Mindanao Daily (December 9-10, 2017)

MINDANAO DAILY YOUR MINDANAO-WIDE NEWSPAPER

Volume VII, No. 167 Website: www.mindanaodailynews.com

Sat-Sun

December 9-10, 2017

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PCOO awards FOI champions MANILA -- The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) on Monday awarded various champions of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Executive Program during the first FOI Awards held at the historic Rizal Park Hotel.

The PCOO bestowed to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) the recognition as this year’s best implementor of the Executive FOI Program in the department category, a

PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar said one of the FOI Program’s accomplishments include a 96-percent compliance among national government agencies, or 181 out of 189 complied on the submission of their respective FOI manuals. (Photo by Nelson Ortiz/PIA-NCR)

USTP president’s killers got him on 2nd attempt, says NBI

By Froilan Gallardo

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews / 7 December) — The assailants of University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines president Ricardo Rotoras had attempted to kill him days before they finally got a chance to shoot him dead last December 2.

National Bureau of Investigation region 10 Chief Sally Hans Barbaso said the killers attempted to kill Rotoras previously and they were there in front of his house with the victim unaware of their presence.

Barbaso said they arrived at this finding after learning that the killers built two ladders made of the coconut lumber to scale the fence of Golden Glow Subdivision in Upper Car-

men here where the victim lives.

“They were already in front of the house of Rotoras nights before the actual killing,” Barbaso said.

He said the killers left the first ladder beside the fence, which a watchman found and removed.

Barbaso said the killers made another ladder which they used in scaling the fence last December 2.

Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre has ordered the NBI to conduct a parallel investigation to catch the killers of Rotoras.

The Philippine National Police also formed a task force to solve the murder.

Mayor Oscar Moreno, the Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines and the Cagayan de Oro City council See got, page 10

year after its implementation nationwide.

For the agency category, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) was proclaimed as this year’s winner.

O t h e r F O I aw a r d ees include the National Housing Authority for the Government-owned and/ or-Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) category and the University of the Philippines for the State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) category.

“Sa araw na ito ipinag-

mamalaki po namin na ito na ang mga natupad ng aming opisina at ng FOI team, kasama na rin ng ating mga partner-agencies at partnerorganizations,” concurrent FOI Champion and PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar said.

“These milestones make us proud, and we celebrate these triumphs,” the PCOO chief added.

For his part, FOI Program Director Assistant Secretary Kris Ablan said the awarding ceremony aims

to recognize the significant contributions of GOCCs), SUCs, and local government units (LGUs), to the development and progress of the FOI program.

“We have accomplished much with the Freedom of Information Program. We have to thank President Rodrigo Duterte for signing Executive Order No. 2, which paved the way to establishing the FOI program,” Mr. Ablan said.

The PCOO, the lead See awards, page 10

MINDANAO DAILY SECOND FRONTPAGE mark francisco, Section Editor

Sat-Sun

December 910, 2017

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Government forces on high alert for retaliatory attacks GENERAL Santos City-Army and police units here and the neighboring areas have been placed on heightened alert after President Rodrigo R. Duterte formally declared the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), as terrorist groups.

Col. Roberto Ancan, commanding officer of the Army’s 1002nd Infantry Brigade, said they alerted all their operating units to brace for possible retaliatory attacks as a result of the declaration.

But Col. Ancan assured that they are prepared for any attack and have been closely monitoring the movements of NPA rebels within their area of responsibility.

The 1002nd Brigade has operational jurisdiction over this city and parts of the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato, Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental.

The city is considered as under the operational jurisdiction of the NPA’s guerilla front 73, which Sulu selfie. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte poses for a selfie photo with Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go, Hollywood See alert, page 11

actor Steven Seagal, and Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald dela Rosa during the President’s visit at Camp General Teodulfo Bautista in Barangay Bus-Bus, Jolo, Sulu on December 1, 2017. Presidential photo by Simeon Celi Jr.

Early Christmas for Maguindanao detainees COTABATO CITY – Christmas came early for more than 340 inmates of the Maguindanao provincial jail here as physicians and other health providers conducted Thursday health intervention to detainees.

The initiative is in preparation for the detainees’ transfer to a new facility in Buluan, Maguindanao, from the small, dilapidated and crowded jail building at Pedro Colina Hill, a military reservation area here.

Lynette Estandarte, Maguindanao provincial budget officer, said the provincial health team served a total of 342 inmates following a medical mission, which started Tuesday and set to end Thursday.

Of the total number of inmates served, 25 were women.

“In the new Buluan jail facility, women inmates will be placed in separate building from that of the men,” Estandarte said.

Aside from medical services, the team also distributed hygiene and medical kits and food supplies.

The new jail complex in Buluan town is nearing completion. Beside inmates’ cells, the complex also houses a reformatory center for lawbreakers.

“It has Islamic and Christian worship sites to help bring offenders closer to God,” Estandarte said.

Aprt from being a jail facility, the detention complex, which is set to fully operate by January 2018, will also serve as rehabilitation center for drug personalities who wish to be treated.

Estandarte explained the medical mission at the current provincial jail in Cotabato City aims to ensure that the detainees are in good health when they are relocated to Buluan town, some three hours drive from here.

Estandarte, head of the See early, page 11

Army extends medical aid to NPA rebels hurt in clashes ISULAN, Sultan Kudarat-Soldiers belonging to the 33rd Infantry Battalion had treated wounded communist rebels following a clash with the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion (IB) in the borders of South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat, the Army said Wednesday.

Capt. Arvin John Encinas, speaking for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said elements of the 33rd IB based in Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat provided manpower support to elements of 27th IB that clashed with the NPAs on Sunday in Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.

In the clash, seven communist rebels were killed and scores were wounded.

Two soldiers from 27th IB were also killed.

Encinas said after the clashes in Sit io D at a l

B onglangon, Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato the wounded rebels fled toward Bagumbayan town which is part of the area of operation of 33rd IB. At around 10:30 a.m.

Monday, 33rd IB troopers, led by Lt Col Harold Cabunoc and accompanied by tribal elders, entered Datal Bonglangon to treat a wounded insurgent named Jeffrey Denian, 18.

Datu Dandee Denian, a tribal leader from Tulale village, confirmed that among those killed were Datu Victor Denian and two of the latter’s sons who reinforced the NPA. Cabunoc has arranged a tribal burial rite for the dead insurgents who all belong to the Dulangan Manobo.

Later in the afternoon,

10 NPA members, several of them injured, surrendered to Cabunoc in the presence of Datu Tony Paan and Sto Nino village chairperson Julieto Ynion.

The simple ‘Balik Tribo’ surrender rite was held in Sitio Bermuda, about a kilometer away from the seized NPA camp. Cabunoc said the number of communist rebels who surrendered to the government troops in Sultan Kudarat had now reached to 86.

Major General Arnel Dela Vega, 6th Infantry Division commander, said aside from the sustained military operations in the area, massive awareness campaign was also undertaken in the indigent communities to expose the deceptive propaganda used by the NPA in their

recruitment of Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

T he wou nd e d we re brought by soldiers to Sultan Kudarat provincial hospital in Isulan, the provincial capital. Cabunoc said ten other communist fighters who belonged to the IPs community have surrendered to government forces.

Senior Supt. Raul Supiter, Sultan Kudarat police director, said at least 1,000 families had been displaced armed hostilities in Lake Sebu and fled toward Barangay Sumilil, Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat.

Supt. Supiter said the local police of Bagumbayan, led by Chief Inspector Gar y Marfil, extended emergency assistance to the affected families.

(PNA)

3 Troops hit NPA terrorists who attacked local police in Misamis Oriental FOR ADS PLACEMENT CALL OR TEXT: 0917-712-1424 • 0947-893-5776 E-mail: mindanaodaily.ads@gmail.com e-mail: mindanaodailynews@gmail.com

Sat-Sun, December 9-10, 2017

CAMP OSITO D. BAHIAN, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon - An armed clash between troops of the 58th Infantry Battalion and more or less 30 Communist Terrorists took place on December 6, 2017, around 11:10 a.m., in the outskirts of Sitio Kapatagan, Brgy. Umagos, Lagonglong town, Misamis Oriental.

The firefight, which ensued for about 30 minutes, took place after troops of the 58th Infantry Battalion, a unit operationally controlled by the 403rd Infantry Brigade, launched pursuit operations against the NPA terrorists who attacked the Municipal Police Station in the neighboring town of Binuangan on December 3, 2017.

Troops were able to recover two high-powered firearms that include an M16 rifle and an M1 Garand Rifle while scouring the encounter site. Globs of blood were also seen along the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, which indicate casualties on their side. Meanwhile, troops were unscathed during the armed clash.

The armed clash was also a result of the 58th Infantry Battalion’s prompt

response to the continued reports from concerned local residents who reportedly despised the NPA for attacking the Binuangan Municipal Police Station, which caused havoc and fear among the people in the said area including the three-days cancellation of classes.

Brigadier General Eric C Vinoya, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, had recently ordered the 58th Infantry Battalion to conduct relentless focused military operations against the NPA terrorists who perpetrated the attack in Binuangan Municipal Police Station. In his statement, he appreciated the efforts of the troops as well as the local residents who continue to support the Brigade’s campaign against NPA’s terrorism, lawlessness, and criminality.

“This incident is a manifestation of our relentless efforts to go after NPA terrorists who continue to threaten our communities in the provinces of Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental. In particular, I would like to commend our soldiers from the 58th Infantry Battalion for their untiring effort to

bring justice and the long arms of the law to those who perpetrated the attack of Binuangan Municipal Police Station, which threatened our peace-loving people in

By Juzel Danganan PNA

legal drugs. Medicines are pharmaceutical drugs used to treat or prevent illnesses.

They are legal, although they could also be abused.

The ones people should totally shun are the illegal drugs because they alter a person’s mood, thinking, and behavior.

All illegal drugs have immediate physical effects, and they also hinder psychological and emotional development, especially among young people, says the UNODC. Drugs cloud a user’s judgment, making him/her take more risks, for instance having unsafe sex that could lead one to contract sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. The effects of illegal drugs do not last long. When they wear off, a user gets depressed, lonely and sick, appears confused, sweats a lot, has red eyes, and neglects his/her physical appearance. Then comes the irrational craving.

The following are the most common prohibited drugs and how they affect their users: Methamphetamine Methamphetamine, a.k.a.

Shabu, also goes by the names Crack meth, Ice, Crystal meth, Tik, and Yaba.

Methamphetamine belongs to a group of drugs called amphetamine-type stimulants. Like ecstasy, it is manufactured in illegal

laboratories and sold in powder, tablet or crystal form. It could be swallowed, sniffed, smoked or injected.

The UNODC says meth produces a feeling of physical and mental wellbeing, euphoria, and exhilaration.

Users experience a temporary boost in energy, often perceived to improve their performance of manual or mental tasks, along with delayed hunger and fatigue.

At times, they become more aggressive and violent.

Over the short term, users tend to lose their appetite, start to breathe faster, and sweat due to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.

Taking in large doses would make users feel restless and irritable and could induce panic attacks. Taking in excessive doses could result in convulsions, seizures, and death from respiratory failure, stroke or heart failure.

Long-term use could also lead to malnutrition, weight loss, and psychological dependence.

Stopping its use results in a long period of sleep, followed by depression.

Ecstasy Ecstasy goes around by the names E, Snackies and New Yorkers. The drug, usually made in illegal laboratories, consists of a range of substances that make it dangerous to consume.

that area.” said Brigadier General Vinoya.

He further said, “Most importantly, I would like to thank our people, the local residents of Binuangan and

its neighboring communities, for continuously reporting the presence of NPA terrorists in their area. This is a very critical requirement in our conduct of focused

military operations in order to secure our communities from the exploitation and deception of the NPA and all their cohorts.” he added.

(403Bde/PA)

Across generations. Ralph Mattew Dilan, 5, and his group Kagten:The Beauty of Blaan Performing Arts from Malungon, perform at the 4th Indigenous Peoples Congress on IP Day adn Munato Festival celebration at the Capitol Grounds on November 29 in Alabel, Sarangani. The children learn the dance steps from their parents and pass on this tradition to the next generation. Photo by Jake Narte-Donna Mahusay/Sarangani Communications Service

Illegal drugs and their ill-effects WHAT’S with drugs that make the world so deeply concerned about people using them? In the Philippines alone, an estimated four to seven million of its 104 million population are said to be using prohibited drugs.

As a campaign promise, President Rodrigo Duterte has made the crackdown on illegal drugs a centerpiece of his administration -- for which he has been chastised from all fronts, in and out of the country.

Drug addiction, no doubt, has severely affected society, cutting across all socio-economic echelons and demographics. No one can deny that drug addiction is a societal menace, resulting in countless crimes, financial problems, and broken relationships, both with families and friends.

Here’s a glimpse of what the common prohibited drugs are and how they affect the body and mind.

According to a primer of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) posted on its website, drugs are chemical substances that affect the normal functioning of the body, either physically and/or psychologically.

Not all drugs are illegal, it says. The caffeine in coffee, the nicotine in cigarettes, and alcohol are technically

See drugs, page 11

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Opinion

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“Immaculate Conception”: is it in the Bible?

LIFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “…

The angel went to her and said, `Greetings (Mary), you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you’…” (Luke 1: 28, the Holy Bible).

-ooo“IMMACULATE CONCEPTION”: IS IT IN THE BIBLE? My profuse apologies to my relatives, friends, and acquaintances who commemorated on December 08 the “immaculate conception”, or the supposed conception without sin of Mary, the mother of Jesus, but may I be enlightened as to what part or parts of the Bible that pertain/s to this phenomenon?

I am aware that, based on the Bible, Mary is indeed a highly special woman. In fact, her coming here on earth and the importance of such an event was proclaimed right in the very

RODRIGO B. SEVILLA Regional Editor-Davao

JOE PALABAO Feature Editor

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In the other parts of the Bible, it was Mary who managed to prompt Jesus to perform His first ever miracle that showed He indeed is the God and Savior, through the miracle of the water that was turned to wine in a marriage in Cana. This installed Mary as the mediatrix between man and Jesus.

Yes, Mary is truly awesome. But, if we consider the important verses in the Bible about her, it would be clear from them that Mary is said to belong to the line of David, and that she was the cousin of Elizabeth wife of Zechariah, the parents of John the Baptist. This would mean she belonged to the human race, and is therefore very much human.

Now, if she was human, it wouldn’t be possible that she is free from sin, based

Atty. Batas Mauricio

on what God the Father said in Genesis 6:5-7 and in Romans 3:23. According to these verses, God Himself saw the sinfulness of humans, prompting Him to regret having created man. Man is sinful, even from the point of view of God. -oooMAY IS NOT HUMAN? There is a big problem in this kind of a perception, because if Mary truly belonged to the human race, she could not be without sin. And if she somehow was tainted by sin, we cannot help but think that the “baby boy” she conceived and gave birth to, the Lord Jesus, would also be tainted with sin. This cannot be a See bible, page 5

Think A Minute

Hole in the heart

THINK a minute.

You may have heard of Jimi Hendrix. He has been called the greatest EDITORIAL guitar player of rock n’ roll.

ALLAN M. MEDIANTE One night, Jimi Hendrix Editor-in-Chief was performing for a huge

ruel pelone CRIS DIAZ crowd of thousands at a

Managing Editor Executive Editor sold-out concert.

MARK FRANCISCO Suddenly, right in the Lifestyle Editor middle of the concert, he stopped playing. The GILBERT Y. CHAO gerry lee gorit thousands of people in the

Motoring Editor Photo Journalist audience waited in silence,

PAT SAMONTE CHRIS PANGANIBAN wondering what Hendrix Regional Editor Caraga Regional Editor-Caraga was going to do.

Finally, the silence was Rene Michael BaÑos uRIEL C. QUILINGUING Regional Editor Northmin Contributing Editor broken when Hendrix spoke through the loud speakers.

AL JACINTO JOE FELICILDA He said: “If any of you out Regional Editor-WestMin Editorial Consultant there knows how I can

first book of the Bible, in Genesis, particularly its Chapter 3, Verse 15. Then, it was also proclaimed that she would be the “vessel” which God will use, as it were, in coming to earth, too, in the form and likeness of man, to receive in Himself the punishment for man’s sinfulness.

On top of all these, Mary was the virgin that conceived and gave birth to a “baby boy” who was called the “Mighty God, Everlasting Father”. In the New Testament of the Bible, she was the woman to whom the angel, Gabriel, announced that she was the chosen one who will give birth to Jesus, our God and Savior, who is God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

-oooMARY, MOTHER OF JESUS, A SPECIAL WOMAN:

get peace of mind, please meet me backstage after the concert.” The big crowd sat in silence, completely surprised and shocked!

Sadly, not one person in that crowd of thousands came backstage after the concert. And Hendrix never found the peace of mind he was so desperate for.

The next day, Jimi Hendrix was found dead, from an overdose of drugs. What a tragic story.

You know that our Creator made every one of us to share and enjoy life with Him. In fact, we all something like a hole in our heart and life, like a

missing piece of a puzzle.

And until we find that missing part to fill our life, you and I can never have real, lasting peace and satisfaction, because we’re not complete.

We can try to fill this emptiness with things like money, power and respect, physical pleasures alcohol, drugs or sex outside marriage.

We can even try to fill it with religion. But none of these things can give you real peace and satisfaction that lasts a lifetime.

They may feel good for a short time, but later we’re back to feeling empty, rest-

are with him. It was through these historical injustices that the Moros suffered violence, oppression, unnecessary killing, and the fight began to retake from the colonizers the territory that was theirs at that time.

Out of their new-born nationalism and through sheer frustration, the Moros organized a revolutionary movement so that these injustices to their people would be averted and stopped.

We fully agree with the President that we all belong to one Malay race. We do not need to go on fighting when we can talk about peace, as we build our country.

It was in this context that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), I believe, responded positively and with sincerity to the government to find the solutions to a lasting peace. This hope was achieved with the signing of the Framework Agree-

ment on the Bangsamoro on October 15, 2012 and the Comprehensive Agreement for the Bangsmoro (CAB) on March 27, 2014.

President Duterte stressed, however, that peace talks and peace settlements must be inclusive of the MILF, MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front), Lumads, Christians and with no one left behind.

Inclusivity was a hallmark of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), with its members representing various sectors of Moro society, indigenous people, and Christians.

Inclusivity was the reason for the conduct of extensive direct consultations, dialogues and open forums with people of the Bangsamoro region, as well as, in the major key cities of Visayas and Luzon.

Ordinary people, the military, different religious groups, students, teachers,

Jhan Tiafau Hurst

less and unsatisfied. This is because only Jesus Christ your Maker can completely fill the emptiness in your heart and life.

So why not ask Him to forgive you for living your own way? It’s only then that you will finally be complete, and enjoy real peace and satisfaction that lasts a lifetime.

Just Think a Minute.

On reading the President’s mind

By Abdillah Othman MindaNews

MAGUINDANAO--President Rodrigo Duterte spoke to the Bangsamoro Assembly in Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat on November 27, 2017. Correctly or wrongly, we try to read the President’s mind.

In his opening statement, the President addressed the nation and called upon all Filipinos to ponder upon “the hardest problem of them all” facing his administration.

He said “The centerpiece of my election was really the federal setup of government… Actually, what is at stake here is the preservation of the Filipino Republic and to correct a historical injustice” which began with our colonization by many nations “and still is”.

From our point of view we cannot dispute the President: He is correct and we

and government employees, Muslims and nonMuslims were invited to hear and to be heard on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), and how it could bring change and peace into their lives. Many concerns and hopes were acknowledged and officially recorded.

President Duterte expanded membership in the BTC to 21 to include outstanding lawyers, the religious sector, members of the academe, Islamic jurists and representatives of the indigenous people. The inclusive membership was tasked to refine and to improve the original BBL, responsive to new ideas of governance, constitutional challenges, and inclusive solutions for peace in Mindanao.

Members of the BTC scrutinized each provision of the BBL to ensure it would meet the challenge of its See mind, page 10

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AggieNews

Sat-Sun, December 9-10, 2017

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Food Terminal proponents, agribiz coordinators undergo Capabuild on Accounting Cagayan de Oro City – To streamline the operations of running barangay and municipal food terminals (B/MFTs), a Capability Enhancement for Food Terminal (FT) Operators, and their assigned agribusiness coordinators from the local government units (LGUs), was conducted on December 4-5, 2017, here in the city.

Attended by about 70 participants, the activity was purposely done to ensure the sustainability of FT projects throughout Region 10.

These FTs are food depots and distribution systems of farmers’ produce in the locality providing a direct link to its consumers; thus, offering affordable, safe, nutritious and quality agri-fishery products.

Marilou O. Carumba, CPA, MPA, MBA,

senior cooperative development specialist of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) explained that since the members and officers of different cooperatives, associations and LGUs have received support through the establishment of their FTs, they too, should do their part in maintaining its operations, as these projects are considered investments by the government.

She said that all transactions should be fully documented, and records should be maintained and updated, at the same time.

“This will be a source of information necessary for the officers to properly manage FTs, especially that it also serves as a guide in the formulation of policies,” Carumba clarified.

Bible...

Bible, is this: Mary was not a human being, and thus is not tainted by man’s sinfulness.

Well, if Mary is not human, what or who is she? My readings tend to show that she was one of the “sinless” “children of God who, according to Genesis 6 of the Bible, went down directly from

from page 4

true doctrine in any way.

How then can we explain Mary’s supposed status as “sinless” without resorting to the doctrine of “immaculate conception”? From my view, the better way to explain this, which is also based on the

Capabuild for FT operators, agribiz coordinators. To warrant the sustainability of their agri-enterprises, the FT project-proponents and agribiz coordinators listen and even raise their issues and concerns to the resource person of the capabuild Marilou O. Carumba, CPA, MPA, MBA, senior cooperative development specialist of CDA, as she tackles Basic Accounting for Non-Accountants to the group.

Further, she added that this will be a transparent way of protecting the funds of the project, as these are the bases of reports to the members of an association or cooperative.

“Overall, this will allow one to know if he/she is getting a fair return of his/her

investment and measure the FT management’s effectivity and efficiency, as well,” the specialist expressed.

To date, there are 73 operational FT projects: 62 BFTs and 11 MFTs throughout NorMin. Topics on Basic Accounting for NonAccountants, which

heaven and came to earth, with the express purpose of being “used as the vessel” by which God the Father would Himself come down to earth, in His appointed time. We have more of this next time, God willing.

-oooWATCH ANG TANGING DAAN” AT FACEBOOK:

“Ang Tanging Daan” is a Bible exposition and prayer session for everyone, in English and Filipino, 24/7, worldwide, that can be viewed at www.facebook.com/angtangingdaan.

Please see the video section.

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

comprise basic accounting concepts and procedures, financial statements and their significance, and standard chart of accounts and its application to the financial statements were discussed.

Likewise, Financial Analysis Using Financial Ratios were tackled to the participants to

gain understanding on financial statements.

The two-day capabuild was spearheaded by the Agribusiness and Marketing Division of the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 under the leadership of OIC-Regional Director Carlene C, Collado, CPA.

* Schedule of Interview on,

DECEMBER 18-19 2017 : PESO ILIGAN at TAMBO TERMINAL ILIGAN CITY DECEMBER 22-23 2017 : EEI CDO SATELLITE OFFICE

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BUSINESS | ARTS & CULTURE | HEALTH TRAVEL & TOURISM | PEOPLE | REALTY | EVENTS EDITOR : ALLAN M. MEDIANTE

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PRRD says RP remains safe for travelers, conducive for business CLARK FIELD, Pampanga — President Rodrigo Duterte said Thursday, December 7, that the Philippines continues to be a safe travel spot for foreigners as well as a conducive investment destination.

President Duterte made the assurance as he graced the Kapampangan Food Festival 2017 here attended by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and other local officials.

“Let me reiterate that the Philippines remains a safe place for visitors and continues to be a conducive investment destination,” he said.

“Rest assured that we are undertaking measures to encourage travelers to come here so they can have a more fun and exciting experience in the country,” he added.

This year’s Kapampangan Food Festival showcases Pampanga’s culinary potential and aimed at making the province the cuisine capital of the world.

“I ask each of you to join me in spurring eco-

nomic growth and fostering unity and solidarity here in Pampanga and the rest of Central Luzon. Let us show to the world what the Philippines has to offer — our world-class hospitality, sumptuous food and unique heritage,” he told a crowd of Pampangueños.

The Chief Executive renewed his commitment to eliminate corruption and red tape, criminality and illegal drugs, which are among his major campaign promises during the last election.

He mentioned the country’s agriculture sector, which he said is lagging behind compared with other sectors.

“The only way to improve it really is to give more lands if we can afford it. I am for land reform. Isa ‘yan sa sinabi ko sa kampanya and I will not renege on it,” the

President stressed.

He promised to look for money and to implement land reform in the country.

He noted that there must be an improvement on the manufacturing side of the agricultural sector saying that it can only be achieved if there is peace and order especially in the countryside.

The two-day festival, held at Fontana Convention Center, is in line with the celebration of “Aldo ning Kapampangan” or Pampanga Day. The food fest is spearheaded by Culinary Pampanga, the network of chefs and restaurants in the province, that want to showcase Pampanga’s unique cuisine and make them globally competitive.

Also joining the President during the event were Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda, Vice Governor Dennis Pineda and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello.

Around 1,000 celebrity chefs, exhibitors and officials joined the food festival. PND

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in his speech during the Kapampangan Food Festival held at the ASEAN Convention Center in Clark, Pampanga on December 7, 2017, reiterates that the country is a safe place for visitors as well as a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. SIMEON CELI JR./PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Mindanao solons to tackle right-of-way scam

OFFICERS of PDP-LABAN DISTRICT 2 OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL. The newly appointed officers is led by Secretary General Nestor Abejuela of El Salvador City (4th from left) ; Council President DOJ Asst. Secretary Sergio “Yoyoc” Yap of Tagoloan, Mis. Or. (right photo); Vice Pres. Mayor Loloy Mugot of Gitagum; and Treasurer Aida Cuenca.

House to review bill expediting registration of imported vehicles The House committee on transportation chaired by Rep. Cesar Sarmiento (Lone District, Catanduanes) on Wednesday approved the creation of a technical working group (TWG) that would fine-tune a bill seeking to expedite the registration of imported motor vehicles.

House Bill 6455, prin-

cipally authored by House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and Sarmiento, mandates the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to speed up its process of registration of imported automobiles.

The committee has referred the bill to a TWG in which stakeholders and resource persons from the industry

will be enjoined to share their insight on the matter.

The measure mandates the LTO to issue the certificate of registration of imported motor vehicles within 48 hours from the date of submission of requirements. It also mandates the LTO to coordinate with the Bureau of Customs

(BOC) for the electronic transmission and access of accurate and timely certificate of payment on taxes, customs duties, and other importation documents necessary pursuant to Executive Order No. 482, s.

2015.

The EO launched the See review, page 10

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- Mindanao lawmakers will meet next week to discuss the alleged multibillion road right-of-way (RROW) scam in this city and the neighboring areas and other pressing concerns.

Deputy House Speaker and South Cotabato Rep. Ferdinand Hernandez said Friday the meeting was set on Dec. 12 or a day before the House of Representatives ends its session this year.

He said they will look into possible interventions, among them the conduct of a legislative inquiry on the RROW scam.

“This is not only a Region 12 issue, there are many other RROW issues in Mindanao. So we will look into some measures and discuss how to go about them,” he said in a radio interview.

Hernandez clarified that House leaders have not yet formally taken up the matter as they are presently focused on the passage of the 2018 national budget and the tax reform measures.

He said no resolution has been filed yet calling for an investigation and there was no moto propio initiative from House committee on good government regarding the scam.

But he said the House leadership is closely follow-

ing the issue and a formal inquiry might be set early next year.

Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II disclosed two weeks ago an alleged scam involving some P8.7 billion in RROW settlements in the city and neighboring areas based on supposed fictitious and fabricated documents.

He has directed the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate the scam, which was based on revelations made by whistleblower Rodolfo Catapang Jr. Catapang, who hails from this city, said the fake claims were made by a syndicate that he was previously a part of and involved prominent personalities, among them Eldon Cruz, brother-in-law of former President Benigno S. Aquino III. Hernandez said they fully support the DOJ’s initiatives and the investigation being conducted by the NBI. In July, House members of Region 12 or Soccsksargen sent a letter to Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar urging the latter to look into the alleged fake RROW claims and settlements in the area.

It was signed by Hernandez, South Cotabato first district and General Santos See solons, page 10

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EDITOR: Cris diaz

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Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio

Mayor Inday scraps local talks with Reds

DAVAO CITY – Mayor Inday Sara Duterte has canceled the localized peace negotiation with the New People’s Army (NPA) following the declaration by President Rodrigo Duterte of the communist rebels as terrorists.

However, Mayor Inday did not dissolve the Davao City Peace committee (DC-PEACE) - which had spearheaded efforts to strike peace with NPA rebels operating in the city.

Instead, she renamed it to Davao City Advisory Committee for Peace and Development (DC PEACE

Dev). She also gave it a new mandate.

“Since the policy of the government is to never negotiate with terrorists, what we are going to do is to talk to the community about their issues through the DC-PEACE Dev,” Mayor Inday said.

She said she would formalize the renaming of DCPEACE into the DC Peace Dev with the issuance of another Executive Order.

Mayor Inday said the new body would serve as the medium between the city government and far-flung communities to resolve their

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December 9-10, 2017

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Presidential son backs CPP-NPA terror tag

DAVAO CITY--Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte has thrown his support to the proclamation of the New People’s Army (NPA), as a terror group, characterizing their activities as acts terrorism.

“Tama lang. Dapat nga matagal nang dineklara na terorista ang NPA dahil sa mahabang record nito ng pandarahas, pagpatay, at pagpapahirap sa ating mga kababayan, lalo na ang mga mahihirap na magsasaka at lumad (It’s just right.

The NPA should have been declared terrorist long time ago with its long record of harassment, killing, and the suffering it gave to our compatriots especially the poor farmers and lumads),” Vice Mayor Duterte said in a press statement.

Mayor Sara DuterteCarpio has yet to release an official statement on the matter although in an earlier interview, the mayor said she would consult the Davao City Local Peace Commit-

tee (DC Peace) regarding the matter.

Duterte-Carpio has been pushing for localized peace negotiations with the NPA. Paolo said the NPA activities are no different to the Abu Sayyaf bandits and the Maute terror group.

The vice mayor recalled the death of a four-month old baby when the NPA rebels attack a convoy of vehicles in Bukidnon last month.

He also lambasted leftist organizations for their supposed silence on NPA’s atrocities.

“Sa mga naniniwala na may prinsipyo ang NPA, totoo naman na meron.

Pero isa itong baluktot na prinsipyo na para lang sa pansariling interest ng kanilang mga lider (Those who believed that the NPA has an ideology, it’s true it has. But it is a twisted ideology for personal interest of its leaders),” he stressed.

Paolo cited the alleged

extortion activities victimizing mining companies.

“Kung ayaw magbigay sinunusunog nila ang mga gamit ng mina (If they refuse to give they burn the mining equipment),” he said, referring to several instances of NPA attacks against mining companies for failure to pay the so-called revolutionary tax.

“The money just go to the pockets of the leaders and not even the lumads,” Paolo added, even as he branded NPA rebels as “spoiled brats.”

On Tuesday, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Proclamation No. 374 declaring the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization under Republic Act 10168, or the Human Security Act. Citing RA 10168, the President said it is the policy of the state to “protect life, liberty, and property from acts of terrorism, to condemn terrorism and those who support and finance it and to recognize it as

Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte

inimical and dangerous to the national security of the country and the welfare of the people, and to make financing of terrorism a crime against the Filipino people, against humanity, and against the law of nations.”

In the proclamation released by Malacanan on Wednesday, Duterte also ordered the Department of Foreign Affairs to publish the designation of the CPP-NPA and all other designated persons/organizations in accordance with the provisions of RA 10168. NPA

gears for Davao Chocolate Tours Overload launch DoE smart grid

DAVAO CITY – As part of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Farm Tourism campaign, the department has launched its Davao Chocolate Tours Overload.

Davao Chocolate Tours Overload is an educational tour which will feature the process of transforming the cocoa or cacao fruit into the much-loved chocolate.

The tour will also touch on the various social and environmental issues related to cacao and cacao farmers.

The highlight of the tour is visitors can try different chocolate products from various cacao farms and chocolate manufacturers.

The launching was held at the SMX Davao on December 5 with Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and DOT Assistant Secretary Eden Larano David, representing DOT Secretary Wanda Teo. The Tours is in accordance of the Republic Act no. 10816, otherwise known as the “Farm Tourism Development Act of 2016,” in which cacao farmers can expand their income opportunities through tourism.

Davao Region is the biggest producer of cacao in the country constituting 81% of the country’s cocoa production. Davao

market on power sector

The highlight of the tour is visitors can try different chocolate products from various cacao farms and chocolate manufacturers.

City produces about 1,600 tons of cocoa annually. It is home to several cacao plantations one of these is the Puentespina Farm which is part of the Malagos Garden Resort.

Inside the resort is the renowned Chocolate Museum, the first of its kind

in the country.

Other chocolate-related destinations include the Cacao City, a chocolate specialty store that sells various products from growers and chocolate manufacturers.

The farm tourism sector will be working with

the Davao City Tourism Operations Office, the Cacao Industry Development Association in Mindanao, Inc. and the Visit Davao Consortium for the Chocolate Tours Overload.

The first half of the tour is a visit to the cacao plantations while the latter

half is a guided walking tour around the processing facilities where visitors can witness chocolates being made. The tour ends at the Chocolate Museum where the tourists can have the chance of making their own chocolate concoctions.

(PIA/RG Alama)

DAVAO CITY—The Department of Energy (DOE) is now gearing for smart grid market technology on the power sector in the country.

DOE Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella said the smart grid will empower electricity consumers using the information communication technology gadgets.

“Smart grid will empower you as smartphone users to control your gadgets,” he said.

According to energy. gov, smart grid refers to a class of technology people are using to bring utility electricity delivery systems into the 21st century, using computer-based remote control and automation.

“We cannot develop a well-informed decision maker in the consumer without knowing how much the generators are producing, whether it is conventional or renewable. We cannot empower them if they don’t know how the transmission works,” he said.

He said the technology will promote fairness and See power, page 10

MINDANAO DAILY BUSINESS | ARTS & CULTURE | HEALTH TRAVEL & TOURISM | PEOPLE | REALTY | EVENTS

billboard

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DTI honors outstanding exporters at 2017 NEC THE Department of Trade and Industry through its Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) on 5 December awarded Philippine companies for their outstanding export performance during the National Export Congress (NEC) held at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

Texas Instruments, Pilipinas Kao, and Metro Wear were conferred the Hall of Famer Award for posting the highest export revenues for the past three years in their respective sectors.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in 2016 served as the basis for giving the awards to the companies.

Also recognized were top regional exporters from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, who stood out for their remarkable internaHall of Famer awardees Texas Instruments (3rd from left) and Pilipinas Kao (3rd from right) with (from LR): DTI tional success in penetrating Export Marketing Bureau Director Senen M. Perlada, Former President Joseph Estrada, DTI Undersecretary Nora global markets. Recipients K. Terrado and PHILEXPORT President Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. photo supplied were Peter Paul Philippines

iDOLE OFW ID card now available to Balik-Manggagawa The iDOLE OFW ID Card, labeled as the ‘best gift’ of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), is now available to returning OFWs or BalikManggagawa on its first phase of issuance.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said the limited issuance of the ID Card in the initial implementation of the Integrated Department of Labor and Employment (iDOLE) eServices is intended to further test and secure the features of the system.

“This is only the first phase of implementation and will cater first to our Balik-Manggagawa until

the system is ready for all OFWs. We are doing this to secure the database and for further improvements in the system,” Bello said.

Balik-Manggagawa, or those vacationing OFWs, are required to log-in to their BM Online accounts to apply for the ID, which they can use to avail of travel tax and terminal fee exemptions.

They can now log-in and create an account with the iDOLE.ph or the iDOLE One-Stop Online Facility/ Portal and apply for the OFW ID by putting their latest and valid Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) Number. The unique ID is equipped with decrypted

DU30 graces anniversary

DOLE fetes milestones at 84 MALOLOS CITY -- President Rodrigo Duterte leads officials and employees of the Department of Labor and Employment as the agency observes its 84th founding anniversary here today.

The celebration also marks the major achievements of DOLE during the first 18 months of the Duterte administration as it vows renewed vigor in promoting gainful employment and upholding the welfare of the Filipino workingmen.

Bannering “Trabahong Marangal Para sa Lahat,

Sabay-Sabay Nating Iangat,” the celebration focuses on the reaffirmation of the department’s commitment to continue providing expedient and efficient services to the public. The fete also highlights the talents and creativity of its people.

“As we set sail to another year, we will remain steadfast in moving the nation forward by fulfilling our mandate set forth by the Duterte administration,” Labor Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III said.

“We celebrate the hard See fetes, page 11

Corp. from Luzon, Profood International Corp. from Visayas, and Philbest Canning Corp. from Mindanao.

Honored for Top Sectoral Award were Texas Instruments Philippines Inc. (Electronics), Pilipinas Kao Inc. (Chemicals), Taganito HPAL Nickel Corp.

(Other Mineral Products), Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction Group (Machinery and Transport Equipment), Shin-Etsu Magnetics Philippines Inc. (Electronic Equipment and Other Parts), House Technology Industries PTE Ltd. (Woodcraft and Furniture), Nestle Philippines Inc. (Processed Food and Beverages), Dole Philippines (Fresh Bananas), Takata Philippines Corp.

(Metal Components), Pilipinas Kyohritsu Inc. (Ignition Wiring Sets), Cargill Oil Mills Philippines Inc. (Coconut Oil), and Metro Wear Inc. (Articles of Apparel and Clothing Accessories).

See honors, page 11

QR code for security.

Bello reiterated that the iDOLE OFW ID Card is free, with its production funded by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

“This is free for our OFWs. We do not want our OFWs to shoulder the cost because this is a gift from the President to recognize their sacrifices and immense contribution to our economy,” he said.

With the use of the ID, OFWs will no longer need to queue in transacting with agencies for their overseas employment as they can now access government Miss Marymount Academy 2017 Christine Jeanzelle Galarido basks in her moment services online during the seconds after being crowned last December 7. Flanking her is her predecessor Nicole See card, page 11

Siarry Dragon.

photo by mark francisco

New DAR chief assumes post QUEZON CITY – Newly appointed Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Acting Secretary John Castriciones assumed his post on Thursday in a “meet and greet” ceremony held at the agency’s central office in this city.

Castriciones was appointed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to head the DAR effective December 1 this year.

He was welcomed by top DAR officials led by Undersecretaries Rosalina L. Bistoyong and Karlo S.

Bello. Other DAR officials, to include department heads were also present during the occasion.

In his message, the new DAR chief wants to fasttrack the distribution of certificates of land ownership awards (CLOAs) to Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) and the provision of support programs and services to ARB organizations.

Castriciones emphasized that under his leadership, farmers especially those qualified to benefit

from the agrarian reform program of the government must be prioritized.

He added that neglecting the farmers and the disregard of their plight are among the reasons of unrest, especially in the countryside.

Castriciones also took notice of the continuing encampment of farmers outside the premises of DAR Central Office.

He urged the top officials of the DAR to look into the demands of the protesting farmers for them

to end their protest and go home to their respective families and communities during Christmas season.

He also echoed President Duterte’s continuing fight against graft and corruption in the government and urged the officers and employees of DAR to serve the public with honesty and integrity.

Prior to his appointment to DAR, Castriciones served as Undersecretary for Operations at the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

MINDANAO DAILY BUSINESS | ARTS & CULTURE | HEALTH TRAVEL & TOURISM | PEOPLE | REALTY | EVENTS

EDITOR : MARK FRANCISCO

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Domestic airlines bullish on Mindanao Air Freight Outlook

By Mike Baños Edito-at-large

The two major domestic airlines are bullish on the growth of the airfreight industry in Northern Mindanao over the next few years.

Since it started operations in the second quarter of 2013, the main air gateway in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental (CGY) has accommodated 58, 309 flights, some 6,835,913 passengers and 87,554 metric tons of cargo which has made it the fifth busiest airport in the Philippines after Manila, Cebu, Davao and Kalibo, which are all international airports.

Over the four equivalent years it’s been in operations from the 2nd quarter of 2017 to 2nd Quarter, 2017 for which data has been available from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), CGY has been averaging approximately 14,600 flights, some 1.75 million passengers and 22,000 MT of cargo annually. Broken down into average figures per quarter of the 16-month period it’s been in operation, that’s 3,644 flights per quarter moving some 428,000 passengers and 5,472 MT of cargo.

“We expect to breach the 1.9 million passenger mark this year,” said Engr.

Jose G, Budiongan, concurrently CAAP Area X and Laguindingan Airport Manager.

Budiongan’s optimism has been buoyed by the advent of more direct flights from the airport which could bump its previous metrics up further. Leading domestic carrier Cebu Pacific launched CGY last 20 October 2017 as its seventh regional hub, with nine domestic flights now directly connected to the airport. Philippine Airlines, for its part, has deployed the bigger Airbus A321 on its busy MLA-CGY route raising its capability to carry more passengers and cargo

Laguindingan Airport’s (CGY) recent launching as CEB’s 7th Regional Hub augers well for the future of the air freight industry in Mindanao. photo by M ike B años , NPN

with fewer flights.

Despite the larger capacities now available, cargo forwarders and other air freight companies still have some issues with some airlines cargo policies which constrain them to resort to less efficient multi-modal systems combining air, sea and land transports.

However, Philippine Airlines (PR) say this issue could be addressed if clients reconfigure their shipments to fit the dimension of the Airbus A321 now deployed along most of its domestic routes.

“PR being a passenger and cargo airline gives priority on its passenger and their baggage allowances and whatever space is left is maximized by loading of cargoes,” said Jerry P. Calaluan, Assistant Vice President, Cargo Sales Division, of PR’s Cargo Business Department.

“Although based on study, experience and trend, we can load at least 2-3 tons of cargoes based on a full passenger load and maybe more if the passenger is less.”

“We have actually improved the weight per piece of cargo allowed from 100 to 150 kgs. but since manual loading and maneuvering of such a piece would be difficult for an individual inside the aircraft, we cannot accept higher than that.

The same is true for skidded cargoes which normally do not fit the aircraft door aside from its weight of more than 150 kgs.”

To accommodate more cargo along this route, Calaluan said PAL have been suggesting to their customers to reconfigure the packaging dimensions/ weight according to the specifications of their aircraft being utilized in the route.

“Utilizing a much bigger or wide body aircraft is dictated by our commercial sales group where passengers are our main consideration,” he noted.

“PAL operates 28 flights weekly between Manila and Laguindingan Airport (CGY), the main portal to Cagayan de Oro City, the regional center and business hub of Northern Mindanao,”

noted Ma. Cielo Villaluna, PAL spokesperson. “The multiple service provides us the opportunity to carry passengers and cargo between the two points. Our goal is to provide a balance in serving the transport of people and high-quantity goods which is part and parcel of the PAL brand of service.”

From CGY, PAL operates intra-domestic routes such as Cagayan de Oro to Cebu and Davao, with 28 flights weekly. By 16 December 2017, PAL will also be operating thrice weekly from Cagayan de Oro to Clark, bringing the total number of intra-domestic flights out of CGY to 31 weekly.

“As additional support for the Mindanao Region, Philippine Airlines also operates numerous flights out of Davao to Manila (and Cagayan), including other intra-domestic sectors like Cebu, Tagbilaran and Zamboanga,” Villaluna said.

“From the current 56 flights servicing the City of Davao, PAL is happy to announce that throughout

December 2017, we shall be mounting an additional 10 flights to and from Davao, boosting not just tourism but also the economic sector of entire region of Mindanao. These flights help address passenger travel and cargo carriage needs,” she added.

Cebu Pacific Air (CEB), for its part, say there is no limit for cargo shipments on its domestic flights.

“We recognize the importance of air freight as a critical part of logistics to optimize the supply chain.

Hence, at Cebu Pacific, we try to move cargo as expediently as possible, keeping in mind that these goods are time-critical or of high importance. Our expansive domestic route network also gives shippers more options and flexibility in moving their goods,” said Alex Reyes, Vice President for Cargo at Cebu Pacific.

CEB has multiple flights between Manila and Laguindingan Airport (CGY), Misamis Oriental—the gateway to Cagayan de Oro City and Northern Mindanao, flying up to 59 times weekly,

from early morning to late in the evening with the most extensive network in and out of CGY station with direct connections to Manila, Iloilo, Bacolod, Caticlan, Dumaguete, Tagbilaran, Davao and Zamboanga; as well as to and from Cebu with a total of 28 flights a week.

In Mindanao, Cebu Pacific has hubs in Cagayan de Oro and Davao, allowing for greater capacity to carry cargo to and from the region. In and out of its Davao hub, CEB flies 79 times a week to and from Manila; and up to 24 times weekly to and from Cebu.

Reyes added that CEB has even greater cargo capacity in and out of the Davao hub, as the carrier utilizes wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft for the Manila-Davao route.

With the shift in the center of the country’s virtual capital to Davao City, and the rise of its Cagayan de Oro as the Philippines’ 4th metropolitan center by 2022, there’s no way to go but up for the air freight industry in Mindanao.

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Do you give up your faith The Gospel of Jesus Christ (December 9, 2017-Saturday) Mark 10:28-31”Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee. And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or

Power... from page 7

transparency on the part of the consumers and accountability on the part of service and generation providers.

“We have to develop a market that embraces a system that has transparency, fair in the field and accountability, the fault if there is a problem on the power distribution will be now pinpointed,” he said.

According to Fuentebella, there will be a system operator and market operator as soon as this technology is implemented in the country. He added that such sophisticated technology requires a spot market and renewable energy market (REM).

Fuentebella said the DOE is now conducting series of consultation for the REM in the Philippines, which they started Wednesday in Davao City.

For Mindanao, he said DoE is trying to fast-track things since the island still has no electricity spot market. The spot market is a requirement for the REM and both markets are needed for the smart grid.

He said the DoE has targeted to open the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) in Mindanao June of next year to catch up on the proposed smart grid.

PNA

Awards... from page 1

agency in FOI implementation in the Executive Branch, initiated the search for FOI champions, where it conducted a thorough nomination and screening process, which started last October to identify the awardees.

Meanwhile, Mr. Andanar reported that 96-percent or 181 national government agencies complied on the submission of FOI manuals.

Also, there were 69 GOCCs and 26 SUCs that made their submissions.

Top agencies with the highest FOI requests, on the other hand, were the PSA which had 420 requests, followed by the Department of Health (DOH) with 220, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) with 173, the DBM with 153, and the PCOO with 101 requests.

The FOI Awards Ceremony was broadcast via live stream on the Presidential Communications Facebook page.

Guests who attended

mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.

2 Timothy 4:6-8”For

Biblical reflection

I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good “fight,” I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to

me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. Can you die for God’s glory?

Take note, martyrdom is the shortest way to heaven. Your attitude is tested if you will choose God or to deny him in times of pressures. You need to love him more than anything else. You need to prioritize God

because he will care everything for your favors. Matthew 6:33”But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Allow yourself to be in the hands of the living God. Do not give up your Bro. Edcel L. Closas faith if you are tempted to do it because of the negative circumstances that you are in.

pullout of around P4.8 billion RROW funds for Region 12 pending the proper validation of the RROW claims and the investigation on the scam.

“This is a very important concern for us here in Region 12 because it involves a lot of money that could have benefited the people, especially the poor in many ways,” Hernandez said.

He said the reported fraudulent settlements that already reached P8.7 billion and the pending P4.8 billion from page 1 RROW claims is already offered P2.5 million for any equivalent to the region’s information that could lead annual infrastructure budto the arrests of the killers get.(PNA) and the mastermind.

The murder of Rotoras, a respected academician here, from page 4 shocked several sectors in constitutionality. The BTC Cagayan de Oro. also sought opinions of legal Barbaso said the mur- experts to ensure that the der of Rotoras was “well- proposed BBL would favorplanned and funded” and ably hurdle constitutional executed by professional issues. killers.

President Duterte views He said they are eyeing Federalism as the inclusive at least four perpetrators — solution to the diversity and two gunmen, a lookout and progress of our society. It is the driver of the getaway huge change. If federalism pickup vehicle. shall be the ideal solution He said they are also to our progress as one nalooking into the possibil- tion, then even if it involves ity that another accom- constitutional change, we plice, probably a lookout, should all be willing to was there to observe when unite to support it. We are Rotoras would leave the with him.

Christmas party of the Free In their various stateand Accepted Masons of the ments, the MILF leadership Philippines. tried to clear the air of any “They studied his move- misgivings. They assured ments and probably made that that they are not in a an attempt of his life earlier. hurry to assume the mantle When they failed, they made of leadership of Muslim another attempt,” he said. Mindanao.

Barbaso declined to say The BBL is the product what other leads the NBI was of many years of negotiapursuing for fears it might tions in good faith with jeopardize their investiga- Government. Throughout tion. this period the members of Police authorities said the peace panel stood by they are investigating four the Moro aspirations for an witnesses who saw two entity of self-governance, gunmen fleeing the scene. inclusively embracing dis(Froilan Gallardo/Mind- tinct cultures, religions, aNews) laws, customs and traditions of the region.

Administrative strucfrom page 6 tures, asymmetric linkages Santos City Rep. Pedro and operative systems were Acharon Jr., Sultan Kuda- debated, compromised and rat first district Rep. Su- eventually settled among harto Mangundadatu, Sultan members of the peace panKudarat second district els. Mutual goodwill on both Rep. Horacio Suansing Jr., sides helped to facilitate Sarangani Rep. Rogelio cooperation on the sensitive Pacquiao, Maguindanao areas of governance, control first district and Cotabato and supervision; and the City Rep. Bai Sandra Sema, reserved, common, excluNorth Cotabato first district sive powers and services Rep. Jesus Sacdalan, North of the Bangsamoro and of Cotabato seond district Rep. Government.

Nancy Catamco and North They also expressed the Cotabato third district Rep. sincere hope that it might be Jose Tejada. helpful at the initial stages DPWH Secretary Mark of Bangsamoro organizaVillar already ordered the tion by contributing the

factual background, input and framework of such negotiations, and by citing the contemporaneous wisdom of the peace panels in the formulation of its various Agreements.

The President said that he would “ask Congress to a special session just to hear you talk about this (BBL) in Congress.”

Appeal for the early approval of the Bangsamoro Basic Law would assist to put into place the basic administrative mechanisms to pursue the goals of selfgovernance, economic selfsufficiency, progressive educational standards, modern infrastructure, improvements in potable water, health facilities and sanitation. And above all, to seek satisfactory remedies to cure the historical injustices in the Moroland, and to bring into reality Bangsamoro self-governance within the concept of One Nation, One Republic.

These are the simple needs of the long neglected Bangsamoro, who comprise different tribes, beliefs, dialects and ways of living exclusive to this region. They also strive to make their lives relevant and vibrant attuned to the changing world.

Appeal for the approval of the BBL is an urgent reality in these times, when Islamic extremism offers its tantalizing doctrines globally to an impressionable youth, who are greatly dissatisfied with an unmoving status quo and the acutely miserable conditions of the lives. The gambit being that: There is nothing to lose, but everything to gain. Time is of the essence.

While we understand that there is a process of law-making in both Houses of Congress, it is hoped that the Bangsamoro Basic Law may be revisited anew with vigor and enthusiasm by our legislators, considering the challenges, social injustices and inequities the Bangsamoro have faced for centuries in time, as well as, in the present with global radicalism hounding at our very gates, and promising to the discontented, the disregarded, and the youth a genuine and justified new world order.

To achieve a Bangsomoro entity with the unity and integrity of the Republic as One Nation; to preserve our homeland from the creeping scourge of violent Islamic extremism; to sup-

port the President’s vision of federalism as a remedy for social injustice.

These are the challenges of our times — the fulfilment of the aspirations of the Bangsamoro people.

We support the President. (MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. Abdillah Othman is the pseudonym of an elderly Moro who attended the Bangsamoro Assembly last week).

the event included Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III. Other speakers in the event were Executive Secretary Salvador Meldialdea, and House of Representatives Public Information Chair Congresswoman Bernadette Herrera-Dy. (RJB/ JCP/PIA-NCR)

Got...

Mind...

Solons...

Review... from page 6

National Single Window (NSW), a computerized Internet-based system that allows parties involved in trade to lodge information and documents with a single entry point to fulfil all import, export, and transit-related regulatory requirements. The NSW system thereby streamlines the registration process and cuts down the turnaround time.

Currently, the presence of bureaucratic red tape in the agency frustrates clients for requiring them to go through long series of routinary procedures to secure vital government services such as certificates of registration for imported vehicles. This problem is further compounded by the tedious process of obtaining from the BOC, proof of payment of taxes, customs duties or other charges necessary for the issuance of the certificate of registration for imported vehicles, according to the Speaker and Sarmiento.

Moreover, it has become imperative for the government to remove red tape by taking advantage of technological advances to improve efficiency in the delivery of services and streamlining the process of obtaining common official documents, according to the authors.

“The present situation would definitely [be] described as a wide area of corruption because some government personnel will find it very difficult to issue the certificate of payment or probably give [the clients] the run-around. And for them to get the necessary document, people would be forced to come across,” said Sarmiento.

Alvarez cited that one of the reasons for delay is the LTO’s requirement that each branch of a car dealership must be accredited. He also noted that for over a year, the LTO has been unable to release the license plates of numerous vehicles.

The Speker went on to express his disappointment with the sluggish processes of the LTO, saying that LTO officials should strike down old laws that burden citizens. He underscored the importance of eliminating redundancy in registration processes, such as in the cases of brand-new motorcars that already come with certifications from the manufacturer.

“Bakit pahihirapan [at] magtatagal ang registration ng

brand-new vehicles? Unang-una, imported vehicles—halimbawa, bakit dumadaan pa sa PNP (Philippine National Police) Highway Patrol, DENR (Department of Energy and Natural Resources)?” Alvarez asked.

The committee thereby decided to refer the measure to a TWG for further review, enjoining the input of resource persons.

Meanwhile, the committee also approved two bills seeking to increase the accessibility to LTO and its services through the establishment of new offices. HB 5076 by Rep. Florida Robes (Lone District, San Jose Del Monte City) will establish a satellite LTO office in San Jose Del Monte City, and HB 5111 by Rep. Isidro Rodriguez Jr. (2nd District, Rizal) mandates the creation of a permanent LTO district office in the municipality of Morong in Rizal.

Officials from LTO present at the committee hearing expressed the agency’s support for the passage of the two bills and voiced no objections.

Sarmiento further stated that the LTO has created a directory of areas where district offices will be established, and has identified other places where an LTO office is necessary. The move will aid the committee in deliberations as it will eliminate having to discuss piecemeal each proposal for an LTO office creation.

“What we did was inform the district representatives concerned and we will go into that, as part of the service of this committee, by filing an omnibus bill calling for the establishment of district offices in the main areas,” Sarmiento said.

Tackle...

from page 6 City Rep. Pedro Acharon Jr., Sultan Kudarat first district Rep. Suharto Mangundadatu, Sultan Kudarat second district Rep. Horacio Suansing Jr., Sarangani Rep. Rogelio Pacquiao, Maguindanao first district and Cotabato City Rep. Bai Sandra Sema, North Cotabato first district Rep. Jesus Sacdalan, North Cotabato seond district Rep. Nancy Catamco and North Cotabato third district Rep. Jose Tejada.

DPWH Secretary Mark Villar already ordered the pullout of around P4.8 billion RROW funds for Region 12 pending the proper validation of the RROW claims and the investigation on the scam.

“This is a very important concern for us here in Region 12 because it involves a lot of money that could have benefited the people, especially the poor in many ways,” Hernandez said.

He said the reported fraudulent settlements that already reached P8.7 billion and the pending P4.8 billion RROW claims is already equivalent to the region’s annual infrastructure budget.(PNA)

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Alert... from page 2

mainly based in South Cotabato province. Other nearby units are the Front 71 in nearby Davao Occidental and Front 72 in Makilala, North Cotabato and Malungon, Sarangani areas.

Ancan said it is only proper to classify the NPA as a terrorist organization due to the rash of “terrorist activities” such as the harassment of local communities, burning of vehicles and heavy equipment, attacks and cases of killings.

Chief Insp. Aldrin Gonzales, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office-12, said the President’s proclamation was necessary and reasonable. (PNA)

Early... from page 2

medical team, said when all the inmates are transferred to the new facility, a regular medical checkup would form part of the daily activities of inmates to help them recover physically and emotionally from the pain of being jailed.

The more than 50-yearold provincial jail in this city had been a mute witness to several jail breaks the sent hardened criminals to freedom, mostly facing murders and were rescued by armed syndicates in Maguindanao the past years.

For non-government organizations, including Church groups, the current jail facility can be described as inhumane center where inmates have no opportunity to reform in preparation for their reintegration to the mainstream society. (PNA)

Drugs... from page 3

comes in the form of tablet, powder or capsule and is usually swallowed, but could also be snorted or injected.

Ecstasy increases users’ empathy levels and induces a feeling of closeness to people around them. It makes them feel more sociable and energetic. Short-term use of ecstasy prompts the body to ignore distress signals such as dehydration, dizziness, and exhaustion, and interferes with the body’s ability to regulate temperature. It could also severely damage the liver and kidneys and could cause convulsions and heart failure.

In large doses, ecstasy could cause restlessness, anxiety and severe hallucinations. Long-term use damages certain parts of the brain, bringing about serious depression and memory loss.

Cannabis Cannabis is known by many names -- Bongo, Ganja, Grass, Pot or Thai sticks.

Its most famous name, however, is Marijuana, or Mary Jane.

Cannabis, a tobaccolike greenish or brownish substance made of dried flowering tops and leaves of the cannabis plant, is usually smoked, but its resin and oil

could also be swallowed or brewed in tea.

According to the UNODC, cannabis smoke contains 50 percent more tar than high-tar cigarettes, putting users at an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.

After taking cannabis, users feel relaxed and sometimes euphoric, with an intensified sense of sight, smell, taste, and hearing.

Short-term use makes them experience increased appetite and pulse rate, and an impaired ability to perform physical and mental tasks, such as driving a car and thinking logically.

With large doses, users’ thinking slows down and they become confused and have bouts of anxiety, panic, and psychotic episodes.

The UNODC said that regular users of cannabis run the risk of developing psychological dependence to the point that they lose interest in all other activities, such as work and personal relationships.

Cocaine Cocaine is known as Crack, Bazooka, Blanche, Cake, Coke or Lady. It is a fine white or off-white powder extracted from the leaves of the coca plant.

The UNODC said that on the street, cocaine is diluted with other substances, such as ammonia or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), to increase its quantity and produce crack.

Cocaine is usually sniffed or injected, while crack is usually smoked. After snorting cocaine, users feel exhilarated and euphoric, leading to increased energy levels and alertness, along with delayed hunger and fatigue.

Short-term use results in loss of appetite, faster breathing, increased body temperature and heart rate.

Users may act strangely, erratically and at times violently.

Ingesting large doses of cocaine could cause convulsions, seizures, stroke, cerebral hemorrhage or heart failure. Long-term use of cocaine damages the nose tissue and leads to respiratory problems, abscesses, and infectious diseases.

Other risks include strong psychological dependence, malnutrition, weight loss, disorientation, apathy and a state similar to paranoid psychosis. Mixing cocaine with alcohol is dangerous and could lead to sudden death.

Heroin Heroin Heroin is also called Smack, H, Horse, Junk, Harry and White Lady. Heroin is a painkiller processed from morphine, which comes from the opium poppy plant.

Pure heroin is a white powder, but street heroin is brownish white. This highly addictive drug is usually injected, but could also be snorted, smoked or inhaled.

Heroin could relieve tension, anxiety, and de-

Sat-Sun, December 9-10, 2017 pression, including physical distress or pain.

According to the UNODC, its short-term effects include constricted pupils, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, inability to concentrate and apathy.

Long-term effects, meanwhile, include severe weight loss, malnutrition, constipation, menstrual irregularity, sedation and chronic apathy.

Users could develop a tolerance for the drug, making them ingest more to achieve the effect they want.

Overdosing on heroin could lead to coma and death through respiratory depression. Abruptly quitting heroin leads to severe withdrawal symptoms, such as cramps, diarrhea, tremors, panic, runny nose, chills, and sweats.

LSD Also known as Acid or Hippie, LSD is a semisynthetic drug made from lysergic acid, which is found in a fungus that grows on rye and other grains.

Dealers often sell it in squares of blotting paper with drops containing the drug, but also in the form of tablets, capsules, and liquid.

The colorless and odorless drug is often swallowed and has a slightly bitter taste.

According to the UNODC, LSD use leads to strong changes in thought, mood, and senses, along with feelings of empathy and sociability. Its exact effects, however, vary, depending on the mental state of the user and the environment when taking the drug.

Over the short term, users experience delusions and distorted perceptions in terms of time and color, severe and terrifying thoughts and feelings, such as fear of losing control, insanity, death, and despair. Users manifest dilated pupils, increased heart rate and blood pressure, dry mouth and tremors. They lack appetite and are sleepless. (PNA)

Honors... from page 8

Excellence Awards for Services Exports was also conferred on companies which have contributed significantly to their respective industries and exhibited excellence in their respective fields. Awardees were Advanced World Solution Inc. (IT-BPM), Affinity Express Philippines Inc. (Creative Services), Airworks Aviation Academy (Education Services), ExlService Philippines Inc. (Health Information Management), and Potato Corner (Franchising Services).

The awarding served as the highlight of the weeklong celebration of National Exporters’ Week (NEW) with the theme “Innovate.

Collaborate. Export!.” NEW is an annual event held during the first week of December organized jointly by the DTI’s Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), the Export Development Council (EDC), and the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (PhilExport).

“With this year’s NEC, we hope to inspire more exporters to continue to innovate and collaborate with the government and private sector organizations in expanding their markets and contributing to the country’s economy,” DTI Undersecretary Nora K. Terrado said.

Also part of the celebration is the ongoing National Exporters’ Week Bazaar, a retail selling event of Philippine products from the country’s direct and indirect manufacturers, which started on December 4.

About 20 exhibitors are participating by selling their products and services ranging from fashion accessories to food products in the DTI International Building along Gil J. Puyat Ave. in Makati City.

Card... from page 8

further phases of the iDOLE eServices implementation.

The first phase of the system links DOLE with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Philippine O vers eas Employment Administration (POEA), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

The iDOLE system will further interlink the databases of DOLE offices and agencies with other government agencies for a more reliable, updated and complete Labor Market Information System (LMIS) for employment facilitation purposes. END/Abegail De Vega

Fetes... from page 8

work of our people in the department in the attainment of our goals of uplifting the lives of every Filipino worker,” he added.

DOLE’s milestones include winning the campaign against contractualization and other illegal contracting practices, as well as gains in the intensified implementation of labor laws and standards, and occupational health and safety in workplaces. Also, the labor department prides itself of having improved services to protect and look after the welfare of overseas Filipino workers.

DOLE is set to distribute OFW Identification Card (OFW ID) to allow OFWs to easily transact with government and private agencies.

The department also took the initiative in the establishment of the Overseas Filipino Bank (OFB) that will offer low remittance service rates and profitable investments to ease financial burdens of OFWs. Likewise, DOLE has improved its frontline services including the reduction of processing time of its key services by 25 to 72 percent, and the adoption of a strategic feedback system on its services. It has established One-Stop Service Center for OFWs in 17 regions and Hotline 1349 on a 24/7

operation.

Significantly, the labor department scored heavily in ensuring a climate of industrial harmony with 50,386 settled labor cases involving monetary and collective bargaining benefits of P4.098 billion, which benefitted 82,102 workers.

The anniversary festivities kicked off in October with the regional offices organizing activities to raise awareness on the department’s long years of providing service.

Among the featured events include the weeklong interisland sportsfest held in Davao, Dumaguete, and Pampanga to provide employees the opportunity to demonstrate their athletic skills and foster teamwork and sportsmanship among co-employees.

The labor department started as a small bureau in 1908 and became a department in December 8, 1933 by the virtue of Commonwealth Act No. 4121.

It was renamed Ministry of Labor and Employment in 1980, and again renamed Department of Labor and Employment after the 1986 EDSA Revolution.

It administers five bureaus, 11 attached agencies, 16 regional offices, 36 overseas offices and has a manpower complement of 6,530. END/Abegail De Vega

Bags... from page 12

All-New CR-V won the People’s Choice Award for Compact SUV of the Year.

The Honda Accord won the People’s Choice Award for the Midsize Sedan of the Year. The Honda Pilot earned the People’s Choice Awards for Large SUV of the Year. Excellence once again confirmed in the areas of design, engine performance and value for money.

In the Luxury segment, The Honda Odyssey earned the People’s Choice Awards for Luxury Van of the Year.

Such recognition further strengthens Honda’s presence in the luxury segment.

Automotive brands were also recognized by the motoring media professionals and practitioners the same evening and four (4) Media’s Choice Awards were conferred to Honda; The Honda Civic for Best Design and Best Engine Performance for Compact Sedan. The Honda Brio won the Best Engine Performance for Mini and the Honda Odyssey for Best Value for Money in the Luxury Van segment.

In the recently concluded 2017 Car of the Year and Truck of the Year Awards night led by the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI), Honda garnered a total of 5 awards last November 27, 2017.

The All-New Honda CR-V SX Diesel 9AT received the 2017 Car of the Year award.

Moreover, The All-New Honda CR-V SX Diesel 9AT and The Honda CR-V S Diesel 9AT won the Best Crossover award for the AWD and 2WD categories respectively. The accolades

11

did not stop there, The AllNew BR-V received The Best Compact Crossover 2WD while The Honda Civic Type R won as The Best Sport Compact.

Ending this year’s series of awarding events is Top Gear’s STIG Awards which was held last November 28, 2017. The Honda Civic Type R, proved its worth as it has won the Top Gear’s Car of the Year 2017. While The All-New CR-V won the Top Gear’s Favorite Reader’s Awards. Both awards have been won by Honda for two consecutive years.

These awards solidify the continuous trust and support of the Filipino customers to the Honda brand as it reinforces Honda’s commitment to constantly deliver high-quality vehicles with top-notch features to satisfy the needs of the market.

“We are thankful to all the organizers as well as to the Philippine motoring media for their belief and trust to Honda. With these awards, we will continue to offer exciting products and ultimate customer satisfaction.” said Noriyuki Takakura, HCPI President and General Manager.

Honda is immensely grateful for the trust and loyalty given by the Filipino Customers. It is this great honour that continue to inspire Honda to satisfy more Filipino Families.

Supports... from page 12

Technology delivers four key benefits that urban riders care about – engine cleanliness, oxidationstability, heat protection and enhanced acceleration. The addition of a power booster, ZOOMTECH, across Havoline’s Super 4T synthetic and mineral oils, enhances clutch grip and maximizes power transfer for betteracceleration and responsiveness Havoline engine oils give motorcyclists the strength, speed and confidence to face everyday challenges on the road.

Dominates... from page 12

Sporty outnumbered but still managed to capture the top spot. The most exciting matchup for the day was during the all-female category where Chloe Mallari and C-Let Cuizon bagged the 1st and 2nd place respectively on Yamaha’s Mio i 125, taking down their rival manufacturer.

Although facing tough competition and outnumbered in every turn, Yamaha proved that they can’t easily be outclassed on the track. The combination of talented riders and World Class motorcycles only yield one result, dominance.

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GILBERT Y. CHAO - Motoring Editor

Sat-Sun

motoring December 9-10, 2017

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Honda bags numerous awards in 2017 Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI), Honda’s automobile business unit in the Philippines, won multiple major awards from different automotive award giving bodies in recognition of Honda’s excellence in the industry this 2017.

Honda’s series of awards began with The Honda Civic Type R for bagging the Best Driver’s Car conferred by C! Awards last September 25, 2017. This category recognizes the best performance, flexibility and ultimate driving experience a vehicle can offer for both track and daily driving.

The next awardgiving body was the Auto Focus People’s and Media’s Choice Awards, spearheaded by Sunshine

Television (STV) which was held last November 9, 2017. Honda won 11 awards in different categories.

The New City, Honda’s locally manufactured model in the Philippines, won the People’s Choice Award for Subcompact of the Year. This Smart Choice continues to be the brand’s best selling model. The Honda Civic, took home the People’s Choice Award for the Compact Sedan of the Year. This epitome of Honda’s sporty image showed that its features continue to win over the customers. The AllNew BR-V, was awarded People’s Choice Award for the Subcompact SUV of the Year while the recently launched

Caltex Havoline Supports ONE Championship

See bags, page 11

Caltex Havoline, marketed

by Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), reinforced its support for Filipino martial arts and warriors in the recently held ONE Championship at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Havoline recently launched its newest motorcycle oils with advanced C.O.R.E and ZOOMTECH Technologies.

C.O.R.E. See supports, page 11

YAMAHA DOMINATES MOTORACE CHAMPIONSHIP Yamaha’s excellence in the racing circuit is know the world over that is why it comes to no surprise who rules the Philippine racetracks.

What really makes this interesting is the riders will be assigned to their motorcycle via draw lots; putting not just personal skill to the test but also the greatness of the machine.

The top motorcycle

manufacturers prepared for a competition that puts the spotlight on their innovations.

The 150cc category featured the Yamaha Sniper 150 leading the way against a field of Honda RS150 riders.

It was a tough and challenging battle with top tier talent manning the rival manufacturer but in the end, Rj Commendador stamped

the class of the Sniper 150 during the match.

The 130-category presented a tough task of outperforming an entire pack of adversaries.

Using the Vega Force I, Garry Caneda one upped the competition in the underbone race.

This was the same case for him in the 130 AT open in a lineup that saw him and the Mio

See dominates, page 11

Nguyen vs Folayang: Havoline, marketed by Chevron Philippines Inc., partnered with ONE Championship for the ONE: LEGENDS OF THE WORLD ONE Lightweight World Championship held at the Mall of Asia Arena.