydro plants, some of which are put forward by electric distribution cooperatives. Secretary Luwalhati R. Antonino, MinDA chair, said they are pushing for these proposals to achieve a balanced energy mix between fossil and renewable energy sources in the southern island. By 2018, Mindanao’s power supply will tilt towards a bigger percentage sourced from fossil fuel with the operation of several

privately-owned coal-fired plants, starting with Aboitiz Power Corp. subsidiary Therma South, Inc.’s first 150-MW plant which is expected to go online this month. MinDA has estimated fossil fuel output to hit 2,000 MW in the next three years. Currently, more than half of Mindanao’s power supply comes from the Agus and Pulangi hydropower complexes, with a combined installed capacity of 982 MW, operated by the government’s National Power Corp. The Mindanao grid’s system capacity as of March 1 was 1,239 MW, based on the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines Web site. Peak demand was 1,270 MW, putting the shortage at 31 MW. The Department of Energy (DoE) has projected an annual 4.4% growth in Mindanao’s demand from 2008 to 2017, based on the Mindanao Strategic Development Framework 20102020. FASTER PROCESSING MinDA attributed the increase in the number of proposed renewable energy projects to the implementation of the Web-based one-stop facilitation center, which allows applicants to monitor the status of their submitted plans as well as accelerates the processing period to as short as one year. The system, which will also be adopted by the DoE, brings together all government agencies involved in the application assessment and approval process. Romeo M. Montenegro, MinDA’s investment promotions and public affairs director, said the installation of renewable energy plants is “integral to our overall strategy of pursuing balanced and holistic economic growth in Mindanao.” Mr. Montenegro also noted that the development of renewable energy is specified in the Mindanao 2020 Peace and Development Framework Plan, a master plan that maps out the major socioeconomic development strategies for Mindanao.

Pay...

from page 3 to push production to 55 MW, declaring a capacity nomination of 110% of the nominal capacity without the consent of Napocor, the state-run agency said. However, Napocor refused to pay for the additional available capacity, saying it can accept capacity nominations up to 110% but it should come only from the five 18V38 Stork-Wärtsilä engines provided for in the 1996 ECA. However, the decision said the agreement required SPPC to secure Napocor’s consent if production is aimed to exceed 110%. “SPPC is allowed to nominate up to 110% of the Nominal Capacity, which is equivalent to 55 MW. The consent of NPC (Napocor) is only required when the Nominated Capacity exceeds 110%,” the ruling said. SPPC is a consortium formed by Alsons Power Holdings Corp. and Tomen Corp., which undertook to deliver electricity to Napocor, which, in turn, is the fuel provider. Under the 18-year deal, the consortium agreed to design, build and operate a 50-MW bunker-C diesel-generating plant in Alabel, Sarangani, which began operating in 1998 and supplies power to the Mindanao grid.

Port... from page 5

fisherfolk to wholesale and retail buyers at competitive and reasonable prices.” Centralizing the fish trading activities is aimed to expand access for fisherfolk to lower their transaction costs and improve their bargaining power, Avila said. The feasibility study aims to determine the viability of creating the center in terms of population increase versus decreasing fish catch, the competition in terms of other fish products, the return of investment because of other distribution centers like public markets and groceries, as well as equipment such as cold storage facilities and dryers. The City Fisheries Office, through the city fisheries and aquatic resources chair, would be part of the team that would conduct the study. Avila also called on the private sector to submit data on the local performance of the fishing industry, including the prospect of the sector in the next few years. (MindaNews)

Services...

from page 5 be availing of a share in the internal revenue allotment (IRA) funds under a system for all other local government units in the country, Bacani stressed. “For development to catch up with poverty in the Bangsamoro region, the government sees fresh funds in rebuilding these war-torn areas as a tool for strengthening the peace,” Bacani added. The bill also allocates at least a billion pesos to fund the operations of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, as it prepares to transition to the new Bangsamoro region. Bacani said the government’s vision is to make the Bangsamoro people feel the changes as a result of the peace agreement signed between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), thus ensuring a stronger mass base for peace and development. Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, has said that the ultimate objective of providing these funds is to “help strengthen the Bangsamoro region become the anchor and sanctuary of our aspirations of shared prosperity and shared security – not only in the Philippines, but in Asia and across the globe. Its inclusive character affirms this government’s commitment that no one – Muslim, Christian or Lumad – will be left behind.”

Forum...

from page 8 offers counselling, lecture on the importance of healthy lifestyle and ill effects of smoking and other programs to help facilitate end smoking habit. Participants of the forum signified their support to the program by indicating their signature at the prepared tarpaulin on Smoking Cessation Program Pledge of Commitment. City Health Officer Dr. Dennis Carlos Flores lauded the moved initiated by DDNH –IGaCoS Zone, in its pursuit for a smoke free hospital and assured CHO’s support to the Smoke Cessation Program. Philippine National Police Chief of Police P/Supt Benedicto Frias Faco present during the forum expressed support to

the program since he himself don’t smoke. Faco stressed their responsibility to apprehend violators of the anti-smoking ordinance. He also cited Security Service Unit of the city government and Barangay Tanods who were also authorized and empowered to arrest violators. The city government of IGaCoS in coordination and support of the national agencies and private sectors implement programs and projects to improve the welfare of the people, the constituents as well were encouraged to cooperate and support the program and be law abiding citizen. (MTA Samal cio.)

Bans...

from page 8 most of the suppliers have not declared their end-users. During the meeting on Monday of the Program Monitoring & Coordination Center (PMCC) Project Diwalwal, Fragada revealed the need to control entry of cyanide to the gold-rush area because suppliers based in the area, have no identified end-users. “It is better to regulate it,” Fragada said while also emphasizing that the cancellation of Chemical Control Order for Cyanide Registration Certificates not only covers supplying of cyanide but also imports of such chemical. (Jeanevive DuronAbangan, PIA XI)

Pag-Ibig...

from page 9 and members, inspiring us to work even harder to provide them with better benefits and dedicated service.” Responsive and Transparent Programs Pag-IBIG disbursed P38.14 billion worth of multi-purpose loans to 1.9 million members, up by 2% from P37.4 billion to the same number of borrowers in 2013. Calamity loans amounting to P3.6 billion benefited 258,504 members at an interest rate of 5.95%, the lowest in the market after it was reduced from 10.95%. Atty. Berberabe added, “We also launched special programs for members in 2014. Elderly members can now withdraw their unclaimed Pag-IBIG savings in simpler steps through the “PagIBIG BalikSavings65” campaign. Housing loan borrowers affected by calamities can now avail of the Home Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Loan program to help them start anew after unforeseen events. The PagIBIG Loyalty Card was initially offered to members in Baguio, Cebu, and Davao, as 58 partnerestablishments, and counting, offer discounts and freebies to cardholders. It will be fully launched in March 2015.” In 2014, Pag-IBIG also embarked on a fair, transparent, and competitive bidding for an insurance provider to give more benefits to its members, particularly housing loan borrowers. This led to insurance premium being reduced by almost half, from P0.41 your one-st op

11

per P1000 to the current P0.23 per P1000. Member-borrowers will also receive 20% of the insurer’s earning in the form of an Experience Refund. Recognitions The year 2014 showed a repeat of recognitions received in 2013 and even exceeded 2013’s level of accomplishment, a testament to Pag-IBIG Fund’s firm commitment towards providing the best service to its members, as the Fund officers and employees live the standards of excellent performance and good governance. The German firm TÜV SÜD gave Pag-IBIG its second ISO 9001:2008 certification for its Membership Registration Process that now covers all 11 NCR branches, after setting the record in 2011 as being the fastest to complete the certification process among Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), at only three months and 19 days. The Commission on Audit issued a second consecutive Unqualified Opinion on Pag-IBIG’s Financial Statements for 2013. All Pag-IBIG branches surveyed in the AntiRed Tape Act (ARTA) Report Card Survey again enjoyed a 100 percent passing rate – the only government agency to enjoy such back-to-back feat in 2013 and 2014, with 26 branches receiving Excellent scores in 2014. Votes of Confidence Vice President Binay also acknowledged the statements of support Pag-IBIG has been receiving, and said, “Our internal and external stakeholders, the Pag-IBIG employees and the country’s leading developer associations, respectively, stood by Pag-IBIG when it was accused of favoritism, validating the good work and reforms we have been doing since we assumed office.” The Pag-IBIG Fund Employees’ Labor Association stated that “Integrity is of primary importance to us as integrity brings about trust. We respect and believe in the integrity and professionalism of the current Pag-IBIG Fund Management, and we, as the representatives of the rankand-file employees, shall be the foremost protectors of Pag-IBIG Fund.” The Organization of Socialized Housing Developers of the Philippines attested to “the good corporate governance of PagIBIG Fund. We witnessed the strong sense of professionalism that characterized its leadership these past four years…making it at par with how the biggest banks and publicly-listed corporations in the country are being run.” On the other hand, the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association also confirmed the “professionalism, competence, integrity, and good governance practices in our dealings with the current Pag-IBIG Fund CEO and its management team. They have exhibited full transparency and openness during dialogues with key stakeholders to formulate and implement much needed reforms that have benefited the housing industry as a whole.”

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BusinessWeek MINDANAO TUESDAY | MARCH 3, 2015

editor: SHAUN ALEJANDRAE YAP UY

Dial M casts Carl Manere and Noli Paglinawan in the phone call sequence of TXS’ adaptation of Frederick Knott’s Dial M for Murder. Photo by S.UY

PAGE 12

Dial M casts Carl Manere, Tracy June Dy, Rosell Velez in the opening sequences of TXS’ adaptation of Frederick Knott’s Dial M for Murder. Photo by S.UY

Murder, mystery caps off XU’s Arts Month celebration “

At exactly three minutes to eleven, you’ll enter the house through the street door. You’ll find the key to this door under the stair carpet here.

“

~Tony, Dial M for Murder

The Xavier Stage’s (TXS), a resident repertory company of Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, 4th Theatre Season (2014-2015) presented an adaptation of Frederick Knott’s Dial M for Murder, February 23 – 28, and extended for one more run on March 1 at the Xavier University Little Theater (XULT). TXS began the season with adaptations of Agatha Christie’s Ten Little Indians in September 2014 and Joseph Kesserling’s Arsenic and Old Lace in December 2014 with a re-staging last January 5 to 7 due to a command performance. Playwright Don Pagusara adapted Ten Little Indians while resident playwright and actor Roger Garcia adapted Arsenic and Old Lace. Both plays were translated to Cebuano. In celebration of the National Arts Month, TXS staged the adaptation of Dial M for Murder with a fresher take from its original concept, contextualizing it into a contemporary Cagayan de Oro setting. “Though some might take the play’s plot as unimaginable to happen, The Xavier Stage makes sure to portray mistaken opportunity and greed for money, power, contempt and suspicion for these are dominant

themes that determine the characters’ motives and intentions in the play”, notes Hobart Savior, director of TXS. Palanca winner Don Pagusara adapted the play. Carl Cyril Manere, Tracy June Dy, Rosell Velez, Roger Garcia, Noli Paglinawan, Lila Gianneli Ang, Edmund Telmo, Simon Pierre Salera, Ken Francisco and Ryan Ilogon compose the cast who are from the actors’ pool of TXS. “Dial M for Murder was amazing, overall. The set design was very artistic; I was inspired by the color of the lights, the aura, and the emotions of the actors. It was worth watching and perhaps to show it not only here in the Philippines but around the world” says Roque Salvo, a senior MassComm student who watched the play. “The sounds touched me emotionally, I feel like I’m part of

Dial M Roger Garcia Tracy June Dy, Rosell Velez in on of the climactic sequences of TXS’ adaptation of Frederick Knott’s Dial M for Murder. Photo by S.UY

the drama, very intense, I can say that the crew, actors are well trained and uphold the creative values when it comes to staging plays.” Salvo concludes. Dial M for Murder is a production by The Xavier Stage supported by Xavier University, Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts, the Office of Mission and Ministry of XU and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

THE CAST. Carl Cyril Manere, Tracy June Dy, Rosell Velez, & Roger Garcia in one of the highlight scenes of The Xavier Stage’s adaptation of Frederick Knott’s Dial M for Murder. Photo by S.UY