BusinessWeek Mindanao (October 12, 2020)

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Electric cooperatives asked to extend grace period, staggered payment of bills Power bills reprieve FOLLOWING the declaration of extension of the state of calamity in the country due to the continued threat of the coronavirus pandemic, the National Electrification Administration (NEA) has again asked all electric cooperatives to offer a grace period and staggered payment methods for electricity bills due during the lockdown.

NEA Administrator Edgardo R. Masongsong issued Memorandum No. 2020-047, endorsing the Energy department’s advisory on power sector bill grace periods.

“All electric cooperatives are enjoined to abide by the directives, specifically the implementation of 30-day grace period and staggered payment for unpaid bills, particularly those that fall due within the community quarantine period,” Mr. Masongsong said in a press release on Friday.

Zero complaint THE province of Camiguin has the l owest coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases in the Northern Mindanao region, and received zero complaints in the management of patient care facilities.

Rhona Abadilla, provincial director of the Department of the Interior of Local Government (DILG), said on Wednesday there were no negative feedbacks given by returning residents who underwent the standard quarantine protocols.

Abadilla said the province has 64 isolation units, with 603-bed capacity in the 56 barangays in the province's five towns.

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Monday|October 12, 2020

By MYRNA M. VELASCO, Contributor

HE loans extended by the National Electrification Administration (NEA) to the country’s electric cooperatives (ECs) reached P364.5 million as of end-September, and that already topped the scale of credit window allotted for them this year.

The government-run agenc y s aid t he cre dit facilities funneled to the power utilities include those on calamity loans, which had been accessed by the ECs so they can push for the repair of their facilities walloped by natural disasters, primarily typhoons.

LOANS/PAGE 9

Thank you for trusting us!

Iligan, Surigao, Tandag biz chambers best in Mindanao

By MIKE BAÑOS, Editor-at-Large

THE local chambers of commerce and industry in the cities of Iligan, Tandag and Surigao have been recognized as the most outstanding chamb ers in Mindanao in their respective categories.

The winners were announced 08 October 2020 during the closing plenary of the 46th Philippine Business Conference hosted online for the first time by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Iligan Foundat ion, Inc. (CCIFII) under the stewardship of Pres.

Reggie Punongbayan was

recognized as the Most Outstanding Chamber in Mindanao for City Category 1.

T h e Ta n d a g C i t y Chamber of Commerce and Industry under the stewardship of Pres. Julie Po r t i l l o - S e n e n s e w a s similarly recognized as the Most Outstanding Chamber in Mindanao for City Category 2.

Not the least, the Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry under the stewardship of Pres. Willie Gan was cited as the Most Outstanding Chamber in Mindanao for Province Level 1.

PCCI Mindanao has the BEST/PAGE 10

BACK TO FISHING. Johnny Adolfo relaxes in his boat after a day of fishing. He used to be a tourist boat operator in General Luna, Siargao Island but was forced to return to fishing after the place was closed to tourism due to the pandemic. photo by roel n. catoto/mindanews

46th Philippine Business Conference

Oro, Koronadal cited most biz friendly LGUs

By MIKE BAÑOS, Editor-at-Large

THE Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry awarded Special Citations to the local government units of Cagayan de Oro and Koronadal during yesterday’s awarding ceremonies for PCCI’s Most Business Friendly LGUs 2020.

Special citations are awarded to LGUs that have demonstrated exemplary programs or initiatives in any of the areas of the award FRIENDLY/PAGE 11

HOT PURSUIT. Soldiers from the 58th Infantry Batallion disembark from Huey chopper to patrol the pineapple plantation in Claveria, Misamis Oriental where trucks were burned by insurgents last week. photo by gerry lee gorit

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Local Andanar denounces Timely PCA intervention helps 'NPA atrocities' in MisOr coconut farmers in Agusan Sur

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UTUAN City – Coconut farmers in Agusan del Sur has recognized the intervention made by the Philippine Coconut Authority in Caraga (PCA-13), saying it came just in time as they are reeling from the effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

From Sept. 1 to Oct. 6 this year, PCA-13 distributed around P6.3 million financial aid to at least 1,153 coconut farmers in Agusan del Sur under the agency’s Participatory Coconut Planting Project (PCPP).

PCPP is a participatory and cash reward program for coconut farmers to help them develop their plantation and encourage farmers to expand their areas and promote the industry to non-coconut farmers.

The cash aid was distributed to 65 barangays in nine towns and one city in Agusan del Sur during the period.

“I am thankful that the government, through the PCA, has aided the coconut farmers like me in this time of crisis,” said 70-year-old Teresita Mabras in an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Thursday (Oct. 8).

Mabras, married with three children and

MONDAY|OCTOBER 12, 2020

a resident of Barangay La Suerte, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, said she still helps supervise the maintenance of their four-hectare coconut farm, two hectares of which are already productive while another two are still on the development stage.

She was among the coconut farmers in Prosperidad who received cash aid from the PCPP program last Sept. 25 in the amount of P14,000.

“I used the amount in the procurement of the needed insecticide because the developing coconuts are infested.

The aid is really on time.

I will also allocate for the fertilizers and the payment of laborers who will do the cleaning of the farm and the application of the insecticide and fertilizer,”

PRESIDENTIAL Communications Operations Office Secretary Jose Ruperto with two children, belongs Mabras said "Martin" Andanar has to the Manobo tribe She said her family denounced the recent in Barangay San Juan, is now harvesting at the atrocities committed by productive portion of their Bayugan City in Agusan suspected New Peoples del Sur. farm and will sell copras Army on two separate “My husband and I are after one week. into coconut farming since occasions in Misamis “I hope the price of Oriental province. then, we have around five copra will continue to hectares of the farm of increase,” Mabras said, "It is unfortunate which two hectares have adding that buying price that in the midst of of copra in the area ranges 253 productive coconuts,” the pandemic, there is Lopez said. from P19 to P21 per kilo. this war that disturbs She added that in 2018, the efforts of the Another coconut they availed of the coconut farmer in the area, government. This is not seedling distribution Carmelita Sag-od-Lopez, the time to burn trucks, through the PCPP said the government is equipment, or projects very active even during the program which helped of the government. This them plant another twohealth crisis. is very below the belt," “The government really hectare in their farm.

Andanar said in Friday's “These coconuts are takes care of the people, especially the farmers. The still developing and the virtual press conference. aid that we received last PCA, despite the health Andanar, head of month, amounting to risks, moved on with the the Cabinet Officer for more than P6,000 was distribution of the aid Regional Development used to buy fertilizers and seeing its importance to in Northern Mindanao pesticides,” Lopez said. the coconut farmers,” and the Regional Task She said the aid also Lopez said.

Force in Ending Local Lopez, 43, married FARMERS/PAGE 11

Communist Armed Conflict, was referring to the two incidents in Misamis Oriental, one in Claveria town, on Tuesday, followed by another burning incident in Balingasag town on Thursday.

Northern Mindanao residents, he said, "are smart, politically aware, and wise" and will not be deceived by rebel propaganda.

The Army's 58th Infantry Battalion (58IB) arrested one of the NPA combatants in the Claveria attack early this week.

The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines. (PNA)

Education in time of the pandemic ROSEMARIE JANEO-TAMSI TEACHER-II WEST CITY CENTRAL SCHOOL CARMEN CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

Health officials are currently taking steps to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) into communities across the country as the pandemic situation continues to affect the lives of many students and families.

The Covid-19 pandemic has created the largest disruption of education systems in history, affecting nearly 1.6 billion learners in more than 190 countries and all continents.

According to the United Nations, closures of schools and other learning spaces have impacted 94 percent of t he worl d ' s stu d e nt population, up to 99 percent in low and lower-middle income countries.

The education disruption has, and will continue to have, substantial effects beyond education. Closures of educational institutions hinder the provision of essential services to children and communities, including access to nutritious food, affect the ability of many parents to work, and increase the risk of violence against wom e n an d g i r l s . T h e financing of education has also faced major challenges.

However, this crisis has stimulated innovation within the education sector. There were innovative approaches in support of education and training continuity such as the use of radio and television, having take-home packages, and conducting online teaching.

Distance learning solutions were developed thanks to quick responses by the government and its partners across the country that supp or t education continuity.

The crisis brought by the pandemic to the education sector has also reminded people of the essential role of teachers in imparting knowledge to students.

Before the start of the online classes, authorities have considered the proposals to allow limited face-to-face classes in low-risk areas, and for the most part, classrooms will remain empty due to health safety concerns.

However, on May 28, education secretary Leonor Briones said that there will be no face-to-face and sessions until the safety of the children and teachers are assured.

The education department

has come up with methods to deliver lessons to children such as online, television, radio, and printed materials.

Colleges and universities have also shifted to distance learning.

This new way of learning has gathered mixed reactions from students and their parents as some prefer the traditional classroom set up, particularly those who find being at home distracting.

Others complained of the lack of access to the internet and the additional expenses that the parents have to spend on the internet just so their children can attend their online classes.

The additional expenses have pushed several students to beg for money online and parents, with their children enrolled in private schools, demanded to lower the tuition fee since the students will be studying at home.

While the officials can't say for certain that distance learning is effective, they insist on trying to make it work rather than doing nothing to address the problem in the education s e c t or brou g ht by t h e pandemic.

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

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MONDAY|OCTOBER 12, 2020

BDO Trust Market Sense webinar

Lawmaker says continued government spending key in economic recovery amid COVID-19

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ESPITE the fact that economic growth and activity have slowed down as a result of the persisting COVID-19 pandemic, government spending should still continue to fast track economic recovery.

According to economist and Marikina (2nd District) Rep. Stella Luz Quimbo, the government needs to spend even in the midst of a crisis in order to boost confidence levels of the public, especially businesses.

"In a bad economic crisis, confidence level is very low—confidence of consumers, confidence of your workers. Everyone's afraid. Fear and anxiety have set in. Even business owners, they don't want to invest. In fact, they'd rather close shop. So this is a situation where government must step in.

If the government is not spending enough, then our confidence will be deflated," Rep. Quimbo said as a guest in an episode of Market Sense, a monthly webinar series organized by the BDO Trust Group that combines

the latest economic and market developments with seasoned expert advice to help investors take control of their investments and grow their wealth.

"We need government to spend because there's a lot of market failures arising from the pandemic," she added.

Rep. Quimbo is one of the principal authors of House Bill No. 6815, or the Accelerated Recovery and Investments Stimulus for the Economy of the Philippines (ARISE Philippines) bill which was already approved by the Lower House.

The bill calls for the release of P1.3 trillion in economic stimulus package to jumpstart the economy's recovery from the pandemic in the next four years. It aims to offer various forms of assistance to micro, small and medium enterprises and other sectors adversely affected by COVID-19, and targets to generate around 1.5 million jobs through various infrastructure projects and financial assistance to small businesses from 2020 to 2023.

Confidence booster. Marikina 2nd District Rep. Stella Quimbo says the government needs to spend more even amid the pandemic to boost the country’s sagging confidence. She joined BDO Chief Investment Officer Frederico “Fritz” Ocampo as a guest in the recent Market Sense webinar.

Projections in 2020 and hopes for recovery in 2021 Meanwhile, BDO Trust Group is looking at a gross domestic product (GDP) contraction of 9.6% in

the 3rd quarter, and a 6% contraction in the 4th quarter to bring its full year 2020 GDP projection to negative 8.3%.

Nonetheless, to echo Rep Quimbo's call

for more government spending, BDO Chief Investment Officer Frederico "Fritz" Ocampo said the country is poised for a recovery of 6.6% in 2021, as more government

spending enters the economy.

“It would allow the economy to recover, and that would be the 2021 story,” he said. “We're SPENDING/PAGE 9

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Opinion

The BusinessWeek Mindanao is published by BusinessWeek Mindanao Corporation every Monday to Friday with office address at Tanleh Building, Abellanosa, Cagayan de Oro City. It is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under Company Registration No. CS201531633 with BIR Certificate of Registration No. 2RC0000831068, TIN No. 463-826-272-000 – VAT. Reg., and with Business Permit No. 2020-04015. Tel. Nos.: (088)856-3344, (088) 810-100, 0923-432-0687, 0917-7121424 Website: www.businessweekmindanao.com E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com

BUSINESSWEEK MINDANAO CORPORATION Publisher DANTE M. SUDARIA President/CEO ALLAN MARIO MEDIANTE Vice President for Corporate Affairs RUFINO T. MAGBANUA Vice President for Business Development VICENTE C. DELA VICTORIA Vice President for Operations JOE FELICILDA Vice President for Administration JOHN AARON M. DEL BANDO Vice President for Events and Promotions JOE PALABAO Vice President for Marketing ROSE MARY D. SUDARIA, PhD Vice President for Finance MIKE BAÑOS Vice President for Digital

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Life with people (Pt. 2) Think a minute… A pop song said: “People who need people are the luckiest people in the world.” But to learn how to live happily and successfully with others, we must first unlearn our unhealthy, bad habits and ways with people.

Sometimes we run away rather than work through our disagreements and differences. Like a child who gets angry and says: “I’m going home. I’m not going to be your friend anymore!”

Our feelings get hurt—so we quit our job, end a friendship, even get a divorce. “We take the easy way and just move on rather than grow up.” But if you keep moving on from one relationship to another, you will never have the success, satisfaction and rewards of close, lasting relationships.

Many couples could learn to live happily together if they did not resort to this revenge or payback mentality.

But lashing out and hurting the other person just makes things worse and is the most damaging way to deal with our differences—including the lasting pain and problems through which we put our kids. We would have much

THINK A MINUTE

JHAN TIAFAU HURST happier lives if instead we simply admitted our faults and did what is needed in our marriage, parenting, and other relationships.

The first ingredient of successful relationships is communication. With no communication, you have no relationship. At the end of our life, some of our biggest regrets will be all the things we did not say to the ones we love.

We so often misunderstand and misread people. That is why we need to kindly tell each other how we truly feel and not pretend everything is fine. The sooner we open up and honestly talk about our real feelings, the sooner we will be happier and healthier.

LIFE/PAGE 11

changes in all facets of normal activities conducts that we all are used to. If there is any sector in our society that seemed to enjoy watching the administration grappling with the enormity and complexity of the problems at hand, it is no other than the political opposition.

I, therefore, entertained the notion that it must have been the opposition who commissioned the survey for what better time and who would think of a wily scheme of having a survey done when everything looks so bleak? On the other hand, Pulse Asia may just have conducted a survey on behalf

of its non-political clients who wants to measure the confidence level of the public on the government’s capacity to overcome the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Let’s face it. While we have a segment in our society that is under the poverty level we have a formidable middle class too which has money to spend. While the survey focused on Trust and Approval ratings of government institutions, it is also a veritable barometer of how people, by their level of confidence, expect to return to their productive activity and spend their money.

At 91% Trust and Approval

LETTERS FROM DAVAO

JUN LEDESMA ratings from the upper and middle crusts of society, w e s e e u npre c e d e nt e d confidence of the people that the Duterte government can overcome the challenges.

SURVEY/PAGE 11

The empowered women of Maranding For feeding the hungry, now facing unimaginable crisis KIM'S DREAM

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CHAINCERLIE SUMALPONG Advertising

I DON'T know who commissioned Pulse Asia to conduct a survey on the sentiments of the people amidst the pandemic which, like other countries worldwide, shook the foundations of ever y government and private institution. The Philippines is not spared and considering the density of our population the administration of Pres.

Rodrigo R. Duterte faces enormous challenges.

The people are aware of the magnitude of the problems that Covid-19 had impacted on the economy, lifestyle, f re e dom of movement, education and other radical

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And the survey says ...

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ORLAN R. RAVANERA “Let a hundred flowers blo om and a t hous and hearts content,” this dictum speaks well of the seventeen (17) dynamic women of Maranding in Lanao del Norte who in 1996 organized the Maranding Women Investors Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MWIMPC) with an initial capital of P19,500.

The blooming of the flowers, no matter how beautiful, pales in comparison to the blooming of the women of Maranding whose number has since multiplied now to more than 11,000 members and whose initial capital of P19,500.00 has now reached

P196,000,000. Wow, so amazing as is a concrete manifestation of women empowerment and drawing those in the margins into the mainstream of development processes by harnessing their collective potentials through cooperativism.

W h at t h e s e w o m e n envision is just to have a stable and dynamic cooperative with a heart in a progressive society, yet, it is that simple vision that did shape the future for them in the island of Mindanao which has been described as “a major performer and a primary contributor to the country’s pro du c t ive c ap a c it i e s .”

However, it is a “development characterized by exploitation, where dominant classes, distant elites and rapacious transnational corporations deplete the island’s resources leaving the majority of the population in poverty.”

Mindanao, aptly called the “food basket” of the nation, oozes with abundant natural resources – vast agricultural

lands, teeming fisheries, huge mineral deposits, rich in forest resources – yet, its six regions are suffering from high poverty gap ratios compared to the regions in Luzon and in the Visayas.

The poor in Mindanao are the poorest through-out the nation and where 14 of the 25 poorest provinces are found.

Howe ve r, t he l e t ha l combination of poverty, conflict and gender inequalities have no match against the determined women who are working together to reclaim back the future for their children.

They are now serving notice to one and all that they have awakened and that, they will not allow anymore poverty to strip them of their Godgiven dignity. Through their cooperative, they are collectively harnessing their potentials, energies and experiences.

In the world of cooperativism, no one shall be left behind – such is the spirit that drove them to help the

victims of the Marawi Seige three years ago. They could not accept that the internally displaced persons in the war torn areas during the height of the Siege would just be eating cartoons or malongs.

So on March 23,2017, the Maranding Women Investors Multi-Purpose Cooperative led by the General Manager herself, Marilou Banding divided themselves into two groups to distributed food and cash for the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.

The other group was led by Ms. Vanessa Benzon that was caught in a crossfire of the gun battle between the government troops and the ISIS-inspired Maute Group in the municipality of Calanogas, Lanao del Sur. That turbulent encounter resulted to the loss of some twenty million pesos due to the rampage when everyone was running for safety. Apparently, that cash loss was due to force majeure but how come, the women of Maranding had to CRISIS/PAGE 11

Fighting epidemics in times past I recently attended a virtual le c ture by my favor ite historian, Professor Ambeth Ocampo, where he expounded on various epidemics that v isite d t he Phi lippines more than 100 years ago.

The lecture was part of a long-running series “History Comes Alive”, now on its 10th year, which is sponsored by the Filipinas Heritage Library and the Ayala Museum (my favorite museum). According to O camp o, at var ious periods, the Philippines was hit by smallpox, bubonic plague, and cholera and it was interesting how the authorities dealt with them.

In the 1800s, the “flavor of the month” was smallpox which infected most of the Spanish territories, in South America and the Philippines.

The then reigning Spanish monarch, Carlos IV, ordered a vaccination expedition to head for the territories in 1803. The group was headed

by Francisco Javier de Balmis.

In the late 1700s, Spain

already had a vaccine for smallpox and in fact Carlos IV had his immediate family inoculated. But the problem was how to transport the vaccine because of the long voyage involved. Balmis had the brilliant idea of using live carriers. From Spain to Mexico and from Mexico to Manila, Balmis used orphans working a relay system.

During the voyage, Balmis transmitted the vaccine in sequence, from child to child, arm to arm along the way to their destination.

To c ut a long stor y short, Balmis and his boys eventually reached Manila in 1805. The Spanish GovernorGeneral Rafael Aguilar led the way by having his children inoculated. This softened the initial resistance of the Archbishop of Manila who was not keen on vaccination.

Eventually, Balmis inoculated 20,000 inhabitants in Manila a n d e nv i r o n s . B a l m i s’ assistants later proceeded to Misamis and Zamboanga.

From Manila, Balmis brought Filipino orphans to Macau and Canton for a similar inoculation exercise.

A bronze monument of Carlos IV, in front of the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, and a historical marker at the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine commemorate the vaccination expedition.

During the American occupation, we were hit by bubonic plague (1899, 1905, and 1912) and cholera (1902). Bubonic plague is widely believed to be carried by rats. Rats usually came via ships so the authorities built along the shore area smooth concrete walls to prevent rats from climbing over. The authorities also ordered a wide-spread drive to eliminate rodents. As an incentive, sanitation officials paid 5 centavos for every rat tail. More enterprising Filipinos resorted to breeding rats to increase their income.

Others sold live pythons, to

SPEAKING OUT

IGNACIO BUNYE the more adventurous, as a substitute for cats to kill rats inside dwellings.

During the cholera outbreak, people became very afraid of ambulances.

Medical personnel would get infected persons from their homes and, for many, that was the last time they would see their sick relatives.

So the people started hiding their sick relatives from the sanitation officials.

Ocampo also brought out a little known fact about how American occupation troops EPIDEMICS/PAGE 11

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Feature

Online platform food delivery app foodpanda launches 12 surprises of Christmas

By JOEL C. ESCOL

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HE upcoming Christmas Holiday Season is now starting to reverberate into the minds and spirits of Filipinos as stores start to display decors, Christmas lights, toys and all other gift items we can send to loved ones on Christmas day.

Even radio stations also signal the start of the traditional spirit of Christmas with Christmas songs flooding the airwaves.

Online food delivery platform foodpanda also feels the Christmas fever starting to call the attention of Filipinos who always love to celebrate the Yuletide's funfare and merry making. The company is also launching its biggest promotion ever to date, starting on October 11 until October 30, 2020.

With its promotion this Holiday Season dubbed as "Kumukutikuti-TAP with foodpanda's 12 Surprises of Christmas, big prizes await the lucky winners, and this will be raffled every week.

Prizes include gaming packages that will surely amaze foodpanda's loyal patrons.

More than the feasts, lights or gifts, it is the Christmas spirit that truly makes the Filipino Christmas uniquely special and beautiful.

No challenge can ever dampen the merry that Christmas brings. To usher in the holidays, foodpanda will lighten up the nation with kumukutikuti-TAP: Isang Dosenang Pamaskong Hatid ng foodpanda (12

Surprises of Christmas).

For the next 12 weeks starting this October 11, foodpanda will launch weekly surprises for everyone.

Kicking off the celebration is foodpanda’s biggest promotion to date.

Get a chance to win the hottest gadgets in gaming, entertainment and foodpanda vouchers.

Here's how it works: 1. foodpanda is giving away P500 foodpanda vouchers to 1,200 users weekly. Whether you’re a gamer or just someone who wants to be entertained in style at home, you can count on it that you’ll enjoy what we have in store for you. Here are the other exciting prizes what you can win: Week 1. 12 winners of “Casual Gaming Package” which includes

a PS4, PS VR Headset, PS camera, PS move controllers and gift certificates for PS4 games Week 2. 12 winners will sing happy tunes this Christmas with the “Music Package” which includes an AirPod Pro and an iPad Pro 128 GB. Grand Draw. 12 winners will celebrate with the “Ultimate Gaming Package”. foodpanda ambassador and celebrity gamer Alodia Gosiengfiao personally picked the gaming rigs included in the set which consists of a whopping collection of monitor, CPU, headset, mouse, and gaming chair.

Another 12 winners of an “Ultimate Entertainment Package”, which includes a Samsung 4K 65” TV, a Samsung Soundbar 5.1 Channel, and a Bose Home Bluetooth Speaker.

2. How to join? From October 11-31, order in foodpanda restaurants, pick-up or shops with only a minimum order of Php299. Use the voucher code MERRYGALO on checkout. Each order using the voucher code is equivalent to one entry. The more entries, the higher chances of winning. Winners will be randomly drawn for the weekly prizes. All entries from Oct.11-31 are entitled to win in the Grand Draw.

Watch out for more surprises from foodpanda through foodpanda's Facebook and Instagram pages.--Ride on the fun and excitement, download the app today and be a part of foodpanda’s week by week Christmas Season surprises.

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MOTORING IN-DEPTH

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Monday|October 12, 2020

Suzuki Rolls Out DEALightful Wheels Promo

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UZUKI Philippines Incorporated (SPH), the pioneer compact car distributor in the country once again shakes things up to excite its customers both longtime and new, introducing the DEALightful Wheels Promo.

A double treat starting on October 10, 2020 as SPH will be giving away ten Suzuki Skydrive 125 Fi motorcycles to

the lucky winners!

The DEALightful Wheels Promo is open to customers who purchase any variant of this popular 7-seater MPV- the Suzuki Ertiga, from October 10, 2020 to October 31, 2020.

The Ertiga, known to be a popular choice for families who are looking for style, comfort and practicality, is definitely a looker with a price tag that

starts at P738,000.

On November 9, 2020, ten winners will be chosen via electronic raffle draw which will be streamed via Facebook Live at Suzuki Philippines official Facebook Page witnessed

by DTI representatives. The DEALightful Wheels Promo is open to all Suzuki customers who purchase the Suzuki Ertiga

of any variant nationwide-three winners from NCR Luzon, two winners from Visayas, and two winners from Mindanao.

October just keeps on getting better for Suzuki customers! The excitement doesn’t stop there as Dzireable Deals, Big Hero Promo, and Back 4 More Deals are extended until October 31,

2020! What are you waiting for? Visit their website and find out more about these exciting promos that will surely prepare you for new and exciting adventures on the road!

For more information about Suzuki Philippines and its automobiles, please visit www.suzuki.com.ph and like them on www.facebook.com/ SuzukiAutoPH.

Internet Provider Converge Acquires 200 Suzuki Carry Units Last September 17, 2020, Suzuki Auto San Fernando and Converge Communications & Information Technology Solutions, Inc. celebrated the Ceremonial Turnover of 200 unit of Suzuki Carry. With a new fleet of reliable and practical units, Converge will now be able to intensify even more its customer service as Suzuki’s Carry makes it possible to amplify their logistical requirements.

The Ceremonial Turnover was attended by Laus Group of Companies (LGC) Executive Director Diorella Laus, Converge Co-Founder Grace Uy, Converge CEO Dennis Uy, LGC Chairman and CEO Lisset Laus-Velasco and LGC President Paul Laus.

The Carry is backed by more than 40 years of Suzuki compact truck experience in different environments and weather condition, which makes it the most suitable

vehicle for Converge with all the daily field work required to make sure their clients’ satisfaction.

Rust and corrosion is the least to worry about with galvanized steel plates used for the entire bed of the compact-truck, on top of the sealers and undercoating used for its underbody and its stainless-steel exhaust system is rust-resistant as well.

Flooded roads with water levels as high as 30cm won’t be a roadblock when clients call for Converge’s support team as its engine air intake is placed in a high position. The Carry is powered by a high-power and highfuel efficient 4-cylinder 1.5 liter engine which can produce up to 71KW/600rpm, with a maximum torque of 134N.m/4,400rp. The Carry is available in two variants, the Carry Cab and Chassis 1.5L

at Php499,000.00, and the Carry Truck 1.5L at Php509,000.00.

Customization is available upon request of customer.

For more information

on the Carry, you may visit Suzuki Philippines’ website, https://auto. suzuki.com.ph/all-newcarry to get to know more about the vehicle that is

a reliable work partner designed to make your business grow as you achieve new milestones and celebrate more wins!

For more information

about Suzuki Philippines and its automobiles, please visit www.suzuki. com.ph and like them on www.facebook.com/ SuzukiAutoPH.

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Cebu Pacific eyes $500M for recovery

C

EBU AIR, Inc., the listed operator of budget carrier Cebu Pacific, is seeking to raise about $500 million in fresh capital to “strengthen” its balance sheet, as the industry fights for survival amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

In a disclosure to the stock exchange on Thursday, Cebu Air said

it “intends to undergo a fundraising plan” that will enable it to “navigate the current environment and thrive in the new normal.”

It added it aims to raise “aggregate proceeds of approximately $500 million.”

The fundraising plan involves a “convertible preferred share rights issue for an aggregate proceeds of about $250

Building a Wall against Pandemic ROSEMARIE T. MINTANG Canibungan Proper Elementary School Division of Misamis Occidental Teacher I

Cities during ancient times were protected by massive walls. If an enemy breached just a small section of a wall, the safety of the entire city was at risk. In the same way, the human body is like a walled city. How you care for your defenses has much to do with how healthy you are.

Who wants to be sick? An illness is an inconvenience and an expense. You not only feel bad, but when you are sick, you may not be able to go to work or school, earn any money, or look after your family. You may even need someone to look after you, and you may have to pay for expensive medicines and treatment.

How can we build a wall and protect ourselves from getting sick? One way is to practice good hygiene. According to the Mayo Clinic, “one of the best ways to avoid getting sick and spreading illness” is to wash your hands.

One of the easiest ways to catch a cold or virus is to rub your nose or your eyes when your hands have been contaminated by germs. Your best defense against such contamination is to wash your hands regularly. Cleaning your hands properly is also very important. Studies have shown that a large percentage people do not wash their hands correctly.

How to do this? You should wash your hands with clean water and soap. Rubbing it for at least 20 seconds will make sure that it will be thoroughly cleansed. Such measures are simple but can avert illness and save lives.

A l s o, o b t a i n i n g a sufficient clean water for one’s family is necessary.

It is important to check if the water supply is safe for drinking and whether it is not contaminated as a result of a flood, a storm, a pipe break, or some other issue. If water does not come from a safe source or is not stored correctly, it can cause parasite infestation, as well as cholera, life-threatening diarrhea, typhoid, hepatitis, and other infections.

Good health is impossible without good nutrition, and for good nutrition you need a healthy, balanced diet. If you eat too many sugars and solid fats, you risk becoming overweight. Eat more fruit instead of sugary desserts.

And instead of using solid fats for cooking, you may want to use healthier oils.

Too much salt, or sodium, in the diet can raise your blood pressure to an unhealthy level. It is also important to take note of the quantity of what you’re eating. Too much food consumption can harm the body.

It is also necessary to stay physically active. Regardless of your age, you need regular physical activity to stay in good shape. Many people today do not exercise enough. Why is exercise important? By doing so, we can sleep well, maintain strong bones and muscles, achieve a healthy weight and be free from depression.

Lastly, getting enough sleep helps boost our immune system. Getting the right amount of rest should not be considered optional. According to experts, sufficient sleep is important for learning and retention of ne w information, maintaining t h e r i g ht b a l a n c e o f hormones that impact metabolism and weight, cardiovascular health and disease prevention. While insufficient sleep has been linked to obesity, depression, heart disease, diabetes, and tragic accidents.

Prevention is better than cure. Hence, it is wiser to build a protective wall in our body than to pay for expensive medicines.

By achieving a healthy lifestyle, you can win the battle against diseases!

million” and “a private placement of convertible bonds with aggregate subscription price of up to $250 million.”

Aside from boosting its balance sheet, Cebu Air plans to use part of the proceeds for general corporate purposes.

In a separate disclosure, the Cebu Pacific operator noted an urgent need to fast-track its transformation because of the “exceptional change in market conditions and industry dynamics.”

The business transformation involves

“right-sizing of the network and fleet to meet new demand, and improvement of operations efficiency through process and policy enhancements and digitalization, among others,” Cebu Air said.

Cebu Air has scheduled a special stockholders’ meeting on Nov. 20, where it will be seeking the shareholders’ approval to increase the company’s authorized capital stock from P1.3 billion to P1.7 billion and “create a new class of convertible preferred

shares with a par value of P1.00 per share.”

It said the issue price of the convertible preferred shares rights issue and the convertible bonds private placement “will be decided based on various factors, including the prevailing market price at such relevant time, and the broader equity capital market conditions.”

“The conversion price of the convertible preferred shares and the convertible bonds is expected to be the same and to be set within P38 to P45 range, representing

2% to 21% conversion premium over Cebu Air’s 30-day volume weighted average price from August 26, 2020 to October 7, 2020,” the company added.

Cebu Air previously reported a net loss of P7.96 billion for the second quarter, reversing a profit of P3.79 billion in the same period last year.

The governmentimposed travel restrictions during the period resulted in a nearly 93% decline in the company’s gross revenues to P1.42 billion from P23.53 billion in the year-earlier period.

BSP unveils digital payments transformation roadmap THE Monetary Board approved the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap 2020-2023. The roadmap charts the BSP’s current initiatives and strategy in advancing an efficient, inclusive, safe and secure digital payments ecosystem.

This shall support the achievement of the BSP’s mandates and meet the diverse needs and capabilities of individuals and firms. The roadmap identifies two key strategic objectives.

First, is the strengthening of customer preference for digital payments by converting 50% of the total volume of

retail payments into digital form and expanding the number of the financially included to 70% of Filipino adults by onboarding them to the formal financial system through the use of payment or transaction accounts.

The second is the availability of more innovative digital financial products and services designed to be responsive to the needs of consumers, enabled by a digital ID (Philippine Identification System or PhilSys), and supported by the availability of a next generation payment and settlement system to facilitate real-time processing of financial transactions.

Said objectives are strategically anchored on three critical pillars, which are envisaged to successfully transform the cash-heavy Philippine economy into a cash-lite economy.

The first is the development of digital payment streams (use cases) which will accelerate wider acceptance and use among individuals, businesses and the government.

The second is the establishment of the necessary digital finance infrastructure to facilitate interoperability in the digital payments ecosystem, allowing providers to offer a wider array of affordable

In this high fashion shoot that highlights women empowerment, Queen A (host of MDN TeleRadyo's Asenso Mindanao) poses with her daughter Sol Sigrid, a Gliterrati model featuring the creations of Gil Macaibay III. Glam by Shantal Tan Ayala. photography : tuladan studios of zamzam macabangkit

products and services.

The third is the implementation of digital governance standards that will safeguard the integrity and privacy of consumer data, and ensure appropriate governance and regulation of digital products and services.

The roadmap also recognized the broader challenges to the development of a digital payment ecosystem and financial inclusion, key among which is the state of access to and quality of internet connectivity.

This challenge may be addressed by exploring the use of satellite communications technology in delivering internet connectivity to hard-to-reach rural places.

“Our thrust to promote digitalization of payments is also strategically geared towards furthering financial inclusion as we view the two to be mutually reinforcing: They go hand in hand, with each one enabling the other,” according to Dr. Benjamin E. Diokno, Chairman of the Monetary Board and Governor of the BSP. “With the launch of the Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap, we aim to hit two birds with one stone. We are securing the digitalization of payments, and increasing the number of Filipinos with access to financial services,” the Governor adds.

The momentum for pursuing digital payments has also been catalyzed by the recent lockdowns brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Comparing data from 01 to 16 March 2020 and during the ECQ from 17 March to 31 May 2020, a significant decline in the volume and value of check payments and automated teller machine withdrawals was observed, suggesting that consumers are wary of the risk of exposure brought about by face-toface transactions in the bank.

BSP/PAGE 9

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DepEd-10: Make homes as schools

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—Emphasizing the need to adapt to new normal in continuing education, the Department of Education (DepEd)-10 urges parents and guardians to consider their homes as schools.

“Ang mga ginikanan, reader o non-reader, na’y ikatabang sa bata. Ang ginikanan pwede magmonitor isip support sa ilang mga anak,” DepEd-10 Regional Director Arturo Bayocot said during the CORDS-X Podcast with Communications Sec. Martin Andanar, October 10.

(Parents, reader or non-reader, can help their children. The parents can also monitor their kids as support to their learning) To help parents in guiding their children, Bayocot said they hold several parents’ orientation activities including the conduct of BigaTen, which is provides ways for parents to handle their children through highlighting various topics per episode.

The advocacy campaign is aired via Facebook live and also

If interested, contact:

through some radio programs and television shows.

Aside from ensuring that parents receive the learning modules through establishing drop off points in schools and barangays, teachers will also monitor their students with strict compliance to minimum public health standards.

Bayocot said they are exhausting all means to help the learners and the parents including the ‘mental mode change’ since the learners are used to learning in a face-to-face classroom setting.

DepEd-10 also plans to expand coverage of online classes since only 80,000 out of 1,105,000 learners opted the online classes.

“Financial support and participation of the children are much needed in this learning modality,” Bayocot said citing that they also implement the online division cross enrollment to allow students in pursuing education on their preferred mode of learning.

The regional director said parents should SCHOOLS/PAGE 10

DANICA SUDARIA

Spending...

Loans...

facing a recession, which could be the deepest in 35 years. Therefore, the growth drivers were hurt a bit, especially consumer demand, which is 72% of the economy, as well as investments from large local corporates and SMEs. But as the economy slowly opens up once again, you'll see those drivers bouncing back.”

He expressed belief that the Philippines can stand out once again in the global stage, anchored on the country’s young population.

“The Philippines had 21 consecutive years of economic expansion, surpassed only by Australia.

That is a testament to the resiliency and strength of the Philippine economy. While the growth drivers were hurt during the pandemic, the strengths of the Philippine economy remained intact.

For instance, our young population is still there,” Ocampo stressed. “In a pandemic, you could see the value of that young population in terms of adaptability to the digital e c o n o my, i n t e r m s o f proficiency in the use of the internet. Later on, these young population, many of them would be creating their own companies and become entrepreneurs. Many jobs were lost during this pandemic. To cope, our young population would be creating their own companies.”

that the bulk of the loans at P261.462 million had been for capital expenditure (capex) projects; and the other bigticket items were for the ECs’ working capital requirements and purchase of modular gensets.

The agency emphasized its loan target for the ECs this year, excluding calamity loans, had been set at P245 million; hence, it is apparent that the amount was already exceeded by roughly 7.0-percent.

On the calamity loans, this accounted for the bulk of the credit facility tapped by the ECs; and this was accessed by at least 12 ECs – namely: the Camarines Sur III Electric Cooperative, Iloilo III Electric Cooperative; Lubang Electric Cooperative; Marinduque Electric C ooperative; Masbate Electric Cooperative; Northern Samar Electric Cooperative, Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Oriental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Sorsogon I and II Electric Cooperative, Tablas Island Electric Cooperative and Ticao Island Electric Cooperative.

NEA said the specified electric cooperatives had all sustained significant damage in their facilities with the onslaught of typhoons Ursula and Tisoy last year.

The agency noted that a calamity loan has 10-year repayment term – and a grace period of one year and an interest rate of 3.25-percent

from page 3

dannycarosesudaria0512@gmail.com 0936-046-2356

from page 1

per annum.

NEA stated that most of the power utilities also availed of the lending facilities offered because they needed cash “to bankroll their various rural electrification projects.”

The ECs which borrowed f or t h e i r c ap e x n e e d s included Cagayan II Electric Cooperative Inc., Camarines Su r I and I I I E l e c t r i c Cooperatives; Davao del Norte Electric Cooperative, Masbate Electric Cooperative, Misamis Oriental I Electric Cooperative, Sulu Electric Cooperative, Surigao del Sur Electric Cooperative, Ticao Island Electric Cooperative and Q ue zon I E le c t r ic Cooperative Inc. The biggest loan am ou nt i ng t o P 3 8 . 7 6 2 million, according to NEA, went to Misamis Oriental I Rural Ser vice Electric Cooperative; and this has been earmarked for its procurement of modular gensets.

Another sizeable borrowing at P33.641 million was availed of by the Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, mainly to bankroll its working capital requirements.

BSP...

2019 Financial Inclusion Survey shows a notable increase in the number of e-money account owners from 1.3% of the adult population in 2017, to 8% in 2019.

E-money providers have also reported record-high increases in their number of transactions and account users during the quarantine period, while latest data on the volume of transactions using PESONet and InstaPay manifest a sustained shift to digital payments demonstrating a substantial growth of 122% from 23 million to 51.2 million from the first to the second quarter of 2020.

These developments indicate that there is a growing consumer sentiment to shift towards more digital payments.

The BSP’s Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap supports this remarkable development by providing our key stakeholders, such as banks, financial and payment service providers, fintech service players, and consumers with a helpful strategic guide in navigating the country’s whole of nation approach towards a digital payments-enabled economy.

from page 8

Meanwhile, PESONet and InstaPay transactions remarkably increased by 74%, from 18.4 million prior to the COVID-19 lockdown (01 January to 16 March 2020) to 32.1 million during the enhanced community quarantine (17 March to 31 May 2020). At the same time, the CAGAYAN DE ORO MAIN BRANCH P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers Kalambagohan Sts., Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Telefax # (088) 856-1947 CAMIGUIN BRANCH B. Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin Tel. # (088) 387-0491 CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro City

DIVISORIA BRANCH Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 857-3631 LAPASAN BRANCH Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-6739 CARMEN BRANCH Vamenta Blvd., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-2011

CDO MAIN BRANCH P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers Kalambagohan Sts., Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Telefax # (088) 856-1947

DIVISORIA BRANCH Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 857-3631

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

LAPASAN BRANCH Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-6739

CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro City

CARMEN BRANCH Vamenta Blvd.,Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-2011

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Best... from page 1

Level 1.

PCCI Mindanao has the most number of finalists among the 17 finalists for the Most Outstanding Chamber in the Philippines award with 5.

T h e re a re a b o ut 4 5 PCCI local Chambers of C om m e rc e ( L C C Is ) i n Mindanao, around 90% of which belong to MSMEs whose capitalization range from P3M-100 million while large companies comprise about 10% of the chamber members.

PCCI Mindanao is headed

by Area Vice President Maria Teresa R . Alegrio, with PCCI Regional Governors Arturo Milan (South Eastern Mindanao), Roderico R. Bioco (Northern Mindanao), Paul Gudmalin (Western Mindanao), Pete Marquez

(Central Mindanao), Aldrin Ibbo (BARMM), Ju l i e S e n e ns e ( E a ste r n (CARAGA) Mindanao) and Loreta Sy (South Western Mindanao).

The Most Outstanding Chamber Award (MOCA) is a project of the PCCI that seeks to recognize a local chamber whose leadership and dynamism contributed to the growth of business and community development.

The MO CA’s criteria focuses on elements like leadership, implementation of programs and projects, partnership with the local gover nment unit, nongovernment organizations and development partners, and hosting of conferences, among others.

Besides the awards for most outstanding chamber, PCCI Mindanao under the stewardship of Area Vice President for Mindanao

Keep Your Balance NILA V. DAIS Teacher I Tudela Central School Division of Misamis Occidental

Are you doing too much?

Do you feel you are too busy? Yes, everyone seems to be busy. Despite of this pandemic, educators were even more occupied to meet the demands of their work and as well as their families.

When we constantly try to do more than time may allow, we may experience “time pressure” and thus we become stressed.

Why do some people try to do so much? One of the reasons is that they want to provide well for their families. Thinking about a better future for their children and wanting to give them things that they want are the fuel that one was pushed to work longer. However, some studies suggest that adults and children who give more importance to money and material possessions tend to be less happy, less satisfied with life and less healthy physically. Another reason for spending too much time at work is trying to satisfy the expectations of others.

Some employees are afraid to displease their employer.

Coworkers can also exert pressure by making others feel guilty if they do not stay late. And then there is economic uncertainty, which can make people more willing to work longer hours or to be constantly on call. Similarly, parents can feel pressured to conform to the hectic pace of other families. If they do not conform, they may feel guilty about “depriving” their children. Another factor is the pursuit of status and self-fulfillment. Some may feel that they have to prove to themselves. People might think that the busier you are the more important you seem.

Hard work and diligence are good work ethics.

However, leading a balanced life is also good for our

Ma. Teresa R. Alegrio was also recognized for Regional Response to COVID-19 along with the local chambers of Agusan del Sur, Bangon Marawi, Bislig, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, Iligan, KaamulanBukidnon, Siargao, South Cotabato, Surigao, Tandag, and Z amboanga. (PCCI Mindanao)

Schools... from page 9

double their effort in supporting their children and further advised that the b est way to engage

their children is to learn ways on teaching.

“Para sa mga ginikanan ug magtutudlo, nilampos na t a (For p arents and teachers, we already made it). We just need to increase positive support. We hope e ver y b o dy underst ands our noble reason. Let us not forget that everybody’s safety is today’s priority,” Bayocot said.

As of S eptemb er 30, DepEd-10 has 1,103,684 enrollees for SY 2021 or 93 percent completion of target learners based on 2019 data. (RTP/PIA10)

DOH – Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (TRC) CDO FIRST ALS GRADUATION EXERCISE RUBENETH V. SALAZAR SST-I

mental and physical health.

Can one slow down and make time to rest? Spending quality time for the family will make us happier than staying up late at night to work. Having clear goals and values will help. It is normal to want a measure of financial security. But how much money is enough?

What constitutes success?

Is it measured merely by income or material assets?

Conversely, having too much rest or recreation can also increase time pressure. Also, we should not be guilty about having a life away from our job.

Setting boundaries between job and work and taking vacations would make our lives more meaningful and fulfilled. Having a family time must be our priority.

Husbands and wives need to spend time together, and children need time with their parents. When the family is together, do not let television, cell phones, or other devices isolate you from one another. By sharing at least one meal together each day, families can spend more time to talk about things thus bringing them closer. When parents heed this simple advice, their children enjoy greater well-being and do better at school.

Life is like riding a bicycle- you have to keep your balance. Or else, you will fall and get hurt. Yes, keeping our balance in lifeeven at work and family- is necessary to live healthier and happier!

There are thirty-seven (37) TRC residents marched during the First Graduation Exercise happened last August 6, 2018 at DOHTRC CDO facility located at Upper Puerto, Cagayan de Oro City graced by CDO Schools Division Superintendent, Jonathan S. De la Peña, Ph.D., CESO VI with Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, Alicia E. Anghay, Ph.D., TRC Chief of Hospital II, Dr. B enson C. Go, MD, DSBPP with Chief Health Program Officer, Christopher M. Amata, RP, MPA and Puerto Barangay Chairman, Hon. Christian Rustico Achas.

These TRC graduates took the A&E Exam last November 26, 2017 and March 11, 2018 wherein nine are elementary and twenty-eight are secondary levels. Fortuitously, all those who took the test passed which gave a 100% passing rate to DOH-TRC ALS learning center.

The session in the said facility is in response to the Department of Education program to educate the outof- school youth and adults

who are confined inside the drug rehab centers.

Division of Cagayan de Oro City - Alternative Learning System (ALS) East 2 district, started the ALS literacy program and class session facilitated

by East 2 ALS District Coordinator, last June 2016 in partnership with Region 10 DOH- Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (TRC), Cagayan de Oro. There were a tot a l of eighty-seven (87) TRC residents enrolled i n Ac c re d it at i on a n d Equivalency (A&E) Program both in elementary and secondary level from June 2016 to October 2017.

Many of these learners were so eager to finish their education which gave them hope to truly achieve their positive outlook in life after their treatment.

Presently, Batch 20192020 due to pandemic ALS Accreditation and Equivalency Exam was postponed and sooner these TRC learners will be the first batch to complete the ALS K to 12 Curriculum of Elementary and Junior High School.

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Life...

from page 4

A second ingredient we need for strong, happy relationships is acceptance.

Can you honestly say to people: “I accept you just as you are. You can make your own choices and mistakes, say what you really feel, and I will never reject you. I will always accept you even if I do not approve of the wrong things you do or say.” Do you have that kind of honest, unconditional love for others?

Finally, the third ingredient we need for successful, mature relationships is forgiveness.

Since we’re human, we all hurt each other and need forgiveness many times. Yet we often fail to truly forgive others when they hurt us.

That is why we desperately need the only One Who can.

It is only with Jesus’ kind of real love and power that we can forgive daily like that.

Won’t you ask Him to forgive you for all of your wrongs and hurts you have caused people? Ask Him to take full charge of your heart every day—so you can begin to communicate, accept, and forgive others just as He has you. Just think a minute…

Crisis... from page 4

bear painfully all the losses.

I believe justice demands that it should not be. Well, the Maranding Women have told me that despite all the pains, the endless joy of the hungry and oppressed victims of war every time they received the much needed assistance because of the spirit of compassion is greater than any material wealth!

That love and compassion has not only been shown by the Maranding Women during the Marawi Seige.

The women have exemplified what it is to have a heart in a progressive society as manifested in their giving of gifts to prisoners, distributing school supplies to first grade pupils in the identified depressed areas, feeding program to less fortunate, c on du c t i ng g i f t - g iv i ng programs on Christmas, paying tributes to parents and getting involved in various health services and church activities. Indeed, “a thousand hearts content with the blooming of the flowers in Maranding.”

The blooming of MWIMPC has become a beacon of light and hope amidst the darkness and despair of poverty and conflict. The cooperative is now wel l conne c te d to government agencies and the non-government organizations for financial and technical support. With its core values of commitment, honesty, oneness, spirituality, excellence and neutrality (in settling disputes in fair and just manner), MWIMPC is the long-awaited empowering and transformational leader whose wondrous holistic performance shows the way on how to have peace and prosperity in this broken but beautiful island of Mindanao.

It is the prayer of the

e mp ow e r e d w o m e n o f Maranding for the concerned government offices to have a meticulous analysis on whether that money that got lost during the height of the encounter be solely charged to the Women Cooperative as such happened due to FORCE MAJEURE!

Survey... from page 4

With the captains of the industry manifesting the highest degree of positivism we expect a dramatic return of a vibrant economy.

The rating of VP Leni Robredo is irrelevant as far as the people’s hope for a better future is concerned. The Judiciary too will not shine at this point because people are less interested in legal issues especially when it cannot even resolve the electoral protest of Marcos against Robredo. The legislators however are being watched. I am certain that the zarzuela in the Lower House will impact on the trustworthiness of the institution and Senate Pres. Tito Sotto has all the reasons to be disturbed by the misplaced gimmickry of Speaker Allan Cayetano.

On the whole, moreover, Duterte’s unprecedented Trust and Approval ratings eloquently argue against all the magma of criticisms that the cabal of political opposition and leftist organizations are hurling against him. This excludes him from the traditional lame ducks attributed to leaders whose term of office is about to conclude. With the people on his side, he can “dictate” the outcome of the 2022 elections.

Robredo’s performance in Pulse Asia’s rating is so dismal it foretells the fate of the opposition which she leads. Her image-maker blames “fake news” as the reason for the 50% Trust and 57% Approval grades of the Vice President. And I thought all the while it’s President Duterte who has been the subject of the deluge of fake news conjured by his detractors here and abroad.

Epidemic...

from page 4 at the turn of the century used cholera as an excuse to contain the Philippine rebellion. The Americans hamletted “cholera-infected” villages and burned houses and crops. In 1902, the Americans ordered the burning of a whole district called Farola (in Tondo).

Ocampo wondered whether it was really the disease or were the Americans only trying to ferret out the Filipino freedom fighters?

Incidentally, the most famous victim of cholera was Apolinario Mabini who got infected by drinking unsterilized carabao’s milk.

Donald Trump and COVID 19 Donald Trump behaves as if he is invincible to COVID 19. Even after testing positive, he temporarily slipped out of the hospital where he was supposed to be isolated, to greet placard-waving

supporters. Two days later, he returned to the White House even as COVID cases rose among the presidential staff. In a show of defiance or misplaced bravado, Trump removed his face mask in front of cameras.

Let’s hope history does not repeat itself. In 1841, another macho US president met an unfortunate end by refusing to take basic health precautions.

William Henry Harrison was a highly decorated soldier who distinguished himself in the Indian Wars and in the War of 1812. (Of course, Trump was not a decorated soldier. He even dodged the draft.) Harrison eventually was elected as the 9th president of the US. It was bitterly cold during his inauguration day but the macho man ignored the advice to put on a hat and a topcoat. Harrison delivered a long-winded speech which lasted one hour 45 minutes. By evening, Harrison developed a cold. Again, Harrison downplayed the supposedly minor ailment. A few days later, he had pneumonia.

32 days after his inaugural speech, Harrison was dead!

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Farmers... from page 2

help e d t hem buy b asic necessities and eased the impact of the pandemic on her family.

She also hopes the price of copra would increase to help coconut farmers survive.

“We harvest every four months or three times per year from our productive coconut trees. The harvest can produce around 2,000 to 2,500 kilos of copra products. We earn around P45,000 to P50,000 every harvest if the price of copra maintains at P21 per kilo,” Lopez said.

She added that in their latest copra delivery last week, they earned around P42,000 with the P21 existing price of copra in the market.

“The income will not directly land in our pocket as we need to pay those who worked during the harvest and the processing of copra.

At least we had around half of the total income from copra,” Lopez said.

PCA-13 Manager Joel B. Oclarit on Thursday said the agency was working for the release of financial assistance to more coconut farmers in Caraga.

“Our office will continue to deliver these benefits to our coconut farmers in the region. In this time of the pandemic, they really need this support to further improve their farms and also provide for their families,” Oclarit said.

In August until the first week of September this year, PCA-13 also released P747,200 worth of financial a i d t o 1 7 5 i n d i g e n ou s peoples involved in coconut farming in Surigao del Sur. (PNA)

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D e velopment), Q u a lit y Management Systems and Innovation.

Cagayan de Oro and Koronadal were both finalists in the Highly Urbanized Cities category. The awards were announced during the closing plenary of the PCCI’s 46th Philippine Business Conference which was held online for the first time.

The Special Citation for Cagayan de Oro LGU under the leadership of Mayor Oscar S. Moreno was in recognition "for actively supporting infrastructure programs that will further expand and fast-track sustainable urban development in the City and create new growth centers and for providing livelihood through the creation of programs for micro, small, and medium enterprises."

“On behalf of the men and women of the City Government, and of the City of Cagayan de Oro, I would like to thank the PCCI for giving us this Special Citation,” said Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno.

“In all the things that we have so far achieved for the City and for our people, we have learned that teamwork, harmony, perseverance, and commitment are very i mp or t ant , m ore s o i f strengthened by the people/s support, and blessed by God’s graces.”

“We are inspired by this latest recognition, especially in this difficult and challenging period, as this will further lift our spirits to serve the people of Cagayan de Oro the best ways possible,” he added. “ We ap p r e c i at e t h e recognition given by PCCI to C agayan de Oro in our efforts and programs especially for the micro and small enterprises,” noted Eileen A. San Juan, Cagayan de Oro Local Economic & Investments Promotion Officer.

“The city government in partnership with DTI has established Ginama OTOPHub as a marketing facility for our MSMEs. As part of our business response and recovery plan, we are also pivoting our assistance to our MSMEs through a program, the Ginama Entrepreneurial Development Center. Not

the least, in support to our business community, we have streamlined our business and building construction permitting in line with the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Act of 2018,” she added.

The Special Citation for Koronadal under the leadership of Mayor Eliordo U. Ongena was in recognition "for its efforts to streamline business processes resulting to a significant increase in investments and improved business sector confidence by coming up with initiatives to ensure continuing peace and order in the City."

Other Mindanao LGU finalists of the award included Davao City, General Santos City, Cotabato City, Misamis Oriental, Davao del Norte, South Cotabato, Panabo City, and Tagum City.

The PC CI has b e en conducting the search for the Most Business Friendly LGUs for the last 18 years to recognize outstanding efforts and commendable practices of LGUs in the country to promote trade and investments, employment, transparency, accountability and efficiency in delivering business services.

The selection is based on f ive criteria: trade, investments, and tourism promotions; public-private sector partnership; micro, small and medium enterprises [ M SM E ] d e v e l o pm e nt ; quality management system, innovations, and human resources development; and inter-local government relations.

The award has 3 categories and each has two (2) levels: City Level 1 – for highly ur b ani z e d /i nd e p e nd e nt component 1st to 3rd class cities; and Level 2 for 4th to 6th class cities.

The Provincial Category is similarly divided into Level 1 for 1st to 3rd class provinces; and Level 2 for 4th to 6th class provinces; as is the Municipal Category: Level 1 for 1st to 3rd class municipalities and Level 2 for 4th to 6th class municipalities.

The Valenzuela City gove r n me nt w a s ag ai n recognized as the Most Business-Friendly City for the second consecutive year as the most business-friendly city in Metro Manila after winning last year. The city is also a PCCI Hall of Famer after being similarly recognized in 2012, 2014, and 2015.

The City Government of Baguio was cited as the 2020 Most Business-Friendly LGU for City Level 1B Category (Highly urbanized cities outside of Metro Manila).]

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

DEED OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:

That the late JOSE ABA REYES who died without any will on September 12, 2013 in Opol, Misamis Oriental, that at the time of his death, the deceased left a property a parcel of land with Tax Declaration No. 0815000730201 situated in the Barrio of Igpit, Municipality of Opol, province of Misamis Oriental and Island of Mindanao, containing an area of TWO HUNDRED ELEVEN (211) Square Meters, more or less, and has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH DEED OF SALE, filed by the heirs of JOSE ABA REYES, in favor of LUCIA E. JAGONAL, per DOC #42; PAGE #8; BOOK #117; Series of 2018 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. RAUL M. LLACUNA.

That the late FE E. VILLANUEVA, who died intestate at Cagayan de Oro City, on the 9th day of November 2019, upon her death, said FE E. VILLANUEVA left bank deposit with the Bank of the Philippines Island, Uptown Branch, Upper Balulang, Cagayan de Oro City; there are no known debts or obligations due against the estate of the said decedents and that ZENAIDA V. PALMER and INOCENTES E. VILLANUEVA hereby waive, renounce and quitclaim in favor of their sister, MARIA LOURDES V. SUAREZ, their share, interest and participation in the bank deposit aforestated, and has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS, filed by the heirs of FE E. VILLANUEVA, per DOC #270; PAGE #54; BOOK #577; Series of 2020 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. VIRGILIO J. CABANLET.

That the late JOSE L. ESCOBIDO died intestate on 15 June 2020, in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, leaving several parcels of land with Parcel No. 1 Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-151266, situated in the Barangay of Lumbia, City of Cagayan de Oro, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY SQ.M. (150), Parcel No. 2 Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-135074, situated in the Barrio of Canitoan, City of Cagayan de Oro City, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of THREE HUNDRED SEVENTYSEVEN (377) SQUARE METERS, more or less, Parcel No. 3 Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-50661, situated in the Barrio of Barra, Mun. of Opol, province of Misamis Oriental, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of ONE HUNDRED FORTY (140) square meters, more or less, Parcel No. 4 Transfer Certificate of Title No. 133-2019003800, situated in the Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of NINE HUNDRED SIXTY-SIX (966) square meters, more or less, Parcel No. 5 Transfer Certificate of Title No. 133-2019003802, situated at Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of NINE HUNDRED SIXTY-SIX (966) square meters, more or less, Parcel No. 6 Transfer Certificate of Title No. -150732 situated in Bo. Of Poblacion, Mun. of Muntinlupa, MM., Is. of Luzon, containing an area of ONE HUNDRED NINETY FOUR SQ. M. and TENS. DECIM. (194.10), Parcel No. 7 Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-25592, situated in the Barrio of Barra, Municipality of Opol, Province of Misamis Oriental, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of ONE HUNDRED FORTY-EIGHT (148) SQUARE METERS, more or less, Stock Certificate No. 1574096 of Petron Corporation Certifying 500 common shares Serial Number 00426780, and has been the subject of an DEED OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE, filed by the heirs of JOSE L. ESCOBIDO, per DOC #463; PAGE #93; BOOK #VII; Series of 2020 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. LORELA B. ESCOBERO.

BWM: Oct. 5, 12 & 19, 2020

BWM: Sept. 28, Oct. 5 & 12, 2020

BWM: Sept. 28, Oct. 5 & 12, 2020

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH DEED OF SALE KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF EDI A. LEONG KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: That the late EDI A. LEONG died intestate on January 12, 2012 with last known residence at Iligan City, Philippines; that at the time of his death, the decedent left the following real property with TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-37,055 situated in the Barrio of Tubod, City of Iligan, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of ONE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED (1,500) SQUARE METERS, more or less and has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF EDI A. LEONG, filed by the heirs of EDI A. LEONG, per DOC #12; PAGE #3; BOOK #9; Series of 2019 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. ALFREDO R. BUSICO. BWM: Oct. 12, 19 & 26, 2020

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:

12

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MONDAY|OCTOBER 12, 2020

Shifting gears to keep the local racing scene alive T HE COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly changed many aspects of daily living, leading to the phrase “new normal.” This applies not only to work, school, and business but to sports and recreation as well.

Tuason Racing, the first and only professional racing school in the Philippines, was

fortunate enough to swiftly maneuver itself during the early stages of the lockdowns and prepare for this new way of doing things.

“Sports is a big part of the lives not only of the players but of the fans as well—it’s a passion. That’s why I knew sooner or later we had to adapt and make sure that the racing experience would not be

stalled or cancelled indefinitely,” explained its founder, legendary racer JP Tuason.

Since 2019, Tuason Racing has been planning for an e-Sports program together with its long-time partner and supporter, leading independent petroleum brand Phoenix. But because of the lockdown, a virtual sports

event that combined both passion for racing and a desire to address the COVID-19 health crisis was launched as early as April.

Called “Race for Frontliners”, the virtual charity competition enables the donation of a meal to medical frontliners for every participant who signed up.

By the end of

the six-round virtual race, around 400 e-racers had participated in the event and Phoenix was able to distribute over 4,000 meals to the PNP Maritime Group, Philippine Coast Guard and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Now, as the whole world and the country continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, Tuason Racing and Phoenix are partnering once more to keep spirits up and to take the e-racing experience to the next level with the Formula V1 Virtual Cup. “With the virus and lockdown still posing a challenge in physically running our very successful FV1 series, we have opted to keep the program top-of-mind by doing it virtually this year. Through a virtual platform using a PC base, we are running it similar to our real series with a promotional and sporting class to allow our drivers to keep their skills sharp,” said Tuason.

"Our support for the Philippine racing industry stems from our vision to provide local talents with a venue where they can hone their skills, and produce winners that can bring pride to the country. Hence, we formed the Phoenix PULSE Racing team which will represent the country and put a spotlight to the Philippines at the international racing stage-whether on the real

or virtual race track, Phoenix, together with Tuason Racing, are committed to create programs to achieve this goal," Phoenix Petroleum Vice President for Integrated Marketing and Strategies Celina Matias said.

Participants in the Phoenix PULSE Formula V1 Virtual Cup will get to drive the single-seat race car in Asseto Corsa on Windows PC, and will have two racing classes for the public: the Promotional Class for novice drivers who have no experience or are not associated in professional sim racing; and Sporting Class for professional e-Racers, who have competed in any sim racing events here and abroad.

The qualifying rounds will start on October 10, with the final round set on December 12. Interested participants may check the complete race guidelines and mechanics, and register at rb.gy/3ijwyo.

The Phoenix PULSE Formula V1 Virtual Cup 2020 Series is backed

by LG Philippines, FamilyMart, PC Express, Top Lift, Seven Garage, Ribbon Arc, Sim Racing PH and the Automobile Association of the Philippines, with media partners C! Magazine, Inquirer Mobility, Autocar Philippines, Wheels Philippines, Time Attack Manila, and AutoDeal.