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of the things we think, say or do 1. Is it the TRUTH? 2. Is it FAIR to all concerned? 3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIP? 4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

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DOLE 11 expands ‘Jobstart’ in Davao mark francisco, Section Editor EDITOR: CHENG ORDOñEZ

DAVAO CITY -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 11 is expanding the Jobstart Philippines program in the region to help jobseekers possess appropriate skills for a job. The DOLE 11 will expand the program this year in Sta. Cruz and Digos City in Davao del Sur, and Panabo City in Davao del Norte. These areas are now being evaluated by the DOLEBureau of Local Employment. Jobstart Philippines is a DOLE implemented project

Saturday

February 11, 2017

A1 Cops, prosecutors learn effective case build-up against drug personalities COTABATO CITY -- To help ensure cases involving illegal drugs filed by police in court will prosper, the Department of the Interior and Local Government in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DILGSee learn, page A5

in partnership with the Asian Development Bank and the government of Canada. It is being implemented through the local Public Employment Services Office (PESO) of the target areas. The region has two cities implementing this program, specifically Davao City and Tagum City, Davao del Norte. DOLE 11 Regional Director Joffrey Suyao said the JobStart Program Project of the Department is the answer to equipping and See expands, page A7

6 Mindanao electric coops sign up with Hedcor DAVAO CITY – Power supply in some areas in Mindanao are set to improve after six electric cooperatives signed up with AboitizPower subsidiary Hedcor hydro power. Z amboanga del Sur Electric Cooperatives 1 and 2 (ZAMSURECO 1

and 2), Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative (ZANECO), Bukidnon Second Electric Cooperative (BUSECO), Misamis Occidental I Electric Cooperative (MOELCI I), and Siargao Electric Cooperative (SIARELCO) have signed See coops, page A7

FOR A BRIGHTER COMMUNITY: Energy firm STEAG State Power Inc. (SPI) turns-over recently fifteen sets of street-lighting for Sitio Kirahon, an upland village in Bgry. San Martin, Villanueva, Misamis Oriental. San Martin Brgy Chairman Jeric Emano said the donation is a welcome development in brightening up remote villages in the area. The assistance is part of SPI’s continuing support to various community development projects including those that will address safety and security concerns. photo supplied

8 NPA rebels yield in Davao Region -- Army DSWD @66. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Policy and Plans Division Chief Estrella D. Brigole [2nd from left] leads the ceremonial turnover of wheelchairs to Tagum City Mayor Allan L. Rellon [3rd from left] during the celebration of the 66th Founding Anniversary of DSWD at Tagum City Hall. DSWD also released Php 15 million for Cash-For-Work and Skills Training of beneficiaries of the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer for Indigenous Peoples (MCCT-IP). Also in photo are Tagum City and DSWD officials. (DSWD)

DAVAO CITY – A total of eight members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) have surrendered to authorities since February 1, the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division of the Philippine Amy said. In a statement, Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesper-

son of 10th ID said the surrender of eight rebels was the offshoot of offensive operations of the army in the area after the unilateral ceasefire of the government was lifted by President Rodrigo Duterte. “This is the immediate result of the offensives we

launched. These NPAs decided to go back to the folds of the law and live peacefully in their respective families and communities,” Batchar said in a phone interview Thursday. For security reasons, the real identities of the rebels who recently sur-

rendered were withheld, as Batchar only identified them through aliases. He said that alias Junie Mike, Tenen, Ranil, Jimboy and Francis surrendered to the troopers of the 67th Infantry Battalion in Davao Oriental while Robert and See yield, page A5

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Saturday, February 11, 2017

The Mindanao Daily is pubished by MINDANAO DAILY NEWS PUBLISHING CORPORATION. It is Registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) with Reg. No. CS201531735. With Business Plate No. BP-28984, Under Business License Certificate No. 2015-15224, BIR-TIN No. 464682-324-000. Main Business address at Tanleh Building, Abellanosa St., Brgy. Consolacion, Cagayan de Oro City. Tel. Nos: (088) 856-3344, 857-8447, 0917-7121424, 0947-8935776 E-mails: Advertising:mindanaodaily.ads@gmail.com, Editorial: mindanaodailynews@gmail.com DANTE M. SUDARIA Publisher and President TERESA ZAFRA PELONE Comptroller melanie rivera SAIRA E. GUMISING Advertising

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3 more ASEAN meetings DAVAO CITY -- Davao City will host three more meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this month that will be handled by three government agencies. Department of Tourism (DOT)-11 Director Roberto Alabado III said these are separate meetings to be handled by the Department of Finance (DoF), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). He said the Senior Officials Economic Meeting (SOEM) opened February 6 until February 10 with DTI; the Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) on Migrants Worker with DOLE, and with the DoF is the Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) at the committee level on

financial integration. But there will be other ASEAN meetings here towards the end of the year. Alabado said the DOT which is part of the organizing committee handles among others, the tour packages for the delegates. During the holding of the ASEAN meetings here, “We expect the influx of visitors of the official delegations plus the local guests,” Alabado said during Tuesday’s Business Forum at Dermpath, SM Davao. He said DOT has hosted tours of four hours showing the treasures of the city from chocolates, fruits, cheese, the Philippine Eagle plus the culture of the people. The delegates had a close encounter with the Philippine Eagle at the breeding laboratory of the Philippine Eagle Center in Malagos,

Calinan. “They also got to taste the Malagos cheese and the different fruits and vegetables in the Malagos farm plus the native delicacies,” he added. He said a unique encounter with the different species of butterflies is part of the tour package plus a glimpse of the tribe’s culture in selected areas. Showing these to our visitors leave a lasting and worthwhile experience that is unique in Davao City, he said. “We got good impression of the tour from delegates coming from Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia,” according to Alabado. He said these delegates, when they go back to their respective places, will have good words on their Davao experience.

“And they can influence their citizens based on what they got here,” he said. Alabado also said that hosting international events like the ASEAN has reinforced Davao’s capacity to host high-level events even if “we have proven it already when we hosted the different foreign ambassadors, the recent visit of Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Mrs. Akie Abe, and the ancillary event of the Miss Universe.” Davao City, he said, already put in place a security package during the hosting of foreign delegates, dignitaries and officials and international event. The Philippine National Police (PNP) is the overall in-charge with concerned national and local government units handling specific tasks, he added. (PNA)

NPA supply officer killed in shootout

DAVAO CITY -- A supply officer of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a shootout with authorities in Davao City on Monday EDITORIAL night in Maa, this city. Captain Rhyan Batchar, ALLAN M. MEDIANTE chief information officer of Editor-in-Chief 10th Infantry (Agila) Divi ruel pelone CRIS DIAZ sion, identified the NPA sup Managing Editor Executive Editor ply officer as Glenn Ramos CHENG ORDOÑEZ MARK FRANCISCO alias Berdan, 40, married Associate Editor Lifestyle Editor and a resident of Purok 4, Don Julian, Barangay Maa, GILBERT Y. CHAO gerry lee gorit Davao City. Motoring Editor Photo Journalist Batchar said Ramos was PAT SAMONTE CHRIS PANGANIBAN killed when he shoot it out Regional Editor Caraga Regional Editor-Davao with a joint police and mili Rene Michael BaÑos uRIEL C. QUILINGUING tary team serving a warrant Regional Editor Northmin Contributing Editor for his arrest. Ramos is facing charges AL JACINTO JOE FELICILDA for attempted homicide un Regional Editor-WestMin Editorial Consultant der criminal case number M-DVO-15-01538, Batchar RODRIGO B. SEVILLA JOE PALABAO added. Regional Editor-Davao Feature Editor “Ramos refused to subATTY. MARIO T. JUNI mit himself and drew a NOTARY PUBLIC- JUNI LAW OFFICE weapon that led to a brief CELL NO: 09352379999/ (088) 8573595 firefight. He sustained two CRUZ TAAL ST., CAG. DE ORO CITY gunshot wounds in the body Legal Counsel and was brought to SPMC where he was later declared --------------------------------------------------------------dead-on-arrival by the atbureau and mktg staff tending physician,” Batchar candy macabale - 09161326483 said. RIZA O. ARES - 0915-9753-277/0926-2242-653 Authorities were able to MISOR - LOLONG NABONG - 0906-875-8650 recover .38 caliber pistol GINGOOG CITY-MANNY ANSIHAGAN-0936-287-7788 with five live ammunition North Buk. - DAHLIA S. BENEMERITO-0936-303-0410 and a fired cartridge; one VALENCIA CITY - PHILIP PHIL CALUMBA-0905-652-5407 fragmentation grenade; an MARAMAG - roFINA CUALES - 0926-336-1585 improvised explosive device quezon, buk. - ROSE GENON (IED) mounted with electriIligan City - JEFFREY OPONDA-0936-1174378 cal wire and live 7.62mm tangub city - bobby mag usara ammunition, he added. OROQUIETA CITY - PJ TREMEDAL-0919-3452375 ARMM - Sony Sudaria-0947-4810371 Following the killing cotabato - ANALISA ESPAÑOLA-0916-9351714 of Ramos, 10th ID comdavao - tom a. caballero-09756023684 mander Major General davao - tomas canoy avancena jr.-09177017010 Rafael Valencia urged the davao del norte - sarah castor - 09263988293 other members of NPA in digos city, dvo sur & kidapawan - romeo d. sanchez the area to surrender. davao city - rene s. arias (Photo Journalist,) “We encourage other butuan - PAT SAMONTE-0912-8091093 NPA terrorist members to san frans - CRIS PANGANIBAN-09277974193 return to the folds of the San Francisco - deding PANGANBAN-0927-7974193 law before its long arms Pagadian City - GRACE FRANCISCO -0912-8484037 ZAMBOANGA - AL JACINTO -09177103642 will catch them,” Valencia said. Member: He also lauded the police ORO CHAMBER and military team for their Philippine Press Institute accomplishment. (PNA)

SKILLS TRAINING. 30 Pantawid Pamilya participants of Lubogan, Toril attend the Skills Training on Beads Accessories Making. To date, over 260,000 poor families in Davao Region are benefiting from Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. (dswd/photos by luis l . seras )

FEATURE:

Social enterprises need enabling biz environment to thrive – PIDS Study

The Philippines needs to develop an enabling “ecosystem” of policies and institutions to scale up social enterprises. In a recent study released by state think thank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), authors Marife Ballesteros and Gilberto Llanto remarked that social enterprises can be an important force in addressing the gaps between the country’s paradoxical experience of positive growth and persistent poverty. Ballesteros and Llanto, PIDS acting vice president and president, respectively, noted that the current policy environment has failed to capture the needs of social enterprises which in turn has hampered their growth. The emergence of community economies, which include social enterprises, presents a unique set of

policy and institutional requirements. Social enterprises, compared to for-profit enterprises and nonprofit organizations, are businesses that put communities at the center of their enterprise. At the core of their objectives include promoting social welfare, enabling sustainable development, and encouraging investments for empowering communities. Currently, the United Nations has included community economy as part of its social and solidarity economy agenda, which gives attention and support to businesses that “can be vehicles for profit, people empowerment, peace, and other moral imperatives”. A 2013 survey by the Institute for Social Entrepreneurship in Asia reported that around 30,000 organizations in the Philip-

pines may be classified as social enterprises. They are made up of firms in various forms, including social cooperatives, fair trade organizations, microfinance institutions, and trading and development companies. Currently, there is a proposed bill in Congress that focuses on addressing the policy needs of social enterprises. Like the Magna Carta for MSMEs and the Barangay Micro Business Enterprises Act, the Poverty Reduction through Social Entrepreneurship or PRESENT Act includes important provisions on tax exemptions, special credit windows and guarantee funds, support for local government units, and other considerations like cash incentives for social enterprises that employ people with disabilities, See need, page A7

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Saturday, February 11, 2017

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Saturday, February 11, 2017

The foolishness of man ruins his way The Gospel of Jesus Christ (February 11, 2017-Saturday) Luke 19:45-48-And he went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold therein, and them that bought; Saying unto them, It is written, My house is the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves. And he taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests and the

scribes and the chief of the people sought to destroy him, and could not find what they might do: for all the people were very attentive to hear him: Take note, every disrespect that you have done; there is someone who is touched and hurt if not human, I know our God the creator of everything. This gospel emphasizes about the physical temple

and its structure which was “desecrated” by the Jewish people. Jesus opposed to them since it was an act of blasphemy and irreverence to the holy place. On the other hand, Jesus taught them about the real temple which is his body. Look, what they had done to the earthly sanctuary, it was a “real” reflection to what they did to Him, the genuine temple. This

was the ground of Jesus why He condemned the blasphemers and casted out from the temple. How about us, how many times we desecrated the temple of God? Everything we intake in our bodies can either produce double results, bad or good. You need to take only what is helpful because you are accountable to the damage of your physical body. Some-

20T businesses renewed permits on 2016 CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- More than 20,000 businesses filed for business permit renewal on 2016 as reported by the Business Permits and Licensing Division (BPLD) of the City Mayor’s Office.

BPLD Chief Vivian Sabuga-a said that her office was able to issue 20,999 business permits in 2016. In line with this, Sabugaa urges businesspersons in Cagayan de Oro to take advantage of the extension

of business permit renewal. The city council has extended the deadline of business permit renewal from Jan. 20 to Feb. 28 this year due to the urban flooding last Jan.16 that affected the operations of the businesses.

Based on the law on business permit renewal, businesses will incur 25 percent surcharge and 2 percent penalty for every month after the deadline that they’ll fail to renew their permits. (IAF-CIO/PIA10)

Primavera Residences Offers FEB Promo: Unit Discount up to P300k

In time for the month of love, Italpinas Development Corporation (IDC), the developer of the multi-awarded condominium Primavera Residences in the city of Cagayan de Oro, offers its F.E.B (For Every Buyer) Promo with a discount of up to P300,000 on its selling price. This special offer waives clients from paying the full amount required to purchase their ready for occupancy unit at Primavera Residences. With a discount of 7% amounting to as much as P300,000, IDC’s clients

get a chance to take an easy way to make Primavera their home . This is the right time to purchase your dream condominium unit as this is only valid until February 28 of the year. “At Italpinas, we offer our clients the best of condominium living, providing them with first class units and facilities. Other than that, we make sure to offer them practical deals to give them more chances to move in or invest in the first ecofriendly and multi-awarded condominium in the city,” said Gladys Enchano, IDC

Sales Consultant. About Primavera Residences Primavera Residences, the country’s multi-awarded green mixed-use development, provides you with a sustainable and peaceful living experience that guarantees to make your life easier and comfortable. As it is situated in the heart of the city, you have easy access to nearby places such as SM City, schools, convenience stores, churches, world-class golf course, banks, among others. Its 10-storey twin-tower

building is located at Pueblo de Oro Business Park offering residential, commercial and office spaces for sale and for rent. You can choose from one-bedroom and twobedroom units - all ready for occupancy. About IDC Italpinas Development Corporation (IDC) is a publicly listed green developer that is recognized in the national and global arena for its commitment to green living and architectural design. It was among the winners in the prestigious Asia Pacific Property Awards in the 2014 Asia Pacific regional competition as the Best Mixed-Use Development in the Philippines. It has been awarded also as the Best Condo Development in the Philippines in 2011 (Southeast Asia Property Awards) and a finalist in the Most Promising Energy Investment Opportunity of the Year (CTI PFAN Philippines Clean Energy Investor Forum). Primavera Residences was also given the distinction as the First Completed Condominium Project in East Asia to be given the EDGE (Excellence in Design For Greater Efficiencies) Certificate, awarded by IFC World Bank. Hurry! Very few units left! Call 917-792-1078 or (088) 880-5002 or visit www. primaveraresidences.com.

Biblical reflection times we blame God but actually, it is our faults to be sick.Proverbs 19:3”The foolishness of man ruins his way, and his heart rages against the LORD. Take note, Jesus was a daily worshipper to God: Printing paid by: Edith Ranoa - Jordan and Crespina Ranoa - Bobong Balino– Cagayan De Oro: # 09187148435: Listen to me via Thunder Radio

97.9 FM- Cagayan De Oro City- 1:00 PM- Sunday: God loves you!

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Feb. 8 --- The province of Lanao del Sur recorded P1.2 billion tourism receipts in 2016 posting as the number one tourism destination among the provinces in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) during the year. Official figures from the ARMM’s Tourism department showed that the province attracted 69,606 visitors in 2016, 14 percent higher than the 61,058 visitors registered in 2015. Ahmad Nouraldinn Tamano Jr, provincial tourism focal person, said the province has been persuasive on their campaign to promote Lanao del Sur as a tourism destination. They have been showcasing the distinct characteristics of the Meranao way of life, history, and culture by participating in various events such as the Phil Travel Mart. Tamano said one of the must-see attractions is Lake Lanao, the largest inland body of water in Mindanao and the second largest lake in the Philippines. Lake Lanao serves as reservoir for the Agus hydroelectric power plants that generate up to 75 percent of Mindanao’s power supply. The arts and crafts of the Maranao tribe, Polo Barakat Mosque in Binidayan, Kilometer Zero, Mindanao State University and Daguduban in Marawi City; Lake Dapao in Pualas; and white water rafting in

Wao could also easily lure tourists to the province. Tamano further said that part of the agenda of Provincial Governor Soraya A. Adiong is cultural tourism and promotion of tourist destinations to generate income and livelihood to the locals. Meanwhile, a total of 212,649 visited the region’s five provinces in 2016 with roughly P3.7 billion in tourism-related expenditures. ARMM Tourism Secretary Ayesha MangudadatuDilangalen said the influx of tourists in the region falls in the last quarter of the year. Outside of Lanao del Sur, provincial breakdown of the region’s tourism data in 2016 showed the following: Tawi-Tawi with 63,509 visitors and P1.1 billion in gross receipts; Maguindanao with 40,981 visitors and P721 million in gross receipts; Basilan with 24,243 visitors and P424 million in gross receipts; and Sulu with 13,857 and P242 million in gross receipts. “Tourist gross receipts cut across other industries like transport, trade, food, and telecommunications, among others,” Sec. Dilangalen explained. She also said that tourism can provide direct jobs to the community. “Visitors’ expenditures generate income for the local community and can lead to the alleviation of poverty,” she added. (BPI/ PIA-10)

Tourist arrivals in Lanao del Sur up by 14% in 2016

DepEd EDPU By JEREMIAS B. PRIMOR Buyog Elementary School

FREE Publication of PRESS RELEASES for corporate accounts to Mindanao Daily News and BusinessWeek Newspapers

We in the Department of Education (DepEd) were so grateful upon hearing the news of the Creation of the Education Program Delivery Unit (EDPU) by next year. Recently, according to Secretary Leonor Brio-

Bro. Edcel L. Closas

nes, this program would address constraints, challenges and pressure in the Department’s financial management and further hasten the delivery of its services and equipment to needy schools. In addition to this, some of its key functions will be the following: First,

it would facilitate so as to have fast and efficient monitoring of the agency’s budget utilization; And next, equipment and services would be delivered timely, considering that it shall have conducted Delivery Performance Reviews just to identify those obstacles that may hinder the implementation of the department’s projects.

Feature

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Project NOAH: The Story IN THE aftermath of Typhoon Sendong in 2011, former President Benigno S. Aquino III called for “a more accurate, integrated, and responsive disaster prevention and mitigation system, especially in highrisk areas throughout the Philippines.” In response, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) scanned all available technologies and expertise to come up with a flagship program that addressed the nation’s needs before, during, and after disasters. At that time, there were three ongoing DOST-funded independent projects that related to disaster, namely ClimateX, Weather Sensors Development, and Disaster Risk and Exposure Assessment for Mitigation or DREAM. Upon the directive of then DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo, these three projects were consolidated, and likewise three more projects were approved to form Project NOAH which had Dr. Mahar Lagmay as executive director. These three new projects were: 1) Storm Surge (under PAGASA), 2) Landslide, and 3) WebGIS. These projects, working together and sharing data among themselves, became

the core of DOST’s flagship program called the Disaster Risk Reduction/Climate Change Adaptation (DRRCCA) which then Secretary Montejo called the NOAH Program. This program, with a budget of P6.4 billion, is now beefed up with 19 components, including the original six projects plus DREAM-LiDAR, 3-D Mapping, FloodNET, Landslide Sensors Development, and Hydro-Met Sensors Development, among others. Among NOAH Program’s missions were to undertake disaster science research and development, advance the use of cutting edge technologies, and recommend innovative information services in government’s disaster prevention and mitigation efforts. NOAH Program had a multi-disciplinary approach in developing systems, tools, and other technologies that could be operationalized by the government to help prevent and mitigate disasters. It also partnered with the academe and other stakeholders to accomplish its objectives. As a Grant-In-Aid project of the DOST, the NOAH Program, as well as its

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He said since 2003, there were 1,854 cases of illegal drugs in the region, 177 of which were filed in 2016. Out of these cases, only three resulted in conviction, two in 2003 and one in 2011. “There were some cases that only reached up to the prosecutor’s office and dismissed right away due to lack of probable cause or due to technicality,” the DILG-ARMM chief said. Cases dismissed immediately were recorded at 732, or about 40 percent of the total illegal drug cases in the past 14 years. Valente Carino, PDEAARMM director, said 90 percent to 95 percent of illegal drug cases were dismissed because of lack of probable cause. Att y. R ohaira h L ao, Maguindanao provincial prosecutor said there are common mistakes committed by persons and agents in authority that resulted in the dismissal of cases. Lao said these include lack of elements of the crime charged, inconsistent or contradictory statements of arresting officers in their affidavits during the inquest, and lack of vital documents and evidence, among others. “We want these policemen, in the subsequent filing of cases, (to) be mindful on procedural and substantial form of the complaint to the end and that all those who are involved in the drug business will be convicted at the end of the day,” Sec. Abdullah added. (PNA)

from page A1

ARMM) on Wednesday conducted a one-day orientation on improving the capacity of law enforcement agencies in filing of cases on illegal drugs and illegal possession of firearms. DILG-ARMM conducted the orientation dubbed ‘Strengthening the Legal Capacity of Persons and Agents in Authority on Filing Drug Cases,’ was attended by representatives from the police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). Also present were provincial prosecutors from the provinces of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur, and representatives from Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-ARMM, National Bureau of InvestigationARMM and the Department of Justice. Lawyer Noor Hafizullah Abdullah, DILG-ARMM secretary, said the orientation was conducted to boost the capacity of persons and agents in authority specifically those involved in the filing of drug-related cases as well as cases of illegal possession of firearms. He said the orientation seminar was in response to low conviction rate of drug cases in the region and is part of the continuing legal education on filing drug cases in courts. “We found out one of the obstacles for successful prosecution was slow preparation or build up of cases,” Sec. Abdullah said.

See noah, page A7

Saturday, February 11, 2017

AMAZING ADLAY, Sa’yo giginhawa ang buhay – may kalusugan at kabuhayang taglay. Milled Adlay, or grits (inset picture) and cooked as rice alternative and as healthy food (Adlay caldo or champorado) take center stage during the recent Region-10 Adlay Stakeholders Meeting at the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex (NMACLRC), Dalwangan, Malaybalay City. The Department of Agriculture -10 Research Division, thru a team of Adlay researchers and product developers, has developed and promoted the production, marketing and utilization of Adlay and Adlay-based commercial products such as wine, breakfast cereals, coffee, among others considering the crop’s diverse potentials in addressing food and nutrition security, and in providing economic benefits to farmers and potential entrepreneurs. An Adlay Industry Cluster is recently organized to maximize Adlay’s potentials in its production and utilization in the Region. (MAE ODIMYRL ABARABAR-MORALES, DA-10)

Yield... from page A1

Rustom yielded to the 73rd Infantry Battalion in Davao Occidental. “Junie surrendered on February 1 after the encounter in Sitio Paliwason, Barangay Lambog, Manay, Davao Oriental last February 1, while Mike, Tenen, Ranil and Jimboy on February 7, as a result of the offensive operations launched by 67th IB. Francis returned to the folds of the law on February 8, after being with the NPA for less than two months. They are all members of Guerilla Front 15,” Batchar said. He added that Robert and Rustom are members of Guerilla Front 71, who voluntarily surrendered last February 6 to the 73rd IB. Hardship and hunger while being with the NPA, including disillusionment forced the eight NPA members to go back to normal lives. Batchar also reported that offensive operations of the 10th ID also resulted to two encounters, the discovery of five encampments and the recovery of nine improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Major General Rafael C Valencia, 10th ID commander also called on members of the NPA in the area to return to the folds of the law now. “They must realize that they are with a terrorist group sowing fear on our own people,” Valencia said. The general also asked the people in the area to encourage NPAs to surrender for the good of their families. (PNA)

Letting you go Dear Heart, I had an ex-boyfriend who is a soldier. We just broke up last December 2016. I still have this feeling of loneliness since we broke up.We started our one year and four months relationship through Facebook. He added me and i accepted his fb invitation .Since then, we chatted and we exchanged mobile numbers.Everyday he texts and calls me until I am so comfortable talking to him.He courted me even though we’re far from each other. He was assigned in Visayas and I’m in Mindanao.I felt the effort and one day I said yes to him.I told my parents about him. After having a long distance relationship, he was assigned nearer to me here in Mindanao. I was so happy then. When he was off from work,he would visit me in my workplace and I also introduced him to my parents. I brought him at our house.I felt so loved by him that time but one day, he changed. The text and calls are now seldom. So I immediately opened his Facebook since i had his password and I found out that there was a girl who was always chatting with him. He replied faster to her than to me. He kept on telling me that he was so busy only to find out he was busy chatting with this girl. I was so sad and jealous and i blocked him on my Facebook so he would not see me. I hated him. I told him that i would break up with him. A t first he said no but the next moment, he would not reply to my messages. That means the end for us. He broke my heart. I want to move on but still he is in my heart. I love him and i think he loves me also but I’m not sure. He is calling and texting me again but as friends.What will I do? I still love him. He said that maybe someday we will be back as lovers. Maybe this is not the right time for us. I feel so sad and as well

as betrayed. What will I do hearty? Yours truly, Devoted Lover Dearest Devoted Lover, Loving is a risk. Love can give so much happiness and so much sadness.They say when we are in love, part of ourselves is given to someone whom we loved. It’s like half of your heart beats for that someone. However, if we are hurt by the one we loved,why stay? If you feel he is not worth it, then i guess you deserve someone better. Long distance relationship will not work if you don\t have foundation.You need to build trust first and memories together before engaging into long distance relationship.It would be helpful but if you don’t have foundation of memories to hold on to, the relationship is not strong if rocky roads will come up specially if he will be involved on a woman whose near to him. If your ex-boyfriend will not make efforts to have you back, don’t hope for him.The people that are quick to walk away are the ones who never intended to stay. Once you realize you deserve better, letting go will be the best decision ever. Just keep loving, Devoted Lover. The right guy will come. Sincerely yours, Hearty of Dear Heart P.S If you feel lonely and have issues on your love life and if you have encouraging words for people out there, don’t hesitate to send us your letters through my page Dear Heart or email me at cj_0725@yahoo.com.ph. We are excited to read and published your stories.

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Saturday, February 11, 2017

SSS resolves nearly 2,000 cases endorsed by 8888 Hotline The Social Security System (SSS) resolved 1,919 complaints coursed through the 8888 Citizen’s Complaint Hotline within five days, majority of which pertain to claims processing and documentation procedures. SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel F. Dooc said that the agency is maintaining high resolution rates with an average of 97 percent despite the increasing number of cases endorsed by the Civil Service Commission (CSC). “We immediately act on our member’s complaints through our Member Relations Department which responds to queries and other concerns endorsed by the 8888 Hotline. In fact, SSS has already settled all the cases from August to November to prevent backlogs,” Dooc said. Around 39 percent or 783 complaints pertain to slow processing of benefit claims and another 13 percent or 260 cases are complaints on documentation hassles and clarification on SSS procedures. SSS has an average of 180,000 transactions per day received by its 276 branches nationwide. “Management is now looking at ways to streamline procedures and reduce the number of documentary requirements while at the same time preventing fraudulent claims. A priority right now is automation of systems to speed up the processing of benefit claims, loans, and other member transactions,” Dooc added stressing that policies on processing of

claims have to be strictly enforced to ensure that the benefits will be given to the rightful members and beneficiaries. SSS has established stronger ties with partner banks for the direct release of sickness, maternity, Employees’ Compensation, and retirement benefits to members’ bank accounts. “Member-borrowers can also withdraw their salary loan disbursements within three to five days using Unionbank Quick Card and Citibank Cash Cards. This only proves that SSS has been utilizing innovative ways to improve service delivery for members’ greater convenience,” Dooc noted. “Members can also follow the official Facebook page of SSS to keep themselves updated with the latest programs and events. For a more thorough discussion on the different benefit programs and services of SSS, members and employers are welcome to attend regular in-depth seminars organized by the Member Education Department,” Dooc concluded. The 8888 Hotline is one of the current initiatives of the Duterte administration to establish a feedback mechanism that enables the public to air their queries and complaints for proper endorsement and immediate action of concerned agencies. Aside from the 8888 hotline, the CSC has two existing feedback channels such as Contact Center ng Bayan and Public Assistance Office which have been endorsing referrals to SSS for the past several years.

Gov’t to provide transition period to end ‘5-6’ lending scheme Immigration Bureau, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Philippine National Police, Small Business Corporation (SB Corp.) and the Indian Chamber of Commerce, gathered to discuss legitimization of lending businesses and initial steps to put a stop on the said lending scheme. The total operation value of the “5-6” lending system sums up to a total of PhP 2.4 billion, with 30,000 operators across the country, according to the Indian Chamber of Commerce Philippines. A transition period will be provided to lending operators, giving them ample time to register

their businesses with SEC. “After the prescribed transition p erio d, 5-6 scheme must stop and micro-businesses must shift to P3 and other legal microfinancing facilities,” said Sec. Lopez, referring to the government’s flagship micro-financing initiative Pondo Para sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso or P3, initiated by President Rodrigo Duterte. Launched in Tacloban, Occidental Mindoro and Sarangani, the 1-billion micro-financing program aims to provide micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with easy access to finance with no collateral and minimal interest,

through micro-financing institutions (MFIs) and cooperatives accredited by DTI and the SB Corp. “We should be seeking the frontiers, these people who have not been reached by the MFIs are the same people targeted by the ‘56’,” Sec. Lopez added. A Technical Working Group (TWG) on the matter will provide specific guidelines on the compliance and registration of lending businesses. Indian Chamber of Commerce Philippines President Rex Daryanani expressed hope that term “5-6” would eventually be eradicated and be replaced by the term “microfinancing.”

WHEN LOVE IS REAL exhilaration and contentment if it is a right love with the right person and at the right time. Wrong love can bring tons of trouble. Have you undergone having a relationship with somebody and yet you are uncertain if you really love him or her and if he really loves you? Yes! It takes a process. What is real love and how do you know when you’re in it? It is a sort of question but it makes you fathom how to find that kind of love, since voluminous individuals make dreadful mistakes and cannot handle their emotions. How sad, that nowa- days, according to pre vious studies with observation a lot of teenagers leap into premature marriages. Staying married for the sake of the children and they are not really in love at all. Real love leads

to a good relationship that is enduring and authentic, not merely for amusement and pleasure. Christ should always be the center because it is the ability to put one’s selfish interests and feelings aside and give to the other person. Like Christ did, when He was crucified on the cross for us, to save us and continue the kingdom of God in our lives. As the Bible states, “ love is an outgoing concern for the one loved. It is a selfless desire to give of self for the benefit of another .”Love isn’t just some surface things that fades a while. Love is much deeper and it must undergo a process not just physical attraction or infatuation; Love must go beyond. Since we cannot guarantee our feelings if it is a real love or not, we should be perceptive on the qualities of a real and right kind of love . First, real love must be self-sacrificing, one tried to do what is really best

for the love one, not just getting anything from the person. Second, real love is able to endure through predicaments; a relationship that dies with the first struggle is not love. Third, love remains stable overtime, it takes time to grow and strong enough to last. Fourth, real love does not die down. How about you? do you have these assets which makes the relationship unwavering and veritable? If not then try this to find this real love first within yourself, since you cannot give what you don’t have. Then towards somebody and surely you’ll end up contented and pleased, knowing it’s the real kind of love with the help and grace of God, the source of real love. Happy Valentines to everyone!

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING & REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No.10, Apovel, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City

In line with government’s drive to reform the microfinancing system in the country, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently (3 February) called for an inter-agency meeting to work on the transition to allow illegal foreign money lenders to legalize their resident status and register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) their lending business. The transition period is needed to prevent undue harassment of concerned lenders. DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez with SEC Chair Tess Herbosa and representatives from the Departments of Justice and Foreign Affairs,

By ARLENE B. VALMORIA, RGC Macabalan National High School

Almost e ver yone experienced what they thought was love. First when you were fascinated to a member of the opposite sex. Later on you comprehended that it was not a real love. Maybe you even experienced these feelings of “LOVE”. Many times, you think if that feeling is really true and if it is really genuine and forever love. For wholesome motive love is a brigadier fragment of existence. In detail we were crafted and we were born out of love. To fathom the deep and signif icant emotion called love, we need to contemplate the word of God in John 3:16 “ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life”. Love can bring a lot of Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING & REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No.10, Apovel, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City ARTURO C. ABAS Applicant/s

CASE NO. 2015-10-2282

JOCELYN S. SIA Applicant/s

CASE NO. 2017-10-253

JOSELITO DENNIS AWIT Applicant/s

CASE NO. 2017-10-251

From a Teacher/ Guidance Counselor/ Lector/CFC Unit Leader Perspective: Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING & REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No.10, Apovel, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City MARIO T. BALBUTIN CASE NO. 2017-10-249 Applicant/s (2007-10-531)

NOTICE OF HEARING

APPLICANT(s)/PETITIONER(s) request/s authority for the issuance of Certificate of Public convenience to operate TH FREIGHT service on the line ;Within Cagayan de Oro City and from said place to any point in Mindanao Island accessible to motor vehicle traffic and vice versa with the use of one(1)units. This application/petition shall be considered by this Board on February 20, 2017, at 2;00 P.M. at this Board on which date Applicant/ (s) Petitioner(s) shall formally submit his/her/ their evidence. The Applicant(s)Petitioner (s)shall publish said notice at least TEN (10) days prior to the date of hearing in a daily newspaper of general circulation in the Mindanao Island. Party(ies)opposed to the approval /granting of the application /petition must file his/her/their written opposition with supporting documents, unless this Board deems it necessary to required additional documentary evidence and /or his/ her/their oral testimony(ies). N.B. FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THE SCHEDULED DATE AND TIME OF HEARING SHALL MEAN THE DISMISSAL OF THE APPLICATION/PETITION. Issued this 8th day of February, 2017, Cagayan de Oro City,Philippines.

APPLICANT(s)/PETITIONER(s) request/s authority For the issuance Certificate of Public Convenience to operate TH FREIGHT service on the line ;Within Cagayan de Oro City and from said place to any point in Region X accessible to motor vehicle traffic and vice versa with the use of one(1)units. This application/petition shall be considered by this Board on February 17, 2017, at 3;00 P.M. at this Board on which date Applicant/ (s) Petitioner(s) shall formally submit his/her/ their evidence. The Applicant(s)Petitioner (s)shall publish said notice at least FIVE(5) days prior to the date of hearing in a daily newspaper of general circulation in the Mindanao Island. Party(ies)opposed to the approval /granting of the application /petition must file his/her/their written opposition with supporting documents, unless this Board deems it necessary to required additional documentary evidence and /or his/ her/their oral testimony(ies). N.B. FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THE SCHEDULED DATE AND TIME OF HEARING SHALL MEAN THE DISMISSAL OF THE APPLICATION/PETITION. Issued this 8TH day of February, 2017, Cagayan de Oro City Philippines.

APPLICANT(s)/PETITIONER(s) request/s authority For the issuance of Certificate of Public Convenience to operate TH FREIGHT service on the line ;Within Iligan City and from said place to any point in Mindanao accessible to motor vehicle traffic and vice versa with the use of one(1)units. This application/petition shall be considered by this Board on February 24, 2017 at 3; 00 P.M. at this Board on which date Applicant/ (s) Petitioner(s) shall formally submit his/her/ their evidence. The Applicant(s)Petitioner (s)shall publish said notice at least TEN(10) days prior to the date of hearing in a daily newspaper of general circulation in the Mindanao Island. Party(ies)opposed to the approval /granting of the application /petition must file his/her/their written opposition with supporting documents, unless this Board deems it necessary to required additional documentary evidence and /or his/ her/their oral testimony(ies). N.B. FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THE SCHEDULED DATE AND TIME OF HEARING SHALL MEAN THE DISMISSAL OF THE APPLICATION/PETITION. Issued this 8th day of February 2017 at Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines.

APPLICANT(s)/PETITIONER(s) request/s authority To extend the Validity of a Certificate of Public Convenience with confirmation to operate PUJ/FILCAB service on the line;Cogon Market to Balulang and vice versa with the use of ONE(1)units. This application/petition shall be considered by this Board on February 17, 2017 at 3;00 P.M. at this Board on which date Applicant/ (s) Petitioner(s) shall formally submit his/her/ their evidence. The Applicant(s)Petitioner (s)shall publish said notice at least FIVE(5) days prior to the date of hearing in a daily newspaper of general circulation in the Mindanao Island. Party(ies)opposed to the approval /granting of the application /petition must file his/her/their written opposition with supporting documents, unless this Board deems it necessary to required additional documentary evidence and /or his/ her/their oral testimony(ies). N.B. FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THE SCHEDULED DATE AND TIME OF HEARING SHALL MEAN THE DISMISSAL OF THE APPLICATION/PETITION. Issued this 8th day of February, 2017, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines.

AMINODEN D. GURO OIC Regional Director

AMINODEN D. GURO OIC Regional Director MDN: Feb 11, 2017

MDN: Feb 11, 2017

AMINODEN D. GURO OIC Regional Director MDN: Feb 11, 2017

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List...

from page A8

“When you’re with Filipinos, you’re with family” drew applause from the audience which featured the Enchanted River in the Province of Surigao del Sur. The pageant was one big venue to meet and greet (and take selfies) with the who’s who in the pageant world- from past Miss Universe winners, celebrities to politicians. President Rodrigo Duterte didn’t get to watch it, but I saw some members of his cabinet that came with their families. But the biggest star of the night was undeniably Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach. From the moment she first came out from the stage, the Filipinos inside the 20 thousand capacity venue and the rest of audience from various parts of the world- gave their all out scream and shout out for the most popular Miss Universe in recent years. She was radiant in her evening gowns especially on that blue Michael Cinco creation at the finale. Right after the live broadcast, we saw her walked around the stage to find Maxine who was visibly emotional as soon as they hugged. I’m still hopeful that one day Pia will finally find the opportunity to give us Kagay-anons a homecoming as Miss Universe. As of latest news, she flew in 7 balikabayan boxes full of clothes she used during her entire reign which she plan to sell and proceeds will be given to the indigent residents of Cagayan de Oro.

Noah... from page A5

components, all had starting and completion dates, and deliverables, among others. The NOAH Program started in 2011 and most component projects were completed in 2015, including Project NOAH. Project NOAH was a success, and its popularity prompted the Department of Budget and Management to label all succeeding DOST DRR/CCA projects as “Project NOAH/NOAH Program.” Project NOAH Project NOAH, or Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards, was launched in July 2012 in Marikina City by no less than former President Aquino and former Secretary Montejo. Project NOAH

was designed to harness technologies and management services for disaster risk reduction activities offered by the DOST through DOST’s agencies PAGASA, PHIVOLCS, and Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) in partnership with the UP National Institute of Geological Sciences and the UP College of Engineering. During its course, Project NOAH under Dr. Lagmay was able to provide an early flood warning system together with the country’s weather authority, the DOST- PAGASA. Project NOAH used and processed data coming from PAGASA. Proj ec t NOAH was completed in December 2015 and it was expected to transfer to PAGASA all the technologies that the project developed. PAGASA has the mandate to “provide protection against natural calamities and utilize scientific knowledge as an effective instrument to insure the safety, well- being and economic security of all the people, and for the promotion of national progress.” Therefore it is the government’s prime end-user for all technologies generated by Project NOAH and similar initiatives. This is not to say, however, that only PAGASA can use the said technologies as these are open to all institutions and offices that need them. In early 2015, then Secretary Montejo created a committee through a special order that specifically directed PAGASA and Project NOAH personnel, including Dr. Lagmay, to start the transfer of developed data and tools to PAGASA. The start of the transfer process was again agreed upon in a meeting on November 28, 2016 with Dr. Lagmay, DOST officials, and PAGASA. In a statement on Project NOAH released on January 30, 2017, DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña said the “results are useful and should be institutionalized in regular government agencies whose mandates cover these areas.” Thus, it is not only PAGASA that can use the technologies but also other agencies concerned with disaster risk reduction to benefit the Filipino people by saving lives and property. This is science for the people. Transition then extension

Saturday, February 11, 2017 In 2016, Project NOAH had yet to complete the transfer to PAGASA so Dr. Lagmay was advised to propose a transition project to facilitate the transfer of technology. Dr. Lagmay then proposed the project called ISAIAH or the Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards: Integrated Scenario-based Assessments of Impacts and Hazards, which was approved in March 2016. Upon the project’s approval in DOST-PCIEERD’s Governing Council, Dr. Lagmay was directed to transfer to PAGASA the tools developed by the Project as one of its deliverables. This included the training of PAGASA personnel on the new tools developed. Towards the end of project ISAIAH, Dr. Lagmay was not able to facilitate the transfer so he made a request for extension dated Nov. 11, 2016 but received by DOST only on December 19, 2016. The submitted documents did not include financial reports, proposed work plan, and target activities for the extension, among other requirements and, therefore, the request has not yet been deliberated upon. All personnel of Project NOAH and ISAIAH are contractual staff and therefore co-terminus with the project. However, DOST, in good faith, recognizes the importance and value of the experts trained under Project NOAH and they should be recruited in government agencies to continue the good work that they have been doing in the past. A transition project under PAGASA will be able to absorb many of the Project NOAH personnel. This is in line with the recently passed PAGASA Modernization Law. In addition, the establishment of the National Space Agency will likewise require personnel with the skill sets of some of the NOAH personnel and they should apply there as well. Project NOAH has developed many tools, generated important data, and trained a new crop of disaster scientists. The service that NOAH provides must be

made a permanent fixture in mandated agencies, and this has been the core objective of the project from the very start. Young and highly trained scientists must also be encouraged to join government service. Holding back on the expected delivery or even promise of technology and knowledge transfer is denying the Filipino people of better weather forecasting and disaster risk assessment services. (S&T Media Services)

Need... from page A2

comprehensive insurance for calamities, and resources from the government for comprehensive capacity building. Ballesteros and Llanto explained that unlike the other two laws, the PRESENT bill does not promote the exemption of social enterprises from the minimum wage law. This is because they “are known to pay above the minimum wage and apply other fair trade principles”. However, the bill faces visceral challenges, including a question of definitions, where there is currently a “lack of agreement” on what differentiates social enterprise activities from those of for-profit and nonprofit entities. There is also a question of social enterprises overlapping with social protection policies and programs of the government. That said, the authors acknowledge the potential of social enterprises as an avenue to respond to social challenges left unmet by existing entities—whether they are of the state, the for-profit sector, or the nonprofit sector. “The Philippines has a social and cultural environment conducive for social entrepreneurship to emerge. This is largely attributed to the widespread focus in the country on the bottom-ofthe-pyramid issues and the strong participation of the civil society and the private sector in social issues,” concluded the authors. It would beneficial for the Philippines to nurture that environment through sound policies.

Coops... from page A1

Renewable Energy Supply Contract (RESA) with Hedcor which is building the 68.8-Megawatt(MW) Manolo Fortich hydro power project in Bukidnon. In a statement Wednesday, Hedcor Vice President for Mindanao Operations Rolando Pacquiao said the six cooperatives have started to shift towards a more balanced mix of energy sources “By signing up with Hedcor, they are giving their member-consumers the benefit of using renewable energy as well as a balanced mix of energy sources,” Pacquiao said. Hedcor has signed up a total of 23MW of power contracted by its existing customers. Out of this, ZANECO which serves the area in and around Zamboanga del Norte and the cities of Dipolog and Dapitan have signed for a total of 10 MW. Zamsureco 1 and Zamsureco 2 which services the rest of Zamboanga peninsula signed for 3 MW each. BUSECO with franchise locations in Bukidnon, including Malaybalay City, Manolo Fortich and Valencia City, signed for 5 MW. MOELCI 1 is currently servicing some municipalities in Misamis Occidental and SIARELCO, covering at least nine towns in Siargao Island, each signed for 1 MW. “We hope other electric cooperatives will take advantage of renewable energy to add to their portfolio and the benefits of a RESA contract,” Pacquiao said. Hedcor is set to com-

plete its 68.8 Manolo Fortich Hydropower Plants located in Bukidnon by the third quarter of this year. These hydropower plants will produce 360-GWh of clean and renewable energy every year for the Mindanao grid, thus ensuring ample power supply to meet the increasing power demands of the region. (PNA)

Expands... from page A1

empowering college graduates of the prescribed skills that most employers are looking for in an employee. Qualified “JobStarters” will undergo 10 days of life skills training, up to three months of JobStart- funded technical training and another three months of work experience with a “matched” employer or establishment. The interns will receive at least 75 percent of the minimum wage in the relevant city or municipality. Suyao said under the program, qualified JobStarters will undergo a 10-day Life Skills Training (LST) in preparation for their on-the-job training. “We believe that with the Life Skills Training, with the technical training, with the on-the-job training, there is no way that you will not get the first job or the second job that you will be seeking for,” Suyao said. A total of 336 qualified applicants were given LST. Earlier this year, some 222 beneficiaries availed of the training, 122 from Davao City and 100 from Tagum City. In 2016, there were 214 applicants who availed the training. (PNA)

EDITOR : MARK FRANCISCO

Saturday

feature

February 11, 2017

Special Feature:

MISS UNIVERSE: THAT BUCKET LIST CHECKED during the pageant night that drew mixed reaction especially the emerald green evening gown during the preliminaries and the silverred pink gown during the final night. Bb Pilipinas President Stella Araneta has the final say- but this is only the 2nd year that Araneta gave in to collaborating with Filipino designers to dress up the Philippine representative. For many years, it has always been the Colombian fashion designer Alfredo Barraza. There was a long debate whether Philippine bet Maxine should use an interpreter or not- eventually she did but fell short from the high expectations of the pageant fanatics and the judges. Maxine’s camp headed by international queen maker Jonas Gaffud justified that the interpreter was tapped so Maxine can better understand the question and would give her better chance to express herself fully whether in English or not. During commercial breaks- pageant fanatics’ favorite Miss Venezuela was seen dancing with the in house music like she’s in party mood. She drew deafening screams from the crowd along with Miss Philippines, Miss Thailand,

By Gean T. Cesar

For someone who is actively engaged in local pageant, watching Miss Universe live on stage is on top of my bucket list. And so I found myself taking an overnight Manila trip to be part of pageant history here in the Philippines. If you’re from the province and watching Miss Universe on stage in SM Arena would be costlyespecially if you decide last minute. We planned about it as soon as it was announced that the most popular international beauty pageant will be held here in the Philippines. We got our tickets early online- thanks to International beauty pageant photo journalist, Jory Rivera (OPMB) for giving us code for the early selling. We stayed in a condo just a walking distance to the pageant venue courtesy of The Concierge of our friend Gladys Chu. Because of the convenience, we were able to watch the Final dress rehearsals straight from the airport. It was like watching the Live show itself except that the actual winners were not the ones featured during the rehearsals. Everything was scripted- including the gestures and punch lines of host Steve Harvey, Miss Universe Pia and that Colombia-Harvey interaction. Tickets that were released as Complimentary were discreetly sold outside the venue. They were sold the same price as what you get online or at any SM ticket booths nationwide. The dress rehearsal was packed with paying audience and Dahilayan Adventure Park’s video of Pia doing the zipline was played multiple times as filler for other videos that were not available yet. Steve Harvey has a 5yr contract with IMG/Miss Universe to host the pageant according to press release. Unless probably he voluntarily withdrew from his hosting contract after that controversial winner announcement between Philippines and Colombia- then perhaps we didn’t have Harvey in the Manila pageant. But the crowd in the venue loved Harvey. The stage design was all electronic and graphics

generated. Gone are the days of stage props. The Miss Universe management, brought along with them more than 300 individuals as part of their production team. IMG-Miss Universe also handles the annual Miss Universe, including Miss USA and Miss Teen USA. USA President Donald Trump used to co-own the Miss Universe pageant with NBC. But NBC dropped the airing of Miss Universe in 2015 after the controversial remark of Trump about Mexican illegal immigrants. An out of court settlement was made between NBC and Trump. IMG-WME got the rights of Miss Universe from Trump during Pia’s time. There were 2 designers rumored to be Maxine Medina’s choice for the pageant night- Rhett Eala and Cherry Veric. Ultimately, Eala’s creation were all used

Miss Indonesia and Miss Colombia. She was predicted early on to win the title- but she didn’t make it even to the first cut. Philippine franchisee Gov. Chavit Singson was a seat away from former Philippine President Joseph Estrada. Her daughter Richelle Singson-Michael who sits as chairman of Miss Universe Manila committee was dressed plainly in white jumpsuit. After the pageant, she was seen at the lobby in a corner comfortably taking in the chaos. She left quietly with her husband and politely said her goodbye. Her father proceeded to a post pageant presscon where he was quoted saying that he’s willing to stage another Miss Universe in the Philippines as long as the Philippine government will share cost of the production. The summer capital of the Philippines- Baguio City got the prominent highlight that night. As one of the pageant’s sponsors (Baguio Hotel and Restaurant Association who reportedly paid more than p40M) the candidates’ visit and the beauty of Baguio was seen thru a video. The DOT produced tourism commercial which highlighted “When you’re See list, page A7